Book Review: The Debt Diary by Joshua Neal

Genre: Dystopian Fiction • Literary Fiction • Coming-of-Age

Tropes: Dystopian Britain, Illegal Immigrant MC, Survival Story, Homeless Protagonist, Found Family, Moral Dilemmas, Government Oppression, Near-Future Society, Bittersweet Ending

Spice Level: None

Format: Paperback 

Series: Standalone 

     Harry is a teenage illegal immigrant living in a near future dystopian Britain. The immigration laws have cracked down and those without citizenship papers are targets for scorn and abuse. For a young homeless man just trying to survive in the only home he's ever known this is difficult. And the prime minister's new rally isn't helping matters. When foot traffic and help starts getting more spaced Harry does the only thing he can think of: he heads to a known trafficker and offers to be a lookout for $20. This leaves Harry with a new dependent and more than his own future on the line. 

    I received a complimentary paperback of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.  

    The plot itself of this book is intense and leaves off on a bittersweet note. A young illegal immigrant living in a country that has declared war on his kind living in an abandoned roofless warehouse and not knowing where his next meal or water will come from. He tries to be as honorable as possible, keeping a diary of everything he has ever had to steal in order to survive. But, when that same diary starts adding entries of things he couldn't imagine stealing, Harry feels he is trapped by a fate not yet lived. He spends so much time hoping for a better life and just to live that the end hits different. I don't want to spoil it, but it was like it was all for nothing. 

    The author has a way with words that allows the reader to see in detail every single item around Harry at any given time, be it a helicopter whispering overhead, a man standing in a garden, a train pulling into a station, or the decorations in a square. We always know what is around our character as he just tries his best to survive. He makes some questionable decisions along the way, but he is 17 and none of us make great decisions at that age. 

    Although I was occasionally pulled out of the story by some of the phrasing I enjoyed the plot and hope for good things from this author in the future. 

    This book is available on Kindle Unlimited or buy it on Amazon for $1.23 by clicking here. 

⭐ You'll Love This Book If You Enjoy:

• Near-future dystopian fiction
• Coming-of-age survival stories
• Social and political commentary
• Homeless protagonists
• Morally complex decisions
• Character-driven literary fiction
• Emotional, bittersweet endings
• Realistic dystopian settings
• Stories about hope in impossible circumstances
• Books that make you reflect after finishing

Book Review: Day of the Bluebirds by Tarin Elbert

Genre: Science Fiction • Techno-Thriller • Sci-Fi Thriller

Tropes: Self-Driving Cars, Cyberterrorism, Secret Society, Alien Intervention, Military Task Force, Star-Crossed Lovers, Political Conspiracy, First Contact, Multiple POVs

Spice Level: 🌶️

Format: Hardback

Series: Potential Series Starter

    The future promised safer roads. Self-driving vehicles were supposed to be unhackable. Perfect. Foolproof. Until someone proved otherwise. When a secret organization gains control of autonomous vehicles and turns them into assassination tools targeting world leaders, governments scramble to stop an invisible enemy. A multinational military task force is assembled, but after months of investigation they've uncovered little beyond whispers of someone known only as The Reacher.

    As if cyberterrorism wasn't enough, mysterious alien beings—communicating only through dreams and cryptic visions—appear determined to prevent humanity from destroying itself. The question is...why?

    I received a complimentary hardback copy of this book from the author.

    This is a fast-paced sci-fi thriller that took me a little while to settle into. The story opens with several seemingly unrelated events before gradually revealing how everything connects. Once those pieces begin falling into place, though, the book becomes incredibly engaging and difficult to put down.

    There are a lot of moving parts throughout the story, making this one of those books that's easiest to enjoy in longer reading sessions. I'm normally someone who reads in small chunks throughout the day, but I found myself needing to dedicate larger stretches of time so I wouldn't lose track of all the interconnected storylines. That's less of a criticism and more of a recommendation for the best reading experience.

    One of my favorite aspects was the aliens themselves. Rather than the typical humanoid extraterrestrials, they're portrayed as glowing spheres of light that communicate through dreams and fragmented messages. It gave the first-contact element a unique, almost ethereal feeling that fit the story surprisingly well.

    I also really enjoyed how the romance developed. The star-crossed lovers storyline blended naturally into the larger conspiracy, and it was satisfying watching all the seemingly separate plot threads weave together by the end. It's fascinating to think these two characters never would have crossed paths without all of the outside interference—and yet they clearly end up better together because of it.

    The ending wraps up the main conflict well while still leaving readers with plenty of new questions during the final pages. It definitely feels like there's room for this world to continue if the author decides to revisit it, and I'd happily read another installment.

    One thing worth mentioning is that there is some romance and spice sprinkled throughout the novel. The scenes aren't especially explicit, but they are open door, which isn't something I see very often in sci-fi thrillers, so it was a pleasant surprise.

    Overall, this was an entertaining blend of science fiction, political conspiracy, technology, and romance that kept me curious to see how everything would eventually connect.

    This book is available on Kindle Unlimited or buy it on Amazon for $3.99 by clicking here. 

⭐ You'll Love This Book If You Enjoy:

• Techno-thrillers with AI and futuristic technology
• Self-driving cars and cyberterrorism
• Political conspiracies
• Alien first-contact stories
• Military task force investigations
• Multiple interconnected storylines
• Star-crossed romance
• Fast-paced sci-fi mysteries
• Near-future speculative fiction
• Books that leave you thinking after the final page

A smart, action-packed sci-fi thriller that combines futuristic technology, political intrigue, alien intervention, and romance into a story that's both thought-provoking and entertaining. I'd absolutely read more if this world continues.

