Distraction (Distraction, #1) by Angela McPherson – Review by Jana Teppih

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Distraction (Distraction, #1)Distraction by Angela McPherson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Distraction is the first book in Angela McPherson’s Distraction trilogy and I absolutely loved it, all 315 pages of it! I read it in one day and once I was done, I dived into the second book and … guess what, once I was done with the second book, I grabbed the third book … it was a very very long day but it is ok, I really needed it!
The trilogy is a story of Elle and Tristan who have been friends since they were kids. The story is full of angst and emotion and romance and … What do you get when you get childhood friends who have been in love with each other since they were kids, who go to college and hang out at a fraternity and yeah, when Tristan is a football start with a bright future … You can imagine …. At times it got so crazy that I felt like hitting both of them, what the hell, take a chance and go for it! And then I remembered how insecure I was myself when I was young and how you really thought that maybe it is better to at least have the friendship than have nothing …
The story was very well written, it was both from Elle’s point of view and Tristan’s point of view so you were following both of them on their painful journey. It is a story about two people who know each other so well and who are best friends and who understand each other and share everything (or almost everything) with each other and … it is a real life fairy tale and it makes you hope and you root for them and wish for the best and grab the second book!
Do not hesitate! Get the book and spend a weekend with Elle and Tristan and their best friends! And I mean, take a weekend as I can bet my head that once you finish the first book, you want to continue to the second and then to the third and you need time so start Friday night!

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Addiction (Distraction #2) by Angela McPherson – Review by Jana Teppih

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Addiction (Distraction #2)Addiction by Angela McPherson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Addiction is the second book in Angela Mcpherson’s Distraction trilogy and she absolutely blew my mind with the second book! I took no breather between the books and it all felt like one long dream (at times a nightmare that you cannot wake up from). Do not read this book as a standalone! You will miss out on so much!
Thank you so much Angela for tackling this horrific and heartbreaking topic, I forgive you for taking it to the direction you did as that is what the real life is about! I was crying so hard; I simply could not stop. I have felt what Elle’s sister Heather felt … It broke my heart but I understand …
The more I read, the more I fell in love with Tristan, he was amazing and I know, we all wish for a boyfriend like him (even if we do not acknowledge it out loud). Also, this book added so many more layers to Elle and got us deeper into some of her behavior and reasoning.
It is crazy what twists the writer threw us into, there were so many secrets and as we all know, secrets have a bad habit of surfacing and biting us in our butt … Angela’s storytelling is brilliant and I knew that I had to go straight to book three when I finished book two as I knew that she would bring the story together, she would not leave us with so much pain, there has to be more!

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Deliverance by Kristy Centeno – Review by Jenni Bishop

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DeliveranceDeliverance by Kristy Centeno
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

After being born inside the Radcliffe Institute, he has spent 25 years being beaten, abused, tormented, held hostage and made to do the bidding of an evil man but this is the only life he knew. That man, is a man who hides behind his Institute and what goes on there. He was told that humans were not good people and could not be trusted. He was told he was a monster.

He has one mission and that is to break free and find help for those who suffer the same life. Now free he has to enlist the help and gain the trust of others so that he can achieve his one objective. Running for his life he encounters a young woman just a he had been told and hopes that she may be the one human he can trust. What he encounters is more than he ever thought was possible.

The people at the Institute will stop at nothing and do everything and anything just to get him back, he is after all the most valuable prisoner in the history of the Institute.

Will he be able to find his way to where he needs to be? Will he find the help he needs to complete his one mission or will he find something more that could damage his goal, his mission? Will he ever find out what exactly he is or will he always be a monster? Will he find the freedom he longs to have and will he ever be able to live a normal life?

This story will have you captivated from the very beginning until the very end. You will not want to put it down. It has non-stop action and everything supernatural. You will find yourself believing in the characters on their journey for their fight for freedom, a fight for life and wanting them to have it all.

Reviewed by @jennadb

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Dogged by Love by Holly Tierney-Bedord – Review by Jana Teppih

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Dogged by LoveDogged by Love by Holly Tierney-Bedord
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Dogged by Love is another fun novella by Holly Tierney-Bedord! It is an absolute blast to read a story written from a point of view of a … dog! I have read couple of more Ms Tierney-Bedord novellas and I have to say that this one was as captivated read as the others!
I admire the writer’s imagination – she writes the whole story from Rufus’ point of view who is the canine companion in this novella. It was so comical at points that I could not stop giggling – I could so easily just picture Rufus’ mischiefs that he gets into to keep his position as the only love of his daddy Edward! But of course it is all in vain, we all know that humans have this need to have other humans in their lives so it is inevitable that things go awry for Rufus.
I suggest you take an evening and sit down with Rufus and join him in his shenanigans while Edward tries to find his way in the dating world! You will spend a fun night and I promise you, you will not be disappointed, Ms Tierney-Bedord knows how to write!

