Not You, It’s Me is the first book in the Boston Love Story series by Julie Johnson. Gemma Summers has been unlucky in love. After years of bad dates, boring sex and horrible morning afters is the proof she needs that love is just not in the cards for her. When she wins tickets for the hottest playoff from a radio contest, she thinks her luck is starting to change. However, when the dreaded kiss cam lands on her and her boyfriend, who has ignored her the entire game, fails to notice. However, the sexy stranger next to her had noticed and gave her the kiss of a lifetime. She never expected to see the sexy stranger again. What she doesn’t realize is that he is Chase Croft, Boston’s most eligible bachelor. Their connection has Gemma wondering if she might finally be lucky in love, if only she would let her guard down.
Julie Johnson is a new author to me and from the book’s description, I was expecting a sweet romantic comedy. I got that and so much more. There were romantic moments, great comedy between Gemma and Chase and Gemma and her best friends. What I wasn’t expecting was deep emotional moments with family confessions, and surprising action and suspense. The story grabbed me from the very beginning and I could not put it down. I loved Gemma and Chase as individuals and as a couple. I loved their flirty banter and their sweet heart to hearts. There were twists and turns in the story that left me glued to the page. After finishing the book, I immediately placed the rest of the books in this series on my wishlist. I thoroughly enjoyed this story and I am looking forward to the rest of the series. I highly, highly recommend Not You, It’s Me.
Not You, It’s Me is available in paperback, eBook and audiobook
Working Class Hero is the sixteenth book in the Hart’s Ridge series by Kay Bratt. The small town of Hart’s Ridge is shaken awake as a house fire reveals the death of Julie Carter, a pregnant woman. Taylor Gray, as the newly elected sheriff, asks Caleb Grimes to return to the department and together, they investigate the deadly fire. Their prime suspect: Alex Mercer, the fire chief. As the details come to the surface, secrets come to light and the truth behind the fire takes a turn. Tula returns to Hart’s Ridge when her sister, Lorene, goes into premature labor. With the baby in a delicate condition, Tula must fight to ensure his survival and tries to get Lorene the help she needs to finally break away from their twisted family. Who killed Julie Carter? Will Tula be able to help Lorene and her new baby?
The Hart’s Ridge series has had great stories with twists and turns, suspense and shocking reveals. Working Class Hero is no exception. From the opening prologue to the closing chapter, I was hooked on Taylor’s case. While I was waiting for a shocking reveal about the killer as the first suspect is rarely the real killer but the truth behind the fire was a reveal I was not expecting. I enjoyed Taylor’s growth as she adjusts to her new role and her determination to bring integrity and honesty back to the office. Tula’s storyline was bittersweet and I even shed a few tears. I have enjoyed her journey of strength and determination to break the family cycle. If you haven’t already started the Hart’s Ridge series, I highly, highly recommend it. If you have enjoyed the Hart’s Ridge series so far, I highly, highly recommend Working Class Hero.
City People by Elizabeth Topp is a story about a band of mothers who are forced to reevaluate their lives as they deal with the aftermath of the sudden loss of one of their friends. Susan Harris was beautiful and successful, so when she jumps from the roof of her apartment building, her New York City mothers’ group of five friends are left in shock, disbelief and with the question:. how did they not see it? Vic is a single mom with literary aspirations and a bad case of writer’s block. Bhavna is a makeup executive, focusing on her son’s future. Kara has experience dealing with suicide. Penelope and Amy in the middle of a business deal but is the toll worth it for their families? And Chandice is dealing with her own morality as she battles cancer. Between dealing with their friend’s death and their busy lives, they are desperate to get their children into a prestigious private school.
I haven’t read Elizabeth Topp before and City People is contemporary fiction story of five women who are forced to take a hard look at their lives in the wake of their friend’s suicide. The story reminded me of the 1996 movie The First Wives’ Club starring Goldie Hawn, Diane Keaton and Bette Milder. Unfortunately, I found it hard to get through this story and it wasn’t the heavy topic of suicide and mental health. I think there were way too many POVs which changed every chapter. The parts of the book which were really heartbreaking for me were the ones from Susan’s POV. I didn’t care for any of the other women and I could easily see how these women missed the subtle signs. Overall, I did not enjoy this story. However, I do appreciate that the author included a note at the end about suicide and including a suicide hotline. I do not recommend City People.
