Forbiddenly Yours (Titans of Chicago Series) by Anise Storm – Review by Jessica Godwin

Forbiddenly Yours (Titans of Chicago, #2)Forbiddenly Yours by Anise Storm
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is the second book in the Titans of Chicago series. I haven’t read the first book and I think this book could be a stand-alone. It wasn’t confusing at all. The book is a dual POV with Callum, a professor, and Nicole, his student.

They met on vacation in Costa Rica, and we’re instantly drawn to each other, not knowing who the other one was, Callum a Titan of Chicago and a professor and Nicole, the daughter of a Titan of Los Angeles. After a one-night stand, Nicole flew home to Los Angeles before they could say goodbye to each other. She then moves to Chicago to finish her degree and unknowingly chooses one of Callum’s classes. First day of school they meet again and try to avoid the lingering feelings they both feel.

I enjoyed reading this book. It has forbidden love, sex, drama and danger with an unexpected twist I didn’t see coming. I liked both the characters and I liked the relationship they develop along the way. I can’t wait to read the other books in this series and the other books by Anise Storm.

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An Ember of Hope (War of Destiny Series) by Theresa Van Spankeren – Review by Mandy Ott

An Ember of Hope: War of DestinyAn Ember of Hope: War of Destiny by Theresa Van Spankeren
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

An Ember of Hope is the Theresa Van Spankeren book I didn’t know I needed! This book is part of the War of Destiny Series, and is more or less a companion novel, as it is Matthew’s story, taking place between books 2 and 3 of the main series. Van Spankeren creates the same amazing world full of vampires, historical figures, and other fantastical beings. I found myself, once again, immersed in the conflict between Valentino and the Resistance, told from the unique perspective of Matthew, recovering from his time in captivity. I found Matthew’s nightmares following his dilemma brutal and heartbreaking, yet honest and realistic. Some of the same great characters emerge in this book, as well as some new ones. There is so much detail in this book, but it is woven together so seamlessly that it only adds to the overall drama of the story. What an amazing addition to the already great War of Destiny world!

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Forever to Fall (Buckeye Falls Book 5) by Libby Kay – Review by Audrie Harrington

Forever to Fall (Buckeye Falls, #5)Forever to Fall by Libby Kay
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I have loved every book that I have read set in Buckeye Falls. The characters are relatable and the plot lines and conflicts are so true to life and families and love. This book followed Mallory, one of the Lawson kids and Beckett, one of her and Evan’s best friends growing up. Mallory is a nurse in the ER and living an ok life. She has friends and loves her family but she has been pining over Beckett since they got “married” at 12 years old. Beckett just lost his grandpa from cancer and is moving home. He broke Mallory’s heart unintentionally a few years before and then just traveled the country. They keep running into each other and with Evan planning to propose they are thrown into the planning. They are having a hard time keeping their feelings from showing and they really don’t want Evan to know. Mallory needs to make it through the engagement and maybe something can happen with Beckett. I hope there is more to come because I just can’t put these books down!

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Master Bistrita (Masters of the Consulate Book 11) by Sylvia Black – Review by Elizabeth Sanchez

Master Bistrita (Masters of the Consulate #11)Master Bistrita by Sylvia Black
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Master Bistrita is the 11th book in the Masters of the Consulate series. While I have not read them all, I would suggest reading book 10 before this one, otherwise you wont know what the heck is going on. This book picks up where the previous book left off. While I have enjoyed what I have read of this series, this book was not my favorite. I am not really into BDSM, and the only book I really read with it was 50 shades. And parts of this book felt very much like that- contract, signing NDA, etc. With looking past that, and quickly speed reading those sections, I enjoyed the rest of the book. I like all the mixed relationships and the plot of the series as a whole. I enjoyed the characters as each as Bistrita and Chara are both strong personalities and love fiercely.

