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Reticent Hawke (The Hawke Family Second Generation Book 2) by Gwyn McNamee – Review by Barbara Bohls

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Reticent Hawke: A Billionaire Reverse Age Gap Best Friend's Older Sister Forbidden Romance (The Hawke Family Second Generation Book 2)Reticent Hawke: A Billionaire Reverse Age Gap Best Friend’s Older Sister Forbidden Romance by Gwyn McNamee
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is the second book in the next generation of the Hawke Family Saga. I can not get enough of these books. The way this story is written gives you so much to digest. It has amazing characters and you get to see some characters from other stories. The character development is so well done that you feel yourself going through the emotions of all the characters. While reading this you feel like you are right there along with then and going through everything that they are going through. Adding in the forbidden thoughts of your best friends sister, gives the reader just enough intrigue to see how things end up. There are some controversial topics and traumas that the characters work through. This gives the readers opportunity to get gripped into the story. This book is another page turner that you won’t be able to put down. You will want to know what is happening, who did what, etc. This book can be read as a stand alone but you won’t want to. You will want to know the other characters and their stories. You will want to know all the dirty deets with everyone else. You won’t be disappointed but starting this book and getting to know everyone and you won’t be disappointed to read the whole series.
Reviewed: @bbohls

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Tempting Fate (Black Shamrocks MC: Australia Book 1) by Bella Faust – Review by Helen Dawkins

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Tempting Fate: a dark and angsty love triangle romance (Black Shamrocks MC: Australia Book 1)Tempting Fate: a dark and angsty love triangle romance by Bella Faust
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

This is the 1st book in the Trilogy, but there is a previous book, Craving Control, from the beginning. I personally don’t think it needed to be read before reading Tempting Fate, but if you do want to read it, please note it is way darker than most books.

Tempting Fate is a dark book as well, but it isn’t too dark. I do warn you to read the trigger warnings beforehand, though!

I have conflicting opinions about this book. It isn’t a bad book, but it isn’t a book I will remember or read again. I really doubt I even read the next book in the series.

The author has a great writing style. I do enjoy how she describes things and leads up to certain situations. But, I felt the book was extremely predictable. There wasn’t any “twist” or “turn” that I didn’t already think was going to happen.

I love Lily (Anna/Lilianna/Cherub). I think she is a wonderful character, and you get to see her at every angle. She is a force to be reckoned with, and I do love to see her on her journey. She is the main reason I am giving 3 stars. I loved her transformation and just her in general.

The only other character I did like was Slash. But I felt like I needed to know more about him. His character was a breath of fresh air, and I feel his character showed how a person can be an enforcer but still has a heart.

Now… other characters in the book I truthfully didn’t care for…. Venom(Zeke) specifically I did NOT like. I felt his character constantly was going from one extreme to the other. His actions were very chaotic and didn’t make much sense… In all honesty… I don’t find him much different than Alex. Except he didn’t PHYSICALLY harm Lily. But his character truthfully wasn’t that different from Alex.

I think that the storyline itself was decent, but it could have been better. Again, I don’t think it’s a bad book, just… wasn’t spectacular either.

The one thing I did LOVE, though, was that Bella Faust did not take a back seat to the darkness. She went full throttle in explaining and detailing the darker aspects of this book. I also love that the darker, horrible psychopath who was head over heels for a woman was not redeemed… but the other dark men were never a “threat”. Sometimes, we need that realness that some psychopaths are just that. Psychopaths. And just because they have an object of affection does not mean the woman will fall for them.

One last note, PLEASE READ TRIGGER WARNINGS BEFORE BEGINNING THIS BOOK OR CRAVING CONTROL.

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Guarding the Crease (The Playmakers Series Hockey Romances Book 9) by G.K. Brady – Review by Tori Mitton

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<a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/172690123-guarding-the-crease” style=”float: left; padding-right: 20px”><img border=”0″ alt=”Guarding the Crease (The Playmakers #9)” src=”https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1686602925l/172690123._SX98_.jpg” /></a><a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/172690123-guarding-the-crease”>Guarding the Crease</a> by <a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/19488321.G_K_Brady”>G.K. Brady</a><br/>
My rating: <a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/5755578711″>5 of 5 stars</a><br /><br />
Wyatt is in a slump and taking advantage of his goalie privileges. He no longer has a team to work for and no drive without sports what’s he to do. Serena Lambert is PR director of one of the top NHL teams. When Wyatt meets Serena, he asks for his help to clean up his image. And try to get him back with a good team. Serena is hesistant to help Wyatt. But she also needs his help as well.<br />This was such a good read and of course the romance is a bonus!
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Softest Touch by Adina D. Grey – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

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Softest TouchSoftest Touch by Adina D. Grey
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Softest Touch is a contemporary romance that centers around the characters of Derek and Melinda. Derek is the owner of Wilson Creations which has made him a billionaire. When Miranda is hired on to be Derek’s new Assistant the two do not necessarily see eye to eye and things get off to a shaky start. At first glance Derek feels that she appears to be too young and fragile to be up to the task of being his assistant. Derek does not want to hire her and tells her so, but Melinda does not back down. She gives him an earful about judging her without even knowing her and refuses to go away quietly. Determined to get in her say Melinda is persistent until Derek sees something in her that tells him to give her a chance. He loves her fiery attitude and the power she exudes when she is taking charge, which excites him. As the two work closely together, Derek finds himself attracted to Melinda and her sass, determination, and fiery attitude.

