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Safe Shores (Semper Fidelis)
7.5
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A rescue swimmer for the Coast Guard. A fisherman who came out later in life. Will a violent gale...
MM Military Contemporary Romance
Debbiereadsbook (1454 KP) rated Once Upon A Goth Dog Solstice in Books
Dec 13, 2024
It's cute and sweet and warm and fuzzies!
Independent reviewer for Archaeolibrarian, I was gifted my copy of this book.
This is book 8 in the Once Upon A Holiday series, a multi author series joined ony by the Hook's Book Nook Travelling Library, which pops up in all the books. I have not read any of those, and they can all be read as stand alone books.
Luther is suffering after being medically discharged from the Marines, fostering his daughter and trying to make ends meet. Meeting Doug at the local craft market, and the pair embark on a tentative relationship, that sees Doug away from long periods. Can they make it work?
I liked this, a good deal.
It's sweet and cute, its warm and fuzzies and low angst. Not ever so explicit, but I didn't miss that. It's more about the budding relationship between these two, than the smex. I liked that it was low steam, to be honest.
I kinda didn't feel their connection at the beginning though. I felt they met, met again and then jumped into bed together. It just felt a little off, to ME, that's all. The connection DOES build, just that intial bit didn't quite work for me.
LOVED the way Luther introduces Mila and Doug, and how they all get along with Violet, Luther's sister. She has a story to tell, I'm sure! Oh and Oscar! Children and dogs for the win!
A good read, one that passed a very dull shift at work. One that made me smile.
4 stars
*same worded review will appear elsewhere
This is book 8 in the Once Upon A Holiday series, a multi author series joined ony by the Hook's Book Nook Travelling Library, which pops up in all the books. I have not read any of those, and they can all be read as stand alone books.
Luther is suffering after being medically discharged from the Marines, fostering his daughter and trying to make ends meet. Meeting Doug at the local craft market, and the pair embark on a tentative relationship, that sees Doug away from long periods. Can they make it work?
I liked this, a good deal.
It's sweet and cute, its warm and fuzzies and low angst. Not ever so explicit, but I didn't miss that. It's more about the budding relationship between these two, than the smex. I liked that it was low steam, to be honest.
I kinda didn't feel their connection at the beginning though. I felt they met, met again and then jumped into bed together. It just felt a little off, to ME, that's all. The connection DOES build, just that intial bit didn't quite work for me.
LOVED the way Luther introduces Mila and Doug, and how they all get along with Violet, Luther's sister. She has a story to tell, I'm sure! Oh and Oscar! Children and dogs for the win!
A good read, one that passed a very dull shift at work. One that made me smile.
4 stars
*same worded review will appear elsewhere
Merissa (12943 KP) rated Broken Silence (Rock Bottom #1) in Books
Jun 23, 2025
BROKEN SILENCE is the first book in the Rock Bottom series, and features Foster Harding as the forty-two-year-old poetry Professor, and Justin Molina as the 25-year-old prison convict trying to turn his life around. Told from both their perspectives, this is a slow-burn, forbidden (due to the timing) romance between two opposite people.
I enjoyed this story and finding out about Justin's past, what he had done, and why. I also enjoyed learning about Foster. As a couple, though, these two confused me. Yes, they work together, the attraction was instantaneous, as was them both fighting it, BUT I didn't get the constantly changing attitude from Justin about people finding out. He is terrified of Carolyn finding out that he and Foster are together, but when she sees his coat and backpack on the floor, just after she's had a conversation with Foster finally finding someone and moving on with his life, Justin gets all blasé about it, saying there's nothing to be worried about. THEN he gets all nervous again when he sees her in the library. This just didn't work for me, and I hated the back and forth that came about because of it.
With a great cast of supporting characters, I did enjoy this story and look forward to reading more in this series. If you don't mind the changing attitude, then I definitely RECOMMEND this book.
** 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!
Jun 23, 2025
I enjoyed this story and finding out about Justin's past, what he had done, and why. I also enjoyed learning about Foster. As a couple, though, these two confused me. Yes, they work together, the attraction was instantaneous, as was them both fighting it, BUT I didn't get the constantly changing attitude from Justin about people finding out. He is terrified of Carolyn finding out that he and Foster are together, but when she sees his coat and backpack on the floor, just after she's had a conversation with Foster finally finding someone and moving on with his life, Justin gets all blasé about it, saying there's nothing to be worried about. THEN he gets all nervous again when he sees her in the library. This just didn't work for me, and I hated the back and forth that came about because of it.