City People is available in paperback, eBook and audiobook
Don’t Forget Me by Rea Frey is a mystery suspense of murder and suspicion. All Ruby Knight wanted was a fresh start. Taking an early retirement, she moves to a tight knot community with her husband, Tom, and her daughter, Lily. However, their fresh start doesn’t last long. First, Lily goes missing and then her husband. In order to cope with her grief, Ruby turns to her neighborhood friends and new hobbies including a murder club where they try to solve cold cases. While on a run, Ruby Knight discovers a body in the lake. When the body is identified as Tom, every one is sure it is him except Ruby. As she digs into her own past and the lives of her neighbors, she realizes that there are secrets that raise more questions than answers. She must now find a way to clear her name and find the truth.
I haven’t read anything by Rea Frey before but I was intrigued by the description that I wanted to give it a chance. The story started off well as a body is discovered that everyone says is her husband but she doesn’t recognize him. With great suspense and twists and turns, it would have made for a great mystery. However, I didn’t like the characters, the story and the twists were not truly shocking. There were jumps in time without any indication of where and when the characters were. A lot of the conservations that happen between neighbors in text form which would be a great device but it happened way too often. By the end, I didn’t care for the characters or what happened and the ending seemed sloppy. Overall, I did not enjoy this story. I do not recommend Don’t Forget Me.
Don’t Forget Me is available in paperback, eBook and audiobook
Dragons and Aces is the first book in the Dragons and Aces series by J.G. Gates. In the kingdom of Maethalia, Essaphine “Essa” is the queen’s daughter but the lowest ranked of the Skrathan, the elite dragon riders who defend their kingdom. Essa has a chance to become the leader of the Skrathan. No one believes she can win because she only has one arm. Soon a brash, handsome stranger washes up on shore claiming to be Kit Rowley, a reporter. Kit offers to train her in ways of flying and it becomes clear to Essa that Kit is more than he seems. What she doesn’t know is that he is really Charlie, the famed Silver Wraith, and flying ace. While she doesn’t trust him, he is the only one who believes in her. As the attraction between Essa and Charlie is too strong. Will Essa win the challenge and claim her prize? Or will her desire for Charlie ruin her and the entire kingdom?
I found Dragon and Aces from a Facebook ad. I was intrigued as the author stated that he wrote the story for his wife and I recently have been reading a few romantasy books, so I decided to take a chance. Essa and Charlie are from enemy countries with a long history of animosity. I enjoyed Essa as a strong willed woman who wasn’t going to let her disability hold her back and I loved that Charlie saw that fire as her chance to win. I did not like the constant narrative from the other characters that Essa couldn’t do it because she’s not “whole,” However, I did like that their constant reminders and doubts fueled Essa’s desire to prove them wrong. I also liked the mix of modern technological elements with the mythical creatures. Overall, I enjoyed the story as it was a different take on the romantsy genre. There was political intrigue and suspense as well. If you enjoy romantasy stories, you might enjoy Dragons and Aces.
Dragons and Aces is available in paperback, eBook and audiobook
I have been seeing a lot of discourse online arguing that worship music is better for Christians than Contemporary Christian music. There has been a war, of sorts, between churches about who does the right way to worship. Some focus on traditional hymns and others gear toward the more contemporary feel of the worship songs. Some churches are solemn while others are loud and boisterous. I enjoy listening to contemporary music more than traditional worship music. I have found that some songs are testimonies, some are a prayer; however, they all can lead to worship. So I started thinking, is there really a difference? From what I found is that the Bible does not specify the “how” of worship but the “why”. What is worship? How should Christians worship? What is more important is the type of music or the lyrics?
Worship is described as the act of showing profound love, adoration and reverence. Biblically worship occurs when we focus our hearts and minds completely on God. It glorifies and exalts God. To show loyalty and admiration to our Father, through everything we do. “Worship is the response of all of man to all of God” (Winger, 2017). Our goal should be Psalm 103:1 which says “Praise the Lord, O my soul; all my inmost being, praise his holy name.” Inner, authentic God-ward worship with heart is the essence of worship. John 4:23 says, “true worshippers will worship the Father in spirit and in truth, for they are the kind of worshippers the Father seeks.” True worshippers treasure God above all things and grasp God’s supreme value based on the right understanding of God’s nature (Piper, 2016). There are two acts of worship. First, acts of the mouth, These are praises and repentance in worship as well as singing. Worship also goes beyond singing and music. Second, It can be daily acts of love which Paul calls “spiritual worship” in Romans 12:1 (Piper, 2016). These acts of love with the body, hands and facts services for the good of others (Hebrews 13:15-16).
