Cruel Hate (Hidden Valley Elite Book #5) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Angela Hayes

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

 

5 Stars

 

Cruel Hate is Book #5 in the Hidden Valley Elite series by Isla Vaughn. This instalment picks up right where the previous book, Cruel Start, left off- so I highly recommend reading that book before starting on this one as it contains the prequel build up for this story.
I know I keep saying it, but this series really does keep getting better as we go- getting more intriguing and angstier with each new addition. Ms. Vaughn outdoes herself time and again.
As with the other books in the series, this is a NA bully romance, with a surprise pregnancy element, a fake relationship, enemies to lovers, chemistry, spice, angst, drama, friendship, intrigue, emotion, family tension, jealousy, suspense, drama/dynamics, and more.
A one-night stand that leaves a permanent reminder brings challenges that neither Aspen nor Phoenix are prepared for. So, they agree to a fake relationship as a way of navigating these new waters. But Ms. Vaughn doesn’t make things easy for them, that’s for sure. The heat is on- but I need to wait to find out how it all turns out because this ends in a cliffhanger- so Aspen and Phoenix’s story is set to continue in ‘Cruel Love’ (Book #6)- I can’t wait to get my hands on it and see what happens.
Happy Reading…

Thank you, Isla Vaughn!

 

Reviewed by @angelahayes

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Atonement (The McIntire County Series Book #1) by Winter Austin – Review by Angela Hayes

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Atonement (The McIntire County Series: #1)Atonement by Winter Austin
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

 

5 Stars

 

Atonement is the first book in the McIntire County series by Winter Austin. It is an engrossing romantic suspense that has all the suspenseful, gritty, gripping, and intense developments that I love and have come to expect from Ms. Austin. She has a way of weaving intriguing mystery, tension, and complex subjects into an entirely unputdownable read, while blending in plenty of emotion to balance it all out.
This is a crime and investigation story set in a small rural town in Iowa, where things take a twisted turn when a series of baffling suicides sets the stage for a dangerous game of cat and mouse. A cunning serial killer with an agenda. A determined deputy with PTSD and secrets of her own. A stubborn detective intent on helping to uncover the killer. Add in plenty of angst, dramatic developments, and twists and turns- and the story really takes off.
What a way to start a series! Can’t wait to see where we go from here. Bring on Book #2!
Happy Reading…

Thank you, Winter Austin!

 

Reviewed by @angelahayes

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Rogue Wolf (Protector Wolf Shifter Series Book 3) by Lilliana Rose – Review by Cindy Rushin

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Rogue Wolf (Protector Wolf Shifter Series Book 3)Rogue Wolf by Lilliana Rose
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I enjoyed this book very much. Tamaska and Kodiak’s story just keeps getting better and better. The story had so many intense moments and really kept me interested in finding out how everything worked out. I love the world created by this author it is so colorful and dynamic. This is a good series and I recommend it to anyone who enjoys vampire and werewolf stories.

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As Though You Were Mine by J. Marie Rundquist – Review by Dawn Daughenbaugh

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As Though You Were MineAs Though You Were Mine by J. Marie Rundquist
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

5 Star’s
As Though You Were Mine by J. Marie Rundquist

As Though You Were Mine is a wonderfully written Women’s Fiction that will take you on quite the emotional journey. I dove into this book with the mindset that it was going to be emotional so I had kleenexes right beside me and boy am I glad I did. This is a fairly new author to me and I’m definitely interested in what else she has written. Her style of writing and attention to detail along with developed characters make for a wonderful story. This story is packed with drama, family drama, love, loss and grief plus so much more. Julie does a selfless thing and donates her eggs to her sister in law and brother who is having issues with infertility. But when tragedy strikes she finds herself with custody of four year old twins. She’s struggling trying to figure out how to raise these two kids and help them with their grief but shes grieving as well. Throw in a curve ball or two and we find our heart being pulled in several different directions. I highly recommend reading this book to find out what happens. Definitely have tissues and be prepared to laugh cry and go on quite the emotional rollercoaster ride. I’m looking forward to reading more from this Author.