Book Review: Tall Boy Sun by Neal Holtschulte

Genre: Science Fiction • Space Opera • Character-Driven Sci-Fi

Tropes: Redemption Arc, Middle-Aged Hero, Space Pirates, Found Family, Family Drama, Hidden Conspiracy, Off-World Adventure, Reluctant Hero, Second Chances

Spice Level: None

Format: Audiobook & Physical Book

Series: Works as a Standalone with Series Potential

    Sol has spent most of his life trying not to become his father. He may have a questionable employment history, a tendency to drink too much, and a habit of making spectacularly bad decisions, but at least he never abandoned his children. Even after his divorce, he was a parent constantly trying to spend more time with them—not less. Then he gets fired from yet another job after pulling a reckless stunt that could have cost a coworker their life.

    While tinkering with the piles of scrap cluttering his living room, Sol discovers an old holodisk containing footage from one of the leaders of the rebellion that ended twenty years ago. Unsure if it's authentic, he turns to a childhood friend who now works for the government. His friend insists it's fake. But, the events that follows leaves a lot more questions. 

    I received a complimentary copy of this book in both audiobook and physical formats from the author.

    I really enjoyed the audiobook version of this story. The narrator did an excellent job conveying emotions, and I never struggled to tell who was speaking. But the real strength of this book is its characters. Sol is not instantly lovable. In fact, he's kind of a mess. He's a middle-aged man full of unrealized dreams who firmly believes he would have been a legendary pilot during the war…if he hadn't been ten years old when it ended. He drinks too much, makes poor decisions, and has damaged relationships with nearly everyone around him.

    At the beginning, I didn't necessarily feel sorry for him. He created many of his own problems. But watching his growth throughout the story was incredibly rewarding. As the story progresses, we see him confront the effects of his father's abandonment, deal with the consequences of alcoholism, and slowly begin taking responsibility for his choices. His redemption arc felt genuine because it wasn't easy or immediate. He stumbles, backslides, and struggles, which made his growth feel earned by the end.

    This is a fast-paced space opera with plenty of moving parts, including conspiracies, gunfights, family drama, and an intriguing mystery surrounding the holodisk. Despite everything happening, the story never felt overwhelming and kept me invested from beginning to end.

    Trigger Warnings: Parental abandonment, alcoholism, withdrawal symptoms (DTs), abuse, kidnapping, and gun violence.

    The ending doesn't leave off on a major cliffhanger, but it does leave one particular storyline—especially concerning Sol's sister—just open enough that another book could easily happen. And honestly? I would happily return to this universe.

    This book is available on Amazon for $5.99 by clicking here. 

⭐ You'll Love This Book If You Enjoy:

• Character-driven space operas
• Redemption arcs and flawed protagonists
• Middle-aged main characters
• Space pirates and off-world adventures
• Family drama and second chances
• Government conspiracies and hidden secrets
• Sci-fi with emotional depth
• Fast-paced adventures with strong character growth
• Stories about broken people learning to do better
• Audiobooks with excellent narration

    A fun, emotional space adventure that blends conspiracies, family relationships, and a wonderfully messy protagonist into a satisfying sci-fi read with plenty of heart and room for future adventures.

Books by this author: 

Crew of Exiles 

Book Review: A Fading Crown of Glory by Andrzej Gieralt

Genre: Epic Fantasy • Political Fantasy • High Fantasy

Tropes: Reluctant King, Sibling Rivalry, Political Intrigue, Betrayal, Succession Crisis, Magic, Religious Conflict, War & Conquest, Morally Gray Characters, Bittersweet Ending

Spice Level: None

Format: ARC / eBook

Series: Possible Series Starter

 

                After the fall of the Assigner and the battle with the Tratkeans where his father falls in battle Prince Adacos is crowned King of Eracians. It was a title always thought would go to his sister, Szerfalia, but with her disobeying his father to circumvent the official heir naming he changed the laws shortly before his untimely death. Adacos never wanted to become King, but with this new power he wants only to convert the Tratkean pagans to the Eracian religion and help them achieve peace in their afterlives free from the Void. Szerfalia and her new fiancée, Taralos, have other plans. Believing the crown should have been theirs, for various reasons, they will stop at nothing to see the usurper dethroned.

                I received a complimentary ARC of this book from the author.

                This is an exciting and fast paced fantasy book filled with magic, betrayal, political ambition, and a lot of religion mixed in. We know I’m not a fan of religion, but while the characters in this book were much like Christians trying to force their religion down another providence’s throats, I am happy to report that it failed as spectacularly as it always does. There is a reason “live and let live” is the best way to be when it comes to religion. So, with that in mind, I don’t count this as a detractor. Also, while it was a large part of the book, it was usually happening in the background with minor instances of it coming to the fore.

                The writing is great and easy to understand in every aspect except for the occasional time transitions. It isn’t a big thing and does not detract from the story. Something is going on in one time and when that scene ends the author wants to jump into the future, past the slow bits in the story of relative peace, and to the next plot point. Efficient, but the segway was sometimes confusing. Sometimes it would take until halfway through the first 10 paragraphs to know how much time had passed and that we were no longer at the previous event.

                There is a lot to love in this story. I loved how Adacos’s actions slowly snuck up on him till he realized everywhere that he had gone wrong. The author does an amazing job of keeping just enough things going on that the story feels action-packed without being busy. The ending was bitter-sweet but left open where that the story could continue on and it seems like it will. I do wish we found out a bit more about Taralos’ family at the end since I genuinely don’t know what happened there. I am trying to keep that point vague, because I don’t want to give away the ending to a very good fantasy read.

