Blurb: Darrell Henshaw hoped he was past it all. After all, no ghosts had visited him for years. Instead, he learns his five-year-old-son, Leo has inherited his “gift.”  Now, they both can see ghosts. This time, Darrell drives his young family 800 miles to celebrate his Aunt Gertrude’s 80^th birthday. But, once in the resort  town of Saugatuck, Michigan, their participation gets derailed by the spirit of a Native teen who went missing weeks earlier. When he and Leo inquire about the girl, the locals dismiss their concerns—”Those girls run away all the time.”  Still, as questions pile up and threats grow, Darrell senses they may have stumbled onto something far worse and even more evil than one missing teen.  Can Darrell continue to pursue justice for the girl if it places his wife and five-year-old son in danger?

https://books2read.com/RedShadows

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/233778534-red-shadows-at-saugatuck?ac=1&from_search=true&qid=rZHB4LacUP&rank=1

Dr. Randy Overbeck is an award-winning educator and author,  as well as a popular speaker and podcaster. As an educator, he served children for more than three decades and has mined this experience to create captivating fiction, authoring two series—the bestselling series, “The Haunted Shores Mysteries” and the award-winning series, “Lessons in Peril.” His novels have won critical acclaim and garnered national awards including Mystery of the Year (ReaderViews) Thriller of the Year (Readers Favorite) Best Book Award (Chanticleer Books and Reviews) and the Gold Award (Literary Titan) and amassed hundreds of 5-star reviews on Amazon and Goodreads. Dr. Overbeck also hosts the popular podcast, “Great Stories about Great Storytellers,” which reveals the unusual and sometimes strange backstories of famous authors, directors and poets. He is a speaker in considerable demand, sharing his book talks and popular programs with hundreds of audiences all over the U.S. As a member of the Mystery Writers of America, Dr. Overbeck is an active member of the literary community. When he’s not researching, writing, speaking or podcasting, Randy enjoys traveling with his wife Cathy around the country, often in search of inspiration for his next great story.

SOCIAL MEDIA CONTACTS

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/authorrandyoverbeck

Twitter: https://twitter.com/OverbeckRandy/media

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Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Randy-Overbeck/e/B07QQHW7DM

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/4825632.Randy_Overbeck

REVIEW: DEATH WHISK by Catherine Bruns

Fiction, Cozy Mystery, “Cookies & Chance” Series

5*****

Blurb: Full time baker and part time sleuth, Sally Muccio, is looking forward to an impromptu getaway at Bella Vita, a charming local inn recently renovated by an old friend of her father’s. Sal’s been asked to provide treats for Bella Vita’s open house and, in addition to the extra dough she’ll earn, her entire family is invited to spend the night at the bed and breakfast for free. But after a winter storm knocks out the power and Sal stumbles across owner Guido Sorrentino’s lifeless body, the night becomes something directly out of a horror movie. Sal fully intends to leave the investigation to the police…that is, until her father’s life becomes endangered as well! Who wanted Guido dead and what does her father have to do with it? Was Guido a member of organized crime? And why was he acting like he had a death wish? With a crowd of angry and bitter relatives busy celebrating his death instead of mourning, it quickly becomes apparent that there are too many suspects to count. It’s up to Sal to find a killer before she’s treated to a taste of death herself!

THOUGHTS: We’re back with Sally and her crazy family and the bakery. The story starts out with Sally being a week short of her delivery day of baby #2. She and her baker are catering an open house for the area’s newest B&B, Bella Vita, owned by Guido Sorrentino, a friend of Sally’s father. For their work, they (and Sally’s parents) get to spend a free night at the posh inn. But all does not go according to plan (of course not!) when Guido is first beaten up in front of Sally, and then murdered. And then a local mobster threatens their entire family if they don’t return what Guido stole from him. Unfortunately, neither Sally nor her father have any idea what “Ice Pick” is talking about!

The story has the usual crazy family members – Sally’s father Dom who runs the local funeral home and has suspect taste in clothing and social graces; her mother who’s more into fashion than anything else; and her grandmother who can take on anyone, including Ice Pick. Though Sally swears she’ll stay out of the investigation – after all, she has a new baby to consider — that doesn’t happen. Which puts her, her best friend, and one of Guido’s daughters in mortal danger.

Yes, the story, like all the other ones in the series, is full of stereotypes. But it’s so much fun that you have to laugh at it all. And thank goodness for Sally’s grandmother who keeps everyone together, taken care of, and fed! I want her for my granny!

Recommended. (But you might want to read the other ones in the series, especially the first ones, to really understand the family dynamics.)

