2020-2021 Rainbow Awards Honorable Mention: The Solstice Pudding (The Pudding Protocol Universe)

The Solstice Pudding (The Pudding Protocol Universe) by Angel Martinez

What a delight! The plot moves along like a (very amusing) river. The ussi-chep starts out RIDICULOUSLY adorable and morphs into a not-so-little critter who is cute in other ways. I liked Tyra's movement through her trauma toward healing and embarking on a new relationship, and Shandi's determination and upbeat spirit were most endearing. The universe is rich and full of wonderful, unique detail. But my favorite aspect of the tale is the wholehearted embrace of all sorts of different viewpoints, lifestyles, family units, and cultural values; this includes some subtle critique of gender bias as well. I hope our future is welcoming and respectful like this.

https://amzn.to/3bZHWkU

2020-2021 Rainbow Awards Honorable Mention: Peacemaker

Peacemaker by E.M. Hamill

If there is something I despise in a story is the fact that by the end of the book yet another issue comes up and it leaves it in limbo. So is the issue with both books 1 & 2. So, if you want to know what happens next, you MUST read the next book. What if the series is 20 or more books long? Are there going to be issue after issue infinitum? This could've been a 10 overall because it IS well written, the plot is like a magnet where it sucks you in, the setting is fantastic, and the characters are likeable (although there are a gazillion of them and sometimes I was confused as to who was who). All in all, it is a good story, just...well, left me wondering what happens next.

https://amzn.to/3wwTWnu

2020-2021 Rainbow Awards Honorable Mention: Playing with Fire

Playing with Fire by Sue Graham

Loved it. Characters are so well written and complex. Plot well written and the authors writing style made this one I didn’t want to put down. Intense at times.

https://amzn.to/3qpkFBy

2020-2021 Rainbow Awards Honorable Mention: The Demon’s in the Details

The Demon’s in the Details by Meghan Maslow

Brilliantly written and entertaining spin on a well-known fable. I adored Poe and Tommy; and Kennedy…there’s a lady I’d love to hang out with. From page one I was fully invested in this story, and have now found a new favourite author. Highly recommended!

https://amzn.to/308fGKR

2020-2021 Rainbow Awards Honorable Mention: Chef's Kiss

Chef's Kiss by Stephanie Shea

Loved it. Slow burn with a little angst. Well written all around. Gave a good look into the world of a chef. Love both Val and Jenn.

https://amzn.to/31SdUOx