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Erika (17789 KP) rated Who Killed These Girls? The Unsolved Murders That Rocked a Texas Town in Books
Nov 23, 2018 (Updated Nov 23, 2018)
For a little background as to why I wanted to read this book about the Austin Yogurt Shop Murders: when I started my first food service job in 2004, my boss had posted this story on the back door, to insure everyone always locked it. In 1991, when Austin wasn't so big and things like murder weren't really a thing, four girls were murdered and burned while working in a Yogurt Shop in West Austin. This book covers it and does a really good job at gathering information. I got a hold of a copy that had been last updated in 2017. This case is still a cold case, which is terrible. A few of the guys that 'confessed' were sent to jail for a little bit, but were released because those confessions were found to be false, and DNA results proved the guys weren't even there. And, now one of those guys is dead, shot by police a few years ago. Now the crime isn't really common knowledge as it was, but it still resonates.
The story on the back door really did the trick, that back door to the restaurant I worked at was always locked when I was there.
The story on the back door really did the trick, that back door to the restaurant I worked at was always locked when I was there.
ArecRain (8 KP) rated Crimson Sky (Dark Sky, #1) in Books
Jan 18, 2018
I received a complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review.
This is the first novel I have read from Amy Braun, but it is certainly not the last. While I appreciate other genres beyond romance and erotica, it has to really be something to grab my attention. Crimson Sky had me from page one. Not only did it blow me away, I became obsessed, having to know what happened next and not being satisfied until I finished the novel.
Crimson Sky is an action packed novel that is hard to describe. Braun is such a talented writer, she easily incorporates multiple genres into one. It can be classified as steampunk, horror, action, romance, and dystopian all in one. I appreciate that Braun could easily show so many themes without having to shove it down our throats. She does such a good job of showing, there is no need for telling.
This novel is an intense roller coaster ride that begins from the very first page. Filled with complex realistic characters in a terrifying world, Braun weaves a story filled with twists and personal growth that keeps you hooked until the very end. Its been a long time since I have been this obsessed with a novel that didnt qualify as erotic. Even now, I am stuck in literary limbo because nothing seems to match up to the intense emotions this novel pulled from me. I cant wait to read more.
This is the first novel I have read from Amy Braun, but it is certainly not the last. While I appreciate other genres beyond romance and erotica, it has to really be something to grab my attention. Crimson Sky had me from page one. Not only did it blow me away, I became obsessed, having to know what happened next and not being satisfied until I finished the novel.
Crimson Sky is an action packed novel that is hard to describe. Braun is such a talented writer, she easily incorporates multiple genres into one. It can be classified as steampunk, horror, action, romance, and dystopian all in one. I appreciate that Braun could easily show so many themes without having to shove it down our throats. She does such a good job of showing, there is no need for telling.
This novel is an intense roller coaster ride that begins from the very first page. Filled with complex realistic characters in a terrifying world, Braun weaves a story filled with twists and personal growth that keeps you hooked until the very end. Its been a long time since I have been this obsessed with a novel that didnt qualify as erotic. Even now, I am stuck in literary limbo because nothing seems to match up to the intense emotions this novel pulled from me. I cant wait to read more.
Lyndsey Gollogly (2893 KP) rated The Haunting of Highdown Hall (Psychic Surveys #1) in Books
Sep 16, 2021
150 of 250
Kindle
The Haunting of Highdown Hall ( Pyschic Surverys book 1 )
By Shai Struthers
Once read a review will be written via Smashbomb and link posted in comments
Based in Lewes, East Sussex, Ruby and her team of freelance psychics have been kept busy of late. Specialising in domestic cases, their solid reputation is spreading - it's not just the dead that can rest in peace but the living too. All is threatened when Ruby receives a call from the irate new owner of Highdown Hall. Film star, Cynthia Hart, is still in residence, despite having died in 1958.
