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Merissa (12914 KP) rated Against the Darkness (Cimmerian Moon #1) in Books
Apr 7, 2023 (Updated Apr 10, 2023)
This story starts with a grumpy 17-year-old as she is packed off to Band Camp and refuses to kiss her mom goodbye. Fast forward 20 odd days and the world as she knew it has completely changed. You find out what happened from her perspective and how they are trying to make it back 'home,' if the home still even exists.
This story is gripping and fulfilling. They have a hard time as they are trying to survive and you feel the pain and loss that they go through. This is not a smooth journey with a handful of hardships thrown in for good measure. No, this is serious work where they are fighting for survival every day.
Yes, there's a love triangle but thankfully no insta-love. Wade is the once overweight Band member who suddenly, possibly for a long time but we don't know for sure, wants to be with Sinta. Jason is the boy/man who helps to rescue them from a horrifying situation. I felt that this part was exceedingly well written as Sinta is really troubled about what is going on, Wade tries his best and Jason keeps his distance.
This is definitely a page-turner and you will be wanting to start The Ashes That Remain which is book 2 in this series as soon as you finish this one.
* 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!
April 8, 2017
This story is gripping and fulfilling. They have a hard time as they are trying to survive and you feel the pain and loss that they go through. This is not a smooth journey with a handful of hardships thrown in for good measure. No, this is serious work where they are fighting for survival every day.
Yes, there's a love triangle but thankfully no insta-love. Wade is the once overweight Band member who suddenly, possibly for a long time but we don't know for sure, wants to be with Sinta. Jason is the boy/man who helps to rescue them from a horrifying situation. I felt that this part was exceedingly well written as Sinta is really troubled about what is going on, Wade tries his best and Jason keeps his distance.
This is definitely a page-turner and you will be wanting to start The Ashes That Remain which is book 2 in this series as soon as you finish this one.
* 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!
April 8, 2017
Merissa (12914 KP) rated Ben (Assassin's To Order #2) in Books
Apr 25, 2023
BEN is the second in the Assassin's To Order series and focuses on Ben and his mates, Teilo and Nico.
Ben made some questionable decisions in Marvin's story but redeemed himself completely in this one! When he arrives in Paraguay and finds the scientist's facility, he also finds his mates who are dying. This was a horrific scene to read, being so well-written I felt as though I was there. Teilo and Nico are test-tube babies, trained with pain, and assassins without remorse... that they're allowed to show, anyway.
The story moves along in leaps and bounds as more things become clear but Ben always puts his mates first. Their needs and considerations shape the choices he makes, along with the lessons he has to learn as they figure out what being mates actually involves. Another scene that got me was when Teilo and Nico first met Ben's mom. Oh, boy, did that make my eyes leak?!
The last chapter leads us to the next lot of mates, which I really can't wait for. I don't know who it is yet, but I'm really hoping for either the grumpy 'gator OR Ben's brothers. I know have two groups I want stories for and if they intermingle, well, so much the better!
A brilliant addition to this series 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; the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Apr 24, 2023
Ben made some questionable decisions in Marvin's story but redeemed himself completely in this one! When he arrives in Paraguay and finds the scientist's facility, he also finds his mates who are dying. This was a horrific scene to read, being so well-written I felt as though I was there. Teilo and Nico are test-tube babies, trained with pain, and assassins without remorse... that they're allowed to show, anyway.
The story moves along in leaps and bounds as more things become clear but Ben always puts his mates first. Their needs and considerations shape the choices he makes, along with the lessons he has to learn as they figure out what being mates actually involves. Another scene that got me was when Teilo and Nico first met Ben's mom. Oh, boy, did that make my eyes leak?!
The last chapter leads us to the next lot of mates, which I really can't wait for. I don't know who it is yet, but I'm really hoping for either the grumpy 'gator OR Ben's brothers. I know have two groups I want stories for and if they intermingle, well, so much the better!
A brilliant addition to this series 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; the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Apr 24, 2023
Debbiereadsbook (1444 KP) rated Fall to Pieces in Books
Dec 11, 2021
loved the back seat the romance takes!
Independent reviewer for Archaeolibrarian, I was gifted my copy of this book.
I liked this book, I liked it a lot!
Xavier is sent to assess Alexandra's mental capacity to do her job, following the suicide of her detective husband. But things are not as they seem and Xavier and Alex are soon fighting her department as well as a child killer hellbent on driving Alex mad.
