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Merissa (12358 KP) rated Dead Set (Aspen Falls #2) in Books
Nov 20, 2023
Dead Set is the second book in the Aspen Falls series, and we reunite with Lucas, Blaine's friend who is no longer on the Police Force that we met in book one. I like Lucas, but he is a slob where paperwork is concerned. His office makes me cringe, so I was thankful when Alaina got stuck in. They come to an agreement that she will help Lucas if he helps her. Her brother has died, and it has been ruled a suicide. Alaina can't accept that, although that may be her guilt speaking. It seems straightforward to begin with, but it does become apparent that not all is as it seems. And I really did feel for Noah!
It was nice to see the connection between Lucas and Alaina grow as they worked together to find out the mystery behind Noah's death. It is a slow-burn romance, rather than insta-lust, but I think it works here. After all, if someone is working through the grief of a deceased family member, it would be rather strange to fall straight into bed with the P.I. involved.
This book had no editing or grammatical errors that spoilt my reading, and the storyline was easy to follow, even with all the mystery. We have Blaine and Rosie having small cameos in here, so it was nice to see that things are still going well for them. I thoroughly enjoyed this book, and I hope we will see them in future books so we know how they get along. I would recommend this book.
* 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!
Apr 20, 2018
It was nice to see the connection between Lucas and Alaina grow as they worked together to find out the mystery behind Noah's death. It is a slow-burn romance, rather than insta-lust, but I think it works here. After all, if someone is working through the grief of a deceased family member, it would be rather strange to fall straight into bed with the P.I. involved.
This book had no editing or grammatical errors that spoilt my reading, and the storyline was easy to follow, even with all the mystery. We have Blaine and Rosie having small cameos in here, so it was nice to see that things are still going well for them. I thoroughly enjoyed this book, and I hope we will see them in future books so we know how they get along. I would recommend this book.
* 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!
Apr 20, 2018
Debbiereadsbook (1313 KP) rated Love, Untruths, and the Smuggler's Ruse (A Tenet Gentlemen's Club #2) in Books
Oct 20, 2022
Independent reviewer for Archaeolibrarian, I was gifted my copy of this book.
This is book 2 in the Tenet Gentleman's Club series, but I have not read book 1. I did not feel as I missed anything for not doing so, since the couple in that book are not mentioned, I don't think, in this one.
You get pulled straight into this book, and what Elizabeth is trying to solve, right from page one, and It does not really let you go!
I liked that both Elizabeth and Langdon have a say, although it took me a little bit to grasp Langdon's first name and put the two together.
I liked that there is intrigue and drama. I did have an inkling, right from the start, about a certain character, so it was fun watching that all come to pass.
It is an historical romance, so its full of the rules and regulations of the time, along with words for various things. Made me chuckle a time or two how the feelings these two had for each other were described towards the beginning. It's not overly explicit but it does carry some steam, once Elizabeth gave into the need to have Langdon in the way she wanted.
It's a well written story, that delivered to me just what I needed at the right time.
One teeny niggle though. The book is set in London, and as such, I expected ENGLISH words to describe certain things. A couple of things were given AMERICAN wordings.
First I've read of this author. Will I read more? Quite possibly if the blurb grabs. If it's an historical, I will know to look for the English/American wordings and it won't bother me so much!
4 good, solid stars
*same worded review will appear elsewhere
This is book 2 in the Tenet Gentleman's Club series, but I have not read book 1. I did not feel as I missed anything for not doing so, since the couple in that book are not mentioned, I don't think, in this one.
You get pulled straight into this book, and what Elizabeth is trying to solve, right from page one, and It does not really let you go!
I liked that both Elizabeth and Langdon have a say, although it took me a little bit to grasp Langdon's first name and put the two together.
I liked that there is intrigue and drama. I did have an inkling, right from the start, about a certain character, so it was fun watching that all come to pass.
It is an historical romance, so its full of the rules and regulations of the time, along with words for various things. Made me chuckle a time or two how the feelings these two had for each other were described towards the beginning. It's not overly explicit but it does carry some steam, once Elizabeth gave into the need to have Langdon in the way she wanted.
It's a well written story, that delivered to me just what I needed at the right time.
One teeny niggle though. The book is set in London, and as such, I expected ENGLISH words to describe certain things. A couple of things were given AMERICAN wordings.
