A Toast for Laurent (Vine Valley Book 1) by Theresa Paolo – Review by Gillian Fawell

A Toast for Laurent (Vine Valley, #1): A Small Town Fake Relationship RomanceA Toast for Laurent (Vine Valley, #1): A Small Town Fake Relationship Romance by Theresa Paolo
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Friends to lovers, hidden feelings, relationships of convenience, all of my favourite tropes in one book! So it goes without saying that I absolutely loved this book! Even if I did get frustrated with Phoebe at times, Laurent sounds like an absolute dream!! And so do the rest of his family who I can see a number of set ups already existing for! Highly recommended!

 

Reviewed by @sparkinside

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Twisted Oath (Bound By Blood Book #1) by A. S. Roberts – Review by Angela Hayes

Twisted Oath (Bound By Blood #1)Twisted Oath by A.S. Roberts
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

 

5 Stars

 

Twisted Oath is the first book in the Bound By Blood Series by A.S Roberts. It is a fantastic tense contemporary mafia romance with intrigue, suspense, action, drama, danger, dark tones, revenge, intensity, chemistry, sizzle, connection, heartache, obstacles, secrets, lies, mafia politics, agendas, plots, pain, and so much more.
Gah! A.S. Roberts has done it again- she had me hooked right from the beginning and held me in her thrall the whole way through. She hit this one out of the park! Ms. Roberts is a talented storyteller, and this story is testament to that fact- and is another feather in her cap.
I loved everything about this story and characters (even if I wanted to throttle them at times). Serafina and Salvatore have been through so much, over such a long period of time- they really are perfect for each other. I was glued to the pages to ensure that fate did the right thing by them….. I love this first book and can’t wait to continue the series- Bring on Book #2!!!!
Highly Recommended!
Happy Reading…

Thank you, A.S. Roberts!

 

Reviewed by @angelahayes

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A Match Made in Montana (The Millers of Marietta Book #2) by Elsa Winckler – Review by Angela Hayes

A Match Made in Montana (The Millers of Marietta, #2)A Match Made in Montana by Elsa Winckler
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

 

4 Stars

 

A Match Made in Montana is the second book in The Millers of Marietta series by Elsa Winckler. This is the first book that I have read by Ms. Winckler so I really wasn’t sure of what to expect from one of her stories, but now that I have read one, I will certainly be adding her other books to my TBR list.
This is a fun, small town, second chance, contemporary romance with humour, banter, emotion, family, chemistry, spice, taking a chance on love, and finding love unexpectedly.
Even though this is the second book in the series, it can be read as a standalone if you want. I hadn’t realised that it was the second book in the series when I snapped up a copy, and now that I have read it I will definitely be going back to read Book #1 before continuing with the rest of the series. It follows the Miller siblings who have moved to small town Marietta and the new beginnings that brings. The characters are wonderful, fully developed individuals with their own unique personalities, quirks and flaws- and who are quite endearing. The story itself is a sweet, heartfelt, and romantic- with just a sprinkle of drama to keep things interesting.
Annie Miller’s owns the new bed and breakfast in Marietta, Craig O’Sullivan is a marketing expert who is in town for a family wedding. But his meddling Aunt puts her matchmaking hat on which results in Craig helping Annie with a marketing plan for the B & B. They certainly have a great connection, but their lives are in different parts of the country- so a HEA is impossible. Right? But, the heart wants what the heart wants, so will they take a chance on love and the chance to forge a future together? This is well worth the read to find out.
A charming story…
Happy Reading…

Thank you, Elsa Winckler!

 

Reviewed by @angelahayes

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Sacrifice Bunt (Ground Rule Book 2) by Bree Kraemer – Review by Kassandra

Sacrifice Bunt (Ground Rule Book 2)Sacrifice Bunt by Bree Kraemer
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I LOVED this book! Reading the characters wrestle with themselves, and each other, over their feelings made the book hard to put down. It was a great world building and fantastic characters. I’ll be recommending to all my fellow romance readers!

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Twisted Oath (Bound By Blood Book 1) by A. S. Roberts – Review by M Policicchio

Twisted Oath (Bound By Blood #1)Twisted Oath by A.S. Roberts
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I am a sucker for a good mafia story, plus it is in Calabria!!! This story has everything. Secrets, revenge, love, secret love, violence, steam, twists and turns, death and all the good mafia details.

