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Messenger (Star-Crossed Celestials Book 2) by A.L. Morrow – Review by Barbara Bohls

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Messenger (Star-Crossed Celestials Duet #2)Messenger by A.L. Morrow
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This book is amazing. First thing first, you do need to read the first book in this series to understand fully what is going on. I skipped it, however, I will be going back to read it. I mean you can read this book without reading the first but it makes it harder to understand the dynamic between Jase and Cyrus. This book picks up where the other left off and it goes into detail about things but I feel I would have had a fuller understanding of what was happening had I read the first book before this one. That being said, this book is still amazing and I felt myself getting swept away with the story. It brings elements into the concept of Romeo and Juliet. There isn’t much of a resemblance to the actual Romeo and Juliet story because this one is between two males, had supernatural aspects, and really the only thing it has in common with Romeo and Juliet is the forbidden love between the two main characters. That said, it was an amazing spin on a timeless classic piece of literature. The slow burn between the charters that builds throughout the book. You can tell instantly how much they each care for each other and you can also feel, how everyone disagrees with some of their choices. It has angst, suspense, drama, love, and some good steam. You will not be disappointed reading this book if you like celestial, paranormal romance. I just suggest reading the first book in the series before this one so you are all caught up and not struggling to figure out things along the way. However, if you. just want to devour a great book and don’t mind not knowing everything but eventually being able to piece things together, go for it!!! This book will leave you wanting more, so I am excited to go back and read the first one in the series.
Reviewed by: @bbohls

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Rogue (The Talisman Series) by Tam DeRudder Jackson – Review by Kirsten Berkebile

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This book is about Baz Cormac, a rogue who wasn’t wanting to be a rogue but was rather forced into by Goddess Morrigan.  I absolutely love this series. It’s full of action and romance which I truly didn’t think I would like (the romance of it). There are multiple POVs throughout the series and each book has at least two main characters. Baz and Delaney are the two main characters in this book, I really feel connected to the two of them as they tell their story. Delaney is a warrior-talisman hybrid who is looking for her warrior sort of. Is Baz and Delaney meant to be, you need to read this book to find out?

Rogue (The Talisman Series)Rogue by Tam DeRudder Jackson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This book is about Baz Cormac, a rogue who wasn’t wanting to be a rogue but was rather forced into by Goddess Morrigan. I absolutely love this series. It’s full of action and romance which I truly didn’t think I would like (the romance of it). There are multiple POVs throughout the series and each book has at least two main characters. Baz and Delaney are the two main characters in this book, I really feel connected to the two of them as they tell their story. Delaney is a warrior-talisman hybrid who is looking for her warrior sort of. Is Baz and Delaney meant to be, you need to read this book to find out?

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The Romanov Heiress by Jennifer Laam – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

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The Romanov HeiressThe Romanov Heiress by Jennifer Laam
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Olga, as the oldest of the Romanov sisters, has taken it upon herself to keep her younger sisters safe. After fleeing from Russia to England they are trying to adjust to their new situation while keeping their true identities a closely guarded secret. When dark family secrets surface, Olga must find the source of the rumors before they destroy her family. The rumors are about her late mother, Empress Alexandra, betraying Russia, and their allies during the Great War. These rumors could destroy her late mother’s legacy and the future of the family.

Olga goes undercover as a maid named Olivia at the home of the Lord Hammond where she suspects the rumors started. As she works for the Hammond’s she begins to learn the truth about her mother and soon begins to find out the complicated connection between their two families.

I loved this historical fiction book and the author’s take on the real Romanov family. It was beautifully written and the attention to detail bring the setting, the era, the story, and the characters to life. The characters are relatable, and you are able to feel the overwhelming range of emotions that the Romanov sisters must have experienced as their lives are thrown into turmoil. It was full of suspense, mystery, intrigue, secrets, and lies.

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Rogue (The Talisman Series) by Tam DeRudder Jackson – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

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Rogue (The Talisman Series)Rogue by Tam DeRudder Jackson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Rogue follows the story of Baz, a warrior who has been forced to turn rogue. The choice was not one that he wanted to make but it was either pledge himself to the evil Morrigan or go into hiding. Baz made the best choice he could under the circumstances and has had to live with that decision for the last few years. He does not like working for the war goddess Morrigan but completes all the missions she gives him while his real goal is to start a class of Celtic fighters.

Delaney is a warrior-talisman hybrid who acts as protector to save her warrior community. Her whole life has been spent trying to live down the choice her uncle made to go rogue. When a cryptic message leads her to an abandoned home she comes face-to-face with a lone rogue. Rather than kill her he takes her to his lair where their attraction and emotions threaten to ruin both of their missions.

Delaney knows that this lone rogue is a danger to her community and as their protector it is up to her to neutralize the threat. So why is she finding it so difficult to do? Baz discovers that Delaney is his mate, his talisman, and struggles to come to terms with that. Will they realize their love for one another or does fate have other plans for them? Will they be able to look past who they are to outside forces and get to know who they really are?

This book was action packed and full of intense situations for Baz and Delaney. Although unlikely mates they have an undeniable chemistry between them which makes the storyline interesting. Baz might be a rogue might it was not his choice. After having a rough life, he did what he had to do. Delaney is trained as a warrior and protects those around her. Both Baz and Delaney have been brought up in situations where they had to learn to be strong and fight to survive. A great paranormal romance full of action, magic, suspense, danger, and the battle of good versus evil.

