Otamatea High School

127,940 pages read and 7,350 team points

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Imogen

55,087 pts

(52,675 pages read)

Echo Road

By Melinda Leigh & Kendra Elliot

3 stars

"When two cross-country cases collide, Bree Taggert and Mercy Kilpatrick join forces to catch a serial killer in an addictive novel of suspense by bestselling authors Melinda Leigh and Kendra Elliot. " I think I'm going to go down a Mercy Kilpatrick black hole...
Eve Dallas Series : Book 60 : Bonded in Death

By J.D. Robb

4 stars

Two discussions I've had this week - first about my star rating system. It's usually the whole series I'm rating so over all a 6 book 3 star rating is pretty good - I decided it was good enough to read the whole series in one sitting. The second, was whilst using the National Library's chatterbox, being asked " why did you read your last book?". The simple answer - it was the brand new ( < 24 hrs) of a 60 book series of which I've read the other 59... this one did take a while to get into but worth the read. 135
Morgan Dane Series : Book 1 - 6

By Melinda Leigh

3 stars

Real characters, clever cases. Not closed door. 3rd person
Scarlet Falls Series: Book 1 - 3

By Melinda Leigh

3 stars

I really liked the Bree Taggert series, this series is similar but perhaps less enjoyable. I would definitely by Melinda Leigh on my authors to read. 3rd person. There is definitely romance element to the stories. Stand alone.
Bree Taggert Series : Book 1 - 8

By Melinda Leigh

3 stars

Great series. Interconnecting, most stand alone, but definitely would suggest to read in order. They are clever stories, with real, likeable and relatable people. 125
Bree Taggert series : Book 9 : Track her down

By Melinda Leigh

4 stars

This book has made me want to read the rest of the series. Clever crime, smallish/country sheriff Bree Taggert works well with her team, they together save the world of impending doom... not really but actually to find the murderer. I did put some dots together but not all of them.
June First

By Jennifer Hartman

4 stars

As with her other books, come prepared for the emotional upheaval.
Minx

By Julia Quinn

3 stars

Book 3 of the Splendid Trilogy. Stand alone, can be read in any order..
Brash Brothers Series : Book 10 : Ransom

By Jenna Myles

3 stars

Book 10 in the Ransom Brothers Series. Nice completion to the series, which can be read individually or in order.
The Smythe-Smith Quartet : Book 1 - 4

By Julia Quinn

3 stars

Yes, I've gone down the rabbit hole - again... individual standalone with the odd expected spoilers, interconnecting with many of her other books .
Cassie Quinn Series : Book 1 - 7

By L.T. Ryan & K.M. Rought

3 stars

L.T Ryan pairs up with K.M. Rought for this series. Was a bit sceptical at first as it's a medium who is the main character but series develops well. Women main character, good supporting characters, interesting cases to start. With plot development definitely need to read in order as there are cliffhangers/loose ends/ things that wouldn't make sense otherwise. Book 4 was odd but worth missioning through it. Will acknowledge that listened to a few of these which can change the reading experience .
Maddie Castle Series : Book 6 : Field of bones

By L.T. Ryan & C.R. Gray

3 stars

Newest release. Each book can be read individually but I think it's better to read in order and some things will make more sense. The books are written in such a way that there's a quick recap of pertinent information but in a way so it's not overly boring to those who have read the series. I'm definitely invested and will await the next one.
Bridgerton Collection: Volume 3 : Book 7 & 8

By Julia Quinn

3 stars

Includes the Bridgerton prequel : Because of Miss Bridgerton. This series is an adult series, some books are better than others but a good collection of individual but interconnected books.
Bridgerton Collection: Volume 2 : Book 4 - 6

By Julia Quinn

3 stars

The Bridgerton volumes have both the Epilogues, the second Epilogue written several years in the future.
The Bridgerton Collection : Volume 1 : Book 1 - 3

By Julia Quinn

3 stars

I have read these a few times in the last 20 (?) years. I have never watched the TV series, and in all honesty I am disinclined to. It is interesting reading the same books over time and how one's perspectives change. They are all standalone, can be read out of order, and improve as the series goes on.
Earls rush in

By Jennifer Haymore

2 stars

As described in the synopsis.
Maddie Castle Series : Book 2 - 5

By L.T. Ryan & C.R. Gray

3 stars

Enjoyed this series, liked the first person for Maddie and the 3rd person for the rest of the cast writing style. Characters interesting, puzzles are clever, I usually seem to have an idea of the who (so it makes sense when Maddie finds out) but it's not super obvious. I'm not guessing to the last minute but I'm not bored and I feel vindicated that I was right. Stories are individual, mostly, but best read in order as there are some spoilers and 'cliffhangers '.
Maddie Castle Series : Book 1 : The Handler

