Book Review : Skyline Book 1

Book Review : Skyline Book 1

 

Title - Skyline Book 1 

Author - J.K Pennerman 

Arthur Valore was abruptly awakened in the middle of the night—his village, Nordskye, was under attack by lycans. One man had already been injured. As Arthur tried to defend his home, he was fatally wounded. His daughter Anna, for whom he meant the world, is now consumed by grief and driven by the desire for revenge.

Maurdis, the ruthless leader of the lycans, shows no mercy. Those who dare oppose him meet a swift death. Skye has seen many wars, and Maurdis has seen them all. The Order was the only force standing between him and the villagers—now, the Order lies in ruins. Anna, alongside her friend Siff, is determined to do whatever it takes to bring Maurdis down.

What will unfold next? As the story progresses, readers will delve deeper into the lore of lycanthropy and uncover long-buried secrets.

I admire the author’s vivid imagination in crafting this rich and compelling fantasy world. The writing is captivating, and Anna’s character stands out as especially strong and relatable. Fans of stories with powerful female leads will be thrilled by this journey. Add this gripping dystopian adventure to your bookshelf—you won’t regret it.

Rating - 5/5

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Book Review : Shadow Man

Book Review : Shadow Man

 

Title - Shadow Man 

Author - Vicki M Taylor 

Short story lovers would find this collection riveting. I enjoyed reading these short stories along with a cup of coffee.

“My Griefs: Passing On” unveils a powerful revelation about how to release long-held grief. The narrator reflects on deeply personal losses—loss of innocence, virginity, and an unborn child; the loss of the ability to give life, of family, a first marriage, and trust in men; even the loss of mental stability due to struggles with mental health.

“The Storm” is another compelling short story centered on a young girl who suffers from anxiety attacks triggered by thunderstorms. One night, while her parents were unplugging appliances and turning off lights during a storm, she tried to join them—but was caught in the downpour. The rain lashed her small body, and from that moment on, she developed a hatred for thunderstorms.

I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book. I read the collection at night and genuinely felt chills down my spine. The language is simple and accessible, and the author skillfully keeps the reader engaged until the very end. I’m excited to explore more short story collections by this author in the future.

Rating - 4/5

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Book Review : Chateau Laux

Book Review : Chateau Laux

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Title - Chateau Laux 

Author - David Loux 

David Loux’s historical novel offers a captivating glimpse into life during colonial America. Set in early 1700s Pennsylvania, the story centers around Lawrence, a young man who inherits a prosperous business from his grandfather—an inheritance that plays a pivotal role in shaping his future. Despite the success he owes to his grandfather’s legacy, Lawrence yearns for a brief escape from the responsibilities and expectations that come with it. Seeking solitude and adventure, he embarks on a hunting expedition.

However, while returning from the trip alone, Lawrence finds himself at the doorstep of a farm owned by Pierre Laux. In need of rest, he is welcomed and given temporary shelter. It is here that the narrative takes a romantic turn: Lawrence meets Catharine, Pierre’s daughter, and is instantly smitten. Moved by his feelings, he makes the bold decision to build a chateau for her as a symbol of his affection. Pierre’s sons assist him in this endeavor, reflecting the family’s close-knit nature and strong sense of unity—something Lawrence greatly admires.

As the plot unfolds, the story takes on new layers of complexity, introducing tension that deepens the emotional stakes. The author handles these developments with a fluid and confident narrative style. Loux’s portrayal of the historical setting is immersive and thoughtfully crafted.

I happened to read this book on a rainy day, and the atmosphere outside beautifully mirrored the rich, moody setting within the pages.

Rating - 5/5

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Book Review : Legacy of the Golden Bird

Book Review : Legacy of the Golden Bird

 

Title - Legacy of the Golden Bird 

Author - Lainey Miles 

Readers who enjoy classic tales of good versus evil will find this book a delightful and compelling read. Princess Salair is deeply troubled by the sudden and mysterious disappearance of the King and Queen. Given the tight security in the kingdom, their vanishing seems impossible. Determined to uncover the truth about their disappearance, Salair sets out in search of Chuck—a man her father deeply trusted.