This is a dark book. Suicide, child murder and abuse. How cops deal with stress. And I liked that. I liked that it made me think about those things. I have no triggers though, and some readers might not like it.
Both Alex and Xavier have a say, and they have a lot to say about a lot of things! Both of them are suffering from things that happened but while Alex' is (mostly) clear from the start, it takes time to get the whole picture. Xavier's pain is far deeper and we don't get the whole picture there til much later. I like being made to wait.
The romance between Alex and Xavier takes a back seat to the crime aspect of the book and I loved the twist that took. I did think Alex would push Xavier away more than once and, Lord she tries! But Xavier is strong and even though the reasons he comes into Alex' life are beyond his control, keeping her safe is within his control and he will do that.
I liked this, a lot. It's the first I've read of this author, I would like to read more.
4 stars
*same worded review ill appear elsewhere
I liked this book, I liked it a lot!
Xavier is sent to assess Alexandra's mental capacity to do her job, following the suicide of her detective husband. But things are not as they seem and Xavier and Alex are soon fighting her department as well as a child killer hellbent on driving Alex mad.
This is a dark book. Suicide, child murder and abuse. How cops deal with stress. And I liked that. I liked that it made me think about those things. I have no triggers though, and some readers might not like it.
Both Alex and Xavier have a say, and they have a lot to say about a lot of things! Both of them are suffering from things that happened but while Alex' is (mostly) clear from the start, it takes time to get the whole picture. Xavier's pain is far deeper and we don't get the whole picture there til much later. I like being made to wait.
The romance between Alex and Xavier takes a back seat to the crime aspect of the book and I loved the twist that took. I did think Alex would push Xavier away more than once and, Lord she tries! But Xavier is strong and even though the reasons he comes into Alex' life are beyond his control, keeping her safe is within his control and he will do that.
I liked this, a lot. It's the first I've read of this author, I would like to read more.
4 stars
*same worded review ill appear elsewhere
The Lost Ones (Detective Jackie Cooke #1)
9.0
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The young woman was sitting as though she might get up at any minute, her dark brown hair hanging...
Merissa (12914 KP) rated His Boy to Cherish (Naughty or Nice Season Two) in Books
Dec 28, 2021 (Updated Jul 9, 2023)
HIS BOY TO CHERISH is part of the Naughty or Nice Season Two series, and I am over the moon to announce Jayden gets his HEA!!!!
Oh, man! I fell for Jayden in Greeking Out and my heart hurt for him because the Daddy he got was definitely NOT one on the caring scale. And it was obvious from the very beginning that THAT is what Jayden not only wants but needs.
Bless him, you find out about Jayden's life and he's had it rough but he keeps up appearances and leaves his mask firmly in place as no one wants a grumpy boy. It is up to Ben to prove to him that he wants him no matter what, through joy and sadness, through pain and sorrow, as well as good times. And boy, does Ben step up to the mark!
This has a light Christmas theme, as in they first meet on Boxing Day and their courtship takes place over the Christmas period. Ben and Jayden instantly click but both have questions -- which is completely understandable!
I loved how Troy and Apollo were here but didn't take over the story. I really want Jude to have his own too. Yes, I'm greedy!
A warm and fuzzy story that is absolutely recommended by me. It is heartwarming and sincere and left me with a huge smile on my face. Loved 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!
Dec 28, 2021
Oh, man! I fell for Jayden in Greeking Out and my heart hurt for him because the Daddy he got was definitely NOT one on the caring scale. And it was obvious from the very beginning that THAT is what Jayden not only wants but needs.
Bless him, you find out about Jayden's life and he's had it rough but he keeps up appearances and leaves his mask firmly in place as no one wants a grumpy boy. It is up to Ben to prove to him that he wants him no matter what, through joy and sadness, through pain and sorrow, as well as good times. And boy, does Ben step up to the mark!
This has a light Christmas theme, as in they first meet on Boxing Day and their courtship takes place over the Christmas period. Ben and Jayden instantly click but both have questions -- which is completely understandable!
I loved how Troy and Apollo were here but didn't take over the story. I really want Jude to have his own too. Yes, I'm greedy!
A warm and fuzzy story that is absolutely recommended by me. It is heartwarming and sincere and left me with a huge smile on my face. Loved 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!
