Breaking Apart (Finnerty and Liccione Mystery Series) by Wanda Venters, MD and Mary Rae, MD – Review by Dawn Mitchell

Breaking Apart (A Finnerty and Liccione Mystery, #2)Breaking Apart by Wanda J. Venters
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is book two of the series. I did not read book one, and I do feel some parts were missed. Trigger warnings are PTSD, suicide, addiction and trauma. This book shows you a great look behind the scenes of the VA hospital and what happens when a young veteran is found with an apparent gun shot wound to the head in a parking garage. Was it truly a suicide or is something more sinister going on?

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The Winemakers Box Set (The Winemakers Series) by Giovanna Siniscalchi – Review by Katie Turner

The Winemakers - Box set: A Series of Sun-Kissed Historical RomancesThe Winemakers – Box set: A Series of Sun-Kissed Historical Romances by Giovanna Siniscalchi
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The True Purpose of Vines- Book 1

The True Purpose of Vines is the first book to the Winemakers series by Giovanna Siniscalchi. As I read the first chapter, I was not too sure where the book was going to take me. But as I continued on, I realized it was going to take me to a far more beautiful place than I imagined. In 1870 Portugal, during a timeframe when it was not considered normal for a woman to work so hard and be the household provider, there lived a headstrong widow, mother and passionate winemaker named Julia Costa-Ferreira. Julia has taken over her late husband’s business and does not need help or directions from any man. But here comes the handsome Griffon Maxwell, a pretentious Englishman who agrees to travel to Portugal initially to chase a debt with hopes of striking a deal. He didn’t realize he’d be chasing after the debtor’s heart as well. But can her independent ways and his conservative mindset find a way?

I loved the slow buildup of romance between these two characters, the descriptions, the setting. The author clearly took her time to do a lot of in-depth research to be able to take her readers to a historical period with elaborate, accurate detail. This was a beautiful story, and I look forward to the next one. I’d also like to mention how vibrant and gorgeous the cover is. A perfect representation for this tale. If you love a good historical romance and wine, this is the perfect story to find yourself lost in.

The Taste of Light – Book 2

The Taste of Light by Giovanna Siniscalchi is the second book to the Winemakers series. I have to say this book was absolutely beautiful in every way. From the setting of Portugal 1872 to the character growth of Pedro, who is previously portrayed as a bad guy. I really loved Anne. She is not just a proper lady who teaches Tony English, but also has the ability to be tough when required. These characters have so much depth and layers, along with the plotline. I absolutely implore you to give this story, as well as the previous book ‘The True Purpose of Vines’, a chance if you love a good historical romance. The author has a fantastic way of ensnaring you into her writing and helping you visualize everything as you read along.

The Truth About Myths – Book 3

The Truth About Myths, by Giovanna Siniscalchi, is the third installment to The Winemakers series. And what an enjoyable third book it was! In the beautiful setting of Portugal’s city of Lisbon, we meet a prim and proper Portuguese princess named Isabel. Although she is a woman, she has no problem with upholding what she believes is just and right. Isabel is sent off at the request of her brother on a trip to Spain concerning political matters. However, a frustrated princess finds herself beings escorted by a man, Henrique, who seems to get under her skin and infuriate her. And at the same time, you sense a curiosity brewing underneath her surface from the moment they meet. Their personalities do not mesh, but the attraction between them is evident from the beginning and the tension between them builds. The author has done beautiful work yet again at creating an equally fascinating world with wonderfully diverse and developed characters. If you love a descriptive story accentuated with beautiful history and romance, I recommend this entire set! I don’t think you’ll have any regrets.

