Book Reviews – Page 5 – Author D.L. Finn

December Book Reviews Part 3! @sgc58 @maryjdressel @Marjorie_Mallon #whattoread #writingcommunity #readersoftwitter #bookreviews

“Variety is the Spice of Life” is a wonderful collection of poetry and short stories. The poetry is presented in the first half of the book. It was moving and thoughtful, as each word was carefully crafted. The short stories in the second half were my favorite part. Each story had its gift to offer us, but I wiped away a tear or two with “Mrs. Lloyd’s Robin.” “The Healer” left me with chills wondering what-if. What connected the stories and poetry to me was their humanity—or heart of them. A must-read collection for those who love poetry and stories that make you feel.

Fairies, Myths, & Magic II: Book 2: A Winter Celebration

By Colleen M. Chesebro

I read and loved “Fairies, Myths, & Magic Book 1” and was eager to read the second book. This dips into a darker side of fairies and magic but also offers the coming light. Told through beautiful poetry and short stories with the addition of the history of the feminine lore of different cultures. I could learn as I was entertained. Although I love my forest, I have a healthy appreciation of it and the magic it holds. This collection brought to life our past and present, leaving the promise of the future or its consequences. A perfect read for a cold fall or winter night that inspired me to bring a few new traditions into our house.

Do What You Love: Fragility of Your Flame Poems Photography & Flash Fiction

By M.J. Mallon

“Do What You Love” is a beautiful collection of words and photos that invite the reader into Ms. Mallon’s life. It is connected uniquely through the three sisters of fate: past, present, and future, and their insights. Whether it’s a trip abroad or down memory lane, it found a way to tug at my heart or engage me in her experiences. It is a wonderful way to share reality and engage others with flowing words and mythical beings. A quick but satisfying read that I can easily recommend to any poetry, prose, or memoir fan.

Secret Santa’s Rundown Sleigh: Holiday Romance Novella

By Mary J. McCoy-Dressel

Terra and her young daughter, Kylee, are on their way to spend Christmas with Terra’s sick mother. Bad luck strikes when their car breaks down. They end up stranded in a small town with no hotel rooms available, and the vehicle won’t be fixed until after the holiday. Terra’s sister can’t leave their mom to rescue them, so they set out to get a bite to eat. The caring server invites them to stay at her brother Jude’s house with them. Jude’s daughter and Kylee bonded quickly while Terra kept looking for other options to stay, and Jude wasn’t pleased with his new guests. Everyone around Jude and Terra is rooting for a Christmas miracle, but Terra is determined to move on, and Jude clings to the past. This short and sweet holiday read will uplift your spirits, and I can easily recommend it.

I only post my 4 & 5-star reviews here! If I don’t like the book, I won’t finish it. It wouldn’t be fair to leave a review for an unfinished story, and life is too short not to enjoy my reading journey!

UPDATES: I have one more post tomorrow, Books That Changed Me—Winter edition. Don’t miss my final good read picks of the year! Then I’ll be off until January 9th.

I will pop in once for a post over on Story Empire on the 26th.

Also, if you are subscribed to my newsletter, check your email and see what book is featured this month along with some updates.

I wish everyone a Merry Chirstmas and a Happy New Year!

Embrace your inner child, and read a good book! D. L. Finn

December Book Reviews Part 1 @PriscillaBettis @WordDreams @Ivyloganauthor #bookreviews #whattoread #mustread #readersoftwitter #authorsoftwitter #writingcommunity

Dog Meat

By Priscilla Bettis

“Dog Meat” is a challenging read for any animal lover, but with a lot of insight and depth. Ward lives in a society where freedom isn’t even an idea. He scored low on the placement test because of an illness and was given the horrendous job of slaughtering dogs for food. This part made me queasy, but there was so much beyond that job. The Colony controlled the people and every aspect of the citizens’ lives with the message that everyone was doing their part. The problem with that was that you had no choice on that part. There was no equality, religion, or different points of view — and some had it better than others. Ward struggled with what was expected of him and knew that if he refused to do his assigned job, he would be arrested and reeducated. As we learn of his past and lack of hope for his future, we are quickly shown how unfair this way of life is for many of the ones who didn’t do well on a test. This read will stay with me for a very long time, while I think about lack of choice and how we treat animals reflects how we treat others who aren’t like us. A powerful and painful story that I can recommend, but be ready to handle some very tough subjects and images.

