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Three Magic Words
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In the pages of Three Magic Words, you will learn of the unlimited power that is yours. You will...
Cowgirls & Vampires (Cowgirls & Vampires, #1)
10.0
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**This book was previously published as 'Cowgirl & Creature' (The Laura Pepper Series) By Tim...
Hazel (2934 KP) rated All That Lives (Inspector McLean #12) in Books
Feb 27, 2022
You would have thought that by book 12 things would be starting to get a little stale with Inspector McLean but let me reassure you that this is absolutely not the case. Let me also reassure you that this can be successfully read as a standalone although I would recommend you read previous books in the series just because they are great!
Once again, Mr Oswald writes a thoroughly riveting and engaging story that mixes the past, present and the 'strange' with ease. The plot is complex with a few strands but it all comes together in the end but not without twists, turns and some pretty 'hairy' and emotional moments along the way.
Mr Oswald creates excellent, believable and memorable characters that stay with you long after you have read the last page and I eagerly await the next.
Thank you to Headline Publishing and NetGalley for my copy in return for an honest, unbiased and unedited review.
Once again, Mr Oswald writes a thoroughly riveting and engaging story that mixes the past, present and the 'strange' with ease. The plot is complex with a few strands but it all comes together in the end but not without twists, turns and some pretty 'hairy' and emotional moments along the way.
Mr Oswald creates excellent, believable and memorable characters that stay with you long after you have read the last page and I eagerly await the next.
Thank you to Headline Publishing and NetGalley for my copy in return for an honest, unbiased and unedited review.
David McK (3633 KP) rated Project Hail Mary in Books
Apr 13, 2025
I remember reading "The Martian" in 2014, 2015, thereabouts.
Watched the movie no long afterwards.
Enjoyed both, but not enough to make me hunt out any others by the same author, so never (yet) read "Artemis" by the same author.
Then saw this on sale on Kindle, for something like 99pence, so thought I might as well give it a chance, after checking it was not part of a series i.e. could be read as a standalone (which it can).
Like The Martian, I found this enjoyable enough, maybe a bit slow during the middle section, but I'm also left with a burning question at the very end - just what happened back home on Earth? The novel completely bypasses that, perhaps as it's pretty much all told in first-person perspective from the astronaut/science teacher Ryland Grace, the last survivor on board the spaceship Hail Mary on a last-ditch effort to save Earth.
Watched the movie no long afterwards.
Enjoyed both, but not enough to make me hunt out any others by the same author, so never (yet) read "Artemis" by the same author.
Then saw this on sale on Kindle, for something like 99pence, so thought I might as well give it a chance, after checking it was not part of a series i.e. could be read as a standalone (which it can).
Like The Martian, I found this enjoyable enough, maybe a bit slow during the middle section, but I'm also left with a burning question at the very end - just what happened back home on Earth? The novel completely bypasses that, perhaps as it's pretty much all told in first-person perspective from the astronaut/science teacher Ryland Grace, the last survivor on board the spaceship Hail Mary on a last-ditch effort to save Earth.
Debbiereadsbook (1570 KP) rated In Safe Arms (My Truth #2) in Books
Sep 29, 2019
stunning emotional read!
Independent reviewer for Archaeolibrarian, I was gifted my copy of this book.
This is book two in the My Truth series, and I read it back to back to book one, All He Needs. While not strictly necessary to read book one before this one, I would personally recommend you do. Spoilers, is all you’ll get but book one was a 4 star read cos of one minor niggle that is explained in my review.
We met Angelo and Tristan in book and there were some indications to what might be in store for them in that book. Rick (Angelo’s brother) Mason, and Caden all pop up here, hence the spoiler tag.
THIS book, however, does NOT have that niggle and is an altogether different, difficult, heart-breaking, gut wrenching, sobbing kind of book!
I mean from the very beginning, when Tristan begins telling the tale, it’s awful reading, what happened to him at the hands of a family friend. When he is on the streets after, and what happened to him and his friend then. Tristan really does break your heart.
