Bella: An Appalachian Love Story & Jagged Dawn: Logan’s Beginnings by Valerie Davisson – Review by Amy Brennan

Bella-An Appalachian Love Story & Jagged Dawn-Logan's BeginningsBella-An Appalachian Love Story & Jagged Dawn-Logan’s Beginnings by Valerie Davisson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I can say without hesitation that I most certainly shed a couple tears during the love story of Norah, and Giovanni, and the connection that can only be shared by those with familial ties. I have experienced a couple of great losses within the last couple years and felt the emotions that this author wanted to convey on an even higher level. The artistry she includes within her writing style to allow the reader to fall deep into the Appalachian hills, the scenery described, and the lifestyle all hit the mark for me, and I couldn’t put it down.

Jagged Dawn brought to light this authors ability to really make you feel the main characters, their hopes, and wants, and dreams, and understand what a person will do and what they can withstand when they MUST. It ended a little abruptly, in turn, however, makes me want to read more! To me, both novella and the short story expressed hope, want, need, love, care, and understanding, as well as an independence of the characters that is both admired and envied. I have yet to read any of her other written works, but very much look forward to doing so soon. Looking for a quick, emotion-filled read? Pick this up, I’m sure you will enjoy it as much as I did.

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Depending On You by Jessica Aiken-Hall – Review by Karyn Taylor

Depending On YouDepending On You by Jessica Aiken-Hall
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Reading this book made me realise that I don’t read enough crime books anymore and need to read more. This was a new author to me and I was unsure what to expect, but I really enjoyed her writing style. The story flowed well and had me engaged from the very beginning, right up to the end.
Reading about Cate and Patti made me wish that I had a friendship like theirs. These 2 women are totally devoted to one another and have the most amazing friendship ever.
If this book is anything to go by, then this author has an amazing knack of writing fantastic characters. I absolutely adored both Patti and Cate, Along with those two, Patti’s Mum and Cate’s Dad are both characters that I really enjoyed reading about. You could also add Jake and Andrew to this although they don’t play as large a role as the others.
This book is gripping and just when you think you know what’s going on, the author throws you a curveball and the story twists. There are quite a few twists and turns and I have to say that I definitely did not predict the ending.
I really enjoyed this book and would recommend it to other readers.

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Doctor D’s Orderly Affair (Doctors of Eastport General) by C.A. King – Review by Dawn Mitchell

Doctor D's Orderly AffairDoctor D’s Orderly Affair by C.A. King
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is Book One of the series. It is a quick, fun, steamy read. Its funny to read how the coworkers have fun at work an after hours together. Also shows the true struggles of their everyday job. It was a great mixture in such a short story. Definitely left wanting more.

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Lingering Spirits (Soul Connection Book 4) by Nikki Lynn Barrett – Review by Lorrene Huisman

Lingering Spirits (Soul Connection, #4)Lingering Spirits by Nikki Lynn Barrett
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I am huge fan of this author, so of course I picked up this one with excitement! I truly do love how this author writes, and creates a story that captures you and holds you there until the final second possible. I found this one as amazing as the rest of the books written by this author. Truly engaging!

I loved the feels I got when reading this one. The story had more to it than I first thought at my first few pages in. The characters were full of intrigue, the mystery around them really captivated me. They defiantly change from the first few pages to the end. I loved their change as I would call it from beginning to end. The paranormal factors as usual was very well done with the writing! The book was not predictable at all, there were things that happened that I did not expect, and kept me interested in anticipation to what would happen next! Could not put down this wonderful read!

Love this author so much. If you have not checked out their books before I highly say you do so. This book alone, is a high recommendation and a must read. I also suggest you read the other books in the series, they are as spell casting on the reader as this one is! Wonderful read and wonderful series!

