Can't Wait Wednesday: Of Gold and Shadows (Time's Lost Treasures #1) by Michelle Griep

Can't Wait Wednesday is a weekly meme hosted by Wishful Endings that spotlights and discusses the books we're excited about that we've yet to read. Generally, they're books that are yet to be released. It's based on Waiting on Wednesday, hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine.

This week I'm featuring Of Gold and Shadows (Time's Lost Treasures #1) by Michelle Griep releasing September 24.

About the Book

In 1888 Victorian England, Ami Dalton navigates a clandestine dual life. By day, she strives to establish herself as a respected Egyptologist, overcoming the gender biases that permeate academia. But with a heart for rescuing black-market artifacts, she is most often disguised as her alter ego, the Shadow Broker.

After eight years in India, Oxford's most eligible bachelor, Edmund Price, has come out of the shadows to run for Parliament and is in search of an Egyptologist to value a newly acquired collection. Expecting a renowned Oxford professor, Edmund instead finds himself entangled with Ami, the professor's determined daughter. As they delve into the treasures, their connection deepens, but trouble emerges when a golden griffin--rumored to bear the curse of Amentuk--surfaces and they're left to wonder if the curse really is at play, or if something more nefarious is hiding among the shadows. . . .

Award-winning author Michelle Griep weaves a tale of love, mystery, and intrigue set against the backdrop of the gaslit streets of Oxford, England.

What upcoming release are you eagerly anticipating? 

Review: The Study of Magic (The Study Chronicles: Valek's Adventures #2) by Maria V. Snyder

About the Book

Frankly, I think death is the best cure for stupidity.

As Chief of Ixia’s Security, Valek’s work is never done. After rescuing Commander Ambrose with, Yelena, his heartmate’s, help and seeing her off to Sitia, Valek discovers the nefarious scheme to overthrow their country is far more complex and far reaching than anyone could have guessed.

Valek must discover who is continuing with Brazell and Mogkan’s conniving plans, all while dealing with a tense political situation. The Ixian generals are questioning his abilities to keep the Commander safe, and whispers of a possible coup are circulating.

Will Valek be able to survive a plot that seeks to sabotage all he and the Commander have worked for? Also, having opened his heart to love, will Yelena still wish to be with him when all is said and done?

A companion novel to Magic Study, The Study of Magic reveals Valek’s side of the story. Find out what hazards Valek encounters and survives before he and Yelena are reunited once more.

Amazon / Goodreads

MY THOUGHTS

This book tells the events of Magic Study, book 2 in the original Study series, from Valek’s perspective. It's so good! Valek is my favorite leading man, so I was ecstatic to get this book from his point of view. I hate to say it, but Magic Study was my least favorite book in the original series. Probably because Valek was missing from a good portion of it. Don’t get me wrong, I loved seeing Yelena explore Sitia, her home, but I missed Valek. A lot. In this book, we finally learn what he was doing while Yelena was away. I loved it so much! There was a lot going on in Ixia while Yelena was away!

I loved that there was plenty of Ari and Janco too. I always enjoy their shenanigans. I thought I knew them pretty well, but there were new revelations about them that I really appreciated learning.

This book is not a standalone. I’d recommend at least reading The Study of Poison first, possibly even the original series too. It’s well worth it, though. It’s my all-time favorite fantasy series. I highly, highly recommend it to fans of the genre.

4.5 STARS

Book Beginnings, First Line Friday, & Friday 56: The Nightmare Virus by Nadine Brandes

Book Beginnings is a weekly meme hosted by Rose City Reader that asks you to share the first sentence (or so) of the book you're reading. I'm also linking up with Carrie at Reading is My Superpower for First Line Friday. Friday 56 is hosted by Freda's Voice and asks you to grab a book (any book), turn to page 56 or 56% in your ereader and share a non-spoilery sentence or two. Freda is taking a hiatus right now, but Anne over at My Head is Full of Books has taken over in the meantime.

This week I'm featuring The Nightmare Virus by Nadine Brandes.

About the Book

Some viruses go after the body. But the Nightmare Virus goes after the mind.

When dream technology goes wrong, a virus spreads across the globe, trapping people in a universal dreamscape. They call it the Nightmare Virus.