                I was a bit surprised that although there are Beast-men and magic in this world it is still largely similar to our own. Sure, the characters rode Elk into battle and for traveling instead of horses, but it surprised me that we weren’t riding some fantastical beast. This made the book have a more real-world aspect while still remaining firmly in the fantasy sect. I would absolutely read more by this author in the future and hope for the best for the future of Eracia.

⭐ You'll Love This Book If You Enjoy:

• Epic fantasy with political intrigue
• Reluctant rulers and succession crises
• Sibling rivalries and family betrayal
• Magic woven into realistic worlds
• Religious conflict and moral dilemmas
• Character-driven fantasy
• War and kingdom-building
• Multiple intertwining plotlines
• Bittersweet endings
• Fantasy worlds with room for future stories

I will update this review with a link for purchase when it becomes available. 

Book Review: Icebreaker by Steven William Hannah The Interloper Trilogy Book 1)

 Genre: Post-Apocalyptic Science Fiction • Cosmic Horror • Dystopian Fiction

Tropes: Mysterious Phenomenon, Found Family Crew, End of the World, Forbidden Research, Shared Dreams, Survival Journey, Religious Conflict, Slow-Build Mystery, Expedition Story

Spice Level: None

Format: eBook

Series: The Interloper Trilogy Book 1 

    Bear has spent his entire life in Forgehead. Since the Cataclysm, that isn't unusual. Most people stay where they are born, rarely venturing beyond the safety of their communities. Even if Bear had the opportunity to leave, he isn't sure he would. His research is here. Illegal research.

    As one of the few people studying the mysterious phenomenon devastating the world, Bear knows more than most about what happens when it arrives. First come the dreams. Then comes the madness. People caught without their sensory blockers succumb to its influence, abandoning food, water, and reason as they obsessively carve strange runes into every available surface until death finally claims them. 

    When Bear's friend Callum, head of Forestry, sends him with the Crawler crew to warn Union City that the phenomenon is moving toward them, the mission should be simple. Except the Dreamers have already disabled the radio towers. Now they're heading into danger blind, carrying a warning that may already be too late.

    I received a complimentary physical copy of this book from the author.

    As someone who loves post-apocalyptic fiction, this book immediately checked a lot of boxes for me. It combines survival, mystery, horror, and science fiction into a world that feels both fascinating and deeply unsettling.

    One of my favorite aspects of the story is how little certainty exists about the apocalypse itself. The characters know the phenomenon is real, but nobody truly understands it. Depending on who you ask, it might be Gaia, Hell, divine judgment, or something else entirely. That uncertainty creates a constant sense of tension throughout the story.

    The shared dream sequences and the madness that follows were especially creepy. Watching people slowly lose themselves to an unseen force was far more disturbing than any traditional monster could have been. The idea of entire communities living in fear of dreams and visions adds an eerie atmosphere that lingers long after you stop reading.

    The world-building was another standout. Rather than focusing solely on survival, the story explores how different groups and belief systems have adapted to life after the Cataclysm. I particularly enjoyed seeing various religions attempt to explain the phenomenon through their own perspectives. Whether they viewed it as a scientific mystery, a spiritual event, or something far darker, those differing viewpoints added depth to the world.

    Dusty ended up being one of the most intriguing characters for me. The more we learn about him, the more questions arise. His abilities, his history, and even something as simple as his age remain largely unexplained by the end of the book. Every answer seems to create two new mysteries.

    There are definitely a lot of unanswered questions when the story ends, but in this case that felt intentional rather than frustrating. The mystery surrounding the phenomenon remains one of the driving forces of the narrative, and I found myself wanting more information right alongside the characters.

    I did worry a little about Bear's relentless pursuit of answers. His determination makes sense, but it also feels like the kind of obsession that could create major problems for the crew later in the series. Whether that's a strength or a flaw remains to be seen.

    The ending leaves plenty of room for future books while still delivering an engaging first installment. I walked away with far more questions than answers, but I was invested enough to want those answers.

    This book is available on Kindle Unlimited or buy a copy on Amazon for $2.99 by clicking here. 

⭐ You'll Love This Book If You Enjoy:

• Post-apocalyptic science fiction
• Cosmic horror and creeping dread
• Shared dream mysteries
• End-of-the-world survival stories
• Complex world-building
• Religious and philosophical themes
• Slow-burn mysteries
• Found family expedition crews
• Unexplained supernatural phenomena
• Books that leave you theorizing afterward

Book Review: The Game Master’s Legacy by Michael D Bridges

Genre: LitRPG • Sci-Fi Fantasy • Cyberpunk Adventure

Tropes: Full-Immersion VR, Disabled MC, Sentient NPCs, Evil Corporation, Glitch-Walker, Virtual Reality Survival, Inherited Legacy, AI Consciousness

Spice Level: None

Format: ARC / eBook

Series: Potential Series Starter

    Kade’s real world is painfully small. Confined to a wheelchair and dependent on a ventilator for most of his life, his only true escape exists inside Aethelgard, the fully immersive VR world his father created before his death. In the game, Kade isn’t weak or fragile—he’s a legendary speedrunner and glitch-walker capable of bending the world’s rules.

    But now the corporation Neosy wants control of the system. And Kade refuses to let them take it. Aethelgard is more than just a game. It’s the only place Kade has ever truly felt free, and his father left him the keys to protect it. There’s just one problem: every code alteration comes with a cost under the Law of Conservation of Code. And Kade himself is the price.

    Meanwhile, Neosy has unleashed EGO to “optimize” the system and recover the mysterious soul-data hidden within the game. They won’t stop until they control everything—including the sentient NPCs who may be far more alive than anyone realizes.

