Category Archives: Reviews

New Release – The Deepest of Secrets by Kelley Armstrong @KelleyArmstrong

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I have read numerous books by Kelley Armstrong, so when I saw this on NetGalley, I had to have it. I love the cover and the title…secrets are delicious.

The Deepest of Secrets (Rockton, #7)

Amazon / Audiobook / Goodreads

MY REVIEW

I love the cover of The Deepest of Secrets by Kelley Armstrong, and the title. Secrets…they are delicious and I have a feeling that they will be revealed.

Rockton. Population 171. The Yukon. Where people go to hide. No roads. No phones. No internet.

Rockton started out as a place that rescued those who needed a place to hide and be safe. Now, it’s all about the money. Sound familiar?

Casey is the detective, Eric is the sheriff and her husband, and Will is the deputy. Storm is Casey’s K-9, a Newfoundland. She will be needed to do her part as the town begins to fall apart.

A council runs the town…and, something fishy is going on. One bad apple spoils the barrel applies in this very small community, where the residents start to turn on each other.

I loved the chase in the forest. It had me cracking up, but you will need to read The Deepest of Secrets by Kelley Armstrong to find out why.

Secrets…they are always problems, especially when they are exposed. Danger, intrigue, mystery and betrayal abound in the last Rockton novel. I missed a lot of the series, but I enjoyed my visit. Would I have enjoyed it more, if I had read the entire series and was more invested in the characters? Maybe. Either way, I do recommend the series.

I voluntarily reviewed a free copy of The Deepest of Secrets by Kelley Armstrong.

Animated Animals. Pictures, Images and Photos
3 Stars

GOODREADS BLURB

It’s not always easy to live in the hidden town of Rockton, something Detective Casey Duncan knows firsthand. Tucked away in the Yukon wilderness, the community survives―and thrives―because the residents’ many secrets stay just that―secret.

But what happens when these secrets start to come out? Overnight, no one is safe. It’s not a question of if your secret will come out―but when.

Casey and her boyfriend, Sheriff Eric Dalton, need to find the culprit while protecting those who have been thrust into the spotlight. For a place built on privacy and new beginnings, Rockton isn’t handling these revelations very well. People are turning on one another, and when one of the loudest complainers turns up barely alive, it’s clear that their trickster is actually a murderer.

ABOUT KELLEY ARMSTRONG

Kelley Armstrong

Kelley Armstrong has been telling stories since before she could write. Her earliest written efforts were disastrous. If asked for a story about girls and dolls, hers would invariably feature undead girls and evil dolls, much to her teachers’ dismay. All efforts to make her produce “normal” stories failed.

Today, she continues to spin tales of ghosts and demons and werewolves, while safely locked away in her basement writing dungeon. She’s the author of the NYT-bestselling “Women of the Otherworld” paranormal suspense series and “Darkest Powers” young adult urban fantasy trilogy, as well as the Nadia Stafford crime series. Armstrong lives in southwestern Ontario with her husband, kids and far too many pets.

Website / Twitter / Facebook / Tumbler

MY KELLEY ARMSTRONG REVIEWS

  • You can see my Giveaways HERE.
  • You can see my Reviews HERE.
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  • Leave your link in the comments and I will drop by to see what’s shakin’.
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Giveaway – Pen Pal Gals: Friends Forever by Julie Thiessen @iReadBookTours

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Join Us for This Tour from February 1 to February 21!

Book Details:

Book Title:  Pen Pal Gals: Friends Forever by Julie Thiessen
Category: Middle-Grade Fiction (Ages 8-12),  64 pages
Genre: Juvenile Fiction/Early Chapter Book
Publisher:  Mascot 
Release date:  February 1, 2022
Tour dates: February 1 to February 21, 2022
Content Rating:  Rated G. Suitable for everyone
 

MY REVIEW

I remember the days of snail mail. Do you? When I would go to the store, sorting through the different stationery, choosing the perfect one. Friends Forever by Julie Thiesssen includes a few pages of Pen Pal Gals stationery at the end of the book.

Summer vacation and Reese is on her way to Lake Shore Retreat with her family. As she packs, I remember packing for vacation myself. But, we sure were packing much different things.

Reese’s mom noticed that something was bothering Reese and asked her about it. She was hesitant, then shared, “…wish I had a friend to share it all with”. Sometimes wishes come true and just because the adventure ends…for now,,…that doesn’t mean the friendship developed won’t continue. They can be PEN PAL GALS.

Julie’s daughter, Reese, was the inspiration for Pen Pal Gals, because she loved writing letters to family and friends. Shows how much we can learn from the children around us.

I love this. I know how much I look forward to a package to arrive, so to anticipate a letter from a best friend, a family member from far away, a Christmas card, a Birthday card…there will always be a place in the world for snail mail.

I have seen two different age groups for the Pen Pal Gals book 6 – 8 and 8 -12, so you decide. As for me, I am glad I got a chance to read it and plan to share it with my nieces, so I think Friends Forever will get lots of love.

I voluntarily reviewed a free copy of Friends Forever by Julie Thiessen.

Animated Animals. Pictures, Images and Photos
5 Stars

Book Description

Meet Reese and Addie―two girls, one great friendship. It’s summer break! Reese is on her way to vacation at Camp Lake Shore with her family. When Reese meets a new friend, Addie, the two immediately connect and form a lasting friendship. Swimming, boating, laughing, and soaking up the sun are just a few highlights of their summer vacation. The girls become best friends. When their vacation comes to an end, Reese realizes she may never see Addie again. Determined to stay in touch forever, can Reese and Addie find a way to continue their friendship and share their adventures?