Cain Cross is determined to find a cure . . . if he can decipher his brother’s chicken-scratch formula notes. But when he gets infected, he has only 22 days until he’s trapped in the mental prison forever. Now, every time he falls asleep, he must fight in a Nightmare Arena until he earns his freedom to live in the “new world” that exists only in the mind.

Then he finds a way to manipulate the Nightmare—to change it by mere thought.

Forced to navigate a world of nightbeasts, mistblades, and half-truths, Cain turns his focus to survival. When the Emperor offers him a LifeSuPod—and access to a cure—in exchange for a dangerous favor, Cain thinks he’s found a way out. But Cain’s new power threatens to take him on paths that jeopardize his very soul.

Will he continue searching for a cure, or will he swear allegiance to the Nightmare? And the bigger question might be . . . will he even have a choice?

Book Beginning / First Line Friday

Once you catch the Nightmare Virus, you have 22 days until you die.

Friday 56

How is this possible?

I'm getting tired of asking that question.

Despite my confusion, I manage to raise my hand in a small wave.

What have you been reading lately?

Review: When the Day Comes (Timeless #1) by Gabrielle Meyer

About the Book

How will she choose, knowing all she must sacrifice?

Libby has been given a powerful gift: to live one life in 1774 Colonial Williamsburg and the other in 1914 Gilded Age New York City. When she falls asleep in one life, she wakes up in the other. While she's the same person at her core in both times, she's leading two vastly different lives.

In Colonial Williamsburg, Libby is a public printer for the House of Burgesses and the Royal Governor, trying to provide for her family and support the Patriot cause. The man she loves, Henry Montgomery, has his own secrets. As the revolution draws near, both their lives--and any hope of love--are put in jeopardy.

Libby's life in 1914 New York is filled with wealth, drawing room conversations, and bachelors. But the only work she cares about--women's suffrage--is discouraged, and her mother is intent on marrying her off to an English marquess. The growing talk of war in Europe only complicates matters.

But Libby knows she's not destined to live two lives forever. On her twenty-first birthday, she must choose one path and forfeit the other--but how can she choose when she has so much to lose in each life?

Amazon / Goodreads

MY THOUGHTS

Oh my goodness! This is one of the best and most unique books I’ve ever had the pleasure of reading. I loved it so much and am at a slight loss for words.

I was immediately pulled in and fully invested in Libby’s story—or, should I say, stories. I enjoyed both timelines equally, which kinda surprised me. The Gilded Age is one of my favorite historical time periods; I naturally thought I’d gravitate towards it more, especially since I’m not usually drawn to the 1700s. But, goodness, they both intrigued me and had me fully engaged.

The opulent life Libby lived in 1914 was so dazzling, but the family connection, historical figures she encountered, and her job at the printing press in 1774 really tugged at my heartstrings.

I loved the inspirational message that was woven so perfectly throughout the whole story. What a fantastic reminder to trust God’s plans, even when they don’t make sense to us, He knows what’s best.

This was as close to perfect as a book can get. My goodness, I loved it so much! And that ending? I have no words! Needless to say, I highly highly recommend it. I can’t wait to read the next book!

FIVE STARS

Can't Wait Wednesday: The Christmas Catch by Toni Shiloh

Can't Wait Wednesday is a weekly meme hosted by Wishful Endings that spotlights and discusses the books we're excited about that we've yet to read. Generally, they're books that are yet to be released. It's based on Waiting on Wednesday, hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine.

This week I'm featuring The Christmas Catch by Toni Shiloh releasing September 24.

About the Book

When two high school sweethearts reunite, will they take another chance at love or let life sideline them at Christmas?

Benched with a career-ending injury, NFL wide receiver Jahleel Walker is forced to return to his hometown of Peachwood Bay, Georgia, during the holidays to heal, despite his rocky relationship with his father. Nothing shocks him more than running into Lucille "Bebe" Gordon.

Bebe Gordon came home to Peachwood Bay three years ago with a divorce certificate and her daughter. When Jahleel returns--for the first time in eight years--all the memories of the past come rushing back. The connection between them is still strong, but Jahleel has no plans to stay in Peachwood Bay, and Bebe won't risk him leaving her again. As their hometown's Christmas festivities bring them together, Jahleel must decide if he's only home for the holidays or if the Christmas spirit that brought them together will last all through the year.

What upcoming release are you eagerly anticipating?

