School for Psychics by K.C. Archer

School for Psychics: Book One by K.C. Archer

Published by Simon & Schuster

Published on April 3, 2018

Genres: Mystery, Thriller & Suspense, Supernatural, Paranormal

Page Count: 368

Source: Publisher

Format: ebook

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Description: An entrancing new series starring a funny, impulsive, and sometimes self-congratulatory young woman who discovers she has psychic abilities—and then must decide whether she will use her skills for good or…not.

Teddy Cannon isn’t your typical twenty-something woman. She’s resourceful. She’s bright. She’s scrappy. She can also read people with uncanny precision. What she doesn’t realize: she’s actually psychic.

When a series of bad decisions leads Teddy to a run-in with the police, a mysterious stranger intervenes. He invites her to apply to the School for Psychics, a facility hidden off the coast of San Francisco where students are trained like Delta Force operatives: it’s competitive, cutthroat, and highly secretive. They’ll learn telepathy, telekinesis, investigative skills, and SWAT tactics. And if students survive their training, they go on to serve at the highest levels of government, using their skills to protect America, and the world.

In class, Teddy befriends Lucas, a rebel without a cause who can start and manipulate fire; Jillian, a hipster who can mediate communication between animals and humans; and Molly, a hacker who can apprehend the emotional state of another individual. But just as Teddy feels like she’s found where she might belong, strange things begin to happen: break-ins, missing students, and more. It leads Teddy to accept a dangerous mission that will ultimately cause her to question everything—her teachers, her friends, her family, and even herself.

Set in a world very much like our own, School for Psychics is the first book in a stay-up-all night series.

Hello Readers.

I was quite intrigued when I first saw this book. It looked like something that I could really enjoy so I jumped at the chance to read it. Being a lover of paranormal and supernatural books, I went into this hopeful. For the most part, I was not disappointed. 

Strong characters. Great premise. I found myself wanting to read constantly. I was drawn into a story where the characters were relatable even if they were "different" from the norm. I was in the school. I was working on my abilities. I was there. I love when a book does that. 

I received a digital copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. I was delighted to get the opportunity. I am rating it Four Red Books because I feel it is a pretty solid start to a series. I wish I could rate it higher but there were moments that were predictable and bordering on cliche. With that said, I greatly enjoyed this book and cannot wait to see what follows in the rest of the series. I will definitely be recommending School for Psychics. 

InkedBookDragon

The Wife Between Us: A Novel by Greer Hendricks and Sarah Pekkanen

The Wife Between Us: A Novel by Greer Hendricks and Sarah Pekkanen

Published by Holtzbrinck Publishers

Published on January 9, 2018

Genres: Mystery, Thriller & Suspense, Women's Fiction, Contemporary

Page Count: 352

Source: Purchased

Format: Hardback

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Description: When you read this book, you will make many assumptions.

You will assume you are reading about a jealous ex-wife.

You will assume she is obsessed with her replacement – a beautiful, younger woman who is about to marry the man they both love. 

You will assume you know the anatomy of this tangled love triangle.

Assume nothing.

Twisted and deliciously chilling, Greer Hendricks and Sarah Pekkanen's The Wife Between Us exposes the secret complexities of an enviable marriage - and the dangerous truths we ignore in the name of love.

Read between the lies.

Hello Readers.

I was looking forward to this one. I wasn't 100% sure what it was from the desciption that I had read early on but I was looking forward to it. Something about it called to me and I had to read it. Some books are like that. You cannot get them out of your mind. Something about them burrows into your brain and you cannot stop thinking about them. You have to read them, if for no other reason than to dislodge them from your thoughts. Some books go away once that happens. Others stay in there as though they have little barbed claws that refuse to let go. This book was one of the latter.

Where do I begin with this one? Do I mention how I was on the edge of my seat on more than one occasion? Do I write about how there was a moment where I exclaimed something so loudly that everyone around me stopped what they were doing and looked at me as though something was wrong with me? I could go on and on.

I had trouble returning to life while reading this book. I did not want to put it down and do things that I needed to get done. I wanted to grab my copy of this book, a hot drink, a comfy blanket, and hide somewhere so I could read it. It grabbed me from the very beginning and I knew that I was most likely in for a bumpy ride. Little did I know that it would completely veer away from what I thought I was reading. Usually when this happens, I am greatly put off because it disrupts the flow of the story. However, that was not the case here. 

