A Book Review: Four Dead Queens

This month's book review is the murder mystery fantasy novel Four Dead Queens by Astrid Scholte.

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Book Description: Seventeen-year-old Keralie Corrington may seem harmless, but in fact, she's one of Quadara's most skilled thieves and a liar. Varin, on the other hand, is an honest, upstanding citizen of Quadara's most enlightened region, Eonia. Varin runs afoul of Keralie when she steals a package from him, putting his life in danger. When Varin attempts to retrieve the package, he and Keralie find themselves entangled in a conspiracy that leaves all four of Quadara's queens dead.

With no other choices and on the run from Keralie's former employer, the two decide to join forces, endeavoring to discover who has killed the queens and save their own lives in the process. When their reluctant partnership blooms into a tenuous romance, they must overcome their own dark secrets in hopes of a future together that seemed impossible just days before. But first they have to stay alive and untangle the secrets behind the nation's four dead queens.

Ang's Review: The nation of Quadara is ruled by four queens representing each of its regions: Toria, Ludia, Archia, and Eonia. The queens are restricted from going to their quadrants, sequestered in their shared castle with advisors. So when the queens start dropping dead, no one knows. It's the perfect crime. Or is it?

Four Dead Queens is a fantastic murder mystery. An intriguing who-done-it that will keep you turning pages until the very end. But wait, there's more.

The setting is a rich fantasy world. The two main characters Keralie and Varin are relatable and so flawed you just want to give them all the hugs while lovingly smacking them for being so dense.

The book had me guessing until the big reveal! Which is always satisfying in a WHAT THE HECK HOW WAS I WRONG kind of way!

If you are into murder mysteries and fantasy novels with a dash of science fiction, Four Dead Queens is the book for you!

Pick up a copy today on Amazon or other major retailers!

You can keep up to date on the author's news on her website.

Have you read Four Dead Queens?
What did you think of it?
Do you enjoy murder mysteries?

On My E-Reader: The Adventures Of Katie Button

Hi, my name is Angela and I have a hard time saying no to purple book covers by awesome writers. This month's On My E-Reader features both: an adorable purple cover and a fantastic writer. Which is why it's a shame I haven't read Lizzie Koch's The Adventures Of Katie Button.

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Book Description: What happens when your dreams collide with reality?

Katie Button doesn’t believe in soulmates. When charismatic Jack Masterson asks her out on a date, despite him being her new boss alongside his more aloof brother, James, she agrees.

But her romantic dreams about a dashing highwayman, heroic gladiator and Tudor lord are becoming more frequent. And, worryingly, they feel real. She remembers every detail, every touch, every kiss. Until she realises the man in her dreams is James.

But Katie doesn’t even like James. And what about Jack, who is whisking her away for sexy mini breaks in the here and now?

Katie knows she needs to put an end to her dreams before they ruin her life. But how?

Reasons I bought it: Aside from the aforementioned love of the color purple and that I think Lizzie Koch is the bee's knees? Glad you asked! I'm a huge fan of Sophie Kinsella. (The Undomestic Goddess and I've Got Your Number being two of my favorites. For those who are wondering.)

When I saw The Adventures Of Katie Button's cover plus read the book description, I instantly thought of Kinsella's books. And I knew I had to snag myself a copy. Alas, it's been sitting on my E-Reader ever since. D'oh! I am looking forward to reading this loveliness in the very near future!

Check out Lizzie Koch's Instagram and Twitter!

Pick up a paperback copy of The Adventures of Katie Button on Amazon.

And look for the sequel here.

Have you read The Adventures of Katie Button?

I'd love to hear what you thought!

Ang's Top Five They Need To Be Out Now Books

Who here feels like they're going to die a slow agonizing death if the book they are DYING to read doesn't come out yesterday?! You do too?! IT'S EXHAUSTING. Amiright?! The following is a list of books that need to be out right NOW. One doesn't even have a cover. What. Even.

Without further ado. I give you. My top five they need to be out NOW books:

The Queen of Nothing by Holly Black

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The Starless Sea by Erin Morgenstern

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My Calamity Jane by Cynthia Hand,

Brodi Ashton, Jodi Meadows

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(NO COVER TO DATE)

Beard Necessities by Penny Reid

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A Heart So Fierce and Broken by Brigid Kemmerer

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What books are you dying for?

Are they coming out this year?
Or do you (like me) have to wait until next year?
THE AGONY.