With a great cast of supporting characters, I did enjoy this story and look forward to reading more in this series. If you don't mind the changing attitude, then I definitely RECOMMEND this book.
** 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!
Jun 23, 2025
Scott Tostik (389 KP) rated The Movie Crypt in Podcasts
Jan 8, 2018
Adam Green and Joe Lynch (3 more)
Different guest each week
Heartfelt stories
It's pretty damned funny
Awesome Pod for anyone who wants to make movies
Adam and Joe are two of the best "indie" film makers out there. Adam brought one of the horror genres newest icons to life in the form of Victor Crowley and Joe has been responsible for a pair of my favorite independent films with the births of Mayhem and Everly. But did you ever wonder how they got their starts in the film industry? Or what it takes to make a horror film? Or how some of your favorite actors writers directors and people involved in the industry got to be where they are today?
This pod brings it all to light. They hold nothing back and tell all things. Both good and bad.
With awesome guests such as horror icons Kane Hodder, Sid Haig, Bill Moseley and Ray Wise as well as fellow filmmakers the likes of Darren Lynn Boussman, Adam Wingard and Ti West. The boys leave no stone unturned as they bring everything to the table.
The pod is also welcome to subscription through Patreon with some cool little gifts to those who want to donate. Including Film commentaries once a month, first come basis viewer mail questions and Hollywood tell all answers to industry questions in a segment called Ask Dr. Arwen, named after Green's Yorkie and fellow show host.
I would recommend this Podcast to anyone who wants to learn the ins and outs of the film world told from a perspective that is understandable to anyone. And it's good for a few laughs as well. I've been a devoted listener since 2013. And the vast library of webisodes is available to anyone via iTunes and other podcast generators.
Listen and enjoy folks. You won't be disappointed.
This pod brings it all to light. They hold nothing back and tell all things. Both good and bad.
With awesome guests such as horror icons Kane Hodder, Sid Haig, Bill Moseley and Ray Wise as well as fellow filmmakers the likes of Darren Lynn Boussman, Adam Wingard and Ti West. The boys leave no stone unturned as they bring everything to the table.
The pod is also welcome to subscription through Patreon with some cool little gifts to those who want to donate. Including Film commentaries once a month, first come basis viewer mail questions and Hollywood tell all answers to industry questions in a segment called Ask Dr. Arwen, named after Green's Yorkie and fellow show host.
I would recommend this Podcast to anyone who wants to learn the ins and outs of the film world told from a perspective that is understandable to anyone. And it's good for a few laughs as well. I've been a devoted listener since 2013. And the vast library of webisodes is available to anyone via iTunes and other podcast generators.
Listen and enjoy folks. You won't be disappointed.
Whatchareadin (174 KP) rated Solo in Books
May 10, 2018
Blade Morrison has reached a pivotal point in his life. He's graduating from high school, about to turn eighteen and has his whole life in front of him But with a famous father who is always in the media and a girlfriend whose parents can't stand you, it's hard to find your place. When Blade discovers something about his past, it will change his future forever. Set on two continents, inspired by rock and roll, and written in poetic verse Solo is one of the best books I have read this year.
Thank you to Kwame Alexander, Mary Rand Hess, and Blink YA for the opportunity to read and review this book and be a part of the Solo Launch Team.
This is the first book I have read by Kwame Alexander or Mary Rand Hess and I have already picked up another at the library. This book was built on a love of music. Every character has a connection to music in some way shape or form.
Blade is yourtypical teenage boy, but for the fact that he has a famous father, Rutherford Morrison who is a rock and roll star who has fallen from grace. Often in the media because of an incident involving drugs or alcohol, Blade is tired of being there to pick up pieces that eventually fall apart again. After the loss of his mother Sunny, the family was never the same. When Blade discovers something about his past and given a letter his mother wrote to him for his 18th birthday, he sets out on a quest to find out where he really belongs.
Full of love, loss, addiction and music, Solo, although written for the YA crowd is a book people of all ages can enjoy.
Thank you to Kwame Alexander, Mary Rand Hess, and Blink YA for the opportunity to read and review this book and be a part of the Solo Launch Team.
This is the first book I have read by Kwame Alexander or Mary Rand Hess and I have already picked up another at the library. This book was built on a love of music. Every character has a connection to music in some way shape or form.
