Insatiable Darkness (The Vigilant Book 0) by LM Preston – Review by stephanie nicole

Insatiable Darkness (Vigilant, #0.5)Insatiable Darkness by L.M. Preston
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

A young adult supernatural thriller, seemed right up my ally when I first started reading this novel. While I have only read one other book by this author, it was enough to make me come back for more. The cover has beautiful colors that really make it pop, the character development was great, and it was a fantastic short novel to get me put of my reading slump. So whether you are looking for your next read, or your looking for something to get you out of a slump, make sure you pick this one up today.

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Amber Waves of Grace by Jessica Berg – Review By April McCoy

Amber Waves of GraceAmber Waves of Grace by Jessica Berg
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This novel is so well written and relatable! We can all think of a time where our faith and futures were tested by rocky paths and murky pasts. I enjoyed the air of mystery and suspense in this book just as much as the romance and drama. Amber Waves of Grace was one that I found myself cozied up with a blanket and my kindle reading the night away until it was far past my bed time and the book was finished! A great read that paced perfectly!

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Amber Waves of Grace by Jessica Berg – Review By stephanie nicole

Amber Waves of GraceAmber Waves of Grace by Jessica Berg
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This powerful and inspirational read will definitely keep you turning pages to see how it ends. I personally don’t read books like this very often but with the synopsis and beautiful cover I just couldn’t turn this one away. This author is brand new to me and she provided an inspirational story about a family that can make it through anything, incredible character development, a great plot, and so much more that I couldn’t put it down.

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Between Darkness & Light (War of Destiny Book 3) by Theresa Van Spankeren – Review by Lucy Machard

Between Darkness & Light (War of Destiny #3)Between Darkness & Light by Theresa Van Spankeren
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

(SPOILERS) (CONTENT WARNING- SELF HARM; SUICIDAL IDEATION)

This is the latest book released in the series, and it starts with Julia fighting the demons from the last book as she navigates life in Italy. Like in the first book, I do wish there had been a content warning for self harm and other heavy topics. Some of the language used when describing Julia’s self harm that can be heavily triggering for people who have struggled with SH in the past, and who still do. It doesn’t help that one of the characters that finds out about Julia’s mental health struggles also calls her insane while cleaning out her wounds, which honestly left a bad taste in my mouth. There was also some suicidal ideation in the beginning. However, it is fun to see the development of the writing style throughout the series, and the character development is done well, and the book has a sweet ending.

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Murder Creek (Audio Book) by Jane Suen – Review by Robin Rankin

Here’s what I thought of Murder Creek by Jane Suen:

I gave it 4/5 stars.

Riveting

Murder Creek (Eve Sawyer Mystery Book 1)

This book went by way too fast though I didn’t realize it at the time.  I have listened to a lot of audiobooks, especially over the last 2 1/2 years working from home, there have been a few that have drawn me in like this but not many.  I was caught up in the story immediately and had a hard time pausing it when I got calls for work.

Marni Penning’s voice was just perfect and only helped draw me in further. I will definitely look for more books narrated by her.

Eve’s curiosity about Murder Creek and in turn what happened to Lacey all those years ago.  She doesn’t give up until she has answers and some of these answers are where she least expected them to be.

I’m looking forward to the the next book and what gets into next.

Pursuit into Darkness (War of Destiny Book 2) by Theresa Van Spankeren – Review by Lucy Machard

Pursuit into Darkness (War of Destiny, #2)Pursuit into Darkness by Theresa Van Spankeren
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

This is the second book in the series, and takes place over half a century after the last. The book seems to be written in partial modern vernacular, and then switches to “Ye Olde” vernacular, almost inconsistently which leads to some strange phrases that I WILL be using in my everyday life. The author does leave the book on a good cliffhanger, which means I will be reading the next book to find out what happens to Julia next!

