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The Mesmerist by Claire Luana – Review by Allyson Ware

The MesmeristThe Mesmerist by Claire Luana
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I honestly do not even know where to begin. I knew I would enjoy this book from reading the synopsis, but I had no idea just how much I would enjoy it. There are twists and turns in every corner of this novel. I think my jaw dropped, at minimum, five or six times while reading it.

If you are a fantasy lover, like myself, then you will adore this book. You will also love Adrijana and the adventure she gets sucked into at 17 years old. I know I will not be able to go into detail without spoiling the book, but just trust me on this and read it.

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The Bear at Midnight (Orkneyinga Murders Book 4) by Lexie Conyngham – Review by Allyson Ware

The Bear at Midnight (Orkneyinga Murders #4)The Bear at Midnight by Lexie Conyngham
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The Bear at Midnight (Orkneyinga Murders Book 4) by Lexie Conyngham – Review by Allyson Ware

I said this before about the first book in this series, but the author does an immaculate job of world-building and character development. There is a coziness to these novels that I cannot shake (as much as I want to). Regardless of the plot being a murder mystery, anyway.

Mysteries are difficult to find surprise in, at least in my personal experience. But, this novel surprised me a few different times. I won’t spoil the surprises here, but you will find them I assure you. If you are a murder mystery fan, this series will not disappoint you.

Review by @aware

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Tomb for an Eagle (Orkneyinga Murders Book 1) by Lexie Conyngham – Review by Allyson Ware

Tomb for an Eagle (Orkneyinga Murders #1)Tomb for an Eagle by Lexie Conyngham
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Tomb for an Eagle (Orkneyinga Murders Book 1) by Lexie Conyngham – Review by Allyson Ware

One of my first thoughts about this book was that it is cozy. Yes, there is a dead body found in a gully, but the way the author writes makes me want to curl up with a blanket and a cup of tea on a rainy day and read.

This novel has a few different perspectives, which I have come to love from this author. The characters are explained in great detail, along with the world the author has created. You really understand what is happening and the only questions you are asking are the typical questions in a murder mystery. This author really does not leave much to the imagination when it comes to details and I definitely appreciate that. If you have not read this book and love mysteries, this is definitely a novel for you.

Review by Allyson Ware

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To be a Fae Guardian (Realm Chronicles Book 2) by Tricia Copeland – Review by Allyson Ware

To be a Fae Guardian (Realm Chronicles, #2)To be a Fae Guardian by Tricia Copeland
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

To be a Fae Guardian (Realm Chronicles Book 2) by Tricia Copeland – Review by Allyson Ware

I loved this novel. Titania continues to amaze me. She is unbelievably strong, considering a teenage girl should never have to gather the strength and courage that she does every single day, but she does it regardless. Even with a guardian watching her every move.

Even though so little time passes, Titania’s life changes extensively from the end of the first book in this series to the end of this book. There was not as much action in this novel as the first, but I still enjoyed getting to know the characters more as well as watch Titania grow into the young woman that she is.

Review by @aware

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To be a Fae Queen (Realm Chronicles Book 1) by Tricia Copeland – Review by Allyson Ware

To be a Fae Queen (Realm Chronicles, #1)To be a Fae Queen by Tricia Copeland
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

To be a Fae Queen (Realm Chronicles Book 1) by Tricia Copeland – Review by Allyson Ware

I adored this book. I do not know anyone that has ever asked for a longer book before, but I would have loved to have seen more details. There were plenty to establish characters and world-building, but I craved to read and understand both the characters and the realm better. I feel like I read this in a matter of hours and I would give anything to read more.

I admire Titania’s strength and ability to face confrontation. She does not sway in the slightest when it comes to finding out information and has no issue telling someone off if they get in her way. The author left a huge cliff hanger in her epilogue, so I cannot wait to get my hands on the second novel!

Review by @aware

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Apocalypse Thoughts (The Pox Series Book 5) by Kendra Griffin – Review by Allyson Ware

Apocalypse ThoughtsApocalypse Thoughts by Kendra Griffin
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Apocalypse Thoughts (The Pox Series Book 5) by Kendra Griffin – Review by Allyson Ware

I absolutely LOVE dystopian novels. They are probably my favorite type of book. When I got my hands on this one, I could not put it down. This novel goes above and beyond the typical dystopian world. Considering everything we, as society, have been through during the pandemic, it is highly relatable. Which, if you think about it, is incredibly scary to think about.