Chuck, indebted to the King for past favors, is fully committed to helping Salair and reuniting her with her parents. Along the way, they encounter a man named Shifter, who offers to assist in their quest. In exchange, he asks for help rescuing his own daughter. As the journey unfolds, Salair learns of a shocking secret: she has a twin sister—a truth that had been kept from her. Will this revelation leave her feeling betrayed?

Lainey masterfully holds the reader’s attention throughout. Berra, the golden bird, adds charm and intrigue to the story, while Chuck remains a steadfast figure in Salair’s journey. As someone who enjoys children's fiction, I found this book to be a refreshing and imaginative escape from the challenges of everyday life.

Rating - 5/5

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Book Review : Time Fixers

Book Review : Time Fixers

 

Title - Time Fixers 

Author - Lee Maththew Goldberg 

Miles has been waiting months for a BIG CASE to come his way. That moment finally arrives when he and his brother Simon decide to rewrite their mother’s past—and stumble upon their grandfather Scoot’s journals from 1999.

This is where the story truly takes off. The journal entries offer Miles the mystery he's been craving. They uncover a key date and a critical mission: stop Thoorai from pressuring Scoot into signing away his company. If they succeed, they might also prevent the chain of events that led to Lillian emotionally damaging their mother.

As long-buried family secrets begin to surface, Miles and Simon move closer to changing their mother’s fate. But will someone try to sabotage their mission? What obstacles lie ahead?

Although this is the second book in the series, it can easily be enjoyed as a standalone. 

I especially loved how Miles and his ever-curious assistant Kevin are constantly on the hunt for their next case. Fans of Sherlock Holmes will find a younger, modern echo of the famous detective in Miles.

Rating - 5/5

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Book Review : Becoming Cliterate

Book Review : Becoming Cliterate

 

Title - Becoming Cliterate

Author - Dr. Laurie Mintz

This is an empowering and enlightening book that I highly recommend to all women seeking to better understand their bodies and enhance their sexual well-being. It offers essential education about the clitoris and how that knowledge can lead to a more satisfying and fulfilling sex life.

The author shares valuable insights that help readers build their "cliteracy"—a deeper understanding of female pleasure. She also encourages women to embrace self-love without guilt, offering advanced lessons that promote confidence and self-awareness. Laurie emphasizes the importance of exploration and experimentation to discover what feels good and what doesn’t.

Another key theme in the book is the significance of open and honest communication to improve sexual relationships. Laurie’s wit and humor add a refreshing and enjoyable tone, making the book both informative and entertaining.

I especially loved the title. The writing is accessible, making complex ideas easy to grasp. Since many women are still unaware of the clitoris and its role in sexual pleasure, this book serves as a vital resource to raise awareness and empower women to become truly Cliterate.

Rating - 5/5

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Book Review : The Veil Strikes

Book Review : The Veil Strikes

 

Title - The Veil Strikes 

Author - DL Cary 

"The Veil Strikes" by D.L. Cary is the gripping second installment in the Veil Chronicles series. The story follows Detective John Jefferson and his task force as they pursue the elusive Veil ledger. Driven by the loss of Maria, Jefferson digs deeper into the case and uncovers the secrets surrounding Saffron Veil.

Recently, Jefferson traveled to Brooklyn to retrieve files that could reveal the truth behind his father's murder. Though ambushed by the Iron Reapers, he managed to fend them off. This failure forces the Senator and his men to become more cautious. The Veil holds an extensive global database with information on countless individuals, and Grayson is determined to protect it at any cost. But the question remains: can Jefferson get his hands on the ledger?

This suspenseful tale kept me hooked from beginning to end. The cover design is striking, and the title perfectly fits the story. The corrupt forces behind the Veil will go to any lengths to maintain their grip, creating a tense and thrilling atmosphere throughout. Don't hesitate—this book is absolutely worth the read.

Thanks for reading.

