Just another teen reading books

Review: Bait and Swiss!

noreply@blogger.com (Jessica) — Tue, 29 Apr 2025 17:44:00 +0000

Review: Bait and Swiss by Korina Moss

In Korina Moss's Bait and Swiss, Yarrow Glen’s newest business gives one unlucky resident the swiss of death.

It’s been almost two years since Willa Bauer opened Curds & Whey in Yarrow Glen, and both cheesemonger and cheese shop are thriving in the Sonoma Valley. While Willa doesn’t eat chocolate, it’s true that life is like a box of chocolates. Unfortunately, life’s latest curveball is that Willa’s ex fiancé and ex-best friend—the reason for her chocolate aversion—are opening a chocolate pop-up shop across the street. By the end of the shop’s first day, the town’s newest reporter is the victim of death by chocolate. Now Willa’s ex wants her to be Swiss Congeniality, solve the case, and save the day. As much as Willa wants to hit him with the nearest cheese wheel, she can't stop herself from saying yes. And it’s not long before tourists decide to stay clear of town until the killer is caught. To save Yarrow Glen, Willa and Team Cheese have some work to do.

-summary and cover via Goodreads

Review: This was another excellent book in the Cheese Shop Mystery series! I loved getting more info on Willa's past, in the form of her ex fiance and ex best friend's presence in the book. While we already knew the basics from previous novels, getting to read about her interactions with them gave more light to the situation. I was surprised by the ending, (I figured it out right before Willa does!) and thought the mystery aspect was really well written. As always, I love getting appearances from all of her friends, plus the other people in town, including ones we haven't seen much in recent books. Overall, this is one of my favorite cozy mystery series, and I highly recommend it!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

ARC TBR List!

noreply@blogger.com (Jessica) — Mon, 21 Apr 2025 21:47:00 +0000

Hi, everyone! I wanted to list some of the ARCs on my TBR list that I’m really looking forward to reading.

I’m very much looking forward to reading all these books! Are any on your TBR list? Have you read any of them? 😊

Thank you to all the publishers for the e-ARCs!

My Favorite Books of 2024!

noreply@blogger.com (Jessica) — Mon, 30 Dec 2024 05:01:00 +0000

Today I wanted to share my favorite books I read this year! I decided to narrow it down to five book per category, which was really difficult to do. There were a lot of amazing books this year! But I managed to do it. Thank you so much to the publishers for e-ARCs of many of the books featured in this post! I feel honored I was able to read them.

Most of these books are already out, but WE WERE WARNED, UNLOCK THE DARK, and this edition of SWORDHEART, all release in 2025.

From Cozy Mysteries and YA Thrillers, Fantasy novels for all ages, swoony Romances, and delightful Picture Books, I truly loved and recommend all of the books I’ve mentioned in this post. They are new favorites, and I highly encourage you all to check them out if you’re looking for a new read.

I hope you have had a wonderful holiday season filled with love, and I pray you all have a happy and safe 2025. Happy New Year 2025! :)

Blog Tour: The Wedding Engagement - Review!

noreply@blogger.com (Jessica) — Tue, 08 Oct 2024 04:01:00 +0000

The Wedding Engagement by Allison Zoe

Planning a wedding is so romantic . . . except when it’s not yours, and you’re planning it with the guy you’re secretly crushing on. Scottish schoolteacher Liv Holland has a secret. She’s been carrying a torch for Arran Adebayo, her brother’s best friend, for years. A blind date gone wrong cements in Liv’s mind that Arran has no romantic interest in her whatsoever. But then, with her brother set to marry her own best friend, she and Arran are enlisted to help plan the festivities… After being left at the altar by his ex, single father Arran is having trouble managing his growing feelings towards the woman who is both his best friend’s sister and his son’s Liv. Then his mind is blown when fate thrusts them together for an unexpected blind date, but he messes up his chance to tell her how he feels. As the big day approaches and Liv and Arran’s connection intensifies, their chemistry chafes against their checkered romantic histories. Risking everything for love could mean losing each other forever . . . or being the next ones to find their happy ever after.

-summary and cover via GOODREADS

Review: This was a great romance! I loved Liv and Arran as characters, going from friends to more. I think weddings/wedding planning make for great book plots (a!ways room for so much drama and humor), so I was definitely happy with that. Overall, this was a delightful romance novel, that I would definitely recommend trying it!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

October TBR!

noreply@blogger.com (Jessica) — Thu, 03 Oct 2024 18:22:00 +0000

My October TBR list! Will I actually get to read all of these this month? Maybe, maybe not. But I’m going to have fun trying! I’ve been saving a couple of these books until fall got here, because I felt they would be perfect for the autumn vibes.

I’m particularly looking forward to A MERRY LITTLE MURDER PLOT releasing (the next in my favorite cozy series), and finally reading EMILY WILDE’S ENCYCLOPEDIA OF FAIRIES (which I have heard so many wonderful things about), but I’m really looking forward to all of these books! I’m currently in the middle of ASSISTANT TO THE VILLAIN, which has been an absolute delight to read!

What books do you want to read this month? :)

Review: This Book Kills!

noreply@blogger.com (Jessica) — Mon, 02 Sep 2024 04:01:00 +0000

This Book Kills by Ravena Guron

I'll make it clear from the I did not kill Hugh Henry Van Boren. I didn't even help…Well, not intentionally.

All Jess Choudhary wants is to keep her head down, do her work, and make it through high school without any problems. As a scholarship student—and one of only two students of Indian heritage—her future at the elite school depends on her ability to keep a low profile and spotless record. But when one of the most popular and richest kids in the school ends up dead in the exact same way as a character in a short story she wrote, Jess unintentionally finds herself at the center of the investigation.

And then Jess receives an anonymous text thanking her for the inspiration.

As rumors run rampant about who the murderer could be, Jess knows if she doesn't solve this mystery herself, she'll finally have something in common with she'll be dead too.