Buy the Book:
Amazon ~ B&N ~ Walmart
BAM ~ Target ~ Mascot
add to goodreads

Meet the Author:

Julie Thiessen always had a passion for creativity, design, and adventure, but above all, she values her lifelong friendships. With her bachelor’s degree in graphic design and the inspiration of her daughter Reese, she created and branded Pen Pal Gals for all to share the gift of an everlasting friendship. Thiessen lives along the beautiful Central Coast of California with her husband, two daughters, and son.

connect with the author: website ~ facebook ~ instagram
 
Tour Schedule:

Feb 1 – Cover Lover Book Review – book review / giveaway
Feb 1 – Rockin’ Book Reviews – book review / guest post / giveaway
Feb 3 – Splashes of Joy – book review / giveaway
Feb 4 – Jazzy Book Reviews – book spotlight / guest post / giveaway
Feb 7 – @twilight_reader – book review / giveaway
Feb 8 – A Mama’s Corner of the World – book review / giveaway
Feb 8 – My Journey Back – book review / giveaway
Feb 9 – The Momma Spot – book review / giveaway
Feb 9 – The Phantom Paragrapher – book review / giveaway
Feb 10 – Pick A Good Book – book review / author interview / giveaway
Feb 10 – She Just Loves Books – book review / giveaway
Feb 11 – Writer with Wanderlust – book review / guest post / giveaway
Feb 14 – Kam’s Place – book review
Feb 15 – fundinmental – book review / giveaway
Feb 15 – Locks, Hooks and Books – book review / giveaway
Feb 16 – Literary Flits – book spotlight / giveaway
Feb 16 – icefairy’s Treasure Chest – book review / giveaway
Feb 17 – Gina Rae Mitchell – book review / guest post / giveaway
Feb 17 – Older & Smarter? – book review / guest post / giveaway
Feb 18 – Pause for Tales – book review / giveaway
Feb 21 – Reading is My Passion – book review
Feb 21 – Lisa’s Reading – book review / giveaway
 
Enter the Giveaway:

 

PEN PAL GALS FRIENDS FOREVER by Julie Thiessen Book Tour Giveaway


 
  • You can see my Giveaways HERE.
  • You can see my Reviews HERE.
  • If you like what you see, why don’t you follow me?
  • Look on the right sidebar and let’ talk.
  • Leave your link in the comments and I will drop by to see what’s shakin’.
  • I am an Amazon affiliate/product images are linked.
  • Thanks for visiting fundinmental!

Valentine (Colony: Holiday #5) with Cupid (#4) by Demelza Carlton @DemelzaCarlton

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The covers for Cupid and Valentine (Colony: Holiday #4 & #5) by Demelza Carlton are so alluring, I couldn’t resist it when I saw the freebie. They may be green but they are hunkalicious.

Valentine (Colony: Holiday #5)

Amazon / Goodreads

MY REVIEW

I am not sure how to write this review without spoiling anything for you. I love the cover, the colors drawing me in…and that hunkalicious green guy. LOL

A romance that put a smile on my face and a little heat in my Kindle. Anna is the Colony’s Jurassic Park creator, but in a good way. Valentine is an engineer on the Magellan. They were separated and…

You will have to read Valentine to find out the details for yourself. I will tell you, I enjoyed spending time with him and Anna and am sure I will be back to the Colony, seeing I have Cupid on my Kindle. I may be reading them out of order, but I don’t think it matters that much. Like a lot of series, each couple’s romantic story stands alone, yet best when beginning at the beginning.

Animated Animals. Pictures, Images and Photos
3 Stars

GOODREADS BLURB

War widow Anna is ready to embrace a new life in the Colony. A fresh start bringing extinct species to life is just what she needs to get over the loss of her husband.
Until she discovers her husband isn’t dead…

Cupid (Colony: Holiday #4)

Amazon / Goodreads

MY REVIEW

Ok…I think it is best to read the series from the beginning, but I didn’t and still enjoyed the three I have read. AND, yes, I think a Cupid does deserve love. It makes me think of the Cupid on Charmed.

Titans and Humans live together in the Colony and she can have her pick. Nihal is a djinn and has an ability to ‘sniff’ out the good and bad. That’s why she is the brewer of beer and wife at Forge’s bar.

Orel has his sights on someone he can’t have. I wonder who is waiting for him to find her? Speed dating? Hmmm…

I love the world Demelza has created in Colony with these quick easy reads. Though I am enjoying the world and the characters in it, there’s not much romance in the love.

Animated Animals. Pictures, Images and Photos
2 Stars

GOODREADS BLURB

As a Cupid, Orel has plenty of experience helping other people find love, even if he’s unlucky in that department. But when he ends up covering for another Cupid at a speed dating event for singles in the leadup to Valentine’s Day, he dares to hope.
Can a lonely Cupid find love?
Or will he fall victim to the Cupid curse, too?

ABOUT DEMELZA CARLTON

USA Today Bestselling Author Demelza Carlton has always loved the ocean, but on her first snorkelling trip she found she was afraid of fish.

Demelza Carlton

She has since swum with sea lions, sharks and sea cucumbers and stood on spray-drenched cliffs over a seething sea as a seven-metre cyclonic swell surged in, shattering a shipwreck below.
Sensationalist spin? No – Demelza tends to take a camera with her so she can capture and share the moment later; shipwrecks, sharks and all.
Demelza now lives in Perth, Western Australia, the shark attack capital of the world.
The Ocean’s Gift series was her first foray into fiction, followed by the Nightmares trilogy. She swears the Mel Goes to Hell series ambushed her on a crowded train and wouldn’t leave her alone.

