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Debbiereadsbook (1718 KP) rated Of Autumn Leaves and New Beginnings in Books
Sep 29, 2019
didn't quite work for me
Independent reviewer for Archaeolibrarian, I was gifted my copy of this book.
Oren goes to thank his mum's neighbour for helping her when she fell, and he falls, HARD! Pete is married, though, right?
So, three things let this book down, for ME.
Strike one
Single person point of view. Only Oren has a say.
Strike two
First person, present tense. Just doesn't work for me.
Strike three
This was a very VERY short book, took me less than 30 minutes to read it. I have no idea why this lets it down, but you know me and my book feelings and this is what I feel!
BUT
Positive one
When Oren and Pete are on the same page for the first time, they are both straight into whatever *this* is between them.
Positive two
Loved Pete's ex-wife's reaction to finding Pete and Oren getting a little touchy feely.
Positive three
Loved the reaction of Pete's kids to their Extra-Daddy.
It is well written, and I saw no spelling or editing errors to spoil my reading. It was a *nice* read. (And you know how I feel about using that word!)
3 good solid stars
**same worded review will appear elsewhere**
Oren goes to thank his mum's neighbour for helping her when she fell, and he falls, HARD! Pete is married, though, right?
So, three things let this book down, for ME.
Strike one
Single person point of view. Only Oren has a say.
Strike two
First person, present tense. Just doesn't work for me.
Strike three
This was a very VERY short book, took me less than 30 minutes to read it. I have no idea why this lets it down, but you know me and my book feelings and this is what I feel!
BUT
Positive one
When Oren and Pete are on the same page for the first time, they are both straight into whatever *this* is between them.
Positive two
Loved Pete's ex-wife's reaction to finding Pete and Oren getting a little touchy feely.
Positive three
Loved the reaction of Pete's kids to their Extra-Daddy.
It is well written, and I saw no spelling or editing errors to spoil my reading. It was a *nice* read. (And you know how I feel about using that word!)
3 good solid stars
**same worded review will appear elsewhere**
The title describes the book
I loved this book. It is one of the best crime books I have read. The title was relevant as this book had so many twist and turns. The last one was definitely the best and I did not see it coming.
I was gripped to this book and really could not put this down. I had to see what happened next. Some of the things I guessed but this was at the end. I couldn't of guessed the twists through the beginning and middle part of the book.
The whole book went together so well. I was surprised at how many people had been killed by the 'killer'.
I felt so many different emotions when reading this book - shock, surprise, fearful, gripped.
My feelings towards some of the characters changed throughout the book which is usual in crime books.
I couldn't find fault with the story or writing on the book.
This isn't like any book I have read before which is always good.
The blurb was so short it gave nothing away but this matched the book 100%.
I would definitely recommend this book to anyone who loves a crime book.
I was gripped to this book and really could not put this down. I had to see what happened next. Some of the things I guessed but this was at the end. I couldn't of guessed the twists through the beginning and middle part of the book.
The whole book went together so well. I was surprised at how many people had been killed by the 'killer'.
I felt so many different emotions when reading this book - shock, surprise, fearful, gripped.
My feelings towards some of the characters changed throughout the book which is usual in crime books.
I couldn't find fault with the story or writing on the book.
This isn't like any book I have read before which is always good.
The blurb was so short it gave nothing away but this matched the book 100%.
I would definitely recommend this book to anyone who loves a crime book.
Merissa (13937 KP) rated Assassin's Touch (Iron Portal #1) in Books
Apr 13, 2023
In an alternate reality exists two worlds, both at war with each other. Neyla is drawn into this war against her will when it is discovered that she has a latent Talent. Enscripted into the army, in a war full of propaganda and struggling with the mistrust of the soldiers she's supposed to be fighting with, she is injured by a soldier on her side and captured by a 'barbarian'.
Taken over into Cascadia, she soon learns that the war is different to the stories that she's been fed. Given time to spend with the citizens, she realises that she doesn't want to go back. Of course, Rickert might also play a big part in that as the attraction between the two absolutely sizzles.
This is a fantastic start to the series with wonderful world-building. The characters are all full-bodied and believable, even the ones you dislike. Thoroughly enjoyable and definitely recommended for those who want a short but hot paranormal romance read.