Metamorphosis The Breach Chronicles #2

By Ivy Logan

Amelia’s parents were killed in a car crash when she was little. She goes to live with her beloved uncle, where she discovers he has a dark side that she learns to live with while residing in luxury. As Amelia grows up, she quickly learns how to protect those she loves from a brutal dictator. She ends up being the fashionable face of pink diamonds while trying to right a wrong. Although she is kind, she’s surrounded by many who hate what she represents. Not only is “Metamorphosis” a fascinating coming of age for a girl who has everything but who also has nothing. There is a magical element carried over from the first story that gives this a dark fairytale feel. I love her relationship with her bodyguards and her adopted grandma. She trusts the wrong people, but her kindness is her strength. This also takes on a more severe subject of mining diamonds and the people used to do so. A captivating tale I found hard to put down with a few twists I didn’t expect. I never stopped rooting for Amelia and am eager to read the next book to see how this ends and if she gets a happy ending. I can easily recommend this story.

Natural Selection Dawn of Humanity #3

By Jacqui Murray

I have read and loved the first two books in the Dawn of Humanity Series and have been looking forward to this final story. I wasn’t disappointed. Lucy sets out to rescue her tribe mates after they were captured. I have grown very fond of many of these characters and was rooting for them. The detail of their daily life brought me into a life I otherwise couldn’t imagine. Eating raw meat or insects while trying to survive in harsh conditions was just a way of life for our prehistoric ancestors. The amount of research into this story and series was impressive and made Lucy’s quest more real. I loved the animals that joined this tribe, including the Canis and Homotherium kit. Although I was sad to see this end, I enjoyed the journey into the past. A book and series I can highly recommend!

NOTE: I know I’ve been quiet other than being here for my guest blogs, but I’ve been under the weather. COVID finally found its way into our house. I’m recoverying well and my husband is a few days behind me, but I’m not 100 percent yet. It is very lucky I was prepared for the holidays early this year

I’m taking a short review break, although I managed to do a couple during my recovery time of new releases. I just finished Fairy Tales by Stephen King. I won’t even rate this one, but would love to edit it. I would get rid of the first third of the book which read more like a coming of age before the adventure…lol. Now I’m on to The Big Dark Sky by Dean Koontz. I should be able to leave a rating for this one. Then back to new releases and reviews before my Christmas reading break!

Embrace your inner child, and read a good book! D. L. Finn

November Book Reviews Part 3! @JacqBiggar @JanSikes3 @bakeandwrite #writingcommunity #readersoftwitter #whattoread #bookreviews

Letting Go- The Defiant Sisters Book 1

By Jacquie Biggar

Renee left home after her father committed suicide, leaving her boyfriend, mother, sister, and brother behind. She returns after her mother dies, knowing her sister, Izzie, would be angry and that her brother was not a little boy anymore. Renee immediately runs into her ex-boyfriend, Simon, who is engaged to be married. She considers leaving again more than once. The story unfolds in first person through three points of view: Izzie, Renee, and Simon. I rooted for each of them to find peace and happiness. The family dynamics made this a hard story to stop reading, along with finding out what made Renee leave after her dad passed. Each person has their grief to deal with, and I kept hoping Renee and Izzie would reconcile, at least for the younger brother who needed a guardian. I loved Simon’s grandma, who is not only tough but direct with both Simon and Renee. This story tugged on my heartstrings as there were no bad people, only people in bad situations. I can’t wait for the second book to come out so I can see what happens next. I can highly recommend “Letting Go.”

Saddled Heart (The White Rune Series Book 3)

By Jan Sikes

I read and loved the first two White Rune Series stories and was looking forward to this one. Colt runs a horse sanctuary ranch. I love his relationship with the horses and the beautiful setting of the ranch. He is their first suspect when a stranger dies after a run-in with Colt. Now he needs help from the beyond and finds that in a medium, Sage. The blend of a western romance with spirituality and the developing relationship between Colt and Sage makes this a hard story to put down. Seeing other characters from previous stories was heartwarming, and the music was woven in naturally. I went back and forth about who the killer might be, and none of my guesses were correct. This might be my favorite of the three because of the ranch, but this has been a fantastic series that I can highly recommend!

