Tag Archives: read in 2022

Giveaway & Review – Vampires and Villains by Elizabeth Pantley @dollycas

Posted on by

Vampires and Villains: The Magical Mystery Book Club by Elizabeth Pantley


Vampires and Villains: The Magical Mystery Book Club
Paranormal Cozy Mystery
2nd in Series
Independently Published (September 1, 2022)
Print length ‏ : ‎ 219 pages
Digital ASIN ‏ : ‎ B0B3WN3Z9M

MY REVIEW

The quirky, zany characters deserve a star, and the world Elizabeth Pantley created was like no other I have visited. I know I have said I love to travel through books, but the book club takes it to a whole new level….and I love it!

Paige and her Aunt Glo inherited a house with a magical library. They created a book club of oddball characters to learn about magic.

Of course, the cruise to Hawaii holds more than they bargained for, but that what’s happen when you skim the blurb. Vampires. It doesn’t matter to them. They are prepared to do what’s necessary to solve a cozy mystery.

Vampires and Villains is everything I expect in a cozy mystery, with a couple of bonuses, vampires and a talking cat, and the travel gives a whole new meaning to being caught up in a book.

Most cozies fall into a 3 rating, for me, but Elizabeth added enough extras to take it up a notch. Mystery, laughs, a funfilled cruise, the exploration of Hawaii, vampires, a talking cat, a novel way to travel and plenty of villains to keep me guessing.

I voluntarily reviewed a free copy of Vampires and Villains by Elizabeth Pantley.

Animated Animals. Pictures, Images and Photos
4 Stars

About Vampires and Villains

Paige and her joyful Aunt Glo have learned that the home they inherited comes with a magical library. They put together a book club group of loveable kooks to explore the magic.

They’ve recovered from their first book journey, and they all agree on their next book which takes place on a cruise ship bound for Hawaii. Problem is, they were so excited about the cruising idea that they didn’t read the entire blurb on the back of the book. (“It was entirely too long,” explains Zell.) Once on the ship, they meet a charming and likable man who blends seamlessly into their motley group. Too bad they don’t know why he’s so scarce during the day but shows up to join them every evening for dinner, drinks, and a show. When a dead body shows up on board, their new friend is labeled a suspect. Can they help him out by finding the real murderer? Or is he the real murderer? The book club will need to solve the case to get off the ship, out of the book, and back to their home.

About Elizabeth Pantley

Elizabeth Pantley says that writing the Destiny Falls Mystery and Magic book series is the most fun she’s ever had at work. Fans of the series say her joy is evident through the stories she tells. Elizabeth is also the internationally bestselling author of The No-Cry Sleep Solution and twelve other books for parents. Her books have been published in over twenty languages. She lives in the Pacific Northwest, the beautiful inspiration for the enchanted Destiny Falls world.

Author Links

Goodreads:  https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/24811.Elizabeth_Pantley
Website:  https://www.nocrysolution.com/books/
Newsletter Sign-up: https://www.nocrysolution.com/mailing-list/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DestinyFallsMysteryandMagic
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elizabethpantley/
Pinterest:  https://www.pinterest.com/nocrysolution/_saved/
Blog:  https://elizabethpantley.com/

Purchase Link – Amazon – 

TOUR PARTICIPANTS

a Rafflecopter giveaway ;

Have you signed up to be a Tour Host?

Click Here to Find Details and Sign Up Today!

  • 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’.
  • Product images are linked/I am an Amazon affiliate.
  • Thanks for visiting fundinmental!

Giveaway & Review – Dark Waves by Amanda Uhl @GoddessFish @AuAuthor

Posted on by

Dark Waves by Amanda Uhl

GENRE: Paranormal Romance

MY REVIEW

Dr Audrey Gilbert is in trouble, and the only way to save her job is to get Kevin to return the fold. She is a paranormal psychiatrist and her specialty is healing hackers with PTSD. With minimal information, she meets him…face to face.

Kevin Jorgensen is a recluse, but there is something about Audrey that intrigues him.

Nothing earth shattering, but a nice story and a quick read. I love reading paranormal/supernatural stories and Amanda Uhl has given me a fresh look at a familiar genre, filled with plenty of intrigue.

I voluntarily reviewed a free copy of Dark Waves by Amanda Uhl.

Animated Animals. Pictures, Images and Photos
3 Stars

BLURB

A fearless doctor

Paranormal psychiatrist Dr. Audrey Gilbert is not used to failure, especially when it comes to her career. She possesses an uncanny ability to see into her patients’ souls and mend their brokenness. When she misdiagnosis a patient and is fired, she is given a chance to regain her job. Her task? Restore the health of a deranged mind hacker. But safeguarding her heart while convincing the detached and bitter man to trust her, just might be the challenge of a lifetime.