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Breaking apart by Wanda Venters & Mary Rae M.D. – Review by Stephanie Tellas

“Dr. Marnie Liccione and Dr. Louise Finnerty team up again to investigate the violent death of a young veteran at a Colorado VA Behavioral Health clinic. Was it suicide or murder? The violent death of Josh Baker, a young veteran and patient at the Front Range VA Behavioral Health Clinic, thrusts Marnie Liccione, M.D. and Louise Finnerty, M.D. into a fast-paced murder mystery set within America’s largest health care system. Is Josh another victim of the suicide epidemic or something more sinister? Questions from Josh’s widow, who feels that her world is breaking apart after his death, convince Marnie and Louise there’s more to the story. In their search for answers, they uncover a prescription drug diversion scheme masterminded by those who may be also involved in the illegal sale of krokodil, a deadly and disfiguring opiate. As they move closer to the truth of the circumstances surrounding Josh’s death, sinister forces will threaten their lives. Will they find the answers they need to give his widow solace?”
Great thriller, great suspense, loved the characters, and the storyline , this is the second book in the series, it can be read as a stand alone. I give this book 4 stars.

Master Oradea (Masters of the Consulate Book 10) by Sylvia Black – Review by Lucy Machard

Master Oradea (Masters of the Consulate #10)Master Oradea by Sylvia Black
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

This is the first book I’ve read by this author, and while it is a short, simple read, I did have a lot of moments where I was confused and unsure of the plot. While it is the 10th book in the series, it is marketed as a stand alone novel, but if you’re going to get started in this series, the I would suggest starting at book one, since it’s across the same universe. It personally isn’t something that I was absolutely 100% enthralled with. I liked the book, I like vampire and mafia novels, but this one just wasn’t something I loved a whole lot. I struggled to get into the story, and it just seemed to drag for me. However, that shouldn’t stop you from trying it out, because you might enjoy it more than I did. It just wasn’t for me.

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Unicorn, Don’t Do That! by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Lucinda Morton-Phillips

Unicorn, Don't Do That!: It's okay if a Unicorn poops on your doorstepUnicorn, Don’t Do That!: It’s okay if a Unicorn poops on your doorstep by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Unicorn, Don’t Do That is a cute and colourful fantasy friendship story told in rhyme. As with most of Lios Wickstrom’s stories, there is a moral about friendship and acceptance.
Stega is a unicorn/stegosaurus hybrid who has been invited to her friend’s party. Unfortunately, she isn’t very crafty, so she decides to bring along a bowl full of food from the forest. The food smells so good and tastes even better, which leads to an empty bowl and unfortunate consequences at an inopportune time! How embarrassing!
I think 4-8 year olds would love this story – what kid doesn’t love a poop story?!
I found that some of the sentences were awkward to read as they were made to rhyme, but overall it was an easy read.

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Amese of Animalis (The Borosa Legacy Book 1) by MJ Murray – Review by Shannon Fowler

Amese of Animalis: The Borosa LegacyAmese of Animalis: The Borosa Legacy by M.J. Murray
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This story is the interesting journey of Amese, a young teenager learning how she must rule her part of the universe. Amese must discover secrets, secrets her family is hiding and secrets of magic. Amese must learn how to use this information to keep peace for all creatures everywhere and the six guardians of the ancient magic.
This is a fun story for pre teens. I loved all the animals involved. Amese’s family and friends are entertaining as well.

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The Better Man (A Silver Buckle Romance Series) by Laurie Lewis – Review by La Toya Lewis

The Better Man (Silver Buckle Brides, #2)The Better Man by Laurie L.C. Lewis
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The Better Man by Laurie Lewis is the second book in the A Silver Buckle Romance Series. When Laramee Stone’s family is in danger of losing their family’s ranch, she returns home. While there she meets Jamie Cannon. Laramee and Jamie have a rough start but grow closer as time passes. Laramee and Jamie find themselves falling for each other but an ex-fiance comes back around. I enjoyed this book. Jamie and Laramee’s relationship is so healing, wholesome, and sweet. These characters are wonderful together. They really make you believe in a second chance at love. There is so much fun dialogue. I found myself drawn into this world. It was a wonderful escape.

