HAPPY RELEASE DAY!

The highly anticipated sequel to Cameo Renae's phenomenal book, In My Dreams, is finally here!! If you haven't read In My Dreams yet, you have been missing out on a treasure of emotions it evokes. Grab it, read it, then dive into In My Reality. 

In My Reality (Sequel to In My Dreams) by Cameo Renae

Genre: NA Paranormal Romance

Cover Designer: Stephanie Hobbs of Steph's Cover Design

Amazon & KU Link

 http://amzn.to/2heXMOA

ABOUT THE BOOK

It’s been three years since Michael’s death, and life isn’t any easier. The gift bestowed upon me has only grown stronger. I see the dead, everywhere. Those who have remained earthbound are looking for answers, or have messages for their loved ones. That’s what I do. I help resolve those questions, then assist them in crossing over.

Lately, I’ve had a recurring nightmare—a guy, badly injured in a car crash. Each time I’ve called out to him, he never answers. I’ve never even seen his face.

My mentor, Lucy Crow, believes he’s still alive, and I’m supposed to help him. That my dreams are not just subconscious thoughts; they’re premonitions.

For the first time ever, I will leave my reclusive life in Alaska. My best friend Emily is taking me to California for spring break. She thinks it’s time for me to find someone—to start living again. But what I need to find is the answer to my nightmares.

Little do I know...my answer will find me.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

 

FACEBOOK ~ WEBSITE ~ TWITTER ~ 

Cameo Renae was born in San Francisco, raised in Maui, Hawaii, and now resides with her husband and children in Alaska. She's a daydreamer, caffeine and peppermint addict, who loves to laugh, and loves to read to escape reality. 

One of her greatest joys is creating fantasy worlds filled with adventure and romance and sharing it with others. It is the love of her family and amazing support of her fans that keeps her going. 

One day she hopes to find her own magic wardrobe and ride away on her magical unicorn. Until then...she'll keep writing!

Here is Book 1
so you can catch up on the series.

http://amzn.to/2hy67gR

Presented by

Now in My Bookbag: Warrior, (A Relentless Novel), by Karen Lynch

This is the perfect companion book for the Relentless Series. Told from Nikolas’ point of view, it is written as a seamless comparison to Sara’s point of view.

Author Karen Lynch adds so much depth and complexity to Nikolas’ character. It also adds extra layers to the world-building that is already imaginative and well-written.

Lynch’s creation of Warrior is a great decision that certainly enhances my reading experience. Well done. 5 stars

Now in My Bookbag: In My Dreams, by Ciara Knight

 

Such a sweet romance, even though Charlotte and Brady are a bit more abrasive than Knight’s Riverbend characters, but inclusion of her previous characters offsets some of the grating feel. The world-building for this town takes place in earlier books. 31/4 stars

Now in My Bookbag: The Bones of Odin, (Matt Drake Book 1), by David Leadbeater

I think that I was looking for something of an Indiana Jones adventure. While Leadbeater delivers shades of Indy, there are way too many ideas in this book... many of them are underdeveloped.

Drake is a very interesting character. It is unfortunate that his character is not further developed. Frey is a great foil for Drake, but Frey is underdeveloped. Regrettably, there are far too many other characters. It is difficult to remember who is who sometimes.

I had really hoped to like this book as a slight change of pace for me, but I just don't find it to be very enjoyable. 2 stars

Now in My Bookbag: True North, (Aurora Sky Vampire Hunter), by Nikki Jefford

I like this series by author Nikki Jefford. There are a lot of good ideas, characters that are interesting, and an engaging story. Overall, this series is good. I wish that the overall story arc was condensed into five books rather than the six.

Unfortunately, this book suffers from the “end of the line” syndrome that plagues some books. I feel that the last fourth of this book should have been included in book five, Whiteout. In fact, it would be great if Hunting Season, Whiteout, and True North could be edited down to two books, rather than three. Despite some very interesting plot points, there are parts of each of the three books that feel like filler.

There is not much character development in True North, other than that of Noel.

