Reviews, October 13 - November 17, 2024

My Gallant Texan by Dakota Lacoy
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Nothing like your rival all through school showing up at your door. Rowan isn’t happy but Clem is determined. I like the way that Rowan comes not just to care for Clem but to also learn to respect her. Clem is a strong woman but has a big heart as well. There are also some emotional moments as well. #CMCon25

 

View all my reviews My Stubborn Texan by Dakota Lacoy
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I love the past that Trey and Zoey have. They had such strong feelings. And when they reconnect it seemed feelings are still there. Their story is unique and there are so many facets to them. We also see how they both grow over time. #CMCon25

 

View all my reviews My Forbidden Texan by Dakota Lacoy
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I love the build up of their relationship during the story. Poor Gavin has had a long time to hide his feelings. There was a lot of drama that you were kind of waiting for. Gavin and Juliette are a great couple but I kind of feel bad for Ben. #CMCon25

 

View all my reviews My Spirited Texan by Dakota Lacoy
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Man poor Ben. After year and years he’s finally seeing the world in a new way. But is it too little too late? I love the way their adult friendship grew first. Kizzy also had decisions to make. Great ending and the bonus scene is the best. #CMCon25

 

View all my reviews Get Frosted by Amy Aislin
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Mik is settled into his life in Christmas Falls. But Rudy feels restless and unable to settle. But there is something there between them. It was hard to see Rudy struggle with his own thoughts. And Gran was a fantastic side character. I really enjoyed my first holiday listen of the season.

 

View all my reviews Mason Dixon & the Ghost Dinosaur (Mason Dixon, #3) by Eric R. Asher
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Mason runs into some new kind of dangerous cryptid. But they get out alive and decided to have a little Halloween fun. Then things really get weird. All kinds of bargains are struck in an effort to get the job done. #CMCon25

View all my reviews Mason Dixon & the Gowrow's Last Stand (Mason Dixon, #4) by Eric R. Asher
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This time it’s the humans that are a problem. It was fun to see all the different factions come together to save what is important. There are some really dramatic moments. In the end Mason needs to rethink some of his beliefs. #CMCon25

View all my reviews Earth Spells Are Easy by Renee George
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Iris' life took a major turn with her divorce. The then things really got weird. She is surprised by so many revelations she can’t keep up. But through it allher strength and sense of self save the day. Great ending to the book with more coming from this series. #CMCon25

View all my reviews Pit Perfect Murder by Renee George
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Lily is on a journey to find a lost uncle who is living in a regular town. As a shifter that has never lived with humans there is a learning curve. First she adopts a dog and then he finds a dead body. This really causes some complications to her plans to just pass through when the sheriff tells her she can’t leave. Well she might as well work on solving the murder while she waits. #CMCon25

View all my reviews Daddy's Little Christmas Tree by Della Cain
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Forrest is in a new city and is trying to still have a great holiday. He is also kind of crushing on his new boss. Cliff is also drawn to Forrest. When they both end up at the club together they need to sort things out. This is a sweet holiday romance with lots of toys and one special kitty.

View all my reviews Subway Slayings by C.S. Poe
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Larkin’s work in cold case is about closure and helping victims be remembered. He is put on a path where present and past collide. Doyle is there to help with clues and support. The crimes are harsh but the story deals more with solving then the crimes themselves. It was interesting to see how the separate threads come together in this story. I also enjoyed the audio version of this book #CMCon25

View all my reviews Ends of the Earth by Keira Andrews
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I enjoy the story. There is enough suspense to make a good story without making it hard to listen to. I don’t blame Jason for being overwhelmed about everything. The epilogue really made an already good book even better. The audio version really drew you into the story.

View all my reviews Godfather Wars by Brittany Cournoyer
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is a fun story of two men who are mortal enemies. And now their best friends are having a baby. Now the fight for top honor of godfather is on. I like the way that Dolan and Everett are both taken by surprise by the changes in their feelings. The audio is well done.

