Bycatch by Alexander Blevens – Review by Heidi Sturgess

a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/61074882-bycatch” style=”float: left; padding-right: 20px”>BycatchBycatch by Alexander Blevens
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This one really pulled at my heart strings for so many reasons and part of me thinks it’s because where I live and my country’s history ….

People run from their homes to escape their country and it’s evil , they look for greener grass but it’s not always greener on the other side is it , you’re on a new country with it’s own rules and ways , you’re an alien for lack of a better word and people see that desperation and take advantage of it …..war is not kind , mankind is not always kind🥲

My attention was kept by the characters , their personal demons and struggles and how they deal with it , they’re human , they’re real , they’re relatable 🤗

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Into the Light (Moon Harbor Series Book 3) by Kate McWilliams – Review by Faith Jackson

Into the LightInto the Light by Kate McWilliams
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I read this as a standalone because I didn’t know there were other books prior to reading the references within. I’m starting to read the others since I had to catch up and not be in the loop. But this book itself was so beautifully written, I fell in love with the characters, and I absolutely loved the story! I don’t wanna give it away but it was well worth the read and hopefully the others are as well.

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Divided Lives by K.R. Mullins – Review by Lorrene Huisman

Divided LivesDivided Lives by K.R. Mullins
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I have been a huge fan of this author for quite some time, since I have had the pleasure of reading the author’s other series, surrounding mysteries in Chicago. Let me say, my heart leaped with joy when I realized the connection between the main heroine in this novel and the other series!

Very much enjoyed this book and the story Greatly admired Lottie. Resultant and independent. For sure fan girled out on the certain scenes that Emma from the other series, made an appearance. The book was full of intrigue over what involved Lottie. She was a lot like Emma, but as Emma knows, sometimes when you put your nose too deep you get in trouble. Lottie was blamed for something, and she had to clear her name and figure out who the real culprit was before it was too late! Personally, a big thing I admired and enjoyed was the historical take. I do not mean just the time frame, women’s suffrage was a big thing in history and the author perfectly portrayed it into the novel. Excellent writing and an intriguing novel! I truly loved it!

I could not put this book down once I began, there was so many interesting concepts that kept me wanting to read! Highly recommend this author as well as their book Both are a must read that you will enjoy!

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Divided Lives by K.R. Mullins – Review by Maryn Belling

Divided LivesDivided Lives by K.R. Mullins
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Divided Lives by K.R. Mullins – Review by Maryn Belling

Readers familiar with Mullins’ work will be at home in the lyrical patois of her writing. Newcomers will want to know that the cast of characters for the historical elements are located at the end of the text; it’s helpful to know it’s there so you can jump to it when needed. Whether you choose to read the author’s take before or after the novel is personal preference – probably if you like true-crime podcasts and other contemporary who-done-it perspectives on past events, you’ll read it both before and after.

It’s nice to see a different city from the Notebook Mysteries. Having some historical context helps, but the writing is accessible to readers as young as junior high or as advanced as having been children in the early 20th century. Ms. Mullins follows all the “rules” of authorship that Edgar Allan Poe set before us – no extraneous characters, letting the reader’s imagination fill in the details where possible.

There are social issues omitted from this text. Readers seeking additional context would do well to consider The Personal Librarian as a companion / concurrent read for cultural context.

In all a valiant effort.

Divided Lives, K.R. Mullins, Review, Itsy Bitsy Book Bits, Historical, Crime

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Moby Plays the Flute by Eeha Bhatt – Review by Faith Jackson

Moby Plays the FluteMoby Plays the Flute by Eeha Bhatt
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

My 7-year-old son and I enjoyed this book. It taught him the same things I’ve always preached about hard work, determination, patience and my son loved how it all came together in the end to work out in Moby’s favor! He and my 2-year-old son also enjoyed the pictures. Parents, this book, is worth the read!