Aurora Sky Vampire Hunter is a good series, but I am not that impressed with this final book, (other than the aforementioned final fourth). 2 1/4 stars

Now in My Bookbag: Whiteout (Aurora Sky Vampire Hunter), by Nikki Jefford

I am conflicted about this book. I really like the plot progression, and feel that most of the book is filled with excitement and adventure. There is a lot of action, which I like. However, Aurora is still written as a character who is less physically able to hold her own, despite boot camp training and almost a year of vampire hunting. There is not a lot of character development, yet most of this book is character driven.

Having already finished this series, I wish that the final three books of the series, (Hunting Season, Whiteout, & North Star) were combined into two. I think that would produce two content-filled books with very little fluff. 3 1/4 stars

Now in My Bookbag: Hunting Season, (Aurora Sky Vampire Hunter), by Nikki Jefford

I am not as impressed with Hunting Season. There is too much fluff. There is too much made of planning to save Dante, when the simplest, most efficient plan is mentioned halfway through the book. Aurora already has all of the help she needs and a solid plan to pull off the rescue. Instead, this book’s plot becomes more and more convoluted the further it goes.

For me, this book is okay. I like the further development of the Noel character. I appreciate the level of self discovery and maturation experienced by Aurora. One of my favorite examples of this:

“Suddenly I felt bereft at all the opportunities I’d missed to drive out and see the belugas. I’d never once pulled over the check out a Dall sheep. They were just another thing I took for granted.” (Aurora Sky, Into The Wild: Location 3604 of 4536)

Having already finished this series, I can say that I wish the final three books (Hunting Season, Whiteout, and True North) were combined into two books, with most of the fluff removed. 2 3/4 stars

Now in My Bookbag: Love, (The Allure Chronicles), by Alyssa Rose Ivy

I like this book. The development of this story reminds me of Alice in Wonderland, by Lewis Carroll. Glendale even reminds me of the Cheshire Cat. The nonsensical characters are interesting, but I am missing further development of the original characters.

The Daisy issue is handled… mostly. Since this is the last book in the Allure Chronicles, I hoped to see more completion of Owen and Daisy’s story. One of the main plot devices, one that is listed as the major goal to reach, is not dealt with at all in the end. Taylor’s heart’s desire is ignored completely in the end. There is no effort at all to help Troy.

Other issues that need involvement of the Society are brought to light. This is a perfect way to progress the upcoming events… upcoming chronicles.

The unique feel of Love, by Alyssa Rose Ivy, has such a fairy tale feel to it. 4 stars

Now in My Bookbag: Aurora Sky Vampire Hunter, Bad Blood, by Nikki Jefford

Author Nikki Jefford puts a lot of focus on metamorphosis in this book. So many changes. Everything diversifies with every decision made. It is so hard to keep up with what is going on, and who you have become. This is Aurora’s reality. As she tries to figure out who she is, everyone around her is changing, as well.

There is no wonder that Aurora spends this book in a perpetual state of confusion. Throughout the book, her character develops, matures, and moves toward the person she must become. She is not there yet.

I must say that I cried when Melcher made his decision about Tommy. Of all the cruel decrees from Melcher’s mouth, the one about Tommy is the heartbreaker. I hope that my heart doesn’t remain broken. 4 stars

Now in My Bookbag: Aurora Sky Vampire Hunter, Northern Bites, by Nikki Jefford

There are interesting kinetics at work in this book. Unlike the first book in the series, this book is jam packed a lot of action, and a rather complex relationship dynamics involving several different characters.

Jeffords does a better job of story development in this book. The plot is deep, steady, and a study in contrasts. The dangers are greater, and there is a natural flow.

There are new characters who help with the centuries old backstory. Existing characters are further developed, though not as much as I would have liked. The complex character relationships are well-written, never crossing the line into confusion.

I like this book. I think it is better than book one. 4 stars

A Blast From the Past in My Bookbag

Author S.J. West never fails to deliver a well-constructed story. She has an uncanny gift for world-building, and The Redemption Series is no exception.