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Return of the Elf Lord (Kingdom of the Elf Lords Book 1) by Heidi Vanlandingham – Review by Jade Thomson

Return of the Elf LordReturn of the Elf Lord by Heidi Vanlandingham
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I loved this book! The beginning really drew me in and got me excited to read the rest. I didn’t realize that this book was a standalone from another series- so I get to enjoy reading more from this world. The main characters: Bernard and Alva are both so interesting and charming and show such personal growth throughout the story. I love fantasies and mythology and this book really hits the mark. This is a fantastic book my friends- and deserves a read. (:

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So Right (Love Grows Series Book 5) by Renee Regent – Review by Bethany Rollins

So Right: A Fake Fiancee Reverse Age Gap Romance (Love Grows Series Book 5)So Right: A Fake Fiancee Reverse Age Gap Romance by Renee Regent
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I thoroughly enjoyed So Right and the characters of Petro and Amara. These co-workers are brought together by their boss who sends them to scope out a California inn that he wants to purchase. Their mission has them pretending to be engaged and looking at possible wedding venues. During their week together, their relationship changes into intimacy and the pair begin healing from their past traumas and histories. This is a sweet story showing us that age is just a number and that love has no limits. The characters are all wonderful, supportive and amazing. This is the first I’ve read from this author but I hope to read more.

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Reverence of a Ronin by Bree M. Lewandowski – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

Reverence of a RoninReverence of a Ronin by Bree M. Lewandowski
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Aia wants nothing more than to learn the skills of being a Geisha girl. Her whole world involves Geishas, whether it is serving them or being around them. One day she hopes to have the beauty and the poise of a Geisha girl herself. Aia is not built like the other Geisha girls, so for now she must remain happy to remain a Geisha in-training. When one of the Geisha girls is unable to provide companionship Aia is given her chance to pursue her dream of becoming a Geisha. During the evening she meets a swordsman named Nen who terrifies yet excites her. Nen is not only intimidating in size but his black eyes strike Aia with fear. Despite his size and intimidating presence Aia finds herself attracted to this mighty swordsman.

When talks of changes come and the possibility of impending war, Japan is suddenly thrown into a revolution. During the ensuing chaos the lives of Aia and others are put in danger. Nen swoops in and saves Aia from the violence that has erupted and introduces her to a world that is beyond anything that she could have ever imagined existed. He takes her to a mythical realm and introduces her to some of its inhabitants. Aia quickly learns that Nen has been fighting his own battles for years as he keeps Japan and its citizens safe from worlds and forces, they do not know exist. Aia realizes that he is not just large in stature but that he has a large and caring heart. Can the mortal world and the mythical realm coexist? Will Japan be thrown into war? Will Nen be able to bring peace to the land?

I was mesmerized by this book and found it impossible to put down. I was drawn into the world of Japan and the lives of Aia and Nen. I enjoyed seeing the world of a Geisha through Aia’s eyes and it really got me thinking about what a Geisha must go through. Is this what it’s like for all Geisha girls? I also loved the fact that Aia was a bit more voluptuous and rounded then a typical Geisha girl would be, yet it did not stop her from pursuing her dreams. At first Nen comes across as being cold, dark, and mysterious but once you start reading you realize that there is far more to his character than meets the eye. Aia and Nen appear to be exact opposites, yet they end up being so perfectly matched for each other. Nen is a proud and strong swordsman who not only protects Aia, but the people of Japan, from dark forces that exist in a realm that they do not know exist. Aia is strong, smart, and courageous so she can hold her own and stand up for herself when it is necessary for her to do so.

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Weep, Woman, Weep: A Gothic Fairytale about Ancestral Hauntings by Maria DeBlassie – Review by Amanda Williams

Weep, Woman, WeepWeep, Woman, Weep by Maria DeBlassie
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

I quite enjoyed this book. The characters and the world building were really well done. My only issue is that as much as it gives a slight gothic vibe I would’ve liked more of a pull on this. It was a quick, enjoyable read and I would consider reading more by this author in the future.

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A Spider in the Garden by Courtney Davis – Review By Amanda Williams

A Spider in the GardenA Spider in the Garden by Courtney Davis
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This was so unusual. I’m usually a bit shaky with shifters but I wound up liking this a lot. The character development is unlike anything else. Throughly enjoyed. I would really be interested to see what else this author comes out with as I see a big future ahead for them. 100% original and entertaining. A real good read.