Salvatore is out for one thing and one thing only, revenge on those that stole his mother away from him. That begins and ends with the Giordianos. From a young age, Salvatore decides that he needs Serafina, the oldest daughter. Over several summers, he befriends her from afar until she is of age then he starts inserting himself in her life.

Serafina knew what kind of family she grew up in. She wasn’t completely naive. Because of it, Serafina decides to dedicate her life to healing and saving people as a doctor. When tragedy strikes, she has to give up her dreams to protect her family. Serafina finds herself looking at an arranged marriage to save the family reputation, position, and smooth over some relationships.

I want you to know that I was mad at Serafina throughout the entire first part because Nick. I couldn’t believe it. I suspected the right person with the heavy steps all along. I hated that I was right. I was happy for Mia, who was going to get her dream guy. Dante needs to talk to his sister before he takes his vengeance too far. Did I mention that the story is wonderful? I didn’t see some of the twists coming. Can’t wait for more. Fantastic.

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Soul Redeemed (War of Destiny Book 5) by Theresa Van Spankeren – Review by Heather Goodman

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

She has done it again. This book doesn’t let you down. It’s full of action, suspense, and romance. I was so happy to see some old romances picking back up. I’m glad some friendships were reinforced. Be prepared to be enthralled until the last page.

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The Master of Demise by Nadija Mujagic – Review by Shea Gilkerson 6/30/23

The Master of DemiseThe Master of Demise by Nadija Mujagic
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Mitch Wegner is a successful academic and researcher, proud husband, and honestly a pretty self absorbed and unlikeable main character. While he is unlikeable, there’s really nothing overtly wrong with him. We come into his adult life, when he is well respected and respectable as a professor, researcher, and husband. He doesn’t really have any friends, but he mentions a couple people and the idea of friends throughout the book. Most are in respect to his lovely, vibrant, warm and beautiful wife, Emily.

While Mitch and Emily have had their issues here and there, they are generally happy in their huge house with their fulfilling jobs. Emily, in line with her friendly and open nature, runs a yoga studio and has a very loyal following.

As the book progresses, it follows Mitch through the series of events he has been experiencing, getting worse throughout. Is he losing his mind? Is he blanking out? Is he being framed? With no evidence of such and his name being brought into tragedy after tragedy at the university, you spend most of the story wondering. Is Mitch really a loveable guy who just lost his spark? Were honest accidents just piling up? Was he being framed? Is someone trying to make him crazy? Did he really hurt anyone? Question after question kept piling up as I twisted and turned through this thriller. I think it was like the 2nd to last page in which you are given a startling surprise, so it keeps hold of you all the way through.

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Soul Redeemed (War of Destiny Book 5) by Theresa Van Spankeren – Review by Jennifer Ramos

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

In this last installment, Julia’s character comes back as front and center into the story and she is still coming to terms with this special ability of using and hearing people that are not seen by others. She then discovers it is a very rare gift, which is a valuable asset to the Resistance, which is something she must prove to them. As a result, a big setup with human hostages ends up taking place. I most definitely do not want to give too many details to readers. Please make sure you read this series from the beginning! The sequences are much more deeply appreciated as well as learning more about the characters to see where they have been and to where it leads them. It is a bit sad to see this series end because I truly fell in love with the story itself as well as the characters. Van Spankeren put so much great detail and character development into her novels. It is worth the journey!

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Fallen Soul (War of Destiny Book 4) by Theresa Van Spankeren – Review by Jennifer Ramos

Fallen Soul (War of Destiny #4)Fallen Soul by Theresa Van Spankeren
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Unlike the previous books, which was from Julia’s perspective, Lane takes center stage in this book as he finds his own path of uncertainty as to which group he belongs to. In certain ways, this book kind of reminded of the Bree Tanner novella, in how her perspective was told by the author and struggles with identifying her group’s purpose or being guided by her own intuition. I’m quite a fan of alternate character perspectives as they give you insight into how characters are viewed differently and how interpretation of circumstances can be constructed quite differently than originally imagined.

