#BookReview ~ Head Witch in Charge by Avery Flynn ~ #PNR #HeadWitchinCharge #Witch #Witches ~ @BerkleyPub #BerkleyPublishing

Book Details:

ASIN: ‎ B0DPH1D85Y

Publisher: ‎Berkley

Publication Date: September 2, 2025

Print Length: ‎372 pages

Amazon

About the Book:

When two witches with a tangled history are forced to team up, it spells disaster in this steamy rom-com from USA Today bestselling author Avery Flynn.

It’s the curse of every family’s heir to be the responsible one. My family being the most powerful family in all of Witchingdom doesn’t eliminate that fact, it only makes it worse—and that’s why I, Leona Amber Sherwood, never do the unexpected. Except for that one time I did.

Believe me, I have rued the day that I got married in a midnight ceremony under a full moon to Erik Svensen, the heir to my family’s deepest, bitterest enemies, and now, he won’t agree to a divorce unless we return an ancient spell book to his family’s secured facility.

But on our road trip to return the book, I learn more about Erik as we encounter trolls, nymphs, satyrs, and more. The longer we work together, the more I’m convinced that he might not be the evil trickster I assumed he was. Any more time together will leave me even more enchanted with my husband and that’s the last thing I want. And if I keep telling myself that, maybe I'll start to believe it.

My Review:

Head Witch in Charge is a masterfully crafted second book in the Witchingdom series. This book is filled with mystery, romance, deception, and magic. Starring Leona Sherwood and Erik Svensen, enemies from two different prominent magical families, this book is all about the pressures of being next in line – the heirs of each magical family. Leona is good and wholesome; Erik is as devious as they come.

When a girls’ trip to Vegas ends with Leona married to her archenemy, she desperately tries to convince Erik to agree to a divorce. Something he is not having. Not until they return a spell book to his family’s estate. The close-proximity cross-country trip opens the eyes of both Leona and Erik, unraveling preconceived ideas. As they face mounting dangers throughout the trip, Leona and Erik have hard decisions to make, ones that may make or break any chance at happiness.

I really love me some Avery Flynn. Her books are phenomenal. I love how the characters occasionally turn, look, and talk to the reader. Head Witch in Charge is a fun enemies to lovers paranormal romance. The book is perfectly paced, written well, and the setting and world building expertly described. I read this book in one day because once I started, I was hooked.

I was provided with a copy of this book. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

Review previously posted on Sapphyria's Books.

My Rating:

This post contains affiliate links.

If you make a purchase using my links, I will receive a small commission from the sale at no cost to you.

Thank you for supporting Sapphyria’s Books.

#BookReview ~ Witcha Gonna Do by Avery Flynn ~ #PNR #WitchaGonnaDo #Witch #Witches ~ @BerkleyPub #BerkleyPublishing

Book Details:

Publisher: Berkley

Publication Date:‎ December 6, 2022

Print Length: 332 pages

ISBN-13: 978-0593335222

Amazon

Goodreads

About the Book:

She's Charmed, He's Sure

An unlucky witch and her know-it-all nemesis must team up in the first of a new, spicy romantic comedy series from USA Today bestselling author Avery Flynn.

Could it possibly get any worse than having absolutely no magical abilities when you’re a member of the most powerful family of witches ever? It used to be that I’d say no, but then I keep getting set up on dates with Gil Connolly whose hotness is only matched by his ego. Seriously. I can’t stand him. Even if I also can’t stop thinking about him (specifically kissing him) but we’re going to pretend I never told you that part.

So yeah, my life isn’t the greatest right now, but then it goes straight to the absolute worst hell when I accidentally make my sister’s spell glitch and curse my whole family. And the only person who can help non-magical me break the spell? You guessed it. Gil the super hot jerk.

Now we have to work together to save my family and outmaneuver some evil-minded nefarious forces bent on world domination. Oh yeah, and we have to do all that while fighting against the attraction building between us because I may not be magical, but what’s happening between Gil and I sure feels like it.

My Review:

Witcha Gonna Do is a masterpiece of mystery, romance, and deception.

Tilda Sherwood is part of a huge and prominent magical family. Except, Tilda is magicless. Not a magical bone in her body. All she manages to do is become fodder for Wichingdom's busybodies, and embarrass her mother. And for some reason, her matchmaker continues to set her up with her nemesis, Gil Connolly.

