Book Reviews – Page 4 – Author D.L. Finn

2023 Books Read And Plans For 2024! #writingcommunity #bookreviews #whattoread

Hi:)

Here are the 97 books read in 2023. I might have missed a couple I couldn’t find on Goodreads and there is a repeat for some strange reason. I figure it all balances out to the same number given. Yes, I count my books because I do read them once again when published. A couple are from NetGallery too.

My writing plans for 2024?

I am currently working on a dual timeline set in 1924 and 1965 set in the same house. It’s a paranormal mystery with two loving couples. This was one of my NaNoWri stories that I’ve been wanting to get back to. A lot of research has gone into this story.

My other project is a Christmas novelette and a short story collection. This I will push to get out in time for the holidays.

I still plan to read 75 plus indie stories and review them. When I will read outside indie, I take a break from reviewing. I’ll keep posting here at least once a week but will set aside my planned changes or additions that I’m not ready to start. There is still my once a month post over on Story Empire too. I may or may not continue Books That Changed Me seasonal posts of my top books read and will be taking some Do-Nothing days here and there for self care.

I will be watching to make sure I don’t burn myself out like I did at the end of last year.

I was quiet for a while last week as my internet was down. With no cell signal either at our house it require I drive down the mountain and try to catch up on my cell phone for as long as I can. Fingers crossed they fixed it and it won’t repeat another outage. It felt like old times getting my information from TV and phone calls…lol

What’s your writing plans for the year?

Embrace that sweet inner child by reading a good book. D. L. Finn

January Book Reviews! @NAGrangerAuthor @SueColetta1 #whattoread #writingcommunity #mustreads #bookreviews

Death by Pumpkin: A Rhe Brewster Mystery (Rhe Brewster #3)

By N.A. Granger

“Death by Pumpkin” is the third in the Rhe Brewster Books. Although this is the first I’ve read of this series, I found it very easy to follow along and get to know the characters. Rhe is a nurse and works for the police department while being a widowed mom. The story starts out with an unusual death and Rhe involved in the investigation. Soon it becomes apparent there is more to this and an unknown danger lurking. While Rhe struggles with being a mom, nurse and working to be an investigator, she questions her love life and feelings. There are many exciting parts and twists, including an airplane ride where it was obvious there was a lot of research put into it. I love Rhe’s character and her caring but inquisitive side while being a protective mother to her son and good friend and relative. She focused on not only solving a crime but protecting her brother-in-law and friend Sam’s job. This is a wonderfully written cozy whodunit that weaves in relationships, making it a page turner. I will definitely be reading more Rhe Brewster stories and can easily recommend this one.

Blessed Mayhem (The Mayhem Series #2)

By Sue Coletta

I have read and loved a couple of the newer Mayhem stories and now I’m going back to the beginning to watch it all unfold. Even knowing what happens down the road, this story still had me on the edge of my seat because I had no idea how relationships progressed. Shawnee works for the police department and is dating a detective, but in secret, she is a Robinhood-type cat burglar. This gets her into trouble when she runs across a body and the killer, Mr. Mayhem. Now, Shawnee is forced to confront her past and try to stay alive. It is strange to root for a burglar and serial killer, but I couldn’t help it because they had so much depth and layers that I understood them. Although there are brutal deaths, humor is mixed in perfectly balancing that out. My favorite characters, besides Shawnee and Mr. Mayhem, are the Crows, especially Poe. I am on to book three even more curious and can highly recommend “Blessed Mayhem.”

These are the last two books reviewed in 2023. Next week, I’ll share how many books read in 2023 and any special plans for this new year.

Embrace your inner child by reading good books in 2024! D. L. Finn

New Release! A Death at the Inn by @JoanHallWrites Harbor Pointe Series Book 7 #harborpointeseries #writingcommunity #whattoread

Yay! Happy New Year 🙂 Today is another reason to celebrate—or the release of the seventh book of the Harbor Pointe Series. I am sharing the blurb and my review here today.

Blurb

Suicide, accident, or murder?

After an argument with her fiancé, up-and-coming actress Leah Myers booked a room at the Harbor Pointe Inn. Near the end of her stay, someone found her body at the bottom of the nearby cliff. The police ruled her death a suicide.

Five years later, four people from Leah’s past visit the inn on the anniversary of her death. Her fiancé, her brother, her psychologist, and her close friend, Adele, who was a guest at Harbor Pointe the night Leah died.

Deputy Brad Sherman, assistant to the lead detective, has always believed something was amiss with the investigation. When he learns Leah’s former acquaintances are staying at the inn, he decides to look at the old case file.

The four guests soon learn each other’s identity and begin to discuss the events leading up to Leah’s demise. But someone doesn’t want them to know the truth. When Adele confesses she is haunted by the possibility she saw something important that fateful night, it puts her in grave danger.