* 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 21, 2015
Taken over into Cascadia, she soon learns that the war is different to the stories that she's been fed. Given time to spend with the citizens, she realises that she doesn't want to go back. Of course, Rickert might also play a big part in that as the attraction between the two absolutely sizzles.
This is a fantastic start to the series with wonderful world-building. The characters are all full-bodied and believable, even the ones you dislike. Thoroughly enjoyable and definitely recommended for those who want a short but hot paranormal romance read.
* 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 21, 2015
ClareR (6129 KP) rated The Stranding in Books
Jul 27, 2022
I have serious feelings about this book, and I’ll start by saying that I would give this ALL the stars if I could.
Ruth tries to ignore the bad news going on in the world. She goes to work, moves in with her boyfriend, realises he’s not who she thought he was, has a short-lived affair, ends it with the boyfriend and decides to go travelling.
So Ruth is on a New Zealand beach with a complete stranger when the worst thing that could happen, does happen. They hide inside the carcass of a recently dead whale, and when they re-emerge onto the beach, everything is changed.
This is told in alternate chapters of before and after, and shows the stark difference between the two times. It also shows what’s really important in a life: the human drive to survive and love.
Honestly, I’m so desperate for other people to read this, that I don’t want to give too much away, so that you don’t lose that element of surprise and the joy tinged with sadness when you turn each page. It really did make me think about what’s important in my own life.
The Stranding was just an absolute pleasure to read.
Ruth tries to ignore the bad news going on in the world. She goes to work, moves in with her boyfriend, realises he’s not who she thought he was, has a short-lived affair, ends it with the boyfriend and decides to go travelling.
So Ruth is on a New Zealand beach with a complete stranger when the worst thing that could happen, does happen. They hide inside the carcass of a recently dead whale, and when they re-emerge onto the beach, everything is changed.
This is told in alternate chapters of before and after, and shows the stark difference between the two times. It also shows what’s really important in a life: the human drive to survive and love.
Honestly, I’m so desperate for other people to read this, that I don’t want to give too much away, so that you don’t lose that element of surprise and the joy tinged with sadness when you turn each page. It really did make me think about what’s important in my own life.
The Stranding was just an absolute pleasure to read.
Mark @ Carstairs Considers (2528 KP) rated Haunted House Murder in Books
Aug 17, 2022
Weak Novella
Halloween is coming, but everyone in Tinker’s Cove is talking about the old, abandoned house in town. While it looks run down from the outside, someone has bought it and moved in during the middle of the night. However, they aren’t very friendly, rebuffing Lucy’s and other’s attempts to welcome them to town. Then the rumors start flying and strange events start happening. What is really going on in this house?
I know that the Lucy Stone series is extremely popular, but I struggle to get through the stories I have read. Part of it is Lucy’s family. I haven’t spent enough time with them to look past their faults and love them, I guess. And, let’s face it, that is often what we have to do with people in real life. In this case, I found the story to be better suited to a short story than even a novella. It’s not bad, but it felt drawn out and a little forced.
NOTE: This story is a novella, roughly 100 pages, and was originally part of the novella collection Haunted House Murder. If you have that book, there is no need to buy this ebook. If you haven’t read the story, now is the time consider this Halloween trip to Maine.
I know that the Lucy Stone series is extremely popular, but I struggle to get through the stories I have read. Part of it is Lucy’s family. I haven’t spent enough time with them to look past their faults and love them, I guess. And, let’s face it, that is often what we have to do with people in real life. In this case, I found the story to be better suited to a short story than even a novella. It’s not bad, but it felt drawn out and a little forced.
NOTE: This story is a novella, roughly 100 pages, and was originally part of the novella collection Haunted House Murder. If you have that book, there is no need to buy this ebook. If you haven’t read the story, now is the time consider this Halloween trip to Maine.
Hazel (2934 KP) rated A Cure For Everything: A Vampire Novella in Books
Sep 22, 2022
I don't usually read vampire books, I love a good horror book every now and again but I've never really got into vampire books so wasn't sure if this was something I would enjoy but I thought, what the heck, why not? And, I was pleasantly surprised because it wasn't what I expected at all - it was so much more.