It is important to remember to love God more than you love the music genre. When it comes to the type of music, if one certain style of worship helps someone focus on God, then it’s ok. If the music and lyrics stir your heart, in worship and praise, then it sounds wonderful to God. By contrast, if a type of music distracts someone from full worship, then don’t use that music. And you cannot condemn the type of music as wrong simply because you do not like the type of music. I know some who love old hymns and that’s how they sing their worship and that’s great. However, I enjoy different music and there is nothing wrong with that. There are contemporary songs which will move me to tears every time I hear it and I remember all that God has done for me, for who He is and I can’t help but to praise him. It matters more to God that our hearts, minds and spirits are engaged in worship than the methods in which we do so. In Matthew 15:8-9, Jesus says “these people honor me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me; in vain do they worship me.”
Many people believe that the different music serves different purposes. Contemporary music is for casual personal time and worship music is God honoring, theology based. However, for me, the question is to determine if the music truly brings glory to God? As a lover of widespread music genres, I enjoy many sounds of music and the enjoyment of the music helps me pay attention to the lyrics. If I cannot enjoy the music, then I am not going to listen to the lyrics either. And even casual listening music should be biblically based. Since the type of music does not matter, there is something that does and is the biblical accuracy of the lyrics. I have gone through the Bible looking for the accuracy of the lyrics. For instance, there is a song called He Is by Aaron Jeoffrey in which the lyrics discuss who God is in every book of the Bible. I read the books looking for the verses which the lyrics reference. If worship cannot stand on the lyrics alone, then the music genre doesn’t matter, and it is not worthwhile singing. The instrumental conveys feelings while the lyrics communicate the message (Winger, 2017).
In conclusion, Psalm 100:1-2 says “Shout for joy to the Lord, all the earth, Worship the Lord with gladness; come before him with joyful songs” Even if it is noise to others, if the heart is in the right place, it is pleasing to God. During my research, I found an anonymous quote which I think describes worship wonderfully. ““The inner essence of worship is to know God truly and then respond from the heart to that knowledge by valuing God, treasuring God, prizing God, enjoying God, being satisfied with God above all earthly things. And then that deep, restful, joyful satisfaction in God overflows in demonstrable acts of praise from the lips and demonstrable acts of love in serving others for the sake of Christ.” Worship is not about the music. It is about God, it is about our heart giving genuine praise and glory to Him.
Coral Cottage is the first book in the Coral Cottage at Summer Beach series by Jan Moran. Marina Moore’s life implodes on national television. She heads to the family beach house to heal and figure out her next move. Never married after the death of her husband, Marina raised her children and worked as a news anchor, the Coral Cottage on the shores of Summer Beach has been a refuge for Marina and her sisters. Marina’s plans for a short, reclusive vacation turns into a course change in her life especially when she finds a disheveled dog and meets its owner. Jack Ventana is a visitor at the Seabreeze Inn for a sabbatical. As he prepares to leave, his beloved Labrador retriever goes missing, he cannot leave without her. His connection to the Coral Cottage is a revelation neither of them are prepared for.
I have read the first book in the Seabreeze Inn series and enjoyed it. When the Coral Cottage at Summer Beach series was announced as a spin off, I was excited. Finally this book came up on my To Be Read list and I looked forward to it. Right from the start, my heart broke for Marina as her world fell apart for the world to see. However, my sympathy for Marina fell as she spends the majority of the book being rude and snarky. I was suspicious of Jack when he was first introduced and his romance with Marina seemed off. I liked the small beach community feel. I loved to see characters from the Seabreeze Inn series make an appearance. Overall, the story was ok and I, most likely, will not be continuing the series. I do not recommend Coral Cottage.
Coral Cottage is available in paperback, eBook and audiobook
Campus Player is the first book in the Campus series by Jennifer Sucevic. Rowan Michaels is the gorgeous, talented quarterback at Western University. He has a reputation as a player on and off the field. His off field conquests were legendary and whispered across campus. Demi Richards has known Rowan since her father, the head coach of the football team, took him under his wing. Rowan eventually became the brother she never wanted or asked for; especially since she is fighting her own attraction. Demi focuses on school and her own soccer team. This semester put them even closer together as he needs tutoring and she can’t say no. Soon, it seems the one guy she has been trying to stay away from is the one she can’t get away from. As they spend time together, Demi begins to see that Rowan is the person she thought he was and he is carrying a secret that could change everything between them.
I have read a lot of college campus sports romances and, for the most part I have enjoyed them while some have been misses. So, my expectations weren’t high for this story. At the beginning, I liked Demi as a college soccer player who vowed to stay away from the members of her father’s football team and focus on her own studies and future plans. However, as the story went on, I liked her less and less and liked Rowan more and more. I especially gave up when he finally tells her his secret and her mind goes in the opposite direction instead of what he was plainly trying to say. Then after that as they talked about their pasts, I liked them both even less. Overall, it was an okay story but I was bored. It was way too long and drawn out. I will not be continuing the series. I do not recommend Campus Player.
