Book Review: Chaos at the Lazy Bones Bookshop by Emmeline Duncan

Title: Chaos at the Lazy Bones Bookshop
Series: Halloween Bookshop Mystery
Author: Emmeline Duncan
Genre: Cozy Mystery
Publication Date: July 23, 2024
Publisher: Kensington

Bailey Briggs adores her year-round Halloween-themed town of Elyan Hollow, Oregon, but when she takes over her grandfather’s beloved bookshop, Lazy Bones Books, she accidentally discovers the town’s secret dark side . . .

Normally, spooky season is Bailey Briggs’ favorite time of year, and her Halloween-themed small town’s time to shine. But between managing Lazy Bones Books, working on her graphic novel-in-progress, and running the Spooky Season Literary Festival, Bailey hardly has a moment to enjoy Elyan Hollow’s spot-on seasonal vibes. Not to mention, at every turn she seems to be tripping over the contentious crew of Gone Ghouls, a ghost-hunting reality TV show currently filming around town. Bailey tries to stay focused on the Lit Festival, which is supposed to kick off Elyan Hollow’s annual Halloween Fair; instead, this year’s festival begins with a murder . . .

It’s bad enough Bailey discovered the victim, but now, as a lead suspect with some (admittedly) damning evidence pointing her way, she’s got to clear her name! With the help of her librarian friend, Colby, and Jack Skeleton, her world-class bookshop dog (and the absolute bestest boy ever), Bailey sets out to solve a murder . . .

As her investigation weaves through family secrets, professional rivalries, and town feuds, the list of suspects is growing fast . . . and unfortunately, so is the list of victims. If Bailey doesn’t find the killer soon, Elyan Hollow’s haunted reputation will get a little too real . . .

Rating

*I received an advance review copy for free and I am leaving this review voluntarily.*

Hello Fellow Reader,

The concept of a cozy mystery that takes place in a cute Halloween-themed town as well as a bookshop drew me in, unfortunately, it didn't captivate me as much as I hoped it would. Duncan did a great job describing Elyan Hollow, and I got a feel of the small-town life in a tourist town, so much so that I would have loved to visit had it been real. Bailey seemed like she would have been a great lead, especially with her little puppers Jack Skeleton, but I feel she was a little robotic. The plot was very straightforward with almost no twists. Duncan also had the problem of telling their readers things rather than trusting the reader to put things together, Bailey also felt like she was just stumbling along for the ride rather than actually trying to solve the murder and clear her name

Overall, a series with potential if Duncan can learn to trust her readers. 

 

Book Review: The Fake Mate by Lana Ferguson

Title: The Fake Mate
Author: Lana Ferguson
Genre: Paranormal; Romance
Publication Date: December 4, 2023
Publisher: Berkley

Mackenzie hasn't had a successful date in months. She's only a year out of residency, and her grandmother's obsession with finding the perfect mate threatens to drive her barking mad, so it should be a small thing when she lies about meeting someone . . . until she blurts out the name of the last man she would ever date: Noah 'The Big Bad Wolf of Denver General' Taylor.

Noah, interventional cardiologist and all-round grump, has spent his entire life hiding what he is - an unmated alpha. But when an anonymous tip brings everything to light, he's left with two choices: come clean to the board and risk his career or find himself a mate. So, when the chatty, overly friendly ER doctor asks him to be her fake boyfriend the same day he's called to meet the board, it must be kismet, right?

Mackenzie gets her grandmother off her back, and Noah gets the chance to prove he can continue to work without a real mate - it's a mutually beneficial business transaction. But when the fake-mate act turns to a very real friends-with-benefits arrangement, lines start to blur, and they quickly realise love is a whole different kind of animal.

Rating

Hello Fellow Readers,

I didn't know how I needed a shifter 'Alpha/Omega' romance until I read Lana Ferguson's The Fake Mate. The Fake dating trope caused me to pick this book up, but the amazing chemistry between Mackenzie and Noah is what had me devouring this book. Not only do we have such steamy spice, but some actual plot as well. The writing was fast-paced and Ferguson took no time to jumpstart the plot and spice. Mackenzie and Noah were great and the attraction was animalistic. 

I like the premise that Alphas and Omegas were rare and the chances of Mackenzie and Noah finding each other were slim, it made it even more obvious that they belonged together. The side characters were interesting and entertaining, I also love the normalcy of the romance despite the paranormal aspect of shifters, most paranormal romances I read have so much angst and violence, so The Fake Mate was a breath of fresh air. 

Overall, a unique take on the fake dating trope. 

Book Review: Silence of Deceit by Cara Devlin

Title: Silence of Deceit
Series: Bow Street Duchess (Book 3)
Author: Cara Devlin
Genre: Historical, Mystery
Publication Date: April 22, 2023

Secrets and lies simmer to the surface in the third riveting Bow Street Duchess mystery.