Melinda instantly despises Derek and feels that he is a douchebag for treating her the way that he did. She did not want the job in the first place and only applied for the position because it meant working in the world of fashion. Melinda dreamed of being a stylist but due to all her commitments and responsibilities her dream was put on the back burner. Working at Wilson Creations meant that she could at least be involved in the fashion industry. Plus, her Grandma had a crush on Derek and thought that he was sexy. Melinda does not deny that he is sexy and charming, but she also thinks that he is arrogant, cocky, and downright annoying. Despite how irritating and bossy he is Melinda cannot deny how attracted she is to Derek. As she and Derek work together the attraction between them grows and they learn to lean on one another. Can the attraction between them ever be more than that? Do they have a future together?

This was a well written story with wonderful characters and an interesting storyline. I loved Melinda’s fiery attitude and how she did not back down from Derek when she first met him. Most people would have been intimidated by him and his wealth and power. Melinda was not scared off easily and challenged him. Derek came across as rude, bossy, and arrogant but there ended up being a softer, gentler side to him underneath that gruff exterior. I found myself rooting for Derek and Melinda to be together. I highly recommend this book!

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Love Shots (Bluestone Series Book 4) by Isobel Reed – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

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Love Shots (Bluestone Series Book 4)Love Shots by Isobel Reed
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Love Shots is Book Four of the Bluestone Series. Although it is part of a series it can easily be read as a standalone. With that being said, I do recommend reading the series because it is amazing! This is a friends to lover’s romance set in the small town of Bluestone County that centers around the characters of Teddy and Autumn. The book starts out with a bang and grabs your attention from the first few pages as Autumn practically breaks down Teddy’s door in the middle of the night and throws an eight-hundred-dollar bottle of whiskey at his head. She is furious that he has purchased her grandfather’s bar that she has always wanted. He has never seen Autumn so furious but even through the anger he still has a soft spot in his heart for her. When he notices bruises on Autumn’s arms, he knows that somebody has hurt her. She refuses to tell him, but his heart goes out to her and all he wants to do is protect her. Autumn has always been the girl for Teddy, but he has never let her know. This time around he intends to make the girl of his dreams his own. Will Autumn realize her true feelings for Teddy? Will Teddy and Autumn ever be a true couple?

This book had a wonderful storyline and engaging characters. Teddy might seem rough on the surface because of his time with the Navy Seals but deep down he is a sweetheart. He has had a crush on his friend for as long as he can remember but has never acted on his feelings. When Summer returns to town and Teddy realizes that she is in danger he vows to protect her. Summer has only returned home because she is penniless, jobless, and homeless. When she returns home, she is angry that her grandfather’s bar has been purchased by her friend Teddy because it was her dream to own it. When she confronts Teddy there is clearly more to the situation that she is letting on. Teddy realizes that Autumn is being abused but that she is too proud and stubborn to admit it. Teddy wants to protect her and keep her safe from her ex at all costs. My heart broke for Autumn when I thought of the abuse she suffered at the hands of her ex. I found myself rooting for Autumn to realize that Teddy was the man of her dreams, and I so wanted them to experience their happily ever after. This was an emotional read for me, but it was worth the read. I highly recommend this book!

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Lilly Tames Her Worries by Carole Heaney – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

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Lilly Tames Her WorriesLilly Tames Her Worries by Carole Heaney
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Lilly Tames Her Worries is a kid’s book designed for children between the ages of six to ten years of age. The story centers around the character of young Lilly who suffers from the heebie-jeebies. Since she was born, she has always had her stuffed rabbit Hun Bun to keep her calm and soothe her worries. While in a hurry one morning Lilly forgets to put Hun Bun in her backpack before she goes to school. Once she is at school the pesky heebie-jeebies return and Lilly becomes stressed. Her palms begin to sweat, her heart starts to beat loudly, and her tummy starts to do flip flops. Not feeling well, Lilly asks her teacher if she can go to see the school nurse. She tells the nurse how she is feeling, and the nurse asks Lilly to try Square Breathing when she starts feeling the heebie-jeebies. When Lilly tries the breathing exercises, she feels better and practices using them throughout the day whenever a situation makes her worried. She also stops to ask herself what about the situation is causing her to feel the heebie-jeebies.

