My Book Reviews

Category: Book Reviews

This section categories all the posts that I have written for my book reviews.

  • Anticipation by Melodie Winawer

    Anticipation by Melodie Winawer

    Anticipation

    Anticipation by Melodie Winawer

    Release: November 2nd, 2021
    Format: Ebook
    Publisher: Gallery Books
    Source: Suzy approved Book Tours
    Find it at Goodreads, Amazon, Kindle, Audible, B&N

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    After the death of her beloved husband and becoming a single parent to her nine-year-old son Alexander, scientist Helen desperately needs an escape. So when Alexander proposes a trip to Greece, Helen quickly agrees.

    After spending several days exploring the streets, they arrive at the ancient city of Mystras. Its only resident is Elias, a mysterious tour guide living on the city’s edges, both physically and temporally.

    In 1237, Elias’s mother promised his eternal service to the Profitis Ilias in Mystras in exchange for surviving a terrible illness. But during his 800 years of labor, he’s had one common enemy: the noble Lusignan family. The Lusignan line has a curse involving a deadly disease that worsens with each generation. A prophecy hints that Elias’s blood is their only hope for a cure. He has managed to survive throughout the centuries, but the line has dwindled down to the last Lusignan. He is desperate to avert his family’s destiny.

    When Elias runs into Helen, he meets his match for the first time. But he unwittingly puts both her and her young son in danger as a result. With time running out and an enemy after them, Elias and Helen have a hard choice between the city they love and each other.

    About the Author:

    Melodie Winawer is the author of The Scribe of Siena, with translation into German, Czech, Polish and Norwegian to critical acclaim. She is also the author of Anticipation.

    A physician-scientist and associate professor of neurology at Columbia University, Melodie has published over fifty articles and contributed to several anthologies. To find the energy to write, she relies on unflagging enthusiasm and green tea. Melodie lives with her spouse and their three children in both Brooklyn, New York, and Ludlow, Vermont.

    Website | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Goodreads

    Anticipation Review:

    I loved everything about this unique historical fiction that toggles the past and the present.

    Firstly, I did not “anticipate” this book to immerse me so deeply into the characters’ lives. Initially, when I started reading, the story felt a bit confusing about Prophets and fortune-tellers. But, as soon as I figured out what was happening, I LOVED it! This book has romance, reincarnations, revenge, and a lovely bond between a mother and son that’s amazing. I loved Helen and Alexander’s relationship. Alexander is excellent, and I loved his persona as a historian, even if he doesn’t know it.

    Secondly, I adored the author’s style of writing. She merges fact with fiction so beautifully! We have the Ottoman Turks, Charles of Anjou, Ibrahim Pasha, the fall of Constantinople, and fierce battles with Greece over the centuries. Moreover, the author’s medical language, like Huntington’s disease and Dysgraphia, fascinated me. And, let’s not forget the beautiful way the author describes The Chronicle of the Morea and Sanctuary of Artemis Orthia and other historical elements, which added so seamlessly to the story.

    Thirdly, the plot itself is just fantastic. Even if you take everything else apart, I just loved the concept of reincarnation and having multiple births until you fulfill your destiny. Elias is the show’s star, and I was rooting for him. The author also adds mystery elements like the prophet so well, and I loved how different each generation of Lusignan behaved differently from Elias.

    However, MY FAVORITE parts of the story were the ones between Elias and Demetrios. I JUST LOVED reading about these two and the profound and, at times, bittersweet moments.

    Overall, “Anticipation” is one of the best historical books I have read in a long time, and I highly recommend it!

    Book Tour Schedule

    Anticipation

    I am thrilled to be hosting a spot on the Anticipation by Melodie Winawer Blog Tour hosted by Suzy approved Book Tours.

    Gwendalyn Books-June 7th
    Nurse Bookie-June 17th
    She Just Loves Books-June 18th
    Eryn E Reads-June 30th
    Rajivs Reviews-July 1st
    Bookworm Struggles -July 7th
    Infinite Readlist-July 11th
    Rozier Reads and Wine-July 20th
    Geaux Get Lit-July 27th

  • A Measure Of Serenity by Bryan Prosek

    A Measure Of Serenity by Bryan Prosek

    A Measure Of Serenity

    A Measure Of Serenity by Bryan Prosek

    Release: July 20th, 2021
    Format: Paperback
    Publisher:  CamCat Books
    Source: Suzyapproved Book Tours
    Find it at: Goodreads, Amazon, Kindle, Audible, B&N,  Kobo

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    A million thoughts, but only one right thing to do.

