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Masterclass: Writing Crime Fiction: Teach Yourself
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LEARN HOW TO WRITE GRIPPING CRIME FICTION.Do you have an idea for a gripping crime novel?Would you...
Merissa (14020 KP) rated Pieces of Me (Missing Pieces #2) in Books
Jun 26, 2020
Pieces of Me is the second book in the Missing Pieces series and you need to read book one before you start on this one. It starts where book one finished and is a continuation of Justin's recovery and how Dallas is coping with everything and everyone.
Although this has the same characters and situations in it, the story is different enough to keep my attention. Finding out more about what Dallas has to cope with on the business side, plus what Justin deals with, made this all the more real for me. Life is tough without any 'easy answers' magically appearing. Dallas has to rob Peter to pay Paul and juggle his credit cards too. I loved that part, like I said, making it real.
This was a brilliant addition to the series and I thoroughly enjoyed how Dallas and Justin's story moved along at a steady pace. There is a bit more steam in this one as Justin's body and mind start to remember Dallas.
A fantastic story that has me gripped. Can't wait to continue. Absolutely recommended by me.
* 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!
Although this has the same characters and situations in it, the story is different enough to keep my attention. Finding out more about what Dallas has to cope with on the business side, plus what Justin deals with, made this all the more real for me. Life is tough without any 'easy answers' magically appearing. Dallas has to rob Peter to pay Paul and juggle his credit cards too. I loved that part, like I said, making it real.
This was a brilliant addition to the series and I thoroughly enjoyed how Dallas and Justin's story moved along at a steady pace. There is a bit more steam in this one as Justin's body and mind start to remember Dallas.
A fantastic story that has me gripped. Can't wait to continue. Absolutely recommended by me.
* 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!
TravelersWife4Life (31 KP) rated Out of the Embers (Mesquite Springs, #1) in Books
Feb 24, 2021
I loved this sweet story!
Out of the Embers was like traveling back in time to a place where it feels like home. Amanda Cabot did a great job describing the historical period, from the way the characters dressed, their mode of transportation, to the way the characters spoke and acted. It was like being right there with the characters. I think that the story flowed very well due in part to the historical accuracy of it.
I particularly liked the main character, Evelyn. She reminded me so much of someone who has an “old soul” and an encouraging word for everyone. I truly liked her character. Wyatt, Evelyn’s male counterpart, was also a uniquely caring and intuitive guy. All the other characters in this story helped make it come to life and left me with anticipation to read their stories as well.
I give this book a 4 out of 5 stars for the great characters, the stunning backdrop, and the lighthearted feel through most of the story. I recommend reading this book, and I cannot wait for the next book in the series to come out.
This book is the first in a new series by Amanda Cabot called Mesquite Springs.
*I volunteered to read this book in exchange for my honest feedback. The thoughts and opinions expressed within are my own.
Out of the Embers was like traveling back in time to a place where it feels like home. Amanda Cabot did a great job describing the historical period, from the way the characters dressed, their mode of transportation, to the way the characters spoke and acted. It was like being right there with the characters. I think that the story flowed very well due in part to the historical accuracy of it.
I particularly liked the main character, Evelyn. She reminded me so much of someone who has an “old soul” and an encouraging word for everyone. I truly liked her character. Wyatt, Evelyn’s male counterpart, was also a uniquely caring and intuitive guy. All the other characters in this story helped make it come to life and left me with anticipation to read their stories as well.
I give this book a 4 out of 5 stars for the great characters, the stunning backdrop, and the lighthearted feel through most of the story. I recommend reading this book, and I cannot wait for the next book in the series to come out.
This book is the first in a new series by Amanda Cabot called Mesquite Springs.
*I volunteered to read this book in exchange for my honest feedback. The thoughts and opinions expressed within are my own.
Merissa (14020 KP) rated Ensnared by Innocence (Roaring Rogues #1) in Books
Aug 10, 2021
ENSNARED BY INNOCENCE is the first book in the Roaring Rogues series and we are introduced to a Regency world where an Heiress can be sold off to pay debts, whether she wants to be or not.
Francine has no idea why her aunt is so adamant she accept the proposal of someone Francine dislikes intensely. In three months, Francine will reach her majority and then won't have to marry anyone. With that in mind, she approaches Blakely and propositions him.
This was a delightful book to read, with the relationship between Francy and Erasmus growing from mutual admiration to love. I would have liked a bit more about Erasmus shifting to a lion rather than just a sex scene, plus more about his Cubs. Still, that scene was steamy so maybe I missed something. There are some classic one-liners in here that made me chuckle, together with wonderful descriptions of the ton, the surroundings, etc.
The first book in a series that I have thoroughly enjoyed and have no hesitation in recommending. Looking forward to the next one.
** 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!
Francine has no idea why her aunt is so adamant she accept the proposal of someone Francine dislikes intensely. In three months, Francine will reach her majority and then won't have to marry anyone. With that in mind, she approaches Blakely and propositions him.
