Review of -- O'Neill's Texas Bride by Caroline Clemmons

Reviewed by -- Jacqueline Driggers

Book Review of --

O'Neill's Texas Bride by Caroline Clemmons

Overall star rating --- 5

About the book:

Finn O’Neill longs for his own ranch, his own horses, his own home and family but thought the lofty dream beyond him. Now the opportunity has arisen but to achieve his dream, he bargains with Grandpa McClintock and his nephew to pose as a miner and seek out the person or persons causing disasters at the Farland Coal Mine.

Stella Clayton has witnessed the heartbreak and tragedy of a coal miner’s life. Her family came from England to the promise of a better life only to find the same hardships. She is determined that her young brother will never follow in their father’s footsteps. And she vows she will never marry a man who engaged in that work. She fights to resist charms of the handsome Irishman who’s recently come to work in Lignite, Texas.

When Finn arrives in Lignite, he immediately falls for the beautiful schoolteacher, Stella Clayton. But her father is one of the men suspected of causing destruction. What Finn discovers soon puts him and members of the Clayton family in peril. Can he salvage his dream, fulfill his promise, and protect the woman he loves and her family?

Book creation ratings:

Overall total, out of 30 --27

-- Story & characters -- 10

-- Cover & title -- 8

-- Editing & formatting -- 9

* based on a 1-10 scale with:  1-4, poor; 5-7, good; 8-10, very good.*

The review --

This book is the sequel to The Texan's Irish Bride, and is a fine continuation of the series. Caroline Clemmons is an excellent writer and I thoroughly enjoy her books. I'd be ready to review her books any time. This book continues, and tells the romance/adventure/mystery story of the Irish bride's brother. It's a wonderful book that has romance and adventure and mystery. I highly recommend both this writer and this series.

Reader Recommendations

Genre -- western romance

Age recommendations -- 17 plus

Sex content rating -- mild

Violence rating -- moderate

Links for the book:

Buy it on Amazon

http://www.amazon.com/ONeills-Texas-Bride-McClintocks-Book-ebook/dp/B00XM684LQ/

Review of -- A Bear in Need by Christa Kelley

Reviewed by -- Jacqueline Driggers

Review of --

A Bear in Need: BBW Paranormal Bear Shifter Romance (The Marked Book 1) by Christa Kelley 

Overall star rating --- 3

About the book:

Bear shifter Brandon Mitchell is cursed. Destined to lose the woman he claims as his mate, he's lived the life of an arrogant, cocky playboy to keep from getting his heart broken. But deep down, Brandon wants what he can never have: A family of his own, with a few cubs and a curvy goddess of a woman to keep him in line.

He never thought he'd find her in a feisty witch from his past, and now he'll stop at nothing to break his curse and claim her as his mate.

There's just one problem: The woman he wants--the woman he's doomed to lose--is the only witch who can help him, and if he wants to protect her, he'll have to find a way to resist her first.

Liz Malone just can't catch a break. After promising to secure her grandmother's spellbook, she's back in her old hometown and faced with confronting the dark, powerful figure who still holds sway over her life.

If that wasn't bad enough, she gets drawn in by the charm and confidence of her old high school crush.

She never wanted to go back to Star Lake, and yet here she is, setting aside her own problems to help Brandon break a curse so he can take a mate. A mate she just knows isn't her.

How could it be when the only thing between them, after all this time, is a one-night-stand?

Book creation ratings:

Overall total, out of 30 --18

-- Story & characters -- 6

-- Cover & title -- 5

-- Editing & formatting -- 7

* based on a 1-10 scale with:  1-4, poor; 5-7, good; 8-10, very good.*

The review --

Usually I like paranormal romance books, but this one, I didn't particularly. It starts off with a rather intense sex scene, and I much prefer to meet the characters and get some story first. It mixes a witch and a bear shifter, which is okay. But the book doesn't pick up speed until you get to about the middle of the book. Plus the book is a bit too wordy in places. Plus, there are parts of the storyline that are just not well enough explained. Overall, it's an all right book, but there are better ones out there.

Reader Recommendations

Genre -- paranormal romance

Age recommendations -- 18 plus

Sex content rating -- intense

Violence rating -- moderate

Links for the book:

Buy it on Amazon

http://www.amazon.com/Bear-Need-Paranormal-Shifter-Romance-ebook/dp/B00XQCXHL8

Review of -- Summer Beach Vets: Playing for Love: Book 1 by H.Y. Hanna

Reviewed by -- Jacqueline Driggers

Review of --

Summer Beach Vets: Playing for Love: (A sweet clean small town beach romance set Down Under) ~ Book 1 by H.Y. Hanna

Overall star rating --- 3.5

About the book:

Sara needs to escape and a gorgeous seaside town in Australia seems like the perfect place. When she finds a lost Beagle on the beach, she also finds herself meeting handsome TV veterinarian, Dr Craig Murray. She vowed that she would never date a celebrity again - she's been burnt too badly before - but now she's beginning to wonder: should she risk another chance at love?