These characters are very easy to love. Each one found a place in my heart instantly. Everyone except Slingshot. You will find out soon enough why I cannot place her in the same category as the others. The storyline and characters are addicting, just like watching your favorite TV show. I guarantee you will be fascinated by this, just as I was.

Review by @aware

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The Heart of a Hussar (The Winged Warrior Series Book 1) by Griffin Brady – Review by Allyson Ware

The Heart of a Hussar (The Winged Warrior, #1)The Heart of a Hussar by Griffin Brady
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The Heart of a Hussar (The Winged Warrior Series Book 1) by Griffin Brady – Review by Allyson Ware

When I read the first couple of pages of this book, I thought that I was going to have a difficult time reading it. I was incorrect. The story takes off and is incredibly easy to follow. What I was taken aback by early on was this incredibly detailed sexual assault incident. There is no trigger warning on this novel and I strongly feel that there should be due to its graphic depiction.

Otherwise, I loved this novel. You can feel the love and tension between Oliwia and Jacek through the entire book. I want to yell at both of them to just kiss already. They have so many barriers to overcome before they find each other. More yet still to overcome. An incredible read, I truly recommend to any reader looking for a detail oriented romance.

Review by @aware

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Black Canvas by Laura Rossi – Review by Allyson Ware

Black CanvasBlack Canvas by Laura Rossi
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Black Canvas by Laura Rossi – Review by Allyson Ware

This novel was written so well. The character development is outstanding. The suspense killed me from the first page to the end of the book. I truly felt as if I were Aria/Ivy, or living inside of her head trying to figure out what is actually going on. Definitely a must read if you enjoy psychological thrillers.

From a psychological standpoint, the author did a great job interpreting mental health and the effects of it from that persons point of view. I am no expert in regard to Bipolar Personality Disorder, but I love that it was depicted in a Doctor’s point of view because that is the reality, right? No one can escape the effects of mental health, and that includes people that have PhD’s.

Review by @aware

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The Unholy by Paul DeBlassie III – Review by Allyson Ware

The Unholy: A Supernatural TaleThe Unholy: A Supernatural Tale by Paul DeBlassie III
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The Unholy by Paul DeBlassie III – Review by Allyson Ware

This novel took off like a bolt of lightning across the sky. From the very beginning it held my interest. It dove right into the action and never ceased. Any horror fans would love to get their hands on this book. A very fast read, great character development, and intense plot. It is not scary in the sense of shock, but it is definitely scary in the sense of the reality that this story takes on. It terrifies me to think about the fact that there are probably priests out there in this world that behave in these ways.

Review by @aware

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The Crown of Stones: Magic-Price by C. L. Schneider – Review by Allyson Ware

Magic-Price (The Crown of Stones, #1)Magic-Price by C.L. Schneider
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The Crown of Stones: Magic-Price by C. L. Schneider – Review by Allyson Ware

When I picked up this book, I expected to fall in love with it. I’m not going to lie, it took me some time to really dig into. Once I got through the copious depiction, I fell in love. This novel reminded me of A Game of Thrones. The amount of detail in the characters and world-building really made this book come to life.

I would recommend this book to any fantasy lover and those that crave the thorough detail and explanations. It is not necessarily a quick read until you get to the heart and sole of the action. If you can make it through that, I can assure you that you will want to pick it up and read it again and again and again.

Review by @aware

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Thief of Magic (Shadowed Minds Book 1) by Bree Moore – Review by Allyson Ware

Thief of Magic (Shadowed Minds, #1)Thief of Magic by Bree Moore
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Thief of Magic (Shadowed Minds Book 1) by Bree Moore – Review by Allyson Ware

This novel took me on a rollercoaster of magic ride. You’ve heard of a magic carpet ride, but the thrill is nothing compared to this. I never would have been able to guess the outcome of this book based on the first few chapters. I loved everything about it: The characters, the plot, the world development.

I do have to say, Lee easily became my favorite character. I normally root for the underdogs in the book, which I would have considered Risa or Sam, but Lee was too loveable. Don’t get me wrong, I loved Sam and Risa but there is something special about Lee that I cannot see past. I would not be at all disappointed if the author decided to write a sequel; I would be the first in line for it.

