Book Review - The Liars Society by Alyson Gerber

The Liars Society by Alyson Gerber is about a young girl, Weatherby, who wants to learn more about her father. Weatherby loves sailing and spending her time on the water. When she and her neighbor win the local sailing regatta, she is ecstatic. Especially when the head of the prestigious Boston School approaches her with a scholarship to attend. Weatherby is beyond happy to attend because it's the same school her dad attended. She hopes that she can learn more about her dad and his world because she never got to meet him before. However, Weatherby has a secret that she knows will ruin everything if it gets out. She is desperate to keep it hidden from everyone.

Jack and his family come from a long line of wealth and privilege. His entire family has made their own distinctive mark at the Boston School. Jack is struggling to make his own impression at the school since he feels that he is mediocre at everything he does.  He desperately wants to prove to his distinguished father that he has value to the family. Like Weatherby, Jack also has a secret that he knows will ruin everything if revealed.

Both Jack and Weatherby are excited for the annual school trip to the school’s private island. However, when the money for the trip is missing, Jack and Weatherby are heartbroken. The pair gets tapped to an exclusive private secret society to help solve the mystery of the missing money. If they solve the mystery, they get to join and if they don’t, they risk making enemies of many rich and influential people. 

The young adult novel was a quick and entertaining read. I liked reading about how Weatherby and Jack put aside their differences and other peoples’ expectations of themselves to be better people. I was surprised that there wasn’t more drama between the different characters. The book had a few twists and turns but most were predictable. The book focused a lot on sailing and I do wish the mystery part started sooner. I would be open to reading the next book in the series.  

Book Review - City of the Dead by James Ponti

  

 

City of the Dead by James Ponti is the fourth book in the City Spies series. The City Spies are a group of young spies that solve mysteries all over the world. In the latest installment, the spies head to Egypt in order to investigate an unknown person hacking into the computers of the British’s government and holding their data ransom.

Each child in the group takes turns acting as the Alpha during a mission. This allows them to test and hone their respective special ability. Kat (codename Kathmandu) is the Alpha for this book/mission. She loves logic and order, and prime numbers hold a special place in her heart. Kat’s special ability is being able to spot patterns in things that look completely random.

Kat and the team were requested by British Intelligence to test the security of the British Museum. The group thought it was a random mission until a string of cyber-attacks threatened to cripple the British government. As the team tries to solve puzzles and hidden messages left behind from the cyberattacks, they find a link between these attacks, Egypt, and the museum.

The team receives a decrypted message that hints that the person behind the hacks is located in Egypt. They follow the leads but something isn’t adding up. There is another layer to the mystery behind the attacks – Will the team be able to figure it out before it’s too late?

I read the first book in the series but not the second and third. I was able to follow along with most of the story, even with this being the fourth in the series. However, I feel that the books should be read in order because there is a larger mystery that is covered between the books and each book gives more clues to it. The book is packed with action, twists, and sprinkled with humor. I liked reading how each character brought their own unique ability and skill set to the table, and how they were open with each other about their own insecurities. I also liked that the author included a dossier on each character giving more details about their background and skill sets.

I liked that each book takes place in a different country and that the author includes tidbits of the culture. It was interesting to read about Egypt’s food, culture, and the pyramids.  The book is great for young readers who are interested in spy stories and love learning about new heritages. It also teaches young readers the importance of family, believing in yourself, and being a team player.

 

Book Review - Shadow Service Vol. 1 by Cavan Scott

 

Gina Meyers is a private investigator who helps her clients in London. She is also a witch who isn't afraid to unleash a few spells to get what she wants. While working a case, she catches the attention of a shadow supernatural government organization. Will Gina be able to outwit the organization and keep her freedom?

The graphic novel was a fun and entertaining read. I was surprised by how much I enjoyed reading the graphic as I typically like light-hearted or funny graphics. The story was engaging and I couldn't wait to read the next book in the series.  I also liked how detailed the illustrations were.

**Disclosure - I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest opinion**

Book Review - High School Musical: The Musical: The Series: The Road Trip by Melissa de la Cruz + Giveaway

 

 

On the night of their successful performance, the team learns that there is a High School Musical convention in the next state over. The convention has something for everyone and the cast members will be making special appearances. 

They are ready to hit the road and they can't wait to make plans for their weekend together. Nini wants to use this weekend to show how much she cares for Ricky since, they just got back together. Kourtney wants to sign up for a signing workshop and maybe audition for the next show. Gina and Ashlyn is using the weekend as a trial run for living together. Carlos is excited to help Miss Jenn realize her dreams and prep for the spring musical.