On My E-Reader: The Selkie Spell

Back in March I reviewed USA Today bestselling author Sophie Moss's Wind Chime Café (book one of the Wind Chime series). You may have heard of Ms. Moss's other series The Seal Island Trilogy. A series I have not  read, but it's on my E-Reader and here's why!

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Book Description: American doctor Tara Moore wants to disappear. On the run from an abusive husband, she seeks shelter on a windswept Irish island and dismisses the villagers' speculation that she is descended from a selkie—a magical creature who is bewitching the island. But when a ghostly woman appears to her with a warning, Tara realizes it was more than chance that brought her to this island. Desperate to escape a dark and dangerous past, she struggles against a passionate attraction to handsome islander, Dominic O'Sullivan. But the enchantment of the island soon overpowers her and she falls helpless under its spell. Caught between magic and reality, Tara must find a way to wield both when a dangerous stranger from her past arrives, threatening to destroy the lives of everyone on the island.

Reasons I bought it: Growing up my grandma told me stories about selkies. They intrigued me. Anytime I see a book or movie with them in it I get nostalgic for rainy spring days on Long Island sitting in my grandmother's den listening to her tales.

A selkie story set in modern times is appealing for so many reasons! Plus knowing Ms. Moss's writing style, storytelling skills, and love for Ireland (which you too can find out about by following her on Instagram and Twitter!), I'm positive I will enjoy this series.

It's a shame I haven't read The Selkie Spell yet! It's at the top of my summertime to read list.

Check out Sophie Moss's website, Instagram, and Twitter.

Pick up a copy for kindle, nook, ibooks, kobo, and google play: links here!

Have you read The Selkie Spell?

If so, did you review it?
I'd love to hear what you thought!

Also:
What are your reading plans this summer?
Anything I NEED to check out right meow!?!

A Book Review: Awake (A Fairytale Trilogy)

This month's book review is Jessica Grey's Awake (book one of the Fairytale Trilogy). A series filled with magic, friendship, and swoon!

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Book Description: Alexandra Martin didn't believe in fairytales.

Alex has always been more interested in rocks and science than stories about princesses and magic. Now she’s far too busy with her summer internship at the Gem and Mineral Museum to think about children’s stories. Between avoiding her former best friend and high school baseball star, Luke Reed, and trying to hide her unrequited crush on her mentor at the museum, the real world is occupying all of her time.

Until she walked into one.

It turns out fairytales aren’t all fun and games. A curse has turned her neat and orderly world upside down, and to break it, she bands together with a fellow intern and a recently awakened princess who’s been asleep for 900 years. Can this trio of unlikely heroines put an end to an ominous enchantment, discover true love, and keep an ancient and evil magic from being unleashed on modern-day Los Angeles?

Ang's Review: Awake: A Fairytale is refreshing. Ms. Grey does a fantastic job of taking an old classic and making it her own. At the heart of this fairytale is the bond of friendship between three girls: Lilia, Becca, and Alex. The girls learn to not only rely on their own powers, but to depend upon each other and help build one another up. They present a fantastic example of what true and lasting friendships should be built upon: trust, caring, encouragement, and fun.

Luke is a-flippin-dorable: handsome, snarky, and smart. He's not your typical jock nor your traditional "hero." He's an even keeled character willing to protect those he cares about, while at the same time brave enough to let others save the day.

The twist and turns of the plot were what kept me reading. I enjoyed seeing how Ms. Grey weaved the classic tale of Sleeping Beauty with her own modern musings. The main focus of this story is the developing plot. Ms. Grey does not play up the angst and drama between Luke and Alex in order to make for inorganic tension, but trusts her story and her writing to do it naturally. If you are a fan of fairytales retold and looking for something fun and heartfelt, this is the book for you.

Pick up a copy today on Amazon!

And while you're at it check out
Atone (book two of the series) and Avowed (a novella).

Ang's Top Five Books Read This Year (So Far)

It's June, my friends. Summer is right around the corner. And I have decided to take a moment to reflect back on what I have read this year (so far)! I am guilty of getting to the end of the year and barely remembering the books that I kicked off the year reading. No. More! This month's top five is five books I read this year (from January to April) and loved! In no particular order they are:

The Reaper's Bride by A.J. Richmond

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Full review on my blog here.

Six of Crows by Leigh Bardugo

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My GoodReads Review:

Who knew Ocean's Eleven meets

an epic fantasy novel

was what my life was missing?!

Not me. And what a fool I've been!

Man, this book was good.

Coldest Girl in Coldtown by Holly Black

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My Goodread's review:

Haven't read a vampire book in a hot minute.

