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June 25, 2025

Grumps

𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: Grumps 📚
𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: Glyn Davies ✍️
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🚀 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰:
If you enjoy quick, engaging reads, Grumps by Glyn Davies is a must-pick. Set in 1974, the story follows Arthur Pickering—better known as Grumps—who stations himself in the middle of the road to help mums and children cross safely on their way to school. I was touched by how much Grumps does for the children.

Grumps is hard to miss—he’s a towering six-foot-seven with a massive moustache. While children adore him, many adults, especially motorists, find him intimidating. Arthur carries around a mysterious little black book filled with the names of people who’ve caught his attention—destined, it seems, for some form of future reckoning.

People often wonder who’s on the receiving end of his wrath on any given day. Ann Macey, for instance, couldn’t stand him and even asked her husband Gerald not to let Arthur into their shop. The book is full of quirky moments like this, and discovering what Grumps does next is half the fun.

I was completely hooked from the first page. Glyn Davies has crafted a compelling story, and the eye-catching cover adds to its charm. Arthur is a truly one-of-a-kind character. Definitely add Grumps to your TBR—you’re in for a delightful read.

𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 5/5

★ Book Is Available On Amazon

June 25, 2025

Failure at 45

𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: Failure at 45: From Messy to Kinda Amazing (With Snacks) 📚
𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: Stacy M. Martinez ✍️
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🚀 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰:
“Failure at 45: From Messy to Kinda Amazing (With Snacks)” by Stacy M. Martinez is an inspiring and heartfelt read. The author emphasizes that failure isn’t the end—it’s the turning point. When Stacy lost her dream job, she felt as if she failed. It took her time to realize that failure doesn’t write our ending—it rewrites our next beginning.

Stacy encourages readers to take bold risks. Yes, we may fall—but we might also soar. She openly shares the emotional toll of losing a job she deeply loved, an experience that felt like losing part of her identity. Yet, through her journey, she reminds us that rejection often leads to redirection.

One of the standout sections, “5 Steps I Took to Rebuild My Confidence and Find My Purpose Again,” offers practical insights and uplifting guidance. Stacy’s personal love story shows that love can bloom once more—even after heartbreak. When discussing motherhood, she gently advises readers to let go of unrealistic expectations and focus instead on building genuine connections and creating lasting memories.

This book is both thought-provoking and empowering. The chapter-end reflection questions offer a chance for personal growth and clarity. Stacy’s honest storytelling and helpful advice make this a deeply engaging read. The title perfectly captures the essence of the book. I found myself relating to many of her experiences, and more importantly, finding meaningful solutions while reading this book.

𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 5/5

★ Book Is Available On Amazon

June 24, 2025

Runes of the Dokkrsdottir

𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: Runes of the Dokkrsdottir 📚
𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: Bjorn Leesson ✍️
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🚀 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰:
Runes of the Dokkrsdottir by Bjorn Leesson is the first book in the Outside the Thalsparr series. The story follows Myrgjol, the daughter of Ander—of Moorish descent—and Brigga, a Norse woman. Born in Scandinavia, Myrgjol is known as the Dokkrsdottir, and her name translates to “shining sea.” At her birth, Brigga heard the voice of a Valkyrie whisper, “Keep her safe and secret. She has a destiny.” Brigga took this as a divine message from the gods.

At the age of sixteen, Ander inherited his adoptive family’s farm after their passing. Through his hard work, he earned the respect of the Dyrhagi. But one day, he witnessed something unsettling—Myrgjol’s transformation. Her shadowed eyes, jagged fangs, smoke, and a piercing growl revealed a darker side to her nature. In that moment, it became clear: Myrgjol was no ordinary child.

What mysterious things will Myrgjol do at the Thing? How will she continue to astonish those around her with strange and supernatural occurrences? And will she eventually uncover the true extent of her destiny?

I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book and highly recommend it to avid readers. Myrgjol is a compelling and well-developed character, and the plot is filled with twists and surprises. If you enjoy fast-paced fantasy with Norse elements, this is a book worth picking up. I’m excited to see what the next installment holds!

𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 5/5

★ Book Is Available On Amazon

June 24, 2025

Santa’s Holiday

𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: Santa’s Holiday 📚
𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: Glyn Davies ✍️
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🚀 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰:
Santa’s Holiday by Glyn Davies is a delightful and engaging read. In this story, Santa’s wife, Sandra, decides it’s time for them to take a proper vacation—just like normal people. She handles all the arrangements, determined to experience an ordinary getaway at a normal hotel in a typical holiday resort.

Sandra plans their trip to Hotel Dream in Costapacketa, Spain. She even packs Santa’s bags herself and insists that he relax and not lift a finger. To their surprise, Mr. and Mrs. Claus are told they’ll be flying on a special flight—just the two of them. The flight attendants, knowing Santa’s fondness for cowboy movies, are prepared to make the journey memorable. But what kind of chaos awaits on this “normal” holiday?

This is the third installment in the Santa Saga, and I thoroughly enjoyed it. The book cover is charming, and the title perfectly fits the story. The characters are well-developed, especially Sandra and Santa, who are both lovable and entertaining. The storyline is simple yet engaging, with smooth narration that kept me hooked until the very end.

𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 5/5

★ Book Is Available On Amazon

June 24, 2025

Santa’s Disastrous Delivery

𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: Santa’s Disastrous Delivery 📚
𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: Glyn Davies ✍️
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🚀 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰:
“Santa’s Disastrous Delivery” by Glyn Davies is a delightful and entertaining Christmas tale. On Christmas Eve, Santa sets out to deliver presents, and siblings Kevin and Katie Robinson eagerly hang up their stockings in anticipation. When Santa arrives at their home, he asks his trusty little elf, Eric, for the magic word to enter the house. After much effort, Santa finally landed in a small bathroom.

Once inside, Santa places the gifts under the Christmas tree — but things quickly spiral into chaos. Two patrolling policemen, Ken and Bill, mistake him for a burglar, leading to a hilarious turn of events.

Full of magic and mischief, this story is sure to keep readers engaged. Glyn Davies tells the tale with charm and humor that will have you laughing out loud. With an eye-catching cover and festive spirit, this book is a perfect read for the holiday season. I am looking forward to reading more books by Glyn on Christmas theme.

𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 5/5

★ Book Is Available On Amazon

June 23, 2025

Phartman

𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: Phartman 📚
𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: Glyn Davies ✍️
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🚀 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰:
The story kicks off when Geoff contacts Sgt Randall to report a spaceship that has landed in his field—complete with a green alien standing beside it. Unfortunately, the alien also flattened his cabbages.

The visitor introduces himself as Phartman Blowbum Pooply Plop from the planet Gaseous. He explains that his spaceship runs on plant-based fuel and has run out of energy, leaving him stranded. Luckily, cabbages can serve as an alternative fuel. Phartman is joined by Nik Nik, the spaceship’s engineer.

Will the rest of the world find out about the alien and his peculiar spacecraft? The story had me laughing at several moments. Imagine seeing a green alien in front of you—how would you react?

This is a quick and entertaining read. The cover perfectly matches the quirky tone of the book. With a fast-paced plot and memorable characters, the story is sure to stick with readers. If you’re someone who enjoys humorous alien tales, this book is a delightful pick.

𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 5/5

★ Book Is Available On Amazon

June 22, 2025

Whispers on the Tide

𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: Whispers on the Tide 📚
𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: Naomi Rawlings ✍️
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🚀 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰:
“Whispers on the Tide” by Naomi Rawlings is the second book in the Dawn of Alaska series. Maggie McDougal has recently left Wisconsin in search of her brother, Tavish, hoping he can return to claim the family business. Their uncle, who had worked alongside them for twenty-five years, is now attempting to seize their family’s land.

Captain Sacha Amos commands the cargo ship Aurora and agrees to take Maggie to Unalaska, where she believes Tavish might be. With Uncle Ewan determined to take their land, home, and shipyard, Maggie boards the ship with her two younger siblings and only a dwindling stash of money. Will she be able to find Tavish in time?

The story is engaging and held my attention throughout. I especially loved Maggie’s character—strong, determined, and relatable. The narration is smooth and easy to follow, and the author weaves a plot that provides a refreshing escape from everyday life.

The cover art is appealing, and the title fits the story well. Naomi Rawlings’ descriptive writing brings the setting to life, making the backdrop feel vivid and immersive. Those who enjoy reading stories invoicing a sea journey will have a great time reading this book.

𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 5/5

★ Book Is Available On Amazon

June 22, 2025

I Swear by Azania

𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: I Swear by Azania 📚
𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: Shaakira Ally ✍️
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🚀 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰:
The author has done an impressive job with her debut novel. The title is well-chosen, and the language throughout the book is clear and accessible.

Adoni was born prematurely on the island of Tasmania to an Aboriginal mother. Tragically, his mother died in a fire, but Adoni was rescued by a firefighter named Leo Arkin. Later, he was diagnosed with pseudoachondroplasia. When offered a job as a circus clown, he accepted it, seeking a place where he could belong.

Elise was born during the height of Apartheid in South Africa, into a white family with deeply racist attitudes toward their Black laborers. Despite their very different backgrounds, Elise and Adoni eventually met and got married. Though they initially decided not to have children, Elise became pregnant. She hid the pregnancy from Adoni and gave birth to a daughter, Azania.

Azania grew up facing bullying and racism at school. After Elise’s tragic suicide, Azania was placed in the care of her aunt, Jasmine. The story follows Azania’s ongoing struggles with racism and discrimination in a deeply divided society.

This is a powerful and eye-opening narrative that sheds light on the harsh realities of racism and discrimination. The storytelling is smooth and engaging. I felt deep sympathy for Azania, who endured so much from such a young age. This is the first book I’ve read that explores the impact of Apartheid and its lingering effects in the post-Apartheid era.

𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 5/5

★ Book Is Available On Amazon

June 22, 2025

Written on the Mist

𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: Written on the Mist 📚
𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: Naomi Rawlings ✍️
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🚀 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰:
“Written on the Mist” by Naomi Rawlings is the first book in the Dawn of Alaska series. The story centers around Jonas Redding, a Texan who, after a tragic case that cost him both Harriet(his fiancée) and his mother, is determined to protect his sister at all costs. He escapes to Alaska under a new identity—Jonas Darrow—hoping to leave his painful past behind.

In Alaska, Jonas finds himself wondering if a fresh start can truly erase old wounds. When he steps in to defend a young boy, Ilya Amos, wrongly accused of theft, he is violently attacked by drunken men and left seriously injured. He is nursed back to health by Ilya’s family, which includes Kate, a skilled doctor; Alexei, Ilya’s half-brother; Evelina, a schoolteacher; and other kind-hearted members.

As the story unfolds, Jonas and Evelina develop a deep bond, but Jonas struggles with his feelings, fearing that getting close to her might put her in danger.

As he takes up the role of sheriff to solve the town’s cases, he might be getting into danger. Is someone from his former life still hunting him?

The novel features multiple engaging subplots that enhance the main narrative. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book—Naomi Rawlings has crafted a compelling and fast-paced story with well-developed characters. The cover is also beautifully done. I’m looking forward to diving into the next book in the series!

𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 5/5

★ Book Is Available On Amazon

June 22, 2025

The Wise One

𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: The Wise One 📚
𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: K.T. Anglehart ✍️
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🚀 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰:
“The Wise One” is a captivating young adult urban fantasy novel by K.T. Anglehart. The story centers around McKenna O’Dwyer. Seán, an Irish artist who moved to Massachusetts in his twenties was her biological father. Seán fell in love with his immigration lawyer, Andre, and together they decided to have a child through surrogacy—leading to McKenna’s birth. This was the story Mckenna was told until now.

Since childhood, McKenna has been haunted by unsettling nightmares, including a recent one in which she is burned alive. As she begins to feel increasingly out of place, Seán reveals the truth about her birth mother, Abigail, and the mysterious letter she left behind. McKenna learns that Abigail was a mystic, and had asked that her daughter be named “Wise One McKenna.”

Meanwhile, a powerful High Priestess has long been searching for the elusive Wise One. However, Abigail had cast a protective spell over her daughter—making McKenna undetectable to all but Wise One. Now, as McKenna sets out on a journey to find her mother, the question remains: what truths—and dangers—await her?

This is an enchanting tale filled with memorable characters and a richly imagined world. K.T. Anglehart’s writing is engaging, and her creativity shines through every page. The cover art is beautiful, and the plot moves at a thrilling pace. I’m excited to read the next installment in this series!

𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 5/5

★ Book Is Available On Amazon