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Merissa (14030 KP) rated Spring Melt in Books
Feb 11, 2026
SPRING MELT is a standalone historical crime story that tells you about Ella and the horrific act forced upon her at 9-years-old. Nineteen years later, three men are being held accountable for the murder of her r@pist. Was it really planned, or did fate play a part?
This was an amazing story that drew me in and kept my attention from the very first chapter. Normally, I wouldn't say anything about being happy with a divorce/separation in the first few pages, but this one I celebrated! Not only that, but I was with Ella every step of the way as she found herself and the peace needed to move on with her life.
The glimpse into the 1920s social system, the job of a lumberjack, plus how if you had money, you could even buy a Not Guilty verdict (if it even got that far!) was so incredibly written, I was completely engrossed.
Ella is surrounded by an amazing supporting cast of characters, including but not limited to the wonderful Will. Hooper, although not around too much, was also a firm favourite. I thoroughly enjoyed the scenes with Maddox, as he made me question what was right and wrong, both morally and legally. The epilogue at the end made my eyes leak in the best way.
Told from multiple perspectives, this was outstanding in every way. I HIGHLY RECOMMEND this book, and although I have no personal knowledge of the Adirondacks, I can honestly say I feel as though I've now been there.
** 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!
Feb 11, 2026
This was an amazing story that drew me in and kept my attention from the very first chapter. Normally, I wouldn't say anything about being happy with a divorce/separation in the first few pages, but this one I celebrated! Not only that, but I was with Ella every step of the way as she found herself and the peace needed to move on with her life.
The glimpse into the 1920s social system, the job of a lumberjack, plus how if you had money, you could even buy a Not Guilty verdict (if it even got that far!) was so incredibly written, I was completely engrossed.
Ella is surrounded by an amazing supporting cast of characters, including but not limited to the wonderful Will. Hooper, although not around too much, was also a firm favourite. I thoroughly enjoyed the scenes with Maddox, as he made me question what was right and wrong, both morally and legally. The epilogue at the end made my eyes leak in the best way.
Told from multiple perspectives, this was outstanding in every way. I HIGHLY RECOMMEND this book, and although I have no personal knowledge of the Adirondacks, I can honestly say I feel as though I've now been there.
** 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!
Feb 11, 2026
ClareR (6241 KP) rated Sun of Blood and Ruin in Books
Mar 10, 2024
It’s not often I have something negative to say about a book (you may have noticed), because I really try to choose books that I know I’ll enjoy. After all, who wants to read something they don’t enjoy? I did have high hopes that Sun of Blood and Ruin would be so much more. I was excited that this book was using Mesoamerican mythology and a bit of Mexican history, something I know nothing about.
I remember watching Zoro as a child, and this book felt like that in places. Except Pantera is female - she is a ‘master’ swords-person, a magician and a shapeshifter. So far, so good. Leonora de Las Casas Tlazohtzin is her alter-ego (or is it the other way round? Im never sure which way round it should be) - it’s a great disguise. She is the sister of the regent of New Spain, and promised to the Spanish Prince - who will ever guess that she’s really Pantera?
What didn’t quite gel with me was the way the story was put together. It didn’t feel like a cohesive novel, more like exciting shorts that had been joined together. I think if I’d read this as a graphic novel or a series of short stories, I would have enjoyed it so much more. The second half of the novel is far better than the first half, I will say that.
Perhaps I’m not the right audience for this book? I do like this genre though, and I do read a fair bit of YA Fantasy, so I’m really not so sure it’s that. It looks as though there will be a follow up, and I’d be interested to see if the style is in any way improved and where the story is going next - so this book is definitely a “like” from me.
I remember watching Zoro as a child, and this book felt like that in places. Except Pantera is female - she is a ‘master’ swords-person, a magician and a shapeshifter. So far, so good. Leonora de Las Casas Tlazohtzin is her alter-ego (or is it the other way round? Im never sure which way round it should be) - it’s a great disguise. She is the sister of the regent of New Spain, and promised to the Spanish Prince - who will ever guess that she’s really Pantera?
What didn’t quite gel with me was the way the story was put together. It didn’t feel like a cohesive novel, more like exciting shorts that had been joined together. I think if I’d read this as a graphic novel or a series of short stories, I would have enjoyed it so much more. The second half of the novel is far better than the first half, I will say that.