Website / Twitter / Facebook

MY DEMELZA CARLTON REVIEWS

  • You can see my Giveaways HERE.
  • You can see my Reviews HERE.
  • If you like what you see, why don’t you follow me?
  • Look on the right sidebar and let’ talk.
  • Leave your link in the comments and I will drop by to see what’s shakin’.
  • I am an Amazon affiliate/product images are linked.
  • Thanks for visiting fundinmental!

Heartbreaking and Uplifting – Sacrifice by Charisse Moritz #CharisseMoritz

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Flamingo, Valentine, Heart

Sacrifice by Charisse Moritz is a perfect romance for a romantic day!

Sacrifice is my third Charisse Moritz novel, and she does not disappoint.

Sacrifice (Choosy Beggars #2)

The first book I read by Charisse Moritze was Shakespeare Burning. The title made me so curious, but the cover played it’s part. I had to read it and was blown away. This is not a genre I actively seek, so was there some ‘reason’ I was drawn to it? I have now found another author for my favorites list.

Shakespeare Burning

Amazon / Goodreads

MY REVIEW

Need something to make you laugh out loud and feel good about life? Sacrifice is a must read.

Charisse Moritz and her novels would not seem like a fit for someone like me, who loves to delve in the darkness of romance novels. You know, the ones with murder and mayhem, rape and sex trafficking. BUT, Charisse’s writing and her characters draw me in so deep, sometimes I almost think they are real. They sure could be.

I have two pages of notes and wonder what I am going to do. Usually, with that many notes, I tend to share too much. I loved Sacrifice and the realistic, lovable characters that Charisse Moritz, so I don’t want to spoil a moment for you. I want you to experience their struggles, hope and dreams for yourself. I am sure you want a happy ever after. I know I did, and with Charisse, that is possible.


The situations the characters find themselves in could happen to anyone. The characters feel as if they could be the band members you find in the bar you frequent, the girl who left her abusive boyfriend and is hiding out, the single father that suffers from the lies his ‘ex’ feeds him.

The two main characters, Shae and Daisy, are flawed, frightened, insecure, beat down by life. Shae will do whatever it takes to make sure his son has the things he did not. Daisy looks through rose colored glasses, yet flinches at a knock on her door and things Shae is some kind of Sasquatch.

Her is a reason why I love Charisse Moritz’s writing so much…At 4 %, they meet for the first time and it is JUST TOO DARN CUTE AND FUNNY. The tone of the writing is serious, yet written in such a way that I never got too dogged down, too sad or depressed, because her vivid, hilarious descriptions of Daisy’s thoughts when letting her mind road to Shae, had me laughing out loud.

Mutt is a character that has to be mentioned. And if you want to know more, you’ll have to find out for yourself. I love when a peripheral character basks in the limelight…as I write that, I have a smile on my face.

A chat between Daisy and Shae when he picked up his son, Patrick, from babysitting, leaning against the doorframe with his feet crossed and his arms across his chest (which I so can visualize):

“Want to tell me why my boy is not wearing any pants?”

“He didn’t share his reasons, but I support his choices.”

I mean, how can you not crack up. Laugh out loud, whether anyone is around or not.

Patrick, a two year old, is, of course, adorable. I can hear that baby voice ‘speaking’. His actions and the dialogue is so cute, sweet, except when he’s letting them know he’s not happy. After all, he is two years old.

Shae took Daisy shopping. I don’t want to spoil the why of it, other than to say, Mutt is playing him like a fiddle. Her’s another quote that will share why I love Charisse Moritz’s writing

Patrick got a new jacket and a puzzle out of the deal. I got a hard on and a headache.

The sexual attraction is off the charts and I have never read of a couple of characters with this much self control. They both have their reasons, but Daisy is irresistible and his jealousy surprises even him

“Why don’t you just pee on me?”

I laughed out loud…again. Warning: If you read this around other people, well, you know.

There is more than one moment that shocked and awed me, in good and bad ways. I didn’t even try to figure out what was going on and why. I thought, even though I love Charisse Moritz’s writing, this is a romance, and I am along for the ride. Even a good romance rarely gets more than a four star rating from me. Out of the three books that I have read by Charisse, two of them have been five star ratings. She manages to supply those BAM, in your face moments and I love that.

EVERYTHING…PERFECT…for me. Romance with a dash of mystery and suspense.

Animated Animals. Pictures, Images and Photos
5 Stars

AMAZON SYNOPSIS

Eighteen-year-old Shae is the daddy of a two-year old.
On his own and barely getting by.
Every day, he struggles to be good enough for his boy.
Every day, he falls a little further behind.
He doesn’t apologize.
He tries harder.
Sacrifices more of himself.
Because keeping his son is all that matters.
When Daisy Goodwill moves in across the hall, she is an irresistible splash of color and hopeful smiles. She disrupts his every waking moment in such wonderful ways, daring Shae to imagine a brighter future. But his new neighbor is full of apologies, hiding from an overly possessive ex and a threat to Shae’s black-and-white world. Because championing Daisy requires the one sacrifice he can’t survive.

ABOUT CHARISSE MORITZ (from Amazon)

Charisse Moritz

Emily Award Finalist and Melody Of Love Award Finalist, Charisse Moritz divides her life between upstate NY and northern Florida. When not barricaded inside her writing cave or enjoying every possible minute with her husband and three kids, you’ll find her listening to 60’s music, singing off key and looking for new reads.