This was a wonderfully written book that helps children learn to manage stress and anxiety in situations that make them feel worried or nervous. The illustrations are bright, colorful, and really help bring the story to life. Although geared towards school-aged children I feel that it has some helpful pointers that adults, such as myself, could use as well. The techniques Lilly used through Square Breathing helped her to not only tame her worries but also helped her to be brave enough to do things that would otherwise be hard for her to do. She learned to ask herself what about the situation made her feel worried. Why was she feeling that way? What was she worried that would happen? Once Lilly tried the breathing exercises and realized why she felt the way she did it helped her to manage her worries and be brave enough to overcome them. This is a great resource for any home or school library to help children who suffer from worry, stress, or anxiety. I highly recommend this book!

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Refrain (Off the Record Book 3) by Madelynne Ellis – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

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Refrain (Off the Record Book 3)Refrain by Madelynne Ellis
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Refrain is Book Three in the Off the Record Series. I will have to go back and read the first two books so that I get a better understanding of Spook and the rest of the characters’ backstories. This book is a continuation of Spook’s story and without reading the other books I did not have a full picture of him or his character. Spook has had a rough go of things and his traumatic past has caught up with him. Not only has his darkest secrets been exposed but they have been twisted to make even more sensational stories. Spook decides that it is best to walk away from everything he loves, including his beloved band Black Halo and his girlfriend Alle.

The book really puts the reader through the emotions as it starts off with Spook being found lying in a pool of his own blood by some of his friends. He is rushed off to the hospital and thankfully gets stitched back together but is unable to speak so he cannot say what happened to him. Xane is determined to help Spook and makes it his mission to do so. He wants Spook and Alle to get back together and for Spook to return to the band, Black Halo. Will Spook ever be able to get through the demons of his past and get his happily ever after?

This was a beautifully written poignant, and heart-wrenching story with a riveting storyline. The characters were engaging and relatable. My heart went out to Spook for all that he had been through. I so wanted Spook to be able to move forward in his life and have the happiness he deserves. This book will put you through the emotional wringer and have you reaching for the box of Kleenex. If you have triggers though, this book might not be for you as it discusses difficult subject matter. It contains references to depression, abuse, mental illness, self-harm, and suicidal ideation. It had angst, drama, friendship, trauma, heartache, passion, chemistry, and love.

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Mesmerised (Hybrid Lovers Book 2) by Toya Richardson – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

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Mesmerised (Hybrid Lovers #2)Mesmerised by Toya Richardson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Mesmerised is the Second Book in the Hybrid Lovers Series. Although this book is part of a series it can easily be read as a standalone. The story centers around the characters of Antoine and Donna and is told from each of their POV. Antoine is an angel/vampire Hybrid whose role has been to protect humans from demons. He has been alone for centuries because he has not been able to find his mate but if he does not find his human mate soon, he is doomed to die. To remain immortal Antoine must find his mate and only together can they destroy a demon completely.

Donna has recently lost everything and has fallen into a deep state of depression. She lost both of her parents in a horrific house fire, lost her best friends, lost her job, lost all her money to a hacker, and then lost her home. Feeling as though she has nothing left to live for, Donna sets off to find a quiet place to end her life. She ends up at the beach thinking it is the perfect place but as she is walking into the water she is rescued by Antoine. He felt her presence, sensed her despair, and felt the connection to Donna. He instantly knows from the intense feelings that he is experiencing that this woman is his mate. When Donna awakens, she is shocked to learn that she was saved and is determined to get away, but Antoine will not allow it. Naturally, Donna feels as though she must have been kidnapped and that this strange man is crazy when Antoine tries to explain to her about the two of them being mates. Donna finds herself drawn to Antoine and feels an instant connection to him as well but cannot explain why. The connection and chemistry between Antoine and Donna is instantaneous, explosive, and undeniable. As the two try to navigate their feelings towards one another the demons are drawing closer. Will Antoine and Donna give in to fate and temptation? Will they realize they are destined to be together? Will they be able to defeat the demons?

This was a beautifully written book with an interesting storyline, engaging characters, and vividly described scenes. I found myself rooting for Antoine and Donna to act on their feelings for one another and be together. Donna had suffered so much loss and grief that I wanted her to find happiness. Antoine was looking for love and wanted someone to spend eternity with. I found myself reading to the end to see what would become of these two. If they would end up with their happily ever after. I needed to see if they together they would destroy the demons. A great read full of loss, sorrow, despair, grief, hope, demons, hybrids, and the power of love. I highly recommend this book!