Review: Queen of Hearts by Heather Day Gilbert

About the Book

Her readers love her...
but one has gotten a little too attached.

Alexandra Dubois, a NYT bestselling author, has made a name for herself by crafting twisted serial killers in her romantic suspense series. When threatening notes from an "invested reader" escalate into violence, Alex has to admit she's not safe in her own home. Although her autism makes any changes to her routine difficult, she reluctantly accepts her editor's advice to fly to his sprawling vacation home in West Virginia so she can focus on her looming deadline.

Fighting paranoia that the stalker has discovered her mountain hideaway, Alex still forces herself to write several chapters in her novel. But when a thunderstorm leaves her stranded and she hears a knock at her door, she's about to discover that life truly is stranger than fiction.

Fans of Alfred Hitchcock, Mary Higgins Clark, and Misery are sure to be hooked by this clean, fast-paced domestic thriller by RWA Daphne Award-winning author Heather Day Gilbert.

Amazon / Goodreads

MY THOUGHTS

Oh my goodness, this is one of the best psychological thrillers I’ve ever read. I was on the edge of my seat for the majority of the story. I got goosebumps several times and was holding my breath through many intense scenes. I was so anxious to find out what happened next. There were many twists and turns, most of which I never saw coming. I was constantly surprised by the turn of events.

Alex is autistic, and I thought the author did a wonderful job of realistically portraying her. She was relatable and easy to like. She faced some seriously daunting and dangerous things with bravery and tenacity.

This was a mind-bending thrill ride. I suspected everybody at one point or another. I didn’t know who to trust. When the reveal came, I was shocked. If you’re a fan of this genre, don’t miss this book. It's a must read. I’m looking forward to more psychological thrillers from this author.

I received a copy of this book and voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and comments are my honest opinion.

FIVE STARS

Book Beginnings, First Line Friday, & Friday 56: The Study of Magic (The Study Chronicles: Valek's Adventures #2) by Maria V. Snyder

Book Beginnings is a weekly meme hosted by Rose City Reader that asks you to share the first sentence (or so) of the book you're reading. I'm also linking up with Carrie at Reading is My Superpower for First Line Friday. Friday 56 is hosted by Freda's Voice and asks you to grab a book (any book), turn to page 56 or 56% in your ereader and share a non-spoilery sentence or two. Freda is taking a hiatus right now, but Anne over at My Head is Full of Books has taken over in the meantime.

This week I'm featuring The Study of Magic (The Study Chronicles: Valek's Adventures #2) by Maria V. Snyder. This is a companion story to Magic Study and is told from the viewpoint of Valek. He wasn't in the original story much, so it's nice to see what he was doing while him and Yelena were separated. 

About the Book

Frankly, I think death is the best cure for stupidity.

As Chief of Ixia’s Security, Valek’s work is never done. After rescuing Commander Ambrose with, Yelena, his heartmate’s, help and seeing her off to Sitia, Valek discovers the nefarious scheme to overthrow their country is far more complex and far reaching than anyone could have guessed.

Valek must discover who is continuing with Brazell and Mogkan’s conniving plans, all while dealing with a tense political situation. The Ixian generals are questioning his abilities to keep the Commander safe, and whispers of a possible coup are circulating.

Will Valek be able to survive a plot that seeks to sabotage all he and the Commander have worked for? Also, having opened his heart to love, will Yelena still wish to be with him when all is said and done?

A companion novel to Magic Study, The Study of Magic reveals Valek’s side of the story. Find out what hazards Valek encounters and survives before he and Yelena are reunited once more.

Book Beginnings / First Line Friday

The oversized manor house sat like a fat cow amid the brown fields. Rows of dried-out wheat stalks stubbled the ground, providing no cover for Valek.

Friday 56

Valek questioned the guards at the gate. Did they see anyone? Hear anything? Of course not.

What have you been reading lately?

Review: Flashover (Chasing Fire: Montana #2) by Megan Besing

About the Book

SECRETS. BETRAYAL. SACRIFICE.
THIS TIME, THEY'RE NOT JUST FIGHTING FIRE.

An original series created by bestselling authors Susan May Warren and Lisa Phillips.

