Early Book Review: My Fair Viscount (Scandal Sheet) by Jess Michaels

My Fair Viscount is the fourth book in the Scandal Sheet series by Jess Michaels. You do not have to have read the earlier books to fully enjoy this book, although returning readers will see some past favorites make cameos. It is currently scheduled for release on July 9 2019.

Raised in the rookeries, David Shaw has just inherited his father's fortune and his title. With his rough manners, he will certainly never be accepted by Society, but his cousin offers a solution. One David doesn't like. Miss Rose Higgins has a successful reputation as a comportment teacher to ladies of the Upper Ten Thousand. When she's approached to help the now-infamous new Viscount Shaw, she has no interest in putting herself on the line...until she's made an offer she can't refuse. Neither Rose nor David expect the instant connection which flares between them. Nor the feelings which come from their attraction. But in the end, they are both bound to propriety and there are obstacles in the way that may not be overcome unless they risk everything.

My Fair Viscount is a historical romance about two people with some similar emotional scars and doubts about the future. Rose and David are thrown together in unusual circumstances and make the most of it, in all kinds of ways. I loved Rose's pragmatic and realistic personality. David starts of very guarded, with good reason, and liked watching him grown as a character and find a connection with Rose. I enjoyed the journey with this pair, although it did feel very short, and the only obstacle being weak once they admitted their feelings made it feel even shorter. I kept expecting someone from one of their pasts making an appearance to ruin things, or an illness, or some kind of danger to pop up and make things more challenging- but that never happened. The story worked, and was good for what it was, but I felt like it was missing something that would have made it more suspenseful or engaging. 

My Fair Viscount is a short but sweet romance with a great deal of heart and a bit of heat.

Early Book Review: 28 Dates (Crazy Love) by Stacy Lynn

28 Dates is the third book in the Crazy Love series by Stacy Lynn. It is currently scheduled for release on June 11 2019. Each of the books in this series can be read on its own, but returning characters make reading the books together even better. 

 

Caitlin Pappas is a lifelong commitment-phobe. The closest thing she’s had to a relationship in the last few years was a friends-with-benefits thing that fizzled out because the guy wanted more. So when she and her best friend design a new app that promises to find “the one”, Caitlin is the perfect guinea pig. Little does she know that she may have already met her match. Jonas Reeves has tried his best to move on after Caitlin didn’t want take things to the next level. Now they really are just friends, without benefits. Caitlin’s even a regular at his bar, The Dirty Martini. But when he learns that Caitlin plans to beta-test a new dating app on his home turf, Jonas senses a golden opportunity to win her heart. Even if he has to slide into her DMs to do it. 

28 Dates is a romance with lots of heart, and emotion but less heat than I have come to expect. This is not a bad thing, it works perfectly with this story. If there had been more heat I think it would have destroyed some of the character and story building that made the tension and story itself so poignant. Caitlin has little faith in love, after having a less than stellar history with family and support. However, great friends have lowered some of her walls- and lingering feelings for Jonas confuse and worry her. Jonas is confidant that real love exists, and he wants a future with Caitlin enough to risk everything. I love the conversations they have, and how hard they work to keep the other around even when they think friendship is all they will ever have. I really loved the secondary characters and how everything comes together for our couple, in spite of themselves. This was a feel good love story that often had me smiling as I read.

The only thing that bothered me has nothing to do with the writing, but with the cover. Caitlin's red hair is mentioned many, many times in the story- but the cover model clearly is not a redhead. I know the author does not always have say in the cover image, but I would hope that someone along the way would check character descriptions against cover images. Just saying.

28 Dates is another novel with heart from Lynn. I love the writing style and depth of character. I think all fans of the author will be thrilled with this offering, and be waiting for what ever she does next. 

Early Book Review: Kickin' It (Red Card) by Rachel Van Dyken

Kickin' It is the second book in the Red Card series by Rachel Van Dyken. It is currently scheduled for release on June 11 2019. Each of the books can be read on its own, but there are returning characters so it is simply more fun to read as a series.