This was a delightful book to read, with the relationship between Francy and Erasmus growing from mutual admiration to love. I would have liked a bit more about Erasmus shifting to a lion rather than just a sex scene, plus more about his Cubs. Still, that scene was steamy so maybe I missed something. There are some classic one-liners in here that made me chuckle, together with wonderful descriptions of the ton, the surroundings, etc.
The first book in a series that I have thoroughly enjoyed and have no hesitation in recommending. Looking forward to the next one.
** 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!
Merissa (14020 KP) rated Hunter's Moon (Wildeward Academy #1) in Books
Aug 5, 2020
Hunter's Moon is the first book in the Wildeward Academy series and we are introduced to a world where magic, and curses, are real. Told from different perspectives, we learn how Victoria's mother disappeared and her father still searches for her. With the wards failing around their home, Victoria has no choice but to attend Wildeward where she meets new and old 'friends'.
This book has a steampunk feel to it, along with the magic. All the characters are interesting and so very different from each other, and I love how they interact with each other. The setting is clear enough to picture and will definitely leave you wanting more.
There were parts of this story that I was unsure about but I am more than happy to keep an open mind and see where book two takes me. I especially want to know more about Doyle's past and why he has reacted the way he has.
For a debut novel and the start of a new series, I can say I thoroughly enjoyed it and can't wait to read more. Definitely recommended by me.
* 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!
This book has a steampunk feel to it, along with the magic. All the characters are interesting and so very different from each other, and I love how they interact with each other. The setting is clear enough to picture and will definitely leave you wanting more.
There were parts of this story that I was unsure about but I am more than happy to keep an open mind and see where book two takes me. I especially want to know more about Doyle's past and why he has reacted the way he has.
For a debut novel and the start of a new series, I can say I thoroughly enjoyed it and can't wait to read more. Definitely recommended by me.
* 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!
Merissa (14020 KP) rated The Duke's Forbidden Love (Age of Innocence #4) in Books
Aug 13, 2020
The Duke's Forbidden Love is the fourth book in the Age of Innocence series. I haven't read any of the previous books and I don't think this had a negative impact upon my enjoyment of the series.
Amelia finds herself in the position of having to marry a man she fears and does the unthinkable. She runs away. When she has an accident in a storm, she is found by James Warwick who looks after her until she recovers. Their feelings grow for each other during this time, even though 'Clara' can no longer remember who she is or what she was doing.
This was a very genteel book, with flirting and passion being declared in a way that is only proper! It felt more like a novella, with the pacing of the story being quite fast. Although Lady Clara was nice enough to the staff, I would have liked to have seen her make a bit more of an effort with regards to Dolly.
If you like Historical Romances that read true to the time, then I can recommend this book.
* 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!
Amelia finds herself in the position of having to marry a man she fears and does the unthinkable. She runs away. When she has an accident in a storm, she is found by James Warwick who looks after her until she recovers. Their feelings grow for each other during this time, even though 'Clara' can no longer remember who she is or what she was doing.
This was a very genteel book, with flirting and passion being declared in a way that is only proper! It felt more like a novella, with the pacing of the story being quite fast. Although Lady Clara was nice enough to the staff, I would have liked to have seen her make a bit more of an effort with regards to Dolly.
If you like Historical Romances that read true to the time, then I can recommend this book.
* 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!
Merissa (14020 KP) rated Christmas Mafia Prince (The Naughty List) in Books
Nov 21, 2025
CHRISTMAS MAFIA PRINCE is the first book in The Naughty List series, and features Damen and Killian.
This is a dark/cute Christmas romance, and yes, the whole book is as paradoxical as that sounds! Killian bumps into Damen when he is trying to give his ex the slip. Damen is looking for a fake husband so he can join in his family's Christmas 'Hunt'. A match made in heaven?
Honestly? This book is bonkers! You have Damen the Assassin, who is completely gone for his boy. Killian the Innocent (sort of!), who really doesn't know what he's agreed to, plus a whole host of crazy (and slightly psychotic) characters who help move this story along. It's Christmassy, it's cosy, it's hot as hell, oh, and just a tad murderous!
I can't wait for more in the series, as there are definitely characters I want to see more of - Corvus being one of them! The epilogue for Damen and Killian was absolutely perfect as they are still smitten with each other. I really hope they show up in future books.
Absolutely brilliant and 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; the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Nov 21, 2025
This is a dark/cute Christmas romance, and yes, the whole book is as paradoxical as that sounds! Killian bumps into Damen when he is trying to give his ex the slip. Damen is looking for a fake husband so he can join in his family's Christmas 'Hunt'. A match made in heaven?
Honestly? This book is bonkers! You have Damen the Assassin, who is completely gone for his boy. Killian the Innocent (sort of!), who really doesn't know what he's agreed to, plus a whole host of crazy (and slightly psychotic) characters who help move this story along. It's Christmassy, it's cosy, it's hot as hell, oh, and just a tad murderous!
