2025 & 2026 Reading Challenge discussion
2025 Personal Challenge: 101+
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Ian's busy schedule however determined to read 110 books in 2025
date
newest »
newest »
DreadfulA sharp-witted, high fantasy farce featuring killer moat squid, toxic masculinity, evil wizards and a garlic festival - all at once. Perfect for fans of T. Kingfisher, K. J. Parker and Travis Baldree.
It’s bad enough waking up in a half-destroyed evil wizard’s workshop with no eyebrows, no memories, and no idea how long you have before the Dread Lord Whomever shows up to murder you horribly and then turn your skull into a goblet or something.
It’s a lot worse when you realize that Dread Lord Whomever is… you.
Gav isn’t really sure how he ended up with a castle full of goblins, or why he has a princess locked in a cell. All he can do is play along with his own evil plan in hopes of getting his memories back before he gets himself killed.
But as he realizes that nothing – from the incredibly tasteless cloak adorned with flames to the aforementioned princess – is quite what it seems, Gav must face up to all the things the Dread Lord Gavrax has done. And he’ll have to answer the hardest question of all – who does he want to be?
Dread Lord Gavrax has had better weeks.
My comments:
I was not able to get into this book at all, found it a very slow book and the story was not engaging for me at all. I found myself not liking any of the characters and if it were not for reading this book for a book group i'd have tunred it off after about an hour. I don't like writing bad reviews however unfortunately I could not get into this one and would not recommend it.
Hi Ian! I'm glad to see that in spite of your busy schedule, you are making good progress on your goal! I hope you are enjoying lots of amazing books along the way. I see that you are reading The Chronicles of Narnia. Is there a reason you skipped The Silver Chair? I only noticed because it's my next book in the series, and I plan on reading it for our monthly Treasure Island challenge.
Happy reading!
I’m actually on the last battle, maybe I forgot to review the Silverchair.will have to have a look
Ian wrote: "I’m actually on the last battle, maybe I forgot to review the Silverchair.will have to have a look"Ah ok. I'm glad it's not the case that it wasn't good and therefore you skipped it. 😊
The Silver ChairEnjoyed this one, it was not my favourite of the series however i enjoy the quest Jill and eustus had to go on. Really enjoyed reading this one. Looking forward to book 7.
The Proposal by Lori Wick1810 London, England. William Jennings has never been interested in marriage and family. So when a relative dies and leaves Jennings three young children, his world turns upside down.
Thrilled to have boys to carry on his name, William invests time in the two brothers, but the little girl is tended to by a negligent nanny. Finally, Jennings seeks help from his sister and soon becomes acquainted with her neighbor, Marianne Walker. Her strength and faith intrigues Jennings, but will he allow himself to fall for her and the God she loves?
My comments:
I love this authors writing, I read her rocky mountain memories books a few years a go and loved them. This was slightly different however it was really good. I loved the way William became more open minded and Marianne was a lovely character to. Looking forward to the rest of the series.
Ring of Bright WaterHailed a masterpiece when it was first published, the story of Gavin Maxwell's life with otters on the remote west coast of Scotland remains one of the most lyrical, moving descriptions of a man's relationship with the natural world. ""One of the outstanding wildlife books of all time.""-New York Herald Tribune First published 1960 by Longmans, Green & Co.
My comments:
I read this book when I was around 12 and remember watching the film with my parents when I was young. I loved the book then and I loved it a lot more this time. The descriptions of the authors life with the Otters was amazing and I enjoyed this book very much. Well worth the five star rating.
The Way HomeShe seemed to have it all—
except a way home.
Broadcast journalist Amy Winter has her sights set on a network job, and the sports-star trial she’s been assigned to cover for her Atlanta station might be just the thing to get her noticed by the corporate bigwigs. If she can persuade prosecuting attorney Cal Richards to cooperate with her coverage. But the man is more tight-lipped than a CIA agent.
Cal has no time for pushy journalists who prefer sensationalism over substance. And Amy is beyond pushy. Case in point—finagling her way into a date with him. When their paths cross in a different setting, however, his opinion of her begins to change…and his feelings start to deepen. But the dream he’s kept close to his heart doesn’t align with her career ambitions, creating a major roadblock to romance.
Can these two strong, determined people find a way to reconcile their divergent ambitions and build a future together, or will their blossoming love vanish like a Smoky Mountains mist?
In this RT Book Reviews Reviewer’s Choice Award winner, bestselling author Irene Hannon shares a tender story about the power of love to change lives and the importance of discovering what really matters.
My comments:
I really enjoyed this story, Cal and Amy were wonderful Characters and I really liked how they grew and learned together. As usual this was a wonderful story by this author and I'm looking forward to more. I'm already reading the second book in this series now. Once the brides series comes out on Audible i'll read that in order as well. There is not one book i've read by this author that I have not enjoyed.
Seasons of the HeartCan two lonely, hurting people let go of the past
and take a second chance on love?
Single mom Kate Nolan has endured more than her share of trauma and loss, and now her young daughter is having adjustment issues at her new day-care facility. The five-year-old has also developed mysterious stomachaches that need attention, even if Kate would prefer not to set foot in a medical facility ever again.
Pediatrician Eric Carlson never forgot the woman in the smashed car on that icy night he stopped to assist at an accident scene. And when she brings her little girl to his office, it’s clear both mother and daughter are under severe stress.
Arranging to have his recently widowed mother take over day-care duties seems like a solution to multiple problems. Except the setup brings problems of its own. Because as Kate and Eric begin to see more of each other, sparks fly—and neither is looking for romance. But if they can both find a way to leave the past behind and open their hearts again to the gift of love, might they discover that the best is yet to be?
In this RT Book Reviews Reviewer’s Choice Award finalist, bestselling author Irene Hannon delves deep into the heart of characters yearning for love...and takes readers along on a touching journey to healing and hope.
My comments:
I really loved this book, the two main characters were likable from the start. Erick was so caring to Kate and it was lovely to see them gradually start to let go of there pasts. I felt sorry for Erick as it was clear he liked Kate early on however due to his views on marriage although he was divorced he did not feel he could give his life to anyone else while his x wife was still alive. I loved the way Kate cared for Sarah and the way she was always willing to put her needs first even if it made her uncomfortable. As usual with this Authors work this was an enjoyible story and i'm always looking out for what might be coming next.
The Fifth SeasonI did quite enjoy this book however their was a lot happening and it took a long time to get into it. I also read it for a book club however I started it a bit later than I probably should given how much was involved in the story. I found the plot difficult to follow in a lot of the story as it was not always easy to work out where I was in the story and which character I was reading about. I think this is a book I will read again when I can take my time to go through it at a slower pace before deciding weather I feel i'd want to continue and read the rest of the series.
Don't Leave Me Here: Saskia’s true story of secrets, kidnap and abuse'Don't leave me here! Please, don't leave me.'
What possesses a mum to kidnap her own child? That's what Maggie asks herself when she's asked to foster 13-year-old Saskia, the subject of a bitter custody battle between her parents. When Saskia's mum Rosa fears the courts are going to favour her ex-husband, James, she takes matters into her own hands.
With Rosa facing criminal charges, and Saskia refusing to live with her dad, her future looks uncertain.
Will Maggie be able to step in and discover the bombshell that will tear this family apart?
From Britain's best-loved foster carer, a new and inspiring true story of secrets and hope.
my comments:
This was again another great book by this author. Saskia's story was really sad and my heart went out to her from the start. I loved how Maggie helped both Saskia and Roza and the way she was so supportive with both of them. I would recommend this and all of this authors books as they're always really good.
book:Hidden Nature|217388081The #1 New York Times-bestselling author presents a new novel about an injured cop who must fight to bring down a pair of twisted killers…
Natural Resources police officer, Sloan Cooper, and her partner had just taken down three men preying on hikers in the Western Maryland mountains. Driving back, she pulled in at a convenience store—and walked right into a robbery in progress. One gunshot from a jittery thief was about to change her world.
After being shocked back to life on the operating table, she has a long recovery ahead, so she moves back to her parents’ peaceful house in Heron’s Rest. As for the boyfriend who dumped her via text while she was in the hospital, good riddance.
She may be down, but she’s not out. So when a woman vanishes, leaving her car behind in a supermarket parking lot, Sloan searches online for similar cases. She finds them, spread across three states. Men and women, old and young—the missing seem to have nothing in common. And the abductions keep happening.
Luckily, the new man in her life shares her passion for solving this mystery. But it will take every ounce of endurance to get to the dark heart of this bizarre case—and she's willing to risk her life again if that's what it takes to stop the horror.
My comments:
This was a wonderful story and I was taken in from the start wanting to know how the story unfolded. Slone was a fantastic main character and I really loved her determination to solve cases. All the other characters in the book apart from Clara and Sam were loving characters and I loved all of them. I liked Clara and Sam as the bad guys as they were both really well developed characters and I liked their twisted way of thinking even if I did not agree with it. this was a wonderful story that I found very difficult to put down when reading.
