This has become another favorite book from author Camille Peters!!! I adored both of the main characters in this story and loved coming to know more aThis has become another favorite book from author Camille Peters!!! I adored both of the main characters in this story and loved coming to know more about them as their story unfolded. Prince Lucien and Princess Lisette are perfect for each other. Although their initial meetings (prior to this story but everything is explained throughout the book) weren't what you'd call a meet cute, their goodness and desires for friendship and love help them create a beautiful and lasting relationship. Even with some rock starts. You can read this book as a standalone but I love all of these stories that I recommend you read them in order.
There's been a curse spreading across the land and I was so excited to see the characters figure it out in this book and discovering what the key to unlocking it was. Ohhhhh it's so good!!!
Lucien is just so wonderful. Yes, he has flaws and makes mistakes but I loved how good he is to Lisette and his care and love for her. *Happy Sigh* They have to figure out what has caused her to vanish before it's too late. And I just can't say it enough of how much I just adored them together. The chemistry and spark between them was so sweetly written. You'll be hooked and not want the story to end. I read it in one sitting because I didn't want to set it down and not know what was going to happen for these two.
Very clever plot and how the characters unravel the clues and the reason behind the curse. Loved it A LOT!!!
Content: Clean. Some talk of neglect. Some talk of a mistress (not by one of the main characters). No language and nothing more than sweet kisses.
I received a copy from the author via StoryOrigin. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
First off, you have to read this series! I need more and pronto!!! Ok, I'll be patient but honestly, I'm really excited for the next book and to see wFirst off, you have to read this series! I need more and pronto!!! Ok, I'll be patient but honestly, I'm really excited for the next book and to see which member of this friend group will be featured. Second thing, you have to read them in order. Even though each book features a different friend and is mainly from their POV (point of view), we get to read from the POV of each main character. I love it. If that sounds like it might be a little overwhelming because there are 6 friends, I promise it works and flows smoothly. The author did a fantastic job making it a smooth transition and keeping the story flowing.
The first book does a great job giving a good foundation for the characters and letting us get to know them but I loved how this book goes even deeper and continues to develop their backstories, especially Xander since he's the main focus for this book. These 6 magical misfit friends are so fun. I love their friendships and the strength they gain from each other. Their loyalty and true care and concern for each other. They each have some struggles and hard coming at them but I love watching them work together to figure it out!
Seriously such a delightful read! I laughed out loud many times at the wit and banter. And I loved the more serious moments as well. These are great well rounded characters that I can't help but cheer for and want to know more about. And get ready for some really great plot twists! Holy Cow Batman!!! Soooo good!!!
I loved the first book but I really love this one. Not that they are any better than the other but for the fact that we continue to see these characters grow and develop and we continue to learn more about them. My favorite thing about series is that we come to love characters from one book and then we get to continue seeing them in the next and this book/series is perfection for that reason I love series. I'm so happy that I don't have to wait for one book to the next to know what is happening to certain characters. I get to see them all in this book!
Content: This is a fantasy story with magic and magical creatures. There's no language. Some mild moments of peril. And no adult content. Just a fun and delightful story. I would happily let my teenagers read this book and series.
I received a copy from the author. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
Very gothicesque read! And look at that cover! It definitely sets all the vibes for this book!
I loved the more somber and dark vibes4.5 * rounding up.
Very gothicesque read! And look at that cover! It definitely sets all the vibes for this book!
I loved the more somber and dark vibes that Ashthorne Hall gave off. Kind of reminded me of when Jane arrives at Thornfield Hall to work for Mr. Rochester in the novel, Jane Eyre. There's a mystery and secret that makes everyone believe the estate is haunted.
Hyacinth Bell finds herself very isolated and warned to not go exploring the home, keep to her work, and all will be well. Duh, duh, duuuuuhhhh!!!! Of course she's intrigued now, and with all the strange happenings, she's determined to figure out what is going on. And take care of her orchids! Which by the way, is not easy at all! Have you tried to keep orchids alive? I'm happy to say that I've been pretty successful recently. So I loved the parts that talked about orchids and the other botanist talk. So interesting to think about what was believed years and years ago and to see the discoveries and understanding happen to help us now, as well as all of the continued study happening in botany.