    Eighteen-year-old Serenity Ashdown has a brilliant mind: she counts, calculates, and analyzes everything, all the time. Awkward. When her father suddenly disappears, Serenity follows his trail to a parallel dimension. The feds on the other side claim to want to help her go home, if she helps them reconstruct the right codes for the portal between worlds. But it’s soon clear they want something more: a gateway for invasion, because this version of Earth is dying.

    When Serenity learns that her alter-ego was killed in battle, she assumes “the other Serenity’s” identity and uses her unique abilities to lead the resistance in a mortal fight against the tyrannical super-government that is poised to invade her universe. Serenity has no idea how to be someone she’s not, but she has to try—or she may not have a home to return to.

    About the Author:

    Bryan Prosek is a science fiction writer and business attorney. Along with his debut The Brighter the Stars and the forthcoming A Measure in Serenity, he has published books and articles in legal trade journals and magazines. When he isn’t writing or practicing law, you can probably find him watching science fiction movies or television shows. He loves the big screen and the small screen. There’s a good chance that he’ll be watching one of the numerous Star Trek movies or series, but he could be watching anything from Guardians of the Galaxy to The Conjuring. You can find more about Bryan at his website, www.bryankprosek.com, taking you to new worlds.

    Website | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Goodreads | Amazon

    A Measure Of Serenity Review:

    “A Measure of Serenity” is a gripping, young adult science fiction novel that glued me to the main character and the storyline, and I could not put it down.

    I just finished reading this book, and it is so good! Let me start with Serenity. I loved how the author portrayed her. Initially, she comes across as a genius with a photographic memory and high retention power. The author gives her no emotions except guilt as she thinks of her mother. But, as soon as Serenity enters the other world, I love how we see her exploring her feelings, feeling for others, standing up, and being brave to support the Resistance.

    Secondly, I loved the concept of an alternate reality with similar people with different personalities. It was fun to see Serenity relate to Shawn and the chemistry they shared. Moreover, I loved the supporting cast who joined with Serenity, like Danica, Ma, and Todd. Each of them brought something new, and I especially adored Isaiah. The author adds a few thrilling twists you do not expect, and you wonder how Serenity can use her skills to escape it.

    However, the travel concept was perhaps the only thing that boggled me about the story. I don’t want to give spoilers, but we see certain other characters go between realities different from Serenity, and I wondered how that was possible. I felt that the worldbuilding had a few minor loopholes that the author could have explained.

    Apart from that, I loved this book! The story has an epic conclusion, and the ending still gave me goosebumps! I sure hope the author writes a possible sequel with these characters. Overall, “A Measure of Serenity” is a beautiful YA novel that makes you think.

    Book Tour Schedule

    A Measure Of Serenity

    I am thrilled to be hosting a spot on the A Measure Of Serenity by Bryan Prosek Blog Tour hosted by Suzyapproved Book Tours. 

     

  • The Second Wife by Miranda Rijks

    The Second Wife by Miranda Rijks

    The Second Wife

    The Second Wife by Miranda Rijks

    Release: May 16, 2022
    Format: Ebook
    Publisher:  Inkubator Books
    Source: Zooloos Book Tours
    Find it at Goodreads, Amazon UK, Amazon US, Kindle

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    She married the man she loved. Then she met his family.

    Tamsin has recently married renowned composer Robin Featherstone. Robin is much older, but Tamsin doesn’t care – she’s in love.
    And she knows Robin loves her too, even if he is very close to another young woman – his assistant, Mia.
    But Robin’s ex-wife and grown children aren’t happy. They’re sure Tamsin is a gold-digger and Mia is an opportunist.
    Then, when Robin dies suddenly, the family realizes their worst fears. Tamsin stands to inherit everything. But when they read the will, its contents are beyond shocking.
    As Mia and Tamsin are pitted against each other, only one thing is clear. The family will go to any lengths to stop either of them from inheriting even a part of Robin’s estate.
    Isolated in the family mansion, fearing for their lives and distrustful of each other, Tamsin and Mia are determined to stand their ground. But then a dark family secret is revealed which may engulf them all…

    The Second Wife – the stunning psychological thriller from the author of The Visitors, The Arrangement, The New Neighbour.

    About the Author:

    Miranda Rijks is a writer of psychological thrillers and suspense novels. She has an eclectic background ranging from law to running a garden center. She’s been writing all of her life and has a master’s in writing. A couple of years ago she decided to ditch the business plans and press releases and now she’s living the dream, writing suspense novels full time. She lives in Sussex, England with her Dutch husband, musician daughter, and black Labrador.