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Hate You Later (Lit Lovers Series Book 1) by Ciara Blume – Review by Bethany Rollins

Hate You Later (Lit Lovers, #1)Hate You Later by Ciara Blume
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

I felt this was a decent read but not anything spectacular. I kept trying to grasp the plot but it fell a bit flat for me and read slower than I had anticipated. The characters were well written but I felt a disconnect from them and the relationship felt struggled and ingenuine. I love enemies to lovers plus the added bonus of dogs and cats but something failed to click. I found myself drifting off and just skimming the story in certain sections as it got longwinded and repetitive, especially the conversations between Cookie and Oliver. I wanted to love it based on the description and other’s reviews but I guess it just wasn’t for me.

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The Victor (The Freemasons Book 1) by Nicole Flockton – Review by Jules Herbert

The Victor (The Freemasons #1)The Victor by Nicole Flockton
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is the first book in this particular series from this wonderful author and I have to say I am looking forward to reading more. Cole and Ava are separated after experiencing a devastating loss and when Ava announces to Cole that she wants a divorce so they can both start over, he decides that is the last thing he wants and goes about proving to her that they truly are meant to be together. There is a very fascinating storyline threaded through this book that obviously threads through the entire series and I can’t wait to see where it will take us.

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The Hunter (The Freemasons Book 2) by Nicole Flockton – Review by Shelly Kittell

The Hunter (The Freemasons, #2)The Hunter by Nicole Flockton
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Gemma & Dominic are a pair that just can’t deny the chemistry. They want to but can’t. He runs The Lodge. She’s an entertainment reporter looking into her father’s death which she blames on him and his 3 buddies. Oh, let the drama begin. She has a grudge and threatens Dominic. He is just out to protect his investments and secrets. This enemy relationship slowly moves into friendship and more. An entertaining book that also covers some deep subjects such as sex trafficking. I loved watching the relationship develop between Gemma and Dom. Gemma is pretty independent and learns it’s okay to ask for help. Dom has to learn to let the walls down. The storyline will touch all your emotions as Ava and Cole are in it as well. They share news. A quick and adventurous read. The suspense pulls you in. I couldn’t put it down. You had to know what happens. I love this series. I can’t wait to read Jude’s adventures in the next book.

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Boss’s Vendetta (Sicilian Gods Book 1) by Via Mari – Review by Michelle Mulvey

Boss's Vendetta: Dark Mafia Romance (Sicilian Gods Book 1)Boss’s Vendetta: Dark Mafia Romance by Via Mari
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I used to dislike these types of Mafia books but one author got me hooked. Now I’m always looking for more.
This book was about Adrianna and Sal. Sal was next to lead the family and Adrianna was the good doctor at the resort there to take care of the guests and of course the family. The family never goes to the hospital when they are shot or stabbed. Adrianna hates everything about Sal. From his dark penetrating eyes to his bossy demeanor. So why can she not get him off her mind and he goes out of his way to look for her. When a wedding is ambushed, the family is lucky Adrianna is there to be able to go underground to care for the injured. The question remains….how was the wedding ambushed at their resort with all that security….there’s a rat! Sal makes it his number one priority to find the rat all while trying to get Adrianna into his bed. Adrianna has secrets of her own on why she showed up to work for this family. She seems like a sweet innocent doctor but, when something or someone threatens what is hers, she will do what she needs to in order to neutralize the threat!
I absolutely loved this book from beginning to end and cannot wait for more!

 

review by @xchellex

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Divided Lives by K.R. Mullins – Review by Christine Baranek

Divided LivesDivided Lives by K.R. Mullins
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Divided Lives
By: K.R. Mullins
5*
This story is based on actual events that took place in Greenwich Village in 1912. Lottie, our main character, is definitely not one who follows or believes in societal norms. She frequents areas she shouldn’t frequent and keeps with company with people some would be desirable. Despite being considered bohemian, she also holds a very official office. She is a legal clerk for Justice Goff. She has begun working on a very important criminal trial. This trial is very polarizing as it involves a local police officer named Charles Becker. Once, Lottie begins working on this trial she begins being blackmailed. The problem is, these blackmailers are trying to expose areas of her life that she wants to keep hidden.
I loved this story of Lottie and her involvement in this trial. Her struggles seemed so real and I really wanted to learn more about the actual events. I cannot say enough how good this book is! It really makes me want to research the actual case and also Greenwich during this time period! I definitely recommend it, especially to fans of mystery and true crime.

