Linda McCarter Bridge - Cats: Little Tigers in Your House

32. Cats: Little Tigers in Your House by Linda McCarter Bridge (1974)

The National Geographic Society’s Books For Young Explorers Series Book 12

Length: 32 pages 

Genre: Non-Fiction

Started/Finished: 16 September 2017

Where did it come from? From Paperback Swap

How long has it been on my TBR pile? Since 14 September 2017

Why do I have it? I like non-fiction and Linda McCarter Bridge is a new author for me.

This short nonfiction book is all about the life of a mother cat named Fezziwig and her two newborn kittens, Toddly and Paddy Paws. The story actually follows the kittens’ life from newly born to two months old, using photographs to chart their growth and their interaction with the world around them. From Toddly’s and Paddy Paws’ first grooming session with their Mom to meeting several unique family members and making friends; from playing with each other to meeting their new humans: the two youngsters, Sam and Dana.

I think that this particular book would certainly be appropriate reading for young children who are just learning about how to care for animals. Although I didn’t really learn much more than I already knew about cats, I still enjoyed reading the cute story and looking at the photographs. I would give this book an A!

A! - (90-95%)

May you read well and often

Connie Corcoran Wilson - Hellfire and Damnation

31. Hellfire and Damnation by Connie Corcoran Wilson (2011)
The Hellfire and Damnation Series Book 1
Length: 124 pages
Genre: Horror
Started: 6 September 2017
Finished: 14 September 2017
Where did it come from? From Amazon
How long has it been on my TBR pile? Since 26 December 2012
Why do I have it? I like Connie Corcoran Wilson as an author and have read and enjoyed several books by this author in the past.

Hellfire and Damnation is Connie Corcoran Wilson's first book of short stories that she published in 2011. This book features an intimate tour of Dante's 'Nine Circles of Hell' from his Inferno. It also features fifteen original short stories: from the convicted murderer James 'Big Jim' Bingham trying to reconnect with his estranged son before his death sentence is carried out in 'Hotter Than Hell' to the treacherous betrayal between two best friends that leads to murder in 'An American Girl'. Each story highlights its particular Circle in a novel way, but is partially based on fact as explained by the author at the end.

I really enjoyed this book - it was suitably horrific for me. Each story is well-crafted and believable, and I found myself very satisfied with each story's pacing. I give Hellfire and Damnation an A! and I look forward to reading more books by Connie Corcoran Wilson in the very near future!

A! - (90-95%) 

May you read well and often

Vic Connor - Diary of Anna the Girl Witch: Foundling Witch

28. Diary of Anna the Girl Witch: Foundling Witch by Vic Connor (2016)

The Diary of Anna the Girl Witch Series Book 1

Length: 284 pages

Genre: Fantasy

Started: 19 July 2017

Finished: 28 July 2017

Where did it come from? From Hidden Gems Ebooks
How long has it been on my TBR pile? Since 19 July 2017
Why do I have it? I like fantasy and Vic Connor is a new author for me.

Anna Sophia Medvedeva has always known that she was different from everyone else. She has no idea how she knows this about herself, she only has the distinct impression that her feeling will come to fruition very soon. Although she doesn't know that much about her past, she still finds immense comfort in hearing the fairytale that her beloved uncle tells whenever he comes to visit. All in all, the eve of her thirteenth birthday should herald an extraordinary year to come; at least in Anna Sophia's opinion.

In the Swiss orphanage where she has spent most of her childhood, Anna has often wondered about her past. She never knew her parents, and she isn't even entirely sure of where she comes from. So much of her past still remains a mystery to her, yet Anna Sophia has always believed that there was a certain element of truth to her Uncle Misha's extraordinary story: that a shining woman had once led him to discover her somewhere in the Russian wilderness; as a newborn baby nestled among a litter of bear cubs. The story certainly seems fantastic, but Anna Sophia has always held on to the secret hope that the shining apparition was actually her mother's loving spirit, making sure that her daughter was found safe and sound.

To be perfectly honest, Anna Sophia has already begun to notice some very strange and disturbing things about herself. When she was little, Anna used to imagine what it would be like to have superpowers; but she was only playing a game to pass the time. She knows that whatever is happening to her now isn't part of any game - and she is getting scared. Suddenly, she's able to see things that shouldn't be there; she can do things that nobody else can do. So far, she has managed to keep her strange new abilities to herself, but she isn't sure how much longer she can do that - after all, she has some pretty frightening powers.

It's only when she receives a letter from her mother - someone who she will never meet - that Anna finally begins to learn some of the truth about her past. She is absolutely thrilled to have any sense of connection to her parents, and to have at least some of the information that she has craved for so long. However, just what should she do with the knowledge that she is actually an honest-to-goodness witch...and that each time she uses her new powers, she destroys a tiny piece of her soul? She doesn't quite know what to do next, but she is excited to begin uncovering the potential in her future.

As Anna continues to learn more about her secret abilities, she suspects that her affluent neighbors have a sinister agenda of their own: a plot to harm Anna and her friends. Can Anna Sophia possibly use her newfound supernatural powers to put a stop to their devious plans? Is there a way for her to fight them, without endangering her own soul? And maybe, just maybe, is her own secret tied into theirs?

First of all, let me say that I wasn't expecting my reading pace to be quite as slow as it turned out to be; although, having said that, I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book. I was caught up in the story by the first page, and thought it was very well-developed. I certainly appreciated that the plot was as dark as it was, although there were also a surprising number of light moments as well. There were elements of fantasy interwoven with the reality of the story, and I would give this book a definite A!

A! - (90-95%)

May you read well and often

Christine Nolfi - The Comfort of Secrets

26. The Comfort of Secrets by Christine Nolfi (2017)

The Sweet Lake Series Book 2

Length: 318 pages

Genre: Contemporary Romance 

Started: 16 June 2017

Finished: 30 June 2017

Where did it come from? Many thanks to Christine Nolfi for sending me a copy of this book to read from Netgalley.

How long has it been on my TBR pile? Since 29 April 2017

Why do I have it? I like contemporary romance and have read and enjoyed several books by this author in the past.