Her debut book, Shakespeare Burning was released in July 2019 and is available in digital and print.

https://charissemoritz.com

MY CHARISSE MORITZ REVIEWS

  • You can see my Giveaways HERE.
  • You can see my Reviews HERE.
  • If you like what you see, why don’t you follow me?
  • Look on the right sidebar and let’ talk.
  • Leave your link in the comments and I will drop by to see what’s shakin’.
  • I am an Amazon affiliate/product images are linked.
  • Thanks for visiting fundinmental!

WOW! 30 Red Dresses by Johan Twiss @JohanTwiss

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30 Red Dresses

MY REVIEW

Looking at the cover, I never expected what was coming. I’m sure I read the blurb before I picked it up in 2017, but not before I started reading it this week and WOW!

30 Red Dresses by Johan Twiss was such a surprise to me. I have a file of short stories and novellas, and chose 30 Red Dresses as a One Sentence Review to wipe it off my TBR, but after reading it, I changed my mind. It hit me so hard, I had to share more.

It was so sad from the very beginning. Venta is eight years old. It’s her birthday and her uncle is taking her to town. She’s excited, but…my heart fell to my gut. Her uncle is a disgusting human being, so I knew she was in for a rude awakening.

Sex trafficking is all too real. I cannot imagine how a young girl of eight could in any way comprehend what is happening to her. I was so far past mad, angry, seeing red, disgusted…

What does a white giant, a Cambodian and and 30 red dresses have in common?

An incredibly powerful story where the characters lives are changed forever and I teared up a time or two because the story went so far in such a few words. Strong. Powerful. Thought provoking. Sickening, yet hopeful.

The author’s note at the end of the book is just as powerful as the story.

Animated Animals. Pictures, Images and Photos
5 Stars

GOODREADS BLURB

While on a book tour in Cambodia, author James Moore unwittingly seeks refuge in a brothel to escape a devastating flash flood. He and his translator witness the atrocities of girls forced into prostitution, including a young child with a special gift. Together, they fight to not only save the girls from the rising flood waters, but from the menacing brothel owner and his men.

ABOUT JOHAN TWISS

Dear Brilliant Reader,

Johan Twiss

Thank you for your interest in my books. I am passionate about writing clean science fiction and fantasy stories that are not only exciting, but suitable for tweens, teens and adults alike.

Have a question? Complaint? Want to send me a gift card to the Cheesecake Factory? Simply reach out to me at my website at www.johantwiss.com/contact

(I can also tell your future at no extra cost, although gift cards to Cheesecake Factory tend to make the predictions more accurate.)

And if you really want to make my day, please leave a review for my books on Amazon and Goodreads. Your reviews help new readers discover my books, for which I am very thankful.

All the best and happy reading,
Johan

Website / Facebook / Twitter / Instagram / Pinterest

  • You can see my Giveaways HERE.
  • You can see my Reviews HERE.
  • If you like what you see, why don’t you follow me?
  • Look on the right sidebar and let’ talk.
  • Leave your link in the comments and I will drop by to see what’s shakin’.
  • I am an Amazon affiliate/product images are linked.
  • Thanks for visiting fundinmental!

New Release – Black Orchid Girls by Carolyn Arnold @Carolyn_Arnold @HibbertStiles

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YEAH! TODAY IS RELEASE DAY FOR CAROLYN ARNOLD’S LATEST DETECTIVE AMANDA STEELE NOVEL, BLACK ORCHID GIRLS

I love the vibrant cover. Though the flowers on the cover are not black orchids, the black orchid is pertinent to the story. Does it make you wonder why?

Black Orchid Girls (Detective Amanda Steele #4)

Amazon / Goodreads

MY REVIEW

I love the cover for Black Orchid Girls by Carolyn Arnold, but it doesn’t matter what is on the cover when it comes to reading her books. I have read a lot of them and eagerly pick up each new story she has to share.

Amanda Steele and her partner, Trent, work for the Prince William County Police Department, and before she could even sit down at her desk, she and Trent, were called out to Leeslyvania State Park for a murder. A young woman was found, naked and cleaned of all traces of evidence, except a Black Orchid.

The gorgeous Black Orchid can represent positive and negative connotations. Can symbolize bad luck, death and black magic. Also, strength, virility, sexual desires and success.

Could the fact that Chloe Somner is deep into the environment and climate change be involved? She is a student at Geoffrey Michaels University and attends classes at the Potomac Center for Environmental Science and Policy. She is also involved with Planet Rebirth, an environmental group. She is studying the snails in Leesylvania State Park, where her body was found.

I love when a peripheral character takes center stage, and Zoe does just that. We have met her before. She has become an anchor for Amanda, a bundle of love and joy.

Also, does Amanda have romance on the horizon?

Twists and turns abound. Step by step, suspect by suspect, clue by clue…we investigate.

Characters from the Brandon Fisher FBI series make an appearance.

Carolyn Arnold is a master at penning police procedural’s that keep me on my toes, flipping pages, unable to quit reading until the last page is read. Black Orchid Girls was a quick, easy read, filled with heart in my throat suspense and edge of my seat moments that made it unputdownable.

I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of Black Orchid Girls by Carolyn Arnold.

Animated Animals. Pictures, Images and Photos
4 Stars

SYNOPSIS

The first rays of sun filter through the tall trees, casting a faint light on the girl lying at the water’s edge. Her tears have frozen on her pale face, a black orchid rests against her cold white skin.