Perhaps I’m not the right audience for this book? I do like this genre though, and I do read a fair bit of YA Fantasy, so I’m really not so sure it’s that. It looks as though there will be a follow up, and I’d be interested to see if the style is in any way improved and where the story is going next - so this book is definitely a “like” from me.
Merissa (14030 KP) rated His Secret Omega in Books
Nov 11, 2025
HIS SECRET OMEGA is a standalone story that had previously been released as His Secret Alpha. That one was sweet, cute, and steamy. This one has been rewritten, expanded to novel-length, and is a whole lot darker. And I thoroughly enjoyed them both!
Sky and Kian have a 'complicated' relationship - as in, Sky had a crush, didn't think anything had come of it, and needed to get over it. Kian, on the other hand, doesn't see situations and relationships in the same way most people do. He has claimed Sky, although Sky doesn't know it, and has decided now is the time to let him know.
This is a dark romance, so be prepared for some triggering scenes, right from the beginning. If you have triggers, this may not be the book for you. Personally, I liked the back-and-forth between Kian and Sky. I also liked how Sky was bigger than average, easy to get along with, and wasn't shy about calling Kian out when needed.
I did feel as though this was part of a series, though, and I wonder about the books for the other characters mentioned. Maybe this was a spin-off, maybe it's planned to be added to a series, I don't know.
I'm glad I read both the novella and this one. As already said, I enjoyed both and have no hesitation in recommending both of them too. Just ensure you're getting the right one for you!
** 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 11, 2025
Sky and Kian have a 'complicated' relationship - as in, Sky had a crush, didn't think anything had come of it, and needed to get over it. Kian, on the other hand, doesn't see situations and relationships in the same way most people do. He has claimed Sky, although Sky doesn't know it, and has decided now is the time to let him know.
This is a dark romance, so be prepared for some triggering scenes, right from the beginning. If you have triggers, this may not be the book for you. Personally, I liked the back-and-forth between Kian and Sky. I also liked how Sky was bigger than average, easy to get along with, and wasn't shy about calling Kian out when needed.
I did feel as though this was part of a series, though, and I wonder about the books for the other characters mentioned. Maybe this was a spin-off, maybe it's planned to be added to a series, I don't know.
I'm glad I read both the novella and this one. As already said, I enjoyed both and have no hesitation in recommending both of them too. Just ensure you're getting the right one for you!
** 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 11, 2025
Merissa (14030 KP) rated Something Unprofessional (Split Rock Ranch #5) in Books
Jan 19, 2026 (Updated Jan 19, 2026)
SOMETHING UNPROFESSIONAL is the fifth book in the Split Rock Ranch series, but the first I have read. I don't feel as though I've missed anything by not reading the others, but I now want to!
Ev is determined not to fall for his boss again, not after the last time! Gabe is the boss who didn't want a PA, but is happy with how things work with Ev. When they both meet at a New Year's Eve party, neither of them recognises the other. Ev's work look is very different to how he goes out (which I loved!) This starts a story of not knowing, of knowing but not saying, of broken rules, of following the rules even though you don't want to, and so much fun!
I thoroughly enjoyed this story from beginning to end, even though I was a little dubious about the mistaken identity part. I mean, how could it not be obvious? How it was written, though, made it seem plausible, at least, and I loved every moment.
Ev's middle was wonderful, and I loved how Gabe followed Ev's rules, even when he didn't want to, and certainly didn't push for more than Ev was comfortable with.
I loved every moment in this one-sit read, and now have the rest of the series on my TBR list, so if that doesn't say something, I don't know what will. 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; the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Jan 19, 2026
Ev is determined not to fall for his boss again, not after the last time! Gabe is the boss who didn't want a PA, but is happy with how things work with Ev. When they both meet at a New Year's Eve party, neither of them recognises the other. Ev's work look is very different to how he goes out (which I loved!) This starts a story of not knowing, of knowing but not saying, of broken rules, of following the rules even though you don't want to, and so much fun!
I thoroughly enjoyed this story from beginning to end, even though I was a little dubious about the mistaken identity part. I mean, how could it not be obvious? How it was written, though, made it seem plausible, at least, and I loved every moment.
Ev's middle was wonderful, and I loved how Gabe followed Ev's rules, even when he didn't want to, and certainly didn't push for more than Ev was comfortable with.