I loved the developing friendship and more between Hyacinth and the manor's caretaker, Lucas Harding. Discovering more about his history and the history of Ashthorne Hall added to the mystery. And when Hyacinth knows that a man has been sneaking around the Hall, watch out! Everything is going to be raised up a notch and she'll have to be quick thinking.
There's more that I want to talk about that I found so interesting and sad about a point in history. But if I did, I'd spoil the mystery and surprise. But I really liked how the author used this in her story and how it all panned out!
And now cue ominous warning... Watch out for danger, it's close behind you Miss Hyacinth!!!!
I hope you enjoy this one like I did!!!
Content: Clean. Some mild moments of peril. Nothing further than a few sweet kisses.
I received a copy from the publisher, Shadow Mountain Publishing, via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
Holy Cow Batman!!! I was so drawn into this story from the beginning. Which, I of course figured would happen because that's the normal for me when I Holy Cow Batman!!! I was so drawn into this story from the beginning. Which, I of course figured would happen because that's the normal for me when I pick up a Stephanie Black book!!! I devoured it! I couldn't set it down once I started. And oh man, I was guessing and kept changing my guesses for who the bad guy was. I love when that happens! I love to be surprised and having twists and turns and a not clear cut villain. It was deliciously suspenseful!
Rayna has a lot of surprises in store for her and not all of those are happy or good. I loved seeing how she navigated them and was a bit on the edge of my seat as her secret started to surface and how some of these mysterious deaths were happening.
Enter Damon, a Trespasser, who is trying to determine is Rayna is good or bad. There were so many times that I was nervous for Rayna and worried about what was going to happen to her. I wanted to cover my eyes but couldn't cause then I wouldn't be able to finish her story and know that she was ok or not.
There are some pretty intense characters who helped weave this story together and I loved it!!!! I'm sooo excited for everyone, especially fans of Stephanie Black's writing, to get this one and read it! Wowsers, it's a good one!!!
Content: Clean. Full of suspense, death, kidnapping, murder and such but not overly graphic. I would let my teenagers read this.
I received a copy from the publisher, Covenant Communications, via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
This book cover is gorgeous! I can't wait to get my hands on a physical copy. I've seen the author showing a video of it and all of the special toucheThis book cover is gorgeous! I can't wait to get my hands on a physical copy. I've seen the author showing a video of it and all of the special touches that were made to it and it just looks so pretty!
I love that all of the Penny Dreadful stories from Sarah M. Eden's Dread Penny Society series are now all in one book! How fun is that! And bonus...3 new Penny Dreadfuls for us fans!
When reading the books of the series I had a hard time not turning ahead to read all of the Penny Dreadfuls straight through and not having to wait for the next installment. Lol! But I was good and waited. Mostly because I knew they correlated with the main story and what was happening so I wanted to have it all revealed in due time. And I loved that it felt kind of like what it felt like when reading Penny Dreadfuls back in the Victorian Era. They had to wait for each installment to be printed, so in a very small sense we got to feel what that was like. Lol. Very small sense of course!
But now we can sit and read our favorites, all at once or one installment at a time if you're wanting to be authentic. Pick your favorite Dread Penny Author and read just theirs. Or read the whole collection at once. However you prefer, but I hope you enjoy them just like I do!
Content: Clean. Each story has different elements to them. Most have a gothic feel, others have some paranormal aspects to them.
I received a copy from the publisher, Shadow Mountain Publishing, via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
I love a good fairytale story from this author and have been swept up in the previous series she's written. Facade starts off a new series that I'm loI love a good fairytale story from this author and have been swept up in the previous series she's written. Facade starts off a new series that I'm looking forward to enjoying. This first book was great.
I liked how the author developed the characters of Evelyn and Ryland. They both have something they treasure and care about but they are having struggles finding how to protect it and help. Princess Evelyn has just found out that she's just a decoy and is cast out from the castle and stripped of her title and family. Yet her love for her kingdom and people she's served is strong that when she discovers a plot, she decides royal or not, she's going to step up and thwart it!
