The Boss of Centocelle (A Commissario Scala Mystery in Rome Book #6) by P.J. Mann – Review by Angela Hayes

The Boss of Centocelle: An Italian Murder Mystery (Book 6) (A Commissario Scala Mystery in Rome)The Boss of Centocelle: An Italian Murder Mystery (Book 6) by P. J. Mann
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

 

4.5 Stars

 

The Boss of Centocelle is the sixth book in the Commissario Scala Mystery in Rome series by P.J. Mann. Six books in and I am still really enjoying following Scala along on each of his investigations, and again, this one was quite a twisty read….
As expected from P.J. Mann, this is another intriguing and well-woven crime & investigation mystery, with murder, tension, danger, police procedures, action, drama, emotion, family dynamics/pressures, and a ruthless sinister villain to pit him against- and where, once again Scala is thrust into a race against time to solve the case, where his instincts and the added personal pressures, will put him, his instincts, and detective skills to the test.. I felt for Scala in this story as he had a lot on his plate to deal with- which made this instalment one of my favourites of the series, so far. But then again, P.J. Mann doesn’t disappoint, always delivering a very engaging story.
Even though this is the sixth book in the series, it could be read as a standalone if you wanted. But I do highly recommend reading the previous instalments as there is a lot of background information, with Scala’s character development, personality traits, quirks, and flaws- as well as some very engrossing mysteries to be found there.
Looking forward to diving into more Commissario Scala mysteries.
Happy reading…

Thank you, P.J. Mann!

 

Reviewed by @angelahayes

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

What Eyes Can't See: A spicy contemporary fiction novel of love, social justice, and belonging (Bold Journeys)What Eyes Can’t See: A spicy contemporary fiction novel of love, social justice, and belonging by Paulette Stout
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I have read a few books from this author and her stories always blow my mind. This is the third book from the very addictive series of bold journeys. You can read this as a standalone because it is the story of a different couple. You can’t help falling in love with these characters right from the start. I love that the book is written from both characters’ points of view. It makes me feel more connected to them. I could not put this book down until the very end. It only took me a few hours to devour this epic love story.

Barbara is a very successful African American lawyer and she loves her job. She is so excited with her life until her engagement falls apart. Barbara makes up her mind and heads to the island that she was supposed to get married on. She meets a very handsome lawyer named Sebastian. Barbara can’t help herself and she gets swept away by this handsome stranger. When Barbara decides to fight for the right thing will he be in her corner or will they become enemies?

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Under Jackson Bridge (Beyond the Bridge Book #1) by Susan Specht Oram – Review by Angela Hayes

Under Jackson Bridge: A thriller (Beyond the Bridge Book 1)Under Jackson Bridge: A thriller by Susan Specht Oram
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

 

3.5 Stars

 

Under Jackson Bridge is the first instalment in the Beyond the Bridge Series by Susan Specht Oram is a bit of a twisty psychological thriller full of dramatic developments, tension, and suspense.
Irena Fishbone’s relationship with her ex-husband takes an even more complicated turn while when on a celebratory cruise with friends, the two end up in the water, but only Irene makes it out. What happened to Jack? The question plagues Irene, and with no body, there is little chance of closure. With some perplexing and intriguing discoveries, Irene begins to unravel a tangled web of secrets and lies- and the story takes a suspenseful turn.
Looking forward to seeing what Book #2 brings!
Happy Reading…

Thank you, Susan Specht Oram!

 

Reviewed by @angelahayes

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War in Sorcery’s Shadow (Ruarnon Trilogy Book 3) by Elise Carlson – Review by Brandy Rymer

War in Sorcery's Shadow (Ruarnon Trilogy #3)War in Sorcery’s Shadow by Elise Carlson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The final book in the Ruarnon Trilogy series was a great read, the last book that did not disappoint. It was full of action, magic, and all-out intrigue. This is a great series to read if you like a good fantasy series, that will have you guessing what is coming next throughout the whole series. The characters are well-rounded and have been developed with expert writing by the author. I love that we follow the character’s storylines throughout the series, as you create a close connection with them as you read the story. I recommend this series to anyone looking for a young adult, fantasy book, keeping in mind that it does have some content that may be for more mature audiences. I could not put this book down once I got started and was so excited to read this final book, as I’ve been anxiously awaiting its release date.
@Brandy Rymer
05/2024