A tormented hacker

Born into a family of powerful psychics, Kevin Jorgensen has always had a quick wit and a sunny disposition. But that was before he nearly lost his life battling a rogue mind hacker. Now he spends his days in isolation, fighting for his sanity. He swears never to use his gift, not even if he’s drawn to the woman determined to help him recover.

A battle for survival

When Audrey and Kevin discover someone has tampered with her mind, they must work together to determine why. Because if they fail, their lives and the lives of many other hackers will be destroyed.

EXCERPT

“Besides the hacker who went rogue, have there been any other disgruntled patients of yours over the last few years?”

Audrey frowned and rubbed her temple. “Not that I recall.”

“You have a headache?”

The pain in her head throbbed as if in answer. “I… Yes, a small one.”

“Have you noticed any recent gaps in your memory? Fuzzy thoughts?”

She narrowed her gaze. “What are you suggesting?”

“Audrey, some of your memories have been wiped.”

Her heartbeat sped up, and it felt like all the blood drained from her forehead at once. The room tilted in a crazy circle, and she saw white spots in front of her eyes. There was a rushing sound, and in an instant, all the colors in the room faded to black. She blinked and realized she was slumped in the recliner with Kevin leaning over her, shaking her shoulders, the earthy scent of him filling her nostrils.

“You okay?”

“Yes,” she managed. Her skull felt like someone had stuffed it with cotton. “I…”

“You fainted. Take it easy.” He crouched next to her, tucked a pillow behind her head, and helped her sit up. “I probably should have found a better way to tell you.”

Ya think? What was even more shocking was him hovering over her like she was his patient. He needed to move far away so she didn’t have to breathe in his rich, masculine smell. She had the insane desire to reach out and hug him so she’d feel safe.

Heat rushed to her cheeks, and her head cleared. “I’m…I’m all right now.”

Kevin didn’t budge, sending her blood pressure up a notch.

She brushed her hair behind her ears and tried to think. “You said my mind had been wiped. How can you know for certain?”

“I’m a former hacker, remember. I know the signs. What’s more, your blocks have been removed.”

“My…blocks?” She sat forward, the hair on her arms rising with her. The blocks were for her safety—to protect her as she worked with hackers. “They’re permanent. It’s impossible to remove them…isn’t it?”

He must have been reassured she had recovered from her faint because he stood and returned to the couch before answering, and she managed to get her breathing under control.

“Not quite. It’s difficult for the vast majority of hackers, but not everyone.”

“You mean you can do it,” she said, hardly daring to breath.

“Yes, and any other class tens who specialize in blocks. After all, we’re the ones who put them in place. Audrey, I need you to think really hard about when you first started having headaches.”

AUTHOR Bio and Links

Amanda Uhl

Award-winning author Amanda Uhl has always had a fascination with the mystical. Having drawn her first breath in a century home rumored to be haunted, you might say she was “born” into it. After a brief stint in college as a paid psychic, Amanda graduated with a bachelor of fine arts in theatre and a master’s degree in marketing. Over the past twenty years, she has worked as an admissions representative and graphic designer, owned her own freelance writing company, and managed communications for several Fortune 500 companies, most recently specializing in cyber security. Amanda is an avid reader and writes fast-paced, paranormal romantic suspense and humorous contemporary romance from her home in Cleveland, Ohio. When she’s not reading or writing, you can find Amanda with her husband and three children, gathering beach glass on the Lake Erie shoreline or biking in Cuyahoga Valley National Park. Visit her online at www.amandauhl.com.

Facebook / Twitter / Instagram / Goodreads / Amazon / Bookbub

  • Universal Link: https://books2read.com/DarkWaves
  • Amazon –> https://amzn.to/3RK85Yy
  • Barnes&Noble —> https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/dark-waves-amanda-uhl/1141462195
  • iBooks —> https://books.apple.com/us/book/dark-waves/id1623878665
  • Kobo —> https://www.kobo.com/us/en/ebook/dark-waves-1
  • Google Play —> https://play.google.com/store/books/details/Amanda_Uhl_Dark_Waves_Mind_Hackers_Series_Novella?id=Eb9vEAAAQBAJ
  • Goodreads —> https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/61082061-dark-waves
  • Bookbub —> https://www.bookbub.com/books/dark-waves-mind-hackers-series-novella-by-amanda-uhl
a Rafflecopter giveaway

Follow the tour and comment. The more you comment, the better your chances of winning. Follow the tour HERE.

  • 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’s 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 – The Immortal Tailor by Mimi Jean Pamfiloff @MimiJeanRomance

Posted on by

.

