Liar's Dice by Gabriel Valjan Blog Tour/Book Review

I received a gifted copy and am providing a review.

Shane Cleary is an interesting fellow. He is a former police officer turned PI, and from what it sounds like, this was not a voluntary change. In the tale of Liar’s Dice, Shane is pulled into at least four different scenarios that are all connected, if even in some small way, in the end.

Here is what I find interesting … on the back cover the author is described as writing historical fiction. Say what? Some of the items found in this tale I remember as a kid … these don’t make me feel dated or old, rather bring up memories of my childhood … the things I grew up with. Rotary and push button phones, payphones on street corners, and TVs without remotes. I also enjoyed this author’s writing style in that his descriptions are drenched in metaphors, but some of them provide a good chuckle and seemingly come out of nowhere. Not to mention Delilah, Shane’s cat.

I would presume that the other books in the Shane Cleary series are written in the same fashion with characters that are just as colorful. If you’re looking for a “historical” read that is not from the 1960s or earlier, try this one. I’m sure you’ll be entertained!

  

Purchase Links:

Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Liars-Dice-Shane-Cleary-Mystery-ebook/dp/B0BHTZN2Z1/ref=sr_1_1?crid=N3S534FRGWU5&keywords=liar%27s+dice+gabriel+valjan&qid=1674574436&sprefix=liars+dice+gab%2Caps%2C181&sr=8-1

Barnes and Noble: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/liars-dice-gabriel-valjan/1143151325?ean=9781685122065

 

Find Mr. Valjan:

Website: https://gabrielvaljan.com/#liar

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100011325634871

BookBub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/gabriel-valjan

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/5774664.Gabriel_Valjan#liar

Twitter: https://twitter.com/GValjan#liar

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gabrielvaljan/

 

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Leaving Phoenix by Jafe Danbury Book Review

 

I received this book as a gift.

This book has been on my radar for awhile and has been on my shelf for a longer while. I finally got around to reading it. The first chapter got my attention and I thought what am I going to be reading, it’s pretty gruesome. As it turns out, this is the story of Phoebe, who was originally born Phoenix. The first part of this tale is about how Phoenix’s mom, Rose, was finally brave enough to escape a really bad relationship.

Fast forward a few years and Rose is raising Phoenix to the best of her ability. They didn’t have much and Rose didn’t know what she was doing as a first-time mom, but she was making it work. Fast forward a few more years and Phoenix is five years old. Tragedy strikes.

Fast forward and Phoenix, now Phoebe, is with her Pop Pop, her adoptive father. Her adoptive mom took a hike. It is now around 1998 to 2000 … remember Y2K? The author has absolutely nailed the era. The songs he mentions, the “old” items he mentions, just everything I remember as a kid (well, maybe not some of the music) are absolutely spot on! Even Tab, the soft drink. There’s a character who loves his Tab.

Enter a letter that shows up one day that Pop Pop was expecting, he just didn’t know when. It was time to tell Phoebe some more truths about what happened to her mom. Off Phoebe, now Phoenix again, to California to find the answers she didn’t know she wanted. California provided a great many adventures and answers for Phoenix. Be sure to check out the picture of the tattoo that is in the book!

The tone of this book is spot on as well … never once did the “voice” change and that is something I truly appreciate about a writer. Another thing I enjoyed about this book is the imagery, the metaphors, some even making me chuckle just a bit.

Cold Light of Day by Elizabeth Goddard Blog Tour/Book Review

 

I received a gifted copy and am providing a review.

Shadow Gap, Alaska, with a population large enough to keep you company but remote enough to let you hide, or so Grier thought. He also didn’t expect to meet Chief of Police Autumn Long. He also didn’t expect he would get attached to the dog, Cap, who came with the cabin he rented. Nor did he think Otis and Sandford would get under his skin and become his friends, but they did. And, don’t forget Hank who also lives like a hermit but seems to have his pulse on the community.

This book starts out with Kenny going on an adventure to meet up with his Uncle Hank in Shadow Gap when he stumbles upon something no one wanted him to see. Then, we get into Grier and all his trouble that he was running from. Autumn’s father was the police chief before her so, of course, she has to deal with the men on her staff (all two of them) and how they felt about her being police chief. Plus, she is also dealing with things that happened a very long time ago concerning her mom, and then she finds out what really happened which sets her back a minute. Grier is thinking perhaps he needs to move on when some folks have some unfortunate accidents. And, Grier, always wanting to do the right thing, falls to Autumn’s request to help her solve what is going on the not-so-quiet town of Shadow Gap, where nothing bad happens.