    Miranda is the author of psychological thrillers. This will be her fourteenth novel published with Inkubator Books.

    Website | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Goodreads

    The Second Wife Review:

    Click to view on Instagram

    The first thing that struck me about the story is the character’s relationships. I loved reading about Mia and Tamsin and their scenes together more than the suspense. While the two don’t start on the best note, seeing how they interacted after Robin’s demise was interesting. I thought the author wrote their dynamics wonderfully. Moreover, the plot felt fresh, and you didn’t know how it would progress or how the characters would react to the situations.

    Secondly, I enjoyed the cast of characters. Whether it be Mia, Tamsin, David, Claudia, or Brooke, each person feels as if they are hiding some secrets, and it was fun to see some of their backstories revealed. I especially enjoyed Mia’s backstory and the scenes with the Detectives. David, in particular, intrigued me because I didn’t know his true intentions. I didn’t realize how my feelings towards some of them changed throughout the story.

    Thirdly, I liked the twists. Some notable moments are when they announce Robin’s will or even the twist in the end. You think the author has revealed everything to the story, but towards the very last page, the author reveals another surprising connection that I did not expect.

    Perhaps the only downside is I predicted who was behind it well in advance. But, I wasn’t sure of the culprit’s intentions, and it was interesting to see how everything fit together. Moreover, the story gets a bit slow towards the middle, and I wish there had been more twists.

    Other than that, I loved this book. The author is becoming one of my favorites, and I cannot wait to read what suspenseful thriller she will write next. Overall, “The Second Wife” is an exciting addition to the author’s portfolio, and I enjoyed it.

    Book Tour Schedule: 

    The Second Wife

    I am thrilled to be hosting a spot on The Second Wife by Miranda Rijks Blog Tour hosted by Zooloos Book Tours. 

     

     

  • The Seasons of Grace by Dave O. Dodge

    The Seasons of Grace by Dave O. Dodge

    The Seasons of Grace

    The Seasons of Grace by Dave O. Dodge

    Release: September 15, 2021
    Format: Ebook
    Publisher:  Glue Pot Press
    Source: Suzyapproved Book Tours
    Find it at Goodreads, Amazon, Kindle

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    The Seasons of Grace is an unauthorized tale of Grace Metalious and her desire to tell the stories that no one dared to tell before that time. From small-town life in New England to the hustle and bustle of New York City and to the unforgiving film studios of Hollywood, Grace’s story unfolds. This is a classic scenario where art imitates life and so does this story. The young author is coping with literary and financial successes. The author, without realizing it, was creating her own Peyton Place where she herself had to live.

    No novel had achieved greater recognition than her first. One out of every 29 Americans had read Peyton Place. They would dog-ear the pages, underline their favorite passages, and stuff them in the back of a drawer to conceal them from the prying eyes of others. This novel was a true sensation in both the literary world and helped form popular culture as we know it. The legacy is lastly and continues to this day.

    About the Author:

    Born and raised in New Hampshire, Dave has always had a wanderlust for travel and adventure. From a young age his desire to expand his world beyond New England has brought him around the globe and back. His career has been as diverse as his travels. 

    He has always had a passion for the arts, from community theater, local television, and film work to writing. This has been his secret obsession and hobby. His professional background has run the gambit from Visual Arts to Public Relations and Marketing.

    As a travel writer and international guide, he currently makes his home in Merida, Yucatan, Mexico. 

    Website | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Goodreads

    The Seasons of Grace Review:

    Let me preface by saying that I love soap operas, and I had seen nearly all the episodes of “Peyton Place” TV series when it aired on one of the retro channels. Hence, I was fascinated by Grace’s life right from the get-go to wonder how someone with an idyllic small-town life wrote a larger-than-life book and made it a success.

    The whole wrote Grace so realistically that I felt various emotions towards her while reading. In the beginning, I was rooting for her as she went to New York and got a taste of success. Later, I despised her for how she treated George and her affair with TJ. And again, I was rooting for her. Grace’s life is fascinating, and I kept wondering what would happen to her. Even the supporting cast like George, Laurie, Jacques, and especially Rita was entertaining.

    However, I did feel that the pace slowed down in the second half. Some chapters go on without anything new, like TJ and Grace’s arguments, how they deal with pressures for a sequel, and how they break up and make up. Also, I was keen to know what happened to Barbara and William, but they just disappeared after the first 20% of the book. It would have been nice to see them appear in the latter half, as they started this book with a bang.