Gil Connolly is not who he seems. He has secrets and reasons for trying to get close to Tilda. Only, he's not supposed to catch feelings for her. He's an egotistical jerk and not at all the type of guy Tilda should be interested in dating. Things get even worse for Tilda's attraction to Gil when her non-magic causes one of her sister's spells to fail, epically. Now, the only person she can turn to for help is the one person who drivers her crazy....Gil Connolly.

Boy do I love me some Avery Flynn. Her books are phenomenal. I love how the characters occasionally turn, look, and talk to the reader. Witcha Gonna Do is a cute enemies to lovers paranormal romance. The book is perfectly paced, written well, and the setting and world building expertly descripted and set up. I read this book in one day because once I started, I was hooked.

I was provided with a copy of this book. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

Review previously posted on Sapphyria's Books

My Rating:

This post contains affiliate links.

If you make a purchase using my links, I will receive a small commission from the sale at no cost to you.

Thank you for supporting Reviews by Saph.

#BookReview ~ Ghosts of Sleepy Hollow: Haunts of the Headless Horseman Haunted America by Sam Baltrusis ~ @SamBaltrusis ~ #HeadlessHorseman #Halloween #Ghosts #Hauntings

Ghosts of Sleepy Hollow: 

Haunts of the Headless Horseman

Haunted America

Sam Baltrusis

Genre: Ghosts & Hauntings

Publisher: History Press

Date of Publication: September 23, 2024

ISBN: 978-146715802

Number of pages: 144

Word Count: 32,500

About the Book:

Nestled on the banks of the Hudson River, Sleepy Hollow and Tarrytown are steeped in history and ghost lore. Famous for Washington Irving’s “The Legend of Sleepy Hollow,” the storied Westchester region also has a dark history of witches, spies, and pirates. 

Rumors of Headless Horseman sightings surge during spooky season while visitors flock to the Valley’s haunted hot spots like the Old Dutch Church and the famed writer’s Sunnyside home. 

Join author and journalist Sam Baltrusis on a bone-chilling journey through the streets of Sleepy Hollow as he breathes new life into the legendary village’s long-departed souls.

My Review:

Ghosts of Sleepy Hollow is such an interesting book filled with history and legend. I've always loved everything Sleepy Hollow. One day I'll make it to the real Sleepy Hollow but until then, this book took me on an amazing trip. I enjoyed the history, the town in the present, and the paranormal elements. 

The book has so much information and I devoured everything. I love that Sleepy Hollow Cemetery was used in two Dark Shadows movies. Jonathan Frid's Barnabas Collins is my favorite iteration of that character. Ben Cross's run as Barnabas is my second favorite and I'm still bummed there was only one season. 

I love to read about ghosts, hauntings, and paranormal activity. This book fulfills that love and is about a legend I've also enjoyed and in a location that intrigues me. The author does a wonderful job creating the perfect atmosphere for the reader while taking them on a historical and paranormal journey. 

I was provided with a copy of this book. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

Review previously posted on Sapphyria's Books.

My Rating:

Purchase Link:

Amazon

This post contains affiliate links.

If you make a purchase using my links, I will receive a small commission from the sale at no cost to you.

Thank you for supporting Reviews by Saph.

#BookReview ~ Flesh by Laura Bickle ~ #YA #Horror ~ @Laura_Bickle #Zombies #Ghouls #SoftHorror

Flesh

Laura Bickle

Genre: YA Horror

Date of Publication: September 19, 2017

ISBN: 9781537857992

ASIN: B074XBJ697

Number of pages: 307

Word Count: 76,573

About the Book:

The dead are easy to talk to. Live people, not so much.

Charlie Sulliven thinks she knows all the secrets of the dead. Raised in a funeral home, she’s the reluctant “Ghoul Girl,” her reputation tied to a disastrous Halloween party. But navigating her life as a high school sophomore is an anxiety-inducing puzzle to her. She haunts the funeral home with her parents, emo older brother, Garth, their pistol-packing Gramma, and the glass-eyeball-devouring dachshund, Lothar.

