July 2026 Wrap-Up

Personal Highlights from this month:

For the week of July 1st through July 4th:
- Miss R had camp from Monday to Thursday (Barn owner canceled Friday due to extremely hot weather).
- We are in the middle of a heat wave. It is so hot that Miss R’s barn put off all lessons until Monday, at the latest.
- We had my best friend, Mrs. H, over on the 4th of July. She has just moved to NC (lives 45 mins from me) and is my oldest friend. We’ve been friends since we were 12, and we’re both turning 50 in the next year.
For the week of July 5th through July 11th:
- We are still in a heat wave, but the dangerous heat has gone away, for now.
- Mr. Z got his final bill in for college. They were missing some of his federal loans, but he should be all set once the college applies them. He forgot to do something on the FAFSA website (watch a 30-minute video and take a quiz). According to App State and FAFSA, the next time App State refreshes its server (which it does often), they will be applied.
- Miss R is having a relaxing week off from helping at the barn/lessons. But starting next week, she will begin lessons with her new trainer and counseling at camp.
- We attended a meeting for the police leadership camp that Miss R is attending in 2 weeks. This is a wonderful program (Miss B attended it when she was in 7th grade and it was just starting).
- Mrs. H came and hung out at my house for a little while this week. We went out and had Mexican (which she loves but normally doesn’t have because her husband doesn’t like it). We made plans to see each other next week, with me driving to her place.
- I took Biscuit to the vet this week. She is small (weighs almost 8lbs) but healthy. She got her 3-year rabies vaccine and her 1-year distemper/panleukemenia vaccine. I was told that next year they will be giving her the 3-year distemper/panleukemia vaccine (which they haven’t done before).
For the week of July 12th through July 18th:
- Miss R was a counselor at her barn’s horse camp again.
- She also asked her new instructor about having lessons twice a week. The instructor said we can either pay (unsure how much that would cost) or she can work at the barn to pay for the 2nd lesson. She said she’d work at the barn. This kid is a horse girl through and through… lol.
For the week of July 19th through July 25th:
- We’re still having awful heat and humidity. I don’t think we’ve had a day where it’s been under 90. I am so looking forward to fall!!
- Because of the heat, Miss R has been having lessons either super early (between 8-9) or in the evening (7pm).
- Miss R also switched instructors because the one she’s been with for almost 6 years is moving to Virginia to be with her daughter. The instructor she has now is tough but fair. She plans on having Miss R show in the fall (too hot for the horses to show right now).
- Mr. Z is in the final weeks before we move him into his dorm. His tuition is fully paid for (thanks to a student loan and 2k more in grants). We just have to get him packed, and he’ll be all set.
For the week of July 26th through July 29th:
- Miss R started her leadership camp with our local police department today. Our department has been doing this since 2017/2018 (can’t remember). The SROs handpick the kids who attend. Miss R has been looking forward to it. They do everything from CSI to mock car stops/arrests to various demonstrations (taser, K9, etc.), as well as field trips (local aviation museum, movie theater, and a state park).

Books I Read:

Mob Boss Series by Michelle St. James
- Ruthless (book 1):
  - Triggers
    - Abduction and Captivity
    - Dubious Consent / Dark Romance Dynamics
    - Organized Crime and Violence
    - Murder and Death
    - Explicit Sexual Content
  - My thoughts: I enjoyed this book, even though it felt a little far-fetched in places and Angelica got on my nerves. I felt bad for Nico, but he seemed too soft (aka nice) to run a Mafia family. He and Angelica had insane chemistry, but I kept wondering whether it was real or Stockholm Syndrome. I guess I’ll have to see in the next books!!
- Fearless (book 2)
  - Triggers
    - Violence and Bloodshed
    - Kidnapping and Hostage Situations:
    - Death of a Parent / Grief
    - Suicide
    - Sexual Assault (Mentions)
    - Dubious Consent (Dubcon) Dynamics
    - Explicit Sexual Content
  - My Thoughts: I liked Fearless better than Ruthless (go figure). Nico and Angel’s chemistry was still off the charts and made for some very steamy sex scenes. The kidnapping storyline was interesting, but once body parts started arriving in the mail, I lost interest. I felt for poor Daniel, the only innocent one in this whole series. I am not a fan of cliffhangers, and this book was no exception.
- Lawless (book 3)
  - Triggers
    - Violence and Gore
    - Murder and Death
    - Explicit Sexual Content
    - Captivity and Abduction
    - Profanity and Substance Use
  - My Thoughts: This was a whirlwind of a book. Once a hit was taken out on Angel and Nico came back from the dead, it was super fast. There were times when it seemed the storyline was running on fumes (mainly towards the end), but overall I enjoyed it. The end was predictable and sweet.
Memory’s Wake Trilogy by Selina Fenech
- Memory’s Wake (book 1)
  - Triggers: Taken from the official trigger and content warnings listed by the author.
    - Violence, Harm & Trauma
      - Assault and violence
      - Murder and execution
      - Mass death and war
      - Kidnapping
      - Amputation and branding
      - Descriptions of blood
      - Nightmares about traumatic events
    - Child-Related Themes
      - Child abuse
      - Threats involving a baby or child
      - Childbirth
    - Social & Interpersonal Themes
      - Misogyny
      - Forced marriage
      - Use of the word “savage”
    - Mental Health & Substance Use
      - Suicide and suicidal ideation
      - Underage drinking
      - Profanity
  - My Thoughts: This was a great start to a series. I loved the plot but felt it could have been developed more in places. A couple of twists took me by surprise, especially the one revealed in the memory. I’m looking forward to reading the rest of the series once it is either free or on KU.
Emma Frost series by Willow Rose
- Itsy Bitsy Spider (book 1)
  - Triggers
    - Captivity and Abduction
    - Graphic Violence and Gore
    - Cannibalism
    - Child or Minor Peril
    - Physical and Psychological Abuse
    - Mental Health Struggles
    - Religious Trauma / Cult Dynamics
  - My Thoughts: I had been waiting a long time to read this book. It has been on my TBR since 2018. I have read other Willow Rose books, enjoyed them, and expected no less from this one—I loved it. There are dual storylines (Emma and Astrid/Sebastian) that offer no clue as to how they are connected. The author revealed that connection very slowly. When the big reveal happened—the killer and motive behind the killings—I was shocked. I am looking forward to reading the next book!!
- Miss Polly Had a Dolly (book 2)
  - Triggers
    - Kidnapping and Abduction
    - Child / Minor Peril
    - Psychological and Emotional Abuse
    - Captivity and Confinement
    - Violence and Harm to Minors
  - My Thoughts: I really enjoyed this book, even though it broke my heart in places. There are three interconnected storylines, one of which is told through flashbacks. I figured out who Patrick was fairly early, but I didn’t figure out who Helle was or who the old lady was, and that surprised me. I thought the book’s ending was sad, and I didn’t get any real sense of closure.
- Run Run as Fast as You Can (book 3)
  - Triggers
    - Violence Against Mothers / Women
    - Gun Violence
    - Abduction and Kidnapping
    - Child Distress / Abandonment
    - Grief and Bereavement
    - Stalking
    - Cannibilism
  - My Thoughts: Another book I enjoyed. I figured out who the killer was, since the author made it very clear. But the motive wasn’t clear until almost the end of the book, which surprised me. I liked the secondary storyline with Lisa, even though it grossed me out. I loved that Emma turned what happened to her into bestselling books. I also liked that she took Victor seriously and had him help Sophia. Of course, I am curious to see if and how Lisa will get caught.
- Cross Your Heart and Hope to Die (book 4)
  - Triggers
    - Graphic Violence and Murder
    - Gore and Blood
    - Confinement and Captivity
    - Stalking and Surveillance
    - Psychological Trauma and Repressed Memories
    - Bullying and Peer Cruelty
    - Death of a Parent / Family Trauma
    - Sexual Assualt/Rape
    - Drugging
    - Traumatic Dental Procedure/Medical Procedures
  - My Thoughts: This was a doozy of a book, and I don’t even know where to begin. It was written as a locked-room murder mystery that paid homage to Agatha Christie. I did enjoy the book, but I got confused by the multiple POVs (6-7). I was truly surprised when everything was revealed at the end. I was not expecting what was revealed. As with the other books, Emma is central to the storyline and helps solve what happened/who the killer was. I am very interested in reading the next book because I believe it will address the aftermath of this one.
- Peek A Boo, I See You (book 5)
  - Triggers
    - Child Abduction and Endangerment
    - Graphic Violence and Body Modification
    - Stalking and Severe Harassment
    - Parental Dread and Psychological Terror
  - My Thoughts: Another Willow Rose book I enjoyed. The author split the storyline into three parts: the killer’s parents, Emma’s investigation, and one of the killer’s victims, rescued fairly early in the story. The author had me doubting what was going on with the killer, and I was surprised when the big twist was revealed. I didn’t see it coming at all.
- Tweedledum and Tweedledee (book 6)
  - Triggers
    - Violence Against Children & Child Endangerment
    - Graphic Descriptions of Murder / Dismemberment
    - Grief and Loss of a Child
    - Gun Violence
    - Psychological Terror / Stalking
  - My Thoughts: In my opinion, this is the darkest of all the Willow Rose books that I have read so far. Like the other books, this book has two storylines: Emma’s vacation, the murders on the ship, and the past, focusing on the twins. I was completely shocked by the killer’s identity (it isn’t who you think) and the reason why.
- Easy as One Two Three (book 7)
  - Triggers
    - Severe Medical Trauma & Coma
    - Child Endangerment & Teenager in Peril
    - Severe Vehicular Accidents / Hit-and-Run
    - Parental Panic and Distress
    - Abduction and Missing Persons
    - Murder
    - Assault (sexual and physical)
    - Captivity
    - Child abuse (sexual-no details; told through flashbacks)
    - Drugging
    - Loss of memory
  - My Thoughts: If I thought the previous book was the darkest, this was the scariest. It touched upon fears I have as a parent. I would not, in any way, like to live in this universe. The police are incompetent, as are the medical personnel. There are three storylines in the book: Emma’s, Mads (past and present), and the numerologist. I liked how the author connected everything. I also liked that two characters from a previous series were secondary characters in the book. I wasn’t surprised by the ending, but I was surprised by the epilogue.
- There’s No Place Like Home (book 8)
  - Triggers
    - Graphic Murder and Slasher Violence
    - Stalking and Home Invasion
    - Gory and Macabre Imagery
    - Child in Peril / Family Endangerment
    - Psychological Manipulation
  - My Thoughts: This book paid a strange homage to The Wizard of Oz. The killer was obsessed with the movie and used his victims to portray various characters (Tin Man, Scarecrow, Cowardly Lion). As with her other books, this one was fast-paced and had a plotline with more twists than anything. There were three storylines: Emma (present), Louise (past and present), and Bjarke Lund/Jesper Melander (past and present). I loved how the author tied all three storylines together. She doesn’t hide who the killer is, but she does hide his accomplice. The reveal of the accomplice shouldn’t have been a surprise, but it was. Oh, and the numerologist from Easy As One Two Three appears as a secondary character (a counselor helping Maya with her amnesia).
- Where the Wild Roses Grow by Willow Rose (book 10)
  - Triggers
    - Graphic Murder and Violence
    - Teenage Pregnancy & Historical Child Abuse
    - Violence Against Women
    - Stalking and Intimidation
    - Grief and Bereavement
    - Profanity
    - Descriptions of Corpses
  - My Thoughts: This wasn’t my favorite book in the series. Emma really got in over her head when she questioned the Gardai over the murders, and that put a huge spotlight on her and Morten. I did not like how Morten treated Emma throughout the book. Violet’s storyline also broke my heart. Now, I kinda figured out the partenage of the murder victims about halfway through the book, but I was only halfway right. As for the murderers themselves, I did feel bad for them, but my sympathy only went so far. By the end of the book, I was just glad that Emma and Morten were able to get out of Ireland without being arrested.
- Waltzing Matilda (book 11)
  - Triggers
    - Violence & Murder
    - Child Endangerment
    - Supernatural/Horror Element
    - Atmospheric Dread
  - My Thoughts: This is the weirdest book in the Emma Frost series. Up until now, the crimes were rooted in reality, but this book went full-on paranormal. There were hints in the previous books (Victor), so I shouldn’t have been surprised when the author chose the route she did. But besides being weird, it was actually fun to read. I loved that the author fleshed out Victor, and I loved that he made a friend. I also loved that Maya started sleuthing on something totally different. I do wonder whether this supernatural aspect of the book will carry over into the remaining books. Guess I’ll have to see!!
- Drip Drop Dead (book 12)
  - Triggers/Content Warnings
    - Triggers
      - Murder
      - Drowning
      - Death of multiple adults (serial killings)
      - Psychological distress
      - Claustrophobic situations
      - Peril and life-threatening situations
      - Fear of the unknown
      - Child endangerment (non-graphic)
      - References to death and mortality
      - Bullying
    - Content Warnings
      - Crime scene investigations
      - Corpses
      - Suspense and psychological tension
      - Eerie, supernatural-leaning atmosphere
      - Unexplained/paranormal phenomena
      - Small-town fear and paranoia
      - Family members placed in danger
      - Police investigations
      - Deception and secrets
      - Isolation
      - Anxiety and panic
      - Mild horror elements
      - Discussions of grief and loss
      - Emotional stress
      - References to unexplained scientific or paranormal events
      - Some blood and non-graphic descriptions of deceased bodies
  - My Thoughts: I really enjoyed this book, and the supernatural/paranormal elements worked well in this series. The author wove them seamlessly into the thriller/mystery angles. This book was a fast read compared to the others. It also ended on a cliffhanger, which I didn’t like. There was some light shed on Skye and her origins, as well as more children like her in the community. I did wonder about Victor and whether he was a foundling of some sort. I cannot wait to read the next book. I hope the author is able to resolve at least some of the storylines not resolved in this book.
- Black Frost (book 13)
  - Triggers and Content Warnings
    - Triggers
      - Murder
      - Child death
      - Child endangerment
      - Serious illness involving a child
      - Medical trauma
      - Near-death experiences
      - Death from exposure (freezing/hypothermia-like symptoms)
      - Psychological distress
      - Fear for a child’s safety
      - Death of multiple adults
    - Content Warnings
      - Crime scene investigations
      - Corpses
      - Autopsy discussions
      - Cold- and winter-related deaths
      - Police investigation
      - Emotional distress
      - Parents fearing the loss of a child
      - Hospital scenes
      - Medical procedures and treatment
      - Suspense and prolonged tension
      - Small-town secrets
      - Conspiracy and deception
      - Grief and mourning
      - Blood (limited)
      - Descriptions of deceased bodies (non-graphic to mildly graphic)
      - References to infectious disease or unexplained medical conditions
      - Anxiety and panic
      - Peril
      - Themes of justice and revenge
  - My Thoughts: I thought this was a fitting ending to this series. The author managed to wrap up almost everything in this book. I still had questions about who Maya’s father was, and I wasn’t thrilled with Morten’s actions, but otherwise I was pretty happy with how everything ended. The paranormal storyline was merged with Lisa (the mayor )’s old storyline from a few books back, and Lisa, well, she delivered. As for Emma, Victor, Skye, and Maya’s storyline, I was hooked. I almost wished there were an epilogue showing what happened a few years later. I will be keeping an eye out for more books in the series, but given that this book was published in 2020, I highly doubt there will be one.
The Black Parade series by Kyoko M: I only read the first book, which I got for free from Amazon. I’d have to pay for the rest, and since I’m cheap, I’m waiting for it to go on KU or become free.
- The Black Parade (book 1)
  - Triggers and Content Warnings
    - Trigger Warnings
      - Death and dying
      - Murder (including accidental killing)
      - Hell and eternal damnation
      - Demonic entities
      - Psychological distress
      - Violence
      - Blood and gore
      - Torture (including supernatural)
      - Threats of eternal suffering
      - Possession and supernatural manipulation
      - Alcohol misuse
      - References to suicide and suicidal thoughts
      - Trauma and survivor’s guilt
      - Emotional abuse
      - Kidnapping and captivity
      - Death of loved ones (referenced)
    - Content Warnings
      - Ghosts and spirits
      - Afterlife themes
      - Paranormal and occult elements
      - Demons and exorcism-like themes
      - Religious imagery and mythology
      - Murder investigations
      - Physical fights
      - Weapons and gun violence
      - Injuries
      - Graphic supernatural violence
      - Corpses
      - Profanity
      - Dark humor
      - Romance
      - Kissing and sexual tension
      - Alcohol consumption
      - Smoking
      - Moral dilemmas
      - Grief and loss
      - Anxiety and panic
      - Betrayal
      - Human sacrifice (referenced)
      - Monsters and supernatural creatures
      - Life-or-death situations
      - Suspense and horror elements