Successful, high-profile sports agent Matt Kingston thinks he can handle anything. Then soccer player Parker Speedman shows up at his door. She is young and gorgeous, has natural talent, and is looking for a team. She’s also a hothead with a punchy past who floored her last coach on live TV. Despite his misgivings, Matt agrees to be both her agent and her coach. Professional common sense says she’s off-limits. But what can he say about the raw attraction between them? Parker plays soccer with her heart and soul. But after the events of the last year, she’s shaken. She’s already seen what a powerful man can do to a female athlete’s career. And her beloved dream is in the hands of a sexy, gorgeous man with the uncanny ability to slip past her defense and into her heart. Now Matt and Parker are about to learn that when it comes to love, the only way to win is by breaking every rule they know. And by playing nice. Real nice.

Kickin' It has some great laughs, and some very hard moments, which balance the book. I love the banter and spark, not just between Parker and Matt, but with the entire group of friends and family that make up the main characters. I liked the set up, and simply love Willow and the way Jagger and Slade offer their own quips through the story. I think that the support offered to Parker through the entire book was fabulous, and I thought that her anxiety and self doubt were very realistic and sadly something that many will be able to relate to. I think her battle and strength will help readers that have been in similar situations embrace their own inner strength and stand up for themselves and others. More importantly, it might show someone who needs to know it that they are not alone, and that it is certainly not their fault no matter what. I enjoyed getting to know Matt and Parker's characters more, and getting to see them find happiness and peace. 

Kickin' It is the second book I have read from this author, but it will not be the last. She delivers contemporary romance with heart and tackles some tough topics.

Early Book Review: Smooth Moves (Movin' On) by Marie Harte

Smooth Moves is the second book in the Movin' On series by Marie Harte. It is not necessary to have read the previous book to enjoy this book, but I highly recommend it, and not just because Harte is currently one of my favorite contemporary romance authors. This book is currently scheduled for release on May 28 2019.

Former Marine Cash Griffith is a brawny beacon for trouble, always finishing a fight that someone else starts. Working at his family's moving company, he does his best to keep a low profile, but he can't help but tangle with the newest employee, Jordan Fleming. When Jordan joins Vets on the Go! she has her hands full with her new job and her rebellious teenage brother, not to mention going toe to toe with the obnoxious, arrogant, incredibly hot Marine at work. Soon their battles turn to camaraderie, and one kiss leads to a connection neither of them expected. But when dark secrets come to light, will their bond break or strengthen into a happily-ever-after they desperately desire?

Smooth Moves is an example of great characters writing and development. I thought Cash and Jordan (and her brother Rafi) all have issues and grow as they face their issues through out the book. None of them hide behind their troubles, although they do sometimes try to hide that it exists from each other. I found the honesty in which some serious issues are dealt with to be refreshing and heartening. I found the conversations between characters and the interactions to be realistic and highly entertaining. I seriously had a goofy grin on my face for the majority of the read, particularly during some of the pranks and conversations between Jordan and Cash. I like that Rafi's issues are talked about and some of the stigma that some might feel in his place, and how easy it is for generally good kids to make bad choices, is handled with such heart. I wish every kid in his position had a Jordan backing him up. I simply love Harte's voice and character development in this book (and in all of hers that I have read thus far). I highly recommend adding her to the must read for anyone that likes realistic, contemporary romance.

Smooth Moves is another fantastic read by Harte with equal parts humor, heat, and heat. I found myself ginning like a fool through a good portion of the read and cannot wait for more!

Book Review: The Labours of Mrs Stella Ryman: Further Fairmount Manor Mysteries by Mel Anastasiou

The Labours of Mrs Stella Ryman: Further Fairmount Manor Mysteries by Mel Anastasiou is the first book I have read featuring Stella.  Replete with packet chicken noodle soup and grilled cheese, Stella Ryman paused just outside Fairmount Manor’s dining room, where she used the sleeve of her fleece warm-up suit to wipe condensation from the streaked and fog-edged windows along the corridor. There was so much springtime glory outside Fairmount — although she was not allowed out on her own to see it — and there was so much gloom inside, that she didn’t want to add to it. But she couldn’t deny that trouble had resurfaced at Fairmount Manor. When the machineries of institution fail to protect Fairmount Manor, octogenarian amateur sleuth Mrs Stella Ryman rolls up her fleece jacket sleeves to protect Fairmount from a thief, investigate a gun-toting resident, set right a mishandled investigation of a man’s death, pursue spectres and footpads walking at midnight, and discover Thelma Hu’s long-lost fortune. No good deed goes unpunished, though, and Stella will face struggles, mysteries, and sacrifices that hit her where she lives. Mrs Stella Ryman is a fish out of water, a stranger in a strange land — an amateur sleuth, trapped in a down-at-heel care home. You’d be cranky, too.