-summary and cover via Goodreads

Review: This was a fantastic YA Mystery novel! It had plenty of twists, and an ending that I didn't predict, which is always nice when a mystery is able to surprise me. Jess was a great main character, and I thought all the supporting characters were well written. I know this was meant to be a standalone, but I would love to have more books featuring Jess and her friends. I figure at that school there are probably a lot more mysteries to investigate! Overall, I would definitely recommend to anyone who enjoys a good mystery!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

Mid-Year Book Freakout Tag: 2024 Edition!

noreply@blogger.com (Jessica) — Wed, 31 Jul 2024 04:01:00 +0000

Hi, everyone! I know I haven't blogged in awhile. I talked a little bit about why on social media, but long story short, my health has not been great, and my computer no longer works, so I have to use my kindle fire tablet to blog, which has taken time to get used to working with. But I miss blogging! I've had plans to return for awhile, and I decided why not with the Mid Year Tag?

And yes, I realize that this is going up the last day of July, which is technically past the mid year mark, but I'm posting it anyway. :P

Best book you’ve read so far in 2024?

I thought a lot about what book to put for this answer, and I decided to go with FATAL FIRST EDITION by Jenn McKinlay, the 14th book in the Library Lover's series. I read this book with my Mom (this is her favorite series), and I loved discussing it with her while we read! Also, it was another fantastic book featuring Lindsey, Sully, and their friends. And part of the book takes place on a train? I want more books, particularly mysteries, to feature trains! The vibes are perfect.

Best sequel you've read so far in 2024?

The 14th Library Lover's mystery, see above! :)

New release you haven't read yet, but want to?

There are many, many books I could list here, but I really want to read THE LOVE REMEDY by Elizabeth Everett, and

Most anticipated release for the second half of the year?

Is it too much if I say the next Library Lover's book, A MERRY LITTLE MURDER PLOT? :)

Biggest disappointment?

I don't want to answer this question...

Biggest surprise?

I'm going to go with a Picture Book for this one, and say A BEAR, A BEE, AND A HONEY TREE by Daniel Bernstrom and Brandon James Scott. I went into this with no expectations, and was pleasantly surprised by how much I loved it! This was a delightful PB, that told an adorable story about a bear, with very few words. I highly recommend it!
 
Favorite new author (debut or new to you)?

Ravena Guron! I read an e-ARC of THIS BOOK KILLS from the publisher (Look for my review in September!), and loved it! I really look forward to reading more by this author.

Newest fictional crush?

I really loved Max from HAPPILY NEVER AFTER by Lynn Painter!

Newest favorite character?

Sophie and Max from HAPPILY NEVER AFTER were both great!

Book that made you cry?

I know there have been multiple books this year, but I don't remember which ones at the moment...

Book that made you happy?

All the ones I've mentioned here!

Most beautiful book you've bought so far this year (or received)?

I haven't bought many physical books this year, so I don't know what to put here? *ponders*

What books do you need to read by the end of the year?

ALL OF THEM. But honestly, I have so many I want/need to read!

What books have been your favorite (so far) in 2024? :)

March '24 Mini Reviews!

noreply@blogger.com (Jessica) — Mon, 25 Mar 2024 04:01:00 +0000

Here are mini reviews for a few March releases!

Maya's Laws of Love by Alina Khawaja

I really enjoyed reading this debut adult romance, and I look forward to what Ms. Khawaja writes next!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

How to Solve Your Own Murder by Kristen Perrin

This was a really unique mystery, with lots of twists and turns! I would definitely recommend to those who think it sounds interesting!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

Damned If I Duke by Anna Bradley

This was a good historical romance with great characters and an interesting plot!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

A Governess's Guide to Passion and Peril by Manda Collins

This was another wonderful adult historical romance/mystery from Manda Collins! Her characters are always great, with a fun plot. I would definitely recommend to fans of her previous novels!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

A Deadly Endeavor by Jenny Adams

I really liked this historical mystery! The characters and plot were interesting. I would definitely recommend to those who think it sounds good!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

In a Not So Perfect World by Neely Tubati Alexander

This was a good adult contemporary romance, that I would definitely recommend to those who think it sounds interesting!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

Rules for Rule Breaking by Talia Tucker

This was a great YA debut novel, with great characters and a fun plot! I look forward to what Ms. Tucker writes next!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

Blog Tour: HAPPILY NEVER AFTER - Review

noreply@blogger.com (Jessica) — Tue, 12 Mar 2024 05:33:00 +0000

Happily Never After by Lynn Painter

Their name? The objectors.

Their job? To break off weddings as hired.

Their dilemma? They might just be in love with each other.

When Sophie Steinbeck finds out just before her nuptials that her fiancé has cheated yet again, she desperately wants to call it off. But because her future father-in-law is her dad’s cutthroat boss, she doesn’t want to be the one to do it. Her savior comes in the form of a professional objector, whose purpose is to show up at weddings and proclaim the words no couple (usually) wants to hear at their ceremony: “I object!”

During anti-wedding festivities that night, Sophie learns more about Max the Objector’s job. It makes perfect sense to her: he saves people from wasting their lives, from hurting each other. He’s a modern-day hero. And Sophie wants in.

The two love cynics start working together, going from wedding to wedding, and Sophie’s having more fun than she’s had in ages. She looks forward to every nerve-racking ceremony saving the lovesick souls of the betrothed masses. As Sophie and Max spend more time together, however, they realize that their physical chemistry is off the charts, leading them to dabble in a little hookup session or two—but it’s totally fine, because they definitely do not have feelings for each other. Love doesn’t exist, after all.

And then everything changes. A groom-to-be hires Sophie to object, but his fiancée is the woman who broke Max’s heart. As Max wrestles with whether he can be a party to his ex’s getting hurt, Sophie grapples with the sudden realization that she may have fallen hard for her partner in crime.

-summary and cover via Goodreads

Review: ”I love you”, ain’t that the worst thing you ever heard?

