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Merissa (12822 KP) rated Where There's a Will (Dads & Adages #1) in Books
Aug 3, 2023
WHERE THERE'S A WILL is the first book in the Dads & Adages series, and it's definitely one I'll be reading more in. It is also the first book by this author I have read.
This deals with some heavy subjects, so please take note of the trigger warnings. For myself, I thought they were incredibly well handled, providing depth and detail to the story.
Con is thirty-two, with a sister, Daisy, who is twenty-two and pregnant when we first meet them. Con is in a relationship but the cracks are showing and you know it won't last. Will is his sexy silver fox fireman neighbour who lives upstairs. Tragedy strikes early on and Daisy is killed, leaving Con in charge of her newborn baby.
Considering the topics, I found this book to be fairly low-angst. If Con and Will have a problem, they talk it through. Of course, this doesn't work out in every situation, but it was nice to see it happen. What was also nice was the support system both Con and Will had, both together and separately. Having Will's adult sons in here in a supportive role, rather than antagonistic, made it a great read.
If I had anything negative to say, it would be that I was left wondering about Daisy's accident. Why did she get in the car? Was it to see Con? What happened? Small things, I know.
Full of real-life problems with no magic answers, I was completely involved with this 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; the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Aug 3, 2023
This deals with some heavy subjects, so please take note of the trigger warnings. For myself, I thought they were incredibly well handled, providing depth and detail to the story.
Con is thirty-two, with a sister, Daisy, who is twenty-two and pregnant when we first meet them. Con is in a relationship but the cracks are showing and you know it won't last. Will is his sexy silver fox fireman neighbour who lives upstairs. Tragedy strikes early on and Daisy is killed, leaving Con in charge of her newborn baby.
Considering the topics, I found this book to be fairly low-angst. If Con and Will have a problem, they talk it through. Of course, this doesn't work out in every situation, but it was nice to see it happen. What was also nice was the support system both Con and Will had, both together and separately. Having Will's adult sons in here in a supportive role, rather than antagonistic, made it a great read.
If I had anything negative to say, it would be that I was left wondering about Daisy's accident. Why did she get in the car? Was it to see Con? What happened? Small things, I know.
Full of real-life problems with no magic answers, I was completely involved with this 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; the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Aug 3, 2023
Merissa (12822 KP) rated The Bridled Tongue in Books
Feb 1, 2021 (Updated Aug 7, 2023)
THE BRIDLED TONGUE is set in the late 1500s when Alyce returns home from being in service. Her sister, Isabel, has always been in competition with Alyce but now feels as though she has won. After all, she is married - even if there are whispers of his infidelities. Things soon turn around after Alyce is betrothed, and marries, a man of higher standing than her husband. Will Isabel leave the competition behind, or will it turn deadly?
I think you know which way it will go - after all, there would be no story otherwise. What you need to do though is read this one for yourself. Instead of just reading my review which skims along the surface, take the time to delve into the depths of this amazing novel that will keep you turning the pages.
The timeline is historically accurate, with a few fictional additions. The scenes are brilliantly described and will make you feel as though you are there. Sibling rivalry can be harsh indeed, especially when it is encouraged. The circumstances between Alyce and Isabel are incredibly well thought out and explained. It was also easy to see how things could get so out of hand.
One thing I loved was seeing the relationship develop between Alyce and Thomas. From acceptance, to respect, to love. Simply delightful and wonderful to read.
This book is a 5-star review from me. It couldn't be anything else. A fantastic portrayal of the times and absolutely recommended by me.
* 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 1, 2021
I think you know which way it will go - after all, there would be no story otherwise. What you need to do though is read this one for yourself. Instead of just reading my review which skims along the surface, take the time to delve into the depths of this amazing novel that will keep you turning the pages.
The timeline is historically accurate, with a few fictional additions. The scenes are brilliantly described and will make you feel as though you are there. Sibling rivalry can be harsh indeed, especially when it is encouraged. The circumstances between Alyce and Isabel are incredibly well thought out and explained. It was also easy to see how things could get so out of hand.
One thing I loved was seeing the relationship develop between Alyce and Thomas. From acceptance, to respect, to love. Simply delightful and wonderful to read.
This book is a 5-star review from me. It couldn't be anything else. A fantastic portrayal of the times and absolutely recommended by me.