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Cruel Hate (Hidden Valley Elite Book 5) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Beverly Finnie

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

I looooove this series so much! And this author is one of my absolute favorites! Cruel Hate is book 5 and the beginning of the 3rd duet set in the series. All the characters are now in college, though that doesn’t really change the dynamic of these stories. The characters are still the same and they still play football. It’s just which cousin/sibling will be the next to fall?
This is just the beginning of the next 4 books featuring the Bennett twins.
Is history repeating itself?
For Aspen, possibly but she’s going to make sure she does things right.
For Phoenix, he refuses to become the man he loathes.
Aspen & Phoenix end up on a roller coaster that is heading fast into parenthood. When both of them are just freshmen in college. They love to hate one another but there’s so much chemistry as well.
Will they see past it?
One thing Phoenix is sure of, despite his studies and football he’s going to be there for his child. And be the father his dad never was despite how he feels towards Aspen at times.
I love these two! Not my favorite pairing of the cousins, but just their story. I’m sucked in and I can’t wait till the 2nd half of their duet comes out.
If you haven’t read any of this series you should, and even if you stumbled across this book you don’t necessarily need to read books 1-4 just 4.5 before this one. But like I said I recommend reading them all!

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Cruel Hate (Hidden Valley Elite Book 5) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Lucy Machard

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

This author never fails to write a fantastic story. I’m normally not someone who reads the whole pregnancy trope, but the fake dating, while they fight their feelings, and try to navigate this part of their lives. I still have a major soft spot for Damon, but damn is Phoenix quickly becoming second place over Cole. Also, what the hell was that ending? I don’t want to wait until the 28th to get the rest of the story! I need to know what happens! I do love though how we get more insight into the family dynamic of the Savage/Bennet family, and I just know some sh*t is going to go down in the next book with both the Bennets and the Reids. Overall, fantastic book, highly recommend, and don’t talk to me on the 28th, cause ya girl is gonna be busy reading book 6!

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Cruel Hate (Hidden Valley Elite Book 5) by Isla Vaughn – Review by M Policicchio

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Cruel Hate: A College Sports Romance (Hidden Valley Elite #5)Cruel Hate: A College Sports Romance by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

These two. They just can’t seem to find a way to communicate without exploding. The only time they seem to manage a decent conversation is the night Phoenix gets drunk, the only problem is he doesn’t remember what he said the next day. Everything these two try to do together that ends up in disaster really shows that they are the product of their parents’ failed relationships, each trying not to get hurt.

As Phoenix and Aspen navigate college and life on their own, they constantly run into hurdles and brickwalls. Aspen has to find a way to tell her parents that she is pregnant. Phoenix discovers that college is more than he expected, especially when at odds with Shane. Shane has always been there to help cover up his reading difficulties. Now with Shane and Phoenix orbiting in separate spheres, Phoenix finds himself struggling to keep his head above water.

Is this when I get to talk about what a despicable weasel Grandad is? Cuz I am so down to have that conversation. I have a nagging feeling in the back of my brain that says he only gets worse and causes more harm later. I do completely heart hands the way the rest of the tribe has adopted Aspen and supports her. Let’s not forget our new friend Max!! Okay so he was a jerk that one time, but he apologized and is nothing but loving and caring and a great big teddy bear!!

OMG! That last chapter. So much….too much!!! I can’t stop devouring these books as each is released. This is, by far, one of the most superior series that I have read. The way the author handles and develops each character is so loving. Almost like writing characters based on your kids or your best friends. So abso-freaking-lutely amazing. Counting the days until the next one!

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Cruel Hate (Hidden Valley Elite Book 5) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Lorralei Hoerner

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Cruel Hate: A College Sports Romance (Hidden Valley Elite #5)Cruel Hate: A College Sports Romance by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

5 Stars 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟

I cannot say enough about this author and the talent she brings to her writing. I love this series with my every being, I highly recommend reading this series in order as characters are intertwined in each book and definitely read the prequel as well to Phoenix and Aspen’s beginning.