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When Love Breaks by Kate Squires – Review by Jana Teppih

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When Love BreaksWhen Love Breaks by Kate Squires
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

When Love Breaks by Kate Squires was my first encounter with this writer. The blurb was very intriguing so I decided that I want to read it and find out what it really is about, I was not disappointed!
It is an incredibly beautiful love story of Logan and Elora that took its sweet time to come to happen. I loved how the author wrote from both main characters’ point of view – it would have been so easy to dislike Logan when learning about him just from Elora’s point of view. Reading his words, one could so easily relate to his frustration and it all adds an additional layer to the story.
Kate Squires writes beautifully about love and loss, trust and loyalty, ethics mixed with feelings … You feel all the emotions down to your bones – when you cry then you truly cry (not some cute sniffles but real bowling your eyes out), when you laugh at the characters’ quirky back and forth then you truly laugh (not some polite chuckle but out loud so you have to catch yourself if you are sneak reading at work)!
The writer makes us to question ourselves, the world is not black and white, there is a lot of gray and you need to take a stand to “can you give up your dreams for someone else?”, “can you give up your dreams for … love”? What will it be when it comes to it … Take couple of evenings and find out! You will not regret the hours you’ll be spending with Elora and Logan!
I will be on a lookout for Kate Squires next book as she is someone to note down on my new authors’ list!

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Possession: Blue Line Book Two by Brandy Ayers – Review by Jana Teppih

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Possession: Blue Line Book TwoPossession: Blue Line Book Two by Brandy Ayers
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Possession is the second book in Brandy Ayers Blue Line series. I had not read the first book when I started reading this one. (Just to say, after I finished this one, I had to go and get the first book and now I cannot wait for the third one!) I know that the writer says you can read the book as a standalone but after having read the first book afterwards, I feel I would have benefitted from having have read the first book first.
The two main characters could not be as opposite as they come – Lexis a single mother of a deaf son working three jobs and Bryan is a playboy cop who loves all women! It is a fast paced story with well-developed characters. You get what you see – all the issues get spelled out up front and then you jump on for a ride! It is not to say that the relationship happens overnight, it is just that the writer lets you know of the passing of time without making you wait for it actually to drag …
In the background there is the story of drugs and crime that does not get concluded and will carry over to the third book, at the same time it is well woven into the current story (and the first book as well).
It is a quick steamy action filled read, grab a glass a wine and couple of hours and let Bryan and Lexis to take you away!

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Just Live by Shaan Ranae – Review by Jenni Bishop

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Just LiveJust Live by Shaan Ranae
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Kathryn James has always wanted the fairytale love and happiness that her Granny and Papaw had. But with the life she has she knew that fantasy doesn’t exist, love does not exist. The life Kathryn has is one of pain and abuse, from the one who should love her. Kathryn finally finds the courage, with the help of her best friend Sylvie, to start a new life a life without fear and pain. As she begins her journey she meets different people along the way but one will change her life and her fairytale.

Jasper Carter is a man in search of his dreams. His dream of being a Jazz musician and is on his way to Vegas to fulfill that dream. Along his journey he finds something that will change his life forever and confront a painful part of his past. Something he wants to leave just there, in the past.

Will Kathryn be able to learn to survive and be able to Just Live? Will she be able to overcome her fears? Will she be to find the fantasy and the true love she has always dreamed about? Will she be able to find a family and home to call her own?

Will Jasper find the dream of becoming a Jazz musician and someone to share it with or will it be all taken away from him?

This is an extremely emotional, painful and abusive yet beautiful story of rediscovery and learning to love again not only themselves but others to. The character Kathryn brought out my emotional side. I can guarantee you will want to read this in one sitting.

Reviewed by @jennadb

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Dogged by Holly Tierney-Bedord – Review by Colleen Noyes

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Dogged by Holly Tierney-Bedord was a quick and light-hearted read. As a dog owner, I often wonder what my dog may be thinking and this story gives the reader a little insight into that. Through the voice of Rufus, the dog it is not your typical love story about a man and a woman, but more the love story of a broken man Edward, his previously abandoned unwanted dog Rufus, and a woman Mikayla who can help change all of that. This was a story about finding true love, however it also showcases how humans and animals can come from different walks of life, troubles, past hurts, and create a loving family. It was sensitive, loving, and outright funny! I found myself reading with a lot of awe, oooh, and laughing moments. This is a clean and fun book that I think any reader would love whether a teenager or an adult. I felt that the author did a wonderful job of bringing you in and through the whole book I could feel as if I was the dog lol.

The Miraculous Power of Butter Cookies by Holly Tierney-Bedord – Review by Jana Teppih

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The Miraculous Power of Butter CookiesThe Miraculous Power of Butter Cookies by Holly Tierney-Bedord
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The Miraculous Power of Butter Cookies is a novella by Holly Tierney-Bedford. I have read quite a few of her novellas before so I was ready to have fun! Her novellas are short and sweet delivering a mix of humor and deep human emotion.
It is a story of three Buefred sisters that have never been close but their family was always kept together by their mother who was a wizard when it came to making cookies! This short story pulls you in from page one onward and you are on a rollercoaster ride through all 42 pages!
First you might be sort of on the fence about will these sisters really manage to pull it together – it feels like they all are pulling in different directions BUT then …well, you need to read it yourself to find out if they manage to pull it together, remember their mother’s cookie recipes, win the prize ….
I have to admit that so far this is my favorite Holly’s story, it was heartwarming offering hope when playing out oh so often happening ‘sibling drifting apart’ scenario!
Have fun! Grab a cookie and glass of milk and enjoy it!

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Alexa Loved by T.R. Cupak – Review by Jenni Bishop

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Alexa Loved (Alexa, #2)Alexa Loved by T.R. Cupak
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Having lost her devoted parents Alexa is trying to put her life back together with the love of her best friends twins, Jessa and Becca and Devin. It is now graduation day and Alexa is thrown when someone from her past shows up. ​Ethan Gage is back and wants Alexa back in his life. Alexa loves Devin but she can’t ignore her feelings for Ethan.