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Rhapsody in Black: An Elena del Carral Mystery (Rhapsody In… Series, Book 1) by Maria Elena Alonso-Sierra – Review by Jennifer Gordon

Rhapsody in Black: An Elena del Carral MysteryRhapsody in Black: An Elena del Carral Mystery by Maria Elena Alonso-Sierra
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

An enjoyable and engaging cozy mystery with an intriguing storyline which had me hooked throughout. Elena del Carral has been invited to dance at a Gala Performance by the founder of the world-renowned Terpsichore Ballet in New York City, Derek Michaels. Elena will also be auditioning for an unfinished ballet named Black Rhapsody by the late René Fauchier. This performance will enhance her career both as a principal dancer and a choreographer. However, Elena has a secret regarding the ballet, Black Rhapsody, and by returning to New York her revelation causes a chain of events including an attempted murder. This story had me gripped until the last page and the mystery element really kept me guessing. The world of the ballet really came to life through the descriptive narrative and I felt immersed in the story. I love the likeable and relatable Elena, and I look forward to future books in this series.

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Oscar and Emmy Foster Kittens by Terri Sabol, Tamara Ritterhaus, and Roksana Barwinska – Review by Roxsanne Lesieur.

Oscar and Emmy Foster KittensOscar and Emmy Foster Kittens by Terri Sabol
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Oscar and Emmy’s family have started to volunteer at their local animal shelter where they read to the residents there who are waiting to be adopted.

One day, they bring some tiny kittens’ home with them, and Oscar and Emmy immediately lend a hand by helping them to settle into home life and treat these temporary residents like family, or at least until they are adopted by another family.

This is a lovely book about how to start looking at fostering young kittens, what goes into looking after them and the responsibilities involved, and it is done in an easy-to-understand way which everyone can learn from.

Reviewed by @roxsannel

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The Winemakers – Box set: A Series of Sun-Kissed Historical Romances by Giovanna Siniscalchi – Review by Kat Mellon

The Winemakers - Box set: A Series of Sun-Kissed Historical RomancesThe Winemakers – Box set: A Series of Sun-Kissed Historical Romances by Giovanna Siniscalchi
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The Winemakers is a box set of 3 amazing books- While they could stand alone with enough backstory to explain the previous book, it reall would be better read in order. All 3 take place in Portugal.

The True Purpose of Vines follows a widowed winemaker (Julia) and a foreign Englishman (Griffin) who are thrown together, and cannot keep apart no matter how much they both feel they should. Even though it has a ‘hero saves the day’ theme at the end, Julie is independent and stubborn (both are, really) and I loved reading about her story. Happy endings and great historical tales weaved throughout.

A Taste of Light follows the ruthless Count Almoster, who we met in the first book. Though he played the role of the villain there, this book sheds more light on his tragic upbringing and history that lead to the jaded and wounded man he is today. Anne, Griffin’s sister is the heroine in this one, though they both end up saving each other. More happy endings.

The Truth About Myths surprised me. I really thought the 3rd would be about Almoster’s brother or cousin from the previous book; however, this tale follows Princess Isabel and notorious rake Count Henrique who are VERY reluctantly forced into a trip to Spain together. Of the 3, this one was my favorite. Political intrigue and scandal, of course a hefty amount of hesitant romance that leads both to find each other while also finding themselves and who they really are as individuals. The mystery and suspense in this book was, in my opinion, a lot more intense than the other two.

Overall, great stories! Amazing world building and historical accuracies, truly lovable and hatable characters, steamy romance but not to the point that it takes over the book and becomes the theme. Very well written, page turner and neatly wraps up the ending without leaving anything missing. I really can’t wait to see if there are more from this author and hope that Cris finds a happy ending as well!