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Reviewed by @way2gosmartguy

Forever to Fall (Buckeye Falls Book 5) by Libby Kay – Review by Elizabeth Sanchez

Forever to Fall (Buckeye Falls, #5)Forever to Fall by Libby Kay
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Forever to Fall was cute. I love this series and while I probably say this every time, this may have been my fav in the series. I love that Beckett is a little misfit- red hair, glasses that are always askew, WoW gamer. Mallory has been the sister to Evan the last couple books so it was nice to see her character develop. The back story of their childhood and Beckett’s grandparents was a nice touch. Very clean romantic story with great characters. I look forward to the next book, and will be sad when the series runs out of characters and ends. Libby Kay, If you’re reading this, please give us cheesy bite recipe! You’ve been raving about them for 5 books and I so very much want to try them!

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Forever to Fall (Buckeye Falls Book 5) by Libby Kay – Review by Amanda Haller-Doris

Forever to Fall (Buckeye Falls, #5)Forever to Fall by Libby Kay
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I just want to live in Buckeye Falls with all of these amazing characters. I absolutely loved seeing Mallory get her own story and the back story was so sweet. 15 years ago she had a pretend wedding with Beckett Fox, her brother Evan’s best friend, and she has never forgotten it. We learn that over the years they grew closer until a miscommunication two years prior separated the friends. Now that Beckett is in Buckeye Falls and is the best man in Evan’s wedding, he and Mallory will be thrown together in all sorts of situations. Beckett has never forgotten that fake wedding or the way he feels for Mallory, but the idea of dating his best friend’s sister is complicated. I am so in love with this story and I absolutely recommend this and the rest of the series!

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The Secret Aftermath (The Discoveries of Julia Xero Series) by Gloria Oliver – Review by Amanda Haller-Doris

The Secret Aftermath: An Urban Fantasy Thriller (The Discoveries of Julia Xero Book 2)The Secret Aftermath: An Urban Fantasy Thriller by Gloria Oliver
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I was so excited to get to read the second book in this series. Julia continues to come into her own, growing from a timid shy girl to a woman who isn’t afraid to stand up for herself or the people she loves. Book 2 picked up right where we left off in book 1, and continues to keep you captivated right from the beginning. This is not a story that you will be able to put down as the twists and turns keep you guessing at every turn. The author does a great job of keeping you engaged and wanting to know more about the dangers. The characters, as the first book, continue to be complex and well written, you really feel like you could see and know them. I absolutely enjoyed getting to read book 2 and I can’t wait for the rest.

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She’s My Rhinestone Cowgirl (My Cowboy Series) by Brooke May – Review by Candida Hopper

She's My Rhinestone Cowgirl (My Cowboy #7)She’s My Rhinestone Cowgirl by Brooke May
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This was a sweet second chance romance. I found this book enjoyable and entertaining. I found Trinity’s character to be refreshing. Trinity had to make a lot of sacrifices for her dreams including Shooter. Years later Shooter is back in town as a Sheriff and Trinity is so close to starting the chapter in her life. The connection between these two is still just as strong as it was before. Will they be able to overcome the past to build a future together? If you want to find out then this is a must read. This book can be read as a standalone. My advice is to read all the books in this series because this author is very talented and I have never been disappointed in anything I have read by her. I look forward to reading more. I recommend this book.

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Driving into the Night by Amanda Kay – Review by Nina Maes

Intriguing Read! Great character development with a great storyline. This one will keep you at the edge of your seat. I also loved how the different perspectives came together within the story. This is a page-turner and very entertaining. Recommend for all readers alike.

Driving into the NightDriving into the Night by Amanda Kay
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Intriguing Read! Great character development with a great storyline. This one will keep you at the edge of your seat. I also loved how the different perspectives came together within the story. This is a page-turner and very entertaining. Recommend for all readers alike.

