Search
Search results
Lyndsey Gollogly (2893 KP) rated Tidelands ( Fairmile book 1) in Books
May 8, 2022
79 of 230
Book
Tidelands ( Fairmile book 1)
By Philippa Gregory
⭐️⭐️⭐️
A country at war
A king beheaded
A woman with a dangerous secret
On Midsummer’s Eve, Alinor waits in the church graveyard, hoping to encounter the ghost of her missing husband and thus confirm his death. Until she can, she is neither maiden nor wife nor widow, living in a perilous limbo. Instead she meets James, a young man on the run. She shows him the secret ways across the treacherous marshy landscape of the Tidelands, not knowing she is leading a spy and an enemy into her life.
England is in the grip of a bloody civil war that reaches into the most remote parts of the kingdom. Alinor’s suspicious neighbors are watching each other for any sign that someone might be disloyal to the new parliament, and Alinor’s ambition and determination mark her as a woman who doesn’t follow the rules. They have always whispered about the sinister power of Alinor’s beauty, but the secrets they don’t know about her and James are far more damning. This is the time of witch-mania, and if the villagers discover the truth, they could take matters into their own hands.
This was my first Philippa Gregory book and I liked it but it didn’t wow me! I took a while to get into it and struggled a little for a while. I’m glad I stuck with it though and it did really pick up towards the end. I’m a fan of historical history reads so the era was right up my street. I must say the ending was just so sad and my heart actually wrenched for Allinor. I look forward to reading more.
Book
Tidelands ( Fairmile book 1)
By Philippa Gregory
⭐️⭐️⭐️
A country at war
A king beheaded
A woman with a dangerous secret
On Midsummer’s Eve, Alinor waits in the church graveyard, hoping to encounter the ghost of her missing husband and thus confirm his death. Until she can, she is neither maiden nor wife nor widow, living in a perilous limbo. Instead she meets James, a young man on the run. She shows him the secret ways across the treacherous marshy landscape of the Tidelands, not knowing she is leading a spy and an enemy into her life.
England is in the grip of a bloody civil war that reaches into the most remote parts of the kingdom. Alinor’s suspicious neighbors are watching each other for any sign that someone might be disloyal to the new parliament, and Alinor’s ambition and determination mark her as a woman who doesn’t follow the rules. They have always whispered about the sinister power of Alinor’s beauty, but the secrets they don’t know about her and James are far more damning. This is the time of witch-mania, and if the villagers discover the truth, they could take matters into their own hands.
This was my first Philippa Gregory book and I liked it but it didn’t wow me! I took a while to get into it and struggled a little for a while. I’m glad I stuck with it though and it did really pick up towards the end. I’m a fan of historical history reads so the era was right up my street. I must say the ending was just so sad and my heart actually wrenched for Allinor. I look forward to reading more.
Debbiereadsbook (1303 KP) rated Take the Plunge in Books
Jul 8, 2023
a sweet and smexy read!
Independent reviewer for Archaeolibrarian, I was gifted my copy of this book.
Waking up hand cuffed to his brother's best friend was nice, but not what Kian expected. Jett was furious with his so called friend for pulling this stunt. The weekend, however, wasn't a total write off, though, and Kian and Jett begin a no strings thing. Until that thing becomes something more but neither is brave enough to say what they actually want.
When I started to read this, I thought, nah, it'snot working for me. Why isn't it working? What's missing? What does it need? I told myself, I need to keep reading, maybe it will become obvious. So I did.
And whatever wasn't right in the beginning, totally went poof! I dunno what it was, but who cares!
Because I loved this book!
I loved watching Kian and Jett get closer, physically and emotionally. Kian had crushed in Jett for a long time, and getting close to him was a dream come true.
While it was painful reading in parts, I loved the way Jett opened to Kian, and how he came to rely on him, so much. I loved that both of them wanted more, but were afraid to ask for what they wanted.
I hated that Jett felt he needed to keep what happened to him with his ex from his best friend, but I understood WHY he did it. I loved that he was able to fully open up to Kian.
But what I loved most about this, was that there was, Jett's ex thing aside, very little drama. It's such a great read, about 2 men falling in love!
A steamy, smexy emotional read.
5 full and shiny stars
*same worded review will appear elsewhere
Waking up hand cuffed to his brother's best friend was nice, but not what Kian expected. Jett was furious with his so called friend for pulling this stunt. The weekend, however, wasn't a total write off, though, and Kian and Jett begin a no strings thing. Until that thing becomes something more but neither is brave enough to say what they actually want.
When I started to read this, I thought, nah, it'snot working for me. Why isn't it working? What's missing? What does it need? I told myself, I need to keep reading, maybe it will become obvious. So I did.