After Ethan’s finally tells Alexa about his past family history and Alexa can not believe the hell he has had to endure at the hands of his crazy, neurotic step-mother.

Sebastian, Alexa’s father’s friend has been keeping an eye on Alexa. When trouble comes to town Sebastian along with his friend Jeremy, tries to keep her by his side and safe. Just when you think the trouble is under control Alexa is once again put in danger. A danger that not only threatens her life but also that of all she holds dear.

Alexa once again finds herself trying to put her life back together after the biggest tragedy of her life. But from tragedy comes one of the greatest joys of life and her new family are there with her every step of the way. It has been a slow long hard slog but just as she has finally comes to terms with her new life she is yet again faced with one from her past.

Who will Alexa choose? Will Alexa find room in her heart to let someone else in or will she walk away forever? Will Alexa finally be free of all the hardships and heartaches she has endured for one so young? Will Sebastian be able to keep Alexa and her family safe from the past?

OMG this story is heartbreaking and yet beautiful and you will definitely need tissues to see you through to the end. You can’t help but fall in love with all the characters and feel as though you know each and every one of them. T.R is definitely a great writer.

Reviewed by @jennadb

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Her Dark Past by Alexandrea Weis – Review by Jenni Bishop

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Her Dark Past (Corde Noire #4)Her Dark Past by Alexandrea Weis
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Brynn once again finds herself back in New Orleans after the death of her ex husband Nathan Cole. A place that holds many many dark secrets, secrets she has tried so hard to leave behind. Brynn finds herself at his funeral and having to deal with the ruthless men who are members of the Corde Noire a secret society that holds many many terrible and disturbing secrets. Nathan Cole was murdered and the men of the Corde Noire society want his murderer revealed.

Brynn is now a writer and is trying to juggle writing her latest book and dealing with Nathan’s estate but being back in New Orleans has bought back the many bad memories and ghosts. Brynn has always had a gift, one she never shares one her ex husband exploited. Brynn is staying at the Shallows Nathan’s home but the things she sees she can never unsee and it leaves her shaken. Did Nathan Cole make a deal with the devil?

Declan Corinth has a past he is ashamed of but a past that has helped him land on his feet. Ren the leader of the Corde Noire has made a deal with Declan. Declan needs to learn Brynn’s secret and gain her trust but to do so he has to pretend he is something he is not, something that makes him sick to his stomach. If he doesn’t get the information the Corde Noire wants will Brynn’s life be in danger? Will Brynn let him into her life?

Will Brynn be pushed too far and be destroyed in the process? Will Brynn be able to find the answers needed by the Coire Noire before time runs out? Will Brynn be able to finally let go of the past and be able to live a life that she has always wanted but only been able to write about? Is there more behind the Corde Noire and it’s Ren the true leader or just a puppet?

I enjoyed this book, there are so many twists and turns and the intrigue and supernatural elements certainly keep you drawn to the story.

Reviewed by @jennadb

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A Quarter to Twelve (Time #1) by Josephine Traynor – Review by Jana Teppih

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A Quarter to Twelve (Time #1)A Quarter to Twelve by Josephine Traynor
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

A Quarter to Twelve by Josephine Traynor is my first encounter with the writer and I really enjoyed it! It is the first book of the series and as we meet also the characters who are the leads in the next book, I cannot wait for the second book.
I assume every one of us has at some point in time thought about joining an online dating service AND most likely actually followed through with it … I luckily did not have the ‘fun’ that Ava experienced with her trial (no unsavory pictures) or maybe it is the Australian thing . I am sure though that all of us have a friend or a friend of a friend with a horror story about online dating so we can for sure relate to what Ava went through.
What I loved about Ava and Patrick, our two leads, that they are completely ‘normal’ – no six packs or size 0 blondes having everything going for them. No, they are like you and me, with their imperfections and baggage and triggers and doubts and at the same time, both of them still hope for someone who puts them first, stands next to them and supports them through thick and thin!
I had such a fun reading this book. I was rooting for both Ava and Patrick! I was screaming at Ava’s mother in my head and I was frustrated with all the twists and challenges they had when trying to meet. I laughed and I cried and above all, I hoped for them to be there for each other and stick it out and prove that there is someone out there for each of us and we simply need to take a chance!
As I said, I will be reading the second book – Chris and Charlotte’s book as well!

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Slaving Over Christmas by Allyson R. Abbott – Review by Colleen Noyes

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Slaving Over ChristmasSlaving Over Christmas by Allyson R. Abbott
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

I thought this was a wonderful short novella! I loved the characters and it was so true to form about how sometimes things in life happen that you have to work through. I think that the author did a great job with the storyline but would have liked some of the scenes to be a little longer. At times I felt they were hurried and cut off what could have had just a little more feeling to it, if that makes sense. Over all this was an enjoyable read and I can’t wait to read more from this author.

Review by @colleennoyes

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Alexa Crushed by T.R. Cupak – Review by Jenni Bishop

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Alexa Crushed (Alexa, #1)Alexa Crushed by T.R. Cupak
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Alexa Morgan and Devin have been best friends and have lived in each others pockets all their lives. Now the day before her 12 birthday, Alexa’s parents have decided to move and Alexa and Devin are devastated but vow to keep in touch. Alexa after seeing the new house and the hot older boy next door decides things aren’t too bad.