Campus Player is available in paperback, eBook and audiobook
Whisper Creek by Allison Brennan is a thriller about one family’s fight for their land against enemies and a massive storm. After the sudden death of her husband, Ellen McKenna is determined to keep their family farm a success. With hopes to expand, they are facing tough times and more expensive than she ever imagined. Many of their neighbors are packing it in and selling land to a local businessman. However, Ellen refuses to break to the same pressure. To add to their troubles, a series of recent storms have ravaged the region with another massive heavy rain still on its way. With all hands on deck to prepare for the storm, the discovery of an injured dog and a man barely clinging to life, a victim of a home invasion. When Ellen’s younger kids check on a neighbor and unknowingly walk into a threat. With no way to call for help, Ellen and her family do all they can to fight back and survive.
I was intrigued by the description of the story and I was expecting a “twisty, tense” combined with “family drama” with the “unforgiving power of nature.” The story did start off great with mood and tension building; however, the story faltered from there. It took way too long for any real action and it was obvious who was behind the threats and break ins. Overall, I did not find it thrilling, twisty or tense. There were times when I screamed at the character to do something instead of what they did. One instance is when Ellen, who checks on a pregnant neighbor, decides to take the neighbor back to her house to keep an eye on her and yet decides to stop at another neighbor's house “real quick” while worried about the roads flooding. It just didn’t make sense! If you are a fan of Allison Brennan, you may enjoy Whisper Creek. However, I did not enjoy this book and I do not recommend Whisper Creek.
Whisper Creek is available in hardcover, eBook, and audiobook
The Worst Best Man by Lucy Score is an enemies-to-lovers romance. They met at a wedding. Franchesca “Frankie” Baranski is best friends with Pru, the bride, who is a doll and her maid of honor. Aiden Kilbourn is best friends with the groom, Chip, who is a perfect gentleman and the best man. The rest of the wedding party are nightmares, rich, vapid, rich and very immature. However, the one who cannot stand the most is Aiden with a big attitude. Frankie takes her maid of honor duties seriously. With every crisis, she jumps into action. Busy ruling the business world where there hasn’t been a challenge he cannot win, Aiden Kilbourn doesn’t do long term relationships as he can’t stand a woman for more than a couple of months at most. However, he meets Frankie and he soon realizes that he may have met his match with this smart-mouthed girl from Brooklyn.
I am a new fan of Lucy Score as her books are filled with fun banter, steamy romance with plenty of drama scheming. While I have read her book series, I haven’t read any of her standalones. The Worst Best Man is everything I expect from her books. I loved Frankie’s spunk and determination. Aiden is a kindhearted man hiding behind a cold facade and it takes his relationship with Frankie for it to break through. I enjoyed seeing their growth as a couple as well as individuals. Yes, there is a third act break up; however, the grand gesture is great. I also enjoyed the supporting characters which enhanced the banter. I especially loved the sibling interaction between Frankie and her brothers which was fun and so relatable. Overall, I enjoyed this story and I look forward to more of her standalone books. If you enjoy fun banter, steamy romance, I highly recommend The Worst Best Man.
The Worst Best Man is available in paperback, eBook and audiobook
The Good Lie by A.R. Torre is a crime mystery thriller as a killer has been caught or has he? Six teens have been abducted and found murdered. The last victim manages to escape and return home where he names his abductor. Defense attorney Robert Kavin is still traumatized after his teenage son was one of the six victims. However, when he sees that a victim has escaped and names a local school teacher Randall Thompson as his captor, he is convinced of Thompson’s innocence and takes his representation. While the evidence against Thompson is damning but Robert is still convinced they have the wrong man. He hires psychiatrist Dr. Gwen Moore, to create a psych profile of the killer. Gwen is an expert on killers. She spent a decade treating some of the most depraved predators and learning their motives. As Robert and Gwen work together, growing closer, the investigation raises more questions than answers.
A.R. Torre is known for crime mystery thrillers and I was expecting a story of twists and turns and continued guesses until the final reveal. As a student of psychology, I enjoy the deep dive into why criminals, especially killers, follow the patterns that they do. The story started out interesting as I knew the named suspect was not the killer. However, as I read I felt the story slowing down and that the story dragged too much especially with Gwen and Robert’s relationship. It was more their relationship than the investigation and trial. I started to skim in order to just find out who the killer was and felt a little disappointed at the reveal. Some of the reveals were definitely surprising but underwhelming. Overall, the story wasn’t bad but I wasn’t wowed by the story or the characters. If you are a fan of crime mystery thrillers, you may enjoy The Good Lie.