View all my reviews Riding Shotgun by Amy Lane
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This story has a bit of everything: danger, adventure, romance, humor, and a truck full of bull jize. It was an interesting mix of slow burn and instant attraction. And while getting to know Val and Rory you meet the whole wonderful Royal family. They have some of the best names and that was a sweet story too. Can’t wait to see more of the Royal clan. #CMCon25

View all my reviews Valleys, Vehicles & Victims by Tonya Kappes
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The coffee business can be pretty competitive. Mae gets in the middle of a control battle while trying to host a wedding party on the camp grounds. Mae has to get her friend off the hood so it is time to grab the clue notebook. Another fun murder to solve. #CMCon25

View all my reviewsAssailants, Asphalt & Alibis by Tonya Kappes
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Mae and her laundry club really get themselves in trouble. Mae was on the road to a treasure hunt that of course leads to trouble. I love how Agnes has a big part in this trouble. #CMCon25

 

View all my reviewsHitches, Hideouts, & Homicides by Tonya Kappes
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Helping clean the new hotel Mae stumbles into a new mystery. Rumors of a decades old bank robbery is at the center of all the problems that follow. Poor Mae is stumbling over dead bodies again. Another fun mystery. #CMCon25

 

View all my reviewsThe Theme Park at the End of the World by Eric R. Asher


As a lover of theme parks this story was just so much fun. It is a theme park for humans by day and the fae at night. This theme park has everything including vlogger fan. There is a bit of mischief and mayhem but over all it is just a bit of fun. I’m so glad I backed this Kickstarter for an early listen to this great story. #CMCon25

View all my reviewsBring Me Home by Annabeth Albert
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Monroe is recently retired and is dealing with the house his aunt left him. Know is at a crossroads deciding on what comes next for him. We see both men negotiating personal directions as well as their relationships. Hard decisions have to be made.

 

View all my reviews Charlie's Rainbow by Victoria Sue
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I felt like this story was full of raw emotion. Noah has to accept that his life was headed in the wrong direction and meeting Charlie was a push to examine what is next. Charlie is such a remarkable person. He has strength but also pain. The feelings are deep with both men as they figure out both personal and relationship goals. #CMCon25

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

I love the faith and care that Riordan and Jermon give Wilbur even without his memories. It was interesting to see the dragons gain knowledge and power. And of course there are more layers of intrigue as they packs get to the bottom of the newest threats to the pack. So much more to come as new characters are introduced to the story. The audio made it even more suspenseful.

View all my reviews Daybreak by Kate Hawthorne
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I love the way their lives just fit together when they think they don’t. I was so proud of Liam when he stood up to his dad. I love the sweet ending of their story. The audio was well done.



View all my reviews Madison Square Murders by C.S. Poe
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Everett Larkin’s life is a struggle and he seems a bit lost in his personal life. He gets a new case to work on. In the line of work he run into Doyle. You can feel that they have an instant connection. There are a lots of drama surrounding the case. In the mean time Larkin realizes he need to make a major personal change. This story really keeps you guessing. #CMCon25

View all my reviews Wild Goose Chase: A Slow Burn Small Town Romance by Kilby Blades
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Violet and Chase were both dancing around their feelings because they don’t want to lose what they have. I really loved all the side characters who really get these two moving in the right direction. I also like the way we get to see their emotions involving not only their relationship but with the other things happening around them. #CMCon25

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ARC Review - Filling the Void - Sammie Cee

Filling the Void by Sammi Cee
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Cory has a lot to be anxious (the eagers) about. He lost his husband and now strange things are happening at his hotel. Enter Bosley who has his own past. This is a darker story but the elements of goodness and caring you come to expect from Sammi Cee are here as well. This story does end with more to come but the immediate problem does get resolved. Since this is a duology you know it won’t be fully resolved when you start the story. Love the suspense and emotions found in this story. I received an ARC in exchange for a honest review.

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ARC Review Beauty and the Billionaire by Hayden Hall

 

Beauty and the Billionaire by Hayden Hall
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

As this story starts and you meet Dominic you get a feeling that this story could be very dark. When Zain leaves with him I though I knew the direction this story was headed. But it turns into something very different. There is a lot of raw emotions in this story. The epilogue is a wonderful conclusion to the story. I received this ARC in exchange for a honest review.