I have been enjoying Mimi Jean Pamfiloff’s novels for some time now and grab every one I can get my hands on.

Amazon / Goodreads

MY REVIEW

WARNING: If you do not like swearing, horny sex fairies, foul mouthed Chihuahuas, brooding sexy tailors, conniving deities, gore, more gore, seriously corny jokes, ghost sex, fine scotch, nipple hair biscuits, and many insane immortals, then this book is not for you. (per Mimi Jean Pamfiloff).

I have been reading Mimi Jean’s novels for some time now, and every chance I get to read one, I jump all over it. She has a unique writing style that makes me laugh out loud while I flip the pages. The characters are off the charts, quickly winning my heart. The reviews are not easy to write, because I only want to tease you, not give away the story.

Damian Greystone yearns for the quiet life of a tailor, working on his own terms. He’s been cursed, bound to spend his life in emotional isolation. Everyone he comes to care for dies.

Things aren’t always as they appear and the purpose is not always easy to decipher.

I read the book in one sitting, unable to stop reading. I was hooked from the opening pages, but that is not surprising with a Mimi Jean Pamfiloff novel. The world she has created is filled with unique characters, put in difficult situations and I loved being along for the ride.

The Immortal Matchmakers is a prequel series to The Immortal Tailor. I feel you will benefit the most by beginning with The Immortal Matchmakers, Book I, but it is not a must.

I voluntarily reviewed a free copy of The Immortal Tailor by Mimi Jean Pamfiloff.

4 Stars

GOODREAD BLURB

From New York Times bestselling author Mimi Jean Pamfiloff comes a new immortal series filled with dark humor, angst, and a brooding hero who loves a good tweed: The Immortal Tailor.

THE IMMORTAL WORLD IS IN TROUBLE, AND THE GODS DEMAND . . . THEIR TAILOR COME TO THE RESCUE?

Long ago, Damien Greystone hung up his guns, knives, and rope for the quiet life of a tailor. Sure, his clients now include the likes of bloodthirsty vampires, a hair-obsessed Bigfoot, and fourteen insane deities, but at least Damien doesn’t have to kill anymore. And, sure, he’s been cursed to live alone for all eternity, but nobody’s life is perfect. Right?

Unfortunately, his monk-like existence is about to come to a screeching halt. The gods’ powers are on the fritz, and they’re demanding his help.

But when Damien starts investigating, he meets Sky Morales, a beautiful journalist who’s up to her ears in danger (and one very aggressive fairy). He has no choice but to dust off his weapons.

Can he protect her without getting too close? Because his “curse of solitude” doesn’t negotiate, and bad things will happen to Sky if he so much as feels a flutter of affection.

And as if that pressure weren’t enough, his precious store is being looked after by a love-sucking demon and a punk chick who has a knack for insulting everyone. Bigfoot isn’t pleased.

The sooner Damien can get this job done, the faster he can get back to his peaceful life. If only he weren’t enjoying getting his hands dirty again. Just like the good old days that got him in trouble.

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!

New Release – Magnum Opus by Caitlin Marceau @CaitlinMarceau

Posted on by
Magnum Opus

Amazon / Goodreads

MY REVIEW

Magnum Opus by Caitlin Marceau is a quick story, that read like a Twilight Zone episode, where a person’s mind can become so twisted they see shadows, or in this case, eyes, at every turn and an ending that will make you think…WT?

I voluntarily reviewed a free copy of Magnum Opus by Caitlin Marceau.

Animated Animals. Pictures, Images and Photos
2 Stars

GOODREADS BLURB

Charlotte Curran is willing to do whatever it takes to make sure her newest book is a best seller… even if that means murdering her best friend.

Nobody suspects her of killing renowned author Kim Lavoie, but when Charlotte starts seeing Kim everywhere she turns, she quickly realizes it’s more than just her guilty conscience haunting her. With each passing day, Kim’s judging gaze grows more difficult to escape.

Magnum Opus is a dark look at the price of fame and the legacy we leave behind.

ABOUT CAITLIN MARCEAU

Caitlin Marceau

Caitlin Marceau is an author and lecturer living and working in Montreal. She holds a B.A. in Creative Writing, is an active member of both the Horror Writers Association and the Quebec Writers’ Federation, and spends most of her time writing horror and experimental fiction. She’s been published for journalism, poetry, as well as creative non-fiction, and has spoken about horror literature at several Canadian conventions. Her debut collection, Palimpsest, is available from Ghost Orchid Press and her second collection, A Blackness Absolute, is slated for publication later this year. If she’s not covered in ink or wading through stacks of paper, you can find her ranting about issues in pop culture or nerding out over a good book. For more, check out CaitlinMarceau.ca.

Website / Twitter

  • 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’s 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!