Then when Angelo takes up the story? OH, I wanted to wrap that man up in cotton wool and protect him! From Tristan of all people cos you know, right when they meet, Tristan is gonna break Angelo’s heart! And he does, just not in the way I was expecting.
Angelo is smitten with Tristan, right from the start, but Tristan comes across as straight and all Angelo can do is be a friend for Tristan. Then Angelo notices things, little touches, glances and the like, and it makes Angelo think.
When Tristan breaks down and finally tells Angelo everything that happened, you’ll cry, you really will! I rarely react to such extremes when READING, but I was sobbing great wracking sobs when Tristan was telling Angelo! Listening, I react more for so . . . . . oh. . . . .I need to LISTEN to this, I really do! Someone narrate it, please!
But I digress, sorry!
Because of Tristan’s history, the physical relationship between him and Angelo is slow, and takes time to build. There is an emotional connection from very early on, but the physical stuff comes much MUCH later in the book. And I LOVED that it did. Often, things move too fast for characters who suffer like Tristan did, but not so here. I did think, at one point, it might not ever happen, at all but once Tristan is able to talk to Angelo and then to professional help, things get much better, very quickly.
This is only the second book I’ve read of Ms Grech, after All He Needs, but I need to read more. She has a way of breaking your heart I’ve not come across before!
This is NOT a light and fluffy read, this is NOT a short book, both in page length and time span, this is not one of those books you can fall into and forget the world. This IS however, a stunning read that I read in one sitting and I stayed up way, WAY past my bedtime to finish it. I needed to know that things turned out okay for Angelo and Tristan, and I could not leave their story midway through.
5 stunning stars
**same worded review will appear elsewhere**
This is book two in the My Truth series, and I read it back to back to book one, All He Needs. While not strictly necessary to read book one before this one, I would personally recommend you do. Spoilers, is all you’ll get but book one was a 4 star read cos of one minor niggle that is explained in my review.
We met Angelo and Tristan in book and there were some indications to what might be in store for them in that book. Rick (Angelo’s brother) Mason, and Caden all pop up here, hence the spoiler tag.
THIS book, however, does NOT have that niggle and is an altogether different, difficult, heart-breaking, gut wrenching, sobbing kind of book!
I mean from the very beginning, when Tristan begins telling the tale, it’s awful reading, what happened to him at the hands of a family friend. When he is on the streets after, and what happened to him and his friend then. Tristan really does break your heart.
Then when Angelo takes up the story? OH, I wanted to wrap that man up in cotton wool and protect him! From Tristan of all people cos you know, right when they meet, Tristan is gonna break Angelo’s heart! And he does, just not in the way I was expecting.
Angelo is smitten with Tristan, right from the start, but Tristan comes across as straight and all Angelo can do is be a friend for Tristan. Then Angelo notices things, little touches, glances and the like, and it makes Angelo think.
When Tristan breaks down and finally tells Angelo everything that happened, you’ll cry, you really will! I rarely react to such extremes when READING, but I was sobbing great wracking sobs when Tristan was telling Angelo! Listening, I react more for so . . . . . oh. . . . .I need to LISTEN to this, I really do! Someone narrate it, please!
But I digress, sorry!
Because of Tristan’s history, the physical relationship between him and Angelo is slow, and takes time to build. There is an emotional connection from very early on, but the physical stuff comes much MUCH later in the book. And I LOVED that it did. Often, things move too fast for characters who suffer like Tristan did, but not so here. I did think, at one point, it might not ever happen, at all but once Tristan is able to talk to Angelo and then to professional help, things get much better, very quickly.
This is only the second book I’ve read of Ms Grech, after All He Needs, but I need to read more. She has a way of breaking your heart I’ve not come across before!
This is NOT a light and fluffy read, this is NOT a short book, both in page length and time span, this is not one of those books you can fall into and forget the world. This IS however, a stunning read that I read in one sitting and I stayed up way, WAY past my bedtime to finish it. I needed to know that things turned out okay for Angelo and Tristan, and I could not leave their story midway through.