Dec 28, 2021
Merissa (12914 KP) rated Always (Single Dads #4) in Books
Mar 30, 2021 (Updated Aug 2, 2023)
ALWAYS is the fourth book in the Single Dads series, and this time we meet Adam, Eric's friend. He now lives in Sean, Eric, and Leo's old house, where he is recuperating from a career-losing injury. He is able to offer a couple of rooms to rent for one of his friend's friends and his son. Cam is trying to hide from the media and wronged people for a while before he disappears again.
Adam does not have it easy - and this story helps bring to light his constant physical pain and mental anguish when someone treats him like he's fragile. Cam has his own injuries, but they're all on the inside. He is (understandably) skittish and is determined to make it to Montana, where he is convinced a better life awaits him and Finn.
This one wasn't as 'light and fluffy' as the others and previous couples still play a big part in the story, especially Eric as he was a co-worker and has his own guilt to contend with. I thought the pacing was perfect, and the storyline was smooth and kept my interest from beginning to end. There are some sexy scenes but they certainly don't take over the story.
This was a great addition to the series, and I can't wait for Nick's story. Definitely recommended by me.
** same worded review will appear elsewhere **
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book, and the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Mar 30, 2021
Adam does not have it easy - and this story helps bring to light his constant physical pain and mental anguish when someone treats him like he's fragile. Cam has his own injuries, but they're all on the inside. He is (understandably) skittish and is determined to make it to Montana, where he is convinced a better life awaits him and Finn.
This one wasn't as 'light and fluffy' as the others and previous couples still play a big part in the story, especially Eric as he was a co-worker and has his own guilt to contend with. I thought the pacing was perfect, and the storyline was smooth and kept my interest from beginning to end. There are some sexy scenes but they certainly don't take over the story.
This was a great addition to the series, and I can't wait for Nick's story. Definitely recommended by me.
** same worded review will appear elsewhere **
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book, and the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Mar 30, 2021
Merissa (12914 KP) rated Malice (Mortisalian Saga #4) in Books
Feb 11, 2021 (Updated Aug 7, 2023)
MALICE is the final story in the Mortisalian Saga, and we continue where we left off. Cass is heavily pregnant, Damon is still a dream, Ras is still missing, Zander is gone, Alexa is a mess. I think that's us caught up!
As the final book in the saga, you REALLY need to read the others to understand just what the hell is going on. There is no easing into this world. You are there, right in the middle of everything, so just deal with it. Personally, I wouldn't have it any other way.
For a big part of this book, Cass' world is at war, so if you are expecting a gentle walk through the park, you are sorely mistaken. There is blood, pain, and violence, but all of it is written so beautifully. And yes, before anyone asks, my eyes were leaking again! I thought my heart was breaking but then I had to smile. This is the power over words that Ms. Stock has. Simply sublime.
A fast-paced story, I was worried I wouldn't get a 'proper' ending, but my fears were groundless. I got a happier ending than I was anticipating, which made it all the more perfect.
Such a fantastic series, I am sad at the thought of it ending but am so thrilled I have read it all. Definitely one to keep and re-read! 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 11, 2021
As the final book in the saga, you REALLY need to read the others to understand just what the hell is going on. There is no easing into this world. You are there, right in the middle of everything, so just deal with it. Personally, I wouldn't have it any other way.
For a big part of this book, Cass' world is at war, so if you are expecting a gentle walk through the park, you are sorely mistaken. There is blood, pain, and violence, but all of it is written so beautifully. And yes, before anyone asks, my eyes were leaking again! I thought my heart was breaking but then I had to smile. This is the power over words that Ms. Stock has. Simply sublime.
A fast-paced story, I was worried I wouldn't get a 'proper' ending, but my fears were groundless. I got a happier ending than I was anticipating, which made it all the more perfect.