    I received a complimentary ARC copy of this book from the author.

    As someone who absolutely loves LitRPGs and full-immersion VR stories, this immediately grabbed my attention—but what surprised me most was how different it felt from most books in the genre. Kade’s physical disability fundamentally shapes both the emotional core of the story and the stakes within the game itself. In most VR LitRPGs, the virtual world is simply an escape or power fantasy. Here, Aethelgard is deeply personal. It’s the one place where Kade can move freely, feel independent, and connect to the legacy his father left behind. That emotional weight made the story hit harder than I expected.

    The concept behind the “Law of Conservation of Code” was one of the coolest parts of the book. Any change to the game must be balanced with a cost, and because Kade is considered the most unstable variable, he absorbs the consequences physically. It added genuine tension to every major action and made the coding mechanics feel dangerous rather than convenient. That said, the phrase itself was repeated a lot throughout the story—twenty-three times, according to my count—and it occasionally became distracting. Similarly, Kade consistently referring to his father by his full name instead of simply “Dad” during emotional moments felt a little unnatural to me.

    But honestly? Those were very minor complaints in an otherwise incredibly engaging read. I finished the book within 24 hours because once it gets moving, it’s hard to put down. The battle scenes are intense, the emotional moments land well, and the sentient NPCs completely stole my heart. I will always love stories where artificial beings blur the line between programming and personhood.

    And the revenge? Absolutely deserved. Vane got off far easier than I personally would have allowed. The ending leaves room for future books with a small cliffhanger that feels intriguing without being frustrating, and I would absolutely continue this series if the author expands the world further.

---

You’ll Love This Book If You Enjoy:

• LitRPG and VRMMO stories
• Full-immersion virtual reality worlds
• Disabled protagonists in fantasy/sci-fi
• Sentient NPCs and AI consciousness
• Cyberpunk corporations and conspiracies
• Emotional sci-fi adventures
• High-stakes coding and game mechanics
• Fast-paced action with emotional depth
• Ready Player One-style vibes
• Stories where virtual worlds truly matter

A fast-paced and emotionally grounded LitRPG that blends immersive VR gaming, corporate intrigue, and heartfelt character stakes into a genuinely compelling sci-fi adventure.

This book will be published June 1, 2026, but I do not yet have price points or if it will be available with Kindle Unlimited. I will update this page when I know more. 

Book Review: The Phantom Beast by K. B. Broas (The Seers Book 1)

 Genre: YA Sci-Fi Horror • Paranormal Thriller

Tropes: Teens with Powers, Hidden World, Small Town Horror, Psychic Abilities, Creatures in the Dark, Found Friendship, Cosmic Horror Vibes

Spice Level: None

Format: Paperback

Series: The Seers Book 1

    Jake is losing his mind. At least, that’s the only explanation that makes sense after watching his best friend literally fall from the sky and wake up buried in a golf course. Ever since surviving a cave collapse, Johnny has come back… different. He can see and manipulate mysterious forces he calls strands.

    Now Jake and Johnny's girlfriend are being pulled into a hidden reality where people can alter perception, manipulate emotions, and bend the world around them in terrifying ways. But Jake’s abilities are unlike the others. Instead of flying or controlling objects, he can make people feel disgusted —or force their attention to slide right past him entirely. And once you become aware of the strands, you also become visible to the things lurking in the dark. Especially the creatures hunting Johnny.

    I received a complimentary paperback copy of this book from the author, and first off—the cover is absolutely gorgeous. It immediately caught my attention, and thankfully the story inside lived up to it.

    This is a fast-paced YA sci-fi horror novel that follows three teenagers as they uncover a hidden world tied to these mysterious “strands” and the terrifying entities connected to them. What starts as confusion and discovery quickly spirals into something much darker.

    I really enjoyed watching the characters go from ordinary high school students starting a new school year to kids trying desperately to survive forces they barely understand. Their shared connection to the strands initially brings them closer together, but the horrors stalking them slowly begin tearing those bonds apart. 

    The horror elements were easily my favorite part. The whistling creatures were deeply unsettling—especially the way they lure people into trancelike states—and the larger entity capable of tearing apart reality itself to reach Johnny added genuine tension and danger to the story. The deeper the group gets into this hidden world, the more oppressive and terrifying everything becomes.

    The pacing stays strong throughout, and the story constantly pushes you forward wanting to know what happens next. Even seemingly smaller moments, like dealing with school bullies, end up feeding directly into the larger horror unfolding around them.

    That turning point? Incredible. It’s the moment the darkness truly notices them, and from there there’s no going back. As soon as I finished the book, I handed it off to my high-school-aged niece, and she ended up loving it just as much as I did. This feels like the kind of YA sci-fi horror that could easily hook both teen and adult readers alike. I’d absolutely read more from this author in the future.

You’ll Love This Book If You Enjoy:

• YA sci-fi horror
• Teenagers discovering supernatural powers
• Hidden worlds and secret abilities
• Creepy creatures lurking in the dark
• Cosmic horror vibes
• Fast-paced paranormal thrillers
• Friendship dynamics under pressure
• Psychological horror mixed with action
• Stranger Things-style energy

A tense and imaginative YA horror story packed with eerie creatures, mysterious powers, and teenagers thrown into a terrifying hidden reality.

    This book is available on Kindle Unlimited or buy it on Amazon for $0.99 by clicking here. 