The Labours of Mrs Stella Ryman: Further Fairmount Manor Mysteries is a collection of short mysteries that are entertaining but still heart wrenching at times because the reader can see certain things happening that Stella is not aware of. I thought that the setting, characters, and mysteries were all very well built and believable. I could see these people and their problems arise in almost any similar setting. Stella might be a little directionally challenged and forgetful, but she sees to the heart of the matter and cares more for the people than the things or consequences involved. I enjoyed getting lost in Stella's world and slowing down enough to notice some subtle clues about Stella and her world along the way.

The Labours of Mrs Stella Ryman: Further Fairmount Manor Mysteries is a fun and engaging read that made me care about the characters. I plan on taking the time to read more by this author.

Book Review: Catnapped (Sugar Shack) by Susan Golden

Catnapped is the first book in the Sugar Shack series by Susan Golden. Jennifer's discovery that a cat in her care has been snatched and is being held for a curious, but outwardly benign, ransom, sets the pair on a path of overcoming seemingly impossible obstacles and absurd situations to meet the odd demand. But everything may not be as it seems and the stakes may be much higher than freedom for one kitty. 

Catnapped is quirky in a way that reminded me of Lindsay Sands and Kate MacAlister's early books. The writing was very conversational, and the characters often went off on their own tangent, which made the read very fun but occasionally the non sequiturs got hard to follow. I liked Jennifer's character, how honest she is about herself and her quirks- and her self-doubt was realistic but felt a little overdone in certain moments. I like that while the mystery and romance bits were separate but found a way to be woven together. I really enjoyedt he conversations and odd characters that seem to invite themselves into Jen's life. I did find some of the time line jumping off putting- and there were important things that felt a little glossed over because of that. However, I am glad I picked this one up and enjoyed the read. I will be taking a look at future books from the author to see if the writing style grows into the potential I see in it. 

Catnapped is a fun and delightfully wacky book. It entertained me and I enjoyed the read.

Book Review: Saving the Scot (The Highlanders of Balforss) by Jennifer Trethewey

Saving the Scot is the fourth book in the The Highlanders of Balforss series by Jennifer Trethewey. You do not need to read this books in order, they each stand up well on their own. However, returning readers will get to see some of their favorite characters again.

Louisa Robertson’s father is furious when he finds her acting on stage. Now, she’s being shipped off to America to marry some stranger her father thinks will bring out the “lady” in her. Luckily, Louisa’s maid agrees to switch places with her! Her maid will marry the American and get the wealthy lifestyle she’s always wanted, and Louisa can do whatever she damn well pleases for the first time in her life. Highlander Ian Sinclair needs an army commission, and the only way he can get one is to safely deliver the general’s Daughter-from-Hell to her intended in America. Easy, right? It would be if the lady’s companion Louisa didn’t wear breeches and do everything the exact opposite of what he orders. It’ll be a miracle if the sparks flying between Ian and Louisa don’t set the bloody ship afire before they arrive in America. But just when Louisa thinks her plan is going to give her the acting career she wants and a Highlander to boot Ian discovers her secret.

Saving the Scot is a fun read that had me sympathizing and rooting for all the major characters from the beginning. Louisa is sick of people making decisions about her life without consulting her and when her father ships her off o marry a stranger she sees a chance for a new life. No deception is as easy or harmless as it seems, and even when things seem to be going perfectly guilt and missteps make things hard for everyone.  Ian has his own troubles, and shared attraction is the least of them. I enjoyed the banter and the connections that the characters forged even when they were trying to keep part of them selves back. I greatly enjoyed the story, and Ian's understanding of how dull and limiting a woman's life could be just made him even better. The secondary characters and stories were just as intriguing as the main story line, and there were several small surprises along the way. A couple times I thought I knew where a plot point was going, only to be pleasantly surprised to see it take a different direction.

