TeaganRiordainGeneviene – Author D.L. Finn

September Book Reviews! #PTLPerrin #TeaganRiordainGeneviene #lindabroday #jansikes #deborahjay #laurenscott #writingcommunity #bookreviews #whattoread

Here are the amazing books I read in August that were four stars and higher. Click on the book titles for the Amazon link.

Aerie: Dragon Guild Book Two

By P.T.L. Perrin

The story continues for Gabri, Eilo, and their dragons. They are still fighting the Shadow, while back home, Gabri’s family continues to search for her. The point of view switches between the two worlds, showing the love of family and a newly created family. A fight is coming, and the Dragon Guild is preparing for it by recruiting, scouting, and training. I love the developing relationship between Eilo and Gabri, but I think my favorite parts are the dragons and their riders, along with Ting. The pull between Gabri’s past and Donny, as well as her current life and Eilo, adds another layer that had me rooting for her to make the right decision. The settings bring this world both beauty and the ugly side of it to life. A hard story to put down, as I wanted to know what was going to happen next. I can’t wait to dive into the next book and can highly recommend “Aerie.”

The Dance of Discord: A Short Story: Gilded Age Intrigue

By Teagan Ríordáin Geneviene

A quick but exciting read that takes the readers to 1900s Washington, DC. Secret Service agent Milo Quick and his sidekick Duchess Felina Gattone skillfully maneuver the world of political intrigue. Told through the Duchess’s perspective, there is never a dull moment. I knew there would be a twist coming and tried more than once to guess what it was, but in the end, I was completely surprised. The settings, language, and characters pulled me deep into the story. I loved all the international implications of learning who to trust. A fast-paced story that was hard to put down. I hope there is more to come featuring Milo and the Duchess!

Cade’s Quest: (Book 1 Sweet Western Romance)

By Linda Broday

Cade’s family was torn apart after outlaws killed his parents. His siblings were separated and sent to live with new families. Now, as an adult, he has returned home looking for his family and to reunite with them, including his older brother, who he had been told was riding with a gang. On his quest, Cade is attacked and ends up being treated by a local doctor. It’s here he finds his sister, Summer, but loses his freedom when the out-of-control sheriff decides he is a criminal too. Forced to flee, he finds the perfect hideout and a young woman and child who are also hiding out. Although townspeople remember him and his family and want to help him, the sheriff won’t give up and pursues him at any cost. I love the relationship that develops between him and Rain and her nephew. They are both searching for their place in the world, with someone determined to end that quest. Cade is loyal and complex, and Summer and Rain are strong, determined women. The history and setting pulled me right into their world. Although questions were answered, some weren’t. I can’t wait for the next book to see what happens next to this family. I can highly recommend “Cade’s Quest!”

A Bold Bargain (The Bargainer Series Book 3)

by Jan Sikes

“A Bold Bargain” is the third book in the Bargainer Series. I loved the first two books and was eager to read this one. Jack, who was a minor character in book two, had a tough childhood. Now grown up, he is working to protect animals, but his dream is to go to college. His past did not break him but made him into a kind, caring man whose first instinct is to rescue those who need help, whether a human or an animal. His first save is a dog drowning in the river, which ends up staying with Jack. Named Wolf after his mixed breed, this character becomes one of my favorites. What Wolf brought home touched my heart. When Jack finds an older woman who needs his help, he doesn’t hesitate. He finds not only her dog but also a friend. Their developing relationship is not only sweet, but what she offers him becomes the bargain. Although being the person he was without the bargain, he would have helped out. In this mix were a gold miner and his granddaughter, who added another layer that I fully enjoyed. The human connections and setting were amazing, but there was a dark side too, that included dangerous mink trappers, illness, and an abusive ex in the mix. Another great addition to the series that might be my favorite one. I can highly recommend this!

The Prince’s Man (The Five Kingdoms #1)

By Deborah Jay

“The Prince’s Man” is an exciting fantasy with settings and characters that pulled me right into it. It starts with a young girl, Risada, who watches her parents being brutally killed as she protects her little brother. Years later, this grown-up Lady Risada, the court’s secret assassin, teams up with Rustam, the court seducer and clandestine spy, to save their kingdom from a hostile takeover. While magic has been banned and feared in their realm, they rescue a tortured elf, Elwaes, from a cruel doctor. They have to survive the trek through the mountains with a sick elf to seek crucial support on the other side. The journey forces them to deal with magical beings, including trolls, a water seducer, and a werecat. Although there is an attraction between Risada and Rustam, there is also a lack of trust and borderline hatred from Risada. Their relationship is fascinating as it progresses, but I love how Rustam and the elf, Elwaes connect. A story I found hard to put down, and I look forward to seeing what happens next in the Five Kingdoms Series. I can highly recommend this!

King Copper: Our dog’s life in poetry

By Lauren Scott

“King Copper: Our dog’s life in poetry” is a beautiful tribute that deeply touched my heart. The words brought back memories I had of losing our sweet dog a couple of years back and of remembering the joy she brought us too. Our pets are such a gift, and this collection not only shows that but also offers comfort to all of us who have known the loss of a beloved pet. Here is an example of the depth of emotions: “A dog barks in the distance causing me to pause,/it sounds like Copper’s wild imagination longing for one more moment”—One More Moment. I can highly recommend this for all those who have loved and lost a pet family member.

NOTE: Don’t miss Thursday’s post from Jan and Linda 🙂 Next week is the 9th Creative Perspective Challenge!

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

May Book Reviews! #BFRandall #ElizabethGauffreau #RobbieCheadle #jacquimurray #stacitroilo #TeaganRiordainGeneviene #sarahpenner #writingcommunity #bookreviews #whattoread

Welcome to my May book reviews! These are four and five-star reads from April.