Chewed human bodies are appearing in her parents’ morgue…and disappearing in the middle of the night. The bodies seem tied to a local legend, Catfish Bob, who has resurfaced in the muddy Milburn river near Charlie’s small town. When one of Charlie’s classmates, Amanda, awakens in the cooler as a flesh-eating ghoul, Charlie must protect her newfound friend and step up to unravel the mystery…and try to avoid becoming lunch meat for the dead.

My Review:

Charolotte “Charlie” Sullivan just wants to be a normal teenager accepted by her peers. Unfortunately, when your family owns the funeral home you also live in and your mother is the coroner, classmates tend to make assumptions, jump to conclusions, and stereotype you. It was so easy to relate to Charlie in the teenager wanting to be accepted aspect. All teens want to be popular, belong, and feel accepted. When bodies start appearing with weird types of damage, and then they start to disappear from the morgue, any slight change of normalcy evaporates. This is especially true when one of the bodies is a girl from school and she awakens in the morgue right in front of Charlie. Is she hallucinating or is there something sinister going on in their town?

I don’t normally read books that focus on zombies or ghouls - they just aren’t my thing. I made an exception because I love Laura Bickle’s writing. She tells great stories that are engaging to the point I’m almost obsessed with the books. I don’t want to adult because I want to finish her books. Flesh is no exception. I was enthralled with Charlie, Garth, Amanda, and Lothar. Charlie is a wonderful character trying to make her way in the world while being an outcast because of the family business and being constantly harassed by a very controlling mother. She’s not a strong character at the beginning and it was fun to watch her kind of toughen up as the story progressed.

The story that’s told in Flesh has horror undertones but isn’t the “scare the daylights out of you” kind of book. The story features creepy events, sinister happenings, and suspense that will keep you on the edge of your seat. I mention these things because I don’t particularly like horror (think Stephen King, whoever thought the Saw movies were a good idea, and Friday the 13th). I do, however, like soft horror (is that even a thing? If not, it is now), which is how I would classify Flesh. Flesh also has moments of joy, the rekindling of old friendships, and the coming together of some unlikely allies to combat the mysterious ghouls with ties to an urban legend by the name of Catfish Bob. I love the balance that the author used. I enjoyed the story, characters, theme, and pacing of Flesh.

I was provided with a copy of this book. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

My Rating:

Purchase Link:

Amazon

This post contains affiliate links.

If you make a purchase using my links, I will receive a small commission from the sale at no cost to you.

Thank you for supporting Reviews by Saph.

#BookReview ~ Pumpkins and Party Themes: 50 DIY Designs to Bring Your Halloween Extravaganza to Life by Roxanne Rhoads ~ #Halloween ~ #DIY @RoxanneRhoads

Pumpkins and Party Themes

50 DIY Designs to Bring Your Halloween Extravaganza to Life

by Roxanne Rhoads

Paperback: 176 pages

Publisher: Skyhorse

Release Date: August 25, 2020

ISBN-10: 1510751165

ISBN-13: 978-1510751163

About the Book:

Bring your Halloween party theme to life with these quick tips and tricks!

Pumpkins and Party Themes features ten unique party themes with five do-it-yourself pumpkin designs for each theme. The pumpkin projects have a variety of decorating ideas that include carving, painting, and mixed media craftiness and easy-to-follow steps on each creation. Author Roxanne Rhoads also includes quick ideas on how to bring the theme to life through décor, costumes, and activities. These fun party themes range from gothic elegance to Edgar Allan Poe, under the sea, let's get literary, and more!

With beautiful full-color images to illustrate the tools needed, steps to follow, and final products, this book makes for the perfect gift for Halloween enthusiasts and party hosts alike!

My Review:

Pumpkin and Party Themes is a book full of great Halloween party, celebration, and just plain fun ideas. The book includes a brief history of pumpkins and Jack O'Lanterns. I enjoy historical aspects of holidays and this book delivers.

The book includes pumpkin carving basics, tricks, and tips. Written in an easy to understand way, the book will be a wonderful addition to anyone's crafty, DIY bookshelf. The author even includes step-by-step instructions on how to create some of her designs. The end of the book includes stencil patterns, as well.

My favorite parts of the book are the steampunk and coffin sections. I can't wait for everyone to have the chance to grab this book. You will love it and be as excited to try some of the projects as I am!!

I was provided with a copy of this book. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

Review previously posted on Sapphyria's Books.

Purchase Link:

Amazon

This post contains affiliate links.

