Blame It on the Brontes by Annie Sereno Narrated by Katie Schorr

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I received a digital copy of this audiobook from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

Being from Missouri had I known this book takes place in so many locations or types of places I’m either very familiar with or have been to I probably would not have requested this book. However that’s a me problem not a book problem. I do enjoy books set in places I’ve never been like NYC while I imagine there are probably many people who prefer not to read about where they live. So if you’re not from here it’s probably irrelevant. 

This is a second chance romance. Personally I only occasionally like second chance romances. So these two factors likely colored my view of the rest.

I’m also much more of an Austen fan than a Brontë fan. I enjoyed Jane Eyre but wasn’t much into the other Brontë books. 

I found the heroine not terribly likable or relatable. I wasn’t super on board with her mission and found the plot path somewhat predictable.

If you’re not from the Midwest and you love second chance romances you’ll probably like this book. For me it was 3/5

Curled Up With an Earl by Amy Rose Bennett Narrated by Sasha Higgins

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I received a digital copy of this audiobook from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

This is the second book in Amy Rose Bennetts Byronic Book Club series. I would say you could read this as a stand alone. There’s no cliff hanger however I recommend starting at the beginning of the series. The first book really sets up the situations of the 3 friends and without knowing the back story of the first couple when they’re referenced in this book you may be slightly confused. 

Once again we have the fantastic narrator Sasha Higgins. She’s really just perfect for this type of heroine - blue stocking, unassuming, genuine, a little awkward.

Our heroine was very relatable. She’s attempting to scrape along on a shoe string budget managing a household to the best of her ability, looking after her father who’s growing stranger with age and worrying about her absent brother. She never loses faith or love for her brother or father. Which is nice to see often in these plots a person will give up on a loved one and then have a tearful “I was so wrong” reunion when they find out the true story. 

Loved our hero. First of all - smoke show large male. Competent, not afraid to get his hands dirty and able to see past the heroines awkwardness to all of her awesomeness and also appreciate the awkwardness. He is pretending to be far below his actual social standing which just makes their instant attraction and her appreciation for him all the more sweet. 

Not only is this a romance but there is also mystery, intrigue and spying. This is an open door romance with an HEA. I can’t wait to see what happens in the next book. This one was enjoyable and not to be missed. 

5/5

Pusheen the Cat's Guide to Everything by Claire Belton

I received a digital copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

As a life long fan of cats and the roommate of a rather pudgy cat I have long appreciated the life philosophies, humor and catatitude of Pusheen and the full cast of characters. This book was just as amusing and smile inducing as any previous comics. We have a paper copy of a previous Pusheen book and it’s something that I enjoy myself and my kids enjoy also both the one who can read and the one who can’t. So it’s a resounding 5/5 for us.

Extra Witchy by Ann Aguirre Narrated by Ava Lucas

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Pub Date 10 Nov 2022

I received a digital copy of this audiobook from NetGalley and Dreamscape media in exchange for an honest review. 

This is the third book in the series and I do recommend reading them in order. The story lines are somewhat overlapping so I would even read them back to back. It had been a while since I’d read the previous book so there were a few moments that would have hit differently had the previous stories been fresh in my mind.

I was very excited to get the real scoop on this books male lead because we saw him frequently in the first book as that male leads bff/side kick. He had previously seemed like someone who didn’t appear to have much going on but who was likely putting up a facade to hide hidden depths and probably some kind of emotional trauma. Our author did not disappoint, it was fascinating to see the inner workings of his mind after previously being so superficially familiar with the character. 

Now our heroine was not as anticipated for me personally because she featured on a similar level as a number of coven sisters in the previous books. However it was great getting to know her and a different view as the last two books featured cousins and room mates. 

As always I found Ann Aguirres book to be fun, heartwarming, spicy, fantastical, engrossing, humorous and thought provoking. Additionally the narration from Ava Lucas was a high quality performance. 

5/5

The Story of Son A Story of Dark Vampire Romance by J. R. Ward Narrated by Jim Frangione

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I received a digital copy of this audiobook from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. 

If you are a fan of the JR Ward universe you will want to read this one and even if you are just in the mood for a short steamy vampire or paranormal romance you won’t want to miss it. It clocks in at just over 2.5 hours so there isn’t any unnecessary fluff. It can be read as a stand alone. This is her usual narrator so consistent performance and characterization is present.