And whatever wasn't right in the beginning, totally went poof! I dunno what it was, but who cares!
Because I loved this book!
I loved watching Kian and Jett get closer, physically and emotionally. Kian had crushed in Jett for a long time, and getting close to him was a dream come true.
While it was painful reading in parts, I loved the way Jett opened to Kian, and how he came to rely on him, so much. I loved that both of them wanted more, but were afraid to ask for what they wanted.
I hated that Jett felt he needed to keep what happened to him with his ex from his best friend, but I understood WHY he did it. I loved that he was able to fully open up to Kian.
But what I loved most about this, was that there was, Jett's ex thing aside, very little drama. It's such a great read, about 2 men falling in love!
A steamy, smexy emotional read.
5 full and shiny stars
*same worded review will appear elsewhere
Merissa (12346 KP) rated Capturing Fate (Fatal Truth #2) in Books
May 13, 2021 (Updated Jul 26, 2023)
CAPTURING FATE is the second book in the Fatal Truth series, although it could be read as a standalone. I say could because if you do, you're missing out on another 5-star read!
This novel had me confused slightly, to begin with, simply because of the timeline. I 'presumed' it would start after book one finished, but it didn't. It actually runs parallel to book one for most of it but gives you a completely different viewpoint.
And what a viewpoint it was. This book is such a gripping read. The big bad here is fully dimensional, evil in every way. Seriously, I hated the man! And Dolan and Daught, bless them. They really go through the mill. In fact, all of her boys have done and do. My heart broke for them so many times.
Although this is still dark and violent, it's not quite as violent as book one. This makes sense as this is a different book! Trust me though, it's still not light and fluffy.
I adored the ending and probably had a sappy smile on my face. The uncles about floored me, and I loved them all for it. The only problem now is there are nineteen other people I need HEAs for. If anyone deserves a HEA, it's them!
A brilliant addition to the series, and one I have no hesitation in recommending. A stunning story that kept me in its grip from start to finish. READ IT!
** 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!
May 13, 2021
This novel had me confused slightly, to begin with, simply because of the timeline. I 'presumed' it would start after book one finished, but it didn't. It actually runs parallel to book one for most of it but gives you a completely different viewpoint.
And what a viewpoint it was. This book is such a gripping read. The big bad here is fully dimensional, evil in every way. Seriously, I hated the man! And Dolan and Daught, bless them. They really go through the mill. In fact, all of her boys have done and do. My heart broke for them so many times.
Although this is still dark and violent, it's not quite as violent as book one. This makes sense as this is a different book! Trust me though, it's still not light and fluffy.
I adored the ending and probably had a sappy smile on my face. The uncles about floored me, and I loved them all for it. The only problem now is there are nineteen other people I need HEAs for. If anyone deserves a HEA, it's them!
A brilliant addition to the series, and one I have no hesitation in recommending. A stunning story that kept me in its grip from start to finish. READ IT!
** 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!
May 13, 2021
I listened to this frankly stunning novel on audiobook via NetGalley. I think that this will be a book that people will want to read in one sitting - I couldn’t put it down (which makes work really inconvenient!).
Three friends reunite after many years. Mush has stayed in Kinlough, Joe has become a famous singer, and Helen has been working as a journalist in Canada. As teenagers, they hung around in a group of six, until one of its most popular members (Kala) goes missing. It seems that her disappearance has had a huge effect on all of her friends since then. Helen comes home for a wedding and during this time, remains are found in a hold-all. And they’re Kala.
Mush helps his mother run a coffee shop and is, I think, the most likeable character. He wants to pick up friendships where they were left off after Joe and Helen had left. I can’t help but think that Helen uses this as a way to get him to help her look into the disappearance of Kala.
This isn’t just about Kala though. It’s a book that looks at all of these characters and their lives. They all have issues of one kind or another, whether these issues are caused by Kala’s disappearance, their family lives or something more - the town itself has a violent undercurrent.
It’s beautifully written: the snatches of scenes from childhood are idyllic, the interactions of the characters range from funny to sad to menacing. Do these characters really know one another, and who can they trust? There are a lot of lies to uncover!
I will be very keen to read whatever Colin Walsh writes next - he’s definitely one to watch!
Three friends reunite after many years. Mush has stayed in Kinlough, Joe has become a famous singer, and Helen has been working as a journalist in Canada. As teenagers, they hung around in a group of six, until one of its most popular members (Kala) goes missing. It seems that her disappearance has had a huge effect on all of her friends since then. Helen comes home for a wedding and during this time, remains are found in a hold-all. And they’re Kala.
Mush helps his mother run a coffee shop and is, I think, the most likeable character. He wants to pick up friendships where they were left off after Joe and Helen had left. I can’t help but think that Helen uses this as a way to get him to help her look into the disappearance of Kala.