This tale involves bad guys, good guys, some truths that no one expects, faith, and an undeniable attraction which makes for an interesting story. I suspect Autumn and Grier have some more adventures ahead of them.

If you like Paige Shelton and Susan Furlong with their Alaska adventures, then you are sure to like Ms. Goddard and hers! This will be an interesting series to read as it progresses. (This is Missing In Alaska, book one.)

 

Purchase Links:

Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Cold-Light-Day-Missing-Alaska/dp/0800742044/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1673035096&sr=8-1

Barnes and Noble: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/cold-light-of-day-elizabeth-goddard/1141499603?ean=9780800742041

 

Find Ms. Goddard:

Website: https://elizabethgoddard.com/#cold

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ElizabethGoddardAuthor#cold

BookBub: https://www.bookbub.com/profile/elizabeth-goddard#cold

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/1295402.Elizabeth_Goddard#cold

Twitter: https://twitter.com/bethgoddard#cold

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elizabethgoddardauthor/

 

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The Family Bones by Elle Marr Book Review

 

I received this book as a gift. (Picture used with permission.)

You don’t want to mess with the Eriksens. They are one messed up family. But, guess what? They’ve decided to have a family retreat at the lodge that Uncle Zane purchased, Horsefly Falls. This tale is told in two voices, that of Olivia, a family member who has no desire to see her father’s side, and Birdie, a podcaster. Olivia is working on her dissertation which is about psychopathy, and who better to study than her own family? She also has a fiancé, Howard, who is nothing but supportive.

Enter Birdie, the podcaster. She’s made it her mission to seek justice for those folks who can’t speak for themselves anymore. Enter her research into what happened to Li Ming Na. Her research takes her to many forums on the internet, one of which led her to a retired police officer, who shared information with her, redacted though it was, because he, too, believed in justice and this case always felt off to him, which also led her to Horsefly Falls.

A very twisted tale indeed with the whoddunnit cleverly disguised. I thought I had figured out whodunnit, but I was wrong. If you like a bit dark, twisted tale of bizarre family dynamics, I’m sure you’ll enjoy this newest one by Ms. Marr.

Thicker Than Water by Megan Collins Book Review

 

I received a gifted copy and am providing a review. (Not my picture, publishing July 11, 2023.)

Where are all the Megan Collins fans? You have got to read this one … I think it’s her best yet. And I’ve read them all. This one is very fast-paced and will keep you turning the pages until the very end to find out the secrets that Julia, Sienna, and Jason are all hiding. Not to mention the true crux of Aiden’s anxiety issues and how much he really sees happening between his parents.

There is an interesting mix of characters intertwined in this tale. Julia and Sienna met when Julia was dating Jason, then they got married, but Julia (Jules) and Sienna’s relationship was much stronger than the one between Jules and Jason. They became so close they even started a business together, held hands to let the other know they weren’t alone, finished each other’s sentences. Until … they clashed in their belief of Jason, Sienna wanting to hold onto her childhood beliefs, Julia doubting her husband. Aiden trapped in his teenage years, not knowing what to do with his feelings.

Then, there’s Sienna’s memories of Clive Clayton and what he did when they were younger. Then, there’s the money trail. And Maeve.

If you are looking for another go-to author, I highly recommend you add Megan to your never-ending list. I am positive she is only going to get better throughout her career. Give Thicker Than Water a read when you have a chance.

A Body Washed Ashore by Bradley Pay Book Review

 

I received this book as a gift.

This is book three in the Spectrum series. This book introduces us to a whole host of colorful characters and, so far, has been my favorite of the series. I think that’s because the book is more focused on the characters and not so much the places they go on the cruises. In this book, the first cruise starts out with a blind dinner, where six total strangers are introduced to one another and have dinner together. That would seem kind of awkward, but in this instance many bonds are created. These six include Tracey and Charlotte; Fong and Lee; Remy and her cousin, Frannie. This book encompasses a two-year period from 2012 to 2014, in which time these six characters get together quite often, bonds are formed and broken, some surprises pop up along the way especially involving Charlotte, and a big mistake happens.