When hikers find the body of a beautiful young girl on the banks of the Potomac River, Detective Amanda Steele is shaken and confused. What is the significance of the delicate flower resting on the girl’s torso? A sign of affection, or a twisted killer’s calling card?

The girl is Chloe Somner, a local nineteen-year-old ecology student well-known to the park rangers and loved by all her classmates. Searching Chloe’s home, Amanda can’t work out who could have tempted her to the water in the early hours of the morning, but a long night hunting through cold cases gives her a possible lead: twenty years ago another local girl was murdered, a red rose left on her body. But why would this killer strike again now?

Focused on the past, the last thing Amanda expects is the news that Chloe’s roommate has been found dead, another black orchid left. Terrified that more innocent victims will follow, can Amanda uncover the significance of the flowers and stop this cold-hearted killer before he returns for the next orchid girl…?

A totally compulsive crime thriller! Perfect for fans of Angela Marsons, Robert Dugoni and Rachel Caine.

Amazon.com | Barnes & Noble | Apple | Kobo | Google Play

ABOUT CAROLYN ARNOLD

CAROLYN ARNOLD is an international bestselling and award-winning author, as well as a speaker, teacher, and inspirational mentor. She has four continuing fiction series—Detective Madison Knight, Brandon Fisher FBI, McKinley Mysteries, and Matthew Connor Adventures—and has written nearly thirty books. Her genre diversity offers her readers everything from cozy to hard-boiled mysteries, and thrillers to action adventures.

Carolyn Arnold

Both her female detective and FBI profiler series have been praised by those in law enforcement as being accurate and entertaining, leading her to adopt the trademark: POLICE PROCEDURALS RESPECTED BY LAW ENFORCEMENT™.

Carolyn was born in a small town and enjoys spending time outdoors, but she also loves the lights of a big city. Grounded by her roots and lifted by her dreams, her overactive imagination insists that she tell her stories. Her intention is to touch the hearts of millions with her books, to entertain, inspire, and empower.

She currently lives north of London, Ontario, with her husband and two beagles and is a member of Crime Writers of Canada and Sisters in Crime.

Connect with CAROLYN ARNOLD Online:  Website / Twitter / Facebook / Instagram

And don’t forget to sign up for her newsletter for up-to-date information on release and special offers at http://carolynarnold.net/newsletters.

MY REVIEWS FOR CAROLYN ARNOLD

  • You can see my Giveaways HERE.
  • You can see my Reviews HERE.
  • If you like what you see, why don’t you follow me?
  • Look on the right sidebar and let’ talk.
  • Leave your link in the comments and I will drop by to see what’s shakin’.
  • I am an Amazon affiliate/product images are linked.
  • Thanks for visiting fundinmental!

Giveaway – Cindi’s Chocolate Valentine by Beverly Reichman @iReadBookTours

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I am super excited to be a part of the tour for Cindi’s Chocolate Valentine by Beverly Reichman. I love animals and hate whenever any are mistreated. Cindi’s Chocolate Valentine is an especially SPECIAL book because it features 17 pets that were chosen as winners in the Cindi Features a New Friend contest, from any assortment of 750 animals of all types, from dogs, hedgehogs, chickens….

Cindi's Chocolate Valentine

MY REVIEW

The wonderful cover for Cinidi’s Chocolate Valentine by Beverly Reichman is thick, as are the pages, and can definitely handle those sticky fingers that will want to reach out and touch the animals inside.

I found myself chuckling as the critters, Cindi and Pitty Pat, were decorated in costumes and paraded through the neighborhood. I love that creatures of all kinds and disabilities were shared in such a fun way.

And…we are left with a question…Have you ever changed your mind about things you might not like? Sure to inspire your child to answer and I would love to know what they come up with.

I love that some of the proceeds will be donated to animal rescue and shelter organizations.

I voluntarily reviewed a free copy of Cindi’s Chocolate Valentine by Beverly Reichman.

Animated Animals. Pictures, Images and Photos
4 Stars
Join Us for This Tour from February 1 to February 14!

Book Details:

Book Title:  Cindi’s Chocolate Valentine by Beverley Reichman
Category: Children’s Fiction (Ages 3-7),  36 pages
Genre: Children’s Book
Publisher:  Book Baby 
Release date:  January, 2022
Content Rating:  Rated G. Suitable for everyone
 

Book Description:

Cindi isn’t sure about this holiday called Valentine’s Day, but after her people pair dress her up like a flamingo and take her for a walk in front of her friends, and her handsome new neighbor dog, Chip, she doesn’t like it at all! She and her BFF, Pitty Pat, have been watching Chip ever since he moved next door. She wants to meet him, but not like this! Have you ever changed your mind about something? In this outrageously funny story, meet some of Cindi’s fur-friends and find out if she changes her mind about Valentine’s Day.

Cindi’s Chocolate Valentine is an especially SPECIAL book because it features 17 pets that were chosen as winners in the Cindi Features a New Friend contest last summer.  As you can imagine, their ‘people families’ are beyond excited about their pets being part of the story.  They had over 750 pets, including dogs, cats, rabbits, horses, hedgehogs, and even a chicken, goat, donkey and monkey enter the contest!   

Buy the Book:
BookBaby
Amazon ~ B&N

18% of the Cindi series book sale proceeds is
donated to animal rescue and shelter organizations.


