Murder in a Gated Community by Laura Koerber – Review by Felicia Bates

Murder in a Gated CommunityMurder in a Gated Community by Laura Koerber
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Murder in a Gated community was the perfect short read to liven up my week. The cast of characters was a lot of fun and took me back to my days as a nurse in an assisted living community and silently watching the interactions between “neighbors”. This was a fun story with wit and a humor that kept me engaged from start to finish. I enjoyed the scattered communication with the BOD and that each chapter had a title. As mentioned, I really did enjoy this short read and I’m curious to see what else the author has for me to delve into.

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Cruel Start (Hidden Valley Elite) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Donya Pedigo

Cruel Start (Hidden Valley Elite #4.5)Cruel Start by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I’m so in love with this series and this author’s writing! This is the beginning of Phoenix and Aspen’s story, which is part of the Hidden Valley Elite Series. Personally, I can’t wait for the next book in the series to find out where their story goes from here. It is possible to read this amazing story as a standalone, but I’d definitely recommend reading the whole series as you get to learn more about Phoenix throughout his family’s books. Also, it’s an incredible young adult series that is enjoyable to read.

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Oathbreakers Anonymous by Scott Warren – Review by Betsy Melano

Oathbreakers AnonymousOathbreakers Anonymous by Scott Warren
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This author is new to me and after reading this fantasy story added with lots of humor and characters you can’t forget. I throughly enjoyed the book and can’t remember ever reading a fantasy book that made me giggle and laugh so much throughout the pages. Marluck is such an important character and as you read the book you feel like he could be one of your friends or an adventurer/companion navigating through life.
Looking forward to reading more from this author.

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Cruel Start (Hidden Valley Elite) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Lyndsey Fairley

Cruel Start (Hidden Valley Elite #4.5)Cruel Start by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I did not expect this to end the way it did, i need the next like right now, please of course .

So much happens in this quick prequel that I had to read it twice to be sure I didn’t miss anything the first time around.

if you liked any of the others from this series then you don’t want to miss this one. And if this is your first of this series I recommend reading the others, not that you need to but you’ll want to because they’re that good!!
Can’t wait to get the next one, I need to know what happens!

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Cruel Start (Hidden Valley Elite) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Robin Rankin

Cruel Start (Hidden Valley Elite #4.5)Cruel Start by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Cruel Start: A Dark College Bully Romance (Hidden Valley Elite)

Another Hidden Valley Elite Book I blew through because I couldn’t put it down. I am so completely and totally in love and obsessed with this series.

Phoenix is starting college in the fall with his brother Shane, they’re on the football team and life is good for them. Then there is a change for both of the boys and I hope it will be good for them both.

We meet Aspen and I was able to relate to her, trying to do the opposite of her parents and looking forward to college in the fall. Then she meets Phoenix.

I am impatiently waiting for the next book and don’t know if I will survive the wait.

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Goldilocks and the Six Simple Machines (Science Folktales) by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Cindy Rushin

This is a cute take on the story of Goldilocks and the three bears. I especially like how Goldilocks worked to fix different things around the bears home. The story included some quick fixes that kids can do if they are interested in working or building something. It also showed them that the size of the tools can matter when doing repairs. I recommend this book to anyone who has children that love to learn about building stuff and love to read.

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Rise of the Hunter (Blood Prophecy Series) by Barb Jones – Review by Kirsten Berkebile

This is the fourth book in the Blood Prophecy series and it is the first book of the new trilogy for the Tall Dark Man. While I love a good book, I will be honest with y’all. I had a hard time following along, from the different perspectives to the action packed parts of the story. This is the only book from Blood Prophecy that I have read, so maybe I need to read the other three books first. There is always going to be a good vs evil fight but I really see that in this book.

Rise of the HunterRise of the Hunter by Barb Jones
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

his is the fourth book in the Blood Prophecy series and it is the first book of the new trilogy for the Tall Dark Man. While I love a good book, I will be honest with y’all. I had a hard time following along, from the different perspectives to the action packed parts of the story. This is the only book from Blood Prophecy that I have read, so maybe I need to read the other three books first. There is always going to be a good vs evil fight but I really see that in this book.