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Conversations with the Tarot by Maria DeBlassie – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

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Conversations with the Tarot: Bewitching Meditations on Reading the CardsConversations with the Tarot: Bewitching Meditations on Reading the Cards by Maria DeBlassie
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Conversations with Tarot is so much more than your basic how-to book on learning to read Tarot cards. In this book the author not only shows the reader how to read the cards but also discusses how she reads the cards every day and how they help to guide her. It is part magic and part divine inspiration that help to guide her. I loved how the author explains that a deck of Tarot cards may speak to you, in a sense and that the deck meant for you will come to you when the time is right. I have had my Tarot cards read to me in the past and have always been a bit intrigued by them. However, I was uncertain what each card meant or how one even begins to read the card that is drawn. This book enlightened me, and I learned that there are different types of decks of Tarot cards. Through this book I learned what each card means when that card is drawn and the symbolism behind the card. I also learned that the process of reading Tarot cards involves the formation of a special relationship or bond with your deck of cards. That it is more in-depth than just flipping the card over and describing what the symbol on the card means. I found this book very interesting and loved how the author uses a combination of stories, messages, and musings to explain the Tarot cards and how they can help guide you. This is a book that I will be reading repeatedly and intend to keep as a handy reference. I highly recommend this book!

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When Magic Calls: A Collection of Modern Fairy Tales by Caitlin Berve – Review by

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<a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/52660006-when-magic-calls” style=”float: left; padding-right: 20px”><img border=”0″ alt=”When Magic Calls: A Collection of Modern Fairy Tales” src=”https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1585206286l/52660006._SX98_.jpg” /></a><a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/52660006-when-magic-calls”>When Magic Calls: A Collection of Modern Fairy Tales</a> by <a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/17573151.Caitlin_Berve”>Caitlin Berve</a><br/>
My rating: <a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/5750254336″>5 of 5 stars</a><br /><br />
I really enjoyed this book and the different twists on fairytales. Letters to a Wu, it was so intriguing. And how different cultures deal with loss, and visiting the other side. Wolf Girl- my second favorite one. Guy is obsessed with wolf girl or the goddess. She gets seperated from her pack. And at the end they are able to track wolf girl’s pack and reunite them together. Bones of the soul- one of the best takes of Pinocchio. Nazar is slowing freezing because of his disease. Doctors said by 18 he would no longer be. Nazar only painted people he had some connection to. At the end how two of his muses meet when Nazar pass and connecting everyone together. It was beautiful. Definitely a must read!
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Leaving No Traces (A Commissario Scala Mystery in Rome) by P.J. Mann – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

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Leaving No Traces (Commissario Scala #5)Leaving No Traces by P. J. Mann
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Leaving No Traces is Book Five in A Commissario Scala Mystery in Rome Series. It is an action-packed, fast-paced, crime thriller that centers around the character of Detective Scala. In his newest case, Detective Scala is attempting to solve the mysterious circumstances around a missing woman whose car is discovered abandoned at a service station. Blood splatter on the driver’s seat indicates that the woman has been murdered and Detective Scala is determined to find her killer and bring the person to justice. As he works to unravel the clues and solve the murder, he finds himself deep in the underbelly of the criminal world where lives do not matter. Detective Scala finds himself fighting for survival against an evil villain. The ensuing story is full of action, suspense, danger, murder, intrigue, corruption, criminals, villains, and twists and turns that will keep you riveted to the very end. The storyline is multi-layered and well written, and the characters are engaging. Detective Scala will stop at nothing to solve a mystery and is ruthless in his quest for justice. I love that he follows the clues and found myself following them as well and trying to solve the murder. This book will keep you reading to the end to find out whodunit. I highly recommend this book!

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Fortune’s Favorite (Soulbound Journeys Book 2) by C. L. Schneider – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

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Fortune's Favorite (Soulbound Journeys #2)Fortune’s Favorite by C.L. Schneider
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Fortune’s Favorite is Book Two in the Soulbound Journeys Series. It is an action-packed, dark fantasy book that centers around the story of Ian and Jarryd. The two explorers have been at sea for awhile so when they get to the port of Maldarehm it seems like the perfect place to stop and re-supply. The port seems like a normal bustling place on the surface but Ian senses that there is far more to it than that. Something about this place makes him uneasy and gives him a sense of dread. Jarryd, on the other hand, is anxious to explore and see if the stories he has heard about the place are true. Both Ian and Jarryd set off on their own adventures, taking vastly different paths. Ultimately, fate leads them both to danger and they must fight for their own survival. This was a fast-past, action-filled, thrill ride as Ian and Jarryd fight for their lives against the forces of evil intent upon destroying them. The storyline was riveting and captured my attention as I found myself flipping the pages right up until the very end to see what would become of Ian and Jarryd. The author did an amazing job of creating engaging characters that you find yourself rooting for as they navigate through the perils that befall them. Each scene is so vividly described that you are fully immersed into each scene along with the characters. This book had action, suspense, mystery, intrigue, drama, danger, magic, Gods, and the paranormal. I cannot wait to read the next book in this amazing series!