This is definitely a series you’ll want to read in order to get a better understanding of the characters involved. The bonfire and scraps of paper I found interesting; we all have something we want to let go of. 

Blind Trust by Debra Parmley Book Review

 

I received this book as a gift.

This is the third book in the Brotherhood Protectors series. In the first two books, we were introduced to a couple of the Marines who were involved in the Brotherhood Protectors. In book two, we were introduced to the Triple C’s Ranch, a shelter to house and help women get out of dangerous situations. It is located in a remote location which was supposed to be safe. We were also introduced to Cecelia, a former resident of a sister location and the receptionist to Triple C’s. Cecelia happens to be blind.

In Blind Trust, we learn more about Cecelia and we are introduced to Brian, a new recruit to the Brotherhood Protectors. Brian was immediately taken in by Cecelia, thinking she was a gorgeous lady and he couldn’t keep his mind from wandering to thoughts of her. Cecelia has her own story, her own reasons for not trusting easily, for not wanting to leave the ranch. She felt safe there. And, being blind, she knew her way around. She had no cause to leave and no cause to trust Brian … until she did.

If you like quick reads where there is an immediate attraction, a bit of action with a hero involved, and a female character who is flawed but stronger than she thinks, give this one a shot.

Off The Deep End by Lucinda Berry Book Review

 

I started this in the middle of the afternoon on a Sunday and kept reading past my bedtime. Ms. Berry is one of my go-to authors and she does not disappoint. This tale starts off with a terrible car accident that involves Jules, her son Gabe, and another young man, Isaac. Jules is able to pull Isaac out of the water, but when she realizes it’s Isaac and not Gabe, she goes back down to try and find Gabe. Isaac waited for a minute before he went in after Jules. For whatever reason, this car accident and the incidents surrounding it, at least in Jules’s mind, bonded her and Isaac in a way she was having a difficult time explaining. And, let’s not forget the games Jules was challenging the forensic psychologist with (Dr. Stephens), having been a therapist herself. This is definitely one twisted tale!

In true Berry fashion, this tales takes on some very sensitive subjects - mental illness, in many forms; attempted suicide for various reasons; a troubled teen who creates a world in a video game; a father who is trying to reach his son through that video game; a mother not knowing what to do to help her son; a mother who is grieving for the loss of her son; a lot of survivor’s guilt; a school shooting; a little sister who adored her big brother and then didn’t. This is a very intense read that is not for the faint of heart.

The Accidental Spy by David Gardner Blog Tour/Book Review

 

I received a gifted copy and am providing a review.

Harvey Hudson finds himself unemployed due to the college he taught at closing. As luck would have it, one day he bumped into a long-ago girlfriend of his who co-owned her own company. She hired him to be a technical writer, but what did Harvey know about being a technical writer? Nothing. He knew it was a pity hire, but he took the job anyway. He also found himself delivering candy and balloons until his a-ha moment and sent an order of balloons into the sky. Then, he goes on to pizza delivery, which, he discovered, wasn’t all bad … and it gave him time to think about his What-Ifs. Harvey is also an aspiring author.

Harvey decided to answer a random email one day … since he knew squat about technical writing he decided why not? And … he outsourced his job. Enter Amaya, the lady on the other end of the email. Enter a random happenstance involving the FBI. Enter some really burly dudes … Igor, Boris, and the like. Enter a world Harvey knew nothing about, thus the title “Accidental Spy.” Harvey definitely goes on some adventures through this tale … adventures he never thought a random fellow like himself would be involved in. There is also a bit of romance … some unresolved feelings from years past.

I have to say that I was quite entertained by some of the antics portrayed in this tale. If you’re looking for a light read about an average guy going about his business and stumbling across a world he was less than qualified to be involved in, give this one a read. I’m sure you’ll find yourself chuckling and shaking your head just a bit.

  

Purchase Links:

Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Accidental-Spy-David-Gardner/dp/1645994201/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1667847741&sr=8-1

Barnes and Noble: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-accidental-spy-david-gardner/1142249406?ean=9781645994206

 

Find Mr. Gardner:

Website: https://davidgardnerauthor.com/#spy

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100071044801939

BookBub: https://www.bookbub.com/profile/david-gardner-3f033b66-f480-4af4-bb4f-35ec9105f146

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/21115110.David_Gardner#spy

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/davidagardner07/

 

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What Meets The Eye by Alex Kenna Blog Tour/Book Review

 

I received a gifted copy and am providing a review.