I find Anna to be a fascinating character, and I LOVE Gabe. West puts a lot of imagination into the developing relationship between Malcolm and Anna.

This book moves the series along nicely. 4 stars

Now in My Bookbag: Aurora Sky Vampire Hunter, by Nikki Jefford

I find this story entertaining and enjoyable. I can see touches of Buffy the Vampire Slayer in Aurora, but there is a genuine imaginative creation here as well.

The book certainly starts with a bang, and takes a Twilight Zone type turn from there. The progression of the plot is, at times, a bit erratic. There are some elements that seem extraneous. The main story holds its own without them.

The main characters are well conceptualized, some mysterious and/or creepy. Aurora is smart, sassy, and funny. However, she is a little slow figuring out situations sometimes. Fane is a somewhat tragic hero. The feeling that I get from him is that he is good to the core. I can’t help but wonder whether or not the others within this orbit are who and/or what they seem.

I look forward to digging into book two. 3 1/2 stars

Top rated books in YA paranormal and fantasy

YAY!! Congrats to Ednah Walters and Karen Lynch
#EdnahWalters #KarenLynch #EirikTrilogy #RelentlessTrilogy

RELEASE DAY!! 1987: How Do I Get You Alone, (Love in the 80's: New Adult Mix), by Cameo Renae

Title: How Do I Get You Alone Author: Cameo Renae Publisher: WaWa Productions Genre: NA Contemporary Romance Cover Designer: Regina Wamba of Mae I Design

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Lyssa Taylor totally thinks she has her future planned out. Being eighteen with strict parents, a relationship is the last thing on her mind.  

But when she and her best friends arrive at the cabin for their last summer vacation, the handsome Travis Preston—her secret childhood crush, and best friend's (off-limits) older brother—is also there. Now, what was expected to be a simple, fun vacation, turns out to be one spark-igniting, complicated mess.

***********

1987: (HOW DO I GET YOU) ALONE is part of the Love in the 80s new adult romance series. It is a Stand-alone Novella which can be read on its own.

Check out the others!

1980: You Shook Me All Night Long By: Casey Bond

Amazon US: http://amzn.to/1ZgCJYo

1981: Jessie's Girl by Lindy Zart

Amazon US: http://amzn.to/1UPP9mW

1982: Maneater by Cambria Hebert

Amazon US: http://tinyurl.com/maneaterA

1983: Cruel Summer by Amber Lynn Natusch

Amazon US: http://www.amazon.com/dp/B01DMMWUVE

1984: Against All Odds by Rebecca Yarros

Amazon US: http://bit.ly/AZUS1984RY

1985: Careless Whisper by Misty Provencher

Amazon US: http://amzn.to/28PWfG9

1986: Why Can’t This Be Love by RK Ryals

Amazon US: http://bit.ly/AMZUSRKR

Buy Links for How Do I Get You Alone:

Amazon US: http://bit.ly/CR1987

Amazon UK: http://bit.ly/UK1987CR

Amazon CA: http://bit.ly/CA87CR

iBooks: http://bit.ly/ibooks87CR

Kobo: http://bit.ly/kobo87CR

Smashwords: http://bit.ly/smash1987CR

Barnes & Noble: http://bit.ly/BN1987CR

About the Author:

Voted 2013 Break Out Author by Young Adult & Teen Readers, and 2013 Book of the Year (Hidden Wings).

Cameo Renae was born in San Francisco, raised in Maui, Hawaii, and now resides with her husband and children in Alaska. She's a daydreamer, caffeine and peppermint addict, who loves to laugh, and loves to read to escape reality.

One of her greatest joys is creating fantasy worlds filled with adventure and romance and sharing it with others. It is the love of her family and amazing support of her fans that keeps her going.

One day she hopes to find her own magic wardrobe and ride away on her magical unicorn. Until then...she'll keep writing!

