Search
Search results
Mark @ Carstairs Considers (2430 KP) rated Love Me or Grieve Me in Books
May 9, 2024
Obituary Error Puts Madison in Danger
It all starts with a mix up in the paper. Addison Nigh, a once famous jazz singer, has died, but a small paper in town mixes it up with Madison Night, and other papers pick up on the error. Naturally, this creates problems for Madison since banks freeze her accounts and clients cancel appointments, or don’t show up at all.
But Madison can’t help but be curious about Addison. As she begins to meet the woman’s friends and family, she stumbles over a dead body. Can Madison figure out what is really going on?
I always love it when an author comes up with a creative premise for a mystery, and this is one of those. It leads to so much happening that it is hard to put down. I couldn’t figure out which thread was important until Madison figured it out at the end. The premise also allows us to see real growth in Madison and her relationship with her boyfriend, which I enjoyed. There are some great comic moments as well. Fans of Doris Day movies will not only recognize the title but also some of the details in Addison’s life, but that’s only a jumping off point. Anyone who enjoys a great mystery will be glad they picked this one up.
But Madison can’t help but be curious about Addison. As she begins to meet the woman’s friends and family, she stumbles over a dead body. Can Madison figure out what is really going on?
I always love it when an author comes up with a creative premise for a mystery, and this is one of those. It leads to so much happening that it is hard to put down. I couldn’t figure out which thread was important until Madison figured it out at the end. The premise also allows us to see real growth in Madison and her relationship with her boyfriend, which I enjoyed. There are some great comic moments as well. Fans of Doris Day movies will not only recognize the title but also some of the details in Addison’s life, but that’s only a jumping off point. Anyone who enjoys a great mystery will be glad they picked this one up.
Mark @ Carstairs Considers (2430 KP) rated French Quarter Fright Night in Books
Sep 4, 2024
Frightful Time with the New Neighbor
Ricki James-Diaz is leading the efforts of the Bon Vee staff to put on the best haunted house New Orleans has seen this Halloween. Those efforts are being hampered by their new next-door neighbor, who is constantly making complaints about them. Ricki is shocked when she learns who has bought the house – mega movie star Blaine Taggart, the best friend of her late husband. Ricki had hoped to never see Blaine again, but things get complicated when another dead body turns up on Bon Vee property. Can Ricki once again figure out what happened?
I’m so glad that a new publisher picked up this series. It was wonderful to visit Ricki and her friends again. I enjoyed getting to see some of the relationships grow in this book, even if Ricki’s relationship with the detective isn’t really realistic. I also enjoyed seeing Hollywood pop up here. The mystery itself is strong with some nice surprises before we reach the logical ending. It was fun to visit the city during Halloween. As always, I laughed several times while reading. We also get some recipes inspired by vintage cookbooks at the end of the book, including several appropriate for the season. Fans will be just as happy as I was that Ricki and her friends are back.
I’m so glad that a new publisher picked up this series. It was wonderful to visit Ricki and her friends again. I enjoyed getting to see some of the relationships grow in this book, even if Ricki’s relationship with the detective isn’t really realistic. I also enjoyed seeing Hollywood pop up here. The mystery itself is strong with some nice surprises before we reach the logical ending. It was fun to visit the city during Halloween. As always, I laughed several times while reading. We also get some recipes inspired by vintage cookbooks at the end of the book, including several appropriate for the season. Fans will be just as happy as I was that Ricki and her friends are back.
Treasure and Tarot (Echoes of Secret Springs #1)
8.0
Rate It
Book
It's been five years since Colton Maxwell left Sebastian behind to go on a quick adventure. He was a...
MM Romance Mpreg Supernatural
Mark @ Carstairs Considers (2430 KP) rated Mission Manhattan in Books
Feb 20, 2024 (Updated Feb 20, 2024)
Another Fast Pasted Adventure
As this book opens, the team is in Venice. MI6 has intercepted a threat against a climate change rally that is featuring Beatriz Santos, a teen who has gained quite a following with her outspokenness on the topic. Since she is from Brazil, Rio has been tasked with getting close to her. It’s a good thing they are there, since things don’t go according to plan.
But Venice was just the beginning. As the team looks into what happened there, they realize that the danger isn’t over yet. Can they figure out what is happening in time to stop it?
I was anxious to dive into this book after the cliffhanger from the last book, and it did not disappoint. It did take a while to get back to cliffhanger, and the answers only lead to more questions. While I could have done without the climate change theme, I was happy to see those mini-lectures never lasted too long. Instead, we get plenty of surprises and fun as the City Spies try to figure out exactly what is going on so they can stop it. Meanwhile, I still love these characters and their relationship. Fans of all ages will love their latest adventure and be left wanting to find out what happens next.
