True Colors (The Colors Trilogy Book 3) by K.R. Raye – Review by Lauren West

True ColorsTrue Colors by K.R. Raye
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Book 3 was emotional, heartfelt, and truly unpredictable. Melody, Imani, and Lance have weathered the storm of the start of adulthood and grown so much from book 1 to 3. They have proven life hurts, love can be cruel , and things will go far from what you wanted… but friendship can and will stand strong with the right people. Drama, angst, jealousy, and survival play a few role. I loved each book more than the last and I would not change a single thing.
Each character has a special role and they played it out until the end.

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The Second View (The View from Here Trilogy Book 2) by Leon Stevens – Review by Brandy Vaughn

The Second View (Book 2 of The View trilogy)The Second View by Leon Stevens
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is book two in The View trilogy. We find ourselves following Thomas and April on more adventures into the world they started to explore in book one. The two seem more prepared this time around to explore the mysterious world/parallel world with beings that seem like aliens. The author does a wonderful job describing the setting I ways that draw the reader into the story! Book three is anticipated!
Review by @bilberrysweet
Brandy Vaughn, October 2022

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The View from Here by Leon Stevens – Review by Brandy Vaughn

The View from HereThe View from Here by Leon Stevens
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is book one in The View trilogy. The View From Here is a sci-fi exploration adventure filled with scenes where the main characters need to use their basic knowledge of the world. The author asks the reader at the beginning of the story what they would do if they found themselves on/in another world. This gives the reader pause for thought as the story unfolds. I found humor in the back-and-forth banter between Thomas and April. Being the curious person that I am, I would probably follow in the characters footsteps by exploring the world they found. I enjoyed the world building and adventures Thomas and April go on. If you like sci-fi adventures, this is the trilogy to read!

Review by @bilberrysweet
Brandy Vaughn, October 2022

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Notebook Mysteries ~ Haunted Christmas by Kimberly Mullins – Review by Julie McComas

Notebook Mysteries Haunted ChristmasNotebook Mysteries Haunted Christmas by Kimberly Mullins

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I rarely have favorites of anything, and I might have to declare Kimberly Mullins as one of my favorite authors! Here we have another fast-paced adventure with Emma and her special team. She’s added another job description to her ever growing resume, and is becoming quite the sleuth. In book one, Emma would write her observations down in her little black notebooks, and then solve mysteries no one had even asked her to solve. In books two and three, she is becoming more and more involved with a detective agency, and in this Christmas Novella she is asked by a colleague to investigate his father’s death at his haunted house.

Emma is an independent, strong-willed woman that has many talents. This would be a great book, and series for that matter, for young and old alike. And, I would be remiss if I didn’t mention all the lovely recipes!

 

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Gathering of the Four (The Serrulata Saga Book 1) by A.E. Bennett – Review by Shannen Kern

Gathering of the Four (The Serrulata Saga #1)Gathering of the Four by A.E. Bennett
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is such an incredible read and an astonishing first book in The Serrulata Saga! I definitely forwent sleep because I could not put it down, and though it is not a quick read, it is worth every waking moment. The flow of this entire story was flawless.

Leora of Mae has lived with her adoptive family since she was a baby, and they aren’t super thrilled to have her. She draws much unwanted attention because unlike her adopted family and the rest of the village, she is a Xanthi. Xanthi innately posses a kind of magical ability. Upon finding out her mom wants to sell her into servantry, she runs away and meets Roland. They develop a close bond and also run into Aurora and Leopold, who have a good deal of drama and untold truths of their own.

Gathering of the Four is my first book from this author and I am clamoring for more. I am taken aback by how much I loved this book. I highly recommend it to anyone!!

Reviewed by @shannlynn

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Necrosis by C.L. Schneider – Review by Amber Howard

NecrosisNecrosis by C.L. Schneider
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The story was pretty good. I read it in one sitting. The zombies in this story are exactly how I picture them in my head. Although the story was short, it was complete. It tugged at my heart strings and I could relate to the main character. At the end of the day all that matters is protecting and taking care of my family. How far would you go and what would you do to take care of you kid?

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The Gauntlet (The Soppranaturale Series Book 1) by Ashley Pagano – Review by Julie Johnson

The Gauntlet: The Soppranaturale SeriesThe Gauntlet: The Soppranaturale Series by Ashley Pagano
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Imagine finding out that you are a special species of supernatural and that you are one of the only two left of your kind. You are led to a special place but you’re not really sure why. Ommily has wanted to visit the Soppranaturale hotel for awhile now so she convinces her fiancé to take her there. Only problem is, her fiancé is normal…as in human. Ommily knows she’s special but she isn’t sure how special until she meets Link. He will teach her as much as he can before they are challenged in the gauntlet.