    Apart from that, I loved this book! Of course, I am more biased because I loved the primetime soap and was excited to read about the author’s life. Overall, “The Seasons of Grace” is a charismatic book about a woman who tried her best to handle the pressures of success, and I admire how the author executed it.

    Bloggers On Tour

    The Seasons of Grace

    I am thrilled to be hosting a spot on The Seasons of Grace by Dave O. Dodge Blog Tour hosted by Suzyapproved Book Tours.

     

  • First Bite by Avery Daniels

    First Bite by Avery Daniels

    First Bite

    First Bite by Avery Daniels

    Release: May 1, 2022
    Format: Ebook
    Publisher: Blazing Sword Publishing, Ltd
    Source: Bewitching Book Tours
    Find it at Goodreads, Amazon

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    In 24 hours, Misty Summers had the worst date of her life, was bit by a vampire, and her PI boss may close his business as he goes through a divorce. Looking on the sunny side, she decides to use her new vampire assets and become the investigator to keep her job and income. She doesn’t know what her future holds, but it can’t be any worse! When she starts following up on a missing woman’s case, she finds herself in the middle of a murder. Even with her positive thinking and affirmations, she is finding her new reality daunting. But she vows to take a bite out of crime in her small lake resort town.

    If you like Duffy Brown, Nancy Warren, Nova Nelson, Dionne Lister, Trixie Silverdale, and Leighann Dobbs, then you’ll love this series with a quirky intelligent sleuth, small-town lake setting, and tantalizing mysteries. Misty Indigo Summers is a positive thinking kind of gal and a most unlikely vampire and PI.

    About the Author:

    Avery Daniels was born and raised in Colorado, graduated from college with a degree in business administration, and has worked in fortune 500 companies and the Department of Defense her entire life. Her most eventful job was apartment management for 352 units.

    Avery Daniels still resides in Colorado with two brother black cats as her spirited companions. She volunteers for a cat shelter and enjoys scrapbooking and card making, photography, and painting in watercolor and acrylic. She inherited a love for reading from her mother and grandmother and grew up talking about books at the dinner table.

    Website | Twitter | Facebook | Bookbub | Goodreads

    First Bite Review:

    “First Bite” is an entertaining cozy-mystery crime fiction novel that never had a dull moment, and I enjoyed reading it.

    The first aspect I loved about the story is how the author manages to cover so many things. It is part of crime fiction where we see Misty covering various cases. Then, it is also part of paranormal romance where Misty adapts to being a vampire and falls in love with a witch. I also enjoyed her scenes with Rowan and thought the author wrote their chemistry nicely.

    Misty is terrific as the main character. I loved her scenes with Winston and thought their conversations were adorable. She also shares a great friendship with Courtney, and it was interesting to see how their company would continue. Moreover, the author also gets creative with the world-building, and I enjoyed learning more about the Meta-Mundane council. I also adored the scenes where Concetta explains the rules to Misty.

    Perhaps the only minor downside to the tale is how there were some of the initial crime tales felt were just page fillers, like when Misty follows Emily or Dillon. I wished the author had focused on prominent cases from the beginning, like Charity and Layla. I enjoyed reading Layla and Charity’s storyline and would have loved more twists and turns in their storyline.

    The author also ends the story in a suspenseful manner where you eagerly wait for the next book to find out what Misty does next. Overall, “First Bite ” is a beautiful start to the series, and I hope the author continues to write many more with Misty.

    Tour Giveaway:

    3 ebook copies of First Bite

     

    Book Tour Schedule

    First Bite

    I am thrilled to be hosting a spot on the First Bite by Avery Daniels Blog Tour hosted by Bewitching Book Tours.

     

  • The Beached Ones by Colleen M. Story

    The Beached Ones by Colleen M. Story

    The Beached Ones

    The Beached Ones by Colleen M. Story

    Release: June 14, 2022
    Format: Paperback
    Publisher: CamCat Books
    Source: Suzyapproved Book Tours
    Find it at Goodreads, Amazon, Kindle, Audible, B&N

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    HE CAME BACK, DETERMINED TO KEEP HIS PROMISE.

    Daniel and his younger brother grew up in an abusive home. Daniel escaped. Now an established stunt rider, he intends to go back to rescue his brother. But then one jump goes horribly wrong . . .

    He recovers to find himself in Iowa, unscathed, yet his life has drastically changed. His best friend won’t answer his calls. Even his girlfriend is hiding something. Increasingly terrified, he clings to the one thing he knows: He must pick up his brother in San Francisco. In five days.