She never expected her second chance to show up…

When her special ops brother was killed, Sophie Lamb left everything—and everyone—behind to start over. Now the owner of a ranch that rescues neglected horses, they’ve become her entire life. And sure, she’s still haunted by the death of her brother, but she doesn’t have time to miss those she’s lost—including her high school crush, Houston James, who she absolutely never thinks about. Okay, almost never.

In the middle of a wildfire….

Houston James can’t catch a break. Sure, he survived a house fire, and became a youth pastor, but a recent false accusation in ministry has sent him into a summer fighting fires. The last thing he expects is to find the girl he can’t forget…

When the blazing Montana wildfire threatens her ranch, Sophie refuses to abandon her rescued animals. But the last person she expects to show up and demand her evacuation is of course, Houston James.

Then her prized stallion goes missing, and she and Houston must work together to track him down before the fire catches up to them. And when they stumble upon a shocking discovery, they are forced to work together, and confront their heartbreaking past, if they hope to survive.

In this relentless fight against external threats and the ghosts of their pasts, Houston and Sophie stand on the brink of a second chance. But the fight isn’t over when the threat she left behind finds her…now, what will her second chance at love cost her?

Don't miss out on this gripping tale of survival and redemption in the heart-pounding second installment of the Chasing Fire: Montana series.

Amazon / Goodreads

MY THOUGHTS

I really enjoyed this high-stakes second-chance romance. Filled with danger and intrigue, I could hardly put this book down. I was immediately hooked. The threat of the rapidly spreading fire kept the tension high. As did the mystery surrounding Sophie’s presumed dead brother.

I liked Sophie right off. She was kindhearted and determined. I loved how passionate she was about rescuing horses and enjoyed seeing the care she took with them. I liked Houston a lot. He’d been through a lot, but I loved how strong his faith was and how he leaned on God through everything.

Sophie and Houston have a history that dates back to high school. Things didn’t end on a good note, but I was rooting for them to work through their issues because they were perfect for each other.

This was the first book I’ve read by this author, but it certainly won’t be the last. I’m very eager to read more. I highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys high-stakes romantic suspense with a strong Christian message. While this is book two in the series, it can be read as a standalone.

FOUR STARS

Can't Wait Wednesday: Meddling with Mistletoe by Liz Johnson

Can't Wait Wednesday is a weekly meme hosted by Wishful Endings that spotlights and discusses the books we're excited about that we've yet to read. Generally, they're books that are yet to be released. It's based on Waiting on Wednesday, hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine.

This week I'm featuring Meddling with Mistletoe by Liz Johnson releasing September 3.

About the Book

Whitney Garrett is preparing to enter culinary school in the spring, but first she has to sell enough homemade pies at the local Christmas markets to pay her tuition. When her oven breaks, Whitney asks Marie Sloan, proprietor of the Red Door Inn, if she can use the inn's kitchen to keep up with her orders. Marie agrees, with a catch: Whitney has to watch the three Sloan children and cook breakfasts for the Red Door in return.

The inn is busy with holiday guests--including Aretha Franklin Sloan's perpetually single nephew Daniel and Ruby, a businesswoman in town to purchase Aretha's antiques store. Intent on making a Christmas match for the two, Aretha enlists Whitney's help in her schemes. But the deeper Whitney gets, the more she realizes that Ruby is definitely not the right woman for Daniel--and the more she thinks that she just might be his perfect match.

Cuddle up for some warm holiday cheer as New York Times bestselling author Liz Johnson explores the unforeseen consequences of meddling with mistletoe when love is on the line.

What upcoming release are you eagerly awaiting?

Review: Tracking Tilly: The Little Red Truck Mysteries #1 by Janice Thompson

About the Book

Who Stole Tilly from the Auction Block?

Breathe in the nostalgia of everything old red truck in book one of a new cozy mystery series.

The Hadley family ranch is struggling, so RaeLyn, her parents, and brothers decide to turn the old barn into an antique store. The only thing missing to go with the marketing of the store is Grandpa’s old red truck, Tilly, that was sold several years ago. Now coming back up on the auction block, Tilly would need a lot of work, but RaeLyn is sure it will be worth it—if only she can beat out other bidders and find out who stole Tilly after the auction ends. Hadley finds herself in the role of amateur sleuth, and the outcome could make or break the new family venture.

Amazon / Goodreads

MY THOUGHTS

This was a fun and sweet cozy mystery. I can always count on Janice Thompson to deliver a heartwarming, faith-filled story that makes me laugh and leaves a big smile on my face. This story achieved that and so much more. I enjoyed it so much!