Like the populations of so many other small towns across the country, the residents of Sweet Lake, Ohio, pride themselves on knowing everything about their neighbors' business. Sometimes they even know more about their neighbors business than their neighbors do. However, the town of Sweet Lake certainly lives up to its name - it's a close-knit, caring community that takes care of its own. Such is the case with Catalina Mendoza.

Cat Mendoza is the youngest daughter of the Mendoza family; a spirited young woman who has seen her fair share of struggles in life. She has lived in the tiny town of Sweet Lake for her entire life and can't honestly imagine herself living anywhere else. Her mother, Sylvia is a founding member of the eccentric Sweet Lake Sirens and so Cat is generally considered to be an honorary member as well. As a matter of fact, she loves the Sirens as much as the members of her own family.

After spending years following her impulsive nature both in life and in business, Cat must now convince the residents of Sweet Lake that she has learned her lesson. With the shadow of a business failure hanging over her head - as well as several failed relationships behind her - she is finally ready to turn things around. She is determined to prove to everyone that she is a capable person; able to take her responsibilities seriously. And she hopes to make her family proud of her again.

As the recently hired events director of the newly refurbished Wayfair Inn, Cat is truly feeling the pressure of being given this second chance. She certainly doesn't want to disappoint anybody, even though she knows that she has the support of her best friends Linnie and Jada. However, it seems as if everyone else - from her overprotective mother to the well-meaning Sweet Lake Sirens - are all eager to offer her advice from their various areas of 'corporate expertise'. While she sincerely appreciates their input and suggestions, Cat can't help but feel slightly overwhelmed by the Sirens' seemingly unquenchable eagerness.

Although she always tries her best to be considerate of their feelings, Cat freely admits to herself that the Sirens can occasionally try her patience. From presenting her with a calendar of hypothetical community events hosted by the Sweet Lake Sirens to offering quiet critiques of her apparently too-tight clothing, Cat is painfully aware of the number of times that she has had to bite her tongue to keep herself calm. As a matter of fact, she doesn't even want to mention some of the Sirens more outlandish ideas to their newly-contracted advertising agency. After all Miri is an old friend of hers, and she's doing Cat a favor by taking the Wayfair Inn on as a new client with her agency; so, Cat's hoping to keep the 'Sweet Lake Sirens Motivational Speaking Tour' on the back burner...way, way back on the back burner!

However, the Sirens can't help but chime in with advice about Cat's dormant love life, her unique fashion choices, and her undeniable attraction to Ryan D'Angelo - the charming advertising executive hired to promote the inn. Although her confidence is shaken by his arrival, Cat knows that she should keep Ryan at a distance. She wants to be taken seriously and needs to remain professional in all her dealings with him. Yet the closer they get to each other, the more Cat is drawn to the heartbreak that Ryan tries to hide.

Cat's heart goes out to him for all the pain he has gone through in his past, but her mind is troubled by so many unanswered questions. Could discovering Ryan's deepest secrets actually endanger everything and everyone that she holds dear? She has so many dreams that she wants to achieve in life, does she stand to lose much more than just her heart - or will she gain something to cherish forever?

I have to say that once again, Ms. Nolfi has written a wonderful book. In my opinion, the story was fast-paced and well-developed. I appreciated that while this was the second book in the series, both stories were actually easily differentiated from each other. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book and would definitely give it a strong A! I look forward to reading more from this author in the future.

A! - (90-95%)

May you read well and often

Holly Beth Walker - Meg and the Mystery in Williamsburg

25. Meg and the Mystery in Williamsburg by Holly Beth Walker (1972)
The Meg Duncan Mysteries Series Book 6
Length: 140 pages
Genre: Contemporary Mystery
Started: 29 May 2017
Finished: 14 June 2017
Where did it come from? This was a birthday present given to me by a friend when I was twelve years old.
How long has it been on my TBR pile? Since 1 June 1990
Why do I have it? I like contemporary mysteries and Holly Beth Walker is a new author for me.

The Meg Duncan Mysteries - also occasionally known as The Meg Mysteries Series - is a series of six juvenile mysteries originally published between 1967 and 1972. In each book, Margaret Ashley Duncan - a girl of indeterminate age - solves mysteries with her best friend Kerry Carmody. Four of the books are set in Meg and Kerry's hometown of Hidden Springs, Virginia; while the last two take place when Meg and Kerry travel with Meg's uncle Hal. The authorship of the series is credited to Holly Beth Walker - which is actually a pseudonym for multiple authors.

In this last book of the series, Meg and Kerry travel with Hal Ashley to Williamsburg. As soon as the girls arrive, they eagerly sign on to become junior hostesses for a Colonial Era toy exhibition. The curator of the exhibit was actually the childhood best friend of Meg's mother and is absolutely delighted to have both girls involved in her showcase.

In between carrying out their duties for the toy exhibition, Meg and Kerry also stumble upon a mystery that involves the disappearance of two wooden dolls from one of the toy collections being showcased in the exhibit. The collection belongs to the matriarch of the town, and a member of one of the most prominent families in Williamsburg - the Collins family. The elderly Mariah Collins is extremely proud of her collection and is thrilled to donate it to the exhibition.

However, she is also worried that someone is out to steal two of the most precious items in her collection - Charity and Mercy; also known as the 'George Washington Dolls.' Miss Mariah soon enlists Meg and Kerry's help in protecting the rest of her collection. She also wants to know if the amateur detectives can solve the mystery behind why her most favorite doll - an antique French doll named Paris - hasn't been able to talk since Miss Mariah was a child.

I must say that I really enjoyed reading this book. I was slightly surprised at how intricate the mystery actually was given the reading level. In my opinion, while the story was somewhat dated, I would still give it an A! I'm definitely going to be keeping this book on my childhood favorites shelf.

A! - (90-95%)

May you read well and often

M. K. Theodoratus - Doom Comes For a Sold Soul: A Tale of Andor

24. Doom Comes For a Sold Soul: A Tale of Andor by M. K. Theodoratus (2015)

The Tales From the World of Andor Series Book 3

Length: 15 pages 

Genre: Short Story 

Started/Finished: 11 June 2017

Where did it come from? From Amazon

How long has it been on my TBR pile? Since 19 May 2017
Why do I have it? I like short stories and have read and enjoyed several books by this author in the past.