5 stunning stars
**same worded review will appear elsewhere**
Debbiereadsbook (1570 KP) rated Knox (Monsters of Veridia #1) in Books
Dec 14, 2024
Did not see the cliff hanger coming at me!
Independent reviewer for BookSirens, I was gifted my copy of this book.
I have not read anything by this author before, so while the blurb grabbed, I was unsure how the story would be delivered.
But bloody hell, they NAILED it!
Except for maybe one teeny weeny thing, that I might or might not have missed when I requested this book, so I'll come back to it.
Adrian is human, and Knox is incubus from an online book he's been reading. So why, is the object of his dreams, on his bedroom floor, after crashing through his roof? And who else came through with Knox?
I loved this, I really did! Adrian and Knox have a say, along with Daniel, who is Adrian's friend and Caelen, Knox' arch enemy. I love hearing from every one, I really do.
It's smexy, what with Knox being an incubus, but I did find the emotional connection a bit one sided, with the majority coming from Adrian. He has been betrayed at the highest level, and I did NOT see how coming at me. His perception of his body causes him the biggest issue, but Knox has no problems with it!
Coming back to my niggle. While it's clear this book is first in series, I might have missed that it finishes on a bit of a cliff hanger! Knox and Adrian get their HFN ending, but the book doesn't. And I was NOT prepared for that! I can cope with cliff hangers, *IF* I know they are coming at me.
I see Daniel and Caelen playing a huge part in the next book, hopefully, and I feel there is MUCH to Caelen we do not know, and that he is not all he appears to be. My book brian went *ding ding ding* at a point in this book, and I look forward to seeing whether that comes to pass. And Leon will need a story, cos, clearly, he has things hidden from his friends! Lyrian and Zev need a book too!
I look forward to (hopefully!) getting my hands on future books!
4 very VERY good stars (but only cos of the cliff hanger thing!)
*same worded review will appear elsewhere
I have not read anything by this author before, so while the blurb grabbed, I was unsure how the story would be delivered.
But bloody hell, they NAILED it!
Except for maybe one teeny weeny thing, that I might or might not have missed when I requested this book, so I'll come back to it.
Adrian is human, and Knox is incubus from an online book he's been reading. So why, is the object of his dreams, on his bedroom floor, after crashing through his roof? And who else came through with Knox?
I loved this, I really did! Adrian and Knox have a say, along with Daniel, who is Adrian's friend and Caelen, Knox' arch enemy. I love hearing from every one, I really do.
It's smexy, what with Knox being an incubus, but I did find the emotional connection a bit one sided, with the majority coming from Adrian. He has been betrayed at the highest level, and I did NOT see how coming at me. His perception of his body causes him the biggest issue, but Knox has no problems with it!
Coming back to my niggle. While it's clear this book is first in series, I might have missed that it finishes on a bit of a cliff hanger! Knox and Adrian get their HFN ending, but the book doesn't. And I was NOT prepared for that! I can cope with cliff hangers, *IF* I know they are coming at me.
I see Daniel and Caelen playing a huge part in the next book, hopefully, and I feel there is MUCH to Caelen we do not know, and that he is not all he appears to be. My book brian went *ding ding ding* at a point in this book, and I look forward to seeing whether that comes to pass. And Leon will need a story, cos, clearly, he has things hidden from his friends! Lyrian and Zev need a book too!
I look forward to (hopefully!) getting my hands on future books!
4 very VERY good stars (but only cos of the cliff hanger thing!)
*same worded review will appear elsewhere
MaryAnn (14 KP) rated A Dim Reflection (A Light for Christ Collection #2) in Books
Nov 4, 2019
Back Cover Copy: William Caverly can't seem to understand the unsettling feeling that has been nagging him for far too long. Memories of a baby sister are forever haunting his waking hours, and as he sleeps at night, he is repeatedly awakened by nightmares, confusing ones that he'd rather forget. His baby sister died. He saw her little body laid to rest beside their mother. But that doesnt explain the dim remembrance he has of an event that happened not too long after that.