Ghosts and Legends Of Genesee & Lapeer Counties @RoxanneRhoads

Posted on by
Ghosts and Legends of Genesee Lapeer Counties

Amazon / Goodreads

MY REVIEW

As I read the history of Flint, Michigan, much of my life flashed before my eyes. I worked for General Motors for 15 years before taking early retirement. I took some college classes at Mott Community College. I very much remember when Michael Moore’s documentary came out about General Motors, sharing its faults as they left a city, perhaps an entire state, that was build on the automotive industry.

  • A haunted library
  • A party shoppe
  • The Genesee County Jail (I used to go to an A&W right across the street)
  • Crossroads Village and Huckleberry Railroad
  • A movie, Fatal Desire, made from a book, Fatal Error, is about a murder in Clio. It was also on Forensic Files, Season 9, Episode 4, and I do remember watching it. It was, possibly, the first murder where the internet played a part.
  • A salvage yard
  • Hurley Hospital (I was born there)
  • Linden Hotel (I lived in Linden after I got married, but that was a looong time ago, so I can’t remember it)
  • The Game Station in Fenton
  • Fenton Hotel Tavern & Grille (most haunted bar in Michigan)
  • White Horse in Metamora
  • Lapeer State Home (I found the history fascinating)
  • And more

I traveled many familiar roads, through familiar towns, and never had a paranormal adventure. I hate to think I am missing out on something.

Ghosts and Legends of Genesee & Lapeer Counties is chockfull of sites, with information and photos to lure you in. Lots of research and documented sources.

I voluntarily reviewed a free copy of Ghosts and Legends of Genesee & Lapeer Counties by Roxanne Rhoads and Joe Schipani.

Animated Animals. Pictures, Images and Photos
5 Stars

ABOUT THE AUTHORS

Roxanne Rhoads is an author, book publicist, mixed media crafter, and lover of all things spooky. Her books include Haunted Flint and Pumpkins and Party Themes: 50 DIY Designs to Bring Your Halloween Extravaganza to Life. She is the owner of Bewitching Book Tours, a virtual book tour and social media marketing company and she operates a Halloween blog- A Bewitching Guide to Halloween. She sells handcrafted jewelry, art, and home decor through her Etsy store The Bewitching Cauldron. When not reading or writing, Roxanne loves to craft, plan Halloween adventures, and search for unique vintage finds.

Joe Schipani is an integral part of Flint’s art community, with ties to local artists, galleries, bookstores, and the Flint Cultural Center.

As the executive director of Flint Public Art Project, he has curated an outdoor mural gallery in the City of Flint, with over 200 murals from artist all around the world. He also serves as the one of Flint’s Historic District Commissioners and loves learning about the history of old buildings. In 2019 he co-authored Haunted Flint with Roxanne Rhoads.

  • 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’s 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!

Review – Cross Waves by Amanda Uhl @AuAuthor @GoddessFish

Posted on by

.

I first saw the Mind Hackers series when a tour popped up for Dark Waves, a novella, by Amanda Uhl for Goddess Fish. I am happy to say I read both of them and will have them reviewed before the Dark Waves tour on 9.6.22. So be sure and check back.

Cross Waves (Mind Hackers Series, Book Two)

Amazon / Goodreads

MY REVIEW

Cross Waves by Amanda Uhl is the second book in the Mind Hacker series. I must say, the books just keep getting better.

Peter is in charge of the CMU unit, the US government’s Cognitive Mind Unit, responsible for guarding the minds of scientists and leaders across the world.

Geneva is the most powerful trainer. Trainers aid Hackers while entering the minds from a distance. Every hacker works with a trainer.

Geneva and Rolf are a perfect match, though they both fight working together. Her brothers have no use for him, but his dark reaches for her light.

Now, Rolf’s sister is missing. Geneva has an extraordinary tracking ability, able to read someone’s aura, and is a human lie detector. They will have to work together if they hope to find her. All Rolf’s senses scream danger, but he and Geneva continue on.

The legend of the crystals: some of which were stolen from Geneva’s murdered mother. Julia had a dream talent and dreamt of Geneva’s mother’s murder. She is also Geneva’s best friend and Rolf’s sister.

At times, I worry about the CMU. Are they legit? Do they have an ulterior motive, an agenda of their own? Of course, any secret, clandestine government organization can be corrupted.

I am only half way through and my emotions are getting ramped up. I can’t relax and enjoy the book. I’m too tense, eager to read on, faster, gotta know. I can’t figure out what’s going on. Who is doing what? Who’s good? Who’s bad?