I am rating this book Four Red Books because it was a truly wonderful read. I wish that I could rate it higher but there were moments of confusion that detracted from the story. Amazing character development. I found myself completely captivated, enticed, and sometimes even repulsed. I am usually hesitant to read books written by a team. This one did not feel like it had multiple authors. I would definitely read more by them. I highly recommend this book as it was one of the better offerings of its type from 2017. 

InkedBookDragon

BLOG TOUR: FALSE PROPHET (Review)

False Prophet (Saul Marshall Thriller Book 1) by Richard Davis

Published by Canelo

Published on January 25, 2016

Genres: Mystery, Thriller, Military, Espionage, Crime

Page Count: 290

Source: Blog Tour

Format: eBook

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Description: When a rogue cult turns deadly, the authorities call on former conman, Agent Saul Marshall. Drawn into a cat and mouse chase with the leader of the cult, Ivan Drexler, news arrives that he has taken Marshall’s son hostage. Removed from the line of duty, Marshall must work alone, off-grid.

As the attacks intensify, Saul will stop at nothing to defeat Drexler. But people are questioning Saul’s own part in the carnage. He must work fast to save both his country and his son. 

As wave after wave of attacks break, the clock is ticking...

Hello Readers.

Every once in a while, I will get a first novel from a person and I am blown away. Some first books are just that good that they capture the audience from the first page. This book did that for me. I was grabbed out of my chair and taken into the book. Strong characters and a rich storyline. 

I am rating this book Four Red Books. I found it enjoyable but there were some definite errors in the scientific componet. Great story otherwise. Looking forward Book Two. I would definitely recommend it. 

InkedBookDragon

Still Me by Jojo Moyes

Still Me by Jojo Moyes

Published by Pamela Dorman Books

Published on January 30, 2018

Genres: Contemporary, Women's Fiction

Page Count: 400

Source: Purchased

Format: eBook

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Description: Louisa Clark arrives in New York ready to start a new life, confident that she can embrace this new adventure and keep her relationship with Ambulance Sam alive across several thousand miles. She steps into the world of the superrich, working for Leonard Gopnik and his much younger second wife, Agnes. Lou is determined to get the most out of the experience and throws herself into her new job and New York life. 

As she begins to mix in New York high society, Lou meets Joshua Ryan, a man who brings with him a whisper of her past. Before long, Lou finds herself torn between Fifth Avenue where she works and the treasure-filled vintage clothing store where she actually feels at home. And when matters come to a head, she has to ask herself: Who is Louisa Clark? And how do you reconcile a heart that lives in two places?

Funny, romantic, and poignant, Still Me follows Lou as she navigates how to stay true to herself, while pushing to live boldly in her brave new world.

Hello Readers.

To say that I was worried about this book would be an understatement. Having been disappointed by the second in this series, I wasn't really sure how this one would be. Sequels can be surprising. I must admit that I was pleasantly surprised with this one. 

Gone were the moments of "What in the...?" that were present in the second book. The characters are more complex. They have grown in very relatable ways. The author captured some very crucial events in a person's life and that is not an easy task to do. Putting a character in an environment completely unknown to them could have led to some disappointment. However, the transition textually was beautifully done. I could praise this book for hours but I do not like spoilers. 

I am rating this book Four Red Books because I greatly enjoyed it. It feels more like the first one did. It flows better and just overall feels better. The storyline wasn't all over the place. I would highly recommend it. 

InkedBookDragon

Forever My Girl (The Beaumont Series, Book 1) by Heidi McLaughlin

Forever My Girl (The Beaumont Series, Book 1) by Heidi McLaughlin

Published by Books by Heidi McLaughlin, LTD

Published on January 2, 2014

Genres: Contemporary Fiction, Romance

Page Count: 254

Source: Purchased

Format: eBook

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Description:  I was never supposed to be a rock star. I had my life all planned out for me. Play football in college. Go to the NFL. Marry my high school sweetheart and live happily ever after. 

I broke both our hearts that day when I told her I was leaving. I was young. I made the right decision for me, but the wrong decision for us. I’ve poured my soul into my music, but I’ve never forgotten her. Her smell, her smile. 

And now I’m going back. 

After ten years. 

I hope I can explain that after all this time. 

I still want her to be my forever girl.

Hello Readers.

Like many others, I am a sucker for a good second chance love story  We all make choices that may lead us away from someone that we love dearly and it renders us devastated. Enter the second chance. A redo with all the history and feelings. This is a favorite for many, myself included. If done properly, a second chance romance can be great to read. If not done properly, it feels forced and just unpleasant. 