By L.T. Ryan & C.R. Gray

3 stars

I needed something very different to read. I struggled to get into this but that is possibly due to me and not the book. Mixed 1st Person and 3rd Person. Raw characters, definitely looking forward to the rest of the series. Stand alone but with Maddie being main character throughout.
The Plated Prisoner Series : Book 6 : Goldfinch

By Raven Kennedy

3 stars

There is a reason why I usually only write one review for a series. What more is there to say. If I had to wait for the book at the library I'm not sure if my ratings would have been better or worse. I've enjoyed the series and I've enjoyed Raven Kennedy's books before. It's definitely made me be inclined to read fantasy again but reminds me why I'm not keen on long series. Book 2 was amazing. According to Amazon : Tropes/themes: 1. Dark and angsty 2. Plot and politics 3. Romance and smut 4. Multiple POVs 5. World-building
The Plated Prisoner Series : Book 5 : Gold

By Raven Kennedy

3 stars

There's a fine line between being a great series and a series that has a book too (two?) many... or maybe just binge reading them.
The Plated Prisoner Series : Book 4 : Glow

By Raven Kennedy

3 stars

Each book is longer than the last, all interconnected, first person, several pov, must be read in order, and have several TW. I don't look for the plot holes or over think the moral obligations but not that keen on last minute cliffhangers. Glow has a lot of backstories on the cast.
The Plated Prisoner Series : Book 3 : Gleam

By Raven Kennedy

3 stars

This is a 'don't start at bedtime' series...
The Plated Prisoner Series : Book 2 : Glint

By Raven Kennedy

4 stars

Hold my... coffee, dinner, tasks...
The Plated Prisoner Series : Book 1 : Gild

By Raven Kennedy

3 stars

Very Adult read, with lots of TW abound. The series is currently circulating on booktok. This is the first of a series of 6 books. There's a lot happening, lots of big feelings and themes. First person
Joint Task Team Series : Book 3 : Saving Summer

By Edith Lalonde

3 stars

I think the by-lines of what type of romance are truly incorrect. Yes there's definitely a romance storyline but for each of the 3 books the by-lines weren't really true. The second book wasn't a true "forced proximity" nor was the first one "enemy to lover". The books are good, suspenseful, ninja-warrior type swat/seal team good guy - strong woman saving the world with a romance. The constant mind chatter in book 3 and the intimate scenes, in all the books , definitely lower the star level. They are not nessesary as the plot is good enough without them.
Your Beautiful Mind

By Cassandra Gaisford

3 stars

Well worth a read no matter your perspective on sobriety, alcohol or addiction. New Zealand perspective and research. More than just her story it is also filled with fascinating information and thought provoking processes. Definitely can dip into it at times or use as a reference . Lots of statistics and show cases how advertising influences, how governments throughout the years have contributed and the affects on everyone but inparticular NZ youth. It is probably a bit heavy to read in one sitting. " My aim, as I have said from the outset, isn’t to make you quit drinking but to present you with information you so you can make your own informed decisions—and have a better relationship with alcohol." - pg 76
Joint Task Team Series : Book 2 : Finding Eve

By Edith Lalonde

3 stars

Worth reading, classed as a ' romantic suspense' it is second in the series but can be read individually. Lots happening, so takes some keeping track .
Joint Task Team Series : Book 1 : Chasing Grace

By Edith Lalonde

3 stars

Action with an underlying plot of romance. There are baddies, there are goodies, there is absailing, mountain climbing, car crashes and romance. I wouldn't class this as an 'Enemy to Lover' as kindle does but it was a good read and would be inclined to read the next one although it's not at the library yet.
Puritan City Alphas : Book 1

By Poppy Carter

2 stars

This is a very long book, and Part 1 of a 2 part series. It is her debut novel of a very specific genre that usually comes with a list of trigger warnings. It would definitely appeal to some readers but it isn't the best of the genre and I definitely am not inclined to read the second book.
The Earl's intended wife

By Louise Allen

3 stars

Considering that this is a reread of a reread that I've reread for atleast 15 years... it is what it is proclaimed to be : a Historical Romance fiction story. Let us acknowledge that if it was written in 23/24 it would come with trigger warnings.
Liberated Ladies Series : Book 1 - 5