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Rogue (The Talisman Series) by Tam DeRudder Jackson – Review by Helen Dawkins

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Rogue (The Talisman Series)Rogue by Tam DeRudder Jackson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Rogue is an exciting paranormal romance steeped in Celtic Mythology, and the 6th book in the series, The Talisman Series. The beginning of the book pulled me in immediately. I loved the dual POV. Baz and Delaney find themselves constantly in intense situations with power hungry antagonists. Baz is a rogue, but not necessarily by choice. I adore both MC’s they are both bada$$ and super interesting. The sexual tension between Baz and Delaney is intense and steamy. I enjoyed watching their growth throughout. What happens when the Goddesses come calling? Baz has found himself in a situation for love or to have freedom. Which is more important?

This is fast paced and will keep you entertained the entire time. Definitely recommend this book and the series.

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Just One Time (Beaumont Creek Book 1) by Samantha Baca – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

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Just One Time (Beaumont Creek, #1)Just One Time by Samantha Baca
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Abby has just turned forty and finds herself feeling depressed because her life is not what she expected it to be at this point. In her mind she should be happily married to a man who loves and adores her and have beautiful children they dote on. Whenever Abby sees others living the life she feels that she should have by now she cannot help but feel a bit envious. Of course, Abby’s mom harps at her constantly about having a baby and getting married so that does not help. She feels overwhelming sadness about running out of time to have a baby and it consumes her thoughts until she gets a brilliant idea that involves her best friend Nate.

Nate and Abby have been best friends since childhood and are practically inseparable. They tell each other everything and always have each other’s backs. When Abby confides her feelings to Nate about wanting a baby, he is more than happy to help. They agree that as best friends they will be great parents and decide to take the next step in their friendship. Nate and Abby decide that rather than do costly fertility procedures that they will conceive a baby the old-fashioned way. Wary of how this will affect their friendship they discuss taking things slow but that all changes with one moment of intense passion that sparks between them.

That one moment of passion turns into several more nights of passion between them. Neither Nate nor Abby expected this to happen and are taking it one day at a time. Each finds themselves falling in love with the other, but fear of rejection stops them from discussing their feelings. When Abby becomes pregnant it is unexpected and the timing is horrible. She has recently started dating a man that her mom set her up with. Abby’s parents are unaware of the turn that Nate and Abby’s relationship took or that Abby is pregnant. What will become of Nate and Abby’s friendship? Can they ever be more than friends?

I adored this book and was surprised by the style of the author’s writing. It was not at all what I expected from a friends to lovers romance book. The relationship between Abby and Nate was unique and to be admired. They were so close that they were able to let their guard down with one another, although this was a bit reluctantly and ill-timed in Abby’s case at times. I actually laughed out loud numerous times, even during some of the steamy sex scenes. (My husband actually looked at me a few times and asked what was so funny, but we were in mixed company, so I was unable to read the parts to him that I was chuckling at.) All I will say is that they were a bit unusual and not typical of a romantic or passionate moment. For me, I felt that they were realistic and raw which made me want to read all that much more. Abby had some moments during her pregnancy that I am sure many women can relate with and Nate was a trooper through them all.

I loved this book, but I think my favorite part was when Abby told off her sister’s ex husband. I nearly peed myself laughing at what she said to him. I might have to keep Abby’s words in mind the next time someone gets on my bad side, lol. I loved this book and cannot begin to say enough good things about this author’s writing style. It was romance, passion, friendship, love, angst, and a smidge of jealousy with a side of wit and humor thrown in. I loved it and cannot wait to read more by this author.

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Doctor Frank Enstein (Doctors of Eastport General) by C.A. King – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

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Doctor Frank Enstein (Doctors of Eastport General)Doctor Frank Enstein by C.A. King
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Doctor Frank Einstein is a plastic surgeon who spends his days doing cosmetic surgery for superficial women who he feels do not need the surgery. Unlike many other cosmetic surgeons Doctor Einstein is not in his line of work for butts and boobs. He does it to make a difference in the lives of those who really need it. Those that have been scarred or disfigured. When a job opportunity opens up in the burn Unit of Eastport General Frank jumps at the chance.

As a child Doctor Einstein lived through a fire so he knows the damage such a traumatic event can do to a person both mentally and physically. That day changed his life and he vowed that when he grew up, he would do something that made a difference in the lives of others. Working in the burn unit at Eastport General gives Frank the opportunity to do just that. When some of Frank’s new co-workers invite him out to a local bar for drinks to get to know one another he reluctantly goes.

At the bar, he meets busty barmaid Barbara who he is immediately attracted to, but she makes a less than favorable impression on him. When she finds out Frank is a plastic surgeon, she tries to ask him a question about his line of work, and he immediately jumps to the wrong conclusion. Frank immediately shuts down Barbara’s line of questioning and abruptly leaves the bar. Barbara is flabbergasted that this doctor has been so rude to her and is unsure why he acted that way over such a simple question. Frank immediately feels guilty and wants to apologize for being so rude, but will Barbara ever be able to forgive him?

When Frank and Barbara first meet the chemistry is instant, but they make a bad first impression on one another. Frank realizes that he goofed when he acted so abruptly and knows he needs to apologize. Thankfully, Barbara is understanding and is willing to forgive him and get to know him. As Frank and Barbara get to know each other better each realizes the other has more to them than meets the eye. Frank did not go into cosmetic surgery to be with superficial women who only care about their looks. He did it because of his past history as the victim of a fire and wants to help those who have suffered similar situations. Frank wants to make a difference and help disfigured patients gain confidence and self esteem. Barbara has been well endowed naturally and lives in constant pain from the strain on her back. All she wants is a life free of pain and one where men think of her as more than a pair of breasts. When Barbara meets Doctor Frank, she finally has hope. A great read about love, first impressions, chemistry, romance, understanding, and compassion.