But I'm pretty sure this is my new favorite.

Goooood gravy, I want a monster of my own now too!

A Symphony of Dragons by Lisa Shambrook

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Full review on my blog here.

A Curse So Dark and Lonely by Brigid Kemmerer
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My GoodReads Review:
Boasting an innovative plot and compelling characters,
A Curse So Dark and Lonely is a captivating re-imagining
of the Beauty and the Beast fable.
The pages flew by despite the book's length,
making it a quick, enjoyable read.

You can find the complete list of books I have read here.

What books have been your favorite this year (so far)?
Are you on GoodReads? If so, are we friends?!
Did you know I have two GoodReads pages: author and reader?
Happy June, my friends!

On My E-Reader: Willow Walk

One of my favorite genres is mystery/thriller! Back in high school, I would stay up far too late binge reading them, one right after another. S.J.I. Holliday's debut novel Black Wood (book one of the Banktoun series) is a fantastic example of an excellent mystery/thriller. Which is why it's a shame I haven't read book two Willow Walk!

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Book Description: When the past catches up, do you run and hide or stand and fight?

When a woman is brutally attacked on a lonely country road by an escaped inmate from a nearby psychiatric hospital, Sergeant Davie Gray must track him down before he strikes again. But Gray is already facing a series of deaths connected to legal highs and a local fairground, as well as dealing with his girlfriend Marie's bizarre behaviour. As Gray investigates the crimes, he suspects a horrifying link between Marie and the man on the run - but how can he confront her when she's pushing him away?

As a terrified Marie is pulled back into a violent past she thought she'd escaped, she makes an irrevocable decision. And when events come to a head at a house party on Willow Walk, can Gray piece together the puzzle in time to stop the sleepy town of Banktoun being rocked by tragedy once more?

Reasons I Bought It: First, did I mention I loved Black Wood? Because I did. You can find my review of it here. I could leave it there, but let's talk about this cover: HOLY GOODNESS PINK LOVELY. Between an awesome book description, a solid start to the series in Black Wood, and this killer cover, buying Willow Walk was a must! I'm looking forward to reading Willow Walk soon and freaking myself out! 

Check out S.J.I. Holliday on
Twitter, FaceBook, and her website.

Pick up your copy on Amazon.

Have you read Willow Walk?

Did you review it?

If so, share it with me! I'd love to hear your thoughts.

A Book Review: The Reaper's Bride (The Reaper Chronicles)

This month's book review is author A. J. Richmond's debut novel The Reaper's Bride. I had the opportunity to read the novel before publication, my friends. Now that it's out I want to share with the universe how much I enjoyed The Reaper's Bride! Let me tell you all the reasons why you need this book in your life!

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Book Description: It’s not an easy task ushering souls to the afterlife—just ask James the Reaper. When he stumbles upon 83-year-old Molly at a funeral, he realizes she has the uncanny ability to see into the secret world of reaping souls.

James must convince Molly of her talent and entice her to join him as a recruit. But if he thinks this task is without its challenges, he’s sorely mistaken. Molly’s best friend, Mildred, wants in too. Unlike Molly, Mildred is a sharp-tongued, politically incorrect senior who lacks the empathy and tact to make it as a successful recruit.

With Molly’s natural abilities at guiding souls, James is determined to add her to his growing network—even if it means taking on Mildred.

He must ensure that Mildred fulfills her reaping contract without further angering the Gods and losing control of his reaping empire. Although Mildred seems hell-bent on making mischief for James, Molly isn’t so innocent herself. She must outwit both James and Mildred to get what she truly wants.

A suave reaper, two cantankerous elderly ladies, and a melange of dead souls make up the quirky cast of The Reaper’s Bride.

Ang's Review: Molly and Mildred are funeral crashers. They get off on bad funerals and mocking the deceased person’s loved ones. The tackier the flowers and the slimier the pickles the better.

Enter James: the Grim Reaper. Not a grim reaper, not death, but THE one and only Reaper.

Death keeps James busy. So busy he’s hired living people to help him reap souls. When he learns that Molly can see departing souls he is desperate to get her on his crew. Death is busy, and James is barely hanging on. The plan seems foolproof. But there are a few unforeseen problems: pesky Spain, a bunch of pissed off gods, and the biggest problem of all—Mildred.

A. J. Richmond’s The Reaper’s Bride kept me on my toes from page one. Pack with a heavy dose of snark and heart wrenching moments, The Reaper’s Bride is a quick, clever read. Weaved throughout the story of two bitter old women and one over taxed Grim Reaper is a rich back history that begs to be explored. I could not put this book down. And I cannot wait for the second book in The Reaper Chronicles series. A. J. Richmond has become one of my go-to, must-buy-right-meow authors.