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Lost Soul (War of Destiny Book 1) by Theresa Van Spankeren – Review by Santana Hicks

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

At only 15 Julia was forced into an arranged marriage with an abusive man. Julia being as head strong as he is, endures it all for years, watching herself slip away bit by bit. After an event that is basically the final straw, she is done.

A man named Samuel approaches her and tells her that he can help her escape her miserable life and heal her physically if she joins him as a vampire. With no hesitation she says yes thinking this is the answer to her happiness. She doesn’t realize that emotional scars follow you everywhere even into the undead life.

This book was powerfully written and the concept itself is unique. It was written so powerfully morbid and sad but I could not put it down. I loved watching Julia grow into her own and slowly heal from her traumatic life. The author delved deeply into the emotional damage that can be caused by being abused. Julia battles depression and anxiety with the help of Samuel.

I would recommend this book to anyone who isn’t soft. It was amazing. I will be immediately looking for the 2nd book in the series!

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A Bride for Noah by Cheryl Wright – review by Ashley Denno

A Bride for Noah (Brides of Broken Arrow #1)A Bride for Noah by Cheryl Wright
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I appreciate a good love story. Even more one without graphic sexual encounters. This book was perfect! A sweet love story safe to read in public. I will definitely be reading more books by this author.

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Road Rage (Outlaw Series Book 4) by Karina Kantas – Review by Piper Foster

Road Rage (OUTLAW, #4)Road Rage by Karina Kantas
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is the fourth instalment of the series. I enjoyed this book. Gemma has had a very hard life and now is enduring more pain but to what cost. Sometimes club life can not be what she expected to and sometimes it’s more.
Things are looking well when she meets Shep and is introduced into the world of a motorcycle club. This motorcycle club is called Rage. There are so many twists and turns in this story, which is unexpected. Gem is a strong woman and nothing keeps her down. This is an example of a gritty motorcycle club book.

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Helm of Awe (Anchoress Series Book 3) by D.L. Armillei – Review by Ashley Johnson

Helm of Awe (Anchoress Series #3)Helm of Awe by D.L. Armillei
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I really wish I could give this more than 5 stars! This was my favorite book of the series so far. Paley still got on my nerves but not as bad as the first two books. Van is still growing and proving herself. The side characters are still amazing. I started this as soon as I finished the second one and didn’t stop till the wee hours of the morning. It was that good! It’s filled with life lessons and I think every teenager should read it. I’m going to sweet talk mine into reading it. This author is definitely on my favorites list.

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Road Rage (Outlaw Series Book 4) by Karina Kantas – Review by Lyndsey Fairley

Road Rage (OUTLAW, #4)Road Rage by Karina Kantas
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This book had me engaged from beginning to end. Gem is a strong female lead and its very much needed in an MC world.
I was hanging on for this ride to see what would happen next as it was full of action and I loved every minute of it. I cannot wait to read more!

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So Right (Love Grows Series Book 5) by Renee Regent – Review by Bobbi Wagner

So Right: A Fake Fiancee Reverse Age Gap Romance (Love Grows Series Book 5)So Right: A Fake Fiancee Reverse Age Gap Romance by Renee Regent
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is the fifth book in this series. It is just as great as the previous books which I highly suggest reading the previous books to help your enhancement of this author’s writing skills. This is an author that I have enjoyed reading from the first book I picked up by her. I never hesitate to pick up one of her books. I know that I am in for a great romance story. This is a well written story that takes romance to another level. The characters are relatable and give the story life. They are strong, supportive characters that made the story easy and entertaining to read. I enjoyed their chemistry as well as their growth throughout the story. Amara and Petro are both trying to prove that they deserve the promotion at work. How far are they willing to go for this promotion? What will fate have in store for these two? This is a great story with great plot growth. I highly recommend this book and this author.