* 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 1, 2021
Merissa (12822 KP) rated Night of the Vampire (Deathless Night - Into the Dark #1) in Books
Jan 8, 2021 (Updated Aug 7, 2023)
NIGHT OF THE VAMPIRE is the first book in the Deathless Night - Into the Dark series. Killian is a vampire, the leader of a coven... sort of. Bless him, Killian is desperate for companionship but has gone about it the wrong way. His best friend now only tolerates him. All that is by the by though as they try to save another member, a little sister figure to them, Kenya. Killian thinks she has been cursed by the witches. He finds out there is a new witch in town and tries to convince her to help Kenya before the witches can turn her against him. Only trouble is, Lizzy is the niece of the High Priestess so things just took a complicated turn...
This is the start of a series, so there is a lot left unknown. Killian and Lizzy get their HFN, but I can only keep my fingers crossed for the long term! Something is targeting the vampires, something the witches don't want to be involved with.
I thoroughly enjoyed Lizzy and Killian's story, especially how she made him work! I am hoping she will work with the witches in future books to develop her skill, as I think she will need it for whoever set fire to her apartment.
I also can't wait for Alex and Kenya's story, plus I'm hoping we get some more information on the overall story arc.
A brilliant introduction to the series that has left me wanting far more than what I got! Bring on book 2!
* 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!
Jan 8, 2021
This is the start of a series, so there is a lot left unknown. Killian and Lizzy get their HFN, but I can only keep my fingers crossed for the long term! Something is targeting the vampires, something the witches don't want to be involved with.
I thoroughly enjoyed Lizzy and Killian's story, especially how she made him work! I am hoping she will work with the witches in future books to develop her skill, as I think she will need it for whoever set fire to her apartment.
I also can't wait for Alex and Kenya's story, plus I'm hoping we get some more information on the overall story arc.
A brilliant introduction to the series that has left me wanting far more than what I got! Bring on book 2!
* 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!
Jan 8, 2021
The Children on the Hill
7.0
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A genre-defying new novel, inspired by Mary Shelley’s masterpiece Frankenstein, which brilliantly...
contemporary fiction Vermont
![The Girls on Chalk Hill (Detective Lexi Bennett #1) [Audiobook]](/uploads/profile_image/741/d09ec1cd-9c4a-4cea-9388-9df13c5e0741.jpg?m=1685882567)
The Girls on Chalk Hill (Detective Lexi Bennett #1) [Audiobook]
9.0
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They lie on the hillside, wearing matching white dresses, tiaras in their blonde hair. Each of them...
Merissa (12822 KP) rated Rebels (The Reverians #2) in Books
Jun 7, 2023
This is the second book in the Reverians series and continues after a three-month break. Those three months aren't lost in the aether though, we learn how Em and Rogue have lived together and what they have achieved during that time. Em goes back to Austin Valley though, and that is to try and save Rogue. His headaches are becoming more debilitating and she fears for him.
WOW! This book is jam-packed full of emotion, so consider yourself warned already. We find out more about Vider's plans and just how atrocious that man is. If you're looking for a 'big bad' with redeeming qualities, you've got the wrong series. This man is evil, through and through. We also get a glimpse of how it began when Rogue's mom plays an important role in bringing things to a head.
The emotional pain keeps on coming for Em, with hits coming from every direction, including her father and sister. It might be wrong, but I was smiling at a certain part involving them, even knowing that Em would be guilt-ridden because of it!
This is so incredibly well-written, from the first word to the last. *Fair warning* - I said it was emotional, the ending tore out my heart, ripped it into tiny pieces and then stomped all over it! In other words, you 'might' need to have a Kleenex handy!!!
Absolutely and definitely recommended. I definitely need the third book in this series, Warriors. I'm simply not prepared for my Reverian adventure to end.
* I received this book from the author in return for a fair and honest review. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Apr 24, 2016
WOW! This book is jam-packed full of emotion, so consider yourself warned already. We find out more about Vider's plans and just how atrocious that man is. If you're looking for a 'big bad' with redeeming qualities, you've got the wrong series. This man is evil, through and through. We also get a glimpse of how it began when Rogue's mom plays an important role in bringing things to a head.
The emotional pain keeps on coming for Em, with hits coming from every direction, including her father and sister. It might be wrong, but I was smiling at a certain part involving them, even knowing that Em would be guilt-ridden because of it!