Alexa loves her life, she has wonderful parents, who are devoted to her and she has the best of friends. Alexa is turning 16 and has the day planned to spend with her best friends. Once Devin and Alexa are alone Devin shocks Alexa with a secret he has been hiding. Alexa is devastated when she learns his secret and he walks out of her life. Ethan, Lexi’s bad boy next door neighbor and the boy she has been crushing on since she moved finds her and comforts her.

Alexa is now 18 and has been given the worst most tragic news of her life. Alexa and Ethan become close as she finds herself relying on him after the tragic loss. When Devin shows up after two years Alexa finds herself in the middle of her best friend and the bad boy next door, both of whom want to help her through her loss.

Alexa is finally getting her life on track with the help of her friends and is about to graduate but something from her past is about to come back and knock her on her arse.

Will Alexa be able to deal with the shock or will this cause more trouble than she can deal with? Will it cause her to loose the best thing she has built and possibly her heart?

This book is about a young girl learning to live through tragedy but with the love and support from friends she is making a life for herself. It is a bit of a roller coaster ride as you walk along side Alexa but it is a good story.

Reviewed by @jennadb

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Inevitable (Fated #2) by A.S. Roberts – Review by Jana Teppih

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Inevitable (Fated #2)Inevitable by A.S. Roberts
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is the second book in A.S. Roberts Fated series. I guess you could read it as a stand-alone as the prologue gives you some background into Bella and Nate’s story so you don’t feel lost but just to say, for you to really get the full experience and the nuances, you really should read the first book before starting on this one!
Ms Roberts did not disappoint me, I have to admit that originally I had planned to read the book over the weekend but I could not wait once I had finished the first book so I just dived into it and only came up for air when I had to go to bed so I could go to work the next day! It was an amazingly well written story of family loyalty, unconditional love, abuse, control, the folly of youth with harsh consequences, peppered with steamy moments and tattoos and seedy motels and … I am sure you get my drift!
It was an emotional ride and I cried and I laughed and I swore and cheered and cringed in horror! It felt very real! The writer touches upon many sensitive but oh so important issues that many of us encounter in our daily lives, thank you for giving us all hope and the knowing that the answer to the question “how late is too late?” is NEVER!
I am looking forward to the third book in the series as I really liked whatever I have learned about Jasmine and John Edwards! I am sure it will be as a rollercoaster as Bella and Nathan’s story was! Here’s to my book hangover!

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D is for Dinosaur by Rhonda Parrish – Review by Jenni Bishop

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D is for DinosaurD is for Dinosaur by Rhonda Parrish
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

D is for Dinosaur is the fourth book in the Alphabet Anthologies series and written by multiple authors
A by Michael M Jones.
Tanith is an angry 16 year old. She is angry at the world around her, but she must learn how to control the beast that lives inside her in. She dreams of monsters but are they real?
B by Simon Kewin.
Bronte is constantly bullied but she has had enough and decides revenge is the way to go. In her dreams she is a raptor but she would rather be a the type of dinosaur that can fly so she can leave the world behind. When she finds out things are not as they seem will Bronte change her mind?
C by Brittany Warman.
This story is written from the perspective of a bird that explains what life is like growing up and what it is like to leave the nest and their family behind. What will this small but brave creature find outside the nest?
D by C.S. MacCath.
This story is about revenge, violence against dinosaurs, leaders who want power and slaves. The power hungry leaders think that extinction is the answer. Will revenge be the answer and just who can they trust? Will that trust be misplaced?
E by Gary B Phillips.
This sad story is about a dad who happens to be a photographer. He has suffered tragedies but those tragedies have helped shape him and hes is able to find happiness and that there is more to life.
F by L.S. Johnson.
Robert and Carol have an unhappy marriage. Robert is obsessed in his belief about a mythical creature that apparently lives some where on an Island. As his obsession takes over his life he becomes abusive. Carol may never recover from Roberts crazed obsession.
G by Suzanne J. Willis.
Pax just wants to protect his friends but he has a destiny to be just like his ancestors but he, along with Evers and Abby become tangled up in revenge, a kidnapping, and a war. Is Pax able to save is himself and his friends? Will they win the war?
H by Megan Engelhardt.
This story is about shifters who are in hiding, never staying to long in one place, always on the move in their quest for water, paradise. But will all be lost when the sun comes up? Will they their paradise?
I by Michael Fosburg.
This story is about the Dreamer who slowly takes the memories and the minds of others. The Inaan people are fighting a life and death battle and are just trying to survive. Can they win the battle and continue to live their lives the way they do?
J by Jeanne Kramer-Smyth.
Bonnie is a smuggler and she always has a back up plan, plans that always sees her through but is she about to run out of those best laid plans? It seems time is getting away. Will Snyder be able to help her in time and will she survive without getting caught?
K by Pete Aldin.
Brynjar and Gunnar are two boys that are stranded and they are desperate to escape the pickle they find themselves. Will they be rescued or can they find a way out and get home?
L by Alexandra Seidel.
Corvy feels like her parents never see her, she believes she is invisible to them. Corvy finds a something which is not from Earth. What is this mystery item and what does it mean. What will become of Corvy and will her parents finally see her?
M by Michael B. Tager.
It’s Eddy’s birthday and Eddy and Julia are planning something. But does that planning include a birthday celebration or is it something mysterious. When they meet a stranger things begin to get crazy.
N by KV Taylor.
After a terrible tragedy Judy’s left behind with an abusive father. Judy has learned that she was gifted with the ability to return others to life. With all she has suffered, will Judy be able to find her own life and live?
O by Amanda C. Davis.
Hazel and Zig have a machine that enables them to time travel to different worlds but what happens to them when their machine stops working?
P by Beth Cato.
Carmen has a friend, Vincent. Is Vincent more than he seems in more ways than one? What happens when Vincent takes over playing? Will carmen become part of something that is much, much bigger.
Q by Lynn Hardaker.
Margaret and John who are looking forward to spending the summer and working with their Uncle Mitch and being away from their father. They find their uncle’s house is full of hidden things and is a very mysterious place. What will they find and will their holiday be all they thought it would be?
R by Sara Cleto.
Lizzie and her sister, Laura love to sing. They uncover something mysterious from their mother’s garden, something that reminds them of a different time but also something that invades their dreams .
S by Jonathan C. Parrish.
This story is about a lady who finds herself lost in her dreams and memories. She dreams of of rooms that are found only in her mind and of the past. When she stumbles upon a new room she finds something. What is this thing she has found?!
T by Samantha Kymmell Harvey.
Maebelle knows what she wants, what she has wanted her whole life and that is to get into the Academy. Just how far will she go & what will she do when things don’t go as planned?
U by Michael Kellar.
Raymond’s grandfather is the reason he has a love for dinosaurs and the world in which they live. He believes they are an intelligent species. Now he has the chance to see the thing he loves most for himself but at what cost?
V by Cory Cone.
Michael, Jessi and Archer are Ghostbuster dinosaur hunters. As with any ghostbusters they rid the world of the infestation of dinosaurs. When called they come but what happens when they get a seemingly normal house call?
W by Hal J. Friesen.
Lisa is trying to save the lives of humans and dinosaurs who are have been genetically changed. How far is Lisa willing to go to save these creatures. Will she survive or will it become dangerous?
X by BD Wilson.
Victor thinks trying to make a difference in the world. He believes in his work and believes he is helping by being a part of an experiment. What is really happening at this institution which Victor believes he is curing diseases?
Y by Andrew Bourelle.
Everyone wants the powerful new drug that is for sale on the streets, one that is exotic and rare due to it’s contents but who and what are they willing to do to get their hands on it?
Z by Laura VanArendonk Baugh.
Brianna has always studied hard for what she wants in life. Her brother Brandon has always taken the easy way out but when Brandon needs Brianna’s help she agrees but at what cost? Will this task bring them closer together or tear them apart?
The stories in this book are all very short stories. They are journey’s full of mysteries and suspense. If you love Dinosaurs this book is definitely the one for you.