  - My Thoughts: I enjoyed reading The Black Parade, but I almost DNF’d it after the 2nd act (it’s split into three acts). The book seemed to go on and on before it finally ended. I liked Jordan and Michael’s romance, especially that it wasn’t insta-love. There was a lot of graphic violence that I wasn’t fond of, but it didn’t take away from my enjoyment of reading it.
The Velvet Rooms series by Linnea May: As with most of the books I read, I got this book for free from Amazon. And, also like most of the books I read, I am waiting for the rest of the series to go on KU/free.
- Black Velvet (book 1)
  - Triggers and Content Warnings
    - Triggers
      - Emotional abuse
      - Psychological manipulation
      - Coercive relationship dynamics
      - Power imbalance
      - Emotional trauma
      - Consent negotiation and boundary-pushing
      - Obsessive behavior
      - Controlling behavior
      - References to past emotional wounds
      - Sexual coercion
    - Content Warnings:
      - BDSM themes
      - Dominance and submission (D/s)
      - Explicit sexual content
      - Sex work (escort/professional companionship)
      - Contractual relationship
      - Age-gap romance
      - Praise and degradation dynamics
      - Orgasm denial/sexual frustration
      - Voyeuristic themes
      - Possessiveness
      - Jealousy
      - Power exchange
      - Emotional vulnerability
      - Manipulation and mind games
      - Profanity
      - Romance
      - Explicit sexual language
      - Kissing and intimacy
      - Themes of trust and healing
      - High emotional tension
  - My Thoughts: This was a good book and reminded me of an explicit Pretty Woman. It wasn’t a fast read and took me two days. There are some very explicit sex scenes (see above), and most of the book takes place in the sex club, with cutaways to Elene and Damon’s personal and professional lives. I liked the HEA and can’t wait to read the next book.
Bridgewater County series by Vanessa Vale: I was only able to read the first book in the series, which I had gotten for free from Amazon. You have to buy the rest of the series, so I am waiting for those books to go either free or on KU.
- Ride Me Dirty (Book 1)
- Content and Trigger Warnings
  - Content Warnings
    - Explicit sexual content
    - Multiple romantic partners (MFM ménage romance)
    - BDSM/light power exchange
    - Consensual dominance and submission
    - Dirty talk
    - Nudity
    - Strong sexual themes
    - Strong language
    - Alcohol consumption (social)
    - Family inheritance
    - Small-town romance
    - Cowboy/ranch lifestyle
  - Trigger Warnings
    - Grief following the death of a family member
    - Bereavement
    - Emotional vulnerability
    - References to parental loss and family history
    - Mild jealousy
    - Possessiveness
  - My Thoughts: So, I am not a huge fan of ménage romances. Yes, I will read them, and yes, I do enjoy them, but I do not like the dynamics involved. But in Ride Me Dirty, I was pleasantly surprised. I was also pleasantly surprised that this book wasn’t all just sex. Instead, it focused on Kate’s stress, her job, her nasty ex, and her feelings about getting involved with Sam and Jack.
Badge of Honor: Texas Heroes series by Susan Stoker: Again, it’s the end of the month, and I am finding myself reading another 15-book series. So, like last month, I will be continuing the series into August. I am also pretty excited because I have read and enjoyed Susan Stoker’s books in the past.
- Justice for Mackenzie (book 1)
  - Trigger and Content Warnings
    - Content Warnings
      - Romantic suspense
      - Law enforcement/criminal investigation themes
      - Texas Rangers and police procedural elements
      - Serial killer investigation
      - Kidnapping
      - Stalking and threats
      - Violence and danger
      - Weapons/firearms
      - Crime scenes and investigations
      - Strong language
      - Sexual content
      - Trauma recovery themes
      - Protective/heroic romance dynamics
    - Trigger Warnings
      - Serial murder
      - Murder of women
      - Kidnapping
      - Abduction/captivity
      - Burial alive
      - Threat of death
      - Psychological terror
      - Stalking
      - Fear and intimidation
      - Violence against women
      - Past trauma
      - Grief and loss
      - PTSD/trauma responses
      - Life-threatening situations
      - Physical violence
      - References to depravity and cruelty
My Thoughts: I really enjoyed reading this book. The love story between Mack and Daxton was adorable and very realistic, well, besides the whole serial killer angle. I loved that Mack had diarrhea of the mouth. It made for some pretty interesting conversations. And Daxton was amazing. He was respectful, funny, and when Mack went missing, was willing to burn the world down to find her. The ending of the book was also perfect!!
- Justice for Mickie (book 2)
  - Trigger and Content Warnings
    - Content Warnings
      - Romantic suspense
      - Undercover FBI operation
      - Motorcycle club/gang setting
      - Organized crime
      - Illegal drug trafficking
      - Violence
      - Firearms and weapons
      - Crime and law enforcement
      - Strong language
      - Sexual content
      - Deception/hidden identity
      - Protective romance
      - Family conflict
    - Trigger Warnings
      - Organized criminal violence
      - Drug trafficking
      - Murder
      - Attempted murder
      - Threats of violence
      - Kidnapping
      - Physical assault
      - Stalking
      - Intimidation
      - Psychological manipulation
      - Emotional distress
      - Betrayal and deception
      - Life-threatening situations
      - Grief and loss
      - Trauma related to violent crime
      - Sexual assault
      - Dubious consent scenarios
My Thoughts: I enjoyed reading this book. Cruz and Mickie were complex characters. They both had baggage from previous relationships that made them wary about getting involved. Cruz was undercover in the same MC where Mickie’s sister was being set up to be a club whore, which was a little crazy. There is explicit sex (which I didn’t mind). The end of the book was insane. I want to drop some spoilers but won’t. Just be prepared to have your tissues out.
- Justice for Corrie (book 3)
  - Content and Trigger Warnings
    - Content Warnings
      - Romantic suspense
      - Blind protagonist and disability representation
      - Medical setting (chiropractic practice)
      - Law enforcement themes
      - Murder investigation
      - Violence
      - Firearms and weapons
      - Crime
      - Strong language
      - Sexual content
      - Protective romance
      - Disability discrimination and misconceptions
    - Trigger Warnings
      - Mass shooting/multiple homicide
      - Murder
      - Witness to violent crime
      - Attempted murder
      - Stalking
      - Threats of violence
      - Physical assault
      - Home invasion
      - Psychological trauma
      - Fear and intimidation
      - Ableism
      - Emotional distress
      - Life-threatening situations
      - Grief and loss
      - Blood and violence
  - My Thoughts: Another great book in the Badge of Honor: Texas Heroes series!! The author did a great job of telling the story through Corrie’s observations. Since she’s blind, the author used smell, hearing, and touch to convey emotions. I loved that Corrie was super independent, but what I loved more was Quint and his love for Corrie. When things went sideways at the end of the book, I was more upset for him than I was for Corrie. I figured Corrie, who was always thinking two steps ahead, would figure something out, and she did. Their romance wasn’t a slow burn; it was Instalove (yuck), but it was sweet. And the sex scenes were amazing. Overall, a great book!!
- Justice for Laine (book 4)
  - Content and Trigger Warnings
    - Content Warnings:
      - Romantic suspense
      - Search and rescue
      - Survival
      - Accident and emergency response
      - Explicit sexual content
      - Strong language
      - Protective romance
      - Animal companion (stray dog)
      - Family and friendship themes
    - Trigger Warnings
      - Accidental fall
      - Trapped in a well
      - Confined spaces
      - Claustrophobia
      - Fear of suffocation
      - Fear of dehydration
      - Isolation
      - Search and rescue emergency
      - Physical injury
      - Emotional distress
      - Threats to life due to environmental circumstances
  - My Thoughts: I was surprised that I was able to read this book in one sitting. Then I reread the blurb and saw that it is technically a short story. Anyway, it was a good read. I liked the sparks between Laine and Weston. Their relationship moved fast (think Insta-love fast), but it was believable. When Laine went to the property and fell into the old well because she was trying to help the dog, it was believable too. I loved how Weston knew something was wrong and acted on it, instead of waiting. I also liked that we got to see Daxton/Mack, Cruz/Mickie, and Quint/Corrie in this book.
- Shelter for Elizabeth (book 5)
  - Content and Trigger Warning
    - Content Warning
      - Romantic suspense
      - Explicit sexual content
      - Strong language
      - Firefighter and emergency response themes
      - Trauma recovery
      - PTSD
      - Anxiety
      - Therapy and healing
      - Grief
      - Protective romance
    - Trigger Warning
      - References to past kidnapping
      - References to a serial killer
      - PTSD and trauma responses
      - Panic attacks
      - Anxiety
      - Agoraphobia/fear of leaving home
      - Survivor’s guilt
      - Obsessive coping behaviors
      - House fire
      - Emotional distress
      - Grief and loss
      - References to the kidnapping and murder of a sibling
      - Rape (mentioned in a flashback)
      - Torture (mentioned in a flashback)
  - My Thoughts: I was pleasantly surprised by this book. When I first started reading this book and read about Beth’s phobia and what caused it, I was afraid that the author was going to gloss over everything. So, when the focus of the book, well besides Cade and Beth’s romance, was Beth’s agoraphobia, I was pleased. I liked that the author chose not to have Beth be mysteriously cured. I liked that she chose to get in-patient treatment at a facility that was dedicated to helping people with agoraphobia. And let’s talk about Cade. He was perfect but imperfect at the same time (when he confronted Beth after the 2nd fire). I loved watching their love bloom and survive. Oh, and the sex scenes were very spicy.
- Justice for Boone (book 6)
  - Content and Trigger Warnings
    - Content Warnings
      - Romantic suspense
      - Explicit sexual content
      - Strong language
      - Law enforcement themes
      - False allegations
      - Stalking
      - Obsessive behavior
      - Protective romance
      - Small-town setting
      - Jealousy and relationship conflict
    - Trigger Warnings
      - False accusations of domestic abuse
      - Stalking
      - Obsessive ex-partner
      - Harassment
      - Psychological manipulation
      - Emotional distress
      - Threats of violence
      - Attempted murder
      - Fear and intimidation
      - Relationship-related trauma
    - My Thoughts: This book tells Hayden and Boone’s story, and it really is quite a story. Both characters carry a lot from their pasts: Hayden was emotionally and psychologically abused growing up, while Boone witnessed domestic violence as a kid and teen. At first, I felt unsure about how they met, especially since Boone’s ex accused him of domestic violence, but I moved past that pretty quickly. I enjoyed seeing Hayden go from hiding her femininity to embracing it. I didn’t fully connect with Boone, but that’s okay—I don’t always need to relate to every main character. The sex scenes were fantastic, and I loved watching Hayden slowly become more comfortable and open with Boone. What really stood out to me was how the story explored healing and trust. Both Hayden and Boone had to face their past traumas and learn to be vulnerable with each other, which made their journey feel genuine and meaningful. Seeing Hayden reclaim her sense of self and Boone work to break old patterns gave the book a deeper message about empowerment and the chance to build healthier relationships after tough experiences.
- Shelter for Adeline (book 7)
  - Content and Trigger Warnings
    - Content Warnings
      - Romantic suspense
      - Explicit sexual content
      - Strong language
      - Firefighter and emergency response themes
      - Epilepsy representation
      - Disability representation
      - Service dog
      - Workplace harassment
      - Medical content
      - Protective romance
    - Trigger Warnings
      - Epileptic seizures
      - Medical emergency
      - Workplace harassment
      - Emotional abuse
      - Obsessive behavior
      - Stalking
      - Harassment
      - Psychological manipulation
      - Threats of violence
      - Attempted murder
      - Emotional distress
      - Fear and intimidation
      - Mental Illness
    - My Thoughts: This is another great book in the series. It was fun to see Dean get caught off guard by Adeline, and I enjoyed watching Adeline slowly open up to him. The way the author handled the service animal debate, especially the restaurant scene, was really well done. I also appreciated how Adeline’s epilepsy was part of the story without taking over the plot. I guessed who her stalker was pretty early, but it didn’t spoil the suspense. The ending was just right for the story.
- Shelter for Sophie (book 8)
  - Content and Trigger Warnings
    - Content Warnings
      - Romantic suspense
      - Explicit sexual content
      - Strong language
      - Firefighter and emergency response themes
      - Disability representation (stutter)
      - Medical research/pharmaceutical workplace
      - Childhood trauma
      - Poverty
      - Prejudice and misunderstandings
      - Protective romance
    - Trigger Warnings
      - Emotional abuse (past)
      - Childhood neglect
      - Poverty
      - Discrimination and prejudice
      - Bullying
      - Harassment
      - Emotional distress
      - Threats to life
      - Physical injury
      - Medical emergency
      - Trauma recovery
  - My Thoughts: This was the sweetest book in this series. I loved Sophie and Chief (Roman )’s relationship. Yes, it might have gotten off to a rough start when Chief overheard part of a conversation that made it seem like Sophie was taking advantage of people of color/people who didn’t have much money (she wasn’t). But once they cleared the air on that, the romance was on. Now Chief did have some issues of his own (OCD and trauma from a childhood that consisted of poverty and racism), but again, he was able to work them out. Sophie also had trauma (bullying as an adult and a child due to her severe stutter), but unlike Chief, she was able to come to terms with it. I loved that the author included Navajo terms, phrases, and superstitions into the book. There was a turn towards the paranormal towards the end (starting with Sophie getting carbon monoxide poisoning and ending after the ritual). Still, it was written in a way that was respectful of Navajo culture. And speaking of the end, it was amazing. I liked seeing Sophie and Chief getting their happy ending.