This is so incredibly well-written, from the first word to the last. *Fair warning* - I said it was emotional, the ending tore out my heart, ripped it into tiny pieces and then stomped all over it! In other words, you 'might' need to have a Kleenex handy!!!
Absolutely and definitely recommended. I definitely need the third book in this series, Warriors. I'm simply not prepared for my Reverian adventure to end.
* I received this book from the author in return for a fair and honest review. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Apr 24, 2016
Debbiereadsbook (1421 KP) rated Hidden Rooms in Books
May 3, 2024
4 very VERY good stars
Independent reviewer for Archaeolibrarian via BookSirens, I was gifted my copy of this book.
This is the author's debut novel, and I reckon she nailed it!
Riley's sister-in-law to be, Beth, is murdered, and her brother Ethan, is the prime suspect. Riley knows he's innocent, and sets about to prove it.
What I particularly liked about this, was being kept on my toes! Until it all came out, I didn't know whether Ethan did it or not!
Beth is keeping secrets, and those secrets cost her, but again, it takes time for things to come out.
Everything does take a time to come out, and I suggest, if like me, you weren't liking the slow pace, KEEP AT IT! It does speed up and move at pace. I am glad I kept with it.
Riley tells a great tale, even with this illness that rocks her through much of the book. I enjoyed her, especially as she is the only voice in the book. I liked the way the illness was dealt with, or not for much of the time!
I think I might not have enjoyed this so much had someone else had a say, which is contrary to my usual "I wanted to hear from everyone" thing, I know, but I really did like Riley.
It's well written, and well delivered. There is just enough suspense, once it kicks off, to keep you fully engaged and invested with this group of people.
As an ARC reader of many years, my primary genre is romance. Once in a while something different will come through and my interest is piqued. I am certainly glad I took this one on, and will absolutely read more by this author as and when.
4 very VERY good stars
*same worded review will appear elsewhere
This is the author's debut novel, and I reckon she nailed it!
Riley's sister-in-law to be, Beth, is murdered, and her brother Ethan, is the prime suspect. Riley knows he's innocent, and sets about to prove it.
What I particularly liked about this, was being kept on my toes! Until it all came out, I didn't know whether Ethan did it or not!
Beth is keeping secrets, and those secrets cost her, but again, it takes time for things to come out.
Everything does take a time to come out, and I suggest, if like me, you weren't liking the slow pace, KEEP AT IT! It does speed up and move at pace. I am glad I kept with it.
Riley tells a great tale, even with this illness that rocks her through much of the book. I enjoyed her, especially as she is the only voice in the book. I liked the way the illness was dealt with, or not for much of the time!
I think I might not have enjoyed this so much had someone else had a say, which is contrary to my usual "I wanted to hear from everyone" thing, I know, but I really did like Riley.
It's well written, and well delivered. There is just enough suspense, once it kicks off, to keep you fully engaged and invested with this group of people.
As an ARC reader of many years, my primary genre is romance. Once in a while something different will come through and my interest is piqued. I am certainly glad I took this one on, and will absolutely read more by this author as and when.
4 very VERY good stars
*same worded review will appear elsewhere
Young Elizabeth: Princess. Prisoner. Queen
10.0
Rate It
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Elizabeth I is one of England's most famous monarchs, whose story as the ‘Virgin Queen’ is well...
ClareR (5874 KP) rated Sun of Blood and Ruin in Books
Mar 10, 2024
It’s not often I have something negative to say about a book (you may have noticed), because I really try to choose books that I know I’ll enjoy. After all, who wants to read something they don’t enjoy? I did have high hopes that Sun of Blood and Ruin would be so much more. I was excited that this book was using Mesoamerican mythology and a bit of Mexican history, something I know nothing about.
I remember watching Zoro as a child, and this book felt like that in places. Except Pantera is female - she is a ‘master’ swords-person, a magician and a shapeshifter. So far, so good. Leonora de Las Casas Tlazohtzin is her alter-ego (or is it the other way round? Im never sure which way round it should be) - it’s a great disguise. She is the sister of the regent of New Spain, and promised to the Spanish Prince - who will ever guess that she’s really Pantera?
What didn’t quite gel with me was the way the story was put together. It didn’t feel like a cohesive novel, more like exciting shorts that had been joined together. I think if I’d read this as a graphic novel or a series of short stories, I would have enjoyed it so much more. The second half of the novel is far better than the first half, I will say that.
