My Book Reviews

Category: LGBTQ

  • Quite the Pair by Beth C. Greenberg

    Quite the Pair by Beth C. Greenberg

    Quite the Pair

    Quite the Pair (Cupid’s Fall, #3) by Beth C. Greenberg

    Release: October 5th 2021
    Format: Ebook
    Publisher:  Isotopia Publishing
    Source: Suzy approved Book Tours
    Find it at: Goodreads, Amazon, Kindle, B&N

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    It’s Pan’s turn for love, and everyone’s in for a wild ride – especially his smitten best friend Cupid, who is duty-bound to find Pan’s perfect match.

    For 2,000 years, Cupid believes his best friend dead, but when the gods banish Cupid from Mount Olympus, he discovers Pan alive and well in Tarra, Indiana. Joyfully reunited, the two revive the camaraderie of their youth, but tensions mount when Aphrodite sets Cupid’s heart signal on Pan.

    Failure to fulfill his divine duty will doom Cupid to suffer yet another tragic love, but to succeed, he must risk losing everyone he holds dear.

    Book 3 of the Cupid’s Fall series puts Cupid’s epic friendship with Pan to the ultimate test – Love. [This book may be read as a standalone novel, but the reading experience will be richer if you’ve read books one and two.]

    About the Author:

    Beth is a former CPA who took a sharp turn into creative writing during a midlife awakening. First experimenting with fanfiction, Beth discovered two things she loves about writing: twisting a tried-and-true story and interacting with her readers. Born and raised in Akron, Ohio, she and her husband live in a quiet suburb outside of Boston, Massachusetts, where their daughter occasionally visits them and grand-dog, Slim. FIRST QUIVER is her debut novel and book one of the Cupid’s Fall series.

    BOOK GROUPS: For Discussion Guide, author appearances, or to FEATURE YOUR BOOK GROUP on my site, visit www.bethcgreenberg.com/book-groups/

    NO PRIOR KNOWLEDGE of mythology needed, but if you’d like a free, full-color downloadable guide to the gods of Cupid’s Fall, follow this link: https://bethcgreenberg.com/mythology-guide/

    Website | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Goodreads

    Quite the Pair Review:

    I loved the first two books of the “Cupid’s Fall” series and could not wait to read this book after how the previous one ended.

    Talk about angst! I was looking forward to Cupid and Pan getting hot and heated in the story. But, the author surprised me when Pan pushed himself away from Cupid. The author cleverly adds a few twists and turns and takes on a surprising course when Reed enters the picture. Reed shares chemistry with Pan and Cupid, and I was glued to the pages to determine where the story would go.

    The author wrote the characters so well that none of them have bored me from the first book. Reed and Pan were one of the highlights in the tale, and I like the way the author wrote their romance. Cupid and Reed also share a lovely bond, and there were moments where I enjoyed their conversations, like when Reed feeds inferior because of his wound. Moreover, I also enjoyed reading about Reed’s story and thought he was an excellent addition to the series. Similarly, Pan is fantastic as always, and I loved the snarky, sarcastic humor he brought to the story. It was also fun seeing characters from the previous book, like Mia, make an appearance.

    We also see our supporting favorites like Ares and Themis. I liked Ares and how uncomfortable he got when he was next to Aphrodite. The two manage to spark the pages as they spy on Cupid, and I enjoyed how the author embedded their storyline with Cupid, especially with Hephaestus in the picture.

    Overall, “Quite the Pair” is a lovely continuation to the “Cupid’s Fall” series, and I look forward to seeing how the author surprises us next.

    Book Tour Schedule

    Quite the Pair

    I am thrilled to be hosting a spot on the Quite the Pair (Cupid’s Fall, #3) by Beth C. Greenberg Blog Tour hosted by Suzy approved Book Tours.

    Subakka Bookstuff-Oct. 4th
    Noor The Bookworm-Oct. 6th
    Dani Reads-Oct. 8th
    Rajivs Reviews-Oct. 10th
    Joannas Bookshelf-Oct. 13th
    Jayme Reads-Oct. 13th
    Bookish Heidi-Oct. 21st
    Nurse Bookie-Oct. 26th
    Bookoholic Cafe-Oct. 29th
    Lindas Book Obsession-Nov. 4th
    Christina Stephanie Reads-Nov. 9th
    Geaux Get Lit-Nov. 11th
    The Mary Reader-Nov. 16th
    Rozier Reads and Wine-Nov. 16th
    Books Love And Understanding-Nov. 18th
    Bookworm Struggles -Nov. 19th
    Carol Doscher-Nov. 27th
    Sealed With A Book-Nov. 30th

  • The Throwback List by Lily Anderson

    The Throwback List by Lily Anderson

    The Throwback List

    The Throwback List by Lily Anderson

    Release: October 5, 2021
    Format: Ebook
    Publisher: Hyperion Avenue
    Source: Rockstar Book Tours
    Find it at: Goodreads, Amazon, Kindle, Audible, B&N, iBooks, Kobo, TBD, Bookshop.org

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    Welcome to Sandy Point, Oregon, a beach town . It is home to a giant anchor statue, and Frosty’s questionably legendary Sunday Sundae Surprise. A town Jo, Autumn, and Bianca thought they’d left far behind when they graduated high school. And  finally moving on to greener pastures than the midway point for tourists heading to the Goonies house. 

    Bianca Boria-Birdy has always been an overachiever. She juggles managing the family tattoo parlor, caring for her grandmother, and adjusting to a new marriage.  Bianca’s schedule becomes stricter than ever, with no room for disruption. What she really needs is a vacation, but not even Bianca Boria-Birdy can achieve the impossible.