That line from Cruel Summer by Taylor Swift kept popping into my head the whole time I was reading the second half of HAPPILY NEVER AFTER, and I think it fits the main character Sophie so well.

I loved Sophie and Max as characters, and their romance was absolutely adorable! The banter was very fun! I smiled so much while reading. Lynn Painter writes absolutely wonderful adult romance novels! A total feel good read, that I definitely would recommend!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

Blog Tour: Recipe For A Charmed Life - Review!

noreply@blogger.com (Jessica) — Tue, 09 Jan 2024 05:01:00 +0000

After a day of unrivaled disappointments, a promising young chef finds every bite of food suddenly tastes bitter. To save her career, she travels to the Pacific Northwest to reconnect with her estranged mom, and discovers a family legacy she never suspected in this delicious novel from the bestselling author of The Magic of Lemon Drop Pie.

American chef Georgia May Jackson has one goal—to run her own restaurant in Paris. After a grueling decade working in Parisian kitchens, she is on the cusp of success. But in one disastrous night, Georgia loses her sous-chef position, her French boyfriend, and her sense of taste! Renowned for her refined palate and daring use of bold flavors to create remarkable dishes, Georgia is devastated to discover her culinary gift has simply...vanished.

When she receives a surprising invitation from her estranged mother, Georgia flees to a small island near Seattle hoping the visit will help her regain her spark in the kitchen. There she tentatively reconnects with her mom, a free-spirited hippie eager to make up for her past mistakes. But there’s something about the enigmatic island Georgia just can’t piece together. Good luck charms keep appearing in the oddest places. Her neighbor is a puzzlingly antagonist (and annoyingly handsome) oyster farmer. And her mom keeps hinting at a mysterious family legacy.

With the clock ticking and time running out to win her dream job in Paris, Georgia begins to unravel some astonishing secrets that make her wonder if the true recipe for a charmed life might look—and taste—very different than she ever imagined.

Review: I really enjoyed this romance novel! The characters were all fantastic, and I thought the writing was really well done. And I love the cover (isn’t it so cute?!)! Overall, I would definitely recommend to those who think it sounds good!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

Favorite Books of 2023!

noreply@blogger.com (Jessica) — Sun, 31 Dec 2023 05:01:00 +0000

Hi, everyone! I wanted to share my favorite reads of 2023. I decided to keep to just five titles per category, to have it really be my favorite books of the year (because I read a lot of books I enjoyed, but these were the books I loved the most this year)! I’m also only including one book per author, even though a few could have had more here!

(And thank you to the publishers who I got e-ARCs from for a bunch of these books!)

Do we have any of the same favorites?

And I hope you all have a very Happy New Year 2024! :)

Blog Tour: Technically Yours - Review!

noreply@blogger.com (Jessica) — Tue, 05 Dec 2023 05:01:00 +0000

Technically Yours by Denise Williams

Seven years ago, he fell in love with a stranger he couldn’t have—today, she’s back in his life and the sparks between them threaten to set her career on fire.

Pearl Harris has learned the hard way to be careful in work and in love. When she is appointed acting director of OurCode, a nonprofit aimed at inspiring high schoolers to code, she has a chance to make lasting change for the organization, but a scandal has put their reputation at risk. Further complicating matters, Pearl didn’t expect the one man she hasn’t stopped thinking about in seven years to be the newest member of her board of directors.

Cord Matthews fell for Pearl when they met in an elevator seven years ago. She’s just his type: smart, capable, and makes him laugh, but when she broke his heart, he decided love wasn’t for him. After five years with no contact, their connection is immediate despite the many roadblocks in their way and Cord must consider breaking his ban on serious relationships. But going public with a romance between them might derail Pearl’s career and the progress she’s made at OurCode.

Pearl and Cord both are hesitant to trust their feelings and take a risk as they grow closer, but it becomes impossible to keep ignoring the electricity between them. Cord is a skilled programmer, but a workplace romance might spell disaster for both of them, and love isn’t easily debugged.

-summary and cover via Goodreads

Review: I really enjoyed reading this romance! Great characters, and I loved the ending! Overall, I would definitely recommend to those who think it sounds good!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

Blog Tour: CHRISTMAS IN THE CROSSHAIRS - Author Guest Post - Review - Giveaway!

noreply@blogger.com (Jessica) — Tue, 28 Nov 2023 05:01:00 +0000

Christmas in the Crosshairs (Love Inspired Suspense) by Deena Alexander

Author Guest Post:

Since it’s the holiday season, I thought it would be fun to share a delicious, easy-to-make recipe.

My father has baked cookies every Christmas for as long as I can remember, and my all-time favorites are his Italian Rainbow Cookies! I hope you enjoy them as much as I do.

Rainbow Cookies

INGREDIENTS:
4 Eggs
1 Cup sugar
1 Cup flour
3 Tsp. almond extract
3 Tbsp. Amaretto
2 Sticks melted margarine
Food coloring: Red, yellow, green
1 Bag semi-sweet chocolate chips
1 jar Apricot or Raspberry jam or jelly (whichever you prefer)

DIRECTIONS;

Preheat oven to 350

Beat eggs and sugar together. Add flour and stir. Add Amaretto, almond extract, and melted margarine. Beat well. Separate into three bowls (an even amount of batter in each bowl). Add one color food coloring to each bowl (until batter is desired color).

Spray three 9 X 11 disposable baking pans with non-stick spray. Pour one color batter into each pan and spread evenly. Bake at 350 for 14 – 15 minutes (cooks quickly, so watch closely and remove if browning). Remove and let cool.

Melt chocolate chips.

Once cool, spread apricot or raspberry jelly over one colored sheet. Put next sheet on top of it. Spread a layer of jelly over that sheet. Put next sheet on top. Cover top layer with the melted chocolate chips – spread thin.

Cut into small rectangles and enjoy!

Those look absolutely delicious!