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Tempting Fate (Black Shamrocks MC: Australia Book 1) by Bella Faust – Review by Shelly Kittell

Tempting Fate: a dark and angsty love triangle romance (Black Shamrocks MC: Australia Book 1)Tempting Fate: a dark and angsty love triangle romance by Bella Faust
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Oh my! First off…make sure to read tthe author’s trigger warning. After that, you are in for a ride. This is one of the most intense romance stories I have ever read. I don’t really want to give away too much. You must read it to find out more. The chemistry is off the charts. The characters are so well written and drawn into the story so well that you can’t help but be pulled in right from the beginning.
At times, I found myself holding my breath waiting to see what happened. I am waiting to see what comes out in the next book.

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The Misery House (The House on the Hill Book 1) by David Kummer – Review by Lisa Helmick

The Misery House (The House on the Hill #1)The Misery House by David Duane Kummer
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is a enticing story and easily kept me flipping pages. I finished this in a couple days. I was anxious watching the percent of book left verses where the story was going. I wondered if it was going to reach 100 percent before the story ended. It was a close call! I know this is only nook 1 in the series and I am hoping the next one will give me some closure to unanswered questions. This one spends time getting deep into the characters and build the story with a lot of unknowns and suspense. I eagerly look forward to the next in the series.

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Sage Advice by Cori Cooper – Review by Tonya Merritt

Sage AdviceSage Advice by Cori Cooper
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I really enjoy reading Cori Cooper. She does an excellent job of telling the story and pulling you in. In this story it did take me a bit longer to get into but that is most likely because I’m a thirty year old woman and this story is based more on high school age kids. There is a lot at that age going on and I believe many young adults will love this story and Cori Cooper’s writing skills.

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Cruel Start (Hidden Valley Elite) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Barbara Bohls

Cruel Start (Hidden Valley Elite #4.5)Cruel Start by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This book is an amusing quick read. It sets you up for the new series and gives you a glimpse of what is to come. It draws you in from the start and doesn’t let you go even when it finishes. This book has me wanting more and more. The writing grips your attention and the story line keeps you turning pages. This book also kinda piggy backs iff of the Elite Series by this author. It deals with the siblings that have been around but not prominent and now they are. If you like everything tied up with a pretty bow then this not the book to read at the moment. You will want to wait till you have time to read the next book as you are left with a cliffhanger. I am normally not a fan of those but this book just spoke to me and I can’t wait to see what happens. This is a must-read for anyone and especially those that have read the Elite Series.

Reviewed by: @bbohls
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Love Bites More (The Darkness & Light Duology, and the Love Bites World) by TL Clark – Review by Tonya Merritt

Love Bites MoreLove Bites More by T.L. Clark
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This story is definitely a one of a kind one. It was a step too much for me but I would never rate it just on my preferences. It was spicy, paranormal, suspenseful,and romantic. A great story if you are into more than one guy involved. Three isn’t a crowd in this one.

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The Secrets they Hide (A Commissario Scala Mystery in Rome) by P.J. Mann – Review by Jennifer Gordon

The Secrets they Hide: A Commissario Scala Mystery (Book 2) (A Commissario Scala Mystery in Rome)The Secrets they Hide: A Commissario Scala Mystery (Book 2) by P J Mann
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

A gripping Italian murder mystery which had me hooked throughout. Set in Rome and Detective Maurizio Scala has sworn to protect its citizens and deliver justice to any victims of crimes. In this fast paced story Scala has to find and stop the killer of a young man found dead in a cemetery, before he becomes a victim himself. Along with the body a note was found which mentioned his dark secrets, and as the Detective digs deeper into the victim’s life he discovers a tangled web of lies and corruption. Scala’s investigation hits a breakthrough when other seemingly unconnected murders have a link to the latest one. Scala then needs to identify the killer before there are anymore victims. The storyline is full of drama and suspense, whilst the plot twists kept me guessing as to the outcome of the story. I liked the relatable Detective Scala, who as the main character really brought the story together. The descriptive narrative made the Italian setting come to life and I felt immersed in Scala’s world. An entertaining and engaging novel, and I look forward to future books featuring the Detective.