The premise is quite simple really, Millie is happily married with 2 young children when she receives a devastating diagnosis meaning she has but months left to live. However, there is a cure ... become a vampire! Seems like a simple decision doesn't it? Not so for Millie - her mum was a vampire and it didn't end well so what will she do? And when you think you know what's going to happen, Mr Jenkins throws in a great twist which left me wanting more.
A great, quick read that I thoroughly enjoyed and that cover, wow ... eye-catching and creepy.
I am looking forward to reading more of Mr Jenkins work if this short story if anything to go by and I must thank him for making me a part of his Advance Reader Team but this in no way influenced my thoughts on this novella which I thoroughly enjoyed.
The premise is quite simple really, Millie is happily married with 2 young children when she receives a devastating diagnosis meaning she has but months left to live. However, there is a cure ... become a vampire! Seems like a simple decision doesn't it? Not so for Millie - her mum was a vampire and it didn't end well so what will she do? And when you think you know what's going to happen, Mr Jenkins throws in a great twist which left me wanting more.
A great, quick read that I thoroughly enjoyed and that cover, wow ... eye-catching and creepy.
I am looking forward to reading more of Mr Jenkins work if this short story if anything to go by and I must thank him for making me a part of his Advance Reader Team but this in no way influenced my thoughts on this novella which I thoroughly enjoyed.
Merissa (13937 KP) rated Three of a Kind in Books
Jun 7, 2023
Zane is a young man, still underage to drink, and has escaped from a short but damaging 'relationship'. He is beaten up, with no money, and a run-down truck, but he keeps going. He has to find something to live for. What finds him, or rather, WHO finds him is Butch. Butch is currently working two jobs but still finds the time to help someone stuck at the side of the road. Zane goes home with Butch and is introduced to Butch's partner, Randy.
The part that I enjoyed about this book is that all three characters are completely different from each other. With their own sets of foibles, these three find ways to complement each other, without it being hard work.
An easy-going, easy-flowing story, this isn't all fluffy and light as Zane's full story comes out. I am glad that he was able to work through things, with Butch and Randy's help. Sometimes funny, sometimes sad, this is an enjoyable read. Definitely recommended.
* 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!
Apr 26, 2016
The part that I enjoyed about this book is that all three characters are completely different from each other. With their own sets of foibles, these three find ways to complement each other, without it being hard work.
An easy-going, easy-flowing story, this isn't all fluffy and light as Zane's full story comes out. I am glad that he was able to work through things, with Butch and Randy's help. Sometimes funny, sometimes sad, this is an enjoyable read. Definitely recommended.
* 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!
Apr 26, 2016
Merissa (13937 KP) rated Captured Prey (Second Circle Entry #1) in Books
Jan 27, 2026
CAPTURED PREY is the first novella in the Second Circle Entry series, and the first by this author that I have read. I went in with no expectations apart from the blurb. What I got was a great story.
Celia is a professor, single, and buttoned up. She longs for something she knows she will never get, that is, until she finds the Oubliette. The nightclub looks like it's for the rich and famous, but is so much more. When Asmodeus offers her everything she wants, she is dubious but accepts. And she certainly gives Lahs a run for his money!
I thoroughly enjoyed this story, short as it was. I would have enjoyed it more if it were longer, but that's probably just me being greedy! I loved the connection between Lahs and Celia, with Asmodeus watching from the sidelines. This was a great introduction to this author, and I will certainly be reading more from her. 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; the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Jan 27, 2026
Celia is a professor, single, and buttoned up. She longs for something she knows she will never get, that is, until she finds the Oubliette. The nightclub looks like it's for the rich and famous, but is so much more. When Asmodeus offers her everything she wants, she is dubious but accepts. And she certainly gives Lahs a run for his money!
I thoroughly enjoyed this story, short as it was. I would have enjoyed it more if it were longer, but that's probably just me being greedy! I loved the connection between Lahs and Celia, with Asmodeus watching from the sidelines. This was a great introduction to this author, and I will certainly be reading more from her. 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; the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Jan 27, 2026
Merissa (13937 KP) rated Crush (Unhinged Holidays #3) in Books
Jan 23, 2026
CRUSH is the third novella in the Unhinged Holidays series, featuring Cupid no less! He arrives to help Anabel and Cole break through the man-made barriers and fears that stop them from loving each other. He's only supposed to watch and guide, not participate. That's fine, surely?!