Monthly Playlist (I use songs featured in the book, if there are any, along with a playlist generated by ChatGPT).

Featured Song of the Month

June 2026 Wrap-Up

Stack of fantasy books titled The Astral Compendium, Year of Dreams 2026, Whispers of Eloria, and Tales from the Void on a wooden table with glowing fairies, a candle, an open book, compasses, a lantern, and a steaming cup.

Personal Highlights from this month:

For the week of May 29th and May 30th (split week, see May wrap-up for explanation)
- Took Kevin (my Siamese) to the vet. He weighs 15 lbs (but is not overweight, just a big cat) and has a mild case of gingivitis. My vet told me to give him Greenies. Thankfully, he likes them (he is picky).
For the week of May 31st through June 6th:
- Miss R had her cardiologist follow-up. Unfortunately, he is on the fence about whether she has high blood pressure. So she needs a lipid panel, and we’ll go back in 3 months for a follow-up.
- Mr. Z is one step closer to college. He got to choose his dorm at the beginning of the week. He also got to pick his move-in date in August.
For the week of June 7th through June 13th:
- Miss R has Leadership Camp at her barn from Monday through Thursday. She is very excited about going.
- Mr. Z has an orientation on Friday. We’ve gotta be up super early (think 6-6:30) because App State is about 1 hour (or so, depending on traffic) from us.
- I am finally getting my C-Pap machine. I sent a message to my doctor (pulmonologist) because it had been a month since my sleep study. I got a callback the same day, apologizing for the delay, and a text message from the C-PAP people saying they received the order. Hopefully I’ll get it soon!!
- We went to Mr. Z’s orientation on Friday (as stated above). Except that we didn’t drive up the morning of. We ended up getting a hotel room 5 minutes from campus. Orientation itself was fine (a lot of sitting in rooms and listening to people talk).
- Miss R went to her first-ever horse show on Saturday. She loved it and can’t wait to compete.
For the week of June 14th through June 20th:
- Miss R attended a two-day camp sponsored by the school system called CareerQuest. She had a blast.
- Miss B, my older daughter, fell down a 5-foot waterfall in Georgia on Saturday (she was having a day at a lake with her girlfriend and friends) and fractured her foot. She has to wear a boot for 6-8 weeks.
- Mr. Z got an on-campus job in the dining hall at his college. He was accepted into the work-study program, but this job isn’t part of it. And to be honest, it pays more than what he would get from work-study.
- I finally got my C-Pap machine, and man, what a difference it’s made. I am sleeping 110% better now.
For the week of June 21st through June 27th:
- Miss R spent the week working at the barn. The barn owner messaged me to say that Miss R has really matured and is a hard worker.
- We finally got our beach week in!! We went to Bear Island, and it was wonderful. We all got sunburned (some worse than others), but overall it was a great time. And we found a new beach that we love. Bear Island is run by the Forest Service, and you need to take a ferry over to it. It was about $40 (give or take) for the four of us.
For the week of June 28th through June 30th (split week because of the month ending):

Books I Read:

The Hollywood Alphabet series by M.Z. Kelly: This is a 26-book series, and I didn’t expect to finish it in May. But I didn‘t expect the rest of the series to take almost the entire month of June to finish!!
- Hollywood Intrigue (book 9): Set three months after the last installment. Like the previous books, it is skillfully written with an unexpected storyline. I found The Prophet’s plotline intriguing, and I was genuinely surprised by the identity of The Prophet and the motives for the killings.
- Hollywood Jury (book 10): A few months after the events of Hollywood Intrigue, Kate’s life hasn’t improved. She is investigating a brutal case, her personal life deteriorates further, and her partner is unraveling. I was gripped by the investigation into the rape/murders, as well as Kate’s covert pursuit of a rape/murder that occurred 20 years earlier. Both cases kept me guessing, and I didn’t identify either killer until the reveal. Regarding Kate’s personal life, I sympathized with her struggles. Her adoptive mother is experiencing a mental health crisis and divulges Kate’s private matters to a despised reporter (the scene where the reporter admits sourcing information from Kate’s mother was appalling), and Kate can’t extract a clear answer about who her father is. Ted’s storyline (Kate’s partner) was devastating—I didn’t anticipate its conclusion, and I cried. Yet, there were flashes of humor. These centered on Nana’s wedding and Kate’s awkwardness. The bachelorette party (I’ll never think of pirates or whipped cream the same way) and the wedding scene (the raven shrieking ‘Fuck off! Go away!’ during the vows) were hilarious. I look forward to the next book and hope the author finally gives Kate a respite. She’s earned it.
- Hollywood Killer (book 11): I’m being candid: this was my least favorite book in the series. Kate faced relentless pressure from every angle. She struggled with the aftermath of what happened to Ted, while her relationship with her mother deteriorated. Her friends offered little support and consistently interfered. The case was devastating, involving the sexual abuse of a minor—adults willfully ignored it—and a series of seemingly unrelated murders that eventually connected. I appreciated that Kate and Christine collaborated and bonded. The investigation was compelling, with the author delivering a steady stream of plot twists. I did not anticipate the identity of the killer or the motive for the murders. Notably, the minor’s abuse proved incidental to the motive; it was a tragic revelation. The ending echoed previous books in the series, except for the loss of a secondary character.
- Hollywood Lust (book 12): Set a few weeks after Hollywood Killer, Kate returns to work. This was a far stronger book than the previous one. Kate’s friends have distanced themselves, which I appreciated. Undermining someone who is struggling is terrible. Kate gains clearer clues about her father, along with three letters from her biological mother. Professionally, the stakes escalate. Kate investigates a case connected to a cold case. Meanwhile, the Swarm—radical killers—begin a killing spree and kidnap Kate’s younger sister, Lindsay. The investigation into and pursuit of The Swarm felt urgent and devastating as Lindsay became entangled in it. Kate’s romantic life intensifies quickly; I’m still skeptical because of the pace. The last thing she needs is for Noah to be hiding something. I also sensed a hint that Jack might be interested in her. The book’s finale was chaotic, filled with violence and arrests. I loved how Kate unraveled the cold case and current murder, and the murderer’s reveal genuinely surprised me. The Swarm plotline wasn’t resolved; it was paused after the death of one of its leaders.
- Hollywood Murder (book 13): Again, another excellent entry in the Hollywood Alphabet series. Set a few weeks after Hollywood Lust, this book follows Kate, now assigned a cold case with her new partner, Leo, while simultaneously investigating the kidnapping of a billionaire investment broker’s family and her father’s murder, unofficially. These cases, which strain police resources, were a wild ride. The kidnapping case was so intricate that I often lost track. The cold case was heartbreaking but straightforward, and I anticipated the killer’s identity. However, Kate’s unofficial investigation was blocked by the department, and I suspect I know the reason. The ending felt typical, but the author introduced surprises in both the kidnapping and her father’s case.
- Hollywood Notorious (book 14): Set about a month after the events of Hollywood Murder, Hollywood Notorious is a relentless thriller packed with twists and turns. Kate and Leo investigate a reality star accused of murder when they are summoned to an active shooting involving the same celebrity. After securing the scene, they uncover a gruesome murder staged in the style of the Day of the Dead. Surprisingly, I found myself appreciating that the book is told from four distinct perspectives: a mysterious girl trapped in an underground cellar, Kate, a psychiatrist in a mental institution, and the killer himself. I was impressed by how skillfully the author wove these threads together. Meanwhile, Kate’s personal life spirals further: McCade (her ex) now works on her elite team; her relationship with her new boyfriend hits turbulence (he panics over her job, despite knowing about it from the start); and she faces eviction from her mobile home after being priced out of her old apartment. To complicate matters, Mo, Natalie, and Nana return to their mischief, and Kate edges closer to discovering her biological father’s identity. The ending delivers the series’ signature suspense, but with Bernie, her police dog, gravely injured. There is also a surreal experience involving a kidnapping victim, and Kate misses her chance to speak with someone who knew her biological father. I am eager to see where the series goes next!
- Hollywood Outlaw (book 15): I began reading this book expecting it to resemble others in the series, and for the most part, it did. However, the author introduced dramatic twists in both the murder investigations (two) and Kate’s personal life. I can’t fully describe what happens to Kate, except to say she’s betrayed and that someone she cares deeply for dies. I was genuinely shocked by that development. Additionally, the man she believes is her biological father disappears, which adds complexity to her already tumultuous personal life. Regarding the murders, the author introduced enough red herrings that when the murderers were ultimately revealed, I was genuinely surprised.
- Hollywood Prisoner (book 16): This book opens a month after Hollywood Outlaw. Kate investigates the murder of a soap opera starlet and the on-set handyman suspected of killing her, as well as a serial killer who displays victims with a hook. The cases prove more complex than they initially appear. During her investigation, The Swarm resurfaces, using Kate’s sister as a messenger. The story is fast-paced and unrelenting. Each storyline is tightly crafted, keeping me engaged with relentless twists. Kate ultimately helps solve the serial killer case and unmasks the real culprit behind the starlet’s and handyman’s deaths (it surprised me). As for The Swarm, when one villain falls, another emerges. Also, I find myself rooting for Kate and Joe—their chemistry and shared past are undeniable. Also, Kate finds proof that Pearl knew her mother, but no proof that he is her father.
- Hollywood Quest (book 17): This book begins with Kate being reassigned to the cold case team after Section One disbands. She anticipates her time in the cold case department will be dull until one of the cases she reviews escalates unexpectedly. Temporarily reassigned to Robbery and Homicide with her partner, Charlie, Kate is tasked with investigating the mayor’s missing daughter. Meanwhile, she faces eviction from the mobile home park (due to Nat’s boyfriend, Tex), and The Swarm unleashes a devastating terrorist attack on LA. Kate is also determined to uncover her biological father’s identity. As with the other books, I was completely unaware of the cold-case killer’s identity, doubtful about the fate and whereabouts of the mayor’s daughter, caught off guard by the eviction (which felt unjust since Kate wasn’t present when it happened), and clueless about her real father. When everything was finally revealed, I was genuinely surprised. The kidnapping plot contains a major twist, and my heart broke at the revelation.
- Hollywood Rage (book 18): Hollywood Rage picks up several weeks after the events of Hollywood Quest. Kate has been evicted from the mobile home park and relocated to a haunted house in the Hollywood Hills with Mo and Natalie. She has also discovered a connection to the terrorists plotting to overthrow the government. On top of that, she is investigating a string of brutal murders, the killing of her partner and her partner’s family, and working to bring down a corrupt police chief. Kate’s hands are full, and her personal life is equally tangled. As with previous books in the series, Hollywood Rage delivers unexpected twists and sharp humor that made me laugh out loud.
- Hollywood Scream (book 19): Hollywood Scream picks up about a month after the events of Hollywood Rage. Kate is again called to assist the FBI with her partner and friend, Olivia, when the Swarm resumes their acts of terrorism (and targets Kate). The case she receives is brutal: a man identifying as Angel abducts a young woman and then streams her torture online. With limited leads, the investigation stalls, and Kate returns to LA. There, she quickly becomes involved in the murder of a prominent actor. She is also juggling personal turmoil: a mother recovering from a stroke, an older brother fleeing the Swarm, and her well-meaning but intrusive best friends, Natalie and Mo. As with the other books in the series, both murder investigations have twists and turns that kept me guessing. Kate’s personal life remains relentlessly chaotic.
- Hollywood Taken (book 20): I am not sure exactly how long after the events of Hollywood Scream Hollywood Taken occurs, but it is quite soon after. Kate is investigating a case in which an au pair is murdered, and that inquiry rapidly unfolds into sex trafficking, sexual coercion, and further killings. However, Kate is removed from the case and dispatched to Napa when The Swarm resurfaces. There, she takes on a missing-persons case that proves far from ordinary. Both investigations (as well as the persistent Swarm case) are gripping. Although I deciphered the missing woman’s case fairly quickly, the LA investigation perplexed me longer. I was genuinely shocked by the identity of the head of the criminal ring and by the conclusion. Meanwhile, Kate’s personal life remains turbulent. She is pulled into escapades with Natalie and Mo. The author introduces two more characters, both of whom are relatives of Mo and Natalie. Together with Nana, Mo, and Natalie, they offer comic relief, often at Kate’s expense. Kate’s love life takes a noteworthy turn. I suspected she would end up with that individual, and I am keen to see how their relationship evolves. Pearl also appears near the end of the book. I am eager to learn what he will tell Kate about her biological father.
- Hollywood Underworld (book 21): All I can say is that this book was both brilliant and chilling. Kate investigates a double homicide while relentlessly pursuing the terrorist who has threatened her family for years. I am growing increasingly impatient with the mystery surrounding her father, but I suspect I will be genuinely shocked. The plot involving Kate, the double murder, and the investigation was compelling. I correctly identified the killer at the same time as Kate. The storyline with Kate, Joe, Nathan, Lindsay, and the nuclear bomb plot was harrowing and kept me hooked. Kate’s personal life was less tumultuous than in previous books. I appreciated that she finally made a decision about a particular man. However, I did not anticipate the book’s ending. What a cliffhanger!
- Hollywood Vendetta (book 22): This book is set about a month after the events of Hollywood Underworld. Kate is handling a new case involving cults, corrupt officers, sex clubs, and serial killers. Her investigation connects to an old unsolved crime and to the killing of a fellow officer. This case leads her deep into Hollywood’s most dangerous corners and back. I appreciated how the two plots intertwined and resolved. The conclusion genuinely surprised me. Meanwhile, Kate’s personal life remains turbulent. She grapples with the fallout from Joe’s situation, navigates a new relationship with Hud, attempts to close a cold case at home, and sidesteps Natalie and Mo’s antics. Though I suspected what might happen on the personal front (book 24’s synopsis offers a major clue), I was still caught off guard.
- Hollywood Wanted (book 23): Hollywood Wanted picks up immediately after Hollywood Vendetta. Kate, her best friend and partner Olivia, and Leo investigate the murder of a high-profile attorney. As they pursue the case, the ongoing investigation into the Swarm and the Caine brothers intensifies. The attorney’s case addresses highly controversial subjects: sexual and physical child abuse, incest, and gender transition (female to male). I initially expected the narrative to be sidetracked by these issues, but the author skillfully refocused the plot on the murder, relegating those elements to the background. The terrorist storyline grows more violent and unsettling, with Issac Caine exhibiting an obsessive fixation on Kate. Personally, Kate’s life remains chaotic. Her father’s badge is confiscated by a captain with a 30-year vendetta. She lives with a former TV detective who is a part-time nudist and exhibitionist. Natalie and Mo continue to cause her stress, and she has doubts about her engagement to Joe. The resolution of the attorney’s story was predictable, as I identified the culprits early. The terrorist plot becomes more complex when Issac reveals a shocking secret to Kate that genuinely surprised me.
- Hollywood X (book 24): Hollywood X picks up directly after the events of Hollywood Wanted. Like the previous books, it is skillfully written and fast-paced. The story follows Kate as she investigates a series of murders committed by the Red Queen. The narrative delves into the Red Queen’s psychological motives and her reasons for targeting people who harmed her or her sister in the past. As Kate pursues the case, her work environment becomes increasingly hostile. Her boss is aggressively trying to force her out because of speculation about her father’s identity and a 30-year-old cold case involving a murdered six-year-old. The Red Queen plotline was poignant and included an unexpected twist. The subplot about Kate’s work remains unresolved, although the chief’s actions are further illuminated. There is also a major revelation about Kate’s father, and Joe faces a troubling turn of events.
- Hollywood Yesterday (book 25): Hollywood Yesterday continues the storyline from Hollywood X. As with the other books in this series, it is a twisty, unpredictable thriller that kept me guessing. What I liked was that the author didn’t wrap up all the storylines and actually misdirected readers toward others. There are two major storylines in this book: the Reaper storyline and the terrorist/Kate’s quest. The Reaper storyline was very eerie, and the visuals were so eerie that they kept me up at night. I liked how the author resolved it, and the unexpected twist broke my heart. The terrorist/Kate storyline was partially resolved. I say partially because the author threw in two major twists (one I didn’t see coming, and the other one was discussed a lot in the book and confirmed). I cannot wait to see how the series ends!
- Hollywood Z (book 26): Finally, the last book in the series, Hollywood Z, doesn’t disappoint. While Isaac is planning the end of the world and killing Kate, Kate is investigating the disappearance of a famous actress and the murder of her boyfriend and best friend. But, as with all of her cases, this is anything but ordinary. I did figure out who one of the kidnappers was early on, but I was surprised by the other. I was also very surprised by the two twists that seemed to come out of nowhere. The other storyline, with the terrorist, Kate, Joe, and their wedding, kept me on edge. The section of the storyline with the terrorist ended as I expected. As did the wedding storyline. I liked that the author wrapped up all the storylines and gave everyone an HEA. I also liked how all of Kate’s friends/family who died or were murdered showed up in spirit. It made for an emotional end to the series.
The Mob Boss Series: I started Ruthless the day before I published this post. So I will be including it in my July Wrap-Up