Three Gates to Hell: Hell’s Detours Can Lead to Heavenly Destinations

By B. F. Randall

“Three Gates to Hell” was a hard book to put down. It is a Christian suspense story set in the Bay Area, which caught my attention as I was born and raised there. Bobby is a prison chaplain in San Quentin who has received a request that he didn’t like. The story flashes back in his time in Vietnam to his career in the Oakland Police Department, and his family life. The little details made it feel like it was a real story being told, not fiction. Bobby is a devoted family man and a hardened cop with a heart. The gritty story weaves his progression to faith, creating a character I rooted for. A well-written faith-based novel I can highly recommend!

Poetry Treasures 5: Small Pleasures

By DL Mullan, Barbara Harris Leonhard, Jude Kirya Itakali, Ivor Steven, Robbie Cheadle, Michelle Ayon Navajas, Gwen M. Plano, Elizabeth Gauffreau, David Bogomolny, Dawn Pasturino, Maggie Watson, Colleen M. Chesebro

I have enjoyed the Poetry Treasures collections and was eager to read this one. As always, I found a gifted group of international poets. I appreciate how it is set up with the author’s background and then the poetry. There’s symbolic and free-verse poetry with various topics and beautiful images to accompany them. I encountered both familiar and new poets, and each one of them pulled me with their words. A perfect book for a quiet afternoon or to wind down before you go to sleep. I can highly recommend this to any poetry lovers.

Burning Butterflies: Poetry About Southern African Flora and Fauna

By Robbie Cheadle

This book, “Burning Butterflies”, offers insight into Southern Africa with stunning art, photos, and poetry. The paintings are stunning, and the personal pictures allowed me to immerse myself in a place I’ve never been. The words, though, not only entertained but educated me about animals I’ve only seen in the zoo. Plus, Ms. Cheadle followed up poems with additional details which I appreciated. I don’t want to pick a favorite poem because I felt like they worked together to tell a story. Worry is expressed for survival for some and how others survive. Plus, there’s a focus on the environment and what grows and blooms there. I can highly recommend this fantastic collection for those who not only care about our planet but love poetry, art, and nature.

Badlands (Savage Land #2)

By Jacqui Murray

The story continues as the different groups escape the volcano’s devastation. Yu’ung leaves her tribe in the hands of B’o as she accompanies the Old One to the mountain clan along with their proto-wolf. This allows the story to be told through more than one point of view and tribes as Yu’ung runs into issues that set them back. Despite the destruction of their environment, there persists a lack of trust among different tribes and species, but it also creates an opportunity for individuals who typically wouldn’t cooperate to do so. Having read the other series and the first book, I was eager to see what happened next. This story didn’t disappoint and had some twists and heart-stopping moments. The growth of Yu’ung into a strong leader is great to watch, and I have a soft spot for the wolves. Character integration feels seamless, yet identifying trustworthy individuals remains difficult. The details though are what draw me in and I feel like I understand as best I can the life our ancestors led. I can’t wait for the third book to see how the journey goes. I can highly recommend this, and it can be read as a standalone, but I’ve enjoyed reading it from the beginning and getting to know the characters better.

Weeping Boughs Don’t Break

By Staci Troilo

“Weeping Boughs Don’t Break” is a family drama that focuses on a woman’s journey to independence, despite everything seeming against her. Claudia’s unexpected divorce is five years behind her. After suffering years of mental abuse and her husband’s cheating, she still lives in the house that carries all those memories, and all the debt. When her now-married ex-husband collapses, she gets a call from her children. They need her. So, as a good mother and a person who puts everyone in front of her, she goes to support them. But instead of giving that support, she finds out she’s responsible for making medical decisions for her ex. His current wife leaves unwilling to care for a sick man. Although Claudia reluctantly agrees to help because of her in-laws and kids, it takes a toll on her and reopens old wounds. The details of her Italian family and their faith added a special level to an already compelling situation. Plus, during all of this, she meets a kind, handsome man who befriends her, just when she needed it. A well-written Christian drama that I found hard to put down and can easily recommend!

The Conjurer’s Wife

By Sarah Penner

A young woman named Olivia is the wife of a famous magician in 1820s Venice. Suffering from amnesia after an accident, she helps her husband on stage, although she has no idea how he does his tricks. The husband appears to use her as a prop, but she is slowly rebelling. When one of their acts produces a fox, she immediately takes charge of it. Her care for the little fox leads her to search places she hasn’t been before. It’s here she discovers a secret. My theories regarding her fate were almost correct, but the truth still surprised me. A short story with an engaging historical setting and fantasy for those who like a bit of mystery, and a twist.

The Alchemist and the Woman in Trousers: a Cornelis Drebbel Adventure

By Teagan Ríordáin Geneviene

“The Alchemist and the Woman in Trousers” was my introduction to Ms. Geneviene a few years ago on her blog, part of a weekly series. So, it was fun to revisit the story and read it in a couple of sittings. Felicity is a Victorian woman who refuses to wear the painful corsets with her gowns, but is more comfortable in her trousers. She travels with an alchemist, Cornelius, who isn’t exactly alive. Felicity comes across a young girl, Copper, who needs their help as an orphanage is coming to collect her, with her father missing. Plus, it isn’t only the orphanage that’s interested, including some unusual chimpanzees. Because of the circumstances, Felicity and Cornelius are left with only one option: keep Copper safe. Their search for Copper’s father drives the plot, featuring harmonic tuners, a purple world, villains, and an unusual green fairy. Steampunk and fantasy elements spring to life through vivid settings. An imaginative story that not only kept me entertained but also invested me in Copper, Felicity, and Cornelius’s outcome. I can easily recommend it to those who love an enjoyable steampunk fantasy.

Next week is the Creative Perspective Challenge, which is a week late due to my vacation. Will update soon on that!