Winter deepens and so does the mystery surrounding Cynthia. She insists the devil is blocking her path to the light long after Psychic Surveys have 'disproved' it. Investigating her apparently unblemished background, Ruby is pulled further and further into Cynthia's world and the darkness that now inhabits it. For the first time in her career, Ruby's deepest beliefs are challenged.
Does evil truly exist?
And if so, is it the most relentless force of all?
It wasn’t as good as I thought it may be but it wasn’t terrible either. Very middle of the road and an ok read. I like the premise and some of the stories. The ending was good and concluded the story of the spirit nicely. I will continue to book 2 as I think the series has promise.
Kindle
The Haunting of Highdown Hall ( Pyschic Surverys book 1 )
By Shai Struthers
Once read a review will be written via Smashbomb and link posted in comments
Based in Lewes, East Sussex, Ruby and her team of freelance psychics have been kept busy of late. Specialising in domestic cases, their solid reputation is spreading - it's not just the dead that can rest in peace but the living too. All is threatened when Ruby receives a call from the irate new owner of Highdown Hall. Film star, Cynthia Hart, is still in residence, despite having died in 1958.
Winter deepens and so does the mystery surrounding Cynthia. She insists the devil is blocking her path to the light long after Psychic Surveys have 'disproved' it. Investigating her apparently unblemished background, Ruby is pulled further and further into Cynthia's world and the darkness that now inhabits it. For the first time in her career, Ruby's deepest beliefs are challenged.
Does evil truly exist?
And if so, is it the most relentless force of all?
It wasn’t as good as I thought it may be but it wasn’t terrible either. Very middle of the road and an ok read. I like the premise and some of the stories. The ending was good and concluded the story of the spirit nicely. I will continue to book 2 as I think the series has promise.
Merissa (12889 KP) rated Earth Wolf & Fire (Eliza Falls #2) in Books
Feb 1, 2023
EARTH WOLF AND FIRE is the second book in the Eliza Falls series, although it can be read as a standalone. The couple from the first book, Seb and Cora, are in here but you don't need their story for this one to work.
Ulla is someone who has connected with Nature at a very young age. Unfortunately, children can be cruel and she paid the price. The only people she really sees as friends are Cora and Desi. She returns home to Eliza Falls and runs into Desi, sparking their friendship again. However, Cora and Desi are now part of a Pack. Through one thing and another, Ulla meets Tate and BOOM. There you go. Insta-lust in spades.
This is a great paranormal romance series, one that I am thoroughly enjoying. It is funny in places, spicy in others, and even the occasional hint of mystery. Ulla and Tate are just so goddamned cute together! AND you get it from both of their perspectives which makes it nicely rounded out.
All in all, this was a great addition to the series. I'm really hoping Desi is next, and with someone she doesn't see coming. Thoroughly enjoyed it and I have no hesitation in recommending 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!
Ulla is someone who has connected with Nature at a very young age. Unfortunately, children can be cruel and she paid the price. The only people she really sees as friends are Cora and Desi. She returns home to Eliza Falls and runs into Desi, sparking their friendship again. However, Cora and Desi are now part of a Pack. Through one thing and another, Ulla meets Tate and BOOM. There you go. Insta-lust in spades.
This is a great paranormal romance series, one that I am thoroughly enjoying. It is funny in places, spicy in others, and even the occasional hint of mystery. Ulla and Tate are just so goddamned cute together! AND you get it from both of their perspectives which makes it nicely rounded out.
All in all, this was a great addition to the series. I'm really hoping Desi is next, and with someone she doesn't see coming. Thoroughly enjoyed it and I have no hesitation in recommending 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!
MaryAnn (14 KP) rated Winning Miss Winthrop (Regency Brides: A Promise of Hope #1) in Books
Mar 5, 2019
Carolyn Miller introduces her new series The Regency Brides. In the first book, we are introduced to Catherine Winthrop who has been recovering from feeling rejected by the man who stole her heart and rejected her love, she is finally feeling like she can move on.