As a national heartthrob, Craig has women falling at his feet, but he is enchanted by the beautiful, curvy American. They may come from different cultures - and even speak different "English" sometimes - but he knows they can have a future together. Can he convince Sara that this is more than just a vacation fling?

Book creation ratings:

Overall total, out of 30 -- 24

-- Story & characters -- 8

-- Cover & title -- 8

-- Editing & formatting -- 8

* based on a 1-10 scale with:  1-4, poor; 5-7, good; 8-10, very good.*

The review --

This is a simple, mild, Aussie-based romance. It's a great lite read. It doesn't have a complicated plot, and is a solid, basic romance story. It is slow to start, but then gets going, and has a happily ever after ending.

Reader Recommendations

Genre -- romance

Age recommendations -- 18 plus

Sex content rating -- very, very mild

Violence rating -- none

Links for the book:

Buy it on Amazon

https://www.amazon.com/Summer-Beach-Vets-Playing-Love-ebook/dp/B00OV81RS6

Goodreads

http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/28432917-summer-beach-vets

Review of Call to Arms by Randy Lindsay

Reviewed by -- Shadow Walker

Book Review of -- Call to Arms: Nations Fall by Randy Lindsay        

Overall star rating --- 3        

Check out the book on:

Amazon

https://www.amazon.com/Call-Arms-Nations-Randy-Lindsay-ebook/dp/B012W82IFM/

Goodreads

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/25219039-call-to-arms

Book creation ratings

Overall total, out of 30 -- 18        

-- Story & characters -- 3        

-- Cover & title -- 7        

-- Editing & formatting -- 8        

* based on a 1-10 scale with:  1-4, poor; 5-7, good; 8-10, very good.*

The review --

The first five lives of the story are the most important part of the book for me. The author either sucks me into the story or I give up on it. The only thing I really enjoyed in the first 46 pages of the book was the introduction of the President and Vice President into the story. I was ready to stop reading it until business picked up on page 47.

I found my mind drifting countless times during the first 46 pages of the novel. I was interested in the political, social, and military plots of the story, but the religious angle turned me off. The characters never really grabbed me and I never really connected with any of them.

I was happy that two characters survived the ordeal and the ending was good. The second half of the book swings along at a nice pace and held my interest. I didn't appreciate using the Mormon Church in the fashion the author did. It totally turned me off to an important part of the story line.

I wasn't a fan of the author's writing style. The imagery just never grabbed in this book. I noticed several sentences that suffered from poor word phrasing in the book. It was a well edited book. It's not a book that I'd read again, but it's worth reading for the ending. Enjoy!!!

Reader Recommendations

Genre -- Military Fiction.        

Age recommendations -- Fifth grade through adulthood.        

Sex content rating -- None.        

Violence rating -- Mild for a war story setting.  

Review of -- Sleeping Dragons Books 1-6 (Box Set) by Ophelia Bell

Reviewed by -- Jacqueline Driggers

Book Review of -- Sleeping Dragons Books 1-6 (Box Set) by Ophelia Bell

Overall star rating --- 4

Book creation ratings --

*based on 1-10 scale with 1-4=poor, 5-7=good, 8-10=very good.*

-- Story & characters -- 10

-- Cover & title -- 10

-- Editing & formatting -- 10

* based on a 1-10 scale with:  1-4, poor; 5-7, good; 8-10, very good.*

The review --

On the rare occasions when I do read erotica, I like it to be good erotica. This is good erotica. The writer has a very unique take on an erotic novel.  If you like erotica, and dragons, and fantasy, you'll definitely want to read this one. The whole archeologist, mysterious temple angle so totally works, and the mix of characters is great. And who doesn't love dragons?  Dragons and erotica mix so very well.

Reader Recommendations

Genre -- erotica

Age recommendations -- definitely 18 plus

Sex content rating -- scorching hot

Violence rating -- nil, zilch, none

Buy it on Amazon

http://www.amazon.com/Sleeping-Dragons-Books-1-6-Box-ebook/dp/B00KKZHDNW

Review of Finding the Dragon by Josette Reuel

Reviewed by -- Jacqueline Driggers

Book Review of -- Finding the Dragon (Dásreach Council Book 1) by Josette Reuel 

Overall star rating --- 3

About the book:

Kai Darrow is a dragon shifter and the next leader of the Dásreach Council – that is if he and the other twelve members of the Thirteen can find their mates. Years of frustration push Kai to take action and with a little luck and finesse maybe he can find the woman of his destiny.