Charlotte Porter's days are full and busy as she diligently teaches her young art students at her mother's boarding school, and tries desperately to stay away from an annoying suitor. Painting has been her passion and dream ever since she could hold a brush, but lately, she has begun to question her mission and calling in life. What is her real purpose? And why does she know so little about her father, who supposedly died before she was born?
William thinks he's discovered the hidden link that has kept him from his sister for over fifteen years. But then she's kidnapped, leaving William no choice except to find her and get her back. Once and for all.
My Thoughts: This is an exciting series of books, and although this is book 2 in the series, I was able to jump in and follow the story easily. I do recommend that the reader reads book 1 in the series " A Higher Ransom", only because this is such a wonderful and exciting series. This novel is full of adventure and mystery.
The characters are enjoyable, and the readers will have their favorites. The storyline keeps the readers' attention and flows at a good quick pace. There isn't any lagging in the storyline, and the plot is interesting to follow. I believe that the readers', like myself, will enjoy the fact that the author uses plenty of scripture that compliments the plot of the novel.
I will be looking forward to reading more from this author in the future.
Charlotte Porter's days are full and busy as she diligently teaches her young art students at her mother's boarding school, and tries desperately to stay away from an annoying suitor. Painting has been her passion and dream ever since she could hold a brush, but lately, she has begun to question her mission and calling in life. What is her real purpose? And why does she know so little about her father, who supposedly died before she was born?
William thinks he's discovered the hidden link that has kept him from his sister for over fifteen years. But then she's kidnapped, leaving William no choice except to find her and get her back. Once and for all.
My Thoughts: This is an exciting series of books, and although this is book 2 in the series, I was able to jump in and follow the story easily. I do recommend that the reader reads book 1 in the series " A Higher Ransom", only because this is such a wonderful and exciting series. This novel is full of adventure and mystery.
The characters are enjoyable, and the readers will have their favorites. The storyline keeps the readers' attention and flows at a good quick pace. There isn't any lagging in the storyline, and the plot is interesting to follow. I believe that the readers', like myself, will enjoy the fact that the author uses plenty of scripture that compliments the plot of the novel.
I will be looking forward to reading more from this author in the future.
Booksnthreads (19 KP) rated The Maze Runner in Books
Jun 4, 2018
Eventually, this one redeemed itself for me. The last half of the book, once all the exposition is out of the way, gets really interesting and does eventually reach the point where you can’t put the book down.
I think Dashner’s strength here is really in his character development. Even once the action begins, the characters’ actions and choices align with what you’ve learned about them, and while some of those choices lead to tragic consequences, they are completely in keeping with the characters’ personalities and experiences. It’s nice to see this kind of thought and sophistication put into a novel geared toward young adults.
In addition to my complaint about the frustratingly slow start and exposition, I was also bothered by what seems to be the standard strategy for serial writers…the ending that leaves you with more questions than answers. I’ve only read a handful of YA novels that deal with this well, where the current storyline is given just enough resolution to satisfy me as a reader while leaving enough of a door open to entice me to continue reading the series.
Dashner really treads that fine line and doesn’t quite make it for me, leaving me frustrated enough that rather than being eager to begin the next novel, I just want to toss this one in the corner. Okay, maybe not that strong of a reaction, but the jury is still out on whether or not I’ll pick up the next book in the series.
I think Dashner’s strength here is really in his character development. Even once the action begins, the characters’ actions and choices align with what you’ve learned about them, and while some of those choices lead to tragic consequences, they are completely in keeping with the characters’ personalities and experiences. It’s nice to see this kind of thought and sophistication put into a novel geared toward young adults.
In addition to my complaint about the frustratingly slow start and exposition, I was also bothered by what seems to be the standard strategy for serial writers…the ending that leaves you with more questions than answers. I’ve only read a handful of YA novels that deal with this well, where the current storyline is given just enough resolution to satisfy me as a reader while leaving enough of a door open to entice me to continue reading the series.