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Make Me Want to Love You (Love in Emerald Creek Series Book #2) by N.D. Jackson – Review by Angela Hayes

Make Me Want To Love You: Love in Emerald CreekMake Me Want To Love You: Love in Emerald Creek by N.D. Jackson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

 

4.5 Stars

 

Make Me Want to Love You: Love in Emerald Creek is the second book in the Love in Emerald Creek Series by N.D. Jackson. Well, it has been quite a few years since the release of Book #1, and when I last visited Emeral Creek, but the wait has been worth it.
This is a superb contemporary romance with some really great ingredients that made for an engrossing read- a single mother, a small-town setting, emotion, a dash drama & angst, a splash of sweet, an extra dollop of chemistry, overcoming challenges, endearing characters, and finding love unexpectedly- which made for a perfectly ‘baked’ and tasty morsel.
As expected from this talented author, the story was wonderful, and full of feeling. And I am already anticipating what Ms. Jackson has in store for us next.
Happy Reading…

Thank you, N.D. Jackson!

 

Reviewed by @angelahayes

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The Ghostly Diva (Divine Vintage Series) by Sandra L. Young – Review by Brandy Vaughn

The Ghostly Diva (Divine Vintage)The Ghostly Diva by Sandra L. Young
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is the 3rd book in the Divine Vintage trilogy, but I think it can be read as a standalone. This is a well written, fun, lighthearted romance mystery. There is a little bit of everything to keep the reader intrigued

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Master Oradea (Masters of the Consulate Book 10) by Sylvia Black – Review by Emily H

Master Oradea (Masters of the Consulate #10)Master Oradea by Sylvia Black
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Master Oradea is searching for a traitor and needs the help of the other Master Vampires to capture him. What he does not plan for is Natalia, a stunning beauty who vehemently wants nothing to do with him. Who can he trust and can he sway Natalia into giving him what he really wants, her.

This was entertaining. I thought the chemistry with the enemies to lover angle pulled you into the story right away. Pacing was wonderful and am anxious to read more in this series.

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The Rake (Daughters of Dishonour Series) by Ava Bond – Review by Charlisa Wahtomy-Alba

<a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/146825610-the-rake” style=”float: left; padding-right: 20px”><img border=”0″ alt=”The Rake (Daughters of Dishonour #1)” src=”https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1683207351l/146825610._SX98_.jpg” /></a><a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/146825610-the-rake”>The Rake</a> by <a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/18689207.Ava_Bond”>Ava Bond</a><br/>
My rating: <a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/6509229501″>5 of 5 stars</a><br /><br />
Historical romances are quickly becoming one of my favorite genres. This is the first book in the Daughters of Dishonour series and it was a good one. It started off with a bang when our female lead, Margot Keating, finds out that she is not the daughter of the vicar but a Duke! Unfortunately the Duke ends up being killed during a break in and his last words are urging Margot to catch the culprit. When chasing the culprit through the neighboring house she runs into Lord Beresford. He has quite the reputation due his unorthodox parties, his good looks, and most of all his unwillingness to be married. These two are thrown together and form an unlikely relationship on their hunt for a killer, missing diamonds, and a map. They also have intense feelings for each other but will they act on them or continue to be in denial?
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Sure as Hell (Life is Hell Series Book 4) by Naomi Valkyrie – Review by Charlisa Wahtomy-Alba

<a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/210327719-sure-as-hell” style=”float: left; padding-right: 20px”><img border=”0″ alt=”Sure As Hell (Life is Hell #4)” src=”https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1711318539l/210327719._SX98_.jpg” /></a><a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/210327719-sure-as-hell”>Sure As Hell</a> by <a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/19564586.Naomi_Valkyrie”>Naomi Valkyrie</a><br/>
My rating: <a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/6509198742″>4 of 5 stars</a><br /><br />
Jaru used to be a contract companion up until he had a bad experience. He has since started up his own company where he hopes not ou employ other companions, but to give them a safe work environment. However, he seems to be in over his head being buried in paperwork and interviews. It has given him far less time to spend with Lark which makes them both unhappy. Now companions are starting to go missing and Jaru has been warned that his are next. Will Jaru be able to keep everyone safe? This story was fun and engaging. I will be going back to read the three books before this one to get a better understanding of the characters.
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Just Ducky (Weird Shifters Series) by C.A. King – Review by Kristan Anderson

Just Ducky (Weird Shifters)Just Ducky by C.A. King
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Just Ducky by CA King is a part of the Weird Shifters series. I must admit I truly chose the book because I couldn’t stop laughing at the title and was curious if the shifters were… well ducks obviously! I have enjoyed other books by C.A. King so I was sure that even if it were odd, I’d likely not be disappointed. And while I don’t want to spoil any of the story, I will say I was definitely not disappointed. The story was an easy read with real charm and adventure. With a war between humans and supernatural becoming increasingly likely, the MCs find themselves in a very odd place. I’d definitely suggest giving this story a chance. Especially if you particularly like this author and paranormal. It was enjoyable to have a story that wasn’t just vampires and werewolves.