This was a super fast read for me. It wasn’t at all what I was expecting, but that’s a good thing. This book features multiple types of supernatural beings (fairies, witches, vampires, phoenix, etc.) and is very different from other supernatural books I’ve read like this. It was a welcome change and I look forward to reading more work by this author.

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I Loved You Yesterday (Trading Heartbeats Trilogy Book 1) by Julie Navickas – Review by Rachel Moss

I Loved You Yesterday: Book One in the Trading Heartbeats TrilogyI Loved You Yesterday: Book One in the Trading Heartbeats Trilogy by Julie Navickas
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This was a great read! It was very heart warming, and cathartic in a way. The beginning had a bit of a slow start to me, but I’m glad I pushed on and kept reading because this one was really good. I loved the characters and the chemistry between the two main characters, Josh and Mavis. I can’t wait to read more from this author in the future, this is my first read by her!

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Grave Digger Academy II (Grave Digger Academy Book 2) by C.A. King – Review by Jennifer Reimer

Grave Digger Academy IIGrave Digger Academy II by C.A. King
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This was the second book to the series. I absolutely loved the first one and this one did not disappoint. The way the author writes is really easy to follow, and the paranormal aspect is really intriguing. This book kept me on the edge of my seat the whole time, from the action, suspense, and kids getting into shenanigans. These kids getting into some interesting situations, with mischief, making new allies, and bumping into old enemies. It really kept you not knowing what to expect. Absolutely loved this author and her amazing writing, can’t wait to see what be in store next time.

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Gathering of the Four ( The Serrulata Saga Book 1 ) by A.E. Bennett – Review by Carla Clemmons

Gathering of the Four (The Serrulata Saga #1)Gathering of the Four by A.E. Bennett
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This was a great start to the series! Definitely an interesting plot with just as captivating characters. Leora and Aurora grow so much in the story. This story has it all! You’ve got your strong characters with action throughout to keep you turning pages. It definitely ends on a cliffhanger making you want to jump right in to the second book! I also really enjoyed the authors writing style and character building! I can’t wait to read more!

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Huntress by Karina Kantas – Review by Helen Dawkins

Huntress: Love and revenge entwine in this dark MC romanceHuntress: Love and revenge entwine in this dark MC romance by Karina Kantas
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This was a good biker gang dark romance. There are a few times where it was a little over the top and not believable, but for the most part the author kept to the true natures of gangs, of all kinds, not just a biker gang. I did enjoy it being a biker gang dark romance vs the normal mafia type dark. Sofi, aka “Dior” is the female main character that starts off as not so innocent but definitely not gang material. She loves her dark make up, smoking pot with the occasional pill, and rocker music, especially Iron Maiden, but she is by far not a killer or drug dealer. She learns that her parents, her prim and proper parents used to be in a biker gang, and not just in a gang but the leaders of a highly respected gang the Tyrants in London. Sofi and her brother John find out a few other family secrets, which push her brother to suicide. This enrages Sofi, she wants revenge, she wants to kill the reason for her brother’s suicide; that person is the father of her new BF (Buzz) who is also the head of a rival gang in London, the Wolves. Sofi gets in deep, almost too deep. Sofi (Dior) encounters many hardships while trying to enact her revenge plot, but she also falls in love. Can she get out? Does she want to? Is this all worth it? There are many twists and turns I did not expect, and ultimately the ending completely blindsided me. While there were some faults in certain situations, I overall loved the book and would recommend to anyone who loves a good dark romance.

PLEASE read trigger warnings if you have any!

Trigger Warnings I believe need to be stated:
Rape (of multiple types), Kidnapping, Drug Use, Date Rape Drug, Guns, Murder, any many other adult themes.

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The Crown of Stones: Magic-Scars (The Crown of Stones Book 2) by C.L. Schneider – Review by Savanah Schwarz

The second book of the Crown of Stones series continues with Ian in prison, defeated and without any hope. However, there are others, people who need something from him and people who have ill intentions for him. Either way, Ian will not be in prison long.

I was stuck between being sad, angry, and brilliantly amazed about how Ian’s journey continued with this one.

It continues several years after the first book. Several characters – friends, and enemies – return for more character development and continuation of the story.
I was not disappointed with this book. It grabbed my attention right away and I was thrilled to follow Ian and glad he was not lost after the ending of the last book. I really liked how deeply this delves into Ian and how focused it is on him. Just like any book, there are those I loved and hated. But each character had their own segment, their own reasons to continue. Some fought for freedom, while others fought to live or simply to get closure.