Convincing Prince Ryland, the betrothed of the real Princess Evelyn, to marry her right away turns out easier than she thought it would be. But they both have secrets and a bit of a facade going on. I loved seeing their inner turmoil and struggle with not being completely honest with each other but for the sake of their kingdoms they're trying to save, they hold on to their facades and secrets.
Yes, the secrets come out. And yes there are complications in this marriage of convenience they have both entered into. Even when trying to get out of their marriage, the plot twists and turns keep Evelyn and Ryland on their toes.
I loved the themes of hope and learning to be true and honest throughout the book. The sweet love story was the thread that wove everything together and found a way to soften hearts and bring understanding. I found myself laughing at the banter and smiling and sighing at the friendship building to love with these two!
Content: Clean. Some kisses but nothing further.
I received a copy from the author. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
Wow! This book is amazing! I couldn't stop once I picked it up. I thought I'd read a few minutes here and there in between different things I needed tWow! This book is amazing! I couldn't stop once I picked it up. I thought I'd read a few minutes here and there in between different things I needed to do on a Saturday. Nope! I finished it all pretty much in one sitting! I had to pause for just a few minutes but I was quickly back to enjoying it and turning pages as quickly as I could.
Such a fascinating history as well that was woven into the story. Sand Pounders. Have you heard of them before? I have but I also lived on the coast for a long time. But I think this is one aspect of history, WWII history that probably isn't talked about much. I loved reading about the author's inspiration for the story and I'm so glad she wrote this one.
Gloryanna and Jonathan's story is unique. They are tied together in an unexplainable way. Shocking for both of them. I didn't read the blurb too closely because I wanted to be surprised when I read the book. And boy oh boy was I. Jonathan is a ghost and happens to rescue Gloryanna when she's caught in a vortex underwater while researching for a grant.
The mystery and unknown of the whole situation will pull you in and keep you guessing as Gloryanna experiences one setback and danger after another. With Johnathan at her side and unable to be seen by anyone else, he adds a lightness to the story. Poor Gloryanna might be thought to be mad talking to herself, but we all know it's just the ghost.
So many twists and turns that I love and have come to expect from books by Kathi Oram Peterson. I've loved all of her books that I've read and keep returning for more. I think it's safe to say that out of all of her books that I've read, this one is by far my favorite!
Gloryanna and Johnathan are racing to explain the dangerous things that keep happening, help her grandfather, try to solve Johnathan's die and figure out who is after her. Clear your schedules because you're going to want all the time to dive in and figure this one out!
Content: Clean. Some mild peril but nothing graphic.
I received a copy from the publisher, Covenant Communications, via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
I've read and watched a few different offerings of books/movies about the main character dying, becoming an angel and falling in love. I've always enjI've read and watched a few different offerings of books/movies about the main character dying, becoming an angel and falling in love. I've always enjoyed this trope and liked seeing how the authors were able to make it all connect and work.
This book was so darling! The characters were well developed and I enjoyed diving into their backstories. Gabriella's story was pretty sad and then she died. I was like "NOOOOO!!!!" But of course if she didn't die then the book wouldn't be what it is. I have to say, she was such a great angel. She has such a sweet and good personality. I loved her gaining a greater understanding about things she only thought she knew. And the understanding she brought to others.
Of course there is that Tyler kid, the one she is supposed to watch and be his guardian angel. She definitely makes some mistakes and messes up a few things but it's pretty darling and humorous. I was laughing out loud and anxiously awaiting to find out what she was going to do next and if she was going to figure out what was happening and if Tyler would be ok.
My teens would love this story and I enjoyed it as well. So, definitely one I'd recommend for teens and up. It's clean, it's fun, it's humorous, it has a sweet and tender love story! Definite win in my book!!!
Content: Clean. Talk about death, angels, afterlife, war between good and evil.
I received a copy from the author. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
*This book is also available to listen to for free on the YouTube channel under the author's other pen name- Victorine Lieske.)