When Catherine's father suddenly passes away, she not only loses the only home that she ever knew, but who moves in and takes her father's title? None other than Jonathan Carlew, the man who broke her heart.
With the rumors about Jonathan's birth and being a tradesman find him without the approval of the ladies parents, but now suddenly finding himself well to do and with a title, he now has plenty of prospects for a wife. Jonathan finds that his responsibilities keep him too busy, but also he only thinks of the woman to whom he lost his heart many years ago.
Can time and forgiveness bring them together?
In this novel, we see the value of forgiveness and how holding a grudge can hurt not only ourselves but those around us. It also teaches how we should always take time to listen to those who are precious. to us.
Carolyn Miller has cleverly brought back some of our favorite characters that not only strengthens the storyline but adds some familiarity and nostalgia for her followers who have read her other novels.
This book was an enjoyment to read I look forward to the next in the series "Serena's Secret"
A must-read for those who like to read historical fiction.
When Catherine's father suddenly passes away, she not only loses the only home that she ever knew, but who moves in and takes her father's title? None other than Jonathan Carlew, the man who broke her heart.
With the rumors about Jonathan's birth and being a tradesman find him without the approval of the ladies parents, but now suddenly finding himself well to do and with a title, he now has plenty of prospects for a wife. Jonathan finds that his responsibilities keep him too busy, but also he only thinks of the woman to whom he lost his heart many years ago.
Can time and forgiveness bring them together?
In this novel, we see the value of forgiveness and how holding a grudge can hurt not only ourselves but those around us. It also teaches how we should always take time to listen to those who are precious. to us.
Carolyn Miller has cleverly brought back some of our favorite characters that not only strengthens the storyline but adds some familiarity and nostalgia for her followers who have read her other novels.
This book was an enjoyment to read I look forward to the next in the series "Serena's Secret"
A must-read for those who like to read historical fiction.
Merissa (12889 KP) rated Hanging with Daddy (Pride Pet Play 2023) in Books
Jun 12, 2023
HANGING WITH DADDY is part of the Pride Pet Play 2023 multi-author series and, to my delight, we return to a character already known - Austin. If you have read A Little Christmas: Terrence then you will know Austin was the one who pushed Warner to help Terrence, cheering them on from the sidelines. Well, now it's his turn and Oh. My. Word!!!
Austin and Gaines are just a perfect couple. Austin is open-minded enough to try things he's never considered before. In this case, being a handler for a very flexible Koala. The scenes with both of them are HOT! The scenes where it's just one give a greater insight into their feelings and emotions, as well as moving the story along. I love Warner and Terrence making an appearance and how Terrence is being drawn into their friendship group. But there's one in that group that I now need a story for - Matty!
I am thoroughly enjoying the Pet Play series and have read some very different stories with different animals. I love the dogs and cats but I have to admit, this koala was so cute! The characteristics, the costumes; I love it all.
No matter how many books I read by this author, I always want more! 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!
Jun 5, 2023
Austin and Gaines are just a perfect couple. Austin is open-minded enough to try things he's never considered before. In this case, being a handler for a very flexible Koala. The scenes with both of them are HOT! The scenes where it's just one give a greater insight into their feelings and emotions, as well as moving the story along. I love Warner and Terrence making an appearance and how Terrence is being drawn into their friendship group. But there's one in that group that I now need a story for - Matty!
I am thoroughly enjoying the Pet Play series and have read some very different stories with different animals. I love the dogs and cats but I have to admit, this koala was so cute! The characteristics, the costumes; I love it all.
No matter how many books I read by this author, I always want more! 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!
Jun 5, 2023
Touch Bible: KJV + Concordance
Reference and Lifestyle
App
Touch Bible - KJV Only Bible works without internet and reads the Bible out loud. It includes a...
Zuky the BookBum (15 KP) rated The Book Of Mirrors in Books
Mar 15, 2018
This novel may have been slow but I found its mystery so enticing that I loved moving and learning with each character. So many theories run through this novel that youre never sure what to think, its a great classic murder mystery.