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The Secret Humankind (The Discoveries of Julia Xero Book 1) by Gloria Oliver – Review by Kerry Baker

The Secret Humankind: An Urban Fantasy Thriller (The Discoveries of Julia Xero Book 1)The Secret Humankind: An Urban Fantasy Thriller by Gloria Oliver
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This book is the first book in an new fantasy series. It is fast paced and a brilliant story. I was pulled into it right from the start and really connected with the main character. The book was action packed and really exciting to read. As the first book in a new series it really kick starts things with a bang.
This is a new author to me and I hope that her work continues just like this book. I could have read this book for so much longer and I cannot wait to see what the next installment brings.

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Goldilocks and the Six Simple Machines (Science Folktales) by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Kerry Baker

Goldilocks and the Six Simple MachinesGoldilocks and the Six Simple Machines by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is such a unique and refreshing twist on a classic story. I was excited to read this with my kids as it seemed like a great way to visually show them anyone can do anything. I didn’t expect to enjoy this as much as I did. I thought the author did a great job at not only reimagining a classic but at doing so in a way to captivate the audience and educate them at the same time.
Lois Wickstrom is one of my favourite children’s authors. They are always so fun and entertaining. This book has been read multiple times, along with every other book we have read by her. This is a great story that I would highly recommend.

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The Secrets they Hide (A Commissario Scala Mystery in Rome) by P.J. Mann – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

The Secrets they Hide: A Commissario Scala Mystery (Book 2) (A Commissario Scala Mystery in Rome)The Secrets they Hide: A Commissario Scala Mystery (Book 2) by P J Mann
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The Secrets They Hide is Book Two in A Commissario Scala Mystery in Rome Series. It is a crime thriller that is set in Rome, Italy, and centers around the character of Detective Scala. When a body turns up dead in the cemetery it sends Scala into a world of corruption, and he discovers other unsolved mysteries could be connected to the man in the cemetery. When his family comes in harm’s way, he is determined to protect his family from a crazy psychopath who is intent on causing them harm. Detective Scala is smart, ruthless, and relentless in his pursuit of the person responsible for terrorizing his family. He does not back down from a challenge and continues to follow the clues until he solves the mystery. I loved how determined his character is and enjoyed trying to solve the mystery alongside him. He is a lovable character that I found myself rooting for in his quest for truth and justice. This book had action, suspense, drama, intrigue, mystery, murder, mayhem, and some good old sleuthing in the quest for justice.

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Hole in the Rock by Rebecca Bischoff – Review by Lisa Helmick

Hole in the RockHole in the Rock by Rebecca Bischoff
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Enjoyable read that easily held my interest. This is a cute story that made me smile. I enjoyed the flow and the characters in here. There are some interesting characters and word choices about them. That Lizza gets herself into quite the pickle. I liked all her antics as she thinks about what is best for her and causes havoc with a lot of others. This is a good YA story with a nice message for the readers.

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The Sisterhood of Secrets (The Gods’ Scion Book 4) by Winnifred Tataw – Review by Carrie Reed

The Sisterhood of SecretsThe Sisterhood of Secrets by Winnifred Tataw
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Very interesting book. At times I was confused with the changing points of view, and some of the vocabulary, but was able to quickly adapt and understand once I got about a paragraph in on each chapter. Princess Arcelia and Prince Rodderick are fighting for their love, their families and their people. Rodderick’s mother annoys me in that she gives her son and ultimatum regarding his prince title. Arcelia’s family are something else. All of the lies they tell and the secrets they keep, I am proud of Arcelia for standing up to them finally. I don’t see them moving past the most recent debacle quickly but it seem like her mom is devastated at the turn in their relationship. Arcelia’s aunts can go jump off a cliff with that nasty behavior. The world in which this author creates is interesting and gives the story life. This is my first book in the series, and while I was lost on some aspects, and missing out on some things, I was still able to grasp the story. I recommend reading this series in order.