Oh my heavens!!! I can't believe this series is over. This book has been one that myself and friends have been anticipating. We all may have squealed Oh my heavens!!! I can't believe this series is over. This book has been one that myself and friends have been anticipating. We all may have squealed in delight when we found out there was a release date. Woohoo!!! And it was definitely power packed from the opening pages. So good!!!
This book did not disappoint. The author definitely threw in lots of ups and downs, twists and turns and much, much more. Oh my! I loved being able to reconnect with all of the characters that I've come to love in this series. But be warned, there is definitely heartache involved as well. But Crysta is well, Crysta, and she loves fiercely and cares deeply for her friends and those she meets. She is just this awesome, powerhouse kind of character. I love waiting to see what she is going to surprise us (the other characters and me) with next.
I loved how everything finished up and came full circle to give a satisfying and healing conclusion to this series. I may have shed a few tears. *shrugs unabashedly* I never expected the journey I went on with this series when I opened up book #1. But it was delightful and intense and just awesome! Haha!
If you are a fantasy fan, seriously, don't wait any longer to read this series or this author's other books. Just go read them!
Content: This book did have swear words scattered throughout the book. There are moments of peril, violence and death due to the nature of a character trying to take over the realm this story is set in. The book is fantasy so there is the use of magic. There are several sexual innuendos throughout as well. The author does talk about sex between the characters as it being special and sacred and reserved for marriage. At the end of the book the couple does consummate their marriage. It is written tastefully and fades out. If you read my review for the first book I talk more in depth about why the author wrote aspects of the book like she did. Go read it if you’re interested. I’m pretty conservative on what I read and like clean reads. Throughout this whole series we’re watching this main character, Crysta, come to trust and learn what a healthy relationship is. The author takes her healing and experiences from being sexually molested as a child to hopefully bring awareness and strength and understanding for those who have been victims. I really thought she did a good job of advocating through the way she wrote Crysta’s character. And she really showed a healthy relationship and the need for healing. Anyway go read my review for the first book in the series for more info if you’re interested.
I received a copy from the author. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
I love that these are all in a boxset! And the covers are absolutely striking. Very Stunning! I love a good cover and these ones are very well done anI love that these are all in a boxset! And the covers are absolutely striking. Very Stunning! I love a good cover and these ones are very well done and fit the books so well.
I love this series. The mystery. The curse. The sisters. The matriarch. And of course the swoony love stories as well. So much goodness throughout all of these books. I couldn't wait for each book to come out and I devoured them. Especially the last one. I loved the family history aspects of it as well as how it tied everything in the series together. And how it tied everything related to the curse together and brought closure for this family.
The journal entries and history of the family were very fascinating. If you love a good gothic story, with mystery, suspense, an ancient curse, fabulous characters, and of course the swoony men who capture the hearts of these sisters, grab this boxset and immerse yourself in the Ambrose family.
I read my own personal copies of the individual books. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
As a debut novel, I was very impressed with the world building in this paranormal/fantasy/magical retelling of Jane Austen's beloved Sense and S3.5-4*
As a debut novel, I was very impressed with the world building in this paranormal/fantasy/magical retelling of Jane Austen's beloved Sense and Sensibility. We have our three Dartwood sisters, Eden, Mariah and Melissa, who experience the loss of their parents and have to navigate their way through many changes happening in their lives as well as some mysterious and weird happenings with their family estate and their family friends. Nothing is making sense. They band together and work through their grief while reaching out and relying on people from their past to help them.
I liked how the author created a foundation on Jane Austen's book with some similarities but made the story her own. The three sisters definitely portrayed similar personalities to the Dashwood sisters. They have their struggles and misunderstandings that they have to work through, which adds to the suspense of the book. But once they set aside their struggles and sometimes headstrong ways and work together they can achieve so much more.
This book has some paranormal aspects to it, witches and ghosts, and is in the fantasy genre. As I read further into the book, I liked the setting up that the author did for further books in the trilogy. I can't wait to see what comes next.
Content: There is no sexual content in the book. A few kisses but nothing further. I don't remember any swearing. Some violence and there are some dark moments that are associated with the villains of the story, the magical aspects and the death of the Dartwood parents and a couple other characters. Overall though, I would say that it is a clean fantasy/magical read.