Being an avid reader, I enjoy discovering new authors, debut authors, and Ms. Kenna is no exception. If this is only Ms. Kenna’s first/debut novel, I can only imagine what she’ll bring us in the future. If you’re looking for another go-to author to add to your ever-growing list, you may want to give Ms. Kenna a spot.

In What Meets the Eye, Ms. Kenna has created a character by the name of Kate Myles. Kate used to be a police officer and ended up going down another path, that of being a PI. She’s helped solve a few cases, but in What Meets the Eye she is hired by the father of Margot, an artist by trade, whose case the police believed was open and shut. Not so her father. Enter the conflict Kate has with her ex-husband, John, who also used to be a lawyer. John has some harsh feelings toward Kate, especially when it comes to their daughter, Amelia.

The case of Margot leads Kate down some very dangerous paths, but she also reconnects with a former LAPD officer, namely Luke. Against Luke’s better judgment, who also has a story of his own to tell, he decides to give Kate the benefit of the doubt and help her out. There are also numerous other shady characters that we are introduced who help shape this tale of whodunnit. There are avenues that Kate takes that don’t work out and lead her down to a path of destruction until her a-ha moment and she decides to go in another direction.

Again, if you’re looking for a debut/new author, Ms. Kenna is going to be one to follow. It will be interesting to see what she brings us next.

  

Purchase Links:

Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/What-Meets-Eye-Alex-Kenna/dp/1639101845/ref=sr_1_1?crid=G70Z1MVKTUS2&keywords=what+meets+the+eye+alex+kenna&qid=1667847390&sprefix=what+meets+the+e%2Caps%2C253&sr=8-1

Barnes and Noble: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/what-meets-the-eye-alex-kenna/1142221179?ean=9781639101849

 

Find Ms. Kenna:

Website: https://www.alexkenna.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100085915802718

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/22295347.Alex_Kenna

Twitter: https://twitter.com/alexkenna9

 

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No Child of Mine by Nichelle Giraldes Cover Reveal and Blurb

 

COVER REVEAL AND BLURB! There’s a Goodreads giveaway - link below!

We are so excited about this haunting debut from Nichelle Giraldes that publishes September 12, 2023.

 

Blurb:  The Push meets The Haunting of Bly Manor in an atmospheric and beautifully haunting debut story about motherhood and love.

There's something in the dark. And it's starting to whisper...

Essie Kaur has defined herself by her ambitions, a fiercely independent woman whose only soft spot is her husband, Sanjay. She never imagined herself as a mother. It was never a part of the plan. But then she finds out she's pregnant. As her difficult pregnancy transforms her body and life into something she barely recognizes, her husband spends the nights pacing in the attic, slowly becoming a stranger, and the house begins to whisper.

As Essie's pregnancy progresses, both her and Sanjay's lives are warped by a curse that has haunted her family for generations, leaving a string of fatherless daughters in its wake. When she's put on bedrest, Essie trades the last aspects of her carefully planned life for isolation in what should be a welcoming home, but she isn't alone. There's something here that means to take everything from her…

 

Link to Goodreads giveaway: https://www.goodreads.com/giveaway/show/359321-no-child-of-mine

Defensive Instructor by Debra Parmley Book Review

 

I received this book as a gift.

This is the second book of Mrs. Parmley’s that I have read in the Brotherhood Protector series. In this tale, we are introduced to the Three Cs Ranch, a place that was specifically built out in the middle of nowhere (literally) to shelter abused women and teach them skills to defend themselves. We are introduced to Barrett who is the defense instructor and from the description he’s quite the looker. The first client to arrive at the Three Cs is Chyna Taylor. Chyna has escaped from Phineas (Finn) her abusive ex and is one of the first of a group of women to be housed at the Three Cs. She is joined later by seven others, all with varying backgrounds, but one common theme - their abuse. They are learning to process their feelings with the help of Leah, the resident counselor, and they are also learning self-defense, taught by Barrett. Naturally, there is some powerful attraction between Barrett and one of the eight ladies, which is against the rules of the Three Cs. As remote as this location is in Montana, it’s not quite remote enough.