I loved how focused on family this story was. The Hadleys were a great group of people who I instantly loved. They were entertaining to read about, and I liked seeing the genuine love they had for each other.

This was a murder-free mystery, which was nice for a change. I was very intrigued by the mystery. Who stole Tilly? And why? There were plenty of viable suspects with motive, and I never could narrow down the suspect list.

This was exactly the right book at the right time for me. I needed a lighthearted and fun story, and this fit the bill perfectly. If you’re in the mood for a light cozy mystery set in a charming small town that's filled with likable characters, you’ll love this book.

I received a copy of this book and voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and comments are my honest opinion.

4.5 STARS

Review: City of Serpents (The Secrets of Ormdale #4) by Christina Baehr

About the Book
Edith is ready for the mad scientist and the snake-infested laboratory, but is she ready to admit she needs a little help from her friends?

Edith is convinced that Janushek’s former employer, the mysterious Doctor Farley, holds the key to an antidote for dragon venom—her only hope to free the man she loves. Her ruse to obtain it leads her to London’s shadowy East End and a plot as sensational as one of her own detective novels.

As Edith goes deeper into a city far more serpentine than she ever dreamed, she begins to question what Farley is really searching for…and if the cost to save Simon might be more than she can pay.

Book 4 of The Secrets of Ormdale takes Edith from the heights of London society to its darkest slums, where unexpected dragons follow and her survival lies not in her hands, but in the hands of her friends.

Amazon / Goodreads / Author's Website

MY THOUGHTS

This was another fantastic addition to the series. I don’t know how the author does it, but each book just keeps getting better and better.

This story takes place mostly in London, which was a fun change of scenery. London was full of mystery and danger, but hope and light too. There was a mad scientist, new dragons, new characters, and new family members who were just as delightful as the ones we’ve already met.

I loved seeing the growth Edith has experienced. You can see a big difference from the first book to this one. I also loved that we learned a little bit more about Janushek. He’s such an intriguing character. I wouldn’t mind a whole new series just about him.

This book was a lot of fun and made me laugh out loud several times, but it also shed light on some more serious topics, which I really appreciated.

I can’t say enough good things about this book or this series. If you’re a fan of historical fantasy, don’t hesitate! You’ll love it!

I received a copy of this book and voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and comments are my honest opinion.

FIVE STARS

Book Beginnings, First Line Friday, & Friday 56: When the Day Comes (Timeless #1) by Gabrielle Meyer

Book Beginnings is a weekly meme hosted by Rose City Reader that asks you to share the first sentence (or so) of the book you're reading. I'm also linking up with Carrie at Reading is My Superpower for First Line Friday. Friday 56 is hosted by Freda's Voice and asks you to grab a book (any book), turn to page 56 or 56% in your ereader and share a non-spoilery sentence or two. Freda is taking a hiatus right now, but Anne over at My Head is Full of Books has taken over in the meantime.

This week I'm featuring When the Day Comes (Timeless #1) by Gabrielle Meyer. I've read a lot of really good books this year, but this one might just top the list. I loved it so much! 

About the Book

How will she choose, knowing all she must sacrifice?

Libby has been given a powerful gift: to live one life in 1774 Colonial Williamsburg and the other in 1914 Gilded Age New York City. When she falls asleep in one life, she wakes up in the other. While she's the same person at her core in both times, she's leading two vastly different lives.

In Colonial Williamsburg, Libby is a public printer for the House of Burgesses and the Royal Governor, trying to provide for her family and support the Patriot cause. The man she loves, Henry Montgomery, has his own secrets. As the revolution draws near, both their lives--and any hope of love--are put in jeopardy.

Libby's life in 1914 New York is filled with wealth, drawing room conversations, and bachelors. But the only work she cares about--women's suffrage--is discouraged, and her mother is intent on marrying her off to an English marquess. The growing talk of war in Europe only complicates matters.

But Libby knows she's not destined to live two lives forever. On her twenty-first birthday, she must choose one path and forfeit the other--but how can she choose when she has so much to lose in each life?

Book Beginnings / First Line Friday

Williamsburg, Virginia

May 5, 1774

For as long as I could remember, my mama had told me that my life was a gift. But at the age of nineteen, I had yet to see how this life I was living - or rather, the lives I was living - could be anything other than a burden.