 

Saving the Scot is another entertaining read from Trethewey. I will definitely be continuing to read her work.

Book Review: Sustainable Home: Practical Projects, Tips and Advice for Maintaining a More Eco-Friendly Household by Christine Liu

Sustainable Home: Practical Projects, Tips and Advice for Maintaining a More Eco-Friendly Household by Christine Liu is a guidebook to maintaining a more environmentally friendly household. Sustainable lifestyle blogger and professional Christine Liu takes you on a tour through the rooms of your home – the living area, kitchen, bedroom and bathroom – offering tips, tricks and 18 step-by-step projects designed to help you lead a more low-impact lifestyle. Whether it is by making your own toothpaste, converting to renewable energy sources, reducing your consumption of plastic, growing your own herb garden or upcycling old pieces of furniture, there are numerous ways – both big and small – to make a difference. The desire to make small changes on an individual level is on the rise; this book will guide anyone hoping to make a difference, but who perhaps don’t know where to begin.

Sustainable Home was a mixed bag for me. Decluttering and trying to reduce, reuse, and recycle are things that I think anyone picking up this book already knows about, but they are necessary reminders and suggestions. I liked the suggestions about how to find items that have been made sustainably and by companies that are working to minimize their carbon footprint, and that of their product. The growing your own food, and increasing the amount of plant based food was good. I like that while the suggestions do offer some big options, it also mentions small things that people could do regardless of kitchen size and the possible lack of time or a yard that would be required for significant gardening. The ideas, instructions, and recipes for making things for yourself rather than buying them are good, and some I might even try. 

However, some of the suggestions are completely impossible for people depending on where they live. While some libraries and organizations are getting tool libraries, repair and make it spaces, and what not set up and available to the public. These tend to be in places where to local government has enough money to fund them and might not accessible to those with limited transportation options and resources, or those working many hours or multiple jobs to make ends meet which might make it next to impossible to make use of local options. Many of these kind of suggestions will only work for those privileged enough to have access to them, or the time to research options or make a special trip. 

This book has good information and suggestions in it. However, I feel like it is for people with a little too much time and money on their hands rather than the average person or household. I feel like there are good intentions here, but a lack of understanding of what life is like beneath a certain income bracket, or in areas without the resources so casually mentioned in the book.

Book Review: The Body in the Attic by Judi Lynn

The Body in the Attic by Judi Lynn is the first book in a new mystery series. House-flipper Jazzi Zanders and her cousin Jerod have found their latest project. The property, formerly owned by the late Cal Juniper, is filled with debris that must be cleared before the real renovation begins. But a trip to the attic reveals something more disturbing than forgotten garbage—a skeleton wearing a locket and rings that Jazzi recognizes. Tests confirm that the bones belong to Jazzi’s aunt Lynda, who everyone assumed moved to New York years ago after breaking up with Cal. Soon enough, the whole family is involved, sifting through memories and rumors as they try to piece together what really happened to Lynda—and the baby she gave up for adoption. In between investigating and remodeling, Jazzi is falling for the old house’s charms—and for her gorgeous contractor, Ansel. But with surprises lurking in every nook and cranny, a killer might be waiting to demolish her dreams for good.

The Body in the Attic was and engaging read and had a good balance between introducing a wide variety of characters and telling a compelling story. I liked the characters, I found Jazzi and her family and friends to three dimensional and interesting. I thought the mystery was well built, and while there were a few good red herrings it did not get overly complicated. I will say that I am thoroughly sick of mystery solving ladies always needed a relationship, but I will let it slide here because he was more support for Jazzi than taking over the mystery or her life. The mystery, characters, and story as a whole made me happy and I found myself grinning often while reading. I did spend a couple chapters expecting one more horrible thing to happen, and fully expected one more moment of danger or an injury or something. I liked the way readers discovered the mystery and followed along with Jazzi as helped solve the case, and learn more about her family in the process.