But Venice was just the beginning. As the team looks into what happened there, they realize that the danger isn’t over yet. Can they figure out what is happening in time to stop it?
I was anxious to dive into this book after the cliffhanger from the last book, and it did not disappoint. It did take a while to get back to cliffhanger, and the answers only lead to more questions. While I could have done without the climate change theme, I was happy to see those mini-lectures never lasted too long. Instead, we get plenty of surprises and fun as the City Spies try to figure out exactly what is going on so they can stop it. Meanwhile, I still love these characters and their relationship. Fans of all ages will love their latest adventure and be left wanting to find out what happens next.
Merissa (13346 KP) rated The Beauty and His Beast in Books
Mar 3, 2025
THE BEAUTY AND HIS BEAST is a medieval-type story with the Beast being Everild, the current king's cousin, and someone who has seen enough war to last three lifetimes. His Beauty is Camdyn who was training to be a cleric when he was told he was to be married instead.
The connection is there immediately between our two MCs but Everild isn't just the beast. He wants Camdyn to be happy and is happy to waylay his fears in any way he can. They both grow and develop together, learning how to please the other in small but significant ways - a garden hat, for example - and their bond grows. Their relationship is beautiful. Simple as that.
Of course, not everything goes according to plan and there is a 'small' wrinkle in their plans. I won't say more because, you know, spoilers, but suffice it to say I loved every word.
This book had me with leaky eyes and laughing out loud. It was also the first by this author I have read, but I guarantee it won't be the last. 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; the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Mar 3, 2025
The connection is there immediately between our two MCs but Everild isn't just the beast. He wants Camdyn to be happy and is happy to waylay his fears in any way he can. They both grow and develop together, learning how to please the other in small but significant ways - a garden hat, for example - and their bond grows. Their relationship is beautiful. Simple as that.
Of course, not everything goes according to plan and there is a 'small' wrinkle in their plans. I won't say more because, you know, spoilers, but suffice it to say I loved every word.
This book had me with leaky eyes and laughing out loud. It was also the first by this author I have read, but I guarantee it won't be the last. 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; the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Mar 3, 2025
Merissa (13346 KP) rated The Curse Between Us in Books
Mar 28, 2025
THE CURSE BETWEEN US is a standalone story of opposites - hot Rafria and icy Eskarven, long at war with each other. When both kings die, the crowns are passed on to Edric of Rafria and Zephyr of Eskarven. With help, they come up with a plan to stop the war, but that just unleashes a prophecy neither was aware of.
This was a great story, with plenty of world-building and lore without being bogged down by all the minutiae. The differences in both the characters and places help build within the story, and nothing is just easy and solved with the wave of a hand. The relationship between Edric and Zephyr is slow-burn but with plenty of emotions. It does lead to some steamy moments but doesn't overtake the story.
This is the second book by this author I have read and it has been proven that intricate and emotional stories are what to expect, which I love! A fantastic story that I thoroughly enjoyed and have no hesitation in HIGHLY RECOMMENDING.
** 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!
Mar 17, 2025
This was a great story, with plenty of world-building and lore without being bogged down by all the minutiae. The differences in both the characters and places help build within the story, and nothing is just easy and solved with the wave of a hand. The relationship between Edric and Zephyr is slow-burn but with plenty of emotions. It does lead to some steamy moments but doesn't overtake the story.
This is the second book by this author I have read and it has been proven that intricate and emotional stories are what to expect, which I love! A fantastic story that I thoroughly enjoyed and have no hesitation in HIGHLY RECOMMENDING.
** 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!
Mar 17, 2025
Mark @ Carstairs Considers (2430 KP) rated Ranch Dressing in Books
Apr 4, 2025
Murder Down on the Ranch
Samantha Kidd’s father-in-law is interested in buying a dude ranch in New Jersey, so Samantha joins him and her husband on a trip to meet the current owner and check it out in depth. She is so out of her element that she must borrow jeans for the trip, but she is doing her best to be supportive and stay in the background. Their first night there, Samantha finds the owner dead in the barn. Can she get the rest of the staff to warm up to her enough to solve the crime?
This book really builds on the growth we’ve seen in Samantha over the last couple of books, which I appreciated. You could jump in here without any spoilers, but you won’t appreciate the character arc as much. I also appreciated that this allowed Samantha’s relationship with her husband to really shine. Meanwhile, the new characters were entertaining. The mystery kept me confused until we reached the logical climax. I laughed as always as I was reading. Trixie Belden fans will enjoy an Easter egg in this book. Now that I’ve caught up on this enjoyable series, I can’t wait for the next book to come out. If you aren’t caught up yet, now’s the time to fix that. You’ll enjoy the time spent doing so.