I can't wait for more in the series, as there are definitely characters I want to see more of - Corvus being one of them! The epilogue for Damen and Killian was absolutely perfect as they are still smitten with each other. I really hope they show up in future books.
Absolutely brilliant and 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; the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Nov 21, 2025
Merissa (14020 KP) rated Enforcer's Little Warrior (Little Paws Haven #3) in Books
Apr 18, 2025
ENFORCER'S LITTLE WARRIOR is the third book in the Little Paws Haven series and really must be read in order due to the overarching story.
We met both Romy and Bash in the previous books but they weren't together. After rescuing some baby rhinos, they set themselves up to look after them. This means that steamy moments are on hold, as most new parents will tell you! Instead, you have cute moments where Bash tries to show Romy how much he means to him. Romy is sweet but is overwhelmed with pretty much everything.
I enjoyed this book but it didn't push my buttons as the previous books have. The arc moves forward at a trot and I felt as though I lost some of the connection with the characters in THIS book to ensure the overall story moves along. We do meet with Cosmo and his mates, but Gabai and Asher are only mentioned, as is Little Paws Haven itself.
Overall, this was a good read and I definitely want to continue with the series.
** 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; the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Mar 19, 2025
We met both Romy and Bash in the previous books but they weren't together. After rescuing some baby rhinos, they set themselves up to look after them. This means that steamy moments are on hold, as most new parents will tell you! Instead, you have cute moments where Bash tries to show Romy how much he means to him. Romy is sweet but is overwhelmed with pretty much everything.
I enjoyed this book but it didn't push my buttons as the previous books have. The arc moves forward at a trot and I felt as though I lost some of the connection with the characters in THIS book to ensure the overall story moves along. We do meet with Cosmo and his mates, but Gabai and Asher are only mentioned, as is Little Paws Haven itself.
Overall, this was a good read and I definitely want to continue with the series.
** 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; the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Mar 19, 2025
Merissa (14020 KP) rated Born of Fire (Myths and Whispers #1) in Books
Mar 9, 2022
BORN OF FIRE is the first book in the Myths and Whispers series, and we start way, waaay back, with the beginning of the Myths. Then we fast-forward to the current day and Jax, a twenty-year-old carpenter who lost his parents in a tragic accident. Or was it?
Being as this is the first book, be prepared for a lot of world-building and explanations. They are done in a way so you don't really notice them, which is excellent! Jax is completely unaware of who or what he is, so we learn as he does.
Told completely from his perspective, this story has some interesting aspects. I found the latter part of the book more interesting, but I realise that the first part is absolutely necessary.
The one question I had all the way through is what about Gertie? He played chess with her all those Saturdays but then she's never mentioned again. I wanted to know more!
A great start to a new series and definitely an author to keep a lookout for. 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!
Being as this is the first book, be prepared for a lot of world-building and explanations. They are done in a way so you don't really notice them, which is excellent! Jax is completely unaware of who or what he is, so we learn as he does.
Told completely from his perspective, this story has some interesting aspects. I found the latter part of the book more interesting, but I realise that the first part is absolutely necessary.
The one question I had all the way through is what about Gertie? He played chess with her all those Saturdays but then she's never mentioned again. I wanted to know more!
A great start to a new series and definitely an author to keep a lookout for. 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!
Merissa (14020 KP) rated What He Finds (Desires: New Beginnings #2) in Books
Apr 7, 2023 (Updated Apr 10, 2023)
WHAT HE FINDS is the second book in the Desires: New Beginnings series but it can be read as a standalone, as I did. We meet with Quentin and Toby, two men who work in the same building. Toby has liked Quentin for months but hasn't made a move. Quentin has seen him but didn't think anything of it until Toby buys him a sandwich before it runs out.
This is a low-angst book with cinnamon roll main characters. Both of them have hang-ups from their pasts - Toby because he felt as though he pushed his college boyfriend away by being too needy, and Quentin by being too controlling. Put them together and you have an inexperienced sub who knows what he likes but is prepared to experiment and a Dom who knows exactly what to do to make his kitten shine. Although Toby has to deal with the death of his college ex, there is no real drama here.
A thoroughly enjoyable book I read in one sitting. I definitely recommend it and would read more in this series and by this author.
** 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; the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
April 7, 2023
This is a low-angst book with cinnamon roll main characters. Both of them have hang-ups from their pasts - Toby because he felt as though he pushed his college boyfriend away by being too needy, and Quentin by being too controlling. Put them together and you have an inexperienced sub who knows what he likes but is prepared to experiment and a Dom who knows exactly what to do to make his kitten shine. Although Toby has to deal with the death of his college ex, there is no real drama here.
A thoroughly enjoyable book I read in one sitting. I definitely recommend it and would read more in this series and by this author.
** 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; the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
April 7, 2023