    From the isolating fields of Iowa to the crowded streets of San Francisco, Daniel must fight his way through a fog of disjointed memories and supernatural encounters to face the truth and pay a debt he didn’t know he owed.

    About the Author:

    Colleen M. Story has worked in the creative writing industry for over 20 years. Her last novel, Loreena’s Gift, was a Foreword Reviews’ INDIES Book of the Year Awards winner, among others. She also writes nonfiction books for writers, including Writer Get Noticed!, a gold-medal winner in the Reader’s Favorite Book Awards, and Overwhelmed Writer Rescue, Book by Book Publicity’s Best Writing/Publishing Book of 2018.

    As a full-time freelance health writer, Colleen has authored thousands of articles for publications like Healthline and Women’s Health, worked with high-profile clients in the healthcare industry, and ghostwritten wellness books. She frequently serves as a workshop leader and motivational speaker, where she helps attendees remove mental and emotional blocks and tap into their unique creative powers.

    A lifelong musician, Colleen plays the French horn in her local symphony and pit orchestras. When not writing, she’s walking, reading, and exploring the beautiful Northwest. To learn more, see her website ( ), motivational blog (), and mystical blog (), and connect with her on Twitter (@colleen_m_story).

    Website | Twitter | Blog | Youtube | Goodreads

    The Beached Ones Review:

    “The Beached Ones” is a dramatic tale about a man’s journey as he tries to find out what happened to him, and I loved the way the author executed it.

    I enjoyed reading this book because it was unpredictable, emotional, exciting, and a strong lead character. Daniel shines in the role, and I supported him right from the beginning. There is a sense of mystery as Daniel wakes up in the sand near the coastline from the start. I always enjoy a book where the character goes on a profound journey of sorts, and the author executed it perfectly here.

    As the story progresses, you meet additional characters like Jolene, Isabella, Brent, Gus, and tony. The author writes the character beautifully where their actions intrigue you. I loved daniels relationship with Tony and how the author flashbacks to their memories. Similarly, the author also writes the romance between Jolene and Daniel nicely, where you see how protective he gets over her.

    Moreover, the author surprised me with the twists and took the story on a path I did not expect. Some memorable moments in the tale are when Isabella feels daniels presence, the scenes with Trisha and when Brent scares Daniel with the gun. The author leads the story to an exciting climax that dwells on pure fantasy, and I could not stop reading. This book is undoubtedly one that I won’t forget anytime soon, and I thought the author executed it beautifully.

    I look forward to reading more of her books in the future. Overall, “The Beached Ones” is a beautiful fantasy mystery fiction worth checking out.

    The Beached Ones

    I am thrilled to be hosting a spot on The Beached Ones by Colleen M. Story Blog Tour hosted by Suzyapproved Book Tours.

    Book Tour Schedule

    She Just Loves Books-May 10th
    Love My Books 2020-May 11th
    Rozier Reads and Wine-May 12th
    David L Morgan-May 13th
     Sho Biz Reads-May 14th
    Rajivs Reviews-May 15th
    Nurse Bookie-May 17th
    Novels and Latte Book Club -May 18th
    CMT Loves Wine and Books-May 18th
    The Page Ladies-May 19th
    Reading With Mere-May 20th
    Bookish Heidi-May 23rd
    Amys Book Nook-May 24th
    Geaux Get Lit-May 24th
    Subakka Bookstuff-May 26th
    Books and Coffee MX-June 1st

  • My Secret Admirer by Carol Ellis

    My Secret Admirer by Carol Ellis

    My Secret Admirer

    My Secret Admirer (Point Horror, #4) by Carol Ellis

    Release: November 1, 1989
    Format: Ebook
    Publisher: Published by Scholastic 
    Source: Amazon
    Find it at Goodreads, Amazon

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    Jenny is new in town. Her parents go away, leaving her all alone in an isolated house. The mountains surrounding the town loom ominously, guarding the secret of what really happened the day of Diana Benson’s accident. Then the phone calls start…

    Jenny has a secret admirer, who courts her with sweet messages and flowers. But she also has an enemy, who chases her on a lonely road. Does she know too much about the ‘accident’ on the cliffs? and is there anyone she can trust?

    Jenny has no one to turn to.

    Except for her secret admirer…

    But who is he?

    About the Author:

    Carol Ellis is an American author of young adult and children’s fiction. Her first novel, My Secret Admirer, was published in 1989 by Scholastic as part of their popular Point Thriller line.