Book Review: We Are Legend by Daron Kappanauff

 Genre: YA Horror • Post-Apocalyptic Horror

Tropes: Apocalypse Survival, Monster Invasion, Teen Survivors, Creature Horror, Survival Camp, Cannibalism, Fast-Paced Horror

Spice Level: None

Format: Physical Book

Series: Standalone 

    Nine months after the goblin apocalypse began, a group of gifted teens are still surviving on their own. No adults. No real safety. And supplies are running dangerously low.

    If they want to survive much longer, they’ll have to leave the relative safety of their camp and venture back into a world overrun by flesh-hungry goblins. The problem? Every supply run could easily become their last. And even if they make it back alive… how long can this kind of survival really last?

    I received a physical copy of this book complimentary from the author. 

    First and foremost: check your triggers before going into this one. This YA horror contains a lot of teen death. Like… a lot. Child and teen death is usually an immediate DNF for me, and in this case I ended up skipping multiple scenes because it was simply too much for my personal tastes. That said, outside of that issue, the actual premise is incredibly fun.

    The book has a very strong Gremlins-inspired apocalypse feel. The goblins are chaotic, vicious little creatures with an appetite for human flesh, and the similarities in appearance to Gizmo were hard to miss—in the best way. The reveal surrounding how the goblins come into existence was fairly obvious early on, but the deeper explanation later in the story still worked well.

    The pacing is one of the book’s strongest elements. Once things start moving, the story barely slows down. Between the goblin attacks, survival tension, and moments of outright horror—including cannibalism—the book keeps the pressure high throughout.

    The author clearly has a talent for writing fast-paced creature horror and survival situations. I’d absolutely read more from him in the future… preferably with significantly fewer dead kids. At least let them turn eighteen first.

---

You’ll Love This Book If You Enjoy:

• Gremlins-style creature horror
• YA apocalypse survival stories
• Fast-paced monster attacks
• Survival camps and scavenging missions
• Horror with constant tension
• Creature features with gruesome stakes
• Post-apocalyptic worlds overrun by monsters

A brutal, creature-filled YA horror with nonstop action, survival tension, and goblin chaos straight out of a nightmare version of Gremlins.

This book is available on Kindle Unlimited or buy it on Amazon for $0.99 by clicking here. 

Book Review: Fear Farm No Trespassers by S. J. Krandall

 Genre: Psychological Horror / Thriller

Tropes: Small Town Secrets, Unreliable Narrator, Disappearances, Serial Killer Threads, Short-Story Structure, High Tension

Spice Level: None

Format: Physical Copy (Signed Edition)

Series: Standalone

                Over the course of a year several people had gone missing from a section of deep country-side never to be heard from again. Rumors abound, but no one knows for sure what happened. A young woman obsessed with their fates begins to live them. Are they real or a figment of her imagination?

                I received a physical copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review. That book was signed and even had a cute little photo of the actual farmhouse the author based the stories around.

 I like this book if you think of it like a series of short stories around one area. If you try to connect each chapter into one overall story that is where it gets confusing. I read it and reread parts and I still don’t know how they are connected. Outside of the murder bit.

That isn’t to say the book is bad, far from it. We have a high tension read where you never know if anyone is going to survive. Just because a story is from that person’s perspective doesn’t mean they will make it. I loved that part, because we usually know someone will live till the end.

The book is well written as a series of short stories. Each chapter has a new instance set in the same general area with the same murderer. That person may or may not be alive, but the risk is still the same. The stories had a very Twilight Zone feel to them and I would absolutely read more by this author in the future.

This book is available on Amazon for $8.99 by clicking here.

You’ll Love This Book If You Enjoy:

• Psychological horror with an ambiguous edge
• Anthology-style storytelling
• Small town or rural thriller settings
• Stories where anyone can die
• Twilight Zone–inspired tension
• Atmospheric horror over gore

This is a strong, well-written collection that thrives on mood and unpredictability. I would absolutely read more from this author in the future.

Book Review: Hex, Love, and Rock & Roll by Kat Turner (Coven Daughters Book 1)

 Genre: Paranormal Romance / Contemporary Fantasy

Tropes: Celebrity Romance, Age Gap, Accidental Curse, Witchy Magic, Grumpy/Skeptic Hero, Forced Proximity, Slow Burn Tension

Spice Level: 🌶🌶

Format: Physical Copy

Series: Coven Daughters Book 1

                Helen is desperate. Her yoga studio is failing after a disastrous investment. Her best friend can barely look at her. So when she’s offered the chance at a money spell, she takes it. The witch gives her a choice: Left or right. Choose wrong, and there will be consequences. Helen chooses. She’s gifted enchanted crystals and strict instructions: bless one with good intentions and gift it properly. Skip a step, and a curse follows. And somehow? She accidentally hexes her celebrity crush. Brian. The Brian. The only problem? He doesn’t believe in magic. Now they’re stuck together trying to break a curse he isn’t even convinced exists.

                This is a paranormal age-gap celebrity romance with strong magical elements and plenty of spice. It takes a minute to really get going—but in the best way. The tension builds steadily. There’s delicious back-and-forth, stubbornness, denial, and just enough chaos to keep you turning pages. I genuinely wondered how the author would wrap everything up as the ending approached. They absolutely did. The couple’s arc feels complete, satisfying, and earned—while still leaving plenty of magical threads open for future books in the series.

                I loved the characters and the world building in the story and will absolutely read on at some point. The author does an amazing job of describing everything the characters are going through and I especially loved the astral-projection scenes.

                This book is available on Kindle Unlimited or buy it on Amazon for $3.99 by clicking here.

You’ll Love This If You Enjoy:

• Witchy vibes with real consequences
• Celebrity romances with tension
• Age-gap dynamics
• Slow burn that turns spicy
• Magic that feels vivid and dangerous
• Emotional payoff with a satisfying ending

I really enjoyed this one and will absolutely continue the series when I’m in the mood for more magic.