Haunted Halloween Holiday

Robbie Cheadle and Michael Cheadle

Another fun young children’s adventure from Robbie and Michael Cheadle with beautiful fondant creatures. Each character is introduced with a cute limerick. Count Sugular and Witch Honey travel to a Halloween party with Baby Howler. A charming Halloween read parents can share with their children or beginning readers can appreciate. I enjoyed this tale and will happily pass it on to my six- and seven-year-old granddaughters!

NOTE:

If you are subcribed to my Newsletter check your email, I sent it out on the 20th. Don’t miss the new Book of the Month and not only a chance to win a gift card but one of the amazing Books of the Month 🙂

I will be off next weekend for the Thanksgiving Holiday. For those in the US who celebrate it, I wish you a peaceful and magical day. Book reviews will be back on December 5th.

Embrace your inner child, and read a good book! D. L. Finn

November Book Reviews Part 1! @JacqBiggar @Ivyloganauthor @JItakali #writingcommunity #readersoftwitter #whattoread #mustreads

The Beast Within(Mended Souls #2)

by Jacquie Biggar

I loved the first Mended Souls book and was eager to read “The Beast Within.” I wasn’t disappointed; there was a mystery, suspense, romance, and my favorite part, angels. Lucas is a new angel trying to find his way while partnered with the man who hates him the most, Mike. They have much pain to work through while someone Lucas cares about has become part of heartbroken Mike’s revenge. On earth, Mike’s widow, Julie, comes across something unexpected on a walk along a beach, and she catches a killer’s eye. Conner is a skeptical cop with a massive attraction to Julie, who is still grieving her losses while finding her place as a mother and journalist. Together and separately, they attempt to find the killer, while from the other side, Lucas tries to help keep her alive in ways Mike can’t. A lot of healing must take place in both angels’ hearts so they can move forward, but Julie must survive for this to happen. This well-written story had a few twists I didn’t expect and a killer I didn’t guess. I hope there is another book because I’ve grown fond of these troubled angels. This is a story I can highly recommend.

Broken The Breach Chronicles #1

By Ivy Logan

“Broken” is a uniquely written YA fantasy about two generations of sorceresses. Caitlin is born a fully developed sorceress as a guardian of the earth who is warned by the wraiths about what could happen in her future. Her sister, Aster, helped an orphaned boy find a new home. These two events come together when Caitlin falls in love with a mortal, Michael. They have two children, Talia, a half-sorceress, and a magic-less son. Meanwhile, the orphaned boy grows into something Aster couldn’t have expected. Caitlin makes some poor choices out of love and her daughter Talia lives with the consequences of them. This was a story with strong female characters, which I appreciated. I enjoyed the family bond, especially between Talia and her little brother. An evil king, a conflicted dragon, and a desire to protect loved ones made this a fascinating read. A fast-paced story with a twist I didn’t see coming. I look forward to reading the next book in the series to see what happens next.

Realms of the Mist

By Jude Kirya Itakali

“Realms of the Mist” takes place in the mountains of Africa within the hidden areas where the gifted live. Kamau is a part of the Hadiza, who are guardians of the veil between the living and the afterlife. They not only repress their emotions but are separated from family. There was a mistake, and Kamau and his sister, Kimya, ended up together. When his sister suddenly dies, he questions everything before becoming a full member of this community. He starts a quest to find answers about his sister but finds more than he could have ever imagined. I love the people he meets along the way that join him. His best friend, Irina, is the first to help, and their relationship is a favorite. When Ninwe from another realm becomes a part of this quest, the exchanges and undercurrent between her and Irina are a lot of fun and, at times, painful. The settings and poetic descriptions were amazing as they weaved a special depth to this story. As Kamau learns more about himself and his quest, it only gives him more questions. Each stop in his journey added to his knowledge, and there were some twists I didn’t expect. Although the ending answered some questions, it left many unanswered, making me eager for the next book. This unique fantasy offers gods, love, danger, hidden agendas, duty, and a young man trying to do the right thing as he must figure out what, and who, he can trust. I can easily recommend this fast-paced story I found hard to put down.