A New Family at Puddleduck FarmWelcome back to Puddleduck Farm and a wonderfully warm, festive and uplifting read from Della Galton
Uplifting, poignant, feel-good fiction at its best. Perfect for the fans of Alison Sherlock, Sarah Hope and Lisa Hobman
Are there enough hours in the day for everyone to find their happy place?
Phoebe Dashwood and Sam Hendrie welcome their beautiful baby daughter into their already busy lives. With motherhood now top of Phoebe’s to-do list alongside being a vet, and running an animal sanctuary there’s no time for daydreaming.
As Phoebe battles sleepless nights, extra challenges arise in the shape of abandoned African pygmy hedgehogs, stolen cats, and a worrying trend to keep wildlife as pets.
Meanwhile, Sam is selflessly left holding the baby and when a familiar face from the past returns old feelings are tested. With so many plates spinning Sam worries something may get broken – he just hopes it won’t be their relationship.
Can parenthood, a relationship, and a professional life be successfully juggled and is it really ever possible to have it all?
My comments:
When the last book in this series finished it tied things off really well so was not sure if their would be another however I was very excited when I found their was. I love Phebie and Sam as Characters and have from the start and their story unfolding as they juggle running Puddleduck farm with having a baby and other jobs it's amazing how they grow as characters. This book was good because I like the fact in every book they have to solve a mystry regarding animals and this time it was stolen cats. Another great book in this series and it was also good to see Jade feature from the Duck pond rescue in this book and I hope their will be more cross over between the two sancturies. Looking forward to the next book this author has to offer from either this series or duck pond rescue or something else.
NevernightIn a land where three suns almost never set, a fledgling killer joins a school of assassins, seeking vengeance against the powers who destroyed her family.
Daughter of an executed traitor, Mia Corvere is barely able to escape her father’s failed rebellion with her life. Alone and friendless, she hides in a city built from the bones of a dead god, hunted by the Senate and her father’s former comrades. But her gift for speaking with the shadows leads her to the door of a retired killer, and a future she never imagined.
Now, Mia is apprenticed to the deadliest flock of assassins in the entire Republic—the Red Church. If she bests her fellow students in contests of steel, poison and the subtle arts, she’ll be inducted among the Blades of the Lady of Blessed Murder, and one step closer to the vengeance she desires. But a killer is loose within the Church’s halls, the bloody secrets of Mia’s past return to haunt her, and a plot to bring down the entire congregation is unfolding in the shadows she so loves.
Will she even survive to initiation, let alone have her revenge?
My comments:
When I first started this book I really struggled to get into it, it took me until chapter 5 to really start becoming invested when action started happening. If i'd not been reading this for a book club I would never have picked it up as i'd never heard of the series and i'm still new to the fantacy Jonra as only got into it in the last couple of years. I'm still not sure weather i'm invested enough to read the rest of the series as I had to rush through it to get it read in time so i'll probably read it again at a slower pace to decide weather I feel I want to read the rest of the series although I am interested in Mia's journey and how it un folds so their is a good chance I will in the future.
Mia was a very well developed character and I really liked her loyalty to her friends and the people she loves. What was done to her family was horrible and I think anyone would want revenge. The action scenes in the story were very wel described and I really enjoyed those parts of the book. I also liked Mia's mentor and for an old man he was very tough.
The story as a whole was confusing with the two time frames being told together, I would have personally found it easier if there had been a chapter based on the present and a chapter based on Mia's past. I'm glad I read this book though and I suspect this is a trillogy I will most lightly finish.
Winter Nights at the Bay Bookshop: A BRAND NEW heartwarming and uplifting read from Jessica Redland to curl up with for 2025Must-listen for fans of Trisha Ashley, Sarah Hope and Phillipa Ashley!It's the most wonderful time of the year at Bay Books, and a new love story is being written in the stars
Nestled amongst the comforting shelves of her beloved Bay Books, Lily Appleton finds the peace and quiet she needs. But with Christmas just around the corner, Lily has to find an extra pair of hands to help her share the bookish magic.
After selling his business, Lars Jóhannsson is feeling lost. A job at Bay Books would give him the space he needs to contemplate his next move, but returning would mean confronting a painful past he's been avoiding. He’s also fairly sure he’s the one person Lily would never want to see again.
Lily is torn. Lars could be the perfect fit for Bay Books, but he once rejected her friendship and the hurt still lingers. But working together, Lily discovers a vulnerability that Lars has kept hidden away, along with a few surprising secrets. And as the Christmas season sprinkles its magic, Lily discovers the warmth of renewed friendship and the joy of heartwarming traditions from Lars’s Icelandic roots.
Surrounded by the quiet magic of the season and the soft glow of festive lights, perhaps there’s even the possibility of finding a love as enchanting as the Northern Lights on a winter's night.
My comments:
As usual this Author did not disappoint with yet another wonderful book. I loved Lily and Lars straight away as characters. Their story was full of warmth and enjoyment and I loved the fact that Lars Icelandic roots were included. I especially loved the way Christmas links so well with books in Iceland and how important reading is. It was also lovely to have a story where books were so much a part of the story. This book made me smile and I read the whole book in 1 day. The two readers also read the book fantasticly well. I can't wait for the next book already. Jesica Redland has quickly become one of my favourite authors and I am always excited to see what's coming next.
A Time for Renewal*** The second installment in the bestselling, uplifting Rivenshaw Saga, set at the end of the Second World War***In the wake of World War Two, the whole country is desperate for houses, with very little money available to rebuild. In the town of Rivenshaw in Lancashire, Mayne Esher has no choice but to turn Esherwood, the war-damaged stately home which has been in his family for generations, into flats. Rebuilding Esherwood won't be easy but with Judith Crossley by his side, Mayne hopes to restore it to its former glory. First, he must open it up to some of his long-suffering army friends . . . and it soon becomes clear that the house isn't the only thing which needs rebuilding.Victor is fighting his late wife's rich and arrogant mother for custody of his daughter Betty. Ros has been cheated out of her money and has nowhere to go now she's been demobbed from the army. Daniel is still unsettled after his wartime experiences. He's waiting for his divorce to go through and hasfamily problems that take him away from Rivenshaw. Francis hasn't even been in touch.On top of these troubles, saving Esherwood proves to be a difficult undertaking for Mayne and Judith. And certain people will stop at nothing to prevent it happening. In this time of renewal, will the group find a way to rebuild their lives, and the old house, as planned?
My comments:
I took a break from this saga because I love the valley so much and was not looking forward to this series ending, however I felt the time was write now to finally start winding this series down given all the other books I want to read in the future.
The second book was about Mayne continuing to make plans to rebuild his house into flats and also he's aiming to help his x army pals. In this book we meet Victor, Ros and Dan 3 of Mayne's X army friends. Victor is fighting for custody of his daughter. Ros is lost after being demobbed from the army and Dan is also struggling with his own problems. Francis the other person set to join their business has not yet been in touch.
I really enjoyed meeting these extra characters and I am looking forward to learning more about their plans in future books. This was a lovely story about romance and friendships. I am looking forward to the other two books in the series. Their is another book I am currently reading an then another book I plan to start so will be back to this series after a 2 book break to continue with book 3.
No Ordinary SummerPilgrim Cove—where love can be as powerful as the ocean next door.
On the surface, Pilgrim Cove seems like any other coastal town. Picturesque and peaceful with long stretches of unspoiled beach, fresh ocean breezes and the sense of time passing slowly.
However….
…only in Pilgrim Cove live a group of friends called the ROMEOs whose sole aim to take care of the town.
…only in Pilgrim Cove stands a unique house right on the beach. Sea View House. A very special place—some say magical—to the people who reside there each season.
…and only in Pilgrim Cove, are strangers welcomed while everyone else takes a front row seat as a love story unfolds.
NO ORDINARY SUMMER is the second of the four-book Pilgrim Cove series.
Fun is what Shelley Anderson is trying to provide for her two young children when she rents the first floor of Sea View House a year after a painful divorce. The kids haven’t been adjusting well, and the house is perfect.
She’s not sure about perfection, however, after she meets Daniel Stone, the man who’s renting the top floor of the house. A man who’s trying to find his balance after losing his wife. Her neighbor definitely wants to be left alone. He’s less than thrilled by the instant rapport between his beautiful golden retriever and her two active kids. And he’s definitely shaken by the rapport that springs up between himself and Shelley.
When Shelley’s ex shows up, threatening to take the kids, Shelley must protect her little family while also protecting her budding happiness with Dan.
With their painful pasts, will Shelley and Daniel find the courage to love again? It’s a question only they can answer.
My comments:
I loved the second book in this series, read the first one earlier in the year and decided to come back to this again. The second story was wonderful and it was lovely to catch up with Matt and Laura from the previous book.
The second book focused on Daniel and Shelley Shelley is recovering from a divorce and wants to herself and her kids time to heal so they rent seeview house. At the top of the house lives Daniel Stone a widdower who just wants to be left alone. I love Shelley and Daniel's story and it was great seeing the romeo's again. This was a lovely story to pass my work day and I will be reading the other 2 books in the series.