Reviewed by @jennadb

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Losing Ground: A Stephen Richards Novella 1 (Under Ground Book #1.5) by Alice Rachel – Review by Bobbi Wagner

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Losing Ground: A Stephen Richards Novella 1 (Under Ground Book #1.5)Losing Ground: A Stephen Richards Novella 1 by Alice Rachel
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Losing Ground: A Stephen Richards Novella 1 (Under Ground #1.5) by Alice Rachel is the second story in the Under Ground series. This story is a continuation of Under Ground but in this story it is told by Stephen and his point of view of things that happened before we meet him in Under Ground. This story will help you understand Stephen’s character and why he feels the way he does. You will love how the author has given his point of view that will pull at your heart strings and make you feel what he is feeling. This story will make you feel a variety of things from anger, to sadness to compassion. Find out Stephen’s side of things!

Stephen Richards is the twin brother of Chi. Because Chi was not suppose to live, he has been hidden. Not only has he been hidden from the world but also the truth of what their parents really are, monsters. Stephen is determined to hide the truth about his family from his brother. He is afraid if he found out it would destroy him. He can’t stand his brother, he is weak, naive and just too gentle. Find out what happens when decisions are made about their future.

This is my second story by Alice Rachel and I know it won’t be the last, I can’t wait to see what will happen to Stephen and Chi. Alice loves spending time with her husband and guinea pigs. When she is not writing, she teaches French, reading and drawing. I love that this author has the proceeds from this book going to a great cause, anti-sexual violence association. This is a one sitting read that will leave you wanting more. This story will take you on a roller coaster ride of emotions that will leave you feeling what the heck and other times feeling the love of the characters. I highly recommend this story as I know you will find it to be a fast page turner like I did and you will lose yourself in this story.

Review by @bjwagner

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Fated (Fated #1) by A.S. Roberts – Review by Jana Teppih

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Fated (Fated #1)Fated by A.S. Roberts
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Fated by A.S. Roberts is her debut novel and the first one in the series called … Fated! It is a contemporary love story filled with unexpected discoveries that blow you out of water and you feel lost like Frankie.
I got hooked on the story from the first page as it rose my curiosity, the writer is great at spinning a story filled with secrets and flawed protagonists that steal your heart. I spent my whole last Sunday with Frankie and Alex and Nathan and Bella (who are getting their own story next). I cried and I cursed, I chuckled and laughed out loud, I mourned and I hoped. The characters seemed so real – they struggle with their past, the control, the secrets … there is something for everyone in this book!
I lived in the UK for some years and I absolutely loved the British English that was peppered throughout the book, in no way felt it clunky, the story flowed beautifully – I felt like being back over there and having a cup of tea and a scone with clotted cream and jam!
I think something that will remain with me is what was on the note Alex included along with the flowers he sent to Frankie – “A person’s strength isn’t shown by how much they can take before they break. A person’s strength is shown by how much they can take after they have already broken.” What an amazing thought that the writer gifted us with and that we can draw strength from when in despair.
I know what I am going to read next! I have the second book lined up on my Kindle – Bella and Nathan’s story! Cannot wait!