UPDATE:

I had a great break! First I went to Disneyland/Universal with my youngest daughter and renewed that inner child. After being back for a couple of days went on part two vacation with the hubby. Stayed close to home but enjoyed Halloween, and some much needed rain and snow! The Go-Bag was put away as I offically declared fire season over for this year 🙂 We drove to see the summit snow, did some fun couple holiday projects at home, and visted the Hard Rock Cafe in Sacramento. I posted some pictures on Instagram and Facebook of my adventures.

I won’t try to catch up but look forward making my rounds.

Embrace your inner child, and read a good book! D. L. Finn

October Book Reviews Part 3! @WriterMSmith @Virgilante @NoFacilities #writingcommunity #readersoftwitter #bookreviews #whattoread #mustreads

The Power of Love

by Marlena Smith

Scarlet is on the run from her past. She ends up in a charming little Montana town but hides away in an old, abandoned house while enjoying her new freedom. She is slowly pulled out of her protective shell when she runs into a town resident. Scarlet’s story slowly unfolds, and I couldn’t help rooting for her. I love the relationships she develops as she rediscovers what has been lost. This is a town and people I’d love to be a part of. A heartwarming short story about second chances if only the past doesn’t ruin it. I can easily recommend this!

The Midnight Rambler (The Hat Book 6)

by C. S. Boyack

“The Midnight Rambler” was another fun addition to the Hat Book Series. Lizzie and the Hat run into some crazy fruit at a roadside stand. This is when Hat realizes his old enemy is after him. The flood they had to deal with creates an obstacle when their time is limited to find this clever monster while trying to save Lizzie’s friend, Ray. I could feel the cold water sloshing through Lizzie’s slippers and her concern for her friends. The relationship between Ray and Lizzie added another layer to the story and created extra tension in the hunt for where Hat’s enemy had Ray’s creator. The Midnight Rambler was always one step ahead and seemed to enjoy a good hunt, but that never stopped their search. A mystery to solve with all the humor, music, and danger blended nicely with every day worries. The ending has me looking forward to the next story. Although this is a perfect Halloween read, it can be enjoyed any time of the year.

The Evil You Choose

By Daniel Antion

I enjoyed “Knuckleheads” and was excited to see where the story went next. Blessed with unusual gifts, Zach and Billy are now adults and Zach is enjoying retirement. An FBI agent contacts Zach with a proposition that unfortunately he can’t refuse. Zach is unwillingly thrust into a world of criminals on both sides, and there is no one to trust but family. Zach must figure out how to protect himself and make sure they don’t find out about Billy. I found it interesting how Zach navigated with the help of Billy in dealing with not only the FBI, but the man they wanted to put in jail. The direction Zach took, along with a few twists, kept me guessing how it would all turn out. There is a wonderful and supportive relationship between Zach and his daughter, brother and Billy that balance all the corruption that surrounds him. Zach’s gifts had me wishing for a good night’s sleep for him. An exciting read for those who enjoy a thriller with the depth of family relationships and a criminal element weaved in.

UPDATES:

I have a couple of vacations coming up. The first one is October 20-24th. I will be going to Disneyland & Universal with my youngest daughter, Danielle. My monthly newsletter will be a few days late because of this or coming out late on the 24th and there will be no weekly blog here on October 24th & 31st .

Then, I will be around for a few days and off a week starting October 29th to hang out with the hubby. I’ll be back November 7th with a new book review post.

In the middle of all this I’m excited to be hosting a guest you won’t want to miss on October 27th.

I will wish you an early Happy Halloween here and post photos as I can on Instagram.