Book Review : The Shot Not Heard Around The World

Book Review : The Shot Not Heard Around The World

 

Title - The Shot Not Heard Around The World 

Author - Charlie Damitz 

I’ve always been drawn to stories of courage, and this time I picked up Charlie Damitz’s The Shot Not Heard Around the World. The story follows young Jeremy, who is handed a musket and tasked with watching for Redcoats near his father’s farm. Any further action would be taken by the nearby Minutemen.

One day, a lone British scout separated from his unit and began climbing the slope toward Jeremy. When their eyes met, Jeremy didn’t just see an enemy—he saw a father. Not his own, but someone else’s. The scout, who was also preparing to fire, may have seen a son in Jeremy. Instead of engaging, the scout turned back and went downhill.

After this moment, Jeremy was consumed by feelings of guilt. He questioned whether he was a coward or a traitor. But everything changed when he met Doc Thorndike, who gave him the chance to help those wounded by war. That encounter set him on a path of healing and compassion.

This story powerfully explores the courage it takes to choose peace over violence. Jeremy’s journey is deeply inspiring. I’m glad I read this book—the ending was especially compelling. I enjoyed every moment of it.

Rating - 4/5

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Book Review : Every Ornament Has Its Place

Book Review : Every Ornament Has Its Place

 

Title - Every Ornament Has Its Place 

Author - Vincent Verrico 

A Heartwarming Holiday Tale That Young Readers Will Treasure

Every Ornament Has Its Place tells the simple yet emotionally resonant story of a cherished Christmas ornament and the lengths a family will go to find it.

At the heart of the story is Matt, an eight-year-old boy who treasures a particular ornament above all others. Just when he was supposed to hang it on the tree, it went missing—triggering a heartfelt search that brings the entire family together. From crawling under furniture to exploring the attic and basement, every page captures the determination, love, and unity of a family during a moment of crisis. 

The narrative moves at a perfect pace for young readers, building suspense in a gentle, comforting way. The book gives a powerful message—about the value of traditions, the importance of family support, and the idea that some treasures are worth the effort it takes to find them.

This is a must-read for every young reader, especially around the holidays. With its timeless appeal, it's the kind of book that families can return to year after year—making it a beloved tradition in itself.

Rating - 5/5

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Book Review : Miles in Time

Book Review : Miles in Time

 

Title - Miles in Time 

Author - Lee Maththew Goldberg 

Simon and Miles Hardy are brothers, with Miles being the younger one who dreams of becoming a detective. Simon, on the other hand, was busy working on a top-secret invention—something Miles suspected might be a time machine. They grew up in a household where their parents often acted more like children than adults.

Together with his friend Kevin, who acts as his assistant, Miles takes on small detective cases around town—most notably, tracking down missing cats. Their reward? Delicious homemade pies from grateful neighbors.

After Simon’s unexpected death, Miles discovers a secret lab where Simon had indeed built a time machine. Determined to uncover the truth, Miles embarks on a dangerous investigation, needing to stay sharp every step of the way.

I especially enjoyed the small-town setting. The story also made me reflect on the challenges faced by children growing up in dysfunctional families.

Rating - 5/5

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Book Review : Maria's Shadow

Book Review : Maria's Shadow

 

Title - Maria's Shadow 

Author - DL Cary

The story opens with Senator Edward Grayson receiving a cryptic text: "Found your lost stray." Grayson has long followed his father Charles's advice: “Influence is a coin, Edward. Invest it wisely, and it multiplies.”

Maria was lured with false promises of support for her Hollywood dreams—dreams that quickly turned into a nightmare when she was abducted and imprisoned in a secluded mansion. During her stay in the mansion, Maria was pregnant. She named her to-be-born baby Mateo. When an opportunity to escape arose, Maria fled with evidence that posed a serious threat to Senator Grayson.

But Grayson’s men eventually found her. She was killed—but not before she cleverly entrusted Mateo to Detective John Jefferson. Left with no other choice, Jefferson takes the boy home. His personal life, however, is already strained—his wife has recently suffered a third miscarriage. How will she respond to Mateo’s sudden arrival?