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Review by @bjwagner

A Bride for Noah (Brides of Broken Arrow) by Cheryl Wright – Review by Shadel Ayerbe

A Bride for Noah (Brides of Broken Arrow #1)A Bride for Noah by Cheryl Wright
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This book has historical romance. It is wholesome. It is a very clean romance kind of book.

Noah Adams felt the vast tract of property given to him on his twenty-first birthday was legally his until his father died. Suddenly, he learns that the ‘gift’ comes with a condition. Noah must marry within four weeks to gain legal ownership of the property, or he will lose everything. He has limited options because there are no local ladies available. Mary Stanton is a poor woman who is barely living. Her father offers her to a lecherous guy whom she narrowly avoided in the past after determining he can no longer sustain his spinster daughter. When the opportunity to enter a proxy marriage is presented to Mary, she rushes at it. Is it possible for these two strangers to transform a convenient marriage into a love match? Or will Mary terminate the contract at the conclusion of the term?

I loved this story. I loved every page of it. Every chapter was exciting. This is my first book from this author and I can’t wait to read the rest of this series.

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Depending On You by Jessica Aiken-Hall – Review by Shelly Kittell

Depending On YouDepending On You by Jessica Aiken-Hall
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is book will hit every emotion from happy to sad to anger back to happy. It’s the roller coaster of emotions. Cait and Patti have been the best of friends since high school. Something happened the night of prom and they have never really dealt with it. Now Cait’s father is dying and Patti comes back with Cait to help her. Old secrets come out and feelings are hurt. Cait, Patti, and their friends are left to deal with those memories and the aftermath. Sensitive topics, well-written characters and plot that ties everything all together and runs so smooth make for one of the best books I’ve read in 2022 so far. Cait and Patti could be anybody. They are so relatable and the issues they dealt with are very real. I highly recommend this book. It would get more than a 5 star from me if I could.

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Road Rage (Outlaw Series Book 4) by Karina Kantas – Review by Barbara Bohls

Road Rage (OUTLAW, #4)Road Rage by Karina Kantas
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This book is an emotional roller coaster. You are going to need some tissues and a strong stomach to make it through. It is an amazing book, I highly recommend reading it if you don’t have any triggers. There is a lot of abrasive scenes played out through the whole book. That aside the story line of this book is amazing. It kept me turning the page and reading as fast as I could through the whole book. I couldn’t put it down, I had to know what happened next. There is huge character development for the leading lady in this story. She is a bada$$ with an amazing will to survive the crap life has dealt her. There are times you will want to smack her but seriously who makes the best decisions all the time. Having a book be able to pull that type of emotion out of the reader is a true testament as to how well it is written. I highly recommend this book as an escape from reality.

Reviewed by @bbohls

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Lingering Spirits (Soul Connection Book 4) by Nikki Lynn Barrett – Review by Bobbi Wagner

Lingering Spirits (Soul Connection, #4)Lingering Spirits by Nikki Lynn Barrett
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is an author that I have enjoyed reading from the first book I picked up. This is the fourth book in this series which I highly suggest reading the previous three books as well. They will help with your enhancement of this series as well as get to know the author’s writing style. One of the things I enjoy most about this author is her writing style. It is such that she pulls me into her stories from the beginning and her use of details make the stories entertaining. This book is no different. It is a well written paranormal story with a touch of romance to it. The characters are connectable and have great chemistry. I enjoyed how they support each other and the other characters in the story. They have great growth throughout which made the story easy to read. This is alot going on in this story but the author did a great job of keeping things engaging. This is a fast paced story that has a few twists and turns that kept me coming back for more. I really enjoyed this story and what the characters brought to the story. It is worth the pick up for sure. I highly recommend this book.

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Review by @bjwagner

Road Rage (Outlaw Series Book 4) by Karina Kantas – Review by Carlie Del Gallo

Road Rage (OUTLAW, #4)Road Rage by Karina Kantas
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is the first book that I have read by this author, and I was HOOKED! Gem came from a dark and checkered past, and while trying to keep a low profile, she finds herself in the same situation that she once was. Gem ends up meeting Shep and while she thinks he is good for her she soon finds out that he is not who he seems. This book had many twists and turns and had me on the edge of my seat in anticipation of what was to come next. The author did an amazing job telling their story and I cannot wait to read the other books in this series!!