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Lost Soul (War of Destiny Book 1) by Theresa Van Spankeren – Review by Lucy Machard

Lost Soul (War of Destiny # 1)Lost Soul by Theresa Van Spankeren
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

(SPOILERS) (CONTENT WARNING- DOMESTIC ABUSE AND CHILD DEATH)

This is the first by this author I’ve read. The synopsis looked promising, especially since I’m a sucker for vampire novels. However, I was a tad bit disappointed. The first 25% of this book (I read mainly on Kindle) is mostly the story of how the main character is domestically abused by her husband. As a survivor of abuse, I wasn’t expecting it to be that intense, or have such a strong focus so early in the book. There is also the violent death of a child. If there was a content warning, I didn’t see it, so if you’re reading reviews before reading the book, this is the content warning. To me, the writing felt way like there was too much dialog- and the descriptive sentences around for the setting and plot seemed dry and rushed. While that might be great for some people, it wasn’t for me. It is a quick read though, I finished this in the few hours of downtime I had before work. However, I did like that the MC got her vengeance at the end, and started to heal from the crap that happened to her in the beginning. There’s also a bit of a love triangle, with a bit of slow burn romance at the end. I am looking forward to the second book, and I’m ready to see how the main character’s story develops throughout the series!

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Ballet School Rumours (Amberwood Hall Ballet School Adventure Book 3) by Eleanor Dixon – Review by Candice Estes

Ballet School RumoursBallet School Rumours by Eleanor Dixon
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is a good junior range book. I read this one as a standalone, but may back up and read the first two or even have my daughters (8 and 9) read them. I had no issues reading this book as a standalone book. This book has several solid messages to it, such as not judging someone by rumors that you hear, and talking through issues with friends instead of just ignoring them and letting the issue continue to worsen.

Lauren and her friends are well formed characters and the story pulled me in pretty quickly and makes me want to read the rest of this series. Lauren and her friends, Katie, Ethan, Mark, Jay and the rest of the Year 10 students attend Amberwood Hall, a boarding school in which not only are academics important, but the students are also focused on ballet. Lauren, however, also has the ability to see the schools ghosts, though she is the only one who can. Lauren has befriended the ghosts, so she is desperate to help them in any way possible when a fellow student starts trying to find proof that they exist using an EMF device.

I would definitely recommend it for girls who are in upper grade school or lower middle school, though I do feel that it’s important to note that as the author is British, and the book is set in the Britain, there are some terms that will be different from the US terminology.

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The Lie That Binds by Amy Argent – Review by Lucy Machard

The Lie That BindsThe Lie That Binds by Amy Argent
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This isn’t the first book I’ve read by this author, but it is my favorite. She immediately pulls you into Tillamook High’s world, leaving the reader wanting more. I felt like I was hanging on to every word while reading, on the edge if my seat for what came next. The romance is done well, she really does a great job of writing the awkward teenage love trope. A little clichè, but with an amazing ending. Absolutely loved this book and recommend.

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Pursuit into Darkness (War of Destiny Book 2) by Theresa Van Spankeren – Review by Roxsanne Lesieur.

Pursuit into Darkness (War of Destiny, #2)Pursuit into Darkness by Theresa Van Spankeren
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

It is the year 1582 when Julia returns and it is seventy years since we last heard from her, she is passing the time learning from Samuel and the rest of the resistance fighters she agreed to help as part of the deal of her living within Samuel’s group, her ka-tet. It has been a peaceful time and she has grown to love and care for those she is living with and they have carved out a place in the society around them, but all that changes with the arrival of Valentino, he is a long term enemy of Samuel and has intended on hurting him and the Resistance he leads for a long time.

Samuel knows that Julia and the rest of the ka-tet are nowhere near strong enough to face Valentino between Julia being a mere fledgling as well as some of the others who aren’t in much better situation, so Julia reluctantly agrees to flee to safety before the Vampire King can get to her, this however, doesn’t go to plan!