In this book, the world comes alive, leaving you enthralled and enriched with the storyline. Everything becomes so real, almost as if you could touch it. I loved how this developed and was so excited to read the third one. This book is so dark and daunting. It left your brain worn out from the intensity. But it was such a beautiful book. I definitely hope others liked this as much as I did.

Necrosis by C. L. Schneider – Review by Carla Clemmons

NecrosisNecrosis by C.L. Schneider
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This was an excellent horror read! My only wish was that it was longer! I’ve read this author before and enjoyed their books but I loved their writing style with this genre. I really like the plot of the story and that not everything goes as you would expect. You could really visualize what Amy and Lila were seeing and experiencing. I didn’t expect the ending that came but it definitely was how it needed to end to make the story that much better. I really hope this author writes more horror style books! I will be reading more of their books regardless because I love the writing style!

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Huntress by Karina Kantas – Review by Mercedes Jones

Huntress: Love and revenge entwine in this dark MC romanceHuntress: Love and revenge entwine in this dark MC romance by Karina Kantas
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Sofi has a secret, but so do her parents. After finding out the truth about her parents past, she is set out on a path for revenge. She gets herself involved with a local motorcycle club called “The Wolves.” Sofi gets herself in with the club by singing at local motorcycle bars. She happens to catch the eye of Buzz, the Vice President of the Wolves. As she hangs around, the attraction between Buzz and Sofi cannot be denied. During her time with the wolves though, she goes by the name Dior. She does whatever it takes to be seen as a valuable member to the club. Will her secrets come back to bite her in the rear or will she get the revenge she is seeking?
This was such a fun book. It has a darkish back story but a great story. I loved the characters and the overall story was one I loved. I need more of Sofi and Buzz!

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An Inheritance to Die For (Cozy Mysteries to Die For Book 4) by Judy Moore – Review by Tabitha Montero

An Inheritance To Die For (Cozy Mysteries To Die For, #4)An Inheritance To Die For by Judy Moore
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Beck has been working in the bookstore cafe with her grandmother, dating a nice man, and just got her P.I. license. Her college freshman roommate Jacqueline calls begging her to come down to Miami to investigate her fathers death not convinced it was a suicide as the police believe. Jacqueline was the roommate from hell but, its a paying job. She takes the job and finds herself in the world of the rich and things are not what they seem.
Great read, great character development. I didn’t read the first couple books and I didn’t feel like I was really missing anything.

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Just One More Egg (Science Folktales Book 6) by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Amanda Haller-Doris

Just One More Egg: A Science Folktale (Science Folktales)Just One More Egg: A Science Folktale by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This was such a cute story with some great illustrations that showed up well on a Kindle. Young kids of all ages will enjoy this sweet story about acceptance and not judging someone based on looks. The mama bird was so sweet to keep the baby cuckoo egg and not treat the baby any different, despite what her negative neighbor kept suggesting. The author did great job of explaining the science of how the cuckoo birds leave their eggs in other bird’s nests in a fun way for kids to understand. I definitely recommend this book for folks who want to help kids learn more about birds and compassion.

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Grave Digger Academy II (Grave Digger Academy Book 2) by C.A. King – Review by Elizabeth Sanchez

Grave Digger Academy IIGrave Digger Academy II by C.A. King
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Grave Digger Academy is a new series to me, and I’m loving it. It is easy to read, but holds my interest. It is written for young adult, but I enjoy it in my 30s. This book continues where book 1 left off, as Makayla and her friend return to Grave Digger Academy for their second year. I think you need to read book one to understand what is going on, its not a stand alone. But the books are quick enough, just read them both. The 2nd book had just as much excitement as the first book did. I wish there was more details revealed around the Academy Games, but it was enough to understand the gist and enjoy it. I wish there was more description of how the treasures were discovered at the other schools, and more story to the secondary characters. We really only see what Makayla is doing. I want more on Griffin too!! I want to know his backstory, and look forward to book 3.

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Reviewed by @way2gosmartguy

Necrosis by C.L. Schneider – Review by Elizabeth Sanchez

NecrosisNecrosis by C.L. Schneider
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Necrosis is a book that drew me in just from the cover art. I don’t normally read this kind of book, or watch zombie movies or shows. However, the book was brilliant. The author is amazing with graphic writing. The way she described the decaying bodies had me cringing. The book was short but was not lacking at all. The characters are wonderfully written and the imagery is off the charts. There was moment of suspense and a twisted happy ending, for some anyway. The love of a mother knows no boundaries, and I loved it. I did not see that coming! Highly recommend, and look forward to more.