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Under My Care (Chase Care Book 3) by R.L. Dunn – Review by Barbara Bohls

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Under My Care (Chase Care Book 3)Under My Care by R.L. Dunn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Another book that takes us back to the Chase Care Center. This is also the 3rd book in the series. I will say that I was not disappointed by this book at all. There seemed to be trauma after trauma or something happening at the turn of every page. It made this book a really quick read because I had to keep turning the pages in order to find out what happened next or how they decided to proceed with doing something. The fact that the two main characters had worked together years previously gives you all the feels. The blizzard is only the tip of the iceberg on what happens in this book. If you like a fast paced love story with some steam and intrigue, I highly suggest this book. The characters give the reader everything from heroic actions to dee character growth. I was not disappointed by this book at all and it kept with the others in the series with the amount of action and resolution it has. You can read this book by itself before reading the others in the series, however, having the knowledge from the first two books gives you the back story on how things are and how they came to be. I would highly suggest reading the other two books first because they are just that good and you will want to read every book in this series. It is a fast paced read that kept me turning pages.

Reviewed by: @bbohls

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The Challenger (The Hustlers Trilogy Book 2) by Rowan Rossler – Review by Brittany Angel

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The Challenger: A Sports Romance Saga (The Hustlers Trilogy Book 2)The Challenger: A Sports Romance Saga by Rowan Rossler
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

After reading The Cruiser, I couldn’t wait for The Challenger. Th Hustlers Series pulls you right in and doesn’t leave you wanting.

In this installment, we meet Flynn, who is a motivational author and speaker. While at her doctor’s office, she runs into Chavez, a world-renowned tennis star with a reputation. Together, they turn up the heat and work to win. We get a happily ever after, and I can’t wait for the next installment.

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Under My Care (Chase Care Book 3) by R.L. Dunn – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

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Under My Care (Chase Care Book 3)Under My Care by R.L. Dunn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Under my Care is the third book in the Chase Care Series. It follows the story of Peter Walter the Clinical Facility Director for Chase Care. This role is a bit different from past ones where he has been a physician assistant and a pararescue jumper for the Air Force, but it is far from keeping him out of danger. The book starts with a bang as Pete is on a mission to save a mother and daughter who have been kidnapped.

The mother is unable to be saved by the time Pete and his team arrive and only the young daughter, Linde is left behind. The building is on fire, so they rush to rescue her from the burning building, but Linde and Pete are now in need of urgent medical care. The team is forced to land their helicopter at the nearest hospital after a blizzard hits the area. The ER is busy as other local residents have sought shelter from the blizzard and need urgent medical care. One patient in need of urgent care just happens to be the young daughter of the bad guys.

When Pete arrives at the hospital, he comes face to face with the beautiful woman he has never forgotten. He has not seen her since an unforgettable mission in Afghanistan. A mission that left them both hurt and left their lives in turmoil. Dr. Rowena Anderson has moved herself and her two sons back to her family’s ranch in Montana to keep them safe. She is now working as an Emergency Room Doctor at Guardian Hospital. When Dr. Rowena sees Pete again, she realizes that secrets are hard to keep buried. Her and Pete must work together to decide what their future will be. Will they be able to survive the chaos and pursue the chemistry between them?

This book will grab your attention and suck you into the storyline from the beginning. It is fast paced with so much going on at once that it is almost impossible to catch your breath. The characters of Rowena and Pete were relatable, and you could feel the chemistry between them. It was interesting to see how their story would unfold. Both were strong, independent, and unafraid to look danger in the eye. This book had it all from the heart racing, nail biting action, suspense, danger, and intrigue to the romance, love, passion, and chemistry between characters. I am anxious to read book four in this series.

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The Silent Road by S.N. McKibben – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

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The Silent RoadThe Silent Road by S.N. McKibben
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Dan is a man who seems to screw up everything he touches. He spent so much time away from home trying to make money to support his wife and daughter that it caused his marriage to collapse. Not only did his marriage fail but his ex-wife thinks he is a deadbeat. He has failed to follow through with past promises to his daughter, so she has lost all faith in him. The only thing Dan has left is his rig and driving on the open road hauling freight. Or it was, up until the day he was pulled over and was caught driving without a license.

Getting caught driving without a license could not have happened at a worse time for Dan. He needs the money to pay for his daughter’s college tuition. If Dan cannot come up with the money, he risks losing his daughter forever. Dan is forced on probation and must have a co-driver with him in order to prove that he is capable of getting his commercial license. The problem is that Dan does not want to have Jake as his co-driver. He knows Jake’s dirty little secret, and he wants no part of it. Unfortunately, Dan’s boss gives him no choice and Dan must make the best of it as he tries to convince Jake to bend the rules a little bit so that he can make good on the promise he made to his daughter.

As Dan and Jake head out on the open road they get to know one another better. Dan finds that he enjoys Jake’s company a little more than he expected. In all honesty, a lot more than he expected, and it scares him as he finds himself questioning his own sexuality. Could Jake be what he has been looking for, what has been missing from his life, all this time?

This was an interesting MM romance with a big rig, hitting the open road, feel to it. As Dan and Jake hit the open road together it becomes a symbol of their freedom from the constraints of society’s beliefs, judgement, and condemnation. On the road they do not fear what others may think and are allowed the freedom to get to know one another in an open and honest manner. The characters of Jake and Dan are clearly more layered than this story allowed as it was more focused on the relationship between the two men. The author asked for feedback at the end of the book on whether readers would like to read more about Dan and Jake. This reader says, yes, I would love to read a book on each one where the story focuses solely on them, their background, past relationships, and so forth.