By Louise Allen

3 stars

I always enjoy Louise Allen's books, they are not as steeped in history as some of the Phillipa Gregory's but definitely seem appropriate for the time period they are set. Series follows a group of ladies, who are all a bit older and "on the shelf" at 23 who end up finding love whilst keeping their independence. All stand alone, HEA, no major spoilers so can be read individually. Nice, simple with a few flashes of ankles, wanton kisses and bits to cause blushes, the characters have their own development and sense of self.
Paper Cranes

By Jordan Ford

3 stars

Jordan Ford writes a variety of Genuine YA novels. This is deemed a rapunzel retelling. It was written in 2017 so is removed from current trends in YA literature. NZ Author. Also writes as Melody Sweets and Melissa Pearl.
Ruffled Feathers

By Grace McGinty

3 stars

Australian writer, Grace McGinty has a varied but enjoyable book catalogue. Ruffled Feathers is her brand new lease that is more Rom Com than some of her other books. Most of her books are Adult reads, this certainly is , although perhaps, more New Adult vs Sophisticated Adult. If this was a song it would be a ditty... it's fun, it's cute and it's quick. Although beware, it's a why choose with everyone's ( with a captial E) consent and participation..
Tikanga : An introduction to te ao Māori

By Keri Opai

4 stars

Beautiful photographs, nicely set out. Definitely an introduction - there is worth having it available in a school library or to new/International staff. 2022 edition. Not only sets out some common Tikanga but in a non confronting way. Easy to follow or dive in to a section.
Tikanga Whakaaro: Key concepts in Māori culture

By Cleve Barlow

4 stars

This book provides clearly defined explanations of 70 terms. These explanations are in both Te Reo Māori and English. Each term has reference to tradition, custom,myth, ritual and modern day understanding. It is more than a dictionary, information, easy to use. 2023 reprint
Tikanga Māori : Living by Māori Values

By Hirini Moko Mead

4 stars

I used this for a piece of research and found out things I never knew before. 2023 Edition. Interesting, informative, with great background and well set out. Not just a set ' this is how things were' but also 'how things are now' and how " Tikanga Māori adapts and accommodates to the rhythm of change and the rhythm of life as generations pass on and new ones emerge (Moko Mead) "
The Treaty of Waitangi - Te Tiriti o Waitangi. An illustrated history

By Claudia Orange

4 stars

Lots of well set out information, clear images, a must for any school library of social sciences department. The 2020 version. Very interesting. 'Claudia Orange is an outstanding New Zealand historian. Her long-standing commitment to public history and Treaty education sets a standard to which most of us can only aspire.' : Aroha Harris, Associate Professor of History, University of Auckland.
Te Tiriti o Waitangi - The Treaty of Waitangi 1840

By He Tohu , edited by Ross Calman and Jane Parkin

4 stars

This was a fascinating read although I will acknowledge I read this as research and not for pleasure. Well set out. Informative. Has background on all the signatories of the Treaty/Tiriti, copies of the documents, the places it was signed and information on how it travelled Aotearoa.
Lost Boys Series : Book 1 - 5

By Emilia Finn

3 stars

Emilia Finn is an Australian writer who writes contemporary romance. They are a bit unbelievable but believable. She writes in such a way that you get sucked into the book and you don't want to leave. Usually the MMC is a bit crude and rough, the FMC falls hard , and there's several twists before a HEA. They are standalone but very interconnected and set in the same ' Pro - Fighting ' world. I would suggest reading each series in Order. The Lost Boys is her 2023 series.
Maggie's Grove Series : Book 1 & 2

By Dana Marie Bell

3 stars

Have read this series before, which I have taken into consideration in the stars. Each book rather short , interconnected but with lots of potential. Definitely an adult read but NA in style. " Maggie's Grove is a haven to supernatural beings of all shapes and sizes, a place where a vegetarian vampire can live in harmony with his shifter neighbors. Where witches form cliques, the mayor must to get his anti-sunlight beauty sleep between meetings, and the Friday night B-list creature feature fest is always jam packed. "
The Brash Brothers Series : Book 1 - 9

