When Glitter Met Glue by Karen Kilpatrick


When Glitter Met Glue by Karen Kilpatrick
When Pencil Met Eraser
Illustrator: German Blanco
Publisher: Henry Holt and Co.
Genre: Contemporary, Children’s (0 – 6 y.o.)
Rating: 5 stars
Reviewed by Mistflower

Glue loves making art with her friends―especially pasting on googly eyes!―but sometimes she feels invisible. Instead of always being stuck in the background, Glue wants to be noticed like Pencil and colorful like the Markers! How can she find a way to stand out?

When a new friend named Glitter arrives in a swirl of sparkles, Glue and Glitter team up to make something completely original and help Glue shine like the star she truly is.

Karen Kilpatrick & Germán Blanco’s When Glitter Met Glue spotlights art’s unsung hero―a glue bottle―in a hilarious and clever story that encourages self-acceptance and spurs us all to recognize our inner shimmer. A perfect gift for teachers and the first day of school.

I am a nanny of a six-year-old girl going into first grade. This book was chosen for our summer reading program from the books listed is, When Glitter Met Glue: (When Pencil Met Eraser) by Karen Kilpatrick.

We loved this book all fifty times that we read it. Full disclosure, when I’m asked to read a book more than once, that speaks volumes. I must say that this story was quite clever. I would have never thought to give children art mediums friendly personas. However, that is just what Karen Kilpatrick did and my six-year-old student absolutely loved it.

Imagine, glue has feelings that we as humans can relate to. It’s true. Glue sometimes feels invisible! Glue wants to be noticed like the pencil or colorful markers. Glue meets a new friend, Glitter, and that is when the story really comes to life. We all want to be noticed by others for one reason or another. We are all special in our own unique ways and sometimes we just need to let our light shine. Sometimes it takes a friend to show us our true colors. This story reminds me of the song by Cyndi Lauper, True Colors. Her song was about looking below the surface to see what a person is really like.

When glue dries it disappears. However, when mixed with Glitter, we can really see Glue’s inner sparkle shine. I’ve read years ago that grandmothers are the glue in the family. This story really hit home with me regarding the importance of Glue and how it’s just taken for granted.

We borrowed this story from the library, but I am contemplating buying it and putting it in our book library. It’s that good! Happy reading summer 2023!

A Mouthful of Minnows by John Hare


A Mouthful of Minnows by John Hare
Publisher: Greenwillow Books
Genre: Contemporary, Children’s (0 – 6 y.o.)
Rating: 5 stars
Reviewed by Mistflower

At the bottom of the pond, Alphonso the snapping turtle opens his mouth wide, wiggles his worm-like tongue, and waits patiently for breakfast. He barely notices a measly minnow, but he’s thrilled when the entire school shows up. Alphonso’s perseverance has paid off! But when a whole family of minnows arrives to celebrate together, Alphonso’s true character emerges, and he has second thoughts about the breakfast he’s been waiting for.

Acclaimed author-artist John Hare’s artwork is textured, playful, educational, and energetic, bringing the depths of the underwater setting to life. A Mouthful of Minnows is a surprising and heartwarming picture book that is a great choice for story time and bedtime.

Each summer the State of Florida releases a list of approved books for students to read while on summer break. I am a nanny of a six-year-old girl going into first grade. The first book we chose to read was A Mouthful of Minnows because we love of fishing in the inter coastal waterway.

We didn’t read the synopsis, so we assumed the story was about fishing based on the title and the book cover. We were surprised that the main character was Alphonso, an alligator snapping turtle. The plot was about Alphonso waiting for his breakfast to come.

Our attention was caught immediately when we read that he sits on the bottom of the pond with his mouth wide open, wiggling his worm-like tongue. He stays like that waiting for a fish to swim by so he can capture it. We paused reading the story because we were both questioning if this was true. So we Googled “turtle with worm-like tongue”. Sure enough, this was true! I appreciated learning a new fun fact.

We resumed reading the heartwarming story about Alphonso patiently waiting for his breakfast when a school of minnows swam near his mouth. Alphonso overhears what the minnows were saying, and this is where the reader learns about generosity, empathy and friendship.