Phoenix and Aspen give me the push and pull, hot and cold, off and on, spark and sizzle, yes and no… mixed in with drama, fear, jealousy, secrets, chemistry that they are both denying….it is hard to hide how much I loved this story from beginning to end.

Unplanned surprise pregnancy can put a different perspective on what you believe your life should turn out…this happens to Phoenix and Aspen. Phoenix is focused and his mindset is completely on being successful playing football in college that he makes it to the NFL. Aspen has dreams too, artist at heart, opening up a business with her sister. Trying to figure out the next steps, Aspen and Phoenix believe that the only thing they have in common is their baby on the way…but they have more in common than they realize. Between all the family drama they each have they also have to deal with jealousy and bullying toward Aspen. Will Phoenix be there for Aspen when she needs him the most or if any future they can possibly even have…especially when Phoenix’s grandad has plans for him as well?

I am already counting down the days when Book #6 comes out….I am already anxiously awaiting with anticipation after this story ended…..

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Conversations with the Tarot by Maria DeBlassie – Review by Laura Jones

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https://www.amazon.com/review/R20AGN9C731QEZ/ref=pe_1098610_137716200_cm_rv_eml_rv0_rv

https://www.bookbub.com/reviews/2176343022

https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/5811083365

Cruel Hate (Hidden Valley Elite Book 5) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Kristan Anderson

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Cruel Hate: A College Sports Romance (Hidden Valley Elite #5)Cruel Hate: A College Sports Romance by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Cruel Hate by Isla Vaughn is book five in the Hidden Valley Elite series. Yes, it is best to read them in order and almost necessary but totally worth it. I absolutely love these characters and was excited to finally see Phoenix and his relationship with Aspen. In the prequel, we find out that Aspen is expecting and Phoenix is obviously the dad. Watching the pair navigate this awkward time together was interesting. They are not together and really don’t even like one another but you can slowly see them coming together and then BAM, something throws a curveball. A very very slow burn but not without some very interesting scenes. I cannot wait to read the second part of their story because that ending…. Phew that was something!

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As Though You Were Mine by J. Marie Rundquist – Review by Daryian Lucas

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As Though You Were MineAs Though You Were Mine by J. Marie Rundquist
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

5/5 stars
This book was so unique in the plot which is what grabbed my attention. It’s so well written I felt every emotion in it. From reading the synopsis I wasn’t sure how it was going to play out. But it’s so entertaining in a slow burn type of way. I’m definitely rereading it because I loved it that much.

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Cruel Hate (Hidden Valley Elite Book 5) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Ayla Phipps

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Cruel Hate: A College Sports Romance (Hidden Valley Elite #5)Cruel Hate: A College Sports Romance by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Fear. Betrayal. Once more, the beyond talented Isla Vaughn pulls you deeper and deeper into the world of the Hidden Valley Elite. Must read the prequel Cruel Start first as it starts the story that continues in this book, starting a few months after the events of that book. Dual perspectives of Phoenix and Aspen.
Phoenix has had a long summer of healing after his hand was shredded by the glass, but the time has come he can finally start practicing again and playing soon. Aspen has lived in terror all summer; one perfect spur of the moment has changed her world and delayed her dreams. Worse is that she must inform her parents, but her parents’ history tells her she needs Phoenix at her side. Thanks to a delusional punt bunny Phoenix is on board with her proposition to “fake” date, but he goes a step further not just for her parents but the entire school to keep the punt bunnies off him so he can focus on school and football. Perfect plan in theory, as they both react badly to obstacles placed before them and both show a flare of jealousy. Both wanting more but because of their painful upbringings fear what could happen if they gave in to that level of emotions. On top of everything the Bennett twins are at odds and not talking. Shane is still angry about what Phoenix said to Tracey in Cruel Start and while they aren’t together anymore Shane struggles to let go of that degree of lies that lost him “the most important thing in his life”. Due to their rift Shane refuses to be around Phoenix much less help him with his schoolwork, flunking he has no choice but to ask for help. Grandad has built a legacy in his company that he plans to leave for Phoenix and Shane one day, but tells Phoenix wait for the NFL finish college first its always good to have a backup plan. He’s also proud of both boys for not using the family name to get things handed to them from the school reputation Grandad held while at Thane. Just when things started to seem less doom Shane pulled a punch no one could have predicted causing things to spiral faster than the perfect spiral.
Can Phoenix and Aspen find common ground, for them and their baby? What does Shane do that tailspin everything? How will mom and Grandad react to the news about Aspen and the baby? The elite might have run the high school, but they are just more students at Thane and while they are recognized they have some normal from the chaos that followed them in high school. Now life is chaos, too many jabs at once to catch his breath Phoenix often feels like he’s got a lose/lose situation before him. Never able to say the right thing to Aspen and never able to figure out what’s going on with Shane. The author once again leaves you holding your breath as you try and read faster and faster to see what will happen next until you’re left breathless and lost when you reach “The End”. I am counting the days until the finale of Phoenix and Aspen’s story comes out, Cruel Love, September 28th, 2023.