Now for something that kind of bugged me. I got a kick out of how Jazzi and family say they are not rich but can buy houses to flip with cash and can buy the quantity and quality of food they do without even batting an eye. Furniture shopping, landscaping, supplies for renovations are not exactly cheap and they just go out on a whim to buy a king size sleigh bed and a slew of stuff. Their version of wealthy and mine vary greatly.  I loved the recipes and amount of cooking Jazzi does in the book, but my grocery budget would have been decimated for at least a month just by buying the ribs for one of her dinners.  I wish I could shop and cook like her.

The Body in the Attic was a good start to a mystery series. It was not perfect (what is?) but I really enjoyed the read and fully plan on continuing to read this series as it is published. 

Book Review: The Cowboy Next Door (Montana Strong) by R. C. Ryan

The Cowboy Next Door is the second book in the Montana Strong series by R. C. Ryan. I did not read the first book, and I think each can stand up well on its own. However, returning readers are likely to have a better understanding of some of the secondary characters and enjoy seeing Ben and Becca's story continue. 

After weeks on the trail, Sam Monroe is looking forward to a hot bath, a home-cooked meal, and a real bed. In that order. But he's greeted by something even better when he opens the door to his family's ranch house. Seems the new housekeeper is a gorgeous young woman who cooks like an angel and wrangles his family like a pro. If only she didn't dislike him so much. Penny Cash is down on her luck, and the last thing she needs is a flirtation with a wild, carefree cowboy. Sure, he's funny and sexy, but they're as different as whiskey and tea. And she'll be leaving town as soon as she finds a full-time teaching position. But when trouble comes calling, Penny will find out how serious Sam can be when it comes to protecting the woman he loves.

The Cowboy Next Door is a solid story. While a contemporary romance, because of the location there was a slight historical flavor. I liked Penny's determination and strength, and how hard she worked to do right for everyone around her. I liked the idea of Sam's character, but I felt at times that he was not fully fleshed out. Readers learn about his past, and how he tries to live his life, but I was still left feeling like his character could have been more three dimensional. Penny and Sam are clearly attracted from the moment their eyes met, and I connected with Penny right away, even when I did not agree with her choices. On the other hand I felt like Sam was fascinated with Penny because he should not be, and because she was a challenge. While he did things to prove otherwise, it still felt off to me in some way. While he went to great lengths to protect her, and do the right thing for his family and her, it felt almost calculated at times. Too often he made decisions for her good or that affected her without discussion, which would have driven me crazy in her place.  Perhaps it is just my own personal issues that colored this part of his character, but it still irked me. As did the fact that once at no point in their private moments did anyone mention or use birth control- or I missed it somehow. Two responsible adults that had less than stellar childhoods should have at least spoken about this.

The Cowboy Next Door is a good romance with cowboy and small town flavors. There was also a religious undertone, but it only really made itself known a few times. 

Book Review: Definitely, Maybe, Yours by Lissa Reed

Definitely, Maybe, Yours by Lissa Reed is the first book in the Sucre Coeur series. Seattle-based baker Craig Oliver leads a life that is happily routine: baking cupcakes for an enormous family reunion, managing Sucre Coeur for its frequently absent owner and closing out his day with a pint at the local pub. He has a kind heart, a knack for pastry and a weakness for damaged people. Habitual playboy Alex Scheff is looking to drown his sorrows, but instead discovers that he may have a weakness for Englishmen who carry cookies in their pockets. Can a seemingly incompatible pair find the recipe for love in a relationship they claim is casual?

Definitely, Maybe, Yours is a book that had me fully engaged from the very first page. I simply loved Craig- and connected with his desire for routine and helping others. He had a great work ethic and just cared about other people, sometimes to his own detriment. Alex is heartbroken and self loathing personified. He has made mistakes and blames himself for all of them, and those that he did not make. Seeing this pair come together, fully in denial about it for most of the time, and find their way was a roller coaster. While reading there were times I found myself grinning, frowning, or ready to throttle one of the characters. I loved how realistic the characters feel, not to mention their mistakes, fears, and relationships. I wish we could all have a circle of friends as invested and caring as the group in this book. I enjoyed getting to know the characters, watching them grow and interact, and seeing them open up to each other. As always, the book that gets to me the most has well written and realistic characters that I feel like I might run into in real life. 