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Lapidius: Book 1 (A Nation Found Series) by Matthew Runals – Review by Amanda Haller-Doris

Lapidius (A Nation Found Book 1)Lapidius by Matthew Runals
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I was quite interested in checking this story out, it had so many intriguing elements, the war, the military school for children, and magic and monsters. The author did a great job of creating well written characters that we get to see grow and mature throughout the story. The vivid and creative descriptions make you feel like you are right there with Joey and his friends Kyle, Brian, and Lucas as they begin their training and learn more about their new home. I greatly enjoyed the military strategies as as well the political pieces in the story, the author created a world that feels very realistic, while also full of magic and monsters. Looking forward to reading the rest of the series!

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Mr. Lucky (Trentbridge Crime Series Book 1) by Lee Wood – Review by Stephen Rymer

Mr Lucky (Trentbridge Tales #1)Mr Lucky by Lee Wood
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This book is a great page-turner. The book switches between characters in every chapter and focuses on the main character James. I loved how the book was action, and you got to know the emotions the characters felt. James is very lucky but also not very lucky because someone is after him due to a lottery ticket. Dave is also a person who tries to win the lottery but doesn’t get lucky. Dave is also a drug dealer. The book is also about how one person could be so lucky and win at life but can also come back to hurt them. I recommend this book to people who like other points of view and one huge plot line with many plot twists. Who will win? Find out in Mr. Lucky by Lee Wood.
@Stephen Rymer
09/2024

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Her Sapphire Blade (Guardians of Camelot Series) by Sarah Biglow – Review by Amanda Haller-Doris

Her Sapphire Blade: An Arthurian-Inspired Portal Fantasy Novel (Guardians of Camelot Book 1)Her Sapphire Blade: An Arthurian-Inspired Portal Fantasy Novel by Sarah Biglow
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Well this was a wonderful well written fantasy based on the Arthurian legends with a twist. I thought Morgan was a really well written character and watching her develop further and struggling to decide what she wants to do with her future made her feel extremely relatable. The author did a fantastic job of blending the Arthurian legends and modern times. The story is well written and definitely hooks you right in. We have witches, fae, dragons, and the different Camelot characters all enriching the story. This is an absolutely must read for fantasy and Arthurian legend fans. I can’t wait to read the next book!

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Andrew’s Armor by Jill Monaco – Review by Darian Vester

Andrew's ArmorAndrew’s Armor by Jill Monaco
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Great book for Christian families. I like that he’s not told to grow up and get over things like his friend making fun of him, but to believe in himself and believe in the lord and he will find his bravery again. The illustrations in the book are great, I just wish the wording was a little large. The book also includes a list of activists you can do with your child and some uplifting scriptures.

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Mr. Lucky (Trentbridge Crime Series Book 1) by Lee Wood – Review by Mayona DeHerrera

Mr Lucky (Trentbridge Tales #1)Mr Lucky by Lee Wood
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Mr. Lucky is a crime thriller with a social conscience. I liked that the story is told from both of the main characters point of view. The “hero” of the tale James Sheldon, will hopefully make one look at the homeless differently and make one more compassionate about their circumstances and how they ended up homeless. The villain, Dave Rex, starts out as a likable guy till he isn’t anymore. Seeing how their lives intersect from the beginning till the end will leave you reading late into the night.

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Decisions Matter (Buddy the Blue Corgi Series) by Suzanna Lynn – Review by Amanda Williams

Decisions Matter: A picture book about learning right from wrong (Buddy the Blue Corgi 3)Decisions Matter: A picture book about learning right from wrong by Suzanna Lynn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This book is a powerful tool that empowers children to make wise decisions, using captivating illustrations and relatable scenarios to inspire young minds. Buddy, the lovable blue corgi, embarks on a journey with readers, illuminating the impact of their choices and fostering a deeper understanding of moral values.

