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Merissa (11928 KP) rated Crimson Petticoats in Books

Apr 22, 2022 (Updated Jun 24, 2023)  
Crimson Petticoats
Crimson Petticoats
Ryan Green | 2022 | Crime
8
8.5 (2 Ratings)
Book Rating
CRIMSON PETTICOATS tells the true crime story of Western Europe's first known serial killer, Martin Dumollard. A disturbed child constantly in trouble, he grew up happiest when outside, in the forests and fields. When working as a groundskeeper at an estate, he met Marie, his future wife. She played the long game with Martin, their courtship lasting over ten years. After they were married and left that employ though, both of their worlds changed.

This is a well-written account that allows some imagination to take place, whilst firmly keeping the facts from that time -- found in newspapers and other places of research -- in mind. The sheer number of victims is almost incomprehensible by itself.

This is the first book by this author I have read and it won't be the last. I love the mixture of facts, told in a story-like fashion, that makes it a much better read than just dry facts of no consequence.

Absolutely recommended by me to all fans of #TrueCrime.

** same worded review will appear elsewhere **

* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book, and the comments here are my honest opinion. *

Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Apr 14, 2022
  
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Merissa (11928 KP) rated Blood King (Heart Stones #1) in Books

Mar 18, 2022 (Updated Jul 3, 2023)  
Blood King (Heart Stones #1)
Blood King (Heart Stones #1)
JP Sayle | 2022 | LGBTQ+, Paranormal, Romance
8
9.0 (2 Ratings)
Book Rating
BLOOD KING is the first in the Heart Stones series and we start the story with Aion and Shiesha. One is heir to the Vampire King's throne, and one has no memory prior to two weeks ago. But fated mates they are, and you know what that means... instant heat, sexual tension, and lots of banter/sniping.

There is so much to this book. It was a delight to read. Nothing is straightforward, and I take my hat off to Ms Sayle for being so goddamned cryptic with those monks! Absolutely brilliant.

Fast but perfectly paced, we see the story through both our main characters' eyes, giving a nicely-rounded view of what's going on. Just don't expect too many answers. In fact, I'm pretty sure I've got more questions than ever now, but I was warned so fair enough.

This was a great start and I'm really looking forward to getting some answers and seeing where Ms Sayle takes me next!

** same worded review will appear elsewhere **

* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book, and the comments here are my honest opinion. *

Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Mar 10, 2022
  
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Merissa (11928 KP) rated Hot StepDad Summer (Stepdad Summer #1) in Books

Mar 3, 2022 (Updated Jul 3, 2023)  
Hot StepDad Summer (Stepdad Summer #1)
Hot StepDad Summer (Stepdad Summer #1)
Iris Faire | 2022 | Contemporary, LGBTQ+, Romance
6
6.0 (1 Ratings)
Book Rating
HOT STEPDAD SUMMER is the first book in the Stepdad Summer series and we are introduced to Dillon and Steven. Dillon's mum had him when she was only twenty and they got on great until Dillon came out. Steven is only eight years older than Dillon and walks a fine line between the two of them as the peacemaker.

Told from both Steven and Dillon's perspectives, this is a fast-paced story that brushes over some of the darker themes mentioned (mafia, suspense,). The issues between Steven and Dillon being together are quickly worked out, helped along by cheating (not the MC's). Also, the nicknames and how they spoke to each other, especially during sex, made me laugh out loud, and I'm not sure that was the intention!

This was an entertaining read where problems are dealt with without too much hassle, a hint of possible trouble, and love wins overall. If that's what you want, then you'll enjoy this book.

** same worded review will appear elsewhere **

* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book, and the comments here are my honest opinion. *

Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Mar 3, 2022
  
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Merissa (11928 KP) rated Amethyst Flame (Butterfly Witch #2) in Books

Mar 7, 2022 (Updated Jul 3, 2023)  
Amethyst Flame (Butterfly Witch #2)
Amethyst Flame (Butterfly Witch #2)
Erin Kellison, Elsa Jade | 2022 | Romance, Science Fiction/Fantasy
8
8.0 (1 Ratings)
Book Rating
AMETHYST FLAME is the second book in The Butterfly Witch series. We return to Mo as she heads out for a weekend in Vegas. She is still living with her mum and Manager at the Desert Freeze shop. Both she and her mum are still reeling from what happened at the end of the first book.

If I had to say what this book is about - in a nutshell - I would say trust. Or lack of it. Whatever. Basically, this whole book is a mindf*ck of who Mo can trust and rely on. There are secrets within secrets with all of them, but it is Mo on the frontline.

This book expands on what started in the first part, including a revelation about Mo's moths, and will absolutely leave you wanting more. My Kindle nearly hit the wall with the ending and I can't wait for the next book!!!

An Urban Fantasy where the heroine doesn't have all sorted within five minutes. Highly recommended by me.