First I've read of this author. Will I read more? Quite possibly if the blurb grabs. If it's an historical, I will know to look for the English/American wordings and it won't bother me so much!
4 good, solid stars
*same worded review will appear elsewhere
Merissa (12358 KP) rated Idolatry (Reagalos #2) in Books
Oct 8, 2021 (Updated Jul 12, 2023)
IDOLATRY is the second book in the Reagalos series and we return to the fantasy world where Lornyc is now the ruler of two kingdoms and, as he finds out, a living god. Of course, he isn't really. It's just his pesky (deceased) relative causing trouble once more.
If you are looking for a nice and simple, easy read then I'm afraid this book won't do it for you. If you're looking for one with multiple twists, intrigue, multiple dimensions, death threats, and jealous lovers, then hold onto your hats, because you're in for one hell of a ride!
There is so much that goes on here, honestly! I didn't see Methian bloom as I'd hoped, but I am seeing the beginnings of it. After speaking with his dad, he is going to take more of a hand in his own kingdom.
Lornyc is definitely the character that takes centre stage in this story. The other characters are there but we don't see as much of them. Vella is still having fun, as Kat's black eye will attest to.
I hope to see more of Methian in future books as I feel he could be a really strong character in his own right, rather than 'just' a consort. He is also heir to his own realm so... yep, I'd like to see more of him. Vella is another great character - loyal to her family, dangerous to those who cross her or those she loves.
Idolatry was a great addition to the series, and I look forward to reading more. 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!
Oct 8, 2021
If you are looking for a nice and simple, easy read then I'm afraid this book won't do it for you. If you're looking for one with multiple twists, intrigue, multiple dimensions, death threats, and jealous lovers, then hold onto your hats, because you're in for one hell of a ride!
There is so much that goes on here, honestly! I didn't see Methian bloom as I'd hoped, but I am seeing the beginnings of it. After speaking with his dad, he is going to take more of a hand in his own kingdom.
Lornyc is definitely the character that takes centre stage in this story. The other characters are there but we don't see as much of them. Vella is still having fun, as Kat's black eye will attest to.
I hope to see more of Methian in future books as I feel he could be a really strong character in his own right, rather than 'just' a consort. He is also heir to his own realm so... yep, I'd like to see more of him. Vella is another great character - loyal to her family, dangerous to those who cross her or those she loves.
Idolatry was a great addition to the series, and I look forward to reading more. 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!
Oct 8, 2021
Merissa (12358 KP) rated Servitude (Reagalos #1) in Books
Sep 2, 2021 (Updated Jul 14, 2023)
SERVITUDE is the first book in the Reagalos series and we are introduced to a fantasy world where para-dimensional mathematics and portals are known and utilised.
Lornyc is the heir to the High Lord of Reagalos although no one knows about it. Methian is the heir to the Xenetra realm and has a reputation as a playboy. Keeping their relationship secret is the norm for them, until magical contracts turn up out of the blue, ensuring Lornyc becomes Methian's valet, plus other contracts to other realms he can't get out of. And then there are the whole treachery and assassination attempts to contend with.
What you have is a book that will hold your interest. There are numerous characters for you to learn about, political situations, marriages, you name it. The beginning was a bit bumpy for me and I had to work at it as I felt I had arrived halfway through already. Once you get past that, it becomes intriguing and will get you turning the pages.
I hope to see more of Methian in future books as I feel he could be a really strong character in his own right, rather than 'just' a consort. He is also heir to his own realm so... yep, I'd like to see more of him. Vella is another great character - loyal to her family, dangerous to those who cross her or those she loves.
A great, solid start to the series and I look forward to moving on from here. 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!
Sep 2, 2021
Lornyc is the heir to the High Lord of Reagalos although no one knows about it. Methian is the heir to the Xenetra realm and has a reputation as a playboy. Keeping their relationship secret is the norm for them, until magical contracts turn up out of the blue, ensuring Lornyc becomes Methian's valet, plus other contracts to other realms he can't get out of. And then there are the whole treachery and assassination attempts to contend with.
What you have is a book that will hold your interest. There are numerous characters for you to learn about, political situations, marriages, you name it. The beginning was a bit bumpy for me and I had to work at it as I felt I had arrived halfway through already. Once you get past that, it becomes intriguing and will get you turning the pages.