The residents of the world of Andor live in a parallel realm very much like our own. However, the major difference between our world and that of Andor - is that the curtain between the physical world and the supernatural one is much thinner than we would think. As a result of this, the residents of Andor are quicker than most people to ascribe a supernatural or magical motive to everything that happens.

Grant Highgrim is a struggling reporter looking for his next story - not necessarily a Pulitzer Prize winner, although that would certainly be terrific - he's just searching for the type of story which will give him a chance to pay his rent on time and occasionally eat a proper meal. He definitely doesn't expect to stumble upon the type of career-making story that his adsheet publisher dared him to try and get. According to the publisher, Dr. Henry Allsdipp is a Nobel Prize winner in Economics; he is also the oldest man alive and a confirmed recluse who has steadfastly and consistently refused all previous attempts to interview him. So, Grant's chance to reclaim his faltering dignity is on the line.

Only this assignment won't be quite as simple as just interviewing some cranky old man for his secrets to living a long life. Unfortunately, Grant has arrived at the nursing home on a particularly difficult day: the day when a demonic horde of flame-eyed beetles has come to claim the feisty doctor's soul. Suddenly, finding out the secret to Dr. Allsdipp's longevity takes a backseat to Grant's lifelong phobia of beetles and other creepy crawlies. Now the down-on-his-luck reporter must overcome his overwhelming revulsion to insects in order to conquer this malevolent infestation - and not only save his interviewee, but also his career, and their lives.

I must say that I really enjoyed reading this book. I was definitely expecting the story to involve the collection of souls in some way, I just wasn't sure how that soul would actually be taken. Having said that, the form that the demons took seemed plausible for the storyline. I would give this book an A!

A! - (90-95%)

May you read well and often

M. K. Theodoratus - Noticing Jamilla: A Tale of Andor

23. Noticing Jamilla: A Tale of Andor by M. K. Theodoratus (2014)

The Tales From the World of Andor Series Book 2

Length: 18 pages 

Genre: Short Story

Started/Finished: 8 June 2017

Where did it come from? From Amazon 

How long has it been on my TBR pile? Since 19 May 2017

Why do I have it? I like short stories and have read and enjoyed several books by this author in the past.

The residents of the world of Andor live in a parallel realm very much like our own. However, the major difference between our world and that of Andor - is that the curtain between the physical world and the supernatural one is much thinner than we would think. As a result of this, the residents of Andor are quicker than most people to ascribe a supernatural or magical motive to everything that happens.

Cassy Mae has always known that her mother had left her hometown of Docket's Diggings right after graduation. As a matter of fact, her mother had preferred to live all the way across the country in the bustling city of Santo Francisco - with its high crime rate and cheap motels - rather than live in her hometown. Ma may not have ever wanted to return, but Cassy Mae really has no say in the matter. After her mother's death, she finds herself being shuttled back to Docket's Diggings and living with her elderly GrammyJo - doing her best to get through her last year of high school, and occasionally helping out at her grandmother's beauty salon.

Life may not have worked out exactly how she may have wanted it to, but that was just how it happened. Living with her mother may not have been an absolutely ideal situation either, but that really didn't matter - Cassy Mae was strong and fully capable of taking care of herself. Her mother had run away to escape from GrammyJo's magical juju, and so Cassy Mae is determined to have nothing to do with that sort of thing, herself. She had already learned from an early age that telling anyone - particularly her mother - that she could 'see colors' around people only led to trouble.

So, Cassy Mae has perfected her ability to hide in plain sight; keeping her talent to herself and trying not to become too much of a target to her classmates. So far she has managed to stay somewhat under the radar while at school, but staying clear of GrammyJo's various magical workings is proving to be slightly more difficult. She just finds the entire situation to be seriously disturbing, so she does her best to ignore it. However, the sudden arrival of 'The Markem' and her family threatens Cassy Mae's deepest-held secret - and she soon discovers that there is much more to fear in life than her GrammyJo's amulets and incantations.

Lydia Markem - a mysteriously wealthy transplant from Santo Francisco - seems to thrive on the townspeople's admiration of her and her family. It's true that the locals have never seen anyone quite like The Markem before, so they are dutifully awed by such affluence. However, her recent arrival has also brought with it a strange malaise that follows The Markem everywhere she goes. Cassy Mae can't decide if her GrammyJo's suspicions are influencing her own attitude, but she can't see anything around the woman: no colors, no darkness, no dullness - just...nothing!

As if that isn't alarming enough, The Markem's niece has also come to town. Although, she's much nicer than the rest of her family. Jamilla Markem seems charming, innocuous, and totally non-threatening - actually, she's completely different from her aunt in Cassy Mae's personal estimation. Surely GrammyJo is mistaken, Jamilla couldn't possibly hurt anyone.

However, Jamilla's strange fascination with her new friend abruptly takes a much darker turn. She insists on making Cassy Mae her special companion, and latches herself on to the girl like a shadow. Soon Cassy Mae finds herself caught between her grandmother's spells and the obsessive attentions of a stalker.

I must say that I really enjoyed reading this particular book. Although at eighteen pages long, it's more of a short story, I suppose. Having said that, I still found the story to be intriguing and well-developed for its length. I would give this book a definite A!

A! - (90-95%)

May you read well and often

Duncan Whitehead - The Best Man: A Dark Comedy

22. The Best Man: A Dark Comedy by Duncan Whitehead (2015)
Length: 35 pages
Genre: Short Story
Started: 5 June 2017
Finished: 6 June 2017
Where did it come from? Many thanks to Duncan Whitehead as I downloaded a copy of this book for free from his website.
How long has it been on my TBR pile? Since 25 April 2017
Why do I have it? I like short stories and have read and enjoyed several books by this author in the past.

Brad Chance is quite the catch, at least according to his sister Claire. Not only is he handsome, fit, charming, and hilariously funny; but he is also a plastic surgeon who specializes in the treatment of children with facial deformities. However, although Brad is a successful doctor, a philanthropist, and an all-around nice guy; he still hasn't found 'the one'. He's looking for the same type of love that his sister so obviously shares with her husband...and apparently not having much luck in finding it.