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The Secrets of Arkaim (The Reeds of West Hills) by B. E. Padgett – Review by Shea Gilkerson 8/31/23

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The Secrets of Arkaim (The Reeds of West Hills)The Secrets of Arkaim by B E Padgett
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Franklin (Frank), his twin brother Jon, and the rest of the Reed family are back in another intriguing peek through the looking glass of this gifted family as the twins enter their second year of school. While having gained a bit of experience and control over their gifts, there are still many things they don’t understand.

Jon has been suffering from a shadowy being visiting him in his sleep, trying to tempt him into trouble, but in reality terrifying him and making him lose sleep in order to avoid his nightmares. Worried his parents will be frightened by his nightmares, he keeps the secret to himself. However, after pushing to the point of exhaustion to avoid the scary visitor, he wakes Frank while sleepwalking. Frank uses his mind reading talents to see what Jon is dreaming about, and encounters the shadowy figure – who attacks Frank! The boys turn to a teacher in their school, whose gift is seeing the future. What Mr. McClery finds is that their beloved school could be in danger.

Between the dreams, the fears the twins hold, the school bully, and learning to control their gifts the boys have a lot of stressful situations, but have an excellent support system. It helps relieve the stress to be excited about the Zodiac Games and helping their house, Aries house, win. Along the course of the games, it seems rules are changing as they go, people are cheating with an ancient artifact getting included, and the boys learn and grow through each challenge.

I enjoyed how easy it was to get drawn into this story, found it charming and intriguing at the same time, and I absolutely loved how the adults in the twins lives are all supportive, trusting, helpful, but also give the kids room to learn things themselves and do difficult things. Looking forward to reading further along with the story as the series grows!

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As Though You Were Mine by J. Marie Rundquist – Review by Jessie Hopkins

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What a truly amazing book!
I felt for Julie as she never wanted kids and then felt underprepared and unequipped to care for her brother’s children. I found myself cheering for her during the good times and rooting her on during the rough spots.
The inter workings of most families are messy and hard, and Julie’s is all of that. Grief is hard and 4-years-olds can be a struggle, but to grieve while caring for grieving 4-year-olds is a whole different level of difficulty.
Cue in Grant, the brother of Julie’s deceased sister-in-law, who shoes up and creates his own place in Julie and the kids’ lives. Also grieving, also family, also having a stake in the children’s lives.

This book is a real page turner as you continue cheering on Julie and wanting to see her succeed as a new parent.