This book was one that succeeded in the second chance love story for the most part. The characters were relatable and I found myself very empathetic towards them at times With that said, there were other times where I wanted to shake them for all the back and forth. Then again, I know people like that. Overall, the story flows well. Emotions were present and I might have spoken out loud to the characters a time or two. 

I am rating this book Four Red Books because it was an enjoyable read and I was drawn to read more in the series. I would and have already recommended.

InkedBookDragon

Mr.Penumbra's 24-Hour Bookstore by Robin Sloan

Mr. Penumbra's 24-Hour Bookstore by Robin Sloan

Published by

Published on

Genres: Fiction, Fantasy, Mystery

Page Count: 288

Source: Purchased

Format: Hardcover

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Description: The Great Recession has shuffled Clay Jannon away from life as a San Francisco web-design drone and into the aisles of Mr. Penumbra's 24-Hour Bookstore, but after a few days on the job, Clay discovers that the store is more curious than either its name or its gnomic owner might suggest. The customers are few, and they never seem to buy anything; instead, they "check out" large, obscure volumes from strange corners of the store. Suspicious, Clay engineers an analysis of the clientele's behavior, seeking help from his variously talented friends, but when they bring their findings to Mr. Penumbra, they discover the bookstore's secrets extend far beyond its walls.

Hello Readers.

I picked up this book one day because it looked like something that I might enjoy. Then life occurred and it became buried in my TBR stacks and I forgot about it. It wasn't until I was researching books for my book group that I remembered it. Then it was offically chosen and it finally got its turn. 

I geniunely enjoyed this book. I found myself picturing the story while reading it and I longed to see this bookstore in real life. The idea of a bookstore containing unusual books that most people have never heard of is exciting to me. It definitely makes me wonder what gems may be hidden in my nearest bookstore.

I am rating this book Four Red Books because it drug in some spots and was predictable. I enjoyed it but I did have a few moments where I felt like I was reading an advertisement rather than a novel. The characters were likeable and relatable. The premise was fantastic and I would love to find a bookstore like the one from the story. This is the first book that I have read by this author and I will be looking into his other titles. Great read!

InkedBookDragon

The Wrong Side of Twenty-Five by Kate Armitage

The Wrong Side of Twenty-Five by Kate Armitage

Published by Crooked Cat Books

Published on December 27, 2017

Genres: Humor & Satire, Dark Comedy, Literary Humor

Page Count: 271

Source: Publisher/Author

Format: eBook

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Description: With newsfeeds full of perfect pouts, hot-dog legs and the self-proclaimed hashtag-blessed, it’s hard not to feel inadequate. How has everyone figured out how to live their best life except you?

That’s what Kylie wants to know. She thought she would spend her twenty-fifth birthday having a mini-break not a mini-breakdown. After an evening of finger-food and snide remarks, Kylie decides that things must change. Naturally, Alexa disagrees. She doesn’t think anything needs to change and is quite happy plodding on with her best friend by her side. 

So, when everything changes for the better for Alexa, while it’s going from bad to worse for Kylie; will it tear them apart?

Hello Readers.

Have you ever had a birthday that made you stop and reflect on how far you have gotten in your life? Did you obtain the success that you thought you would by that point? Kylie finds herself having a quarter of a life crisis. She has not reached any of the points in life that most people expect one to achieve by this age. It doesn't help that some of her own family members feel the need to constantly remind her of her shortcomings. Add in her best friend who seems to really have this whole adulting thing under control. It is interesting to see how they mesh together. Both are very relatable.

I am rating this book Four Red Books because there were moments where I wanted to shake both of the main characters. This book was well written and I find myself looking forward to reading more of her work. She has a way to not only captivate your attention but makes you want to read more. Hoping that there will be a sequel. Will definitely recommend.


InkedBookDragon

My Lady Jane (The Lady Janie's #1) by Cynthia Hand, Brodi Ashton, and Jodi Meadows

My Lady Jane (The Lady Janies #1) by Cythia Hand, Brodi Ashton, and Jodi Meadows

 Published by HarperTeen

Published on June 7, 2016

Genres: Romantic Comedy, Fantasy, Historical

Page Count: 512

Source: Purchased

Format: Hardback

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Description: This comical, fantastical, romantical, New York Times bestselling, (not) entirely true story of Lady Jane Grey is “an uproarious historical fantasy that’s not to be missed” (Publishers Weekly, starred review).