The illustrator for A Mouthful of Minnows is also the author, John Hare. I found each page to be aesthetically pleasing to the eye. I enjoyed perusing each page as I read the story out loud.

If the little girl that I nanny for asks for me to read a book a second time, then I know it is a good book. We read this book multiple times before we had to return it to the library. That testimony speaks volumes.

Our Summer 2023 reading log started with a great book. We easily recommend reading A Mouthful of Minnows.

Wilde Treasures by K.M. Fawcett


Wilde Treasures by K.M. Fawcett
Publisher: Self-Published
Genre: Contemporary, Romance
Rating: 5 stars
Reviewed by Mistflower

Voted BoM by LASR Readers 2013 copy

Rick McKinnon is on the hunt for booty…

…pirate booty, that is. With one week left to find the hidden trove before his mafia boss investor starts busting kneecaps, Rick discovers the location is inside a 200-year-old well on private property. Unfortunately, claustrophobic Rick gets stuck.

The last thing Willow Wilde needs after moving away from her thieving ex is to rescue a sexy hustler from her well. But when the fortune hunter offers a piece of buried treasure in exchange for her help, Willow gets swept into an adventure sure to solve her money woes and add to her man troubles. As long as she can guard against Rick’s sultry charms, she won’t get hurt again.

But the two aren’t the only ones searching for the lost loot, and rivals will stop at nothing to get the gold. It’s now a race against time as Rick and Willow chase a string of clues throughout the small town of Candlewood Falls. And to survive this dangerous game, they’ll have to learn to trust each other with their lives…and their hearts.

Oh, my goodness! Oh, my goodness! I have so much that I want to say. I started this book without any background. After I finished it, I did some research and discovered that I was the one who found the best treasure of all. I found a new series to escape into.

The “Dear Readers” note in the beginning of the book explains it all. Too bad I missed that page when I hastily started reading chapter one. In case you are an eager reader like me, let me tell you what it says. I don’t want you to miss it like I did. Wild Treasures is the fourth book in the Candlewood Falls series. (It can easily be read as a standalone.) “However, the end of one story doesn’t mean the end of your favorite characters. They can show up in any Candlewood Falls book at any time.” (That, folks, is my kind of series. Especially when I bond with the characters and hate to let them go when the story is over.) “Candlewood Falls is a unique world of connected stories by different authors whose characters, business, and events appear in each other’s stories.” (I’ve read one other series like this, and it is still my favorite. I sincerely will be checking out books one, two and three.) The “Dear Reader” note also says “Think of Candlewood Falls as a literary soap opera”.

Wilde Treasures is similar to my favorite movie, “Raiders of the Lost Ark”. Only set the movie in our modern times.

I was drawn into the story right away when I read the first paragraph. The leading man, Rick McKinnon, was love at first sight for me. He was sexy, smart and protective. He made me feel safe. The heroine, Willow Wilde, was spunky, smart and beautiful. When they were together, I could feel their chemistry sizzle off the pages.

I was thoroughly entertained, hunting for the treasure right along with Rick and Willow. Their bantering made me chuckle. The suspenseful parts made my heart race. Rick and Willow were both romantics at heart which I found heartwarming and endearing.

If you are looking for a swoon-worthy book, then I’d suggest this one. I’m still suffering from a book glow a day later. I’m ready to go on another treasure hunt with Rick and Willow.

This was my first K.M. Fawcett story, and it won’t be my last. I loved how her writing style brought the book to life. Like, I said, I’m the one that found the real treasure. Happy Reading!

Ryan’s Temptation by Amber Daulton


Ryan’s Temptation by Amber Daulton
Arresting Onyx Book 2.5
Publisher: Self-Published
Genre: Contemporary, Romance, Mystery/Suspense/Thriller
Rating: 4 stars
Reviewed by Mistflower

Wrong place, wrong time. Now she’s running for her life.

Beautician Chanel Leroc can wield a pair of scissors like nobody’s business. After she witnesses a murder and lands on a serial killer’s hit list, she has to figure out how to protect herself—and fast. The killer tracks her down, but her sexy new neighbor, Dr. Ryan Naylor, drives the brute off.

The police dump the pair in a witness protection program, which doesn’t last long. Either the killer has a connection to the police, or he’s far more intelligent than they realize. All Chanel wants to do is get back to her safe life and get to know her neighbor better. Instead, she and Ryan hit the road and try to survive on their own.