Pastures NewThe delightfully down-to-earth debut novel from Clare Balding.
Sometimes home is where you least expect it…Alex has perfected the art of dodging responsibility during her almost 40 years — until an unexpected letter turns her life upside down.
She’s inherited a crumbling sheep farm in wildest, wettest Wales. This was not her life plan. Not at all.
Now, her closest companion is a grumpy Welsh terrier, she’s speed-reading The Idiot’s Guide to Farming, and her arrival has set the village gossip mill spinning. With the farm near collapse and its community now relying on her, Alex sets out to uncover the truth behind her mysterious inheritance. Then she can finally get back to the carefree life she thought she wanted.
But as secrets surface, Alex finds her heart pulling her in a direction she never saw coming.
Will she pack her bags – or has she landed exactly where she’s meant to be?
Brimming with the warmth and wit that has made Clare Balding one of our best-loved TV personalities, Pastures New is a joyful celebration of new beginnings, community, and the delightful surprises of rural life.
My comments:
What a lovely story, very pleasant and a lovely easy read. I think this will appeal to most readers especially if you love animals and slow building romance. I loved Alex as a character and the way enherriting the farm helped her to grow. I liked the fact the romance was very slow building and clean as well. Their were a lot of interesting characters in this book and apart from Brookes I liked all the other characters.
A Time to Rejoice'Anna Jacobs' books are deservedly popular. She is one of the best writers of Lancashire sagas around' - Historical Novels Reviews'Anna Jacobs' books have an impressive grasp of human emotions' - Sunday Times'Catherine Cookson fans will cheer!' - Peterborough Evening Telegraph***************The heartwarming third instalment of the Rivenshaw series from bestselling saga writer Anna Jacobs.After a stray bomb scored a direct hit on his childhood home in Hertfordshire, the only thing that has kept Francis Brady going while he works day and night salvaging what he can from the rubble is the thought that soon he'll be joining war-time friends Mayne, Daniel and Victor as electrician in their new dream building firm in Lancashire. But things are not going to Mayne isn't answering any of his letters; Francis' wife is having a change of heart about moving up north - and her parents seem set on destroying his reputation... A lot of marriages are breaking up in these times of change, and Francis is loathe for his to be one of them... But how can he turn down the opportunity of a new life and career in Rivenshaw? Meanwhile in Rivenshaw itself, newly married Mayne and Judith's plans to convert Esherwood house into flats have come to an abrupt halt. While clearing out the house in readiness for the rebuild, they've discovered that someone has been stealing valuables and hiding them in the old Nissen hut. But who hid them there - and are they planning on returning for them? And are they also responsible for something else found in the a body, buried in a shallow grave...With so much going against them, can these four friends ever turn their dreams into reality?
My comments:
Really enjoying this series a lot, I will be sad to say good bye to the valley once I have finished book 4. I really enjoyed the 3rd book in this series and we finally met Francis the final part of the four friends. I loved how Dianna grew during the book and started to learn how to fit in and make friends with poorer people. I'm looking forward to book four and hope Daniel finds his romance.
Gifts For Our TimeGermany 1939, and Christa Sommer boards the Kindertransport, unsure that she'll ever see her beloved mother and father again.
Once in England she is taken in by elderly Mrs Pelling, who grows to love Christa as the daughter she never had.
But in 1945 Mrs Pelling dies. While her will cannot be found, her money-grabbing niece appears out of the blue to claim her inheritance and turfs Christa out, with only a suitcase to her name. The prejudice against Germans still runs high in England, and Christa is unable to secure a job or a place to stay...
Luck comes her way when a lady she saves from being mugged turns out to be Mayne Esher's friend Daniel's mother. Taking pity on Christa, they take her to Rivenshaw where they plan to start a new life as part of the Esher building firm.
There Christa is welcomed with open arms and she soon develops a love for the place, the people and, Daniel...
But Esherwood is not the trouble-free sanctuary she first thinks.
Determined to do their bit for soldiers returning from the war they have agreed to allow the council to build prefabs on some of Esherwood's garden. But an empire-building town planner seems set on taking all of Mayne's land for the war effort...
Mayne has also discovered a secret door at the back of the old Nissen hut, with a complicated locking mechanism that has local locksmiths dumbfounded.
Just what is hidden behind the door to warrant such high security?
My comments:
It's been a long journey for me with these characters from the valley which has lasted a number of years. One of my best friends recommended ellendale to me a few years a go and then informed me that the other places mentioned had their own series so last year I decided to obtain the whole collection and finally finish it. Now this is the final book of the collection and I am not going to lie I am feeling quite emotional as I write this review on the final book as I feel sad saying good bye to all these wonderful characters. I will be revisiting the valley again in the future for sure and re reading these wonderful books.
This final book was fantastic and I am really glad the characters all got the ending they did. It's clear the author did her research on the time and I loved the mystry in this book and could not wait to find out if they would manage to get into the celler and find out what was their.
I would highly recommend the valley collection is read in order starting with Ellendale, bagshaw moss, burch end and ending with Rivenshaw as that's the latest collection. While the characters in the other 3 series don't feature massively in rivenshaw apart from sargent Deema I still think it's better to read the full collection in order so you get to know the valley. I'm looking forwrd to reading more by this author as I've enjoyed everything I have tried by her so far.
It's good bye to these characters for now however this has been a wonderful collection of books and I've enjoyed getting to know these characters.
OrbitalA team of astronauts in the International Space Station collect meteorological data, conduct scientific experiments and test the limits of the human body. But mostly they observe. Together they watch their silent blue planet, circling it sixteen times, spinning past continents and cycling through seasons. Endless shows of spectacular beauty witnessed in a single day.
Then news reaches them of the death of a mother, and with it comes thoughts of returning home. They look on as a typhoon gathers over an island and people they love, in awe of its magnificence and fearful of its destruction. The fragility of human life fills their conversations, their fears, their dreams. So far from earth, they have never felt more part - or protective - of it. They begin to ask, what is life without earth? What is earth without humanity?
my comments:
I liked the way the book was read and the reader did a fantastic job giving the characters different voices. I just found the story itself very difficult to get into and I found I had a lack of interest in the plot. This is not a book I would personally recommend. Their were lots of times in the plot wheir complecated terms were used therefor if you have no interest in the subject matter their are lots of times in the story where you would struggle to understand some of the terms used and what they mean. I feel bad having to give a book such a low rating especially with how well it was read however this really was not for me.
Joey: How a Blind Rescue Horse Helped Others Learn to SeeThe heartwarming true story of a blind horse named Joey.
At the height of his show career, this beautiful Appaloosa’s majestic stature, strength, and willingness to work made him the perfect partner. But when an injury cost Joey his show career, he moved from one owner to the next, ultimately experiencing severe abuse and neglect. A rescue group found Joey nearly dead from starvation―and blind.
Then he came to Hope Reins―a ranch dedicated to helping hurting kids who had been abused, emotionally wounded, or unwanted. By teaching these children to care for rescued animals, the Hope Reins staff were convinced they could reach kids with love and hope and show them that we are never forgotten by God.
But could the financially struggling ranch afford to take care of a blind horse that no one else wanted? Could Joey somehow learn to trust people even though the world had hurt him so badly? And what would happen―to Joey, the kids, and Hope Reins―if they failed?
A true story of friendship destined to become a classic, Joey will touch your heart and reveal the power of finding light in the darkness.
My comments:
I'm going to try and write this review without giving spoilers however this book was so fantastic it's going to be difficult. A lot of books i've read have touched me and made me emotional however their is not a book that has touched me this much in a long time. This is a book that will stick in my memory for ages.
Those who know me well will know I am not an emotional person, however this book made me cry more than once. The touching stories of how Joey affected the different children and adults who worked with him were really touching and transforming. I also loved how faith in god was such a big part of the book and the way the ranch was ran.
Their were so many lovely examples of how Joey helped children however the story that touched me the most was the story of the autistic boy who started re connecting with his mother through speckles and the connection he and the boy made. That story had me in tears how the horse helped the two start connecting.
This book has left a lasting impression on me and I'll be remembering this for a long time yet and I am sure it won't be my last time reading this beautiful story.
One of the best books I've read in a while and the power of the stories told was transformitive and has made me believe in myself and my own abilities as a blind person.
The Best GiftShe’s thrilled with her bequest—
but claiming it could be tricky.
Free spirit AJ Williams couldn’t be happier with the legacy her Aunt Jo left her. She’s ready for a new adventure—and who wouldn’t want to own a bookshop? There’s just one little problem. She has to share her bequest with the picky, no-nonsense manager, Blake Sullivan. Even worse? They have to work together for six months in order to claim their inheritance.
Blake isn’t any more thrilled about Jo’s stipulation than AJ is. He runs a tight ship, which is why he’s made a success of the business Jo hired him to straighten out. He doesn’t need her inexperienced niece butting in and wreaking havoc. As far as he’s concerned, this is not a partnership made in heaven.