By Jenna Myles

3 stars

All very solid romance at heart stories. Stand alone, but with spoilers as they are interconnected so best read in order. The men are all Billionaires (which is usually my least favourite trope) but although they have money they are very down to earth and often naive. The ladies are in 'down on thier luck' situations that they can get out of themselves but knowing a Billionaire always helps. The 10th book Ransom is out at the end of the month, I would be inclined to read although not enough to buy in advance. Characters range in ages, have life experience, are likeable and relatable (even the billionaires). No third act breakups, no "it's not my story to tell", no grey in any shade although definitely adult ...
Shadow Beast Shifters Series : Book 1 - 3 : Rejected Trilogy

By Jaymin Eve

3 stars

Books 1 - 3 needs to be read in order due to cliffhangers. First Person. Currently 6 books in entire series but book 4 - 6 although in same world and connected are they are extra to original trilogy. Not overly bothered to read rest of books in series, and possibly the trilogy would have been better as a Duet.
The Hunted Omegas Series : Book 2 : Fated to the Feral Wolf

By April L. Moon

2 stars

A wolf shifter series with witches and Fae. Needs to be read in order. I read the first one earlier this year, and the Kindle algorithm suggested this one. There is a lot happening in the story but I won't be reading the next one.
Passions in Death : An Eve Dallas - ' In Death' series - thriller

By JD Robb

4 stars

BOOK 59 - September 2024 release. Set in Future New York, FMC is a homicide detective with a great team of various characters. Majority of the books of the current 59 book series, (#60 out early 2025) are stand alone and although characters develop over the series (and a few spoilers) there is no need to read in order. First in Series ' Naked in Death was written in 1995 when 2058 was a very long time away... as usual a good read. Always makes me inclined to wait for the next one, or back reread the series
Freebirds Series : Book 1 - 5

By Lani Lynn Vale

3 stars

These are very adult romances with some imaginative scenes but all Lani Lynn Vale's books at the heart have genuine relationships. The MMC is usually a biker, a good guy, with military or emergency services experience who likes to protect and serve and the FMC are usually cute and petite. They have their own BoS and sense of character but also like being protected. The Freebirds Series were originally published in 2013. Lani Lynn Vale is a prolific writer with over 155 books. Her books are definitely geared for her target audience , usually dual POV.
Jessica Anderson K-9 Mystery Series : Book 2 - 10

By DL Keur

4 stars

Well written cohesive series, each individual but probably better to read in order... There is a lot that happens in each book with many characters although Jessica and the Sheriff are forefront. Both are robust characters with realistic strengths and weaknesses. I definitely would recommend this series but acknowledge that there is alot of jargon and won't be for everyone.
Jessica Anderson K-9 Mystery : Book One

By DL Keur

3 stars

Book 1 of a current 10 book series. Good cast, 3rd person, rather interesting story. Only complication is the amount of technical jargon around search and rescue, dogs and dog training and policing in rural United States. Probably be a selling point for some people but I found I needed to consciously keep track and it distracted me from the story. It probably won't deter me reading the rest of series but definitely worth the individual mention.
Letters of Enchantment duet

By Rebecca Ross

5 stars

This is a genuinely clean YA duet. Well worth reading atleast the first one - Divine Rivals. It straddles genre - bit of historical, bit of fantasy, bit war and definitely relationships... I would even recommend to someone who liked dystopia...
Tin Star K9 Series : Book 1 - 3

By Jodi Burnett

2 stars

Third person, multi character cast who are likeable but a bit clunky. 8 books currently in the series, ninth out end 2025. Read books 1 - 3, not inclined to read the rest of series although author/stories seem to improve and develop as the series continues.
Scent Series : Book 1 - 3

By NJ LItz

3 stars

A bit slow to start, a nice series. Currently 3 books. First one was written/published in 2019, 2nd in 2022 and the third this year. Would I wait on baited breath for two years for the next one, possibly not but definitely would consider reading more by this author.
Timber Creek K-9 Series : Book 9 : Gathering mist

By Margaret Mizushima

3 stars

Stand alone, interconnecting series. Gathering mist is the 2024 book in the Timber Creek K-9 series. Written in third person, good plot, robust supporting characters, yes there are underlying connections to characters that help if you've read the rest of the series but book/case is complete. There were some in series that carried over from previous book, but author gives a good condensed synopsis of important details so the reader isn't lost.
Forbidden Fairytales Series : Book 1 - 3

By Evelyn Flood

2 stars

Evelyn Flood is a great writer but her books seem to vacillate between a 2 star ( in my opinion for what I like to read) and a 4 star. Three books currently in series, fourth out soon, dark romance, adult read, retelling of fairytales. Has great potential but fell short. DNF book 3, which is based on Alice in Wonderland. I will acknowledge that I don't like the original either.
When I was Theirs