Such a fantastic series, I am sad at the thought of it ending but am so thrilled I have read it all. Definitely one to keep and re-read! 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 11, 2021
Lyndsey Gollogly (2893 KP) rated Tease ( Vixen Bluff 4) in Books
Sep 22, 2023
135 of 235
Kindle
Tease ( Vixen Bluff 4)
By C.Black/Catherine Black
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Forgiveness or Revenge. Tucker and Caroline must choose just one. You'd think the decision would be simple. You'd be wrong. Tucker I thought I was smart enough to stay away from Vixen Bluff, Texas—the place where I was relentlessly bullied as a teen—but I've proven myself wrong. After ten years serving my country, I'm back in my hometown with two weeks to spare, a single suitcase, and one tattered invitation to my high school reunion. I'm all geared up to show those who caused me the most pain just how far I've come. But that all changes the second I crash into the fence surrounding Vixen Bluff Animal Sanctuary. Caroline I'm a lot of things nowadays: Hermit, artist, animal savior...and rehabilitated bully. My most tortured victim and biggest regret? Tucker Beckett. When I see him again, I can hardly believe my eyes. Gone is the shy, awkward beanpole I terrorized, and in his place is a man capable of handling himself and whatever life throws his way. With Tucker back in town, a million-and-one questions descend on me. Can I prove to him I'm no longer the cruel, vindictive girl I used to be? Will he grant me his forgiveness if I ask for it? Or will a grudge that's lasted fifteen years continue to define both of our adult lives?
This was my favourite I loved it!! One of those truly feel good stories I finished it within an hour I couldn’t put it down!
Kindle
Tease ( Vixen Bluff 4)
By C.Black/Catherine Black
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Forgiveness or Revenge. Tucker and Caroline must choose just one. You'd think the decision would be simple. You'd be wrong. Tucker I thought I was smart enough to stay away from Vixen Bluff, Texas—the place where I was relentlessly bullied as a teen—but I've proven myself wrong. After ten years serving my country, I'm back in my hometown with two weeks to spare, a single suitcase, and one tattered invitation to my high school reunion. I'm all geared up to show those who caused me the most pain just how far I've come. But that all changes the second I crash into the fence surrounding Vixen Bluff Animal Sanctuary. Caroline I'm a lot of things nowadays: Hermit, artist, animal savior...and rehabilitated bully. My most tortured victim and biggest regret? Tucker Beckett. When I see him again, I can hardly believe my eyes. Gone is the shy, awkward beanpole I terrorized, and in his place is a man capable of handling himself and whatever life throws his way. With Tucker back in town, a million-and-one questions descend on me. Can I prove to him I'm no longer the cruel, vindictive girl I used to be? Will he grant me his forgiveness if I ask for it? Or will a grudge that's lasted fifteen years continue to define both of our adult lives?
This was my favourite I loved it!! One of those truly feel good stories I finished it within an hour I couldn’t put it down!
An Imperfect Truth
8.0
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Chaz can make a perfect latte, but can he handle her imperfect truth? Alexandra Townsen has spent...
Contemporary MF Romance Meet Cute Found Family Interracial Romance
Merissa (12914 KP) rated Kiss of Forever (Shadow Creek #3) in Books
Aug 24, 2017
Kiss of Forever (Shadow Creek #3) by Leah Blake
The Shadow Creek series is one that I am loving. Kiss of Forever is the third book in the series, and this time we focus on the Alpha of Shadow Creek, Raul, and the enigmatic vampire, Victor. After reading Vuk and Ashly's book, you know that these two are intertwined somehow, but it's only once you start reading Raul's side of things that you learn just what he has done for the past 20 years to protect Victor. Yeesh, that man has a will of iron! Okay, so he had some magical help, but still...
Victor doesn't know why Raul has rejected him for so long, and now that Raul is sick, and getting sicker by the hour, he can't bear to see him in pain. Not once does Victor come across as a 'poor me' type of guy, desperately clinging onto someone who doesn't want. Instead, we see someone who has a will just as strong as the Alpha, who just wants the truth.
The story is more in-depth in this one, as we learn the twists and turns that have landed Raul and Victor in their positions. Pairs from previous stories also play a part in this story, although Vuk and Ashly get more of a mention simply due to who they are. This was exceedingly well-written, with no editing or grammatical errors that disrupted my reading flow. I think there is still so much more to come, and I have no hesitation in recommending this book and the series.
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book, and my comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Victor doesn't know why Raul has rejected him for so long, and now that Raul is sick, and getting sicker by the hour, he can't bear to see him in pain. Not once does Victor come across as a 'poor me' type of guy, desperately clinging onto someone who doesn't want. Instead, we see someone who has a will just as strong as the Alpha, who just wants the truth.
The story is more in-depth in this one, as we learn the twists and turns that have landed Raul and Victor in their positions. Pairs from previous stories also play a part in this story, although Vuk and Ashly get more of a mention simply due to who they are. This was exceedingly well-written, with no editing or grammatical errors that disrupted my reading flow. I think there is still so much more to come, and I have no hesitation in recommending this book and the series.
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book, and my comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!