I personally, would read a book about Dan which goes back to his marriage to his ex-wife. What was their relationship like? In The Silent Road we know his marriage collapsed because he worked away from home so much. Were there other contributing factors that caused his marriage to fail? Was their relationship rocky to begin with? Did Dan display any signs that might explain his interest in Jake? Was he not attracted to his wife? Was there an underlying reason that kept him on the road and away from his family? A reason that he may not have realized at that time. I would love to know more about Jake as well. Was he always attracted to men? In The Silent Road we see signs of society’s disapproval over his lifestyle. Was there ever a time in his life where he felt the need to conform to society’s beliefs about who he is and hide his sexuality? Was he ever married? If so, does he have children? All in all, this was a good book and I enjoyed it. It left me wanting to learn more about the pasts of both Dan and Jake and I want to read more.

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The Romanov Heiress by Jennifer Laam – Review by Barbara Bohls

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The Romanov HeiressThe Romanov Heiress by Jennifer Laam
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is an amazing historical fiction book. It is normally not my usual genre but I was caught up in the story from the first page. I am not familiar with the characters of this book, so it felt like an actual story but knowing that it is based off of actual figures, blows my mind. I feel like I might have said more attention in history classes growing up if they were presented like this. I can’t speak on how it portrays the charters based upon the actual events but I can say that this book kept me riveted the whole time. The mystery, the intrigue, the feelings these characters have, the dangers that come with being in the time period they are, all make for a page turning book. I understand that this book is only based off of the actual people and events and has a lot of fictional areas to the story. Knowing that doesn’t ready change anything for me because I didn’t know anything about these characters going into it. I highly recommend this book to anyone who loves Russian history, loves a good historical genre book, and who just wants to escape. I will definitely be reading more books like this. I feel it is a good start at getting your feet wet in this genre if you don’t normally read it.
Reviewed by: @bbohls

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Savage Lies (Hidden Valley Elite Book 1) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Jaimie Salmon-Colburn

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Savage Lies: A High School Bully Romance (Hidden Valley Elite Book 1)Savage Lies: A High School Bully Romance by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Savage Lies is the first book (minus a short prequel) to Riley and Cole’s story. I just finished this book and I am itching to get the rest in the series!! So far the set is so good! In Savage Lies, Riley and her mom, move back to California, again for a fresh start. Her mom swears this time will be different, but Riley’s not convinced. Her mom drags her into a new town, house, and identity that is supposed to keep her safe, but it quickly brings her into the cross hairs of Cole. Him and his band of untouchable academy football elites plan to freeze her out. From day one he puts a huge target on her back. Bully her but no one can touch her. She is his! Her secrets make her a target, but so do his’s. Her mom is determined to become a part of the elite’s family, but if Cole has a say they’ll both be run out of town before his dad can get them settled into their McMansion house. Riley and Cole are facing mutual destruction, but have they met their match? Both hate each other and both are so determined to take each other down. The war has begone and both might get burned!

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Savage Start (Hidden Valley Elite Prequel) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Jaimie Salmon-Colburn

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Savage Start: A High School Bully Romance: Hidden Valley Elite PrequelSavage Start: A High School Bully Romance: Hidden Valley Elite Prequel by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Savage Start is a short Prequel that ends with a cliffhanger which continues on with Savage Lies. This isn’t a standalone, but it gives you a little more back story with the characters in Savage Lies. In Savage Start, Riley and Cole are the main characters. Riley and her mother move to a new town in California. They move a lot and are almost always on the run. Her mom says it will be different this time, but it never is. She can’t trust being safe, ever! It doesn’t take her long to get caught stealing at a McMansion party and the guy who catches her not only takes her “souvenir”, but he also steals a kiss! Thrown off balance by his dangerous and sexy kiss, she’s distracted. And she got caught! She NEVER gets caught!! Leaving this town sooner rather than later might be the best. Cole, catching a little thief at his cousins party, is equally caught off guard by the mysterious girl. He was a little drunk, so he doesn’t remember all the details of her features, but he can’t stop thinking about the kiss and what it did to him. He’s never reacted like that before with anyone. When he catches wind of who she is, or more importantly who her mother is, all bets are off. This book is a new adult bully romance prequel about Riley and Cole’s story. I haven’t yet read the last of their story (Savage Truth), but I can’t wait to get my hands on it and all the books to this Hidden Valley Elite series! If you like enemies to lovers romance books this is a great set! I can’t wait to finish it all, but let me tell you that this prequel and the first book were enough to hook me in!!

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Pulling Together by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

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Pulling TogetherPulling Together by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

When Lila’s Grandma starts knitting a poncho with three head holes Lila thinks that Grandma has surely made a mistake. When Lila asks her Grandma about she says, “We all pull together” and then sends her out to play wearing the poncho. Lila makes her way to her friends house that is two doors down. On the way she encounters two others, one of which is the neighborhood bully. Lila hurries on her way and once she gets to her friends house she discovers what her Grandma meant by her words.

This was a beautiful little story packed full of lessons and exquisite illustrations that really bring the story to life. Grandma had a lesson to teach Lila by knitting a poncho with three head holes but it was up to Lila to learn it through her own actions. Although intended for younger children it conveys important messages for all ages about peer pressure, bullying, sharing, kindness, gratitude, playing and working together. Another amazing book by this author!