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Lapidius: Book 1 (A Nation Found Series) by Matthew Runals – Review by Lorralei Hoerner

LapidiusLapidius by Matthew Runals
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

5 Stars 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟

I LOVED this story. Getting to discover a new author to me and reading a fantastic story along the way makes me so happy. This is a young adult, dystopian story with adventure, hope, friendships, and magic. Having a bond of friendship between the four of Joey, Kyle, Brian and Lucas and fighting for what is right…this is a fantastic story and I highly encourage anyone to give this book a chance.

When families have to make a decision believing it is for the better because of it is hard to feed everyone in the family, Joey, Kyle, Brian and Lucas are sent to Lapidius. Learning there is more to venture….the mystery is only beginning….

This book gave me a roller coaster of emotions….which I love about a great story. The author did a fantastic job on details that really brought this story to life.

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Made to Love Her (Moore Family Saga Novella) by Michele Sims – Review by Rosanna Ingram

Made to Love Her: Romantic Suspense Novella (Moore Family Saga)Made to Love Her: Romantic Suspense Novella by Michele Sims
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Don’t let the page count of this book fool you…there is a lot of love, drama, deceit, suspense, and twists and turns packed into this novella.

When Cade, a jazz musician, joins his band in Greece to perform some concerts at the Millennial Olympic games, he is joined by his wife, Lecia. The two are looking forward to a “work” trip (with a built in vacation) in an amazing place…but what happens when things are not as they seem. Through a series of crazy events, the two find themselves caught in a game of lies and deceit that will test their loyalties. The two find themselves not only being able to discern the truth from the lies…but also testing their love to see if it is strong enough to survive such a cruel game of cat and mouse.

This was a quick read and I found myself on the edge of my seat the entire time! I have enjoyed this series, so it was fun to see other characters make an appearance. When you start this book…buckle up…because it’s going to be quite the ride!!

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A Pig and a Poke by Tricia Gardella – Review by Arianna Westmoreland

A Pig and A PokeA Pig and A Poke by Tricia Gardella
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

If you are looking for a book to help teach your child about perseverance, look no further! I read this book with my two sons – D (age 6) and S (age 2.5). They absolutely loved it!

A review from an actual kid:
D (age 6) – “Angela didn’t like that Bruce was being mean to her, so she made sure she caught the pig.”
S (age 2.5) – “The girl and the piggy got muddy and silly.”

I gave this book 5 out of 5 stars because we absolutely loved it!

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Forbiddenly Yours (Titans of Chicago Series) by Anise Storm – Review by Brittany Angel

Forbiddenly Yours (Titans of Chicago, #2)Forbiddenly Yours by Anise Storm
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Forbiddenly Yours was right in line with everything I’ve read from this author. The characters are able to draw you in from the very start and keep you hoping for them. The twists will surprise you for sure. There were several points in the second half of the book where a bit more editing could have been done. But other than that, very enjoyable.

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Driving into the Night by Amanda Kay – Review by Kirsten Berkebile

So there is this ring and seems to control who lives and who doesn’t. Sadly, Kenia and Mikael are the two who life hangs in the balance. Kenia is the hunter while Mikael is the demon angel at least according to their families. The thing is that Mikael doesn’t seem to care about himself anymore and just wants Kenia to do what the ring wants him to do, despite having feelings for Kenia. There is no denying that there is some else going on between the two. Can their feelings for each other outweigh the strength of the ring or will the ring win? You will need to read it to find out the answer.

Driving into the NightDriving into the Night by Amanda Kay
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

So there is this ring and seems to control who lives and who doesn’t. Sadly, Kenia and Mikael are the two who life hangs in the balance. Kenia is the hunter while Mikael is the demon angel at least according to their families. The thing is that Mikael doesn’t seem to care about himself anymore and just wants Kenia to do what the ring wants him to do, despite having feelings for Kenia. There is no denying that there is some else going on between the two. Can their feelings for each other outweigh the strength of the ring or will the ring win? You will need to read it to find out the answer.