As they escape, it becomes clear that fighting is inevitable ans Julia throws herself into the fray to protect those around her, but their ka-tet is in more danger than ever as attacks come from all around them, but will they be able to stick to their plan, or is the danger too great? This is an emotional rollercoaster of a fight where good and evil cover a lot of grey areas, danger lies around every corner and relationships are in jeopardy for both internal and external forces. This is a sequel which will keep you hooked from the start and keep you on the edge of your seat throughout.

Reviewed by @roxsannel

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Love in the Roses (Love Through the Ages Book 1) by TL Clark – Review by Lorrene Huisman

Love in the RosesLove in the Roses by T.L. Clark
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Loved this book so much! I really felt I was transported through time, and in the century this book takes place on. The book was full of wonderful and realistic characters, and I could visually imagine gracefully as I read. The book was amazing in all which it held. I was hooked, and in love entirely!

The book had the historical romance we all live and ache for. The drama we all dread. The heroes and heroines within ourselves that is ready to draw its sword. The book had it all, and the writing was sensational, and full of its own magical intrigue. It was a wonderful read, and I really connected with the wonderful characters as I read, I could not ask for more, only wish it was longer! My heart loved it!

I could not put this one down, defiantly became one of my favorite books very quickly. The writing held its own magic as the characters did! Highly recommend this must-read book! So amazing!

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Love is Worth Fighting for (The Meraki Series Book 3) by Effie Kammenou – Review by Juls Dick

Love is Worth Fighting forLove is Worth Fighting for by Effie Kammenou
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Love is worth fighting for is the third book in the Meraki Series, I have really enjoyed the series so far. Each book so far has followed a different sister, each going through a different stage in their life. This book follows Krystina and her turbulent relationship with childhood friend Loukas. Who have been destined to be together since childhood. I really liked this book, the fact that it tactfully covered the COVID period made it more heartfelt. As always I love the connection with the characters Greek culture and makes me want to visit Greece again. A very enjoyable read.

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Truth or Kill (Twisted Legends Collection Book 1) by A.C. Kramer – Review by Edie Kelleher

Truth or Kill (Twisted Legends Collection, #2)Truth or Kill by A.C. Kramer
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Absolutely amazing! This book had me hooked on every word. I didn’t realise this was the second in a series, but it didn’t matter as it reads as stand alone- I can’t wait to go read the first book now though. I have never read anything like this before, completely unique idea, plot and characters. The author has done a stunning job at pulling you into the story, you feel every inch of tension, suspense and steam. There are triggers in this book, but a must read for any dark romance lovers.

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Someone Exactly Like Me (Wounded Hearts Series Book 1) by Debbie Cromack – Review by Edie Kelleher

Someone Exactly Like Me (Wounded Hearts, #1)Someone Exactly Like Me by Debbie Cromack
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Expertly written friends to lovers slow burn. Destiny and Nico were well written, believable, likeable main characters who had me rooting for them. Overall a easy read with everything you want in this trope- humour, steam, tension and romance. My first book from this author and I cant wait to read more.

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Twilight’s Spy (Twilight Realm Trilogy Book 1.5) by K.M. Wray – Review by Bobbi Wagner

Twilight's SpyTwilight’s Spy by K.M. Wray
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I enjoyed this fantasy story. This book is part of the Twilight Realm series which if you haven’t read the previous book then I highly suggest it is just as great as this one. This is a great series that I have enjoyed reading. One of the things I enjoyed about this book is how the author was able to bring it to life with their writing skills and attention to details. This is a story that is fast paced and engaging. A well written story where the characters pull you in from the beginning. I found them to be connectable, strong and supportive of each other. They really made the story for me. This is a story about survival or death. Which one the character chooses you don’t want to miss. A story that is full of action and just hard to put down. I really enjoyed reading this book and I highly recommend it.