Now it’s a race against time before she becomes the killer’s next victim.

My Review

Leah’s passing was ruled a suicide at Harbor Pointe Inn five years ago. Four people head to the inn on the death anniversary—without each other’s knowledge. Leah’s best friend, Adele, who had been there when it happened, was still trying to make sense of it. Leah’s fiancé, Daryl, carried the guilt of their fight and not going with her, while her psychiatrist, who felt she could have prevented it, was joined by Leah’s grieving brother. Questions are raised as the group slowly gets to know each other. Here, facts surface. Even a local deputy felt the investigation had been rushed. But as they creep closer to the truth, their lives may be in danger. I love a well-written whodunit, and this definitely was that. The group slowly pieces together what happened with the addition of twists and surprises. The imagery and depth of characters added an extra layer to an already good mystery. It kept me guessing until the end. I can easily recommend this murder mystery.

UNIVERSAL AMAZON LINK

Joan Hall has always enjoyed reading or listening to stories about inexplicable events, so it’s not surprising she writes mystery and romantic suspense. A lover of classic rock music, songs often serve as the inspiration for her books.

When she’s not writing, Joan likes to observe the night skies, explore old cemeteries, and learn about legends and folklore. She and her husband live in Texas with their two cats. Learn more about Joan at her website, http://JoanHall.net.

Embrace your inner child by reading a great book! D. L. Finn

December Book Reviews! @bakeandwrite @AuthorIseult @JillWeatherholt @YouAreTheExpert @Dwallacepeach #writingcommunity #mustreads #bookreview

Neema the Misfit Giraffe

By Robbie Cheadle and Michael Cheadle

Neema is a giraffe that looks a little different on the outside. Her current herd shuns her and Neema finally breaks away from them with no hope of finding acceptance or a mate. The story is beautifully told using rhyming, which is fun to read. There are amazing photos, video links, and artwork included that add that special layer to this children’s book. After the story, there are many giraffe facts included to add to the experience that is for beginning readers or parents and children to enjoy together—although I appreciated this too. This will make a fantastic gift for my youngest grandchildren. I can highly recommend “Neema the Misfit Giraffe” which not only entertains and educates but offers a lesson that being different is okay.

Myths of the Mirror (Dragon Soul Quartet #1)

By D. Wallace Peach

Treasa didn’t know her exiled and deceased father or much about the old ways. She lives with her mother in a world where dragons are cruelly treated and used for profit. The young man, Conall, who she is drawn to wants to be a dragon rider. He set aside feelings and did what was necessary to get there. Treasa finally sees the dragon’s living conditions, and it sickens her. This puts a wedge in their budding relationship. I must admit I felt the same as Treasa about how dragons were treated and rooted for the dragons. It heartened me that the old ways had a different approach that benefited the dragons and riders, but it was equally bleak at the level of the current fearful deception and greed. I loved Treasa’s character and her best friend, Gae, along with the little dragon pet, Trag. As Treasa learns more about her father’s past, Conall finally gets his day in the spotlight. There’s not only friend, love, and family relationships explored, but also what’s acceptable in the name of fortune and security. A well-written story that was hard to put down and I’m eager to continue this series to see what happens next. I can highly recommend “Myths of the Mirror.”

The Life and Times of Le Bronco von der Löwenhöhle: Stories and Tips from Thirteen Years with a Leonberger

By Thomas Wikman

“The Life and Times of Le Bronco von der Löwenhöhle” introduces the reader to a charming dog, Bronco. I loved learning not only the history and care of this enormous dog but also his special place in the Wikman family. The first half of the book was stories from the day the sweet puppy came home to the moment he crossed the rainbow bridge. Having had a large dog years ago, I found myself connected with many of the shared events, especially the training, walks, and eating. It was wonderful as new dog members were brought into the family and how the dogs interacted. Within these stories were tips and facts that added to the experience. I laughed out loud a few times and wiped away tears, too. This book not only educates about a unique dog but captures the love of the humans who share their house with them. A heartwarming read filled with lots of great information that anyone who loves dogs, and animals, will enjoy. I can highly recommend this engaging read!

Gone But Not Forgotten

By Iseult Murphy

“Gone But Not Forgotten” is a quick horror mystery that is set on Halloween. It’s been a year since Bill’s wife drowned while taking a bath. His widowed neighbor, Mere, comes by to help him get through a tough night that is haunted by a ghost. Although my suspicions were right, there was an added twist that brought an extra layer into this page-turner. An exciting read that I can easily recommend to fans of horror.