Definitely, Maybe, Yours is both a heart breaking and warming read. I loved it, and the cast of secondary characters. I am off to find the rest of the series since this book was published a few years ago and the digital box set was recently released (February 12).

Book Review: The Book of Secrets (The Last Oracle) by Melissa McShane

The Book of Secrets is the first book in The Last Oracle series by Melissa McShane.

Helena Davies just wants a job that will get her out of her parents’ basement. Abernathy’s Bookstore is disorganized, out of the way, and smells funny, but it pays well and promises to at least be interesting. By the end of the first day, Helena has a dead boss in the basement, an unexpected promotion, and the news that she is now a part of an endless war against creatures from another reality. As Abernathy’s newest custodian, Helena is responsible for its secrets, including the most important one: Abernathy’s isn’t just a bookstore. It’s the world’s only living oracle, producing prophecies to help fight the war against alien invaders bent on draining this world of its magic. Helena’s job is to find books to answer questions put to the oracle by the Wardens, fighters in the Long War. It seems simple enough, but Helena’s new job is anything but. She has allies: her best friend Viv, from whom she has no secrets; Harry and Harriet Keller, elderly magi skilled at uncovering secrets; and the enigmatic Malcolm Campbell, warrior magus and one of the few who have faith in Helena’s abilities. But not everyone is thrilled that an outsider now has charge of one of the world’s most powerful magical entities. Helena must defend herself against the antagonism of Judy Rasmussen, who’d expected to be the next custodian of Abernathy’s, and her father William, powerful leader of the Wardens and someone with an agenda of his own. Without training, without any knowledge of the magical world, and facing the hostility of those who’d wanted someone else to be Abernathy’s custodian, Helena must navigate the treacherous waters of her new world and find a place for herself within it. But there’s still a murderer on the loose, someone who intended to control Abernathy’s by killing its custodian—and Helena might be next on his list.

The Book of Secrets is a book that was not quite what I was looking for, but in a good way. I tend to pick up or request books based on a quick look and then put off reading them until I do not remember the blurb- so I had no clue what was I was getting into- and I loved the ride. Helena is a complex character with a good balance of stubborness, flaws, and courage to make her a realistic and relatable character. I loved her pragmatism and ability to think things through as the world goes crazy around her. If only we could all do that. I think she, her family, and her friends were introduced well, and I think her circle will continue to be interesting secondary characters as the story continues. I think that members of the magical community, and the complicated society they have, was also well laid out. Things were introduced in small portions, as Helena learned them, and readers discovered the information along with her. I was not sure of the guilty party- although I had some suspicions toward the end, and think that the mystery was extremely well done. I think this hits the mark for a great coming of age novel for adult, in particular the new adult market (although I am well past that demographic and loved it). I am a little annoyed that the teaser for possible future romantic interest was included- because a life changing new job and introduction to making as you come into your own is not enough- she apparently need the possibility of a man in her life to make it all worth it. This is my current pet peeve, and it does work in the book, but it still bothers me.

The Book of Secrets is a great paranormal mystery and urban fantasy. I think young adults, new adults, and us technically adult adults will all enjoy this read.

Book Review: A Rose in the Highlands (Highland Roses School) by Heather McCollum

A Rose in the Highlands is the first book in the Highland Roses School series by Heather McCollum. Each book in this series is also a stand alone novel.

Evelyn Worthington leaves England behind to create a school for ladies in her brother's newly purchased Scottish castle. After the long, difficult journey north, Evelyn is shocked to find that not only has the castle been scorched by fire, but a brawny, half-dressed highlander bars her entry – at sword point. Clan chief Greyson "Grey" Campbell would rather die than see his family home, Finlarig Castle, fall into English hands. So when the beautiful Sassenach flashes a bill of sale before him, it's war. But when the battles between them grow hotter, passions flare. Grey has more to worry about than a headstrong English lass and as secrets are revealed and muskets are lit, everything – the fates of the Campbell Clan, Evelyn's school, and their lives – are in jeopardy.