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Oscar and Emmy Foster Kittens by Terri Sabol – Review by Kat Mellon

Oscar and Emmy Foster KittensOscar and Emmy Foster Kittens by Terri Sabol
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Oscar and Emmy Foster Kittens was such a cute read! My girls are obsessed with kitties and really loved learning more about them. The book does a great job at balancing a sweet story along with helpful information about having kittens in the house and helping to take care of them. Really enjoyed reading it to my girls.

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Healing Hearts: Gene & Amanda’s Story (The Echo Series) by C.R. Alam – Review by Charlene Pryke

Healing Hearts (Echo #0.5)Healing Hearts by C.R. Alam
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Healing hearts by C. R. Alam is the story of Amanda and Gene.

Amanda crashes her car to avoid hitting a young teenage girl, Gene is the first on the scene but they cannot find the girl and no one believes that the girl is real.?

Gene is a doctor and Amanda convinces him to stay with her to care for her instead of going to the hospital…. Meanwhile they search for the girl and uncover ….. I guess you need to read the book to find out this bit – NO SPOILERS.

Gene and Amanda have a brief affair as he is leaving in 3 months is he?

I really enjoyed this sweet and sometimes steamy prequel to the echo series.

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Touched: Elemental Passions Book One by Skye Turner, Sloane Nicole, April D. Berry, C.J. Pinard, Danielle Jamie, Darlene Tallman, Julie Morgan, Livell James, Machelle Hanleigh, and Melissa MacKinnon – Review by Kerry Carr

Touched (Elemental Passions #1)Touched by Skye Turner
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is the first book in the Elemental Passions series. And I have to say I loved it. What I found very unique is the fact that so many authors have written parts of the story and have had input into it but it reads and flows really well. All the different inputs have created a really unique and captivating book that is full of action, adventure, Fae, danger and fated mates.
This is a steamy paranormal romance. I love the main characters of Aeris and Callum. Even though they are from different worlds they work so well together.

Aeris is a Fae. All her life she has been told to stay away from humans, that humans can’t know about Fae and their world. So she has visited humans under the cover of Glamour. She loves seeing their world even if they can’t see her.
However that all changes when she bumps into Callum and she realises he can see her when no one else can.
Detective Callum has seen loads of strange things in his line of work but when a beautiful woman stumbled into his life with a story about Fae’s and other paranormal beings that exist in fairy tales, can he even believe her?

What follows is a story of two people who are fated mates and they struggles being from opposite sides. Could their attraction towards each other even become more? How is it possible that Callum can see her when other humans can’t? And what danger has Aeris put the rest of her community in by revealing what she is and the existence of Fae?

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The Better Man (A Silver Buckle Romance Series) by Laurie Lewis – Review by Amy Dean

The Better Man (Silver Buckle Brides, #2)The Better Man by Laurie L.C. Lewis
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Laramee’s life was torn apart, so she ran, until she was forced to come back home to decide her family’s ranch fate. Jamie has spent most of his life trying to redeem himself from past mistakes. Their lives collide and are changed forever. This book is a beautiful rocky romance and shows the courage these two must face their past issues head on in the company of someone they barely know. When neither of them can admit their short time was as impactful as it was, it breaks the readers’ heart to see them part ways. The chapters are engaging and evolve the story quickly.

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Loris Opens Up His Heart (Courage Tales Series) by Dagmara Sitek – Review by Karole Petty

Mealtime at the Zoo: PB&J CaféMealtime at the Zoo: PB&J Café by James Williamson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I really enjoyed this book. I am always looking for new storybooks for my grandchildren, this one hit all the must haves for a good childrens book. The illustrations are beautiful and the story moved right along. Liked the interesting facts about animals eating habits! Will be passing this book around to parents and grandparents that are looking for a good wholesome read.

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Meal Time at the Zoo: PB&J Café by James Williamson – Review by Karole Petty

Mealtime at the Zoo: PB&J CaféMealtime at the Zoo: PB&J Café by James Williamson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I really enjoyed this book. I am always looking for new storybooks for my grandchildren, this one hit all the must haves for a good childrens book. The illustrations are beautiful and the story moved right along. Liked the interesting facts about animals eating habits! Will be passing this book around to parents and grandparents that are looking for a good wholesome read.