I recall seeing this movie and remember how much interest it garnered when I was younger. Honestly, I didn't even realize that the movie was still a hit. This was my first book of the series and I realized towards the middle of the book, that the books needed to be read in order. It does seem like the book can be read as a standalone but, there were several previous story references that were lost to me. I also had a hard time following along with the characters and after awhile, all the characters were starting merging together. If you are a fan of the series, I would recommend this book. Otherwise, I would say to skip it.

 **Disclosure - I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest opinion.**

 
 

 

About the Book:

Title: HIGH SCHOOL MUSICAL: THE ROAD TRIP

Author: Melissa de la Cruz

Pub. Date: May 4, 2021

Publisher: Disney-Hyperion

Formats: Hardcover, eBook

Pages: 272

Find it: Goodreads, Amazon, Kindle, B&N, iBooks, Kobo, TBD, Bookshop.org

An original novel inspired by the hit Disney+ television series HIGH SCHOOL MUSICAL: THE MUSICAL, by the #1 New York Times best-selling author of the Descendants series, Melissa de la Cruz.

Join everyone's favorite Wildcats from the Disney+ smash hit original series High school Musical: The Musical: The Series in this novel by New York Times bestselling author Melissa de la Cruz.

On the heels of their wildly successful run of High School Musical, the gang learns of a can't-miss opportunity—a High School Musical convention in the next state. There's something for everyone: panels about mounting your next hit show, cafeteria-tray-dance workshops, Wildcat cosplay, and even a special appearance from the pooch who played Sharpay's dog (well, one of her puppies, that is).

Ready to hit the road, the crew immediately begins making plans. Nini can't wait to use the weekend to show how much she cares for Ricky (especially since they just got back together). Kourtney debates signing up for a singing workshop (especially if she's maybe, just maybe, considering auditioning for the next show), and Gina and Ashlyn decide it'll be the perfect trial run for living together (especially because Gina has never actually had a friendship last this long). Carlos can't wait to help Miss Jenn prep for the spring musical, even if Seb has to stay behind to help with the family farm. But car breakdowns, late starts, and a lost E.J. throw a wrench in their plans. 

Will the East Highers get the weekend getaway of their dreams? Or will the bumps on the road get the better of them?

Praise For HIGH SCHOOL MUSICAL: THE ROAD TRIP:

A breezy and fun read, the book contains chapters that offer pithy first-person accounts from each character, including quirky Miss Jenn; Carlos and his boyfriend, Seb; recently reunited couple Nini and Ricky and their BFFs, Kourtney and Big Red; popular senior E.J. and his songwriter cousin, Ashlyn; and talented triple threat Gina. The plot includes references to the series and themes straight from the musical: nurturing your talent, showing others how much they matter, and acknowledging the importance of teamwork. Although race isn’t mentioned overtly, the characters are cued as racially diverse, following the casting of the TV show. Fans will appreciate the inside jokes, but explanations in the text make it accessible even to those unfamiliar with the program.

 

A lighthearted and charming read.—Kirkus Reviews.

About Melissa:

Melissa de la Cruz (www.melissa-delacruz.com) is the author of the #1 New York Times best-selling Descendants series, as well as many other best-selling novels, including all the books in the Blue Bloods series: Blue Bloods, Masquerade, Revelations, The Van Alen Legacy, Keys to the Repository, Misguided Angel, Bloody Valentine, Lost in Time, and Gates of Paradise. She lives in Los Angeles, California, with her husband and daughter.

 

Website | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Tumblr | Goodreads | Amazon

 

 

Giveaway Details:

 

3 winners will win a finished copy of HIGH SCHOOL MUSICAL: THE ROAD TRIP, US Only.

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Tour Schedule:

Week One:

5/1/2021

jillpiscitello

Excerpt

Week Two:

5/2/2021	YA Books Central	Excerpt
5/3/2021	Living in a Bookworld	Excerpt
5/4/2021	BookHounds YA	Excerpt
5/5/2021	Perusewithcoffee (blog)	Review
5/6/2021	Musing of Souls	Review
5/7/2021	Kait Plus Books	Excerpt
5/8/2021	The Book View	Review

Week Three:

5/9/2021	onemused	Review
5/10/2021	Lifestyle of Me	Review
5/11/2021	Emelie's Books	Review
5/12/2021	Midnightbooklover	Review
5/13/2021	Fire and Ice	Review
5/14/2021	Shelf Love	Review or Excerpt
5/15/2021	Jenguerdy	Review