I hope to see more of Methian in future books as I feel he could be a really strong character in his own right, rather than 'just' a consort. He is also heir to his own realm so... yep, I'd like to see more of him. Vella is another great character - loyal to her family, dangerous to those who cross her or those she loves.
A great, solid start to the series and I look forward to moving on from here. 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!
Sep 2, 2021
Merissa (12358 KP) rated Strength Check (Dungeons and Dating #1) in Books
Sep 17, 2021 (Updated Jul 14, 2023)
STRENGTH CHECK is the first book in the Dungeons and Dating series, and we start off with Roxie. She has just opened a board game café with her two best friends and has no room in her life for romance. Her self-esteem has been severely battered and she has hidden herself from the world. Melody (Mel) has moved to San Francisco from Philly and rents out a room in Roxie's home. Both of them feel attraction but, due to baggage, neither makes a move.
Miscommunication is a theme where romance is concerned. After all, if everyone just said what they thought, there wouldn't be any books! BUT there seemed to be just a tad too much here for me. I really wanted to slap both Roxie and Mel upside the head. I was cheering when they finally got together!
Found families is a wonderful theme for me. I adore it, and this was no exception. Roxie's found family are divine and I really can't wait for future stories so I can get to meet each of them in closer detail.
This is a slow-burn, steamy romance with fun, frolics, and family. It is also sad in places, leaving me wanting their book now. Sorry, not saying who as I don't want to spoil it.
First in a series and absolutely recommended by me. Just be prepared to be frustrated at the two of them! 😉
** 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!
Sep 17, 2021
Miscommunication is a theme where romance is concerned. After all, if everyone just said what they thought, there wouldn't be any books! BUT there seemed to be just a tad too much here for me. I really wanted to slap both Roxie and Mel upside the head. I was cheering when they finally got together!
Found families is a wonderful theme for me. I adore it, and this was no exception. Roxie's found family are divine and I really can't wait for future stories so I can get to meet each of them in closer detail.
This is a slow-burn, steamy romance with fun, frolics, and family. It is also sad in places, leaving me wanting their book now. Sorry, not saying who as I don't want to spoil it.
First in a series and absolutely recommended by me. Just be prepared to be frustrated at the two of them! 😉
** 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!
Sep 17, 2021
Merissa (12358 KP) rated Switched in Books
Jun 29, 2021 (Updated Jul 18, 2023)
SWITCHED is a standalone story that tells you how Israel was switched at birth, the trials and tribulations he's faced and is still facing, plus the friendships that have helped him through dark days.
Not only do you get a solidly written piece of work, but you also see the inner dynamics not only of Iz's family but also his friends. I was on tenterhooks for him and Sam to get together, and am so thankful for Donna's words of advice that gave him the push he needed. I was so prepared to hate Iz's family and yet, I couldn't. Not once I knew their story too. I loved that!
I was completely hooked by this story, totally enthralled. I read it in one sitting, not prepared to let anything get in my way. ALL of the characters in here are wonderful, and I would love to see more of Connor, Jamie, and Millsy! The Spongebob Squarepants part killed me as my youngest has just been binge-watching this so I had the song in my head.
Oh, man! If I have one piece of advice for you, it would be this - don't read this book if you are feeling emotional. It is gorgeous, fun, sexy, and so many goddamned feelings!!! 'Ignore my tears, I'm a crier!' Honestly? I'm struggling here to put into words how this book made me feel.
Do I recommend it? What the *** do you think?! 😍
** 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!
Jun 29, 2021
Not only do you get a solidly written piece of work, but you also see the inner dynamics not only of Iz's family but also his friends. I was on tenterhooks for him and Sam to get together, and am so thankful for Donna's words of advice that gave him the push he needed. I was so prepared to hate Iz's family and yet, I couldn't. Not once I knew their story too. I loved that!
I was completely hooked by this story, totally enthralled. I read it in one sitting, not prepared to let anything get in my way. ALL of the characters in here are wonderful, and I would love to see more of Connor, Jamie, and Millsy! The Spongebob Squarepants part killed me as my youngest has just been binge-watching this so I had the song in my head.
Oh, man! If I have one piece of advice for you, it would be this - don't read this book if you are feeling emotional. It is gorgeous, fun, sexy, and so many goddamned feelings!!! 'Ignore my tears, I'm a crier!' Honestly? I'm struggling here to put into words how this book made me feel.