Alvena Anderson prefers books over people, yet she still craves love and adventure. In a rut, a trip with her Book Worm friends is just what she needs – until unexplained accidents, a Psychic reading, and a tattooed hottie from the plane make her want to run home.

Unbeknownst to the Thirteen a darkness is working against them, preventing possible mates from coming into contact with them. Working in the shadows and using human pawns, the darkness has set its sights on Alvena and her friends.

Can she accept her real life hero before it’s too late?

Book creation ratings --

*based on 1-10 scale with 1-4=poor, 5-7=good, 8-10=very good.*

-- Story & characters -- 7

-- Cover & title -- 7

-- Editing & formatting -- 7

The review --

This book, in part, paves the way for other books to come in this series. It's a different take on the paranormal romance, in that they meet their mates through tattoo parlors that they run. And then there are the tattoos that the guys have. Plus, there's this unknown element that is throwing a monkey wrench in the process of the women finding the men; and going to the extremes of even trying to kill the women. Not your run of the mill paranormal romance. Lots of action and drama.

Good book, with a unique take on the paranormal romance. Different shifters, bear, dragon, panther, etc. Enjoyable read. Sometimes book gets a bit bogged down by being in the character's head too much, and them thinking over this and that. Liked the Kai character a lot, but could have used a bit more confidence and assertiveness.

Reader Recommendations

Genre -- paranormal romance

Age recommendations -- 18 plus

Sex content rating -- moderate

Violence rating -- moderate

Links for the book:

Buy it on Amazon

http://www.amazon.com/Finding-Dragon-D%C3%A1sreach-Council-Book-ebook/dp/B00MV94JX2/

Review of Revolution by J.S. Frankel

Reviewed by -- Shadow Walker

Book Review of --

Revolution (Catnip Book 3) by J.S. Frankel 

Overall star rating --- 5      

 

Check out the book on:

Amazon

https://www.amazon.com/Revolution-Catnip-Book-J-S-Frankel-ebook/dp/B0137ZIH6S

Goodreads

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/26034756-revolution

Book creation ratings

Overall total, out of 30 -- 30        

-- Story & characters -- 10        

-- Cover & title -- 10        

-- Editing & formatting -- 10        

* based on a 1-10 scale with:  1-4, poor; 5-7, good; 8-10, very good.*

The review --

Harry and Anatasia are thrust into danger once again as the book opens; and they are confronted with a new danger. The author sets the tone of tension and dread from the opening paragraph and suspense carries the reader through the last pages.

New and interesting characters are brought into the story and are craftily developed by the writer's skillful hand. He wraps the readers into the characters world until you are vested in them. Wonderfully written book. The book is well written and edited throughout the series. Strong imagery and sentence structure make this a pleasurable book to read.

The story line is plausible and consistent throughout the book and series. He did his homework before striking out on this tale. You want to read this book for the smashing good ending. You'll have to read it to find out the ending. I'll never tell. Enjoy!!!

Reader Recommendations

Genre -- Science Fiction/Adventure        

Age recommendations -- 13 and up.        

Sex content rating -- Suggest scenes that stopped and left it to the readers imagination. Mild.        

Violence rating -- Moderate. That is why I suggest the age of thirteen. The scenes were vivid but not long. It wasn't the major thrust of the book, but necessary in the telling of the adventure.        

Review of -- The Menagerie by J.S. Frankel

Reviewed by -- Shadow Walker        

Book Review of -- The Menagerie by J.S. Frankel

Check out the book on:

goodreads

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/28693518-the-menagerie

amazon

https://www.amazon.com/Menagerie-J-S-Frankel-ebook/dp/B01D8TAJUA

Overall star rating --- 5    

   

Book creation ratings --

*based on 1-10 scale with 1-4=poor, 5-7=good, 8-10=very good.*

-- Story & characters -- 10        

-- Cover & title -- 10        

-- Editing & formatting --10        

The review --

Well, the author hit another home run in my opinion. It starts here on earth and reaches out to the depths of the deep space. I read it slower than past books because I wanted the pleasure to last. I've read my share of bad books since starting this reviewing work. This gifted writer will draw you in and hold your attention from cover to cover.

The main character experiences a major adversity in life, but it leads to a life changing adventure. The readers will meet a great many different animals and people along the way. The readers will travel to a variety of planets along the journey.