Author Links:

Website: www.cameorenae.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CameoRenaeFanPage

Twitter: https://twitter.com/CameoRenae

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cameorenae/

Subscribe to Cameo’s newsletter: http://bit.ly/23HGKIy

Join Cameo's Crew on FB: https://www.facebook.com/groups/CameoRenaeFanClub/

Now in My Bookbag: 1987 How Do I Get You Alone, (Love in the 80's New Adult Mix), by Cameo Renae

For a novella, this book truly has it all!

It has a great back-story, without dwelling excessively in the past. There is a great variety of characters. The love story is sweet, (and based on a song I love). The book captures the form and fashion from 1987 with detail-oriented accuracy. Author Cameo Renae invokes a wide variety of emotions during this pivotal summer between high school and college.

I find this work impressive. 5 stars

Now in My Bookbag: Intrigue, (Infinitus Billionaire Book #3), by E.B. Walters

This book is completely engrossing. Walters has written yet another steamy romance with heart.

Even the most solitary,  independent people need love. Players with a huge heart, like Rod, deserve to find their other half, the one who completes them like no other. As for Terri, no one can run from the past forever. At some point, the right one will sneak in, steal their heart, and accept their secrets. Walters is masterful in crafting the backstory that connects Terri to Rod. The plot is developed in a very well thought out manner.

I remain amazed at the skill with which Walters can weave all of the elements of a story into such a cohesive, compelling read. She never disappoints. She certainly brings the heat, passion, and all consuming love to her books, and I can’t wait to get the next one in my hands. 5 stars

Now in My Bookbag: Maude, by Donna Mabry

Maude is an biographical novel about the author’s grandmother. Though it is a long book, it is worth every moment spent reading it. From those whom Maude very first loved and lost, through her very last, I am drawn to her story. It is so very like my own grandmother’s life story.

It is based on the stories told to author Donna Mabry by her beloved grandmother. It is honest, recounts the good as well as the bad, and inspires a wide range of emotions. It is a story of love, loss, elation, and regrets.

Though this is Maude’s story, the rest of the characters truly come to life in Mabry’s recounting. I see each of the family members, and friends, through Maude’s point of view.

The circumstances and catalysts make for a compelling read. I spent every available moment immersed in this book. If possible, I would give this book 10 stars. Since that is not an option, I rate this emotional story 5 stars.

Amazon Purchase Link

Now in My Bookbag: The Forgotten Mountain, (The Collectors' Society Book #3), by Heather Lyons

Grief… hope… elation… devastation… forgotten…

These are just five of the words that are descriptive of The Forgotten Mountain. Author Heather Lyons delivers an intricate continuation of The Collectors’ Society tale. While I feel that the book is a bit longer than necessary, I still find it very enjoyable.

Most of this book takes place within an unexplored timeline. Although interesting, I miss the connections to the Society as a whole. I do enjoy the level of action, at times, within this adventure. I am bothered by a certain a plot device. While it moves the story toward a certain goal, it makes no sense for a team that is usually technologically prepared.

The characters, as always, are fascinating. I am particularly enamored with the Twelfth Wise Woman. The usual characters remain complex and entertaining. Among them, I am most impressed with Jack Dawkins, the Artful Dodger. Lyons does an amazing job developing this character, and she truly brings a three-dimensional quality to him.

It is safe to say that the cliffhanger at the end of this book is mind-numbing. It will not soon leave my mind. 4 1/4 stars

Now in My Bookbag: The Hidden Library, (The Collectors' Society Book #2), by Heather Lyons

I am still enamored with this story, that began in The Collectors’ Society. There are a few things in The Hidden Library that impede the absolute love I feel for book one.

Book two is a lot to take in. There are so many different elements included, it is difficult to hang on from one switch to another. However, I can truly say that there isn’t a dull moment.

There are very few further developments in the characters, but they are already pretty complex. I think that they were very well written from the start, (Book #1).

I do really like this book. It is a page-turning read. I recommend continuing this series with The Hidden Library. 4 1/4 stars

Now in My Bookbag: The Collectors' Society, by Heather Lyons

I love this book. It is original, imaginative, and well thought out.
The concept is amazing, and the plot is so appealing. I am beyond enchanted with this world created by author Heather Lyons. I can’t wait to start book #2, The Hidden Library!