In My Lady Jane, coauthors Cynthia Hand, Brodi Ashton, and Jodi Meadows have created a one-of-a-kind YA fantasy in the tradition of The Princess Bride, featuring a reluctant king, an even more reluctant queen, a noble steed, and only a passing resemblance to actual history—because sometimes history needs a little help.

At sixteen, Lady Jane Grey is about to be married off to a stranger and caught up in a conspiracy to rob her cousin, King Edward, of his throne. But those trifling problems aren’t for Jane to worry about. Jane gets to be Queen of England.

Like that could go wrong.

Hello Readers.

I was debating on if I should review this one or not since it is from 2016 and I am attempting to focus on newer books these days. It has stayed in the back of my mind since I read it earlier this year and I think a book that lingers for that long deserves to be acknowledged. Also, there is a sequel to this releasing this coming year. With that knowledge, how could I not review it?

I have always been one that enjoys a good laugh. I am one that is given to random laughter at times when I remember something that happened in the past. Heaven forbid I attempt to tell a story that I deem funny because I will end up laughing the entire time and not get the words out. I tell you all this because this book made me laugh so hard at some parts. The humor would hang around and I would chuckle at inappropriate times if it crossed my mind. There is something to be said about a book that can bring that much joy. 

Being a lover of historical fiction and romances, I was tentative with this one because I feared that the fantasy aspect would completely remove all historical accuracy from the story. That was not the case. There are actual facts that have been peppered in there. The fun part is trying to figure out what was true. Some details were obviously fantasy. However, some were very much accurate. Have fun trying to choose which was which.

I am rating this book Four Blue Books because it was a delight to read but there were a few spots of timing issues. It is not often that a storyline can take me in like this one. I did not want to put it down. Ready for the sequel. Highly recommend.

InkedBookDragon

Be Careful What You Wish For by A.C. Hutchinson

Be Careful What You Wish For: A Short Story by A.C. Hutchinson

Published by Amazon Digital Services LLC

Published on October 31, 2015

Genres: Horror, Short Story

Page Count: 13

Source: Purchased

Format: eBook

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Description: When David Patzpowski takes his breakfast at a motorway diner, he discovers the clientele to be a little on the strange side.

Hello again.

Yes. I know that I just reviewed a different short story by this author but I can't review that one and not review this one. I have to share this one with you. Another great piece from this author. Well written with excellent characters. Definitely one that was thought out. Surprising end.

I am rating this short story Four Red Books because I found myself a little upset about the length. Well developed to be so short. I wholeheartedly feel that the premise could have been used towards a longer piece. Once again impressed with the way that the author draws the reader in. Will be keeping an eye on him. It will be interesting to see what he has for us later on. Will be recommending.

InkedBookDragon

Hotel Z: A Short Story by A.C. Hutchinson

Hotel Z: A Short Story by A.C. Hutchinson

Published by Amazon Digital Services LLC

Published on March 25, 2017

Genres: Horror, Short Stories

Page Count: 18

Source: Purchased

Format: eBook

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Description: Welcome to Hotel Z, the best place to sample merchandise anywhere in town. We catch them fresh and don't keep them too long – that's the secret. But be careful, sometimes they bite!

Hello Again!

Zombies. Need I say more? Yes, zombies are every where and many people think that they have been done to death. (Pun intended.) I am one that enjoys a good zombie story. I have never really been able to pinpoint exactly why I enjoy them to the extent that I do. I guess some things cannot be explained.

I am rating this Four Red Books because it was a great read. The premise was not something that you see often and I really liked that. Very well written. It was predictable but that did not take from the story. I wish it had been longer. There was definitely the potential there to be a longer story. I look forward to reading more of the author's work.


InkedBookDragon

Mad Librarian by Michael Guillebeau

Mad Librarian by Michael Guillebeau

Published by Madison Press

Published on November 16, 2017

Genres: Humor, Mystery & Thriller

Page Count: 410

Source: NetGalley & Publisher

Format: eBook

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Description:  MAD Librarian is women’s crime humor that reads like Breaking Bad: The Library Edition. When the city cuts off funding for her library, Serenity Hammer embezzles from a neglected city fund that turns out to be the conduit for all state political corruption. Now she has all the money she needs to build the library her city deserves—if she can do it fast and stay alive.


Hello.