This well written story is graced by an outstanding editor. There's no noticeable editing mistakes to distract the reader, and that's a major plus.  It was pure pleasure to read. The storyline was fast paced and filled with tension, and danger filled the air. I don't want spoil the ending of the story, but it's well worth the read. Enjoy!    

            

Reader Recommendations

Genre -- Science Fiction Adventure.        

Age recommendations -- 7 or 8 and up.        

Sex content rating -- None.        

Violence rating -- Mild.        

Review of -- Shifting Shadows by Betty Woodcock

Reviewed by -- Shadow Walker        

Book Review of --

Shifting Shadows by Betty Woodcock        

Overall star rating --- 3       

Check out the book on:

Amazon

https://www.amazon.com/SHIFTING-SHADOWS-Betty-Woodcock-ebook/dp/B00A2XAND4

Goodreads

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/17609657

Book creation ratings

*based on 1-10 scale with 1-4=poor, 5-7=good, 8-10=very good.*

-- Story & characters -- 5        

-- Cover & title -- 10        

-- Editing & formatting -- 8        

The review --

I usually know within the first chapter if I am in for a good read. The book started very slow, and it didn't gain momentum until around page 50. It begins to gain momentum, but never gets past third gear. The story suffers from a very slow pace and very overused plot. I found the characters rather irritating because the men let the women dominate their lives.

The book was well written structurally speaking. There was moments of really interesting imagery, but not enough to save it. The editing was very good with just a few small oversights. Editing was not the thing that kept this book from gaining a fourth star. I just didn't connect with the characters or the predictable storyline. Frankly I was thrilled to finish the journey. It's a book worth checking out if you're interested in the subject. You could do a lot worse. Here's to good reading folks. Enjoy!!!"

Reader Recommendations

Genre -- Supernatural.        

Age recommendations -- 10 and older.        

Sex content rating -- None.        

Violence rating -- None.        

Book Review of -- A Touch of Passion (boxed set romance bundle)

Reviewed by -- Jacqueline Driggers

Book Review of --

A Touch of Passion (boxed set romance bundle) by Uvi Poznansky  (Author), Mimi Barbour  (Author), Elizabeth Marx (Author), Tamara Ferguson  (Author), Regina Puckett  (Author), B. J. Robinson  (Author), Laura Taylor  (Author), Suzanne Jenkins  (Author), Cynthia Woolf  (Author), Lisa Gillis  (Author), Traci Hall  (Author), Donna Fasano  (Author)

Overall star rating --- 4

About the book:

Lose yourself in a touch of passion. Whether it’s the beauty in a song or the magic of a kiss, the agony of heartbreak or the hunger of yearning, explore ecstasy and desire in these captivating full-length, award winning novels. Written by eight bestselling, USA Today and NY Times authors, this boxed set has it all: Historical Romance, Contemporary Romance, New Adult Romance, Victorian Romance, Western Romance, Romantic Suspense, Wounded Warrior Romance, Military Romance, and Literary Fiction. These sensual tales of love with a strong female lead will leave you with a smile on your lips and music in your heart.

The Music of Us by Uvi Poznansky (Bestselling Author)

Lenny goes as far back as the moment he met Natasha during WWII, when he was a soldier and she—a star. Natasha was a riddle to him then, and with all the changes she has gone through, she still is.

Love Me Tender by Mimi Barbour (NY Times and USA Today Bestselling Author)

How could Anne return to Texas knowing that her son would be meeting a father who didn't know he existed? And how could she go back to face the only man she'd ever truly loved?

That Unforgettable Kiss by Tamara Ferguson (Top-10 Bestselling Author, Romance Reviews Readers' Choice Award Winner-New Adult)

Since Kate Callahan will be running the family construction business someday, she doesn’t have time for love. Until fate steps in by way of an unforgettable kiss from architectural intern Michael Murphy.

Concealed in My Heart by Regina Puckett (Bestselling Author, Readers' Favorite Book Award Winner)

Charity Fields is married to her childhood sweetheart and has the job of her dreams—until a terrible lie and a heartbreaking betrayal turns her life upside down.

Perfect for Him by Suzanne Jenkins (Bestselling Author)

As they danced, Jason whispered words of love to Harley, while her oncologist’s terrifying diagnosis kept ricocheting in her skull. To ensure he’d be okay after she was gone, Harley would take matters of love into her own hands.

Nellie by Cynthia Woolf (Bestselling Author)

Saloon owner Blake Malone is a bachelor and likes it that way. Nellie Wallace, a widow, needs a husband but never expected a man like him. Can Nellie and Blake make a marriage out of mutual need, without love being involved?

Ambrosia by the Sea by Traci Hall (USA Today Bestselling Author)

After a bitter betrayal by her late husband, self-taught chef Celia Langdon moved to the sea, where dive shop owner Dax Smith dared her to heal from the heart.