That is until he meets someone while escorting his ten-year-old nephew and two of the boy's young friends to a Broadway show. Jenny Blythe seems like she is the perfect woman for Brad, and he can't help but hope that he will get the chance to see her again sometime soon. Suddenly, his life seems to be looking up for Brad, and he couldn't possibly be any happier. Until a twist of fate changes everything, and Brad finds himself living every man's worst nightmare.

After returning from completing some charity work abroad, Brad is shocked to meet up with his college roommate and best friend. Mike Bayless may well be a playboy, a flagrant womanizer, and a staunch commitment-phobe; but he also has a very important question to ask Brad when he finally returns home. He really needs a best man, and Brad seems like the obvious choice for the position. However, when Brad knows everything about Mike - from his darkest secrets to his strangest foibles - at the end of the day, who will really be the best man?

With a plot twist so shocking that it will leave readers speechless - and a sucker punch ending that will ultimately set their minds reeling - Mr. Whitehead once again delivers the perfect balance of dark humor, irony and tragedy.

I must say that I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book. I had no inkling how the story would develop and could not help but feel slightly sorry for the characters. I look forward to reading more from this author in the future and I would give this book an A!

A! - (90-95%)

May you read well and often

Duncan Whitehead - You Say Tomato, I Say Tomato, She Says Murder: A Short But Sweet Mystery

21. You Say Tomato, I Say Tomato, She Says Murder: A Short But Sweet Mystery by Duncan Whitehead (2015)
Length: 16 pages
Genre: Short Story
Started/Finished: 3 June 2017
Where did it come from? Many thanks to Duncan Whitehead as I downloaded a copy of this book for free from his website.
How long has it been on my TBR pile? Since 25 April 2017
Why do I have it? I like short stories and have read and enjoyed several books by this author in the past.

Dotty Wedgewood and Winnie Aiton have been close friends for years. They both have so much in common and enjoy each other's company immensely. When a shared love of gardening leads both women to enter the same competition, just how far will either of them go to win First Place? This mystery explores just how far someone can be pushed until they reach their breaking point.

Actually, I thoroughly enjoyed reading this story. It was an easy read for me and I must say that I wasn't really expecting the plot twist. I give this book a very strong A!

A! - (90-95%)

May you read well and often

M. K. Theodoratus - Hear That Damn Owl?: A Tale of Andor

19. Hear That Damn Owl?: A Tale of Andor by M. K. Theodoratus (2014)
The Tales From the World of Andor Series Book 7
Length: 12 pages
Genre: Short Story
Started/Finished: 9 May 2017
Where did it come from? From Amazon
How long has it been on my TBR pile? Since 3 April 2015
Why do I have it? I like short stories and have read and enjoyed several books by this author in the past.

The residents of the world of Andor live in a parallel realm very much like our own. However, the major difference between our world and that of Andor - is that the curtain between the physical world and the supernatural one is much thinner than we would think. As a result of this, the residents of Andor are quicker than most people to ascribe a supernatural or magical motive to everything that happens.

Crayton is already in a foul mood as he travels along the back roads that lead to his hometown. His idiotic brother is lying comatose in the hospital after an horrendous car accident, and according to their mother the gravely injured man is apparently on his deathbed. Crayton is livid with this particular situation. After all, he's fairly certain that his brother was drunk at the time of his accident; so even if the fool is anywhere close to meeting his maker, he only has himself to blame - not Crayton.

Yet thanks to his meddlesome mother, Crayton is currently driving back to be by his brother's bedside. He is beyond furious with himself for his silent acquiescence to her demands, because he's answering the urgent maternal summons to see his brother under threat of immediate disinheritance. He's a grown man for heaven's sake; with a fast-paced career and his own life to live!

Actually to be perfectly honest, Crayton's not entirely sure why he came back here at all. He doesn't have the time to travel anywhere, let alone the patience to allow himself to be guilted into seeing his annoying family. In his mind, Crayton may need to play his role as a dutiful son and concerned brother for a while; but that certainly doesn't mean that he has to like it!

His dark mood plummets even further as he pulls into an old service station on the other side of the mountain - directly across from his home. Crayton immediately regrets having to stop there; even if it's just to get gas and some refreshments. From the lack of any modern amenities, to the incredibly superstitious locals; everything about the place just screams: 'Welcome to the Backend of Nowhere!'

To make matters even worse, Crayton begins to see a huge owl flying around the gas station; repeatedly divebombing vehicles around the parking area. While it is stunning to see such a massive creature flying around during daylight hours; Crayton finds the owl's constant screeching particularly unnerving. An elderly man - a down-on-his-luck decrepit storyteller - warns Crayton against crossing such an owl. Apparently, he knows from firsthand experience what a disgruntled owl is actually capable of doing; he has been the target of his own peculiar campaign of vengeance for most of his life.

However, as Crayton watches the giant bird carry out its deliberate campaign of harassment - taking an almost fiendish delight in targeting his own automobile; he can't help but become more and more enraged by the situation. When it seems as if he can no longer stand the creature's very presence, he takes matters into his own hands and does something incredibly drastic. After his initial actions have a small measure of success, Crayton is thoroughly relieved to see the last of the vengeful owl. He silently congratulates himself for handling the situation and dealing with the flying pest.

Surely, the folktales shouldn't be taken so seriously. After all, no one really believes them; they're only supposed to provide a dash of local flavor. However when strange things begin happening, Crayton can only hope that his imagination is playing tricks on him. Because if it isn't - and the folklore is actually true - Crayton isn't absolutely sure if he can escape the wrath of such a supremely determined owl.

Actually, I thoroughly enjoyed reading this story. It was a fast read, and I couldn't help but feel like the main character deserved to have his superiority complex knocked around a little bit. I look forward to reading more from this author in the future. I give this book an A!

A! - (90-95%)

May you read well and often

M. K. Theodoratus - Night For the Gargoyles

18. Night For the Gargoyles by M. K. Theodoratus (2010) (Revised Author's Editions 2011 and 2013)

The Tales From the World of Andor Series Book 1

Length: 12 pages

Genre: Short Story

Started: 6 May 2017

Finished: 7 May 2017

Where did it come from? From Amazon

How long has it been on my TBR pile? Since 3 April 2015

Why do I have it? I like short stories and have read and enjoyed The Ghostcrow: A Tale of Andor by this author in the past.