Embrace your inner child by reading and reviewing a good book! D. L. Finn (Denise)

#CreativePerspectiveChallenge Three Results! #flashfiction #poetry #challenge #writingcommunity

As promised, here are the amazing authors who participated in the third challenge, along with my attempt at this unusual picture. I love how everyone has a unique take on the same image. My mind oddly went down the Hanzel and Gretel path.

Yvette Calleiro: LINK

Teagan Ríordáin Geneviene : LINK

A Forest Walk (app 950 words)

Blue skies, birds chirping, and blooming flowers marked a warm spring afternoon. My sister Ellie and I were walking the familiar trail in the forest behind our house. Today, we were searching for sugar pine cones to glitter. My sister loved the bigger cones and decorated the backyard with them. Yet, despite the day’s outward calm, a chilling unease unsettled me.

“Come on, Zoey! You’re walking too slow!” Ellie skipped ahead.

“Slow down. Mom said we must stay together in the forest.” I sighed and raced ahead to be next to her again.

“I’m almost six years old! You think you’re grown up turning ten, but I can take care of myself.” She lifted her upturned nose, covered in freckles, and bounced ahead.

I frowned and pushed back the childish bangs growing out. I’d rather be home playing video games, but I followed her closely as she scooped up pine cones of all sizes into her basket. A chill filled the damp, tree-lined path.

“We should turn around, it’s getting late.” I tugged on her arm, but she pulled away.

“I need one more cone. The tree is right around this bend. Then we’ll go back, and you can play your stupid games.” Ellie ran off, disappearing around the corner.

“Ellie!” I shouted and raced at full speed to catch her. All I needed was a mountain lion to think she, or even me, was food.

I quickly found my sister, along with a very odd stranger. Her hair was the brightest of red and appeared to glow. She reminded me of a creepy clown wearing a mad hatter hat. She was holding up a basket of candy.

“Ellie! Come here.” My voice was firm, like our mom’s when she expected an immediate response, and Ellie complied.

“Oh, sweet girls, no reason to be afraid.” Her red lips sneered and then puckered up to the basket.

I pulled my sister close, she didn’t fight me. One glance into Ellie’s blue eyes showed the same fear I was feeling.

Even with all the makeup hiding the beautiful woman’s face, I knew who this was. My heart felt like it was going to burst out of my chest and run back home without me.

“Let’s get out of here!” I grabbed Ellie’s hand tightly.

“Wait, sweet girls,” the woman said. She bent down and held out a chocolate bar. “I have a cake and a cup of tea waiting for you at my house. Then we can decorate your cones.”

“No, thank you!” I yelled as we sprinted away from her.

A loud cackle followed us and tickled the back of my neck. Ellie dropped her basket, breathing hard. I urgently pulled her along. That woman exuded a strange, malevolent aura that was clinging to us.

“Come back! Come back! Let’s play!” The woman’s voice surrounded us like the speakers Dad got for the TV.

“Leave us alone!” I screamed.

“We will have fun. You’ll see…” The voice faded away, and a bird’s screech filled the air.

A black raven circled above us. It swooped down, pecked at our heads, and flew at our mouths with bright red candy.

“Cover your mouth!” I grabbed an oak branch off the ground and swung at it.

A direct hit launched the crow into flight.

“Is that Ravenna, the Forest Witch? I thought she was dead.” Ellie’s eyes widened as she gasped for air.

“Yes, it has to be her. We need to get home and tell Mom.”

“What if Ravenna follows us?”

“We’re safe; we didn’t take her candy. I think she’s gone,” I replied and glanced back over my shoulder, fully expecting to see her.

“But I’ve heard she can still take you as long as you’re in the forest.” Ellie tripped over a branch, and I caught her before she fell.

“Careful! I’ve heard that too, but we are almost home and out of the woods. Come on.”

The caw of the bird in the distance filled my skin with goosebumps. We exited the woods as our mother burst out of the house with her rifle. The bird dove at us, and I threw Ellie down and covered her with my body, but before the bird got to us, our mother fired. A woman’s scream filled the air and then disappeared along with the bird.

“Zoey! Ellie! Are you okay? You didn’t eat anything, did you?” Mom yelled, her brown eyes scanning over us.

“No, Mom. We remembered the stories about Ravenna, although I didn’t know she wore clown makeup,” I said, pulling my little sister up and hurrying us toward safety.

“Thank goodness! I heard that human-like caw and felt an unease I’d never felt before. I was coming to find you. I was so relieved to see you, but when that bird with glowing red eyes came for you, I knew who and what it was. The make-up must be something new or a trick. Get inside, girls!”

“I thought… Ravenna… was dead… Mommy!” Ellie gasped as we passed by our mother, who didn’t lower the gun and wasn’t taking her attention off the sky and forest.

“So, did I. That’s what your grandma told me. It’s been almost a hundred years. I never would have let you go out there if I knew Ravenna was back.”

Hand in hand, my sister and I entered safety, knowing that wasn’t the last of the woman who lured children into her house and made them into candy. The candy kept her youthful, according to the legend, but who could tell under all that makeup? All I knew was the forest was no longer safe, and video games were now the better option.

The next challenge is on April 8th!

Watch for a special post tomorrow!

Embrace your inner child by trying a new challenge. D. L. Finn

February Book Reviews! #MarshaIngrao #carolanntaylor #RobbieCheadle #DaveWilliams #ColleenChesebro #DWallacePeach #GwenPlano #YvetteCalleiro #TeaganRiordainGeneviene #writingcommunity #whattoread

Here are the great books I read in January that were four stars and higher. Click on the book titles for the Amazon link.