About Christmas in the Crosshairs

Christmas in the Crosshairs (Love Inspired Suspense) Inspirational Romantic Suspense Setting – Seaport, Long Island, New York Love Inspired Suspense (November 28, 2023) Mass Market Paperback ‏ : ‎ 224 pages ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 1335597794 ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-1335597793 Digital ASIN ‏ : ‎ B0BTJ3BSJW

A baby in need of protection— and a hitman in pursuit.
After evading an attack, defense attorney Adam Spencer is on the run from a dangerous hitman. The killer’s wife is Adam’s only hope at apprehending the criminal—until she lands in the hospital. Now he must depend on her twin sister, Jaelyn Reed, to find the answers they need…all while protecting the baby niece Jaelyn didn’t know she had. But with threats at every turn, trust may be the deadliest trap…
From Love Inspired Suspense: Courage. Danger. Faith.

My Review:

I really enjoyed reading this Love Inspired Suspense book! Jaelyn and Adam were great main characters, and even though they had been through horrible things, I loved getting to see them find happiness. The epilogue was a fantastic ending! Overall, I would definitely recommend this romance novel!

I received a finished copy from the blog tour company/publisher.

About Deena Alexander

Deena grew up in a small town on the south shore of eastern Long Island, where she met and married her high school sweetheart. She recently relocated to Florida with her husband, three kids, a son-in-law, and four dogs. Now she enjoys long walks in nature all year long, despite the occasional alligator or snake she sometimes encounters. Deena's love for writing developed when her youngest son was born and didn't sleep through the night, and she now works full-time as a writer and a freelance editor.

Author Links:

Webpage: http://deenaalexander.com/index.html
Blog: http://deenaalexander.com/blog.html
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DeenaAlexanderAuthor
Twitter: https://twitter.com/DeenaAlexanderA
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/20382104.Deena_Alexander
BookBub: https://www.bookbub.com/profile/deena-alexander
Newsletter: https://gmail.us10.list-manage.com/subscribe?u=d7e6e9ecdc0888d7324788ffc&id=42d52965df

Purchase Links - Amazon B&N Kobo Harlequin Apple Google Play

TOUR PARTICIPANTS

November 28 – Maureen's Musings – REVIEW

November 28 – Just Another Teen Reading Books - REVIEW, AUTHOR GUEST POST November 29 – Mystery, Thrillers & Suspense – SPOTLIGHT

November 29 – Because I said so -- and other adventures in Parenting – REVIEW

November 30 – The Avid Reader – REVIEW, INDIVIDUAL GIVEAWAY

November 30 – Diane’s Book Journal – SPOTLIGHT

December 1 – Christy's Cozy Corners - REVIEW, CHARACTER GUEST POST, INDIVIDUAL GIVEAWAY

December 2 – fundinmental – SPOTLIGHT

December 3 – Celticlady's Reviews – SPOTLIGHT

December 3 – #BRVL Book Review Virginia Lee – SPOTLIGHT

December 4 – Reading Is My SuperPower – REVIEW

December 5 – Guatemala Paula Loves to Read – REVIEW

December 6 – Hearts & Scribbles – SPOTLIGHT

December 6 – Sapphyria's Books – REVIEW

December 7 – Escape With Dollycas Into A Good Book – REVIEW

December 7 – Novels Alive – REVIEW

December 8 – Ruff Drafts – AUTHOR GUEST POST

December 8 – Angel's Book Nook – SPOTLIGHT

December 9 – Lady Hawkeye – SPOTLIGHT

December 10 – Escape With Dollycas Into A Good Book – SPOTLIGHT

December 11 – Literary Gold – SPOTLIGHT

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Review: Myrtle, Means, and Opportunity!

noreply@blogger.com (Jessica) — Tue, 24 Oct 2023 04:01:00 +0000

Review: Myrtle, Means, and Opportunity Elizabeth C. Bunce

In the fifth book of the Edgar Award-winning series, Myrtle Hardcastle uncovers a string of murders during a treasure hunt on a haunted Scottish estate. When her governess inherits an estate on a Scottish island, amateur detective Myrtle Hardcastle couldn't be more excited. Unfortunately, the ancestral castle is both run-down and haunted. Ghostly moans echo in the walls, and there are rumors of a cursed treasure lost on the island—an ancient silver brooch that may have cost the former lord his life. But who had the motive, means, and opportunity to kill him? And could this Scottish trip mean the end of Myrtle's plans to get her father and governess together?

Then Myrtle's investigation stirs a villain out of hiding. The estate’s boat is stolen, so there’s no escape from the island. Myrtle is forced to play a deadly game, hunting for the brooch with a thief breathing down her neck—someone who will stop at nothing to get the treasure, even if it means murder.

-summary and cover via Goodreads

Review: This book was absolutely wonderful! My heart felt so full after finishing it. I loved getting to read about all the characters who returned in this book, and getting to meet all the new ones, as well. The mystery was really well written, and while I figured out part of it, I didn’t guess everything, which is always fun in a mystery novel. The setting was fantastic. And the ending!! I had such a big smile on my face, with a certain event that happened (no spoilers, but I think avid fans of the series will be as happy as I was while reading.) at the end. I would happily read many more Myrtle books! Overall, I loved MYRTLE, MEANS, AND OPPORTUNITY, and I highly recommend the Myrtle Hardcastle series to anyone who enjoys a good mystery, with wonderful characters!

I received an ARC from the publisher.

Blog Tour: The Wake-Up Call - Review!

noreply@blogger.com (Jessica) — Tue, 26 Sep 2023 04:01:00 +0000

The Wake-Up Call by Beth O'Leary

Two hotel receptionists—and arch-rivals—find a collection of old wedding rings and compete to return them to their owners, discovering their own love story along the way.

It’s the busiest season of the year, and Forest Manor Hotel is quite literally falling apart. So when Izzy and Lucas are given the same shift on the hotel’s front desk, they have no choice but to put their differences aside and see it through.