Embrace your beautiful inner soul by reading a book! D. L. Finn

October Book Reviews Part 2! @WordDreams @BalroopShado @RobertaEaton17 @harmony_kent @mhurdle112 @ColleenChesebro @ElizabethMerry1 @Marjorie_Mallon #bookreviews #whattoread #readersoftwitter #writingcommunity #poetrycommunity

To Hunt a Sub (Rowe-Delamagente #1)

By J. Murray

“To Hunt a Sub” is not only a thriller about preventing a terrorist from attacking America but a well-researched story with fascinating characters. Kali is trying to get her research project, Otto, funded when she catches the attention of ex-Navy Seal, Zeke, and a cruel terrorist. Her friends, son, and dog aren’t safe in this crucial battle. Otto not only traces the path and journey of prehistoric woman Lucy but can also find top secret submarines or why Kali has so much interest. I love it when Kali and Zeke join forces, each offering their strengths to the fight. The attention to detail made this scenario seem possible and real to me. The terrorist cruelty was chilling, while the love of a mother was a driving force. Many unexpected twists and surprises were mixed in, as who could be trusted came to light. This story had a unique way of blending our past with a current situation that would affect the future. Not a fast read, but one well worth the time spent reading. I can easily recommend this book.

Sublime Shadows Of Life

By Balroop Singh

I always enjoy poetry by Ms. Singh and this collection was more beautifully written poems. It’s seeped in emotion that not only touches the heart but gets the reader thinking. It can be read within an hour or two but is meant for the reader to savor. Here are just a few of the many lines that caught my attention and moved me. The Land of the Dead: “Someone entered the land of the dead/Dragged life along ahead/Stirred them out of their slumber/but before muffled voices/could be heard, he was yelled at/Cursed, chastised, forced to quit. Know Shadows: “Dark moonless nights/Are the nights I crave for,/All shadows vanish and merge/Into the corridors of life. Eternal Wait: “Misty mornings/Eerie silence, long walks/Through the woods/What is this place? So familiar!/Nostalgia is painfully pleasant. Magic of Heavenly Drops: “Those soft falling drops/Tiptoe into your heart/To carry you along/Into the dripping trees. A wonderful collection that I can highly recommend to all those who loved to be moved by exquisite words.

Poetry Treasures 2: Relationships

By Kaye Lynne Booth (Editor), Robbie Cheadle (Editor/Author), Colleen M. Chesebro (Author), Miriam Hurdle (Author), Arthur Rosch (Author), Elizabeth Merry (Author), D. Avery (Author), Harmony Kent (Author), Leon Stevens (Author), Lynda McKinney Lambert (Author), Jules Paige (Author), M.J. Mallon (Author), and Lauren Scott (Author)

“Poetry Treasures 2: Relationships” is a collection of poetry from several authors. I have enjoyed the work of many of the poets, but there were some I met for the first time in this book. It was nice how it was set up to introduce the author before their poetry. I appreciated having many poets together in one collection to experience different views, feelings, and images. The individual take on relationships offered a glimpse into not only their writing but gave me a few new authors to read. There was a lot of great poetry, so I won’t single any out to share. A fantastic read I can easily recommend for poetry lovers.

I only post my 4 & 5-star reviews. If I don’t like a book, I won’t finish it. It doesn’t feel right leaving a review, in that case:) Life is too short not to enjoy every book you read!

Embrace your inner beautiful soul by reading a book! D. L. Finn

October Book Reviews Part 1! @Sandra_Cox @mhurdle112 @stacitroilo @MaeClair1 #whattoread #readersoftwitter #writingcommunity

Geller’s Find

By Sandra Cox

Luke Geller is a professor and part-time archeologist. While out hunting potshards, he comes across an old gun and a strange crystal. This find takes him to the same place, but not at the same time. The gun owner, Lily, helps him out and takes him back to her ranch. I love the immediate connection between these two, even though Luke realizes he must leave and return to his life. There are so many great characters in this story that I even rooted for a character I didn’t even trust. The three women running the ranch were terrific, especially Saffron. Her humor always made me smile, including when she suggested a horse for Luke to ride. The setting brought Nevada to life during the gold rush, including a budding town. The ranch named No Gold has other treasures, including fruit and cattle. Ms. Cox has created another place I’d love to live in, but maybe with a few more present-day amenities. I was so drawn into the story that I felt the peaceful pleasure of riding a horse out on the ranch and enjoying nature’s beauty. A fantastic blend of time-traveling, a brewing romance, and the old west. A story that I can highly recommend!