Second Chance Romance

By Jill Weatherholt

“Second Chance Romance” is a sweet Christian romance set in a charming small town. A local paramedic, Jackson, was on his way to pick up his young daughter Rebecca when he came across an accident. He immediately rescued the woman, Melanie, and got her to the hospital. Luckily, Melanie only had some bumps and bruises that only required an overnight watch, and she was back on her quest to ask her only living relative to come live with her. Unfortunately for Melanie, her aunt Phoebe had no desire to leave. Melanie wasn’t an easy woman to deal with. Only her aunt knew that a horrible accident had claimed Melanie’s daughter and husband and how much she was hurting. Melanie had lost all her faith and couldn’t wait to get back to her job, which consumed all her time. I loved the developing relationship between Melanie with not only Jackson but also his daughter. Sweet Gum seemed like a place Melanie could heal if she allowed it to happen. A few twists changed her life in ways she didn’t expect. A well-written story that weaves in not only a woman’s coming to grips with her past, and possible romance, but her spiritual healing, too. This is a feel-good HEA that I can easily recommend.

Son of BOOKU Returns: with more Halloween haiku

By Annette Rochelle Aben

“Son of BOOKU Returns” is another great addition to the BOOKU family. I loved all the pictures from Lorraine Parent’s Halloween display included with the short poems. It’s a fun way to celebrate Halloween, any time of the year. Each poem left me smiling. Here are lines from some favorites: “I feel accepted/They’re not spooked by my colors…”, “Wishing on the moon/We hope that when we grow up…”, “Merry pole dancers/Nightly shows through Halloween…”, and “The trees are alive/But we’re not! Get it?….” A whimsical poetry collection to add a sparkle to the Halloween season for all who love or need the lighter side of spooky.

Legacy of Souls (The Shattered Sea #2)

By D. Wallace Peach

“Legacy of Souls” began with Raze enjoying some deserved peace. Leaving behind the politics of his noble birth and losing his wife, it looked like he’d found love again on his farm. But his father shows up and asks a favor of Raze to accompany him to see the Empress. In a society of slavery, murder, and greed, Raze must fight to save the ones he loves. Raze’s world is beautifully created, offering both its gentle and cruel side. I fell in love with many of the characters, including Raze and Bel, who only wanted a happily ever after. It was almost within their grasp until it was ripped away. There were several villains in this layered story who were made worse by their practice of soul swallowing, and one had manipulation perfected. One of my favorite characters, Johzar, balanced between right and wrong, tipping some of his actions more to almost kind-hearted. There were many twists and Raze had to decide whether to swallow another soul to have skills he lacked to fight evil. What I found fascinating is the idea of taking someone’s soul after they die and absorbing it into their essence. The person may gain the captured soul’s wisdom, feelings, skills, or even cruelty. The idea of taking away the freedom to move on after death seemed like the slavery of the soul, although that was not how it was viewed—by most. A thrilling fantasy that was hard to put down and can be read as a standalone, but I was glad I read the first book and made the journey with Raze. I highly recommend this for those who love compelling fantasy.

NOTE: Next week will be an early Books that Changed Me Winter Edition and my newsletter will be going out early, so I can take a holiday break. Watch for a special post Thursday.

Embrace your inner child by reading a book. Gift that inner child by giving a book to someone special this holiday season. D. L. Finn

New Release! The Fathomless Affair by @stacitroilo Harbor Pointe Series Book 6 #harborpointeseries #writingcommunity #whattoread

Yay! Tomorrow is the release day for the sixth book of the Harbor Pointe Series. If you haven’t picked up your copy there is still time. I am sharing the blurb and my review here today.

Blurb

A narcissistic patriarch. A mystical legend. A fathomless affair.

Most people wouldn’t dread a weekend at the historic Harbor Pointe Inn. Lorelei Audley isn’t most people. The fresh sea air, breathtaking vistas, and gourmet meals can’t buoy her spirits. She’s there to coordinate her father’s latest wedding. The bride is a nightmare, yet somehow, the groom is worse. Lorelei steels herself to suffer through a few days of psychological abuse and abject misery.

She’s unprepared for a paranormal encounter, missing persons case, and police investigation.

Not to mention a budding romance.

A lot can happen in a short time, far more if the supernatural is involved. Lorelei has a small window in which to solve some very big problems—problems as numerous as the sands at the foot of the scenic Harbor Pointe cliffs.

My Review

Lorelei has been asked by her father to plan his wedding at the ocean. Things have not gone right for her since she walked into the building and fell. This foreshadowed what was to come. Her self-centered father and equally bad young bride make demands as Lorelei tries to please her father. Luckily, during this, she meets Porter who is there to capture a rare comet sighting. A friendship ensues as she learns about a ghost ship and a curse. This entire weekend seems to be cursed as things keep going wrong and her ungrateful father makes more demands. I could easily relate to Lorelei having taken care of a self-centered stepfather myself. Ms. Troilo nailed their unhealthy relationship perfectly with a touch of responsibility and love. The ghosts and lore are mixed beautifully with family dynamics and mystery. The lush setting and subtle humor weaved into the well-written story had me spellbound. I couldn’t have predicted the twists it would take or put the story down until I finished it. I highly recommend this!