    Autumn Kelly used to be an actress. Now she teaches drama at Sandy Point High. She may have had to kiss her movie-star dreams goodbye. But molding the next generation of performers has given her life meaning in a whole new way. Until the sudden reappearance of her ex-best friend throws everything off-balance.

    Jo Freeman has it all together. He has a cool job in Silicon Valley, with connections at the trendiest fitness studios, and a down payment on her dream condo. So, She’s well on her way to reaching every one of her goals before thirty. Or she was, before she got fired and landed right back home with her parents and teenage sister.

    Then Jo finds an old bucket list in her childhood bedroom. It sets the three women on a path that brings them closer to one another with each task. And it just might lead to a life none of them could have planned.

    About the Author:

    Lily Anderson is the author of The only thing worse than Me is You , Not now, Not ever, Undead Girl Gang

    A former school librarian, she is deeply devoted to Shakespeare, fairy tales, and podcasts.

    Somewhere in Northern California, she has strong opinions on musical theater. Find her online at www.mslilyanderson.com 

    Website | Twitter | Amazon | Goodreads | Instagram

    The Throwback List Review:

    Click to view on Instagram

    “The Throwback List” is a sweet contemporary novel about three people discovering themselves and was a beautiful novel to read.

    There are moments where I wish I could reunite with friends with who I don’t have contact anymore. “The Throwback List” is a beautiful contemporary novel that highlights what happens to a group when an ex-friend comes back in the picture.

    What’s interesting about the tale is how my perspective of the three characters changed over the course. Initially, from the three, I loved Autumn. The author wrote her emotions beautifully as she conflicts allowing Jo back in her life, but still wants to give her a chance. Similarly, I liked how Jo is stubborn and determined to win her friends back as she starts to go through her list. It was also interesting to see how long Bianca would hold her grudge against Jo.

    The author also adds a touch of humor to the dialogues, which I enjoyed. I laughed at some moments like when Jo TP’s Bianca’s house and the roll whacked her face. Some of the memorable moments in the story were when the group had a sleepover, or the surrounding incident of Birdy, or Bee’s breakdown. I also found more minor connections and drama interesting, like Lita and Bianca, or Bianca and Cruz, which added nicely. The author also ends most of the chapters with chat conversations between the three, which was fun.

    Probably my only criticism of the story is how the plot staggered in a few places. While I loved how the leads bonded with each other, there wasn’t much in terms of the story. Apart from that, I found “The Throwback List” a beautiful read and recommend reading a breezy read.

    Giveaway Details:

    3 winners will receive a finished copy of THE THROWBACK LIST, US Only.

    a Rafflecopter giveaway

    The Throwback List

    I am thrilled to be hosting a spot on The Throwback List by Lily Anderson Blog Tour hosted by Rockstar Book Tours. Check out my post and make sure to enter the giveaway!

    Book Tour Schedule

    Week One:
    brittreadsalattebooks-Excerpt & IG Post-10-1-2021
    Amani’s Honest Reviews-Excerpt-10-2-2021

    Week Two:
    Rajiv’s Reviews-Review-10-3-2021
    The Pages In-Between-Review-10-4-2021
    BookHounds-Excerpt-10-5-2021
    @curlygrannylovestoread-Review-10-6-2021
    Lexijava_Bookish-Review-10-7-2021
    The Book Review Crew-Review-10-8-2021
    Cocoa With Books-Review-10-9-2021

    Week Three:
    Kait Plus Books-Review-10-10-2021
    @bookisheclectic-Review-10-11-2021
    Sometimes Leelynn Reads-Review-10-12-2021
    More Books Please blog-Review-10-13-2021
    A Bookish Dream-Review-10-14-2021
    @enjoyingbooksagain-Review-10-15-2021
    My Fictional Oasis-Review-10-16-2021

    Week Four:
    Zainey Laney-Review-10-17-2021
    @moonlight_rendezvous-Review-10-18-2021
    @jypsylynn-Review-10-19-2021
    The Momma Spot-Review-10-20-2021
    The Phantom Paragrapher-Review-10-21-2021
    coffeebooksandmascara-Review-10-22-2021
    Lifestyle of Me-Review-10-23-2021

    Week Five:
    Perusewithcoffee-Review-10-24-2021
    Pagesofyellow-Review-10-25-2021
    cindysloveofbooks-Review-10-26-2021
    Popthebutterfly Reads-Review-10-27-2021
    two points of interest-Review-10-28-2021
    Fire and Ice-Review-10-29-2021
    BookBriefs-Review-10-30-2021

    Week Six:
    Phannie the Ginger Bookworm-Review-10-31-2021

  • Remnants Of Blood by H Cunningham

    Remnants Of Blood by H Cunningham

    Remnants Of Blood

    Remnants Of Blood by H Cunningham

    Release: September 14, 2021
    Format: Ebook
    Publisher: H. F. Cunningham
    Source: Rockstar Book Tours
    Find it at:  Goodreads, Amazon, Kindle, B&N, Kobo, TBD, Bookshop.org

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    The Fair Folk are the stuff of myth. Stories of monsters and old magicks. But all myths carry a grain of truth. That truth is that remnants of this ancient power live on in the blood of their descendants.

    When Tannin’s grandfather dies, he leaves her with a mountain of trouble. Between cryptic journals that warn of unknown foes lying in wait and a crippling debt owed to a cruel and formidable local Laird, Tannin is thrown into a cut-throat world where she is perilously out of her depth.

    But her problems have only just begun. Secrets lurk in Tannin’s bloodstream – secrets not even she is aware of. And they want out.

    A scheming princess with the offer of an alliance. A secret society with murderous intentions. A dark past that refuses to stay buried. Tannin’s life will never be the same.

    About the Author:

    Hello! I’m HF Cunningham; a queer YA/NA fantasy author who likes puns!