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Grand Slam (Ground Rule Book 3) by Bree Kraemer – Review by Kristan Anderson

Grand Slam (Ground Rule Book 3)Grand Slam by Bree Kraemer
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Grand Slam by Bree Kraemer is Ground Rule
Book three. This series can each be read as a stand-alone but honestly I LOVED being able to read about the other couples and anticipate each story! Grace has been working at the animal shelter, though not completely lucrative, something she absolutely loved. Heath is a hot baseball player that Grace simply can’t stand. Or can she? After meeting him weeks ago in a celebrity charity auction for the city’s animals shelters, she wants nothing to do with him. But Heath has other plans when he inserts himself into her life and doesn’t give her an option to run. I absolutely love Bree’s style. The characters are so lovable and easily relatable. I enjoyed watching Heath break Grace down but by bit. The connection between the characters is evident but Grace is refusing to believe she can have anything good. Do yourself a favor and read this amazing series.

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A Toast for Laurent (Vine Valley Book 1) by Theresa Paolo – Review by April McCoy

A Toast for Laurent (Vine Valley, #1): A Small Town Fake Relationship RomanceA Toast for Laurent (Vine Valley, #1): A Small Town Fake Relationship Romance by Theresa Paolo
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I’m a huge fan of second chance romances and this one fit the bill! Such a fun read. I adored the MC’s and consumed this book in one sitting! A great read that’s easy to enjoy and hard to put down!

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Sacrifice Bunt (Ground Rule Book 2) by Bree Kraemer – Review by Kristan Anderson

Sacrifice Bunt (Ground Rule Book 2)Sacrifice Bunt by Bree Kraemer
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Sacrifice Bunt by Bree Kraemer is Ground Rule
Book two. Ahhh I was so excited for Zara’s story! She is the rough around the edges friend and one who hasn’t been in love, ever. Very career focused, and darn good at what she does in the sports world, she doesn’t date athletes anyway and especially not ones named Noah. Noah saved a beautiful woman’s life one day years ago and hasn’t been the same since. Being the poster boy baseball player, he’s never in trouble, never seen with a woman and never on a scandal. Mainly because there’s only one girl he wants. Hint: it’s Zara, from the fire. I loved these two. I loved Zara and how real she felt. Their chemistry was amazing and let me tell you this book was spiiiicy. I loved everything about these two. I am excited to read the next book!

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Ladies of the Links (Ladies of the Links Book 2) by Haley Rhoades – Review by Faith Jackson

Ladies of the Links #2Ladies of the Links #2 by Haley Rhoades
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Great book: easy to read, lovable characters and great story to enjoy. Fun and short but simple to read. You’re gonna love this one just like I did, if not more.

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

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

This next story in the series starts off with Julia’s realization of being able to see and hear people that others cannot and as a result, leaves her ka-tet family clan to join Valentino’s. She is unfortunately rejected within his group and tries to mend the previous broken relationships to feel a sense of belonging again. Just like the previous two books, lots of action continues into this novel as well. In emphasizing Julia, she senses her loneliness a lot more in this book. Hoping things do change around for her in the next two books in the series.

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Soul Redeemed (War of Destiny Book 5) by Theresa Van Spankeren – Review by Amanda Swindle

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

Soul Redeemed is the 5th book in the War of Destiny series, and they should be read in order to be able to follow the timeline of events. Typically I am not a fan of vampire stories, but this series has surprised me more than once and kept me interested and engaged throughout the series. With this book, we are back to Julia’s POV, and she is trying to learn to control and hone in on her powers to prove to the resistance they exist and how special they are. The trouble is, Julia is on a time crunch. She has to learn as much as she can before Ka-tet or the villagers are destroyed. As things get more chaotic and stressful, Julia struggles with self harm, and eventually, how to cope with recovering from that. Will Julia get a hold on her powers and overcome the resistance? Will Valentino get to her before she is strong enough? Can they overcome all of the obstacles that keep coming at them? There is so much to unpack in this one. The world building and ever-continuing character growth shines through once again. This is an amazing vampire paranormal series and I hope to see the story continue again!
Reviewed by @zoltrixes

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Fetching Dreams by Mary Bleckwehl – Review by Tanya Wall, July 2023

Fetching DreamsFetching Dreams by Mary Evanson Bleckwehl
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This book is one that I walked about thinking about after every reading session. There was hope, tears, celebrations and the gut wrenching realization that this is real for so many today. The story is told through a penpal relationship between two girls – one in America and one in Africa. Two girls, with two very different lives that learn they can have a voice to make a difference. There were times in this story that I was faced with big feelings knowing that so many go without the basic necessities like water, education and a childhood – while many take having these things for granted. I was glad there was a positive outcome even in the shadow of sorrow – and I will remember the power of raising one’s voice!