What I am enjoying, so far, about this series is that they are short novellas that can be read in a few hours, perfect for those folks who are traveling or just do not have time for a longer book, or even someone who is waiting during appointments. There is enough action to keep the reader interested. What I also enjoy is that there is enough heat, enough attraction between the two people involved so as not to be overly in your face, but you know it’s there.

Extreme Vetting by Roxana Arama Book Review

 

I received a gifted copy and am providing a review. (Publishing February 7, 2023.)

Laura Holban is an immigration attorney, she herself having come to the States from Romania. The main client she is helping in this tale is Emilio Ramirez and later his wife, Blanca, the main goal being that they are allowed to stay and work in the US, after having come to the States a very long time ago. Emilio is hardworking as is Blanca, so much so that they built their own home to raise their two sons, Jacob and David. Laura also has a daughter, Alice, as well as her mother who is still in Romania and an ex-husband, Adrian, who is with his new family in Romania as well. So, not only is Laura having to deal with a system that is not friendly toward immigrants, but she is also having to deal with a teenager and not-so-nice feelings toward her ex-husband, who also wants nothing to do with Alice. Talk about a vicious circle.

So, she meets Emilio and takes on his case at the urging of his son, David, and really, the last thing she needs is another case, but when David knocks on her front door how can she say no? David and Alice also develop a friendship; they lean on each other. Enter Kyle who is willing to help Laura with her case because they discover not so up-and-up issues with the system they are working their way through. Laura also finds out that some of her clients who were deported, through no fault of her own, did not have such good outcomes. Emilio’s past has finally caught up to him and he has to tell Laura the truth as well as his own family.

This is Ms. Arama’s first novel and takes the reader through the trials of what it’s like to find asylum in the States, and even what it’s like to be deported. This tale takes the reader on the ups and downs of hope and disappointment while working one’s way through the system, both the lawyer’s side and the client’s. Emilio faces some truths and comes to a decision that will hopefully save his family, which makes him a very realistic character. David is a teenager wanting to help his family; those values having been instilled in him by his parents. I think it’s an extremely well thought out book for a first-time author and look forward to reading more from her. I hope you’ll give this one a read.

Dark of Night by Colleen Coble Blog Tour/Book Review

 

I received a gifted copy and am providing a review.

This is book two in the Annie Pederson series by Ms. Coble and it picks up right where book one left off. It can, however, be read as a standalone.

In this tale, Annie has been called in to help find a missing woman, Michelle. Annie is still also dealing with her new relationship with Jon, as well as Kylie (her nine-year-old daughter) still not fully accepting Jon. Kylie is still grieving the losses she suffered at such a young age. Taylor is still around as well … becoming somewhat of a thorn in Annie’s side so to speak. However, in this tale the truth surrounding Taylor is finally revealed. Of course, Taylor does something unspeakable and Annie has to figure out whether or not to forgive her.

Jon is wrestling with how to get Kylie to accept him, even just a little bit. He is also wrestling with the decision of whether or not to accept the position he has been offered at a nearby clinic. Of course, something happens at his old clinic to make him believe that everything is going to fall apart and it’s going to reflect on him, even though he had nothing to do with it.

Michelle’s story leads both Annie and Jon to a women’s shelter where they met Idoya James, who claims she knows nothing about where Michelle might have gone off to. There is more to Idoya than meets the eye, but her story was never fully revealed. The whodunnit in this tale certainly caught this reader by surprise.

The thing I enjoy about this series is the consistency of the characters, the thoughts and feelings that they all experience make them much more realistic. I am quite certain that Annie and Jon are going to be having some more adventures that lead them deeper into the woods.

  

Purchase Links:

Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Dark-Night-Annie-Pederson-Novel/dp/0785253742/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1667846870&sr=8-1

Barnes and Noble: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/dark-of-night-colleen-coble/1141293095?ean=9780785253747

 

Find Colleen Coble:

Website: https://colleencoble.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/colleencoblebooks

BookBub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/colleen-coble

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/33227.Colleen_Coble

Twitter: https://twitter.com/colleencoble

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/colleencoble/

 

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Under A Veiled Moon by Karen Odden Blog Tour/Book Review

 

I received a gifted copy and am providing a review.