Follow A.J. Richmond on Twitter and Instagram.
Make sure to check out her website.
And pick up your copy on Amazon today!

UPDATE: The Reaper's Bride giveaway is now closed!
Winner was announced.
Thank you to everyone who entered!
Follow my Instagram account for more bookish giveaways coming soon!

Bonus: Check out my Instagram Giveaway for The Reaper's Bride!
I am giving away one paperback copy.
Rules to enter are here.

Ang's Top Five Contemporary Standalone Novels

In my humble opinion, a great standalone novel is worth its weight in avocados! Last month I shared five of my favorite standalone fantasy novels. This month we're looking at five contemporary standalone novels I think are bonkers awesome!

So Yesterday by Scott Westerfeld
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A thought-provoking young adult contemporary mystery,
So Yesterday is a fun read that will make you laugh,
fall in love with a cutie named Hunter,
and get you thinking about advertising and trends.
I would recommend it to just about everyone.

The Curious Case of the Dog in the Night-time by Mark Haddon
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The protagonist of A Curious Case is Christopher,
a fifteen-year-old boy with autism.
Christopher is relatable even when he's throwing a king-sized tantrum.
Mr. Haddon not only addresses the difficulties Christopher faces,
but the toll it has taken on his family and those around him.
The author deals with hard themes with grace.
The plot twists are enjoyable. I loved meeting Christopher.
And I know this novel gave me a better appreciation
not only for children with autism,
but the families who help them lead healthy, productive lives.

I've Got Your Number by Sophie Kinsella
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I've Got Your Number made me laugh so hard my sides hurt
and my face ached from grinning. Since reading this book the first time,
I have reread it multiple times. It never gets old.
And that's what I've got to say about it!

The Boy Who Couldn't Sleep and Never Had To by DC Pierson
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This novel left me baffled in a good way and I'll take it.
My inner geek loved The Boy Who Couldn't Sleep in ways I can't explain.
Full of wit that made me literally laugh out loud,
the book combined reality with the unimaginable
in a way that was both endearing and funny.
Darren and Eric both stole my heart.

Amy and Roger's Epic Detour by Morgan Matson

Ms. Matson's writing style is packed with wisdom and charm.
Amy's struggle with the loss of her father and the emotional distance
she feels from her mother and brother is heart-wrenching.
The story doesn't feel weighed down.
And Amy's and Roger's friendship blossoms right before the readers' eyes.
All while the author takes us on a journey
through the United States reminding us how grand it is.
This is one of my all time favorite YA Coming of Age novels!

Do you have a favorite standalone novel?
Do you prefer standalone books or series?

On My E-reader: The Raven's Wing

This month's On My E-reader pick is the irreplaceable, larger than life Michael Wombat's The Raven's Wing. A man of many yawns and Sunday Pix on Twitter, Wombat is engaging and entertaining. When he published The Raven's Wing, I snatched it up faster than you can say, well, wombat. Let me tell you why!

Book Description: They say you should follow your dreams. They never tell you what to do when the dreams start following you.

The year is 1322. Minstrel John has enough on his plate with his wife's funeral. He could do without the naked woman who keeps forcing her way into his dreams, the angel dropping skulls in the village church, the stranger that attacks him for no reason, and the sexy, one-eyed, fire-dancer who is after only one thing - his music. Then there are the voices in his head, compelling him to investigate a mystery that just keeps on growing.

Based on a true story, this is not history, this is the 14th century as experienced by those who lived there, and who saw it as the leading edge of time. As John discovers, demons and magic can be very real.

Reasons I bought it: Aside from the aforementioned Twitter stalking, his love of gimlets, and the yawns? Let's talk covers! This one is an eye-catcher. And the tagline "a medieval adventure" had me at hello. Moving beyond that, the description is unique and filled with so much potential for a hardy laugh and mind-blowing intrigue. The real question would be: WHY WOULDN'T I BUY THIS? I'm looking forward to enjoying this magic in the very near future.

Pick up your copy on Amazon!
Make sure to check out Michael Wombat on Twitter and his website.

Have you read The Raven's Wing?

Did you review it? Share it with me!

I'd love to hear your thoughts.

A Book Review: A Symphony Of Dragons

This month's book review is the lovely Lisa Shambrook's set of short stories A Symphony of Dragons.