The residents of the world of Andor live in a parallel realm very much like our own. However, the major difference between our world and that of Andor - is that the curtain between the physical world and the supernatural one is much thinner than we would think. As a result of this, the residents of Andor are quicker than most people to ascribe a supernatural or magical motive to everything that happens.

In the city of Trebridge, St. Edmund's Church has been sheltering parishioners for as long as most people can remember. The church has also provided a daylight sanctuary for the embattled guardians of the boundaries between the realms. Within the hallowed foundations of this church, humans have found all manner of peace, solace, and sanctuary - yet they have absolutely no idea of the true purpose of St. Edmund's.

Only the four gargoyles who guard the portal to the demonic realm of Gehennathh - Gillen, his scheming second-in-command Orvil, Treasa, and Frens - realize that St. Edmund's has provided so much more than just spiritual support to troubled souls through the years. The church has also been something of a sacred barrier against the malevolent forces that have always sought to escape from Gehennethh. This is why Gillen is so disturbed to learn of the imminent demolition of this sacred ground.

Demons and imps have attempted to prey upon the citizens of Trebridge for centuries, yet the foundations of St. Edmund's have provided divine protection against such demonic intrusion for generations. Gillen is loathe to acknowledge that he and his three fellow gargoyles are severely outnumbered; however this is exactly the type of situation in which they will soon find themselves. These humans just don't realize how much danger they will create for themselves if they demolish St. Edmund's to make way for a series of highrise condominiums.

So Gillen turns to his angelic commanders for guidance. Just as the angels continue to counsel the gargoyle to have patience with Orvil, they have promised to send reinforcements to guard against the subtle disintegration of the spiritual barrier over the portal leading to Gehennathh. While Gillen certainly welcomes his commanders' advice, the leading gargoyle still remains highly suspicious of Orvil's true loyalties. He needs to know that he can trust his fellow gargoyle to have his back during this coming battle.

With malevolent forces set to overwhelm Trebridge much sooner than anticipated, Gillen remains hopeful that the promised reinforcements will arrive as soon as possible. However, will that be soon enough to be of any help? Only Heaven knows...

Despite having this book on my TBR pile for just over two years, I have only just managed to read it now. I was completely drawn into the story immediately and found myself connecting with many of the characters. The author's note at the end of the story says that this is actually a vignette from a full-length novel: There be Demons.

Although the book seems to have been stalled in its publication, I would certainly have loved to read a full-length novel by this author. I definitely look forward to reading more from this author in the future. I would give this story a very strong A!

A! - (90-95%)

May you read well and often

Duncan Whitehead - Home For the Weekend: A Short Psychological Thriller

16. Home For the Weekend: A Short Psychological Thriller by Duncan Whitehead (2015)

Length: 13 pages

Genre: Short Story
Started/Finished: 29 April 2017

Where did it come from? Many thanks to Duncan Whitehead as I downloaded a copy of this book for free from his website.

How long has it been on my TBR pile? Since 25 April 2017

Why do I have it? I like short stories and have read and enjoyed several books by this author in the past.

Ashley Banks has been blissfully married to her college sweetheart Tom for the past five years and they have two beautiful boys together - four-year-old Lou and eight-month-old Evan. Although she generally loves her work as an attorney, having to occasionally work such long hours can be terribly annoying. Especially when she just wants to get home to her family at a reasonable time for the weekend. 

Such is Ashley's predicament on this particular weekend. A colleague has just emailed her a copy of a contract for one of the firm's more influential clients and has requested that she read it over. Ashley is frustrated of course, but she reluctantly stays late anyway, and then sends them her thoughts and impressions of the contract. 

Ashley may be annoyed by her current situation, but she also cannot help but worry about when she will be able to go home and see her family. According to local law enforcement, there is a serial killer on the loose who has apparently abducted and murdered several women. While it seems as if their perpetrator primarily targets women who are driving at night - and presumably heading home - the police warn that people still must remain alert at all times.

However, Ashley knows that her husband and children are waiting for her. So she must find a way to quell the twinges of fear fluttering through her heart and drive home to see her family. All she wants is to be home with them for the weekend.

According to the author's note, the idea for this particular story came from Mr. Whitehead's journey along several unfamiliar roads. He was driving alone at night, when a "what if" scenario suddenly popped into his mind. The possible multiple points-of-view add some extraordinary twists to the plot.

To be perfectly honest, I really enjoyed reading this story; it only took me about ten minutes to read. It did take me several seconds to follow the switching points-of-view, but once I did I became intrigued by the story. I would give this book an A!

A! - (90-95%)

May you read well and often

Duncan Whitehead - The Gordonston Ladies Dog Walking Club

14. The Gordonston Ladies Dog Walking Club by Duncan Whitehead (2012)
The Gordonston Ladies Dog Walking Club Series Book 1

Length: 189 pages

Genre: Contemporary Mystery 

Started: 14 April 2017

Finished: 25 April 2017

Where did it come from? Many thanks to Duncan Whitehead for sending me a copy of this book to read.

How long has it been on my TBR pile? Since 10 May 2013

Why do I have it? I like contemporary mysteries and have read and enjoyed An Actor's Life: A Short Story by this author in the past.

Something just doesn't seem right in beautiful Gordonston. It may not be anything particularly noticeable, but something is most definitely peculiar about this charming little community in Savannah. Somewhere beneath the leafy shade of its trees and behind the friendly faces of its residents, not everything is as it appears. Something dark and destructive lurks behind the genteel southern facade.

The friends and fellow members of her afternoon cocktail club gather to reminisce and mourn the passing of Thelma Miller, but not everything is as it seems. As her three remaining friends gather together to reminisce about their memories of Thelma, to walk their dogs, and to gossip about their neighbors no one realizes just how little they actually know about each other. Apparently, it would seem that everyone who is anyone in Gordonston has something to hide. And, as such an intertwined web of lies and deceits insinuates itself into the middle class neighborhood, is anyone really who they seem to be?