Geneva’s brothers really tick me off…dismissing her. It’s a wonder they don’t get her killed. But, they will sacrifice their lives to keep her safe. Will it come to that? There are more characters that have a role to play, some good and some bad. You will need to read Cross Waves for yourself if you want to know it all. 🙂

But, I will tell you that I love a good villain and we do get to know his thoughts and feelings while he is doing all his badness. I was kept in the dark for a long time about who he was, but I had plenty of time to revel in his badness. A good bad guy makes the story so much more interesting for me.

WOW! I could only quit reading to do the necessities. I quit taking notes and ignored Mr Wonderful and everything else that was going on around me. If Paranormal Romantic Suspense is your cup of tea, this is a must read series.

I voluntarily reviewed a free copy of Cross Waves by Amanda Uhl.

Animated Animals. Pictures, Images and Photos
5 Stars

GOODREADS BLURB

She can kill with a thought.
Gifted with an explosive psychic talent, Geneva Ericksen can’t risk letting Rolf Jorgensen in her life. If she does, she might accidentally kill him. But when Rolf’s sister goes missing, Geneva and her extraordinary abilities may be his only hope to find her.

He’s hiding a deadly secret.
Rolf‘s not about to let Geneva slip away from him, even if it means protecting her from his dark gift. As Rolf and Geneva trail his sister, they soon uncover a life-threatening plot: someone is attempting to profit from stealing and trapping their power in crystals.

To outsmart the enemy, it will take all their combined strength. But can they trust each other enough to survive?

ABOUT AMANDA UHL

Amanda Uhl

Award-winning author Amanda Uhl has always had a fascination with the mystical. Having drawn her first breath in a century home rumored to be haunted, you might say she was “born” into it. After a brief stint in college as a paid psychic, Amanda graduated with a bachelor of fine arts in theatre and a master’s degree in marketing. Over the past twenty years, she has worked as an admissions representative and graphic designer, owned her own freelance writing company, and managed communications for several Fortune 500 companies, most recently specializing in cyber security. Amanda is an avid reader and writes fast-paced, paranormal romantic suspense and humorous contemporary romance from her home in Cleveland, Ohio. When she’s not reading or writing, you can find Amanda with her husband and three children, gathering beach glass on the Lake Erie shoreline or biking in Cuyahoga Valley National Park. Visit her online at www.amandauhl.com.

Facebook / Twitter / Instagram / Goodreads / Amazon / Bookbub

MY AMANDA UHL 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’s 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!

Review – The Liar’s Crown by Abigail Owen @AOwenBooks #TheLiarsCrown #NetGalley

Posted on by
@abigailowenauthor THE LIAR’S CROWN – 1st in a new #yafantasy trilogy coming 8.30.22! #yafantasybooks #yabooktok #fantasybooktok #newadultbooks ♬ Lost – Crim3s

I would like to thank NetGalley and Entangled Publishing for the opportunity to read and review The Liar’s Crown by Abigail Owen.

The Liar’s Crown

Amazon / Audiobook / Goodreads

MY REVIEW

I love a good Prologue. It can hook me quick, and Abigail Owen has done it in The Liar’s Crown. I am a huge fan of hers and she did not let me down.

Hesperia served Eidolon, the King of Tundra. He is a charming liar who has tasked her with cursing the child. The child is one of two, a twin, and Hesperia defies the king, cursing the other child. Twins: one is Enfornae, who she blessed, and the other is Hylorae. What does it mean? I shall have to read on to find out, but I am very curious of what the repercussions will be, for the children and for Hesperia. We shall find out when Eidolon comes for the Queen of Aryd.

One twin will rule, the other is a secret body double in dangerous situations…to die in her place. Sounds sucky to me.

I am Mereneith Evangeline XII of Aryd. There are six dominions, each named for their ruling goddess. She is a tool. A nonperson. She turns her back on Cain, her best friend, when the Queen dies. She has things she needs to do, and he can’t help her.

The Shadowwraith, alone, villified.

I loved traveling the vividly created dominions, the magicals and the humans. I want to share so much about the characters, Raven…and Meren…but that would spoil things for you. I will say, they are magical, lonely, tools to be used. A man made of evil shadows. A woman who is an echo of the queen to be. I love when peripheral characters are as important to me as the main characters.

OMG. I was swept away with the shifting sand, hiding in the shadows, filled with fear for Meren, a heroine that will sacrifice herself ,while trying to save others and her new found love from the evil that is determined to rule the dominions. Nonstop action. Pacing that brought so many chilling thrills that made me want to read until I reached the end…I got lost and didn’t want to come up for a breath of air.

The story is not finished, but it did stop at a good place, if that is possible. I hope you are writing fast Abigail.

I voluntarily reviewed a free copy of The Liar’s Crown by Abigail Owen.

