A Date with a Book
I love reading and you will always catch me with a book. While I love all mysteries and romances, I am particularly stuck on Cozy Mysteries.
Again, another beautiful book cover. I enjoyed that this book very well. The writing was a little less rough and choppy and I liked how there was not a lot of recap. You could definitely read this book as a stand alone and not have to read them in order. The love story is also just as amazing as book one. This book also gives you further glimpse into Luke and Tiffany's married life. Overall, I did enjoy the length of this story and was able to learn more about Kammy and Luke. The interactions between brothers and sisters was a lot of fun. Definitely not the outcome I suspected.I would definitely recommend both books to lovers of romance. Cute, sweet and swift romances. Very clean on the romance.
I was first captured by the cover of this book. Breath takingly beautiful. I enjoyed the love story written by this author. At times the writing was a little rough, but the overall story was awesome. I’m glad I’ve never had a sister like Tiffany, but commend Kammy for all that she put up with. I would definitely have to agree with Luke on his overall feelings for Tiffany. Definitely a quick story, but a lot of fun. Was excited to read book two. See below for my review of book two.
I have absolutely loved Julie Hyzy’s White House Chef Mysteries. See my reviews here. When I saw she had another series written at an art museum, I wasn’t so sure about the setting, but I gave it a try anyways. I am very glad I did, this was a great start to the series.I love how the author create characters who are involved in the crime, but also other things that are going on in the story. She is able to weave a story around the crime involving personal relationships and previous history that also gets you wondering. There is also a little bit of romance, but not enough to distract from the fact that it is a cozy mystery.I love the setting and the small town. I definitely feel like I could find a place similar if I looked hard enough, however, the author does not bog you down with details when trying to describe how everything looks and comes together.Grace is a great amateur sleuth. She is also new to her job and wanting to move up with the museum. She is an outsider because it is a small town which also hinders her slightly while trying to investigate the crime. My favorite characters are Scott and Bruce who are Grace’s roommates and have their own small business in town and are trying to get by. All three are great friends and help create additional sideline stories in addition to the mystery.A great start to the series and I will definitely continue on with book two, excited to get that as soon as I can. If you love a cozy mystery or a great story with amazing characters, I would highly recommend reading Julie Hyzy’s books.
 - Addison Moore)
I am really enjoying this series. The third book in and the story continues with a fairly good pace. Many things are happening with the factions and new developments throughout. The characters are described and developed even further making me feel differently about some of them, in good and bad ways.Skyla is a tough girl with many new things being thrown her way. She gets to deal with things, some in ways that she is being told because of the faction effect. Even with these situations, she does handle herself very well.If you haven’t started this series yet and you’re looking for a fun, quick read, you should give them a try. Not too long and not too far out there with the paranormal, I have thoroughly enjoyed this series. If you have a Kindle, check out Lendle or Book Lending to borrow them, however, you might have a wait that you just can’t take. Kind of an addicting series.
This book came as a suggestion from a coworker. I loaded it onto my Kindle and began reading. I was quickly drawn in at the beginning, as the prologue had me hooked. As I continued to read, I felt the story just went along without a lot of ups and downs. I also wasn’t sure what it was that my coworker saw in this book. However, as I continued to read and reach near the very end, I definitely connected with the book. There is so much at the end that is revealed that reels you back through all of the happenings of the story. .I loved all of the characters, not so much in that I liked them all, but that I could definitely identify with each and everyone. Lou’s family was a great addition to her story with Will. And Will’s family, obviously a very different socioeconomic type family, was also a great addition to his story. The depth that these characters brought to the story, the story itself unfolded without a lot of action.This is definitely an author I am wanting to read more from. However, my hang up is which book? I’m afraid I’ll pick the wrong one and be very disappointed and would love to have another great read. If you’ve read anything else or have any knowledge as to the other books by Jojo Moyes, leave me a comment.I recommend this book to readers of all types of fiction. While it is listed as a romance, it is much more with all of the family and social issues that are presented throughout the book.
So I’m a little late on all the hype with this book and I’m kind of sad I didn’t read it sooner. I thoroughly enjoyed this book. However, in the very beginning of this book I thought it would be a great read for my 15 year old, but as I got further I realized this is definitely one of those young adult books that is more adultish.I loved the entire premise of the book with the different factions. I was fascinated with their differences, beliefs, and workings. As I was reading the initiation for Beatrice (Tris), I wondered if the other factions had their own initiations or because they were other characteristics they didn’t do that. The little glimpses we get from her time out and about just made me want to know more. There’s no much more to the factions and their interactions I hope there’s more to come in the next book.The relationships of Tris and Four, of Tris and her family, of Tris and the other fellow initiates are really strong. I think these relationships and interactions helped to build the story and keep it going with all the dystopian world building and describing. Many times my heart was breaking and other times my heart was jumping for joy.I would have to say this book was very similar to Hunger Game, but not the same. If you enjoyed Hunger Games and are looking for more, I definitely recommend this book.