Cruel Hate (Hidden Valley Elite Book 5) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Charlisa Wahtomy-Alba

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<a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/122860977-cruel-hate” style=”float: left; padding-right: 20px”><img border=”0″ alt=”Cruel Hate (Hidden Valley Elite #5)” src=”https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1680522443l/122860977._SX98_.jpg” /></a><a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/122860977-cruel-hate”>Cruel Hate</a> by <a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/23199631.Isla_Vaughn”>Isla Vaughn</a><br/>
My rating: <a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/5810915671″>4 of 5 stars</a><br /><br />
Phoenix is working hard to make it into the NFL and he isn’t going to let anyone or anything distract him. That is until he met Aspen. After a one night stand they are now expecting a child and all he can think about is their future together. Will Aspen keep the baby though? She didn’t want anything to do with him in the beginning but now her feelings are changing. These two believe they don’t want any kind of romance so a fake relationship is proposed. It benefits Aspen by keeping her parents off her back and for Phoenix it keeps what he calls “punt bunnies” off of his. Will they be able to keep the line firm on fake or will it get blurred and turn real? These two together were great. I have enjoyed all of the books in this series so far, each just a bit more than the last. I will be sad when we reach book eight!
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Cruel Start (Hidden Valley Elite) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Kiana Corley

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

This book was fantastic to read. Isla has a way of making each character unique yet still has qualities that are relatable.

This book follows the story of Aspen. She is a girl excited about the next chapter in her life, college. She can’t wait to get out on her own and focus on making her dreams her reality. She has worked hard for a long time and is very determined. She loves the escape that comes with being in the water.

Phoenix is looking forward to college and being with all of his closest friends who are also family to him. He has rules that he follows and does not break them for anyone.

When Aspen meets Phoneix it’s like someone decided to throw a wrench into her plans. When one night of passion leads to a plus sign on a pregnancy test she is mortified. It only takes one time and one night to change the course of your life.

What happens when they meet again after their night together? How will he react to the news that he is going to be a father? Can they learn to like each other enough to handle the impending child they are bringing into this world?

Read this book to find out what happens with these two.

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I Am An Outer Space Alien (I am an Alien) by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Donya Pedigo

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I Am An Outer Space Alien (I am an Alien)I Am An Outer Space Alien by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is another wonderful book by the very creative Lois Wickstrom. I have read and loved several of her children’s books and this one is no exception. What would you do if you felt like you didn’t fit in and were from another planet? Well, you would try to communicate and find other aliens like yourself. This is exactly what Shirley aka Shirl does in this cute quick read. The underlying lesson isn’t spelled out in this story as much as it is in most of her books, but it still has plenty of ways to start a discussion about fitting in and wanting to find others like yourself. The artist Nicolàs Milano has also done a splendid job of making colorful, engaging illustrations that help you visualize the story. Ms. Wickstrom continues to be a go to read for my family and myself.

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Cruel Hate (Hidden Valley Elite Book 5) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Kiana Corley

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

This book was an amazing addition to the Hidden Valley Elite series. Isla does an amazing job of developing strong plots and characters.

This book follows the story of Phoneix and Aspen. They have a complex relationship due to the fact that they are expecting, yet, nothing really to each other. Aspen has always been careful when it came to guys until one night when she decided to throw caution into the wind. Phoneix has two goals in life get into his dream job and not repeat his parents’ mistakes.

After finding out they are pregnant Phoneix suggests an idea that Aspen thought was insane. They both know they are basically strangers to one another but they still have one big thing in common and it will be availing sooner than they think.

How long can a relationship stay fake when there is a big tie between two people? Will they grow together and be doomed to hate each other? What happens when other people start inputting their opinions?

Read this book to find out what happens next with Aspena and Phoenix.

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Sing For Me (The Balefire Series Book 2) by Tam DeRudder Jackson – Review by Nicole Thompson

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“Sing For Me” by Tan Derudder Jackson is an exquisite addition to the Balefire series, earning a solid 5 stars. This rockstar romance is a magnetic blend of relatable characters and a well-crafted plot. Lead singer Blu Connolly’s journey to unexpected love with his charming neighbor Ashleigh is a refreshing departure from the usual fame-driven romance tropes. Their genuine connection and the steady build of their relationship are a testament to Jackson’s mastery of character dynamics and development.