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The Traveler (The Traveler, Book 1) by Deborah Dugan – Review by Kerry Carr

The Traveler: Book 2The Traveler: Book 2 by Deborah Dugan
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is book 2 in the Traveler series. I highly recommend reading the first book before this one so you get to appreciate the Travelers story. The author does an amazing job bringing this story to life with the descriptions of the world and the thoughts and feelings the Traveler experiences.
The Traveler is an ancient being who travels the universe. After each stasis period the Traveler becomes someone else and experiences life in a different way. When the Traveler awakens in this story he feels hope but that soon changes with the circumstances and experiences that the Traveler goes through. After feeling like a lifeless being for so long how will he cope in a living world. Not only that how will the Traveler cope with these overwhelming feelings of despair and helplessness.

This story is very deep and moving. You feel every emotion that the Traveler does which makes you feel so connected to the character.

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The Mesmerist by Claire Luana – Review by Jaymie Johnston

The MesmeristThe Mesmerist by Claire Luana
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Fantasy, romance, and mystery this story has it all. From seeing what people are feeling, reading their thoughts, to being able to control what someone feels Mesmers hold special abilities that make them powerful allies or dangerous enemies. As you are pulled into the story it’s hard to know who to root for, everyone starts to seem suspicious. Even when you think you finally figure out who the villain is the author surprises you once again. A easy and quick read, you won’t want to put it down either.

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Doctor in the Outback (Welcome to Bunya Junction, Book 3) by Nicole Flockton-Review by Elena Tobar

Doctor in the Outback (Welcome to Bunya Junction, #3)Doctor in the Outback by Nicole Flockton
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I was drawn into this beautiful story from the very beginning. Scott and Franceen have both had their share of hurt in the past and it’s made them afraid to ever get close to anyone again. Even though they have these walls built and try to keep their distance, they both feel drawn to each other. They take a chance and grow closer as they both realize the depth of their feelings for each other. They have so many demons to face and roadblocks that try to stand in the way of their happily ever after. This book tugs at all the heartstrings and is an absolutely beautiful romance that you won’t want to miss.

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Return of the Elf Lord (Kingdom of the Elf Lords Book 1) by Heidi Vanlandingham- Review by Lauren West

Return of the Elf LordReturn of the Elf Lord by Heidi Vanlandingham
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is my first time reading this author, but this book was very recommended. This story excited the senses and took my imagination into overdrive. This storyline took place in the most vivid and descriptive fantasy world, and every character was unique.

Fantasy, mythology, magic, and romance factor into the themes of this book. The MC Bernard and Alva have each chosen to test fate. Selfless and intelligent individuals who’s desperation and devastation tipped the scales. Bernard lost his entire family and in desperation altered time attempting to bring them back. Alva’s partner has initiated a sequence of events causing a worldly demise, and her failure to stop him and instead help him sets a moral divide on her end, as well as forces her to step in and save her realm.

Together they are on a quest to right the wrongs and save the 9 realms.

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Apocalypse (Guardians of the Garden Book 2) by Theresa Pocock – Review by Angela Hayes

Apocalypse (Guardians Book II)Apocalypse by Theresa Pocock
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

 

Apocalypse is the second book in the Guardians of the Garden series by Theresa Pocock. The story picks up where the first book left off, so if you haven’t read Book One yet I highly recommend that you do before starting on this instalment. This is another original YA fantasy, and in my opinion, even better than the first.
I am enjoying this series and am looking forward to seeing where we go from here.

Thank you, Theresa Pocock!

 

Reviewed by @angelahayes

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Depending On You by Jessica Aiken-Hall – Review by M Policicchio

Depending On YouDepending On You by Jessica Aiken-Hall
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Depending On You by Jessica Aiken-Hall

5 out of 5 stars

Cate and Patti were the best of friends since they were 7 years old. There wasn’t anything they wouldn’t do for each other. Until their senior year, when everything changed.