Do I recommend it? What the *** do you think?! 😍
** 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!
Jun 29, 2021
Merissa (12358 KP) rated Life Support (Crush #6) in Books
Mar 11, 2021 (Updated Aug 2, 2023)
LIFE SUPPORT is the sixth book in the Crush series, although I didn't know this originally. In it, we meet Casey, a paramedic who is being harassed at work, but he doesn't report it because the other person is higher up on the career ladder than he is, and Luke, who is a Fitness Trainer who specialises in self-defence/awareness.
This is a book I would definitely say is NOT standalone. There are so many characters and situations mentioned that I presume are relevant to previous storylines. Not only that, but with the number of characters, I had no idea about who was with whom, when, and how. This made the reading quite difficult as references were constantly made. Throw in Casey and Luke both coming from big families with siblings galore, and I had no idea what was going on!
In the middle of everything else, you can find the story of Casey and Luke, although not as much as I would have liked. They are quick with the 'I love you's', but I never really felt much connection between them. I also would have liked more from Acker as I felt that part was also lost in the mix.
I feel if you have read this series, then you will be delighted by what you read. I enjoyed it, but it didn't wow me and left me confused. So prepare yourself for a saga with a huge amount of intermingling storylines and characters.
* 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 11, 2021
This is a book I would definitely say is NOT standalone. There are so many characters and situations mentioned that I presume are relevant to previous storylines. Not only that, but with the number of characters, I had no idea about who was with whom, when, and how. This made the reading quite difficult as references were constantly made. Throw in Casey and Luke both coming from big families with siblings galore, and I had no idea what was going on!
In the middle of everything else, you can find the story of Casey and Luke, although not as much as I would have liked. They are quick with the 'I love you's', but I never really felt much connection between them. I also would have liked more from Acker as I felt that part was also lost in the mix.
I feel if you have read this series, then you will be delighted by what you read. I enjoyed it, but it didn't wow me and left me confused. So prepare yourself for a saga with a huge amount of intermingling storylines and characters.
* 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 11, 2021
Merissa (12358 KP) rated The Bridled Tongue in Books
Feb 1, 2021 (Updated Aug 7, 2023)
THE BRIDLED TONGUE is set in the late 1500s when Alyce returns home from being in service. Her sister, Isabel, has always been in competition with Alyce but now feels as though she has won. After all, she is married - even if there are whispers of his infidelities. Things soon turn around after Alyce is betrothed, and marries, a man of higher standing than her husband. Will Isabel leave the competition behind, or will it turn deadly?
I think you know which way it will go - after all, there would be no story otherwise. What you need to do though is read this one for yourself. Instead of just reading my review which skims along the surface, take the time to delve into the depths of this amazing novel that will keep you turning the pages.
The timeline is historically accurate, with a few fictional additions. The scenes are brilliantly described and will make you feel as though you are there. Sibling rivalry can be harsh indeed, especially when it is encouraged. The circumstances between Alyce and Isabel are incredibly well thought out and explained. It was also easy to see how things could get so out of hand.
One thing I loved was seeing the relationship develop between Alyce and Thomas. From acceptance, to respect, to love. Simply delightful and wonderful to read.
This book is a 5-star review from me. It couldn't be anything else. A fantastic portrayal of the times and 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!
Feb 1, 2021
I think you know which way it will go - after all, there would be no story otherwise. What you need to do though is read this one for yourself. Instead of just reading my review which skims along the surface, take the time to delve into the depths of this amazing novel that will keep you turning the pages.
The timeline is historically accurate, with a few fictional additions. The scenes are brilliantly described and will make you feel as though you are there. Sibling rivalry can be harsh indeed, especially when it is encouraged. The circumstances between Alyce and Isabel are incredibly well thought out and explained. It was also easy to see how things could get so out of hand.
One thing I loved was seeing the relationship develop between Alyce and Thomas. From acceptance, to respect, to love. Simply delightful and wonderful to read.
This book is a 5-star review from me. It couldn't be anything else. A fantastic portrayal of the times and 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!
Feb 1, 2021
Merissa (12358 KP) rated She Sees Ghosts (Adirondack Spirit Series) in Books
Jan 20, 2021 (Updated Aug 7, 2023)
SHE SEES GHOSTS is part of the Adirondack Spirit series that tells you about living in times gone past when life was both easier and a whole lot harder.