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September 29 - October 13, 2024

 

Motorhomes, Maps, & Murder by Tonya Kappes
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Once again the citizens of Normal, KY just want to enjoy themselves. But there is an escaped prisoner on the loose. When they find bodies the hunt is on. This book as a ton of surprises for Mae and her friends. #CMCon25

 

View all my reviews Canyons, Caravans, & Cadavers by Tonya Kappes
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Mae is being honored and everyone is having fun at Happy Trails. Once again we see Mae and her friends trying to solve the case before the town is in trouble. We also get to learn more about Hank. Does Mae have anything to the young people of Normal? #CMCon25

 

View all my reviews Saul by Victoria Sue
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I love the love story of two people who are perfect fit. There is also some drama that gets in the way. We see Calvin having trouble trusting. It was hard to watch the missteps they both make. I love the sweet ending. #CMCon25

 

View all my reviews Hang the Moon by Alexandria Bellefleur
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Brendon loves the idea of love. He even created an app to help other people find love. But he hasn’t had much luck for himself. Then Annie arrives. Both feel an attraction and things seem to move fast. Annie has to decide if she can trust her feelings and Brendon’s words. I love the epilogue of the story.

 

View all my reviews Silver Spells by Kate Moseman
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Luella has a very bad day at work that seems to be the catalyst for a whole lot change in her life. Her friends are also noticing changes in their lives. I like the way the story develops. I also like that her friends were included in the magic. This is a heartwarming story of family, friends, and magic. #CMCon25

View all my reviews Mason Dixon & the Wampus of Reeds Spring (Mason Dixon, #2) by Eric R. Asher
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Once again we are joining Mason on his hunt for new cryptids. The story has danger of course but also tons of laughs. I love the idea that there could be more than we now about in wild areas. The whole cast of characters made these story so much fun. #CMCon25

View all my reviews Liz's Road Trip by Bernadette Marie
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This book ended up being much more than I expected. It was intense to watch Liz process everything new in her life. There were some moments that I wasn’t sure how things would end up. But the journey to the end was so worth it. Listening to the audio added to my enjoyment. #CMCon25

 

View all my reviews Bongo & Delilah Break Daytona by Winnie Winkle
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This story was so much fun. I can’t imagine finding a little green man in the back of my car. The characters are well written and I was very invested in them. I can’t wait to read the next book. #CMCon25

 

View all my reviewsNowhere, NJ by H.D. Smith
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I had picked this book up to donate to a local book center but decided to read it first. I was blown away by the tension and action. It would seem Matt is just an ordinary business man. But there is so much more to him. I love the back and forth from the then and now. It has a wonderful ending. #CMCon25

 

View all my reviewsReal Trouble by Elle Keaton
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Both the main characters are very intense and carrying burdens of the past. My heart went out to Dani who really just wants a normal life. We also see Soren do his job with integrity. The navigation of the story wound around the events and really draws you along to the very satisfying conclusion. The audio was a great way to enjoy this story. #CMCon25

View all my reviewsNothing But a Rakehell by Deb Marlowe
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This was a delightful story. I love Gloria’s strength and they way Keswick brought out the best in her. There are also some really fun moments in the story. Best was the ways Gloria’s cleverness really saves the day. If you are lookin for a lighthearted romance with a bit of spice and drama you will love this book. #CMCon25

View all my reviewsForrest for the Trees by Kilby Blades
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Sierra is such a strong character. She can take care of herself and her job. She is also compassionate. Forrest at first comes off as a bit arrogant but once you realize who he really is you start to see his strength. There are moments with a side of budding romance. Loved the epilogue. #CMCon25

 

View all my reviews Shattered Blood by Kevin A. Davis
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I’ll be honest this is not my typical read. It has way more graphic violence than I like. There are lots of threads to unravel as you read the story. But this story is well written and there is plenty of action. If dark paranormal mysteries is your jam you will love this book. #CMCon25

 