These characters are ‘frabjous!’ I am completely taken with Alice. She is brave, fierce, and incredible! I am in love with Finn. He is completely swoonworthy. He is also brave, as well as kind, considerate, and loveable. In fact, all of the characters are detailed, complex, and interesting.

I have found a new series to feed my reading addiction, and it is The Collectors’ Society.

5 stars

Now in My Bookbag: Forged in Fire, by Alyssa Rose Ivy

I really love all of the chronicles by author Alyssa Rose Ivy. Though the Forged Chronicles are not my favorite, I do like the way they tie in to The Afterglow Trilogy… also by Ivy. She provides a great dose of fantasy to go along with the paranormal elements found in all her chronicles.

I like the characters that Ivy creates for the Forged Chronicles. These characters, perhaps more so than the other chronicles, are studies of light and dark… especially James. Motives are murky, as yet, for most of them.

The more of the story that is revealed, the less obvious the eventual outcomes. This book ends with a major cliffhanger, and I have no clue where the next book may lead. The writing is imaginative and intriguing.

That is what makes these Forged Chronicles so compelling. There is no telling what may happen next, for the story or it’s characters.  4 stars

This book makes me think of this song, by Linkin Park:

Now in My Bookbag: 1986 - Why Can't This Be Love, (a Love in the 80's New Adult Mix), by RK Ryals

I didn’t get title significance at first, probably because my memory of these songs is shrouded in the cloak of time. So, I looked up lyrics and listened to the title song, by Van Halen. I realize now that the title is damn near perfect. (see video below)


Ryals does a phenomenal job delivering that feeling of finding first love. The characters are relatable, and developed well within the space of an 83 page novella. Tori’s new experiences help her find her own voice. Dylan Black is an interesting character. No one sees him for who he really is… until Tori finds him.

I  have always known that there are perfect songs for emotions, feelings, and experiences. I have made a mix tape, or two, in my life. I have never thought of the concept that these songs are soundtracks, background music, within the script that is life. The song references are spot on and nostalgic, for me… things forgotten in the 30 years since high school. I absolutely love the a-ha reference, (view video below).

I find this book an enjoyable read. It is lighthearted, but there is no fluff. There are many, many song references, which I love. This is another great addition to the Love in the 80’s series. 4 stars

Why Can't This Be Love - Van Halen

a-ha - Take On Me

Now in My Bookbag: 1985 - Careless Whisper, by Misty Provencher

This book is a lot different from the previous books found in the Love in the 80’s series, so far. The story begins in 1992, and is moved along based on flashbacks to 1987. Those flashbacks focus on the perceptions of each member, as to what broke The Band.

I feel that the first half of the story moves rather slowly. It takes quite a while for the real plot to unfold. I actually wish that the book had started closer to halfway in, and then have extended beyond the finish.

I like the characters, very much. Their personal misgivings, as well as their personal revelations, make them far more loveable. Provencher does an excellent job creating them and bringing them to life. She does a good job creating the drama near the end, and do I find it amusing that the second half of the story seems to follow the layout of a who-done-it.

Though I figured out ahead of time what had happened, I still couldn’t figure out how it was accomplished until the end. The ending of the book happens way to fast for my taste. I wish there was, at least, an epilogue that provides some additional information about the characters in The Band. Having gotten to know them during the course of the book, I would like just a glimpse of what happens to them next.  3 1/4 stars

Now in My Bookbag: Luke's Dream (a Judgement of the Six Companion Novel), by Melissa Haag

What an exciting addition to the Judgement of the Six lexicon! This companion series is fascinating, and adds so much to the series.

Luke and Bethi are great characters, and an awesome couple. It is very interesting to dig a little deeper into Luke’s personality, motivations, and love. Author Melissa Haag does much to further develop the one dimensional Luke, from (Un)Wise, to the complex character, in Luke’s Dream.