    My debut novel Remnants of Blood is launching 14th September 2021 and is perfect for lovers of fantasy, intruiging characters, enemies to lovers, monsters, scottish accents and witty banter!

    Follow me on instagram hfcunningham.author or twitter hfcunningham or check out my website www.hfcunningham.com

    Website | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Goodreads | Amazon

    Remnants Of Blood Review:

    “Remnants Of Blood’ is a brilliant start to the series, and I loved every moment of it. I could not put this book down!

    This book was so much better than I had expected. What starts as a simple story of thievery soon turns into a delicious fantasy tale of magic, crypts, necropolis, revenge, and betrayal, and I devoured it.

    The author has a wonderfully addictive writing style that makes you hooked to the plot and the characters. Tannin never seems to find luck. First, she has to owe money to Clach for her grandfather’s death. Then she gets into more trouble when she breaks in with Hamish. Soon, Tannin realizes that she is in a fantastical world. Once you start reading this book, you won’t notice the time fly by.

    Speaking of which, I loved the world-building how the author incorporated its history. I was fascinated with the history of the silkies and the concept of Wielders and Remnants. The story never has a dull moment as Tannin finds herself in dungeons, trapped doors, tunnels, any crypts, to name a few.

    There are so many moments where my jaw dropped, like when Tannin wakes up in the horse stable or when she faces Sommer. Tannin is terrific in the lead with her snarky sense of humor. The author also added a nice LBGTQ+ angle to the tale, which I enjoyed. I also loved all the supporting characters like Ava and Attilo. Even Flint was hilarious. The story also ends in a shocking cliffhanger that makes me want to read the next book in the series, now!

    Overall, I loved reading “Remnants of Blood” and cannot wait to read its continuation.

    Giveaway Details:

    2 winners will win a signed finished copy of REMNANTS OF BLOOD & swag, US Only.

    a Rafflecopter giveaway

    Remnants Of Blood

    I am thrilled to be hosting a spot on the Remnants Of Blood by H Cunningham Blog Tour hosted by Rockstar Book Tours. Check out my post and make sure to enter the giveaway!

    Book Tour Schedule

    Week One:
    Living in a Bookworld-Excerpt-9-20-2021
    Writer of Wrongs-Guest Post-9-20-2021
    Two Chicks on Books-Guest Post-9-21-2021
    @karendeeandabc -IG Post-9-21-2021
    Never Hollowed By The Stare-Excerpt-9-22-2021
    YA Books Central-Guest Post-9-22-2021
    The Book Review Crew-Review-9-23-2021
    @bookstagramofmine-Review-9-23-2021

    Week Two:
    GivernyReads-Review-9-24-2021
    Rajiv’s Reviews-Review-9-24-2021
    @coffeebooksandmascara -Review-9-27-2021
    Pagesofyellow -Review-9-27-2021
    Lexijava_Bookish-Review-9-28-2021
    BookHounds YA-Review-9-28-2021
    The Momma Spot-Excerpt-9-29-2021
    Dorky Girl and Skeletor-Excerpt-9-29-2021
    Books and Kats-Excerpt-9-30-2021
    Lily Luchesi’s Blog-Review-9-30-2021
    @bookisheclectic -Review-10-1-2021
    Devouring Books-Excerpt-10-1-2021

  • BATTLE DRAGONS #1: CITY OF THIEVES

    BATTLE DRAGONS #1: CITY OF THIEVES

    BATTLE DRAGONS #1: CITY OF THIEVES

    BATTLE DRAGONS #1: CITY OF THIEVES by Alex London

    Release: September 21st 2021
    Format: Paperback
    Publisher: Scholastic
    Source: Rockstar Book Tours
    Find it at: Goodreads, Amazon, Kindle, Audible, B&N, iBooks, Kobo, TBD, Bookshop.org

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    In a modern mega-city built around dragons, one boy gets caught up in the world of underground dragon battles and a high-stakes gang war that could tear his family apart.

    Once, dragons nearly drove themselves to extinction. But in the city of Drakopolis, humans domesticated them centuries ago. Now dragons haul the city’s cargo, taxi its bustling people between skyscrapers, and advertise its wares in bright, neon displays. Most famously of all, the dragons battle. Different breeds take to the skies in nighttime bouts between the infamous kins―criminal gangs who rule through violence and intimidation.

    Abel has always loved dragons, but after a disastrous showing in his dragon rider’s exam, he’s destined never to fly one himself. All that changes the night his sister appears at his window, entrusting him with a secret…and a stolen dragon.

    Turns out, his big sister is a dragon thief! Too bad his older brother is a rising star in Drakopolis law enforcement…

    To protect his friends and his family, Abel must partner with the stolen beast, riding in kin battles and keeping more secrets than a dragon has scales.

    When everyone wants him fighting on their side, can Abel figure out what’s worth fighting for?

    About the Author:

    ALEX LONDON is the author of over 25 books for children, teens, and adults with over 2 million copies sold. He’s the author of the middle grade Dog Tags, Tides of War, Wild Ones, and Accidental Adventures series, as well as two titles in The 39 Clues.

    For young adults, he’s the author of the acclaimed cyberpunk duology Proxy, and the epic fantasy trilogy, The Skybound Saga. A former journalist covering refugee camps and conflict zones, he can now be found somewhere in Philadelphia, where he lives with his husband and daughter or online at

    www.calexanderlondon.com.

    Website | Twitter | Instagram | Tumblr | Goodreads | Amazon | BookBub

    BATTLE DRAGONS #1: CITY OF THIEVES Review:

    Click to view on Instagram

    Battle Dragons City of thieves is an exciting middle-grade novel with action and adventure, and I enjoyed reading it.