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Under Ground (Under Ground #1) by Alice Rachel – Review by Jana Teppih

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Under Ground (Under Ground #1)Under Ground by Alice Rachel
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

When the darkness meets the light, in fear it shall flee.
Not all is what is seems, open your eyes and you will see.
When the chains break apart, the enslaved shall be free.
When the world has changed, a new dawn it will be.
Under Ground is the first book in Alice Rachel’s dystopian series called ‘Under Ground’. It is meant for Young Adults but I don’t see anything wrong with also more mature audience reading it (I am no longer a spring chicken myself). I love dystopian genre and especially when they are complex and the storyline can go off in tangents. Alice Rachel’s series will join Suzanne Collins and Veronica Roth and Alan Moore and James Dashner on my Kindle!
I think that her book is very relevant in the world we are living in right now, considering what changes are happening around us – Alice Rachel’s world is a total patriarchal society where women have no rights, they outnumber the men so the men that the right to accept and reject women. The status is all that matters! Obviously, as in the real world, there is a counter power/movement to it all, it is called Under Ground and they are a group of rebels looking for starting a revolution!
The rules and regulations of the world seem too real at times; you question at times if it really is fiction that you are reading … I loved how the writer was able to combine action with steamy romance and heart breaking family moments. I am looking forward to continue my journey towards equality and freedom with Thia and Chi while the juggle their personal relationship. I am also looking forward to finding out more about the other characters I met in this first book!

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Interception by Angela McPherson – Review by Jenni Bishop

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Interception (Distraction #3)Interception by Angela McPherson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

College is coming to an end and the world is their oyster. The plans that Tristan Daniels and Elle Richards are piecing together are at a standstill. Elle knows what she wants but Tristan has yet to make up his mind on what he wants. Elle knows what she needs to do to help him along. Just when things are looking up for them as a couple an unexpected discovery throws them for a loop. Tristan watching the one he loves suffer decides to take things into his own hands
and call in the troops. After coming to grips with another loss they are yet again hit with something from the past that no one in a million years saw coming. Hardships have been fought, some they have lost and others they have won but this, this will definitely put their relationship to the test. The will be the ultimate sacrifice. Tristan and Elle’s friend, Paul is home from his stint in the army and wants to rekindle the love he believes is his. Will Elle & Tristan be strong enough to weather the storm that has been thrust upon them or
will it be too much for them as a couple? Will Elle accept the changes to come for the man she loves or will it all be too great a sacrifice? Can Tristan and Elle accept that their lives will forever be changed and move forward together? When old and new friends come together will it be to much to disrupt and destroy friendships that they have. Will Paul be able to put the past behind him and move forward?
This is the final book in the series with a lot of ups and downs, wins and losses. It was such an emotional journey and it is a great way to finish up the series.

Reviewed by @jennadb

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Skypunch (Ascenders #2) by C.L. Gaber – Review by Sheri Schrader

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Skypunch (Ascenders #2)Skypunch by C.L. Gaber
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

“Ascenders: Skypunch” by C.L. Gaber is the second book in the Ascenders series. This book continues the adventures of Walker Callahan and Daniel Reid in the Realm. They have returned from the living world after realm jumping but now must face their punishment. Without giving too much away, they are given a deal by the Higher Authority. Will they fulfill the challenge or back out?
This book continues with many of the characters we enjoyed in the first book, plus introduces some new characters also. I enjoyed the continued development of Walker, Daniel, and the Reid family. Also, their friends from the Academy such as Iz, Bertha, and Tosh. We are introduced to the students of Freak U. such as the Claires and Tor and revisited by the Wargo boys from ITT. I especially enjoy the special teachers, members of the Higher Authority, and other members of the faculties involved with the various schools.
I loved that the second book picks up right where the first one left off. Keep this in mind and read the first book first. I’m sure it could be read as a standalone but would not be as suspenseful. The development of the characters and the concept of the Realm is different and entertaining. The story is original and different. What a concept that teens who pass too soon have a chance to continue their stories. I was excited after the first book still is after reading the second book. I cannot wait to see where the story continues.

Review by @sherimichelle1

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Just Live by Shaan Ranae – Review by Jana Teppih

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Just LiveJust Live by Shaan Ranae
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Just Live by Shaan Ranae is my first encounter with this writer and I have to admit, it left me in ruins … in emotional ruins. I finished the book couple of days ago and when I woke up this morning, it was still on my mind, it refuses to let me go … I have read already couple of other books since I finished it but my thoughts circle back to it …
It is an extremely emotional story of Kathryn James aka Katey, a journey filled with pain and suffering, a story that takes you to such extremes that you wonder if you will survive … I cried so hard that I started hiccupping … I got enraged and started thinking how could I, personally, get involved and make a difference … I laughed and smiled and dreamed with her and I have been looking for dust particles in the sunlight ever since …
This story reminds us that we all have a responsibility to each other as humans, it also reminds us that we need to look after ourselves as well, we all matter. This story took me back into my history and reminded me of all those great people who have been there for me in the pivotal moments of my life, who are the reason I am still here, today.
Thank you Ms Ranae for this raw and beautiful book, I hope that it is not your personal story, if it is, I rejoice in the bright future you have ahead of you. I will be on a lookout for your next book, I am sure it will be another amazing one.