How will they stay alive and keep their blooming romance intact with the killer hot on their trail?

I read the synopsis for Ryan’s Temptation and, no pun intended, I was tempted to read this book. LOL

If the synopsis didn’t arouse my attention, then the first sentence of the story surely did. “The piercing cry froze the blood in Chanel Leroc’s veins”.

Chanel is the heroine of the story. I am undecided if she’s brave or lacks common sense. Let’s think about it for a minute. Chanel hears a cry for help, and she asks herself, “What kind of person would that make me if I abandon someone who might be hurt?” I’d say that would make her a smart person. Chanel is a beauty beautician with no weapon. But does that stop her? Her choices wouldn’t be my choices, but it sure set up the suspense. What Chanel thinks next and what happens right after is the perfect setup for the story and plot. Chanel even meets her new neighbor in an unconventional way.

Needless to say, it didn’t matter to me at that point if Chanel was brave or stupid. Ryan is the new neighbor that Chanel couldn’t stop thinking about. Chanel can’t resist men with a cleft in their chin, or dimples. It’s remarkable that her new neighbor, Ryan Naylor, the hero in the story, has both. He is simply breathtaking.

If you like to watch the tv show “Criminal Minds” as I do, then this story might delight you as it did me. Ryan’s Temptation would make an entertaining episode for any of those crime solving police shows on tv. The plot is predictable as they come but I still rapidly turned the pages to solve the mystery. The romance was electrifying as much as the suspense was riveting. I couldn’t get to the end fast enough. Once I finished the book, I felt quite satisfied.

The story was well written as I read to find out “How will Chanel and Ryan stay alive and keep their blooming romance intact with the killer hot on their trail?”. This story is book 2.5 in a series but can be read as a standalone. If you are in the mood to raise your blood pressure either by a steamy romance or sitting on the edge of your seat, then this book might be a good choice for you. I’m glad I read it. Happy Reading!

When I Met You by Avery Easton


When I Met You by Avery Easton
Book 3 of the Hearts of Broadway series
Publisher: Uncial Press
Genre: Contemporary, Romance
Rating: 5 stars
Reviewed by Mistflower

Broadway star Jazzy Summers doesn’t do showmances. The only thing she wants is to be the performer she’s been since she was a kid. And if that means she’s a bit of a loner, that’s okay by her. The work is her life.

Mateo Williams was the biggest pop sensation in the world fifteen years ago–until he wasn’t. When his third album flopped, the charismatic star mysteriously disappeared and was rarely seen again.

A chance meeting–and Mateo’s incredible smile–gives Jazzy butterflies. But when she learns more, she is quick to write him off. A workaholic like her and a slacker like him could never work.

And then they are cast as co-stars in a brand-new Broadway musical. Jazzy tries to remain professional. Mateo tries to remember his lines. But all of the secrets he’s keeping are hindering the work. Despite the undeniable chemistry between them, Jazzy’s patience is waning. As they fight toward opening night, tragedy strikes Mateo. And Jazzy realizes that friendships and a lifelong love do not have to be sacrificed. They might be everything she’s been working for.

This romance is interesting because I’ve been to one Broadway show, Wicked. I will never forget that show as long as I live because it was amazing. This story, When I Met You, was captivating because it gave me a glimpse of what goes on behind the scenes of a Broadway play. Without this story, I can’t imagine I’d ever get that perspective anywhere else. It’s not like I know anyone that performs on stage. I never did theater in school. When I saw Wicked, I was curious as to how in the world they changed the stage between acts. When I Met You, answered many questions for me. Now, I have no way of knowing how accurate this story is, but it felt real to me.

I felt a genuine connection with the cast of characters as if I was watching a reality tv show. The heroine, Jazzy Summers, is the star performer in a new Broadway play and her co-star is the hero, Mateo Williams. I got to see how the performers came together as a family. I felt as if I was part of the Broadway musical, from the hiring, to the rehearsal, to the opening night. I felt all their joys and struggles.

Jazzy and Mateo have different backgrounds and baggage to overcome but that is part of the draw to this story. They actually met prior to being co-stars and that plot thread was entertaining and made me smile.