The Haunting of Chatham Hollow

By Mae Clair and Staci Troilo

I was excited to see two authors I admire co-author a book. They blended their talents together seamlessly to create a must-read for those who love paranormal mysteries. “The Haunting of Chatham Hollow” has two timelines and moves with ease between them. In 1888, Victor is a likable authentic medium that cuts corners. He is persuaded to attend a séance run by another medium. Benedict and his very tall sidekick put on a good show but are just cons looking for gold. Then something unexpected happens. That event affects what is going on in 2022. In the present time journalist, Aiden is against the town having a popular ghost show come and film the reenactment of the séance. It isn’t because he’s worried about the curse but doesn’t believe in ghosts and all that goes with that. Aiden is plunged into his own mystery that concerns his boss, while his grandmother pushes him to embrace his natural talents. Each timeline has its own compelling stories within the main one that concerns the town and what happened during that first séance. The settings were vivid in both timelines, with characters to root for and dislike with a couple of surprise twists. This is a story I can highly recommend.

The Winding Road: A Journey of Survival

By Miriam Hurdle

“The Winding Road” is a heartfelt memoir that takes the reader through a cancer diagnosis to the outcome. I felt like I was experiencing this journey with Ms. Hurdle, as she not only talks about how she is feeling, but how she had to deal with insurance, appointments, and the physical toll of the treatments. Once Ms. Hurdle learned how rare and deadly the cancer was, a decision was made to try experimental treatments for six months. I’m not sure I could have handled what she endured. Being so ill during the treatments with no guarantees would be hard, but a strong will to live shined through and balanced that out. This was a painful insight into the reality of cancer, mixed with her belief that life is precious, that left me inspired and full of hope. A read that not only shows us the darker side of life when illness strikes, but how the love and support of family and friends can help carry some of that heavy burden. A highly recommended story that can inspire anyone going through not only illness but other challenges.

I only post my 4 & 5-star reviews. If I don’t like a book, I won’t finish it. It doesn’t feel right to leave a review in that case. Life is too short not to enjoy every book you read!

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

September Book Reviews Part 3 and UPDATES @Sandra_Cox @JacqBiggar @Dwallacepeach #writingcommunity #whattoread #readersoftwitter #bookreviews

The Necromancer’s Daughter

By Wallace Peach

Aster is the necromancer’s daughter. She and her queen-mother die when Aster is born. The healer, Barus, sees the baby and steals her away to bring her back to life. The king stays in the background but watches as the healer raises this girl as his own because he knows no one would accept a child brought back to life. When the King finally approaches Aster, his only heir, he triggers his enemies to act, who upends her peaceful life as a healer. Determined to set things right and help Barus, Aster sets off to find help. I love the people she meets along her journey, especially when she crosses the mountain. The son of her enemy is a very complex character. Although he helps her more than once, his upbringing and devotion to the Blessed One aren’t too far behind and weigh him down. Aster shows what genuine goodness is over those who use it to seek power. Even if Aster’s actions aren’t popular, her innocence and ability to do the right thing guide her through some dark times. This is a fantasy filled with magic, danger, love, loyalty, fantastic imagery, and dragons that I can highly recommend.

The Guardian Mended Souls #1

By Jacquie Biggar

After a horrible crash that killed three adults and an unborn baby, Scott tries to regain his life. He has money and fame but lost a best friend and sister. Needing closure, he goes to see the bodies but runs into the Medical Examiner, Tracy, and a badly hurt dog. This throws them together while someone seems determined to add to the body count. On the other side is Scott’s best friend, Lucas, who is now an angel and is placed with a surly partner to help people. Lucas was the driver and carried the guilt of being responsible for the accident, but he also has depth and humor mixed in. He doesn’t understand what is required from him as he navigates this afterworld. I felt for all characters’ loss and appreciated the wit weaved into it. There is redemption and learning for these characters, plus some needed justice and forgiveness. I can’t wait to read the next book to see what happens next. A fast-paced paranormal romance with second chances I can easily recommend.