Book Review: The Tomb of the Black Pharaoh by Christopher Michael

 Genre: Historical Horror / Occult Thriller

Tropes: WWII Espionage, Nazi Occult Plot, Ancient Artifact, Academic Turned Spy, Lovecraftian Influence, Desert Tomb Discovery

Spice Level: 🌶 (Minimal – plot-driven, no focus on romance)

Format: Audiobook (also available in print/eBook)

Series: Standalone 

                Danforth, once a university scholar immersed in arcane studies, now works for the OSS during World War II. When intelligence reveals a Nazi plot to recover the Talisman of the Black Pharaoh, he’s sent to Egypt to stop them. Armed with his knowledge of the occult—and a strange personal pull toward the artifact—Danforth quickly realizes this mission is far more dangerous than simple wartime espionage. Because if the Nazis obtain the talisman? No one knows the full extent of the destruction it could unleash. And it’s best not to find out.

                I received an audiobook copy in exchange for an honest review, and while I genuinely enjoyed the story, the narration didn’t work for me. The delivery leaned heavily monotone, and several pronunciations—most notably “skeletal” pronounced as “skel-ee-tall”—pulled me out of the experience repeatedly. That said, this critique applies specifically to the audiobook performance, not the writing itself.

                Focusing purely on the narrative, this is a fast-paced, atmospheric WWII horror adventure. The author clearly has a deep appreciation for Lovecraftian themes—ancient tomes, forbidden knowledge, creeping dread—and blends them seamlessly with historical espionage. The worldbuilding is immersive. From the university halls where Danforth first uncovers the occult tome to the bustling streets of Cairo and the haunting silence of desert tombs, the settings are richly described. I could vividly picture the museum and the excavation scenes once the artifact hunt begins. The tension builds steadily, combining historical stakes with supernatural horror in a way that feels cinematic.

                As a WWII-era occult thriller with strong Lovecraftian inspiration, this story absolutely delivers. It’s immersive, well-written, and packed with tension and atmosphere. I would gladly read more from this author—especially in eBook or physical format, where the prose and worldbuilding can shine without distraction. There’s clear passion behind the storytelling, and plenty of room for more dark historical adventures.

                This book is available on Kindle Unlimited or buy it on Amazon for $2.99 by clickinghere.

🔥 You’ll love this book if you enjoy:

• WWII espionage with supernatural stakes
• Nazi occult conspiracy plots
• Lovecraft-inspired horror elements
• Academic protagonists drawn into danger
• Ancient artifacts with world-ending potential
• Atmospheric desert and tomb settings
• Fast-paced historical thrillers with horror undertones

If you’re drawn to historical horror that blends wartime espionage with ancient cosmic dread, this one is well worth exploring—preferably in print.

Book Review: Dueling Flames by Calia Wilde (Destroyers MC Book 6)

Genre: Contemporary Romance / MC (Motorcycle Club) Romance

Tropes: Small-Town Feud, MC Club Loyalty, Second Chance at Love, Protective Alpha, Escaping Abusive Ex, Found Family

Spice Level: 🌶🌶🌶 (High – open-door, emotionally driven heat)

Format: eBook

Series: Destroyers MC Book 6

 

               Kid stopped in his home town and went to the Winchester family diner. He knew he wasn’t welcome there with the feud still well in place, but no one cooked better than a Winchester. Sierra had left her good for nothing husband and was working at the diner with her Maemaw when Kid came in. Damned MacMillan, but he may be the only one willing to help her.

                I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review. If you are new here this is book 6 in an absolutely amazing contemporary romance MC club series. They could be read as stand-alones if you care zero for background plot. I don’t suggest it. You really need to know about the other club and the background characters. All very important.

                This book isn’t as heavily focused on the club as some of the other books, though. This book focuses on Sierra’s issues with her ex husband and everything he puts her through while she finds her way with Kid. Kid has always been a fixture in these books popping up as someone loyal, trustworthy, and a little unhinged. He kept that vibe in this book and I couldn’t be happier with how this book ended.

                I will say that I didn’t read books 6 and 7 in order. I accidentally read book 7 first, so I got a few spoilers along the way. It did not take away from the enjoyment of this book at all and I would love to read more by this author in the future. That being said, I couldn’t imagine a better fate for her ex.

                This book is available on Amazon for $4.99 by clicking here.

 🔥 You’ll love this book if you enjoy:

• Motorcycle club romance with strong brotherhood vibes
• Small-town family feuds
• Protective, slightly unhinged alpha heroes
• Heroines escaping toxic marriages
• Found family dynamics
• High-spice contemporary romance
• Series with interconnected couples and ongoing club drama

If you love gritty MC romance with heart, heat, and justice served exactly the way it should be, this one delivers.

Books by this Author: 

Down in Blood (Destroyers MC Book 1)

Dreams in the Dark (Destroyers MC Book 2)

Destroyers Soul (Destroyers MC Book 3)

Truth as Poison (Destroyers MC Book 4)

Lights Camera Mayhem (Destroyers MC Book 5)

Restore the Night (Destroyers MC Book 7)

Second Chance Santa (A Destroyers MC Novella)

Biker Queen (A Destroyers MC Prequal)

Book Review: An Enchanting Song by Jessica Lauryn (Rabourn Theater Book 5)

Genre: Contemporary Romance
Tropes: Enemies to Lovers, Redemption Arc, Family Legacy, Small-Town Theater, Second Chances, Secret Agenda, Former Villain MMC
Spice Level: Medium (romance-forward with emotional depth)
Format: eBook
Series: Rabourn Theater Book 5

         Sebastian Nathanson has been plotting to take the Rabourn Theater back since he was in high school. He has always loved the theatre, even if not this specific play-house. Still, the Rabourn belongs to his family. His father, Augustus, was adamant about that and that it went back into their clutches. Even with his father dead Sebastian will stop at nothing to get the theater. After successfully undermining the last few plays the theatre put on he knows they are close to having to close permanently. It is close enough that they are going to be putting on a show written by his father that hasn’t been performed in the theater’s history. In comes Madelyn Bennett who has lived a sheltered life, but is one of the most prolific singers that has ever graced this stage. But, Madelyn also has her own secret agenda. 