The Single Daddy Club: Derrick by Donna Fasano (USA Today Bestselling Author)

Ex-military man Derrick is solitary and satisfied—until Timmy’s dropped into his lap and Derrick must become a daddy. Fate has denied Anna a family of her own, but she has plenty of love to give, if only someone would notice.

Book creation ratings -- Max. total of 30 possible --

Overall total, out of 30 -- 27

-- Story & characters -- 8

-- Cover & title -- 9

-- Editing & formatting -- 10

* based on a 1-10 scale with:  1-4, poor; 5-7, good; 8-10, very good.*

The review --

Favorite books in the set:

Love Me Tender by Mimi Barbour

That Unforgettable Kiss by Tamara Ferguson

Nellie by Cynthia Woolf

This is a very good romance box set, as there is bound to be something in there that most everyone will love, and several that you will like. I know I had my favorites, and they're listed above. But overall, it is a very well put together box set that I would gladly recommend. The great thing about box sets is it gives you a chance to get to know some new-to-you writers and check out their work. This set is no exception, as they have a great collection of writers here for your reading pleasure.

Reader Recommendations

Genre -- romance

Age recommendations -- 17 plus

Sex content rating -- varies

Violence rating -- varies, mild to moderate

Links for the book:

Buy it on Amazon

http://www.amazon.com/Touch-Passion-boxed-romance-bundle-ebook/dp/B017DVII20

Review of -- Double Occupancy by Elaine Raco Chase

Reviewed by -- Jacqueline Driggers

Book Review of -- Double Occupancy by Elaine Raco Chase

Check out the book on:

Amazon

https://www.amazon.com/DOUBLE-OCCUPANCY-Romantic-Comedy-Elaine-ebook/dp/B005FCDT8I

Goodreads

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/12284978-double-occupancy

My overall star rating -- 4

Book creation ratings --

*based on 1-10 scale with 1-4=poor, 5-7=good, 8-10=very good.*

-- Story & characters -- 8

-- Cover & title -- 8

-- Editing & formatting -- 9

My review:

It was a good book, and an enjoyable read. The characters were very likeable, and the author does a great job of describing the location. There's good give and take and banter between the 2 main characters. It would be a great addition to your romance library.

Reader Recommendations

Genre -- romance

Age recommendations -- 18 plus

Sex content rating -- moderate

Violence rating -- none

Review of -- Little Red Riding Bears by Sable Sylvan

Reviewed by -- Jacqueline Driggers

Book Review of --

Little Red Riding Bears: A BBW Bear Shifter Paranormal Romance (Bear-y Spicy Fairy Tales Book 2) by Sable Sylvan

Buy it on Amazon

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B011AEFP4U/

Overall star rating --- 5

About the book:

When Meredith “Red” Baxter’s grandmother’s rent goes up, fiery Red goes straight to the landlord to complain, but the last thing she expects to find? Three big bad grizzlies hibernating…and willing to strike a deal about the rent, if Red can sweeten the honeypot.

Meredith strikes a deal with the three werebear best friends: she'll be their live-in housekeeper and chef for the winter, but only if they agree to never raise her grandmother's rent again. Brandon, Scott, and Nathan soon find that the redhead might be the girl they’ve been looking for all their lives, their fated mate, but will she be able to accept their unorthodox lifestyle?

The Oregon nights are cold, but hibernating with the bears gets hot and heavy when all three bear shifters try to woo curvy Red together. The three best friends share the same mate mark: now, all they have to do is romance the petite but curvy girl. At the end of the day, will little Red start riding bears?

Book creation ratings -- Max. total of 30 possible --

Overall total, out of 30 -- 30

-- Story & characters -- 10

-- Cover & title -- 10

-- Editing & formatting -- 10

* based on a 1-10 scale with:  1-4, poor; 5-7, good; 8-10, very good.*

The review --

So where to I start? How about with hot? As in the sizzling action in this book. And no, it's not kinky sex scenes. Yes, it has some very hot sex scenes, but they are well written and fit into the flow of the book. What truly makes the book and gets it such high ratings are the characters and the tale that is told.

The author does an excellent job with both the characters and the tale, which is a take off on a fairy tale theme. The guys are swoon worthy, and everything you would want in romance novel men. But Red is no slouch. I really like Red a lot, and her Grandma, who is …. well, to know more about Grandma, you'll have to read the book.

It's a hot, sexy, well written book with characters you can like and care about, that tells a fun story.

