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Mark @ Carstairs Considers (2603 KP) rated In Sunshine or in Shadow in Books
Mar 14, 2024
Not So Restful Time in the Catskills
Summer of 1908 finds typhoid hitting New York City. At the insistence of her husband, Molly heads to visit his mother in Westchester, taking the rest of the family with her. But soon, she is bored and decides to visit her friends Sid and Gus in the Catskills. They are making a reluctant visit to Sid’s family only to have murder crash the reunion. With the police reluctant to let anyone leave until the case is solve, Molly starts investigating. Can she find out what happened?
The book spends only as long as needed getting the characters into position before the story starts. From there, we get some set up, so by the time the victim is found, we have plenty of suspects. I loved watching the investigation unfold, and the solutions was perfectly logical. The suspects get plenty of time to shine, and I grew to like them. And Daniel is on his best behavior here, too. I found it interesting to visit the Catskills just as they were beginning to turn into a summer destination. Meanwhile, some very nasty prejudice is displayed without turning the book into a lecture at any point. Molly’s fans will be rewarded with a fantastic twentieth book.
The book spends only as long as needed getting the characters into position before the story starts. From there, we get some set up, so by the time the victim is found, we have plenty of suspects. I loved watching the investigation unfold, and the solutions was perfectly logical. The suspects get plenty of time to shine, and I grew to like them. And Daniel is on his best behavior here, too. I found it interesting to visit the Catskills just as they were beginning to turn into a summer destination. Meanwhile, some very nasty prejudice is displayed without turning the book into a lecture at any point. Molly’s fans will be rewarded with a fantastic twentieth book.
Merissa (14068 KP) rated Her Mountain Christmas (Honey Ridge #4) in Books
Nov 17, 2025
HER MOUNTAIN CHRISTMAS is the fourth book in the Honey Ridge series and, as you may have figured out, takes place at Christmastime.
Ella comes from money, but that has a price tag. When she finds out her parents have basically sold her to a man she can't stand, she leaves the party and leaves her apartment. Unfortunately, as happens when you're running away, she doesn't check the weather forecast and ends up driving in a blizzard. Along comes Jack to the rescue, who warms her up in more ways than one!
This is another cracker of a book from Alyson Archer. It is Christmassy with plenty of snow, but steam aplenty indoors. I loved how Ella knew what she wanted and made no bones about it, whereas Jack was more than happy to give his girl what she wanted, even when she didn't know what that was.
Although Ms Archer writes one helluva steamy scene, my favourite was when Ella stood up to her parents, with Jack by her side. Take that, you snotty pair!!!
Absolutely fantastic and HIGHLY RECOMMENDED by me!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Nov 17, 2025
Ella comes from money, but that has a price tag. When she finds out her parents have basically sold her to a man she can't stand, she leaves the party and leaves her apartment. Unfortunately, as happens when you're running away, she doesn't check the weather forecast and ends up driving in a blizzard. Along comes Jack to the rescue, who warms her up in more ways than one!
This is another cracker of a book from Alyson Archer. It is Christmassy with plenty of snow, but steam aplenty indoors. I loved how Ella knew what she wanted and made no bones about it, whereas Jack was more than happy to give his girl what she wanted, even when she didn't know what that was.
Although Ms Archer writes one helluva steamy scene, my favourite was when Ella stood up to her parents, with Jack by her side. Take that, you snotty pair!!!
Absolutely fantastic and HIGHLY RECOMMENDED by me!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Nov 17, 2025
Mark @ Carstairs Considers (2603 KP) rated Hurricane Heist in Books
Oct 1, 2025 (Updated Oct 1, 2025)
Hurricane Uncovers a Heist from History
This book finds the Sherlock Society about to head back to school after a fantastic summer. But their return to school gets delayed by a few days when a hurricane hits the city. In the aftermath, a body is found at a nearby hotel. When it is identified as a man who disappeared in another hurricane 60 years before, Alex and Zoe’s grandpa is intrigued. He knew the man back then, and he never bought the story from the time that the man was involved in a jewelry heist. Can the Sherlock Society figure out what happened all those years ago?
After an exciting opening chapter from the climax, this book flashes back, a technique I don’t like. In this case, it was worse since the book took longer than it should have to set up the main mystery. Once it did, I was hooked on the story. The ending was a bit rushed, but that was a minor complaint. I loved the characters and the character moments felt like they grew out of what we learned about them in the first book. Plus, we met some new characters I hope pop up again. Despite the slow start, I enjoyed this book overall.