Jackson’s writing style is a breath of fresh air, infusing the narrative with energy and authenticity. Whether you’re diving into the series for the first time or eagerly following its progression, “Sing For Me” stands independently while seamlessly adding to the larger saga. The exploration of Blu’s bond with his mother adds an extra layer of emotional resonance. In short, “Sing For Me” is an electrifying and heartwarming read that keeps the pages turning, firmly securing its place as a must-read in contemporary rockstar romance.

Dead Keen (Things Unseen Book 2) by Anise Eden – Review by Rebecca Hill

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Dead Keen (Things Unseen #2)Dead Keen by Anise Eden
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This book is the second in a series. I did not read the first book, and I was able to follow along fairly easily. I found the writing style to be addictive and hard to put down! The book starts out as Neve and Con going to visit Con’s family. Con’s brother’s fiance, Ciara, is being plagued with mental issues and seemingly self harm. Neve and Con come to help diagnose and treat Ciara while visiting family. But is it really that simple? The twists really keep you from putting the book down and keep you coming back to read. My only real complaint is that I had to sleep and couldn’t keep reading.

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Cruel Hate (Hidden Valley Elite Book 5) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Donya Pedigo

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

This series is such an enjoyable read about the four elite guys at Hidden Valley School and the girls they fancy. I would suggest reading this series in order, not because you have to, but because it’s a great series and you get to see a lot about each of the main male characters as they are present in each other’s stories and lives, being as they are all four related and best friends as well. Also note, this series has two books, a continuation duo for each of the four heroes, making it an eight-book series with a novella that comes before the first book in the series.

Isla Vaughn does not disappoint with this book, which is part of Phoenix and Amber’s story. She has written yet another great set of characters who are facing some very real world problems while trying to find their paths in life. This is a super fast read because you are literally drawn into the story and these characters lives so much that you just want to keep reading to find out what happens next. I can’t wait to read more about Phoenix and Amber’s story in the next installment, Cruel Love. The cliffhanger has me counting down the days until book 6. Do yourself a favor and check out this dark yet engaging new adult romance.

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Royally Complicated (The Crowned Hearts Series Book 1) by Gwyn McNamee and Christy Anderson – Review by Ashley Lape

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Royally ComplicatedRoyally Complicated by Gwyn McNamee
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

When Bridget finds her fiancee cheating the next logical move is to use the honeymoon trip with her best friend. After a little realization, Bridget grabs a cheap bottle of tequila and finds herself drinking on a private beach. Fynix the sexy surfer approaches the beach where Bridget is drinking. Little did Bridget know that her one-night stand on the beach would have been with a prince. Bridget can’t get Lovolian and its prince off her mind, even a year later. Yet, being the other woman is not her style, and no matter how amazing the sex is Bridget must move on with her life
This is a modern-day fairytale with a steamy adult twist. I could not put this book down and I absolutely can’t wait to read more.

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A Forever Kind of Thing by Carrie Thomas and Melinda Harris – Review by Jessica Stone

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A Forever Kind of ThingA Forever Kind of Thing by Carrie Thomas
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

A Forever Kind of Thing by Carrie Thomas and Melinda Harris – Review by Jessica Stone

This book was so cuteee. I adored the writing style of both of these authors right off the bat, this being my first time devouring one of their works and I was not disappointed.

The story of weird boy meets equally weird girl, both living hard lives, they fall in love, then BOOM, they are suddenly separated, he disappears and she learns life doesn’t stop moving for anyone. Fast forward to the future, her mother has married into wealth and she’s now living the life he mom always wanted for her, popular, rich, all star boyfriend, soon to be prom queen, everything in her life is perfect.
Him on the other hand, life had different plans for him, he’s been in and out of foster care his entire life thanks to a dead beat father who can’t seem to stay out of trouble. Finding any work he can and just trying to make it to 18, to start his life and hopefully make something of it.
Fate thrusts them both back into one another’s life suddenly and let the madness ensue. Some love just never dies.

I loved our girl Mina, she’s a real show of force even when she’s breaking inside, she’s rich and popular, but kind when it’s needed and knows not to take things for granted. Don’t get me wrong she definitely has a whole moral dilemma and makes some shitty choice, and there a few moments where she needs to check her privilege and remember where she comes from. But she’s a solid character who comes full circle and really blooms in this story.