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I Am An Outer Space Alien (I am an Alien) by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

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I Am An Outer Space Alien (I am an Alien)I Am An Outer Space Alien by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I Am An Outer Space Alien is part of the I Am An Alien Series. It is a children’s book geared towards children from the ages of four to eight years old. The story centers around a little girl named Shirley who feels like she does not belong on Earth. She does not like her name because she thinks the letter “y” droops like a dog’s tail, so she calls herself Shirl. Shirl feels like an alien because she does not remember being born, does not like Earth food, and does not like to play Earth games. When a space ship lands, and an alien girl gets off the ship, she and Shirl become instant friends. Shirl finally feels like she has something in common with someone and feels as though she belongs. A cute and quirky story about inclusion, friendship, individuality, and acceptance. The bright illustrations really made the story pop off the pages and brought the story to life. I highly recommend this book!

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How to Catch Little Boys and Eat Them by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Carlie Del Gallo

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How to Catch Little Boys and Eat ThemHow to Catch Little Boys and Eat Them by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I love this authors books!! She is such a wonderful writer and everything that she writes has me captivated! This book was no different and I absolutely loved reading this story. The illustrations are so cute and engaging! Each book that I have read by this author has a wonderful lesson and this one was great. I cannot wait to read this book with my best friends children!!

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Saved by the Everyday Hero (Limited Edition Romance Collections) by Naomi Valkyrie & Various Authors – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

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Saved by the Everyday HeroSaved by the Everyday Hero by Amelia Hayden
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Saved by the Everyday Hero is a collection of short stories by thirteen different authors. The theme of each story is about everyday people making a difference in small ways that help others learn to love again. One of my favorite stories in this collection was by one of my favorite authors, Naomi Valkyrie. Her story entitled Unexpected Heroes is a M/M Romance that centers around the characters of Elijah and Jude. Elijah moves in next door to Jude with his infant son. When Jude sees Elijah struggling late one night to soothe his baby and get him to sleep, he offers to help. From there a friendship grows as Jude helps Elijah unpack, runs errands for him, and helps with the baby. Both men have troubled pasts that each has been struggling to overcome in their own ways. Through their friendship they learn to trust, to love again, and they work together to overcome challenges that come their way. The friendship between them grows and blossoms into more over time and the two find their soulmate in one another. I have not yet read all the stories in this collection but the ones I did read were heartfelt, uplifting, hopeful, and inspiring. This is a collection that I will be going back to read over and over again. I highly recommend this book!

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Love, Only Better (Bold Journeys Book 1) by Paulette Stout – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

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Love, Only BetterLove, Only Better by Paulette Stout
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Love, Only Better is the first book in the Bold Journeys Series. It is a beautifully written story of one woman’s journey to self-discovery and sexual empowerment. The story centers around the character of Rebecca who has just been dumped by her boyfriend. He refers to her as an “ice queen” and this is his reason for breaking up with her. Rebecca is devastated but saw the breakup coming. Her roommate is less than helpful and tells her it is for the best because she never liked him anyways. Rebecca has nobody to talk to about her “sexual problem” because the subject is taboo. Rebecca feels as though she cannot do anything right and as though her world is falling apart around her, so she decides to go on a journey to become a better person. This journey is a bit different than the typical eating healthier, going to the gym, working out, becoming a better person journey that most women would go through after a bad breakup. Rebecca decides to try to discuss the matter with her doctor and ultimately ends up becoming part of a research study. Through the study she learns a lot about herself, her sexuality, and gains self-confidence. Enough confidence that she decides to go after what she wants, one of which is the yummy relative of one of her neighbors. Through Rebecca’s journey she runs into some snags, hits some bumps in the road, but overall learns to be confident, strong, brave, and empowered. As her confidence and sexual empowerment improve Rebecca learns how sex and love combine to have a healthy, happy, vibrant relationship. Huge kudos to the author for her bravery in discussing the taboo subject of women’s sexuality. Looking forward to reading the next book in this series!

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Liz’s Road Trip by Bernadette Marie – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

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Liz's Road TripLiz’s Road Trip by Bernadette Marie
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Liz’s Road Trip is a beautifully written, wholesome, feel-good story about one woman’s journey after the loss of a loved one. The story centers around the character of Liz who has just lost her grandmother to cancer. When Liz goes through her grandmother’s phone, she discovers contact information for individuals she does not know. Information for financial advisors and messages from guys calling her grandmother “doll” peek Liz’s interest and has Liz questioning who her grandmother was. When one of her grandmother’s contacts calls persistently Liz finally answer. She is shocked to discover this stranger named Mark knows who she is and seems to have a lot of personal information on her. Then he drops the bomb that he is living in her grandmother’s house in Florida. This cannot be true, and this guy must be pulling a scam because her grandma did not own a home in Florida. As Mark and Liz talk it is discovered that Mark is a biographer who is writing about her grandma’s glamourous past as a Hollywood star who had a zest for life. Liz is surprised to learn about her grandma’s past and her secret life. Liz only knows her grandma as the sweet, loving person she grew up with. With her curiosity piqued Liz sets off on a road trip with her grandma’s cat to fulfill her grandma’s final wishes and to hopefully get answers. Through her journey Liz makes discoveries about herself, makes a friend in Mark, gains a confidante, and learns to live and love life. This was a heartfelt and uplifting story of Liz’s journey as she navigated through grief and loss of her grandma by learning more about her grandma’s past. I highly recommend this book!