Blade is yourtypical teenage boy, but for the fact that he has a famous father, Rutherford Morrison who is a rock and roll star who has fallen from grace. Often in the media because of an incident involving drugs or alcohol, Blade is tired of being there to pick up pieces that eventually fall apart again. After the loss of his mother Sunny, the family was never the same. When Blade discovers something about his past and given a letter his mother wrote to him for his 18th birthday, he sets out on a quest to find out where he really belongs.
Full of love, loss, addiction and music, Solo, although written for the YA crowd is a book people of all ages can enjoy.
graveyardgremlin (7194 KP) rated Epitaph for Three Women (Plantagenet Saga, #12) in Books
Feb 15, 2019
<b>2.5 stars
Epitaph for Three Women</b> turned out to be far less about these three women than I was led to believe by the book's description. Broken into three parts titled Katherine of Valois, Joan of Arc, and Eleanor of Gloucester, only Joan, or Jeannette rather, has an actual story that follows her path in life. The other two are background players to the politics going on at the time, especially those concerning the Dukes of Bedford and Gloucester and England's fight for France. Whenever Katherine enters the picture, it's all light, airy, and extremely romanticized, especially in regards to Owen Tudor. For most of the book they live a totally idyllic life that doesn't feel realistic in the least. Eleanor Cobham is portrayed as a scheming, crown-hungry social climber who proves far too trusting of witches and soothsayers. Isabeau of Bavaria fares even worse and I got tired of the constant references to how whorish she was. Since this was written, historians have looked into the accuracy of her reputation and dismissed certain facets as untrue. Still, this isn't a completely bad book. Putting aside Katherine's storyline where she only made cameo appearances anyway, I enjoyed the first part the most. Not knowing much about this period, the history was fascinating. The second featuring Jeannette was my least favorite, but I lay full blame at my feet because I have just never cared for Joan of Arc's story, so found most of this part boring. While there was some interesting information in the book, I didn't love the book but it's an easy introduction to this particular time.
For more information on Eleanor Cobham, I recommend Susan Higginbotham's guest <a href="http://madameguillotine.org.uk/2012/09/03/the-duchess-downfall-eleanor-cobham/">post</a>; at Madame Guillotine.
Originally Reviewed: October 17, 2012
Received: Local Library
Epitaph for Three Women</b> turned out to be far less about these three women than I was led to believe by the book's description. Broken into three parts titled Katherine of Valois, Joan of Arc, and Eleanor of Gloucester, only Joan, or Jeannette rather, has an actual story that follows her path in life. The other two are background players to the politics going on at the time, especially those concerning the Dukes of Bedford and Gloucester and England's fight for France. Whenever Katherine enters the picture, it's all light, airy, and extremely romanticized, especially in regards to Owen Tudor. For most of the book they live a totally idyllic life that doesn't feel realistic in the least. Eleanor Cobham is portrayed as a scheming, crown-hungry social climber who proves far too trusting of witches and soothsayers. Isabeau of Bavaria fares even worse and I got tired of the constant references to how whorish she was. Since this was written, historians have looked into the accuracy of her reputation and dismissed certain facets as untrue. Still, this isn't a completely bad book. Putting aside Katherine's storyline where she only made cameo appearances anyway, I enjoyed the first part the most. Not knowing much about this period, the history was fascinating. The second featuring Jeannette was my least favorite, but I lay full blame at my feet because I have just never cared for Joan of Arc's story, so found most of this part boring. While there was some interesting information in the book, I didn't love the book but it's an easy introduction to this particular time.
For more information on Eleanor Cobham, I recommend Susan Higginbotham's guest <a href="http://madameguillotine.org.uk/2012/09/03/the-duchess-downfall-eleanor-cobham/">post</a>; at Madame Guillotine.
Originally Reviewed: October 17, 2012
Received: Local Library
graveyardgremlin (7194 KP) rated New Vegetarian in Books
Feb 15, 2019
I was very disappointed with this cookbook of so-called "simple" vegetarian recipes. While there is good information in the introduction of the book such as 'How to Get Your Protein' and a source guide for getting unusual ingredients online, most of the recipes required some ingredients that are either not stocked in my pantry or not available at all in stores where I live.
I don't consider these recipes simple when:
1) Ingredients aren't normally on hand
2) They can't be purchased locally or
3) They must be purchased online, therefore having to wait to even try most recipes. Not to mention the extra money spent on them.
I thought simple means easy! This was the deciding factor that made me choose to get this book.