Nope!
Luca is drawn from the very first moment to Anabel and Cole. He is turned on by watching them, even more so when they give him permission to join in. And the three of them together? Hot, hot, hot!
This was a quick, short read that is full of heat, emotion, and connections you hoped for, but never expected. It takes place over one night, so don't expect an in-depth backstory. However, if you're here for a steamy love menage, then you're in the right place.
I will say, this isn't my favourite of the series; that title still belongs with Spice. However, I thoroughly enjoyed every word and definitely recommend 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; the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Jan 23, 2026
Nope!
Luca is drawn from the very first moment to Anabel and Cole. He is turned on by watching them, even more so when they give him permission to join in. And the three of them together? Hot, hot, hot!
This was a quick, short read that is full of heat, emotion, and connections you hoped for, but never expected. It takes place over one night, so don't expect an in-depth backstory. However, if you're here for a steamy love menage, then you're in the right place.
I will say, this isn't my favourite of the series; that title still belongs with Spice. However, I thoroughly enjoyed every word and definitely recommend 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; the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Jan 23, 2026
I wanted to read this book for the first story by Mercedes Lackey, since I am a fan of the Five Hundred Kingdom series. This story featured Leopold and Brunnhilde in a setting straight out of Greek mythology. In short, I loved it. It weaves Leopold's quest for immortality in with the tale of Persephone and her union with Hades. The perspective is different from the usual story of a victimized Persephone, and turns her into a strong, young woman who will stop at nothing to be with the man she loves. To make Greek mythology fit in with the rest of the series, Lackey explains that the Gods and Goddesses of Mount Olympus are half-Fae who have forgotten their origins thanks to the power of The Tradition.
I am not familiar with the second author, Michelle Sagara. This short story is a prequel to her Chronicles of Elantra series and introduces the reader to the character of Kaylin Neya. I was a little lost when I began this story because of the variety of characters that I was introduced to at the very beginning. I actually was not even sure who the story was about at first. The story seemed a bit bogged down with details and descriptions, and Kaylin seemed to get lost in the mayhem of Sagara's attempt to introduce the reader to the world of Elantra in such a short tale. I stuck with it, though, and by the end of the story I was intrigued enough to want to continue on with the series in Cast in Shadow (The Chronicles of Elantra, Book 1).
The third story, written by Caleron Haley, is meant to be a prequel to Mob Rules (Luna Books). I am not familiar with this author either, and when I began this story I realized immediately that this story was heavily-flavored with gangster-style speak and vocabulary, even more so than the urban fantasy elements. I really tried to adjust to the language used in the story, but the lack of explanation to accompany such terms as "juice" and "outfit", as well as the overabundance of foul-mouthed language and typical gangster lingo like "capping" someone mad me lose interest in the actual plot of the short story halfway through. I am sure there are other readers that enjoy this style of story-telling, but I am not one of them.
I am not familiar with the second author, Michelle Sagara. This short story is a prequel to her Chronicles of Elantra series and introduces the reader to the character of Kaylin Neya. I was a little lost when I began this story because of the variety of characters that I was introduced to at the very beginning. I actually was not even sure who the story was about at first. The story seemed a bit bogged down with details and descriptions, and Kaylin seemed to get lost in the mayhem of Sagara's attempt to introduce the reader to the world of Elantra in such a short tale. I stuck with it, though, and by the end of the story I was intrigued enough to want to continue on with the series in Cast in Shadow (The Chronicles of Elantra, Book 1).
The third story, written by Caleron Haley, is meant to be a prequel to Mob Rules (Luna Books). I am not familiar with this author either, and when I began this story I realized immediately that this story was heavily-flavored with gangster-style speak and vocabulary, even more so than the urban fantasy elements. I really tried to adjust to the language used in the story, but the lack of explanation to accompany such terms as "juice" and "outfit", as well as the overabundance of foul-mouthed language and typical gangster lingo like "capping" someone mad me lose interest in the actual plot of the short story halfway through. I am sure there are other readers that enjoy this style of story-telling, but I am not one of them.