Monthly Playlist (I use songs featured in the book, if there are any, along with a playlist generated by ChatGPT).

Featured Song of the Month

April 2026 Wrap-Up

Personal Highlights from this month:

For the week of March 30th through April 4th:
- The first half of the week was full of appointments. I had my initial appointment with the Pulmonary Dr. (I have been diagnosed with severe sleep apnea and need a C-Pap machine).
- I also went and visited my grandcats: Bug (who lived with us for 2 years along with his mom) and Coco (aka Coutore/the girls rescue kitten they adopted last Saturday). I also took in their mail/packages, topped off the cats’ water, fed both cats wet food, made sure the dry food dispenser was working, and cleaned the litterboxes. And, of course, I left my purse there, so BK, Miss R, and I went back to get it.
- We had a surprise visitor late Tuesday night/early Wednesday morning. An unknown man came onto my porch and was looking at either my leaf blower, my air conditioner, or the charger for BK’s electric car. He kept his face covered because we have a sign that says “monitored by Ring audio and visual“. Gotta love wanna-be thieves. He got scared off when BK turned on the living room light and banged on the front window. But, I’m sure he’ll be back…sigh.
- Miss R learned an important lesson about internet safety. She had lent her Instagram account to a school “friend“. Said “friend” posted very inappropriate pictures there, which were then shared on her Facebook. A friend of the family saw them and immediately called me. After talking to Miss R, we spent a few hours trying to delete the accounts (the girl kept undoing the deletes). We finally were able to move them all (6 of them!!) off her account, and Miss R changed her phone number, password, and put up 2-step verification. Like I said, a lesson learned.
For the week of April 5th through April 11th:
- It’s spring break here, so all school-aged kids in my household were home from school for the week.
For the week of April 12th through April 18th:
- Mr. Z officially has 2 weeks left of his internship. To be honest, I will not miss driving him to and from the hospital Monday-Friday.
- Mr. Z also decided that he wants to go to the prom. And, boy, tickets are expensive ($50 for stag, $100 for a couple). He will be wearing a black tux with red lining. He is going stag.
- Miss R rode a new horse this week, and she loved riding it. But, tacking her up was another thing. The horse wouldn’t let Miss R put the bit in her mouth, and if she got it in, the horse slipped the bridle off her head. It took two experienced people (her instructor and the barn owner’s daughter) to get the bit in.
- Miss R had her unofficial chorus concert on Friday. I didn’t go, but I heard from friends who did that the kids did an amazing job.
- Mr. Z had in impormto meeting with his drone class (which is why I didn’t get to go to the concert). I ended up waiting almost 2 hours for the class to finish (it was supposed to be 10-15 mins).
- Miss R had a sleepover with one of her best friends. She also spent all day Saturday and almost all day Sunday with this friend.
For the week of April 19th through April 25th:
- Mr. Z got his cap and gown this week!! He didn’t get his cords or his stole, but I think he’s getting them at Senior Night.
- Mr. Z went to his prom, and he had a blast. He actually got up and danced (which surprised his father and me).
- My best friend came up to visit on Sunday. We were able to catch up on a lot. I plan on driving down to visit her once school is out.