If you make a purchase using my links, I will receive a small commission from the sale at no cost to you.

Thank you for supporting Reviews by Saph.

#BookReview ~ The Twelve Days of Christmas Dogs by #AmandaSobotka and illustrated by #ChrisDunn ~ #TheTwelveDaysofChristmas #Christmas #ChildrensBook #Dogs #DogLovers

 

#TheTwelveDaysofChristmas #Christmas #ChildrensBook #Dogs #DogLovers

5/5 Stars

I absolutely adore this take on The Twelve Days of Christmas. As a lover of dogs, this was right up my alley. Children, and adults alike, will love this version. The illustrations are vibrant and eye catching, the artwork is creative and nostalgic, and they lyrics are a fun twist on the original.

This story will be a hit with anyone, but especially for those who love our canine friends.

I was provided with a copy of this book. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

https://amzn.to/46ZnjDm

This post contains affiliate links.

If you make a purchase using my links, I will receive a small commission from the sale at no cost to you.

Thank you for supporting Sapphyria’s Books.

#BookReview ~ Haunted House (Krewe of Hunters #35.5) by Heather Graham ~ Novella #HauntedHouse #Halloween ~ @heathergraham

Strange things are going to happen and every year, while loving the holiday, members of the Krewe of Hunters also dread it.

Haunted House is a spooky novella in the Krewe of Hunters Series from New York Times bestselling author Heather Graham and 1,001 Dark Nights.

About the Book:

Something somewhere is bound to happen.

And it does.

Krewe member Jon Dickson’s fiancée Kylie Connelly is contacted by an old friend who has just moved to Salem, Massachusetts, when the unimaginable happens as the holiday approaches.

Brenda Riley has just managed to buy the historic home of her dreams. But it comes with far more history than she ever imagined—the skeletal remains of two victims interred in the old walls of the house years and years before—along with a threatening curse.

And strange things are happening in the city. Bizarre attacks…murders that mimic days of old.

With Halloween on the way.

Kylie has a history with the city of Salem, and her strange talent for being within the minds of those under attack—first realized in the city—remains sharp.

But the situation is far more dire than what they have discovered, with strange events and attacks occurring.

And with all their talent for crime solving—with help from the living and the dead—it still remains to be seen if they can solve the murders of the past before Halloween, and the bloodbath that just might occur if the sins of a time gone by cannot be brought to light.

**Every 1001 Dark Nights novella is a standalone story. For new readers, it’s an introduction to an author’s world. And for fans, it’s a bonus book in the author’s series. We hope you'll enjoy each one as much as we do.**

My Review:

Scary things are happening in Salem, Massachusetts. When Kylie's friend Brenda finally purchases the home she's always dreamed of in historic Salem, dead bodies in the walls were not disclosed on the purchase agreement. Kylie and her FBI agent husband, Jon Dickson know they need to leave Virginia and head to Salem to help Brenda figure out who the bodies are why they are there. As they investigate, weird events continue to escalate and danger continues to escalate. Kylie and Jon need to solve this mystery before more bodies show up.

Haunted House was a suspenseful and action-packed story. The length of the novella was short enough to be read in a short time span, yet long enough to provide character development and allow a newbie to get a taste of the series. I enjoyed the author's writing style and world-building. I was able to visualize everything scene like I was there. Kylie and Jon are likable characters. Both are competent, strong, and capable investigators. The story was engaging and I enjoyed every minute.

I was provided with a copy of this book. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

Review previously posted on Sapphyria's Books.

My Review:

Amazon

Add Haunted House to Goodreads 

This post contains affiliate links.

If you make a purchase using my links, I will receive a small commission from the sale at no cost to you.

Thank you for supporting Reviews by Saph.

#BookReview ~ It's Time for Halloween ~ Illustrated by Kathrin Fehrl #ChildrensBook # BoardBook #Halloween #GibbsSmith

An ode to Halloween and the joys of trick or treating, this colorful, chunky, die-cut board book is a work of art meant to be displayed face-out on nursery bookshelves.

Book Details:

Book Format: Board Book
Publisher: ‎ Gibbs Smith
Publication Date: ‎ July 8, 2025
Print Length: ‎ 12 pages
ISBN-10: ‎ 1423668502
ISBN-13: ‎ 978-1423668503
Reading Age: ‎ Baby - 3 years

Amazon

Goodreads

About the Book:

Follow along for trick-or-treating through the neighborhood on Halloween night!