UNIVERSAL AMAZON LINK

Staci Troilo grew up in Western Pennsylvania writing stories and poetry in her free time, so it was no surprise that she studied writing in college. After receiving creative and professional writing degrees from Carnegie Mellon University, she went on to get her Master’s Degree in Professional Writing, and she worked in corporate communications until she had her children. When they had grown, she went on to become a writing professor, and now she is a freelance writer and editor.

Staci is a multi-genre author. Her fiction is character-driven, and despite their protests, she loves to put them in all kinds of compromising or dangerous situations.

You can find out more about her on her website (stacitroilo.com).

NOTE: Book Reviews are next week.

Embrace your inner child by reading a great book! D. L. Finn

New Release! The Seas of Time by @Dwallacepeach Harbor Pointe Series Book 4 #harborpointeseries #writingcommunity #whattoread

Yay! Tomorrow is the release day for the fourth book of the Harbor Pointe Series. If you haven’t picked up your copy there is still time. I am sharing the blurb and my review here today.

Blurb

In 1858, a ship carrying ice from Alaska wrecked off the coast of California, and little does Taliah Keldan realize how that tragedy will impact her life in 1972.

When Tali decides to quit college and become a civil rights activist, her disappointed parents encourage her to think it over. What better spot for contemplation than at her aunt and uncle’s Harbor Pointe Inn, a charming seaside getaway with its own lighthouse? The place is under renovation and empty of guests. All she’ll have to deal with is the construction crew.

But the inn is far from peaceful.

Tali discovers an old Bible hidden in the lighthouse keeper’s cottage. Strange prayers angle down the margins, all but one ruined by the sea. When she deciphers the crude writing, a dark portal gapes open to a pre-civil war night when an escaped slave in a foundering ship prayed to his voodoo God. A winged creature emerges from the watery void, and her stay transforms into a nightmare.

With the aid of the construction foreman, Tali is determined to send the beast back through time, a choice that will risk their lives, test her convictions, and change her future.

My Review

Taliah is very aware of how the shade of her skin affects how she is treated in 1972. She drops out of college so she can join the protests and try to change the world. Her parents, though, ask her to think about it and she ends up caretaking for her uncle and aunt’s inn in a small coastal town for a month. In the old lighthouse keeper’s house where she’s staying, a bible is found. After reading some words aloud, she ends up with an unexpected guest, or hungry gargoyle named Zam. Tali is a strong character with a burning sense of justice in a world where it is limited. I love the relationship she develops with Zam and her determination to send him back. Zam, though, is my favorite. His scary appearance had nothing to do with his gentle personality. When he wasn’t focused on filling his stomach, he was trying to communicate his needs to Tali. With the unpleasant contractor Greg, Tali’s thrust into a world of voodoo, time travel, and slavery. This well-written story had a little of everything that blended perfectly together. An exciting, yet thought-provoking story I can highly recommend.

UNIVERSAL AMAZON LINK

A long-time reader, best-selling author D. Wallace Peach started writing later in life when years of working in business surrendered to a full-time indulgence in the imaginative world of books. She was instantly hooked.

In addition to fantasy books, Peach’s publishing career includes participation in various anthologies featuring short stories, flash fiction, and poetry. She’s an avid supporter of the arts in her local community, organizing and publishing annual anthologies of Oregon prose, poetry, and photography.

Peach lives in a log cabin amongst the tall evergreens and emerald moss of Oregon’s rainforest with her husband, two owls, a horde of bats, and the occasional family of coyotes.

For book descriptions, excerpts, maps, and behind the scenes info, please visit http://dwallacepeachbooks.com.

For her blog on all things writing, please visit http://mythsofthemirror.com.

Ready for an adventure?

The Ferryman and the Sea Witch

The Sorcerer’s Garden

Sunwielder

The Bone Wall

The Melding of Aeris

Unraveling the Veil Series:

Liars and Thieves

Allies and Spies

Lords of Chaos

The Shattered Sea Duology:

Soul Swallowers, Book I

Legacy of Souls, Book II

The Rose Shield Tetralogy:

Catling’s Bane, Book I

Oathbreakers’ Guild, Book II

Farlanders’ Law, Book III

Kari’s Reckoning, Book IV

The Dragon Soul Saga:

Myths of the Mirror, Book I

Eye of Fire, Book II

Eye of Blind, Book III

Eye of Fire, Book IV

Grumpy Ana and the Grouchy Monsters: A Children’s Space Tale

NOTE: There will be no post next week as I will be taking it off to get ready for Thanksgiving. There will be an early Monthly Newsletter at the end of this week. Watch your email for it if subcribed.