Animated Animals. Pictures, Images and Photos
4 Stars

GOODREADS BLURB

One born to rule. One to forfeit…

Everything about my life is a lie. As a hidden twin princess, born second, I have only one purpose—to sacrifice my life for my sister if death comes for her. I’ve been living under the guise of a poor, obscure girl of no standing, slipping into the palace and into the role of the true princess when danger is present.

Now the queen is dead and the ageless King Eidolon has sent my sister a gift—an eerily familiar gift—and a proposal to wed. I don’t trust him, so I do what I was born to do and secretly take her place on the eve of the coronation. Which is why, when a figure made of shadow kidnaps the new queen, he gets me by mistake.

As I try to escape, all the lies start to unravel. And not just my lies. The Shadowraith who took me has secrets of his own. He struggles to contain the shadows he wields—other faces, identities that threaten my very life.

Winter is at the walls. Darkness is looming. And the only way to save my sister and our dominion is to kill Eidolon…and the Shadowraith who has stolen my heart.

ABOUT ABIGAIL OWEN

Multi–award-winning paranormal romance author, Abigail Owen, loves plots that move hot and fast, feisty heroines with sass, alpha heroes with heart, a dash of snark, and oodles of sexy shifters! Other titles include wife, mother, Star Wars geek, ex-competitive skydiver, spreadsheet lover, eMBA, organizational guru, Texan, Aggie, and chocoholic. Abigail grew up consuming books and exploring the world through her writing. She attempted to find a practical career related to her favorite pastime by earning a degree in English Rhetoric (Technical Writing). However, she swiftly discovered that writing without imagination is not nearly as fun as writing with it. Abigail currently resides in Austin, Texas, with her own personal hero (who she totally married!) and their two children, who are growing up way too fast.  

Website & Blog | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | TikTok | Bookbub

MY REVIEWS FOR ABIGAIL OWEN

  • 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!

5 Stars for Surviving Doodahville by Ashley Fontainne #AshleyFontainne

Posted on by

I have been reading Ashley Fontainne’s novels ever since I won some. She is a must read author for me. AND, what an amazing cover!

Amazon / Goodreads

MY REVIEW

WOW…Ashley Fontainne and Lillian Hansen can sure pen a novel. I only have a half page of notes, because the power of Doodahville was so intense, gripping me, not letting me stop to even jot a note or two. All my emotions came to life, at times overwhelming me.

An impending death, and Gail, Kevin, and daughter, Kassandra are off to Daltville, Arkansas. A small town, small minds, small everything.

I quickly grew to love Gail. She is badass, take no prisoners, kick your ass, leave me and mine alone. At times she cracked me up, other times I wanted to be beside her fighting the good fight.

Kevin and Lurlene are no slouches in planning ahead. Kassandra is a teenager moving from Southern California to small town Daltville, as if teenage angst isn’t already enough. It is a culture shock. At times she feels like life is over for her, but there are also many benefits, which she will learn in time.

The kitten…HA HA HA HA HA.

Racism rears its ugly head on many of the pages. It is the south, so I find that is no surprise and I love the way she handled it in the novel, along with all the nasty secrets and ongoing issues from them.

I have read a lot of Ashley Fontainne’s work, and she easily crosses genres. Her mother, Lillian Hansen did a fabulous job in this collaboration.

Looking at the fun cover, I underestimated the power of Doodaville. Southern living, fraught with danger and secrets that come to light with disastrous results for some, for others freedom. The marvelous characters rise above their situations, sharing love and hope with those who need it. I also went down memory lane from the 1980s. Many scenes were taken from Ashley’s personal experiences, so maybe that’s why they read like true life.

I CAN SEE THIS AS A GRAND MOVIE (along the lines of Gone With The Wind) OR A TV SERIES.

WARNING: Tissues may be required.

I voluntarily reviewed a free copy of Surviving Doodahville by Ashley Fontainne.

5 Stars

GOODREADS BLURB

“Filled with powerful scenes and great characters! Brings the ’83 Old South to vivid life. One of my all-time favorite reads! Loved it! ~ Janelle Taylor, NY Times Bestselling author

The summer of 1983—the era of big debt, big hair, and big dreams. Seventeen-year-old Kassandra Lawson is excited about starting her senior year of high school. She has a crush on a local hunk, and her best friend, Valley Girl extraordinaire, Liz Hendricks, insists on helping her snag the hot guy—for sure!

July starts out uneventful for Kee and her parents. Her father, Kevin, is a partner at a CPA firm, and her mother, Gail, works as a secretary at the police department. The small family lives an idyllic life in sunny Hacienda Heights, California.

1983 also brings upheaval and strife for the Lawson clan. A death in the family forces Kevin and Gail to make the painful decision to pack up and move to Kevin’s hometown of Daltville, Arkansas.