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Twisted Oath (Bound By Blood Book 1) by A. S. Roberts – Review by Lorralei Hoerner

Twisted Oath (Bound By Blood Book 1)Twisted Oath by A. S. Roberts
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

5 Stars 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟

If you love dark mafia romance like I do ………. do yourself a favor and read this story! Fantastic, raw, revenge, dark and the push and pull between Salvatore and Serafina….wow! I highly recommend this book..the story is top notch.

Salvatore is ruthless and powerful looking to seek revenge on those whom did him wrong. Serafina is part of another powerful family and had her eyes on Salvatore for a very very long time. She grows up having dreams of more to life….but she know she must protect her family. The push and pull between Salvatore and Serafina is a roller-coaster intense ride as they both are doing what they feel is best…..never expecting to fall…..

Fantastic story….this book will definitely stick with me for quite awhile……..Wow…..

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My Goodbye Girl by Anna Gomez – Review by Crystal Brehant

My Goodbye GirlMy Goodbye Girl by Anna Gomez
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is a heartwarming romance story. I think it is very well written with beautiful character creation and story line. It was difficult to put down. I just wanted to keep reading until I finished! This was a fun read and I hope to read more of this authors books soon.

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Fallen Soul (War of Destiny Book 4) by Theresa Van Spankeren – Review by Amanda Swindle

Fallen Soul (War of Destiny #4)Fallen Soul by Theresa Van Spankeren
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Book four of the War of Destiny series is a bit different than the previous three. This time, we are seeing things from the POV of Lane and Fallen Soul is a re-do of book three from his perspective. I actually enjoyed this, as it shed some light on his past and showed us why he is the feared loner. Lane has been wanted for a very long time. When Julia approaches him in a friendly and respectful manner, and not in fear or hatred, he is intrigued and amused. As he becomes closer to her and her group, he struggles with upcoming decisions. Should he stay the solo vampire he has been for so long? Or should he join the group that is willing to accepting him as one of their own, and the power struggle with Valentino that comes with it? Can he ever be truly trusted and accepted, or is he better off alone? This installment really put things into a different perspective and helped us understand just who Lane is, and why he is the way he is. If you are into vampire stories, this is surely a series you will enjoy.
Reviewed by @zoltrixes

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Shalom Israel by Melissa Lavi – Review by Tanya Wall, June 2023

Shalom Israel: A place like no otherShalom Israel: A place like no other by Melissa Lavi
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I enjoyed this peek of the different places in Israel. I loved the illustrations – a mix of drawings with real photos – they really gave me the vison of the places the book introduced me to. The story tells a history of Israel in a rhyme, it is highly engaging and educational – in a fun way!

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Falling Again(Buckeye Falls Book 3) by Libby Kay- Review by Heather Knalls

Falling Again: A Buckeye Falls NovelFalling Again: A Buckeye Falls Novel by Libby Kay
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Anthony is mayor of Buckeye Falls, he is successor to his father and still feels as if he is living in his shadow. Natilie is his wife who has just recently opened her own business N&G. They have both been neglecting each other since he has become mayor, she started her business and they had their two children. Anthony’s parents have asked them to go pack up the lake house because they are thinking of selling it. He feels this is their chance to get their marriage back on course. Is the time away what they need or are things to far gone for them to fix it?

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Helpful Hudson by Dannielle Pickford – Review by Angela Plate, June 2023

Helpful HudsonHelpful Hudson by Dannielle Pickford
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This book was really cute. It’s geared towards young children, but I think parents will enjoy it as well. It’s a great reminder to parents that it’s okay to take the time for self care while teaching the littles about it without guilt or embrassment. This book was well written and nicely illustrated.