I spent some time working in a library when I was in college so this book called to me. I had to read it. Reading the blurbs about it, I worried that it would not stand up to the talk. Not only did it stand up but it captivated my attention. That is a task. I realize that it may not seem like one but it truly is.

Strong characters. I enjoyed the concept of a librarian on a mission. The main character was not only likable but I found myself geniunely rooting for her. Add in my love of libraries and I could not help but be in her corner. She has to save the library and is willing to do anything to do so. A woman after my own heart.

Thank you to NetGalley and Madison Press for giving me a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. I am rating it Four Red Books because there were some moments that I found hard to believe. I loved the premise and enjoyed the writing. Overall, I would recommed this book.


InkedBookDragon

Not Quite Eden (Not Quite Eden #1) by Dominique Kyle

Not Quite Eden (Not Quite Eden #1) by Dominique Kyle

Published by Dominique Kyle

Published on June 26, 2016

Genres: Romance, Contemporary. YA

Page Count: 221

Source: Author

Format: eBook

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Description: Eve isn't one to take things lying down (males please note!). But she never expected to have to step in to save the life of that annoying idiot next door, Adam Quinn. And she only did it because she's reserving the right to kill him herself! 

Adam Quinn and Eve McGinty have been bitter rivals for as long as they can remember. When they both apply for the same job as a trainee car mechanic only one of them can get it, and Eve is finding it hard to convince the misogynistic men who work there of her suitability for the role. Then Eve's younger brother, Jamie, is invited to join the rock band that the irrepressibly flamboyant Quinn and his friends have formed. But unfortunately the members of the band have made some dubious decisions in their eagerness to get a recording deal. When things turn nasty with the local psychopathic night club bouncers and drug dealers, Eve feels she has no option but to step in to prevent her brother being dragged down with the rest of the boys. As the consequences spiral out of control, Eve is forced to spend a lot more time with Quinn than she ever really wanted to.

Hi Readers.

What a surprise! This is one of those books that I thought might just be a fun quick read. It was much more than that. Wonderful growth in story. Fast paced and insightful. 

I love a good coming of age story. Strong characterizations. Loved that they were not perfect and made mistakes. They were flawed and it was beautiful. Human beings are flawed and I find it refreshing when characters reflect that. Some of the characters took a little more time for me to embrace than others. 

Thank you to the author for giving me a digital copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. I am rating it Four Red Books because it had a lot going on at times. Overall, it was a great read that was not as predictable as many in its genre. I am intrigued and will most likely seek out the other books in the series. 

InkedBookDragon

Lemon Drops And Love (Cocktail Series #1) by Angela Stevens

Lemon Drops And Love (Cocktail Series #1) by Angela Stevens

Published by Cat's Pyjamas

Published on February 21, 2017 

Genres: Romance, Mystery, Fiction, Contemporary Romance

Page Count: 338

Source: Author

Format: eBook

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Description: Jude Holland is a man with a problem. His heart belongs to his best friend, but his best friend belongs to someone else. Maya Jenkins has a bigger problem. Her boyfriend’s jealousy and temper is controlling her life. When she plucks up courage to leave Carl, she reaches out to Jude. 

Four years younger, her best friend has always made her feel safe. Maya has hidden her true feelings for Jude for seven years and coming out of an abusive relationship is not an appropriate time to reveal them—or is it? 

After rescuing her from Carl’s clutches, Jude is shocked by how much Carl has destroyed Maya’s strong spirit. No longer the carefree, self-assured woman he once knew, Jude vows to help her pick up the pieces of her life. However, Jude didn’t bank on Carl’s unwillingness to let go.

Lemon Drops And Love is book one in the hot and steamy Cocktail Series. All books are full-length, standalone novels revolving around a collection of gritty characters. The men are hot hockey stick wielding guys and the women are not what they seem. 

Weaving contemporary HEA romances around sometimes harrowing tales, Angela Stevens’ characters are raw and sensual. They speak as they play - hard and sometimes dirty, and they wear their hearts on their sleeves. But when any of the Hockey Punk guys fall for a girl, sparks are guaranteed to fly. 

The Cocktail Series is best read with a cocktail or two, a bar of your favorite chocolate, and your preferred brand of tissues. Be warned, all the stories in the series are written for an adult audience. Contents contain hot sex and an emotional journey. There are chapters that will make you seethe and those that will make you cry, and others that will make you hot and flustered. But most of all, each story contains a heart felt tale of love, friendship, and a way of beating the odds.

Hello Again!