** same worded review will appear elsewhere **

* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book, and the comments here are my honest opinion. *

Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Mar 4, 2022
  
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Merissa (11928 KP) rated Fool Her Once in Books

Feb 21, 2022 (Updated Jul 3, 2023)  
Fool Her Once
Fool Her Once
Joanna Elm | 2022 | Thriller
6
6.0 (1 Ratings)
Book Rating
FOOL HER ONCE is the story of Jenna and her investigative capabilities. She put them to use when she was younger, but events spiralled out of her control. Upset by the result, she left her job and concentrated her abilities elsewhere. Fast forward to the present, and it looks like her past is coming back to haunt her.

Told from the perspectives of Jenna and Zach, it is immediately apparent that things aren't what Jenna thought they were. The whole story unravels slowly, with teasers and titbits there to keep your interest.

I thoroughly enjoyed her investigation even as I was shouting at her to connect the dots! I do wish more reasons had been given about the relationship with her daughter. There seemed to be no reason for it - unless I missed something - and Zach was stirring the pot.

A great read, Fool Her Once is a Domestic Thriller sure to keep you enthralled.

** same worded review will appear elsewhere **

* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book, and the comments here are my honest opinion. *

Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Feb 21, 2022
  
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Matthew Krueger (10051 KP) rated The Purge (2013) in Movies

Apr 14, 2020 (Updated Apr 18, 2020)  
The Purge (2013)
The Purge (2013)
2013 | Mystery, Sci-Fi
Would You Participate
The pruge- the idea of which all criminal activity including murders is legal for 12 hours is really intesting. Like whould happen, if this really happen. I mean, its kinda of happen, but with tolet paper, paper towels, napkins and food. That their is nothing left, and if their is people are rushing to the stories just to get it. Survival of the finest thats the saying. Surviving just to see anethor day/tomorrow. I like ethan hawke, i think he is a underrated actor and he is really good in this. The bad guy is soo laughable, thats hes good but bad.

The plot: In an America ravaged by crime and overcrowded prisons, the government sanctions an annual 12-hour period during which all criminal activity -- including murder -- is legal. James Sandin (Ethan Hawke) and his family face the ultimate test when an intruder drags the vicious outside world into their home. James, Mary (Lena Headey) and their two children struggle to survive the night while trying not to turn into monsters like the ones they are striving to avoid. Also this takes place in the year 2022, so maybe it still might happen, who knows.

For me, i perfer the 2nd and 3rd one, but this one was a good start, to a good horror franchise.
  
    Hidden Leaders

    Hidden Leaders

    (0 Ratings) Rate It

    Tabletop Game

    The island of Oshra is in turmoil. Following the death of the Emperor, the conflict between the Hill...

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Heather Cranmer (2721 KP) created a post

Jul 22, 2022  
Sneak a peek at the culinary cozy mystery A SHOT IN THE 80% DARK by Amber Royer on my blog, and enter the giveaway for a chance to win a signed copy of the book - two winners!

https://alltheupsandowns.blogspot.com/2022/07/book-blitz-and-giveaway-shot-in-80-dark.html

**BOOK SYNOPSIS**
Felicity Koerber’s bean to bar chocolate shop is thriving. Despite everything she’s been through with the murders she’s helped solve, Felicity is ready to take on new challenges. So when a local museum offers her a contract to create a chocolate replica of a gigantic sailing ship sculpture for a gala celebrating Galveston’s history, she jumps at the chance to combine chocolate-crafting with art.

The project is fun – right up until there’s not just one but two dead artists on the scene, and Felicity has to change gears back to detective. Logan, Felicity’s business partner and previous bodyguard, and Arlo, Felicity’s ex who is now the cop investigating the case, are split on which victim they think was actually the intended one. Felicity may have to take some chances, both emotionally and in luring out a killer, to determine the truth.

Can she find out how Galveston’s history relates to the murders, unmask a killer, and prepare 2,000 chocolate desserts for the gala all at the same time?
     
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Heather Cranmer (2721 KP) created a post

Aug 7, 2022 (Updated Aug 7, 2022)  
True crime buffs, come read an excerpt from CODE OF SILENCE: INSIDE THE CASE THAT LED TO THE FIRST FEDERAL JUDGE TO BE IMPEACHED by Lise Olsen on my blog, and enter the giveaway for a chance to win an autographed copy of the book - three winners.

https://alltheupsandowns.blogspot.com/2022/08/book-blog-tour-and-giveaway-code-of.html

**BOOK SYNOPSIS**
Code of Silence tells the story of federal court employee Cathy McBroom, who had to flee her job as a case manager in Galveston, Texas, after enduring years of sexual harassment and assault by her boss-US District Judge Samuel Kent. Following a decade of firsthand reporting at the Houston Chronicle, investigative reporter Lise Olsen charts McBroom’s assault and the aftermath, when McBroom was thrust into the role of whistle-blower to denounce a federal judge.

What Olsen discovered by investigating McBroom’s story and other federal judicial misconduct matters nationwide was shocking. With the help of other federal judges, Kent was being protected by a secretive court system that has long tolerated or ignored complaints about corruption, sexism, and sexual misconduct-enabling him to remain in office for years. Other powerful judges accused of judicial misconduct were never investigated and remain in power or retired with full pay, such as US Circuit Judge Alex Kozinski and Kozinski’s mentee, Brett Kavanaugh.