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Rhapsody in Black: An Elena del Carral Mystery (Rhapsody In… Series, Book 1) by Maria Elena Alonso-Sierra – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

Rhapsody in Black: An Elena del Carral MysteryRhapsody in Black: An Elena del Carral Mystery by Maria Elena Alonso-Sierra
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Rhapsody in Black is an Elena del Carral Mystery full of mystery, suspense, action, danger, intrigue, tension, and secrets. It is set against the backdrop of the ballet world where the reader is quickly immersed in the cutthroat world of ballet dancing complete with accidents, threats, sabotage, and hidden agendas. The story centers around Elena, who is a ballerina and choreographer as she is invited to perform for Black Rhapsody, which will enhance her career. Elena quickly realizes why she left the ballet world behind because nothing seems to have changed and it has only become more sinister and deadly. The story is full of twists and turns, interesting characters, and a unique storyline that will leave you on the edge of your seat until the final scene.

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Touched: Elemental Passions Book One by Skye Turner, Sloane Nicole, April D. Berry, C.J. Pinard, Danielle Jamie, Darlene Tallman, Julie Morgan, Livell James, Machelle Hanleigh, and Melissa MacKinnon – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

Touched (Elemental Passions #1)Touched by Skye Turner
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Touched is Book One in the Elemental Passions Series. It is unique in that it is written by ten different authors who came together to write one story as one author. The book is full of action, magic, danger, drama, adventure, paranormal elements, mystery, passion, forbidden love, destiny, and romance. The story centers around Aeris, who is a fairy, and Callum, who is a detective. The two are attracted to one another, but Fae and human relationships are strictly forbidden. Aeris and Callum are from very different worlds and never should have met, but it is destiny that has brought them together. Although the two seem fated to be together, can they overcome the conflict and impending danger? Can the two overcome all obstacles and be together?

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Drag Me Down (Full Throttle Cyborgs Series) by Landra Graf – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

Drag Me Down (Full Throttle Cyborgs, #4)Drag Me Down by Landra Graf
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Drag Me Down is Book Four in the Full Throttle Cyborgs series. It is a cyborg sci-fi romance
with danger, drama, passion, chemistry, action, suspense, and cyborgs. Dakota, or Drag as he is known, is out for revenge after being betrayed and having his heart broken. Bridget is used to getting what she wants and will stop nothing to come out on top. She has been ruthlessly setting her sight on trying to take over Drags racers, his gang and his town but Drag has stopped her
at every turn. Now, Bridget is determined to get out from underneath the thumb of her gang sponsor and Drag and Bridget finds that they must join forces. Bridget thinks that she can fool him again, but Drag will not be fooled by her again. What neither expected was for the underlying chemistry and the sexual tension between them being off the charts. This book is fast paced with twists and turns that kept me reading until the end. The characters were amazing and unique, with a bit of an enemies to lover’s twist to keep you on your toes. The chemistry between Bridget and Drag is undeniable, but can they ever trust one another to have a relationship?

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What Eyes Can’t See (Bold Journeys Series) by Paulette Stout – Review by LaliLovely

What Eyes Can't See: Spicy contemporary fictionWhat Eyes Can’t See: Spicy contemporary fiction by Paulette Stout
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

With an author who gracefully weaves stories that haven’t been thought of yet , & a premise that refreshes senses caught up in trendy themes , What Eyes Can’t See glows in the dark . The whole book encourages belief in the light at the end of the tunnel , through the power of self discovery & the conviction of true values . Each of the characters in this entire collection possess a quiet courage unique to them , the kind that sparks it in the reader as well . The ability to create so many very different inner worlds is astounding , & I am endlessly impressed by this author’s talent . Every last one of their books is a gem . Their beautiful way of not only touching on sensitive subjects , but exploring the depths of them , is an art form that only exists in gifted minds .
This book , along with the rest of its family , leaves a trail of thoughtfulness that guides the reader into subtle , needed change . This is exactly what books are meant to do , & Paulette Stout does it beautifully .