I loved every moment in this one-sit read, and now have the rest of the series on my TBR list, so if that doesn't say something, I don't know what will. 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; the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Jan 19, 2026
Merissa (14030 KP) rated The Gray Prophecy (The Elemental Realm Duology #1) in Books
Mar 20, 2025
THE GRAY PROPHECY is the first book in the Elemental Realm series and I look forward to returning to this world.
Cori has been hiding from everyone for around fifteen years, but the day is getting closer when her prophecy will come true. During this time, she's had no one - no family and no friends. She moves for her new job and is surprised to find a witch family living there. She is even more surprised when she realises one of them, Adrian, is her fated mate. And you could knock her down with a feather when she realises Gray witches have been surrounding her for years, keeping her safe.
I loved how this story progressed, with Cori's ability to see the past giving you information you need, while still moving the story forward. And the idea of killing a prophecy if you kill the witch who spoke it was a new one for me. The different types of witches are interesting and I love the various skills they each have.
I would have liked a little more on Cori's mum, brother, and Calvin, as I feel I know more about the Gray witches that protected Cori than I do about her actual family and the Big Bad. It is Enzo's story next though, so I'm hoping I get more there.
This was a great read with a fascinating premise and concept that I thoroughly enjoyed and definitely recommend.
** 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!
Aug 26, 2024
Cori has been hiding from everyone for around fifteen years, but the day is getting closer when her prophecy will come true. During this time, she's had no one - no family and no friends. She moves for her new job and is surprised to find a witch family living there. She is even more surprised when she realises one of them, Adrian, is her fated mate. And you could knock her down with a feather when she realises Gray witches have been surrounding her for years, keeping her safe.
I loved how this story progressed, with Cori's ability to see the past giving you information you need, while still moving the story forward. And the idea of killing a prophecy if you kill the witch who spoke it was a new one for me. The different types of witches are interesting and I love the various skills they each have.
I would have liked a little more on Cori's mum, brother, and Calvin, as I feel I know more about the Gray witches that protected Cori than I do about her actual family and the Big Bad. It is Enzo's story next though, so I'm hoping I get more there.
This was a great read with a fascinating premise and concept that I thoroughly enjoyed and definitely recommend.
** 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!
Aug 26, 2024
Merissa (14030 KP) rated New Nebraska Heat (New Nebraska #2) in Books
Dec 8, 2025
NEW NEBRASKA HEAT is the second full-length novel in the New Nebraska series, and features a new quintet of Serenity, Hunter, Bryce, Sebastian, and Dagger.
Serenity escaped from a vampire's den, traumatised and scarred in more ways than one. She gets a job at Hunter's nightclub, but applies for a job as a designer at Bryce's company. She meets Sebastian through his mum, and Dagger through an ongoing case. All four men feel a connection with Serenity, but all four also take it slowly and carefully, taking into consideration her past.
This is a long book, but well-paced, with plenty of action going on, as well as slower, softer times, where Serenity and her men get to know each other. I loved the game of Truth or Dare, especially Dagger's dare at the end. I was hoping that because of the bond, Bryce would be able to touch others too, not just Serenity, but it doesn't seem that way.
One big plus for me was getting to see Cece and her men again. It was a delight catching up with them, and I'm glad Cece and Serenity are friends.
The overall storyline in this book has more of an ongoing arc to it, and I wonder if Jasper and the new human will play a part in the next book, or if it will go in a different direction.
This was a hot, caring, and action-filled story that kept my attention from beginning to end. Absolutely 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!
Dec 8, 2025
Serenity escaped from a vampire's den, traumatised and scarred in more ways than one. She gets a job at Hunter's nightclub, but applies for a job as a designer at Bryce's company. She meets Sebastian through his mum, and Dagger through an ongoing case. All four men feel a connection with Serenity, but all four also take it slowly and carefully, taking into consideration her past.
This is a long book, but well-paced, with plenty of action going on, as well as slower, softer times, where Serenity and her men get to know each other. I loved the game of Truth or Dare, especially Dagger's dare at the end. I was hoping that because of the bond, Bryce would be able to touch others too, not just Serenity, but it doesn't seem that way.
One big plus for me was getting to see Cece and her men again. It was a delight catching up with them, and I'm glad Cece and Serenity are friends.
The overall storyline in this book has more of an ongoing arc to it, and I wonder if Jasper and the new human will play a part in the next book, or if it will go in a different direction.
This was a hot, caring, and action-filled story that kept my attention from beginning to end. Absolutely 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!