    She went on to write over fifteen novels, including a few titles in the Zodiac Chillers series published by Random House in the mid-1990s, and two titles in The Blair Witch Files series for young adults, published by Bantam between 2000 and 2001.

     Amazon | Goodreads

    My Secret Admirer Review:

    Click here to view on Instagram

    This book was ok and was pretty decent for a Point Horror novel. I liked some of the shocking scenes that the culprit uses to scare Jenny, especially the one involving Peaches. I also enjoyed the setting of Rimrock and the cliffs where the author adds in some thrills and adventure. The author sets the story nicely, in a classic horror setting, where a girl moves in with her family to a new place and has to spend the night alone while her parents are away, with creepy things happening as someone targets her.

    However, I had mixed feelings about Jenny. At times, she was wise to set up booby traps in the house to prepare for predators. But, half the time, she was so dumb. She gets scared at the thought of someone attacking her, but at the same time, she falls for a secret admirer she never met, never considering the two might be connected. It also takes Jenny quite some time to figure out what is happening. Frankly, I liked Sally better than Jenny in the story because at least Sally sparked the pages with her conversations.

    But, the reveal, in the end, was not as shocking as I thought it would be. Almost anyone who reads the book would be able to guess who is behind it, as we don’t have many characters on the canvas. There are also some characters with no closure to their storylines, and you wonder what they were doing there.

    Overall, “My Secret Admirer” is a decent story if you love Point Horror and want to spend an afternoon with a book, but not a must-read.

  • My Sister’s Big Fat Indian Wedding by Sajni Patel

    My Sister’s Big Fat Indian Wedding by Sajni Patel

    My Sister's Big Fat Indian Wedding

    My Sister’s Big Fat Indian Wedding by Sajni Patel

    Release: April 19, 2022
    Format: Paperback
    Publisher: Amulet Books
    Source: TLC Book Tours
    Find it at Goodreads, Amazon, Kindle, Audible, B&N

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    A fresh, witty rom-com romp set against the backdrop of a high-profile music competition and a riotous Indian wedding

    Zurika Damani is a naturally gifted violinist with a particular love for hip-hop beats. But when you’re part of a big Indian family, everyone has expectations. And those certainly don’t include hip-hop violin. After Juilliard rejects her, Zuri’s last hope is a contest for which a panel of top-tier college scouts is judges. The only problem? This coveted competition happens to take place during Zuri’s sister’s extravagant wedding week. And Zuri has already been warned, repeatedly, that she is not to miss a single moment.

    In the midst of the chaos, Zuri’s mom is in matchmaking mode with the groom’s South African cousin Naveen. He just happens to be a cocky vocalist set on stealing Zuri’s spotlight at the scouting competition. Luckily Zuri has a crew of loud and loyal female cousins cheering her on. Now, all she has to do is to wow the judges for a top spot, evade her parents catching her, resist Naveen’s charms, and, oh yeah . . . not mess up her sister’s big fat Indian wedding. What could possibly go wrong?

    About the Author:

    Sajni Patel is the author of adult and YA debuts publishing in 2020.  Her publication including The Trouble with Hating You is the first of two women’s fiction titles with Grand Central/Forever. Fabulous early buzz has been building. Apple Books has selected it for their “10 Debuts to Read” in 2020, and Publishers Weekly has called it a “fast-paced romp of a debut . . . the cultural specificity Patel brings makes this rom-com feel fun and fresh.” Her YA debut, The Knockout, was published in January 2021 from Flux. She currently lives in Texas.

    Website | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Goodreads

    My Sister’s Big Fat Indian Wedding  Review:

    Click to view on Instagram

    “My Sister’s Big Fat Indian Wedding” is a beautiful young adult romance with an upbeat, festive feel, and I loved it.

    The first thing that struck me in the tale is the wholesomeness of Zuri’s family. Even though Neha gets on Zuri’s nerves, with her parents’ high expectations for her and Zuri doesn’t want to follow in her sister’s footsteps, Zuri shares a close bond with her family where they all support each other. I loved how the author portrayed the family angle.

    Secondly, I liked how the author made the story about Zuri and not an unnecessary romance between her and Naveen. While Zuri and Naveen share lovely chemistry, I appreciate how the author did not diverge the tale into an angsty love romance and focused on Zuri and the wedding. Naveen is also an interesting character, as you don’t know if he is trustworthy, particularly as he tries to psyche Zuri with the contest. However, he grew on me, and I found his South African background exotic.