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Review by @bjwagner

Love in the Roses (Love Through the Ages Book 1) by TL Clark – Review by Bobbi Wagner

Love in the RosesLove in the Roses by T.L. Clark
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I loved reading this historical romance story. This is not my first book by this author but it is one of my favorites. I enjoy how this author can pull me into their stories from the start by their writing skills. I also enjoy how well rounded their stories are. Their attention to details make the story realistic as well as how you feel part of the story. This is a well written story about an arranged marriage. What will happen when you are married to the enemy? The characters in this story make the story pop and just come to life. They are loveable, strong and supportive characters. I enjoy the chemistry and growth throughout the story. This is a story that ticks all the boxes for me. A fast paced story that is full of romance, some action and hard to put down. This is a must read story. I highly recommend this book and this author.

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Review by @bjwagner

Twilight’s Spy (Twilight Realm Trilogy Book 1.5) by K.M. Wray – Review by Terri Jo McAllister

Twilight's SpyTwilight’s Spy by K.M. Wray
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Prince Phoenix has become King Phoenix of the Twilight Realm and now he is working to bringing his sister, Zyanna, home. Raised in obscurity, the princess lives in the Night Realm. Yarissa is determined to become an Elite, the highest ranking of the Twilight Realm soldiers. Her plans are put on hold when she is summoned by King Phoenix to travel to the Night Realm to bring his sister home. This was an interesting, quick read, with new characters being introduced. I cannot wait to read how it all comes together!

Reviewed by Terri Jo McAllister

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The Lie That Binds by Amy Argent – Review by Cindy Mayberry

The Lie That BindsThe Lie That Binds by Amy Argent
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is just the book for teens who get bullied. Those new kids in town and the jocks who think they rule the school. School has so many clicks it’s hard to tell where the students belong. Many avenues were traveled in this, all of the same trials we have gone through as well. Holly and Nathan, new kid and popular kid. What happens will surprise you. Just as it did me. The story line held your attention and I could not put it down. The author has written a story built around Trust, Secrets, and learning who we are. I recommend this book to teens, parents and teachers.

Review@cinful
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Murder Creek (Audio Book) by Jane Suen – Review by Emily H

College student Eve Sawyer is needing to finish a paper for her journalism class, but her heart is not in it. Eve stumbles upon Murder Creek, a place with a haunting history and a more recent incident. The disappearance of Lacey Walken twenty years ago. Eve makes a pitch to her instructor to change her paper and he agrees sending Eve to Murder Creek to see if she can provide any insight as to what happened. Will she uncover who was involved or why Lacey disappeared?

I listened to the audiobook version and was pulled in right away. You get to know the towns people and what happened leading up to Lacey’s disappearance. The pacing of the story is good and I would definitely check out the next book in the series.

Levi (The Brothers of Creekside Ranch Book 1) by Edith Mackenzie Review by Michelle Mulvey

LeviLevi by Edith Mackenzie
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This book is about Levi and Bella.
Levi is a retired navy seal who is a triplet and he’s home at his families ranch with his 2 brothers. They are in charge of caring for their little sister. When an old friend contacts Levi looking for help protecting someone it seems like a great solution for both of them to have Bella come stay on the ranch which will keep her safe and while she is there, she will care for Allie.
Bella is lonely and misses her brother so much and wants to contact him but, Levi keeps telling her that’s not possible. Levi is a brute of a man and Bella seems to think he dislikes her but, it’s actually the opposite. They are both attracted to eachother but the number one priority is keeping her safe. Like any great navy seal book, it’s only a matter of time until one of them crosses a line.
Bella notices Levi has a bit of PTSD from his days as a seal and has a perfect remedy for him.
I thought this was a great read and look forward to more by this author

review by @xchellex

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Triad Resumption: Part Two (Grimm Wolves MC Book 6) by D.M. Earl – Review by Kirsten Berkebile

 

Triad Resumption, Part Two (Grimm Wolves MC #6)Triad Resumption, Part Two by D.M. Earl
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is the continuation of Winnie, Chains, and Jackson’s story. I fell in love with this series because of passion that is burning inside of these three characters. Each person in this series has a story to tell and I definitely feel like this triad’s story has just begun. It started in book 5 but we find out more about Winnie, Chains, (aka Nickolas), and Jackson and how their love for one another happened. I honestly can’t wait for the next book. This book literally had me on pins and needles during parts that I felt so much pain for all them. If you ever doubted that this series can’t grasp you, you definitely need to reread it. I feel like I need more from D.M. Earl as well as more of Chains and Nickolas.