Yet when they’re forced to team up to fight an unexpected threat to their inheritance, friendship takes root. And as the six-month mark approaches, might Aunt Jo’s legacy lead not only to a business partnership, but the love of a lifetime?
Bestselling author Irene Hannon delivers another delightful tale that showcases how love can bloom in unexpected places—and the importance of never judging a book by its cover.
My comments:
I am a massive fan of this authors work, everything I have read by her I have enjoyed. This book was no exception.
This was the first book in the sisters and brides series, the series is about 3 sisters AJ, Claire and Morgan. All 3 sisters have been left bequests in their great aunts will with unusual stipulations, this is AJ's story.
AJ has been made part owner of the bookstore her aunt owned however to claim her inheritance she is not allowed to sell it for 6 months and she has to work full time in the store with the other part owner Blake Sullivan. AJ who is free spirited and always up for an adventure however Blake is very organised and is not thrilled to have Joe's inexperienced niece coming in to shake things up. However when they are forced to work together to protect their inheritance and AJ's suggestions start to make positive changes Blake starts to warm more to her.
This was a fantastic story and I loved AJ and Blake's story and the way they started to explore their differences. I'm ooking forward to Clair and Morgan's stories next.
Gift from the HeartIn order to claim her inheritance, she has to become a nanny?
Clare Randall is thrilled to receive a bequest from her great-aunt. With her bank account on fumes since tragedy upended her life, a cash infusion is just what she needs. But she’s not as thrilled about the strings attached to her legacy. In order to claim her inheritance, she has to work as a nanny for six months for Dr. Adam Wright—a widower she’s never met who lives more than a thousand miles away. What was Aunt Jo thinking?
Adam is equally shocked when Clare reaches out to him with her odd story. Yet cautious as he is about letting a stranger into his life, he does need help with his truculent and uncooperative eleven-year-old daughter. And maybe, with her teaching credentials, Jo’s great-niece will be able to smooth out the waters between him and his daughter … and help him learn a few lessons about love along the way.
In this HOLT Medallion finalist, bestselling and award-winning author Irene Hannon takes listeners on another heartwarming journey filled with hope and happy endings.
“A beautifully written love story filled with faith and blessings for both the characters and the reader.”—RT Book Reviews on Gift from the Heart
My comments:
This is the second book in the sisters and brides series, the series follows 3 sisters AJ, Claire and Morgan who are recipients of bequests to their great aunts will however the bequests come with strange missions that have to be performed in order for the inheritance to be claimed. This is Clair's story.
Clair Randle is struggling for money after the loss of her husband and child. Joe's legacy is something she really needs in order to help her start getting back on track therefor she feels she has no choice and needs to do what she's being instructed. Adam Write although surprised by Clair's story checks it out and agrees to the arrangement once it's been confirmed.
I really loved the way Clair and Adam helped each other and the way Clair was with Nicole adam's daughter. This was a wonderful story with some really emotional points, I was in tears during some scenes in the story as Clair and Adam explored their pasts. I am looking forward to Morgan's story when it comes out on October 14th on audio book. I suspect Morgans could be the most interesting given her work aholic nature.
The Wrong SisterIn this sensational thriller from the number-one internationally bestselling author, two sisters discover that the secrets they keep from each other prove to be deadly.
You’ve known her all your life. Or have you?
Tasha and her older sister Alice may look alike, but they couldn’t be more different. Tasha’s married with two children and still lives in their hometown near Bristol. Alice is a high-flying scientist who travels the world with her equally successful husband.
Yet each sister would trust the other with her life.
When Tasha and her husband Aaron need a break and Alice offers to stay in their home with the kids, Tasha knows her family is in safe hands.
She couldn’t be more wrong.
The call from home is devastating. Alice and her husband Kyle have been attacked, leaving Alice in intensive care and Kyle dead. Rushing to the hospital, Tasha finds the police trying to piece events together. She can’t think why anyone would attack her sister.
Then the note arrives, addressed to Tasha:
It was supposed to be you . . .
Every family has secrets. Some more deadly than others.
My comments:
Wow what a fantastic book, started this yesterday and could not put it down. For a book just over 8 hours long their was a lot in it.
I liked the way the scene was set in the 1st 4 chapters of the novel, at 1st I was concerned by this thinking that the action would not start until near the end and be glossed over a lot however I could not have been more wrong. From the moment the accident happened the novel exploded into life with a lot to keep track of, it then made sense why the scene setting and character introductions took so long.
Their were so many big twits in this book, the moment I thought I had bits of it figured out another revelation occurred making me have to rethink things. By the end of the book I had figured bits of the book out however not all of it. I will be reading more by this author for sure as it kept me guessing until the very end.
The ending was very puzzling however I still very much enjoyed the story. I kept wating for the next twist and could not wait to find out what happened next. A very easy 5 star for me.
The Unexpected GiftWhen city girl Morgan Williams arrived in Seaside, Maine, on Christmas Eve, to claim the cottage she'd inherited, she came face-to-face with the handsomest man she'd ever seen.
But looks weren't the only thing that Grant Kincaid had to offer. And when he enlisted Morgan's help to raise money for Good Shepherd Camp for troubled kids, she realized there were more important things in life than expensive cars and fancy clothes. Soon Morgan was yearning for a different life...one that included faith and a strong, steadfast Grant by her side.
My comments:
This is the third book in the sisters and Brides series and it's the final sister Morgan's story. This one had me chuckling a lot especially at the beginning as some of the bantering between Morgan and Grant was very funny. This one was my favourite of the 3 as Morgan had the biggest changes to make in regards to her thoughts and priorities in life.
I loved Grant from the start he had solid values and the touching scenes where he was committed to his wife despite the situation was so touching and I have to say the scenes featuring them were so lovely how he never gave up hope. I felt the emotion while listening and found myself loving Grant even more. Throughout the book Morgan grew and evolved as a character and it was lovely to see her start to see the benefet of not always being adickted to work. This series was wonderful.
Overall series rating 15 out of 15 stars. I always love Irene Hannan's books and I am always regularly checking on Audible what's coming next from this author.
Ian, hope you’re getting closer to your goal and enjoying your 2025 reads!
The FallThe Order have watched over the continent of Epheria for thousands of years. But there are those who believe The Order has had its day. That it is corrupt, indulgent, and deceitful – that it is ready to fall.
The City of Ilnaen is on fire.
Dragons fill the skies.
Traitors fill the streets.
The Fall is a prequel novella that takes place four hundred years before the events in Of Blood and Fire – book one in The Bound and The Broken series.
My comments:
I only found this series a week or 2 a go while browsing audible as it came up on my recommendations. As someone who has not really read a lot of fantasy I had never heard of this series. After telling a friend about the series and as both of us have committed to reading of blood and fire I decided to try this first,. I read this book on audible.
(please note that the fall is included within the same audio book as of blood and fire therefor you will need to skip to chapter 34 in of blood and fire and then skip forward if you wish to start with the fall first.)
I do not usually read novellas however given I have made the commitment to read of blood and fire with a friend and wanted something short to read quickly before starting work this morning I decided to give this a go. I have to say reading the fall has got me interested in the rest of the series. I got the audio book of blood and fire free from audible plus and as the fall is included I thought this was a good opportunity to try it.
The fall is only a short book around 2 hours 25 minutes long on audio, however for a very short book it is full of action and the battle scenes are well written. The book is set 400 years before the events in of blood and fire, it tells the story of the same tragic event from the point of view of 4 different characters. It is easy to follow as each of the 4 parts of the story is based on a characters POV.
We see as we start the novel that the characters are fighting however we don't know why or what they are fighting for, however when browsing the authors website it did say that it was ok to start here. As the story unfolds it becomes clear what has happened and we start to understand as the 4 parts converge what is occurring. I usually find it hard to connect with characters in such a short book however Cahill managed to draw me in and found me caring about the characters and what happened to them. I suspect when reading of blood and fire as the world building will be slower more understanding of the overall state of the world will become clear as I suspect the events in this book will still have an affect 400 years later when we start of blood and fire.
If this is a sample of how this author can write and based on reviews i've read of the other books this promises to be a fantastic series. After reading this book I am re affirming my commitment to trying of blood and fire. I love the magic system it's simple however affective which for me is good as I am not a huge fan of magic. If I enjoy of blood and fire and commit to the rest of the series I will be including the short stories in this because it seems like they are all linked and we learn about certain characters motives in more detail. For such a short book the characters were well developed and I am looking forward to starting the first book in the series.
Eluthienn: A Tale Of The FromryrWelcome to the Abyss
Formaria – a labyrinthine network of underground tunnels – is home to the Fromryr. An alliance of humans, dwarves, elves, and gnomes, they fight an endless
war with ancient technologies. Technologies they don’t truly understand but deploy with devastating effect.
Above the surface, exorcist Kalbrayeth Lyander investigates a possible demonic incursion. When he discovers a body imbued with unknown sorceries he finds
himself in possession of a secret he never wanted. A secret that threatens to break centuries long alliances and drag Formaria into a war it cannot afford.