Meet the Author:

Beverley Reichman is a devoted mom, retired elementary school teacher and author. She co-authored her first book, Justice and Honor for My Sister: The Story of Margie Grey in 2018 and published her first children’s book, Kevin Can, in 2019. The second book in her Kevin series, Kevin is a Smart Cookie, and the first book in her popular Cindi the Teenie Chiweenie series were published in 2020. Her delightful and beautifully illustrated Cindi book series include: Cindi’s Chocolate Valentine, Cindi and Sparkles Howl-oween Ghoulfriends and Cindi’s Christmas Kitten Surprise, which earned a 5-Star Readers’ Favorite review.

Beverley teaches, tutors, and mentors children and shares with them her passion for learning, literature, living in faith, and experiencing life to its fullest. Beverley currently resides outside of Atlanta, Georgia.

connect with the author: website ~ facebook ~ instagram ~ goodreads
Tour Schedule:

Feb 1 – Cover Lover Book Review – book review / giveaway
Feb 1 – Rockin’ Book Reviews – book review / guest post / giveaway
Feb 2 – Splashes of Joy – book review / guest post / giveaway
Feb 2 – Sandra’s Book Club – book review / giveaway
Feb 3 – @twilight_reader – book review
Feb 3 – Stephanie Jane – book spotlight / giveaway
Feb 4 – Kam’s Place – book review
Feb 4 – Books are a Blessing – book review / giveaway
Feb 7 – Jazzy Book Reviews – book review / guest post / giveaway
Feb 7 – Captive Dreams Window – book review / giveaway
Feb 8 – Lamon Reviews – book spotlight / guest post / giveaway
Feb 8 – Literary Flits – book spotlight / giveaway
Feb 8 – Older & Smarter? – book review / giveaway
Feb 9 – icefairy’s Treasure Chest – book review / giveaway
Feb 9 – The Phantom Paragrapher – book review
Feb 9 – fundinmental – book review / giveaway
Feb 10 – Lisa Everyday Life – book spotlight / guest post / giveaway
Feb 10 – Pause for Tales – book review / giveaway
Feb 10 – Locks, Hooks and Books – book review / giveaway
Feb 11 – A Mama’s Corner of the World – book review / giveaway
Feb 11 – Nighttime Reading Center – book review / giveaway
Feb 11 – Books for Books – book review
Feb 14 – Reading is My Passion – book review
Feb 14 – Lisa’s Reading – book spotlight / giveaway
 

Enter the Giveaway:

 CINDI’S CHOCOLATE VALENTINE by Beverley Reichman Book Tour Giveaway

 


 
  • You can see my Giveaways HERE.
  • You can see my Reviews HERE.
  • If you like what you see, why don’t you follow me?
  • Look on the right sidebar and let’ talk.
  • Leave your link in the comments and I will drop by to see what’s shakin’.
  • I am an Amazon affiliate/product images are linked.
  • Thanks for visiting fundinmental!

Giveaway – Olive and the Valentine’s Spell by Helen Millman @iReadBookTours

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Join Us for This Tour from February 1 to February 14!

Book Details:

Book Title:  Olive and the Valentine’s Spell by Helen Millman
Category: Children’s Fiction (Ages 3-7),  38 pages
Genre: Children’s Picture Book
Publisher:  Mascot 
Release date:  February 1, 2022
Content Rating:  Rated G. Suitable for everyone
 
*** 2022 Family Choice Award Winner ***
 

MY REVIEW

This is a super cute, humorous hardcover book with pages that can handle sticky fingers exploring them as the book is being read to your youngster. The book was inspired by a Valentine Day at school with Helen Millman, the author, and her son. I remember my excitement when my mom got my bag of valentines and I sat choosing which classmate got which one, handing them out in class and getting one in return. Life’s simple pleasures and wonderful memories.

Seeing love through a child’s eyes in poem form was sweet and endearing. I smiled throughout and wondered…what was I thinking back then? A child’s imagination is amazing.

The illustrations by Vanessa Alexandre are perfectly matched to the story.

In this book, she is hoping to share with her readers the idea that love is in everything we do. I believe, do you?

I voluntarily reviewed a free copy of Olive and the Valentine’s Spell by Helen Millman.

Animated Animals. Pictures, Images and Photos
4 Stars
   
Book Description:

Olive is a sweet elementary school boy who is afraid to go to school on Valentine’s Day. . .because he thinks he’ll have to get married! Olive’s mom joins in his fight to defeat the “princess of love,” but along the way he learns an even bigger lesson, discovering the true meaning of love.

Olive and the Valentine’s Spell is an inspiring children’s book for all ages that shines a humorous light on Valentine’s Day and overcoming your fears.

Buy the Book:
Amazon ~ B&N ~ Mascot 

Meet the Author:

Children’s author Helen Millman is a loving wife and mom. Her three young boys continually inspire her with their wild adventures and vivid imaginations. They even helped inspire her to write her new book, Olive and the Valentine’s Spell!