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Divided Lives by K.R. Mullins – Review by Shelly Kittell

Divided LivesDivided Lives by K.R. Mullins
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Lottie is an amazingly independent woman in a time when women are challenging the status quo. A clerk in the Judges office, she finds herself helping with several mysteries. The most important one finds her trying to find out who is setting her up to look like she killed her casual lover, Rose. Could it be the upcoming trial? Who could it be? I have to say I loved this book. Emma, from the YA series had a cameo in parts. Wonderful to see it sort of tied in. Lottie is strong. The other characters all had their own individual personalities that had their own quirks. The
story is well-developed and carries itself. I loved the whole mystery throughout and the suffragettes, protest movement. The tone seemed to be how unfair women’s rights were and we saw that in how Henrietta and the others were treated. There was a little of everything to suit the tastes: humor, murder, mystery, romance, etc. A wonderful book and I hope we’ll see more of Lottie in the adult realm

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We Blend (Falling for the Rockstar’s Daughter Book 1) by Willa Drew – Review by Angelina Frazzini

WE Blend (Falling for the Rockstar's Daughter Series #1)WE Blend by Willa Drew
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This book is book one of the series. This is the first book I’ve read by this author but I’m definitely going to read the rest of the series.

Melodie (El) is the daughter of of celebrities. She often is the target of many paparazzi so she’s been sheltered quite a bit by her parents. El just needs to sing. It’s not just a hobby for her. She needs it so she decides to make it happen in a bar of campus while wearing a disguise. Wil is in the U.S for a couple reasons. One of which happens to be to find his sperm donor. Wil happens to be at the same bar and steps in to help El while she’s trying to perform and changes everything for the both of them. However, with both of them keeping secrets, their relationship will be tested.

This was a good book. It was well written and the characters definitely had chemistry. You easily get pulled into the story and are held there! I enjoyed it!

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Fighting Chance by Toni Denise – Review by Angela Hayes

Fighting ChanceFighting Chance by Toni Denise
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

 

4 Stars

 

A determined reporter on the hunt for a story… and the world-weary champion boxer who won’t be swayed, no matter how appealing she may be. Sparks fly…. and things are about to get interesting.
Fighting Chance by Toni Denise is a contemporary sports romance with emotion, MMA fighting, drama, chemistry, steam, and finding love unexpectedly.
Looking forward to seeing what Toni Denise does next.
Happy Reading…

Thank you, Toni Denise!

 

Reviewed by @angelahayes

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Cooked: The Chef Blows Her Lid by Cari Schaeffer – Review by Angela Hayes

Cooked: The Chef Blows Her LidCooked: The Chef Blows Her Lid by Cari Schaeffer
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

 

4 Stars


Cooked: The Chef Blows Her Lid
is the latest offering by Cari Schaeffer. I loved this fun story- it is full of humour, mayhem, and antics. It’s a story about starting again, of taking a plunge and hoping things work out for the better. Or is that, worse?
Olivia has had the rug pulled out from under her feet, her ‘perfect life’ in tatters after her husband is caught cheating with her best friend- while her work situation pushes her ever closer to the edge. It all results in leaving her emotionally battered and bruised. So, she picks herself up, makes some difficult decisions, and begins to pick up the pieces to start over by investing in herself and her hopes and dreams. But has she taken on too much? Will she succeed, or will her dreams go up in smoke? And most importantly, can she keep it all together without blowing her lid? This is definitely worth the read to find out…
Happy Reading!

Thank you, Cari Schaeffer!

 

Reviewed by @angelahayes

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More Text Than Sex by Jim Shomos – Review by Angela Hayes

More Text Than SexMore Text Than Sex by Jim Shomos
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

 

4 Stars

 

“Music never Judges us but it sometimes helps us question.”