    Thirdly, I adored how grand the author set up the backdrop. As an Indian, I loved how accurately the author depicted the life of the American Indian (or even Indian Wedding) tradition, cultures, and the grand festivities of an Indian wedding. Moreover, I also loved the supporting characters and was a guest at the Pranit-Maitri wedding. Krish was also one of my favorite characters, and I loved her protective nature towards Zuri. Even the tiny moments that Zuri shares with her Masi were heartwarming and something that resonated with me.

    Overall, “My Sister’s Big Fat Indian Wedding” is a fresh, young adult romance that I enjoyed reading, and I hope to read some of the author’s other works.

    Book Tour Schedule

    My Sister's Big Fat Indian Wedding

    I am thrilled to be hosting a spot on the My Sister’s Big Fat Indian Wedding by Sajni Patel Blog Tour hosted by TLC Book Tours. 

    Monday, April 18th: IG: @nerdybookmama
    Monday, April 18th: TT: @bookwormbullet
    Tuesday, April 19th: IG: @celiamcmahonreads
    Tuesday, April 19th: IG: @noorthebookworm
    Wednesday, April 20th: IG: @monikasbookblog
    Wednesday, April 20th: IG: @rajisreviews
    Thursday, April 21st: TT: @paperbackprince
    Thursday, April 21st: TT: @thelifeofbooks
    Friday, April 22nd: TT: @bookish_afrolatina and IG: @bookish_afrolatina
    Friday, April 22nd: TT: @thatblondebookworm
    Saturday, April 23rd: IG: @nsiabblog
    Monday, April 25th: IG: @brianas_best_reads
    Monday, April 25th: TT: @mamabeardteacher

  • Li Na is my name by Lisa Wee

    Li Na is my name by Lisa Wee

    Li Na is my name

    Li Na is my name by Lisa Wee

    Release: March 31, 2022
    Format: Paperback, eBook
    Publisher: Dixi Books Publishing
    Source: Rockstar Book Tours
    Find it at Goodreads, Amazon UK, TBD 

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    Do you get teased by others for being a weirdo, a geek, a nerd, or a bookworm? Friends, families, and neighbors around Li-Na felt it was affectionate to tease her for her not-so-girly hobbies and clothing. Li-Na is about a little girl who refused to be stereotyped. It is a story that encourages kids to be kids until they are ready to be who they want to be. Li Na Is My Name is a book that is as relevant then as it is now. Wishing Li Na’s spirit, grit, and resilience to all children. Love the way she stays true to herself. Let’s spread this so all children love themselves for just who they are.

    About the Author:

    Lisa Wee debuts as author/illustrator, “Li Na is my name, Dixi Books Publishing, UK. Dixi Books Publishing, UK.

    Lisa has illustrated several picture books for prominent organizations and self-published authors. Her quaint, quirky, and vibrant illustrations are inclusive, embracing diversity in celebrating the lives of children from all walks of life.

    Her clients 

    Celebrity Top Chef Kristen Kish in collaboration with Upwork, Babybug Magazine, Ladybug magazine  World Vision International for the International Day of the Girls campaign 2021.

    Website |  Twitter  | Instagram | Facebook | Goodreads

    Li Na is my name Review:

    Click to view on Instagram

    “Li Na is my Name” is an adorable children’s book that promotes young readers to be themselves.

    I loved the book’s theme and thought the creators executed it beautifully. The story is simple yet tells the reader that it’s okay to be yourself. If you are a tomboy, and even if people comment on you, be yourself! Reading this book, I realized that even as an adult, I recall the snarky comments that some of my friends and family used to make about me when I was growing up. While most of them were harmless, the memories still stuck to me and made me change my behavior growing up. Recalling that, I wonder if I would have had a happier childhood had I had been confident to be myself. The author delivers a solid message not to let anyone else get you down for being different and just be yourself.

    Moreover, the author is super talented as she also designed the illustrations. The illustrations are gorgeous, and I adored the color palettes. Each page is vibrant and appealing, which will catch the child’s attention as they read the story. Li Na’s and her friend’s expressions are adorable as they deal with the comments they hear from their friends and family.

    I hope the author continues to write more books with these characters, as I can easily see this turning into a series that would motivate young readers. Overall, Li Na is my name” is an adorable children’s book that I feel parents should gift their young ones.

    Giveaway Details:

    1 winner will win a finished copy of LI NA IS MY NAME, International.

    a Rafflecopter giveaway

    Li Na is my name

    I am thrilled to be hosting a spot on the Li Na is my name by Lisa Wee Blog Tour hosted by Rockstar Book Tours. Check out my post and make sure to enter the giveaway!