It is 10 years later, Cate is taking care of her dying father and her wayward sister. Patti is in a loveless marriage and doesn’t think her kids love her. Cate and Patti are each carrying the burdens of the past which has resurfaced with a stranger in town. Can Cate and Patti’s friendship survive the revelations the stranger brings? Will Cate’s love for her sister be enough to keep her safe? Will the secrets that should be buried with Cate’s father stay that way?

This book is a story of friendship, sisterhood and family. There is nothing that Cate and Patti won’t do for each other while they try to keep the other safe, even if it means living with the secrets of the past. The speed and emotions of this story are in sync. I know that if I had a friend like Cate or Patti, I would risk it all to keep them safe.

If you love fast-paced action, a lot of twists and a couple of turns, this author is for you. Don’t let this be the only book of her’s that you read!

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Depending On You by Jessica Aiken-Hall – Review by Angela Hayes

Depending On YouDepending On You by Jessica Aiken-Hall
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

 

4 Stars

 

Depending On You dissects the wounds of the past in this latest crime story by Jessica Aiken-Hall.
Cate Silver and Patti Thomas experienced a traumatic event on a long past night that changed the course of their lives. But new developments mean that they will need to stop running and face what happened. Will their bond of friendship survive another battering? What happened that fateful night that has haunted them ever since?
As always, Ms. Aiken-Hall has delivered a tightly woven and intriguing story full of drama, secrets, friendship, family, tension, emotion, unexpected developments, interesting characters, and murder.
Looking forward to more from Ms. Aiken-Hall.
Happy reading!

Thank you, Jessica Aiken-Hall!

 

Reviewed by @angelahayes

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Return of the Elf Lord (Kingdom of the Elf Lords Book 1) by Heidi Vanlandingham – Review by Candice Estes

Return of the Elf LordReturn of the Elf Lord by Heidi Vanlandingham
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Wanting to save his family from death, Bernard tries to change their fates, but instead he changes history and almost destroys the world in the process.

Similarly, Alva, a Huldra, tries to prevent her partner from starting the end of the world, after the countdown is started.

Alva and Bernard join forces to stop the world from ending, but the real question becomes what will it cost them.

This book was a good book, and the author and series show great promise. I can’t wait to see where it goes from here.

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Depending On You by Jessica Aiken-Hall – Review by Rebecca Hill

Depending On YouDepending On You by Jessica Aiken-Hall
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Ok, hear me out, or rather, give this book a chance. I thought this book started a little slow, or maybe I just had trouble getting into the story. But I know that I love this author, so I stuck with it. It was so good! Once again, I thought I knew the twists that were coming in the story of Patti and Cate. And once again, I didn’t see something coming!! Patti and Cate are best friends from childhood. They reminded me of Tully and Kate from the book, Firefly Lane. Patti and Cate both suffered for 20 years from a tragic incident. It was a sad story with a beautiful ending. Small warning about child abuse in the story. What a read!

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Bella: An Appalachian Love Story & Jagged Dawn: Logan’s Beginnings by Valerie Davisson – Review by Jenni Bishop

Bella-An Appalachian Love Story & Jagged Dawn-Logan's BeginningsBella-An Appalachian Love Story & Jagged Dawn-Logan’s Beginnings by Valerie Davisson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

What could be better than two stories in one book and both prequels to one of my favourite series the Logan McKenna Mystery series.
Bella: An Appalachian Love Story is a beautiful story about a woman named Norah who is an ancestor of Logan, her great grandmother. She lives in North America where Appalachian culture is known for its literature and music. Giovanni is an immigrant from Italy, who moves to the area. When the two meet it creates beautiful music for the two.
Jagged Dawn-Logan’s Beginnings is a very short story which tells of tragedy and Logan’s beginnings. Through this tragedy she learns to rediscover the beauty that comes from the greatest gift in her life and that she can survive.
Both tales tell the story of love and loss, hope and beauty, pain and suffering, strength, and survival.
Reviewed by @jennadb

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