This is a frustratingly wonderful love story that steams like hot fudge on a sundae , & highlighting the importance of self love & inner growth is the cherry on top .

 

Review by @lalilovely

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Healing Hearts: Gene & Amanda’s Story (The Echo Series) by C.R. Alam – Review by LaliLovely

Healing Hearts (Echo #0.5)Healing Hearts by C.R. Alam
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

C. R. Alam’s books are like cruising down the freeway at sunset , vibing to the easy listening station on the radio , on the way to somewhere you’re happy to be going to . They radiate ‘happy ending’ in the most comforting way , like you know you’re going to enjoy your time between the pages & want it to last forever .

The love story of Gene & Amanda is surprising & unique & somehow so perfect for them . Amanda has quickly become one of my favorite FMCs. I wish she was real so I could walk into her shop , order a sinfully delicious banana cream pie , & ask her to be friends .

Entirely delightful sprinkles of suspense here & there paired with itty bitty twists make this book a big smooch of a chef’s kiss .

This author is lavender candles , a cozy spot , & honey milk with warm snickerdoodle cookies for dipping ; & I am soo happy they exist in this great library of a world .

 

Review by @lalilovely

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The Better Man (A Silver Buckle Romance Series) by Laurie Lewis – Review by Andrea Lopez Salazar

The Better Man (Silver Buckle Brides, #2)The Better Man by Laurie L.C. Lewis
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The Better Man by Laurie L.C Lewis
5 stars
After 5 years Laramee Stone returns home because her parents are looking into selling the Ranch. Laramee ran into Jamie Cannon along the way, he is the realtor that was asked to come check out the homestead. Laramee does not want to sell but she is not sure what it really is that she wants to do with it. Both have a past that has a sad tale and both need to learn to trust. After making a bet that Jamie couldn’t last a week as a hand and both working together to make necessary repairs to the land it seems they both are developing feelings. There seems to be a few things in the mix that’s holding them back. Sutton, an ex-fiancé of Laramee and the area sheriff is still in love with her and wants to rekindle what was lost, then there is the fact of both Laramee and Jamie’s tragic past, along with the sale of the ranch.
Loved the book and gave it 5 stars as Laurie L.C Lewis told a charming story of two people who have family that loves them and needing to heal and be loved. This is book 2 of the Silver Buckle and I am looking forward to reading the 1st one soon.

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Touched: Elemental Passions Book One by Skye Turner, Sloane Nicole, April D. Berry, C.J. Pinard, Danielle Jamie, Darlene Tallman, Julie Morgan, Livell James, Machelle Hanleigh, and Melissa MacKinnon – Review by Rose McCaskey

Touched (Elemental Passions #1)Touched by Skye Turner
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Aeris a fae is not supposed to leave Laric, a warded colony for fae. Aeris enjoys seeing human things and frequently leaves the safety and sanctuary of Laric thinking humans can not see fae. That is until she encounters Callum, a human detective who can see her. There is an immediate attraction between the two that pulls them back to each other. How can Callum see Aeris when humans are not supposed to see past their glamours?

I found this book to be interesting. It’s not like other fantasy books involving fae that I have read. I kept reading just wanting to know what was going to happen next. It’s a great story filled with mystery, attraction, forbidden love, and intrigue. I look forward to a continuation of the series.

