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Merissa (12882 KP) rated Curvy and the Canid: A Wolf Shifter Fairy Tale Retelling in Books
Jun 12, 2020
Curvy and the Canid is a wolf shifter story set in Sweden involving the Norse gods. From that alone, I wanted to read this story!
Told from multiple points of view and in the present tense, this story explains about Saskia and Einar. She is a BBW in a country where most are 'skinny-minnies' (big generalisation there from me). She is successful in her chosen career but lacks the confidence to go it alone as an artist. Einar is the Missing Duke and we find out his story too. Together, these two have to overcome a curse and prove that true love can heal all wounds.
This is only a novella and yet it packs a punch. I'm not too keen on novellas as I prefer my stories to have a bit more to them. However, I have to say, with this one, the story is all there! There is nothing missing from this tale and each character is fully developed. You get the side characters who obviously aren't as big as the main ones but they are still three-dimensional.
I loved the setting for this story and can only hope we see more of this setting in future books. Einar and Saskia make a great couple, good for each other in so many ways. With sexy times and lots of love, this was a brilliant story and I can't wait to read more.
* 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!
Told from multiple points of view and in the present tense, this story explains about Saskia and Einar. She is a BBW in a country where most are 'skinny-minnies' (big generalisation there from me). She is successful in her chosen career but lacks the confidence to go it alone as an artist. Einar is the Missing Duke and we find out his story too. Together, these two have to overcome a curse and prove that true love can heal all wounds.
This is only a novella and yet it packs a punch. I'm not too keen on novellas as I prefer my stories to have a bit more to them. However, I have to say, with this one, the story is all there! There is nothing missing from this tale and each character is fully developed. You get the side characters who obviously aren't as big as the main ones but they are still three-dimensional.
I loved the setting for this story and can only hope we see more of this setting in future books. Einar and Saskia make a great couple, good for each other in so many ways. With sexy times and lots of love, this was a brilliant story and I can't wait to read more.
* 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 (12882 KP) rated Marek (Guardians of Hades #4) in Books
Jun 12, 2020
Marek is the fourth book in the Guardians of Hades series and I really couldn't wait for the researcher's story! He has been hinted at in the previous books but, of course, you don't find out much until he gets his own story.
Marek has his past that he is "dealing" with. Well, he's not, not really, but it makes him feel better. Caterina goes out hunting vampires every night because she thinks if she kills his sire, her brother will return to 'normal'. When these two meet, sparks fly... literally!
Poor Marek! And poor Caterina!! Both of them were hurting before they found each other but even then it didn't go smoothly. Now, of course, I know it never does but these two really had it bad. How about turning into something the man you're falling for hates and literally fights every day? Yeah, not easy. However, in true Felicity Heaton style, they not only managed to overcome these obstacles but also found their HEA along the way. Of course, they also found murder, more mystery, betrayal, and heartbreak but it's all for a good cause! 😉
This is such a great series and Marek is a fantastic addition to it. A thoroughly enjoyable story from start to finish, with cameos from the other brothers, and plenty of steam between our two main characters. Absolutely brilliant and I can definitely recommend it. Now, bring on the next!
* 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!
Marek has his past that he is "dealing" with. Well, he's not, not really, but it makes him feel better. Caterina goes out hunting vampires every night because she thinks if she kills his sire, her brother will return to 'normal'. When these two meet, sparks fly... literally!
Poor Marek! And poor Caterina!! Both of them were hurting before they found each other but even then it didn't go smoothly. Now, of course, I know it never does but these two really had it bad. How about turning into something the man you're falling for hates and literally fights every day? Yeah, not easy. However, in true Felicity Heaton style, they not only managed to overcome these obstacles but also found their HEA along the way. Of course, they also found murder, more mystery, betrayal, and heartbreak but it's all for a good cause! 😉
This is such a great series and Marek is a fantastic addition to it. A thoroughly enjoyable story from start to finish, with cameos from the other brothers, and plenty of steam between our two main characters. Absolutely brilliant and I can definitely recommend it. Now, bring on the next!