A Homemade Christmas

By Carol Ann Taylor

I have seen Ms. Taylor’s posts about food and her recipes, so I was excited to read through her cookbook. This collection focuses on Christmas and family traditions. The book is split into sections that start with Christmas starters and end with Christmas Leftovers. It all starts with a note from the author explaining that the recipes come not only from her grandmothers and mother but also from some of her friends or her travels. These are more than ways to cook food. They bring back wonderful memories, but they also are healthy and made from scratch. Holiday tradition remains important; however, incorporating novel elements enhances the experience. I especially like the chapter on making gifts to give. Memories and cooking notes were helpfully added. Here are a few recipes I want to try: Prawn Cocktail, Spiced Red Cabbage, Red Wine Vegetarian Gravy, A Honey Jar Ferment with Garlic, Pickled Garlic, Homemade Mustard, and Gluten-free Christmas Pudding. I was excited to see a couple of gluten-free options included. At the end is a helpful US-UK Conversion Chart to help with measurements. Plus, there are nice images throughout. A great gift, ideal year-round, expanding our traditions; some I’ll experiment with beyond Christmas. I can easily recommend this festive cookbook.

STORY CHAT VOL II: INTERNATIONAL SHORT STORIES GENERATING CONVERSATIONS

By Marsha Ingrao

“Story Chat Vol. II” is a collection of short stories in all genres, including nonfiction. There are six sections, and the last one includes Horror and Science fiction, which is always a go-to for me, but I had many favorites outside that category. With the unique differences it was hard to pick a favorite but here are some that I’m still thinking about: “A Cautionary Tale on the Dangers of Allowing Your Characters to Take Over Your Story” by Geoff Le Pard, “The Grand Adventure” by Diana Peach, and “Anxious About Sea Horses,” by Gary A. Wilson. However, the exceptional nature of this collection did not stem solely from the great stories. It was the Questions for YOUR Story Chat Group that followed, and the best part was the Discussion Excerpts that many had. The other authors gave valuable story advice. Tips on improving writing were also included in the nonfiction. This had it all, and I found some favorite authors, along with new ones that I will be reading. This group appears both supportive and talented. I can easily recommend this collection.

Gasp! Poetry!

By Dave Williams

This collection of poetry is like its title, “Gasp! Poetry!” is a fun and introspective read. There are eighty-eight poems with a wide variety of topics like unicorns, human nature, history, and science. Written in free verse with some rhyming included. I highly enjoyed the humor that poked fun at many subjects, along with the whimsical and serious side. Here are some of the ones I highlighted: “I lift a handful of sand,/watch the grains/cascade in the spaces/between my fingers,/thinking there’s/got to be metaphors/for time, uniqueness, perseverance—/maybe insignificance…”—Is a Poem about Grains of Sand on a Beach Too Pretentious? or “He felt bad/that she thought/their relationship/wouldn’t work/because she thought/his ventriloquist doll/was so creepy…”—Buddy’s Secrets or “The leaves dropping/could be said to be/eaves dropping on us,/walking as we are on this forest trail…”—Leaves Dropping or “In this busy blurry/hurly burly world,/she likes to slide/into the lines…”—Under the Covers and “The drive from their house/to the parking lot seemed/to take a long time to Joe,/as did the walk…”—Unicorn Migration. A group of poems that I can easily recommend!

Sunflower Tanka: An Anthology of Tanka, Tanka Prose, & Experimental Tanka

Colleen M. Chesebro, Robbie Cheadle (editors)

By Suzanne Brace, Yvette Calleiro, Kay Castenada, Luanne Castle, Robbie Cheadle, Colleen M. Chesebro, E.A. Colquitt, Melissa Davilio, Destiny, Tamiko Dooley, Lisa Fox, Cindy Georgakas, Chris Hall, Franci Hoffman, Marsha Ingrao, Jude Itakali, JulesPaige, Kenneth, MJ Mallon, Brenda Marie, Selma Martin, Michelle Ayon Navajas, Lisa Nelson, D. Wallace Peach, Freya Pickard, Dawn Pisturino, Gwen M. Plano, Jennifer Russo, Aishwarya Saby, Reena Saxena, Merril D. Smith, Nicole Smith, Ivor Steven, Ben Tonkin, Trilce Marsh Vazquez, and Cheryl Wood.

“Sunflower Tanka” is the first annual anthology with contributions from over thirty-five talented poets. Many I recognized and already was a fan of their poetry, but the rest were new to me. Meeting both new and known poets under the theme “into the light” was wonderful. The editors offered their insight into sunflowers at the beginning of the book. It was enlightening to understand the importance of the flowers to them. Then the great poetry started and kept coming. There was no way I could choose my favorite lines or poems; I enjoyed them all. I love all forms of tanka poetry, but I think the garland tanka fascinated me the most. This is a collection meant to reread, especially with its uplifting messages. I can easily recommend this to all poetry lovers!

A Peril in the Vines: A Medium’s Peril Book 3

By Teagan Ríordáin Geneviene

Daphne, Clover, and Phineas continue their story set in the 1920s. Daphne is a medium who has seen a massacre in her visions, which somehow link the pumpkins and vines that grow everywhere in the new town they end up in. Clover has a vivid dream that refers to tarot cards and a message. It all seems to center on a young girl and a doctor looking after her. Additionally, some matchmaking is happening. I love the setting and era and all the little details that bring it alive. Besides the paranormal, there is a mystery to figure out, along with some humor. I have been enjoying this series and, like all the characters, there’s a special place in my heart for Clover, Daphne’s assistant. I can easily recommend this quick read that can be a standalone, but I have preferred reading it from the beginning.

Note: Next week is the Creative Perspective Challenge and also a new release post!

Embrace your inner child with a good read! D. L. Finn

December Book Reviews Part 2! @authoriseult.bsky.social @teagangeneviene.bsky.social @lindabroday.bsky.social #writingcommunity #whattoread #christmasreads

Here is a second set of reviews. I thought it would be better to post Christmas stories and books you might want to put under the tree, instead of waiting until January.