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Mood Swings and Hockey Flings (Hot Flash Hookups Series) by Sylvie Stewart and Marika Ray – Review by Maikalani alexander

https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/6468806738

The Better Man (A Silver Buckle Romance Series) by Laurie Lewis – Review by Faith Jackson

The Better Man (Silver Buckle Brides, #2)The Better Man by Laurie L.C. Lewis
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I can most definitely relate to Laramee’s ailing family situation. I could also relate to Jamie in getting others to believe in you after they gave up on you. From the summary, you’d think they belong to and with one another, right? Not when Sutton comes out of nowhere to get Jamie back after Laramee and he had become emotionally tied.. But it’s all in Jamie’s hands and what his heart desires.
Honestly, yes: I was and am pushimg for Laramee to win this one but then again, you never know what the author cooked up and I won’t spoil it for you. I loved this book as it was romantic, for me an escape from reality (at least for a few days) but it was steamy in a sensual way outside of sexual, easy to read with wonderful characters to match leaving me fully entertained.

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The Better Man (A Silver Buckle Romance Series) by Laurie Lewis – Review by Angela Shirley

The Better Man (Silver Buckle Brides, #2)The Better Man by Laurie L.C. Lewis
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Laramee is on her way back home after a frantic call from her mother, after leaving the ranch four years ago she is nervous about coming back and confronting her father, but she was not accepting the news when she arrived back. Lost in her world she strives to not let the only things she can slip from her fingers the ranch. When arriving she meets Jamie who’s business is real estate after being prickly initially they discover they have more in common than first thought.

Jamie is on his way to look at a ranch but first he was having some R and R in The Alpine a Ski resort but when he wonders into the reception area and sees his ex- fiancée getting ready to marry someone else all the air leaves his body, he rushes into the bakery onsite to get refreshments when he meets a lady and strikes up a conversation, unbeknown to him they will meet later and a lot less friendlier.

So when Jamie meets Laramee again at the Ranch things go decidedly a rye, Laramee wants him gone but he was instructed by her father so he is obliged to carry on with the job in hand but over the time of working together they see that they are so different after all.

This is a lovely story of family entanglements and expectations which are put on ourselves or others. The story weaves along and slow draws out the reasons that both of them have baggage and that they can just be friends rather than enemies in the long run that Jamie is only trying to help and somewhere along the way they become more.

With the secondary characters enhancing the story it is a lovely nice easy read, with characters who compliment each other and a clean story. I would love the read the next instalment in this series.

Mood Swings and Hockey Flings (Hot Flash Hookups Series) by Sylvie Stewart and Marika Ray – Review by Angela Shirley

Mood Swings and Hockey Flings (Hot Flash Hookups #2)Mood Swings and Hockey Flings by Marika Ray
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Kaitlyn is a top range hockey agent although being a woman in a mans world can be tough she has a reputation of a killer in the boardroom. Now she is representing young blood in the team and is damn good at it, although no-one ten years ago told her she would have to be a babysitter and agent all in one, but now she has her own agency and can pick and choose who she wants, until a friend asks her for a favour and in steps Bennet Banks her sworn enemy.

Can she put the past behind her to help him extend his contract and be a better person?

Ben “Bennett” Banks has lived to annoy Kaitlyn seen that day they meet ten years ago in the airport, she seemed okay with him then but once she knew who he was it has been daggers and teeth when ever they meet, but when he falls out with his agent just before a crucial extension of his contract no-one will touch him accept Kaitlyn. But can he keep his feelings for her under wraps as she has made it plain she hates him and is only doing this as a favour and to stick it to her old boss.

So, when something is released in the press at a critical time can Kaitlyn believe in Bennett or will she let him loose?

I love this calibration, the writing is brilliant and the characters are so real you wish they were your friends. This is the second book in this series but can easily be read as a stand alone novel but I recommend you read the first one as it is just as good.

Kaitlyn’s character is fiery and strong but as always you get to see the venerable side of her and that not everything is rosy in the garden. Ben’s character is lovely the rough alpha male on the ice but behind the scenes is a man who is misunderstood, caring and humble which makes these two characters just brilliant for each other.