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Reviewed by @way2gosmartguy

Grave Digger Academy II – Review by Crystal McConnell

Grave Digger Academy IIGrave Digger Academy II by C.A. King
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

After reading the first book of this series, I absolutely could NOT wait to dive into the second one and I wasn’t disappointed AT ALL!! This series has engulfed me from the very beginning. I do recommend reading the first book prior to this one as it picks up exactly where it left off. Makayla and fellow Grave Digger Academy students are returning for their second year and it jumps right into the storyline which is very well written and easy to follow. You are able to learn more about Makayla (the main character) as well as her fellow classmates. At this point, Makayla has accepted the fact that she will not be transferring from this academy and is embracing her new path with an eagerness to learn more about herself and why she has been chosen for this path. The plot develops around the Academy games, which includes all other paranormal schools coming together for some competitive fun. Of course, the plot thickens with some twists and surprises (sorry! No spoiler alerts on my behalf 😊) Continue this story to watch Makayla and her classmates grow in their magic as well as come together for each other. Now….off to get #3 and see if I can read it faster than I did #2!!!

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True Colors (The Colors Trilogy Book 3) by K.R. Raye – Review by Lorralei Hoerner

True ColorsTrue Colors by K.R. Raye
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is book 3 in this series and I definitely recommend reading this series in order.

Imani, Lance and Melody still navigating each life journey and they all have been through so much!! Imani (my favorite in this series) is strong, sassy and happy. She is now married to her love but when her world comes crashing she looks for Melody and Lance…..even though there has been some ups and downs along the way.

In conclusion this series has given love, life, friendship, secrets and just a roller coaster of true emotion that seems so real.

Well done.

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The Colors of Love (The Colors Trilogy Book 2) by K.R. Raye – Review by Lorralei Hoerner

The Colors of Love (Colors Trilogy, #2)The Colors of Love by K.R. Raye
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This book was very good and I would highly recommend reading this series in order. This book is raw and dealing with what happened in book 1….a bit heartbreaking for me and took me on a roller coaster of emotions.

There is a lot in this story with Melody, Imani and Lance as they are still navigating their friendship along with college life and the future. This story has Lance still being very protective over Melody and Imani…..Melody trying to move on after Kevin and Imani still focused as ever on her college degree. Secrets, love, angst, race and friendship that is tested all tied in this story.

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

The Colors of Friendship (Colors Trilogy, #1)The Colors of Friendship by K.R. Raye
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This book was enjoyable and seeing the friendships between Melody, Imani and Lance while trying to gauge college life had me intrigued. Melody is all about trying to find that soulmate while navigating college and a chance encounter she meets Kevin. Lance is a bit of a ladies man and football player but also protective as well and Imani is so focused on obtaining her chemical engineering degree.

This story is more focused on Melody as she navigates her relationship with Kevin and how the bond between Lance and Imani, her two closes friends come into play. Nothing is what it seems sometimes with Kevin and Melody…..and warning signs!!!

This book was enjoyable and look forward to reading book 2.

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Nightfall in Deptford (Crescent Moon Chronicles) by L.E. Towne Reviewed by Jasmin Slagle

Nightfall in Deptford (Crescent Moon Chronicles #4)Nightfall in Deptford by L.E. Towne
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Tam Paradiso is madly in love with Christopher Marlowe. Unfortunately, he has been sentenced to death. Tam would literally move time to be with and save Christopher. Seeing as how she’s in present time and he’s back in 1953, that’s just what she’ll do.

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Euphoric Wonderland by Ryan M. Becker – Review by Kayla Kearney

Euphoric Wonderland: An Eclectic Collection of Psychedelic Poetry to Stimulate the Senses and Open the MindEuphoric Wonderland: An Eclectic Collection of Psychedelic Poetry to Stimulate the Senses and Open the Mind by Ryan M. Becker
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I chose the book for the name, but the moment I read the quote from Robin Williams at the beginning I knew that I was in for a good read! The poetry spans a wide array of subjects, ranging from mental health to the power of music. I definitely relate a bit to some of the author’s experiences and found the lessons behind the poems to be thought provoking and encouraging to seek the truth of them in your own lives. Something I particularly loved about this is that is the kind of poetry that everyone can understand and appreciate, which can’t be said very often. I can’t wait to see what this author comes up with next!