I will warn you that the relationship between Mateo and Jazzy has very strong chemistry where everyone in the room knows they are in love but them. Mateo is hot and cold which drove Jazzy (and me) nuts. This story was written so well that the ‘on again/off again’ did not feel like a headbanger. I felt Jazzy’s frustration but her good friend, Simone, helps keep the situation light. The apologies between Jazzy and Mateo helped me as a reader to feel compassion instead of annoyance. I’m a pretty understanding person and could easily forgive Jazzy and Mateo for being stubborn and blockheaded. Speaking for myself, I felt overjoyed when Jazzy and Mateo finally let down their walls and opened their hearts and took a leap of faith to give into their love a chance.

The epilogue at the end was the icing on the cake. It gave me a nice book glow for a few hours.

I’d put this book on my keeper shelf and recommend it to others to borrow. Even though this is book three in the series, it can be read as a standalone. I’m thankful I made the choice to read it. Happy Reading!

Summer People by Corinne LaBalme


Summer People by Corinne LaBalme
Publisher: The Wild Rose Press
Genre: Contemporary, Romance
Rating: 5 stars
Reviewed by Mistflower

Jessica Stratton’s long-cherished dream of opening her own Folk Art gallery in an idyllic Cape Cod setting finally comes true. However, her start-up is anything but smooth sailing.

Her ten-year marriage hits the rocks and, when the hunk next door to her shop – a brooding ecologist on a mission to save the planet – proves too irresistible to ignore, she’s got to relearn the rules of the dating game while working overtime to lure clients to her boutique.

Unfortunately, someone’s already far too interested in a 19th century example of advertising art in her collection and will go to any means – legal or illegal – to acquire it.

Maybe the planet isn’t the only thing that has to be saved…

After a reading hiatus, I was relieved and thrilled that the first book of the new year that I recently finished, Summer People by Corinne LaBalme, inspired me to write this review.

The synopsis stated that Jessica’s marriage was “hitting the rocks”. The reason the heroine’s marriage was falling apart was unexpected. It was an interesting plot thread that remained solid throughout the story. I was thankful the hero, Rick, lived next door to Jessica. It just so happens he was gorgeous and available.

Rick is a prime example of a true hero. He bailed Jessica out of a few humorous situations. I know I mentioned he is a hunk, but did I mention he can cook? He’s my kind of book boyfriend!

The cast of characters are well-developed and one of my favorites was Nancy, who is friends with Jessica and Rick’s landlord. I enjoyed the relationship between Jessica and Nancy because they demonstrated what it is to be a best friend.

I was delighted that my interest was captured so quickly when the story started. If you’ve ever listened to one of those self-help CDs and rolled your eyes at them, then the beginning of this book might crack you up like it did me. I was entertained from the beginning to the end and still find myself smiling as I reflect on this romance story.

There is a suspenseful plot thread referred to in the synopsis about someone who is far too interested in a piece of Jessica’s art collection. This particular person will go to any means to acquire it. This wrongdoer really knew how to raise my blood pressure.

The romance between Jessica and Rick was sweet, heartwarming and endearing. They certainly went through their share of trials and tribulations which made their happily ever after extra rewarding for me.

I haven’t any reservations in recommending this entertaining read. Summer People was a win for me. Happy Reading.

A Full-Bodied Love by Amber Cross


A Full-Bodied Love by Amber Cross
Publisher: The Wild Rose Press
Genre: Contemporary, Romance
Rating: Best Book
Reviewed by Mistflower

Lisa Kirkpatrick is stubborn, but she’s not stupid. If this guy needs a date to evade an unwanted admirer, who is she to object? It’s not as if handsome men are lining up to ask her out. Sure, they know there’s a woman in the wheelchair, but it would never occur to them that there’s a WOMAN in the wheelchair. He notices. This solid, fun, straight-shooting guy ticks off every box on her ideal man list. But why do they call him Slick?

Roger Plankey thought his life was full until he walked into the town clerk’s office and laid eyes on the woman behind the counter. A spunky, independent woman with a dash of humor and just enough sass to keep him on his toes. She fills that unknown void in his life like she was made for him. But is there such a thing as too perfect?