Trigger warnings for being kidnapped, being drugged, being imprisoned, betrayal by a family member, undercurrents of Florence nightingale syndrome/Stockholm syndrome, being unable to remember having sex.

Some people may not be on board with the insta-lust going on here but when presented with a super buff hot considerate gentlemanly artistic virgin…. I mean I get it, I’m fine with it but not everyone might be. This is very fast paced and does feel like a bit of a whirlwind.

This is an open door high steam novella. Epilogue HEA.

5/5

Gemini Queen A Dark Witch Academy Standalone by Laura Navarre

 

I received a digital copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

This is a paranormal polyamorous new adult high steam open door romance. Themes of magic, shifters and zodiac related traits. This story runs parallel to the author’s previous books in the astral heat series with a hint of being in the same universe but no definitive crossovers. This one is a standalone with HEA. No cliffhanger

We have one heroine and 4 hero’s. We have themes of age gap, mentor/mentee, enemies to lovers, fated mates, found family. Everyone that matters is bisexual.  The book starts with bang literally and figuratively. Immediately the chemistry and tension between the characters as they each meet and interact with the heroine is palpable and compelling. This one is a page turner but be careful those pages may singe your fingers because this is H-O-T, hot!

5/5

Much Ado About Dukes by Eva Devon Narrated by Sasha Higgins

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I received a digital copy of this audiobook from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

This was my first book by this author but my second recent audiobook with this narrator. Strangely both audiobooks featured independently minded blue stockings who ‘don’t need a man’ but end up marrying a Duke 🤷‍♀️ However it doesn’t change them they just do more good with their social capital.

Despite these similarities honestly I love this theme and am in no way bothered by some repeat plot points. This one in particular had a very unique introspective moment that I won’t spoil but it really brought home how fragile a woman’s independence was back then and the necessity of pragmatism. 

Our hero is an emotionally wounded oldest sibling who’s essentially raised his younger brothers and is a natural caretaker and wants to be able to control everything around him so that he can protect everyone. You don’t always have to be so brave Duke. Let her in. What is it about repressed emotions and vulnerability that is so attractive in a big strong powerful man? No really I’m asking, I have no idea but it checks a box for me every time. Swoon. He doesn’t want to be hurt by love but what he really needs is the love of a good woman. Sign me up. 

I thoroughly enjoyed this one. There were many thought provoking moments, some good steam and romance and plenty of heartwarming humor. If you’re a fan of this genre it’s a definite winner.

5/5

Working Boats An Inside Look at Ten Amazing Watercraft by Tom Crestodina

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I received a digital copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

I read this book with my two boys ages 5 and 9. They were captivated by all of the details. Books like this are always a hit with my kiddos and with many because it seems like every time you look at a picture you notice something new which will bring them back to read it again and again. This will make a fantastic addition to any public or home library.

5/5

Alien's Temptation Earth Brides & Alien Warriors, Book 3 by Tina Moss

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I received a digital copy of this ebook from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. 

This is the 3rd book in the series and while one could probably enjoy it fine if you’re not too picky needing world building details and distracted by call backs to other books it’s probably best that they be read in order. 

Here we have two Alpha personalities on a mission together challenging for control and unable to resist the pull of being fated mates but only he knows about the fated mates thing! Oh nos! But wait she’s on board with the canoodling so it’s fine. 

This is a sci fi alien romance space adventure with high steam, a couple tense dangerous moments and is on the shorter side which is just what I need sometimes. 

Great read. 5/5

Booked on a Feeling by Jayci Lee Narrated by Cindy Kay

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I received a digital copy of this audiobook from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. 

This is a friends to lovers romance about (to borrow a phrase from the podcast Heaving Bosoms) two hot dummies (and I mean that affectionately) who are obviously hopelessly in love with each other but shove those feelings down to “preserve their friendship” and focus on career (Lizzy) and family (Jack). 

However they both come to realize that their prior goals and focus are no longer as fulfilling or appropriately fitting as previously.

They come to the realization that they need a new life focus and so much the better if that involves more time together even if they are “just friends”. 

Also independent bookstores.

And just like when finding the culprit in a mystery, their next steps provide means, motive and opportunity. (I may be listening to too many true crime podcasts.)

This story features Asian American (Korean) leads to provide some much needed diversity in the romance genre. Familiar concept of heroine named Lizzy/Elizabeth favoring Jane Austen and Pride and Prejudice in particular. Solid performance by the narrator.