This isn’t just about Kala though. It’s a book that looks at all of these characters and their lives. They all have issues of one kind or another, whether these issues are caused by Kala’s disappearance, their family lives or something more - the town itself has a violent undercurrent.
It’s beautifully written: the snatches of scenes from childhood are idyllic, the interactions of the characters range from funny to sad to menacing. Do these characters really know one another, and who can they trust? There are a lot of lies to uncover!
I will be very keen to read whatever Colin Walsh writes next - he’s definitely one to watch!
Mark @ Carstairs Considers (2271 KP) rated Project Dogway in Books
Jan 2, 2022
Dogging a Killer
Cousins Caro Lamont and Mel Langston are both in attendance at a dog fashion show fundraiser to help raise awareness for heartworm (in dogs, that is). Mel’s boutique is providing fashion for the dogs that are walking the catwalk, er dogwalk, for the show. However, the show ends early when Phil Tawney drops dead after eating some shellfish. While Caro searches for Phil’s missing award-winning beagle, Mel attempts to comfort the not quite grieving almost ex-wife. Will they wind up gathering the clues needed to catch the killer?
As a fan of this series, I was delighted to see the characters return, even if only in a short story. Caro and Mel and still feuding here, so we get the story told in short chapters to make it easier to switch between the cousins as the focal point of the story. The authors do a great job of giving us clues without repeating themselves so that both cousins can solve the crime. We don’t see many of the series regulars, but we had to have time for new characters and the plot in this short story. The mystery is well thought out with a logical solution. We also get the fun of the over-the-top world these books brought to life. Make no mistake, this is a short story I read in about 45 minutes, but as long as you keep that in mind, you’ll be fine. As a series fan, it was fun to revisit the characters. If you are new to the series, it might be a good way to meet the characters. You’ll be hooked and looking for the first book before you know it.
As a fan of this series, I was delighted to see the characters return, even if only in a short story. Caro and Mel and still feuding here, so we get the story told in short chapters to make it easier to switch between the cousins as the focal point of the story. The authors do a great job of giving us clues without repeating themselves so that both cousins can solve the crime. We don’t see many of the series regulars, but we had to have time for new characters and the plot in this short story. The mystery is well thought out with a logical solution. We also get the fun of the over-the-top world these books brought to life. Make no mistake, this is a short story I read in about 45 minutes, but as long as you keep that in mind, you’ll be fine. As a series fan, it was fun to revisit the characters. If you are new to the series, it might be a good way to meet the characters. You’ll be hooked and looking for the first book before you know it.
Mark @ Carstairs Considers (2271 KP) rated Christmas Cocoa Murder in Books
Nov 8, 2022
Drowning in Hot Chocolate
This story finds Siobhan O’Sullivan, the main character in the popular Irish Village Mysteries, a few weeks from joining the local police department in her small Irish village. Even though she’s not supposed to officially join until after the first of the year, she finds herself getting involved in a case just before Christmas. First, her family’s dog goes missing. Then the intermission entertainment at the holiday panto goes horribly wrong. Paddy O’Shea, the village Santa, has been obsessed over how to top the Santa from the neighboring village, and he’s come up with what he thinks is the perfect way. He’s had a custom-built dunk tank made, and he’s going to challenge people to dunk him in hot chocolate. However, before the show is over, Paddy is found floating face down in the hot chocolate. Who killed Santa?
This was my introduction to the characters, and I did struggle a bit keeping Siobhan’s family straight, and there are some references to things going on in her personal life that I didn’t get. However, these were very minor issues in an overall fun story and easy enough to ignore. As you might have guessed from the description of the story, there is some humor involved in the events, but it does have plenty of serious moments as well. These were balanced perfectly. I really enjoyed getting to know Siobhan and the suspects were all strong enough to be believable as the killer. The plot kept me engaged until we reached the great climax.
NOTE: This story is a novella, roughly 100 pages, and was originally part of the novella collection Christmas Cocoa Murder. If you have that book, there is no need to buy this ebook. If you haven’t read the story, now is the time to sit back and enjoy this Christmas mystery.
This was my introduction to the characters, and I did struggle a bit keeping Siobhan’s family straight, and there are some references to things going on in her personal life that I didn’t get. However, these were very minor issues in an overall fun story and easy enough to ignore. As you might have guessed from the description of the story, there is some humor involved in the events, but it does have plenty of serious moments as well. These were balanced perfectly. I really enjoyed getting to know Siobhan and the suspects were all strong enough to be believable as the killer. The plot kept me engaged until we reached the great climax.