Its only taken me almost a year to knock this book off my Netgalley shelf, but I finally got there! Id seen lots of hype for this one at the beginning of 2017 but I still didnt feel inclined to pick it up back then. Now Ive read it, Im glad that I waited. I think this one would have disappointed me if I had read it in its prime due to its slow nature, but I can appreciate slow books far more now than I could back then.
Like so many other reviewers, I did think this one was pretty slow paced, but I actually quite liked that about the plot. A cold case of over 20 years isnt going to get solved overnight, so it was practical that it took a while to find out what really went on that night. I do think there were some sections of the book that were unnecessary and added to the slowness of the plot, for example when one narrator gets on a plane and theres a whole segment about an irrelevant salesman talking to him and flirting with a girl. That bit wasnt needed in any way for the plot to progress and did just feel like filler bumf, but Ive read books with far worse filler scenes.
This story is told in a few different ways. Its told in the perspective of 3 different people and then also as a book within a book. I really liked the way this was laid out and think having the 3 different tones of voice gave the story some character it could have missed out on had it just stayed with the one narrator.
Each character in this was interesting in their own way, and I liked that each person had their own story to tell while also moving the main mystery along.
In terms of plot, this one wasnt the most innovative or astounding, but there was something enchanting about it. There were a few different theories as to Professor Weiders demise and I liked that it kept you guessing all along. I was actually quite surprised and impressed by the end of the book, the conclusion to the mystery was cleverly thought out and well executed.
Looking at the reviews of this book I think people are being a little harsh. There are lots of books that are slow mysteries but this one seems to be pissing people off more than most. I know its down to everyones own opinion but I dont see what the big issue with this one was. Personally, I enjoyed it.
<i>Thanks to Netgalley and Arrow for giving me the opportunity to read this in exchange for an honest review.</i>
Its only taken me almost a year to knock this book off my Netgalley shelf, but I finally got there! Id seen lots of hype for this one at the beginning of 2017 but I still didnt feel inclined to pick it up back then. Now Ive read it, Im glad that I waited. I think this one would have disappointed me if I had read it in its prime due to its slow nature, but I can appreciate slow books far more now than I could back then.
Like so many other reviewers, I did think this one was pretty slow paced, but I actually quite liked that about the plot. A cold case of over 20 years isnt going to get solved overnight, so it was practical that it took a while to find out what really went on that night. I do think there were some sections of the book that were unnecessary and added to the slowness of the plot, for example when one narrator gets on a plane and theres a whole segment about an irrelevant salesman talking to him and flirting with a girl. That bit wasnt needed in any way for the plot to progress and did just feel like filler bumf, but Ive read books with far worse filler scenes.
This story is told in a few different ways. Its told in the perspective of 3 different people and then also as a book within a book. I really liked the way this was laid out and think having the 3 different tones of voice gave the story some character it could have missed out on had it just stayed with the one narrator.
Each character in this was interesting in their own way, and I liked that each person had their own story to tell while also moving the main mystery along.
In terms of plot, this one wasnt the most innovative or astounding, but there was something enchanting about it. There were a few different theories as to Professor Weiders demise and I liked that it kept you guessing all along. I was actually quite surprised and impressed by the end of the book, the conclusion to the mystery was cleverly thought out and well executed.
Looking at the reviews of this book I think people are being a little harsh. There are lots of books that are slow mysteries but this one seems to be pissing people off more than most. I know its down to everyones own opinion but I dont see what the big issue with this one was. Personally, I enjoyed it.
<i>Thanks to Netgalley and Arrow for giving me the opportunity to read this in exchange for an honest review.</i>
Merissa (12889 KP) rated Dearest Malachi Keogh (Dearest Milton James #2) in Books
Nov 16, 2021 (Updated Jul 10, 2023)
Now, you may remember that I fell in love with Julian and Malachi in DEAREST MILTON JAMES, which I declared a Mary Poppins book - practically perfect in every way! Let me tell you that this one is no different. DEAREST MALACHI KEOGH is simply outstanding. There's a whole lot packed into this novella, and I devoured every single word.