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Granting Katelyn (Sweet Valley Series) by S.E. Reichert – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

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Granting KatelynGranting Katelyn by S.E. Reichert
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Granting Katelyn is Book Two in The Sweet Valley Series. It is a beautifully written, heart wrenching, western romance set in a small town that centers around the characters of Katelyn and Grant. The story is told from the POV of both MC’s so the reader gains insight into Katelyn and Grant’s history and thought process. The storyline is engaging, and the characters are ones that will instantly tug at your heartstrings when you read about their back stories. Katelyn is an all-state barrel racing champion and equine therapist with a no-nonsense, take-charge attitude. She does not back down from a challenge and comes across to some as aggressive. For those that know Katelyn they know that she does not put up with nonsense from anyone. When she is approached to help Grant with his horse that suffered injuries in an accident she did not realize that she would be helping Grant as well. Both Grant and his horse sustained injuries in the same accident, and it has left them broken. Grant comes across as overbearing, grumpy, and rude which makes Katelyn’s work a bit more challenging. Sadly, Grant has endured horrendous emotional abuse at the hands of his manipulative father which has left him scarred and broken. As Katelyn and Grant get to know one another they help one another heal. The chemistry between them grows and they find healing through love. This was an emotional rollercoaster ride as Katelyn and Grant overcame numerous challenges and learned to trust in order to heal. I cannot wait for the next book in this series!

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Heavy Shot (Nashville Assassins: Next Generation) by Toni Aleo – Review by Brittany Angel

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Heavy Shot (Nashville Assassins: Next Generation #7)Heavy Shot by Toni Aleo
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This was my very first hockey romance, and I may be a fan for life now. When Dimitri and Austen find themselves in an unfortunate situation, they decide to make the best of it as they can. What then ensues is some of the funniest banter I’ve read in a while. Their relationship slowly goes from strangers to friends to lovers in the best way. By then end, you can’t help but cheer them on in their love for one another. I plan to add the rest of this series to my TBR because I need to know what happens with the other characters in this!

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Love Bites More (The Darkness & Light Duology, and the Love Bites World) by TL Clark – Review by

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Love Bites MoreLove Bites More by T.L. Clark
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This book was an escape to another world. It was pure excitement to read and get lost in the writing. The description of the scenery and the complexity of the characters is riveting. This book is not the first in the series but when I say that it is okay if you haven’t read the others; I actually mean it. The author does an amazing job with making sure that the reader is able to pick up and carry on through the book as if they have read the entire series up to this point. That speaks volumes upon volumes of the amazing writing that is in this book. It was also a quick read for me because of the story line and how I just couldn’t put the book down without knowing what was going to happen next. The characters make you fall in love with them. You will go through emotions that they are going through. There is amazing chemistry in this book with the characters and the steam is off the charts. The magic, suspense, steamy times, and wonderful characters; will leave you wanting to read every book in this series. It is a great escape to a complete amazing place that you never knew you needed.

Reviewed by: @bbohls
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Heavy Shot (Nashville Assassins: Next Generation) by Toni Aleo – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

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Heavy Shot (Nashville Assassins: Next Generation #7)Heavy Shot by Toni Aleo
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Heavy Shot is Book Seven of the Nashville Assassins: Next Generation series. This is a sports romance book that centers around the characters of Austen and Dimitri. Austen has had a rough life full of abuse and neglect. She has learned to be strong and wants to make her grandfather proud, so she takes a job with the Assassins. Dimitri is back from playing hockey in Russia and comes to try out for the Assassins team. When a mix-up with housing occurs Dimitri and Austen end up in the same apartment. Although at first the two do not necessarily hit it off they eventually reach a truce. The witty banter, teasing, and chemistry between them builds as they get to know one another better.

This was a well written book with an engaging storyline and lovable characters. Austen has had a horrific past full of abuse and trauma but has not let that deter her from having a bright future. She learned to be strong, assertive, feisty and stand on her own two feet. Dimitri comes across as being cocky and arrogant initially but as the story unfolds, we see another side of him. He is sweet, kind, and gentle with Austen which was wonderful to read. The author did a beautiful job of writing about sensitive subject matter and the after effects a survivor of abuse experiences. The love story between Austen and Dimitri was inspiring. A wonderful story full of angst, witty banter, humor, hope, love, passion, and romance. I highly recommend this book!