Grab your hat, vampire bat
Fill your tummy, mummy

Dress it up, little pup
Howl at the moon, big baboon

Let’s raise a scare, grizzly bear

Now we’ve made a masquerade,
A spooky Halloween parade

No matter how you scare, I don’t care,
You’re my little boo and I love you!

Every page turn reveals a new layer to Kathrin Fehrl’s adorable illustrations of kids dressed up as ghosts, pumpkins, cats, witches, mummies, and fairies, with a fun seek-and-find for each scene. Perfect for Halloween lovers of all ages, this sweet story is a celebration of one of the best times of the year.

My Review:

It's Time for Halloween is a beautifully illustrated children's book. The story is simple and cute. The illustrations are vibrant and adorable. Everything about this book will fascinate youngsters.

Fitting for a quick bedtime story, this board book can also be read anytime - even outside of Halloween. Each layered page of the book includes questions, encouraging interaction from those of appropriate age. This would make a perfect gift for your Halloween-loving children and grandchildren. 

I was provided with a copy of this book. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. Thank you Gibbs Smith!

My Rating:

This post contains affiliate links.

If you make a purchase using my links, I will receive a small commission from the sale at no cost to you.

Thank you for supporting Sapphyria’s Books.

#BookReview ~ The Restaurant in Pelican Crossing (Pelican Crossing #1) by Maggie Christensen #SecondChanceRomance #Romance @MaggieChriste33

The Restaurant in Pelican Crossing: A second chance romance to tug on your heartstrings

About the Book:

Poppy Taylor has always been content with her life in Pelican Crossing, but as she watches her youngest daughter get married, she can't help but feel that there’s something missing. Never would Poppy have predicted the dramatic transformation that occurs as she reunites with an old love and makes a choice that will reshape everything.

Cam Mitchell has always felt a strong attraction to Poppy, and when she reveals her plans to make changes in her life, Cam sees it as his chance to finally reveal his feelings. But Cam's hopes are crushed when he discovers Poppy's past love is back in the picture.

Cam becomes increasingly sceptical of the man from Poppy's past – a feeling that escalates when he uncovers his shocking plans for Pelican Crossing.

With their town now at risk, Cam and Poppy must work together to save their home and find their own happy ending. But will their feelings for each other be enough to overcome the obstacles in their way?

For fans of small-town romances and heartwarming stories of second chances, Pelican Crossing is a must-read. A captivating tale of love, loyalty, and the fight to protect what matters most.

My Review:

The Restaurant in Pelican Crossing is the first book in the Pelican Crossing series. I enjoyed the book a lot. Poppy and Cam are strong characters, well-written, and multi-dimensional. All the characters come to life on the pages. 

 This is my first experience with Maggie Christensen and it won't be my last. I loved her writing style and the setting she created in Pelican Bay. The author created a story with twists and turns, conflict, and a wonderful, mature romance.  

I was provided a copy of this book to read.

Review previously posted on Sapphyria's Books.

My Rating:

Purchase Link:

Amazon

Visit the Author:

https://maggiechristensenauthor.com/

This blog uses affiliate links.

#BookReview ~ Welcome to Hollyhock Farm by Georgina Troy ~ #Romance @GeorginaTroy

Welcome to Hollyhock Farm

Set sail for the idyllic island of Jersey in this gorgeous new romance, perfect for fans of Rachael Lucas and Phillipa Ashley...

About the Book:

When Lettie’s parents call her and her brother back to Hollyhock Farm on the island of Jersey, the last thing they expect to be told is that their childhood home is up for sale.

Back on the island, with its rolling hills and golden sands, Lettie immediately remembers what it feels like to breathe in the fresh air in the green fields, and be part of this tight-knit community – a far cry from the life of events and high fashion she leads in London.

But she surprises even herself when she suggests that she instead could take over Hollyhock farm. Humouring her, her father agrees to give her a three month trial, and Lettie is determined to prove she’s up to the task.

But the summer season is no easy feat for a new farmer, and Lettie has a huge task ahead of her. And when an old flame reappears in the form of dashing local vet Brodie, Lettie’s summer is about to get even more complicated…

My Review:

Welcome to Hollyhock Farm is a wonderful novel set on the island of Jersey. I enjoyed this fresh contemporary romance set on a beautifully described island. 