The book is attractive enough, although the font is small, but had I known the recipes were more for someone that is either a chef or has enough time and energy to cook for a while, I would never have gotten it. Had I picked this up when I first became a vegetarian twelve years ago, it might just have turned me off the whole thing. Also, it would have been nice to include a glossary for the unusual ingredients and a substitute chart for more easily found items to replace them. I shouldn't have to go online to research so much just for a cookbook. I do appreciate having vegan desserts included, as I am trying to eat less dairy.
I'd advise anyone interested in buying this cookbook to either get it from the library first or browse through it at a bookstore. I have a feeling this will be one that gathers dust more often than not.
I don't consider these recipes simple when:
1) Ingredients aren't normally on hand
2) They can't be purchased locally or
3) They must be purchased online, therefore having to wait to even try most recipes. Not to mention the extra money spent on them.
I thought simple means easy! This was the deciding factor that made me choose to get this book.
The book is attractive enough, although the font is small, but had I known the recipes were more for someone that is either a chef or has enough time and energy to cook for a while, I would never have gotten it. Had I picked this up when I first became a vegetarian twelve years ago, it might just have turned me off the whole thing. Also, it would have been nice to include a glossary for the unusual ingredients and a substitute chart for more easily found items to replace them. I shouldn't have to go online to research so much just for a cookbook. I do appreciate having vegan desserts included, as I am trying to eat less dairy.
I'd advise anyone interested in buying this cookbook to either get it from the library first or browse through it at a bookstore. I have a feeling this will be one that gathers dust more often than not.
graveyardgremlin (7194 KP) rated Patti's Luck (Sleepover Friends, #1) in Books
Feb 15, 2019
My rating is based on how much I would have liked this as a ten-year-old. For some reason, I never read any books in the Sleepover Friends' series, even though it's a kind of a cousin-once-removed to the Baby-Sitter's Club series. So when I saw this and another one at a recent library book sale, I figured, why not?
This book has a little of everything most girls like: sleepovers (duh), junk food and baking, talk of boys, games, makeovers with purple hair gel, movies, the paranormal, school fairs, field trips, new friends, and who knows what I've forgotten! Plus, a moment when Stephanie's father cross-dresses as fortune teller at the school fair. That gave me some thoughts about secrets in that family. Maybe that's why they moved from "The City." There's some moments of suspended belief, the biggest is when Patti and Lauren chase after a car (homework was put on the bumper and apparently it stuck real good :P), Lauren (the narrator) loses track of Patti, gets back to school and tells their teacher that Patti's lost. The teacher, being told of a new student unaware of the area being lost, says not to worry(!), that someone will point her back to the school. What?! All I'm thinking is good thing this isn't the real world! Abduction, anybody? There's also a lot of baking these fifth-graders do, they talk surprisingly well, probably better than I do, and have heaps of common sense, but hey, it's a harmless kids' book that I would have gobbled up when I was that age. Overall, it's a cute book that I think even girls today would enjoy.
This book has a little of everything most girls like: sleepovers (duh), junk food and baking, talk of boys, games, makeovers with purple hair gel, movies, the paranormal, school fairs, field trips, new friends, and who knows what I've forgotten! Plus, a moment when Stephanie's father cross-dresses as fortune teller at the school fair. That gave me some thoughts about secrets in that family. Maybe that's why they moved from "The City." There's some moments of suspended belief, the biggest is when Patti and Lauren chase after a car (homework was put on the bumper and apparently it stuck real good :P), Lauren (the narrator) loses track of Patti, gets back to school and tells their teacher that Patti's lost. The teacher, being told of a new student unaware of the area being lost, says not to worry(!), that someone will point her back to the school. What?! All I'm thinking is good thing this isn't the real world! Abduction, anybody? There's also a lot of baking these fifth-graders do, they talk surprisingly well, probably better than I do, and have heaps of common sense, but hey, it's a harmless kids' book that I would have gobbled up when I was that age. Overall, it's a cute book that I think even girls today would enjoy.
Molly J (Cover To Cover Cafe) (106 KP) rated Dark Deception (Defenders of Justice #2) in Books
Feb 27, 2019
As a long time fan of Nancy Mehl's and just finishing Fatal Frost from the library, I couldn't wait to dive into this beauty. I was definitely not disappointed! She is a seasoned author who knows just what to bring her readers.
I loved the edge of your seat suspense in this novel. From page one, I was wrapped up in Kate's story. She was chiseled perfectly and really came to life while I followed her on this whirl wind journey. Her journey was not an easy one, that's for sure. In the witness protection program, she has dealt with so much in her life already. But, when she finds out she may have to retestify against the attacker that left her in the wfieitness program to begin with, the story line intensifies and I was pulled even deeper into the story.