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Fallen Soul (War of Destiny Book 4) by Theresa Van Spankeren – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

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Fallen Soul (War of Destiny # 4)Fallen Soul by Theresa Van Spankeren
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Fallen Soul is Book 4 in the War of Destiny Series. If you have not yet read the first books, I highly recommend reading them or you may feel a bit lost without all of the details of Lane or the others. Decades after being turned into a vampire Lane is still on the run after being condemned for feeding off his own kind. After escaping Valentino, King of the Vampires, Lane has a target on his back. Rumors have been circulated about him being crazy so it has forced Lane to be a loner. Valentino has ordered for Lane to be killed on sight but somehow, he manages to elude or kill anyone that tries to murder him. Lane attempts to flee to Ireland but gets discovered in Rome.

As Lane attempts to flee to a safer place he stumbles onto a group of vampires who are not the same as any other vampire he has ever encountered. These vampires do not flee from him, nor do they try to kill him. Not only that, but these vampires live with humans. Lane must decide if these vampires are allies or if they are more cunning than other vampires and intend to deter him from reaching his destination. Will Lane continue his journey solo or has he found friends in this group?

I have read this series from the first book and became invested in the characters and the story. The author does an amazing job with writing vivid scene descriptions that make the reader feel as though you are there with the characters. The characters are wonderful, and it was interesting to read how they developed through the story from book to book. Lane was a loner right from the beginning as he was shunned after being turned into a vampire. He was on the run, constantly looking over his shoulder and unable to trust anyone. It was interesting to see what Lane would decide to do when he meets a group of vampires unlike any that he has ever met. It forces him to make some difficult decisions about his future. A great vampire paranormal series.

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Insomnia: (A Short Stories Collection) by Kelly Covic – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

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Insomnia (A Short Stories Collection)Insomnia by Kelly Covic
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Insomnia is a collection of short stories written by Kelly Moran’s alter ego, Kelly Covic. Most of the stories are about dark and sinister things that go bump in the night. These stories will leave you with goosebumps and questioning what lurks in the dark. They will leave you feeling like eyes are watching you from the shadows. They will leave you looking over your shoulder as you question what that sound was that you just heard and what else is out there that you cannot see with the naked eye.

These stories will have you questioning everything you thought that you knew about life and death. From the haunted old mansion in Silent Sighs where eyes watch from the shadows to clothes that transport you to another time and place in The Attic. To Idle Thursday that will give you a whole other outlook on life after death and what really happens when we die. Be sure to read these stories with a light on, cuddled under a blanket for safety or you will begin to question every sound and what might be lurking in every shadow. These stories will terrify the pants off you and leave you with chills.

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Streets of Shadow by Rebecca Bischoff – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

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Streets of ShadowStreets of Shadow by Rebecca Bischoff
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Streets of Shadow is set in Scotland in the year 1665. The story centers around fifteen-year-old Kenna who is struggling to come to terms with the sudden, and unexplained sickness that has confined her sister to bed. When her sister dies, Kenna discovers that she was murdered by someone close to her. Suspecting she knows who the murderer is young Kenna turns to the one person with whom feels close to and can trust. She is whisked away to safety from her grandfather’s estate but instead finds something far more sinister and dangerous.

Suddenly, Kenna is on the run and finds herself kidnapped and taken to the city of Edinburgh. Her kidnapper locks her inside the gates of Stewart’s Close. Kenna is frightened at being thrown into the poorest part of the city with no way out. Even more frightening is that the local lawman raises a white flag and spreads the rumor that Kenna has come from a home that has been stricken with the plague. As she struggles to find someone to help her she is shunned and refused help because the townspeople are frightened of dying from the disease she carries. With no food, money, friends, or shelter young Kenna must fight to survive the harsh streets and the scorn of the locals. Will she be strong enough to survive and bring justice to her sister?

I was hooked on this book from the first pages and became totally immersed in the storyline and setting. The scenes were so vividly described that it felt as though I was transported back to Stewart’s Close in 1665. I was there with Kenna as she walked the dirty streets, hid in dark alleys, and traversed through underground passages. The characters were well developed and as the story progressed we see Kenna grow and mature as a person. She started out naïve to the harshness of the world and how so many people fought to survive and feed their families. She grew up with wealth, privilege and the luxuries of having servants and an abundance of food. Stewart’s Close was a whole different world for her and Kenna had to learn to fight and fend for herself in order to survive. Kenna ultimately finds out that she is even stronger than she realized as she fights for survival in a cruel world. This book was superbly written, and I am anxious to read more books by this author.

I loved the author’s notes at the end about where she found her inspiration for this story and the characters. I loved learning that it was based on a real place and that little Annie was based on a real little girl. Kudos to the author for bringing this little girl the happy ending she deserved. Bless your heart.

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Braving Lily (True Platinum Series Book 7) by Morgana Bevan – Review by Barbara Bohls

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Braving Lily (True Platinum, #5)Braving Lily by Morgana Bevan
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This book was amazing. It had funny parts, serious parts, loving parts, and just plain roll your eyes parts. This isn’t your typical rockstar romance. The rockstar in this book is Lily. I love that the female lead is the rockstar and the male lead, Rhys, is just a normal character. They both have been burned before by people that are supposed to love and care for them. Lily takes matters into her own hands and decided to blind date by auctioning off a date with her. Rhys, decides his mother doesn’t always knows what is best for him and doesn’t go on the date. What a way to get the attention of a mega pop star. The is just the beginning of their story and it will have you feeling everything and giggling throughout the rest of the book. It is your typical opposites attract love story because of the fame but they are similar because of their pasts and not feeling good enough. Lily feels used and Rhys feels betrayed. Can these two over come those hurt feelings and make something good happen between them? Will Rhys actually show up for a date with the super star? Can Lily trust someone not to be after her for their own personal gain? These and many other questions are answered in this book. I highly suggest reading it. It is a very quick read and really well written, you will find you are finished with it right after you started it.

reviewed by: @bbohls

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White Picket Fences by Kyle Ann Robertson – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

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White Picket FencesWhite Picket Fences by Kyle Ann Robertson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Julie grew up in a military family and as a military brat found herself moving from place to place. Nothing in her life was ever permanent and she vowed that when she had a family of her own, they would never experience a life like that. Julie worked hard to achieve that goal and when she got married with kids of her own she ensured that they had a forever home, in a forever neighborhood, complete with forever friends. Going through the motions she did everything for her family to make the best life possible for them but somewhere in the process she not only lost her sense of self but felt trapped in the life she created.