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Marshmallow Rabbit by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Hannah Porter

Marshmallow RabbitMarshmallow Rabbit by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

What a sweet treat (pun intended lol) it is to read another one of Lois Wickstrom’s stories. This book is great if you have young littles ones. With bright vibrant colors, a cool plot and lets not forget candy lol. It will definitely grab their attention, just like it did mine.Also omg that Annabelle is one smart cookie 😆 she is the master indeed I can’t wait to see more of the talented authors work 🥰 ps maybe don’t read before bed lol be warned kids may want candy after reading or maybe it’s just mine 🤣

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The Strategist (WaterFyre Rising Book 5) by Nadia Han – Review by Crystal Jimmo

The Strategist (WaterFyre Rising, #5)The Strategist by Nadia Han
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

First things first. The WaterFyre Rising series is absolutely amazing! I’ve read the first four and have been hooked since! I’ve always wanted to know more about Arrow and what happened to him since we get glimpses of him in the previous books. Needless to say I squealed for joy when I saw that he finally got his own book. Reading more about way he is the way he is just absolutely broke me. Getting to see him healing was a balm to my soul. Now, seeing him meet Vivian was an experience to read about. She is an absolute firecracker and has no problem throwing verbal punches when she needs to. I loved the back and forth between the two, and watching Vivian interact with the rest of the group was heartwarming. Now the most important question! The gamer in me needs to know, when do I get to play this amazing game they’ve been building?! It sounds so much fun!

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Sure as Hell (Life is Hell Series Book 4) by Naomi Valkyrie – Review by Ayla Phipps

Sure As Hell (Life is Hell #4)Sure As Hell by Naomi Valkyrie
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Such sweet moments sprinkled in. This is book four in the Life is Hell series and like the others it can technically be read as a standalone but once again it picks up after the events of the previous book. Dual perspectives of Jaru and Lark.
Jaru is determined to give contract companions a safe place to work. Following the attack in the previous book, Hell in a Handbasket, Jaru starts his own agency, Devil’s Delights. Only shortly after finally starting up warnings begin to appear, notes and phone calls. Contract companions are disappearing, and his boys are next. Lark is the last of his grove and surprised to still be alive and now finding his newfound loneliness too much as his best friend is no longer around as much. Thanks to his secret portal system he is faced with an emergency that shows Jaru and Soren one of his abilities that he has kept secret. Having experienced holding hands and finally his first kiss Lark is willing to do what is needed, even helping Soren cook dinner. Lark and Jaru learn together as Soren helps. But everything is different and the chaos never waivers. One attack was stopped thanks to Soren’s guards, but the mystery remains.
Who is attacking contract companions? How long can they keep the warnings secret from Teivel? Does Jaru finally discover what love really is? This world has such a hold on me with each book. While I loved the previous books and was glad to finally get into Teivel’s head each new pair is so unknown, their history, wants, and feelings that each one pulls you in as you watch them grow with each other as the pages fly by. So many sweet moments happened in this book that just makes you say aww, and route for Lark to learn how to be a good boy and for them all to find happiness. Now book five, A Cold Day in Hell, to finally learn what happened to Hadassah and Jezebel after the chaos in book one with Delilah and Malakhi. Can’t believe it’s the end already love Juniper Lake and seeing the gang grow together. See you there.