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Fallen Soul (War of Destiny Book 4) by Theresa Van Spankeren – Review by Nina Maes

This story has it all, very engaging and full of action. Lots of tense and magical moments.
This a thrilling quick read. Recommend to all readers.
Fallen Soul (War of Destiny #4)Fallen Soul by Theresa Van Spankeren
My rating:
5 of 5 stars

This story has it all, very engaging and full of action. Lots of tense and magical moments.
This a thrilling quick read. Recommend to all readers.

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

Great story telling with plenty of details. This has lots of adventure with an engaging storyline. Full of suspense, fast paced. Once you get started hard to put down. Recommend to all readers.Pursuit into Darkness (War of Destiny #2)Pursuit into Darkness by Theresa Van Spankeren
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Great story telling with plenty of details. This has lots of adventure with an engaging storyline. Full of suspense, fast paced. Once you get started hard to put down. Recommend to all readers.

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Soul Redeemed (War of Destiny Book 5) by Theresa Van Spankeren – Review by Nina Maes

Whoa! This series is phenomenal! Strong characters and well written. Full of action, suspense, twisted and heart wrenching. This story is very fast paced and captivating. Once you start you can’t stop until it’s finished. Recommend this series and author to all.Soul Redeemed (War of Destiny #5)Soul Redeemed by Theresa Van Spankeren
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Whoa! This series is phenomenal! Strong characters and well written. Full of action, suspense, twisted and heart wrenching. This story is very fast paced and captivating. Once you start you can’t stop until it’s finished. Recommend this series and author to all.

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Helpful Hudson by Dannielle Pickford – Review by Hannah Porter

Helpful HudsonHelpful Hudson by Dannielle Pickford
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Reading Helpful Hudson by Dannielle Pickford I loveeeeed everything about it. The illustrations, I loved them. They reminded me of toy story style. I will be rereading this often to my little one. I loved the message, we all get that way sometimes even kids so it’s important for them to understand that and figure out how to work through their feelings. I look forward to reading more books by this author.

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Between Darkness and Light (War of Destiny Book 3) by Theresa Van Spankeren – Review by Nina Maes

Great story well written seamless story with each book. Very engaging, will pull you in and keeps you wanting more. Strong characters, very emotional read. Recommend to all readers.Between Darkness & Light (War of Destiny #3)Between Darkness & Light by Theresa Van Spankeren
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Great story well written seamless story with each book. Very engaging, will pull you in and keeps you wanting more. Strong characters, very emotional read. Recommend to all readers.

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

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

Definitely a fan of the first book and wanted to see where this story proceeds. Quite some time after Samuel’s decision to help with the Resistance, Julia along with the ka-tet, have been living among those in the Resistance. Julia has grown into her strength and abilities from the first book and as a vampire as well. It is nice to see the character development in Julia as well as many of the other characters from the previous book.. Lots of action in this one as well, which I absolutely love and don’t want to ruin any details for those who decide to pick this book to read! There is more to come in the next book of the series and cannot wait to see where this story takes us!

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Lost Soul (War of Destiny Book 1) by Theresa Van Spankeren – Review by Jennifer Ramos

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

I’ve always been drawn to vampire and paranormal stories so when I read what this book was about, I had to read it! I was drawn into the story from the beginning. Julia, a then 14 year old girl from a wealthy family, is married off to a man who is not what he seems. Growing up, she ends up falling for her childhood friend, Adam, who is the servant’s son and is furious about this arranged marriage. What happens during the duration of her marriage takes you for a whirlwind in which she ends up getting help from the least suspected of all, vampires. She then makes a decision whether to continue in the horrible marriage life or turn into a vampire herself. She is then brought into the complex world of vampires and learns their defense tactics as well as the abilities she has to adjust to. Similar to Twilight saga but unique in its own way and the author does such a great job with this story. I cannot wait to read the rest of the series.

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Lost Soul (War of Destiny Book 1) by Theresa Van Spankeren – Review by Nina Maes

Captivating! Very engaging, great story line full of emotions. just enough romance to keep it interested. This was my first book from this author and looking forward to reading more. Recommend to all readers.Lost Soul (War of Destiny # 1)Lost Soul by Theresa Van Spankeren
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Captivating! Very engaging, great story line full of emotions. just enough romance to keep it interested. This was my first book from this author and looking forward to reading more. Recommend to all readers.

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