Disclaimer: Disclosure of Material: I received a final and/or advanced reader copy of this book with the hope that I will leave my unbiased opinion. I was not required to leave a review, positive or otherwise, and my opinions are just that… My Opinions. I am posting this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”

REVIEW: THE POISONED KING by Katherine Rundell

Fiction, YA, Middle Grade, Mythology, Fantasy

Impossible Animals Series

5*****

Blurb: Christopher Forrester woke to find a dragon chewing on his face—and his heart leapt for joy! He’d been dreaming of going back to the Archipelago, the secret cluster of islands where all the creatures of myth still live, and here was his summons. But there is a poison spreading in the Archipelago. Rooting it out will involve a daring rescue mission on the back of a sphinx, a stealthy entrance to a dragon’s lair, and a death-defying plan to save a prisoner held in the heart of a castle. At the center of this storm is Anya: a small girl with a flock of birds at her side, a new-hatched chick in her pocket, and a ravenous hunger for justice.

THOUGHTS: This was an amazing fantasy story aimed at YA readers, but as a senior adult, I really enjoyed it as well. It is the second in the series and you don’t need to have read the first one to know what’s going on, but I strongly recommend that you do, if only to enjoy more of this world.

The world building is excellent with impossible animals, scenery, and events to capture your imagination. I especially loved the creatures – especially the royal birds and the gesture language they taught to Anya, the princess. And I laughed out loud at the Harpy for a librarian! The story is peppered throughout with imaginative images and there is an extensive section at the end of the book that shows what the animals look like and describes them and their abilities.

Christopher is back in this second book, but the story is more about Anya – though it takes both her and Christopher working together to solve the problems they are faced with. There is a lot of action, adventure, treachery, and revenge—and finding out what your true self is. And the ending definitely satisfied.

Recommended.

Disclaimer: Disclosure of Material: I received a final and/or advanced reader copy of this book with the hope that I will leave my unbiased opinion. I was not required to leave a review, positive or otherwise, and my opinions are just that… My Opinions. I am posting this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising” 

Tag: When New York City artist Katlyn Andrews is hit hard by a devastating career setback, she has to decide whether following the advice of up-and-coming television star Nick Summers will lead to success and fulfillment or send her back to square one with an embarrassing thud.

Blurb: Katlyn Andrews is a talented artist on her way to fulfilling a dream—her own show at a New York City gallery. Focused on her career, she’s ditched her hometown of Denver for the bright lights of the Big Apple. When she’s drawn back to check on her beloved grandmother, she finds a surprise—Nick Summers, a woodworker bidding on a job at her parents’ upscale home. Nick’s gorgeous smile and easy-going manner charm Kat. Too bad he lives in Colorado. Nick adores the mountains of Colorado, but NYC is on his radar. He’s auditioning to be a guest host on a home-builders network there. Since that’s a long shot, he’s still pounding the pavement closer to home to secure jobs like the high-end Andrews project. Meeting his client’s intriguing daughter has his thoughts going in other directions. Too bad she lives in New York. But distance can’t dim their undeniable attraction. Unfortunately, it turns out dreams can be shattered. While Nick’s career is on an upward trajectory, Kat’s unexpectedly takes a big hit. Devastated, she struggles to find a path forward. Nick fears her family’s status and wealth keep her from seeing reality—is she reaching for the stars before paying her dues? In her heart, Kat knows he’s wrong about her…but could her heart be wrong about him?

Author Bio: Darlene Deluca writes contemporary romance and women’s fiction that explores relationships – what brings people together or keeps them apart. Her intent is to bring to life interesting characters that readers can relate to in real-life situations that combine a little fun, plenty of drama (with perhaps a tear or two), and big helpings of friendship, love, and self-discovery, and will leave readers either cheering or sighing with a satisfied smile as they turn the final page. The Kansas City author enjoys getting lost in a good story with a glass of tea, a bit of dark chocolate and a warm, sunny beach.

Social Media Links:

https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/6879809.Darlene_Deluca

https://www.pinterest.com/darlenedelucaau/boards

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Website: https://darlenedeluca.com/

Title: THE BLEED-THROUGH EFFECT (Periphery Series – Book Two of Two)

Amidst a complex web of love, betrayal, and the quest for power, morality is tested, and two soulmates must face the consequences of choices they make across multiple lives.

Charlotte and Simon are ready to move on with their lives after dismantling the black-ops agency known as Quantym. But when Charlotte begins suffering from nightmares and disturbing visions, she fears events on the Periphery—her parallel life—are impacting her and she’s suffering consequences of the bleed-through effect. In a dual timeline between the main reality and the Periphery, Charlotte and Simon must confront the blurred lines between strength and weakness, love and loyalty, and their past and future. As they struggle to regain control over their lives, a catastrophic secret is revealed, a vengeful lover on a quest for power closes in, and Charlotte must figure out a way forward…even when the past refuses to let go.