 - Kerrigan Byrne)
I was excited that this series was continuing. Quickly grabbing it when it was released, life got in the way and it took me a few months to finally get to read it. I couldn’t wait to see what was in store for us with the Banshees as I loved the Berserkers. With the Berserkers in all their tough and teddy bear ways, I could just hope that the author was creating a female flip side that was tough but also beautiful and breathtaking.Katriona is a tough, beautiful lady. Using her powers, she finds they do not work. Or at least on Rory MacKay. Rory MacKay is promised to another lady, but Katriona’s Banshee scream is nothing but attractive to him. This was a rollercoaster love story, but one I absolutely loved. The emotions were hot and the differences definitely added depth to the story. The ending was surprising, but I liked it.I liked the paranormal elements that were a lot more prevalent with the ladies than in the previous Highland Historical books. Definitely added a new twist to the story and “scenery” in my opinion. A lot more magical and a little bit of fantasy. Definitely wanting a happily ever after ending.This is a novella, so the story is short and quick, but not rushed. There is information that is pertinent to book #2 (or book #4), so these books should be read in order. I highly recommend this book to readers of the Highland Historical series or readers of paranormal romance.
One of the best books I’ve read in a while. This book was recommended to me by a co-worker who normally we don’t share the same reading taste. We’ve passed recommendations back and forth and never do we ever agree on the same book. However, here is one where we both enjoyed it to the max.The first page is all you need. There is no set up and waiting for the story begin, it’s like riding in a race car and the driver puts the pedal to the metal. Whoa!! And it basically kept that momentum the entire length of the book.I enjoyed both main characters Augustus and Hazel. I loved their growth through the book, individually and together. They were definitely a match made for each other. I loved the little quirks Augustus had and the way he treated Hazel and others in the support group.My favorite character in the support group was Isaac. I think my reason for saying this was because of his two major obstacles he faced in the book, as well as everyone thought of him as their little brother.My least favorite character was Van Houten. Well at least at the beginning of the book. By the end of the book I wasn’t so hard on the man, probably because I understood him better. I think Augustus had figured him out as well.My largest contemplation in the book was the parents of both Hazel and Augustus. Learning of the ways they were dealing (or not) and how they were helping the patient to deal (or not), was very interesting to me. In the book Me Before You by JoJo Moyes, the parents of Patrick I also found interesting in their handling of their son’s illness and his choices. I could see alot of similarities between the two books, so if you haven’t read either one they are both excellent books!I highly recommend this book to all readers; young, old, male, female, healthy, ill, etc.. It is just a great book!!
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 - Kerrigan Byrne)
Second book in the MacKay series and story centering around Kylah who is a Banshee. The author has developed more paranormal ideas in this story and building a new world. I thoroughly enjoyed it. I love the ideas she has with the interactions of the Banshees and the Druids. The love story is also amazing. Love the ideas and concepts that are not traditional at all due to circumstances that are not normal. A very magical story.I loved both the hero and heroine, Daroch and Kylah. Their story is amazing and their obstacles they have to overcome. Their interaction with one another just made me fall in love with them. Daroch is just one big teddy bear.“What do ye know of my heart?” he thundered. “Not a thing,” she admitted gently. “But we are Banshees. We’re drawn to sadness, anger, and loss. Thus is our nature.”Byrne, Kerrigan (2013-04-21). Redeemed (Heroes of the Highlands) (The MacKays #2) (Kindle Locations 812-813). Ardent Publishing. Kindle Edition.I recommend this book to readers of the series and readers who enjoy paranormal romances.
A Real Man (The New Year's Eve Club)
I was excited to review this book and the entire series of books. This series is about a group of girls, friends from college, and their getting together on New Year’s Eve. When they were in college, they made a list of qualities they wanted to find in a husband. With all of them single again, they make a new list and challenge to find someone by next year.This is Melissa’s story. Melissa is currently attending grad school and on her way to a study session with Jason, she is involved in a crash. Her knight and shining armor arrives to help rescue her from her injuries. Soon she finds herself with her previous high school boyfriend who when he let her go, really hurt her heart. Not knowing if she should trust him, Melissa dates him with caution.I enjoyed this story in this series as well. I didn’t connect with it as well as the first book, but overall I liked the story. This romance story is largely drawn on insecurities of both Melissa and Matt. The author is able to throw both characters into situations that cause the other one to remember the past. I do have to say I disliked both Annie and Jeff, but did really like Captain Carter. The benefit dinner at the end was my favorite part of the book.I would recommend this book to those reading the series and anyone who likes a sweet, quick read romance.