The Good Lie is available in paperback, eBook and audiobook
Casandra’s Dragon is a novella related to the Empire of Ash and Song trilogy by D.E. Carlson. As the daughter of the Dragon Judge, Casandra holds a confidence that there is nothing she cannot do. No cliff she cannot climb, no fight she cannot win. So when her best friend is banished for failing the Dragon Judge’s test, there is no question in her mind what she must do. If no one will challenge the Firebloods and get rid of the Fire Emperor, Casandra will do it herself. Armed with her father’s swords and her dragon by her side, there is nothing her clever mind cannot do. She sets out on a mission that could help bring her friend back or she will die trying.
I received this novella as a free gift when I signed up for Ms. Carlson’s newsletter. After I finished the final book in the trilogy, I immediately jumped into this novella. It is a great, quick and engaging read as readers discover the series of events which brings her to the Fire Palace where we first meet her in To Bind Fire and the reasons behind her mission. I loved Casandra’s character in the trilogy. It was also great to see more of the Dragonbloods before their introduction in To Bind the Court and their lives hidden from the rest of the world. If you have enjoyed the Empire of Ash and Song trilogy, you will enjoy this novella. I highly recommend Casandra’s Dragon.
Casandra’s Dragon is available in paperback on the author’s website:
The Color of the Season is the seventh book in the The Color of Heaven series by Julianne MacLean. Josh Wallace, a Boston cop, is having the worst day of his life. He gets dumped by the woman who he thought was the one and he was ready to propose. Then he gets shot in the line of duty. While recovering in the hospital, he begins to have experiences that he cannot explain and is afraid to talk about, afraid it would ruin his career. Everything he once believed about his life shifts as he reunites with Leah James, a childhood friend he hadn’t seen in decades. As they talk about their childhood and their experiences since they last saw each other, a series of events opens the doors of his past and maybe even ones for his future as well.
The Color of Heaven series has been emotionally moving and The Color of the Season is another great addition. Once I opened this book, I could not put it down. Picking up after the events of the previous book, picking up Josh’s perspective. He is angry and bitter from the break up, not knowing that his life was about to change in ways he could never imagine. I closed the book with feelings of awe. This story was so moving with deep emotions and drama. The twists and surprises I didn’t see coming kept me on the edge of my seat. Overall, I am thoroughly enjoying this series and I enjoyed this story as well. I highly recommend The Color of the Season as well as the previous books in this series. I highly recommend starting with The Color of Heaven.
The Color of the Season is available in paperback, eBook and audiobook
What I’m Looking For is the first book in the Boston Classics series by Karen Grey. It seems to be a perfect recipe for a Boston Cocktail: one park finance geek, one part starving actor, two shots of stubbornness and a healthy squeeze of passion. Shake well and service in a vintage glass. When Kate Bishop walks into Boston’s famous Bull and Finch pub, she is looking for the one salesman she can trust to have her back. She has been ordered to get over her stage fright and present her precise research to clients and save her job. Romance is the last thing on her mind but when she meets the Shakespeare quoting bartender, she starts to wonder what if. Will Talbot is not a fan of the slick financiers who come into the bar every night. However, a certain beautiful, reserved brunette with a fire in her eyes caught his attention. As a Wall Street financier and a starving actor, they were totally wrong for each other but they can’t seem to stay away from each other.
As a rom com story set in the finance world of the 1980s, I was intrigued. However, I was bored. I didn’t care for either Kate or Will. Kate felt like a stereotypical 1980s career woman, angry at the blatant sexism. Yes, women weren’t exactly welcomed in the workplace but the story didn’t give me a reason to root for Kate. Will was her antithesis. He hated the money making mentality and wore starving actor like a badge of honor. I felt the financial terms and speech slowed down the story and it really didn’t feel like the 1980s. It was supposed to be the late 80s and other than not having cell phones and the difficulty connecting with each other, it didn’t feel like the 1980s. One character even joked that it was too bad that we couldn’t carry phones in our pockets. I love a good Shakespeare quote; however, the sheer amount further weighted the story down. Overall, I did not enjoy this story and I will not be continuing the series. I do not recommend What I’m Looking for.