    I received a copy of this eBook from this author in exchange for an honest review. I really enjoyed this book as it wraps up the entire series nicely. We have finally went through all of the background characters and the story is resolved. I couldn’t ask for a better close to this set that I enjoyed every step of. 

    Sebastian was hated more than any other character throughout this series, so I am glad he got his redemption arc. He was awful, especially to Alicia in book 1, but he did go to jail and things have turned around. I really liked the addition of Madelyn. We seen details about a woman that made the two men who were once friends end forever and I love that we got to see all the ins and outs with what really happened there. 

    This is not a book you can read as a standalone. If you haven’t already, go back and read book 1 and make your way through. While these books are not available on Kindle Unlimited they are more than worth the read. I will definitely be reading more by this author in the future if given the chance. 

🎬 You’ll love this book if you enjoy:

• Enemies-to-lovers contemporary romance
• Former villain redemption arcs
• Theater and performing arts settings
• Family legacy and inheritance drama
• Secret agendas and emotional reveals
• Series finales that tie up every storyline
• Character-driven romance with meaningful growth

If you love watching a morally flawed hero earn his redemption against the dramatic backdrop of a struggling theater, this series finale hits all the right emotional notes.

    This book is available on Amazon for $1.98 by clicking here. 

Books by This Author: 

A Passionate Play (Rabourn Theater Book 1)

An Amorous Dance (Rabourn Theater Book 2)

A Sultry Performance (Rabourn Theater Book 3)

An Intoxicating Interlude (Rabourn Theater Book 4)

Book Review: Daros by Dave Dobson

Genre: Young Adult Science Fiction

Tropes: Space Opera, Crash Landing Survival, Hidden Cargo, Alien Invasion, Missing Parent, Sentient AI, Coming-of-Age

Spice Level: None

Format: Novel (Works as a standalone; potential series starter)

Series: Currently listed as standalone

         16 year old Brecca is on-board her father’s ship, Envy’s Price, and is heading to Daros to offload some cargo. Right before they land the planet goes under attack from space. Knowing the attack will shortly come to them as well, Brecca’s father hands her a small box letting her know this is a very important and expensive cargo and that she needs to take the escape pod and go topside. Once on the planet she needs to find any of the crew that may have survived the landing, her father, and their ship. 

    I received a physical copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review. This is a very fast paced YA Sci-if book that will keep you on your toes. We follow Brecca as she crash lands onto a planet under attack, hides from the invaders, meets some natives, and discovers what the invaders are after and why. 

    I really enjoyed this book, although it did have a bittersweet ending. I hope for more details on what happened with the memories going forward if this book is continued into a series. I am trying to keep that detail as vague as possible as it is an end of the book type thing. This book does not end on a club-hanger and works well as a stand alone. It may even be a stand-alone. I am not really sure. There isn’t anything on Amazon about there being a second book for this. 

    I think that the characters we well done, although the ship’s AI was…frustrating to say the least. She had a very condescending personality and I was annoyed with her quickly. That being said, I will absolutely be reading more by this author in the future. In fact, I have another of his physical books sitting on my shelf ready for me to start at some point. 

    This book is available on Kindle Unlimited or buy it on Amazon for $3.99 by clicking here. 

Book Review: Why Don’t You Save Me by Rae Knight (Why Don’t You Book 2)

Genre: Dark Romance / Why Choose (Reverse Harem)

Tropes: Kidnapped FMC, Protective MMCs, Found Family, Revenge, Hidden Parentage, Multiple POV, High Angst, Morally Gray Heroes

Spice Level: 🌶🌶🌶🌶 – High spice with explicit scenes

Format: eBook

Series: Why Don't You Book 2

Tori has been taken by Nico and transported across state lines. Her men will stop at nothing to bring her home—even if it means calling in favors from their old gang ties. But when they finally track her down, they uncover a secret about her parentage that even Tori didn’t know. None of that matters if they can’t get to her before Nico does something irreversible.

I picked up Book 1 after the author mentioned it in a group I’m in—and I was instantly hooked. Book 1 ends on a brutal cliffhanger that had me downloading Book 2 immediately.

⚠️ Content Warnings:

• Attempted sexual assault
• Kidnapping
• Murder
• Manipulation
• Betrayal
• Threats and violence

This is dark romance. The themes are heavy, and the stakes are high. Personally, I loved the intensity—especially the revenge arc. Completely justified.

This is a Why Choose / Reverse Harem story with multiple POVs that keep you guessing. At certain points, you may question the number of love interests due to shifting perspectives—and possibly hate that idea. The tension is deliberate.

⚠️ Not a standalone.

You absolutely need to read Book 1 to understand what’s happening here. Jumping in at Book 2 would be confusing and remove much of the emotional payoff.

The ending felt satisfying enough that I didn’t feel an urgent need to pick up Book 3 immediately. While I know it continues exploring her parentage storyline, this installment wrapped up the immediate danger in a way that felt complete. That said, the writing and spice were strong enough that I’ll likely circle back to finish the series.