Perhaps I’m not the right audience for this book? I do like this genre though, and I do read a fair bit of YA Fantasy, so I’m really not so sure it’s that. It looks as though there will be a follow up, and I’d be interested to see if the style is in any way improved and where the story is going next - so this book is definitely a “like” from me.
I remember watching Zoro as a child, and this book felt like that in places. Except Pantera is female - she is a ‘master’ swords-person, a magician and a shapeshifter. So far, so good. Leonora de Las Casas Tlazohtzin is her alter-ego (or is it the other way round? Im never sure which way round it should be) - it’s a great disguise. She is the sister of the regent of New Spain, and promised to the Spanish Prince - who will ever guess that she’s really Pantera?
What didn’t quite gel with me was the way the story was put together. It didn’t feel like a cohesive novel, more like exciting shorts that had been joined together. I think if I’d read this as a graphic novel or a series of short stories, I would have enjoyed it so much more. The second half of the novel is far better than the first half, I will say that.
Perhaps I’m not the right audience for this book? I do like this genre though, and I do read a fair bit of YA Fantasy, so I’m really not so sure it’s that. It looks as though there will be a follow up, and I’d be interested to see if the style is in any way improved and where the story is going next - so this book is definitely a “like” from me.
Lyndsey Gollogly (2893 KP) rated So Close ( Blacklist 1) in Books
Apr 26, 2024
77 of 220
Book
So close ( Blacklist 1)
By Sylvia Day
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
The one you believe isn't always the one you can trust...
Widower Kane Black is still ruinously married to his late wife, Lily. Grief has hollowed him… until he sees a woman with his wife’s inimitable beauty on the streets of Manhattan. He whisks her up to his towering penthouse, protectively under guard, nestling her in dark opulence where Lily’s memory is a possessive beguiling force.
Aliyah, Kane’s mother, deals in science. There are too many questions, too few answers, and too much at stake. “Lily” has dangerous control over Kane and there can be only one queen on the throne.
Amy, Kane’s sister-in-law, has been bloodied by deceit and betrayal, and she’s devolving into murderous rage. She’s paid too high a price and now intends to claim what she’s owed.
Three women, linked by buried secrets, circle the man who unquestioningly accepts the return of his beloved long-dead wife. Kane is happier than he’s ever been, and he’ll do anything to stay that way.
This was different to what I expected. First of all I think I’ve been starved of news from the Crosses and it was nice to catch up on them a little. This is was messed up family all being played by a devious mother trying to control her sons. Amy is completely vindictive and horrid but is it a product of what these men and the mother in law from hell have done or is she naturally that way? When you read this and learn about Lily I wasn’t expecting the answer and yes I had a WTF moment! The book was good and I did enjoy it but I think the last 10 chapters are what made me give it 4⭐️ instead of 3.
Book
So close ( Blacklist 1)
By Sylvia Day
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
The one you believe isn't always the one you can trust...
Widower Kane Black is still ruinously married to his late wife, Lily. Grief has hollowed him… until he sees a woman with his wife’s inimitable beauty on the streets of Manhattan. He whisks her up to his towering penthouse, protectively under guard, nestling her in dark opulence where Lily’s memory is a possessive beguiling force.
Aliyah, Kane’s mother, deals in science. There are too many questions, too few answers, and too much at stake. “Lily” has dangerous control over Kane and there can be only one queen on the throne.
Amy, Kane’s sister-in-law, has been bloodied by deceit and betrayal, and she’s devolving into murderous rage. She’s paid too high a price and now intends to claim what she’s owed.
Three women, linked by buried secrets, circle the man who unquestioningly accepts the return of his beloved long-dead wife. Kane is happier than he’s ever been, and he’ll do anything to stay that way.
This was different to what I expected. First of all I think I’ve been starved of news from the Crosses and it was nice to catch up on them a little. This is was messed up family all being played by a devious mother trying to control her sons. Amy is completely vindictive and horrid but is it a product of what these men and the mother in law from hell have done or is she naturally that way? When you read this and learn about Lily I wasn’t expecting the answer and yes I had a WTF moment! The book was good and I did enjoy it but I think the last 10 chapters are what made me give it 4⭐️ instead of 3.