    Firstly, I loved the magical world the author created. As soon as I started reading the story, I got transported into the world of dragons and wyverns. I loved the concept of Sky Knights, Red Talons, NERDS, and Thunder Wings. The author also tells the tell excitedly where something thrilling happens almost in every chapter. From the kinners searching for Lina to when they meet the Sunrise Reaper at the warehouse, there is never a dull moment in the tale. I particularly loved the scenes with the Widowmaker and the dragons. On a side note, I also loved the concept of OODA and decided to implement the saying in my daily life. The author also inserts complex words for younger readers to learn throughout the story, like pheromones and nonplussed, and executes it creatively.

    Secondly, I liked the way the author portrayed Abel. You see Abel grow as a confident character as the story progresses. I enjoyed his interactions with his siblings Lina and Silas and the complex relationship they shared. Abel also shares a beautiful friendship with ROA, and I loved their scenes together. Let’s not forget the incredible moments he has had with Karak.

    I also found Instructor Ally to be hilarious. What’s nice is how the characters also grow, and I liked how Ally’s relationship with Abel changed over the training. Even other casts like Topher, Shivonne, and Olus and were memorable. Similarly, even Fitz and Sax added well and spiced up the tale.

    Overall, I enjoyed reading “City of Thieves” and thought it was an exciting start to the series.

    Giveaway Details:

    3 winners will win a finished copy of CITY OF THIEVES (Battle Dragons #1), US Only.

    a Rafflecopter giveaway

    BATTLE DRAGONS #1: CITY OF THIEVES

    I am thrilled to be hosting a spot on the BATTLE DRAGONS #1: CITY OF THIEVES by Alex London Blog Tour hosted by Rockstar Book Tours. Check out my post and make sure to enter the giveaway!

    Book Tour Schedule
    Week One:

    Nonbinary Knight Reads-Review-9-13-2021
    YA Books Central-Excerpt-9-13-2021
    celiamcmahonreads-Review-9-14-2021
    Don’t Judge, Read-Review-9-14-2021
    Nerdophiles-Review-9-15-2021
    The Bookwyrm’s Den-Review-9-15-2021
    Book-Keeping-Review-9-16-2021
    Rajiv’s Reviews-Review-9-16-2021
    Locks, Hooks and Books-Review-9-17-2021
    booksaremagictoo-Review-9-17-2021

    Week Two:
    The Momma Spot-Review-9-20-2021
    Lifestyle of Me-Review-9-20-2021
    Books a Plenty Book Reviews-Review-9-21-2021
    Two Points of Interest-Review-9-21-2021
    Fyrekatz Blog-Review-9-22-2021
    Bibliosini-Review-9-22-2021
    #BRVL Book Review Virginia Lee Blog-Review-9-23-2021
    Books and Zebras @jypsylynn-Review-9-23-2021
    A Dream Within A Dream-Excerpt-9-24-2021
    BookHounds YA-Excerpt-9-24-2021

  • Two Winters by Lauren Emily Whalen

    Two Winters by Lauren Emily Whalen

    Two Winters

    Two Winters by Lauren Emily Whalen

    Release: September 14th 2021
    Format: Paperback
    Publisher: Bold Strokes Books
    Source: Suzy approved Book Tours
    Find it at: Goodreads, Amazon, Kindle,  B&N

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    Two Winters is a contemporary YA retelling of Shakespeare’s The Winter’s Tale about birth, death, Catholic school, improv comedy and the healing nature of time.

    The winter of 1997 is a tragedy waiting to happen. Small-town life isn’t easy for seventeen-year-old, bisexual and closeted Paulina, especially when her best friend Mia becomes pregnant and doesn’t want to tell the baby’s father, Paulina’s other best friend, Tesla. Meanwhile, Paulina’s secret relationship with volleyball star Ani is about to go public. One fateful night, everything changes forever. 

    In the winter of 2014, Perdita, bi and proud in Chicago, is weeks away from turning seventeen. She loves her two moms, but why won’t they talk about her adoption? When Perdita meets improv performer Fenton, she discovers both a kindred soul and a willing accomplice in her search for the truth. Will Perdita find what she’s looking for? 

    About the Author:

    Lauren Emily Whalen is the author of two books for young adults: the novel Satellite (2017) and the nonfiction book Dealing with Drama (2021). Her queer YA short story “I Saw Her Again” appears in the holiday ghost anthology Link by Link (2020). Lauren is a freelance writer, professional performer, and very amateur aerialist who graduated from Catholic school and is an unabashed devotee of the Bard. She lives in Chicago with her cat, Versace, and an apartment full of books..

    Website | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Goodreads

    Two Winters Review:

    Click to view on Instagram

    “Two Winters” is a contemporary retelling of Shakespeare’s “The Winter’s Tale,” and I enjoyed reading it.

    Let me preface by saying that I have not read the particular title by Shakespeare, so I’m not sure how close the retelling was. But, reading this without any comparison, I did enjoy the book. The author splits the story into two halves, of two different storylines set in two different timelines. Yet, some characters connect between them both, which makes it interesting to read.

    Frankly, I enjoyed both the story arcs. Paulina is charming in the first half, where you see her struggling with her sexuality and how she gets immersed in Mia and Tes’s life. The author creatively adds shocking moments surrounding Paulina’s love for Ani, which nicely added to the plot. Even the side story of Blair-Marie Elliott was captivating. However, I felt that the author wrote the romance much better in the second half surrounding Perdita. Perdita and Fenton make a great pair as they try to find answers to her past. One of my favorite passages from this timeline was when Perdita goes to Havendale and is in awe of the vibrant colors of the sky and the clouds. Even though it is a small moment, I loved how the author captured Perdita’s emotions.

    Moreover, the author also changes the style of writing by changing the perspectives between the two timelines. I also liked the letter inserts from someone ‘she doesn’t know’ who throws in hints about the past. This book turned out to be a lovely novel.