Books I Read:

Montana Promises Series by Vella Day (I wasn’t able to finish the last book by the end of March):
- Burning Seduction (Book 5): I believe this is the last book in this series (but there are other series in the same universe). This book centers on Charlotte and Trent’s relationship, with a murder investigation as its backdrop. I loved how their relationship progressed. I also loved the little catch-ups that the author threw in about the other Montana Promises couples. There was an interesting secondary storyline with Harmon (Trent’s brother), and I can’t wait to see if he has his own book (I need to look).
The Valkyrie Series by J.K. Hawk:
- The Nameless Survivor (Book 1): If you like a book told through diary entries and interoffice memos, this is the book for you. While I usually don’t enjoy this format, I did enjoy this book. However, some parts were difficult—such as the depiction of child rape in Mia’s recollections—and I was uncomfortable with the age difference between the survivor (whose name wasn’t given) and Mia, who was 15-16 years old, as it seemed to be at least 20-30 years. Other than that, it was a good read.
- The Surviving Son (Book 2): This book didn’t live up to the first. My main issue was that the only person who could cure the virus was inexplicably allowed to leave on a risky search for The Nameless Survivor’s son in Northern New England. The timeline was also muddled, as Abel was described inconsistently as either a six-year-old or a teenager. I wasn’t satisfied with the portrayal of The Nameless Survivor, now renamed Adam. Most frustratingly, the ending left Stephanie and Abel’s fate unresolved, leaving the conclusion feeling incomplete.
The Imp series by Debra Dunbar (I was able to get almost the entire series on KU. There are 5 books that were not on KU or not on Amazon).
- A Demon Bound (Book 1): This was an engaging book with a unique twist on the genre. Sam, an imp who has lived on Earth for 40 years as a slumlord, is drawn into a murder mystery when a werewolf blackmails her into trying to kill the rogue angel targeting her kind. The book is fast-paced, witty, and decidedly tongue-in-cheek.
- Satan’s Sword (Book 2): Another engaging book that centers on Sam and her friends. In this book, Sam had to bail her foster brother, Dar, out of hot water with a higher-up demon. All she has to do is get an ancient artifact and deliver it to said demon. Sam is also dealing with a serial killer who is taking ears as trophies and has moved from the homeless to children. This book was funny, a little gross (there was a lot of gore), and just an overall good read. I am very interested to see what happens in the next book with Sam’s new title, the elves, the demon trying to kill Sam, and the vampires.
- Elven Blood (Book 3): In this book, Sam must work for an Elven Lord to track down a unique elf/demon hybrid and bring it to the Elven lands, dead or alive. If successful, the Lord will resolve her demon problem. I found this book as enjoyable as the first two, and it was a quicker read. The plot had interesting twists, especially regarding the hybrid, and I liked Sam’s interactions with the Ruling Council of Angels.
- Devil’s Paw (Book 4): Sam, for once, doesn’t have anyone wanting to kill her. She is content doing impish things (having lots of sex and causing mischief). But things go sideways when Gregory (the angel) is convinced that Sam is behind the murder of an angel and several demons (because of her devouring ability). I loved this book. It was a little faster-paced than the previous three books and featured much more action. I loved Sam’s interactions with Gregory, but I didn’t love how he treated her. I also loved that Sam’s emotional maturity has come so far in just three books and that she has developed strong morals. I was a little surprised and upset by the ending. But saying that, I can’t wait to read book 5 and see what shenanigans Sam gets into in Hel.
- Imp Forsaken (Book 5): This book centers on Sam and Gabe (Gregory’s younger brother), split between Sam’s recovery in Hel after Gregory’s banishment and Gabe’s investigation into an angel rebellion in Aaru. The narrative alternates between their experiences: Sam’s struggle to heal/recover her powers, her violent encounters with powerful beings, and her leadership in a violent rebellion; Gabe’s efforts to uncover the source of unrest among the angels. The story is marked by intense violence and significant character development. I enjoyed seeing how Sam’s experiences shaped her, and I am eager to see her reunited with Gregory.
- Angel of Chaos (Book 6): The book follows the Nephilim, Sam, and Gregory (revealed as Archangel Michael), focusing on the chaos Sam creates. It features significant violence and both physical and spiritual sex. The author expands on why angels cannot procreate. Another side of Gabe emerges, as hinted at in Imp Forsaken. Harper, a mortal, was enthralled and impregnated by an angel against her will, which led to anger and trust issues. The ending was expected, and Sam’s absorption of others into her household was intriguing. I’m curious about the Kingdom of Lies and Sam’s deals with sorcerers Kirby and Gabe.
- Kingdom of Lies (Book 7): This book picks up a few months after Angel of Chaos. Sam’s quest to retrieve a dangerous, modified gem for a sorcerer becomes more perilous when a greedy demon uses the gem’s power to grow stronger. Meanwhile, Sam manages her relationship with Gregory, the tensions in her household, and the mystery of gates opening to other dimensions. Kingdom of Lies is fast-paced, plenty violent, but light on sex. The snark level is high (I love Sam’s sense of humor and her skewed moral compass). The author does something interesting by exposing humans to demons, angels, and other supernatural beings. I was slightly disappointed that the gate closings didn’t get more time, but that would probably take another book. I’m eager to see where Exodus (the next book) will go.
- Exodus (Book 8): As the angel rebellion peaks and the Ruling Council pressures Sam to leave while elves advance on humans, chaos erupts. In response, Sam welcomes all refugees into her household (most of them on temporary status). She plans to defend Aaru alongside Gregory and his brothers using her Lows. The ensuing battle is tense and well described; plot twists unfold logically yet remain surprising. Ultimately, the conclusion is impactful, as Sam’s allies prove formidable.
- Queen of the Damned (Book 9): This book starts several months after the events in Exodus. The angels (and Sam) are still locked out of Aaru and trying to get back in. Soon after, Sam learns someone has kidnapped three of her Lows. The investigation is chaotic, but she eventually uncovers the culprit—a very odd figure, like Mr. Rogers with an Ancient twist. The Ancient who took the Lows is unsettling, but ultimately seems fine. As she continues, Sam discovers the Ancients have awoken and want to return to Aaru—a storyline that is both humorous and a bit sad. Later, a surprising twist involving Harper’s angel baby daddy brings the plot full circle and adds a bittersweet note. At the very end, Samael is revealed to be alive. Overall, the book was a compelling, enjoyable read—I couldn’t put it down.
- The Morning Star (Book 10): This book concludes Sam and Gregory’s journey, focusing on Samael’s rumored return after a 2-billion-year absence. When this rumor proves true, Sam tries to unite the Ancients and demons to avert war on Earth, all while raising Lux, an adorable Angel of Order. The fast-paced, hilarious story delivers well-written twists. Although I had anticipated the Samael reveal back in book 8, the actual revelation and the intense ending twist exceeded expectations. Lux’s biological sire wants him back, but Sam stands firm, and she discusses Lux’s safety with Remiel. The author delivers an astonishing final twist that powerfully concludes the series.
- With This Ring (Book 11): Several months after The Morning Star, Sam is adapting to her new life, balancing committee responsibilities and personal milestones, including serving as a bridesmaid in Amber/Irix’s wedding. Her adopted angel Lux brings unexpected chaos by taking his ring-bearing role literally. Amid challenges—humans wielding powerful weapons, strict immigration rules, evasive elves, and a zombie onslaught—Sam is overwhelmed but ultimately solves everything in her signature chaotic style. This chaos, paired with her indifference to rules and deep love for Lux and her found family, grounds her and makes the book a joy to read. The hilarious sex toy scene exemplifies the humor, keeping me laughing throughout.
- A Crown of Imp and Bone (Book 12): I expected this to be the last book, but the author announced book 13, which I’m eager to read. In this installment, Sam faces her most dangerous challenge, juggling wedding preparations and a quest for peace after Lux steals the Seelie Queen’s ring—breaking a historic contract and threatening humans. Sam’s mission plunges her into conspiracies: rescuing kidnapped Seelie girls, investigating mysterious towers, battling the Wild Hunt, Unseelie King for help, and a climactic fight. For the first time in the series, I genuinely feared for Sam’s survival.

Monthly Playlist (I use songs featured in the book, if there are any, along with a playlist generated by ChatGPT).