This is a must read. I’ve never read anything like this before. Truly original, heartwarming and entertaining. The name of the story is, A Full-Bodied Love and I’d like to Copy/Paste the Author’s note: “Full-bodied means to be heady, mellow, lusty, mature, potent, rich, and strong. I hope this love story represents those elements.” – Amber Cross.” It is my opinion that this story represented all those characteristics and more. This is my first Amber Cross book, and it won’t be my last. It’s been days since I finished this book and I’m still thinking about it.

The romance between Lisa Kirkpatrick and Roger Plankey is inspiring. I’ve never read a love story involving a heroine in a wheelchair before, but I can say that their love story was brilliantly written. They met on page one in a chance encounter that was humorous until it wasn’t. I was immediately drawn into the story and couldn’t put the book down until I reached the last page.

The cast of characters were well developed and relatable. I appreciated Lisa’s clothing style and accessories which clearly matched her spunky self. I felt welcomed into Roger’s family since they were genuinely down to earth, caring and helpful to others. Lisa’s sister, Hazel, was less desirable but with good intentions. Hazel’s heart was in the right place which is revealed in the ‘happily ever after’.

There is a plot twist near the end that did throw me for a loop. I didn’t see it coming yet I feel it was delicately played out. I was left with hope that with love all things can work out. I don’t want to give a spoiler so I can’t elaborate on that plot twist any further than that.

There is much more to this story and that is why I suggest it as a ‘must read’. The romance between Lisa and Roger is sigh worthy. I put Roger on my ‘book boyfriend list’. I would definitely read this story again and again and again. Happy Reading!

Dokkalfur and the Empty Shelf by Charles R Darner Jr


Dokkalfur and the Empty Shelf by Charles R Darner Jr
Publisher: Self Published
Genre: Holiday, Mystery/Suspense/Thriller, Contemporary, Comedy, Horror, Inspirational
Rating: 5 stars
Reviewed by Mistflower

A house party, a careless fire and a flash of the mystical create a supernatural force prone to seek revenge. As the bodies pile up, Chloe understands one of her playthings maybe behind the bizarre accidents her parent’s friends are experiencing. As no one believes her, she attempts to intercedes but to no avail. With help from the North Pole, can Chloe save her family who is now targeted.

If you are looking for a future New York Best seller then give his writing style a try. This is my third Charles R Darner Jr book that I’ve read and I find his writing to be original, creative and versatile. I don’t think there is any genre he couldn’t write. I look forward to following his literature work.

I’m not supposed to say how a book will make another reader feel, but only comment how the book made me feel in my reviews. However, I can’t help thinking out loud that Dokkalfur and the Empty Shelf will leave the expected readers feeling unexpected.

I’ve honestly read this book twice now because I loved it that much. It starts off introducing and developing the main cast of characters rather quickly in an eye-opening plot. I’m not exaggerating when I say the first chapter is literally ‘hot’.

The rest of the story progresses with a steady momentum that elaborates into an engaging narrative that is full of plot twists. Surprising twists that make it impossible to put the book down. I will share that there were some horrifying moments.

Dokkalfur and the Empty Shelf really resonated with me. It takes the concept of the classic story of the Elf on the Shelf, which is a Christmas tradition for many families, and spins a completely different holiday story with a mind-boggling inspirational ending.

It’s impossible to describe without giving away spoilers. All I can say is that I will not ask anyone if they have been naughty or nice this Christmas season, and I already donated our Elf on the Shelf to a new loving family since my children are old and grown. I just hope our elf doesn’t come alive and haunt us for giving him away. I’m not a fan of fire or ice. That will make sense after you read this book. It’s quite comical. I did laugh out loud a few times throughout the story.

This is where I’m going to end this review. I suggest buying this book for family and friends for Thanksgiving and Christmas gifts. The classic elf tradition is to put the elf on your shelf between November 24 through December 1st. After reading Dokkalfur and the Empty Shelf, I’ll never be able to look at an Elf on the Shelf and not have retrospection. I know I’m repenting for my naughty choices this year. This would be a great book to give to an adult with an elf as a joke gift. This story is destined to be listed on future Book Clubs to enjoy. I know I did.