For years, the Duchess of Fournier has buried a shameful secret connected to her remarkable, if bizarre, ability. While Audrey’s gift has helped her solve cases alongside the captivating Bow Street officer Hugh Marsden, she longs to forget her previous committal to an insane asylum. But now, a blackmailer with a taste for violence is threatening former patients of Shadewell Sanatorium, and it appears the ghosts of Audrey’s past have finally found her.

 

Rating

*I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.*

Hello Fellow Readers,

I've finally got around to reading Silence of Deceit the third book in the 'Bow Street Duchess Mystery Series' I enjoyed the first two books and this third one was no different. I've come to appreciate Devlin's writing and conscience plot. So far every book has been interesting and well written, I also find myself paying very close attention to all the details, including the small ones, this is not just to figure out who the killers are but to also remember details because Devlin will usually slip them in other books in the series. 

In Silence of Deceit, we get a glimpse of Audrey's backstory and her time at the Shadewell Sanatorium. The cast of characters in this was vast and interesting. I also love the slow-burn relationship between Hugh and Audrey, Devlin is taking her time, and it's developing into something I am rooting for. Usually, I'm too impatient with Slow-burn romances but the chemistry and Devlin's interesting murder plots really reel me in. 

Overall, this is quickly becoming one of my favorite mystery series. 

Manga Review: Otherworldly Izakaya Nobu Volume 2

Title: Otherworldly Izakaya Nobu Volume 2
by Natsuya Semikawa, Virginia Nitouhei
Genre: Food; Manga
Publication Date: December 11, 2018
Publisher: Udon Entertainment

Japanese-style pub “Nobu” is open for business in an odd, foreign world, and the ever-welcoming Shinobu and Chief are happy to serve up unusually tasty bar food to an array of strange customers. A little thief, an obnoxious messenger, and a pair of squabbling craftsmen are all ready to chow down! Kisu tempura, sashimi, omusoba, and shuto and more are on the menu... The delicious aromas of food and drink bring everyone together in this gourmet tale of humanity!

Rating

 *I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.*

Hello Fellow Readers, 

I loved the first volume of Otherworldly Izakaya Nobu, so it's no surprise that I also loved this one. There is just something wholesome and comforting about this manga that just lures me and makes me devour it. I love the way the food is described and I love the reactions from the characters and we get to go more in detail with this fantasy world that Semikawa has built. I think I was more excited about the world than the food, and I can't wait to read more and find out more about this world. 

Book Review: You're Embarrassing Yourself: Stories of Love, Lust, and Movies

 

Title: You're Embarrassing Yourself
Author: Desiree Akhavan
Genre: Humor; Memoir; Short Stories
Publication Date: August 13, 2024
Publisher: Random House Publishing Group

Writer, actor, and director Desiree Akhavan shares the stories she was told to shut up about—hilarious, horny, heartbreaking tales of a life in pursuit of art, love, and the metabolism of Kate Moss circa 1995.

There was a time before shame. A time of POGS, Tamagotchis and the Macarena. When birthday party invites were a given, books came with charm necklaces, and whoever was in your class was automatically a friend. Then puberty hit and everything went weird.When it comes to shame, Desiree Akhavan knows what she’s talking about—whether it’s winning the title of The Ugliest Girl at her high school, acquiescing to the nose job she was lovingly forced into by her Iranian parents, or losing her virginity to a cokehead she met in a support group for cutters. 

In You're Embarrassing Yourself, Desiree goes to the rawest places—the lifelong struggle to be at peace in one’s body, the search for home as the child of immigrants, the anxious underbelly of artistic ambition—in pursuit of wisdom, catharsis, and lolz. Equal parts funny and heartfelt, these seventeen essays chart an artist’s journey from outcast to overnight indie darling, to (somewhat) self-aware adult woman. The result is a collection that captures the pathetic lows and euphoric highs of our youth—and how to survive them

.

Rating

*I received an advance review copy for free and I am leaving this review voluntarily.*

Hello Fellow Readers,

Have you ever felt there was someone so relatable to yourself despite just being completely different than them? That's how I felt with Desiree Akhavan's book You're Embarrassing Yourself. Once I started reading this I couldn't stop, Akhavan is funny and witty, yet so honest and emotionally raw. I couldn't imagine barring myself in such an intimate way yet it seems to have been so effortlessly done here. There are so many highlights on my Kindle with this book. I felt like I was highlighting something on every page.

I also felt very connected to Akhavan (not in a stalkerish way...) even though we led completely different lives her words just resonated with me in a way that most memoirs don't. I enjoyed the open honesty in which she writes and the way she interjects humor on even heavier topics. 

Overall, one of my favorite reads so far. 