Cary weaves an engrossing tale. I couldn’t put the book down once I started. Maria’s character stood out—her strength and determination were deeply moving. Will the corrupt men finally face consequences? I’m definitely looking forward to the next book in the series.

Rating - 5/5

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Book Review : Bless your Heart

Book Review : Bless your Heart

 

Title - Bless your Heart 

Author - Susan Camus 

Jeannie works as a quality improvement consultant within a Canadian hospital system. One day, she receives an urgent call from Beatrix Bach, who informs her of a critical assignment in Greenville, North Carolina. A diabetes epidemic is ravaging rural North Carolina, and Norma Dunn is leading a study on the effects of semaglutide on patients with Type II diabetes. Norma suspects that someone may be sabotaging the research.

Though Jeannie knows nothing about North Carolina, Beatrix insists she go. Upon arriving in Greenville, Jeannie is taken aback by the apathetic receptionist, LaDonna Rogers. She also learns that Frank, who manages the research project, left a high-paying job to do so. Dr. Dunn warns Jeannie not to trust anyone and to tread carefully with each decision.

Jeannie carries her own emotional burdens. Her husband, who wants her to return to India, once attempted to throw acid on her face when she refused.

The research focuses on adult women living in Pitt County, all of whom are severely obese. As Jeannie delves deeper into the project, she notices a disturbing pattern—two individuals have made the same errors in the data. What secrets will Jeannie uncover during her time in Greenville?

Each page reveals new twists that keep the tension high and the reader hooked. Fans of stories featuring strong female protagonists will find this book captivating. The narration flows seamlessly, pulling you so deeply into the story that the real world fades away.

Rating - 5/5

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Book Review : Breaking the mold of mental health

Book Review : Breaking the mold of mental health

 

Title - Breaking the mold of mental health 

Author - Michele M Smith 

This book introduces us to Marsha, a character who, from a young age, felt a deep sense of responsibility for her siblings. Her younger brother, Mateus, faced his own personal struggles, and Marsha often stepped in to support him. In focusing so much on caring for others, she neglected her own well-being.

Marsha’s experiences with menstruation and menopause also had a significant impact on her mental health. As a woman, I found her story especially relatable. No one had prepared her for the psychological symptoms that can accompany menopause. She often experienced intense body heat and discomfort. Witnessing her parents’ troubled relationship, Marsha made a silent promise to herself that she would not repeat their mistakes.

This book encourages readers to be more mindful of those in society who face silent battles with their mental health. The author highlights the growing prevalence of mental health issues and emphasizes how simple acts of acknowledgment and genuine interaction can make a meaningful difference. Reading this book deepened my understanding of mental health, and it inspired me to move forward with a greater sense of compassion and kindness.

Rating - 5/5

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Book Review : The Last Dance

Book Review : The Last Dance 

Stephen Manning’s “Last Dance” is a memoir that offers a heartfelt glimpse into his life with his beloved wife, Mary Ann Manning. From their early days as colleagues to building a family and facing life’s ultimate challenge—Mary Ann’s battle with cancer—the memoir is a touching narrative.

Manning’s writing is both tender and raw, inviting readers into the deeply personal spaces of joy and sorrow that marked their shared journey. The couple’s bond is evident throughout the memoir, with scenes that are both heartwarming and heartrending.

What struck me most was Mary Ann’s selfless devotion to her family. She created a nurturing home, a trait that reminded me powerfully of every mother’s love towards their kids. Mary Ann’s strength left a lasting impression and added a layer of emotional depth to the book.

This book is a story that will leave readers with a renewed appreciation for life, family, and the bonds we often take for granted. Be warned—this memoir will make you emotional through its pages.

Thanks for reading.

Book Review : The Murmur of everything moving

Book Review : The Murmur of everything moving

 

Maureen had never experienced being deeply adored or the center of someone's world until she met Steve. Likewise, though Steve had been married before, he never truly understood love until Maureen came into his life. With her, he felt love for the first time.

Throughout the book, Maureen shares different stages of their relationship—the joys, the sacrifices, and the difficult choices between love and career. When Steve was diagnosed with terminal cancer, their world was turned upside down. The future of their relationship became uncertain, yet Maureen never wavered in her commitment to caring for him. What fate had in store for them remains to be discovered within these pages.