Friday 56

Our enemy was in our very own backyard, and there was nothing we could do. It would make all of our future work more difficult and dangerous.

What have you been reading lately?

Review: Emily Wilde's Encyclopaedia of Faeries by Heather Fawcett

About the Book

A curmudgeonly professor journeys to a small town in the far north to study faerie folklore and discovers dark fae magic, friendship, and love in the start of a heartwarming and enchanting new fantasy series.

Cambridge professor Emily Wilde is good at many things: She is the foremost expert on the study of faeries. She is a genius scholar and a meticulous researcher who is writing the world's first encyclopaedia of faerie lore. But Emily Wilde is not good at people. She could never make small talk at a party--or even get invited to one. And she prefers the company of her books, her dog, and the Fair Folk.

So when she arrives in the hardscrabble village of Hrafnsvik, Emily has no intention of befriending the gruff townsfolk. Nor does she care to spend time with another new arrival: her dashing and insufferably handsome academic rival Wendell Bambleby, who manages to charm the townsfolk, get in the middle of Emily's research, and utterly confound and frustrate her.

But as Emily gets closer and closer to uncovering the secrets of the Hidden Ones--the most elusive of all faeries--lurking in the shadowy forest outside the town, she also finds herself on the trail of another mystery: Who is Wendell Bambleby, and what does he really want? To find the answer, she'll have to unlock the greatest mystery of all--her own heart.

Amazon / Goodreads

MY THOUGHTS

I’ve been wanting to read this book for awhile now, and am so happy I finally got the chance. I’ve heard amazing things about it, and it definitely lived up to the hype. I loved it! What an enchantingly whimsical tale full of wonder! It’s one of the best books I’ve read this year.

Emily was likable, endearing, and quirky. I was very intrigued by Bambleby. He was an interesting guy. You could tell that he had secrets, and I was very eager to find out what they were. I’ll just say that I was very surprised by them! Emily and Bambleby were quite the pair. Their banter was hilarious and quite possibly my favorite part of the book. They had such great chemistry, and I was rooting so hard for them.

The closer I got to the end, the slower I read it. Not because I didn’t enjoy it, but because I was enjoying it so much that I didn’t want it to end. I wanted to stay in this world with these characters for a little while longer. This story is going on my “favorites” shelf. I know I’m gonna want to read it again and again. I highly recommend it to anyone who enjoys historical fantasy.

FIVE STARS

Can't Wait Wednesday: The Legend of the Last Library by Frank L. Cole

Can't Wait Wednesday is a weekly meme hosted by Wishful Endings that spotlights and discusses the books we're excited about that we've yet to read. Generally, they're books that are yet to be released. It's based on Waiting on Wednesday, hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine.

This week I'm featuring The Legend of the Last Library by Frank L. Cole releasing August 6.

About the Book

In a world where paper is extremely scarce and books are priceless, Juni undertakes a dangerous quest to find a legendary lost treasure—the last library.

Juni lives in a world without books. The Blight killed off all the trees, and since then, paper is worth more than just about anything else. Juni’s parents were killed in an archeological dig when she was young, so now it’s just her and her Grandpa Edgar, trying to survive. When she’s not in school, Juni and her friends Doler and Quaze turn to plifting—scavenging in abandoned buildings for any scrap of paper they can find—to earn a little money. If Juni can find enough paper, she can pay for the expensive health care Grandpa needs.

So when Juni discovers a book—the first one she’s ever seen—hidden in a box in her grandpa’s closet, she’s both surprised and elated at the thought of the money she could get by selling it. Grandpa, however, insists that she read it first. Beyond the experience of opening her imagination, which exceeds her expectations, the book has hidden clues in the text that point to what could be the last library on Earth. If reading one book could change her own life so dramatically, what would access to thousands of books do?

While out plifting, Juni meets Kobyn, who’s connected to a secret organization eager to find the library and who seems to know something about how Juni’s parents actually died. The mystery deepens when Juni meets Ullred O’Donnell, the head of Novexus, a megacorporation that has replaced the government and now controls all the information—and misinformation—the public sees. With an army of robot sentry dogs by his side, Ullred warns Juni to abandon her quest—or else. Juni, Doler, and Kobyn—along with Zeno, an AI holographic guardian of the library—must liberate the information the library contains and share it with the world before Novexus claims it for their own.