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Book Description: Lose yourself in the enchanting worlds of fantasy, contemporary, steampunk, and post-apocalyptic, and let your imagination soar on a chorus of dragon wings. This lyrical collection of tales embracing change and desire, love and belonging, passion, sacrifice and triumph are composed with gossamer threads of dragon fire. Seven bewitching stories, including a Hope Within finale and a prelude to the forthcoming Seren Stone Chronicles. Let the song of dragons lead you…

Stories included: A Symphony of Seasons, The Apothecary's Art, Between Ice and Fire, Beneath Freya's Dragon, Noctilite Tryst, Paroxysm, and The Legend of the Seren Stone.

Ang's Review: A beguiling set of short stories filled with magic, heartbreak, and wonder, Lisa Shambrook's A Symphony of Dragons is a charming read that I could not put down. I gobbled it up in one sitting. The Legend of the Seren Stone hooked me! And I am eager to get my hands on the first book in The Seren Chronicles.*

Pick up a copy today on Amazon and other major retailers!

*Update: Currently I am beta reading The Seren Stone (book one in the Seren Chronicles). Y'all, obviously I can't share anything. However, if you're a lover of high fantasy, this series is for you! Don't walk, run to Lisa's Twitter and follow her so you can keep up on all the awesome to come. You will not regret it!

Ang's Top Five Standalone Fantasy Novels

Fantasy is one of my favorite genres. From kidlit like A Wrinkle in Time to middle school/young adult novels like Percy Jackson to epic adult series like Dragonlance, I'm down for it all. It's a good thing this list is limited to five picks or else we'd be here a long time, my friends. And for a fun twist, let's look at standalone novels. Without further ado, I present to you, five of my favorite standalone fantasy novels.

The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern

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We're kicking this list off with a book
I've reread multiple times and love with all my heart.
It's dark and twisted.
Romantic and magical.
There's a reason I read The Night Circus over and over again.
That reason: it's so damn good.

The Graveyard Book by Neil Gaiman

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While many readers love Gaiman's adult fictions,

in my humble opinion, his youth novels are where he shines.

The Graveyard Book is dark and spooky with undertones

of a sinister world while still maintaining a hopeful vibe.

The Graveyard Book is Gaiman at his best.

Tuck Everlasting by Natalie Babbitt

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Beautiful. Beautiful. Beautiful. Book.
A classic fantasy novel with so much heart,
Tuck Everlasting takes on love and death.
And what it fundamentally means to be courageous and live.

Elsewhere by Gabrielle Zevin

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A clever take on the afterlife,
Gabrielle Zevin's Elsewhere left me in a puddle of tears.
Beautifully bittersweet, Elsewhere is one of
the most emotional books I've ever read.

Chime by Franny Billingsley

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Back when I was book blogging

I was offered the chance to read the Chime ARC.

I'd never heard of the author but decided to take a chance.

And I'm so glad I did.

Here's part of the review I wrote:

First and foremost, Chime is a beautifully written novel.
Each word picked for not only its meaning,
but its sound. Each phrase carefully crafted to grab our attention,
keep us hooked, move us, delight us.

You can read my full review of Chime on GoodReads.

What are your top fantasy novels?
Are you equal opportunity like me: able to read adult and children's fantasy?
Or are you loyal to adult or YA fiction?
Do you have a standalone fantasy favorite?
Or do you stick to series?
SO MANY QUESTIONS!

March: A Month Of Rain, Renewal, And Reading.

The renewal of my bookish ways is freeing. There are countless reasons I stopped book blogging (some make sense, others not so much). None of the reasons matter now. Because I'm moving forward! And it is everything. Here are a few highlights!

On My E-Reader:

I'm in love with my new blog feature On My E-Reader. There are so many amazing books on my kindle I haven't read yet! The first two books I shared Marianne Hansen's The Unscripted Life of Lizzy Dillinger and Ainsley Wynter's  Kissed at Midnight (The Lost Royals) are debut novels I'm bonkers excited about. If you haven't checked them out, what are you waiting for?! Do. It.

Beta Reading:

Over the last few months I have beta read some great stories. Currently, I’m reading Lisa Shambrook’s The Seren Stone (book one of The Seren Stone Chronicles). It’s high fantasy at its best: dragons, mysterious stones, adorable talking not-lizards, and so much more. That I obviously can’t talk about since I’m beta reading and the book isn’t out yet. But I’d recommend following the lovely Lisa on Twitter and Instagram and all the places for publishing news and cover reveals and all the awesome to come!