After an exciting opening chapter from the climax, this book flashes back, a technique I don’t like. In this case, it was worse since the book took longer than it should have to set up the main mystery. Once it did, I was hooked on the story. The ending was a bit rushed, but that was a minor complaint. I loved the characters and the character moments felt like they grew out of what we learned about them in the first book. Plus, we met some new characters I hope pop up again. Despite the slow start, I enjoyed this book overall.
Merissa (14068 KP) rated Prince of Hollow Desires (The Demon Reflected #2) in Books
May 19, 2026
PRINCE OF HOLLOW DESIRES is the second book in The Demon Reflected series, and this time we focus on Eric and Ixthan. Although this is the second book, you don't have to have read the first. I would recommend it, simply because it's a great story and introduction to the world.
This was a fantastic read with plenty of wit and humour along the way. You wouldn't think a book that begins with a traitor and an execution would have that, but you'd be wrong. Ixthan and Eric were absolutely made for each other in every way, although they had their own concerns and questions, as you do. They are literally childhood friends-to-lovers, and it definitely worked. I loved how Ixthan was concerned Eric wouldn't love him in all his demonic glory. I also loved how Eric proved him otherwise.
Once I started this story, I couldn't put it down. I was totally engrossed and loved every moment. I can't wait to continue with the series. 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!
May 19, 2026
This was a fantastic read with plenty of wit and humour along the way. You wouldn't think a book that begins with a traitor and an execution would have that, but you'd be wrong. Ixthan and Eric were absolutely made for each other in every way, although they had their own concerns and questions, as you do. They are literally childhood friends-to-lovers, and it definitely worked. I loved how Ixthan was concerned Eric wouldn't love him in all his demonic glory. I also loved how Eric proved him otherwise.
Once I started this story, I couldn't put it down. I was totally engrossed and loved every moment. I can't wait to continue with the series. 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!
May 19, 2026
Merissa (14068 KP) rated Bad Blood (Monsters of London #1) in Books
Mar 11, 2025
BAD BLOOD is the first book in the Monsters of London series and was just what I needed! I haven't read a good vampire book in a while and this one? Yeah, well, it was better than good.
Kieran is living in London with his friend, Sam. Lucien is one of the vampire chieftains. Kieran, Sam, and Lucien all have secrets that they're holding close and not sharing. Throw in wolves, mages, hunters, and 'normal' humans And then there's the new vampires killing on Kieran's doorstep. It all mixes together into a fantastic read that I was hard-pressed to put down.
If you're looking for an insta-lust wham-bam-thank-you-ma'am book then this isn't for you. If you're looking for a book with depth, secrets upon secrets, with an overarching mystery that doesn't get tied up all neatly with a bow, then you should definitely give this one a go.
I can't wait to see what happens next. 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 28, 2024
Kieran is living in London with his friend, Sam. Lucien is one of the vampire chieftains. Kieran, Sam, and Lucien all have secrets that they're holding close and not sharing. Throw in wolves, mages, hunters, and 'normal' humans And then there's the new vampires killing on Kieran's doorstep. It all mixes together into a fantastic read that I was hard-pressed to put down.
If you're looking for an insta-lust wham-bam-thank-you-ma'am book then this isn't for you. If you're looking for a book with depth, secrets upon secrets, with an overarching mystery that doesn't get tied up all neatly with a bow, then you should definitely give this one a go.
I can't wait to see what happens next. 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 28, 2024
Dragon Day
5.0
Rate It
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From the producers of the Maze Runner trilogy comes this fictional oral history of the appearance of...
Are you looking for a book that may bring the meaning of Christmas home to children through the eyes of a Christmas Tree? Bruce the Spruce: A New York City Fairytale About the True Meaning of Christmas Trees is excellent. Children will learn about the true meaning of Christmas Trees.
We meet Bruce the Spruce, and he wants to be the attention of the crowds. Will he learn a lesson and what he did for this job to learn his lesson in gratitude? We follow him on his journey from when he was taken and put on to the street to where he ends up.
Children will learn about being grateful and what you cherish. Will Bruce understand what it means to be a Christmas Tree? I enjoyed how this book ended; Children and parents will love this book. The author did a fantastic job with the plot of this story. The pictures are well done. I just loved how Bruce reacted and showed his emotions.
This book is excellent to have on your bookshelves for the holiday season. This book should be read close to Christmas or leading up to Christmas. I show the meaning of Christmas to children and adults as well.