By Evelyn Flood

4 stars

Multiple pov, MF no triangle, no reverse harem, Adult read, Bring your tissues, Nov 2024 release.
The Bell Witches

By Lindsey Kelk

3 stars

First in a series, YA , first person, first published September 2024, the second is due 2026. Not to be confused with the Sara Clancy books. Very modern in language, a bit of a slow start but with 'insta- attractions' and a teenager finding out more about herself with magic weaved through. It would definitely appeal to teens, although book one is 411 pages...
Vegas Immortals Series: The Beast and the Badass duet

By Holly Roberds

3 stars

Duet, but also number 4 and 5 of the Vegas Immortals Series. Can be read as a Duet but recommended reading the Death and the Last Vampire Trilogy first. Dual Pov 2023/2024 release. First person. Romance with a plot and strong characters. Adult
Vegas Immortals Series : Death and the last Vampire : Book 1 - 3

By Holly Roberds

4 stars

3 book series, first book published in 2021. Not standalone - read in order. First Person/ Dual POV. Premise is good, Roberds FMC are always strong willed, good characters and wear boots that are made for walking. The dual POV can be a bit overwhelming but are mostly done well.
Dragon Mate Mountain Series : Book 1 - 3

By Lola Glass

2 stars

3 book series, all stand alone, don't need to read in order but there are spoilers. First person, adult read, very much as expected with title. If you like this sort of book you'll enjoy. Lola Glass is a prolific Australasian writer. Her books are usually fun and easy to read. Although not Shakespeare or Chaucer in writing style (or dare I say it quality) most of her covers are super pretty and she has quite a following A two star read in the sense that once read, I probably would not read again but I will own to having read several of Lola Glass's 90 odd books and I did just read the whole series... Adult Read
Te Marae: A Guide to Customs and Protocol

By Hiwi and Pat Tauroa

4 stars

A guide - complete with glossary - to customs, protocol and etiquette for visitors to New Zealand marae. Well set out, easy to follow. A great reference point.
Maui and other Maori Legends

By Peter Gossage

4 stars

Illustrated by Peter Gossage. Popular in the library Y 7 - Y 13. Brightly illustrated. Includes: How Māui Found his Mother How Māui Found his Father and the Magic Jawbone The Fish of Māui How Māui Slowed the Sun How Māui Found the Secret of Fire How Māui Defied the Goddess of Death Battle of the Mountains Pania of the Reef.
The Mercury Pack series : Book 1 - 5

By Suzanne Wright

4 stars

This 5 book series is a fated mateds shifter series, with the first one published in 2015. Audio versions are read by Jill Redfield. Interconnecting, stand alone but best read in order. Each book follows a couple whilst they navigate their relationship with other factors of life improving the story - side characters are mostly likeable and have their own books and there are several interlocking series which gives the readers options to stay in the world Suzanne Wright has created. None of the books are super standout as a 5 star but definitely all have been read several times over the years. Definitely an adult read, with relationships moving quickly. No 3rd Act break ups due to miscommunication, main characters stand up well individually and as a pair.
The Temptation of Magic

By Megan Scott

3 stars

October 2024 debut release from Megan Scott. Classed as a YA 14- 17 reading age, there is a very tame intimate scene which doesn't add to the story. This is the first in an interlocking Trilogy. The world building is good although there is a lot of moving parts but not sure how it will develop into 2 more books. It definitely will appeal to teens. Next book due out in 2026.
The Christmas tree Farm

By Laurie Gilmore

2 stars

The Third book in a stand-alone Dream Harbour series that has gone viral. Hallmark worthy and cute, the MFC is inept and boardline annoying, the supporting characters are nosey (and extremely annoying) and the not so annoying MMC 'saves the day' and they all live happily after ... 2024 publication
Credence

By Penelope Douglas

2 stars

As with most of this Author's books, it is currently trending on 'booktok', classed as a dark romance on kindle, and comes with a list of TW. It comes with some plot defects, impossible situations and an ending that feels rushed. Originally published in 2020. Adult Read
Wicked Lovely

By Melissa Marr

3 stars

This is a book was originally published by Harper Teen, age rating 13 +, in 2007 that is having a bit of an end 2024 'book tok' resurgence. It is the first in a set of 5. Audio version read by Alyssa Bresnahan. Indepth world building, enjoyed listening over reading originally.

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Otamatea High School

127,940 pages read and 7,350 team points

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