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The Spark (The Carolina Connections #2) by Sylvie Stewart – Review by Jana Teppih

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The Spark (The Carolina Connections #2)The Spark by Sylvie Stewart
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The Spark by Ms Stewart is the second book in her Carolina Connections series but you can totally read it as a standalone. I loved the first book and I was looking forward to Fiona and Mark’s story and Ms Stewart did not disappoint me! It was a fun and fast-paced 384 pages!
I know, I know, Ms Stewart plays on the age old stereotypes of ‘opposites attract’ and ‘the man-whore will settle down when he meets the right girl’ and ‘the blondes are ditzy’ but the story was far far from the stereotypes when you let yourself dig deeper and really go along the ride that Fiona and Mark took you on!
Both of the characters are their own type of crazy and you cannot stop laughing AND crying and swooning to yourself while reading … I simply loved the way Fiona got off into tangents when speaking and how easily she got distracted and I absolutely melted when we experienced her loving and caring ways over and over again. One really fell for Mark when getting better understanding of where he comes from. Both of the characters are forged through fire and the questions that you constantly have drumming back in your mind while reading is – will they find their way to each other, will they believe in each other, will they take a chance…
I recommend to grab a glass of wine, settle down in your reading spot and enjoy the hours you’ll spend with Mark and Fiona! I am personally looking forward to the next installment!

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Kisses Under the Spotlight (Alex Jackson, #1) by Joanne Dannon – Review by Jana Teppih

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Kisses Under the Spotlight (Alex Jackson, #1)Kisses Under the Spotlight by Joanne Dannon
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Kisses Under the Spotlight by Joanne Dannon is the first book of the Alex Jackson series. It is my first encounter with this writer. I have to say that she will be joining the other Aussie writers that I love and whose next books I have noted down in my Google calendar.
Ms Dannon has a unique way of telling her story and you hopelessly get hooked up as it is an emotional fast paced story filled with twists left and right that simply doesn’t let you go until you have finished it. It is a story of two people who both carry heavy baggage with them. They need to find a way forward and towards each other through the pitfalls of their past. In addition, they come from different parts of the society – Alex is a superstar and Violet is a physiotherapist who is used to working with people in the spotlight but who does not feel comfortable herself in the spotlight. We are constantly aware of how the world of spotlights influenced Alex and Violet’s decisions and actions.
What I loved about the story was the lightness of it, despite some heavy universal matters that the author is tackling. She teaches us that love overcomes and heals everything, she restores our faith in love.
I recommend the story to all of you cynics that need a push to get out of the funk and start believing in happily ever after, even if it just in a book world! I personally am looking forward to the next book!

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Seraphina’s Initiation by Sheena Hutchinson – Review by Jenni Bishop

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Seraphina's Initiation (Seraphina, #2)Seraphina’s Initiation by Sheena Hutchinson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Nate knows the moment Seraphina has made her decision, a decision she has made to keep those she loves safe. Seraphina has made her decision and has packed and said her goodbyes but still finds it extremely hard leaving behind all she has known. She realises she has to lie to those she loves and she doesn’t know when she will get to see them again. Now she is moving in with her boyfriend, her fallen angel, Nate. Now it is Nate’s turn to teach, train and mentor Seraphina with all that he knows to help her with her new found powers. Jack misses seeing Seraphina and constantly contacts her. He can’t deal with not being in Sera’s life and after seeing Seraphina and Nate together finally decides to take drastic measures. Jack does something he has sworn he would never do, something that he may not be able to come back from. Will this bring Jack and Sera closer together or will this finally be the end of their friendship? As Nate and Sera try to come to terms with what she is exactly, what she has become and what she can do, they have to deal with the strange occurrences, disappearances, dreams and demons. But can Nate keep her safe when he doesn’t have the powers he once had? Will the battle for good or evil prevail? Will Sera do the one thing she wants more than life and that is to keep Nate safe?

This book is the second book in this series the first being Awakening which I really enjoyed. Seraphina’s Initiation certainly does not disappoint. I love the characters and Sheena makes a perfect blend of humor and seriousness and Seraphina and Nate are the perfect blend of strength and vulnerability. This is one story you won’t want to miss.

Reviewed by @jennadb

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Fated by A.S. Roberts – Review by Tracy Manderson

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Fated (Fated #1)Fated by A.S. Roberts
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Fated (Fated #1) by A.S. Roberts
4 out of 5 stars

This is my first read by Ms. Roberts and it was great from the get go, loved the style of writing and the characters this is such an awesome captivating read I can’t wait to get my teeth into this authors next works. This story filled me with so many emotions. I laughed out loud, cried, fell in love, had my heart broken, was frustrated along with the characters and I also felt their joy.
Frankie has known loss and disappointment in her life. She finally has the opportunity to shine and help others. Her latest job has brought her back to the States, where she decides letting go of her grief and moving on is exactly what the doctor ordered and her life will be forever changed. She comes face to face with a sexy and irresistible blast from her past; she realizes that this time she just can’t walk away.

Alex Blackmore is an assertive and controlling CEO, who is shackled to obligations the obligations he didn’t necessarily want. But now that Frankie is back in his life, he knows exactly what he does want and will have her. As their relationship intensifies, Alex’s worlds collide and their past resurfaces, threatening to destroy what they’re both working toward letting go and moving on.
Can Frankie and Alex fight their demons and embrace the future they’re FATED for?

I instantly connected with Frankie, and Alex they were strong independent characters that you can’t help but love. The supporting characters of Bella and Nathan rounded out the story perfectly. There is a small glimpse into Bella and Nathan’s lives that will make you want more of their story. Lucky for us, they will be getting their own book coming soon.