I received a copy from Booksprout. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
Everyone is haunted by something. A road not taken. A hurt, carried deep inside. Harsh words that echo long after the sting of them is carried away onEveryone is haunted by something. A road not taken. A hurt, carried deep inside. Harsh words that echo long after the sting of them is carried away on the wind. Some of us are haunted more literally. We’ve seen and felt and heard what simply cannot be, but is. A low moan coming from the corner of a darkened room. A glimpse of an ethereal shape. A tangible encounter with... something. A passer-through. As I sit alone with my thoughts in this empty house, in the dark, a fire crackling in the fireplace and snow falling outside, it all comes back to me. And I’ll let it come.
Wow! Those words, after finishing the book and going back to the beginning have a whole new a stronger meaning.
This book was not what I expected. I'm not a scary reads/movie type of person. But a friend and several other reviews said it wasn't scary and the story idea intrigued me. So I requested a copy and pt off reading it for a little while. I finally picked it up and just, I don't know how to describe my thoughts. Shocking, I know! Lol! There were things that I didn't quite like in the book, but overall I enjoyed it. I enjoyed the characters and I enjoyed how the author wove the story together.
I really don't want to say much in this review because I don't want to give anything away. Because there's so much, as I said, woven into this story. Woven is a great word to describe the characters and story. There's so much that you don't see until the end when all the strands are revealed to make the whole. And wow! I know, I keep saying that. Especially that I've looked at those opening words again and have them running through my brain.
I kept guessing at some aspects of the story and I was right. But I don't think it's obvious, I think I've just read a lot. Lol! These characters have had heartaches and sorrows and I love how they've come to find joy in life. I loved Brynn recognizing herself waking up from just going through the motions after struggles and sorrow and loss, and finally starting to feel joy. Loved that! Dominic, well how to describe him, a gentle knight.
Content: There is the use of mild swear words throughout the book. References to alcohol and drinking. A couple of the characters in the book are married homosexuals. The book deals with cancer, Alzheimers Disease, saying goodbye, death. Some Paranormal aspects but not scary. There are some mild innuendos and a couple fade to black intimacy scenes. I wouldn't say it's squeaky clean, but a very mild heat level.
I received a copy from the publisher, Lake Union Publishing, via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
Oh the Ambrose women. Strong and confident. Yet plagued with the ever looming curse. Emma is the sister who gets to shine in this book. I've loved allOh the Ambrose women. Strong and confident. Yet plagued with the ever looming curse. Emma is the sister who gets to shine in this book. I've loved all of the books in this series. I've loved the family curse and history behind the Ambrose estate and family. I've loved the spunk of each of these sisters and the grandma. I've loved the previous sisters finding their freedom from the curse. I've loved their stories and journeys. But with as much as I loved all the previous books, I have to say that Emma's story is my favorite.
There are so many wonderful aspects to this book. I loved the journey Emma takes and watching her become stronger and more resilient than she already is. I loved watching her find the ability to trust and love. *happy sigh*
From being on a dig in Egypt and discoveries there, to discovering the shocking truth of an empty family coffin, to going on a search with Emma of her family history and seeking the truth of where her ancestor's body has disappeared to, it was such a terrific read! Add in a strong male lead with a charming English accent who brings intrigue, sparks and mystery of his own. Yep, perfect combination of all things I enjoy in a book. I was hooked from the beginning to the end. I couldn't wait for more! I needed to unravel the mystery as fast as I could with Emma and Ian. The search was very interesting and inspiring. I had several guesses as to where the missing body was but I was wrong. I was happily wrong and loved it even more what the author did with the story. If you've had questions from the previous books, there are more clues and answers found in this book! I was utterly enthralled.