The hotel won't stay afloat beyond Christmas without some sort of miracle. But when Izzy returns a guest’s lost wedding ring, the reward convinces management that this might be the way to fix everything. With four rings still sitting in the lost & found, the race is on for Izzy and Lucas to save their beloved hotel—and their jobs.

As their bitter rivalry turns into something much more complicated, Izzy and Lucas begin to wonder if there's more at stake here than the hotel's future. Can the two of them make it through the season with their hearts intact?

-summary and cover via Goodreads

Review: This was a lovely read! I really enjoyed the plot. I thought Izzy and Lucas were wonderful! The ending was my favorite part! Overall, I would definitely recommend this adult romance!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

Review: Case of the Bleus!

noreply@blogger.com (Jessica) — Mon, 25 Sep 2023 04:01:00 +0000

Review: Case of the Bleus by Korina Moss

What in the bleu blazes is happening in Yarrow Glen now?

Cheesemongers from across the Northwest have come to the Sonoma Valley for the Northwest Cheese Invitational. As owner of the local cheese shop, Curds & Whey, Willa Bauer loves it. The event showcases custom cheese creations, and it’s the perfect time to gather with old colleagues to honor her former boss, the late and grate cheese legend, Max Dumas. He was famous for journeying into the wild bleu yonder to where he aged his award-winning custom Church Bleu. Only Max knew the recipe and location to his beloved cheese, and many are eager to have these revealed at his will reading.

But instead of naming someone to inherit his cheese and its secrets, Max stuns everyone with one cryptic clue. When a fellow cheesemonger dies under mysterious circumstances––the woman they all thought would get the secrets to Max's prized possession––everyone falls under suspicion. Willa adores Church Bleu as much as the next cheese connoisseur, but it’s not to die for . Is a killer trying to get away with murder...and the cheese?

-summary and cover via Goodreads

Review: This was another five star read from Korina Moss! The Cheese Shop Mysteries are one of my favorite cozy series, and I absolutely loved this newest book. I don't want to say too much about the mystery aspect, but I will say I thought it was really well written, and I loved the treasure hunt part of it! And the personal lives of all the characters got a little advancement in this book, which I really enjoyed.

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

Review: It Found Us!

noreply@blogger.com (Jessica) — Mon, 04 Sep 2023 04:01:00 +0000

Review: It Found Us by Lindsay Currie

From the author of Scritch Scratch and The Girl in White comes a new spooky mystery about a girl detective who must decode a series of ominous clues tied to a century-old tragedy to find a missing teenager before it’s too late…

Twelve-year-old Hazel Woods has always had an unusual knack for sleuthing. Some may call it snooping, but all she really wants is to solve mysteries around town. So, when she not-so-accidentally overhears her brother Den planning to sneak into the cemetery at night for an epic game of hide-and-seek, she decides to secretly tag along. This seems like the perfect opportunity to investigate the claims that the cemetery is haunted.

But the moment the game ends, Hazel realizes something is very, very wrong. From her hiding spot in the bushes, she overhears that her brother’s best friend, Everett, is missing. Everyone else was found by the seeker but there’s no sign of Everett anywhere. It’s as if he just . . . vanished

Hazel and Den are determined to find Everett before it’s too late. But as they begin to unravel the terrifying clues that started appearing since that night in the graveyard–eerie whispers that sound like someone counting, the intermittent smell of smoke, and the cold, lost presence that follows them everywhere, she’s not sure what they are dealing with. But Everett needs more than search parties and scent-tracking dogs to find him, especially if his disappearance is tied to the history of the cemetery, and the lost, century-old spirits that might still be trapped there.

-summary and cover via Goodreads

Review: This was another wonderfully spooky Middle Grade book from Lindsay Currie! Hazel was a great main character, and I thought it was so fun that she loved solving mysteries, and being a sleuth. (It had young Nancy Drew vibes!) There were lots of genuinely creepy moments throughout the book. The reason behind the hauntings was so well written, and made me cry, but I won't share anything else about that, because I don't want to spoil anything. Overall, I loved this book, and I highly recommend it!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

Review: Codename Charming!

noreply@blogger.com (Jessica) — Mon, 14 Aug 2023 04:01:00 +0000

Review: Codename Charming by Lucy Parker

Following Battle Royal, beloved author Lucy Parker pens another delicious romantic comedy about a fake relationship between a grumpy royal bodyguard and the charming, sunny assistant who melts his cold, hard exterior.

Petunia De Vere enjoys being the personal assistant to lovable, bumbling Johnny Marchmont. But the job has its share of challenges, including the royal's giant, intimidating bodyguard, Matthias. Pet and Matthias are polar opposites--she's spontaneous and enthusiastic, he's rigid and stoic--but she can sense there's something softer underneath that tough exterior...

For Matthias Vaughn, protecting others is the name of the game. But keeping his royal charge out of trouble is more difficult than he imagined because everywhere Johnny goes, calamity ensues, and his petite, bubbly assistant is often caught in the fray. Matthias hates the idea of Pet getting hurt and he's determined to keep everyone safe, even if it means clashing with his adorable new coworker.

When a clumsy moment leads to a questionable tabloid photo, the press begins to speculate that Pet is romantically involved with Johnny. To put an end to the rumors, the royal PR team asks Pet and Matthias to stage a fake relationship and the two reluctantly agree. But as they spend more time together outside of work, they begin to wonder what real emotions this pretend connection might uncover. Especially when a passionate kiss leaves both of their heads spinning...

-summary and cover via Goodreads

Review: This was one of my most anticipated reads for 2023, and I am happy to report it lived up to all my expectations! I loved BATTLE ROYAL (which is about Dominic and Sylvie), but I knew I would end up loving this one more, and I was right! Pet was a favorite character from the first book, and from the scene at the end of it (no spoilers, but if you’ve read it you know what I’m talking about), I knew Matthias and Pet’s book would be fantastic. They are absolutely adorable together. I just love them so much!