* 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!
Traveling Mercies
Book
Anne Lamott claims the two best prayers she knows are: Help me, help me, help me and Thank you,...
Mark @ Carstairs Considers (2346 KP) rated Mulled to Death in Books
Oct 21, 2021
Parker’s Valentine’s Getaway Hits a Murderous Snag
Parker Valentine and her boyfriend Reid are planning a romantic Valentine’s weekend trip to a ski resort. Parker is hoping to take a few minutes to sell the resort on her mulled wine, and is star struck when the owner, Olympic gold medalist Annmarie Bauer, sits in on the meeting. But the next morning, Parker is nearby when Annmarie has a deadly skiing accident. Parker saw some things that make her question whether it was an accident or not, and as she begins poking around, strange things happen to her. Can she figure out what is really going on?
Having enjoyed the first two books in this series, I was looking forward to checking in with Parker again. I did feel that Parker’s motive for looking into this as much as she did was weak until late in the book and the plot relied a bit too much on events over investigation, but overall, this was a good mystery that kept me guessing until the end. Parker and Reid are joined by another couple, Parker’s brother Liam and her best friend Sage, who have recently started dating. These four characters are the core of the series to me, and I loved seeing how they developed here. As always, the books are written in first person present tense. I love how the author works in tidbits about wine making as metaphors for what Parker is going through. We get three delicious sounding recipes and suggested wine pairings at the end. Fans of the series will have fun with the newest in this series.
Having enjoyed the first two books in this series, I was looking forward to checking in with Parker again. I did feel that Parker’s motive for looking into this as much as she did was weak until late in the book and the plot relied a bit too much on events over investigation, but overall, this was a good mystery that kept me guessing until the end. Parker and Reid are joined by another couple, Parker’s brother Liam and her best friend Sage, who have recently started dating. These four characters are the core of the series to me, and I loved seeing how they developed here. As always, the books are written in first person present tense. I love how the author works in tidbits about wine making as metaphors for what Parker is going through. We get three delicious sounding recipes and suggested wine pairings at the end. Fans of the series will have fun with the newest in this series.
Merissa (12882 KP) rated Ambushed (Dark Reflections #3) in Books
Apr 7, 2023 (Updated Apr 10, 2023)
The third book in the Dark Reflections series continues with Adri and Alec's stories as they try to survive in their crazy world.
Adri is learning more about the world that she now lives in, as well as trying to learn how to master her abilities from Taggart. They have to keep on the move as Taggart is always aware of how easy it would be for the Coun'hij to catch up with them. He tries to help Adri learn how to control her abilities but is also giving her the space to decide how and when she will use her powers.
Alec is trying to survive. He is on the lookout both for his father, the Coun'hij and also any vampires or werewolves that might be lurking. Not only that but there are also the packs that are loyal to Coun'hij. So life is pretty busy for him.
This story moves along at an incredible pace and there is a lot of action in this book. The separate lives of Adri and Alec do join together but probably not in the way you were expecting. However, it is just perfect for this story and how it is playing out.
I have enjoyed all of Dean Murray's books, whether they be Reflections or Dark Reflections and can highly recommend them to all. Brilliant writing once more.
* 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!
July 21, 2016
Adri is learning more about the world that she now lives in, as well as trying to learn how to master her abilities from Taggart. They have to keep on the move as Taggart is always aware of how easy it would be for the Coun'hij to catch up with them. He tries to help Adri learn how to control her abilities but is also giving her the space to decide how and when she will use her powers.
Alec is trying to survive. He is on the lookout both for his father, the Coun'hij and also any vampires or werewolves that might be lurking. Not only that but there are also the packs that are loyal to Coun'hij. So life is pretty busy for him.
This story moves along at an incredible pace and there is a lot of action in this book. The separate lives of Adri and Alec do join together but probably not in the way you were expecting. However, it is just perfect for this story and how it is playing out.