Down a Dark River is book one in this series; I would recommend reading that one first to introduce yourself to the main character, Michael (Mickey) Corravan. This tale is set in 1878, London, a time when the Irish were not a favorite, so many people at odds with each other. In this particular tale, Scotland Yard Inspector Corravan finds himself involved in trying to figure out the death of a man, where he came from, who is family was. Boom! There was a terrible accident on the Thames involving two vessels, so that added to his open investigations. While he was investigating these two crimes, a couple others happened, only adding to the question of how these crimes were connected, if they were. During these overlapping investigations, he starts discovering things about the family who took him in that he did not know, and he finds himself at wit’s end trying to figure it all out.

While the historical genre is not a usual one for me to read, I was highly impressed with the writing of this tale, very detailed descriptions of how things were back in the 1800s. Compared to today’s technology, can you imagine solving any kind of crime while taking notes (with pen and paper) and having to remember it all? No computers, no internet, no cell phones, none of the ‘conveniences’ of today. I would recommend this book to history buffs and those who enjoy the historical genre.

This may sound a bit silly, but I was actually reading this book with an Irish accent. Do you ever do that … create voices for your characters?

  

Purchase Links:

Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Under-Veiled-Inspector-Corravan-Mystery/dp/1639101195/ref=tmm_hrd_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1667847017&sr=8-1

Barnes and Noble: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/under-a-veiled-moon-karen-odden/1140985498?ean=9781639101191

 

Find Ms. Odden:

Website: https://karenodden.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KarenOddenAuthor

BookBub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/karen-odden

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/3290721.Karen_Odden

Twitter: https://twitter.com/karen_odden

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/karen_m_odden/

 

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The Dead Don't Dream by Meghan O'Flynn

 

I received a gifted copy and am providing a review. (Publishing January 24, 2023; not my picture.)

This is the first book I’ve read by Ms. O’Flynn and I am quite certain it won’t be the last. This is storytelling full of imagery that really grasps the reader’s attention. I found myself chuckling at some of the descriptions of Maggie’s patients and their antics, even some of Maggie’s antics.

Maggie is a psychologist/therapist who finds herself becoming immersed in her patients’ lives, some more than others, such as the case of Tristan Simms. This leads her to do some detective work, if you will, on her own as she wanted to get to the bottom of Tristan’s sleepwalking. Not to mention the fact she couldn’t get him out of her mind. There is also a secret side to Maggie that no one knows about. There is a bread trail of crumbs laced throughout these pages that Maggie follows, twisting and turning, so much so that she doesn’t really know what to believe or who to trust. Not only does Maggie have a secret side, she also helps women get out of certain situations, which makes her an intriguing character to say the least. Maggie is also dealing with her parents and their particular set of issues.

The pictures that are painted throughout this tale will certainly keep the reader turning pages to find out what happens in the end. If you are looking for a tale that will hold your attention and give you a good chuckle at the same time, give this one a go. I’m sure you won’t be disappointed! I wasn’t.

This is Mind Games book one. This can also be read as a standalone. Short chapters and very fast paced.

Montana Marine by Debra Parmley Book Review

 

I received this book as a gift.

This book is part of the Brotherhood Protector series. In this tale, we are introduced to Angelica Glory who is a diva in every sense of the word. We also get to meet Lucy Woods, Ms. Glory’s assistant. In reality, Lucy really wanted a job in the costume department when she was offered the job of Ms. Glory’s assistant. She took it, thinking at least she was in the vicinity and could move to the costume department when a position became available. Enter the roses and the notes, which Lucy dutifully filed away. Enter the lingerie, which Ms. Glory eagerly opened and passed off to Lucy. Enter Monroe … Ms. Glory’s manager. Off they go to Montana so the Brotherhood Protectors could … well … protect them. This did not sit well with Ms. Glory and she became even more moody, taking her bad mood out on Lucy. Enter Jack (Gunny to his friends) who was in charge of the protection detail for both Ms. Glory and Lucy.

While I figured out where this story was headed, it was an enjoyable read … one that made me go awww … This is a quick read, having finished it in a day, but it contains a few different storylines. There is Ms. Glory and her divaishness. Lucy and her insecurities, staying in a job that she does not like but needs, seeing it as a means to an end. And a good introduction to the Brotherhood Protector series.

The Stairs on Billy Buck Hill by Steven L. Orebaugh Book Review

 

I received a gifted copy and am providing a review.