When Thelma's closest friends begin vying for the attentions of her widower - local alderman and mayoral candidate, Elliott Miller - petty jealousies surface and a longstanding friendship begins to fray. A kindly elderly lady with an infamous uncle hides a dark secret, and plots revenge for a perceived wrong that was perpetrated against her family over thirty years before. A formerly illustrious children's author with secrets of his own is also haunted by memories of his past. And Kelly Hudd, a vivacious, bubbly newlywed - and aspiring model - has just won herself an all-expense paid trip to the destination of a lifetime.

An extraordinary cast of characters features strongly in this story of intrigue, deception and revenge; and some very intriguing questions come to mind. Questions such as: what exactly does a recently retired accountant have to keep from his lovely new bride? And just why would Carla Zipp - a former showgirl from Las Vegas and an attractive widow of only sixty-two - suddenly feel the need for plastic surgery? However, as long-buried secrets are unearthed and the lessons learned from history - both deeply-rooted and more recent - disintegrate and disappear from the collective psyche; a murderer stalks his next victim.

An enigmatic European gentleman befriends a young businessman in South America; a distinguished Italian count wanders the streets of Paris; and a charismatic, kind-hearted nephew - an altruistically-minded charity organizer based in India - returns to Savannah for a brief visit. As a mysterious organization with tenuous links to organized crime attempts to extend its influence around the globe; a handsome fire fighter who can do no wrong and a trio of widows with deeply hidden agendas round out this complex cast. Amid the thrilling twists and turns of a story that will lead to a stunning sucker punch of an ending, the Gordonston Ladies Dog Walking Club’s primary concern still remains the aesthetics of their neighborhood park - and locating the culprit who refuses to 'scoop' after his dog walking sessions in their treasured park.

I must say that it took me quite some time to finally read this book. It's been on my TBR pile for almost four years and I have only just gotten the chance to read it. To be perfectly honest, I don't know why I waited so long to read the book; I found that the story was very interesting and fast-paced.

I was caught up with the mystery right away and avidly wanted to see what would happen next. I'm curious to find out how the series will develop and give this book a solid A! In my opinion, this was an intriguing start to Mr. Whitehead's series, and I look forward to reading more from this author in the future.

A! - (90-95%)

May you read well and often

Therese Gilardi - Narvla's Celtic New Year

12. Narvla's Celtic New Year by Therese Gilardi (2014)
Length: 275 pages
Genre: Contemporary Fiction
Started: 10 March 2017
Finished: 30 March 2017
Where did it come from? Many thanks to Therese Gilardi for sending me a copy of this book to read from Netgalley, although she also sent me a physical copy of this book to read as well.
How long has it been on my TBR pile? Since 10 February 2015 as an ebook; Since 10 May 2015 as a physical book.
Why do I have it? I like contemporary fiction and have read and enjoyed Matching Wits With Venus by this author in the past.

Narvla believes that she has everything going for her back home in Connecticut. Her life has always been as precisely choreographed as one of the routines that has made her a national step-dancing champion. Actually, Narvla's life is as close to perfection as it gets; and she wouldn't have it any other way. She has a loyal best friend named Gabby, a devoted boyfriend named Derek, and a definite lock on admission to her dream college - the University of Notre Dame.

Everything is perfect - until her mother is named United States Ambassador to Ireland, and then Narvla's life slowly begins to unravel. First her father has to stay in Connecticut for work, so just she and her mother move to Dublin. Then she receives a disturbing picture of Derek and Gabby; from someone who wants to remain anonymous. Next she struggles to qualify for the Irish elite step-dancing squad, and her grades plummet.

Narvla isn't quite sure if her life could possibly get much worse than it has already; and then she meets Colin McPherson. Known on the local music scene as Dublin Boy, he presents perhaps the biggest obstacle in Narvla's young life. While Colin loves to play the guitar, he disdains academics and has an obvious distrust of Americans - a feeling that borders on downright animosity. So, Narvla is utterly devastated when she is unexpectedly paired with Dublin Boy for the most important semester of her life.

Although she is genuinely upset with this particular situation, she knows that she can't really do anything much to change it. However, Narvla is truly alarmed by her burgeoning attraction to Dublin Boy. In reality after all, Dublin Boy is most definitely not her type: he has a reputation for being a 'lady's man'; he obviously has no desire to focus on his studies; and of course, there is his deep resentment of Americans. Yet Narvla can't seem to help her growing feelings for him...

So as the Celtic New Year unfolds for her, Narvla slowly begins to discover the true charm of embracing the unexpected. She will come to understand that not everything in life can be organized quite so perfectly as one of her dance routines. Soon she will learn that not everything in life should go as planned, and that she can abandon her lifelong need for control in every single aspect of her future.

This book has actually been on my TBR pile for a little over two years and I have just gotten around to reading it. I must say that I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book. In my opinion, this was a fast-paced and intriguing story. I have always enjoyed reading books about Ireland and Irish culture and I look forward to reading more from this author in the future. I would give the book a definite A!

A! - (90-95%)

May you read well and often

Tia Nevitt - The Magic Mirror and the Seventh Dwarf

11. The Magic Mirror and the Seventh Dwarf by Tia Nevitt (2013)
The Accidental Enchantments Series Book 2

Length: 114 pages 

Genre: Short Story 

Started: 12 March 2017

Finished: 15 March 2017

Where did it come from? From Apple I-Books 

How long has it been on my TBR pile? Since 19 September 2016

Why do I have it? I like short stories and have read and enjoyed several books by this author in the past.

Prince Richard of Schwarzberg is a cursed man. Having initially accepted willing guardianship of the magic mirror that has been in his family for generations, Richard soon finds himself enslaved to both the mirror and to the whims of the cunning enchantress queen of Weissland. Twice a day for almost a decade - whenever the Lady Sybelle calls upon the spirit of the mirror - Richard is compelled to answer her three questions truthfully. Determined to discover a way to free himself from the Lady Sybelle's thrall - and desperate to protect other innocents from her evil sorcery - Richard leaves his father's realm and soon becomes 'The Lost Prince of Schwarzberg'.