Week Four:

5/16/2021	Margie's Must Reads	Review
5/17/2021	Amani’s Reviews	Review
5/18/2021	two points of interest	Review
5/19/2021	Haunted By Books	Review
5/20/2021	booksaremagictoo	Review
5/21/2021	fictitious.fox	Review
5/22/2021	The Reading Wordsmith	Review

Week Five:

5/23/2021	Momfluenster	Review
5/24/2021	michellemengsbookblog	Review
5/25/2021	Rajiv's Reviews	Review
5/26/2021	Struck by Stories	Review
5/27/2021	Fyrekatz Blog	Review
5/28/2021	BiancaBuysBooks	Review
5/29/2021	Do You Dog-ear?	Review

Week Six:

5/30/2021	A Dream Within A Dream	Excerpt
5/31/2021	Lady Hawkeye	Excerpt

Book Review - Dark Ink by Gary Kemble

Photo Credit - Amazon

Journalist Harry Hendrick investigates sordid political corruption. He is intrigued to get to the bottom of it when he hears chilling rumors. Mistress Hel is intent on getting revenge. She uses dark arts to get her revenge from past wrongs.

Harry is asked to investigate a string of murders and deaths. The cause of each death hints to supernatural reasons. As Harry digs deeper into the deaths, he realizes that he is caught inside a deadly web. Can he stop Mistress Hel before it's too late?

When I picked up this novel, I didn't realize it was the second book in the series. The novel could be read as a standalone but, I felt like I was missing some backstory on Harry. I liked the creepy atmosphere of the novel and the supernatural theme. However, I can't say that I am a fan of Harry's. I felt like he spent a lot of time trying to focus his desires than actually doing any investigating work. I finished the novel as it was a quick read but, I don't see myself reading more books in this series.

**Disclosure -  This post may contain affiliate links which means I earn advertising and/or referral fees if you purchase an item through my link. Please note, there will be no extra charges to you. Thank you for your support.**

Book Review - Claiming the Drakos Heir by Jennifer Faye + Giveaway

Photo Credit - Amazon

Popi Costas just lost her sister to a tragic boating accident. Now she is faced with raising her late sister's unborn child alone. That is until the baby's wealthy uncle decides he wants custody of the child. Apollo Drakos is charming, handsome, but has a reputation for being selfish. Popi is determined to keep Apollo away from the baby. However, as Popi gets to know Apollo, she realizes there might be a soft interior under his hard shell. Will Popi and Apollo be able to put aside their differences? 

The novel follows the basic formula for a good romance novel: two people who do not communicate with each other and assume the worst of each other. However, the novel does have a few emotional rollercoasters, especially when dealing with a custody battle of a young child. I enjoyed reading and finding out the backstory of each character especially the mysterious Apollo. A definite must-read for anyone who loves romance novels.

 **Disclosure - I received a free  copy of this book in exchange for an honest opinion. This post may contain affiliate links which means I earn advertising and/or referral fees if you purchase an item through my link. Please note, there will be no extra charges to you. Thank you for your support.**

Claiming the Drakos Heir (Greek Island Brides #2) By Jennifer Faye Contemporary Romance Paperback & ebook, 256 Pages June 1st 2019 by Harlequin Romance

The rebel bachelor is back…

To claim her baby!

In this Greek Island Brides story, pregnant surrogate Popi Costas is faced with raising her late sister’s child alone, until the baby’s wealthy uncle arrives to take charge! Apollo Drakos is distractingly handsome, but Popi won’t let that stop her from fighting to keep the baby. Yet as she gets to know the man behind the wild card reputation, Popi’s reconsidering welcoming Apollo into her new little family…

Goodreads│Amazon│AmazonUK│AmazonCA B&N│Harlequin│Kobo│iBooks│GooglePlay

Freebie

Go to Jennifer's Contact Page HERE and order your bookmark(s)!

The Greek Island Brides Series Finding love that lasts to infinity!

All marriages that take place on renowned wedding destination Infinity Island are guaranteed to last forever!

And the picturesque Greek island is about to weave its magic for friends Lea, Popi and Stasia. They dream of finding their own happy-ever-afters... And they’re about to meet three billionaires who will sweep them off their feet—and down the aisle!

Follow Lea’s journey from surprise pregnancy to dream proposal in...

 

Book #1 - Carrying the Greek Tycoon’s Baby

From one night…

To nine months!