Reader Recommendations

Genre -- paranormal romance

Age recommendations -- 18 plus

Sex content rating -- sizzling hot

Violence rating -- none

Review of -- Sheriff Bear by Zoe Chant

Reviewed by -- Jacqueline Driggers

Book Review of --

Sheriff Bear: BBW Paranormal Bear Shifter Romance (Bears of Pinerock County Book 1) by Zoe Chant

Overall star rating --- 5

About the book:

A small-town sheriff + a wrongly accused BBW on the run + deadly enemies and dangerous passions = a sizzling forbidden love!

Bear shifter and small-town sheriff Axl Tanner isn't looking for trouble or temptation when he walks into Marge's Diner, but he discovers two things at a glance. First: the smoking hot waitress with flaming red hair and curves in all the right places is also the woman on the wanted poster back in his office. Second: she's his mate!

Framed for a crime she didn't commit and running from dangerous enemies, curvy Tara Malloy is waiting tables in a truck-stop diner while trying to figure out how to clear her name and get her life back. The last thing she needs is to get involved with a drop-dead-sexy sheriff and his entire bear clan. But she's always been a sucker for a man in uniform ...

Axl knows he shouldn't fall for the sexy fugitive; Tara knows better than to fall for a cop. But flaming desire pulls them together, and Axl can't leave his mate to face her enemies alone. Can they overcome their differences and find the love they've been dreaming of ... or will Tara's deadly past claim both their lives?

Book creation ratings -- Max. total of 30 possible --

Overall total, out of 30 -- 30

-- Story & characters -- 10

-- Cover & title -- 10

-- Editing & formatting -- 10

* based on a 1-10 scale with:  1-4, poor; 5-7, good; 8-10, very good.*

The review --

I really enjoyed the story in this book, and that's takes center stage. The characters are engaging and very likeable, and the setting that it takes place in is awesome.

The writer has come up with a wonderful story and great characters, which I know you'll want to check out. If you like paranormal romance, then this is a book that you shouldn't miss. It's excellent. I especially love the setting of the book, and her great skill in making it come alive, but yet, not boring you with description details.

I've read this author before, and she never fails to satisfy.

Reader Recommendations

Genre -- paranormal romance

Age recommendations -- 18 plus

Sex content rating -- hot

Violence rating -- mild

Links for the book:

Buy it on Amazon

https://www.amazon.com/Sheriff-Bear-Paranormal-Shifter-Pinerock-ebook/dp/B0153KV24O

Author's Amazon page

https://www.amazon.com/Zoe-Chant/e/B00V7LIX8C/

Review of -- Benzen by Zara Zenia

Reviewed by -- Jacqueline Driggers

Book Review of --

Benzen: A Sci-Fi Alien Romance (Warriors of Orba Book 1) by Zara Zenia

Overall star rating --- 2.5

About the book:

Only one person can protect her, and that's ME.

After escaping their home, six aliens, including Benzen, hope to find freedom on a different planet. They end up crashing onto a strange planet, a strange culture, and even stranger inhabitants.

They expected to learn some new things. However, one didn't expect to find love.

The Orba warriors are on the run from their people, now that their once peace-loving planet has been taken over by a hostile dictator, Palzu. They find out that they ended up on Earth and meet a young woman named Allison who takes them under her wing.

When Palzu's soldiers come after them, the group splits up and Benzen stays behind to protect Allison. But then he starts to develop feelings for her.

What will happen when he's forced to show her what he truly is? Will she accept him or fear him? And will they be able to escape Palzu's forces?

Book creation ratings -- Max. total of 30 possible --

Overall total, out of 30 -- 19

-- Story & characters -- 4

-- Cover & title -- 8

-- Editing & formatting -- 7

* based on a 1-10 scale with:  1-4, poor; 5-7, good; 8-10, very good.*

The review --

Not a bad book, but not a great one either. The cover most definitely outstrips the book. There are definite holes and gaps in the story, and the story doesn't fit the blurb well at all. The aliens all seem rather wussy to me, and I never really did get into the book. The end of the book leaves a lot to be desired, and it isn't a well written, cohesive book.

Reader Recommendations

Genre -- science fiction, fantasy

Age recommendations -- 17 plus

Sex content rating -- mild

Violence rating -- mild to moderate

Links for the book:

Buy it on Amazon

https://www.amazon.com/Benzen-Sci-Fi-Alien-Romance-Warriors-ebook/dp/B01JVMVYHU/

Author's Amazon page

https://www.amazon.com/Zara-Zenia/e/B01JWMYIIG/

Review of -- Ambrosia Chronicles by K. C. Simos

Reviewed by -- Mo        

Note - by a former blog reviewer - the team has been retired, but still have reviews of theirs to share.