Sun Haiku: 365 Days of Sunshine

By Dawn Pisturino

“Sun Haiku” is a compelling collection of haiku for each day of the year, as well as bonus short stories and poems. It covers all aspects of the sun, including worship, warmth, and growth, nature, drought, and skin cancer. It offers views of different cultures and areas. Without the sun there would be no life, but it also can be destructive when it becomes too much, and this poetry showed this. I ended up with way too many highlighted haikus to share here so I will give a few examples randomly: “thin winter sunlight/streams through the panes of broken dreams/springtime never comes,” and “dusk colors the air/with pale yellow radiance/still—so very still,” and “clouds open up to/show the gateway to heaven/in sun’s golden rays,” and “raindrops hang heavy/from water-soaked trees—glisten/in the morning sun,” and “The sun sank into/the ocean and drowned. Hear the/cries of the dying!” I could easily see the pictures painted in those words. Plus, the bonus short stories, I thoroughly enjoyed, along with the Leap Year section and the poem Father Sun. It is a mixture of emotions, nature, fantasy, lore, and vivid images that captivated me, and I can highly recommend this to all poetry lovers.

Love Comes to Christmas (Christmas Stocking Sweethearts #6)

By Linda Broday

Gillian is a young woman who owns a Christmas shop in the late 1890s. Injured as a child, she walks with a limp but doesn’t let that stop her from doing things she loves like playing the piano. Her parents are out of town when things happen in her shop, leaving her to wonder if it’s haunted or if someone is messing with her. An unpleasant man approaches her to buy the shop. She doesn’t want to sell it. She meets a young girl, Meg, and forms a friendship with her and her uncle, Brett. I love the relationship between Gillian and Meg, but I adore the attraction that grows between Gillian and Brett. This is a story of love, family, friendship, and appreciating someone for who they are. I think my favorite part is when Brett offers Gillian a dog for protection and how he is always there for her. A sweet Christmas read that can be read in one night or enjoyed over a couple evenings. I can recommend this for holiday reading or anytime you want your spirits to be uplifted.

Hullaba Christmas: Lulu and the Snatched Santa

Teagan Ríordáin Geneviene

Lulu the flapper returns in this fun story. An abandoned subway station becomes her destination. Here, she discovers Santa is missing. Christmas might have to be canceled. I love the angel-bots and automation in the story. They are a delightful part of this diesel-punk fantasy. Lulu is a lot of fun and jumps right into things. She’s a strong character, which I appreciate, and determined to find Santa. Using 20s lingo brings that era to life and the insight into Santa’s world provides just enough magic for the reader to be there with them. It’s a fast read and can be read in a night, but it didn’t skimp on the story. I was fully entertained and can easily recommend this unique Christmas tale!

Book of Angels

by Judy Mastrangelo

This is a charming collection of different angels and beautiful illustrations. Each angel has its own information, like the Gardening Angel, which is a little girl angel in a garden surrounded by rabbits, butterflies, birds, and a chipmunk. Here’s what Ms. Mastrangelo had to say about this angel: “She tends her Garden with Loving Care,/because Everything in it is a Beautiful living Being-/whether it be a Flower, Snail or Butterfly. This little Angel shows us the way to care for Ourselves-…” It is a sweet book to enjoy with young children, although as an adult I appreciated the uplifting passages and exquisite angels.

Cora’s Quest

By Lauren Scott, Chris Mendez (illustrator)

Cora’s Quest is a sweet story about a deer’s family outing. Cora is enjoying the forest until things change quickly, and now she needs to find her courage. A fantastic story to read to your little ones or for young readers to enjoy. The illustrations are beautiful and full of color, and the story is woven into a lesson that will resonate with children and their families. Here is an engaging passage: “An owl hoots/from its lofty perch./ The wind howls,/swirling around Cora./Grunts and growls/in the distance/steal her courage!/ They act like thieves!” I can easily recommend this story for young readers and those who read to them.

The Thing in Christmas Town

By Iseult Murphy

Diane’s adult children take her on vacation to a year-round Christmas town. She isn’t in the mood to celebrate the holidays after her husband’s death in an accident the year before. She reluctantly boards the train that takes them there. It seems like the ideal little village with cheerful people, but Diane notices some cracks in this picture-perfect place that no one else does. Then the story takes a dark turn, and all Diane wants to do is leave with her family. This horror story was a quick read for me. I read it in one night. The hints were woven into the story, taking an interesting twist that led to a surprise ending. If you’re seeking a chilling holiday read, this is the perfect choice!

Watch for the earlier edition of Books That Changed Me on Wednesday. Cookie Exchange will be Thursday and that will be my last post of the year.

Also, I usually tag people on Twitter/X but this time I’m trying the Bluesky tag to see how that goes.

Internet Tech coming today to fix our internet. Fifth visit, fingers crossed!

Embrace that holiday child by reading and gifting a good book! D. L. Finn

July Book Reviews! @teagangeneviene #writingcommunity #mustread #readersoftwitter #bookreviews #readersoffacebook

Here are the books I read in June that were four stars and higher. Click on the book titles for an Amazon link.

The Rabbit Hole: A Short Story

By Teagan Ríordáin Geneviene

“The Rabbit Hole” is a fresh adaptation of “Alice in Wonderland.” Liddie is in a strange place but finds guidance through her friends, Catty, and Loco Hatley. A special tea helps her clear her head as they go out into this reality. I was a big fan of not only Liddie but Catty and Loco too. Although a fast read, it doesn’t feel incomplete. It’s a fantastic take on a classic with a modern twist. I can easily recommend this well-written story!