In this Greek Island Brides story, for jaded tycoon Xander Marinakos, renowned wedding destination Infinity Island is just another opportunity to expand his empire. Until he’s captivated by its beautiful owner, Lea Romes… When their one night together has unexpected consequences, Xander must negotiate the deal of a lifetime, and put his guarded heart on the table to convince independent Lea they can be a family…for infinity!

Order Now: Amazon│AmazonUK│AmazonCA B&N│Harlequin│Kobo│iBooks│GooglePlay

And coming September 2019…

Book #3 - Wearing the Greek Millionaire's Ring

A convenient engagement…

An inconvenient attraction!

In this Greek Island Brides story, widow Stasia Marinakos is learning to enjoy life again aboard a Mediterranean cruise. Her chemistry with gorgeous Greek tycoon Roberto Carrass is a pleasant surprise—until she’s mistaken for his fiancée! Nevertheless, the guarded bachelor asks Stasia to continue the charade to stop his family from matchmaking. As their attraction grows, their fake romance feels ever more real…but what will happen when the vacation ends?

Pre-order Now: Amazon│AmazonUK│AmazonCA B&N│Harlequin│Kobo│iBooks│GooglePlay

About the Author

Award-winning author, Jennifer Faye pens fun, heartwarming contemporary romances with rugged cowboys, sexy billionaires and enchanting royalty. Internationally published with books translated into nine languages. She is a two-time winner of the RT Book Reviews Reviewers' Choice Award, the CataRomance Reviewers' Choice Award, named a TOP PICK author, and been nominated for numerous other awards.

Website│Goodreads│Facebook│Twitter│Pinterest│YouTube│BookBub│Newsletter

Tour Schedule

Tour Giveaway

1 winner will receive a copy of Carrying the Greek Tycoon's Baby (print if US, ebook if INT) and a $25 Amazon eGift Card Open internationally Ends June 12, 2019

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Book Review - Chaos in the Blink of an Eye: The Prequel by Patrick Higgins + Giveaway

Photo Credit - Amazon

The weekend before Thanksgiving more than a hundred thousand people are watching the game of the century at Michigan Stadium. Just before the game starts, a prophecy described in the Bible begins to unfold. Millions of people begin to vanish into thin air. Chaos and panic are filling the heart and mind of people everywhere.


This novel is the prequel to the series. I haven't read the other book in the series. However, I felt that this book was completely unnecessary. As it only introduces the readers to the characters and only towards the end of the book does the prophecy come through while leaving readers at a cliffhanger. This novel could have been better used if it actually showed why the prophecy finally occurred instead of just setting the mood for the next book.


**Disclosure - I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest opinion**

About the Book

Book Title: Chaos: In the Blink of an Eye
Author: Patrick Higgins
Genre: Christian Mystery/Suspense
Release date: September, 2015

It was the weekend before Thanksgiving. More than 100,000 fans were jammed inside Michigan Stadium, on their feet, to witness a heated football rivalry that had spanned more than 100 years. As the football was kicked into the snow-filled sky, they were about to get the shock of their lives, as long-foretold Bible prophecy came to pass before their very eyes, causing many to vanish into thin air without a trace.

But what they soon realized was that it reached far beyond Michigan Stadium. Chaos of unimaginable proportions ensued worldwide. Shock, fear and panic filled each heart and mind. It was just the beginning of things to come, as life as humanity had known it was forever changed in the blink of an eye…

About the Author

 

Patrick Higgins is the author of The Pelican Trees, Coffee In Manila, the award-winning The Unannounced Christmas Visitor, and the award-winning prophetic end-times series, Chaos In The Blink Of An Eye. While the stories he writes all have different themes and take place in different settings, the one thread that links them all together is his heart for Jesus and his yearning for the lost.
With that in mind, it is his wish that the message his stories convey will greatly impact each reader, by challenging you not only to contemplate life on this side of the grave, but on the other side as well. After all, each of us will spend eternity at one of two places, based solely upon a single decision which must be made this side of the grave. That decision will be made crystal clear to each reader of his books.

Higgins is currently writing many other books, both fiction and non-fiction, including a sequel to Coffee In Manila, which will shine a bright, sobering light on the diabolical human trafficking industry.

Giveaway

To celebrate his tour, Patrick is giving away a grand prize of a $50 Amazon gift card!!

Click below to enter. https://promosimple.com/ps/d0a3/chaos-in-the-blink-of-an-eye-celebration-tour-giveaway