I have enjoyed all of Dean Murray's books, whether they be Reflections or Dark Reflections and can highly recommend them to all. Brilliant writing once more.
* 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!
July 21, 2016
Merissa (12882 KP) rated Shattered (Dark Reflections #4) in Books
Apr 11, 2023
WOW! Dean Murray did warn me on my blog review of Ambushed that this one might blow my mind. He knew what he was talking about as it did! At the beginning, Alec and Adri still aren't speaking following their separation at the end of the last book. Carson is training Alec and Adri is still trying to help Taggart in every way she can apart from killing.
We spend time with different characters in this book as it moves forward. Addison, James' mum, makes a discovery which may just put our Sanctuary pack in danger but she is one of theirs - will they go ahead anyway? You know the answer is yes but how it is written will keep you on edge for every moment. There is a lot of action in this book, as well as long-awaited outcomes and new revelations. I won't give anything away by mentioning specifics but suffice it to say, if you have read the first three Dark Reflections books then I honestly can't see how you won't love this instalment.
This book had me reading faster and faster the closer to the end it got while at the same time, I was desperately hoping that it would never end. Unfortunately for me, it did end and what an ending it was. Now I just need to (im)patiently wait for the next one.
Good one, Dean, brilliant once again.
* 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!
July 20, 2016
We spend time with different characters in this book as it moves forward. Addison, James' mum, makes a discovery which may just put our Sanctuary pack in danger but she is one of theirs - will they go ahead anyway? You know the answer is yes but how it is written will keep you on edge for every moment. There is a lot of action in this book, as well as long-awaited outcomes and new revelations. I won't give anything away by mentioning specifics but suffice it to say, if you have read the first three Dark Reflections books then I honestly can't see how you won't love this instalment.
This book had me reading faster and faster the closer to the end it got while at the same time, I was desperately hoping that it would never end. Unfortunately for me, it did end and what an ending it was. Now I just need to (im)patiently wait for the next one.
Good one, Dean, brilliant once again.
* 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!
July 20, 2016
Heather Cranmer (2721 KP) created a post
Nov 14, 2022 (Updated Nov 14, 2022)
Merissa (12882 KP) rated Running From Darkness (Dark River Stone Collective #3) in Books
Mar 20, 2023
RUNNING FROM DARKNESS is the third book in the Dark River Stone Collective series, and it starts off with a horrible subject, so read the trigger warning!
Conall and Calliope end up in Belton, asking for a favour, to save Calliope. She is in a bad way but Kyle and Nutty are there to help, even if Linc and Mason aren't. Once they turn up, Conall knows they will help him, in every way they can, which is a good thing when the police are wanting to question him.
I have to say, I have no qualms about what Conall did, or how Mason plays with the truth on his behalf. Earl deserved everything thing that came his way. I only hope to find out for sure in future books that karma paid him a visit!
The relationship between Conall and Kyle was never going to be easy and I have to admire Kyle's tenacity. Although the two of them together were hot, it was actually the easy relationship between Kyle, Conall, and Calliope that I loved. That girl is something else!
This was a great addition to the series and I loved being back with the Dark Angels. And it just goes to show - sometimes, just sometimes, running is the right thing to do, especially when you're running to the light. 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!
Conall and Calliope end up in Belton, asking for a favour, to save Calliope. She is in a bad way but Kyle and Nutty are there to help, even if Linc and Mason aren't. Once they turn up, Conall knows they will help him, in every way they can, which is a good thing when the police are wanting to question him.
I have to say, I have no qualms about what Conall did, or how Mason plays with the truth on his behalf. Earl deserved everything thing that came his way. I only hope to find out for sure in future books that karma paid him a visit!
The relationship between Conall and Kyle was never going to be easy and I have to admire Kyle's tenacity. Although the two of them together were hot, it was actually the easy relationship between Kyle, Conall, and Calliope that I loved. That girl is something else!