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The Secret Humankind (The Discoveries of Julia Xero Book 1) by Gloria Oliver – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

The Secret Humankind: An Urban Fantasy Thriller (The Discoveries of Julia Xero Book 1)The Secret Humankind: An Urban Fantasy Thriller by Gloria Oliver
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The Secret Humankind is Book One in The Discoveries of Julia Xero. It is a fast-paced, occult, urban fantasy thriller that centers around the character of Julia who is an orphan trying to find solace in her chaotic and stressful life. Her work environment is toxic at the best of times but suddenly she finds herself facing aliens who try to force her into silence by implanting her with a bomb. Julia now finds herself struggling to survive as she battles against the forces intent on destroying her. Along her journey Julia makes discoveries about herself that come as a bit of a surprise. This was a great read with a blending of the real world and the supernatural world melding together. Julia was an interesting character that one can easily relate to. Wanting a less stressful life and trying to make the best of things made her very relatable and easy to root for. This book had action, suspense, mystery, magic, mayhem, aliens, otherworldly creatures, and a few twists and turns that will captivate you until the end.

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When Magic Calls: A Collection of Modern Fairy Tales by Caitlin Berve – Review by Paloma Fierro 07/20/2023

A new and refreshing story telling of a series of tales. The different stories tell you about the magic within the life of the characters; some make you feel intense desperation and angst, while others make your heartbeat a little bit faster and stronger. A unique and fantastic way to read, this book makes you feel like a child again, in bed waiting for your moms voice to relate a good night’s book.

Love Bites More (The Darkness & Light Duology, and the Love Bites World) by TL Clark – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

Love Bites MoreLove Bites More by T.L. Clark
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Love Bites More is part of The Darkness and Light Duology, and the Love Bites World. Although it is part of a series it can easily be read as a standalone. It is a M/M/M Paranormal romance story about fated mates that centers around the characters of Arwyn, Elan, and Hassan. Elan and Arwyn have been friends for a lifetime but have never taken their attraction for one another to the next level. Not until Hassan enters the picture and becomes attracted to Elan. Before long the passion and chemistry between the three men becomes undeniable and they are in a sizzling hot, threesome. This book was well written, had wonderful characters, and was entertaining. I loved that the author did not feel the need to hold back with the cuss words throughout which added an extra element to the book for me. This book had sizzling hot chemistry, passion, friends to lovers, fantasy, romance, paranormal, adventure, action, and magic.

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Notebook Mysteries ~ Parisian Intrigue (Notebook Mysteries Book 6) by Kimberly Mullins – Review by Chrissy Spulak

Notebook Mysteries Parisian IntrigueNotebook Mysteries Parisian Intrigue by Kimberly Mullins
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Emma is back with another edge-of-your-seat, intelligent mystery. This time, she is offered a trip to Paris, no charge; however, something seems suspicious to her. Set during the Paris Exposition of 1889, the French landscape comes alive, as well as marvelous inventions of the time. As with all the Notebook Mysteries installments, I am pleased with where this story took me. It is a well-researched, intricate series that will whisk you away to Emma’s world, as if you are trying to solve the mysteries right along with her. Emma remains one of my favorite heroines and this author has become one of my favorite authors of historical fiction. This sixth book in the series can be read as a stand-alone, but I highly recommend checking out the entire series. I will be eagerly anticipating more installments!

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Shadowed Obsession (Shadow Defense Security Series Book 1) by Mavery Ellscott – Review by Paloma Fierro 07/20/2023

Keira is a publicist about to make partner at her bosses association. After years of hard working clients and challenges she is more than ready to make it happen. But an expected situation develops when a random stranger keeps sending her photos of herself in different places, her house and work included, dismissing it as a ridiculous matter she does not give it her attention, until things get a little too scary to ignore them. 

 

Cade is an ex-militar with a job in a security firm, just moved to a new home in order to heal from his last mission that damaged not just his knee but his heart as well. He can appreciate the beauty in his new neighbor and somethin tells him she needs him more than she can possibly imagine. 

 

An amazing thriller with touches of romance, this book is a nonstop adventure that delights the imagination. 

Broken. (Green St. Girls Series) by N.D. Jackson – Review by Tausha Treadway

Broken. (Green St. Girls #2)Broken. by N.D. Jackson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Broken. (Green St. Girls Series) by N.D. Jackson. This is a great series and I can’t wait to read the next installment. This is Indigo’s story. Indigo is a gamer who ran away from home at the young age of 15. She was abused by her step dad and she just couldn’t deal with it anymore. Gideon and Indigo are roomates, nothing romantic just friends but Gideon is beginning to feel more and more for Indigo. Gideon is sweet, takes care of Indigo and is always there for her. When Indigo starts working on a government program that she is about ready to give to them someone tries to stop her. Her life is threatened and they obviously do not want her to put that program out. Gideon vows to not let anything happen to her and when you are with someone 24/7 its hard not to get feelings for one another. Can Gideon get Indigo to let down her walls? Read this great book to find out!