This book really builds on the growth we’ve seen in Samantha over the last couple of books, which I appreciated. You could jump in here without any spoilers, but you won’t appreciate the character arc as much. I also appreciated that this allowed Samantha’s relationship with her husband to really shine. Meanwhile, the new characters were entertaining. The mystery kept me confused until we reached the logical climax. I laughed as always as I was reading. Trixie Belden fans will enjoy an Easter egg in this book. Now that I’ve caught up on this enjoyable series, I can’t wait for the next book to come out. If you aren’t caught up yet, now’s the time to fix that. You’ll enjoy the time spent doing so.
Debbiereadsbook (1541 KP) rated Playing for Keeps (Love Goals #1) in Books
Sep 3, 2025
the football talk is kept to a minimum!
Independent reviewer for Archaeolibrarian, I was gifted my copy of this book.
OK, here's the thing. I am not, in any way, shape or form, a football fan. I have to know about football for work, but that's all. I do not watch, or follow any teams. So I approached this book with caution. I've read other books by Parker and I loved them, so I gave it a go.
I am pleased to say, the football talk was kept to a minimum!
But.
I liked this, I cannot love it.
I found the speed of the relationship fast, but there was hardly any soul searching. Given as these two together could cost them both their careers, I expected some deep internal monologues and I don't get them.
I found the emotional connection a little flat, between Udo and Steven. Some of that is a follow on from the previous point, but I just felt a bit let down by that.
The steam level is fairly low, but that's not a bad thing. I liked that.
That said!
I did finish it, and there are some interesting side characters, who I hope will get a story. I will try another in this series to see who comes next!
3 good stars
*same worded review will appear elsewhere
OK, here's the thing. I am not, in any way, shape or form, a football fan. I have to know about football for work, but that's all. I do not watch, or follow any teams. So I approached this book with caution. I've read other books by Parker and I loved them, so I gave it a go.
I am pleased to say, the football talk was kept to a minimum!
But.
I liked this, I cannot love it.
I found the speed of the relationship fast, but there was hardly any soul searching. Given as these two together could cost them both their careers, I expected some deep internal monologues and I don't get them.
I found the emotional connection a little flat, between Udo and Steven. Some of that is a follow on from the previous point, but I just felt a bit let down by that.
The steam level is fairly low, but that's not a bad thing. I liked that.
That said!
I did finish it, and there are some interesting side characters, who I hope will get a story. I will try another in this series to see who comes next!
3 good stars
*same worded review will appear elsewhere
Debbiereadsbook (1541 KP) rated Striking The Match (Redwood Bay #3) in Books
Sep 25, 2025
freaking love this book!
I was gifted my copy of this book.
What this is, right, a massive hit of steam, a little bit of drama, an emotioanl connection off the chats (eventually!) a lotta love and. . . .kitties. . . .all wrapped up in 292 pages of lushness that I absolutely must tell you about!!
I mean, it's so freaking cute! Teddy has crushed on Cassius for years, and then the meet cute?? oh my days!
It's steamy. Cassius, though 15 years older than Teddy, has very little experience in the dating game or relationship game.
It's emotional. Teddy feels unseen. As a probie and a little brother. But Cassius SEES Teddy, and Teddy lovevs that.
There is a little drama. Teddy jumps into a raging river to rescue a cat. Teddy and Cassius get caught in a land slide. And then there is the whole outing-on-social-meida thing.
It's full of love! From the One-Thirteen crew, from the neighbours, from Cassius's PA and from *most* of Teddy's family. I really didn't like what his brother was trying to do!
I can't fault it, I really can't and if I give myself free reign, I may be some time and rewrite the whole darn book in the review!
So, I'm leaving you with this:
READ THE DARN BOOK!
5 Full and shiny stars
*same worded review will appear elsewhere
What this is, right, a massive hit of steam, a little bit of drama, an emotioanl connection off the chats (eventually!) a lotta love and. . . .kitties. . . .all wrapped up in 292 pages of lushness that I absolutely must tell you about!!
I mean, it's so freaking cute! Teddy has crushed on Cassius for years, and then the meet cute?? oh my days!
It's steamy. Cassius, though 15 years older than Teddy, has very little experience in the dating game or relationship game.
It's emotional. Teddy feels unseen. As a probie and a little brother. But Cassius SEES Teddy, and Teddy lovevs that.
There is a little drama. Teddy jumps into a raging river to rescue a cat. Teddy and Cassius get caught in a land slide. And then there is the whole outing-on-social-meida thing.
It's full of love! From the One-Thirteen crew, from the neighbours, from Cassius's PA and from *most* of Teddy's family. I really didn't like what his brother was trying to do!