Lettie's return to Jersey is actually two fold - she's called home, along with her brother, but Lettie also has returned to regroup after an unexpected turn of events at her place of employment. When Lettie and Zac learn the reason they are called home, both are in a state of disbelief. Not wanting to lose their family farm or home, Lettie asks to run the farm on a trial basis.

While trying to prove to her family that she can manage the farm, Lettie runs into Brodie, a former romantic interest. I loved watching their relationship grow from misunderstandings to romance. Their romance isn't the only theme in the book, though. Lettie's grit and determination to make the farm her own shows her drive and ambition. 

Lettie is a strong character. Brodie is kind and charismatic. Each character throughout the book is multi-dimensional and written well. The descriptions are vivid and I felt like I was in Jersey. I enjoyed the author's writing style and will definitely read more of Georgina's work in the future.

I was provided a copy of this book to read.

Previously reviewed on Sapphyria's Books

My Rating:

Purchase Link:

Amazon

Visit the Author:

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

Twitter: https://twitter.com/GeorginaTroy

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/georginatroyauthor/

Newsletter Sign Up: https://bit.ly/GeorginaTroyNews

BookBub: Georgina Troy Books - BookBub

This post contains affiliate links.
If you make a purchase using my links, I will receive a small commission from the sale at no cost to you.
Thank you for supporting Sapphyria’s Books.

#BookReview ~ The Light Beside the Sea (A Zodiac Mystery) by Connie di Marco ~ @askzodia #Mystery #ZodiacMystery

The Light Beside the Sea by Connie di Marco

The Light Beside the Sea (A Zodiac Mystery)

Traditional Mystery

5th in Series

Setting: San Francisco, California

Publisher: CMA Literary (May 6, 2024)

Paperback: ‎341 pages

ISBN-13: ‎979-8989009596

Digital Print length: ‎318 pages

ASIN: ‎B0D393JQ87

About The Light Beside the Sea:

San Francisco astrologer Julia Bonatti has been haunted for years by the hit and run death of her fiancé, Michael Sefton. The driver of the vehicle was never apprehended. The lone witness to the accident spoke to no one and now is dead. Even the cold case detective assigned to the case died before any resolution was found. Every time Julia thought she might be getting close to an answer, each clue led only to a dead end.

Michael, a graduate student, had just returned from an archeological dig in Guatemala when he was killed. But why did he mail his journal to Julia for safekeeping before his return home? What was he afraid of? Why did another graduate student fall to his death on that trip? And now, another man connected with that journey has been murdered closer to home. And the murderer hasn’t finished.

When Julia finally finds the courage to delve into the journal Michael sent to her years before, she learns of the undercurrents, jealousies and anger between members of the group. She begins to understand the pressure and fear her fiancé was coping with and his suspicions of their University mentor who was most likely engaged in unethical and illegal behavior. But events soon take a darker turn when Julia finds a likeness of the Maya god Hunhau, god of death and the underworld, on her doorstep. A strange man covered with markings and tattoos keeps appearing to her but no one else seems to see him. With guidance from another professor she’s introduced to a world she never knew existed.

Is the man she sees human? And is he under the sway of the Maya god of death?

Will he unleash evil or is he here to right a wrong done to his people?

Julia must move quickly or her death will be the next.

My Review:

The Light Beside the Sea is the fifth book in the Zodiac Mysteries. Julia is still reeling from the untimely and sudden death of her fiancé, Michael Sefton. After returning home from Guatemala, Michael was run down and killed. Was the archeological dig he was part of, the reason for the death? Is the death of one his colleagues on that same trip related to Michael's death? Now, Julia learns of another recent death of someone related to that trip. Julia finally has the courage to read the journal Michael mysteriously mailed to her prior to leaving Guatemala. The journal, filled with passages of anger and jealousy, pushes Julia down the path of a world she was unaware of until now.