    Overall, “Two Winters” is a charming book to pick up if you are in the mood for some emotional drama or a fan of Shakespeare.

    Book Tour Schedule

    Two winters

    I am thrilled to be hosting a spot on the Two Winters by Lauren Emily Whalen Blog Tour hosted by Suzy approved Book Tours. 

  • He Gets That From Me by Jacqueline Friedland

    He Gets That From Me by Jacqueline Friedland

    He Gets That From Me

    He Gets That From Me by Jacqueline Friedland

    Release: September 7th 2021
    Format: Paperback
    Publisher: SparkPress
    Source: Suzyapproved Book Tours
    Find it at: Goodreads, Amazon, Kindle, B&N

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    As a young mother with a toddler and a live-in boyfriend, Maggie Fisher’s job at a checkout counter in downtown Phoenix doesn’t afford her much financial flexibility. She dreams of going to college and becoming a teacher, options she squandered when she fled her family home as a teenager. When Maggie stumbles onto an ad offering thousands of dollars to women who are willing to gestate other people’s babies, she at first finds the concept laughable. Before long, however, temptations of the extra money that could improve her life seduces her. Once she decides to go for it, it’s only a matter of months before she’s chosen as a gestational carrier by Chip and Donovan Rigsdale, a married couple from New York.

    After delivering twin babies and proudly handing them off to the Rigsdales, Maggie finally gets her life on a positive trajectory: she earns her degree, lands a great job, and builds a family of her own. She can’t fathom why, ten years after the fact, the fertility clinic is calling to ask for a follow-up DNA test.

    High-energy and immensely readable, He Gets That from Me explores what it really means to be part of a family.

    About the Author:

    Jacqueline Friedland is the author of the award-winning novels Trouble the Water and That’s Not a Thing. She holds a BA from the University of Pennsylvania and a JD from NYU Law School.

    Jacqueline practiced as an attorney in New York for a hot second before transitioning to writing full time.

    She lives in New York with her husband, four children, and two very bossy dogs.

    Website | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Goodreads

    He Gets That From Me Review:

    Click to view on Instagram

    What happens when you realize that the child you raised is not biologically yours? The author takes a new twist on this topic in “He Gets That From Me,” It was a very dynamic book to read.

    To begin with, I loved how the author narrated the story. She toggles the chapters between the past and the present and switches perspectives between Maggie and Donovan. The plot is also unique and unlike anything, I have read before. The author glued me to the second half, particularly in the court scenes.

    The other highlight of the story is the characters. I thought Maggie was the most complex character in the story. Even though I was not fond of her, she stood out in the story. Not only does she have to read with Chip and Donovan, but she also has to deal with Nick, the guy she is with, and wonders if her marriage can withstand what is happening. Nick is a character that just rubbed me the wrong way because of his mentality. Similarly, I could sense Donovan’s stress as she tries to figure out what is happening.

    I also liked the LGBTQ representation as Chip and Donovan come across as an average couple. Teddy and Kai are adorable, and you immediately feel protective towards them as the story progresses. Even Wyatt is cute, and I was curious to see how he reacted to the situation. On a side note, I also liked the Jewish details the author adds to the characters.

    Overall, “He Gets That From Me” is a beautiful realistic fiction filled with drama and surprises, and I liked reading it.

    Book Tour Schedule

    He Gets That From Me

    I am thrilled to be hosting a spot on the He Gets That From Me by Jacqueline Friedland Blog Tour hosted by Suzyapproved Book Tours.

  • The Girls are Never Gone by Sarah Glenn Marsh

    The Girls are Never Gone by Sarah Glenn Marsh

    The Girls are Never Gone

    The Girls are Never Gone by Sarah Glenn Marsh

    Release: September 7th, 2021
    Format: Ebook
    Publisher: Razorbill
    Source: TBR and Beyond Tours
    Find it at: Goodreads , Amazon , Barnes & Noble , Book Depository , IndieBound , Indigo

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    The Conjuring meets Sadie when seventeen-year-old podcaster Dare takes an internship in a haunted house and finds herself in a life-or-death struggle against an evil spirit.

    Dare Chase doesn’t believe in ghosts.

    However, privately, she’s a supernatural skeptic. But publicly, she’s keeping her doubts to herself—because she’s the voice of Attachments, her brand-new paranormal investigation podcast, and she needs her ghost-loving listeners to tune in.

    That’s what brings her to Arrington Estate. Thirty years ago, teenager Atheleen Bell drowned in Arrington’s lake, and legend says her spirit haunts the estate. Dare takes more  interest in the suspicious circumstances surrounding her death. Circumstances that point to a living culprit, not the supernatural. Still, she vows to keep an open mind as she investigates, even if she’s pretty sure what she’ll find.

    But Arrington is full of surprises. Good ones like Quinn, the cute daughter of the house’s new owner. And baffling ones like the threatening messages left scrawled in paint on Quinn’s walls, the ghastly face that appears behind Dare’s own in the mirror, and the unnatural current that nearly drowns their friend Holly in the lake. As Dare goes  deeper into the mysteries of Arrington, she’ll have to rethink the boundaries of what is possible. Because if something is lurking in the lake…it might not be willing to let her go.

    About the Author:

    Sarah Glenn Marsh writes young adult novels and children’s picture books.She is also an avid fantasy reader from the day her dad handed her a copy of The Hobbit . And he promised it would change her life. Hence  she’s been making up words and worlds ever since.