I got the opportunity to read this book and I jumped at it.  I thought that it might be one of those fun reads that allowed me a little escape.  I doubted that it would be little more than just a mushy romance with no real body it. I was so wrong.

Lemon Drops And Love by Angela Stevens is one of those that can be uncomfortable at times. The author does such a thorough job of telling the story that you feel like you are in it. You feel as though you know the characters personally and you find yourself furious with some of their decisions.  In fact, there is one that enraged me so greatly that I would daydream about ways to hurt him.  

I am normally not one that reads romance novels. I tend to gravitate towards other genres. I will be the first one to admit it. Yes, this story is a romance but it is so much more. Some mystery. Some intrigue. It was hard to put down. 

Thank you to the author for giving me a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.  I am rating it Four Red Books because it was very well written and a quite enjoyable read. I laughed. I cried. I felt pure fury. I was elated. I will definitely recommend it to others.

InkedBookDragon

The Breathless by Tara Goedjen

The Breathless by Tara Goedjen

Published by Delacorte Press

Published on October 10, 2017

Genres: Young Adult, Horror, Mystery, Fantasy, Paranormal, Gothic, Historical

Page Count: 368

Source: Publisher

Format: Hardback

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Description:No one knows what really happened on the beach where Roxanne Cole’s body was found, but her boyfriend, Cage, took off that night and hasn’t been seen since. Until now. One year—almost to the day—from Ro’s death, when he knocks on the door of Blue Gate Manor and asks where she is.

Cage has no memory of the past twelve months. According to him, Ro was alive only the day before. Ro’s sister Mae wouldn’t believe him, except that something’s not right. Nothing’s been right in the house since Ro died.

And then Mae finds the little green book. The one hidden in Ro’s room. It’s filled with secrets—dangerous secrets—about her family, and about Ro. And if what it says is true, then maybe, just maybe, Ro isn’t lost forever.

And maybe there are secrets better left to the dead.

Hello Readers.

This book completely slipped by me. I am usually pretty on top of book releases. I like to know what books are coming and when they come out. I missed this one and had no idea of its existence until I was sent a copy. I took one look at it and thought that it looked pretty interesting. The cover was eerily beautiful so I figured that I would give the book a try.

Wow! How can this be a debut novel? It definitely does not feel like one. The premise was excellent and the execution was near flawless. I was captivated within the first couple pages. The characters were so rich and multilayered. Nothing can put me off of a book quicker than characters that do not evolve at all. We tend to evolve and adapt to the world around us. It is refreshing when I read about characters that truly progress. Stagnant characterizations annoy me so much.

This novel was one of those that I had to fight with myself about sleeping because I did not want to stop reading. Creepy yet lovely. Complicated. Full of suspense. Sad yet fun. Romantic and heartbreaking. A truly enchanting read.

I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. I am rating this book Four Red Books because it did have occasional moments here and there that were predictable. With that being said, it was a true delight to read. I will be recommending it. 

InkedBookDragon

All Bark and No White Knight by Stella St. Claire

All Bark and No White Knight by Stella St. Clare

Published by Relay Publishing

Published on Oct. 13, 2017

Genres: General Fiction (Adult), Mystery & Thrillers, Cozy Mystery

Page Count: 242

Source: NetGalley

Format: eBook

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Description: Roses are red, Violets are blue, and Olivia Rickard is officially the worst at fixing relationships. Case in point: Olivia decides the best way to go about getting her boyfriend back is to tail him around town. There’s no way daring to spy on Andrew’s date was going to end well...but Olivia didn’t expect it to end in death. 

Hannah Maclin, Andrew’s date, is found dead in the parking lot of the restaurant with a tacky rose sticking out of her chest and lots of suspects near the scene of the crime. Hannah wasn’t a well loved woman and she’s got a long list of enemies and haters that the police believe includes Andrew. While Olivia thinks this is preposterous, it’s given her a reason to go sleuthing again. Before she can fix her love life she has to make sure the man she loves stays out of jail! 

As Olivia dives into a two part mystery of solving a murder and tracking her ex-boyfriend’s puzzling movements, she finds that the two investigations weave together in the old secrets and hidden passions of the town. Her mission becomes finding the truth in the misinformation, but Olivia will need to be careful—she can’t miss a clue or she’ll lose the love of her life.

Hello.

I must admit that I seem to have a weak spot for mysteries, especially ones of the cozy mystery variety. They are often fun to read. They have become ones that I turn to when under a lot of stress or needing a break from life. 