I also loved getting to see characters from the first book again, and meeting new ones as well. They are all so well written, and unique. The ending was wonderful. I highly recommend this book, I totally and completely loved it!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

Review: Ghosted!

noreply@blogger.com (Jessica) — Thu, 27 Jul 2023 04:01:00 +0000

Review: Ghosted by Amanda Quain

Never Have I Ever meets The X-Files in Amanda Quain's Ghosted, a gender-bent contemporary retelling of the Jane Austen classic, Northanger Abbey.

Hattie Tilney isn’t a believer. Yes, she’s a senior at America’s most (allegedly) haunted high school, Northanger Abbey. But ever since her paranormal-loving dad passed away, she’s hung up her Ghostbusters suit, put away the EMF detectors and thermal cameras, and moved on. She has enough to worry about in the land of the living--like taking care of her younger brother, Liam, while their older sister spirals out and their mother, Northanger’s formidable headmistress, buries herself in her work. If Hattie just works hard enough and keeps that overachiever mask on tight through graduation, maybe her mom will finally notice her.

But the mask starts slipping when Hattie’s assigned to be an ambassador to Kit Morland, a golden retriever of a boy who’s transferred to Northanger on—what else—a ghost-hunting scholarship. The two are partnered up for an investigative project on the school’s paranormal activity, and Hattie quickly strikes a deal: Kit will present whatever ghostly evidence he can find to prove that campus is haunted, and Hattie will prove that it’s not. But as they explore the abandoned tunnels and foggy graveyards of Northanger, Hattie starts to realize that Kit might be the kind of person that makes her want to believe in something—and someone—for the first time.

With her signature wit and slow burn romance, Amanda Quain turns another Austen classic on its head in this sparkling retelling that proves sometimes the ghosts are just a metaphor after all.

-summary and cover via Goodreads

Review: Amanda Quain's debut novel, ACCOMPLISHED, made my favorite books post the year I read it. So I went into this book with high expectations. Were they met? Absolutely! This was another fantastic book from this author. It was messy, and happy, and sad, and I think, in the end, hopeful. I loved Hattie as a main character, and reading about her growing throughout the story was wonderful. My heart broke for her at multiple points during the book, but getting to see her journey was great. I thought all the side characters were well written, from Kit, to her family, and her friend group. And I loved the ending! Overall, I would highly recommend this YA book!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

Review: All Alone with You!

noreply@blogger.com (Jessica) — Tue, 25 Jul 2023 04:01:00 +0000

Review: All Alone with You by Amelia Diane Coombs

HBO Max’s Hacks gets a romantic twist in the vein of Jenn Bennett in this swoon-worthy novel about a standoffish teen girl whose loner status gets challenged by a dynamic elderly woman and a perpetually cheerful boy.

Eloise Deane is the worst and doesn’t care who knows it. She’s grumpy, prefers to be alone, and is just slogging through senior year with one goal: get accepted to USC and move to California. So when her guidance counselor drops the bombshell that to score a scholarship she’ll desperately need, her applications require volunteer hours, Eloise is up for the challenge. Until she’s paired with LifeCare, a volunteer agency that offers social support to lonely seniors through phone calls and visits. Basically, it’s a total nightmare for Eloise’s anxiety.

Eloise realizes she’s made a huge mistake—especially when she’s paired with Austin, the fellow volunteer who’s the sunshine to her cloudy day. But as Eloise and Austin work together to keep Marianne Landis—the mysterious former frontwoman of the 1970s band the Laundromats—company, something strange happens. She actually…likes Marianne and Austin? Eloise isn’t sure what to do with that, especially when her feelings toward Austin begin to blur into more-than-friends territory.

And when ex-girlfriends, long-buried wounds, and insecurities reappear, Eloise will have a choice to make: go all in with Marianne and Austin or get out before she gets hurt.

-summary and cover via Goodreads

Review: This is now one of my favorite YA books! Eloise was such a wonderful main character. The anxiety and depression rep was excellent. Her relationship with Austin was adorable. And speaking of Austin! He was so sweet and kind and absolutely perfect for Eloise. Marianne was a great character, too! I liked how much Eloise's family was a part of the book. Overall, I absolutely loved this YA novel and I highly recommend it!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

Review: All That Glitters Isn't Old!

noreply@blogger.com (Jessica) — Mon, 24 Jul 2023 04:01:00 +0000

Review: All That Glitters Isn't Old by Gabby Allan

The bubbly fun of a rom-com meets the irresistible quirkiness of a cozy mystery in this buoyant new rom-cozy set off the coast of Southern California. It’s the perfect vacation spot for those who want to get away from it all. Unfortunately for Santa Catalina boat tour guide Whitney Dagner and her chonky cat Whiskers, it’s also the perfect vacation spot for people who want to get away with murder…

When she’s not piloting a glass bottom boat, showing the sights to tourists, Whit sells seashells by the seashore—among many other sea and sand souvenirs—to help keep her family shop, Nautically Yours, afloat. It’s a far cry from her corporate climbing ladder life in Los Angeles, but Whit and her frisky feline, Whiskers, love calling Catalina home and being close to family. Especially Whit’s grandmother Goldy, a fun and feisty senior who always marched to the beat of a different drum.

In her youth, Goldy was an item with a Catalina catch named Darren. But it was actually a ruse to fool Darren’s parents who wouldn’t have accepted his preference for men. Eventually, he left the island and chose the life—and life-partner—he wanted for himself. Back in town for his mother’s funeral, Darren takes the opportunity to heal his open wounds, and settle some scores.