4/5

The Grump Who Stole Summer by Ella Fields Narrated by Kelsey-Ann O'Dowd and Brian Meslar

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I received a digital copy of this audiobook from NetGalley and Orange Sky Audio in exchange for an honest review. The print/ebook version was released in January of 2022 and is available to read on kindle unlimited. The audiobook releases 8/9/22.

This is a second chance romance - a broody angsty new adult romance with high steam (open door) and frequent cursing. There’s underage substance use but no underage action. Remembered references to casual sex. So if that doesn’t sound to your taste keep walking. As a mom in my late 30s I’m not always in the mood for new adult romance drama but sometimes it’s a nice snack.

A scarred (literally and figuratively) grumpy virgin hero is one of my absolute favorite romance tropes. We also get a bookstore workplace makeover. The author uses alternating hero vs heroine; present day vs past storytelling to unravel what’s really going on between these two. 

Our heroine is a “bad girl/uninhibited party” who really isn’t all that bad. She’s relatable and intellectual beneath the glittery surface. 

Our hero calls Alice “wonderland” as a nickname, which I find fun, romantic and potentially full of meaning. Alice is bisexual and some of the cruel reactions by peers after a high school exploration of feels occurs. Largely just cattiness. No specified cruelty or violence. So not pleasant but not overly scarring if that’s a trigger subject. 

Narration quality - female was solid with inflection for various characters. It appeared to me at least, that the gravelly-ness of the hero’s voices was likely not natural and an affectation. Kudos to him for giving the people what they want. The reading of the chapter titles felt a little unnatural and forced but once entering the narrative it melded with the story quite well and I appreciate the effort in voice acting the character more than a natural voice that wouldn’t fit the character.

At the end we find out what really happened in the past and connections are made that none of our leading players even knew. It was a bit darker than I expected but the author didn’t linger overlong on the subject.

5/5

All Fired Up by Dylan Newton Narrated by Emma Love; Max Lloyd-Jones

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I received a digital copy of this audiobook from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

This was a great listen - loved the dual narration and the narrators. Our heroine is type A organized with a can do attitude and a Mary Poppins bag of everything one might need. Our hero is a chill, live in the now, Adonis like, ax throwing, pottery making veteran.

This is a great opposites attract/forced proximity rom-com. I loved the way the cover tied into the story line. This is a great example of how sometimes we can get in our own way and can learn from others who are different how to temper our own over strong tendencies. 

I can’t wait for the next brothers story. 5/5

The Witches of Moonshyne Manor A Novel by Bianca Marais Narrated by Amy Landon

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I received a digital copy of this audiobook from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. 

Ok so first up this is listed as a rom-com/sci-fi/fantasy/womens fiction and to me a more accurate description would be womens paranormal comedy fiction. It is funny, there is witchiness, while there is some closed door action and feelings of unrequited love I wouldn’t categorize it as romantic. This book gave me feels of the movies - The First Wives Club, Grumpy Old Men and The Devine Secrets of the Ya Ya Sisterhood. Starring a cadre of octogenarian witches with a spunky 15 year old feminist and one of my favorite touches - her dog Ruth Bader Ginsberg. 

We get to know these ladies and the events that took place 30 years ago that led them to this point are unraveled in a compelling and captivating bit of storytelling. 

The authors note at the end was especially appropriate in that we don’t often read books focused on elderly ladies and really it should happen more often - they’ve lived a lot of life. Go into this open to appreciating it for the gem it is with no preconceived notions based on genre descriptions and it will not disappoint. It is truly a unique tale. 

5/5

Blood Metal Bone by Lindsay Cummings

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I received a digital copy of this book from NetGalley and a physical copy from the publisher Harper 360 in exchange for an honest review.

This is a unique setup that can be surprising and/or jarring if unexpected and it would likely be better to present upfront in the synopsis the unusual genre mixing. From what is presented one expects a YA fantasy world in the sense of the familiar construct of semi-medieval monarchy with no real tech and underlying magic. However there are alternating viewpoints between the heroine in this familiar world and then swaps to a another viewpoint in a world with a sci-fi feel. Some may take issue with these disparities but it’s fantasy why not make it as fantastical as possible? With that in mind it’s easier to go on the journey that is this book knowing at least somewhat what to expect. The mystery of what will happen next lures one through the story arc like a trail through the forest that you can’t see the end of. My only critique is a more thorough synopsis and some more solid world building upfront. 4.5/

Game Wizards The Epic Battle for Dungeons & Dragons by Jon Peterson Narrated by Chris Andrew Ciulla

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I received a digital copy of this audiobook from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

I have not played Dungeons and Dragons myself but I have a 9 year old who’s getting into so I thought I’d do some research. I have seen Stranger Things which I feel like has made waves in popularizing this role playing game along with The Big Bang Theory. Being a nerd is relatively cool these days.