    This book is available on Kindle Unlimited or buy it on Amazon for $4.99 by clicking here.

 ⭐ You’ll love this book if you enjoy:

• Dark reverse harem romance
• Kidnapped FMC rescue arcs
• Protective, morally gray MMCs
• High-stakes revenge plots
• Multiple POV storytelling
• Intense spice with emotional payoff

Books by this Author:

Why Don’t You Make Me (Why Don’t You Book 1)

Book Review: The Highwayman Piney by Tony DiGerolamo (The Pineys Book 6)

 Genre: Paranormal Thriller / Supernatural Horror

Tropes: Resurrection Villain, Revolutionary War Ghost, Demon Gates, Family Legacy, Found Family, Ongoing Rivalry, Small-Town Supernatural

Spice Level: None

Format: eBook

Series: The Pineys (Best read in order)

    Bloody John Bacon is back from the dead—since Hemmingway’s previous trap didn’t hold. Determined to rip open the gates of hell and free his brother, Bacon won’t let anyone stand in his way. Unfortunately for him, the Galloways have other plans. First comes revenge for Hem trapping him for decades. Then unleashing apocalypse-level chaos. The question is—who wins this round?

    I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.

    I’ve read every Pineys installment leading up to this one and have consistently enjoyed the series. The foundation remains familiar—supernatural threats, family dynamics, high-stakes confrontations—but each book introduces a fresh twist. This time, the enemy is a Revolutionary War–era pirate and British loyalist with the ability to summon followers—dead or alive—to fight for the crown.

    That historical paranormal element adds a fun layer to the horror.

    I especially enjoyed the pacing in this installment, along with the introduction of yet another long-lost family member. It gave the story added emotional depth. The ongoing tension between Hemmingway and his ex-wife also continues to evolve, and I’m genuinely rooting for them this time. Knowing more of the truth might finally allow both of them to move forward.

⚠️ Reading Order Note:

    While technically these books could be read out of order, I strongly recommend starting from Book 1. The interpersonal relationships, grudges, and character development matter. Hemmingway, in particular, takes time to grow on you, and without earlier context, he may not be immediately likable.

    This is another solid addition to a consistently entertaining paranormal series with historical horror elements and strong family-centered stakes.

                This book is available on Kindle Unlimited or buy it on Amazon for $2.99 by clicking here.

⭐ You’ll love this book if you enjoy:

• Supernatural thrillers with historical villains
• Ongoing family sagas
• Small-town paranormal chaos
• Ghosts, demons, and resurrection plots
• Action-heavy paranormal series

Books by this author: 

My Cousin, The Piney (The Pineys Book 1)

Witch Piney are You (The Pineys Book 2)

Third Grade Piney (The Pineys Book 3)

Feud of the Pineys (The Pineys Book 4)

Jersey Shore Piney (The Pineys Book 5)

Book Review: Restore the Night by Calia Wilde (Destroyers MC Book 7)

Genre: Contemporary Romance / MC Romance

Tropes: Age Gap, Forbidden Romance, MC Romance, Opposites Attract, Slow Burn, Angst, Protective Biker, Glasses-Wearing MMC (Yes, It Matters), Second Chance Energy

Spice Level: 🌶🌶🌶🌶 – High spice with strong emotional angst

Format: eBook

Series: Destroyers MC Book 7 (Best read in order)

Nikel is a glasses-wearing biker and tech genius—quiet, high-ranking, and not the kind of man who should want someone like Rachel. She’s younger. Innocent. Completely out of place in the Rebel Souls’ bar. And absolutely off-limits. He tried to stay away. For five years, he tried. But now she’s back—and walking away might not be possible this time.

    I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review. I’ve read almost all of the Destroyers MC series (apparently skipping Book 6 by accident), and I’ve loved every single one. I didn’t even realize this wasn’t Book 6 until late in the story when references were made to a background female character I didn’t recognize. That’s on me—I’ve since corrected the oversight.

⚠️ Reading Order Note:

    If you haven’t read the series, start from the beginning. You need the foundation of Walt, Indy, Finn, and the rest of the club dynamic to fully understand the tension between the Destroyers and the Rebel Souls. However, if you’ve read most of the series and accidentally skip one like I did, you likely won’t feel lost until late in the book.

    This installment absolutely delivers. The angst? Strong. The emotional weight of what Rachel endures? Heavy. The spice? On point. Nikel has always been more of a quiet, background presence in the upper ranks of the club, so getting his story felt overdue—and worth the wait.

    And let’s be honest: there is something wildly attractive about a biker who wears glasses. Add in tech genius energy and a protective streak? Sold. I loved the opposites-attract dynamic that slowly reveals how much they truly have in common. There are light religious elements, but they never dominate the story.

    This book solidifies why I keep returning to this author’s MC world. I’ll absolutely continue the series (especially now that I have Book 6 waiting).

    This book is available on Amazon for $4.99 by clicking here. 

⭐ You’ll love this book if you enjoy:

• Motorcycle club romance
• Age gap tension
• Protective, broody MMCs
• High-angst, high-spice romance
• Opposites attract
• Interconnected MC series

Books by this author: 

Down in Blood (Destroyers MC Book 1)

Dreams in the Dark (Destroyers MC Book 2)

Destroyers Soul (Destroyers MC Book 3)

Truth as Poison (Destroyers MC Book 4)

Lights Camera Mayhem (Destroyers MC Book 5)

Second Chance Santa (A Destroyers MC Novella)

Biker Queen (A Destroyers MC Prequal)

Dueling Flames (Destroyers MC Book 6)