View all my reviewsSedona Sin by Lisa Kessler
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The Sedona Pack is working to bring itself together. Asher is unsure of his own feelings. Naomi is also navigating her life. The need to work together for a better life for all of them. I like seeing Asher growth as he moves toward his destiny. New threads to unravel as the series moves forward. #CMCon25

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September 16 - 28, 2024

 

View all my reviews My Daring Texan by Dakota Lacoy
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

AJ has a big secret he’s keeping from his whole family. And given his brothers who could blame him. But then enters Carly taking shelter from the weather We get to see the fun of their reactions to each other as they ride out the storm. But AJ’s got stuff he need to figure out for himself before he has room for someone in his life. The audio version is fantastic. #CMCon25 

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Young Men in Love by Joe Glass
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I picked this book up at MegaCon last year and finally got around to reading it. It is a great collection of short comics of men in love. There is a lot of variety and the art is fantastic.


View all my reviews Learning to Change by M.A. Innes
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Once again we see how unique the residents of the apartment building are. Dean, Tate, and Joel are figuring out how they fit together and what defines special. I enjoyed the whole story but there are some special moments that are just extra fun. Such as shopping at Target. I love that it is made clear that they really care for each other.

View all my reviews Romeo vs Romeo by Hayden Hall
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

It is wonderful to back at Neon Nights. Roman is always ready to fight for what is right. This time it is personal. It was great to see Everett emerge as a character growing through the story. There were a couple of times I got impatient and thought just get on with it. But the journey was worth the trip. This story has beautiful ending. I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

View all my reviews Deserts, Driving, & Derelicts by Tonya Kappes
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

We get to learn more about Mae’s life before she had an infamous husband. Her foster brother shows up. And of course a dead body follows. Another case for Mae to solve. #CMCon25

 

View all my reviews Forests, Fishing & Forgery by Tonya Kappes
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Mae is settling into her life in Normal, KY. Life is getting better. But every time she tries to have some special times there is another body to deal with. But she has her notebook and is ready to solve the case. #CMCon25

 

View all my reviews Christmas, Criminals, and Campers by Tonya Kappes
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Christmas can be a special time of the year. Mae is enjoying her book club. They are looking forward to a surprise guest. In the meantime Mae has a less than welcomed surprise visitors at the campgrounds. And of course there is a murder to solve. #CMCon25

View all my reviews Broken Road by Sean Michael
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is a sweet story of two men who have been best friends since forever. They story starts at a crisis point. Then we get to watch the two of them grow up in each other’s lives until we get back to the crisis. Over the years they have been circling around each other. I love the way the ending of this story wraps it all up

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Here's the wrap up for September.  Another great month of reading for the Coastal Magic Reading Challenge.  I read some additional books in series I enjoyed.  Plus I made time for some other books as well.  

August 22 - September 15, 2024

Well as summer slips into fall I've have past the 1/2 way mark in the authors for the Coastal Magic Reading Challenge.  I'm trying to read a least one book from each other authors.  And if I have time go back and read more of my favorite series or authors.  I always find some surprises.  Finding a book way out of my comfort zone and really enjoying.  Of course there a couple that even though really well written weren't my jam.  But that is a great thing about a challenge you at least take a taste of lots of different things.  Through the challenge activities I've really enjoyed getting to know the authors and the story behind some of their stories that make them even more interesting.  For more information about the Reading Challenge click.  And if you would like the chances to meet these great authors in person here is Coastal Magic Convention.  #CMCon25 #CMReadingChallenge

A Son for the Cowboy by Sasha Summers
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Poppy is a strong woman who has built a life for herself and her son. I l like the fact that despite the circumstances she had never told her son negative things about Toben. I really like he took steps to show her that what he said was for real and he could be trusted. Story had a great HEA. #CMCon25

 

View all my reviews Honor and Wealth: Remy by Dahlia Rose
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Sinead is a strong woman who is raising 5 children on her own. Sometimes you need a little help which is how her world intersects with Remy’s world. It is life changing for them both. But there is a lot to work through both internally and by outside forces. I loved the strength and intelligence by all the characters including the children. This story has some very dramatic moments. #CMCon25