Below the surface, Brazier Veranquis, the First Officer of ice miner the Chalice of Amaranth, responds to a distress signal from an unidentified gyre ship.
What he and his crew find leaves them fleeing for their lives. When their paths cross Lyander, they realise what they found threatens to bring down all
of Formaria.
War is coming and with an enemy outmatching even the mighty Fromryr. Uncertain of who to trust and embroiled in political intrigue, Lyander and Brazier
must do everything they can to prevent Formaria’s fall. The odds are against them. But in the abyss, one ship can change the fate of millions.
My comments:
While I loved the audio book narration of this story I could not get into the overall book. I found their were lots of characters and events to keep track of and found it hard to remember what I had heard meaning I had to keep going back and re listening to scenes again to refresh myself which meant this was a slow read. In the end after a few hours I had to admit this book was not for me and stop reading. The narration of the audio book being so good kept me listening longer than I probably would have had he not done such a good job. He gave each character their own voice and he had a great master of accents, that is why I tried for as long as I could to persiveer as I really liked the way he performed the narration of this story.
While I did like the authors writing style and his descriptions I just found their was to much happening to quickly which affected my ability to focus on the book. I've never had a book where I have needed to go back and read chapters again during the reading process. When I have been to the event where I will be meeting the author for a book club I am part of I may try this again as he may be able to give advice on how to more easily keep track of what's going on. It's a shame as the story has potential however for someone like myself who is still quite new to the fantacy and sifi jonra it's a bit to deep and involved for me plus the subject matter is not really something I am interested in which also made focusing difficult.
I would highly recommend the narrator of this audio book Adriel Brant, his narration was amazing and his ability to do different accents gave the characters their own voices this is the main reason I tried to continue with the story for as long as I did however in the end I had to admit it was not going to be for me and give up. I hate giving up on books when I have committed to reading for a specific reason however their are times when as a reader you have to admit that a book is not grabbing you even if you want it to. I'm giving this book a 3 star rating due to the fantastic narration of the audio version.
Their Lost DaughtersTwo girls go to a party, only one returns alive
Toni, the surviving teenager, is found deliriously wandering the muddy fields of the fens. She has been drugged and it’s uncertain whether she’ll survive. She says she saw her friend Emily being dragged away from the party. But no one knows who Emily is or even if she’s still alive . . .
Meanwhile the drowned body of another girl has been found on an isolated beach.
And how does this all relate to the shocking disappearance of a little girl nearly a decade ago, a crime which was never solved? The girl’s mother is putting immense pressure on the police to re-open the high-profile case.
Four girls. Four daughters. Four families who need justice and closure.
DI Rowan Jackman and DS Marie Evans of the Fenland police are stretched to the limit as they try to bring the perpetrators of these shocking crimes to justice.
There is evidence of an illegal drinking club run by a shadowy group of men who are grooming teenagers. And the team come across a sinister former hospital called Windrush which seems to house many dark secrets. A sinister man works on the property alone, but the owner appears to be the perfect gentleman.
This book is not part of the Nikki Galena series but takes place in the same stunning area
my comments:
I have read all the books in the DI Nikki Galena series and really liked that series. A good friend recommended it to me a few years a go and I really enjoyed it. I've put off the Jackman and Evans series for a long time due to that as she told me it was not worth the read and she was someone who's appinion I trusted when it came to books as she was a huge book worm.
However last week a person from a recent book club I have just joined recommended it as did a couple of other people so I decided to take the plunge and give it a try. I started with the Audible recommended listening order which advised starting with their lost daughters and the person who recommended it also suggested the same.
While I do like the Nikki Galena series better I did really enjoy this book in the end. Their was a lot to unravel in the case and I was pleased to say I did not figure all of it out until the end. I liked the fact it got straight into the story from the beginning introducing us to the case they were investigating, the plot kept me engaged and interested and I found myself thinking things were going one way then a twist would happen and somebody else would come into the frame. Richard Armitage was a very good reader for the book and he managed to give each character their own voice which for me is key when reading an audio book.
After reading this I will most lightly continue with the series as ended up liking it better than I thought and found the relationship between Jackman and Evans really lovely to read. They have a good friendship and work well together and I am looking forward to seeing the development of the relationship further throughout the rest of the series. I also liked the side characters including the rest of their team, they all worked really well together as a team and were determined to get a result.
Reluctant HousematesPilgrim Cove—where love can be as powerful as the ocean next door.
On the surface, Pilgrim Cove seems like any other coastal town. Picturesque and peaceful with long stretches of unspoiled beach, fresh ocean breezes and the sense of time passing slowly.
However….
…only in Pilgrim Cove live a group of friends called the ROMEOs whose sole aim to take care of the town.
…only in Pilgrim Cove stands a unique house right on the beach. Sea View House. A very special place—some say magical—to the people who reside there each season.
…and only in Pilgrim Cove are strangers welcomed, while everyone else takes a front row seat as a love story unfolds.
Reluctant Housemates is the third of the four-book Pilgrim Cove series.
Pilgrim Cove native Rachel Goodman has come home for one good reason: to prove to the town and her family that she’s not a loser. She’d graduated from high school—barely—and gone to college on a swimming scholarship. And now the swimming jock is the new assistant principal for academic studies at Pilgrim Cove High. Her uphill battle to win over the teachers and improve test scores might have gone well except….
Marine biologist Jack Levine has a woman in every port and his boat, The Wanderer, is his most prized possession. When he winds up teaching science in Pilgrim Cove, he finds that he likes the small town very much. So what if he doesn’t follow the rules at school? So what if his boss finds him difficult to work with? As for being housemates at Sea View House…? Well, that’s nearly impossible. Except for the sparks that fly whenever they’re together.
And then Jack and his boat go missing…
My comments:
I have really enjoyed this series so far, Seaview house is an amazing place and I love the Romeos Jack and Rachel were very funny characters. I really loved the way they clashed with each other a lot and how the relationship gradually developed between them. Really looking forward to the final book next month when my amazon Audible book renews and looking forward to Jason and Lila's story. This is a lovely easy series to read.
Just Look UpAfter tirelessly climbing the ranks of her Chicago-based interior design firm, Lane Kelley is about to land her dream promotion when devastating news about her brother draws her back home--a quaint tourist town full of memories she'd just as soon forget. With her cell phone and laptop always within reach, Lane aims to check on her brother while staying focused on work--something her eclectic family doesn't understand.
Ryan Brooks never expected to settle down in Harbor Pointe, Michigan, but after his final tour of duty, it was the only place that felt like home. Now knee-deep in a renovation project that could boost tourism for the struggling town, he is thrilled to see Lane, the girl he secretly once loved, even if the circumstances of her homecoming aren't ideal.
Their reunion gets off to a rocky start, however, when Ryan can't find a trace of the girl he once knew in the woman she is today. As he slowly chips away at the walls Lane has built, secrets from his past collide with a terrible truth even he is reluctant to believe. Facing a crossroads that could define his future with Lane and jeopardize his relationship with the surrogate family he's found in the Kelleys, Ryan hopes Lane can see that maybe what really matters has been right in front of her all along--if only she'd just look up.
My comments:
This is my first book by this author and after reading it will not be my last. This was a lovely gentle romance focusing on the two main characters Lane and Ryan. I like the fact that the romance did not dominate the story and that the two characters took time to get to know each other through connection and renew a friendship. I loved Ryan as a character straight away, his strength and determination despite his background was amazing.
I loved the Christian aspect of the book to and the way Ryan was used to enable Lane to start finding piece with who she was. However for me my favourite part of the story was traveling with Lane as she learned to discover herself and who she really was. I loved the way she grew as a character as the novel progressed. The two main characters were well developed and although I was frustrated with Lane to start with due to her being completely work focus and being back in her home town despite Nate being her favourite brother as her character developed and the reasons for the way she was came out I found myself rooting for her to get what she deserved. I loved the way she blossomed through her reconnection with Ryan and gradually started to realise what was important. I am looking forward to reading the second book in this series at some point in the near future and I really hope that Audible decide to do the other two books in the series. I'm looking forward to getting to know more people in the town and also to reading more of the authors work. I discovered this author by accedent while browsing Audible early this week and i'm glad I did as i've found another author who I suspect i'll become a big fan of.
Three Things About ElsieThere are three things you should know about Elsie.
The first thing is that she’s my best friend.
The second is that she always knows what to say to make me feel better.
And the third thing… might take a little bit more explaining.
84-year-old Florence has fallen in her flat at Cherry Tree Home for the Elderly. As she waits to be rescued, Florence wonders if a terrible secret from her past is about to come to light; and, if the charming new resident is who he claims to be, why does he look exactly like a man who died sixty years ago?
From the author of THE TROUBLE WITH GOATS AND SHEEP, this book will teach you many things, but here are three of them:
1) The fine threads of humanity will connect us all forever.
2) There is so very much more to anyone than the worst thing they have ever done.
3) Even the smallest life can leave the loudest echo.