Dec 8, 2025
Merissa (14030 KP) rated The Captain's Pet (Alien Slave Masters #1) in Books
Apr 13, 2023
First of all, this book comes with a Reader Advisory - TAKE NOTE OF IT! Seriously, this book is not for everyone and contains scenes that may trigger. Don't think that the advisory is put there for the fun of it because it isn't, believe me.
The story itself is completely sci-fi. Earth has become overcrowded and colonists are sent out to various planets that have been discovered. One such planet, Seven, where our main character Wid comes from, has apparently been colonised by the Travians. War ensues between the humans and the Travians, resulting in a mindless act of vandalism that results in Wid and his associates being taken aboard the Travians' ship.
What happens next is why the advisory is there. There is a lot of violence and rape, although it is incredibly well-written. I won't say anything else about that part but this IS dark and it does come with an advisory.
As the story progresses, you see that some of the boys, Wid included, start to actually have a relationship with their captors. This doesn't feel like Stockholm Syndrome to me, mainly because of how it is written with each of the boys' personalities and experiences taken into account. You learn more about the Travian way of life and, indeed, the Travians learn more about the humans and why they won't just leave Seven even after they've been defeated.
I enjoyed this book, and even if parts of it did make me uncomfortable, I'm glad I stuck with it. I would certainly be interested in going further with this series. I can't emphasise enough though - TAKE NOTE OF THE ADVISORY!!
* 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 29, 2015
The story itself is completely sci-fi. Earth has become overcrowded and colonists are sent out to various planets that have been discovered. One such planet, Seven, where our main character Wid comes from, has apparently been colonised by the Travians. War ensues between the humans and the Travians, resulting in a mindless act of vandalism that results in Wid and his associates being taken aboard the Travians' ship.
What happens next is why the advisory is there. There is a lot of violence and rape, although it is incredibly well-written. I won't say anything else about that part but this IS dark and it does come with an advisory.
As the story progresses, you see that some of the boys, Wid included, start to actually have a relationship with their captors. This doesn't feel like Stockholm Syndrome to me, mainly because of how it is written with each of the boys' personalities and experiences taken into account. You learn more about the Travian way of life and, indeed, the Travians learn more about the humans and why they won't just leave Seven even after they've been defeated.
I enjoyed this book, and even if parts of it did make me uncomfortable, I'm glad I stuck with it. I would certainly be interested in going further with this series. I can't emphasise enough though - TAKE NOTE OF THE ADVISORY!!
* 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 29, 2015
Merissa (14030 KP) rated Whirlwind (Southern Spirits #8) in Books
Apr 25, 2023
Stefan suffered before he died, in more ways than one, and it took him time to realise that he was 'different' as a spirit than he was alive. Sometimes he still forgets. He is also lonely. He has seen those that he cares about pair up as the years have gone by, and now Connor has too. He realises that it is possible but just hasn't found anyone who sparks his interest.
Jordan and Gideon were best friends, in the Forces, and haven't done anything together to further their friendship. When their time on earth is cut short, they stay together but are still unable to admit how they feel for each other. They make their way to McKinton where Jordan's mother lives. Gideon spots Stefan close to Jordan's mum. Stefan is actually trying to console the heartbroken mother, but Gideon thinks he is trying to hurt her so attacks.
This book starts off quite sad as Stefan is alone, and Jordan and Gideon have to die. However, it couldn't move on if it wasn't for this fact so stick with it. Stefan's mischievous side comes through, as well as Connor's protective side towards Stefan. Connor also seems to be packing some amazing powers, which I loved reading about.
Lack of communication, misunderstandings, personal inhibitions - they're all here and need to be solved before these three brilliant guys can sort themselves out.
Well-written once again, and fast-paced, I don't know if I'm ready to say goodbye to the Southern Spirits! Loved the book and the 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!
Nov 23, 2015
Jordan and Gideon were best friends, in the Forces, and haven't done anything together to further their friendship. When their time on earth is cut short, they stay together but are still unable to admit how they feel for each other. They make their way to McKinton where Jordan's mother lives. Gideon spots Stefan close to Jordan's mum. Stefan is actually trying to console the heartbroken mother, but Gideon thinks he is trying to hurt her so attacks.
This book starts off quite sad as Stefan is alone, and Jordan and Gideon have to die. However, it couldn't move on if it wasn't for this fact so stick with it. Stefan's mischievous side comes through, as well as Connor's protective side towards Stefan. Connor also seems to be packing some amazing powers, which I loved reading about.