    When she’s not writing, Sarah frequents the pottery studio, volunteers her time to sighthound rescue, and raises awareness about her autoimmune disease, Type 1 diabetes. She often enjoys pursuits of the nerd variety, from video games to tabletop adventures. She has always liked any  animal or a doughnut  she met

    Besides, Sarah lives in Richmond, Virginia with her husband and their tiny zoo of four rescued sighthounds, two birds, and many fish. She is  also the author of Fear the Drowning Deep, the Reign of the Fallen series, and several books for younger readers.

    Website | Twitter | Instagram | Goodreads

    The Girls are Never Gone Review:

    Click to view on Instagram

    “The Girls Are Never Gone” is the perfect young adult paranormal horror to read if you are a fan of the genre.

    This book was the bomb! As a fan of supernatural horror, I loved everything about the story. The author did a terrific job writing the haunted house story to make it stand apart from the usual stories you read in the genre. The book has the standard secret rooms and scary apparitions, but the story is much more. But, what’s beautiful about the story is how the author fits so much into it. The author seamlessly balances the horror with Dare’s character development and the standard YA elements like angst and romance. Some scenes honestly creeped me out, right from the omen of the pigeon in the beginning. Some memorable moments were the scenes with the storm and coyotes or what happens in the docks.

    Besides, I loved how the author represented the character. Dare is a queer girl with type 1 diabetes, and I admired the author for portraying her situation realistically. We also have Waffles, the adorable service dog that helps Dare, and I loved everything about the two of them. Moreover, the author also adds a touch of romance as Dare finds herself having a crush on someone. The author shares a beautiful friendship with Quinn and Holly, and I loved the angle in which she investigates the hauntings for her podcast. There are many twists and turns to the tale about the events behind Atheleen and the Arrington Estate. Frankly, I enjoyed how the author progressed with the story and have become a fan after reading this book.

    Overall, I loved everything about the story and feel it is perfect to read close to Halloween.

    The Girls are Never Gone

    I am thrilled to be hosting a spot on The Girls are Never Gone by Sarah Glenn Marsh Blog Tour hosted by TBR and Beyond Tours.

    Book Tour Schedule:

    September 6th
    AndOnSheReads – Interview
    Althea Is Reading – Review & Mood Board
    Kerri McBookNerd – Review
    Thin Bookish Girl -Review & Top 5 Reasons to Read The Girls are Never Gone

    September 7th
    The Character Study – Book Look & Top 5 Reasons to Read The Girls are Never Gone
    Jessicareadstoomuch – Review
    Always, Bookish Lovers – 15 Reactions While Reading The Girls are Never Gone
    Robinlea BookBird – Review & Favourite Quotes

    September 8th
    teatimelit – Review
    Phannie the ginger bookworm – Review, Playlist, & Favourite Quotes
    The Book Dutchesses – Review
    Theladywithbooks – Playlist & Top 5 Reasons to Read The Girls are Never Gone

    September 9th
    SubtleBookish – Interview & Top 5 Reasons to Read The Girls are Never Gone
    Nine Bookish Lives – Review
    The Candid Cover – Review & Favourite Quotes
    Goddess of Books – Review

    September 10th
    Rania’s Rambling Reads – 15 Reactions While Reading The Girls are Never Gone
    Book Lover’s Book Reviews – Review
    uponthebooktower – Review & Mood Board
    Popthebutterfly Reads – Review

    September 11th
    Stuck in Fiction – Top 5 Reasons to Read The Girls are Never Gone
    leosthetics – Review & Favourite Quotes
    Confessions of a YA Reader – Review
    Sometimes Leelynn Reads – Review & Journal Spread

    September 12th
    Kait Plus Books – Interview
    Jen Jen Reviews – Review
    Paperbacks and Planners – Review & Mood Board
    Rajiv’s Reviews – Review

  • To Break a Covenant by Alison Ames

    To Break a Covenant by Alison Ames

    To Break a Covenant

    To Break a Covenant by Alison Ames

    Release: September 21st 2021
    Format: Paperback
    Publisher: Page Street Kids
    Source: Rockstar Book Tours
    Find it at: Goodreads, Amazon, Kindle, B&N, Kobo, TBD, 

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    Debut voice Alison Ames delivers with a chilling, feminist thriller, perfect for fans of Wilder Girls and Sawkill Girls.

    Moon Basin has been haunted for as long as anyone can remember. It started when there was a big explosion in the mine. As a result, sixteen people were killed. The disaster made it impossible to live in town, with underground fires spewing ash into the sky. But life in New Basin is just as fraught. As such, the ex-mining town relies on its haunted reputation to bring in tourists. But there’s more truth to the rumors than most are willing to admit.  And it is believed the mine still has a hold on everyone who lives there.

    Clem and Nina form a perfect loop, best friends forever, and perhaps something more. Their circle opens up for a strange girl named Lisey with a knack for training crows, and Piper, whose father is fascinated with the mine in a way that’s anything but ordinary.  Further, the people of New Basin start experiencing strange phenomena. All of a sudden, they observe sleepwalking, night terrors, voices that only they can hear. And no matter how many vans of ghost hunters roll through, nobody can get to the bottom of what’s really going on. Which is why the girls decide to enter the mine themselves.

    About the Author:

    Alison Ames lives in Colorado with a lot of animals and her almost-wife. Besides, she loves birds, comics, and the rule of three. THE HAUNTING OF MOON BASIN is her debut novel. Also, Find her on social media @2furiosa. And if you know (or are) Harry Styles she insists you do so..

    Website | Twitter | Instagram | Goodreads

    To Break a Covenant Review:

    Click to view on Instagram

    “To Break a Covenant” is an AMAZING Young Adult Horror novel and one of the most notable YA books I have read this year!

    This book gave me goosebumps! When the story began, I did not know what to expect. I thought it would be a story of Clem with her friends solving a mystery of Moon Basin. But the story is so much more than that!