I did not realize going into this one that it was the fourth book in the Happy Tails Dog Walking Mysteries Series. Thankfully, it could be read alone. There were some references from previous books but they did not detract from the overall story. This was an enjoyable book. 

Thank you NetGalley and Relay Publishing for giving me an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review. I am rating this book Four Red Books because it was predictable at times. I do wonder if my experience would have been more filling if I had read the three prior volumes. It was a very cute read and I would recommend it to other cozy mystery lovers.

InkedBookDragon

Girl Logic: The Genius and the Absurdity by Iliza Shlesinger

Girl Logic: The Genius and the Absurdity by Iliza Shlesinger

Published by Hachette Books

Published on November 7, 2017

Genres: Entertainment, Humor

Page Count: 264

Source: NetGalley

Format: eBook

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Description: From breakout stand-up comedian Iliza Shlesinger comes a subversively funny collection of essays and observations on a confident woman's approach to friendship, singlehood, and relationships.

"Girl Logic" is Iliza's term for the way women obsess over details and situations that men don't necessarily even notice. She describes is as a characteristically female way of thinking that appears to be contradictory and circuitous but is actually a complicated and highly evolved way of looking at the world. When confronted with critical decisions about dating, sex, work, even getting dressed in the morning, Iliza argues that women will by nature consider every repercussion of every option before making a move toward what they really want. And that kind of holistic thinking can actually give women an advantage in what is still a male world.

In Iliza's own words: "Understanding Girl Logic is a way of embracing both our aspirations and our contradictions. GL is the desire to be strong and vulnerable. It's wanting to be curvy, but rail thin at the same time. It's striving to kick ass in a man's world while still being loved by the women around you.

"This book is also for me, because apparently expounding on a stage for two hours a night wasn't enough. (Trust me, if I could start a cult I would, but I hate the idea of deliberately dying in a group.)"

Hello.

This book had me laughing out loud. This would not have been that big of a deal had I not been around other people. It is hysterical and insightful. I had seen the author's special and was not sure if this book would make me laugh like her shows. It is obvious that this was a labor of love for her. It was refreshing that it is more than just jokes. She sends the message that girls are amazing and that they can do anything. She encourages women to be confident. It is highly relatable.

Thank you NetGalley and Hachette Books for a digital copy in exchange for an honest review. I am rating this book Four Red Books because it did have moments of drag but is a pretty solid read. Hilarious and empowering. Definitely worth the read. 

InkedBookDragon

Choke Hold by Gerald Everett Jones

Choke Hold by Gerald Everett Jones

Published by LaPuerta Books and Media

Published on October 24, 2017

Genres: General Fiction (Adult), Mystery & Thrillers

Page Count: 254

Source: Netgalley

Format: eBook

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Description: Hank Ellis was murdered in his own home for dissing the cops.

Cynical personal-injury attorney Eli Wolff rediscovers his idealism for simple justice when he sues the city for the wrongful death of an unarmed African-American man at the hands of two police officers. Ellis was killed in his own home, choked to death, after angry officers stormed in without a warrant, anxious to teach him a lesson for disrespecting them in front of his neighbors.

Hello.

Choke Hold: A Novel by Gerald Everett Jones could be taken straight out of the headlines. This book is about a man killed by the police and the attorney that fights for justice for him. It is refreshing to see characters grow and become more confident. I was uncomfortable at times because it does feel so much like some of the recent events. It is very well written. 

Thank you Netgalley and LaPuerta Books and Media for the digital ebook in exchange for a honest review. This novel is the first that I have read by the author. I am rating it Four Red Books because there were moments where it drug some. I am definitely considering reading more books by the author. I would recommend it. 

InkedBookDragon

I've Got Your Number by Sophie Kinsella

I've Got Your Number by Sophie Kinsella

Published by Dial Press Trade Paperback

Published on April 23, 2013

Genres: Chick Lit, Contemporary Romance, Humor

Page Count: 448

Source: Purchased

Format: Paperback

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Description: Poppy Wyatt has never felt luckier. She is about to marry her ideal man, Magnus Tavish, but in one afternoon her “happily ever after” begins to fall apart. Not only has she lost her engagement ring in a hotel fire drill, but in the panic that follows, her phone is stolen. As she paces shakily around the lobby, she spots an abandoned phone in a trash can. Finders keepers! Now she can leave a number for the hotel to contact her when they find her ring. Perfect!