Lunar Gazing Haiku

By Dawn Pisturino

“Lunar Gazing Haiku” is a collection of 62 haiku poems that cover subjects including season, moon gazing, supernatural, and emotions. While I enjoyed all the poems, there are a couple that stood out to me, such as: “Passion burns, hurts, scars/The tender flesh of my heart/Feeling life again.”—Passion, “leaves rustle in the trees/withered gold-brown-red treasures/blowing far away.”—Leaves, “Words sprinkle across/The paper like fairy dust/Shining with magic.”—Words, and “Monsters lurk in dark/Corners where nightmares come true/Frightened children scream.”—Monsters. This chapbook is meant for endless reading. If you’re a fan of poetry, I can easily recommend this to you.

The Last Pilgrim

By Noelle A. Granger

“The Last Pilgrim” is an amazingly detailed and well-written story focused on Mary Allerton Cushman’s life. Four-year-old Mary and her family were on the Mayflower, wanting to start a new life with the freedom to practice their religion. They squeezed together below deck with many other families, enduring limited food, water, and no hygiene. The boat faced various obstacles, such as sickness and scurvy, but upon reaching land and finding a suitable place, the survivors had to hastily construct a shelter for the cold winter. They were a hardy group who not only pulled together to accomplish their survival, but I found it captivating how they pieced together a group of people with a dream of a better life into a functioning society. What caught my attention was the strong women with limited voice or rights. They were equal in the colony’s success as the men and, at times, surpassed them. Some medical treatments and punishments given to lawbreakers made me cringe. Mary’s daily life and the surrounding people were as fascinating as the politics and religion. Although a long read, I didn’t even notice because I was so drawn in. I can highly recommend this historical fiction!

Telling Sonny: A Novel

by Elizabeth Gauffreau

“Telling Sonny” is a heartfelt story set in the 1920s. Faby is a bored small-town girl who catches the eye of a vaudeville performer, Slim White. They enjoy each other’s company for the week the show performs there. Despite things going too far on the last night, Faby moves on as he promises to stay in touch. He doesn’t, and she finds herself in trouble. Although Faby finds him, and he does the right thing. Now, Faby is married to a stranger and they are currently traveling together. The attention to detail pulled me deep into this drama. Faby is relatable, and I was rooting for her. Even though the book starts with an older Faby having to relay unwelcome news, the story goes back and relives her life up to that point. I couldn’t stop hoping she would find happiness on her journey, but it quickly became clear that Faby was just along for the ride as she explored new places. An exceptionally written coming-of-age, historical fiction, that I wholeheartedly recommend.

Congrats to my Blog Tour Winners: $10 Amazon Gift Card goes to Jan on day 3 (John W Howell’s Fiction Favorites) and $5 Amazon Gift Card goes to Debra on day 4 (Jacqui Murray’s Word Dreams)!

Thank you to all who stopped by and offered your support on the tour 🙂

Read a good book and embrace your inner child, D. L. Finn

March Book Reviews! @maryjdressel @teagangeneviene @NAGrangerAuthor @LisetteBrodey @JillWeatherholt #writingcommunity #whattoread #mustread #bookreviews

Here are the books I read in February that were four stars and higher. Click on the book titles for an Amazon universal link.

Blue Snow in the Moonlight: A Holiday Romance

By Mary J. McCoy-Dressel

Cullen, a father of two, is at a local event when he spots the most beautiful woman, Elle, whose eyes pull him in. They seemed to connect from a distance until his sister hugged him and broke the spell. He and his family start back to the ranch during a huge snowstorm when his vehicle breaks down. Luckily, someone comes by and gives them a ride to his rental or where this woman is staying. Culleen conceals his identity as the owner and gets acquainted with the woman he’s attracted to. The problem is they both come from bitter relationships and divorces, neither is willing to dive into a relationship again. What was obvious to everyone around them wasn’t to Elle and Cullen. I loved Cullen and his bond with his children and sister. The setting was my favorite part of the story, a ranch in North Dakota during snowstorms. Not only was there matchmaking going on from unexpected people but doubt and distrust mixed into it. A romantic flirtation was front and center, but the rest was behind closed doors. If you love stories set on ranches, like I do, and a good snowstorm or two mixed in with an attraction that may or may not work out, this story is for you!

Atonement in Zugzwang: Book 1

By Teagan Ríordáin Geneviene

Pepper inherits a remodeled gas station from her uncle in Atonement. As soon as she arrives in Atonement, Pepper ends up in the middle of a mysterious chess game and her uncle’s body goes missing. I always love a visit to Atonement—you never know who you’ll meet there. Much of this story I read on Ms. Geneviene‘s blog, but it’s nice to read it all at once. I loved the relationship Pepper had with her friend Maudie and, of course, the special kitten captured my heart. It was great to see familiar faces return to this story, including the pigs and Ralda. An enjoyable read with unusual characters you can’t help but root for, well, most of them. I look forward to the next story to be released, so I can see what happens next.

The Rat In The Python: Book 2 Shopping and Food

By Alex Craigie

I enjoyed “Rat in the Python: Book 1” a lot and equally adored this next installment with Shopping and Food. One thing that brought back many memories was the stamps saved from shopping or, what I remember, blue-chip stamps. My mother collected stamps not only from shopping but unused ones from neighbors, friends, and family. She was determined to get a grandfather clock, and she did. I helped paste many books of stamps. This book brings back all those splendid memories and history along with them. I didn’t have to go through any rationing, so I found that part very interesting, but I enjoyed all the canned and frozen foods that followed. This is a wonderful read for those who grew up in these times and like a trip down memory lane, or for those who want to learn how it used to be. Well written and entertaining all around.