Julie finds herself feeling as though her family takes her granted and does not appreciate what she does for them. In a moment of weakness, Julie does something out of character and takes a moment to herself. That one moment changes everything and when her family needs her the most, she is not there for them. Her life and everything she worked so hard to create suddenly starts to spiral out of control when she loses her young son. Overwhelmed by grief, guilt, and thoughts of what-if, Julie finds herself struggling to keep her family together. The harder she tries, the farther she seems to drive them away.

This was a beautiful and poignant story that had me reaching for the box of Kleenex more than once. Julie’s story is one that will resonate with many women who have experienced similar situations. As a wife and mother, we often overlook our own needs and focus on those of our family. We do everything we can to keep them happy and show them that we love them through the things we do everyday. Cooking them their favorite meal, keeping a clean home, and ensuring everything is perfect. In the process we often feel as though we go unnoticed, feel taken for granted, and feel unappreciated. We lose our sense of self and no longer identify as anything other than who we are when we are with them.

In Julie’s case she struggled with all of this while simultaneously dealing with the sudden loss of a child. She was already feeling a discord in her family life and this tragedy only caused a farther rift between the family. Each member of the family is dealing with the loss in a different way, and they start to drift apart. Suddenly everything Julie holds dear to her is being ripped away from her and she risks losing it forever. This was beautifully written, and I felt as though I was reading Julie’s personal diary about her innermost thoughts and feelings.

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Dawnbreaker: The House of Blood and Sun by Hadley Thorne – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

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Dawnbreaker: The House of Blood and SunDawnbreaker: The House of Blood and Sun by Laura Morgan
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Dawnbreaker: The House of Blood and Sun is the third book in the Tapestry of Worlds Series. Conner became a vampire a century ago and has spent decades plotting revenge against the one who stole his humanity. He has been consumed by hatred for so long that he cannot remember how his life was before being turned into a vampire. He only cares about protecting his family until he sees Niamh and hears her sing. The moment he spots this beautiful sidhe princess he aches to possess her. When Niamh meets Connor her whole world changes. Until meeting him she spends her days locked away at the shining courts because she is no longer safe in her court. She comes out at night to play the fiddle across the veil in the world of men.

When an old enemy resurfaces Niamh and Connor’s lives are thrown into turmoil. Niamh’s power and memories are stolen from her and she is hidden away in the world of men. Kept away from the safety of the Other World Niamh is helpless and it is up to Connor to keep her from fading away. Will his affection be enough to break the spell she is under and save her?

The author did an amazing job of weaving a tale that takes place in the real world while simultaneously taking place in the nine mystic worlds. It is a beautiful blending of the real world and lands where magic exists. The characters of Niamh and Connor were wonderful and you could not help but root for their relationship to work. Connor is initially a vampire filled with hatred and the desire for revenge after being turned against his will. That all changes when he meets Niamh and falls in love. Now all he wants is to protect her at all costs. Niamh has been through a lot as she taken from all she knows and locked away to keep her safe. She is suddenly thrown into a world of power, blood and a web of games and must choose between blood family and the family she loves. A beautiful story with fae, vampires, magic, politics, suspense, intrigue, revenge, action, lies, passion, love, and mythology. I was intrigued by the existence of the nine mystic worlds along with the real world. Loved the author’s playlist that was included at the end of the book.

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A Dress To Remember: A Fairy Tale by K.L. Small – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

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A Dress To Remember: A Fairy TaleA Dress To Remember: A Fairy Tale by K.L. Small
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Princess Zarina is the youngest member of her royal family. She does not like to take no for an answer and is used to getting her own way. When Princess Zarina wants a special dress for her Royal Advancement Ceremony, she is determined to make sure it is unique and stands out from everyone else’s dress. She finds a mysterious seamstress that has a reputation for making special dresses and makes a deal with her.

Princess Zarina does not get the beautiful dress she asked for and instead gets a black dress that she hates. When the seamstress asks Princess Zarina to try on the dress, she becomes trapped in it. The seamstress gives Princess Zarina a mysterious message about the dress’ magical qualities before she disappears. Princess Zarina is now on her own and it is up to her to find her way back to the castle. Along the way she learns what the magical qualities of the dress are and uses it to try to avoid being captured by the raiders who have taken over the castle and killed the King and Queen.

The storyline of this book was intriguing, and I loved the way the author weaved the story of Princess Zarina and her journey. Through the book Princess Zarina grows and matures through a series of adventures and life lessons. She starts off as being spoiled, self-centered, and strong-willed but learns what is truly important in life. The author did an amazing job of discussing some real-world life lessons while doing it in a fun, easy-to-read book for children of all ages.