A Rose in the Highlands is a historical romance that hit all the right notes for me. Strong and determined characters with good hearts that need to fight incredible odds to find happiness. There was a good mix of humor, danger, and heart touching moments. I love the independence, strength, and compassion that both Evelyn and Greyson show- even when they are being stubborn and engaged in battle. I liked the depths that even the side characters are given, making the entire story more compelling. I found the fact that once Eve and Grey admitted their feelings to themselves they gave each other the benefit of the doubt and talked over miscommunications or issues rather than ignoring them or believing the worst. I also like that they each could admit their faults, and were not blind the the prejudices that they (and those around them) had and how it might affect everything. That awareness and openness to change was nice to see. The only thing that jarred me a little was the initial jump into bed between Eve and Grey, but it really did work in the story. I think it just felt like they went from zero to sixty in an instant with no shyness or awkward moments that one might expect. However, if that is the only thing that did not flow perfectly for me, that still makes this a wonderful book.

A Rose in the Highlands is an enjoyable and engaging read. I am going to have to pick up a copy of the next book, which tells Scarlet's story, very soon.

Book Review: Samhain Secrets (Wiccan Wheel) by Jennifer David Hesse

Samhain Secrets is the fourth book in the Wiccan Wheel Mysteries by Jennifer David Hesse. I have not read the previous books in this series, and think that returning readers will get more out of it than newcomers. However, I think I was able to catch up pretty quickly and could fully enjoy the read.

After her recent promotion to junior partner, Keli is putting in overtime to juggle her professional career and private Wiccan spiritual practice. With Halloween fast approaching, her duties include appearing as a witch at a “haunted” barn and hand-holding a client who’s convinced her new house is really haunted. But it’s the disappearance of Josephine O’Malley that has Keli spooked. The missing person is Keli’s aunt, an environmental activist and free spirit who always seemed to embody peace, love, and independence. When Josephine is found dead in the woods, Keli wonders if her aunt’s activities were as friendly as they seemed. As Keli comes to terms with her loss—while adjusting to having a live-in boyfriend and new demands at work—she must wield her one-of-a-kind magic to banish negative energy if she’s going to catch a killer this Samhain season. Because Keli isn’t ready to give up.

Samhain Secrets is a fun read. I like that Keli is still fairly new to the practices of Wicca and is finding her ways and path. I think this allows readers that might be unfamiliar with the traditions and beliefs in the religion to learn more right alongside her. I was a little annoyed with some of the unsettled nature of her relationship, there were way too many hints at who else is interested in her to make me feel like she is happy and committed. As a related note her inability to think about letting people know where she is or what she is up to bothers me. Maybe its the mom in me, or the over planner, but when I share a house or have other commitments with people I would let them know I was going off in a canoe, hiking in the woods, or calming ghost related fears. However, aside from her self centeredness I rather liked the characters (including Keli for the most part) and how they interacted.  The mystery and red herrings were very well laid out, and I liked the way things kept circling around in new ways. I liked a lot about this read, and think I would have enjoyed it more with the prior knowledge from the previous books. 

Samhain Secrets is a good cozy mystery with a good set of twists, interesting characters, and a satisfying ending that still leaves plenty of room for more to come.

Early Book Review: It's Getting Scot in Here (Wild Wicked Highlanders) by Suzanne Enoch

It's Getting Scot in Here is the first book in the Wild Wicked Highlanders series by Suzanne Enoch. It is currently scheduled for release on February 26 2019.

Marry or lose their estate; that’s the devil’s bargain he and his brothers must follow. But wild Highlander Niall MacTaggert’s stubborn oldest brother wants nothing to do with marrying the sophisticated, pinky-out Lady Amelia-Rose his mother has chosen for him, even to save their land. Niall’s only goal is to soften up the London socialite, and show his brother the warm beauty behind the shiny, polished front. But what Niall doesn’t expect to find is the woman of his dreams.