Book Review: A New Doctor at Orchard Cottage Hospital by Lizzie Lane

 

Title: A New Doctor at Orchard Cottage Hospital
Author: Lizzie Lane
Genre: Historical Fiction
Publication Date: May 23, 2024
Publisher: Boldwood Books

A country town in need of a good Doctor, but will they accept her as one of their own?

Somerset, March 1930
Born in the workhouse and adopted by a former suffragette, Frances Brakespeare was encouraged from an early age to be strong, independent and to pursue a career as a doctor. The tragic loss of the love of her life in the Great War propels Frances to commit to her one true vocation.

Rebelling against the unfair treatment of female doctors Frances is dismissed from her London post and things continue to take a turn for the worse when Izzy, her benefactress dies and Frances finds herself homeless.

With no employment or roof over her head her future seems uncertain until she’s offered a residency at the Orchard Cottage Hospital in Norton Dene, Somerset. a town where quarrying and coal mining scar the land.

It’s a far cry from London and towns narrow minds are not so welcoming of a young, female Doctor, but she’s determined to win through.

At first sight the town seems quaintly old fashioned, a place where nothing much happens but there are secrets and sins bubbling beneath the surface plus a mystery she's determined to solve.

Rating

*I received a copy of this book digitally for free and am leaving this review voluntarily*

Hello Fellow Readers,

I love strong female characters and Lizzie Lane's newest series is fill to the brim with them. The main character Francis will not let sexism and misogyny get in the way of her morals or keep her from being a doctor. After standing up for herself Frances loses her job at a hospital in London. To avoid homelessness and poverty she accepts residency at a small cottage hospital. Of course, not everyone is happy about her new position.

 Honestly, there were so many great characters it was hard to choose who I liked the best. They were all unique, but still strong in their own ways. I do know who I absolutely disliked with a burning hot passion, I won't spoil it but if you read the book you will know exactly whom I am talking about. I love how Lane portrays her characters, even the villains, they are all just so complex and will have you turning the page to get more. The ending did feel rushed to me, I felt like it messed with the pacing of the book.

Overall, a strong start to, hopefully, a strong series. 

Book Review: Flirty Little Secrets by Jessica Lepe

 

Title: Flirty Little Secret
Author: Jessica Lepe
Genre: Mental Health; Romance
Publication Date: March 19, 2024
Publisher: Forever

School counselor Lucy Galindo has a secret.

To her coworkers, friends, and even family, she’s shy, sweet, and constantly struggling to hold off disaster (read: manage her anxiety and depression). But online? She’s bold, confident, and always knows what to say—it’s how she’s become the wildly popular @TheMissGuidedCounselor. It’s also why she keeps her identity anonymous. Her followers would never trust the real Lucy with their problems.

History teacher Aldrich Fletcher thought a new job would give him some relief from his drama-filled family. Instead, he’s dodging his ex-girlfriend and pining over his new co-worker—who only ever seems to see him at his worst. Thankfully, he can count on his online confidant for advice . . . until he discovers @TheMissGuidedCounselor is Lucy.

Now Fletcher has a secret too. And while Lucy can’t deny there’s something between them, she’s not sure she can trust him. Can they both find the courage to share the truth and step out from behind their screens?

Rating

*I received a copy of this book digitally for free and am leaving this review voluntarily*

Hello Fellow Reader,

I was afraid I wouldn't like this as Flirty Little Secret started a bit slow, but the more I read the more I fell in love with Lucy and Fletcher's relationship. Lucy is so loveable and real, that I immediately connected to her. On Instagram, @TheMissGuidedCounselor is self-assured and confident giving much-needed wisdom and advice to her followers, one of which we learn is Fletcher. We can't always trust what gets portrayed on social media because in real life @TheMissGuidedCounselor is Lucy. Lucy would hate it if her followers actually learned who she really was, she feels like a mess, struggling with anxiety and depression while also trying to manage her ADHD, Lucy feels like a lie. 

The romance was sweet and I liked how it progressed through the book, Fletcher was okay and I always love nice guy MMCs, but it was Lucy who really made things shine, and I really liked how Lepe portrayed Mental health issues, which honestly was not something I expected but appreciated. There were a couple of things that made this a little hard to read like the whole complication with Georgia felt unnecessary and not needed. Also, how high schoolers were portrayed gave Steve Buscemi's "How Do You Do, Fellow Kids' meme energy. 

Overall a good mental health representation and romance. 

Graphic Novel Review: Dandelion by Sabir Pirzada

 

Title: Dandelion
Creator: Sabir Pirzada
Illustrators: Martin Morazzo; Vanesa Del Rey
Genre: Comic; Graphic Novel; Science Fiction
Publication Date: June 25, 2024
Publisher: Image

Nomadland meets Mad Max in this anthology featuring stunning artwork by Martin Morazzo (ICE CREAM MAN), Vanesa Del Rey (REDLANDS), and more!