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War in Sorcery’s Shadow (Ruarnon Trilogy Book 3) by Elise Carlson – Review by Shannen Kern

War in Sorcery's Shadow (Ruarnon Trilogy #3)War in Sorcery’s Shadow by Elise Carlson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is such a bittersweet end for me because I have truly enjoyed every bit of this trilogy. I have gotten to enjoy one book per year and really soak it in. The amount of detail in each book is absolutely extraordinary and I feel like not a lot of authors pull it off well. Elise Carlson is definitely the exception to the rule. They have the ability to expertly craft a story with the most well-developed characters and plotline that I’ve come across yet. The trilogy will take you a bit to work through, but never once did it feel too heavy or pointlessly overloaded. I did find myself taking breaks every so often to really let the experience sink in before I continued onward. I adore the inclusivity throughout the trilogy with non-binary characters as well. It made my heart soar! I would not attempt to read this book without the first two because it is detrimental to the storyline and experience altogether. These are aimed for a younger crowd than I, but it still knocked me off my feet. I highly recommend this entire trilogy!

Reviewed by @shannlynn

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Kris & The Cowboys (The Adventures of Kris) by Art Blegen – Review by Alicia Furlan

Kris & The Cowboys: The Adventures of KrisKris & The Cowboys: The Adventures of Kris by Art Blegen
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

What another fun read from Art Blegen. Kris and her dad travel to his Uncle Buddy’s farm. Disappointed that she isn’t able to join him on the upcoming cattle drive, Kris imagines her own adventure with Buddy, her horse Apples, and the little cow Patches. From an encounter with Indians to a dangerous flood this book, like previous ones with Kris, are full of adventure.

Reviewed by @aliciaknoke

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A Song of Salt and Secrets (Mythic Academy Collection) by Amanda Marin – Review by Julie Johnson

A Song of Salt and Secrets (Mythic Academy Collection)A Song of Salt and Secrets by Amanda Marin
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is the second book in a series but can be read as a standalone easily. This little novella will not disappoint!

Corisande (what a beautiful name!) is a siren who is trying to learn how to control her song at the Magwich Academy. For someone who LOVES to sing, this is not an easy feat for her. One day, things get out of control and she causes a neighboring school’s student to crash his boat. Rage and fury are unleashed and Corisande sinks further into guilt and a low self-worth.

A great read that you won’t put down until you finish!

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Troy: A Crown of Stones Origin Story by C. L. Schneider – Review by Jess Engel

Troy (The Crown of Stones)Troy by C.L. Schneider
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Wow! What an amazing story and writing. Though this is a prequel to an existing series, it is the first I’ve read in the series and first by the author and I was blown away. I picked this up on a whim as it isn’t the genre I typically go for, but I now plan to read the rest of the series.

The writing style is engaging and the author does a wonderful job with both setting and character development. The author provides details, but doesn’t distract from the story so it all flows very well. There is plenty of action mixed with the story and character development that it keeps the reader turning the page.

I very much enjoyed Troy, the titular character. Of course, the author focuses on providing backstory, telling us more about his people and where he came from, as well as follows his development through the journey of the book. I also really enjoyed meeting the other characters, especially those who are on mission with him.

The introduction of those characters as well as the context for the different lands and understanding of the war they are fighting really made for a well-rounded story. I highly recommend this one!

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The School of Nine (Mythic Academy Collection) by Amanda Marin – Review by Julie Johnson

The School of Nine (The Mythic Academy Collection, #1)The School of Nine by Amanda Marin
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

A great little novella featuring muses, something that isn’t written about much in the paranormal world, at least from what I’ve found.

Bianca is attending the Brightling Academy for Muses to learn how to fine-tune her powers. One day she returns to find a boy at the school. Because Bianca is struggling in her “Poise and Charm” class, her instructor assigns her the duty of showing Sebastian around the school. Mystery, drama, action, and a clean romance makes this book a very enjoyable read.

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Come Home to Death by Marilyn Levinson – Review by Karole Petty

Come Home to DeathCome Home to Death by Marilyn Levinson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This book has everything a good mystery needs, family secrets, money issues and attempts on someone’s life. I thought the characters were developed enough for the story line. There were twist to the story that I didn’t seem coming and played well to the overall plot. I will recommend this book to others as it was a very enjoyable read.

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The School of Nine (Mythic Academy Collection) by Amanda Marin – Review by Shannen Kern

The School of Nine (The Mythic Academy Collection, #1)The School of Nine by Amanda Marin
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I thought I would have a lesser experience due to my mistake of reading this book second, but I actually thought it was incredible that way! This author has quickly made her way to the top of my watch list because the way she writes is captivating. It only took a few pages for me to lose track of time and dive into the magical world right alongside our Muse, Bianca. I found the length of the story to be sublime as the author did an amazing job crafting a marvelous storyline as well as developing the characters to perfection. Just like A Song of Salt and Secrets, this includes a unique take on folklore that I hadn’t experienced anywhere else. I’ve already started searching out other books by this author because I cannot sing her praises enough. This was an incredible YA/Paranormal read, and I highly recommend picking it up and diving straight in!