What I’m Looking For is available in paperback, eBook and audiobook
To Bind the Stars is the third and final book in the Empire of Ash and Song trilogy by D.E. Carlson. The Fire Emperor has been killed by Iris’s hand. The Dragonbloods have declared war on the remaining Fire Empire. Iris has done her job. She has freed the world from the oppressive emperor and now, she can finally rest. Or can she? The powerful force behind the emperor, Ahl, the Star Prince, has been driven back but he is far from dead and he has found a new puppet. How do you win against a demon? As the world begins to awaken and former enemies become allies against their common enemies, battle plans are drawn for one final epic showdown. Iris finds herself at odds with what she has done and what is still required of her. Can she open her heart and relieve the conflict within her mind?
I was eager to finish this trilogy and at the same time I wasn’t ready for it to end. I have thoroughly enjoyed Iris’s growth from the frightened young girl in To Bind Fire to the powerful woman she becomes. I even enjoyed the story arcs of the other characters: Besaun, Casandra, and so many others. There were a great many twists and surprises that had me gasping at their reveal. There were even reveals that were foreshadowed in the previous books that had me screaming “I knew it!” when the connections were made. The faith themes are presented in simple terms and easily understandable. I am looking forward to future books by Ms. Carlson. Overall, If you enjoy adventure stories with faith themes similar to the Chronicles of Narnia, I feel you would thoroughly enjoy the Empire of Ash and Song trilogy. I highly, highly recommend To Bind the Stars.
To Bind The Stars is available in paperback and eBook
Kiss Me First is the Blairwood University and Bluebonnet Creek series prequel story by Anna B. Doe. Katherine Adams never thought she'd end up in the small town of Bluebonnet Creek, Texas. However, it is the perfect place when she needs to get away. She and her younger sister, Penny, have moved in with her aunt as Penny needs specialized care. Her plan doesn’t include the attention of a certain boy, no matter how charming he is. Emmett Santiago is the town’s golden boy, star football player and the one who could have any girl he wanted. But one look at Kate and he is hooked. While Katherine tries to keep Emmett at arm’s length, he is determined to win her heart. When the sparks start to fly, will she be able to resist? Can Emmett convince Katherine that when he is in, he is all in?
Kiss Me First is a sweet, mature young adult romance with lots of laughs and drama. At first, I found Katherine to be very aloof and cold; however, once I learned why, I understood. I loved to see Katherine open up and be the teenager she was supposed to be instead of the adult she had to be. I enjoyed Emmett’s pursuit of her as sweet and charming. He was the strength she needed. I also enjoyed the supporting characters who added the laughs of the story. The drama was very realistic and heartbreaking. Overall, I enjoyed this story and I look forward to the rest of the series. The story was an engaging read which made it easier to stay glued to the page and continue reading. If you enjoy sweet, mature young adult romance, I recommend Kiss Me First.
Kiss Me First is available in hardcover, paperback, eBook and audiobook
The Fix by Mia Sheridan is a romantic suspense thriller as a survivor of a brutal attack has a chance to save another victim. Eleven years ago, Cami Cortlandt’s mother and sister were killed in a violent home invasion. While the trauma and the notoriety still follows her, Cami has built a life in her hometown, trying to put it all behind her as best she can. Until one day, one phone call puts another life on the line. A distorted voice asking if she wanted a do-over. A video of a young boy trapped in a room with bars on the window. A boy who looks vaguely familiar. She has four days to find him. With the help of an old classmate, Rex Lowe, Cami races to find the boy and answer the questions racing through her mind. Where is he? Who is he? And why is Cami the only one who can save him?
After reading Mia Sheridan’s previous books, I knew her stories would be a bit darker with twists and turns. However, as I closed the book, I was left with indifference. I wasn’t wowed by the story but I didn’t hate it either. I enjoyed Cami’s story and her resilience to rebuild her life. I also enjoyed Rex’s character. Their romance was subtle and didn’t overwhelm the mystery or suspense of the story. The twists and the turns of the story kept my interest as I wanted to know who was behind the boy’s kidnapping and why Cami was given the chance to save him. However, there were certain character injections that left me confused and wondering how they fit in the overall mystery. While it is revealed, it felt underwhelming, Overall, I did enjoy the story but I wasn’t wowed. If you enjoy romantic suspense thrillers, you may enjoy this book. I recommend The Fix.
The Fix is available in paperback, eBook, and audiobook
To Bind the Court is the second book in the Empire of Ash and Song trilogy by D.E. Carlson. Iris is destined to destroy the hold on the world held by the Fire Empire. She searches for clues in the Fire City and her greatest hope becomes her worst nightmare. She finds herself pulled into the political games. The Fire Emperor puts her through trial after trial of fire and she is determined to beat his games. However, she knows when you play the games, you will pay a ransom. Games she may lose. Prince Besaun has lost everything. Cassandra, the woman he loves, betrayed him and he finds himself in a personal prison as he knows that his mother tortures her and backs him into a corner to make sure he cooperates in his mother’s plans. However, when an assignment, meant to control him, brings him face to face with the one person who brings up questions in his very soul. Will he risk everything to fight back against the empire?