For those who celebrate, Happy Thanksgiving!

Embrace your inner child by reading a good story! D. L. Finn

November Book Reviews! @supermegawoman @bakeandwrite @stacitroilo @teagangeneviene @SueColetta1 @Virgilante @LBroday #writingcommunity #whattoread #bookreviews #mustreads

The BEK Curse

By Jonathan Pongratz

Richard and Maria have bought the home of their dreams, where they can farm to supplement their retirement. They are a loving couple, and life seems good for them until there is a persistent knock at the door. Unfortunately, they answer and find two black-eyed children who make a strange request. Although I was rooting for this couple, I had a feeling things would not be the same for them after this visit. It is a quick read that will make you rethink opening your front door to strangers, even young ones. I can easily recommend this short horror story.

Amanda in New Mexico: Ghosts in the Wind Amanda Travels #6

By Darlene Foster

I am working my way through the Amanda Series, having already read and enjoyed her excursions to France and Malta. When I heard this book might have some ghosts, it seemed the perfect read, right before Halloween. Amanda is traveling with a group to New Mexico, a place I want to explore. During the trip, Amanda is to work on her writing while others take photos or illustrate their experiences. Her new travel companion, Cleo, believes in ghosts while Amanda doesn’t. Amanda’s beliefs are challenged as she tries to figure out what is going on with Cleo and other unexplainable events. Ms. Foster has done her research, and the history the group explores is rich in detail. I was so intrigued with the setting that I was ready to book my next vacation there, even if there might be ghosts. A wonderful story for not only middle-grade readers but also those who are young at heart and want to do some exploring in New Mexico. I can easily recommend “Amanda in New Mexico.”

Dark Butterflies: Poetry and short stories of mental health

By Jude Kirya Itakali

“Dark Butterflies,” explores not only mental health but the depth of human experience through poetry and short stories. These poems and stories not only moved me with their honesty but left a lasting impression. The illustrations added a beautiful layer to the pain and hope. Here are some lines from a few of the amazing poetry and stories: “Neither grudge nor ambition/Only a blurring face,/Of someone I used to love….”—THE MAROONED, “I gaze upon this island once so beautiful every heart leapt at its sight. Until it bore an injustice so deep its waters remain stained to this very day, salted with tears of bereavement…”—AKAMPENE TANKA PROSE, “In my boudoir the walls are painted black/to blind me from the shadows as they wake/Of futures so bleak and a past without luck/I pray, I confess, for my soul’s dear sake…”—FIGHTING MY DEMONS SONNET, “Rose in a dandelion field/Stain upon yellow/Plucked…”—OUTCAST, and “My refuge looms upon a wuthering cliff/Pale-white with dark soulless windows/The raging sea below…”—WARMTH IN THE HIDDEN. A deep collection that left me contemplating life. I can easily recommend this to poetry lovers.

Sir Chocolate and the Chinese Candy Dragon

By Robbie Cheadle, Michael Cheadle

“Sir Chocolate and the Chinese Candy Dragon” is a charming addition to the children’s Sir Chocolate Series. Chinese Candy Dragon takes all the Halloween candy. How will that impact Halloween and what does the Chinese Candy Dragon learn? The story is told in limericks and rhyming prose. Skillful fondant art characters add color and beauty and are sure to hold any beginning reader’s attention. It’s also a great Halloween read for a parent and a young child to enjoy together. After the story, there are a few recipes included that would make a fun-filled family experience. I can highly recommend this for preschool or beginning readers—and those young at heart.

Love Set in Stone

By Staci Troilo

Rina and Gretchen are good friends who leave work together late at night. They tell the bouncer who walks them out to their cars to go home to his family. Gretchen had forgotten something back inside, but they insisted they’d be fine. He reluctantly leaves and Rina ends up being brutally attacked by a cruel man. In steps Damien to her much-needed rescue. When the police arrive, Damien disappears, much to Rina’s confusion. While the police question Rina and Gretchen’s motives, the attacker makes it seem like he is their victim, but Rina is very much in danger. Damien feels a pull to Rina and wants to protect her but is afraid of her finding out the truth. He is a gargoyle during the day and a human who protects at night or used to. He died a warrior in the 1200s and was given a second chance with a few catches. I loved Damien’s unique and appealing character, along with his interaction with the angel, Anael. Rina was a strong female who went to school during the day and worked hard at night. She was barely scraping by, and I couldn’t help but root for her. Although they were from different times, the chemistry was undeniable. There were some surprising twists and corruption to clear up along the way. I couldn’t have guessed how this story could resolve, which I appreciate. A well-written and sometimes steamy romance that captured me and didn’t let go until the end. I would love to see more from these characters, including some of the minor ones, and can easily recommend “Love Set in Stone.”