 

More Text Than Sex by Jim Shomos proved to be a great introduction to this talented author. The story is a cleverly woven and entertaining tale full of humour, music, emotion, drama, self-discovery/finding where you belong, love, family, banter, romance, and complexity.
Robbie is a hot-shot music manager who’s been tasked with co-collaborating on a song-writing contest. Along with, Annie, who is a single mother on the brink of reigniting her music career. And Cat, who is beginning to lose herself in all the volunteer work she does- draining herself for others, her energy and finances are being bled away and she’s not sure how to stem the flow- she’s in serious need of a lifeline and influx of abundance. These three are thrown together as the story unfolds, bringing about some surprising developments.
The way the characters have been so well-developed with their own individual personalities, quirks, and flaws- and the dynamic between them- really made this story so intriguing- in a connectable, realistic and believable way. The whole music scene/contest added some fascinating elements to the overall plot.
A great read…. Looking forward to exploring more of Mr. Shomos work.
Happy Reading!

Thank you, Jim Shomos!

 

Reviewed by @angelahayes

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The Veil by Wanda Luthman – Review by Angela Hayes

The VeilThe Veil by Wanda Luthman
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

 

3 Stars

 

The Veil by Wanda Luthman is biblical fiction story that explores the tearing of the veil inside the Jewish Tabernacle at the time Jesus died on the cross.
It is a story of faith, spirituality, prayer, and inspirational themes. The story is Christian fiction that explores the meaning behind the tearing of the veil at Jesus’ death and how it represents the ultimate sacrifice that Jesus made for mankind, by paying for our sins with his death.
The story ‘pushes’ the need for the reader to repent and invite Jesus into their lives.
This book won’t suit everyone- but will definitely hit the right note for those looking for inspiration, or some faith-based reading.

 

 

Reviewed by @angelahayes

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From Brick & Darkness by J.L. Sullivan – Review by Lauren West

From Brick & DarknessFrom Brick & Darkness by J.L. Sullivan
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Another young adult book that hits the spot. I loved this book from beginning to end, and it’s a message that everyone can relate to in someway.
Baxter went through the good and the bad like any kid does. Raised by a single mom and a dad who was no more than mystery he began to question the “what if.” From there A mysterious djinn, a bit of dark magic, adventure mixed with suspense, and some good friends take this story places you will not want to miss

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Borrowed Time by Lane Cohen – Review by Angela Hayes

Borrowed TimeBorrowed Time by Lane Cohen
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

 

3.5 Stars

 

Borrowed Time is the debut novel by Lane Cohen. It is a time travel fantasy with some sci-fi elements, drama, historical details, adventure, moral decisions, crisp dialogue, and interesting characters- with a bit of a nod to the 1960’s movie ‘The Time Machine”.
What would you do if you could go back in time? Would you change your own history, or try to right some terrible wrongs? Well, that’s what these characters face when they invent a type of time travel, and adapt it to an old movie prop. We follow along on as they travel back in time and get a front row seat to all the intriguing developments. With the way things played out here, I feel there could be room for a sequel, or series? Stay tuned…
Looking forward to seeing what Lane Cohen does next.
Happy Reading…

Thank you, Lane Cohen!

 

Reviewed by @angelahayes

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November 9 by Colleen Hoover – Review by Colleen Noyes

November 9November 9 by Colleen Hoover
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

November 9 by Colleen Hoover takes you on a beautiful journey that lasts over several years. It makes you wonder if a love story like that actually exists and it makes you question would you be able to make the sacrifices that they did?

Fallon is a young girl who has suffered a tragedy that makes her question everything about herself. She has lost all self-confidence and I think in some ways has even lost her will to live and it makes you question how you would handle such a tragedy.

Benton seems to be too good to be true with his kindness, his confidence, and his saving the day personality. What you end up learning about him in the end was gut wrenching and you will feel it in your core. The tragedies that he suffers broke my heart and you come to realize just what those tragedies did to him.

This book threw me for a loop when encountered with shocking information. No spoilers but be prepared to have your mouth hanging open and saying to yourself what the heck did I just read.

This author always keeps me captivated and while I am new to her books this third one took me to a whole new level and I cannot wait to appreciate so much more of her work. She is clearly a brilliant and talented author and I was thrilled to know that she does such an extensive amount of charity work. I love reading a good fiction book but I hands-down adore reading a good fiction book from an author who gives back so much.