Death at the Asylum: Rhe Brewster Mystery Series, Book 5

By N.A. Granger

“Death at the Asylum” is the fifth in the Rhe Brewster Series, but the third one I’ve read. It can easily be read as a standalone story with the author’s character recaps in the beginning, which I’ve appreciated. Rhe and Sam are enjoying a nice day and the governor’s speech when a sniper shoots the governor. The couple jumped into action to save him. Now they need to find the sniper. But that isn’t all going on. Someone has gotten hold of Rhe’s personal information putting debts in her name along with crimes. If that wasn’t enough for her to deal with between being pregnant, working two jobs, and raising a son, there is a rapist loose and someone stealing drugs at the hospital, too. Not only was this a page-turner, but there were enough criminal details woven in to add that extra layer. It is the relationships, though, that are the strength of the story, between husband and wife, mother and son, best friends and colleagues. I not only wanted the crimes to get solved, but the people to remain safe while doing it. A well-written cozy mystery that I can highly recommend. I can’t wait for the next book to see what happens next.

Death in a Mudflat (Rhe Brewster #4)

By N.A. Granger

Although this is the fourth book in the series, it is the second one I’ve read since I started in the middle, and very easy to follow. I do plan to go back and see how it all got started, but for now, I’m enjoying moving forward in this cozy mystery series. Rhe is not only a widowed mother and an ER nurse but a detective, too. She is now together with the man who was her brother-in-law and who is her boss at the police station, too. This couple was at a wedding on the beach when a body was found. Rhe embarks on a hunt to not only find this woman’s killer but also to uncover the truth behind college students dying from drug overdoses. This puts her in the middle of two investigations, one where the FBI is involved. I love how determined Rhe is to find the truth, even at her own expense. Her new relationship with Sam is endearing and the loyalty of her best friend is impressive. This is a page-turner as Rhe pushes forward and gets into unsafe situations. At one point, she learns what it is like to be on the other side of that or the one worrying. There is a lot of detailed information that adds a great layer to a well-written whodunit that I can easily recommend.

TWICE A BROKEN BREATH

By Lisette Brodey

Liam stops at the bank only to find out all his money is gone, and accounts are closed. In a panic, he rushes home to find his wife had left him for her first love and taken their daughter with them. There is a note explaining they are leaving the country within twenty-four hours with a powerful threat he’d never see his daughter again if he followed her or called the authorities. Knowing time is of the essence, he goes where he thinks his wife and child will be in New York. He hops on a train in this fast-paced chase that doesn’t slow down until almost the very end. Liam is a multi-layered character who not only has forgotten the first fourteen years of his life because of an accident, but his wife has deceived him, and he now only has a limited time to find the daughter he cherishes. It’s a heavy load, but he finds help in unexpected places along the way, along with people who don’t want him looking. There were many unexpected twists, a couple I had a hunch about, but it all added to Liam’s confusion and determination. I finally got to catch my breath close to the end as it all came together. An exciting page-turner for those who like a thriller with heart and one I can easily recommend.

Their Inseparable Bond

By Jill Weatherholt

Olivia, a divorced ER doctor from Miami, comes to small-town Bluebell, CO to bring her grandmother, Myrna, to live with her. The problem is that even with her deteriorating eyesight, Myrna doesn’t want to leave her home and friends. Olivia meets Myrna’s friends, including the widower Jake and his twins, Kyle and Kayla. Jake trains service dogs and has a puppy Callie, who he thinks would be a good fit for family friend Myrna, to help her stay home. Olivia must decide if the untrained pup could be an option, or if she should stick to the plan and insist her grandmother leave. In the mix is Olivia’s developing friendship with Jake and his children and a bit of matchmaking. I love not only the budding possible romance between Olivia and Jake but also the relationship that develops between Olivia and the children and Callie. A heartwarming Christian story that shows how faith mixed with forgiveness can offer a glimpse of that second chance. A quick uplifting read that I can easily recommend.

Embrace your inner child, read a good book! 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

June Book Reviews and a wedding picture! @TonyaWrites @sgc58 @WordDreams @SueColetta1 @teagangeneviene @DAntion @AnnalisaCrawf #writingcommunity #readersoftwitter

A Secret Gift

By Tonya Penrose

Halley, who is a successful businesswoman, receives an anonymous offer to live her dream in a town she fell in love with. The only catch is she must find love within the year, a part-time job, and write a book. With her book started, and a job obtained, she finds two interesting men who might be a love interest, one more than the other according to her test, but not necessarily her heart. This is a pleasant seaside town where everyone is nice—with an exception or two. I could easily imagine myself living in this location and would love to get an offer like Halley received. The town is welcoming, and Halley is offered a dwelling to live in while the cottage was being finished that she bought through her mysterious benefactor. Along the way, she learns about herself and what is important to her. There is humor and growth along this journey for Halley. I love the relationships she develops, especially with Mick, the sea captain, Libby who offers good advice, Ginger, her new best friend and boss, and especially Sally and her daughter Tulip. But it’s the one with Ben that adds a special layer to this sweet story and offers a real chance to Halley to find love if they can get past themselves. An excellent clean, romantic read that I thoroughly enjoyed and can recommend.

Tales From The Garden

By Sally Cronin

“Tales From The Garden” is a whimsical collection of stories that dives into the magical world just outside our window. Each tale captivated me, especially when the fairies were involved. I particularly loved when the pregnant deer found this garden, as well as a young boy who was protecting a goose. The collection ends with a beautiful tribute to the 94-year-old mother or Mollie (The Duchess) Coleman. I always knew those statues outside in the garden held a little magic and these charming stories captured that beautifully. A quick but very satisfying read for adults of any age who want to remember that spark we carried inside as children. It would be a splendid set of stories for children to share with their adults too. I can easily recommend these tales.