All her life Gretchen has been teased for being small. Although she has learned to ignore the various cruelties of the townspeople - the taunts and comments, the pointing and outright stares - she secretly wishes that she could find a place to call her own. When she hears a minstrel's tale of a hidden farm populated by little people such as herself, Gretchen is cautiously optimistic. Could there possibly be a place out in the world where she would be seen as a person and not just as an oddity?

Determined to find this wonderful place, Gretchen sets out on her journey - and is eventually welcomed into their home by the mostly male inhabitants. The Klein family: Frau Marta, her husband Herr Dieter, and their sixteen-year-old son; and their four farmhands: Gunther, Klaus, Rudolph and Lars all act most appropriately towards Gretchen and are happy to meet her. Lars in particular woos her with his gentle and kindhearted nature and his quiet strength.

Delighted to have finally found acceptance among people who look like her, Gretchen soon settles into a peaceful routine at the farm. However, danger looms on the horizon when Gretchen meets a troubled young woman one morning, while on her way to market. After hearing the young lady's desperate story, she offers the runaway princess - Angelika of Weissland - shelter at the Little Farm.

Although Ange is safe for a few weeks, she soon feels compelled to return to her stepmother's castle. Determined to protect her late father's subjects from Lady Sybelle's cruelty, she resolves to provide as much assistance as she can in secret - in the guise of 'The Tattered Princess'. Wandering somewhere nearby, Richard initially finds himself admiring Ange's forthright manner and compassionate nature. However, as his feelings grow stronger, Richard soon finds himself falling in love with the beautiful princess.

When he is eventually compelled to tell the queen that she is no longer the fairest one of the realm, she is enraged by Richard's revelation. She vows to find Princess Angelika and destroy her, as well as anyone who might try to help the young woman. It soon becomes apparent that if either Gretchen or Richard are to have their own happily ever afters, they must team up to break the mirror's spell before the queen kills them all...

I have always enjoyed reading fairytale retellings, and this one was just as entertaining. I was intrigued by the plot of this story and avidly wanted to know how it would develop. I would give this novella a definite A! and look forward to reading more from this author in the future.

A! - (90-95%)

May you read well and often 

Amy Hearst - The Gladiator's Goddess

8. The Gladiator's Goddess by Amy Hearst (2014)

The Gladiators' Gifts Series Book 2

Length: 83 pages

Genre: Short Story
Started: 7 March 2017

Finished: 8 March 2017

Where did it come from? From Apple I-Books

How long has it been on my TBR pile? Since 19 September 2016

Why do I have it? I like short stories and have read and enjoyed The Gladiator's Girl by the same author in the past.

Nardine has been a slave ever since her mother sold her at the age of eleven. Her master runs a school for gladiators in ancient Rome known as a ludus. Although she occasionally serves the master and his family whenever they travel to gladiatorial events; Nardine primarily divides her duties between the kitchens and the infirmary as both a cook and a physician's assistant.

She had always counseled her friend Celeste to be extremely careful about falling in love with a gladiator, as that sort of relationship could only lead to heartbreak in the future. Nardine knows this feeling from personal experience as she has lost her heart exactly twice in her lifetime - first to a gladiator named Matthias, then to another one called Gaius - and she has inevitably lost both men to the horrors of the arena. While losing Matthias was certainly heart-wrenching, Nardine is utterly devastated by the sudden death of Gaius.

Nardine privately believes that she has long been unlucky in love, so she truly cannot fault her mistress Cornelia for believing that she is actually cursed. However, despite suffering through such tremendous grief, Nardine also begins to believe that she has ultimately been blessed as well: she is finally pregnant. Yet a life of bondage is definitely no future for a child, so Nardine resolves that escape is the only viable option, no matter what the punishment will be if she fails.

Fleeing from his sorrowful past, Abedi has long wanted to be a gladiator. Now he is living his dream, and at one of the most prestigious schools in all of Rome. Yet despite relying on his strength, bravery and quickness while fighting in the arena, Abedi also cannot deny that there is always the possibility that he will be injured or worse.

Ultimately, Abedi will be tested to the very limits of his abilities and endurance. However, after meeting the beautiful Nardine working in the infirmary - the answer to his prayers - he will find the challenges that he has faced in the arena are only the beginning. Indeed, it is the promise of finally having a family of his own, an enduring love, and the prospect of freedom that will sustain Abedi throughout his time in the arena.

Actually, this book is quite a bit longer than the first book in the series. Although having said that, I thoroughly enjoyed reading this story as well. As I have said before, I usually enjoy reading anything having to do with ancient Greece and Rome, and it was intriguing to read more stories based in this particular historical period. In my opinion, this was a fast-paced and well-developed story despite its relatively short length and I would certainly give this novella an A!

 A! - (90-95%)

May you read well and often

Mike Hartner - A Quiver of Character

3. A Quiver of Character by Mike Hartner (2016)
The Eternity Series Book 5
Length: 115 pages
Genre: Short Story
Started: 7 January 2017
Finished: 23 January 2017
Where did it come from? Many thanks to Dorothy at Pump up Your Book for sending me a copy of this book to read.
How long has it been on my TBR pile? Since 8 October 2016
Why do I have it? I like short stories and have read and enjoyed several books by this author in the past.

From all four books from The Eternity Series, here are several short stories featuring some of the minor characters who have inspired a certain amount of curiosity about their own stories. From James Stuart's cousin Bart and a particularly overconfident sea captain named Marek in I, Walter; to Crofter Shipping crew member Jose Corazon and Crofter family banker Michael Farnsworth in I, James; to the first female sea captain Mary Crofter Farquharson's four sons Keith, Kyle, Ian and Fergus in I, Mary; and Margret and Aileen - the adopted daughters of Reverend Angus Mackenzie in I, Angus - each of these characters have their own stories to tell beyond the books of The Eternity Series. And here are just a few of them: a baker's dozen of such background stories.

I must say that I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book; it was refreshing to delve back into the world of The Eternity Series. I look forward to reading more from this author in the future and I give this book an A!

A! - (90-95%)

May you read well and often

Mike Hartner - I, Angus

2. I, Angus by Mike Hartner (2016)

The Eternity Series Book 4
Length: 249 pages
Genre: Historical Fiction
Started: 19 December 2016
Finished: 5 January 2017
Where did it come from? Many thanks to Dorothy at Pump up Your Book for sending me a copy of this book to read.