When climate change and automation disrupt the lives of millions, a new civilization is formed in the skies—one that threatens the wealthy citizens who’ve been hoarding Earth’s meager resources for themselves.

From Sabir Pirzada, writer of Marvel Studios’ Moon Knight and Ms. Marvel TV series, comes a bold vision of the future!

Rating

*I received a copy of this book digitally for free and am leaving this review voluntarily*

Hello Fellow Readers,

To be honest with you, I am having a hard time gathering my thoughts about Dandelion. The Premise is interesting and I've always been a fan of science fiction, especially in graphic novels, but something fell flat for me. I can't pinpoint where it may have been the flow of the stories that really tripped me up. I don't need them to be linear, and I like it when stories are told in parts as it leaves me turning the page to find out more. 

The stories had me feeling disjointed as if they were randomly placed rather than done with purpose. I could have really enjoyed the message of Dandelion if it was done differently. Unfortunately, what that way is I couldn't tell you which, I think, is why I am feeling so conflicted. The art is stunning though and I really enjoyed the differences of each scene. 

Overall, I think it's okay but fell a little flat with its message. 

Book Review: House on Highland Road by Melissa Peters

 

Title: House on Highland Road
Series: Salvation Hills Haunting #1
Author: Melissa Peters
Genre: Mystery; Paranormal; Supernatural; Young Adult
Publication Date: October 1, 2023

Lanie Gilbert, aka Riley Miller, is living a lie. She is the lie. She’s adrift, run away from home and losing her mind. Or so she thinks. Living out of her car, with winter looming, her time in Salvation Hills is almost up. But then she meets them.

Ghost hunters—Mason, Bethy, and Conrad. They draw her into their strange world where floorboards creak and spirits threaten her life. And then there’s Nat, their psychic friend who sees something in her, besides the truth.

Will a dark night in a haunted house be just what Lanie needs? Or will it be her undoing?

House on Highland Road is a YA cozy horror novel filled with bumps in the night, apparitions, and found family. This series will appeal to all ages, including fans of the paranormal and shows like Ghost Whisperer.

Rating

*I received an advanced digital copy for free and I am leaving this honest review voluntarily*

Hello Fellow Readers,

Lately, I've been in a little paranormal kick and House on Highland Road did a great job at temporarily scratching that itch. I really felt for Lanie and I wanted above all else for her to be safe and happy at the end of this book (and this series). Her backstory breaks my heart and you all know I am a sucker for children with a troubled family. Add everything about Riley and Lanie immediately had my loyalty. 

I honestly didn't know what to think about MAson Conrad and Bethy, at first. I eventually warmed up to Conrad and Bethy, even going as far as enjoying their interactions with Lanie. Peters did have me worried that Mason would become Lanie's love interest and I was not going to be a fan of that, however, Peters made the right decision on the romance aspect. Nat was great and it looks like she'll be around and helping Lanie out in the future. I really can't wait to see how that relationship grows. The story was interesting and I liked the small sections that gave us a historical perspective. 

Overall, an interesting start that has caught my attention. 

Book Review: The Wolf's Curse by Alex Gates

Title: The Wolf's Curse
Series: Reapers Reborn Chronicles #1
Author: Alex Gates
Genre: Fantasy; Paranormal; Supernatural; Werewolves; Witches
Publication Date: February 19, 2024

Doryan Miller's life takes an otherworldly turn when he finds himself joining a team of supernatural misfits.

Meet Doryan, a man with the strange gift of chatting with the dearly departed. For most of his life, the dead have kept him company as he wandered across the country. But then, without warning, he's thrust into a world where werewolves roam and ancient magic exists.

He's recruited by Project Phoenix, a secret squad of individuals led by the enigmatic Erik Haller. Their mission? Hunt down things that go bump in the night and keep humanity safe from the forces of darkness… but their first gig is no simple paranormal pest control. They're tracking a werewolf, and this shapeshifter isn't your average furry friend.

As the boundaries between reality and the supernatural blur, it's a race against time for "Project Phoenix." Can they stop the beast before it sinks its claws into more victims?

Rating

*I received a copy of this book digitally for free and am leaving this review voluntarily*

Hello Fellow Readers,

 I was curious about this book after reading the synopsis. Doryan seems like such an interesting character and his ability to interact with spirits and the Phoenix Project had me immediately picking this up to read. I was glad that I was correct about Doryan. He seems to be a very unique character and individual and the way he handles everything makes him feel real. The other characters were okay. I liked that the 'muscle' Adria was female (although, a little too 'not like other girls' she even mentions how she doesn't get along with them). The plot was okay but I feel like there was just too much crammed into this book, at times it just felt like too much. I know that the first book is a setup for the series but it's okay to slow down and let things progress as the bigger story unfolds.

Overall, an interesting start but a little too jam-packed.