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Forever to Fall (Buckeye Falls Book 5) by Libby Kay – Review by Jayme Raffauf

Forever to Fall (Buckeye Falls, #5)Forever to Fall by Libby Kay
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

What a cute and romantic story about Mallory and Beckett. This is book 5 in the Buckeye Falls series and despite not reading the previous 4 books, I had no trouble falling in love with the characters in this book. This was a fast read and very predictable most of the time, but honestly that didn’t bother me at all because I just loved Mallory and Beckett and all of the characters involved in the story. Such a great dynamic between best friends and soul mates and also the layers of grief and loneliness. This story was heartwarming and I loved it. If you love lighthearted, sweet romances, then this one (and probably the rest of the series) is for you.

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Forever to Fall (Buckeye Falls Book 5) by Libby Kay – Review by Sheri Schrader

Forever to Fall (Buckeye Falls, #5)Forever to Fall by Libby Kay
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Forever to Fall is the fifth book in the Buckeye Falls series. The book can be enjoyed as a standalone, but I recommend reading the other books in the series. This book focuses on the Mallory and Beckett who “married” as childhood sweethearts with her family’s heirloom ring. Mallory’s memories are soon squashed as her brother wants to use the ring to propose to his girlfriend. Will Beckett return to town to sweep her off her feet?
The story is well written with lots of emotion. Mallory’s brother is oblivious to his sister’s feelings and memories of Beckett as he plans his own wedding. Mallory and Beckett get their reunion as they are both in the wedding party. I was hoping for a happy ending, but at moments I was unsure if everything would work out for the two of them. I like there is a bit of complexity to their reunion and it wasn’t just handed the easiest of solutions. Everyone is relatable and Mallory’s brother reminded me of my own.
I enjoyed the romance, but also the drama that surrounds events involving family. I hope more books are written centered in the small town of Buckeye Falls.

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She’s My Rhinestone Cowgirl (My Cowboy Series) by Brooke May – Review by Robin Rankin

She's My Rhinestone Cowgirl (My Cowboy #7)She’s My Rhinestone Cowgirl by Brooke May
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

She’s My Rhinestone Cowgirl (My Cowboy Series Book 7)

I have had the pleasure of reading several books by Ms. May, but this is the first in this particular series and once again she delivers exactly what I have come to expect from her, a book that I enjoyed.

The childhood sweethearts having lived their lives separately when goals and outside forces pulled them apart end up finding their happily ever after for now.

Shooter is starting his life after college and the Academy and Trinity finally gets to live her life how she wants.

I have added this series to my ever growing TBR list so I can get caught up.

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Forever to Fall (Buckeye Falls Book 5) by Libby Kay – Review by Kerry Carr

Forever to Fall (Buckeye Falls, #5)Forever to Fall by Libby Kay
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is the fifth book in the Buckeye Falls series. Even though it is part of a series it can be read as a standalone, however once you’ve read one you will love the small town feel, the emotion and romance that you will want to read more.
This is a sweet second chance romance filled with sweet moments, secret dating, brother best friend, and childhood sweethearts.

Mallory Lawson has always loved Beckett Fox even when they were children playing together she always knew he was the one for her. The only problem is that he is her brother’s best friend. Little does Mallory know that Beckett felt the same way about her but was held back by the same thing worries about what Mallory’s brother would say.
Times moves on and Mallory and Beckett move on with their lives and Beckett moves away. But the feelings they feel for each other never leave.
Now Beckett is back in Buckeye Falls, after losing his grandad he is returning to claim the woman he loves.
But will Mallory feel the same? And what will happen when her brother finds out about them? Will they get their happy ever after, after all the years they have fought against their feelings?
This is a really sweet and romantic story that you can’t help but fall in love with the characters and with Buckeye Falls.