Emma and Ian have plenty of moments that had me laughing out loud. My family kept looking at me wondering what I was laughing at. But I couldn't help myself. It was funny! Their initial meeting...oh my embarrassing to say the least. Then their next meeting, ha! The sparks and connection between them and the secret he's holding close, it all adds tension to the already tense mystery of a missing body. The chemistry and sweet friendship and growing love had me wanting good things to happen for these characters. I wanted them to find closure to their heartaches and the mysteries occurring in their lives. The way everything was tied up and finished was very satisfying! I'm sad to say goodbye to this dynamic family, but I'm looking forward to what's next for these authors. And, bonus...I can always return to the Ambrose Estate and all the mystery anytime I pick up these books!
Content: Clean. Some mild innuendos. An ancient curse. A missing body and digging up a family graveyard to move it.
Two words...Orient Express! I think that pretty much sums up how awesome this series is going to be. I'm sure there are many people who have ridin4.5*
Two words...Orient Express! I think that pretty much sums up how awesome this series is going to be. I'm sure there are many people who have riding the Orient Express on their bucket lists. I know I do! But until I can be there physically, I'll ride it and enjoy it in my imagination while I read this series. The authors slated to be writing books in this series are all my favorites so I'm doubly excited, great setting and great authors! Add in some mystery, gothicesque stories and some sweet and clean romance and I'm beyond excited!
This first book in the series was a great way to start it all off. I enjoyed the characters as well as some of the secondary characters whom I'm looking forward to seeing more of throughout the upcoming books. Especially Nicholas. So mysterious. I'm hoping to see a lot more of him and getting some backstory about him. I've got my predictions but we'll see if I'm close or far off with them.
Molly and Matthew are twins. I really liked seeing the connection that they have with each other. And their devotion to each other. Which devotion leads Molly to plan something way crazy and out there. Anything to save her brother who has very serious health concerns. Thankfully she has a hero in Percy, who is another passenger on the train. He has a good sense of what crazy scheme she's planning and intervenes to make sure she stays safe.
There's adventure and mystery and surprises along Molly's search for that elusive vampire in Transylvania. Between Molly, Percy, Nicholas and some strangers, readers are in for a very gothic read with suspense and some sweet romance to balance it all out.
Content: Clean. Nothing more than kisses. Some talk about vampires.
I received a copy from the publisher, Covenant Communications, via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
The Seasons of Change books have been delightful. I've read a handful of them and have to admit that I really have been looking forward to reading theThe Seasons of Change books have been delightful. I've read a handful of them and have to admit that I really have been looking forward to reading them all, but this one kept catching my eye because of the haunting aspect and the time of year it came out. I'm not a scary and spooky story type of person. I don't like scary movies. Nope! Not for me at all! Thank you very much! But being a fan of Sally Britton's books and knowing what reading her stories entails for me, I thought this would be a delightful book and have some fun mystery to it. I was not disappointed at all. I loved every minute of it. I actually did a mix of listening and reading to it. The narrator of the audiobook has such a soothing voice that I loved listening to her read the book.
Louisa's family situation isn't the best and she finds herself being shipped off to a great aunt's home by herself. She isn't sure what to expect but finds her situation better than expected. Her aunt is kind and caring. Finding time to explore the area, she runs into Erasmus Grey. They have a couple fun interactions and first meetings. I giggled at the creativeness of Sally Britton of their initial acquaintance and developing friendship. It was delightful.
The haunting aspect, or rather the ghosts aspect was quite fun. Delightful is the word I would use for it. I know I used that word about Louisa and Erasmus's friendship, but I think it's a great word to describe the characters and the story of this book.
The mystery and slight suspense (not scary) of the book had me turning the pages and listening during every spare minute that I could. If you enjoy fun books and stories that pull you into them, not letting go even after the last page, this book is one I would recommend for your reading pleasure. There are some other characters aside from the main two and the ghosts, some of them I liked and others I didn't care for. But then again that was their purpose. I'll let you read and discover who those characters are. ;-)
Content: Clean. Ghosts are some of the characters but they aren't malicious or scary. Well written!
I received an audiobook copy but also purchased my own ebook. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
Oh my heavens! I read this book two months ago and summer happened and I never came back and wrote my review. This is going to be super short because Oh my heavens! I read this book two months ago and summer happened and I never came back and wrote my review. This is going to be super short because of time and me trying to play catch up with so much because...summer and life.