Haag weaves a truly cohesive companion to Bethi’s story with the addition of Luke’s Dream. It is a page-turner, and I couldn’t put it down. 5 stars

Now in My Bookbag: 1984 - Against All Odds

I am disappointed in this and it is amazingly similar, and extremely frustrating.The beginning of Against All Odds is different, but soon catches up with the plot of others like it. The woman, who is a former country/pop singer with their own reasons to step away from the spotlight. The rock star life style is hard on relationships.

The end of the stories are pleasing, as I am a big fan of HEA. books. I just wish that this book wasn’t eerily similar to the books I already read. However, as a stand alone, Against All Odds is an okay read.

It is fast paced, and incorporates all of the elements of the basic new adult format.   2 1/4 stars

Now in My Bookbag: 1983 Cruel Summer, (Love in the 80's), by Amber Lynn Natusch

This is a good novella. While some of the plot follows a somewhat standard design, (i.e. woman scorned, stuck in town she hates, forced to get a job, runs into first love), there are facts added throughout the story to make it belong solely to Natusch.

I like these characters. Braxton and Izzy, were cruelly manipulated apart many years ago. The circumstances surrounding that manipulation are creative, imaginative, and maniacal. The truth, once revealed, fractures everything Izzy thinks she knows about her past.

Braxton is a broken man without access to the one girl he will always love. He has a secret that, once told, he hopes will draw her to him once again. Izzy (also broken) has a terrible secret, one that she hopes will never come out. She should know better in a town this size. You know what they say about people in glass houses.

The interaction between the characters is enlightening. The ending is exciting and revealing. I think that the second half of the book is more interesting than the first, and it definitely helps the rating. 3 1/4 stars

Now in My Bookbag: In This Life, by Christine Brae

What a beautifully written, emotional rollercoaster! The story is wonderfully imagined. The feelings expressed, and drawn from me, are beyond compelling. It has been a very long time since a book has affected me to my core. The story is poignant, touching, and tear-jerking. I could not put this down.

The characters are perfectly imperfect. There is a lot of love, a lot of hurt, and a lot of grief. I never thought it possible to be happy for a character, while also being disgusted with them. Getting inside the heads of both Anna and Jude is very enlightening, though adding the point of view of Dante would add to the depth of the story.

I consider myself very lucky to have found this magnificent book. I am enamored of this story, and its author, Christine Brae. I look forward to finding more of her books, and I recommend this story to readers of contemporary books. 6 stars… (5 stars)

https://www.amazon.com/This-Life-Christine-Brae-ebook/dp/B019HXWKVC/https://www.amazon.com/This-Life-Christine-Brae-ebook/dp/B019HXWKVC/

Now in My Bookbag: Winter Shadows, by Casey L. Bond

This book is far different than Bond’s other books set in West Virginia. Where the other books fit within the New Adult/College Romance genre, Winter Shadows is a Christian/Dystopian novel.

I believe the story is okay. I find the multiple point-of-views a little confusing because there are no chapter headings to delineate one voice from the others. It is necessary to read through the beginning of each chapter in order to determine whether it is Claire, Ethan, or Colin speaking. If these headings were added, it would make a dramatic difference.  These characters are interesting and likeable. Their evolutions throughout the novel are surprising and unexpected. I feel that one evolution in particular is a bit of a stretch. It is a tangent that pops up near the end of the book, and it doesn’t seem to fit with the rest of the story.

The concept of the book is interesting. The pace of the plot seems to flow steadily, then suddenly hits a fast pace. Then it slows. Before long, it speeds up again. For me, this is a bit disconcerting. There are also several typos in this work, nothing that another proofreading wouldn’t fix. 3 1/4 stars

This will not, however, keep me from reading more from this author. I have been very pleased with her work.

Now in My Bookbag: Shady Bay, by Casey L. Bond

I really enjoyed this spinoff of the Devil Creek novel. The plot was great, sweet and emotional. I loved the characters, all of them.

I was thrilled to follow Jaxon from Devil Creek, West Virginia to Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. He was so much more than he originally showed. It turned out that he was kinder and gentler. When Mercy fell into his life, proud and emotionally battered, he couldn’t get her out of his head. Mercy needed to lean on others to save her from hunger and homelessness. She made great friends who offered her a way up.