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The Virus of Beauty (The Virus of Beauty Book 1) by C.B. Lyall – Review by Jenni Bishop

The Virus of BeautyThe Virus of Beauty by C.B. Lyall
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The Virus of Beauty is the first book in this unique YA fantasy. With magic, witches and wizards this tale will delight those who love all things magical. It is fast-paced and action-packed with beautifully imagined magical realms, danger, mystery and suspense. The characters are likable and well-developed.

This carefully constructed magical world is in turmoil as the conflict and politics between witches and wizards continues. Add in a dangerous and deadly virus and 16-year-old Wilf must confront that which he does not want to.

Those that love YA fantasy will like this book so grab a copy and dig in.

Reviewed by @jennadb

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Chevalier (War Horses Book 1) by Scott Warren – Review by Jenni Bishop

War Horses Book 1: ChevalierWar Horses Book 1: Chevalier by Scott Warren
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Scott Warren’s Chevalier is the first unique book in the War Horses series which promises to be an enjoyable series. It is a military sci fi tale with Mecha soldiers, which I pictured as the ones from movies like Pacific Rim and anime.

It is my first time reading anything by Scott and certainly reading anything in the Mecha genre. Let me tell you I was pleasantly surprised. I always like to go in blind not reading any blurbs, covers etc as I like to discover tales all on their own and make my own thoughts and this certainly helped with this book.

With intrigue and suspense, action and humour, some politics and war, violence and death, battles and upright giant humanoid robots it will delight those who like a gritty military sci fi and Mecha soldiers.

Reviewed by @jennadb

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Ice Dance by Vik Azeem – Review by Angela Hayes

Ice DanceIce Dance by Vik Azeem
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

 

3.5 Stars

 

Ice Dance by Vik Azeem is an original urban fantasy that swept me up into quite a fun adventure. This is the first book that I have read by this author, so I was curious about what the story might hold, so I took a chance and clicked a copy, and set off on this fun adventure.
The story is woven around an unemployed accountant, Hassan, who has come to a bit of a cross-roads in his life. He’s unemployed, about to become homeless, is a little jaded, and feels like his creativity is being stifled. Then, unexpectedly, he meets Yasmine who is like a fresh breath of air to his stagnant life. He becomes entranced by her free-spirited energy. But things aren’t quite what they seem as he is soon to learn. New Year’s Eve turns his world upside down and introduces him to a world he never knew existed outside of storybooks. With magic, different realms, portals, paranormal beings, secrets, danger, drama, friendship, family, banter, action, and dangerous foes- this story really comes to life quite vividly. I loved the sprinkling of humour throughout the storyline as it added an extra element of fun to the whole experience.
The story is well-woven, detailed, and descriptive- with some clever world-building. Vik Azeem has a bit of a lyrical feel to their writing which suits the magical realism of the storyline. I enjoyed the story and look forward to exploring more of this author’s work in the future.
Happy Reading!

Thank you, Vik Azeem!

 

Reviewed by @angelahayes

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Stumble & Fall (A Legacy of Silence Book 2) by Amy Rivers – Review by katie stapleton

Stumble & Fall (A Legacy of Silence, #2)Stumble & Fall by Amy Rivers
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I didn’t realize this was part of a series, but it read well as a standalone. It was a very intense novel dealing with a heavy topic. There is a TW for rape and sexual assault, so heed that before you start reading. That said, this is a very important topic to read stories about. The details are stunning and you can really feel the anxiety and despair come off the page. The main characters, Kate and Tilly, have been through more than their fair share of trauma and loss, yet are still able to help each other navigate the hard times. I also like that the series tackles abuse from people in positions of power. I know that many victims have a hard time coming forward about abuse and more still are either not believed or not taken seriously. There are perpetrators at all levels and it is good to read a very realistic depiction.

I lived in Cruces when I was younger, so I know a lot of the references to southern New Mexico. I felt like I was there while reading the book, particularly in the details of Kate’s gated haven. It felt a little nostalgic and definitely had some heart racing moments throughout the book. I will be on the lookout for the next book in the series!