Sarah's Cowboy (New Year's Eve Club)
I was excited to review this book and the entire series of books. This series is about a group of girls, friends from college, and their getting together on New Year’s Eve. When they were in college, they made a list of qualities they wanted to find in a husband. With all of them single again, they make a new list and challenge to find someone by next year.I was a little reluctant about the title having "cowboy" in it. Not to worry, I thoroughly enjoyed this book. Sarah and Kit were awesome characters. Their spark was real and enjoyable. Not only did this story have the romance in it, but enjoyed the on-set location. Living and working in a small town did not short this story any adventure and excitement. The courtship of Sarah and Kit was a lot of fun and romantic. Their friends and co-workers on the set were also a great addition to the story.I have really enjoyed this little series and like how all of the books have different authors, but they have been able to do very similar work. I would recommend this and all books to all romance readers. No worries, as the romance doesn't get to "hot", but is very enjoyable.
I was excited to review this book and the entire series of books. This series is about a group of girls, friends from college, and their getting together on New Year’s Eve. When they were in college, they made a list of qualities they wanted to find in a husband. With all of them single again, they make a new list and challenge to find someone by next year.The last book of the series was very enjoyable. This was another great installment in the series. I thought Daniel and Emma made a very cute couple. At first I wasn't sure if I was going to like the character of Daniel, but I definitely warmed up to him and his relationship with Emma. Definitely a quick read, but not rushed and not missing any information to make a complete story.I highly suggest reading this series, but warn you to set some time aside as they are addicting.
Chef's Delight
I was excited to review this book and the entire series of books. This series is about a group of girls, friends from college, and their getting together on New Year’s Eve. When they were in college, they made a list of qualities they wanted to find in a husband. With all of them single again, they make a new list and challenge to find someone by next year.Out of the entire series, I think I would have to choose the man from this book specifically, even though I thought all of the males were great. Joss was an excellent character and would be my type of man. Even though he was supposed to be tough and rough, because of past experience, he actually was the biggest romantic IMO. I really liked the relationship and how it developed between Joss and Heather. It might have been a little preemptive in the beginning, but it definitely, and I'm glad, worked out.This story was more than just the romance between Joss and Heather, but a realization of all relationships. I really enjoyed this book of the series. This book wraps up this series very well. I very much enjoyed the entire series and was glad I had the opportunity to do the review.
Originally posted at A Date with a Book Get ready to get hooked on this book from page one. I was slow in reading it due to personal life that kept me busy and sure wished I would have read it when I didn’t have anything going on. It was so fast paced and kept you going.I liked how the author clipped the stories together in the beginning and the finally pieces everything together at the end. As I was reading, I kept thinking back to the first few chapters and wondered how and where they would fit. It was amazing when it all came together.This thriller does contain some romance. I liked that aspect as well. Softened it up a little for the female reader in me. Men, however, should not think it was all gushy because it definitely was not. There is a visit to a strip club :) Lee and Lucy are a perfect couple, despite what is happening. Lucy is very strong and I think that is what makes the relationship work.I highly recommend this book to any reader who loves a thrill. Be prepared to be blown away!And again, this is why I read the Indie Authors.
 - Jean Haus)
Originally posted at A Date with a Book When I read the synopsis for this book, I just knew I had to read it. First off, I am the mother of a female drummer who is quickly learning the downside of being female in a male world. I so totally connected with the book through that aspect and loved it, however, that was not all that was great about this book.My favorite character, even though I really connected with the female drummer Riley, was Romeo the guitar player from the band. What a complex character Jean Haus has created. From his toughness to him being very sweet, I thought he was a well developed character. All of the characters are very well developed making their interactions more intense and intimate.A great book with a well paced story that kept me turning the pages. This book was very memorable and I won’t forget it for a long time.I really think I have a like for the New Adult genre. I read Wake by Abria Mattina last year and was totally absorbed by the story, as much as I was this one. I think I have found another favorite genre.
Originally posted at A Date with a Book This book got off to a really good start. I was immediately engaged and the pages kept turning for me. However, it seemed that after the “action” happened in the beginning, there was just a lot of detail and more detail until the end. I was interested enough to know what happened and kept reading, but the entertainment value dropped.I enjoyed the triangle twist of the story which evolved from the accident that had happened prior to this story. I did enjoy the characters for the most part, but I’m not sure I connected with any one character in particular.Not a bad book at all. It just didn’t keep me as engaged as the initial anticipation had set up. This was my first read of this author and I would definitely consider reading a second book. I recommend this book for readers of mystery and thrillers.