The Light Beside the Sea is a great addition to the Zodiac Mystery Series. The twists and turns in the book had my head spinning as I desperately tried to piece things together. The author pulled in characters that had motive, means, and opportunity. I enjoyed at the ebb and flow of the book and how the author tied everything together. The multi-faceted story kept me engaged and interested throughout the entire book.Of course, the death of Michael has haunted Julia for years and during the parts where she had to revisit her past, I really felt her emotions bleed through the pages. She’s still grieving because there really hasn’t been any closure to the tragedy that struck. When she has to fully engage in the journal, new world she comes involved in, revisit the cold case death, and deaths of others from the same trip, her emotional wounds reopen.

The Zodiac Mystery series is very interesting. I'm glad I've been along for the ride. The author does a great job weaving together different threads.

I was provided a copy of this book.

Review previously published on Sapphyria's Books

My Rating:




Visit Connie di Marco:

 
Blog: http://conniedimarco.com/blog

Purchase Link:

Amazon

This blog uses affiliate links.

#BookReview ~ The One I Left Behind by Piper Rayne ~ #Romance #PiperRayne #PlainDaisyRanch

The One I Left Behind by Piper Rayne

About the Book:

It’s the classic story—boy goes off into the world to fulfill his dreams and leaves the girl behind.

Not every boy returns home, and I wish Ben Noughton wouldn’t have come back to our small ranching town at all after he retired from playing professional football.

I figure it’s a quick layover for him. He always wanted out of this town and off his family’s ranch. I just have to bide my time until he turns his back on all of us again.

Then he takes on the coaching position for the high school football team and starts milling around too much, bulldozing the protective walls I’ve built around myself. But he goes too far when he takes my son under his wing to help him be the best player he can be. Leaving me to protect not only my own heart but my son’s too.

Because I promised myself a long time ago that I’d never be the girl in the rearview mirror again.

My Review:

The One I Left Behind is the first book in the Plain Daisy Ranch series. Ben Noughton left Nebraska to play football with the San Francisco Kingsmen. In doing so, he left behind the love of his life, never looking back. Now he's retired and coming back to Plain Daisy Ranch.

This story is a second-chance romance complete with a single mom and meddling townsfolk. I enjoyed Gillian's character. Her feelings were hurt all those years ago and the last she was looking forward to was Ben coming back to town. When they keep ending up in the same places at the same times, Gillian and Ben finally realize everyone in town is involved in getting them back together. 

When Ben and Gillian encounter each other for the first time, the sparks are still there. Their chemistry explodes like fireworks that never end. They truly are meant for each other. I just wish Gillian would have demanded more from Ben. He left to follow his dreams and Gillian was a casualty of his selfishness. She was left behind, brokenhearted, and the talk of the town. Gossip of her escalated when she had Clayton.

Clayton is a typical teenager. When Ben came back to town, Clayton didn't care who he was or his popularity. Clayton didn't immediately take to Ben. Clayton is completely devoted his mother, and doesn't want to see anything happen to Gillian. 

The One I Left Behind is a cute and fun second-chance romance. I enjoyed the story, setting, and characters. I can't wait for the next book.

I was provided a copy of this book.

Review previously posted on Sapphyria's Books.

My Rating:

Purchase from Amazon

Add to Goodreads

Visit Piper Rayne: 

Website: www.PiperRayne.com

This post contains affiliate links.
If you make a purchase using my links, I will receive a small commission from the sale at no cost to you.
Thank you for supporting Sapphyria’s Books.

#BookReview ~ Savage Revenge by Kate Oliver ~ #DarkRomance #AlphaMale #StrongHeroine #TouchHerandDie #EnemiestoLovers #BillionaireRomance @greyspromo

Blurb:

Cash
Revenge is what I live for. My father’s blood stains the streets of Las Vegas, and I know exactly who’s to blame. To destroy the man who took everything from me, I’ll start with his daughter.

Jordyn is a sweet, spoiled princess—or so I thought. Kidnapping her was supposed to be my way to break her father, but she’s nothing like I expected. Her fire matches my rage, her softness tempts my darkness, and she sees me for more than the monster I am. Now I’m torn between punishing her… or keeping her. Or both.

Jordyn
My life appears perfect—wealth, power, and security all wrapped in a glittering lie. But it all fell apart the day Cash Savage took me to pay for sins I didn’t commit.

He’s cruel and relentless, but behind his anger, I see his pain. I should hate him, and I should run. But the more I see of the man beneath the heavy armor, the more I crave him. And now, I’m not sure if I want him to let me go.