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Mr Lucky (Trentbridge Tales Book 1) by Lee Wood – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

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

Mr. Lucky is Book One in the Trentbridge Tales Series. It is a fast-paced, British Crime Thriller that centers around the character of former Detective James Sheldon. James is no longer a Detective and luck really has not been on his side at all. James has not only lost his career, but he has also lost his family, is homeless, and has sunken into self-despair. When he suddenly wins a substantial amount of money in the lottery things should look up for him. Instead, James’ life takes a turn for the worse as he is in a battle to survive against numerous people who suddenly seem to have it out for him. Will he be able to outrun, outwit, outfox, and out maneuver the savory characters intent on destroying him?

This was a well written book with a compelling storyline and interesting characters. James was down-on-his-luck with no hope for a bright future. He had sunken into self-loathing and despair until winning the lottery. Coming into millions of dollars should have instantly improved his life but as luck would have it, life got infinitely worse. James had to pull himself together and dig down deep for the strength to save his life from those after him. This was a fast paced, edge of your seat, intense psychological thrill ride that will rivet you and have you reading until the end. I highly recommend this book!

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Reticent Hawke (The Hawke Family Second Generation Book 2) by Gwyn McNamee – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

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Reticent Hawke: A Billionaire Reverse Age Gap Best Friend's Older Sister Forbidden Romance (The Hawke Family Second Generation Book 2)Reticent Hawke: A Billionaire Reverse Age Gap Best Friend’s Older Sister Forbidden Romance by Gwyn McNamee
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Reticent Hawke is the Second Book in The Hawke Family Second Generation Series. This is a forbidden romance, older woman, friends to lover’s story told from multiple POV’s. The story centers around the characters of Jude and Angelina. Jude was not born into the Hawke family but was adopted by them, so he is considered family. He had a rough childhood which has left him traumatized and weary of human touch. Angelina/Angie is a member of the Hawke family and is 12 years older than Jude. She is the only person who has been able to reach Jude and the only person that he feels comfortable with. Angie and Jude feel a very strong connection and bond between them that goes beyond being family. They are intensely attracted to one another and find it hard to work through the feelings they have towards one another.

This book was beautifully written and took me on a rollercoaster ride of emotions. The characters of Jude and Angie were instantly lovable and relatable, and the storyline hit close to home for me. As an older woman who met, fell in love, and married a younger man I can fully understand society’s view of this type of a relationship. It is socially acceptable for older men to date younger women but not necessarily the other way around. My husband is fifteen years my junior and even I struggled with the age gap and how society would view our relationship. The author did a wonderful job of writing about this reverse age gap romance. I found myself rooting for Jude and Angie to be together. This book has angst, drama, passion, family, hope, romance, tension, and love. I loved this book and cannot wait for the next one in the series! I highly recommend this book!

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Heavy Shot (Nashville Assassins: Next Generation) by Toni Aleo – Review by Tori Mitton

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<a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/182665118-heavy-shot” style=”float: left; padding-right: 20px”><img border=”0″ alt=”Heavy Shot (Nashville Assassins: Next Generation #7)” src=”https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1689858504l/182665118._SX98_.jpg” /></a><a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/182665118-heavy-shot”>Heavy Shot</a> by <a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/5255580.Toni_Aleo”>Toni Aleo</a><br/>
My rating: <a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/5738411491″>5 of 5 stars</a><br /><br />
Dimitri is from Russia, and came to the states to play hockey for the Assasins team. He gets to his new apartment, and it’s filled with stuff from what we think is the previous tenant. Austen thinks someone has broken into her apartment. Austen and Dimitri get into a scuffle about the apartment, but it ends up working out for them in the end. Austen is here training to be a GM for her grandpa’s team he is trying to build. Austen escaped a cult and is trying to live her life and learn who she is. With Dimitri by her side they are able to conquer and win together. This was such an amazing read.
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Murder in a Gated Community by Laura Koerber – Review by Elisha Johnson

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Murder in a Gated CommunityMurder in a Gated Community by Laura Koerber
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Murder in a Gated Community by Laura Koerber- 4 out of 5 stars

I was surprised by this read to say the least. At times I was laughing, I never would have expected that from a book with Murder in the title. The author brings life to this gated retirement community of seniors. Each senior has their own back story with love, secrets, and heartache. I love how well rounded the character development is throughout the book. I do wish the author would have brought everything to a solid end but maybe she has more in-store for us in the future.

Review by @elishajohnson

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Shadowed Obsession (Shadow Defense Security Series Book 1) by Mavery Ellscott – Review by Elisha Johnson

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Shadowed Obsession: An Action-Packed Romantic Suspense Thriller (Shadow Defense Security Series Book 1)Shadowed Obsession: An Action-Packed Romantic Suspense Thriller by Mavery Ellscott
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Shadowed Obsession by Mavery Ellscott- 5out of 5 stars

Wow! From a strong business woman, to an unrelenting stalker, to a sexy ex special forces neighbor, this book has it all! The author gives just enough away to keep you on the edge of your seat wanting more. I absolutely love Cade and Kiera’s character development. The romantic chemistry portrayed between them was palpable, to say the least. I gobbled this book up in one session without putting it down. Truly can’t wait to see what else this author has in store for the future.