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Decisions Matter (Buddy the Blue Corgi Series) by Suzanna Lynn – Review by Karrie Sears

Decisions Matter: A picture book about learning right from wrong (Buddy the Blue Corgi 3)Decisions Matter: A picture book about learning right from wrong by Suzanna Lynn
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Buddy and his brothers, Salem and Donut, are in this book. Someone keeps getting in the trash. Buddy didn’t want to be a tattletale but he also didn’t like taking the blame. It’s a great way to show littles ones how to make the right choices even when it’s hard. Great illustrations and quick read.

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Good Things Take Time (Buddy the Blue Corgi Series) by Suzanna Lynn – Review by Karrie Sears

Good Things Take Time (Buddy the Blue Corgi, #2)Good Things Take Time by Suzanna Lynn
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Buddy is getting his forever home in this book. While he was down over not getting picked sooner than his siblings, he finally gets his home. He just needed to learn to be patient. Another great book on learning something that can hard for little ones to understand. Excellent wording and illustrations.

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Pursuit into Darkness (War of Destiny Book 2) by Theresa Van Spankeren – Review by Tracy Greenhalgh

<a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/27400783-pursuit-into-darkness” style=”float: left; padding-right: 20px”><img border=”0″ alt=”Pursuit into Darkness (War of Destiny #2)” src=”https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1446314168l/27400783._SX98_.jpg” /></a><a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/27400783-pursuit-into-darkness”>Pursuit into Darkness</a> by <a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/8249753.Theresa_Van_Spankeren”>Theresa Van Spankeren</a><br/>
My rating: <a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/6829573065″>4 of 5 stars</a><br /><br />
A really good read that continues from the first book in the series. After reading the first I found the flow of the book much easier to follow.<br />THis time we follow Julia, she is complex, struggling with loss and memories from the past that keep troubling her. <br />The author continues with the character development with Julia as it does that of the other characters. The depth of the characters and the insight into their lives is well described as in the previous book. Making this book another that is difficult to put down.<br />I will certainly be adding more from this author to my tbr list<br />
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Lapidius: Book 1 (A Nation Found Series) by Matthew Runals – Review by Alison Risher

LapidiusLapidius by Matthew Runals
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Is this story an allegory? A nation that has seen various wars over several decades. Starving families that are desperate to save their children. A military school stands in the gap, offering hope. Students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds learn to find their inner strength. Well, not learn to find, so much as they are taught to find this resilience

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An Ember of Hope (War of Destiny Series) by Theresa Van Spankeren – Review by Tracy Greenhalgh

<a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/214344053-an-ember-of-hope” style=”float: left; padding-right: 20px”><img border=”0″ alt=”An Ember of Hope: War of Destiny” src=”https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1717702752l/214344053._SX98_.jpg” /></a><a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/214344053-an-ember-of-hope”>An Ember of Hope: War of Destiny</a> by <a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/8249753.Theresa_Van_Spankeren”>Theresa Van Spankeren</a><br/>
My rating: <a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/6829403884″>4 of 5 stars</a><br /><br />
This is the first book by this author that I have read and at the time of reading was a little thrown as things did not always make sense, after a bit of looking into this is part of a series, almost a sideline that although a good read I feel would be more enjoyable if read after or alongside the other books.<br />In this book the character development and growth is good and continues to move with the story which in itself is deep and enthralling.<br />Mathew, a vampire is disheartened after the death of his soulmate and pulls away and distances himself from his family, living alongside humans. Working for a prominent family where he can, seeking redemption where possible. <br />
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Lapidius: Book 1 (A Nation Found Series) by Matthew Runals – Review by Shelly Kittell

LapidiusLapidius by Matthew Runals
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

What an exciting fantasy book. A military school in a fantasy realm really is a new one that I’ve come across. A group of boys that grew up together were sent by their parents for survival because resources were slim. There is where the adventure started. This is a pretty fast-paced adventure that will take you for a ride and take you on a gamut of emotions. You’ll feel like you’ve been on a roller coaster ride. A new author and a new type of read leaves me hoping that he’ll write some more and bring some more entertainment to this genre. I enjoyed this story a lot.

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