Amulets #2 Rose Quartz

By Sandra Cox

Amulets #1 followed Maureen and her journey, “Rose Quartz,” focuses on her new friend, Bella. Back home, Bella quickly finds out that the killer being in jail doesn’t keep her or her amulet safe. She’s a painter gifted with beauty and creativity from her stones and has the help of Maureen’s ranch hand, Hank. He is the ultimate cowboy she is trying not to fall for but is used to using her charms and looks to get what she wants, which doesn’t go over well with him. Bella is a fun character who quickly discovers she can’t take on a madman alone. This leads her back to old friends she desperately needs and the introduction to another woman gifted with an amulet. I love the relationship developing between Hank and Bella and was rooting for them to work it out. This series is not only about the women wearing the amulets but a strong group of friends that look out for each other, especially when a madman is determined to be a god. Another fun read with love, magic, friendship, and danger perfectly mixed in for those who enjoy a paranormal romance.

I only post my 4 & 5-star reviews. If I don’t like a book, I won’t finish it. It doesn’t feel right to leave a review in that case. Life is too short not to enjoy every book you read!

UPDATES

I ‘ve been hosting many great new releases in the past couple of weeks. Watch for one this week that you don’t want to miss!
I will be sending out my September Newsletter on the 20th. If you are subcribed watch for it in your email. I have a brand new book of the month you don’t want to miss. I read a lot and love sharing some of those great reads. My picks are booked until the until end of 2023 .
My “Books That Changed Me” goes out on the 22nd or first day of fall. That will post here. These are books that have stayed with me after reading them. You’ve already seen the reviews here but they are well worth a second share. If you have missed any of the past posts, I have them here on my site so you can catch up and maybe find a great new read! This is the closest you will get to my picks for books of the year.
The air has been hazardous on and off here. Makes it hard to think or function sometimes, even if I stay indoors with my air purifers running. So, sometimes I can’t write or do the things I want to like visit blogs, not because I don’t want to but it’s hard to focus. Luckily the fires haven’t come our way so far. I’m looking forward to the predicted rain the next couple of days. I hope it keeps coming and we can end this fire year early, instead of November. You’d think this would be normal for me after 32 years living in the forest, but the worries have ramped up the last few years. Hopefully the drought will take a nice long break.
And I’m feeling much better. Although, I am helping out some family members that requires more of my time, but glad I am able to do it.

Embrace your inner child by reading an enchanting story! D. L. Finn

September Book Reviews Part 2! @Dwallacepeach @pokercubster @Sandra_Cox #bookreviews #whattoread #readersoftwitter #writingcommunity

Amulets #1 Boji Stones

By Sandra Cox

Maureen wakes up in the hospital after a car accident. She is badly hurt and missing an important piece of jewelry. She needs to find this, to not only heal her injuries but keep the stones safe. I love Maureen and her connection to animals, especially horses. Her protective ranch hand is there for her, but someone wants what she has and doesn’t care who they hurt to get it. What Maureen comes home to after an interesting hospital stay is a man who needs his horse healed. Her kind heart can’t let the poor horse suffer even though she doesn’t trust the man who brought the horse. He offers to stay on to pay her back for her kindness, but the only person she can trust is her ranch hand—and herself. I enjoy how Ms. Cox can weave magic into the real world and make me care about what happens to the characters. A fun read that I found hard to put down. Recommended for those who love romance sprinkled with some magic and danger.

Have Bags, Will Travel

D.G. Kaye

This was a quick, fun read for all those adventurous souls who love to travel or read about it. It took us back to days of more effortless traveling, to current times when there’s a lot more involved. Told in a personal, humorous tone, I immediately connected to the antidotes told. I’m glad I’m not the only one who over packs and then had to pay for it when checking the luggage. I shook my head, knowing how hard it is to get traveling purchases home in luggage — and through customs. Luckily, I’ve only had my bags searched once. I can’t imagine being a target when I came back to my country. I thoroughly enjoyed this; it not only made me want to travel but long for the good old days when planes offered more room. This ends with some sound advice for traveling that includes a luggage scale. An excellent read for travelers!