Twenty-Four Days Rowe-Delamagente #2

By J. Murray

I read and loved “To Hunt a Sub” and have been eager to read this second installment in the Rowe-Delamagente Series. I not only enjoyed “Twenty-Four Days” but thought the story was even more exciting, which I didn’t think was possible. The same characters that I rooted for, and against, returned. Otto the AI’s growth, and new body, made him my favorite character, and it was nerve-racking seeing Sean trying to do the right thing. It was up to Kali, Zeke, and Otto to save the world from war. Like the first book, the attention to detail drew me deep into the story. The reader is taken into a submarine and onto the open sea on a Navy ship with cruel terrorists lurking. North Korea and the hijacking extreme terrorists seem determined to start a conflict, but Kali and Zeke need to find out who is running things. A well-written, action-packed story that was hard to put down. I can easily recommend “Twenty-Four Days” but suggest you start with the first story, so you don’t miss anything!

Cat and The Dreamer

By Annalisa Crawford

Julia survived a suicide pact she’d made with her only friend and the new kid in school, Rachel. Fifteen years later, she is still trying to survive. Julia lives with her parents and has a job but again no friends. She meets a kind young man, Adam, who changes all of that. Her life changes slowly in a more positive direction, but her inner world is just under the surface. At first, I found the story hard to wrap my mind around. Although I understood the dream world parts, it was her alternative that took me a minute to realize what was going on. Julia combined all the people who bullied her. I quickly settled into the story and her realities. Then I found it hard to put down, especially when she flashed back to her suicide attempt and how she met Rachel. “Cat and The Dreamer” deals with some powerful issues, that include suicide, bullying, and mental health. Everything comes together by the end, and I came up with a theory of what really happened, but I won’t share that here. A very unusual and powerful heart-wrenching read where I just couldn’t help but root for Julia. I can easily recommend this novella.

The Inyan Beacon

By Teagan Ríordáin Geneviene and Dan Antion

“The Inyan Beacon” is a quick read that not only easily blends two authors but two genres, sci-fi, and westerns. Tank and his synth, Compass are passing through a small western town in the future. Tank is determined to get into a tower and feels he can undo some of the harm from the past. My favorite character quickly became Compass. Who wouldn’t want beautiful blue skin? There was a fun twist waiting for them, which I enjoyed. A short and satisfying read, and a world I’d like to explore more.

Restless Mayhem (The Mayhem Series Book 6)

By Sue Coletta

I have the rest of The Mayhem Series on my Kindle and have been eager to block out some time to read it. Usually, I’ll go back and start a series from the first book, but “Restless Mayhem” tugged at me. So, I jumped right in and found that I could easily figure out what was going on as I learned who everyone was. I loved Shawnee and her relationship with her grandfather and now mentor, Mr. Mayhem, but my favorite characters were the crows, especially Poe. Shawnee, her grandfather, and Mr. Mayhem are eco-warriors who want to save gray wolves from horrible conditions while Shawnee embarks on a spiritual journey. The details and information created a world that I was swept into. There is a pull between handling situations more spiritually than physically. Plus, something evil has awakened that they have to contend with during their sometimes-bloody missions. I will definitely go back to learn more about these characters’ journeys. I can highly recommend this story to those who love animals, Native American spirituality, action, and justice at all costs.

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!

NOTE:

There will be no post next week as I will be celebrating our 40th Wedding Anniversary. We plan to go to South Lake Tahoe and enjoy a boat ride and stay at a local hotel 🙂 Maybe later in the week we’ll venture to a hot springs too.
I will be back June 19th with another From Finn’s Forest.

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

November Book Reviews Part 2! @teagangeneviene @maurabeth2014 @LyndaMFiller #writingcommunity #readersoftwitter #whattoread

A Peril in Ectoplasm: Just Once More

by Teagan Ríordáin Geneviene

“A Peril in Ectoplasm” is a paranormal thriller that centers on a rich spiritualist, Daphne, and is set in the roaring twenties. Daphne is engaged to a Cuban Count whose intentions toward her are very sketchy. He is a character that was created to dislike, and I did! During a séance, Daphne is warned she needs to find someone but is given little clues other than an image with eyes. Her life may depend on locating this person. Being a medium has taken its toll on Daphne, but her fiancé pushes just one more time. The settings immersed me in Florida in the 1920s and the search for the person offered little clues that came nicely together. It was the fight between the good and bad that had me unable to put the story down. I loved the relationship between Daphne and her protective housekeeper, while I kept hoping Daphne would really see the man in front of her. This was a well-written story that I can easily recommend.

I’ll Be Right Back

by Maura Beth Brennan

“I’ll Be Right Back” is a short but satisfying read. Warren’s much younger wife, Iris, takes her dog for a walk in a snowstorm. He later finds the dog, Petal, in the garage, but no sign of Iris. After he gets no help from the police or family, he sets out to find her. A quick-paced story that took a couple of turns that I didn’t expect. There is a man in love, an ex-exotic dancer, a surprising twist, and a cute dog that kept me entertained. I can easily recommend this story, especially if you want an engaging tale that can be finished before bed or as an afternoon read.

Destiny’s Daughter: It was the best of times.

By Lynda Filler

“Destiny’s Daughter” is Ms. Filler’s third memoir and focuses mainly on her current Istanbul journey and relationships. I have read the two previous memoirs and have always been inspired by the author’s insights, and her latest book didn’t disappoint. It read like she was sharing her diary with us. Some of the information was repeated in a way that felt like processing and bringing to the front what was essential to her. I thoroughly enjoyed the history and learning more about a city I know little about. There is the honesty of personal struggles and triumphs. Being a cat lover, I was happy to see the felines treated so well in this city while reading about the Russian War ships passing by brought chills. You can easily enjoy this without reading her past books since she gives a glimpse into her history. A book that shows that you can do anything at any age while sometimes you have to deal with the past at unexpected times. A fantastic read for those who love to be a part of someone’s candid journey through life.

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