Well, perfect except that the phone’s owner, businessman Sam Roxton, doesn’t agree. He wants his phone back and doesn’t appreciate Poppy reading his messages and wading into his personal life.

What ensues is a hilarious and unpredictable turn of events as Poppy and Sam increasingly upend each other’s lives through emails and text messages. As Poppy juggles wedding preparations, mysterious phone calls, and hiding her left hand from Magnus and his parents, she soon realizes that she is in for the biggest surprise of her life.

Hello again!

I picked up this book one day simply because I was looking for something fun to read. This was exactly what I was needing at that time. It was a great read. I read it one weekend. It captured my attention from the first page. Fast paced and funny. 

Poppy goes from being on top of the world to having the worst possible time ever. Lost ring. Lost phone. Strange phone belonging to a very busy businessman. The chaos and silliness follows. Imagine dealing with all the calls and email that would come to a business phone. It is hard enough sorting through the details of your own life. Now add in the details of a perfect stranger. It definitely makes for an interesting read. 

I really enjoyed this book. I am rating it Four Red Books because there were moments that were predictable. Kinsella does not disappoint with this one. I would recommend it to anyone that needs that little venture into someone else's chaotic yet humorous world.

InkedBookDragon 

Speak by Laurie Halse Anderson

Speak by Laurie Halse Anderson

Published by Farrar, Straus and Giroux

Published on October 22, 1999

Genre: Young Adult, Fiction, Contemporary, and Realistic Fiction

Page Count: 197

Source: Purchased

Format: Hardback

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Description: The first ten lies they tell you in high school.

"Speak up for yourself--we want to know what you have to say." From the first moment of her freshman year at Merryweather High, Melinda knows this is a big fat lie, part of the nonsense of high school. She is friendless, outcast, because she busted an end-of-summer party by calling the cops, so now nobody will talk to her, let alone listen to her. As time passes, she becomes increasingly isolated and practically stops talking altogether. Only her art class offers any solace, and it is through her work on an art project that she is finally able to face what really happened at that terrible party: she was raped by an upperclassman, a guy who still attends Merryweather and is still a threat to her. Her healing process has just begun when she has another violent encounter with him. But this time Melinda fights back, refuses to be silent, and thereby achieves a measure of vindication. In Laurie Halse Anderson's powerful novel, an utterly believable heroine with a bitterly ironic voice delivers a blow to the hypocritical world of high school. She speaks for many a disenfranchised teenager while demonstrating the importance of speaking up for oneself.

Hello.

This book was one in a lot that I purchased and I wasn't sure what do think of it. The subject matter is so intense. High school is hard enough. Add in the trauma inflicted upon the main character and the way that the world treats her. Well executed approach to a difficult subject matter. Horrifying to think about something like this impacting anyone much less someone so young. 

I am rating this book Four Red Books. It was well written but there were times where it drug. I would recommend it.

InkedBookDragon

Fish-Boy: An Inuit Folk Tale by Vanita Oelschlager and Mike Blanc

Fish-Boy: An Inuit Folk Tale by Vanita Oelschlager and Mike Blanc

Published by Vanita Books

Published on May 1, 2018 (proposed)

Genre: Children's Fiction, Multicultural Interest

Page Count: 42 

Source: Netgalley

Format: eBook

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Description: The Arctic region of North America is a land of long days, icy cold, hardy people and peculiar creatures. The Inuit people there have made traditional use of remarkable folk tales to find truth and explain the mysteries of an astonishing world.

In Fish-Boy: An Inuit Folk Tale, Vanita Oelschlager retells a tale passed down by a wise old Inuit. It's an origin story involving a little magic and a very odd boy with a large heart for friendship. On a journey with his new father, he must confront misfortune and the malice of cold hearted villagers. But he has a way...and a lesson for all in the virtues of kindness and hospitality.

Here then, is high praise for the tale-tellers: for the richness, diversity and creativity they send from the top of the world- and so, also Fish Boy, An Inuit Folk Tale, retold here and lavishly illustrated for a new generation. After all, that is how ancient folk tales and truth live on in the telling.

Hello once again!

How does one review a book written for ages six to nine years old? It is tricky. Fish-Boy: An Inuit Folk Tale is a beautiful book. It is well written. The illustrations are gorgeous! 

Thank you Netgalley and Vanita Books for giving me a digital copy for review. I am rating this book Four Red Books because it is a little wordy at times. The younger side of the age demographic it was written for may have issues with that and lose interest. I would recommend this book.

InkedBookDragon