The Reaper's Bride:

Speaking of beta reading, last month I beta read Angie Richmond's debut novel The Reaper's Bride. You. Guys. It's so good. You want it on your to read list! Angie posted the book blurb on her website this weekend (alongside a quick Twitter review I wrote for The Reaper's Bride). Check out the book blurb here and watch for a full review of The Reaper's Bride (book one of The Reaper's Chronicles) on my blog in May 2019!

The Wicked King:

In more reading news: This weekend, I finished The Wicked King by Holly Black (book two of The Folk of the Air series). It's brutal and heartfelt and had me on the edge of my seat. If you're looking for a YA fairy fantasy that will leave you speechless look no further.

Looking Ahead!

There's so much bookish awesome to look forward to this year. From novels I can't wait to read (the final Caraval book, anyone?) to my writing (subscribe to my newsletter to stay up to date!) returning to my bookworm roots was a longtime coming. And it has not only inspired me, but helped me remember why I love writing and reading and yes, even publishing!

What books did you read this month? Got a favorite?

Is there a novel coming out later this year you're excited about?

On My E-reader: Kissed at Midnight (The Lost Royals)

This month's On My E-reader pick is by debut author Ainsley Wynter! A Golden Heart finalist and all around lovely person online, Ainsley's gorgeous cover had me at hello.

Book Description: Princess Sidony of L'Ortagia serves as the queen's hostess, leaving affairs of state to her sister Zara. During a masquerade ball, Sidony kisses a handsome stranger only to discover he's Prince Adrian of Embury, a man with a fearsome reputation and the emissary sent to arrange her sister's marriage. Worried her actions will damage the budding alliance, she convinces Adrian to forget the incident...even if she cannot.

Adrian roots out traitors in his uncle's kingdom of Embury using his magical abilities. When he's sent to arrange a wedding for his cousin, a kiss in the moonlight gives him a taste of what he's been missing. Sidony is everything his life is not: laughter, warmth, and passion. But the king maintains an unbreakable hold over him, hiding his family in exchange for Adrian's loyalty to the crown.

After Zara disappears on the eve of the royal wedding, Adrian's orders are to stay and maintain the alliance with L'Ortagia. But Sidony's effect on his powers and his heart becomes too strong to deny. When he has a chance to rescue his family and throw off his royal ties, will he take it, knowing he'll have to leave Sidony? Or will the dark prince abandon his past to be with the one woman who brought his cold heart to life?

Reasons I bought it: They say never judge a book by its cover. And I honestly rarely do. But this one caught my eye and held me hostage. The colors are gorgeous. Plus are they standing in a magic forest?! So yes, in this case, it was the cover that first made me check out the book. Then I read the description and thought: yes, yes, yes, please. Finally I took a gander at the author's bio which states she "writes steamy fantasy romance." Which got me singing: "these are a few of my favorite things!" Buying this novel was a no-brainer. I am looking forward to sitting down very soon and reading this novel in one sitting. Thank you very much.

Check out Ainsley Wynter on Twitter, Instagram, and her website.

Pick up your copy of this beautiful novel on Amazon and other major retailers!

Have you read Kissed at Midnight?

Did you review it?

If so, share it with me! I'd love to hear your thoughts.

A Book Review: Wind Chime Café

This month's book review is USA Today bestselling author Sophie Moss's Wind Chime Café. Wind Chime Café is the first book in the lovely Wind Chime series. I adore this book. Here's why!

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Book Description: When single mother Annie Malone purchases a quirky Main Street café on Heron Island, she thinks she’s finally turned her dream of opening her own restaurant into a reality. Hearing rumors that a developer is about to build a five-star resort on the sleepy Chesapeake Bay island, she plans to transform the café into a premier upscale bistro. But Annie’s life is about to get a lot more complicated.

Back on Heron Island for the first time in ten years, Navy SEAL Will Dozier has no intention of selling his grandparents’ property to a developer. As he works on renovating the house and trying to find another buyer, he’s forced to face a painful reality—that he’s secretly struggling with PTSD. Determined to hide his troubles from the rest of the islanders, Will decides that a fling with the new girl is the perfect way to help him “get his head straight.”

The last thing Will expects is to fall in love…with his hometown and with Annie. But Will’s life and career are in San Diego with the SEALs. Can Annie’s love and the healing magic of the island be enough to convince him to stay?

Ang's Review: Ms. Moss’s Wind Chime Café is a bittersweet story of healing, forgiveness, and bravery.