Getting a non-fiction historical accounting of the development of such a unique and prolific game style was fascinating and in a way reminded me of a real life version of Ready Player One. This book is accessible to both the expert and the novice in this genre of entertainment. Check it out. 4.5/5

ABC Pride by Louie Stowell; Elly Barnes

 

I received a digital copy of this picture book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

I’d like to preface this by saying I personally grew up in a rural area with almost no diversity so I’m raising my children in an area with much more diversity including members of the LGBTQAI2S+ community in our extended chosen family, church family and among our friends. The way I raise my kiddos is that everyone’s unique in their own way and as long as it doesn’t hurt anyone else that’s just fine and that it’s not a big deal. 

Representation is important, seeing people in books that represent themselves or the people they care about makes a big difference for kids. 

Some of the words will require added context from parents to explain further. Sometimes it’s nice to add your own context like for us it would be - yes see they’re just like your BFFs two aunts that we went to the pumpkin patch with. They’re kids call them mom and mommy. 

Some parents may be looking for a book that does all the explanations for them on a topic they don’t feel fully knowledgeable of. This is not really a book that will hold your hand through the topics if that’s your situation,it’s more of a framework to build a larger conversation on.

Great pictures. Very colorful. 4.5/5 only because there are words like stereotype that will be difficult for kids in the ABC book age bracket to grasp because it’s not something you hear in conversation often at that age

Darius A Black Dagger Brotherhood Love Story by J.R. Ward Narrated by Jim Frangione

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I received a digital copy of this audiobook from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. 

This book is an extension of JR Wards prolific Black Dagger Brotherhood series. While I don’t consider it necessary to have read all the books I do strongly urge you to read the first book in the series. This one is  largely a prequel to the first book as the origin story of the heroine in the first book and this book does not have a traditional HEA so the end will be more satisfying and acceptable if one is already invested in the whole story. It ends with an epilogue to the first book. 

Read by the usual narrator for this series it has the same flow and feel we are used to. This is a paranormal/supernatural vampire + human insta-love romance with referencing themes of fated mates. Trigger warnings include parent death, death in childbirth, lies of omission, abusive romantic relationships, gaslighting and controlling behavior. 

Solid book for this series and great as an audiobook. 5/5

Spare Parts The Story of Medicine Through the History of Transplant Surgery by Paul Craddock Narrated by Paul Craddock

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I received a digital copy of this audiobook from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

Sometimes when listening to a nonfiction audiobook they can come across as dry especially if the narrator does not feel a particular connection with the subject matter. This book however is read by the author so there is a true feeling of what he found peculiar or funny or strange or sad or exciting. This makes the storytelling even more engaging. Plus as an American I think it’s fairly common that we enjoy a British accent (which this guy has) I mean I would listen to Benedict Cumberbatch read the phone book.

I work in a field that is medicine adjacent so I had a keen interest in the subject matter and while I do think this book would be interesting for anyone I will say up front I had no idea how many dogs lost their lives in the name of medical science so if that’s something that will bother you this may not be a good fit.

The book does address more recent advancements but primarily spends its time in the early days of transfusions, organ transplant, skin grafting, anatomy and the development of medical knowledge.

Fascinating listen. 5/5

Up All Night with a Good Duke by Amy Rose Bennett Narrated by Sasha Higgins

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I received a digital copy of this audiobook from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

I adore historical romance audiobooks and this one did not disappoint. Our heroine is independent, relatively self sufficient for her time and a little saucy. Our hero despite being a super hot widowed Duke has a ruined reputation. He doesn’t really care what others think but he has a 15 year old daughter who really needs a mom type figure and he needs an heir so into the fray he goes. The chemistry between these two is unreal. I loved every minute. Good sounds quality and great narration. 5/5

You Were Made to Be Mine The Palace of Rogues by Julie Anne Long

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I received a digital copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

This book is the 5th in the series so while not absolutely necessary - reading the previous books is recommended. 

The writing is beautiful. The set up is fairly unique which can be hard to do in romance sometimes as we do love our tropes. Slow to build but once the story picks up just lovely. Plenty of wit, romance and inner turmoil. Excellent historical romance. 5/5