While living in Vero Beach, FL, she spends her time writing, reading, singing, and growing through her life’s experiences. She knows the importance of “seeing the bright side of life” and encourages her readers to “choose love, even when it seems impossible”. A friendly, optimist Helen has always loved to read to her own children and remembers how much her imaginative voices really helped bring the stories to life. She invites her readers to gather with a beloved book, for it truly is one of the best places to snuggle, giggle, imagine, and make unforgettable memories – together.

connect with the author: website ~ facebook ~ instagram
 
Tour Schedule:

Feb 1 – Cover Lover Book Review – book review / giveaway
Feb 1 – Jazzy Book Reviews – book review / giveaway
Feb 1 – Lisa’s Reading – book spotlight / giveaway
Feb 2 – Rockin’ Book Reviews – book review / guest post / giveaway
Feb 2 – She Just Loves Books – book review / giveaway
Feb 3 – Locks, Hooks and Books – book review / giveaway
Feb 3 – The Momma Spot – book review / giveaway
Feb 4 – Splashes of Joy – book review / giveaway
Feb 4 – icefairy’s Treasure Chest – book review / giveaway
Feb 7 – Gina Rae Mitchell – book review / author interview / giveaway
Feb 7 – Sandra’s Book Club – book review / giveaway
Feb 7 – Sefina Hawke’s Books – book spotlight
Feb 8 – Reading is My Passion – book spotlight / giveaway
Feb 8 – fundinmental – book review / giveaway
Feb 8 – Lynchburg Reads – book review / giveaway
Feb 9 – Pause for Tales – book review / giveaway
Feb 9 – A Mama’s Corner of the World – book review / giveaway
Feb 9 – Literary Flits – book spotlight / giveaway
Feb 10 – Bound 4 Escape – book review / giveaway
Feb 10 – Westveil Publishing – book review / guest post / giveaway
Feb 11 – Older & Smarter? – book review / giveaway
Feb 11 – Kam’s Place – book review
Feb 11 – Captive Dreams Window  – book review / giveaway
Feb 11 – Books for Books – book review
Feb 14 – Lamon Reviews – book spotlight / guest post / giveaway
Feb 14 – @twilight_reader – book review

Enter the Giveaway:

Olive and the Valentine’s Spell by Helen Millman Book Tour Giveaway


 
  • You can see my Giveaways HERE.
  • You can see my Reviews HERE.
  • If you like what you see, why don’t you follow me?
  • Look on the right sidebar and let’ talk.
  • Leave your link in the comments and I will drop by to see what’s shakin’.
  • I am an Amazon affiliate/product images are linked.
  • Thanks for visiting fundinmental!

Saving Seals Finale – Saving Charlie by Jane Blythe @jblytheauthor

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Saving Charlie by Jane Blythe is the last of her Saving Seals series, but the series is part of something so much bigger. There are many more books and authors putting their own spin on the Operation Alpha World.

About Operation Alpha

Operation Alpha is the fan fiction world for Susan Stoker’s SEAL of Protection, Delta Force Heroes, and Badge of Honor: Texas Heroes Worlds. The books all have at least one of Susan’s characters in them. The authors have created worlds where Wolf, Ghost, Dax and all the other characters interact. Check it out at Aces Press.

Saving Charlie (Special Forces: Operation Alpha; Saving SEALs #6)

Amazon / Goodreads

MY REVIEW

Saving Charlie is Jane Blythe’s final book in the Saving Seals series, so let’s get right to it. Saving Charlie picks up where Saving Grayson left off. You might think that it ended with a cliffhanger, but really, it ended with a tease to this book, and what a tease it was.

Charlies “King” Voss and his team were captured and tortured by terrorists in Iraq. They were held for five loooooong weeks. Everyone, but him, had family to come home to. He felt the loss, though he knew in his heart that someone would come for them, he was willing to trade his life for theirs. King had enjoyed his single life, but after his capture, something had changed. He wanted his own special someone.

Faith is going through her own crisis. She is waiting…looking…focusing on surviving. She had worked at a non profit, helping women and children of domestic violence. She is stubborn, determined, strong. She had survived being held by an international serial killer, known as the Prince of Blood…and I’ll leave it to you to figure out why. Go ahead. Let your imagination run wild.

When the ladies enter the hospital room, one by one, I challenge you not to tear up.

King and Faith had both lost their bearings.. Now, they had to figure out how to move on. Was it Fate, Kismet, Karma, that they found each other in their time of need?

“…maybe I need a…a friend.”

“I…I think I need a friend too.”

It is so easy to get lost in Jane Blythe’s characters. They are strong, loyal, deetermined, loving, and will put their lives on the line for each other. I don’t have all the details, but this is romantic suspense, so they can’t have a happy ever after until she puts them through hell. LOL

Jane Blythe’s writing continues to amaze me. She is a master storyteller. I know the format, hunkalicious man meets damsel in distress…love, danger, fireworks!, doubt, denial. We are having some fun, some sweet romantic moments, while I am waiting for evil to rear its ugly head. She is great at creating suspense with pacing, creating tension that has me on the edge of my seat, cringing, white knuckled. She puts her characters through hell, but once is not enough. It keeps on coming, again and again.

If you are a Disney lover, a fan of magical dreams coming true and your prince coming to your rescue, you will love Saving Charlie.

Though Saving Charlie is the final story of Jane Blythe’s Saving Seals series, she has a new series coming in March of 2022. Prey Security is sure to become another favorite series of mine. Also, there are many more books and authors putting their spin on the Operation Alpha World.

I voluntarily reviewed a free copy of Saving Charlie by Jane Blythe.

Animated Animals. Pictures, Images and Photos
4 Stars

GOODREADS BLURB

Suffering recognizes suffering.

Faith Johnson is the only surviving victim of an international serial killer. She survived weeks in his torture room and when she escapes she thought the hard part of her ordeal was over. She was wrong. The hard part was only just beginning. When she meets a man who makes her feel normal for the first time in months she convinces herself she’ll be happy with whatever he’s willing to give her, but she’s a romantic at heart and she’s falling hard and fast for the sexy SEAL.

Charlie “King” Voss’ world changed forever when he and his team were captured. While his teammates went home to their families he went home to an empty house. When he meets Faith he can’t deny the instantaneous attraction he feels for her, or the protectiveness she invokes, but he doesn’t do relationships and he doesn’t want to break her heart. All he can offer her is his friendship but he knows it won’t be enough for her and he’ll lose the only good thing he has going in his life.