B&N: The Bleed-Through Effect by Aa Dasilva | eBook | Barnes & Noble®

AMZ: The Bleed-Through Effect – Kindle edition by Dasilva, AA . Romance Kindle eBooks @ Amazon.com.

Author Bio: Born and raised in New England, AA DaSilva has a degree in clinical laboratory science and brings her love of science and writing together via science fiction romance. When she’s not working in the lab or writing, AA enjoys spending precious quality time with her husband, two sons, and pup Didi (who looks suspiciously like an Ewok). Her award-winning debut novel, Periphery, is a science fiction love story that explores fate, strength, and the choices that determine our destiny. For the latest updates on new releases, giveaways, and events, sign up for email updates at aadasilva.com and follow her on socials. AA DaSilva is an active member of the Association of Rhode Island Authors, and a member of the Paranormal Romance Guild.

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GHOSTED by Lori Matsourani

Fiction, Contemporary Paranormal Romance

4****

Blurb: When her fiancé’s infidelity prompts Bethany Hendren to map out a new path forward, her plans are disrupted by an unexpected encounter with Nick Dorsey, who convinces her to help search for the remains of a troubled eighteenth-century ghost. Nick is the handsome summer boyfriend who ghosted her years ago, and now he wants to rekindle their relationship. Despite her reluctance to trust him, Bethany discovers he’s still the funny, caring person who captured her heart as a teen, but giving him a second chance is risky—it could lead to love and happiness or result in another devastating heartache.
Although Bethany wants a happily-ever-after with Nick, does she have the courage to trust him with her future?

THOUGHTS: This was a cute contemporary romance with paranormal twists and a second-chance romance for the main character. Bethany is a sweet character with a problem. Her fiance cheated on her so she left Oklahoma City and went home to Worthington Cove, MD, the small town her parents left years ago, but her favorite aunt still lives there. And so does her ex crush, Nick. But he ghosted her ten years ago. Can she trust him now? She checks into the local B&B for a week to figure out what’s next for her. The inn is supposedly haunted but Bethany doesn’t believe in ghosts.

Until Samuel shows up. At first, he’s just in her dreams, but then… he leaves his hair tie wrapped around her wrist. And she learns to believe. Samuel wants her to find his body so history can be corrected and he can be buried in the family lot. Bethany and Nick go to work to solve the mystery. Then Bethany’s ex-fiance shows up.

Bethany is a well-done character who has a lot of problems. She grows and changes through the story showing that she actually does have a backbone. There’s not a lot to Nick, but he is the standard handsome teen crush who grows into a really nice man. Even the ghost, Samuel, grows and changes by the end of the story. And the setting is beautiful. The Chesapeake Bay, Maryland steamed crabs on butcher paper on a pier, historical homes… well-done!

I really enjoyed this story and there’s a HEA ending that satisfies.

Recommended.

Review: Guided Tarot for Teens by Stefanie Caponi

Nonfiction, Guidebook

5*****

Blurb: Adapted from the Amazon best-seller Guided Tarot with over 2400 reviews, this essential guide is a must-have for teens ready to embrace the wisdom of their inner voice through understanding tarot cards. With tarot, you have the power to unlock wisdom beyond your years. A tool for cultivating intuition, it allows you to celebrate your truth and release resistance, fear, or doubt. For beginner tarot readers, learning the cards—all 78 of them—and understanding how to use spreads may seem daunting. Tarot expert Stefanie Caponi explains that interpreting the cards is a blend of knowing the card meanings, listening to your heart, and trusting your inner knowing. In this fully-illustrated book, Guided Tarot for Teens, she offers easy exercises to nurture and grow your intuition, not only to understand the cards’ universal meanings, but to channel your own meanings. This comprehensive guide also shows you how to attune your energy to the deck for more accurate readings. With this book as a companion to your deck, you’ll learn more about yourself, get divine guidance with life decisions, and overcome obstacles in your relationships—all while celebrating your unique gifts and honoring your higher self.
THOUGHTS: This would be a good book for anyone wanting to learn more about Tarot decks and how to read them, not just teens. It is easy to read and to understand, though I will admit to being a little confused with the same key words for multiple cards. I appreciated that it was based on the Rider-Waite decks, but the author offers input on using other decks, and even creating your own deck.

The author walks you through understanding what Tarot is – and isn’t, how to do a reading, different spreads (all nicely illustrated and explained), and what the cards are from the major arcana to the minor ones. In the back, there is a reference guide and resources to explore further.

I liked how she went into detail on purifying your deck and setting your intentions. Throughout the book, the author encourages the reader to trust their own intuition.

The writing is clear and almost conversational, thus easy to understand and follow. And although it says it’s for teenagers, I believe this would be a great starting point for anyone interested in learning more about Tarot.