Lack of communication, misunderstandings, personal inhibitions - they're all here and need to be solved before these three brilliant guys can sort themselves out.
Well-written once again, and fast-paced, I don't know if I'm ready to say goodbye to the Southern Spirits! Loved the book and the 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!
Nov 23, 2015
Merissa (14030 KP) rated Shift (The Caelian Cycle #3) in Books
May 5, 2023
In the final edition of The Caelian Cycle, we start off with Sadie as she spends her time with her aunt. With Finicky Francis there to tell her what she should be doing and wearing at any given time, her time there isn't as much 'fun' as she was expecting. However, this all changes with the arrival of Luca and McCredie. With tragedy and loss to contend with, Sadie has her work cut out for her.
This IS the third book in a series, so you do have to have read the first two for it to make any sense whatsoever. However, if you have read them, then you are in for a treat. This book isn't as full of action as the others, being more introspective as Sadie tries to understand her Talent before it overwhelms her.
I did feel that the ending came about all too quickly for my liking. I was completely engrossed in the story and then (it seemed) like within a few pages, it was all done and dusted. This was slightly disappointing as it was what the three books had been building up to. Also, there was the question of the moles and how it impacted Sadie and Co once they knew who they were.
Shift was extremely well-written, with no editing or grammatical errors to distract the eye. The only thing taking away that fifth star was the abruptness of the ending. However, everything was still concluded nicely so, with that, I would have no hesitation in recommending this series or 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!
Jul 22, 2016
This IS the third book in a series, so you do have to have read the first two for it to make any sense whatsoever. However, if you have read them, then you are in for a treat. This book isn't as full of action as the others, being more introspective as Sadie tries to understand her Talent before it overwhelms her.
I did feel that the ending came about all too quickly for my liking. I was completely engrossed in the story and then (it seemed) like within a few pages, it was all done and dusted. This was slightly disappointing as it was what the three books had been building up to. Also, there was the question of the moles and how it impacted Sadie and Co once they knew who they were.
Shift was extremely well-written, with no editing or grammatical errors to distract the eye. The only thing taking away that fifth star was the abruptness of the ending. However, everything was still concluded nicely so, with that, I would have no hesitation in recommending this series or 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!
Jul 22, 2016
Merissa (14030 KP) rated The Omega Merger: A Reverse Harem Omegaverse in Books
May 6, 2023
THE OMEGA MERGER is a Reverse Harem Omegaverse with MM and MF elements and is the first book in the Billionaires in Heat series
I enjoyed the story and the different characters although I did have some issues with it too. It was one of those books that absolutely drew me in whilst I was reading it but, after I had finished, questions and reactions started coming to light.
For example, Alain after he drops a bombshell at dinner when he comments about Maddie and Kel checking in with their boss because he keeps them on a tight leash. He was just being an a$$hole, there was no reason for that. No wonder Maddie didn't think he liked her!
In one respect, the book was actually true to life. After all, things happen every day that don't move our stories forward, and that's what happened here with the bomb threats and stuff about Maddie coming out. It made for fun reading but I don't really know why it was in there. If you take it out, you're not missing anything. Or with Finn Viser or the Lyall Brothers too. It makes me wonder if things will tie together when their stories come out.
I really feel as though Lucas got the short straw. He was the one alpha I was interested in and he got the least amount of page space.
This was an omegaverse with a twist that I did enjoy and would definitely read more in this world.
** same worded review will appear elsewhere **
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book; the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
May 6, 2023
I enjoyed the story and the different characters although I did have some issues with it too. It was one of those books that absolutely drew me in whilst I was reading it but, after I had finished, questions and reactions started coming to light.
For example, Alain after he drops a bombshell at dinner when he comments about Maddie and Kel checking in with their boss because he keeps them on a tight leash. He was just being an a$$hole, there was no reason for that. No wonder Maddie didn't think he liked her!
In one respect, the book was actually true to life. After all, things happen every day that don't move our stories forward, and that's what happened here with the bomb threats and stuff about Maddie coming out. It made for fun reading but I don't really know why it was in there. If you take it out, you're not missing anything. Or with Finn Viser or the Lyall Brothers too. It makes me wonder if things will tie together when their stories come out.
I really feel as though Lucas got the short straw. He was the one alpha I was interested in and he got the least amount of page space.
This was an omegaverse with a twist that I did enjoy and would definitely read more in this world.
** 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 6, 2023