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Boss’s Vendetta (Sicilian Gods Book 1) by Via Mari – Review by Charlisa Wahtomy-Alba

<a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/62031916-boss-s-vendetta” style=”float: left; padding-right: 20px”><img border=”0″ alt=”Boss’s Vendetta: Dark Mafia Romance (Sicilian Gods Book 1)” src=”https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1661010874l/62031916._SX98_.jpg” /></a><a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/62031916-boss-s-vendetta”>Boss’s Vendetta: Dark Mafia Romance</a> by <a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/16229360.Via_Mari”>Via Mari</a><br/>
My rating: <a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/5038760086″>5 of 5 stars</a><br /><br />
I have never read anything by this author before but we are off to a great start! This book is the first in this series and it was a page turner. Adrianna has been plotting revenge against the Larussio family since she was young as she was under the impression they killed her father. When she is hired as an in house doctor at their new casino in Las Vegas she hopes to find the answers she seeks. Will the answer be what she wants to hear or will she be left with more questions? Salvatore is next in line to be the leader of the Mafia but there are those out there that don’t feel like he deserves it. There is a rat within his ranks and he intends to find out who it is. Things only tend to get complicated when he and Adrianna start dancing around each other trying not to catch feelings. The last thing Salvatore needs is to give his enemies a reason to think he has a weakness. Keeping Adrianna at an arms length is a lot easier said than done though. Will he be at to keep her and his family safe or is she the true enemy he needs to look out for?
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Hungry Business: A Gothic Story about the Horrors of Dating by Maria DeBlassie – Review by Vanessa Estrada

Hungry BusinessHungry Business by Maria DeBlassie
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Great short story, perfect to read in October for spooky season. Very easy to read, very short, great ending. It has a lovely character arc with a hopeful turn by the ending. It was a very relatable book, commenting on the woes of dating and putting your heart out there. If you like the walking dead, you will probably like this book. This is the first book/story I have read by this author, but it will not be the last.

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Lab Spill (The Cool Thing Series Book 2) by Robert Rife – Review by Helen Dawkins

LAB SPILL: A Dark Comedy. Maybe. (THE COOL THING SERIES)LAB SPILL: A Dark Comedy. Maybe. by Robert Rife
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

This book is the second book in “The Cool Thing” Series. At the beginning it is rather slow, but it picks up pace pretty quickly. Lots of trashy, dark humor that will literally make you laugh out loud at times. The dialogue is amazing in this book, makes you feel like you are actually there for the conversations. There are lots of old characters, but also plenty of new ones that are just as weird, funny, and dark. Finally, we have some great exploration from the characters! This second book is by far better than the first!

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River Witch by Cheryl Burman – Review by Vanessa Estrada

River WitchRiver Witch by Cheryl Burman
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

SUCH a beautiful book. The writing itself was so lyrical and beautiful. Hester is such a lovable character and her relationship with Aaron is everything. This is a really lovely story. It was a bit slow at first but it really picked up.

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Mafia Elite Series Box Set Volume 2 by Amy McKinley – Review by Helen Dawkins

Mafia Elite Box Set: Volume TwoMafia Elite Box Set: Volume Two by Amy McKinley
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Savage Secrets: I absolutely love Elena and Marco! From Frenemies to Lovers! Even though you can read this book as a standalone, I recommend reading the other books in order before this one. There is vital information about Elena’s starting predicament that may be confusing if you do not know the background information from the other 3 books. After finding that Elena is alive, Marco will not stop until she is his and in his arms. As teenagers, Marco and Elena were always back and forth teasing and punishing for no reason. They both had crushes on each other but kept it a secret, as Elena was promised to marry Enzo. In this book, it tied up several of the sub-plots that go on throughout each book. Marco is the sexy tattooed badass, while Elena has become an independent badass of her own. Her being away from everyone and in hiding for the past 4 years causes several issues with the two main characters, trust being the main problem. As Elena, is not sure who to trust, and Marco is pissed that she left without asking for help. The main Mafia situation in Savage Secrets is focused on the Russians, the Boss Yuri in particular. Very action packed but with lots of romance and love. Definitely cannot wait to read the 5th book in the series.