This memoir is a blend of love, heartache, and resilience. The author’s storytelling captures raw emotions, from joy to sorrow and fear. I especially appreciated the thoughtful title choice. If you enjoy memoirs, this is a must-read—it offers a profound look at the complexities of real life.

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Book Review :Gertrude The Dog Groomer

Book Review : Gertrude The Dog Groomer

Gertrude owns Gertrude’s Dog Groomers. One morning, she walked to work and checked her schedule for the day. Her eyesight was worsening.

Her first customer, Spike, brought in her bulldog for grooming. Later, a well-dressed lady arrived with her poodle, Puff. As more customers arrived and her vision weakened, Gertrude struggled to distinguish between the dogs. This led to her providing the wrong grooming services to some pets.

Curious to know what happens next? This book, written in simple language, is easy to understand and enjoyable for readers. Pet lovers will especially appreciate the charming canine characters. I loved reading about the dogs, and this story serves as a great reminder to keep up with pet grooming!

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Book Review : Bedtime on the moon

Book Review : Bedtime on the moon

 

This heartwarming story beautifully highlights the limitless power of imagination and the boundless love parents have for their children. It demonstrates how parents will go to extraordinary lengths to turn their child’s dreams into reality.

The narrative follows a young boy, Luke, who dreams of sleeping on the moon. Instead of dismissing his whimsical desire, his parents wholeheartedly embrace it. With creativity, they construct a magical ladder stretching from their backyard all the way to the moon, making Luke’s dream come true.

However, once he reaches the moon, Luke realizes he has forgotten some important things back on Earth. Without hesitation, his devoted parents climb down the ladder to retrieve them, ensuring their son has everything he needs for his incredible adventure. But how does Luke truly feel when his dream finally becomes a reality?

This story is not just a delightful read—it’s a comforting and uplifting experience. After a long day at work, I found it to be a perfect stress reliever. I also shared it with my kids, and it sparked their own imaginations, inspiring them to dream without limits. This beautifully written tale serves as a gentle reminder that a child’s imagination knows no bounds, especially when nurtured with love and encouragement.

Thanks for reading.

365 Days of becoming

Book Review : 365 Days of Becoming

 

Julie Tomlinson’s debut novel is so well-written that it hardly feels like a first book. The storytelling flows effortlessly, drawing readers into Reilly’s journey of self-discovery and transformation.

Reilly has spent much of her life trying to meet others’ expectations, seeking validation at every turn. Growing up in a family where alcohol was a destructive force, she vowed to break the cycle. But despite her efforts, she finds herself trapped in the same unhealthy patterns. After years of relying on dating apps and staying in a passionless marriage, she finally decides it’s time for a change. She deletes the apps, steps away from relationships that no longer serve her, and embraces the truth she’s been avoiding—being a lesbian means confronting challenges, but it also means living authentically.

Reilly’s story is inspiring, raw, and deeply relatable. The book’s title perfectly captures her journey, and Julie’s fast-paced, engaging writing keeps readers hooked until the very last page. I thoroughly enjoyed this novel and highly recommend adding it to your reading list!

Thanks for reading.

Book Review : Ancenstral Wisdom for modern healing

Book Review : Ancestral Wisdom for modern healing 

In her book, Tracy Houle inspires readers to transform their lives by letting go of outdated habits and rethinking conventional advice. She shares her personal journey of redefining her relationship with food, uncovering the intricate ways our bodies interact with and utilize nourishment.

By embracing whole, unprocessed foods, Tracy found a deeper connection to nature and her ancestral roots. She encourages readers to support local farmers by sourcing locally grown produce, fostering a closer link to their community and the environment. This shift in perspective allows us to align our choices with our values, fostering growth, resilience, and authenticity.

I deeply appreciate the author’s insights, as this book has motivated me to reassess my own diet and lifestyle. It came into my hands at the perfect moment, equipping me with a clearer understanding of food and its impact on overall well-being.

Thanks for reading.