The Wylder Rose by Jane Lewis


The Wylder Rose by Jane Lewis
Publisher: The Wild Rose Press
Genre: Historical, Romance
Rate: 4 stars
Reviewed by Mistflower

Rose O’Brien is a stage actress masquerading as a Saloon Singer in Wylder, Wyoming. With an abusive lover hot on her tail and a handsome Scotsman proposing marriage Rose decides to flee to California before her secret can break Callum’s heart -and hers.

Callum MacPhilip has loved the Irish lass since he saw her enter a carriage on a street corner in Cheyenne. When a snowstorm and a turn of fate brings them together, Callum vows to protect her –and convince her to take a chance on love.

This story captured my attention on page two and from then on, I could not put it down. The hero, Callum, is the epitome of my kind of hero. I am a huge fan of stories where the hero saves the damsel in distress. The heroine, Rose, is definitely in need of a hero.

The characters are easy to bond with and well-developed. I enjoy reading stories with a small-town atmosphere where everyone knows each other and has the camaraderie of a football team. “When you mess with one, you mess with us all”.

Rose and Callum definitely have chemistry and are an example of Love at First Sight. It’s the perfect type of romance that makes me feel gooey at heart. Callum was sure of his feelings right away. I kept cheering for Rose to take a chance with Callum. It took Rose a few chapters to figure it out because she did have an abusive boyfriend on her trail. That plot thread was a little suspenseful but also encouraging to those who are victims of abuse. It took courage for Rose to escape, and I was happy that her escape led her to Callum.

I pleasantly discovered that The Wylder Rose is part of a twenty-eight-book series called “The Wylder West”. I read a few of their synopses and I’m interested in reading a few of their stories. I also noticed that the books in this series are written by different authors and some of the authors I’m actually familiar with. How did I not know about this series?

I love westerns. I’m going to have to investigate this series further, especially if they are all as good as this book. If the synopsis intrigues you as it did me, then definitely pick this book up. I recommend The Wylder Rose by Jane Lewis.

No Choice at All by Denise Carbo


No Choice at All by Denise Carbo
Granite Cove series, book three
Publisher: Self-Published
Genre: Contemporary, Romance
Rating: 4 stars
Reviewed by Mistflower

One night. One choice. Changes everything.

One single moment can change a person’s life forever. Moving to Granite Cove was supposed to be Rebecca’s fresh start. She has a firm no dating rule. There’s no time or room in her life—and she has horrible taste in men.

One impulsive decision threatens all her careful planning. The handsome stranger she never thought she’d see again keeps showing up, weakening her resolve.

Love is a fairy tale only the young and naïve believe in. How will he change her mind and heart and teach her to trust?

I’m a firm believer in the statement, “One single moment can change a person’s life forever.” Let’s take that statement and apply it to reading a book. I believe a great book can influence a person’s life forever. The story No Choice at All is one of those books.

I believe in “love at first sight” and fairy tale romance. The heroine, Rebecca, has baggage. Honestly, who doesn’t these days? One night Rebecca made a choice that changed her life. She met the hero, Ian. Ian is “book boyfriend worthy”. I fell in love with Ian right away. His sense of humor was the highlight in this story for me. He had his work cut out for him to pursue Rebecca. I’m so thankful he was persistent and never gave up.

Rebecca and Ian’s love story helped pass time while I was flying and delayed at an airport. Their chemistry was a bit warm at times which made it a little awkward being in the middle seat on the plane. I was a bit worried that the people on either side of me was reading my iPad screen during a sensual scene. I wasn’t worried enough to close the iPad though… Nothing was going to stop me from reading except perhaps the plane crashing.

I had no idea this book was part of a series until after I finished it. Apparently, it’s book three of five. It’s safe to say that this book can be read as a standalone. Now that I know about books one and two, I am interested in reading them. This was my first Denise Carbo book, and I enjoyed her writing talent.

The cast of characters are relatable and well developed. I think Ian’s family sounds like the ideal family. Rebecca will fit in like a missing puzzle piece.

While this is a contemporary romance, I found it to be inspiring. It takes courage to learn to trust again. Just when you think that there is no choice at all is when you actually discover that you do have a choice. It is a leap of faith to open your heart. I appreciate books that influence me to have hope.

This book demonstrated what unconditional love really is. I highly encourage others to give this book a try. This truly is a heartwarming story.