Author Casey L. Bond did a fabulous job creating and developing all of the characters. She also built their world in such a way that I could picture it all in my head. I found a few typos, but nothing that truly detracted from the success of the story. 4 3/4 stars

Now in My Bookbag: Devil Creek, by Casey L. Bond

I like this novel about love, heartbreak, and acceptance. Set in rural West Virginia, this story delivers a sense of community, old and new friendships, and the story of unconventional family. It also contains suspense and some violence.

It has lovable characters who face life, the highs and the lows. Aislin, the female protagonist, has experienced a lot of hard knocks. The history of her life includes abandonment, abuse, betrayal, loss, and heartbreak. She works continually to overcome and persevere. Her best friend, Gabe, suffers from a misplaced sense of duty, a tendency to overprotect, and a desperate need to suppress the survivor’s guilt he feels. The other characters are also well imagined and well written.

The plot of the story is very interesting. It contains a lot of different elements, yet remains cohesive throughout. I am unsure, however, about the end of the book. I can’t help wondering if the story resolution might have been better served at the end of chapter 16, then there could be a look a couple of years into the future. However, I am okay with the ending as it is. This is an enjoyable book that I really like. 4 1/5 stars

Now in My Bookbag: 1982- Maneater (Love in the 80's Novella), by Cambria Hebert

This is another great novella in the Love in the 80’s serial. This book is really enjoyable, and author Cambria Hebert puts an imaginative spin on this song by Hall and Oates.

The plot is creative and the characters feel very real. Kelly and Eric could be people with which I went to high school. I like the overall theme that “the more things change, the more they stay the same.” There is nothing that can affect you like someone who knew you well years ago. I also like the addition of 1980’s phrases together with their definitions.

This blast from the past is perfectly crafted for high school life in 1982. 5 stars

Now in My Bookbag: Relativity, by Antonia Hayes

This is a pretty good book. I really like Ethan. His character is the one that is truly likable. The plot is a little different, and there is way too much technical jargon, and I feel that the book would benefit from assessing and removing some of the scientific dialogue (or expressing it differently). I eventually started glazing over when trying to understand some of the scientific dialogue.

The story is character driven and told through multiple POVs. It is a view into the lives of Ethan and each of his parents. It is told using both flashbacks and current character events. The primary plot event that tying the whole story together deals with the consequences of one terrible act.

I like this book, but I would rate it higher if it contained less scientific wording occasionally.

*3 3/4 stars

Now in My Bookbag: A Measured Risk, by Natasha Blackthorne

This book is an erotic, steamy, historical romance. It contains graphic bondage, dominance, and submission.

This story revolves around two enjoyable characters, Anne and Jon. The prologue describes a terrible carriage wreck during which one of the horses tragically kills her husband. After that, she suffers from PTSD. The love she had for horses turns into terror. She already has low self esteem, and comes across as cold and aloof when around others. Jon sees that she has the potential for more. He feels a need to hold others at arms length. He is a player, and has a reputation as a love them and leave them sort of man. He doesn’t want to become responsible for any sort of attachment to another, but eventually decides that he can use dominance to break down her walls and teach her to trust. Can he make this work even when his own heart is locked away?

I really like this book. The characters feel real, and the plot is enjoyable. Author Natasha Blackthorne does a great job of world-building and character development. 4 stars

Now in My Bookbag: The Sicarri Hired Gun Serial 1-4, by A. J. Bennett & Julia Crane

This is a violent, intense, erotic, paranormal story. It is hot, steamy, and action packed. Most of the scenes are really graphic.

I really enjoyed the plot and the emotional drama. However, the descriptions and verbiage used in the sex scenes were a bit repetitive, and that bothered me. I wished there were different expressive terms and phrases used. Some ideas were underdeveloped.