My comments:
When I read the synopsis for this book I was not very excited. myself and my work colleague who is also one of my best friends do a friendly competition, we keep a track of how many pages we've written throughout the year and at the end of the year whoever wins gets to pick a book that the other person has to read within the next year. Therefor my colleague picked this book as he'd recommended it to me previously so he chose it as we've both agreed to read the book the other person chose within the year so i've finally got around to honouring the commitment as he was really keen for me to try this book so this was his way of ensuring I did. He also knows what kind of books I am into so I often trust his opinion if he gives me a recommendation plus we both like to help each other explore different types of books and he knew this would be slightly different for me.
At the start of the book I thought I was going to find it very difficult to finish this and if I did not trust my friends opinions so much and we had not made the commitment to each other to read the book the other one chose I admit I most lightly would not have continued with this book after the 1st hour as I really was not getting the point of the book and I was finding the format of the story confusing to follow. Due to previous experiences i've had where I have been convinced I won't like a book and then have ended up continuing and enjoying it by the time it has finished I decided to continue plus the fact I trusted the person who had recommended it helped.
I found I really enjoyed this story in the end, it was based around 84 year old Florence who has had a fall in her flat at Cherry Tree Home for the Elderly while she's waiting to be rescued she's wondering weather a secret from her past is about to come out. I will admit I did find the plot confusing however as things began to be revealed I became very invested in the friendship between Florence and her best friend Elsie. I learned from this book that humans really need social connection and also people are not always what they seem. Sometimes someone may only live a short time however may end up leaving a huge mark. Despite me being confused by the plot I found this a very fun and interesting little read and would recommend people who like sagas to give this a try.
Skandar and the Chaos TrialsThe Island always wins…
Skandar and his sister Kenna are finally both at the Eyrie, but tensions are high.
To survive their third year of training, Skandar and his friends must complete a series of terrifying trials across the Island’s elemental zones. Friendships, allegiances and rider-unicorn bonds will be pushed to the limit – only the strongest will make it.
Meanwhile Kenna’s forged bond to a wild unicorn has left her alienated and alone. And when a terrible discovery puts the future of the Island in peril, all fingers point in one direction . . . As dark forces assemble, Skandar must decide how far is he willing to go – for Kenna, and for the Eyrie.
Get ready for unlikely heroes, elemental magic, sky battles, ancient secrets and ferocious unicorns in this highly anticipated adventure that will keep you listening after lights out!
My comments:
After loving the 1st two books so much I decided I could not cope with the suspense of reading each separate book as it came out therefor I waited till all 3 of the final books were complete so I could listen to the rest of the story together. I have to say after reading this part of me wishes i'd not gone with this option as this book was amazing and well worth the wait. I am loving this series so much and all the characters even the horrible ones really interest me.
David Dawson the narrator of the audio book versions was a narrator I had never come across until starting this series however he's amazing. He gives each character their own voice and he puts so much excitement into the reading. As a totally blind person who has never had site I can't see pictures so the way a narrator comes across is really important for my reading experience. A good narrator can really make me feel I'm their with the characters and he achieves this along with the authors great writing and descriptions. Again descriptions are key for my reading experience as I am unable to see what things look like and the author is very good at this element.
As for the book I was worried after book two because I had set my standards very high given how good that was and was not sure it could be beaten however it was and by a long way. This book was by far the best in the series so far and with every book I get more excited and can't wait to find out what will happen in the final two books. I love Skandar and his quartette Bobbie, Flow and Mitchell, I also love Jamie the black smith and a couple of the other characters as well. I'm not going to say anymore apart from the fact the world building and character development gets better and better with every book and we learn more about the Island and what the youngsters are capable of as they advance further with their training. Will be starting book four later tonight and hope to have this series wrapped up by the end of the week. I can safely say A.F Stedman is an author I will be following with interest now after this great series.
Skandar and the Skeleton CurseAs Skandar and his friends begin their fourth year at the Eyrie, the Island’s unicorns are struck by a terrible curse that threatens to change everything. Between a Commodore determined to eliminate the spirit element for good and a sister hellbent on revenge, nowhere is safe for Skandar.
As more unicorns are affected by the curse, the clock is ticking for Skandar and his quartet, who find themselves racing for their lives. Can they stop the curse in its tracks before the Island is lost forever?
My comments:
I love this series so much and each book gets better and better. This forth book had me hooked and I could not wait to find out what would happen. What I love the most about this series is the character development and world building. Skandar and his friends are well developed characters and the one thing I love about this series is things don't always go the way you expect, I am really looking forward to getting started with book five as can't wait to find out how this series ends. I will be sad to say good bye to these characters however will be following this author with interest to see what she comes up with next.
Skandar and the Spirit WarSkandar and his allies must unlock the full scope of their powers to save the Island in this explosive finale to the Skandar series from New York Times and internationally bestselling author A.F. Steadman!
The Island is at war. Skandar, now an outlaw, is in hiding after Rex Manning revealed a game-changing secret at the Chaos Cup. But as Rex prepares to invade the Mainland, the Islanders are not sure who to trust. With one of Skandar’s closest friends now fighting for the enemy, Skandar must build new alliances—including an uneasy truce with Kenna.
To defeat Rex, Skandar and his friends will need to look back to the origins of the Island and harness the full power of their elemental magic. Can Skandar become the leader he needs to be—to save the Mainland, and the heart of the Island itself?
My comments:
What a wonderful end to this series, I love Skandar and his friends as characters. The character development and world building was fantastic in this series. I am really glad the characters got the ending they did. Throughout the book their was a lot of tense moments wondering what would happen next. This has been a wonderful series and I can't wait to see what this author has coming next. I can tell why this series is so highly rated and it fully deserves it. A full 25 out of 25 stars for me. The reader David Dawson was a reader i'd not come across until reading this series however he was amazing and perfect for it.
Magic HourDr. Julia Cates was one of the country's preeminent child psychiatrists until a shocking tragedy ruined her career. Retreating to her small western Washington hometown, Julia meets an extraordinary six-year-old girl who has inexplicably emerged from the deep woods nearby—a child locked in a world of unimaginable fear and isolation. To Julia, nothing is more important than saving the girl she now calls Alice. But Julia will need help from others, including the sister she barely knows and a handsome doctor with secrets of his own. What follows will test the limits of Julia's faith and strength, as she struggles to find a home for Alice... and for herself.
My comments:
(Please note this is an edited review after a re read due to the book recently coming out on audible in the UK published as wild.)
This was the first book I ever read by this author. It drew my interest at the time I first read it as at college I did a project on feral Children with the idea of writing my own story based on the subject. The subject interested me ever sinse my R.E teacher shared with our class the story of a Feral child as I had only ever heard of this while reading the Jungle book I had no idea their were true documented cases of real life children.
I have loved this book every time i've reread it and this time was no different. The author clearly did her research on the subject as a lot of the cases mentioned that Julia had researched were also the ones I'd found as well so I know the author provided accurate information regarding the true cases.
Julia and Allis were well developed and believable characters as Was Ellie the police chief, through finding out the truth all the characters in the book went on a journey and it was lovely to see Allis discovering the world for the first time and through helping Allis and investigating the Truth Ellie, Julia and max especially grew as characters as they learned to start coming to terms with themselves and who they were. I also had a lot of respect for her father George when he came into the story, he had to make tough choices to do what was best for his child and given what he'd found out that could not have been easy.
This book was beautiful and emotional and it was a difficult subject matter to write about however I thought it was handled very well and sensitively. I've read other books by this author and enjoyed every single one of them however this one will always be my favourite as it was the one that introduced me to her work.
Smoke EatersWhen dragons rise from the earth, firefighters are humanity’s last line of defence, in this wild near-future fantasy. Firefighter Cole Brannigan is on the verge of retirement after 30 years on the job, and a decade fighting dragons. But during his final fire call, he discovers he’s immune to dragon smoke. It’s such a rare power that he’s immediately conscripted into the elite dragon-fighting force known as the Smoke Eaters. Retirement cancelled, Brannigan is re-assigned as a lowly rookie, chafing under his superiors. So when he discovers a plot to take over the city’s government, he takes matters into his own hands. With hundreds of innocent civilians in the crosshairs, it’s up to Brannigan and his fellow Smoke Eaters to repel the dragon menace.File Fantasy
My comments:
While I quite enjoyed the story and it moved at a reasonable pace, I found I did not really connect with the characters. For a group of characters doing such a dangerous job I found the team work a bit lacking, I admit I could have been missing something however it just seemed like they were always arguing and to me their did not seem to be a lot of bonding. I liked Cole as a character his willingness to accept his new roll and start at the bottom as an older man who had experience was really humbling and the fact he was willing to take matters into his own hands when he saw a problem was something i liked. I also liked the way he cared for Dishawn after the fire that killed their other colleague and the fact Cole did not judge him. While I did quite enjoy this I don't think I liked it enough to read the rest of the series.
The Storied Life of A.J. FikryOn the faded Island Books sign hanging over the porch of the Victorian cottage is the motto “No Man Is an Island; Every Book Is a World.” A. J. Fikry, the irascible owner, is about to discover just what that truly means.