Wes, oh Wes Wes Wes, what a baddieeeee. I loveeee Wes, I can’t tell you how much I enjoy his witty comments and snark when people come at him the wrong way. He’s a solid dude, with great morals and a real passion for the things he holds dear in his life. Seeing home fight his wants and needs throughout this book and demand the same goodness he shows from other characters in his Wes way was delightful to read.

The story is terrific, the relationship between all of the characters was awesome, honestly, for it being set in a high-school setting (which I normally avoid due)I enjoyed the heck out of this read!! Could not recommend it enough, I am beyond excited to read more from these authors!

A Forever Kind of Thing, Carrie Thomas, Melinda Harris, Review, Itsy Bitsy Book Bits, Contemporary Romance, Romance, YA, Young Adult, Jessica Stone, August 2023

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Rogue Wolf (Protector Wolf Shifter Series Book 3) by Lilliana Rose – Review by Santana Hicks

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Rogue Wolf (Protector Wolf Shifter Series Book 3)Rogue Wolf by Lilliana Rose
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is the third book of the Protector Wolf Shifter series and is set directly after the second book. If you haven’t read books one and two, I highly recommend you do so!

Still cleaning up the mess left behind after the fight with the vampires, Kodiak doesn’t have even a second to rest. Receiving the title of Alpha is a wonderful gift but it won’t be official until they do a ceremony. Kodiak cannot show weakness until he is officially Alpha and that means he needs to put Tamaska at a distance for now while he establishes his worthiness to the rest of the pack.

Tamaska is left in the dark because she is not a wolf nor is she technically part of the pack. Being the only human around doesn’t help either. She doesn’t understand anything going on and no one will give her any answers. Tamaska starts to get angry and rebel which won’t help her case for being accepted into the pack one day but she doesn’t care anymore. She will get answers one way or another.

The vampires are still after Tamaska. They need her blood for the blood opal in their possession. The vampires capture Kodiak and offer Tamaska a deal. They will release Kodiak if they can have her. The rest of the pack and Tamaska have to figure out how to get their Alpha back while protecting Tamaska and also somehow getting the blood opal away from the vampires before it’s too late. The fight never seems to end. The Shadow Pack is not one to back down when the going gets tough. The question is will they make it out alive this time?

I am LOVING this series so far. Tamaska is sassy, independent and headstrong, the perfect match for Kodiak but not the perfect match for the mate of the Alpha. She needs to learn to let people in if she wants to be accepted. I enjoyed reading her character arc so far and can’t wait to read more especially after the ending of this book. The author does a great job keeping you hooked from the first page to the last leaving you craving the next book immediately. This series is probably one of my favourites I have read this year!

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Cruel Hate (Hidden Valley Elite Book 5) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Jenni Bishop

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Cruel Hate: A College Sports Romance (Hidden Valley Elite #5)Cruel Hate: A College Sports Romance by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

4.5 stars
This book contains mature content that some readers may find disturbing.
Cruel Hate is the sixth book in this enemies-to-lovers, NA sports romance in the dark Hidden Valley Elite series. It is the first book in Aspen and Phoenix’s story after the prequel Cruel Start. Read them all in order is a must so you don’t miss out on anything.
Phoenix is one of the resident bullies and Aspen can’t help but fall under his spell. With lots of passion, angst, drama, thrills, fear, lies and secrets, deceit, harassment and jealousy there is something for everyone who loves living on the edge of darkness.
Aspen never meant to get involved with the enemy, it was only meant to be beneficial to them both. She expected it to happen but now that it has what will Phoenix think.
Phoenix decided she was the one and he gets what he wants only now it has come at a price.
You can’t help but fall in love with these devilish characters of course there are some you will like and some you will not but take a trip to the dark side and find out.
I’ve said it before, but I am saying it again this series just keeps on getting better and better.
I can’t wait to see what comes next.