We meet Bruce the Spruce, and he wants to be the attention of the crowds. Will he learn a lesson and what he did for this job to learn his lesson in gratitude? We follow him on his journey from when he was taken and put on to the street to where he ends up.
Children will learn about being grateful and what you cherish. Will Bruce understand what it means to be a Christmas Tree? I enjoyed how this book ended; Children and parents will love this book. The author did a fantastic job with the plot of this story. The pictures are well done. I just loved how Bruce reacted and showed his emotions.
This book is excellent to have on your bookshelves for the holiday season. This book should be read close to Christmas or leading up to Christmas. I show the meaning of Christmas to children and adults as well.
Merissa (14068 KP) rated Assassin's Touch (Iron Portal #1) in Books
Apr 13, 2023
In an alternate reality exists two worlds, both at war with each other. Neyla is drawn into this war against her will when it is discovered that she has a latent Talent. Enscripted into the army, in a war full of propaganda and struggling with the mistrust of the soldiers she's supposed to be fighting with, she is injured by a soldier on her side and captured by a 'barbarian'.
Taken over into Cascadia, she soon learns that the war is different to the stories that she's been fed. Given time to spend with the citizens, she realises that she doesn't want to go back. Of course, Rickert might also play a big part in that as the attraction between the two absolutely sizzles.
This is a fantastic start to the series with wonderful world-building. The characters are all full-bodied and believable, even the ones you dislike. Thoroughly enjoyable and definitely recommended for those who want a short but hot paranormal romance read.
* 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!
Jun 21, 2015
Taken over into Cascadia, she soon learns that the war is different to the stories that she's been fed. Given time to spend with the citizens, she realises that she doesn't want to go back. Of course, Rickert might also play a big part in that as the attraction between the two absolutely sizzles.
This is a fantastic start to the series with wonderful world-building. The characters are all full-bodied and believable, even the ones you dislike. Thoroughly enjoyable and definitely recommended for those who want a short but hot paranormal romance read.
* 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!
Jun 21, 2015
Merissa (14068 KP) rated The Destroyer (A Broken World #2) in Books
Apr 18, 2023
If you are looking for a Sci-Fi/Dystopian book that is chock-full of action, then look no further. The amount of action in this book will leave you breathless as you travel with Skye as she tries to save the people she has grown to care for.
There isn't much of Skye and Brennan in this part, but trust me, there is so much else going on that you don't really miss it. Skye is such a strong character, I love her. She is prepared to put her neck on the line for what she believes in, even though it goes against everything she has been told her whole life. I love how she can already see the cracks in her society but just needs the back story for her to commit.
Exceptionally well-written, fast-paced and action-packed, this is a story to read, savour, and then go back and read again, just to make sure you didn't miss anything! Absolutely fantastic and highly recommended.
* 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!
Oct 3, 2015
There isn't much of Skye and Brennan in this part, but trust me, there is so much else going on that you don't really miss it. Skye is such a strong character, I love her. She is prepared to put her neck on the line for what she believes in, even though it goes against everything she has been told her whole life. I love how she can already see the cracks in her society but just needs the back story for her to commit.
Exceptionally well-written, fast-paced and action-packed, this is a story to read, savour, and then go back and read again, just to make sure you didn't miss anything! Absolutely fantastic and highly recommended.
* 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!
Oct 3, 2015
Merissa (14068 KP) rated Lost (The Caelian Cycle #1) in Books
May 5, 2023
This book starts off in a sad place as Sadie deals with the death of her friend/boyfriend, Liam. Her other friends are trying to bring her back to the 'land of the living' as she grieves for her loss. Her friends also include the older brother and also the twin sister of Liam, Michael and Lacy. Sadie is a rare one amongst the Caelian's, in a physical way with her lack of colouring, but also in that she doesn't appear to have a 'talent'.
This story is well-written with a steady pace. It will give you an emotional connection as you empathise with the characters and situations they find themselves in.
This is a fantastic debut novel that has definitely left me wanting more. A brilliant story that grips you from start to finish, you will need to know more about Sadie and Kian. Although this story comes to a satisfying conclusion, it also leads you perfectly into the next book which is due out later this year that I have GOT to read. Highly Recommended.
* 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 8, 2015
This story is well-written with a steady pace. It will give you an emotional connection as you empathise with the characters and situations they find themselves in.
This is a fantastic debut novel that has definitely left me wanting more. A brilliant story that grips you from start to finish, you will need to know more about Sadie and Kian. Although this story comes to a satisfying conclusion, it also leads you perfectly into the next book which is due out later this year that I have GOT to read. Highly Recommended.
* 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 8, 2015