    The author writes the story in a deliciously gripping manner where the horror slowly creeps on you. The story had me on the edge of my seat after we see Carlisle starts to change. The story gets chilly and gruesome as you continue the tale, and some scenes would probably give me nightmares. One of my favorite moments is when the girls go to the mines for the first time and how they all experience something different down there. The author also makes the book interesting by including interview transcripts with various townspeople impacted by the mines.

    Moreover, I loved all the characters. It is so hard to choose a favorite because I thought they brought something new to the story. Clem and Nina are unique, and I loved the possible romance between the two. Piper got a fresh look at the story as the newbie in town, and Lisey a sense of mystery with her obsession with crows. Another reason why I loved the story is that the author also adds some drama to the characters. I loved how Nina gets jealous of Piper and the scenes where they confront their feelings.

    Overall, you must read “To Break a Covenant” if you are in the mood for a haunting Young Adult read with memorable characters.

    Book Tour Schedule:

    To Break a Covenant

    I am thrilled to be hosting a spot on the To Break a Covenant by Alison Ames Blog Tour hosted by Rockstar Book Tours.

    Week One:
    Rajiv’s Reviews-Review-9-13-2021
    BookHounds YA-Review-9-14-2021
    A Court of Coffee and Books-Review-9-15-2021
    Celiamcmahonreads-Review-9-16-2021
    Thindbooks-Review-9-17-2021

    Week Two:
    Geauxgetlit-Review-9-20-2021
    Momfluenster-Review-9-21-2021
    Books and Zebras @jypsylynn-Review-9-22-2021
    fictitious.fox-Review-9-23-2021
    Ficticiouswonderland-Review-9-24-2021  

  • Girl Shock by Maria Konner

    Girl Shock by Maria Konner

    Girl Shock!

    Girl Shock! I Dressed As A Girl For Halloween But Then She Took Over My Life by Maria Konner

    Release: May 10, 2021 
    Format: Paperback
    Publisher: Under the Golden Gate Media 
    Source: Suzyapproved Book Tours
    Find it at: Goodreads, Amazon, Kindle, Audible, B&N, iBooks, Kobo, TBD, Bookshop.org

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    This book has it all, and it is all true.

    Girl Shock! I Dressed As A Girl For Halloween But Then She Took Over My Life

    It was all supposed to be for a costume.

    Maria Konner takes you on her journey from living a frustrated and bored straight-dude life in the ‘burbs to becoming a fabulous trans entertainer in San Francisco. She also begins to discover herself sexually after a Halloween costume feels better than she ever imagined. What starts as a lark, quickly becomes a lifestyle.

    Told in a frank and entertaining manner, Maria details her experiences at Diva’s, the legendary trans bar located two blocks from her new apartment. There, she enters into a world of alternative lifestyles, sexual experimentation, crossdressing, and hardcore kink as she tests the boundaries of her sexuality.

    At the same time, she examines the changing concept of femininity within herself and launches her online video series Under the Golden Gate as a performer, host, and producer.

    Girl Shock also takes you inside the underground of San Francisco for a true insider’s look at art, music, performance, and humanity. It is full of pictures and links to her favorite videos from the Under the Golden Gate library.

    Join Maria Konner on this raunchy, wild ride to self-discovery and get Girl Shocked!

    About the Author:

    Maria has a biomedical and electrical engineering degree from Case Western Reserve University and an MBA from Carnegie Mellon University where she was the valedictorian. She has a love-hate relationship with education as she believes that too much education distracts one from where the real education is, down in the trenches. Maria considers herself to be a musician above all else. ”Good music can’t lie. I don’t listen to words all that much. I care about the vibe more than anything else―it doesn’t matter if it’s a song, a conversation, a business, or a group effort”.

    After escaping from the straight suburbs and landing in San Francisco, Maria bubbled up and exploded all over town.  She performs around the West Coast with her rock band Not From Jersey! playing guitar and singing mostly original songs, as well as playing jazz/blues/cabaret piano at various venues. She is also a host for her YouTube channel underthegoldengate.com where she performs, interviews guests (and some celebrities too!), and films various events around town interviewing people.

    ​These days Maria is working from home as a cybersecurity architect, making videos of her new piano music, writing down ideas for her next book and plotting to bring underground entertainment back to San Francisco after the COVID-19 crisis.

    Website | Youtube | Facebook | Instagram | Goodreads

    Girl Shock Review:

    Click to view on Instagram

    “Girl Shock” is a unique memoir and unlike anything you would have read in your life, and it was fascinating.

    One of the main reasons I love reading diverse books is to learn something new and be inspired. The memoir is a beautiful tale about a man who doesn’t know where he fits into the LGBTQ spectrum when he decides to dress as a girl for Halloween and realizes he enjoys it a lot. The author also opened my eyes to the differences between drag queens and trans people. I felt like I was right next to the author as she started exploring her new side as Maria. One of the best moments in the story is actually in the second half when she battles with herself and wonders if she continues as Maria or goes back to being “the Dude.”

    There are also some interesting side characters like Sebastian and Diane, who added nicely to the storylines. For some reason, I also found Professor Danarama hilarious. Moreover, I love how the author executed the book. There are many pictures, comic strips, video conversations, and so much more. The author adds multiple formats of storytelling which made the story friendly and so entertaining to read.

    However, I was irked by some of the graphic content. While I admire the author being honest about her life and the various challenges, as the author herself mentions, there are a lot of sordid scenes. Some of them were too graphic for my taste and tainted my perception, but just a tad. However, I admire the author for categorizing this nicely to avoid it and move on with the story.

    Overall, “Girl Shock” is a fascinating story that people should read to understand their lives and struggles.

    Book Tour Schedule

    Girl Shock

    I am thrilled to be hosting a spot on theGirl Shock! I Dressed As A Girl For Halloween But Then She Took Over My Life by Maria Konner Blog Tour hosted by Suzyapproved Book Tours.