Each face daunting challenges adapting to their new lives. Gail and Kee aren’t quite sure they can handle the culture shock. They encounter social and racial issues they never faced on the West Coast, strange food, weird dialects, odd customs, and wicked secrets that have the potential to destroy their family.

More than just a coming-of-age story, Surviving Doodahville explores family bonds, racial barriers, and just how much a person is willing to sacrifice for others. The tale is full of humor, action and a touch of mystery, making it a fun romp into the past.

ABOUT ASHLEY FONTAINNE

Ashley Fontainne

Award-winning and International bestselling author Ashley Fontainne enjoys stories that immerse the reader deep into the human psyche and the monsters lurking within each of us. She writes in numerous genres including mystery, suspense, horror, sci-fi and sometimes poetry.

Ashley lives in Arkansas with her husband and is the proud mother of one son and grateful daughter of co-author, Lillian Hansen. To learn more about her books please visit https://ashleyfontainne.net/

Website  / Facebook  /  Pinterest

MY ASHLEY FONTAINNE 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’s 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 – Haloed by Sue Coletta @SueColetta1

Posted on by

.

Sue Coletta has created one of my favorite villains of all time in the Mayhem series and Grafton County has its share of evil. Join her community to get 2 free killer reads. If you love thrillers, villains, and serial killers, I highly recommend checking her out.

Amazon / Goodreads

MY REVIEW

I have been to Grafton County and spent time with Sage Quintano, her Sheriff husband Niko, their son Noah and his deputy and Sage’s best friend Frankie Campanelli. It is a pleasure to be back, though, I am sure there will be an evil villain waiting for us.

Sage recognized the pattern, when a string of murders came to the small town of Alexandria, New Hampshire. She thought it fit the profile of the Romeo killer, a serial killer who had died eight years ago…or did he?

Niko, her Sheriff husband chalks it up to PTSD, because of all the trauma she has suffered in the past years. It bothers me that he is too quick to dismiss her, but he loves every tiny piece of her, so I feel he will quickly come around. She also has rheumatoid arthritis. Being an author, means she doesn’t have, nor is she able to do, excessive manual labor.

Noah, their sweet boy, and her furbabies have their roles to play.

Frankie Campanelli, Niko’s deputy and Sage’s best friend, makes me think of a combination of Rizzolis & Iles from the TV show. She has the fashion sense of Moira Iles and the attitude and fierceness of Jane Rizzoli. Frankie is a good cop, but she walks a line that puts her career and her life in danger.

Sue Coletta does her research. In this mystery, police procedural, suspense, thriller, she show how technology has made their job more difficult. I find it terrifying how easy it is for be framed for something you didn’t do.

A feeling of menace hangs on every page. I know he’s coming for her, whoever he is. The question is: How much will he tease and torture her before he does. He is intelligent, yet obsessed, which may be hid downfall.

It doesn’t matter where Sue Coletta’s next book is located, I will be there. She can pen a story that is filled with moments of light and love, with times of distress and evil. She creates some of the best villains I have ever met, sure to delight those of us who like to walk in the dark.

I voluntarily reviewed a free copy of Haloed by Sue Coletta.

Animated Animals. Pictures, Images and Photos
4 Stars

GOODREADS BLURB

She may be paranoid, but is she right?

A string of gruesome murders rocks the small town of Alexandria, New Hampshire, with all the victims staged to resemble dead angels, and strange red and pink balloons appearing out of nowhere.

All the clues point to the Romeo Killer’s return. Except one: he died eight years ago.

Paranoid and on edge, Sage’s theory makes no sense. Dead serial killers don’t rise from the grave. Yet she swears he’s here, hungering for the only angel to slip through his grasp—Sage.

With only hours left to live, how can Sage convince her Sheriff husband before the sand in her hourglass runs out?

ABOUT SUE COLETTA

Sue Coletta

Sue Coletta is an active member of Mystery Writers of America, Sisters in Crime, and International Thriller Writers. Feedspot and Expertido.org named her Murder Blog as one of the “Top 100 Crime Blogs on the Net” (Murder Blog sits at #5) for four years in a row. And recently, she appeared on an Emmy award-winning true crime show.

Sue also blogs at the Kill Zone, a multi-award-winning writing blog, and writes two serial killer thriller series (Tirgearr Publishing) and narrative nonfiction/true crime for Globe Pequot, trade division of Rowman & Littlefield Publishing Group.

For readers, she has the Crime Lover’s Lounge, where members will be the first to know about free giveaways, contests, and have inside access to deleted scenes (if available). As an added bonus, members get to play in the lounge. Your secret code will unlock the virtual door.