It's Getting Scot in Here is a historical romance that had me smiling throughout. Niall and his brothers are less than thrilled with the prospect of marrying, never mind having to quickly pick a bride in London. As the peacemaker Niall finds himself stuck in the middle trying to limit arguments and hurt feelings, and the possibility of losing the needed support for his home. Part of this involves smoothing the way when his oldest brother and his potential bride clash. I enjoyed getting to know Niall, and seeing him struggle with himself and doing the right thing. I really connected with, and felt for, Amelia-Rose as she deals with controlling parents and the expectations of others. Seeing Niall and Amy find themselves and each other slowly was wonderful. I liked the bantering and wit, and they way readers could feel the relationship grow even as the characters were in denial or fought against it. I also liked seeing the way London society showed the good and the bad- the people that would do anything for the acceptance (or to keep the power it brings) alongside those that try to help others through the same channels. Showing both sides of a society I would have not enjoyed at all was well done and important, because we often only see one side. I really enjoyed getting to know the cast of characters introduced in this book, and I look forward to continuing the series.

It's Getting Scot in Here is a fast and fun historical romance that hit all the right notes for me. I am looking forward to seeing Niall's brother find their own happy endings as the series continues.

Early Book Review: Blind Date Bet by Nicole Flockton

Blind Date Bet is the first book in a new romance series by Nicole Flockton. It is currently scheduled for release on January 22 2019.

Never say never… After loving and losing a soldier once, Isabella Knowles made a vow: No more military men. She’s rebuilt her life and has a classroom full of fifth graders to love, which is more than enough even though her father doesn’t agree. When he sets her up on a blind date, she only goes to humor him — never dreaming that the man she meets will tempt her to break her one rule. In theory, Ethan Masters is not opposed to the wife, kids and house with a white picket fence. But he loves his career as a K-9 handler in the Air Force, and a dream promotion dangles before him like dog tags. While contemplating his future, he accepts a drunken bet for a blind date, never dreaming that the captivating woman fits perfectly into his ideal, all-American dream. Only one problem. She’s gun-shy about all things military. Can Ethan prove to Isabella love is worth the risk?

Blind Date Bet started off strong, I liked the initial set up and thought I was really going to love the story and the characters. I did like Isabella, but I never really felt like I got into her head. As things were revealed I could understand her reservations, but I just never connected with her. Unfortunately the same holds true for Ethan and most of the secondary characters. Oddly enough the one character I want to know more about and the one scene I would have like to have seen never really has a presence in the story. As for the relationship between Ethan and Izzy, moments of it fit and worked, and others felt either too easy or that one or both of them gave up too easy. Adding in the surprise at the end just felt unnecessary and a little cheap. Maybe I was just not in the mood for this writing style or story, but it fell flat for me and too close to telling me rather than showing me the depths of the story. There was just so much promise here and some really good moment,but I was disappointed that it did not like up to the expectations I had for it.

Blind Date Bet is a book I really wanted to like, and had many of the element that I adore. However, I never really connected with the characters or their story. It just did not work for me.

Book Review: The Fortnite Guide to Staying Alive: Tips and Tricks for Every Kind of Player by Damien Kuhn

The Fortnite Guide to Staying Alive: Tips and Tricks for Every Kind of Player by Damien Kuhn

What do World Cup soccer players, Drake, and 125 million other people have in common? They all play Fortnite! And now with The Fortnite Guide to Staying Alive, anyone can survive the island and take their game to the next level. This must-have guide has something for every kind of player: game mode overviews for Battle Bus beginners, detailed weapon and item stats for initiates, and advanced building strategies for veterans. With The Fortnite Guide to Staying Alive, you have everything you need to max out each season and have fun doing it.

The Fortnite Guide to Staying Alive: Tips and Tricks for Every Kind of Player is a book that was very helpful to me. My son and husband started playing over the summer, and I have not been of much help to them when they got stuck or fustrated- or had a question. The information is laid out in a logical and accessible format, which made it easy to find specific topics or information as I needed it. I think the general information gives new players a good information base with which to start and to find their own preferences and playing style.  However, some of the information and formatting is off. In particular they list the game as being available for Android, which it is not yet. I know because I am waiting to be able to download it for my Chromebook. I have not been playing myself so I am unsure if any of the other information is inaccurate. There were a few spots where the header for an image was on the page before the actual image and related information- which could have easily been fixed. The images and the descriptions themselves seemed to be well done.

The Fortnite Guide to Staying Alive: Tips and Tricks for Every Kind of Player was a useful, but not perfect resource. I think it is a solid introduction for those that are just getting started, or that have jump in but need more information to succeed.