A Peril in the Bayou

By Teagan Ríordáin Geneviene

I read and loved Peril in Ectoplasm and was excited to see a new story. It was nice to see familiar faces from before, but it’s unnecessary to have read the first book first. Clover is the assistant to the famous psychic medium, Daphne. They travel with two friends to meet with a New Orleans Spiritualist, Mother Leafy. Upon arrival, they find out they need to take a tour of the Bayou before she will see them. Clover’s and Daphne’s relationship deepens in this story as they traverse the swamp and its mystical qualities. The two men that accompany them are so different but very loyal to Daphne. The group is unaware of the evil intentions of Mother Leafy’s rival and that makes for some exciting twists. Lush 1920 settings drew me deeper into their journey. An exciting paranormal adventure I can easily recommend.

Merciless Mayhem

by Sue Coletta

Merciless Mayhem is the eighth book in the Mayhem Series. I have read the first and sixth books and could jump right into this story with no confusion or issues. There are enough references to understand what is going on. Shawnee and Mayhem are fighting a powerful company named Killzme, which is involved in illegal animal trafficking. This corporation has set its sights on capturing Shawnee, which leads to an explosive opening to the story. Not only are their lives at stake, but the animals captured are also at risk of survival. What I love about these stories is that justice is fought for innocent ones or animals, along with Native American culture and relationships between the warriors and families. Shawnee’s dedication to learning and working with Mayhem to become a stronger warrior is fascinating. But it’s her love for her grandfather that really touches the heart. The ravens are a favorite character of mine, and the bad feelings between Shawnee and Poe add to the entertainment. Going undercover and Shawnee walking in heels was a lot of fun, but saving the orcas and dolphins tugged at my heart. There was an in-depth explanation of what capturing these intelligent creatures does to them. There are some brutal and descriptive battles that aren’t for the faint of heart, but I couldn’t help rooting for the justice behind it. Another great addition to the Mayhem Series and I will continue reading them to catch up and look forward to more stories to come.

Goodbye Old Paint (The Hat Book 7)

by C. S. Boyack

Lizzie and the Hat are back and trying to recover after disastrous flooding. Her car is barely functional, and funds are very limited as she waits for her disaster aid to come. It’s even been hard to book the band to play out. That’s when a government agency shows up needing her unusual skills to help with a gremlin infestation. They make an offer to excuse student loans. This takes Lizzie down a fun path that brings back some familiar characters from past books. I am a fan of The Hat Series and love Mr. Boyack’s humor. This book took that humor up a notch. There were a few laugh-out-loud moments, but I won’t go into detail and spoil them. I enjoyed an upgrade Lizzie received and I always appreciate the Hat’s snarky comments and how he helps. Another great Hat Book I can easily recommend.

Courting Miss Emma

By Linda Broday

“Courting Miss Emma” continues the story of the Taggart sisters. Being the daughters of the hangman, they were forced out of town after their house was burned down. They took with them the town’s orphans and found solace in an abandoned mission, along with three nuns. The first of the series focused on the older sister, Maura, and now it’s Emma’s story. Emma’s life revolves around the children, and she’s made peace with being alone—and not being lucky like Maura. However, a good-looking new neighbor, Stone, moves in. Emma and Stone immediately clash over the kids wandering onto his property to see the camels. There is little time to decide what they think of each other when riders come in and tell them their land is no longer theirs. They are expected to leave. No matter what is or isn’t between Emma and Stone, they must join to fight off attackers who will do whatever it takes to claim what isn’t theirs. I love Emma’s character; she is very strong and loving toward the ones she loves even after how she and her sister have been unfairly treated. Stone is an ex-soldier who carries a heavy past with him and a determination not to marry or have kids. It was wonderful to see all the familiar characters from the first book, especially the children, and to meet the new ones introduced. The plot was layered with not only romance and the threat of losing their home but plenty of heart-racing action and unexpected twists. Mixed in is some fun humor, including Emma imagining what her tombstone would say in different situations. The setting was rich and detailed, so I could easily imagine being in Texas in the late 1800s. A fantastic follow-up to the first book and I can’t wait for the story to continue. Although it’s unnecessary to read the first book because there was enough information added to understand the story, I’m glad I read “Maura” first. I can highly recommend this.

Embrace your inner child by reading a good book! Click on a book title and add to your reading list 🙂 D. L. Finn

New Release! The Gift by @gmplano Harbor Pointe Series Book 2 #harborpointeseries #writingcommunity #whattoread

Yay! Tomorrow is the release day for the second book of the Harbor Pointe Series. If you haven’t picked up your copy there is still time. I am sharing the blurb and my review here today.