Kurt McCain, MD, anesthesiologist, working for a private practice affiliated with a hospital has a reputation for being on time, caring for his patients, going the extra mile including writing articles, doing research, being involved, being taken under the wing of his ‘boss.’ Being extraordinary in other words - living for anesthesia and his job. To his own detriment, not having a social life. He was involved with Cassy until she took off. His sister, Katy, thinks he needs someone in his life; Kurt hesitates. He’s been hurt before … by Cassy. Thinking he’s not ready to give his heart away again until … Lauren. Lauren is beautiful in every sense of the word - from her looks to her personality to the people she introduces Kurt to. Kurt finds himself becoming addicted to Lauren. Lauren, as it turns out, has other issues and is virtually using Kurt to get her what she wants. Fortunately, for Kurt, before it’s too late to turn back from the path he went down with Lauren, he gets bonked on the head with a door.

Being a medical transcriptionist, I’m always interested in reading a medical ‘thriller.’ This is certainly a different read, not a thriller by definition, but a book that entails what medical professionals are faced with on a daily basis … the temptation that stares them in the face. I think it’s an important topic that probably doesn’t get talked about enough. There is also quite a bit of Kurt’s personal story entangled within the pages - from the relationship he has with his sister and her family, the relationship he had with Cassy, with Lauren, with his inner turmoil about what he was doing with his own life, his career, culminating in the end with his recovery and his one final test.

The Summer She Disappeared by Carissa Ann Lynch Book Review

 

I received a gifted copy and am providing a review. (Not my picture; publishing February 28, 2023.)

Willow and her family are not rich by any means. Instead of big, expensive summer vacations, they travel about forty minutes away from home (Branton) to Hillendale for the summertime. Basically, only shifting locations, but still … the scenery is different. Willow meets Kathi Jo and they become fast friends.

The following summer, it’s back to Hillendale. Kathi Jo has changed. She’s now hanging out with Blake, Tommy, and Trevor. Chloe, Blake’s sister, doesn’t bother hanging out with them. Willow never felt she fit in with this crowd, always thinking she was being judged by them. This is the summer some terrible things happened. This is the summer they wish they could all forget. This is the last summer Willow and her family spent in Hillendale.

Fast forward quite a few years and Willow finds herself back in Hillendale, trying to fix up the lake house so she can sell it or rent it, since it’s hers now. Being back in Hillendale brings back a lot of memories and a lot of questions - the main one being what happened to her friend.

If you like a tale told in a dual timeline, with a couple of storylines mixed together, give this one a read in 2023. There are dropped hints of what happened that fateful summer that will keep the pages turning until the answers are revealed.

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The House Guest by Hank Phillippi Ryan Book Review

 

I received a gifted copy and am providing a review. (Not my picture. Publishing February 7, 2023.)

In her previous life, Alyssa (then Alice) was what you would call an underprivileged child, complete with pretty much an absentee mother. In her adult life, along comes Bill who captivated her, made her promises of having everything she ever wanted and all she had to do was marry him and the world would be hers. Of course, she jumped at the opportunity … all in the name of love, or at least she thought it was love. Fast forward about eight years and her world crumbled. Bill up and left her … high and dry. Feeling sorry for herself one evening, Alyssa finds herself drowning her sorrows at a bar, a place she would normally not be.

Enter a bedraggled-looking Bree. The typical bar conversation ensues. You know the one, how are you, bad day type of thing. Alyssa leaves, only to return a few days later thinking maybe she’d see Bree again. And guess what? In walks Bree. This time, though … more conversation, more of Bree’s story comes out, and Alyssa felt bad enough for Bree that she invites her to stay in her guest house.

Things take some twists and turns after that. Alyssa encourages Bree to look at the genealogy results, which then leads them on a path toward discovering Bree’s real family which leads them to Dez, which leads them to a trail of money, which leads them to discovering that Bill wasn’t the upstanding citizen he portrayed himself to be. Just when I thought I had Bree and Dez figured out - PLOT TWIST! Then, again, just when I had this tidbit figured out - PLOT TWIST!

Add this one to your 2023 TBR because … the plot twists will make your head swivel. Ms. Ryan does not disappoint with this one, it seems a simple story … it’s not.

The Forgotten Boy by Emily Shiner Book Review

 

I received a gifted copy and am writing a review. Publishing January 2023.