A. J. Fikry’s life is not at all what he expected it to be. His wife has died, his bookstore is experiencing the worst sales in its history, and now his prized possession, a rare collection of Poe poems, has been stolen. Slowly but surely, he is isolating himself from all the people of Alice Island—from Lambiase, the well-intentioned police officer who’s always felt kindly toward Fikry; from Ismay, his sister-in-law who is hell-bent on saving him from his dreary self; from Amelia, the lovely and idealistic (if eccentric) Knightley Press sales rep who keeps on taking the ferry over to Alice Island, refusing to be deterred by A.J.’s bad attitude. Even the books in his store have stopped holding pleasure for him. These days, A.J. can only see them as a sign of a world that is changing too rapidly.
And then a mysterious package appears at the bookstore. It’s a small package, but large in weight. It’s that unexpected arrival that gives A. J. Fikry the opportunity to make his life over, the ability to see everything anew. It doesn’t take long for the locals to notice the change overcoming A.J.; or for that determined sales rep, Amelia, to see her curmudgeonly client in a new light; or for the wisdom of all those books to become again the lifeblood of A.J.’s world; or for everything to twist again into a version of his life that he didn’t see coming. As surprising as it is moving, The Storied Life of A. J. Fikry is an unforgettable tale of transformation and second chances, an irresistible affirmation of why we read, and why we love.
My comments:
I am really glad this was chosen for my book club read for November as it is not a book I would usually read especially as it was not totally clear from the description what it would really be about. I really enjoyed it a lot, it was a lovely story of A.J rediscovering himself and when Maya came into his life it was lovely to see him regain his life. It was a lovely easy to read story and if you like a story that is easy to read and is centred around books this one is for you. It surprised me how much I enjoyed this however I would recommend it. I'm not sure weather I would read anything else by the author as the other books don't sound as interesting however you never know and anything is possible. Easy five stars for me.
Head Over PawsOlivia Graham isn't in a place to have a dog of her own, but her new position as a volunteer rescue driver for the local animal shelter will keep her close to her four-legged friends. When she's called to transport pets that have been misplaced by flooding, she doesn't hesitate to help, but then her aging car breaks down...
Veterinarian Gabe Wentworth, former EMT and firefighter, is also heading to the rescue site and reluctantly agrees to pick up Olivia on the way. After a bad breakup, Gabe's embraced the hermit life. When he meets Olivia, he can't deny their irresistible mutual attraction, and his first thought is to run the other direction. But then the two band together in a risky maneuver to save a beautiful abandoned dog from rising floodwaters. The more Gabe learns about the woman who would risk everything to save vulnerable animals, the more he realizes what he might be willing to risk...
My comments:
I was so happy when I found the 5th book in this series was finally on audible as had been waiting for it for a long time. I have enjoyed every book in the series and this one was no exception. I loved Gabe and Olivia as characters and how understanding and supportive they were towards each other.
I love how much a part of this authors books dogs and other animals are and it's one of the things that makes me love her books so much. I especially loved the chapters from Morgan the dogs POV that was a really interesting addition to this book. I can't wait until the six and seventh books come out on UK audible in January.
Someone to RememberWhen lightning strikes a second time…
Years ago, when Taylor Cummings-Lonergan co-founded the Wild Widows with Iris, she never imagined she might need the group a second time, but that’s exactly what happens when her new husband, Will, is killed in a tragic accident at work, leaving her two children heartbroken for a second time and a new baby due soon. Iris and the other widows step up to support Taylor during this difficult time, but each of them is forced to ponder the vagaries of life and love and whether their optimistic approach to life after widowhood is realistic now that they know disaster can find them again.
We’ll catch up with each of the couples from the first four books and witness a new romance as it begins to take flight in this time of renewed grief for the Wild Widows.
My comments:
I loved this book such a lot, i've enjoyed this series a lot, I was introduced to this author after reading the green mountain series, then I read the tredding water series, however so far my favourite of the series I have read so far has to be the wild widdows. I plan to get to the faital and first family series in 2026 especially as their is a slight cross over however I don't believe you need to have read the fatal and first family series first as in the first couple of books in the wild widdows their is a lot of refferance to how Ronnie and Derrick first appeared.
This was easily the saddest and most emotional book of the series so far and in my opinion the best. What I loved the most was seeing how all the other widdows were affected by Taylor's situation and how it forced them to confront more of their pasts. I liked the fact we got to read all their POVs and the audio copy was fantastic as the two readers were able to give each characters part they read different voices so it was clear who's POV we were reading even thoe it was announced. Each widdo or couple took the news in different ways and I felt I was their with every single one of the characters from Taylor getting the news to Iris and Gage getting married. I felt the emotions of the characters and the two narrators especially the female reader brought all the characters emotions to life making me feel every single emotion they felt and made me want to continue reading to know what would happen.
The way the group stood up for Taylor even the ones who did not know her as well was lovely and I love following this group of friends. I love Kinsly and Luke and hope their story will develop in future books. I'm looking forward to Angela's story in 2026, I like the way the widdows stood up for her as well when needed and how her and luke have slotted into the group.
My favourite aspect of this book was seeing all the characters seperate reactions to Taylors loss and being able to get more insite into their own stories. This was such a fantastic emotional read and the author handled the subject matter with compassion and allowed us to really be with the characters. I already can't wait till the next book and really hope Angela and Brad can sort things out as I love their potential and hope Brad will finally check out the wild widdows.
The Daughter He Never KnewPilgrim Cove—where love can be as powerful as the ocean next door.
On the surface, Pilgrim Cove seems like any other coastal town. Picturesque and peaceful with long stretches of unspoiled beach, fresh ocean breezes and the sense of time passing slowly.
However….
…only in Pilgrim Cove live a group of friends called the ROMEOs whose sole aim to take care of the town.
…only in Pilgrim Cove stands a unique house right on the beach. Sea View House. A very special place—some say magical—to the people who reside there each season.
…and only in Pilgrim Cove are strangers welcomed, while everyone else takes a front row seat as a love story unfolds.
THE DAUGHTER HE NEVER KNEW is the final book in the four-book Pilgrim Cove series. Check out the Sea View House series for more stories set in this town.
After his twin brother died on the night of their senior prom, Jason Parker disappeared from Pilgrim Cove. Nine years later he returns in order to make peace with his family—with Lila Sullivan, the woman he can’t forget—and with himself. But nothing and no one is the same as he remembers. Certainly not his family. Not Lila, with her fiancé and a child. Not even his old house. Can a wanderer ever find home again? Do second chances really exist?
Lila wants no part of this man who owned her heart years ago but vanished when she needed him most. His music ignites her emotions, but can she trust him not to break her heart again? Worse still, can she trust him not to break their daughter’s heart?
My comments:
This was one of the stories I was really looking forward to after hearing about Lila and Jason's heartbreak in the first book. I love all the characters in seeview house and my favourite characters in the whole series were the romeos. They remind me a bit of Alma and Link in the green mountain series by Marie Force as they are meddling. Lila and Jason's story was a really difficult one for both characters as they had a lot to overcome. I liked Jason as a character and how he came to realise his mistakes and where he'd gone wrong.
My favourite aspect of the book was the relationship between Jason and Katie, the way they bonded so quickly was lovely and he was so sweet with her. I really liked Adam as a character as well, he was a lovely man and the way he challenged Lila in regards to her relationship with Jason was difficult however it shown he wanted what was best for all of them and how much he cared about his daughter.
This was a wonderful series and I am really glad I read it.
Her Last ChanceMy darling girl, I watch you playing outside in the grass. Your long blonde hair sweeps back and your blue eyes are bright with joy. You are utterly perfect, I never imagined something could be so wrong and I’d be powerless to protect you…
Ava’s daughter Carly is everything a ten-year-old should be: energetic, creative and the light of her parents’ lives. But when she starts stumbling down stairs and walking into doors, Ava wants to rush to the doctor. Her husband Rick is sure she’s fretting over nothing – kids can be a little clumsy sometimes. But Ava’s instinct is telling her something is seriously wrong.
Against Rick’s advice, Ava takes Carly to see a specialist and is given a devastating diagnosis: a rare genetic condition that will change her future forever. When Rick realises the truth, he is determined to do all he can to help Carly enjoy what light she has left. The close-knit family take it one day at a time, walking to the beach and watching the sunrise.
Just as Ava begins to imagine a new future for them all, a tragic accident throws their lives into chaos once more. To give her daughter a chance at a full life, Ava faces a devastating choice. How can she possibly choose between the two people she loves most?
An emotional, heartbreaking page-turner about a mother’s love and an utterly devastating decision. Readers of Kate Hewitt, My Sister’s Keeper and Diane Chamberlain will keep this story in their hearts forever.
My comments:
This was a really emotional story, it's the first book I've read by this author and it won't be my last. I really felt for Ava a lot, having to make such a horrible descision is heart breaking and the powerful thing about this story is that could happen to any of us at any time and shows that life is precious.