The secondary characters as always are full of depth and life and just add to this wonderfully developed book, with you wanting to know the more about them in the next book. I hope Niko Drugov is our next mean hockey player to find love as it would be great for him and Chole to have some sparks in their future.

Can’t wait for the next instalment going forward.

Touched: Elemental Passions Book One by Skye Turner, Sloane Nicole, April D. Berry, C.J. Pinard, Danielle Jamie, Darlene Tallman, Julie Morgan, Livell James, Machelle Hanleigh, and Melissa MacKinnon – Review by Christie Mitchum

Touched (Elemental Passions #1)Touched by Skye Turner
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

It’s been a while since I have read a fantasy romance, and these talented writers reminded me of what I have been missing!!!

Aeris is a Fae who is fascinated by humans and the world outside the safety of her world. Faes aren’t supposed to mix with humans, but Aeris has never been one to follow the rules. One day while adventuring in the human world, a human sees through her glamor. Detective Callum LeBlanc is intrigued by her, and once he sees her, he can’t get her out of his mind. Aeris feels the same about him. Fate has brought these two together on a journey full of mystery and danger.

Both of the main characters were very likable. Both were strong characters independently but together they were unstoppable. The writing was very descriptive, and I could picture the Fae realm, Laric, clearly in my mind. I also loved the supernatural elements of New Orleans that were woven throughout the story. It’s hard to believe this book was written by ten different authors. It could have been disjointed and confusing, but it was seamless…which is a testament to the talent of each of the writers. I’m looking forward to reading the next installment.

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Mood Swings and Hockey Flings (Hot Flash Hookups Series) by Sylvie Stewart and Marika Ray – Review by Maisie Dickinson

Mood Swings and Hockey Flings (Hot Flash Hookups #2)Mood Swings and Hockey Flings by Marika Ray
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Mood Swings & Hockey Flings is the second installment of Marika Ray and Sylvie Stewart’s Hot Flash Hookups series. It follows Kaitlyn, hockey agent at the height of her career who, at the age of forty, is starting to think about starting a family, and Banks, hockey player who isn’t ready to retire at thirty-eight. I read a lot of hockey romances, but it was really refreshing seeing a woman of colour lead, and the leads being in their late thirties rather than early twenties. I think the authors handled the balance between having a career and starting a family really well, because I don’t think women should have to sacrifice one for the other. I also think they handled a woman nearing menopause really well, because women tend to feel old once they start thinking about menopause, but Kaitlyn is still confident and she still feels attractive, despite her mood swings or weight gain or fatigue. I did think, at the beginning, that Banks’ behaviour was immature for someone his age, but the more I read the more I changed my mind. My favourite character was Kaitlyn and my least favourite character was Ed. I recommend this book, mainly because it’s so refreshing to see an Asian female lead and a romance between two people in their late thirties. I also appreciate how the romance didn’t lead to anyone sacrificing any other important parts of their lives. ‘So much so that I might have been half in love with her by the time we said our goodbyes.’

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Murder on West Main (A South Shore Mystery) by I.M. Foster – Review by Dawn Daughenbaugh

Murder on West Main: A South Shore MysteryMurder on West Main: A South Shore Mystery by I.M. Foster
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

4 Stars
Murder on West Main (A South Shore Mystery) by I.M. Foster

Murder on West Main is the second book in the A South Shore Mystery Series and is a Historical Cozy Mystery that will have you turning the pages till the end. This cozy historical mystery is packed with action, suspense, mystery, drama,danger and so much more. The twists and turns had me turning the pages on the edge of my seat trying to figure out what was going to happen next. This is a new to me author and I honestly wasn’t sure what to expect going in but I’m glad I took the chance. This authors style of writing and attention to detail pulls you into their world and makes you feel like you are part of the story. The characters are wonderful. I highly recommend reading this fast paced mystery to find out what happens next. I’m already looking forward to reading more from this Author.

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