By
Tracy Manderson

review @tracym

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Skypunch (Ascenders #2) by C.L. Gaber – Review by Jana Teppih

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Skypunch (Ascenders #2)Skypunch by C.L. Gaber
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Skypunch is the second book in C.L.Gaber’s Ascenders series and absolutely you should not read it before you have read the first book! You get a fairly good introduction into the story line but in no way it is good enough to really embrace the universe the author has created!
I jumped instantly into the second book when I finished the first book, it was late in the evening but I did not care! I was so wrapped up in this magnificent epic cinematic world that I could not wait to see what comes next! I do not want to give anything away so it is a bit challenging to write the review but what I can say is that this book was even better than the first book, the descriptions were outstanding and to the extent that you could easily picture everything in your mind – the colors, the shapes, the characters, the suspense…The suspense was intense, there were so many twists and turns and many of them were totally out of blue!
The book ends with a cliffhanger, there will be at least one more book (but I can imagine there could be many more) and I cannot wait for it. In some ways it reminds me of the other great series where the authors have created other worlds that entrance us and never let us go and that make you think that maybe, just maybe, it is all possible!
C.L. Gaber has included a wealth of life lessons as she did also in the first book – what is a friendship and can it be broken, every action has a consequence and yes, there are some rules that cannot be broken… The lessons are natural part of the story and in no way come across as preachy and some of them are uttered by historic characters that we actually associate with them.
I recommend this series to everyone, young and mature, there is something for everyone, you will not regret the hours you will spend with the characters!

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The Fix (The Carolina Connections #1) by Sylvie Stewart – Review by Jana Teppih

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The Fix (The Carolina Connections #1)The Fix by Sylvie Stewart
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The debut novel The Fix by Sylvie Stewart is the first book in her Carolina Connections series. It is an absolute charming 300+ pages of fun with a lot of laughter! It is a perfect combination of humor and romance and you get pulled into the story even if you try to resist!
I absolutely loved the quirkiness of Laney’s life with her young son Rocco and her brother Gavin and her best friend Fiona and the Irish love interest Nate. The pace of the story is fast so you don’t even realize that it is more than 300 pages, yet you do not feel rushed. The plot feels very realistic and you can just picture this snotty mother at the day care looking down at Laney, we all have met those mothers … I love how Nate finds his way into Laney’s life and forms a relationship with Rocco.
Very often wit romantic books you get a lot of drama and sobbing and hurt feelings but here, you get witty dialogue and funny misunderstandings while still feeling that it is all real and you could just bump into the characters down the street! The author has a very vivid imagination and a way with words, just wait until you ‘hear’ Rocco’s songs or Fiona’s ‘unintended’ double entendres.
I am looking forward to the second book of Carolina Connections and I totally recommend this first book to anyone who is looking for a good laugh, some steamy moments and real emotions!

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Ascenders-High School for the Recently Departed (Ascenders, #1) by C.L. Gaber – Review by Sheri Schrader

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High School for the Recently Departed (Ascenders #1)High School for the Recently Departed by C.L. Gaber
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Ascenders: High School for the Recently Departed by C.L. Gaber is the start of the Ascenders Saga. This is an interesting paranormal young adult book. The idea is new and interesting and I cannot wait to read the rest of the series. The story is about the recently departed Walker Callahan. She is now attending high school in the Realm. This is where teens go when they pass away. Life continues for them and they must keep going to school and learning.
Once at the school Walker meets Daniel Reid, who passed with his siblings in an accident. His mission in life is going back to rescue his baby brother who did not make it to the Realm but is caught as an Earth bound spirit. The Realm is a place of almost no rules. The only rule in the Realm is that you cannot go back to earth. How will Daniel get around the rules? Will Walker take this path with her new love Daniel?
I really enjoyed the new concept and look forward to where this series will go. The addition of deceased celebrities as the faculty was a fun addition. Where else do you have class with Kurt, Heath, Steve, Julia or school counselors George or Miss Elizabeth? Also the concept of teens being able to keep progressing is a nice concept especially when you consider how many have a life cut short by an accident or illness.
Reviewed by @sherimichelle1

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The Dragons of Alsace Farm by Laurie L.C. Lewis – Review by Jenni Bishop

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The Dragons of Alsace FarmThe Dragons of Alsace Farm by Laurie L.C. Lewis
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Agnes is an 82 years old widow who has lived a hard life and is now battling Dementia. She lives alone on her farm, Alsace and is haunted by her past, ghosts and dragons. Sarah, her neighbour is her one link to a normal world. Noah Carter’s tragic childhood has left him a shy and unsure loner. He has made a life for himself in Myrtle Beach South Carolina but that life is about to be turned upside down as he finally faces and Uncle who has been searching for him for many years. Finally reunited with family and to help ease Sarah’s burden, Noah finds himself at Alsace farm helping the often confused old lady. Tayte was left alone and neglected as a child and finds it hard to trust and let people in. As she arrives in town for the funeral of her estranged parents, Tayte is reunited with a Grandmother she has not seen since she was a little girl. The unlikely three are thrown together, under very trying circumstances, with each of them fighting their own demons and secrets from the past. Will they each be able to heal and find their own redemption and love and be able to make a normal life or will they fail in this thing called life? Will the secrets be too much and cause trouble than they can handle?

The Dragons of Alsace Farm is a very emotional journey and the characters definitely capture your heart. It is well worth the read.

Reviewed by @jennadb

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