There were surprise twists… some of them a little out there. The ending could have been more in keeping with the tone of the rest of the book, but the story was mostly enjoyable.
3 1/4 stars

Now in My Bookbag: The Dollhouse in the Crawlspace

This book is well written and has every element needed to create a captivating novel.

Amnesia, double identities, secrets, lies, and an evil genius… It is impossible to put this book down. The characters are complex. The story is imaginative and compelling.

This would be a 5 star book but for the unresolved ending. I have a deep seated need to know what happens next.
4 1/4 stars

Now in My Bookbag: Torn (Book #2 of the Wicked Trilogy), by Jennifer L. Armentrout

This is an excellent follow up to Wicked. The story is more intense and exciting. However, it is a seamless continuation.

The ongoing story of Ren and Ivy is fascinating. Tink becomes an even more entertaining character as he reveals his extraordinary secret. I really love these characters. Author Jennifer Armentrout does a great job leading them through conflict toward an unexpected resolution as they run the race to stop the Prince of the Fae.

I am truly looking forward to the final book in the trilogy, (Brave), in the summer of 2017.
5 stars

Now in My Bookbag: Torn (Book #2 of the Wicked Trilogy), by Jennifer L. Armentrout

This is an excellent follow up to Wicked. The story is more intense and exciting. However, it is a seamless continuation.

The ongoing story of Ren and Ivy is fascinating. Tink becomes an even more entertaining character as he reveals his extraordinary secret. I really love these characters. Author Jennifer Armentrout does a great job leading them through conflict toward an unexpected resolution as they run the race to stop the Prince of the Fae.

I am truly looking forward to the final book in the trilogy, (Brave), in the summer of 2017.
5 stars

Now in My Bookbag: 1980 - You Shook Me All Night Long (a Love in the 80's Novella), by Casey L. Bond

I wasn’t sure what to expect from this series of novellas.
If the rest of the 80s are as good as 1980, I will be totally impressed.

I thought that the plot of this book was very imaginative, and I thought the characters were well thought out. I found this story to be true to the spirit of the song title, and true to the year in which it was set.

Tina represented all of the girls who had to experience life to discover themselves. Luke was a very appealing character. His dedication to his younger brother, and his strong work ethics, and his looks, made him swoon-worthy.

I really liked this book a lot. 4 1/2 stars

Now in My Bookbag: 1981 - Jessie's Girl (a Love in the 80's Novella), by Lindy Zart

This second book in the New Adult Mix is a very good read. I love the author’s take on the Jessie’s Girl writing prompt. It is well imagined.

The foundation of the story is built on a post high school road trip. The rest of the story is character driven. Four unlikely, life-long friends (plus one) discover things about themselves, and each other, as they travel together. Although all of the characters drive aspects of the story, it is told through only one point of view. It is impressive that author Lindy Zart achieves this seamlessly.

I am looking forward to 1982. 5 stars

Now in My Bookbag: Wrecked (Clayton Falls Novel #3), by Alyssa Rose Ivy

This is another great book in the Clayton Falls series. Author Alyssa Rose Ivy continues to build on the familiar world of Clayton Falls, as well as the characters who I have come to love.

I am happy that Jake finally has a romance of his own. Emily is the new character who catches Jake’s attention, but she has a few secrets that could change everything. There are definitely some bumps that might impede any happily ever after.

This contemporary, NA romance touches on the consequences of big mistakes, secrets and lies. It is an enjoyable read, and it is well told. I would like to see Ivy write a few more stories about Clayton Falls. 4 3/4 stars

Now in My Bookbag: Veer (Clayton Falls, Book 2), by Alyssa Rose Ivy

This book is so enjoyable. It is well-written, and develops the plot and characters in an excellent way.

Becca is positive that she doesn’t want to start a relationship, because she is only in Clayton Falls for the summer. Gavin is looking for a forever love, not just a summer fling. They can’t stand each other.

I love these characters, as well as the characters already introduced in Derailed, book one of the Clayton Falls series. Ivy does a wonderful job telling their story in this contemporary, NA romance. She also does a great job developing the world of Clayton Falls. I recommend this book. 4 1/2 stars