  • Take Me with You When You Go by David Levithan Jennifer Niven

    Take Me with You When You Go by David Levithan Jennifer Niven

    Take Me with You When You Go

    Take Me with You When You Go by David Levithan Jennifer Niven

    Release: August 31, 2021
    Format: Ebook
    Publisher: Knopf Books for Young Readers
    Source: Rockstar Book Tours
    Find it at: Goodreads, Amazon, Kindle, Audible, B&N, iBooks, Kobo, TBD, Bookshop.org

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    From the New York Times bestselling authors of All the Bright Places and Every Day comes a story of hope, family, and finding your home in the people who matter the most.

     Subject: You. Missing.

    Ezra Ahern wakes up one day to find his older sister, Bea, gone without doubt. No note, no sign, nothing but an email address hidden somewhere only he would find it. Ezra never expected to be left behind with their abusive stepfather and their neglectful mother. Besides, how is he supposed to navigate life without Bea?

    Bea Ahern already knew she needed to get as far away from home as possible. But a message in her inbox changes everything, and she finds herself alone in a new city – without Ez, without a real plan – chasing someone who might not even want to be found.

    As things unravel at home for Ezra, Bea confronts secrets about their past that will forever change the way they think about their family. Together and apart, broken by abuse but connected by love, this brother and sister must learn to trust themselves before they can find a way back to each other.

    About the Author:

    David Levithan’s many acclaimed novels include Someday, Another Day, Every Day, Two Boys Kissing, and Boy Meets Boy. His bestselling collaborations include Nick & Norah’s Infinite Playlist and Sam & Ilsa’s Last Hurrah (both written with Rachel Cohn) and Will Grayson, Will Grayson (written with John Green).  Also In 2016, David was named the recipient of the Margaret A. Edwards Award for his contribution to YA literature. You can learn more about him at davidlevithan.com and follow him on Twitter at @loversdiction.

    Website | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Goodreads | Amazon |BookBub

    Jennifer Niven is the New York Times and internationally bestselling author of All the Bright Places and Holding Up the Universe. Her books have been translated in over 75 languages, and have won literary awards around the world. When she isn’t working on multiple book and TV projects, Jennifer also oversees Germ, a literary web magazine for high school age and beyond. Jennifer divides her time between coastal Georgia and Los Angeles. Find her at jenniferniven.com and on social.

    Website | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Goodreads | Amazon | BookBub

    Take Me with You When You Go Review:

    “Take Me with You When You Go” is an emotional, heartfelt story about two siblings and how their life changes through email conversations.

    Firstly, I loved the way the author told the story in an Epistolary approach via emails. I love reading books in this format because it makes me feel personally connected to the characters.

    The story intrigued me from page one as Bea goes missing and her friends and family communicate with her via email. I loved the bond Bea and Ezra shared in the book. More than Bea, Ezra was my favorite character. The author depicted Ezra’s emotions realistically where we see him angry at Bea for not informing him yet also worried for her safety. Moreover, he goes through quite a lot when he starts receiving emails from a person he could connect with later in the story. As the story progresses, the authors begin unraveling the family dynamics with quite a few interesting twists that I did not expect.

    Moreover, the authors made me feel various emotions while reading the book. Some moments were profound, like how they reminisced about being The Great Pretenders or how small they sometimes feel when looking at things in perspective. The author also adds a level of mystery where we start to wonder who Bea’s MG (Mystery Guy) is and how he connects to the storyline. Moreover, we don’t know why Bea has run away, so I was curious to see how the author revealed this as the story progressed.

    However, the story did lag sporadically, where nothing much happens in the first half. The second half of the book was hard to put down because of the revelations. Overall, I enjoyed reading “Take Me with You When You Go” and found it a beautiful young-adult contemporary novel.

    Giveaway Details:

    3 winners will receive a Finished Copy of TAKE ME WITH YOU WHEN YOU GO, US Only.

    a Rafflecopter giveaway

    Take Me with You When You Go

    I am thrilled to be hosting a spot on the Take Me with You When You Go by David Levithan Jennifer Niven Blog Tour hosted by Rockstar Book Tours. Check out my post and make sure to enter the giveaway!

    Book Tour Schedule

    Week One:
    Pick A Good Book-Excerpt-8-23-2021
    YABooksCentral-Excerpt-8-24-2021
    @Curlygrannylovestoread -Review-8-25-2021
    Do You Dog-ear?-Review-8-26-2021
    Everyone’s Librarian-Review-8-27-2021
    Ruei’s Reading Corner-Review-8-28-2021

    Week Two:
    Books and Zebras @jypsylynn -Review-8-29-2021
    Eli to the nth-Review-8-30-2021
    Rajiv’s Reviews-Review-8-31-2021
    booksaremagictoo -Review-9-1-2021
    Fictitiouswonderland-Review-9-2-2021
    Momfluenster -Review-9-3-2021
    onemused-Review-9-4-2021

    Week Three:
    celiamcmahonreads-Review-9-5-2021
    Nonbinary Knight Reads-Review-9-6-2021
    Lifestyle of Me-Review-9-7-2021
    BookHounds ya-Review-9-8-2021
    Kait Plus Books-Excerpt-9-9-2021
    @coffeebooksandmascara-Review-9-10-2021
    hauntedbybooks-Review-9-11-2021

    Week Four:
    Midnightbooklover-IG Post-9-12-2021
    BiancaBuysBooks-Review-9-13-2021
    Satisfaction for Insatiable Readers-Review-9-14-2021
    Zainey Laney-Review-9-15-2021
    @ChristenKrumm-Review-9-16-2021
    Two Points of Interest-Review-9-17-2021