In a surprise to the residents, Darren produced a documentary about the history of Catalina, and has arranged a premiere screening in the local theater. But his film career is cut short when his partner’s dead body is discovered the night before the opening. Rumors start swirling that Darren’s documentary was actually about Catalina’s people—and the things they’ve done—giving a lot of folks a lot of motives. Now, it’s up to Whit and her somewhat-ex-boyfriend policeman to catch a killer, and uncover just how much Grandma Goldy knows about the back door deals tied to Darren’s past…

-summary and cover via Goodreads

Review: I really enjoyed reading this newest installment in the Whit and Whiskers mysteries series! I loved reading about Whit solving another case. I liked getting to spend time with returning characters (Her boyfriend! Her friends! Her family!), and meeting new ones as well. This book had a bit of a zany adventure feel towards the end, which was fun! Overall, I definitely recommend this series for those who haven't read it yet, and this book to those who have!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

June Mini Reviews!

noreply@blogger.com (Jessica) — Thu, 29 Jun 2023 04:01:00 +0000

Hi, everyone! I'm posting June mini reviews today of a bunch of books. Here we go!

The Beast and The Bookseller by Eva Devon

I really enjoyed reading this historical romance! I liked the romance between the two leads, and I thought the plot was good. Overall, I would definitely recommend!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

The Chaperone by M Hendrix

I thought this was an interesting YA Dystopian read! Overall, I would recommend to those who think it sounds good!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

Girls and Their Horses by Eliza Jane Brazier

This was a really good mystery/suspense novel that I enjoyed reading! Overall, I would definitely recommend reading!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

Ms Perfectly Fine by Kate Callaghan

I thought this was a nice contemporary adult romance! There was good chronic pain rep in the book, and I always appreciate that. The romance was great! Overall, I would definitely recommend!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

Everyone Wants to Know by Kelly Loy Gilbert

I thought this was an interesting YA novel, that I would would recommend to those who think it sounds good!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

Bookshop Cinderella by Laura Lee Guhrke

This was a great historical romance! I really liked the couple in this one, and I liked the bookish aspects of the book as well! Overall, I would definitely recommend!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

And Break the Pretty Kings by Lena Jeong

I really enjoyed reading this book! It was an excellent debut fantasy, and I look forward to whatever else this author writes. The characters, writing, and plot were all great. Overall, iI would definitely recommend this book!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

Those We Drown by Amy Goldsmith

This was a terrifying read, that I would recommend to those who think it sounds good!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

The Night It Ended by Katie Garner

This was a really interesting thriller/suspense novel, that I would definitely recommend to those who think the plot sounds good!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

A Most Agreeable Murder by Julia Seales

This was a fun historical mystery that was such a mash up of different genres, that I enjoyed reading! I would recommend to those who think it sounds good!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

Charlotte Illes Is Not a Detective by Katie Siegel

The premise of this one was really fun! And I thought it was a good read! The mystery was well done. Overall, I would recommend to those who think it sounds good!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

We Ship It by Lauren Kay

I thought this was a great YA summer read, that also touches on some serious topics. And I think the cover is really cute! Overall, I would recommend!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

How the Murder Crumbles by Debra Sennefelder

I thought this was a great beginning to a new cozy mystery series, with a fun premise! Overall, I would definitely recommend trying it!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

Kismat Connection by Ananya Devarajan

I thought this was a really good YA read! I liked the characters, and thought it was well written. Overall, I would definitely recommend it!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

Mini Reviews (YA Edition)!

noreply@blogger.com (Jessica) — Wed, 28 Jun 2023 04:01:00 +0000

Hi, everyone! Today is going to be mini reviews, featuring YA books from the past few months. Here we go!

Lying in the Deep by Diana Urban

This was a great YA mystery/suspense novel! The plot and characters were well written. Overall, I would definitely recommend!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

The Renaissance of Gwen Hathaway by Ashley Schumacher

This was a good YA novel, with a fun setting, that touched on some serious topics! Overall, I would recommend to those who think it sounds good!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

Silver in the Bone by Alexandra Bracken

This was a really good YA fantasy novel, that had a fascinating plot! Overall, I would definitely recommend trying it!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

Queen Bee by Amalie Howard

This was an entertaining YA regency read, with great characters! Overall, I would definitely recommend!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

Tell Me What Really Happened by Chelsea Sedoti

This was an interesting YA mystery, told in a unique way. Overall, I would recommend to those who think the summary sounds good!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

Fake Dates and Mooncakes by Sher Lee

This was a fun YA romance, featuring my favorite trope, fake dating! It was well written, and the characters were great. Overall, I would definitely recommend to those who think it sounds good!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

The Lake House by Sarah Beth Durst

This was a terrifying YA thriller, that would be perfect to read when you want to scare yourself!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

Picture-Perfect Boyfriend by Becky Dean

This was a fun YA summer read, with a cute romance and fun characters! I liked how the main characters family played such a big role, and I liked the plot. Overall, I would definitely recommend to those who think it sounds good!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

Something More by Jackie Khalilieh

This was a good YA read, with great autistic rep! Overall, I would recommend to those who think it sounds good!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

Threads That Bind by Kika Hatzopoulou

I thought this was a really interesting and unique YA fantasy novel! I would definitely recommend to those who think it sounds good!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

Plus One by Kelsey Rodkey

I enjoyed reading this contemporary YA novel! The plot was fun, and the characters were good. And I always love plus-size rep in books! Overall, I would recommend!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

Hot Dutch Daydream by Kristy Boyce

This was a fun YA read that's perfect for summer! The characters were great. Overall, I would recommend it!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

Midyear Book Freakout Tag!

noreply@blogger.com (Jessica) — Tue, 27 Jun 2023 04:01:00 +0000

Hi, everyone! I'm filling out my answers to the Midyear Book Freakout today.

best book you’ve read so far this year?

I've had good luck with books this year, and read some really great books! But my answer for this one is In Myrtle Peril by Elizabeth C. Bunce. It released towards the end of 2022, and I saved it to be my first read of 2023, because I just knew I would love it. And I was right!

best sequel you’ve read so far this year

Okay, I could say In Myrtle Peril again, but for this answer I'm going to go with Curds of Prey by Korina Moss, which is the 3rd book in the Cheese Shop Mysteries. I love this cozy series!