BONUS: When you join Sue’s community you’ll receive two free killer reads!

Sue lives in the Lakes Region of New Hampshire with her husband, and begins each by feeding all the wildlife in her yard. Her favorite “pets” are a murder of crows who live free but come when called by name.

Learn more about Sue and her books at: https://suecoletta.com

Website * Facebook Author Page * Facebook * Twitter * Pinterest * Youtube * Amazon * Goodreads

MY REVIEWS FOR SUE COLETTA

  • 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!

Review – Sararonna’s Gift by Carmen Webster Buxton @CarmenWBuxton

Posted on by

.

Saronna's Gift

Amazon / Goodreads

MY REVIEW

Saronna is being sold. It may sound harsh, but it works for her. Freedom. No veil, no division of men and women. Off Worlders have a different outlook on life than here on Kruegar’s World. The Threecon World travels the galaxy, each planet sharing their culture.

Saronna was being purchased for Duncan by his father. She had used her gifts to keep her father from getting rid of her, but it hadn’t worked on Vladimir Trushenko. She’s kept it secret…She’s a witch.

The cover tells of the life Saronna was born into, that women had only one purpose in life, to please man. Cruel customs, obedience, no education….unless taught secretly, and Saronna’s mother had taught her to read. There was a purpose to it.

Duncan has introduced Saronna to electronics, including an ereader, encouraging her to read and get an education. He even hires a tutor for her. I loved watching Saronna, her struggle, her sacrifice as she grew, learned, changed and became her own person, no matter the pressure put on her. I have a feeling that will be a good fit, once she figures out how she is being manipulated by those she is supposed to be able to trust.

I would surely be dead if I was born under such an oppressive system…my mouth would have been the end of me. LOL

And to think this goes on today makes me say, “I can’t believe this is happening in the twenty first century”. People can change, and I was happy to be along for Saronna’s ‘coming of age’, and she comes a long way, baby.

Carmen Webster Buxton has created a world for Saronna that is rich in detail, the characters are riveting, drawing me in, making me feel…almost…as if I am there with them, through the good and bad, wishing, hoping for the happy ever after ending that I have come to love so much.

Unputdownable. I read 463 pages in one sitting.

I voluntarily reviewed a free copy of Saronna’s Gift by Carmen Webster Buxton.

Animated Animals. Pictures, Images and Photos
4 Stars

GOODREADS BLURB

Saronna Maynard never expected to be sold into an off-world household. She and Duncan Trushenko, her new protector, have very little in common. Saronna grew up in a small village outside of New Jerusalem, the largest city on Krueger’s World. Duncan grew up on many worlds, and has traveled the galaxy. He is dumbstruck to return from a business trip and find that his father has purchased a companion for him.

Saronna is terrified by the strangeness of the house and her sense of powerlessness, but in a very short time she realizes she might be better off—and safer—in Duncan’s house than in her father’s. For one thing, Duncan doesn’t believe in witches. Also, the more time she spends with Duncan, the harder it is for her to believe all men are as evil as her mother taught her. But safer or not, Saronna is still intent on keeping her secrets. After all, she’s still on Krueger’s World.

ABOUT CARMEN WEBSTER BUXTON

Carmen Webster Buxton

Carmen Webster Buxton spent her youth reading every book published by Ursula LeGuin, Robert Heinlein and Georgette Heyer. This combination of far-future worlds, alien cultures, and old-fashioned courting customs influenced her writing, especially in her ThreeCon series.

Carmen was born in Hawaii and experienced a peripatetic childhood, as her father was in the US Navy. Having raised two wonderful children, she now lives in Maryland with her husband Charlie, and a beagle named Cosmo. She writes science fiction (often including a romance, and mostly set in the far future), and the occasional fantasy.

Carmen has published many books:

WAKANREO SERIES
Alien Bonds
Alien Vows
Alien Skies

HAVEN SERIES
The Sixth Discipline
No Safe Haven

THREECON SERIES (can be read in any order)
The Nostalgia Gambit
Saronna’s Gift
Shades of Empire
Tribes
Worlds Apart

ALTERNATE HISTORY
King of Trees

YOUNG ADULT SCIENCE FICTION
Turnabout
Drifters

FANTASY
Where Magic Rules
Bag of Tricks
Hidden Magic

THE NAMELESS WORLD SAGA (coming in 2021)
The North Edge of Nowhere
Oaths and Promises

Carmen often blogs about ereaders, digital publishing, writing, and speculative fiction. Visit her blog to see what’s coming out next! To ask questions or to provide feedback on her books, send email to carmen.webster.buxton (at) gmail.com.

Website / Twitter / Facebook

MY CARMEN WEBSTER BUXTON 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’s 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!