I recently read the first book of the trilogy after finding D.E. Carlson on social media. After finishing that book, I immediately turned around and ordered the last two books. To Bind the Court picks up immediately after the events of the first book and it doesn’t let the reader go. It is action packed that I eagerly turned pages to see if Iris would be able to resist the Fire Emperor’s temptations. Can she find allies in rooms filled with enemies? I closed the book with a breathless “Wow!” and grabbed the third book. I wrote down a few great quotes to post above my computer. One of these quotes is “It is always possible to resist…It is not always possible to resist and see victory, but that does not make the fight unworthy.” If you enjoy fantasy stories with lots of action and intrigue, I highly recommend the Empire of Ash and Song trilogy, start with To Bind Fire. You will not be disappointed. I highly recommend To Bind the Court.
To Bind the Court is available in hardcover, paperback, eBook and audiobook
The Queen’s Coronation by Jennifer Ryan is the story of three women’s worlds change with a friendship. It is London, 1953, Buckingham Palace prepares for the new queen’s coronation. Caroline Brimstone is an assistant dresser to the queen and admires the strength the young woman shows against the pressures and rules around her. Caroline’s personal life is in shambles as her husband’s gambling problem has her holding tightly to every penny she earns. Can she follow the example of her new queen and find the strength to take the chance for a better future? Lucy Jones is a junior wardrobe assistant who is young, idealistic and eager to become a famous singer. When she has a chance to so stardom, she is excited until some things come up that has her questioning her idea of a glamorous life. Miranda Miller comes from America to take a temporary job as a secretary in the palace. However, she is actually an undercover journalist writing an in-depth article about the coronation.
I have loved Ms. Ryan’s previous books so I was so excited to read The Queen’s Coronation. A story about friendship during one of the greatest historical events of the 20th century. Overall, I loved the opening chapter and the introduction of each woman; however, the story didn’t capture my attention. The story is well researched, especially with the details about the queen’s coronation and the planning. I enjoyed the parts about the actual coronation; however, I did not enjoy the story about the women, their lives or their friendship. And some of the events which happened would not have been acceptable and would have resulted in multiple terminations. The story became more about how horribly women were treated in the 1950s. I can see how the overall theme of the story was that Queen Elizabeth’s coronation empowered other women; however, I feel it fell flat. Unfortunately, this story was not up to par with Ms. Ryan’s previous books. I do not recommend The Queen’s Coronation.
The Queen’s Coronation is available in hardcover, paperback, eBook and audiobook
The Chateau on Sunset by Natasha Lester is a story of tragic loss, beautiful friendship and an epic love with the backdrop of the Golden Age of Hollywood. After her parents’ tragic deaths, Aria Jones is sent to live with her reclusive aunt at the Chateau Marmont, a hotel on Hollywood Boulevard with a notorious reputation. She is left alone to wander, Aria sees everything that most people would overlook or ignore. She learns that behind the glitz and glamour lurks darkness secrets. Secrets that will haunt her childhood. She finds comfort in the hotel’s library, babysitting for the various residents with the goal to save enough money to strike out on her own. Until one day when the hotel is sold to the mysterious rock star, Theo Winchester and his troubled daughter, Adele. Aria begins to think there is more to life than being invisible.
The Chateau on Sunset is described as a modern retelling of Charlotte Bronte’s Jane Eyre, this story tells the rich, colorful and dark history of Hollywood from the 1950s to the 1970s through the eyes of a young girl. I picked up this book as Jane Eyre is one of my ultimate favorite classic books and I was intrigued how the author would weave the story elements with the bright lights of Hollywood. The story did have the elements of Jane’s story; however, I was a bit confused at the author’s notes at the end of the book when she claims that she felt Jane deserved a story in which she was the real star. I’m sorry, Jane wasn’t the star of her own story?!? Overall, I enjoyed the story as a modern retelling of Jane Eyre and the author certainly got the aspects right, especially the spooky haunting elements. I recommend The Chateau on Sunset.