Her novel is about real people, going through real struggles, and trying to help one another heal. While the love story between Annie and Will is beyond swoon-worthy, this novel is not limited to their interaction. Most if not all the characters within the book are treated with respect and given a chance to grow and move forward. Taylor and Will learn to trust one another and create a lasting bond. Will reaches out to Colin and they find common ground after years of friendship and heartache. Della becomes the support that Annie had been lacking all her life. And don’t get me started on Riley the dog and her faithfulness to Taylor.

All the relationships were skillfully intertwined—each given time to develop and expand into real lasting bonds. Weaved into the story is a gorgeous setting and a touch of magic that sets it apart from your average boy meets girl, boy and girl have issues, boy and girl work out issues and fall in love. This was exactly the right book at exactly the right time. It gets two very enthusiastic thumbs up from me!

Pick up your copy on Amazon and other major retailers today!

And while you're at it, check out the next two books in this wonderful series:

Wind Chime Summer and Wind Chime Wedding.

Ang's Top Five Books She Never Makes Time For

My to read list keeps growing, meaning many books I’d like to read get forgotten. Some poor books (like a few I'm about to share) have been on my to read list for almost three decades. Today's post is a little different! I'm going to share the title, cover, and the book description. But alas there's no review.

Since today's list is the top five books I never make time for. The books that have been on my to read list forever. 

Till We Have Faces by C. S. Lewis

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In this timeless tale of two mortal princesses- one beautiful and one unattractive- C.S. Lewis reworks the classical myth of Cupid and Psyche into an enduring piece of contemporary fiction. This is the story of Orual, Psyche's embittered and ugly older sister, who posessively and harmfully loves Psyche. Much to Orual's frustration, Psyche is loved by Cupid, the god of love himself, setting the troubled Orual on a path of moral development. Set against the backdrop of Glome, a barbaric, pre-Christian world, the struggles between sacred and profane love are illuminated as Orual learns that we cannot understand the intent of the gods "till we have faces" and sincerity in our souls and selves.

The Mysteries of Udolpho by Ann Radcliffe

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With The Mysteries of Udolpho, Ann Radcliffe raised the Gothic romance to a new level and inspired a long line of imitators. Portraying her heroine's inner life, creating a thick atmosphere of fear, and providing a gripping plot that continues to thrill readers today, The Mysteries of Udolpho is the story of orphan Emily St. Aubert, who finds herself separated from the man she loves and confined within the medieval castle of her aunt's new husband, Montoni. Inside the castle, she must cope with an unwanted suitor, Montoni's threats, and the wild imaginings and terrors that threaten to overwhelm her.

In The Shade Of Spring Leaves by Higuchi Ichiyo

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Higuchi Ichiyo, Japan's first woman writer of stature in modern times, was born in 1872 and died at the age of twenty-four. In her brief life she wrote poems, essays, short stories and a great, multivolume diary. This book is made up of a critical biography, interlaced with extracts from the diary, and Robert Danly's translations of nine representative stories. 

Rebecca by Daphne Du Maurier

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A classic novel of romantic suspense finds the second Mrs. Maxim de Winter entering the home of her mysterious and enigmatic new husband and learning the story of the house's first mistress, to whom the sinister housekeeper is unnaturally devoted.

The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy by Douglas Adams

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Seconds before the Earth is demolished to make way for a galactic freeway, Arthur Dent is plucked off the planet by his friend Ford Prefect, a researcher for the revised edition of The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy who, for the last fifteen years, has been posing as an out-of-work actor.

What books on your to read list keep getting pushed off?
Do you find they’re older books like me?
Or do you focus on your back list and push off newer novels?

On My E-reader: The Unscripted Life of Lizzy Dillinger

All too often I buy eBooks only to lose my E-reader or worse not know what to read when I gaze upon the awesome that’s on it. To make up for this, I’m starting a new segment on the blog called On My E-reader. Which is probably already done somewhere out there in internet land. But let’s pretend I’m all revolutionary, shall we! First up, a debut novel by an indie author that sounds like a blast.

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Book Description: She’s got a movie deal. He’s got the lead role. Can she choose between her family and her Hollywood crush?

Stay-at-home mom Lizzy Dillinger escapes the monotony of her humdrum marriage by writing down her daydreams. When her producer friend contracts her story for a movie and invites her on set, she jumps at the chance to leave the suburbs until the film’s in the can. But Lizzy’s big break gets even better when she learns the hunky character who starred in her daydreams will be played by her Hollywood crush, Ben Winters.