Catling’s Bane (The Rose Shield Book 1)

by D. Wallace Peach

Catling’s selfish mother wanted to eliminate a mark on her young daughter’s face so the mother can move up in the harsh world they lived in. Eventually, the mother sells her marked daughter. After leaving a cruel life behind, where hangings are enjoyed, Catling settles into a bit of peace. Yet as time goes by, it becomes apparent there is something special about her mark and her. Some brutal scenes are mixed with vivid images of a world ruled by influencers and power. The relationship between Whitt and Catling was heartwarming, and I rooted for them. But the world she was thrust into was cold and calculating. I loved the beasts that lived in the water as the boats navigated on top of their world. Although Catling was only thirteen when the story ended, she was stronger than most adults around her. This was a story I couldn’t put down as I had to keep reading to see what happened to Catling, and I will eagerly continue this journey by reading the next book.

I only post my 4 & 5-star reviews. If I don’t like a book, I won’t finish it. It doesn’t feel right leaving a review, in that case:) Life is too short not to enjoy every book you read!

Embrace that inner child by reading an amazing story! D. L. Finn

September Book Reviews! @sgc58 @JacqBiggar #writingcommunity #readersoftwitter #whattoread #mustread

The Sister Pact: Home is Where The Heart is

by Jacquie Biggar

Holly has been ill and came home for the holidays after eight years away. It was time to heal old wounds between Holly and her younger sister, Susan, who stole Holly’s boyfriend, Steven, away and married him. What Holly comes home to seems broken on many levels, not only between her sister but her mother and father. Thrown into this dysfunctional mix is not only the man Holly lost, Steven but his brother, Levi, who she slept with at her sister’s wedding. Information is gently rolled out as relationships clash and communication is limited. There’s a lot of pain and hurt that needs to be healed. Levi was my favorite character with his patience and long-time quiet devotion to Holly. Their fun moments at the beach highlighted what it could be if Holly could get past her fears and past. When Susan needs her help, Holly is there for her. I love the message that no matter what happens, the family will survive and eventually pull together, no matter how long it takes. What a beautiful, well-written reminder of what is important in life, not only finding a soul mate but healing a family, too. I can highly recommend this story.

Dr. Metifunger’s Transdimensional Veterinary Clinic

by Dennis Strubbe

I picked up “Dr. Metifunger’s Transdimensional Veterinary Clinic” after seeing a review that captured my attention and curiosity. A book that offers interdimensional traveling, animals, a mystery, and some romance all mixed with humor—how could I pass that up? I wasn’t disappointed in this unique tale. Dr. Mabel Sassani is offered a job in Florida after having issues in California and having her license suspended. What Mabel found on day one was a disappearing dog, and oh, the clinic was in several dimensions. I love the animals she treats that are unlike anything Mabel has treated in her dimension, and the techs, Sandy, are a lot of fun. There is the silent partner, Karen, who seems to have given Mabel a break, but might be a criminal. Then there’s the handsome Bryce, who is there when Mabel needs help. Mabel is determined to figure this out no matter what world she must do it in, and Bryce becomes the person to do that with. Throwing Dr. Metifunger’s overbearing parents into this mix made for a fun read. A well-written adventure with entertaining characters in and outside of our dimension.

Just an Odd Job Girl

by Sally Cronin

This is a fun read told through the eyes of a recently divorced middle-aged woman, Imogen. She believes she has a perfect life; her kids have moved out, and she has her dream house, but her husband isn’t on the same page. Out of the blue, Imogen is presented with a divorce because a younger woman, who was humorously labeled a “fast-tracker” has replaced her. Her soon-to-be ex-husband offers Imogen a smaller house. She retreats into this home, comforting herself with food. Finally, she concludes it’s time to work. This is where she goes to her first job interview in years and meets a kind man who asks her to tell him about all the jobs she’s ever had. This journey to her past is not only fascinating, and many times hilarious, but opened her eyes to the person she used to be. She gets through part of her life and then is encouraged to keep reminiscing. There are so many parts that had me laughing out loud, like when she got ready for this job interview or visited the hairdresser. As I was reading, it felt like Imogen was sitting next to me telling her story. “Just an Odd Job Girl” dove into a woman’s journey where she found her strength and perhaps another chance at love. I was completely invested in Imogen’s outcome. I can highly recommend this book.

I only post my 4 & 5-star reviews. If I don’t like a book, I won’t finish it. It doesn’t feel right leaving a review, in that case:) Life is too short not to enjoy every book you read!