Reviewed by @shannlynn

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The Rake (Daughters of Dishonour Series) by Ava Bond – Review by Alicia Furlan

The Rake (Daughters of Dishonour #1)The Rake by Ava Bond
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I enjoyed this historical romance from author Ava Bond. The Rake is the first book in the Daughters of Dishonor duology. Miss Margot Keating travels with her sister to London at the request of the Duke of Ashmore. Upon arriving the Duke reveals a secret to Margot. Before Margot has a chance to learn more the Duke is murdered. Margot asks the Duke’s neighbour, the Earl of Langley, to help her solve the Duke’s murder. I loved the banter between Margot and Langley. Their growing feelings for one another was captured perfectly. The writing is so well done that I could visualize the lavish parties and scenes of historical London and the beau monde. I can’t wait to read the second book in this series!

 

Reviewed by @aliciaknoke

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War in Sorcery’s Shadow (Ruarnon Trilogy Book 3) by Elise Carlson – Review by Jennifer Reimer

War in Sorcery's Shadow (Ruarnon Trilogy #3)War in Sorcery’s Shadow by Elise Carlson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Ruarnon is in a race against time trying to battle the evil that wants to destroy them. But can Ruarnon and Linh save everyone, the stacks are high in this conclusion to this series, and they are facing some major challenges that will challenge them like never before.
It is an all-inclusive YA fantasy filled of sorcery, suspense, magic, adventure, action, drama, secrets, lies, guardians, myths and prophecies. I recommend reading the first two books in this series as they lead up to this book which picks up where the second one left off. This book had me from the beginning and had me hooked, it’s a page turner for sure.

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The Rake (Daughters of Dishonour Series) by Ava Bond – Review by Shannen Kern

The Rake (Daughters of Dishonour #1)The Rake by Ava Bond
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This was my first book by this author, and I fell in love with their writing style! I’m so excited that this is the first installment in the series because I am on pins and needles to see what is in store for us next. This is a fast-paced historical romance that grabs you from the very first chapter. It was a bit of an emotional rollercoaster but well worth it! The plot is intense, there is drama abound, and a few steamy encounters to fall in love with. I loved that the main characters are almost polar opposites which makes their attraction even more intriguing. I found myself giggling at a few different situations which is always fun when reading in public. The second book cannot come fast enough, and I feel the second half of this year may just inch by until release day!

Reviewed by @shannlynn

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The School of Nine (Mythic Academy Collection) by Amanda Marin – Review by Jennifer Reimer

The School of Nine (The Mythic Academy Collection, #1)The School of Nine by Amanda Marin
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This YA fantasy book was amazing and very incredible to read. This was filled with so many twists and turns I didn’t know if it was going to twist or turn, which is what kept me reading till the end. It had a whole lot of drama, love, danger, uncertainty, adventure and so much more. When I boy comes to an almost all girls school it really causes a stir. Bianca is then assigned to help him get settled in, and well one thing turns to another, and they become good friends. But then a big issue starts to happen so will Sebastian come to help Biance and save the well of imagination. But will he really do it or is there something else going on. The character in this book is so well-written, that I also felt like I was watching it. The story was well paced and kept in a straight line but also grabbed me and kept me reading. This was a very incredible read, highly recommend.

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A Song of Salt and Secrets (Mythic Academy Collection) by Amanda Marin – Review by Jennifer Reimer

A Song of Salt and Secrets (Mythic Academy Collection)A Song of Salt and Secrets by Amanda Marin
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This book was an incredible read, I really liked the element to this book on the way that a siren is written. Usually, its about them sending sailors to ship wrack but this one took a different turn. Instead as Corisande sings and almost gets a young man shipwrecked. But instead, they rescue him. They both realize that they like each other but it seems to anger some higher up people. This was a very short and captivating read. The supernatural element and the way it was weaved together made this a very ae turning read. This book can also be read alone. Highly recommend.