On location in Arizona, the desert gets even hotter when Lizzy and Ben strike up a flirtatious friendship. But her hopes of a celebrity fling shatter when a family visit brings her fantasy crashing into reality. Against the dazzling lights and the glamorous movie sets, her cookie-cutter life back home seems painfully bland. Torn between the man of her dreams and the family who helped define her, Lizzy must search her heart to find where her true passion lies.

Reasons I bought it: Where to start? Marianne is super fun on social media, sharing pictures of her sleepy dog, stylish socks with flip-flops, and snow or musing about taking acting classes. This desert dweller found the cover appealing, and the premise (a stay-at-home mom writing her first book) is something I can relate to. When I read the book description, I knew I’d found a good fit for me. I’m looking forward to reading this book for so many reasons.

Check out Marianne Hansen's website, Instagram, and Twitter.

Pick up a copy on Amazon!

Have you read The Unscripted Life of Lizzy Dillinger?

If so, did you review it? I'd love to hear what you thought!

A Book Review: Holidays With Jane: Will You Be Mine?

This month I'm spotlighting an indie favorite. Written by six fabulous authors from Indie Jane this book is a must have for Austen lovers and Valentine's enthusiasts.

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Book Description: Love is in the air this Valentine's Day as the talented authors of the Holidays with Jane series bring you six more modern adaptations of Jane Austen's classic novels. This candy heart is filled with chocolates, roses, and happily ever afters!

Stories included: Design by Chance by Rebecca M. Fleming, Fangirl by Jennifer Becton, Accidentally in Love by Jessica Grey, Cupid’s Secret by Nancy Kelley, Concealed Spark by Melissa Buell, Pride and Productions by Cecilia Gray.

Ang's Review: Packed with wit and charm, Holidays with Jane: Will You Be Mine? is a lovely addition to a series of novels filled with memorable heroines, swoon-worthy heroes, satisfying twists, and a respect and passion for Jane Austen's novels that leaps off every page. Following these six clever authors throughout the years as they've taken us through the holidays—each author putting their own special spin on each of Austen's beloved characters, settings, and plots—has been pure joy. And I'm grateful for the journey they've shared with us.

Currently available in paperback on Amazon.
Pick up your copy today!

Ang's Top Five Romance Novels That Make Her Swoon

Love is in the air. So let's talk romance! This month's top five list is shockingly romance novels. Who saw that one coming? Not. Me. The following is a list of five romance novels that made me swoon.

The Hating Game by Sally Thorne

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This. Book.

It's quirky and funny and so very swoon worthy.

I've read it a billion times.

That's literally a billion times.

Fight me if you don't believe me.

In fact, I think I need to reread it again.

Like. Right. Now.

Unearthly by Cynthia Hand

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I've owned Unearthly for years and

for some stupid reason I didn't pick it up until last year.

And man. What a dumb move.

While a solid YA fantasy series, 

it's also extremely swoony with a side of extra swoon.

And yes, it's got a love triangle.

Which is usually a hard pass for yours truly.

Buuuuuut it's done well and my ship conquered all.

The Madness of Lord Ian Mackenzie by Jennifer Ashley

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Holy. Geez.

This. Book.

Wait. Did I use that already?

Too. Bad. Because this freaking book.

It's dark and mysterious and forget swooning.

It defines the term "hot" which might be

the first time I've EVER used hot in a review.

Do. Not. Pass. Go.

Do. Not. Collect. Two. Hundred. Dollars.

You want a mystery with a side of over the top classic historical romance?

This book is what you are looking for.

Goodnight Tweetheart by Teresa Medeiros

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Bittersweet and full of surprises,

I laughed my way through this insanely clever novel

until I bawled my eyes out.

Goodnight Tweetheart is heartfelt and lovely.

I'm ever so glad I read it.

The Secret by Julie Garwood

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Have I used this book?
Because THIS BOOK.

This is the one.

It's the first book that hooked me on romance

and reading and yeah, I was thirteen

(or was I twelve? DO NOT JUDGE ME).

My grandma (yes, my freaking grandma)

handed me The Secret when I was flying solo

from The Big Apple to the Silver State and I gobbled it up.

Her pitch: It's a sweet story about friends

who stick by each other through thick and thin.

And she was right.
Toss in some kissing, kilts, and more (wink wink)

and you've got a book that's guaranteed to make a lifelong bookworm.

And that bookworm is me.

What's on your top five list of romance novels?

Are you a historical fan?

Or contemporary?
Did I miss something that's a MUST READ?

Let me know in the comments.

Because I'm looking for a new book to swoon over!