What upcoming release are you eagerly awaiting?

Review: Hisses, Hexes, and Homicide (A Purr-fect Relic Cozy Mystery #2) by DeAnna Drake

About the Book
Join Rebecca and Aneksi in this engaging and humorous cozy mystery as they unravel a tale of murder, mystery, and mayhem while discovering more secrets in Citrus Grove.

Rebecca Cuthbert, no stranger to false accusations, rushes to defend her baker best friend when she’s accused of murdering Citrus Grove’s Elvis-loving mayor with a deadly petit four.

But Rebecca recognizes the real clue: this death is the work of the Emerald Scarab, one of the cursed artifacts she vowed to track down after it was stolen from her grandfather’s quirky antique shop.

Now she must navigate a peculiar maze of clues and enchantments, aided by her grandfather’s wise counsel and the scattered recollections of an immortal talking cat, Aneksi, who once encountered the scandalous scarab in Cleopatra’s court. With each revelation, her search becomes a frantic race to find the killer and the amulet before they can hurt anyone else.

But her meddling puts her in the killer’s path, and Rebecca must rely on her fledgling investigative skills to save her friend from jail and herself from becoming the sleepy Southern California town’s latest murder victim.

Amazon / Goodreads / Author Website

MY THOUGHTS

I’m loving this series so much! This second installment was just as good as the first.

Rebecca and Aneksi have another mystery to solve, this time involving the murder of Elvis-loving mayor Bill Wooster. Rebecca’s friend Luna is the prime suspect, and since she knows what it’s like to be falsely accused, she’s even more motivated to find the guilty party. Plus, this murder might have a connection to a missing cursed artifact that was stolen from her grandpa’s store.

The mystery kept me guessing right on up to the reveal. I never suspected the guilty party, but it made perfect sense.

I can’t get enough of this fun cozy mystery series! The characters are great, the small town is charming, and the mysteries are intriguing. If you’re a fan of the genre, you’re sure to enjoy it too. I can’t wait for book three!

Even though this is book two, it can be read as a standalone perfectly fine. It has a really good recap. I still recommend starting with book one, though, just because it’s so good.

I received a copy of this book and voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and comments are my honest opinion.

4.5 STARS

Book Beginnings, First Line Friday, & Friday 56: Flashover (Chasing Fire: Montana #2) by Megan Besing

Book Beginnings is a weekly meme hosted by Rose City Reader that asks you to share the first sentence (or so) of the book you're reading. I'm also linking up with Carrie at Reading is My Superpower for First Line Friday. Friday 56 is hosted by Freda's Voice and asks you to grab a book (any book), turn to page 56 or 56% in your ereader and share a non-spoilery sentence or two. Freda is taking a hiatus right now, but Anne over at My Head is Full of Books has taken over in the meantime.

This week I'm featuring Flashover (Chasing Fire: Montana #2) by Megan Besing. I'm loving this series so far!

About the Book

SECRETS. BETRAYAL. SACRIFICE.
THIS TIME, THEY'RE NOT JUST FIGHTING FIRE.

An original series created by bestselling authors Susan May Warren and Lisa Phillips.

She never expected her second chance to show up…

When her special ops brother was killed, Sophie Lamb left everything—and everyone—behind to start over. Now the owner of a ranch that rescues neglected horses, they’ve become her entire life. And sure, she’s still haunted by the death of her brother, but she doesn’t have time to miss those she’s lost—including her high school crush, Houston James, who she absolutely never thinks about. Okay, almost never.

In the middle of a wildfire….

Houston James can’t catch a break. Sure, he survived a house fire, and became a youth pastor, but a recent false accusation in ministry has sent him into a summer fighting fires. The last thing he expects is to find the girl he can’t forget…

When the blazing Montana wildfire threatens her ranch, Sophie refuses to abandon her rescued animals. But the last person she expects to show up and demand her evacuation is of course, Houston James.

Then her prized stallion goes missing, and she and Houston must work together to track him down before the fire catches up to them. And when they stumble upon a shocking discovery, they are forced to work together, and confront their heartbreaking past, if they hope to survive.

In this relentless fight against external threats and the ghosts of their pasts, Houston and Sophie stand on the brink of a second chance. But the fight isn’t over when the threat she left behind finds her…now, what will her second chance at love cost her?