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Amber Waves of Grace by Jessica Berg – Review By Piper Foster

Amber Waves of GraceAmber Waves of Grace by Jessica Berg
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Farming is a hard life for Corrie. Even after her father’s accident she’s come home to a fast paced harvest. This book deals with family struggles she also rekindling an attraction to Aaron her childhood sweetheart friend. Really enjoyable book.

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Love in the Roses (Love Through the Ages Book 1) by TL Clark – Review by Allison Davis

Love in the RosesLove in the Roses by T.L. Clark
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

I think this book had so much potential. When I started the book I was so excited to get into the “crisis” of the story. Isabel was arranged to marry Sir William, but he’s the enemy. Would Isabel be able to be the good wife she is suppose to be h set these circumstances. So much could have came from this story line but I felt it was dismissed early which caused the plot to me lacking for me. If you enjoy 15th century setting you will thoroughly enjoy this book. The author did a great job at her research. Knights, swords, lords, they way they celebrate the seasons and holidays, and the language was very immersive. Isabel and Sir William have a wonderful relationship, they communicate from the beginning creating something beautiful. He never once asks Isabel to change who she is, which is a incredibly witty and fierce woman. Although not for me, this book is def someone’s cup of tea!

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Levi (The Brothers of Creekside Ranch Book 1) by Edith Mackenzie – Review by Allison Davis

LeviLevi by Edith Mackenzie
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This book was an absolutely lovely read. I flew threw it in one setting. Levi is a triplet, all boys, and they have a younger half sister. After losing their parents they are left taking care of the ranch and their little sister Allie. Bella needs somewhere to hideout for a while so Levi agrees to protect her. Her cover is a hired nanny for Allie and to help assist with the household chores.

Levi and Bella’s story is so incredibly sweet. The brother love for Allie was heart warming. The story was just so full of emotions. I can’t wait to read the other brothers stories.

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Blood & Ravens (The Casket Girls Series Book 1) by A.D. Brazeau – Review by Amanda Gonzalez

Blood & Ravens (The Casket Girls, #1)Blood & Ravens by A.D. Brazeau
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Though I’ve read fictional works about the Cassquette Girls before, this is definitely up there as one of my favorite interpretations of their tales. At first, I wasn’t all that sure of what to expect and was pleasantly surprised to discover there was more to this short story than I had originally guessed. I loved reading and learning about Greek mythology growing up, so it was nice to see a little of that playing in this book. I enjoyed how, though the story itself is short, everything came together at a good pace and held my attention from cover to cover. I’m looking forward to reading the second book in the series now!

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Pursuit into Darkness (War of Destiny Book 2) by Theresa Van Spankeren – Review by Jamie Truex

Pursuit into Darkness (War of Destiny, #2)Pursuit into Darkness by Theresa Van Spankeren
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

What an amazing series so far! Julia is such a complex character. Having a very difficult time dealing with loss and memories of the past. I want so much for her to have a great future. In this story she struggles with visions, more loss and decisions about who she is. I can’t wait to read the third book to find out what happens next!

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The Colors of Friendship (The Colors Trilogy Book 1) by K.R. Raye – Review by Allison Davis

The Colors of Friendship (Colors Trilogy, #1)The Colors of Friendship by K.R. Raye
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

This was a wonderful story. The author does a great job showing how abuse affects the victim and those around them. Melody is a naïve, hopeless romantic. She is hoping to find the love of her life in college just like her parents. Imani is sassy, loud and unapologetic. She is an extremely loyal friend and it shows. Lance is a star football player, he’s hoping to get into the NFL. He also will do anything for his 2 best friends.