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Just One More Egg (Science Folktales Book 6) by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Anna Hirsch

Just One More EggJust One More Egg by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Just One More Egg (Science Folktales Book 6) by Lois Wickstrom
4 Stars

This is a cute story with some pretty illustrations. Not only is there a little drama to keep it interesting but children will learn about cuckoos and warblers . Although it seems cruel that a mama cuckoo will abandon her egg in another bird’s nest, it is beneficial to them both. The book also shows that even if you are different, you are still deserving of love which is important for children to know.

Review by @Anna Hirsch
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My Bronc Riding Cowgirl (My Cowboy Series Book 6) by Brooke May – Review by Lisa Helmick

My Bronc Riding CowgirlMy Bronc Riding Cowgirl by Brooke May
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

LOvED this one!! I completely connected with the characters and their stories. Their meet cute was quick and set the tone for their future relationship. They did a lot of skirting around each other and it was fun watching their dance. The story is wonderful. It easily drew my interest and kept it. I read this quickly and I could not wait to see how everything was going to play out.

Overall I enjoyed this one. The author did a good job making me feel like I was at the rodeo with the characters. There is a reference in here that I loved as it aptly describes bronc riding.

Watching a horse and rider during a bronc competition is like watching a dance as they move together.

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She’s No Cowgirl (My Cowboy Series Book 5) by Brooke May – Review by Lisa Helmick

She's No CowgirlShe’s No Cowgirl by Brooke May
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Brooke May’s books are always touch and go for me. Some I love and others I could pass on. This one seems to fall into the last category. There just doesn’t seem to be much to keep my interest. The connection between the two characters takes about thirty percent before they have a meet cute. Then another twenty percent until they are actually in each others orbit. There is a lot of info about his life before and meeting the team and she gives us the backstory on playing FB and how she can’t play now but can still be involved in it. I honestly did a lot of skimming and bypassing their inner thoughts. There is not a lot of conflict just a nice wholesome story.

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She’s No Cowgirl (My Cowboy Series book 5) by Brooke May – Review by Lisa Helmick

She's No CowgirlShe’s No Cowgirl by Brooke May
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Brooke May’s books are always touch and go for me. Some I love and others I could pass on. This one seems to fall into the last category. There just doesn’t seem to be much to keep my interest. The connection between the two characters takes about thirty percent before they have a meet cute. Then another twenty percent until they are actually in each others orbit. There is a lot of info about his life before and meeting the team and she gives us the backstory on playing FB and how she can’t play now but can still be involved in it. I honestly did a lot of skimming and bypassing their inner thoughts. There is not a lot of conflict just a nice wholesome story.

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Gathering of the Four (The Serrulata Saga Book 1) by A.E. Bennett – Review by Maryn Bellin

Gathering of the Four (The Serrulata Saga #1)Gathering of the Four by A.E. Bennett
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Gathering of the Four (The Serrulata Saga Book 1) by A.E. Bennett – Review by Maryn Belling

From the outset, our author bespells her reader. Ms. Bennett renders a unique 44th century dystopian reality with details that appeal to a wide variety of audiences – whether your genre preference is sci-fi, dystopia, historical fiction, or anthropologic fiction.

While it takes a bit to get to the root of the historical “issues” in The Realm’s current status, Ms. Bennett’s careful dispersal of Realm history ensures that key events and socio-cultural causes are both present and not overwhelming.

In addition to being a gifted writer, Ms. Bennett is clearly an erudite historical scholar. With a deft pen & keen mind, she weaves poignant observations about 20th and 21st century life in North America into the dystopian reality of The Realm. Discerning readers will find underpinnings comparable to Dickens, Orwell, or Sinclair.

Because the saga is well written, each reader may choose whether to read for entertainment or for insight.

The content warnings at the beginning of the book are appropriate without spoilers. It’s definitely for adult audiences.

Gathering of the Four, The Serrulata Saga Series, A.E. Bennett, Review, Itsy Bitsy Book Bits, Dystopian, Sci-Fi

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Nightfall in Deptford (Crescent Moon Chronicles Book 4) by L.E. Towne – Review by Kerry Baker

Nightfall in Deptford (Crescent Moon Chronicles #4)Nightfall in Deptford by L.E. Towne
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I would definitely recommend reading these in a better order than I did and to start with the first. I think you will get a much better appreciation for the characters and the story. That being said, I did fully enjoy this story. I thought it was interesting and kept the pages turning. I loved the combination of historical fiction and fantasy. The author weaved the two together so well.
The combination of characters worked really well too. Each had their part to play and I liked how they all interacted with each other. I certainly fond this to be a well written and exciting book. I can’t wait to go back and add more to the series.

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