This was a great addition to the series and I loved being back with the Dark Angels. And it just goes to show - sometimes, just sometimes, running is the right thing to do, especially when you're running to the light. 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!
Mark @ Carstairs Considers (2346 KP) rated City of Betrayal in Books
Dec 6, 2023
Observing the War of the Roses
It's August of 1920, and the fight to ratify the nineteenth amendment giving women the right to vote has come down to Tennessee. Everyone thinks that, among the states that haven’t voted on it yet, the best chance to pass it will be here. Elizabeth Bates and her mother-in-law have been asked to go to Tennessee and help with the lobbying of state representatives to get it passed. Gideon joins them as well. When the three arrive, they quickly see the see of various color roses, those for and against ratification. But can they do anything to make a difference in the vote?
Normally, I love this author’s books, so I picked this book up without paying too much attention to what it was about. However, this one didn’t live up to her usual standards. I have a feeling she was so fascinated by the real life stuff she uncovered while doing research she tried to fit it all into a novel. The problem is the result reads more like a history book than a novel, and Elizabeth and the others get involved in mini episodes without having an overall plot to drive us other than will the amendment get passed or not. Several supporting characters show up for cameos, and even the three main characters feel flat. If you are a fan of the author, know what to expect going in. If you are new to her, don’t judge her by this book, but pick up some of her other books and you’ll get caught up in them.
Normally, I love this author’s books, so I picked this book up without paying too much attention to what it was about. However, this one didn’t live up to her usual standards. I have a feeling she was so fascinated by the real life stuff she uncovered while doing research she tried to fit it all into a novel. The problem is the result reads more like a history book than a novel, and Elizabeth and the others get involved in mini episodes without having an overall plot to drive us other than will the amendment get passed or not. Several supporting characters show up for cameos, and even the three main characters feel flat. If you are a fan of the author, know what to expect going in. If you are new to her, don’t judge her by this book, but pick up some of her other books and you’ll get caught up in them.
Laura Doe (1350 KP) rated Codename Villanelle (Killing Eve #1) in Books
Jan 16, 2022
Having read this book previously, I knew that I was going to enjoy it whilst refreshing my memory to continue the series, but I forgot just how much I enjoyed it the first time around.
I love the Killing Eve TV show that is based on the books and that’s what drew me to the books in the first place, but I find that these are so much better (as is usually the way when things are adapted for TV series or films). The book goes into so much more depth about who Villanelle is and who she was before she became the lethal assassin that we now know her as.
Villanelle has quite a few flashbacks of her previous life which gives us the insight into how she came to be and how she came to choose her new name. I find it fascinating reading through her flashbacks as it shows you exactly what shaped her growing up and that becoming an assassin actually saved her from a worse fate.
We also meet Eve and follow her through a number of cases before she settles on a female assassin that is killing people who don’t seem to be connected. Towards the end of the book we meet her full team, who I think will play a prominent part in the sequel book.
I’m so glad that I decided to refresh my memory by reading this book again before starting on the second in the series. Luke Jenning’s writing flows beautifully that I couldn’t put this book down and read it in one sitting.
I love the Killing Eve TV show that is based on the books and that’s what drew me to the books in the first place, but I find that these are so much better (as is usually the way when things are adapted for TV series or films). The book goes into so much more depth about who Villanelle is and who she was before she became the lethal assassin that we now know her as.
Villanelle has quite a few flashbacks of her previous life which gives us the insight into how she came to be and how she came to choose her new name. I find it fascinating reading through her flashbacks as it shows you exactly what shaped her growing up and that becoming an assassin actually saved her from a worse fate.
We also meet Eve and follow her through a number of cases before she settles on a female assassin that is killing people who don’t seem to be connected. Towards the end of the book we meet her full team, who I think will play a prominent part in the sequel book.
I’m so glad that I decided to refresh my memory by reading this book again before starting on the second in the series. Luke Jenning’s writing flows beautifully that I couldn’t put this book down and read it in one sitting.