BUT I also want to mention A Love by Design by Elizabeth Everett, which was the 3rd (and final) book in The Secret Scientists of London series. I love all three books in this series so much, and I had to mention this final novel. (Also, I can't wait for Elizabeth's new series beginning next year!)

new release you haven’t read yet but want to?

*laughs* There are A LOT of new releases I haven't read yet! BUT if I have to name just one.... *goes to look at Goodreads TBR shelf* I'm going to go with When You Wish Upon a Lantern by Gloria Chao, who is one of my favorite YA authors. I really look forward to reading it!

most anticipated release for the second half of the year?

Now after the first question I answered, you all know I have to say Myrtle, Means, and Opportunity by Elizabeth C. Bunce, which is the final (*insert sound of sobs*) book in the Myrtle series, and releases in October. I can't wait!

I also have to mention The Blonde Identity by Ally Carter! I grew up reading the Gallagher Girls books, and when I saw she was releasing an adult romance spy novel?? *heart eyes* I just know it's going to be so good. (releases in August!)

biggest disappointment?

I don't want to answer this question...

*skips to next one*

biggest surprise?

I'm going to say All Alone with You by Amelia Diane Coombs. It was a really good surprise! I went into it with really no expectations, because while I thought it sounded good, I didn't know much about it. And I ended up absolutely loving it! I can tell you this is now one of my favorite YA novels.

favorite new author (debut or new to you)?

This is a really difficult question to answer! I've read a lot of debut books this year, and also just a lot of authors who were new to me. I think I'm going to go with... No, I can't decide!

newest fictional crush?

There have been a few this year, but I really loved Ben from Summer Reading by Jenn McKinlay!

newest favorite character?

Pet from Codename Charming Lucy Parker! She was a delightful, quirky character that I loved reading the POV from. (And fun fact: Her love interest, Matthias, was who I almost answered the previous question with!)

book that made you cry?

There have been... a lot. But I'm going to go with It Found Us by Lindsay Currie. I don't want to spoil anyone, so I'll just say there was something towards the end of the book that made me cry. (I also just want to say that this was another wonderfully spooky book by Lindsay Currie!)

book that made you happy?

Woo Hoo! You're Doing Great! by Sandra Boynton! Her books made me so happy when I was little (And they still do! I read her books now, and I still love them.), and this book just made me happy.

most beautiful book you have acquired this year?

I haven't bought many physical copies of books this year...

what books do you need to read before the end of the year?

A lot. Like, a lot. *hides Goodreads TBR shelf from you all*

content creators you've been loving?

Besides all the blogs I still read, I've really been obsessed with booktube this year. A few of my favorite content creators there are Alexandra Roselyn, Haley Pham, katie is reading, megwithbooks, and oliviareadsalatte. I highly recommend all of their channels!

There we go! My answers to the tag. Now, tell me: What books have been your favorite so far this year? And if you watch booktube, who are your favorite creators there? :)

Mini Reviews (Contemporary Romance Edition)!

noreply@blogger.com (Jessica) — Sun, 25 Jun 2023 04:01:00 +0000

Hi, everyone! In my quest to catch up on books I need to review, we are focusing on contemporary romance today!

A Guide to Being Just Friends by Sophie Sullivan

I think Sophie Sullivan always writes excellent contemporary romance, and this new book was no different! Great characters, and a good romance. I would definitely recommend!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

Just My Type by Falon Ballard

I loved Lease On Love by this author, and I was really looking forward to this book! And I really enjoyed it! A great romance, and well written. Overall, I would recommend!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

The Plus One by Mazey Eddings

This was a good contemporary romance novel, that I would definitely recommend to those who enjoyed Mazey's previous books!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

The Last Word by Katy Birchall

This was a well written romance novel, that I would definitely recommend to those who think it sounds good!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

Emma of 83rd Street by Audrey Bellezza & Emily Harding

I quite enjoyed this retelling of Emma! I thought both Emma and Knightley were good characters, and I liked the other people we meet in the novel as well. Overall, I would recommend!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

Not That Kind of Ever After by Luci Adams

This was an interesting contemporary romance, that I would recommend try to those who are curious about it!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

Yours Truly by Abby Jimenez

I thought this was a well written romance, with great characters! And I loved the anxiety rep in it. Overall, I would recommend!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

The Only Game in Town by Lacie Waldon

This was a good contemporary romance, with a unique premise! I really enjoyed reading it. Overall, I would recommend to those who think it sounds interesting!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

Ana Takes Manhattan by Lissette Decos

I thought this was a good romance, that I would recommend to those who think it sounds good!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

Ellie Is Cool Now by Victoria Fulton and Faith McClaren

This book had a fun premise, and I would definitely recommend to those who think it sounds interesting!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

Double-Decker Dreams by Lindsay MacMillan

I loved the setting of this book, and I liked the plot of it! Overall, I would recommend!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

Gigi, Listening by Chantel Guertin

This was a fun contemporary romance, with a bookish main character! Overall, I would recommend it!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

Take the Lead by Alexis Daria

A great romance for DWTS fans, I would definitely recommend trying this book!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

Real Love by Rachel Lindsay

I enjoyed reading this book, and I would definitely recommend trying it!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

The Do-Over by Suzanne Park

I love Suzanne Park's books, her sense of humor always makes me laugh! This was another great book by her, that I would definitely recommend!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

One Hot Cowboy Wedding by Carolyn Brown

This was a good cowboy romance, that I would recommend to anyone who think it sounds good!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

He's My Cowboy by Diana Palmer, Rebecca Zanetti, & Delores Fossen

I thought all three of the novellas were really good, and I don't think I could pick a favorite! Overall, I would recommend!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

Falling Hard for the Royal Guard by Megan Clawson

This was a cute rom-com that I would definitely recommend!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.

Leave It to the March Sisters by Annie Sereno

I thought this was a good book! Even if you've never read Little Women (I knnnooww! I did see the movie years ago, but I've never read the book), I think you're able to enjoy it. I would recommend!

I received an e-ARC from the publisher.