Book Review of --

Ambrosia Chronicles by K. C. Simos 

Overall star rating --- 4-1/2      

 

About the book:

The complete "Ambrosia Chronicles" e-trilogy:

Book 1 - “The Discovery”

When Alex is reunited with her high school crush, Ian, she discovers that he is part of a suspicious organisation that she herself becomes involved with. Suddenly entrusted with a heavily sought-after little pouch, she must go on the run. Alex must let go of the frustrations of ignorance at her new circumstances with the knowledge that the less she knows the safer she'll be, while she relies on the protection of her arrogant and mysterious rescuer in order to reach the organisation's headquarters in one piece.

Book 2 - “The Initiation”

Now that Alex is officially the Protector, she embarks on a road trip through Europe together with Ian. But will Ian ever be able to get past Alex’s assent up the Muse ladder? What will happen when the two of them run into mysterious Lucas again? And what role does Emma’s Sight have in all of this?

Join Alex and Emma as they start to untangle the web of secrets that revolve around Muse…

Book 3 - “The Curse”

The thrilling conclusion of the Ambrosia Chronicles trilogy. Alex and Emma prepare for the inevitable face-off with the Rogue Queen Regina, after uncovering some truly shocking secrets...

Book creation ratings

Overall total, out of 30 -- 24        

-- Story & characters -- 8        

-- Cover & title -- 7        

-- Editing & formatting --9

* based on a 1-10 scale with:  1-4, poor; 5-7, good; 8-10, very good.*

The review --

Books 1-3 The Discovery, The Initiation, The Curse

>> Warning this review contains content from all three books <<

Law student Alex is pretty normal as the average girl goes. After the worries of exams are over she runs into her crush from high school, Ian. After an encounter with some brutal strangers she is trusted with the great responsibility of keeping a powerful lock safe until she reaches the final destination. Along the way, she gets to know her former high school teacher and her professors’ younger brother. She came to some shocking realizations about the world she lives in. Sudden betrayal, action, and adventure lurk around every corner in the series; drama and romance also make an appearance.

Alex is a nice girl who is definitely relatable. The story seemed to move along nicely and had just enough information about the characters, and didn't over-do it with descriptions about what they were wearing. The book included unexpected twists and a bit of violence. I didn't want to stop reading. It blended perfectly, and the plot was well thought out. The books didn't go off topic like similar stories or throw too much at me so I didn't know what was going on. The characters progressed wonderfully. They all became different and definitely grew in their own way.

I felt a little bit of disappointment when I read about her having multiple powers. I had hoped this wouldn’t turn into a (oh she's so powerful overnight thing), but instead showed her struggles with getting along with certain people and with handling her powers. I loved the shocking revelations, and the sad ending, it was a wonderful way to complete the series. As more characters were introduced, I found myself liking them and enjoying what they brought. None felt unneeded to the story, and they all seemed to go well together.

Book 1: 252 pages

Book 2: 266 pages

Book 3: 233 pages

Total: 751 pages"

        

Reader Recommendations

Genre -- YA Fiction/Fanasty

Age recommendations -- This story is best suited for ages 13 and up (any younger, have parent read it and see if its’ alright for you to read).        

Sex content rating -- none        

Violence rating -- mild        

** The author's links **

Amazon

https://www.amazon.com/Ambrosia-Chronicles-K-C-Simos-ebook/dp/B014E709TQ/

Amazon author page

https://www.amazon.com/K.-C.-Simos/e/B00PQJPZG4/

Review of -- SECTOR 64: Ambush by Dean M. Cole

Reviewed by -- Maegan Schaefer        

Note - by a former blog reviewer - the team has been retired, but still have reviews of theirs to share.

Book Review of --

SECTOR 64: Ambush: Sector 64 Book One by Dean M. Cole

Overall star rating --- 5        

About the book:

Sandra just discovered she's pregnant, but with humanity on the brink of extinction, this Air Force Captain might be the world's only hope. Independence Day meets The X-Files when Air Force fighter pilots Jake Giard and Sandra Fitzpatrick join a decades-old secret project to integrate today's Earth into a galactic government. But when a galactic civil war spills onto our shores, plunging the planet into an otherworldly post-apocalyptic hell, can Jake and Sandy save humanity from extinction?

As unknown aliens with a dark secret continue to raid the planet, Jake fights through a post-apocalyptic hell, struggling to comprehend the enigmatic aftermath of the first attack.

On the West Coast, Sandra's squadron smashes against the invading aliens. Thrown to ground, Sandy wades through blazing infernos and demented looters in a desperate attempt to save her family.

Finally, with the fate of the world in the balance, both captains must take the battle to the enemy—humanity's very survival hanging on their success.