I really enjoyed this book. It was definitely not this author's normal genre but she did a great job with her normal awesome writing in a fantasy/paranormal story. I was hooked. I'm hopeful for a sequel or a trilogy or series with it.
Content: The romance was a little more steamy but still clean. The mystery behind the two main characters was very intriguing. The ending...wowsers! I will say that there are some darker aspects to this story so it may not be for all of my clean reads friends. There were a significant number of profanities throughout the book as well.
Years ago, before I even knew what Steampunk was, I stumbled across a book. It looked interesting. It was about Sherlock Holmes' niece and Bram StokerYears ago, before I even knew what Steampunk was, I stumbled across a book. It looked interesting. It was about Sherlock Holmes' niece and Bram Stoker's sister. Both of those literary male figures were ones that I really enjoyed. So I took a chance and picked up the book. I didn't know when I checked it out from the library that it was Steampunk. So you can imagine my surprise to diving into this new series and reading about the main character discussing her outfits and adding cogs and sprockets and goggles and such to it. Plus the constant talk about steam power and no electricity, and Tesla coils. I took it all in, loving it and trying to figure out what this new world I'd entered was. I figured it out eventually of course (I was probably halfway through the book when I stopped to do some research). Now I've read several books in that genre and have really enjoyed them. This Steampunk Proper Romance series has been one that I've read them all and I keep hoping that the author will continue to write more books for it. The sky is the limit for fairytales to add into it. Hee Hee! Just a little plug from a fan wanting more. And I have to say that I say several potential characters in this book that could have their own story...another little hint, hint!
Before I write anything further in my review I have to put a plug in for readers who haven't read this series. Although you can read this book as a stand alone, I recommend reading every book in order. There's a lot that the author has built up, the world, the characters, the shifters and their need for protection. So much that will pull you into this world and have you turning the pages to discover what is in story for the characters and how the fairytale ties into the story. At least the books pulled me into the world and had me turning the pages to discover.
It's interesting that as I opened the pages of the book, I felt like the author was advocating for rights for all in the real world. That may not make sense, but to help, in this world there are many who are called shifters. They transform into werewolves, vampires, and many other creatures. Emme is trying to spearhead the cause for reforming rules and regulations regarding the shifter community. She wants all to be equal. I loved her passion and her rushing ahead to be the voice for those who didn't have one. Oliver is a detective who knows Emme's desires and personality as he's been watching her and pulling her out of situations where she puts herself in harms way. They've been at odds for years. She thinks he hates her and is out to get her when really he supports the need for reform and equality but knows there's a way to go about it without creating damage or harm to others or property. Not that Emme is harming anyone, just that she has a way with speaking and can bring crowds of people to seeing her point of view, which eventually turns to some riots.
There's danger around every corner for Emme. When one such letter brings alarm to her mother, Emme finds herself at the mercy of the police for protection and one such detective, Oliver Reed. Yay! You can bet that really makes her happy (ok, I'm being sarcastic there).
I really loved watching these two dance around their many emotions and the tension of their relationship...definitely not friendship. Unless, maybe they realize that they are actually fighting for the same cause, just a little different route for both.
One of my favorite scenes was at the beginning when Oliver comes to her house to discuss the particulars of what was happening, her upcoming schedule for traveling to the International Shifter Rights Organization’s week-long Summit in Scotland. There are so many important things happening in the story at that point. I loved it! There are many other scenes that I loved throughout this book as well. There are plenty of scenes that are calm, scenes that are full of intensity and suspense, danger, intrigue, surprises, struggles, and much, much more.
Now I find myself hoping once again for another book to be written in this series...and this one hasn't even been published yet. I guess that gives all of you who are eyeing this series plenty of time to read the first three books until this one comes out, then read this one and be like me, hoping for more!
Content: Clean. There are only some kisses throughout the book and nothing more. This is a paranormal/fantasy/steampunk. This book talks about vampires mainly and references a few other creatures. Some suspense but nothing graphic.