Dashner really treads that fine line and doesn’t quite make it for me, leaving me frustrated enough that rather than being eager to begin the next novel, I just want to toss this one in the corner. Okay, maybe not that strong of a reaction, but the jury is still out on whether or not I’ll pick up the next book in the series.
Nicole Hadley (380 KP) rated Catching Jordan in Books
Jun 18, 2018
<a href="https://awindowintobooks.wordpress.com">Full Review</a>
Catching Jordan is the first book in the series Hundred Oaks. Before reading this book I read Breathe, Annie, Breathe which is book #5 in the series. (Here is my review for the book).
I love this book. I love the writing style. I love that it's about football. I love the relationships. I love that it's genuine.
The story has twists that keep you guessing on where the story is going to go next. I love that Jordan is the QB of a high school football team, which is not normal but could absolutely be reality. It shows that girls can have a leadership role in a sport typically deemed for guys. I enjoy sports and having a book about football and a love story made it that much more enjoyable.
The chemistry in Catching Jordan is phenomenal. There is a connection between the characters that is deeply felt. The connection is between the team, the friends, the families. It's all well-written with charisma floating off the pages that you'll see these people come alive. You will feel that you have been friends with Jordan, Ty and Henry for years.
Catching Jordan is not simply a love story. It's so so so much more; It's about going for your dreams, overcoming obstacles and never giving up believing they will happen. You will undoubtedly finish this book with a smile on your face
I highly recommend this book to anyone who loves sports stories and love who love having a female role model.
Catching Jordan is the first book in the series Hundred Oaks. Before reading this book I read Breathe, Annie, Breathe which is book #5 in the series. (Here is my review for the book).
I love this book. I love the writing style. I love that it's about football. I love the relationships. I love that it's genuine.
The story has twists that keep you guessing on where the story is going to go next. I love that Jordan is the QB of a high school football team, which is not normal but could absolutely be reality. It shows that girls can have a leadership role in a sport typically deemed for guys. I enjoy sports and having a book about football and a love story made it that much more enjoyable.
The chemistry in Catching Jordan is phenomenal. There is a connection between the characters that is deeply felt. The connection is between the team, the friends, the families. It's all well-written with charisma floating off the pages that you'll see these people come alive. You will feel that you have been friends with Jordan, Ty and Henry for years.
Catching Jordan is not simply a love story. It's so so so much more; It's about going for your dreams, overcoming obstacles and never giving up believing they will happen. You will undoubtedly finish this book with a smile on your face
I highly recommend this book to anyone who loves sports stories and love who love having a female role model.
TravelersWife4Life (31 KP) rated Lake Season (Bluebell Inn Romance, #1) in Books
Feb 24, 2021
This book was a classic feel good, and make you warm inside type of a book. From the first chapter little by little Denise Hunter drew me in, she fed me little nuggets of information about the characters, arousing my curiosity about how the book would end. It was great getting to meet a famous author and a new innkeeper and her family. Plus, Denise Hunter threw in a bit of a mystery with an ending I totally didn’t see coming. All the characters (not just the main ones, as this book is the first in a series) were developed in such a way that I felt personally invested in their lives. By the end of the book I felt like I genuinely knew the characters and their struggles, which doesn’t always happen in books. It was also interesting to see how Denise Hunter weaved in a dual plot-line; I really loved the glimpses into the past. I think I am already looking forward to learning about the rest of the family in Bluebell, NC.
I give this book a 4 out of 5 stars for the hint of mystery, the end I totally did not see coming, and for leaving me in want of the next book in the series. Personally, I think that the best books are about what really happens in life and the ways that God can use anything for His good. In Lake Season, Denise Hunter put this into perspective for her characters and for anyone who reads Lake Season.
I give this book a 4 out of 5 stars for the hint of mystery, the end I totally did not see coming, and for leaving me in want of the next book in the series. Personally, I think that the best books are about what really happens in life and the ways that God can use anything for His good. In Lake Season, Denise Hunter put this into perspective for her characters and for anyone who reads Lake Season.