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His Forever Muse (The Echo Series Book 2) by C.R. Alam – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

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His Forever Muse (Book 2 of The Echo Series)His Forever Muse by C.R. Alam
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Calliope, or Callie as her friends call her, has know Brandon since she was six years old. As her brother’s best friend Callie and Brandon used to spend a lot of time together. Growing up they enjoyed sneaking out at night to talk and gaze at the stars. As they grew older time and distance separated them and Callie and Brandon pursued their own lives. Brandon pursued his interest in art and formed a rock band. Callie has moved to Paris and pursued a career as an art gallerist.

Then one day in Morocco Callie runs into Brandon who has grown into a feast for the eyes. This is not the man she remembers and she is unable to deny the attraction she feels towards him. Brandon is in Morocco seeking inspiration for his art because he has hit a brick wall and has been struggling to come up with ideas. When the girl that got away re-enters his life Brandon feels inspired and will do anything to keep Callie from getting away again.

Callie has not had an easy life in Paris and has struggled to overcome a dark past. She has worked hard to get her life back together and overcome the trauma she suffered. Only those closest to Callie know her deep dark secrets and she is reluctant to let Brandon know. She is afraid of having that close connection with him but even more afraid that once she reveals her secrets that he will not want anything to do with her. When something sinister resurfaces from Callie’s past she has no choice but to reveal her past to Brandon. Rather than run away Brandon is determined to protect Callie at all costs. Can they truly have a future with Callie’s dark past coming into their present?

This book lured me into the storyline from the very beginning. The descriptions of buildings, characters, and landscapes were vivid and drew me into each scene as though I was standing there. The characters were wonderful, and I loved how the story came together between them. Brandon was not the typical good-looking, macho, full-of- himself Rockstar that one would expect. He had a soft side and his life focused on creativity and expression through his art, his music, and his tattoos. When he hit a brick wall he faltered and needed to find his inspiration again. That inspiration came in the form of a girl from his past that he had never forgotten. Callie was multi-faceted and had the weight of the world being carried on her shoulders with all the dark secrets that she was hiding. Suffering from the trauma of a painful past she has worked hard to overcome the demons and find the courage to move forward. Her strength is to be admired and it was easy to feel and experience the complex emotions she was struggling with. A beautiful read with romance, love, music, passion, mystery, intrigue, suspense, danger, friendship, trauma, and a rollercoaster ride of emotions.

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His Forever Muse (The Echo Series Book 2) by C.R. Alam – Review by Tori Mitton

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<a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/62874994-his-forever-muse” style=”float: left; padding-right: 20px”><img border=”0″ alt=”His Forever Muse (Book 2 of The Echo Series)” src=”https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1664891025l/62874994._SX98_.jpg” /></a><a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/62874994-his-forever-muse”>His Forever Muse</a> by <a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/18542723.C_R_Alam”>C.R. Alam</a><br/>
My rating: <a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/5455326208″>5 of 5 stars</a><br /><br />
Okay first- go read book 1.<br />Callie and Brandon have this crazy romance. They are the perfect couple. I love how from book one to book two, they are able to work through some difficult things in their relationship. That bad boy is finally settling down, I feel like I’m best friends with both of them. I’m really hoping for another book, there’s so much to keep going!<br />
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Savage Lies (Hidden Valley Elite Book 1) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Barbara Bohls

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Savage Lies: A High School Bully Romance (Hidden Valley Elite Book 1)Savage Lies: A High School Bully Romance by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This book was so incredibly well written that once you start the book it will feel like within a bind of an eye it was done. This book is fast paced and keeps you turning pages as quickly as you can. I almost felt like I was skimming the pages with how fast I was devouring the words. The banter between characters adds to the charm this book has. Yes, I said charm; because even though this is a bully romance it does has a warm feeling of charm to it. The push pull dynamic between the characters is spot on and hit all my feels. There is a prequel to this book but you don’t have to read it in order to pick this one up. I would recommend reading it because it does give some background information that you won’t feel is missing if you don’t know about it but would help if you do know about it. This book does leave you wanting more not only because of how amazing it was but because you actually want to know more and what happens. This book read like a dream and I highly recommend it to anyone who wants a fast paced, jammed packed, bully romance; that can be finished in a few hours. Seriously, you will read it that quickly because you wont be able to put it down.

Reviewed by: @bbohls
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Fallen Soul (War of Destiny Book 4) by Theresa Van Spankeren – Review by Jaimie Salmon-Colburn

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Lost Soul (War of Destiny # 1)Lost Soul by Theresa Van Spankeren
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Julia is in 16th century London. She is the daughter of a wealthy family. She has grown up with servants and has wanted for nothing. When she starts to fall in love with Adam, a servant’s son her father and older brother shatter her heart. They arrange a marriage and force her into it. Her husband is cruel. He’s not kind in any way. He’s a monster with no mercy. Julia tries to keep the people she cares about safe from his wrath, but it’s becomes harder and harder throughout their 3 years of marriage. Her husband finally does the unthinkable. He lands a blow to Julia that devastates her and she can’t see a way out. When a stranger shows up and offers her a way out she takes it. With nothing else to live for she agrees to a deal that will change her life and destiny forever. Said agreement will grant her freedom, but there is ALWAYS a catch! Accepting this deal will put her into a vampire resistance against a strong vampire king who refuses to step down and he’ll destroy anyone who is against him. Will Julia accept? Will she choose freedom and another enemy just to be rid of her husband? What will her husband think and do? Will Julia end up dead no matter the path she chooses? And will her love ever forgive her for all she has kept from him? What an interesting book! It took me a little to get into because the author was building the story and slowly sucking me in, but man oh man was it good! I can’t wait to read the others in the set! If you haven’t given this one a chance do it!! Read half of it at least! If you aren’t sucked in by then I would be really really really really surprised! Give it a chance! You won’t regret it!

