July 1 - 6, 2025

 Tine for another month of Coastal Magic Reading Challenge Reviews.  I have been challenged by different genres.  There were no books this month that didn't really enjoy and few that I really loved.  And now on to the reviews. 

Spirits of the Season by James McDonald
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I’ll be honest I had my notepad out to keep track of all the people that cross Agent Spears life during what was supposed to be a routine surveillance. He’s asked to meet with Agent Wynn and he is pulled into a whole new world. Despite being given chances to walk away before he gets drawn in any further he’s all in. This short story is full of magical intrigue with lots of moving pieces. #CMCon26

View all my reviews A Coup of Tea by Casey Blair
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

When you pick up a book for a reading challenge you are never sure how well you will like it.

I was surprised by how much I loved this story. Miyara is like many young adults trying to figure who she is and her place in the world. The collection of people she brings into her life add to the richness of this story. It was remarkable to watch her grow and to see that her journey has just begun. #CMCon26

View all my reviews White Heat by Leta Blake
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I loved the blend of getting to know more about Vale as we relive the past. Avila and Sian have the makings of a tragic love story that is yet an enduring one. In a world with no women the rules are different especially for omegas. I really loved the strength that Avila had to have to survive. The couple of the past seem to be empowers Vale’s own life journey. #CMCon26

View all my reviews Crazy in the Blood by Lucienne Diver
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Tori is having a bad day fighting her ambrosia addiction. But it gets worse when dead bodies appear. She also needs to find her missing uncle and crash a cult. But all these random pieces begin to merge into one big case. It’s a fast pace race against time before all hell breaks loose. #CMCon26

 

View all my reviews The Mate by Abigail Owen
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Fallon has been called to a mating match. He’s still hung up with a human but he has to go because of politics. He’s surprised it’s Maddie. Now he has to win her heart in a dangerous game. Maddie has to be strong to find out so much about herself that she didn’t know. She has to understand her feelings and choose in a life or death situation. Add in trouble from the outside and there is danger all around. This is a nail biter. #CMCom26

View all my reviews The Farmhouse by Chelsea Conradt
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This story takes so many turns from beginning to end. There is a Hitchcock like vibe where you know bad things have happened but no one is listening to the main character. Emily is drawn into the past of the farm and no listens or believes her. Josh seems supportive but also not really checked in. This story keeps you on the edge of your seat. The last chapter went much differently than I expected yet it fits the development of the characters. Word of “caution” you might not want to be listening to this audio book on your 4:30 am walk where you a pass a field of cows. #CMCon26

View all my reviews Rangers of Acadia: Jordan Pond by Kari Lemor
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

A reverse surprise baby is a great way to revisit a familiar troupe. Theo is such a caring dad and dedicated to his work as a park ranger. Chelsea has one shock after another. My heart went out to her. She also has to deal with people who have thought the worst of her. There is a bit of mystery that also has to be solved before something worse happens. I love the way that the elements of this story come together to provide romance, action, and family. I really enjoyed this story. #CMCon26

View all my reviewsBuilding Fences by Violet Howe
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This story is a long journey as Caroline deals with issues from the past and starting to explore future possibilities. At the beginning of the story I was frustrated with how Caroline gave into her ex even before you get to the rest of the story. I loved the way she grew and came into herself and to be strong enough to do it on her own. But with the love of family newly discovered and the mom who always cared for her she doesn’t have to. The ending of the book is really a wonderful new beginning. #CMCon26

View all my reviewsDraft Pick Season One: Carver by Darie McCoy
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Carver has had feelings for a long time for Alyssa and her dud of a date is the opening he needs. In the beginning Carver is intense and little heavy handed in “helping”. But Alyssa is strong enough to stand up for herself. I appreciated that this issue was recognized as a potential problem and they took steps to address it for themselves and their relationship. I thought Carver’s parents were great with the way they let Carver know exactly how they felt. The ending is a great HEA. #CMCon26

View all my reviews The Man Date by Tere Michaels
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Mac who while not the central character is in the middle of the whole thing and trying to gloss over his past. Beck is Mac’s landlord and friend who has secrets (or does he?) and is happy for Mac to host his friend. Deacon arrives with a suitcase full of secrets of his own. There is a pull between Beck and Deacon that starts a whole new round of secrets. But secrets have a way of getting found out and you have to deal or walk away. And underlaying all of this is the secrets of Pine Lake itself. This second book in the Love Broker Universe is even more magical then the first. #CMCon26

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June 29, 2025 - ARC - Rules of Play Hayden Hall

 I have really enjoyed this series so far.  This is the 3rd book with at least one more planned.  

Rules of Play by Hayden Hall
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

You start knowing that Shane has a crush on Patrick. But what I loved was seeing Patrick in a whole new way. While you could read this book as a stand alone it is better to read the whole series. Patrick has grown from a background character to a fully developed character. Shane too is allowed to grow as a character as he comes to a better understanding of himself. A lot of what develops really took me by surprise. While there is a less drama in this story it is still a great addition to the Westmont University family. Received an ARC for an honest review.