View all my reviews A Lowcountry Bride by Preslaysa Williams
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Maya has a successful career on the rise but she must take care of her dad. This was the first choice of priorities she needed to make. So much continues to happen in her life that causes her to think about her priorities. There is a romance in the story with Derek but to me the focus of the story was Maya own internal struggles as she has to reevaluate her dreams and what it really means to be successful. I love the rich voice of the narrator as well. #CMCon25

View all my reviews The Scottish Rogue by Heather McCollum
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I’ll be honest I’m not a fan of historical romance but a challenge is a challenge. I was surprised by how much I loved this story. We get to see the strength it takes to be a woman when all is against you. I like how all the characters were allowed to develop through the story. It helps you to love or hate them as is their due. And while men will ride to your rescue sometimes you must take matters into your own hands. The narration was also well done. #CMCon25

View all my reviews Happy Is On Hiatus by A.C. Arthur
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This story is full of strong resilient women. The main character is Rita but it also includes her cousins who are like sisters. It also explores the importance of family in your life. We also see how sharing a meal can help build relationships and heal wounds. Great audio. #CMCon25

 

View all my reviews The Mystery of Nevermore by C.S. Poe
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I love this book but it is hard to figure out how to review it without giving anything away. I love Sebastian’s curiosity. Calvin is working hard to solve the crime. They need to find all the clues in time. #CMCon25

 

View all my reviews MAX ABADDON AND THE WILL: A Max Abaddon Urban Fantasy Novel by Justin Leslie
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Max is about to turn thirty and thinking about what he should do next. And then his world shifts upside down. Things are really not what they seem. Max gets drawn into the intrigue of at whole new level. I love the blend of action and humor in this book. There is a wonderful and rich cast of characters. This is the first in a series. The main issue for this story get resolved but there is clearly more action to come. #CMCon25

View all my reviewsHoodoo Heaven by Reggi Dupree
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Gwen is on a mission to make it through her birthday. She has all kind of gifts which make her life interesting. I love her whit and sass. The ending is really a beginning of what life has in store for Gwen. I really love the narration of the audio book. #CMCon25

View all my reviews Beyond the Next Star by Melody Johnson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The story opens with Delaney in a frightening situation. Through the story we learn more about the events that led to that moment. There is also mystery and intrigue set in this new world. I really like how Torek treated her with kindness even before he fully understood what was happening. The audio version kept me engaged through the whole story. #CMCon25

View all my reviews Learning to Run by M.A. Innes
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I love the way that these three men just fit together. I also like h ow Brady and Jude are becoming part of their family. I can’t image how crazy the next holiday meal will be at Brady’s mom.

 

View all my reviews Dark Moon, Shallow Sea by David R. Slayton
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I picked up this book because I enjoyed the Adam series. This book is nothing like those books. Dark Moon is very intense with a feeling of darkness. Yet it was so riveting. and kept drawing me in. The ending was very well played. I truly enjoyed this story. #CMCon25

 

View all my reviewsJoshua's Rainbow by Victoria Sue
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This story is a journey to love. Daniel has been driven to the point of exhaustion. Joshua has been surviving. Rainbow Key itself is a character in this story being a safe space for all that land there. This story has some emotional ups and downs as well. I really loved the beautiful ending to the story. I can’t wait to read more of this series. #CMCon25

View all my reviews The Stars that Tremble by Kate McMurray
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Mike has been alone for a long time as he raises his daughter Emma. Gio suffered a crushing life change beyond his control. Each is living their own lives. Suddenly, because of Emma their orbits overlap which brings a change for all of them. There is some internal angst on both men’s parts and outside forces. But together they weather it all. I like teh simple but happy ending for both main characters. #CMCon25

View all my reviewsThe Guardian's Heart by Michel Prince
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This was such a sweet story. There is love at first sight. This story has few moments of drama but mostly low angst. It is a great story of what it takes to make a family where love is the foundation. I enjoyed the audio book. #CMCon25

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