Featured Song of the Month

Marian’s Man: A Tale of Sherwood Forest (HighTower Fairytales) by Jacque Stevens

Publisher: sjacquebooks

Date of publication: September 23rd 2021

Genre: Fairy Tales, Young Adult, Fantasy

Series: HighTower Series

Winter Falls: A Tale of the Snow Queen—Book 1 (review here)

Cry Wolf: A Tale of Beauty and the Beast—Book 2

Lone Wolf: A Tale of Beauty and the Beast—Book 3

Wolf in Sheep’s Clothing: A Tale of Beauty and the Beast—Book 4

Between Dog and Wolf: A Tale of Beauty and the Beast—Book 5

Wolves at Bay: A Tale of Beauty and the Beast—Book 6

Depths—Book 7

Graves: A Tale of the Little Mermaid—Book 8

Storms—Book 9 (review here)

Robin’s Hood: A Tale of Sherwood Forest—Book 10 (review here)

Marian’s Man: A Tale of Sherwood Forest—Book 11

Lion’s Heart: A Tale of Sherwood Forest—Book 12

Letters by Cinderlight: A Tale of Cinderella—Book 13 (review here)

Wishes by Starlight: A Tale of Cinderella—Book 14

Purchase Links: Amazon

Goodreads Synopsis:

Who is the man who holds her heart?

After playing Robin Hood for months, Marian is starting to wonder how well she knows Robin of Locksley. Her husband could just be depressed, returning from a war that should have claimed his life. He could just be adjusting to their new life in the forest. Marian wants to be patient, but after surrendering Locksley to the sheriff and his men, the villages need Robin Hood more than ever.

When a fight for a king’s ransom costs much more than gold, everything boils to the surface. How can Marian continue to take the name or even stay married to a man she now despises?

And who will wear the hood in the end?

If you like inspirational heroines, unique love stories, and non-stop twists and turns, this action-packed fantasy retelling is for you.

First Line:

Ballads of Robin Hood have spread through the English countryside like wildfire, becoming greater and more fantastic with every pass.
marian’s man by jacque stevens

I enjoy reading fairy tale/myth retellings. Each fairy tale retelling that I have read has been different and exciting. Though, I haven’t read a retelling about Robin Hood and was immediately interested when Robin’s Hood came out. Then I read the blurb for Marian’s Man, and I couldn’t wait to read it!!

Marian’s Man takes place shortly after the events at the end of Robin’s Hood. Rob and Mare have been reunited. Mare is prepared to keep wearing the hood, but Rob doesn’t want her to, and he takes on the Robin Hood persona. While Mare isn’t happy, she understands. During one of her forays into the village, Mare discovers that the Queen will be riding through the village on her way to pay the ransom for King Richard. She also finds that the sheriff and his cronies have a plan to rob the Queen. What will happen? Will Robin Hood come to the rescue? Or will the ransom be taken? And can Rob and Mare reconnect, or will Rob’s demons take over?

Marian’s Man is a fast-paced book that kept my attention the entire book. It is a short book (183 pages), and with the fast pace, it took me a couple of hours (broken up over the day) to read. There was no lag, and the author kept up the fast pace of the entire book.

Marian’s Man is told from both Rob and Mare’s POV. I loved that!! I liked being able to see Rob’s take on everything that was going on. It made the book much more interesting to read.

I felt terrible for Rob. He suffered while in the Middle East. I wasn’t surprised that he was having flashbacks, and I wasn’t surprised when he started to deal with his demons the way he did. I was a little surprised at how much he didn’t want to be Robin Hood. He hated the hood, which was a direct contrast to how Mare felt about it. I also liked seeing how honest he was with himself about how he felt about Mare. It was refreshing to see a man lay it all out.

I liked Mare in Marian’s Man. She was determined to stand by Rob, no matter what. While she was confused by how he acted (the flashbacks made him do awful things), she was there for him. She wasn’t happy about not being Robin Hood. She loved wearing the hood and outsmarting the sheriff. So, I wasn’t surprised by what she did towards the end of the book.

Mare and Rob’s romance was a slow burn throughout the book. I did get aggravated with them during certain scenes. They were madly in love with each other, and then they would act a fool because of jealousy. But other than that, I enjoyed their romance.

This is a clean book. There is no sex, and there is a handful of kissing scenes. The chemistry between Mare and Rob is palpable, and I can’t wait for them to finally get down and dirty.

There is a hint of a love triangle, which I didn’t like. I felt that it could have been left out of the book because it added nothing to it.

The end of Marian’s Man was excellent. While it didn’t take me by surprise, it shocked me a little. I cannot wait to read the next book and see what happens then!!

I would recommend Marian’s Man to anyone over the age of 16. There is no sex (some kissing scenes), but there is violence.

Marek (Cold Fury Hockey: Book 11) by Sawyer Bennett

3 Stars

Publisher: Random House Publishing Group, Loveswept

Date of publication: May 22nd, 2018

Genre: Romance, Sports

Series: Cold Fury Hockey

Alex – Book 1

Garrett – Book 2

Zack – Book 3

Ryker – Book 4

Hawke – Book 5

Max – Book 6

Roman – Book 7

Lucas – Book 8 (review here)

Van – Book 9 (review here)

Reed – Book 10

Marek – Book 11

Where you can find Marek: Amazon | Barnes and Noble

Book synopsis (from Goodreads):

When the Carolina Cold Fury’s hottest young star gets blindsided by an ex with a scandalous secret, it’s game on.

“One of the best voices in contemporary romance.”—New York Times bestselling author Lauren Layne

Marek Fabritis is used to delivering blows, not receiving them. But when he gets tipped off by an anonymous email about his ex-girlfriend, the news leaves him ice cold—and it’s not because Gracen Moore is getting married to a total jerk. It’s the fact that Marek has a three-year-old daughter he never knew about. Now he’s going back home, not to play knight in shining armor but to make damn sure that no man takes what’s his. For the first time, there might be something more important than hockey.

Gracen Moore has always loved Marek. That’s why she let him go so he could pursue a career in the NHL. And that’s why she never told him about Lilly. Only now does Gracen realize that she made an unforgivable mistake. But is that any reason for Marek to crash her wedding and make an epic scene? If the spark that still smolders between them is to be trusted, maybe. Still, Gracen’s not getting her hopes up. Because she knows better than anyone that appearances aren’t always what they seem. . . .

Continue reading →

The Chesapeake Bride (Chesapeake Diaries: Book 11) by Mariah Stewart

The Chesapeake Bride

Title: The Chesapeake Bride

Author: Mariah Stewart

Publisher: Gallery, Threshold, Pocket Books, Pocket Books

Date of publication: August 29th, 2017

Genre: Romance

Number of pages: 385

POV: 3rd person

Series: The Chesapeake Diaries

Coming Home – Book 1

Home Again – Book 2

Almost Home – Book 3

Hometown Girl – Book 4

Home for the Summer – Book 5

The Long Way Home – Book 6

At the River’s Edge – Book 7

On Sunset Beach – Book 8

That Chesapeake Summer – Book 9

Driftwood Point – Book 10

The Chesapeake Bride – Book 11

Where you can find The Chesapeake Bride: Barnes and Noble | Amazon

Book synopsis (from Goodreads):

From New York Times bestselling author Mariah Stewart comes a new chapter in her celebrated Chesapeake Diaries series.

Architect Cassidy Logan has sworn off good-looking adventurers. Newly divorced, she’s focused on building ecologically friendly, historically accurate homes on the Chesapeake Bay for her father’s construction company. Traveling to Cannonball Island—where there has been no new construction in nearly one hundred years—Cass is sensitive to the heritage of the island and has come up with plans so perfect she’s determined to buy a home for herself. Even the fact that Owen Parker—a local who she dismisses as a lightweight and a player—seems to be everywhere isn’t enough to deter her from building her dream house.

Owen Parker is and always has been sinfully handsome and wickedly clever, a magnet for mischief as well as girls. He’s a rolling stone, going and doing whatever appeals to him, from flying a mail plane in Alaska to working on a cattle ranch in Australia, a shrimp boat in Louisiana, and surfing and diving in Costa Rica. When an old friend offers him a job salvaging a sunken ship on the Chesapeake Bay, Owen gladly accepts. Something’s been telling him it was time to head home to Cannonball Island, and a job is as good an excuse as any. And he’s totally smitten by the pretty architect on the scene, but it seems he’s finally met a woman who’s immune to his charms. Sooner or later, Owen will have to face the reason why he always runs, because this time, leaving just might be harder than staying.

Trigger Warning: None

Continue reading “The Chesapeake Bride (Chesapeake Diaries: Book 11) by Mariah Stewart” →

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