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The Secrets they Hide (A Commissario Scala Mystery in Rome) by P.J. Mann – Review by Tausha Treadway

The Secrets they Hide (Commissario Scala #2)The Secrets they Hide by P.J. Mann
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The Secrets they Hide (A Commissario Scala Mystery in Rome) by P.J. Mann. I love this series. Its so good and my favorite mystery, crime genre. Its the continuing story of Detective Scala in Rome, Italy who’s main job is to keep the people safe in his town. When a new murder victim is found in the local cemetery with a note in his hand Detective Scala is on the hunt for the murderer before more victims appear. Finding a poem in the hand of the victim is his first clue. When his family becomes targeted he is especially determined to find out who is behind this horrendous crime. The more Detective Scala digs the more secrets and shocking information he finds. There may even be more victims of this murderer once more information comes to life. Will Detective Scala be able to stop him before the people he love are in danger? Read this fast paced thriller to find out!

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Cruel Start (Hidden Valley Elite) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Katie Matthews

Cruel Start (Hidden Valley Elite #4.5)Cruel Start by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I love it when authors do prequels to their next full story – it’s a great introduction to the characters and for me gives me a deeper understanding of them and also makes you want to read their full story because you need to know what is going to happen and I am so excited to read Aspen and Phoenix’s full story. This was a brilliant read and having met Phoenix in previous books I was already highly anticipating his story and this taster has made me want it even more. I really loved meeting Aspen in this book, she is a nice character who is dealing with lots of stuff at home. I thought her and Phoenix had this genuine connection and I am looking forward to seeing how this relationship develops over the next two books!

@katiem
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Goldilocks and the Six Simple Machines (Science Folktales) by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Megan Pesek

Goldilocks and the Six Simple MachinesGoldilocks and the Six Simple Machines by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Goldilocks and the Six Simple Machines is a fun remake of a classic story! It is a great way to introduce the science of simple machines to younger children or even in a middle school classroom. It would be a great introduction to the unit. It really is a fun story with a more responsible Goldilocks! Kids are drawn in by the fun pictures and finding ways to solve the problems encountered.

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The Finding (Berrycreek Heights Series Book 1) by A. M. Porto – Review by Elisha Johnson

The Finding (Berrycreek Heights, #1)The Finding by A.M. Porto
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The Finding by A.M. Porto- 4 out of 5 stars

This book brought forth a range of emotions, some were not so pleasant. I believe this author has a great deal of writing potential as she grows her following. The storyline deals with dark subjects that can be very sensitive to readers but I feel it is respectfully written. The Finding has it’s fair share of twists and turns as the main character’s reunite years after Victoria’s stepdad sold her to a cartel. All in all, the plot was great.

Review by @elishajohnson

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Cruel Start (Hidden Valley Elite) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Ashley Sugar

Cruel Start (Hidden Valley Elite #4.5)Cruel Start by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Oh man, the drama! This book is about Phoenix and I’m so excited about it. This is a short prequel but my goodness SO much happened and it’s blowing my mind lol. I can’t wait for the next book to know what happens with everything! Highly encourage you to read the other books before this one! Because they’re all so damn good! I can’t get enough of them.

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The Secret Humankind (The Discoveries of Julia Xero Book 1) by Gloria Oliver – Review by Rebeca Elliott Figueiras

The Secret Humankind: An Urban Fantasy Thriller (The Discoveries of Julia Xero Book 1)The Secret Humankind: An Urban Fantasy Thriller by Gloria Oliver
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is the first book in the Discoveries of Julia Xero series which was a great start to a potentially amazing series. I thought the premise of this book was interesting and that’s what initially drew me in. The world-building was great and the character’s job, was very interesting to see incorporated into the book. I enjoyed the characters, even the ones I couldn’t stand (because of their personalities/actions, not because they were written poorly because they weren’t), they fit the story well.

I look forward to reading book 2 and finding out what happens next.

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