ABOUT JANE BLYTHE

Jane has loved reading and writing since she can remember. She writes dark and disturbing crime/mystery/suspense with some romance thrown in because, well, who doesn’t love romance? She has one completed series, Detective Parker Bell, and one new series, Count to Ten.

When she’s not writing Jane loves to read, bake, go to the beach, ski, horse ride, and watch Disney movies. She has a black belt in Taekwondo, and a 200+ collection of teddy bears. She has the world’s two most sweet and pretty Dalmatians, Ivory and Pearl. Oh, and she also enjoys spending time with family and friends!

Website  /  Twitter  /  Facebook

MY REVIEWS FOR JANE BLYTHE’S BOOKS

  • You can see my Giveaways HERE.
  • You can see my Reviews HERE.
  • If you like what you see, why don’t you follow me?
  • Look on the right sidebar and let’ talk.
  • Leave your link in the comments and I will drop by to see what’s shakin’.
  • I am an Amazon affiliate/product images are linked.
  • Thanks for visiting fundinmental!

All I Can Say Is: Baby Please (LOL) by Mimi Jean Pamfiloff @MimiJeanRomance

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I don’t read a lot of contemporary romance with a sports star as the main character, but I will read anything Mimi Jean Pamfiloff writes! Can you resist that sweet cover?

Baby, Please (OHellNo #7)

Amazon / Goodreads

MY REVIEW

I have read numerous books by Mimi Jean Pamfiloff and I will happily read anything she writes. This is my first book in the OhHellNo series. Even though it is the seventh in the series, it had no affect on my enjoyment of the story. Mimi writes with humor and wit, with dialogue that has me laughing out loud. Look at that cover…then add a sexy damsel in distress and you tell me…can you resist it?

Dean had worked hard to get where he was. A chance at the NFL. A baby he is raising by himself. And brother who’s an addict and needs constant help. The NFL is his answer to all his problems. But…life is never that simple.

In one of his lowest moments, she walked into the bar. Older, classy, and just what the doctored ordered…at the time. Or, so he thought, because the wrong head was thinking. The result, two year old Patrick and trouble he couldn’t have seen coming.

No one has given him anything…well, except Minnie, his landlady. She is selective about who she rents to. Daisy comes to town and the OhHellNo begins. When Dean and Daisy meet for the first time, Mimi Jean Pamfiloff had me cracking up.

I was wondering about the book. Mimi Jean Pamfiloff usually has more going on than Three Men and A Baby, and about halfway through it bites. My heart dropped right along with his.

This tough guy football jock has changed and I am loving it. I am curious to see how it will all play out, because I want warm fuzzies when the story is done.

I found the plot predictable, but that’s okay. I still enjoyed Baby Please by Mimi Jean Pamfiloff and would recommend it. I have enjoyed some of her other series more, but I have other books of the OhHell No series on my Kindle and I will be reading them.

I voluntarily reviewed a free copy of Baby Please by MImi Jean Pamfiloff.

Animated Animals. Pictures, Images and Photos
3 Stars

GOODREADS BLURB

From New York Times Bestseller Mimi Jean Pamfiloff comes a Surprise Baby Romantic Comedy, BABY, PLEASE.

SURPRISE! IT’S A GIRL!

DEAN

Ever since I was recruited by my college football team, I’ve pushed myself hard. Going pro and earning some real money is a must. Mostly because my brother, Flip, is in a bad place, and I’m all he’s got.

No problem. I’m tough. I’m a hard worker. I’ve got a plan.

Then right before the season starts, a woman shows up at my apartment with a baby, claiming I’m the father. And then she leaves her with me. For a week? Forever?

I have no idea, but college, football, and the single-dad gig don’t go together. And forget about my experience with babies. Does this thing come with an off switch? Volume control? Is that a poopie diaper? Help!

Things go from bad to worse when the public catches wind of my surprise-baby situation, and it turns into a PR nightmare. I’m suddenly the poster boy for young single dads.

This isn’t happening.

Suddenly, all eyes are on me, both on and off the field, and the only person who can keep me from losing my mind confesses her love.

And I mess it all up. Her, football, baby, everything.

Now I’m going to have to choose: fix my career or fix my personal life, including coming to grips with loving a baby girl who might not be mine.

ABOUT MIMI JEAN PAMFILOFF

MIMI JEAN PAMFILOFF is a New York Times bestselling author who’s sold over one million books around the world. Although she obtained her MBA and worked for more than fifteen years in the corporate world, she believes that it’s never too late to come out of the romance closet and follow your dreams.

Mimi lives with her Latin lover hubby, two pirates-in-training (their boys), and their three spunky dragons (really, just very tiny dogs with big attitudes) Snowy, Mini, and Mack, in the vampire-unfriendly state of Arizona.

She hopes to make you laugh when you need it most and continues to pray daily that leather pants will make a big comeback for men.

Website / Goodreads / Facebook / Twitter / Instagram

MY MIMI JEAN PAMFILOFF REVIEWS

MY M O MACK REVIEWS

  • You can see my Giveaways HERE.
  • You can see my Reviews HERE.
  • If you like what you see, why don’t you follow me?
  • Look on the right sidebar and let’ talk.
  • Leave your link in the comments and I will drop by to see what’s shakin’.
  • I am an Amazon affiliate/product images are linked.
  • Thanks for visiting fundinmental!