The Chateau on Sunset is available in paperback, eBook and audiobook
If you haven’t heard of the Netflix sensation film KPop Demon Hunters, you probably have been living under a rock. It has been everywhere since it exploded on the scene in 2025. It follows the story of Rumi, Mira and Zoey as the demon hunters who fight the evil minions of their ruler with their swords and their songs. Everyone knows the songs, “Golden” and “Soda Pop;” as they got the greatest play, however, in my opinion, there aren’t even the best songs. KPOP Demon Hunters has been a global phenomenon and a sequel was announced in March 2026 with a slated 2029 release date. There have been mixed reviews from Christian perspectives. Some have enjoyed it and seen Christian perspectives in the story while others vehemently stated that this movie was to be avoided at all costs. I decided to watch it one day and make a decision for myself. What is the story of the movie? What are the themes? What are my thoughts and Christian perspective?
Long ago, demons preyed on humans by feeding their souls to their ruler, Gwi-Ma. Eventually, three women rose up and became demon hunters and used their singing voices to create a magical barrier called the Honmoon. To maintain the Honmoon, new trios of hunters would rise up with the ultimate goal would be to strengthen the Honmoon into the Golden Honmoon, a final, permanent seal to banish the demons for good. Fast forward to the present day, The K-Pop girl group, Huntrix, composed of Rumi (voiced by Arden Cho, Ejae provides her singing voice), Mira (voiced by May Hong, singing voice provided by Audrey Nuna) and Zoey (voiced by Ji-young Yoo, singing voice provided by Rei Ami), are the latest demon-hunting trio. Rumi hides a secret. She is half-demon, a face only known to her and Celine, a former hunter who raised Rumi after the death of her mother. Her demonic patterns are becoming more and more widespread and she fears her secret coming out. In the demon world, Gwi-Ma is angry at his demons’ failures when Jinu (voiced by Ahn Hyo-seop, singing voice provided by Andrew Choi) suggests fighting the Huntrix at their own game and creates a boy band, the Saja Boys. The plan immediately begins to work as the fans turn to the new band, weakening the Honmoon as well as the bonds between the girls. When everything seems bleak, Rumi decides to publicly interrupt the Saja Boys’ performance with her own song which helps bring Mira and Zoey back to her. Reunited, the Huntrix fights the demons and ultimately defeats Gwi-Ma and creates a new Honmoon.
There are themes of power in community and friendship, overcoming cultural pressures, and resilience. Some have seen Rumi coming public with her demon patterns as an allegory for coming out in the LGBTQ+ community. They cite the themes of identity, secrecy and self-acceptance. And while I can see how they could see that allegory in the movie; however, these themes are unique to the LGBTQ+ community. While the movie is not explicitly Christian, as JRR Tolkien showed us with the Lord of the Rings, a movie does not have to explicitly preach the gospel to contain a good Christian message. The song, “Your Idol,” is a warning against sin and discusses the dynamics of devotion, obsession and control. The narrator presents himself as an irresistible savior with temptations and seduction. “I”m the only one who’ll love your sins/Feel the way my voice gets underneath your skin.” My favorite song is “What It Sounds Like,” It is a song of acknowledgment of one’s imperfection and brokenness: “So we were cowards, so we were liars/So we're not heroes, we're still survivors/The dreamers, the fighters, no lying, I'm tired.” Romans 3:23 says, “for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” While Satan wants to use our darkness, our past, our sins to keep us weak, Romans 8:28 reminds that “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” We can be broken, but made whole by God and find the strength to stand up and fight against evil.
I have seen this movie several times, both with my daughter and by myself, and I have loved it. First, none of the good guys in the film are demons. Demons are not the heroes of the story. They are the villains and they are defeated in the end. While Rumi is half demon, she is ashamed of her demon side and eventually overcomes it. I see it as Rumi overcoming and breaking familial patterns that were not of her making. She chooses to overcome this brokenness to fight back. Our family’s past, even our heritage is not our fault; however, we can rise above the scars and be better people than our ancestors. Second, several key creators and contributors involved, including songwriters and voice actors have expressed a Christian faith. In South Korea, Christianity is the largest organized religion with approximately 23-31% of the population. Third, in my experience, just because something is “Christian made” doesn't mean it is biblically sound. In the same vein, just because something isn’t labeled “Christian” doesn’t mean it does not contain biblical truths. Unfortunately, when something is labeled as Christian, it automatically limits the audience.
In conclusion, I find that Christians will often push aside any thought of demonic forces. We do not want to think about or talk about demons. We refuse to face the fact that there is an enemy who hates us because God loves us. Ephesians 6:12 says, “For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places.” Do not be afraid of this story because it has demons. If you feel the conviction to stay away from this story, then please do so. However, do not criticize those who do not have that same conviction and watch this movie and enjoy it. Overall, I do not feel KPOP Demon Hunters is a movie to stay away from. While it is not, in general, a Christian movie, I can see Christian themes and the opportunity to have discussions about God, demons and spiritual warfare we may experience in our lives.
