Now in My Bookbag: In All My Wishes, by Ciara Knight

I truly enjoyed this sweet romance, set in Riverbend, Tennessee. Anna and Liam’s story was both moving and mysterious. There were familiar characters from Knight’s Sweetwater County Series, and more of the story of Cynthia and Mitch, (from the Riverbend Novella).

The flow was good, and the characters very likable. Author Ciara Knight was very successful in creating the history, struggles, and future for Anna and Liam. I definitely felt a part of their story.

I wished that the resolution had been a little more drawn out, and that there was more development of the plot line concerning Anna’s father.

Otherwise, I found this book very enjoyable. I found it to be a quintessential, sentimental and sweet romance. 4 stars

Now in My Bookbag: Dawn (The Dire Wolves Chronicles Book #3 and Series Finale) by Alyssa Rose Ivy

Dawn brings the conclusion to The Dire Wolves Chronicles. It is here that we learn the fate of Gage and Mary Anne. There are also new characters, as well as the return of some ancillary characters from previous books.

While I am glad to finally learn the outcomes for Gage, Mary Anne, and Hunter, I am left with several questions regarding the outcomes for some of the other characters. I am hoping that future chronicles will include some of the answers to those questions.

I am thoroughly pleased with the storytelling by Ivy. She has a truly magical touch in the creation of paranormal creatures who exist in a ‘normal’ world. Her well written books draw you into the story and make you forget for a while that her characters are fictional.

I recommend the entire Dire Wolves trilogy, including Dawn (despite the questions invoked). 

I rate this book 4 stars. I rate the trilogy 4 1/2 stars.

Now in My Bookbag: Masquerade (Heven and Hell Series) by Cambria Hebert

This book is very interesting. There is an unusual dynamic between the characters that makes the story more complex and each development somewhat unexpected.

Heven and Sam certainly make an interesting couple. She is a character whose self esteem is shattered, and he is the knight in not-so-shining armor who reminds her that she is lovable. The ancillary characters are complex in their own ways, and their motivations sometimes unclear. The alternating POVs become a bit confusing when the story includes the voices of “The Hate” and “The Hope.” In the end though, the story sorts out and is more interesting thanks to those POVs.

Masquerade is very engaging and well-written. It is an excellent start to the series.

Now in My Bookbag: Toxic Part One (Celestra Series #7) by Addison Moore

“My muscles twist in knots. My stomach claps together like an accordion full of bile. I gag and claw at his shirt as the life slowly chokes out of me.” (Skyla Messenger, Toxic Part 1 by Addison Moore)

Although this story does contain situations in which toxins are introduced to the body for the purpose of killing, there are also many things that poison without causing physical death. People and circumstances are toxic to attitudes, choices and the heart. 

Relationships are poisoned by secrets, and minds become suspicious because words are shot like arrows. Much like the body fights against toxins, characters fight to overcome, fear, doubt, misunderstanding and confusion.

This is a well told story, and it creates very real-feeling thoughts, feelings, attitudes and actions in characters who are steeped in the paranormal. This is a great addition to the Celestra series. However, this is only Part 1 of TOXIC. Hopefully Part 2 will be as well thought out.

Now in My Bookbag: Intransigent (After Light Saga #3) by Cameo Renae

This saga just became awesome on a whole new level!!

Renae’s focus on Abi’s abilities and strengths creates a story all its own. At its heart is the accelerated growth of Abi’s telepathy and powers, and her new friendships with the other “Readers” in the program.

Intransigent delivers action and excitement. It brings new characters to life while never leaving the favorite characters behind. The continued story of Abi and Finn is always both heartwarming and bittersweet. As always, her family provides Abi’s strength while being her greatest weakness.

Renae ends this book with solemn questions hanging in the air. What will Abi do next? What will be the fallout when she chooses?

This book is a definite page-turner and a must-read. If you have not already started this series, now is the time.

Now in My Bookbag: Ethereal (Celestra Series Book #1) by Addison Moore

I find this book very enjoyable. It is not the average ‘nephilim’ story. Instead, it is a well thought out, interesting, young adult, paranormal story. And Addison Moore is a gifted storyteller.

I find the concept compelling, and I read it straight through with very few interruptions. The entire book peaks my interest and I just have to know what happens next.

As this is the first book in an eight book series, I expect to find layer upon layer of Skyla’s story. I trust that the few gaps in this story will be filled in the ensuing books. 

I recommend this read with 4 of 5 stars.