NOTE: This story is a novella, roughly 100 pages, and was originally part of the novella collection Christmas Cocoa Murder. If you have that book, there is no need to buy this ebook. If you haven’t read the story, now is the time to sit back and enjoy this Christmas mystery.
Merissa (12346 KP) rated Sotarios (Fueled By Lust #8) in Books
Dec 17, 2018 (Updated May 20, 2023)
Book 8 in this series continues the general story arc, whilst giving further details specific to Sotarios. He is a fascinating character who repeatedly broke my heart, due to his story. I raise my hat to Celeste Prater for bringing to light a subject that isn't usually talked about. The feelings that Sotarios deals with on a daily basis, plus the nightmares and how he keeps everyone pushed away, were so real and poignant that it about killed me. Raine is his perfect partner - she feels deeply but also understands that not everything can be shared at once, and sometimes the best thing is to walk away until it can be dealt with.
This is not a standalone book, and you definitely need to read this series from the start. Plus the fact, if you don't, you are missing out on a fantastic series. Extremely well written (and hot) with more emotional punches than even Raine can throw.
Celeste Prater has this incredible talent for making me want the next book, even as I'm reading the current one. And I won't mention how many times I've re-read them, just to immerse myself into their world.
So many things I want to say, but can't as I don't give away spoilers! All I will say is, if you have read the previous books, then get your mitts on this one. If you haven't, and you like erotic science fiction, then start the series NOW. I promise you you won't regret it. 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!
Feb 17, 2016
This is not a standalone book, and you definitely need to read this series from the start. Plus the fact, if you don't, you are missing out on a fantastic series. Extremely well written (and hot) with more emotional punches than even Raine can throw.
Celeste Prater has this incredible talent for making me want the next book, even as I'm reading the current one. And I won't mention how many times I've re-read them, just to immerse myself into their world.
So many things I want to say, but can't as I don't give away spoilers! All I will say is, if you have read the previous books, then get your mitts on this one. If you haven't, and you like erotic science fiction, then start the series NOW. I promise you you won't regret it. 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!
Feb 17, 2016
![The Girls on Chalk Hill (Detective Lexi Bennett #1) [Audiobook]](/uploads/profile_image/741/d09ec1cd-9c4a-4cea-9388-9df13c5e0741.jpg?m=1685882567)
The Girls on Chalk Hill (Detective Lexi Bennett #1) [Audiobook]
9.0
Rate It
Book
They lie on the hillside, wearing matching white dresses, tiaras in their blonde hair. Each of them...
Brae MacKenzie (Romances of Mythic Identity #1)
8.0
Rate It
Book
Brae MacKenzie, a successful San Francisco painter, is a woman who seems to have it all but who's...
Contemporary Romance
Merissa (12346 KP) rated Rarely Pure and Never Simple (Variant Configurations #1) by Angel Martinez in Books
Jun 21, 2022 (Updated Jun 21, 2023)
RARELY PURE AND NEVER SIMPLE is the first book in the Variant Configurations series and one I definitely want to return to.
Set in a post-apocalyptic world where variants are around but not classed as 'normal', Damien is a Locator, but a rare one as he can find people, not things. Blaze, on the other hand, is a Sparker, able to create and use fire. He also tracks people in the old-fashioned way. These two are thrown together to find a large number of missing children, learning to work together as they do so.
Both of these men are damaged in their own ways. They also have their own foibles which are introduced in such a way as to appear nothing out of the ordinary for each of them. My heart broke for Damien as I learnt more about his childhood, and I was so thankful Blaze was there for him.
This is a fast-paced story with brilliant characters, both main and supporting. I found the locations easy to see and accept due to the descriptions given. Going in, I knew it was a slow burn AND the first in a series so I knew there wouldn't be a HEA in here. I did hope for an HFN though!
I am definitely left wanting more from this world, as well as Blaze and Damien. A fantastic read and 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, and the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Jun 15, 2022
Set in a post-apocalyptic world where variants are around but not classed as 'normal', Damien is a Locator, but a rare one as he can find people, not things. Blaze, on the other hand, is a Sparker, able to create and use fire. He also tracks people in the old-fashioned way. These two are thrown together to find a large number of missing children, learning to work together as they do so.
Both of these men are damaged in their own ways. They also have their own foibles which are introduced in such a way as to appear nothing out of the ordinary for each of them. My heart broke for Damien as I learnt more about his childhood, and I was so thankful Blaze was there for him.
This is a fast-paced story with brilliant characters, both main and supporting. I found the locations easy to see and accept due to the descriptions given. Going in, I knew it was a slow burn AND the first in a series so I knew there wouldn't be a HEA in here. I did hope for an HFN though!
I am definitely left wanting more from this world, as well as Blaze and Damien. A fantastic read and 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, and the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Jun 15, 2022