I can't fault it, I really can't and if I give myself free reign, I may be some time and rewrite the whole darn book in the review!
So, I'm leaving you with this:
READ THE DARN BOOK!
5 Full and shiny stars
*same worded review will appear elsewhere
Acanthea Grimscythe (300 KP) rated In a Cottage In a Wood in Books
May 16, 2018
Published first on <a href="http://theghastlygrimoire.com/"; target="_new">The Ghastly Grimoire</a>
In a Cottage in a Wood by Cass Green releases tomorrow and I definitely look forward to seeing what my fellow Littens have to say about the title when they get their hands on it. For myself, I’m still a bit mixed. There are some things that Green does really well in this book and there are others that, quite simply, take far too long to unfold.
The main character in In a Cottage in a Wood is Neve Carey. After her relationship fails, she finds herself in a tenuous relationship with her sister and brother-in-law, who she’s been living with for a bit. Her fairy godmother appears in the form of a woman moments before she commits suicide, which begs the question: why? Thus readers follow Neve along as she stumbles through her sub-par life, whilst wearing her victim name-tag proudly.
Personally, I don’t care for Neve. Everything that has happened to her is a direct consequence of her own actions. In many rays, she reminds of me of The Girl on the Train‘s Rachel. A person cannot make poor life choices and then blame everyone around them for what follows – but Neve appears to do just that. And then, magically, she gets what she needs: a creepy cottage in the middle of nowhere. Because that is totally how life works. (Actually, I guess it kinda is. In many ways, those that need help can’t get it and those that don’t end up with more.) Her neighbors and family aren’t much better, and for that I must applaud Green’s ability to write some absolutely horrid individuals.
If you’re looking for an edge of your seat thriller, In a Cottage in a Wood is not what you want; however, if you want a slow simmer that builds up to an incredibly frustrating, heartrending finale, this is your book. While there are times where it feels as if the plot simply drags on, Green’s command of suspense is just enough to keep a reader hooked until the last page. The final twenty percent of the book flies by incredibly fast, revealing revelation after revelation. When it comes to plot twists, I’m not an easy person to take by surprise and yet Green has done just that.
It’s hard to decide what I want to rate this title. I’ve teeter-tottered between three and four stars, but ultimately I feel there is a lot of potential that isn’t quite met. There are things that I think would have made excellent additions to the story and while I’d love to share them, I can’t unless I want to give out spoilers. Without that, I think I’ll settle on three. It’s definitely a title I’d buy.
Thanks to Edelweiss and HarperCollins for providing me with an advance copy of this novel for the purpose of unbiased review.
In a Cottage in a Wood by Cass Green releases tomorrow and I definitely look forward to seeing what my fellow Littens have to say about the title when they get their hands on it. For myself, I’m still a bit mixed. There are some things that Green does really well in this book and there are others that, quite simply, take far too long to unfold.
The main character in In a Cottage in a Wood is Neve Carey. After her relationship fails, she finds herself in a tenuous relationship with her sister and brother-in-law, who she’s been living with for a bit. Her fairy godmother appears in the form of a woman moments before she commits suicide, which begs the question: why? Thus readers follow Neve along as she stumbles through her sub-par life, whilst wearing her victim name-tag proudly.
Personally, I don’t care for Neve. Everything that has happened to her is a direct consequence of her own actions. In many rays, she reminds of me of The Girl on the Train‘s Rachel. A person cannot make poor life choices and then blame everyone around them for what follows – but Neve appears to do just that. And then, magically, she gets what she needs: a creepy cottage in the middle of nowhere. Because that is totally how life works. (Actually, I guess it kinda is. In many ways, those that need help can’t get it and those that don’t end up with more.) Her neighbors and family aren’t much better, and for that I must applaud Green’s ability to write some absolutely horrid individuals.
If you’re looking for an edge of your seat thriller, In a Cottage in a Wood is not what you want; however, if you want a slow simmer that builds up to an incredibly frustrating, heartrending finale, this is your book. While there are times where it feels as if the plot simply drags on, Green’s command of suspense is just enough to keep a reader hooked until the last page. The final twenty percent of the book flies by incredibly fast, revealing revelation after revelation. When it comes to plot twists, I’m not an easy person to take by surprise and yet Green has done just that.
It’s hard to decide what I want to rate this title. I’ve teeter-tottered between three and four stars, but ultimately I feel there is a lot of potential that isn’t quite met. There are things that I think would have made excellent additions to the story and while I’d love to share them, I can’t unless I want to give out spoilers. Without that, I think I’ll settle on three. It’s definitely a title I’d buy.
Thanks to Edelweiss and HarperCollins for providing me with an advance copy of this novel for the purpose of unbiased review.