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A Dress To Remember: A Fairy Tale by K.L. Small – Review by Jaimie Salmon-Colburn

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A Dress To Remember: A Fairy TaleA Dress To Remember: A Fairy Tale by K.L. Small
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Princess Zarina is one of Thirteen children. She is by far the most selfish and strong willed of those thirteen too. As Zarina’s Royal Advancement Ceremony approaches she’s super excited and wants a special dress for her big day. As the ceremony approaches, so does some danger to the kingdom so everyone is warned about going outside of the castle especially without escorts’. But nothing will stop the Princess from getting her special dress made by the one of a kind dressmaker, according to courtyard gossip, who lives out past the forest and who’s gifted hands use magic like fabric in her master pieces. Wanting to waste no time they leave straight away and the princess strikes a deal with the dressmaker. Mydori will make a special dress in the color of her own choosing that will be unforgettable. In a rush the princess won’t take the time to size the dress or take any instruction from the dressmaker. Rushing the dress maker to have the dress ready as soon as possible she leaves in rush with plans to pay the dressmaker with cheaper things than agreed. Rushing home she is caught by her older brother and scolded for going out when raiders are afoot. Not being detoured she leaves again to the cottage past the woods to collect her dress and try to swindle the dressmaker. Mydori puts the dress on the princess and then takes her payment and leaves the Princess on the road alone. Now the princess is stuck miles from the castle, alone, in a dress that is to tight, a color she doesn’t like at all, and to top it off she’s unable to take the dress off!! Traveling back home is going to be long journey. Will she get caught by raiders? Will she get the blasted dress off? Will she learn her lesson? What about the magic of the dress? And what will she do about her dress for the ceremony?? She doesn’t have time to have someone else make her one now!! Plus the sticks said someone would perish?!! What a mess for a dress! This book was super cute! I got it for my almost 11 year old, but I think that my 8 year old would enjoy it as well. It teaches kids a few lessons but it’s also entertaining so it keeps their interest. I’d love to see this turned into a small short film for children!! Can’t wait to read more from this author!

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Destiny of Light (Quirk of Destiny Book 3) by Catherine Greenall – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

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Destiny of Light: Final Book in Quirk of Destiny TrilogyDestiny of Light: Final Book in Quirk of Destiny Trilogy by Catherine Greenall
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Destiny of Light is the third, and final, book in the Quirk of Destiny series. It tells a dark story of the destruction and devastation caused by the introduction of genetically modified foods. This has caused humans to perish, animals to mutate, and the world be to left in an apocalyptic state. It continues the story from books one and two and builds on them, so I highly recommend reading those books first or the story will be hard to follow.

Scientist Calum continues to struggle to survive along with a few others as the devastation unfolds around the world. Divided into small groups they attempt to survive on their own while building a sustainable lifestyle and growing their own food. Around the world death and destruction unfold as the human race is being killed off at an alarming rate. Having contaminated drinking water was one of their biggest concerns until animals started to mutate into pre-historic, blood-thirsty beasts. The world is in total chaos as the Genies with their paranormal powers, and the dark and sinister Elite, battle to take over the world. Will Calum and his friends have what it takes to survive death and destruction of biblical proportions?

This book started off with a bang and was fast paced throughout. The author takes the reader into a journey where the world has been ravaged and destroyed by the introduction of genetically modified foods. A world in which mutants are taking over, water is contaminated, and food is scarce. A world in which the human population is dying off at alarming rates. This book is full of action, suspense, mystery, tension, death, destruction, and mutants. It is good versus evil on a grand, no-holds barred, fight to the finish. A haunting tale of the very real possibilities of a future where genetically modified foods have been allowed to take over the world’s food supply.

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His Forever Muse (The Echo Series Book 2) by C.R. Alam – Review by Brittany Angel

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His Forever Muse (Book 2 of The Echo Series)His Forever Muse by C.R. Alam
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

His Forever Muse finds Brandon Rossi on a journey of rediscovery when he runs into “the one that got away” while on the other side of the world. Being a lover of love and with there being 15 years to catch up on, he decides that he will do what it takes to reconnect with Callie. What he didn’t plan on was the nightmare she had previously escaped, which is now trying to overtake her life again. While a part of a series, this can be read as a standalone, and while there are some darker elements than the previous installment, the author achieves another sweet, heartfelt novel.

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His Forever Muse (The Echo Series Book 2) by C.R. Alam – Review by Barbara Bohls

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His Forever Muse (Book 2 of The Echo Series)His Forever Muse by C.R. Alam
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This book left me in all my feelings. It addresses some tough topics but does it with grace. The main characters are pretty much searching their souls to have a more fulfilled life. They haven’t talked to each other in the last 15 years. Obviously a lot can happen in 15 years and this is their journey to see if they can find the love that they both desperately need. The book will get you feeling everything the characters feel. I highly suggest that you get a box of Kleenex’s and a good comfy soft blanket. I wasn’t sure what to expect when I sat down to read this book, but the journey it took me on was one of the best that I have been on in a while. There are the hurdles that the main characters have to overcome to be together. This only helps to heighten the love story that is between them. This is the second book in the series and it does mention the characters from the first which is a great little tad-bit that I fully enjoy. I highly recommend reading this series and even though the characters are mentioned from the first book, it isn’t necessary to read the first one to understand what is going on in this one. That being said, I would highly recommend reading the first one because this series is just that good.
Reviewed by: @bbohls

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