    Book Tour Schedule

    Week One:
    Writer of Wrongs-Guest Post -4-1-2022

    Week Two:
    Lady Hawkeye-Excerpt/IG Post-4-4-2022
    Ravenz Reviewz-Guest Post/IG Post-4-5-2022
    BETTER_0FF_READ-IG Spotlight-4-6-2022
    BookHounds-Guest Post/IG Post-4-7-2022
    #BRVL Book Review Virginia Lee Blog-Excerpt-4-8-2022

    Week Three:
    Sadie’s Spotlight-Guest Post/IG Post-4-11-2022
    Jazzy Book Reviews-Excerpt-4-12-2022
    SJ_Bookshelf-Review-4-13-2022
    Rajiv’s Reviews-Review/IG Post-4-14-2022
    boozybook blog-Review/IG Post-4-15-2022

    Week Four:
    TakeALookAtMyBookshelf-Review-4-18-2022
    Two Points of Interest-Review-4-19-2022
    @the.page.sage -TikTok Review/IG Post-4-20-2022
    @coffeesipsandreads-Review-4-21-2022
    The Momma Spot-Review-4-22-2022

    Week Five:
    Excuse Me, I’m Reading-Review-4-25-2022
    Wottaread-Excerpt-4-26-2022
    Emmiepooh2 -Review-4-27-2022
    onemoreexclamation-Review/IG Post-4-28-2022
    Lifestyle of Me-Review-4-29-2022
    @jypsylynn -Review-4-30-2022

  • The Haunting of Mackenzie Blake by Hazel Holmes

    The Haunting of Mackenzie Blake by Hazel Holmes

    The Haunting of Mackenzie Blake

    The Haunting of Mackenzie Blake by Hazel Holmes

    Release:  March 23, 2022
    Format: Ebook
    Publisher:  Independently published
    Source: Amazon
    Find it on Goodreads, Amazon, Kindle, Audible

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    A riveting new haunted house mystery that will keep you guessing until the end!

    In a small town outside of New Orleans, rests a hallowed estate shrouded in secrecy… Mystery and horror surround a long-abandoned Victorian House, seemingly forgotten by the town. What was thought to be a new beginning for Mackenzie Blake’s problems soon devolves into an endless nightmare of hidden secrets and a troubled past best left unturned.

    About the Author:
    Hazel Holmes is the author of the following Series
     

    Riveting Kidnapping Mystery
    1.  In an Instant (2021)
    2. Never Came Home (2021)

     

    Omnibus

     1.No Way Out (2022)
     2. Under the Moon (2022)                                                              3.The Estate Hauntings (2021)
     4. The Guest House Hauntings Boxset(2021)
     5. The House on the Water (2021)
     6.  Haunted Grounds (2022)

     

    Riveting Haunted House Mystery
    1. The Haunting of Whitecrest Estate (2020)
    2. The Guest House Haunting (2021)
    3. The Haunting of The Wilson Estate (2021)
    4. The Haunting of Stella Rose (2021)
    5. The Haunting of Faye Cantrell (2022)
    6. The Haunting of Mackenzie Blake (2022)
     

     

    Amazon | Goodreads

    The Haunting of Mackenzie Blake Review:

    Click to view on Instagram

    I have not read any of the books in the series, but I feel you can read any of them as a standalone. I enjoyed the book’s premise, as a couple moves into a haunted home in New Orleans and the family drama and dynamics once they uncover the house’s secrets.

    The stand out in the tale is the main characters. I liked how the author wrote the entire cast and made them stand apart. Mackenzie sometimes got on my nerves because she always took Ethan’s side over Jasper. Jasper is probably my favorite character because he is the only one who throughout logically. He gave in to a lot of Mackenzie’s demands, and even I was supporting him. I felt like shaking Mackenzie to listen to her husband and leave the house rather than risking her life to save Ethan.
    Similarly, I liked Ethan and his interest in learning about voodoo with the influence of Kent. I liked how the author wrote the family drama, especially the tension between Mackenzie, Ethan, and Jasper. Even Amber was fun, even if she appeared for a short time. Add in a house with a family of ghosts where the couple resides, and the story glued to me.

    However, I felt the author paced the story a bit slowly. Nothing scary happens for the most part, as even the ghosts are not as vengeful as I thought. I liked the whodunit aspect, even though we learn about that halfway into the story. It would have been nice if the author added more shocking sweets and made the story creepy.

    Other than that, I thought “The Haunting of Mackenzie Blake” was a decent supernatural thriller and sparked my interest to pick the first book in the series to read more.