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Sure as Hell (Life is Hell Series Book 4) by Naomi Valkyrie – Review by Shannen Kern

Sure As Hell (Life is Hell #4)Sure As Hell by Naomi Valkyrie
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I absolutely pounced on this book as soon as I saw it! This author is one of my favorites, and I know better than to pass up any of her work. This series has been phenomenal to say the least. I recommend reading the series in order to gain full experience and interaction between characters. I’m not sure how the author is able to fit such an incredible storyline with well-developed characters into a shorter book, but she has got the magic touch! The flow of the story is natural, and the chemistry jumps off the pages. We get to catch up with Jaru, Lark, and Soren who all have such a wonderful connection with each other. I won’t give anything away, but I will highly recommend picking this book up and getting lost in it for your afternoon!

Reviewed by @shannlynn

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Master Oradea (Masters of the Consulate Book 10) by Sylvia Black – Review by Betsy Melano

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

I have read several of the books in this series. I have enjoyed reading them and learning about the couples that come together to support each other even if they are witches and vampires working together. In the 10th installment we learn more about Master Oradea and the vampires interact more with the syndicate members. The connection between Master Oradea and Natalia Benzini seems to come together quickly even though the oldest Benzini brother threatens Oradea to keep Natalia safe. The vampires are working to uncover where Lucas may be hiding with the shifters. A great continuation of the struggle and I can’t wait to read the next installment.

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A Song of Salt and Secrets (Mythic Academy Collection) by Amanda Marin – Review by Shannen Kern

A Song of Salt and Secrets (Mythic Academy Collection)A Song of Salt and Secrets by Amanda Marin
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This was the first book I’d picked up by this author, so I wasn’t sure what I was getting myself into. The cover definitely caught my eye instantly, and once I read the summary, I knew I had to pick it up. I’m a big fan of the YA and Paranormal genre which made this book a perfect fit for me. I felt like this was a unique take on Siren folklore and our main character, Corisande, going to Magwitch Academy in order to learn how to control her powers. Noah, a sailor, ends up on the other end of Corisande’s powers, but they end up bonding. I love that this is only part of the series because the author has me hooked with just this installment. This book can also be read as a standalone so no worries if you read this one first like I did. I can’t wait to pick up the other one and see what adventures await! If you love paranormal books, this one is for you.

Reviewed by @shannlynn

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A Song of Salt and Secrets (Mythic Academy Collection) by Amanda Marin – Review by Francis O’Sullivan

A Song of Salt and Secrets (Mythic Academy Collection)A Song of Salt and Secrets by Amanda Marin

A Song of Salt and Secrets is a standalone novella in the Mythic Academy Collection. I have previously enjoyed the Crimson Sash series by the same author. I love fantasy stories with music in them so expected to enjoy this book and it didn’t disappoint! It tells the story of a young Siren, Corisande, who is learning to control her powers and find a way to balance her need to sing and desire to keep people safe.

This is an enjoyable story that packs plenty of loveable characters (and some less so!) as well as intrigue and mythological background into a short read. It’s a page-turner with lots of details that flesh out the world that Corisande and her friends inhabit.

I love how the musical elements of this story are written, with the Siren’s desperate need to sing and the practical steps they take to control and fulfill this need, as well as the descriptions of how it feels when they do sing. This is fantastic!

A Song of Salt and Secrets gets five stars from me! I’d recommend it to fans of teen/YA fantasy who are interested in stories about music.

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The Boss of Centocelle (A Commissario Scala Mystery in Rome) by P.J. Mann – Review by Jennifer Crain

The Boss of Centocelle: An Italian Murder Mystery (Book 6) (A Commissario Scala Mystery in Rome)The Boss of Centocelle: An Italian Murder Mystery (Book 6) by P. J. Mann
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I had the pleasure of reading “The Boss of Centocelle: An Italian Murder Mystery” by P.J. Mann, and I must say that it’s a thrilling and engaging ride from start to finish.

Detective Maurizio Scala is a stubborn and intuitive investigator who finds himself in the midst of a complex murder case. As he navigates the twists and turns, he must also balance his personal life, which is put to the test by the demands of his job.

One of the strengths of this book is its well-developed characters. Scala is a gritty and relatable hero who is easy to root for. His personal struggles and moments of tension and heartache make him a more nuanced and human character. The supporting cast is also well-written, with distinct personalities and motivations that add depth to the story.

The plot is expertly crafted, with plenty of surprises and red herrings to keep you guessing. The author’s use of language is descriptive and evocative, painting a vivid picture of the settings and characters.

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