Don't miss out on this gripping tale of survival and redemption in the heart-pounding second installment of the Chasing Fire: Montana series.

Book Beginnings / First Line Friday

Sophie Lamb should've never said yes. Now she would have to stand here and watch someone get killed riding one of her horses.

Friday 56

The sheriff checked his watch. "I'll follow you back into town in case you pick up another nail in your tires. You should probably stay at the emergency displacement shelter at the school tonight. I'll head to your place first thing in the morning to check out the break-in damage and do my full report."

What have you been reading lately?

Can't Wait Wednesday: Fury (A Breed Apart: Legacy Book 4) by Ronie Kendig & Steffani Webb

Can't Wait Wednesday is a weekly meme hosted by Wishful Endings that spotlights and discusses the books we're excited about that we've yet to read. Generally, they're books that are yet to be released. It's based on Waiting on Wednesday, hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine.

This week I'm featuring Fury (A Breed Apart: Legacy Book 4) by Ronie Kendig & Steffani Webb releasing July 16.

About the Book

Amidst the glittering heat of Abu Dhabi, Hollyn Reinhardt’s world shatters in one tragic night. Once a child prodigy, now a leading AI scientist, she’s left reeling from her parents’ sudden death—and the haunting suspicion that it was no accident. Vulnerable yet defiant, Hollyn must protect her life’s work from unseen enemies.

Enter Davis Ledger: former Green Beret, owner of a keen-nosed military working dog named Fury, and the slightly older man whose rugged charm once captured Hollyn’s young heart. Medically discharged and disillusioned, he’s ready for peace in the US, but walks back into the line of fire when he discovers his friends have been murdered and that their daughter Hollyn—now all grown up—needs his help.

Following an attempt on her life, Hollyn realizes the USB containing her code has been stolen. Code that, in the wrong hands, could kill thousands. But Davis’s sable German shepherd, who has been specially trained to sniff out electronics, is the perfect dog to ensure this doesn’t end in disaster. They have no choice but to join up with a black ops group to protect Hollyn and hunt down the tech.

As they’re pursued by killers, Hollyn struggles to douse her reigniting crush, while Davis finds it harder and harder to deny his feelings and stay mission-focused. With the clock ticking down to an unthinkable catastrophe, Hollyn and Davis face the ultimate test. Can they thwart the threat and reclaim the code, or will their second chance at love end in heartbreak—or worse…disaster?

A masterful blend of breathless suspense and heart-stopping romance, this tale of danger, devotion, and rekindled love will have you at the edge of your seat.

What upcoming release are you eagerly awaiting?

Review: Mortal Queens (The Fae Dynasty #1) by Victoria McCombs

About the Book

They vanish without a trace, disappear into the night . . .

Each year on the center island, one girl is chosen to be the next Mortal Queen of the idolized fae. The mortals praise these lucky girls, but their daughters are never seen again.

The fae realm is eternal night, where disputes are settled by chess matches, power is acquired through the most devious kinds of trickery, and seven illusive kings roam. The fae hide their faces behind masks and guard their glass hearts to keep them from shattering. But beyond the veil of this luxurious paradise, a dark secret simmers, for their Queens have disappeared.

When aspiring artist Althea is selected, she is desperate to avoid the same mysterious fate. With no one to trust, she conceals messages in paintings and receives anonymous replies from a stranger who slowly reveals the tale of a girl who outwitted the fae. Only if she is clever enough will Althea survive the fate of the Mortal Queens. As long as the king who cannot love does not claim her first.

Amazon / Goodreads

MY THOUGHTS

I absolutely loved this enchanting read! I got completely swept away in this book and loved every second of it. The real world faded away, and I was pulled into the twisty and complicated fae realm. I couldn’t get enough of it.

While the fae are fascinating and beautiful, they’re incredibly dangerous. Their world is one that's filled with trickery and deceit, games and making deals. It was an oddly beautiful yet cruel place.

The mystery of the mortal queens had me so intrigued. Why did the fae need them? What happened to the previous queens? Was there a way to change their fate? While we got some answers, I’m very eager to find out more in the next book. It can’t come out soon enough! If you’re a fan of fae-filled fantasy, you’re gonna love this story! I highly recommend it!

FIVE STARS