How long has it been on my TBR pile? Since 8 October 2016

Why do I have it? I like historical fiction and have read and enjoyed several books by. this author in the past.

Fourteen-year-old Angus Mackenzie had never really had any great ambition for his life. Growing up during a time when Scotland is being torn apart by dissension and civil strife, Angus is content to live his life quietly - taking care of himself and his family, and protecting them to the best of his ability. However, as war rages around him and he loses those he loves most, Angus grows increasingly more disillusioned by the state of his country. 

As a man of peace Angus has seen his share of death, and he is certain that the North has lost more men to the violence of war than it ever did to the ravages of Nature. Although he wants no part of such violence, it seems as if a peaceful existence and a loving family may not be a part the Grand Plan for Angus. Because the North needs a leader; someone who is able to build communities.

However, Angus Mackenzie must first undergo his own trials by fire. He must be tested, shaped and molded by his adversity. The person who emerges from this particular crucible will ultimately be a much stronger and much wiser man; someone who is held in the highest esteem and much beloved by those who know him. Angus Mackenzie will hit both highs and lows as he travels across the lands of England, Scotland and France, all before he meets the challenge of a new land.

I have to say that I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book. I wasn't quite sure where the story would go from the previous book, as Angus Mackenzie wasn't actually a relative of Mary Crofter. However, I found that this book worked perfectly within the series; the plot was just as intriguing as the previous books and advanced the story along very well. I would give this book an A!

A! - (90-95%)

May you read well and often

Kathryn Meyer Griffith - Christmas Magic 1959: A Short Story From my Childhood

1. Christmas Magic 1959: A Short Story From my Childhood by Kathryn Meyer Griffith (2016)

Length: 19 pages 

Genre: Short Story 

Started: 1 January 2017

Finished: 2 January 2017

Where did it come from? I originally downloaded a copy of this book for free from Smashwords. I downloaded a second copy for free from Amazon.

How long has it been on my TBR pile? Since 4 November 2016 from Smashwords; Since 9 November 2016 from Amazon.

Why do I have it? I like short stories and have read and enjoyed several books by this author in the past.

The Meyer family had gone through its fair share of difficulties - yet even as it struggled to make ends meet - the Meyer children always felt surrounded by the love and admiration of their parents, their grandparents, and their siblings. Although money was tight, the Meyers had never experienced any sort of deprivation or neediness during their childhood. Now Kathryn Meyer Griffith, a prolific author for over forty years, reminisces about one of her most cherished childhood memories.

Christmas had always been a special time for the whole Meyer household. However, it would be the Christmas Season of 1959 that would perhaps provide many of the sweetest memories for the Meyer children. Perhaps no family member felt the Christmas spirit more than nine-year-old Katie Meyer. She loved absolutely everything about the holiday, but that Christmas Season of 1959 seemed even more magical to her because Katie had recently survived a life-threatening medical emergency.

This story is about one of Ms. Griffith's most cherished childhood Christmases; a very special Christmas Eve spent with her brother Jimmy, their other siblings, their mother, father and grandparents. It is a story of family, tradition, and everlasting love. With the recent passing of Ms. Griffith's brother Jim in 2015, she felt compelled to write this short story as a tribute to his memory as well as in honor of her family. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this little vignette, and give it a solid A!

A! - (90-95%)

May you read well and often

Robert Wideman and Cara Lopez Lee - Unexpected Prisoner: Memoir of a Vietnam POW

22. Unexpected Prisoner: Memoir of a Vietnam POW by Robert Wideman and Cara Lopez Lee (2016)

Length: 343 pages 

Genre: Non-Fiction 

Started: 18 November 2016

Finished: 21 December 2016

Where did it come from? Many thanks to Samantha at Roger Charlie for sending me a copy of this book to read.

How long has it been on my TBR pile? Since 25 October 2016

Why do I have it? I like non-fiction and Robert Wideman and Cara Lopez Lee are new authors for me.

Having spent the past three and a half years in the Navy, Lieutenant Robert Wideman was looking forward to returning to America after completing his tour of duty during the Vietnam War. The recent newlywed had big plans and dreams for his future, and was determined to put them into practice as soon as he came back home. With only twenty-seven days left in his tour of duty - on what should have been just another routine bombing run for him - Lieutenant Robert Wideman's plane is shot down and he crashes in a secluded village somewhere in North Vietnam. The date is May 6th, 1967.

His deepest fear is realized when he is captured and held as a Prisoner of War for the next six years. Although Robert endured the sort of treatment that makes people question humanity, physical torture was never his biggest problem. During his six years spent in captivity, Robert experienced first hand the pain that is orchestrated by other people: shocking instances of 'Man's inhumanity to Man', as well as the truthfulness behind Jean-Paul Sartre's words: 'Hell is other people.' 

Unexpected Prisoner by Robert Wideman and Cara Lopez Lee chronicles a POW's struggle with both enemies and comrades alike; his mistreatment by Vietnamese interrogators and his various dealings with American commanders. Robert Wideman's poignant and heartbreaking memoir further chronicles his personal struggle to maintain a firm hold on his dreams for the future in the face of such prolonged trauma. Ultimately, Robert must find a way to survive and to maintain a solid hold on the memories of his past life, his faltering dreams of the future, as well as his own personal sense of himself as a person.

I must admit that while I learned quite a lot about the Vietnam War in school, I was slightly surprised to learn just how much more of a vicious reputation the South Vietnamese soldiers had than the North Vietnamese. I realize that the Viet Cong - as the South Vietnamese allies of the North - had rightfully earned such a horrific reputation for brutality; but while the North Vietnamese soldiers were considered the enemy, they also seemed slightly less brutal in their treatment of prisoners of war.

In my opinion, this was a thoroughly thoughtful memoir and I truly felt for Mr. Wideman and everything he went through during his captivity. I also understand how hard it must have been for him to come back home and have to adjust to civilian life. To be perfectly honest, I found the story to be extraordinarily poignant and thought-provoking. Although I spent more time reading this book than I probably would have preferred, I would definitely give this book a solid A!

A! - (90-95%)

May you read well and often