Review by @elishajohnson

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Heavy Shot (Nashville Assassins: Next Generation) by Toni Aleo – Review by Jaimie Salmon-Colburn

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Heavy Shot (Nashville Assassins: Next Generation #7)Heavy Shot by Toni Aleo
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

When I got this book I didn’t even realize that it was book 7, but it totally didn’t matter! You can read this as a stand alone, but honestly I can’t wait to read the others to the set!! This one was so good!! I haven’t read any sport romances before and I am glad that I gave it a shot. I was able to understand what the author was talking about and I ended up really enjoying the book. Dimitri loves hockey. It’s his life long career and his goal has always been to play for the Assassins. So picking up his mom, dad, and sister they all move from Russia to Tennessee! But just because his family came with doesn’t mean he wants to live with them. He stays in the players rooms instead. After a long day of practice, working out, meetings, and seeing old friends he’s ready to crazy. Unfortunately there is a tiny problem. Austen. She’s escaped a horrible abusive past and can’t wait to lead the farm team for the Assassins. She doesn’t want people making decisions for her and she wants to thrive in her new life and career. Only issue is Dimitri. Both Dimitri and Austen are given the same room. A mix up with last minute changes and not enough communication. Thinking Dimitri is an intruder, Austen loses it. Let’s just say that their first meeting leaves some marks. Boy oh boy do you need to read this book! It is funny and sad and you will just get sucked right in! Sports Romance for the win!

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Ten Little Starfish by Kim Ann – Review by Jaimie Salmon-Colburn

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Ten Little Starfish: A Counting BookTen Little Starfish: A Counting Book by Kim Ann
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This book is so cute!! I personally thought that it was adorable. The illustrations are so cute and fun. It is a counting book, so it is wonderful for kids 1-5. You can have your kids search and find all the starfish along the way through the book as you read. There are also some great facts about starfish near the end of the book. Also included are some search and count pages where they give you a few things to find at the end. Then after that there is a search the whole book and count page. It will have you going through the book a couple times with your kid(dos), counting a few different things. Personally I would add on a few more counting challenges using the opening and ending pages. They are illustrated with small shells, crabs, and star fish on those four pages, so you can defiantly add to all the counting fun there! I would recommend this book for babies 1st library up to pre-k. Start them reading young and they’ll be counting in no time!

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Tempting Fate (Black Shamrocks MC: Australia Book 1) by Bella Faust – Review by Kirsten Berkebile

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This book had me on pins and needle during the entire reading. It’s definitely different from the previous MC books I have read. I really don’t understand why there is so much violence among a “friends /family”. I am in shock at the way it ended or rather didn’t. There is a continuation which I would love to read the whole thing. Bella kept my feelings going throughout the book, I felt Lily’s love for Venom and her love for Slash as well. She definitely keeps you on your toes throughout the book. There is a character from another MC group that I thought was brought in, however I realized that its just another character’s name not the same person. I can’t wait to see if I can review the next book.

Tempting Fate: a dark and angsty love triangle romance (Black Shamrocks MC: Australia Book 1)Tempting Fate: a dark and angsty love triangle romance by Bella Faust
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This book had me on pins and needle during the entire reading. It’s definitely different from the previous MC books I have read. I really don’t understand why there is so much violence among a “friends /family”. I am in shock at the way it ended or rather didn’t. There is a continuation which I would love to read the whole thing. Bella kept my feelings going throughout the book, I felt Lily’s love for Venom and her love for Slash as well. She definitely keeps you on your toes throughout the book. There is a character from another MC group that I thought was brought in, however I realized that its just another character’s name not the same person. I can’t wait to see if I can review the next book.

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The Ring of Eagna (The Cross of Ciaran Book 4) by Andrea Matthews – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

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The Ring of Eagna (The Cross of Ciaran #4)The Ring of Eagna by Andrea Matthews
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The Ring of Eagna is Book Four in The Cross of Ciaran series. This book carries on where the previous book left off so if you have not yet read the first few books in this series, I highly recommend that you do. They introduce to the characters, and the backstory while providing important details. Without reading them first you may feel a bit lost in the storyline. Aodhan and Ciaran are off on another adventure after they find an ancient manuscript written a thousand years ago by a monk in tenth century Ireland. The manuscript describes a mythical treasure that requires three ancient rings to access it. Ciaran and Aodhan already have two rings, so they feel that acquiring the third ring will not be so difficult. However, along the way they discover that they are not the only ones trying to locate the treasure and things become dangerous for the two men. The tension and drama intensifies as Ciaran and Aodhan fight to survive.

This is a fast paced, action packed, book that is chock full of adventure, danger, suspense, mystery, magic, intrigue, and twists and turns that will keep you reading until the very end. The author does a fantastic job of providing detailed historical information that fully immerses the reader into the storyline along with the characters. A fantastic read that with a riveting storyline that is impossible to put down.

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