This tale is told in two voices, those of Mina and Rebecca. Mina has returned to Black Tar, Tennessee, to clean out her parents’ home. The stipulation in her mom’s will is that Mina do this on her own or she doesn’t get her inheritance. To say Mina is less than thrilled to be back home is an understatement. There’s a knock on the door. It’s Rebecca of Secure Solutions checking in with Mina to be sure everything’s okay and she still wants to maintain the services her parents setup regarding the alarm system. At least, that’s the story Rebecca tells Mina.

To say this tale is twisted is putting it mildly. Rebecca has her own reasons for befriending Mina. Mina has her reasons for not wanting to be back home, but she also wants to uncover some memories that have been clouded by her drinking. Wanda just wants her jewelry back.

While this story has minimal characters, it kept my attention without being overloaded with characters. It doesn’t have to be.  I look forward to more books from Ms. Shiner … especially if they are this twisted with an ending that makes you go hmmmm … I didn’t see that coming.

Where The Guilty Hide by Annette Dashofy

 

I received a gifted copy and am providing a review. (Not my picture. Publishing January 2023.)

I have never heard of Ms. Dashofy but I am so glad I have now! I look forward to reading more from her. If you’ve never heard of her or read any of her books, I would encourage you to do so. I’m sure, like me, you’ll add her to your list of favorites in no time.

Emma finds herself trying to escape her past, but everywhere she looks she feels like she’s being watched. She ends up hiding out in a campground in Erie, but not only is she trying to escape her past, she is also trying to find her sister, Nell. Nell’s last known residence was in Erie … somewhere. For employment, Emma works as a freelance photographer for a couple of different publications. She is almost out of money when she gets an opportunity to work on a project for a friend of hers, taking pictures for a project he’s working on. Along the way, she finds herself taking a walk along the beach, noticing a yoga class, all the while taking pictures of what catches her eye - the seagulls, the water, the clouds, a pile of trash … or at least it appears to be a pile of trash. Little does she know what would happen after she took that picture. Enter Detective Matthias and his partner. Enter a case of some home invasions, but how are they tied to this picture?

If you like a story that has multiple different story lines that all tie together in the end, this tale is sure to keep you turning the pages!

Her Sister's Death by K.L. Murphy Blog Tour/Book Review

 

I received a gifted copy and am providing a review.

Can you imagine your sister doing something that you thought she would never do? This is the position that Val found herself in. Her sister, Sylvia, checked into the Franklin, a local hotel that has a history of its own.

This story combines a story from 1921 involving newlywed Bridget to her overbearing husband Lawrence. These stories are intertwined in a way that I sure didn’t see happening … at all.

Val, being a journalist at heart, finds herself in the library one day researching for anything she can find on what might have happened to her sister because she didn’t believe Sylvia did what the authorities were claiming. There had to be something more. Enter Terry Martin, a retired detective, who was the lucky, or not so lucky, recipient of watching Val crumble. After hearing her story, he decided to help her, but he wasn’t sure why.

Bridget and Lawrence’s story is interwoven between these pages as Val and Terry continue down this path of truth finding, all the while meeting and interviewing some interesting characters. You’ll be introduced to Wyatt (Sylvia’s husband); Angela (Wyatt’s administrative assistant); Dani (Wyatt’s wanna be girlfriend); Merry and Miles (the children); Billy (working at the Franklin); along with a host of other minor characters that help craft this tale.

If you like a story that includes a bit of ghostliness, a murder or two, an unexpected partnership trying to get to the answer, and some dysfunctional relationships, give this one a read.

  

Purchase Links:

Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Her-Sisters-Death-K-Murphy/dp/0744307414/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1G3J63Y1NS7DD&keywords=her+sister%27s+death+k.l.+murphy&qid=1663519584&sprefix=her+sister%27s+death+k%2Caps%2C306&sr=8-1

Barnes and Noble: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/her-sisters-death-k-l-murphy/1140923109?ean=9780744307399

 

Find Ms. Murphy:

Website: https://kellielarsenmurphy.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/klmurphyauthor/

BookBub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/k-l-murphy

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/6565833.K_L_Murphy

Twitter: https://twitter.com/klmurphyauthor?lang=en

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/k.l._murphy/

 

Interested in your own book tour?

Partners in Crime: https://www.partnersincrimetours.net/

 

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