Merissa (12061 KP) rated Stolen by Her Bear (Black Ridge Bears #1) in Books
Jul 26, 2021 (Updated Jul 17, 2023)
Saint is the Alpha of the Bear Pride, and he is none too impressed when they are woken from their hibernation by laughter, frolics, and shenanigans. Unfortunately for him, when he tries to ask nicely, the cougars are holding a grudge and refuse to keep the noise down. Saint's bear takes over and he kidnaps the mate of one of the cougars... except, she isn't!
I loved how Holly was just like her namesake. She was very prickly to begin with, but I couldn't exactly blame her! Saint doesn't want to be grumpy, but he has only just woken up, and his bear is very cranky. He is a sweetie though.
Returning to this universe is like slipping on a favourite pair of shoes. You can walk for miles in them and still feel like going for more. Saint and Holly make a perfect first pair for this series, and I can't wait to see where we go next. (I'm looking at you, Lowe... I think!)
A great, fun read that is definitely 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!
Jul 26, 2021
tapestry100 (306 KP) rated The Golden Compass in Books
Aug 2, 2017
Philip Pullman's The Golden Compass will forever be one of my favorite books. I remember reading it when it was first published in 1995 and thinking then I had never read anything like it before, and each subsequent reading (along with the other books in the His Dark Materials series, The Subtle Knife and The Amber Spyglass) still brings that feeling of wonder. The ideas and themes that Pullman introduces in these books challenged me as a reader then, and still do over 20 years later.
Lyra's story of friendship and loyalty found in the most unlikely places, and opposing and challenging those whose beliefs may be strong but not necessarily in the right, resonated strongly with me right out of high school, and I still think that these are important themes for any young reader to experience, especially told through Lyra's eyes. Her strength of character and resolve in what she believes right creates a fantastic role model for anyone, but especially those, I think, who are trying to find their way in the world and are looking to literature to help them. Of course, Pullman disguises much of this in a fast-paced adventure story filled with political intrigue and suspense around every corner, so it will keep readers both young and old eager to find out what happens next. Not every book deserves the title "unputdownable", but I think this was one of my first experiences with a book that earned that description for me. An alternate universe, witches, daemons, polar bears who talk, and more make this book one of the more unique books you'll read, and Philip Pullman's writing is beautiful and poignant.
Merissa (12061 KP) rated Claimed by her Cougar (Cougar Creek Mates #1) in Books
Oct 16, 2018
Rath has kept his clan safe from Archangel ever since their attack so many years previously. He takes care of any Hunters who show up on his land, and spends his time avoiding most people, preferring to spend his time alone. He looks after the cabins of various clan members who also live elsewhere. His solitude is broken when Ivy shows up on his land, wanting to photograph the black bears. Once she convinces him she is not a hunter, they spend a couple of days together, during which she gets under Rath's skin in more ways that he possibly imagined.
I found this story to be excellently written, as I would expect from Felicity Heaton. How she manages to tie in a previous organisation, within the contemporary world, whilst introducing a whole new set of characters, I think is superb! There were no editing or grammatical errors that disrupted my reading flow. The supporting cast of characters were all intriguing, leaving me wanting more in this series, just so I can get their stories. Luckily for me, Storm comes next, but I also want Ember's story! Yes, I know, I'm greedy!
A great start to the series, and definitely recommended by me. Looking forward to continuing this series.
* 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!
BookwormMama14 (18 KP) rated Then There Was You in Books
Jan 2, 2019
There is a love triangle-squareish thing going on. But tastefully done and did not make me uncomfortable or annoyed. It felt very real and a situation that is very believable. Being set in Australia and jumping back and forth from an American perspective and an Australian's it really helped the perspective of how differently cultures can be even if they speak the same language. I LOVED it! I adore learning about different cultures...Even if I was disappointed to learn a thing or two about Koalas that weren't all that great. And drop bears! Y'all better watch out for those if you ever visit the land down under!
This story depicts the amazing hand of God at work in our lives. Sometimes, the things He has for us are even greater than we ever thought possible. Even if we can't see how it could ever work out.
Both Paige and Josh let preconceived ideas influence their opinions of each other. Only through trust and removing the walls they have placed around themselves will they be able to see the truth. But when that trust is tested will everything they have built be for naught?
A touching and moving romance infused with the healing that only God can provide. Travel Down Under with Paige McAllister for the adventure of a lifetime.
I received a complimentary copy of Then There Was You from the author. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine alone.
Merissa (12061 KP) rated Raene and the Three Bears in Books
Dec 17, 2018
As part of the agreement for Blossom to go with Kaide, Raene has to go to the Bear Clan. However, Kaide made sure that the choice of her husband would be Raene's. Out of the three brothers, one is already married, but Raene still has the choice, as explained by Da.
O.M.G!!! Seriously, every book by R.S. McCoy should come with a kindle warning as I don't think my kindle will survive! This is the second time I've been absolutely entranced in this series, devouring every word, every page; completely engrossed and invested in the story.
I won't give out any spoilers, and I won't even mention the hints about who the 'stars' of the next book and what I think their story might be. All I will say, is that this book is exceptionally well written, with a clear and concise political structure (as far as anything political can be). The world building as a whole, with the different ways of living for each 'branch', is amazing. The characters continue to keep me on the edge of my seat, as they grow and become more than expected.
I really can't recommend this book, or the series, highly enough. Simply stunning, and I can't wait to continue with this series.
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book, and my comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
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