Amazon

Goodreads

ASIN: ‎ B0DV9RVXS5
Publication date: ‎ July 22, 2025
Print length: ‎ 396 pages

My Review:

Savage Revenge is an intense journey through the dark underbelly of the Las Vegas casino industry.

Describing Cash Savage as unhinged is putting it mildly. He grew up in the casino world of Las Vegas, and that in and of itself is as close to being the mafia as you can get without actually being in the mafia. The business is cut-throat literally and figuratively. When his father is shot outside one of their casinos, there’s only one man to blame, and Cash is going to make him pay.

Jordyn may be in an executive position within her father’s casino empire, but it’s only to placate her and not because she’s good at what she does. Women don’t belong in this world, something her father never lets her forget. When she’s kidnapped from her home by her father’s main competition in Vegas, she doesn’t know whether to believe Cash Savage and his brothers about her father.

This story is dark, gritty, and filthy. It’s full of testosterone, control, and submission. I wasn’t just pulled into Savage Revenge, I was yanked. There were no door frames to try and grab, no way to slow the train down. This book pulls you in and pulls you in hard. I was mesmerized by Kate Oliver’s writing. The ability to dive into the dark side of Vegas with characters that make it out the other side speaks volumes of the author’s capabilities.

There are a few things that take place in this book that made me uncomfortable, and I made sure to read the trigger warnings first so I knew what I was getting into. I advise that you do, as well. My rating does not reflect my discomfort as the book overall is amazing, plus we are warned.

I was provided with a copy of this book. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

My Rating:

This post contains affiliate links.

If you make a purchase using my links, I will receive a small commission from the sale at no cost to you.

Thank you for supporting Sapphyria’s Books.

#BookReview ~ Here For The Cake by Jennifer Millikin #Romance #Frenemies

Here For The Cake by Jennifer Millikin is now live!

About the Book:

A spicy, sassy, and swoony fake dating romantic comedy from Amazon Charts bestselling author Jennifer Millikin.

A week on an island sounds like the stuff of beach dreams, but for Paisley Royce, it's a nightmare. Her little sister is marrying her ex-college sweetheart, and Paisley is serving as maid of honor. To add insult to injury, nobody will let Paisley forget she’s single.

Bachelorette weekend changes everything when she runs into her old college frenemy, Klein Madigan.

Klein is still intelligent and funny, and somehow time has only made him more attractive.

Paisley is Klein’s ‘one that got away’, not that he’d ever admit it to her. A colossal misstep (and one terrible kiss) in college sealed their fate.

Or so they thought.

Klein’s an aspiring author allergic to social media. Paisley owns a digital marketing agency.

A brilliant plan is hatched: A trip across the country for a week of faking out her family in exchange for her firm marketing his work.

One hastily scrawled and signed contract on a bar napkin later, Paisley and Klein embark on a journey of tension, only one bed, and fake dating shenanigans.

Paisley’s goal is to survive the week.

Klein’s plan is to enjoy the sun, sand, and wedding cake.

But then there’s a scorching kiss to make up for that bad one in college.

And another kiss in a lighthouse during a thunderstorm. A gentle palm on Paisley’s lower back, and a reassuring hand squeeze under the table.

Everyone is convinced Klein and Paisley are the real deal, but as the week wears on, they begin to wonder if the only people they’re kidding are themselves.

My Review:

Here for the Cake is a super cute fake-dating story.

Paisley’s sister is marrying one of Paisley’s exes. What an awkward situation for Paisley. Paisley then turns to a former college frenemy, and they decide to enter into a fake dating scenario. Paisley makes sure she has a date for her sister’s wedding, and Klein, an aspiring author, needs promotional assistance by way of Paisley’s marketing firm.

I loved Paisley and Klein’s chemistry. They may have been frenemies once-upon-a-time, but the author created a perfect fake relationship to get them back on track. Here for the Cake is a fresh story in a popular trope. I had fun reading about Paisley and Klein. Fantastic story, wonderful characters, and terrific setting.

I was provided a copy of this book.

Previously reviews on Sapphyria's Books.

My Rating:

Purchase from 

Amazon

Add to 

Goodreads

Visit the Author:

Website: https://www.jennifermillikinwrites.com/

This post contains affiliate links.
If you make a purchase using my links, I will receive a small commission from the sale at no cost to you.
Thank you for supporting Sapphyria’s Books.