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June 8-15, 2025

 Another batch of Coastal Magic Reading Challenge books.  #CMCon26

Southern Magic by Amy Boyles
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Pepper is in for a lot of surprises. Everything seems to be falling apart and suddenly there is a mysterous package and a cat. All of this sets Pepper in motion. I loved the way there are so many new surprises in her life. And of course a murder to solve. Witches and cozy mystery is a great combo. #CMCon26

 

View all my reviews The Love Con by Seressia Glass
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I love all the themes running through this story. There is a wit and humor that add to the story line. It was nail biting to know what each of them feeling but yet neither one was speaking up. And man Kenya’s parents are something else. Luckily Kenya has good friends. I loved seeing love and strength for the win. #CMCon26

 

View all my reviews Decoy Training by Caridad Piñeiro
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Shane is learning a new skill with Decoy as he rebuilds his life. But both Shane and Piper are also learning about letting going and finding connections. In the background is the lurking danger. But Shane and Decoy are ready for action. #CMCon26

 

View all my reviews Original Sinner by Kait Ballenger
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This story is full of darkness but it also explores the idea that evil isn’t always as it seems. Charlotte has escaped so much and where she lands seems to be a contradiction. This story is very original and not my usual pick so I was surprised about how much I liked the story. Despite the darkness there is an unexpected light. #CMCon25

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I have started a book journal as of June 1st.   Here are a couple of the pages of completed so far.  

June 1 - 8, 2025

 Getting a start on the Coastal Magic Reading Challenge.  I'm so excited for the list of author for this year.  Click List to see all the featured authors.  Click here to find out more about the reading challenge and attending the convention.  #CMCon26

String Boys by Amy Lane
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I’m not sure how to review this book without giving any spoilers. This story spans years of the MC’s lives from childhood to adulthood. There is so much pain and suffering but there is also so much love that makes it bearable. Guilt and fear can be such a powerful thing. Family can be made but there is also the bond of blood that can’t always be dismissed. This is a powerful story and the ending makes all the dark paths worth the journey. #CMCon26

View all my reviews In Safe Hands by Victoria Sue
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Deacan has had so many set backs in his life. He feels he’s in danger and maybe like he doesn’t deserve better. Mav has hit rock bottom and this job is his second chance. The road to the truth leads through a lot. This book is full of drama and danger. Great pacing between the action and the relationship building. #CMCon26

 

View all my reviews Pretty Pretty Boys by Gregory Ashe
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Hazard has a lot about his past that is unresolved. So he comes home with an agenda. Things go sideways from the moment he’s assigned his partner. Somerset is a blast from that past. And now there is a murder to solve. It was interesting to watch both men deal with their past and present as they do their jobs. #CMCon26

 

View all my reviews Single Malt by Layla Reyne
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I am finally starting this series after several recommendations. I love the suspense and the push and pull between the main characters. I like that the immediate problem is solved but you see the emerging layers buried deep. I am looking forward to more in this series. #CMCon26

 

View all my reviews Friend Zone by Nicole Blanchard
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The causal way things started seemed to fit their long time friendship. I got a bit frustrated with both of them because they both should understand that it was a time of transition for both of them. They needed to communicate a bit more. I do like the wrap up at the end of the story to give you a clear idea of how things worked out. #CMCon26

View all my reviews To Buy a Vow by Chencia C. Higgins
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This book is a great example of an. own voice story. I like how Nedra is giving some bad news. She works through her emotions and understands what she wants going forward. Jermaine sees her and is immediately drawn to Nedra. It takes her a bit to understand how she felt about it. I love the sweet ending of the story. #CMCon26

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May 21 - 31, 2025

 Well here is the last of my pre Coastal Magic Reading Challenge reviews.  I'm so excited to get started on the challenge on June 1, 2025.  If you want to join the fun click Reading Challenge.  Watch this space for all the review fun.  

So here are the last of May's reviews.  

Display Me by Kota Quinn
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Jamie and Kingston have had this on going love/hate relationship. I love the way their feelings got tangled between IRL and on the app. The resolution was very satisfying.

 

View all my reviews Dragon's Stand by Nora Phoenix
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

It is great to see all there of these men begin to build their lives together on their own terms. Fallon is so much more than what is seen on the surface. And in the background all the mysteries continue to unravel.

 

View all my reviews How to Catch the Boss by Ana Ashley
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

These two have had feeling for a long time. Poor Ryan has been afraid to even thing about Luca. This was a fun Christmas romance between some long term friends.

 

View all my reviews Alone in a Hotel Room by Alex Blaine
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Timmy is out of his comfort zone. Jax is exploring other way to express himself. They are brought together at the perfect tense for both of them.

 

View all my reviews The Silent Mountain Man by Casey Cox
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

What a dramatic life or death situation. I like the way they are drawn to each other in the here and now. It is so sad that parental choices can leave such changes in other future.