Carly was a lovely child and the way she handled her situation was amazing. Although I have a different eye condition I have grown up without site so was able to understand the frustration she went through when she spilled something or struggled to relearn to do something as although I have never had site as I got older I had to learn how to adapt and do things without being able to see. Stargarts is a condition I have not heard of and it was clear the author did her research.
The subject matter was handled with sensitivity and compassion and I loved the way Ava continued to give Carly experiences that Rick had wanted to give her and adapted the trip to their own country and sites.
This will not be the last book I will read by this author and from reading this book I am sure I have found a new author who I will be adding to my authors I am a fan of.
A Simple LifeDinah Steward has a secret. Hidden beneath the comfortable family life she shares with her successful husband Matthew and their two sons lies a shameful secret that has haunted Dinah for fifteen years. She and Matt never speak of it or the impossible choice he forced her to make all those years they think the cracks have been papered over. But when a chance encounter brings the past into sharp focus once more, Dinah realises she can no longer deny the truth. She decides to risk everything - her husband, her sons, her perfect lifestyle, in order to claim what was always hers.
My comments:
This is a book I have read a number of times. It is a very emotional and sad story. Matthew is a successful scientist who has moved to America from England with his wife Dinah and 2 children Jack and Merlin. After moving to America Dinah starts to struggle with depression however when she meets the adopted child of a couple her and Matthew have befriended it makes her think about a secret she's kept for the last 14 years. The story is about Dinah's quest to gain closure and put her past to rest.
I liked the way both Dinah and Matthew faced the challenge and how they both grew. This is a story about how keeping secrets can explode when you don't expect it. I love rosie Thomas as an author, this was a difficult subject matter however the author handled it well.
DragonbornBecome the impossible . . .
Life is no fun for Alex Evans. Ever since her dad's death, her overprotective mother has smothered her with unbreakable rules and unspoken fears. When the frustration inside Alex finally gets too big to bear, it rushes to the surface.
And flames spill from her mouth.
Because Alex is a dragon. One of the many who live among us, unless something awakens their true nature. Led by the mighty Oliphos to the legendary island of Skralla, Alex must now train alongside fierce, frightening dragon children, if she is to unlock the power of her birthright.
But other dragons are rising too. Drak Midna, the greatest dragon of all, is preparing a war against the human world, and Alex has to be good enough for this fight, or we all will burn . . .
My comments:
I am quite a new fantacy reader so a lot of childrens and young adult fantasy often attracts me as I am still getting into the jonra. I really enjoyed this book and am looking forward to where the author is planning to take this series going forward. I liked Alex as a character and I like the thought of dragons being hidden as humans. For a young persons book this was really good and exciting and their were some quite dark parts in it.
Killing TrailWhen a young girl is found dead in the mountains outside Timber Creek, life-long resident Officer Mattie Cobb and her partner, K-9 police dog Robo, are assigned to the case that has rocked the small Colorado town.
With the help of Cole Walker, local veterinarian and a single father, Mattie and Robo must track down the truth before it claims another victim. But the more Mattie investigates, the more she realizes how many secrets her hometown holds. And the key may be Cole's daughter, who knows more than she's saying.
The murder was just the beginning, and if Mattie isn’t careful, she and Robo could be next. Suspenseful and smart, Killing Trail is a gripping read that will have readers clamoring for more Mattie and Robo for years to come. Fans of Nevada Barr and C.J. Box will love this explosive debut.
My comments:
(Please note, this is a fresh review after rereading.)
I first read This book a number of years a go however only got the 1st two books finished however as I have another K-9 series I'm also reading it convinced me to get back to this one so as it's been a while I decided to read the 1st two books again as reading the two series together.
I enjoyed this one even better the second time of reading, it's a great book and I did not get who the killer was before it was revealed. The connection between Mattie and Robo was amazing and I have to add I think Robo is a fantastic name for a dog. I loved how determined Mattie was to solve the case and I liked the side characters in the book as well such as Cole and stella. I was not a fan of Stella to start with as I found her a little snobbish thinking she was better than the Timber creak police department however as her and Mattie started working together and she started to respect Mattie's skill more I began to really like her. Robo was the sar of the show, even though they'd not been together long I loved Mattie's trust in him and how she totoally believed and trusted in his skills.
The investigation side of the book was fantastic, I liked the way all the officers worked together to solve the case and I especially liked how Mattie was with the kids who were interviewed. I'm looking forward to rereading book two before continueing on with the rest of this series as i'ts way over due. This is a series I highly recommend.
A Borrowing of BonesFirst in a gripping new mystery series about a retired MP and her bomb-sniffing dog who become embroiled in an investigation in the beautiful Vermont wilderness
It may be the Fourth of July weekend, but for retired soldiers Mercy Carr and Belgian Malinois Elvis, it’s just another walk in the remote Lye Brook Wilderness—until the former bomb-sniffing dog alerts to explosives and they find a squalling baby abandoned near a shallow grave filled with what appear to be human bones. U.S. Game Warden Troy Warner and his search-and rescue Newfoundland Susie Bear respond to Mercy’s 911 call, and the four must work together to track down a missing mother, solve a cold-case murder, and keep the citizens of Vermont safe on potentially the most incendiary Independence Day since the American Revolution.
A Borrowing of Bones is full of complex twists and real details about search-and-rescue dog training that Paula learned through the training of her own dog. With its canine sidekicks and rich, dramatic story, this debut will be a must-have for mystery fans.
My comments:
This was a wonderful 1st book in this promising series. The mystery had suspense and twists throughout which meant I was never sure where it was going. When I thought I'd worked out who the killers were more was revealed. I did not work out who the killers were at all and every time I suspected somebody another plot twist occurred making me rethink everything. When I heard that the Author had experience with a dog performing search and rescue this did not surprise me as from the level of detail it was clear the author knew about the subject first hand rather than just doing research.
I loved the 4 main characters in the novel, Mercy, Troy, Elvis and Susie Bear. Mercy especially grew throughout the book after losing her lover and Elvis losing his handler the way they started to learn to work together as a team was amazing. Troy and Susie Bear were a great support to Mercy and Elvis helping them out where possible. The banter between Mercy and Troy was also funny and all 4 made a really good team. All 4 of them were committed to finding out what happened and keeping the town safe. What I especially liked was the way the two main characters put the dogs first and saw them as part of their team and always refered to them as we. I also liked the fact that the dogs were just as important to the investigation as the humans and both dogs played a huge parts.
I loved learning more about what a dog like Elvis does in the army setting and how important they are to their handler. I can't wait to read the rest of this series and learning more about Mercy, Troy, Elvis and Susie Bear and them working together to solve more chrime. I will be reading the rest of the series without a doubt and just like Timber creak the other series i've started these are two series I'll be following from now on until they finish which I hope is not for a while as I really love the potential in both of these series.
Out of TimeFor historical anthropologist Cara Tucker, the chance to spend a sabbatical semester on a remote country estate--with full access to its vast library and centuries-old journals--is a dream come true . . . until a series of strange incidents begin to turn her dream into a nightmare. Someone, it seems, does not want anyone diving into the past and unearthing old ghosts.
Sheriff Brad Adams has seen his share of suspicious activities during his law enforcement career, but what's happening at the isolated estate is out-of-pattern in his quiet, rural Missouri county. Beset by danger, Cara and Brad work together to try to untangle the clues. But when the peril turns lethal, the situation takes on a new urgency, and their mission is Find out who is behind the string of menacing incidents before the perpetrator strikes another deadly blow.
Hannon presents another page-turning thriller in Out of Time where danger lurks in every shadow.
My comments:
I have really enjoyed the series featuring the Tucker siblings, although they were adopted they could not have had a closer bond and that was apparent throughout the series. All 3 of them were clever and determined to solve the relevant crimes.
I loved Cara and Brad's story and how supportive they were to each other from the start. I don't remember her hearing impairment being mentioned in previous books therefor what she had to overcome made her story more interesting and inspiring. Although I worked out who the killer was early on before it was revealed it did not spoil my enjoyment of the story. I can't wait to see what's coming next from this author as I always enjoy her books weather it is a romance or romantic suspense.
2025 & 2026 Reading Challenge
Books mentioned in this topic
Out of Time (other topics)A Borrowing of Bones (other topics)
Killing Trail (other topics)
Dragonborn (other topics)
A Simple Life (other topics)
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Rachel and Joss are married and keen to continue the hard work to rebuild Eastby End. But as new arrivals bring fresh challenges and heartache, their future together becomes far from certain ...
My comments:
Really loved the second book in this series, this was mainly about Livia, Janey, Ellis, Logan and Gill arriving in the valley. I suspect this series is not over as it sort of tended with the two new doctors arriving so I suspect we're going to be seeing more of these characters which I hope we will be.
Would not really call this a romance as such this was more a saga there was a bit of romance between the few characters who already had partners however not with the new ones. I was expecting it to build up to Ellice and Livia geting together and Logan and Janey potentially although there was no hint of that so weather that's the plan or not we may have to wait and see. Loved the way the book ended and the secret that was kept. Really hope more romance is in the offing as there are some lovely characters in this saga who deserve a happy ending.