A couple of concerns I had:
-The 3 of them are incredibly close, you would think that they were childhood friends. When really they just met at orientation. It seemed weird how their friendship was seeing they didn’t know each other that long

-The ending seemed incomplete. I know there are other books to come. The ending just seemed oddly abrupt, it felt like something was missing.

Outside of a few small issues from me, I am very interested in how their friendship evolves as they grow!

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Blood & Vengeance (The Casket Girls Book 2) by A.D. Brazeau – Review by Amanda Gonzalez

Blood & Vengeance (The Casket Girls #2)Blood & Vengeance by A.D. Brazeau
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Second book of the Casket Girls, this story focuses on the events following the first book that introduced the circumstances leading the girls from their lives in France to the current ones in New Orleans. In this story, we’re taken through Desiree’s part. Desiree and Theron work together to track and hunt the remaining vampires that fed on the girls in the first book. Of course, then Jaxon, one of the vampires, and things become even more intriguing. It was fascinating to read and see the development of the characters from the first book to this second one, as well as the introduction of the new ones. I loved how, though each of the books have focused on different couples, the storyline remains strong and is wonderfully shown from book to book!

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One in A Billion (Pierce Brothers Book 3) by Belinda Williams – Review by M Policicchio

One In A Billion (Pierce Brothers, #3)One In A Billion by Belinda Williams
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The author delivers another delightful tale of romance and hijinx from the Pierce brothers. These boys can’t manage to stay out of their own way but figure it out in the end.

Victoria is a journalist who is feeling stuck. She has a major birthday right around the corner and has set some deadlines for herself. 1. Get an interview with the reclusive, highly private Seth Pierce. 2. Use said interview to write a masterpiece to get her a long awaited promotion. 3. If 1 and 2 don’t happen, quit and figure out everything from there. When Victoria’s one shot at getting an interview with Seth goes awry, Victoria appears to accept her fate.

When Seth surprises Victoria by discovering her identity, Seth makes her an offer she finds it hard to refuse. Victoria finds herself with all the access she needs for her profile piece but also finds a growing attraction to the man, not just the myth. When a secret threatens to tear apart the budding relationship, Seth has to make some important choices about maintaining his privacy.

This darling romance is peppered with humor, interesting characters, and a little steam. I wish there were more than four brothers.

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Pursuit into Darkness (War of Destiny Book 2) by Theresa Van Spankeren – Review by Susan Ratchford

Pursuit into Darkness (War of Destiny, #2)Pursuit into Darkness by Theresa Van Spankeren
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Pursuit Into Darkness
War Of Destiny: Book 2
By: Theresa Van Spankeren
Review By: Susan Ratchford
4 Stars

Set 70 years since Julia had accepted Samuel’s deal to become a vampire and help the resistance overthrow the Vampire King. Julia’s vampire abilities have developed greatly, even though she is still a fledgling, and her new family, the ka-tet have been able to live peacefully. This all changes when Valentino learns of this resistance and the rising threat to his power. He seeks to destroy them all. Knowing Julia is still too young and inexperienced to defeat the Vampire King, Samuel’s decision is to run before it’s too late. With her ka-tet’s safety in jeopardy, and new dangers lurking around every corner, even her mind, Julia must find a way to stop Valentino or lose everything.
Such a Uniquely wonderful series! I love Spankeren’s twist on the traditional vampire tale. This installment was just as gripping and addictive as the first. Her writing style and use of language really made me feel like I was transported into her world. Spankerens’s characters are well thought out and developed. I really liked seeing that this book took place 70 years later, and how Julia and Adam were doing. This Fast paced second installment is packed with plenty of action, adventure, vampire politics, and a little blood, with twists you’ll never see coming. I cannot wait to sink my teeth into book 3, Between Darkness and Light!

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