I received a copy from the publisher, Shadow Mountain Publishing, via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
Oh the Ambrose women. Strong and confident. Yet plagued with the ever looming curse. Emma is the sister who gets to shine in this book. I've loved allOh the Ambrose women. Strong and confident. Yet plagued with the ever looming curse. Emma is the sister who gets to shine in this book. I've loved all of the books in this series. I've loved the family curse and history behind the Ambrose estate and family. I've loved the spunk of each of these sisters and the grandma. I've loved the previous sisters finding their freedom from the curse. I've loved their stories and journeys. But with as much as I loved all the previous books, I have to say that Emma's story is my favorite.
There are so many wonderful aspects to this book. I loved the journey Emma takes and watching her become stronger and more resilient than she already is. I loved watching her find the ability to trust and love. *happy sigh*
From being on a dig in Egypt and discoveries there, to discovering the shocking truth of an empty family coffin, to going on a search with Emma of her family history and seeking the truth of where her ancestor's body has disappeared to, it was such a terrific read! Add in a strong male lead with a charming English accent who brings intrigue, sparks and mystery of his own. Yep, perfect combination of all things I enjoy in a book. I was hooked from the beginning to the end. I couldn't wait for more! I needed to unravel the mystery as fast as I could with Emma and Ian. The search was very interesting and inspiring. I had several guesses as to where the missing body was but I was wrong. I was happily wrong and loved it even more what the author did with the story. If you've had questions from the previous books, there are more clues and answers found in this book! I was utterly enthralled.
Emma and Ian have plenty of moments that had me laughing out loud. My family kept looking at me wondering what I was laughing at. But I couldn't help myself. It was funny! Their initial meeting...oh my embarrassing to say the least. Then their next meeting, ha! The sparks and connection between them and the secret he's holding close, it all adds tension to the already tense mystery of a missing body. The chemistry and sweet friendship and growing love had me wanting good things to happen for these characters. I wanted them to find closure to their heartaches and the mysteries occurring in their lives. The way everything was tied up and finished was very satisfying! I'm sad to say goodbye to this dynamic family, but I'm looking forward to what's next for these authors. And, bonus...I can always return to the Ambrose Estate and all the mystery anytime I pick up these books!
Content: Clean. Some mild innuendos. An ancient curse. A missing body and digging up a family graveyard to move it.
It's been a little bit since I read this book and I'm finally writing my review. But all I had to do was look at the names of the characters and it alIt's been a little bit since I read this book and I'm finally writing my review. But all I had to do was look at the names of the characters and it all came flooding back to me.
Amelia is one of the Ambrose sisters. She's one that I've been waiting for because not a lot of information was given about her in the first couple books. The older three sisters had some info about them and their careers, even a couple phone conversations. Yet, Amelia and the twins are the elusive sisters. So when Amelia's book came out and I was able to read it, I dove right in. And I loved uncovering and discovering her story.
The Ambrose curse is real and thriving in Amelia's life and she has never forgotten it. It rules her dating life. She never dates men more than a couple dates. And she never allows her heart to become involved. When her sister tells her that she needs to take a chance and find real, true love, that it can break the curse but Amelia needs to discover how on her own, she is intrigued. Does she dare believe it? So to see if there is a possibility of someone out there, she makes a list. Her list of some of the men she dated and had secretly liked with the potential for more.
Enter Grigg...Amelia's business partner and friend. When he learns of why Amelia holds herself back in relationships and that she's finally willing to pursue one, he won't hold back. Thus spurs on Amelia and Grigg working her way through her list and him being her sidekick, friend, and confidant. And hopefully more.
These two were so fun! I loved all the moments between them. I loved their friendship. I loved the way that Grigg was there for her and wanted to protect and love her. Even if she didn't see it. And especially when she gets herself into a bit of a pickle going through her list of exes. Watch out because that curse can come back to haunt you if you're not careful...or rather your old flames might when your heart really isn't into any of them.
There were a couple scenes that I reread and loved. Amelia and Grigg are up there in my favorite couple from this series so far. That may change when the other books come out but for now.
Content: Clean. Some mild peril. Some kissing scenes but nothing further. A couple mild swear words.
I received a copy from the author. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
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