The Gift: Harbor Pointe Series Book 2
By Gwen M. Plano

BLURB

The Harbor Pointe Inn has loomed on California’s cliffs for generations of Hawthornes. For some, it’s been a blessing. For others, a curse. Travel through two centuries of stories to discover the old inn’s secrets.
In an innocent 1958 American suburb, Shelly doesn’t know the power of a kiss. Or how it will change her entire life.
At sixteen years old, she falls in love with a young man. One night—just one night—they go too far. Months later, pregnant and shamed, Shelly’s parents banish her.
Alone and heavily pregnant, circumstances force Shelly to cross the country in an old pickup.
A mistaken turn leaves her lost in a forest amidst a severe snow storm and in labor.
In the dark of night. Shelly must get help for her new-born baby before they both perish. A light in the distance gives her the slimmest glimmer of hope.
After Shelly wraps the infant in her father’s old jacket, she trudges through the snow to a lighthouse keeper’s cottage. Snow half buries the squat stone building.
Will Shelly find shelter, or is it the beginning of the end?

MY REVIEW
“The Gift” is set in 1958 when the one mistake of a sixteen-year-old girl makes her family not only turn their back on her but send her away. Shelly is very pregnant and scared to drive alone across the United States to stay with a relative until she has the baby. Almost at her destination, she runs out of gas in a snowstorm. She goes into labor and is forced to deliver her baby. If they stay in the old truck, they will perish, so she bundles up the baby and tries to find help. She sees a light that she hopes means help and heads towards it. I was ashamed of Shelly’s parents for sending her off like they did with an old unreliable vehicle and limited funds. Shelly was strong, though, when she needed to be. And the father who was away at college with no idea of her condition came back home and began his search for her. It’s a beautifully told drama full of guilt, loss, regret—and love. I was completely invested in Shelly, the baby, and their survival. A cruel set of events for a teen also offered hope, which made this an inspirational read that I can highly recommend!

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AUTHOR BIO

Gwen M. Plano, aka Gwendolyn M. Plano, grew up in Southern California and spent most of her professional life in higher education. She taught and served as an administrator in colleges in Japan, New York, Connecticut, and California. Gwen’s academic background is in theology and counseling. Recently retired, she now lives in the high desert of Arizona, where she writes, gardens, and travels with her husband.
Gwen’s first book is an acclaimed memoir, Letting Go into Perfect Love. Her second book, The Contract between heaven and earth, is a thriller fiction novel, co-authored by John W. Howell. It has received multiple awards and is an Amazon Best Seller. The Choice, the unexpected heroes is the sequel to The Contract. It is also a thriller, involving the attempt of an unfriendly nation to take over the world. The third book in the series, The Culmination, a new beginning is an action-packed military thriller that spans the globe and involves multiple Heads of State and the threat of World War III. Only love can change the fate of humanity.
When Gwen is not writing, she’s often in the beautiful Red Rocks of Sedona, where she finds inspiration.

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Next week is Finn’s Forest #7.

Embrace your inner child by reading a good book! D. L. Finn

October Book Reviews! @TWDittmer @SueColetta1 @ninsthewriter @Dwallacepeach @SarahBrentyn @alliepottswrite #writingcommunity #bookreviews #whatyoushouldbereading

The Valley Walker

By T.W. Dittmer

Teri Altro who is a part of a government drug enforcement team, is almost gunned down at a store. A mysterious man steps in, saves her, and then disappears. This man turns out to be John Walker Micheals, who is an ex-Vietnam vet. John also has close ties to the Hmong community who call him the Valley Walker. He is wanted by the government for desertion, but Teri is protective of the man who not only saved her life, but she shot. The settings and descriptions of the Vietnam War and the Hmong culture were very detailed and added a depth that made this story hard to put down. The flowing time and locations in the book include mysticism, politics, and powerful drug traffickers. Teri worked hard but forgot about her heart. John’s character is unpredictable until the end. I loved how this complex tale unfolded so skillfully on many levels. It is a story I can easily recommend.

Wings of Mayhem (The Mayhem Series #1)

By Sue Coletta

I started this series with book six, “Restless Mayhew” and was immediately drawn into the story. After that, I wanted to know what happened before, so I started with book one and found the beginning equally compelling. Shawnee is a cat burglar who steals from criminals to give back to their victims—she also works for the police department. When she was a cat burglar, she discovered the identity of a serial killer. Unfortunately, he found out that she had broken into his house and taken his prized possession, along with some cash and gems. Although the killer is known right away, the book is still a page-turner, and I couldn’t wait to find out how she survived. At first, I wanted her to turn the killer in to save his victims from his creative yet inhuman and painful deaths. Shawnee was in a dangerous position and not only had to save herself but those she loved. Plus, she dates a detective who can easily throw her in jail if he finds out too much about her. Shawnee is not only a flawed individual but a determined one who had me on her side. A well-written thriller that kept me up late into the night, wanting to know what was going to happen next. I can’t wait to read the next in the series and can easily recommend this to those who love fast-paced mysteries with graphic details of being a victim and a survivor.