Mehitable has the ability to see and talk to ghosts. For a long time, she viewed this as a curse due to how it impacted her life. It is only as the story progresses, and she grows, that she can view it as something special. Mehitable is a strong character, determined to live her life the way she wants, rather than how society expects it. She is fully supported by her best friend, Polly, and her husband, Reuben. Other characters show up for their part, but the main story involves Mehitable, Polly, Reuben, and then Destiny. Although Destiny wasn't in it for long, he certainly had an impact. I would have liked to have had more of him, but he still managed to stake his claim in the book anyway.
This was a fascinating read that also gave insight into some of the living conditions that they contented within the here and now, as well as in their history.
I did feel the ending left me hanging. I am presuming the next book in the series will be about Moses, but I'm not completely sure. I would love to know more about Mehitable and her life though.
A wonderful story with lots of research shining through, making this a fantastic historical novel with paranormal elements. 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!
Jan 20, 2021
Mehitable has the ability to see and talk to ghosts. For a long time, she viewed this as a curse due to how it impacted her life. It is only as the story progresses, and she grows, that she can view it as something special. Mehitable is a strong character, determined to live her life the way she wants, rather than how society expects it. She is fully supported by her best friend, Polly, and her husband, Reuben. Other characters show up for their part, but the main story involves Mehitable, Polly, Reuben, and then Destiny. Although Destiny wasn't in it for long, he certainly had an impact. I would have liked to have had more of him, but he still managed to stake his claim in the book anyway.
This was a fascinating read that also gave insight into some of the living conditions that they contented within the here and now, as well as in their history.
I did feel the ending left me hanging. I am presuming the next book in the series will be about Moses, but I'm not completely sure. I would love to know more about Mehitable and her life though.
A wonderful story with lots of research shining through, making this a fantastic historical novel with paranormal elements. 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!
Jan 20, 2021
Merissa (12358 KP) rated Cupcakes & Christmas in Books
Nov 27, 2020 (Updated Aug 14, 2023)
CUPCAKES & CHRISTMAS is a sweet, seasonal romance that actually takes place for the most part in October. Stick with me, it does make sense, I promise.
Justin and Brody are both chefs and have been asked to take part in a charity show that is featuring six season's winners. Justin won season one and although he still bakes, most of his time now is being an 'influencer'. He has imposter syndrome and doesn't think he'll be able to stay past week one. Oh, and he also had a crush on Brody when he watched season four. Brody is, as you may have guessed, the winner from season four. He has had his self-confidence severely knocked by his ex-husband and doesn't feel like he should be there, even though he desperately wants to win. Oh, and he had a crush on Justin from season one!
These two connect in an adorably sweet and awkward way. I loved how Justin stood up for himself against Erin. Both of them need to find themselves and they both help the other with that. Along with the aid of a magical snowman called Jeremy!
The pace is fast but both our guys know what they want. There are flies in the ointment but nothing is going to come in between Brody and Justin. I have never watched GBBO or been to Banff but this book made me want to do both.
A book guaranteed to give you the warm fuzzies in time for the Yuletide season, CUPCAKES & CHRISTMAS is a story I definitely recommend.
* 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!
Nov 27, 2020
Justin and Brody are both chefs and have been asked to take part in a charity show that is featuring six season's winners. Justin won season one and although he still bakes, most of his time now is being an 'influencer'. He has imposter syndrome and doesn't think he'll be able to stay past week one. Oh, and he also had a crush on Brody when he watched season four. Brody is, as you may have guessed, the winner from season four. He has had his self-confidence severely knocked by his ex-husband and doesn't feel like he should be there, even though he desperately wants to win. Oh, and he had a crush on Justin from season one!
These two connect in an adorably sweet and awkward way. I loved how Justin stood up for himself against Erin. Both of them need to find themselves and they both help the other with that. Along with the aid of a magical snowman called Jeremy!
The pace is fast but both our guys know what they want. There are flies in the ointment but nothing is going to come in between Brody and Justin. I have never watched GBBO or been to Banff but this book made me want to do both.
A book guaranteed to give you the warm fuzzies in time for the Yuletide season, CUPCAKES & CHRISTMAS is a story I definitely recommend.
* 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!
Nov 27, 2020