Book creation ratings

Overall total, out of 30 -- 28        

-- Story & characters -- 9        

-- Cover & title -- 10        

-- Editing & formatting -- 9        

* based on a 1-10 scale with:  1-4, poor; 5-7, good; 8-10, very good.*

The review --

In beginning of this book, the author snags you into the storyline by twisting and turning it. The author has done the background needed to make the pilot's flights very real. And has put this information into understandable words, so much so that I could easily understand what was happening, and why, without having to look up definitions. The is a sex scene and a half in book. Not really steamy, but enough to warrant a mention for those who are looking at getting this book for someone else.

The chapters do jump around to different areas in the "world" so that the reader can know what is happening everywhere at the same time within the next chapter or two. The author is very descriptive about the places and what is going on at those places that it feels like you are a fly on the wall watching the events unfold.                

Reader Recommendations

Genre -- science fiction        

Age recommendations -- 18 plus        

Sex content rating -- Yes, mild- just one and a half scenes        

Violence rating -- moderate to a lot- they are in a war        

** The author's links **

Amazon

https://www.amazon.com/SECTOR-64-Dean-M-Cole-ebook/dp/B00NE03JD8/

Amazon author page

https://www.amazon.com/Dean-M.-Cole/e/B004RC9FJO/

Facebook page

https://www.facebook.com/authordeanmcole/?pnref=lhc

Website

http://www.deanmcole.com/

Review of -- Enemy Among Us by Kevin Hamilton

Reviewed by -- Maegan Schaefer

Note - by a former blog reviewer - the team has been retired, but still have reviews of theirs to share.

Book Review of --

Enemy Among Us by Kevin Hamilton

Overall star rating --- 5        

About the book:

Marcus Remalliond awakens on a hilltop overlooking a battle with a fuzzy head and an arrow embedded in his shoulder; he dispatches the archer who attacks him and begins to rush down to join the fray when it hits him, he doesn’t know which side he belongs to or even who he is! ‘Enemy Among Us’ introduces the world of Larcurion, and the nations of Escrania and Traevinia. The war between the rival nations has been going on for nearly three centuries. Amid this backdrop of conflict, Marcus thrust into a world he can no longer remember. He encounters Nathan, a name from his past and self-professed best friend, who begins filling in some of the gaps. Nathan and Marcus begin the long return trek ‘home’ to Traevinia with the rest of the soldiers through wilderness, traverse the cursed mountain Nargonlythe, and encounter dangers and monsters of Traevinian myth along the way. Marcus begins to learn about Larcurion, and the two warring nations of Escrania and Traevinia: their histories, their religion, their conflicts. All the while, Marcus is struggling to reconnect with who he is; desperate to fit in. Something’s wrong though; some of Marcus’s memories coming to the surface don’t jibe with what he’s learning of who “he is”. He remembers a lost love, friends from his past, and bits and pieces that don’t seem to fit with what Nathan and the Traevinians are telling him. He was trained to be a weapon for the Traevinian king Keiten, to strike out at the heart of the nation of Escrania. He’ll spread chaos and fear along with the rest of his division- the Masks. This sounds right, but if that’s so, why does everything feel so strange to him? What’s true, where does he belong, and can he figure all of this out before it’s too late? What makes a hero, is it his past, or is it the choices he makes of his life? These are the questions that Marcus must answer for himself all while trying to stay alive.         

Book creation ratings

Overall total, out of 30 -- 27        

-- Story & characters -- 10        

-- Cover & title -- 10        

-- Editing & formatting -- 7        

* based on a 1-10 scale with:  1-4, poor; 5-7, good; 8-10, very good.*

The review --

Enemy Among Us started out with a hook for me and just kept on reeling me in. I wish I could of read it straight through, but life kept getting in my way.        

The storyline is one that I have yet to read which thoroughly kept me guessing at what was to happen next. The way the author has written the story made me care for each of the characters, even the "bad' ones, because it explains their points of view. All of which I could relate to and rationalize with to an extent.        

The ending is beautifully written and has left me hoping that I will get another wonderful story about an incredible adventure with Marcus.        

Reader Recommendations

Genre -- Adventure with a bit of Fantasy        

Age recommendations -- 18 plus        

Sex content rating -- mild         

Violence rating -- moderate to a lot. There is fights, battles, and death.        

** The author's links **

Amazon

https://www.amazon.com/Enemy-Among-Us-Kevin-Hamilton-ebook/dp/B00EMN0K60/

Amazon author page

https://www.amazon.com/Kevin-Hamilton/e/B00EP70QE4/

Facebook page

https://www.facebook.com/EnemyAU/

Twitter

https://twitter.com/thekevhamilton