Dark Eyes

By Nina Romano

“Dark Eyes” is set in the Soviet Union in the 1950s. Anya is a young, unwed mother who struggles to provide food for her daughter after escaping an abusive relationship. After her daughter’s grandmother is brutally murdered, Anya wants to find the killer. This pulls her into a corrupt criminal world that ventures into the police department and includes dolls, diamonds, and drugs. Andrei is a police photographer trying to get hired onto the force. They meet during the investigation and seem drawn to each other. I didn’t like Andrei at first because of his initial interactions with Anya. Later, as I got to know Andrei and Anya better, I became invested in these characters and rooted for their survival. Ms. Romano paints a vivid picture of how it would have been to be living in those times in the Soviet Union, especially as a woman. In the Soviet Union, shortages of food, heat, and jobs made life difficult. It was also risky to disagree with the KGB or be Jewish. A couple of scenes with Anya were graphic and brutal but showed her strength and determination to survive for her mentally challenged daughter and to find the truth. This story draws you into a world we are lucky we don’t live in and offers hope amongst cruelty. A historical fiction love story I can easily recommend.

The Shadows We Breathe (Volume 3)

By Sarah Brentyn and various authors

This is the first anthology I’ve read of “The Shadows We Breathe (Volume 3)” and really enjoyed it. I recognized a couple of the authors but was also introduced to new ones. The book is put together with first flash fiction and then micro-fiction with the theme of power. I loved all the different perspectives that were taken in the stories. Some touched on some very dark subjects, but all were well told. I enjoyed them all so I don’t have a favorite story, but the micro-fiction was compelling in what could be told in fewer words. Although a fast read, it wasn’t light on entertainment or depth. I can easily recommend this collection to those who want to explore the shadowy side of life.

Embrace your inner child by reading a good book! D. L. Finn

New Release! “The Price of Atonement” by Mae Clair @MaeClair1 #HarborPointeSeries #newrelease #writingcommunity #historicalfiction #whattoread

Hooray! The Harbor Pointe Series kicks off tomorrow with The Price of Atonement by Mae Clair!

If you haven’t picked up your copy yet, there’s still time to get it before it releases. You aren’t going to want to miss this story. My review follows the blurb.

BLURB

Some hauntings come from within.

Leviticus Sinclair has been a broken man since the murders of his wife and brother. Burdened by personal failures the night they were killed, he occupies himself by crossing the country, searching out departed spirits unwilling to move from this world to the next. His dead brother’s Bible and a pocket watch—forever frozen at the precise moment of his wife’s death—serve as grim reminders of a past he cannot exorcise.

Accompanied by Wyatt Resnick, a paid employee who fills the role of researcher and hired muscle, Leviticus arrives at the Harbor Pointe Inn amid rumors of a vengeful ghost. A phantom who may be the single spirit he has long sought, one capable of freeing him from his torment.

Set in the remote Pacific Northwest of 1887, The Price of Atonement is a story of jealousy, guilt, and one man’s relentless quest for absolution.

REVIEW

The Price of Atonement: Harbor Pointe Series #1

By Mae Clair

“The Price of Atonement” kicks off the Harbor Pointe Series in the late 1800s. Leviticus has been traveling, seeking ghosts who won’t cross over since his wife and brother were killed. Wyatt accompanies him as his assistant and caretaker. They end up at the Harbor Inn. Here, the Hawthorne family has some secrets, including an angry ghost, and a terrified young mother. With Wyatt’s help, Leviticus tries to resolve their ghost issues while having to deal with his past. The setting was so beautifully described that it felt like I was another guest at the inn watching this unfold. The character’s depth, guilt, and human flaws had me rooting for a successful outcome for everyone. Although the story is a novelette, it is fast-paced and rich with historical details, making it impossible to put this well-written story down. I would love to see more stories with Leviticus and Wyatt on their ghost adventures. I can highly recommend this story.

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AUTHOR BIO

A member of the International Thriller Writers, Mae Clair is also a founding member and contributor to the award-winning writing blog, Story Empire. She has achieved bestseller status on both Amazon and Barnes & Noble, with several of her novels chosen as book club selections.

Mae writes primarily in the mystery/suspense genre, flavoring her plots with elements of urban legend and folklore. Married to her high school sweetheart, she lives in Pennsylvania and is passionate about cryptozoology, old photographs, a good Maine lobster tail, and cats.

Discover more about Mae on her website and blog at MaeClair.com

In mere three week’s Gwen Plano’s The Gift will follow. I will be posting my review. My story, The Destination, follows on Halloween with five more amazing stories to still enjoy. I will keep you posted.

Embrace your inner child by reading a great book. D. L. Finn