Ruthless Heir: Ruthless Heir, Book 5 in the Mafia Elite Series throws a huge loop than the other pervious books. At first, I was not sure how I would like it considering it is bringing in two new characters that have not been introduced yet. The love story focus is on Luc and Summer. Luc being Lil’s long lost half brother, who has no idea he has a sister, let alone Mafia. Both Luc and Summer come from hard difficult childhoods, which is one of the things they bond over. The book focuses on Luc’s training to become the new Mafia Boss for the Brambilla Family and the new girl who he has dragged along with him, Summer. She is also on the run from another less powerful Mafia Family, the Amato’s. She keeps her cards close to her in hope that she Five Chicago Families do not turn her over. At first, Summer is there against her will, but slowly everyone, including Luc falls in love with her. As Summer and Luc work together every morning, their love connection grows so beautifully. Summer and Luc both fit excellently into the Five Mafia Families and are a great addition. Amy McKinley does a spectacular job at mixing adventure, mystery, romance and spice. I know I will not be disappointed in book 6!

Collateral Damage: Collateral Damage is book 6 in the Mafia Elite Series. While each book can be a standalone, I highly recommend reading the other books in order before reading this one. Collateral Damage focuses on the love story of Trey La Rosa and a young woman named Hailey Carmichael. Trey has absolutely no time to find a woman as he is in his residence for becoming a surgeon and is also the Mafia’s doctor. Trey recently lost his last girlfriend, and he is not looking to ever lose another person he loves. The two main characters meet at a function and Trey is slowly pulled into helping Hailey. As they continue to work together, his feelings grow enormous for her, and he is not willing to lose her for any reason. Amy McKinley never disappoints, and that is also clear in this book. This series is one of the best series I have read in a long time. There is an excellent mixture of spice, romance, and action. Her details on each man will make your mouth water. In the other books, Trey is on the outskirts, and I am glad that in this book we get a up close and personal look into his life

Rivals: This has taken my favorite spot in the Mafia Elite Series! While you can read this book as a standalone, I highly recommend reading the previous 6 books in the series. The story focus on Nico La Rosa & Mia Tucci.

It immediately sucks you in with an intense scene of Mia (daughter of the Mafia boss Joey, apart of the NY syndicate) being kidnapped by her own step brother, Ricco, and locked away in the rooms down under the Nightclub her family owns (that also holds women captive for sex trafficking). Nico La Rosa, the youngest of the La Rosa’s, a member of the Chicago Italian Mafia and the Five Major Families, isn’t looking for love, as he has very little emotional pull towards anyone that isn’t his family, or his work (major hacker & computer whiz).

His life gets turned upside down when Mia finds him and proposes safety from her family in exchange for marriage and help in taking down the Tucci sex trafficking ring & the family line completely. While Nico is very cautious & weary of alternative motives, he has an intense pull and sensation to help her any way he can.

Will they end up being a loveless marriage, a business contract moreso than anything, or will they fall for each other harder than ether ever expected possible?

Taking down a Mafia family isn’t easy, will they accomplish their goal? If so, at what cost?

Several twists & turns I definitely didn’t see coming. Spice is present and moderate, but definitely enjoyable! I love reading from both of Mia & Nico’s point of view!

Can’t wait until the new series that will follow the lives of the newly introduced NY Mafia family, the Verretti’s

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Ice Dance by Vik Azeem – Review by Julie Johnson

Ice DanceIce Dance by Vik Azeem
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Hassan is a unemployed accountant who is about to lose his apartment and disgrace his family. No one knows about his work status until his mom and dad start getting letters at their home. Then, Hassan is scrambling to make sure that no one else knows he’s been struggling for over 4 months. Afterall, he comes from a very successful family and he doesn’t want to look bad.

After a night at a bar waiting on his friend Anthony, and a time slot for the open mike comedy night, Hassan meets Yasmine. All of a sudden, his life will never be the same again. What are those green footprints that keep showing up??

This is a new-to-me author who I really enjoyed!

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Just One More Egg (Science Folktales Book 6) by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Angela Renee Diaz

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

This books tells me everything happens for a reason. And blessings sometimes comes in disguises. The mama Warbler accepts the cuckoo like her own and faces backlash. Cuckoo ends up protecting the other babies from a cat that was trying to eat them. The mama Warbler takes it in stride of feeding her own and the cuckoo. Short sweet book. I loved it.

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