View all my reviews Delivering Dante by Lucy Lennox
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Dante’s story was very moving. It was interesting to see AJ’s struggle with coming clean with Dante. And wow the way this story wraps up is amazing. Such a great show of growth, bravery, and justice.

 

View all my reviews Hanging With Daddy by J.P. Sayle
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Gaines and Austin have a meet up when both of them are working. It seems like a great coincidence doesn’t it. But they both have great friends. I appreciate there are no 3rd act break up. Both of these men expressed their concerns and work to find solutions that worked.

 

View all my reviews Undone by Leslie McAdam
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Murph decides he will be flirty with his new landlord/roommate. Jason keeps complaining about the men Murph is seeing. They both have a lot to discover about each other. It was fun to watch thing develop.

View all my reviewsPoor Parrish was burned so badly. But a random encounter at the courthouse brings him back into another situation. But Parrish’s decision to help morph into so much more. With pressure form all sides the race is on to a happy ending. Of Paper and Wood by Amy Bellows
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This story really has webs of layers and connections between all of the characters. Park makes a decision in desperation which leads to another. Troy is facing a life he doesn’t want. they come together for a time. In the background though things are set in motion which will change the lives of not just themselves but of all those those around them.

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May 12 - 21, 2025

 

How to Catch a Bookworm by Ana Ashley
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Ben and Tristan meet up and have a good time but that seemed to be it. But with the help of meddling friends they reconnect. This is a short story with a very sweet ending.

 

View all my reviews Sugar Bunny by Colette Davison
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The causal start to the relationship makes what builds between them even sweeter. I also like how Colton and Ford support Oscar with his mom. I’m glad we get to see how things work out for Oscar and I loved the bonus chapter.

 

View all my reviewsCrash-Landed in Love by Piper Scott
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I wasn’t sure what to expect from this story. I was really impressed with the great mix of humor and deep feelings. It was interesting to have both Al and Jude dealing with the same feelings with their families and lives despite all the things that set them apart for each other. I also love Jude’s friends and their different reactions as the find and what’s happening. I love the way things worked but for both of them. I can’t wait for the next book.

View all my reviewsGot Me Talking by Casey Cox
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Poor Jeremy is filling really down on himself. He got talked into a specific hook up and that seems to be a great idea. Right up until Monty walks in the bakery. It takes a while to get past it. I love the epilogue which gives you full view of their future.

 

View all my reviews Haunted Ever After by Jen DeLuca
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This was a great haunted tale. I like how all the regular town folk just take it all in stride. It was also a bit of trusting yourself as well. Loved the mystery of what was happening with the house.

 

View all my reviews Taken by Storm by K.M. Neuhold
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

It was fun to watch Storm and Hennesy sort of fall into each other. The fake boyfriend troupe is always so much fun to watch. Glad everything got sorted out for them.

View all my reviews How to Catch a Bachelor by Ana Ashley
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Indy and Tate seem to not only seem unlikely pair. But neither is really in the market for more at the time. But there is a connection almost immediately. Of course there is all manner of obstacle for these two men. But Tom is there to help out. I also love Indy’s special gifts from his family.

 

View all my reviews Off Key by May Archer
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This story starts out a little bitter sweet as we can see that there have been feelings on both sides for years. But there are layers of well meaning lies that have really created so much hurt. I like the use of a “kidnap” van was the vehicle to begin healing.

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Drake and the Dragon - Victoria Sue - 4.0 

Drake’s whole life has been a shadow and filled with misery. But Keegan is ready to help him find the truth. I liked how even a small kindness from Keegan starts make Drake’s life better.

Reviews - May 2 - 11, 2025

 

Painted Love by Layla Dorine
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Cas Knows what he wants and is trying the best he can to achieve it. But not everyone is kind and he’s very shy. Along come Garret and Mouse who draw Cas into their family. I love the way they all fit together. There is some danger from the outside but this just helps them bond even more. This is a sweet pet triad that lets you see the love and respect they have each other.

View all my reviews Duty & Devotion by Tere Michaels
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Evan and Matt both need to work through the individual issues while also moving forward in their relationship. It was also fun to see Griffin and Jim as well. It was nice to watch Evan work through his issues in big and small ways.

 

View all my reviews Cowboy Haven by B.A. Tortuga
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Kilts dealing with the way his life will look without the rodeo. Heath has had his whole life turned upside down in every way possible. When Kolt rides to Heath’s rescue it give both men something different to focus on. I like how much Kolt lifted Heath up and encourage him. And I love the whole band of Kolt’s family. There is some drama from outside but the building relationship is the main focus of this book.

View all my reviews Working For The Summer by Nicole Dykes
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

This is a short story of two men finding each other working together for the summer. Blake and Clayton are great people and a perfect couple. The story really ends with the beginning of their future.



View all my reviews Bookish Bits & Bites by Tawdra Kandle
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is a great collection of short stories of some of Coastal Magic 2021 authors. I love the fun stories and the little peeks at the authors. The recipes are a fun addition.

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