Reviewed by @jennadb

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Xenia Navarro and the Magic Ants by Lois Wickstrom and Milagros Darling – Review by Tanya Wall, August 2023

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Xenia Navarro and the Magic AntsXenia Navarro and the Magic Ants by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I have enjoyed every one of Lois Wickstrom’s books and this one did not disappoint. This is a story about a little girl who loses her father. He is killed before he marries her mother. He is a US Citizen and mom is not. This leaves Xenia’s mother with an undocumented status which causes the family to make some hard decisions in order to remain in the US. While this is an integral theme of the story, Xenia also is involved throughout with the school science fair and begins studying ants. Having worked with children in similar circumstances as Xenia and seeing how they can face such hard situations at home and still have a love of learning gave me a connection to the story here.

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Atonement (The McIntire County Series Book 1) by Winter Austin – Review by Kristin Boutelle

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Atonement (The McIntire County Series: #1)Atonement by Winter Austin
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I like how the author gives a different perspective from a female character instead of male on how PTSD doesn’t always need to be stereotypical in novels. There is a lot of information on how people deal with their personal issues. The story does flow well and the characters are well developed. The characters’ actions and personalities are very relatable in real life.

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Xenia Navarro and the Magic Ants by Lois Wickstrom and Milagros Darling – Review by Rebeca Elliott Figueiras

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Xenia Navarro and the Magic AntsXenia Navarro and the Magic Ants by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Another great book by the authors aimed at kids. This book hits a little harder than other books I’ve read by the author, looking at the topic of deportation. The issues/process is explained well in a way for children and adults alike to understand.
This book follows the character of Xenia and her family, living as undocumented immigrants. Unfortunately, the book takes a sad turn when Xenia’s mum is arrested and deported. There are some fantasy elements which lighten the heavy topic for younger readers and gives the book a more encouraging push.
This is another engaging and educational book by the authors which helps to teach kids in a fun and meaningful way.

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Deadly Vengeance (The Vaccaro Empire Collection Book 2) by Anise Storm – Review by Rebeca Elliott Figueiras

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Deadly Vengeance (The Vaccaro Empire #2)Deadly Vengeance by Anise Storm
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is the second book in the Vaccaro Empire Collection series. A dark Mafia romance book focusing on Valenzia and Luca.
The story has its fair share of danger, secrecy and violence as is expected with Mafia stories. I enjoyed the way this was written; the descriptive language made the characters and scenery come to life.
Luca’s plan for revenge backfires when his emotions get in the way. I truly felt for Luca and what he went through (and I have a weakness for Mafia characters) and couldn’t help myself rooting for him to succeed in romancing Valenzia.
I also enjoyed the character of Valenzia and felt for her as she discovered the truth about her family. I felt her strength as she encountered difficult situations, adapting to the circumstances to protect her loved ones.
The chemistry between the pair was clear and I couldn’t put the book down in my need to see how they came together, witnessing their story play out, I think they brought the best out in each other.
This was another great novel by the author and I am desperately waiting to sink my teeth into the next book!

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The Wandering Isles: A crown of Stones Novella, by C. L. Schneider

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The Wandering Isles: A Crown of Stones Novella (Soulbound Journeys #1)The Wandering Isles: A Crown of Stones Novella by C.L. Schneider
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I really enjoyed Wandering Isles! The main characters had their own series in the Crown of Stones. I haven’t read that one, and this one really does well standing alone. I wish I would have anyway, but Schneider does an amazing job of filling in the gaps and history from the previous series without it taking away from the current one. I really did love that.
I say that it was a little bit of a slow start, which it was and it wasn’t. While the “trouble” on the island did happen pretty soon into the book, it still felt like it took a bit to get to it. Maybe because of the backstory, I’m not sure I’m explaining that right! Without giving away any spoilers, once I dived a little deeper in the book with Ian and Jarryd, I was well and truly hooked! I love the world building, how amazing and rich the characters are but both different and unique in their own ways. I immediately jumped to Fortune’s Favorite as soon as I finished Wandering Isles and loved that one even more! Can’t wait for more!

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