Malachi and Julian have been together for four years, and Julian wants to propose BUT he wants it to be as special as Malachi is. *Hint* that's a lot!! The whole gang gets involved and what you get is something totally sweet and completely hot at the same time.
My word, but I love these two. I could read them forever, seriously. Told from Julian's perspective, you feel everything. His nerves, his hope, his love. I love Malachi's reactions. He is still fabulous but now doesn't have his hair dyed (shame!).
For a short but sweet seasonal story, this one was fantastic. I loved it, and the characters were like old friends. I really hope this isn't the end of the mailroom. I enjoy myself far too much there.
Do I recommend it? Erm, maybe just a little WHOLE LOT!!! 😍
** 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!
Nov 16, 2021
Malachi and Julian have been together for four years, and Julian wants to propose BUT he wants it to be as special as Malachi is. *Hint* that's a lot!! The whole gang gets involved and what you get is something totally sweet and completely hot at the same time.
My word, but I love these two. I could read them forever, seriously. Told from Julian's perspective, you feel everything. His nerves, his hope, his love. I love Malachi's reactions. He is still fabulous but now doesn't have his hair dyed (shame!).
For a short but sweet seasonal story, this one was fantastic. I loved it, and the characters were like old friends. I really hope this isn't the end of the mailroom. I enjoy myself far too much there.
Do I recommend it? Erm, maybe just a little WHOLE LOT!!! 😍
** 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!
Nov 16, 2021
ClareR (5879 KP) rated Young Queens: Three Renaissance Women and the Price of Power in Books
May 31, 2023
It’s not often that I read a non-fiction history book - I’m more of a historical fiction reader - and I’m really glad that I picked this up.
This book is about the lives of Catherine de’ Medici (married to the French Henry II), Elisabeth of Spain and Mary, Queen of Scots and how their lives wove together.
There are some really interesting facts here (Mary was nearly 6 feet tall - now THIS is the kind of fact I live for!). But it was the personal side that really interested me. Catherine loved her children fiercely even though she had little time with them. She wanted to know every detail of their lives. Her letters to Elisabeth when she went to Spain were filled with family gossip and instructions. Just the kind of stuff that any mother would send their daughter, and Elisabeth appeared to want to always make her mother proud.
Mary and Elisabeth were like sisters, so when Mary needed Elizabeth’s and Spain’s support when the Scottish Lords turned against her, it must have hurt her greatly when they refused to help.
What I liked most was having the opportunity to dip my toes in to the history of France and Spain. It sounded as tumultuous as our own.
I do think that I’m going to have to follow up on Cathrine de’ Medici, though. Now she sounds fascinating!
I’m so glad that I read this - thanks to The Pigeonhole!
This book is about the lives of Catherine de’ Medici (married to the French Henry II), Elisabeth of Spain and Mary, Queen of Scots and how their lives wove together.
There are some really interesting facts here (Mary was nearly 6 feet tall - now THIS is the kind of fact I live for!). But it was the personal side that really interested me. Catherine loved her children fiercely even though she had little time with them. She wanted to know every detail of their lives. Her letters to Elisabeth when she went to Spain were filled with family gossip and instructions. Just the kind of stuff that any mother would send their daughter, and Elisabeth appeared to want to always make her mother proud.
Mary and Elisabeth were like sisters, so when Mary needed Elizabeth’s and Spain’s support when the Scottish Lords turned against her, it must have hurt her greatly when they refused to help.
What I liked most was having the opportunity to dip my toes in to the history of France and Spain. It sounded as tumultuous as our own.
I do think that I’m going to have to follow up on Cathrine de’ Medici, though. Now she sounds fascinating!
I’m so glad that I read this - thanks to The Pigeonhole!