Definitely recommended.

Disclaimer: Disclosure of Material: I received a final and/or advanced reader copy of this book with the hope that I will leave my unbiased opinion. I was not required to leave a review, positive or otherwise, and my opinions are just that… My Opinions. I am posting this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising” Thanks to Zeitgeist Publishing for providing a copy of this book to me.

@penguinrandomhouse #partner #zeitgeistpublishing

WHISPERS THROUGH TIME, By Rosetta Diane Hoessli

She’s single and content – until her world collides with the past to change her life. The only man Sierra Masters has ever loved appears with a proposition that could alter her future. She turns him down, but then after experiencing a foretelling dream, decides to take a risk in order to uncover the truth. Hunter Davenport realizes the evidence he’s shared with Sier could indeed destroy her – but it could free her as well. The decision is yanked from her hands when the past and present collide through a historical portal on sacred Native American land. Will she take the gift that is offered? And will Hunter do what he didn’t do twelve years earlier – stand by her? Only time will give them their answers.

BUY LINKS for both WHISPERS THROUGH TIME & TIP THE PIANO MAN:

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B098278M38

https://www.kobo.com/us/en/ebook/whispers-through-time-6

https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/whispers-through-time-rosetta-diane-hoessli/1139719243

Rosetta Diane Hoessli (Ronni, to most) never set out to write comfortable stories. She writes stories that reach deep, the ones that demand courage, healing, and hope. Ronni has a background in journalism and a lifetime of storytelling. Her debut novel, Whispers Through Time, is a sweeping family saga woven with secrets, second chances, and a love story that never quite lets go. She believes in second chances, fierce characters, and storytelling that dares to be raw and redemptive. An only child raised in a military family, Ronni credits her unconventional childhood with her love of writing, music, and the different cultures she was fortunate enough to directly experience while she was growing up. Married for more than 50 years to her staunchest supporter and best friend since they met in high school, Ronni is a proud Texan, a mom, a lover of strong coffee and quiet truths, and a believer that humor might just be what saves us all. You can find her at https://www.rosettadhoesslibooks.com, where she blogs about writing, memory, womanhood, and why aging is nothing to fear – it’s where the best stories come from.

SOCIAL MEDIA LINKS:

https://www.ronnihoesslibooks.com

https://www.facebook.com/Ronni.Hoessli

https://www.facebook.com/RosettaDianeAuthor

https://www.allauthor.com

https://www.instagram.com/Thompd2011/

https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/21788498.Rosetta_Diane_Hoessli

Review: HELLO GOODBYE AMORE by Andrew Grey

Fiction, Contemporary Gay Romance, Italy, Level 4 Heat

4****

Blurb: In college, Chase Anderson and his twin sister, Elaine, met Antonello Glorioso and became best friends. Chase fell in love with him—but so did Elaine, so he kept quiet. Then heartbreak they graduated, Antonello returned to Italy, and Elaine died, leaving Chase to raise her son as his own. Returning to Florence to run the family business had felt like Antonello’s only option. He did his duty to his legacy, but he’s been second-guessing that decision since he got on the plane. Still, he doesn’t know what he could’ve had until it shows up on his doorstep. Chase never wants to see Antonello again. His departure tanked the business the three of them had planned to start and hurt his sister deeply. But his engineering project needs specialized metals, and the Glorioso firm is the best supplier. Reluctantly, Chase agrees to head to Italy for a few months to oversee production, hoping he’ll be able to keep a low profile… only to run into Antonello the first day. As Chase and Antonello spend time together, old hurts fade, replaced by renewed friendship and the possibility for a love they’ve only fantasized about. But duty, family, history, and big secrets could topple any possibility of a future.

THOUGHTS: Take two men (one of whom is a rich, handsome Italian) and one woman (twin to the other man) and you have the makings of trouble. Antonello, Chase, and Chase’s twin sister Elaine are best friends in college. They’re so close, they decide to go into business together. Then Antonello gets called home by his family—and you do not go against family. Meanwhile, Elaine has a baby – yep, you guessed who the father is—but when she is killed in an accident, Chase becomes Ricky’s adopted father. Then his company sends him to Italy for five months to oversee a project and he is assigned to work with Antonello.

Ready to hate the man he once had a huge crush on, Chase discovers that he can’t. Especially when he understands why Antonello had to leave. But there is a lot to atone for. As the two become closer, Antonello realizes that he has been hiding who he really is and needs to break out from under his mother’s dictatorial thumb. But it’s not easy, especially when she discovers that the boy, Ricky, is Antonello’s son.

The two men have to figure out how to live their lives together with Ricky and without bowing to the dictates of the mothers.

A nice, hot romance with a satisfying HEA ending.

Recommended.