Tony Deluca's character was also well chiseled and I loved watching him trying to get a grip on his feelings for Kate once again. The sparks between were evident and when the plot turns to a whole new surprise, those feelings might have to be on the back burner in order to save Kate, and himself, once again.
This book is definitely going on my top 10 2017 list! It's full of the perfect amount of romance, twists and turns, all while weaving in God's mercy and faith. More often than not, I was on the edge of my seat, wondering just what was going to happen next. This 5 star worthy, heart pounding, nail biting goodness is highly recommended! I can't wait to see what's in store for us readers next. <a href="http://cafinatedreads.com/tlc-book-tours-review-dark-deception-by-nancy-mehl-giveaway/"; target="_blank">This review was originally posted on Cafinated Reads</a>
I loved the edge of your seat suspense in this novel. From page one, I was wrapped up in Kate's story. She was chiseled perfectly and really came to life while I followed her on this whirl wind journey. Her journey was not an easy one, that's for sure. In the witness protection program, she has dealt with so much in her life already. But, when she finds out she may have to retestify against the attacker that left her in the wfieitness program to begin with, the story line intensifies and I was pulled even deeper into the story.
Tony Deluca's character was also well chiseled and I loved watching him trying to get a grip on his feelings for Kate once again. The sparks between were evident and when the plot turns to a whole new surprise, those feelings might have to be on the back burner in order to save Kate, and himself, once again.
This book is definitely going on my top 10 2017 list! It's full of the perfect amount of romance, twists and turns, all while weaving in God's mercy and faith. More often than not, I was on the edge of my seat, wondering just what was going to happen next. This 5 star worthy, heart pounding, nail biting goodness is highly recommended! I can't wait to see what's in store for us readers next. <a href="http://cafinatedreads.com/tlc-book-tours-review-dark-deception-by-nancy-mehl-giveaway/"; target="_blank">This review was originally posted on Cafinated Reads</a>
MaryAnn (14 KP) rated A Sparkle of Silver (Georgia Coast Romance #1) in Books
Mar 5, 2019
Millie Sullivan plays a 1920s-era guest during tours of a palatial estate on the shore of St. Simons Island, Georgia, where her great-grandmother was a real guest ninety years ago. When Millie learns of a lost diary that may contain the location of a hidden treasure on the estate and reveal the identity of her great-grandfather, she sets out to find the truth of her heritage--and the fortune she desperately needs. But it won't be easy.
When security guard Ben Thornton discovers her snooping in the estate's private library, he threatens to have her fired. Still, her story seems too ludicrous to be fiction, and her offer to split the treasure is too tempting to pass up.
Get ready for a romantic escapade through dark halls and dusty corners that will have you holding your breath and sighing with delight.
"A mystery, a treasure hunt, and a split-time romance--all set within a beautiful chateau.
My Thoughts: This is a wonderful romance mystery that keeps the readers' attention from the beginning. You can't help but love Millie, who is taking care of her grandmother diagnosed with dementia. When Milie has to find another home for her grandmother, with little money to do it with, her grandmother tells her of a journal of her great grandmother's that has a treasure map. Who doesn't like a good treasure hunt? And so begins our story of intrigue and romance.
This is a story of a lost romance and a new romance brought together by a unique situation. I believe that readers will enjoy this story as much as I did. It's not only about mystery and love, in this story we find two people trying their best to do right. Millie taking care of her grandmother and Ben trying to right his mother's wrong.
When security guard Ben Thornton discovers her snooping in the estate's private library, he threatens to have her fired. Still, her story seems too ludicrous to be fiction, and her offer to split the treasure is too tempting to pass up.
Get ready for a romantic escapade through dark halls and dusty corners that will have you holding your breath and sighing with delight.
"A mystery, a treasure hunt, and a split-time romance--all set within a beautiful chateau.
My Thoughts: This is a wonderful romance mystery that keeps the readers' attention from the beginning. You can't help but love Millie, who is taking care of her grandmother diagnosed with dementia. When Milie has to find another home for her grandmother, with little money to do it with, her grandmother tells her of a journal of her great grandmother's that has a treasure map. Who doesn't like a good treasure hunt? And so begins our story of intrigue and romance.
This is a story of a lost romance and a new romance brought together by a unique situation. I believe that readers will enjoy this story as much as I did. It's not only about mystery and love, in this story we find two people trying their best to do right. Millie taking care of her grandmother and Ben trying to right his mother's wrong.