Review by @aware

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Red’s Peril Part 2: The Prez’s Old Lady (Satan’s Devils MC Vegas Chapter #2) by Manda Mellett – Review by Allyson Ware

Red's Peril Part 2: The Prez's Old Lady (Satan's Devils MC Vegas #2)Red’s Peril Part 2: The Prez’s Old Lady by Manda Mellett
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Red’s Peril Part 2: The Prez’s Old Lady (Satan’s Devils MC Vegas Chapter #2) by Manda Mellett – Review by Allyson Ware

After reading the first book of this series, I was not disappointed by the second. I loved everything about it. I loved that you as the reader got insight as to what Cher was thinking. Don’t get me wrong, I love Red’s perspective. But, I will never baulk at a second point of view. THEN, something I never expected.. a THIRD perspective! I won’t say who it is so I don’t ruin the surprise, but you will not be upset about it.

I did not realize how many books I am missing out on by this author! I have some catching up to do. The author writes outstanding novels and I cannot wait to get my hands on more.

Review by @aware

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Dead Sound (Things Unseen Series Book1) by Anise Eden – Review by Allyson Ware

Dead Sound (Things Unseen, #1)Dead Sound by Anise Eden
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Dead Sound (Things Unseen Series Book1) by Anise Eden – Review by Allyson Ware

From the first sentence of this book, I felt like I was watching a movie. Absolutely captivating. I cannot begin to put into words how drawn in I was by not only the mystery/thrill aspect of this novel, but the romance between Neve and Con.

This book is definitely going to be making its way to my shelf. I wish I could read it again for the first time. To say I loved this novel would be an understatement. It has even moved its way into my top ten favorite reads; which is incredibly difficult to accomplish.

Review by @aware

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Practically Pagan – An Alternative Guide to Magical Living by Maria DeBlassie – Review by Allyson Ware

Practically Pagan - An Alternative Guide to Magical LivingPractically Pagan – An Alternative Guide to Magical Living by Maria DeBlassie
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This book was not what I was expecting, but I was not disappointed. I love the author’s writing style. It is incredibly easy to follow along, and even though the author repeated quite frequently throughout, it is well written. Repetition is not necessarily a bad thing in my opinion, because I need reminded of certain things and the author does a great job of doing just that.

There are a plethora of individuals that I would recommend this book to. Introverts would benefit greatly from reading it, extroverts would learn something from it, and anyone seeking magic in their day to day life will love this book.

Review by @aware

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THE BOX (HER THREE IMMORTALS BOOK 4) by HAZEL STORM – Review by Allyson Ware

The Box: A Greek Gods Urban Fantasy Romance (Her Three Immortals Book 4)The Box: A Greek Gods Urban Fantasy Romance by Hazel Storm
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

THE BOX (HER THREE IMMORTALS BOOK 4) by HAZEL STORM – Review by Allyson Ware

Just like the other three books in this series, I was sucked in to another dimension. For a few hours at least. If I had the choice to stay in this world with these characters I absolutely would. The author brings an amazing end to this series, even though I don’t want it to.

I have never been a huge fan of romance, but there is just too much to like about these novels. The characters obviously have developed their personalities, but the depictions of the overworld and underworld are outstanding. Even if you do not feel like you would enjoy this book, pick it up anyway. I can almost guarantee you’ll find yourself roped in and unable to get loose.

Review by @aware

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Nite Fire: Flash Point by C. L. Schneider – Review by Allyson Ware

Flash Point (Nite Fire, #1)Flash Point by C.L. Schneider
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Nite Fire: Flash Point by C. L. Schneider – Review by Allyson Ware

This book is everything. It’s romance, it’s fantasy, it’s a psychological thriller, and it’s supernatural. So, it is all of my favorite genre’s wrapped into one. The author understood the assignment. The detail in this book was immaculate; it provided an immensely clear picture of Drimera, along with the characters in it. The characters have more personality than some real life humans do. I loved everything about this novel. I am incredibly excited to find an exit to the second book of this series.

Review by @aware

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Red’s Peril Part 1: The making of an MC Prez (Satan’s Devils MC Vegas Chapter) by Manda Mellett – Review by Allyson Ware

Red's Peril Part 1: The Making of an MC Prez (Satan's Devils MC Vegas #1)Red’s Peril Part 1: The Making of an MC Prez by Manda Mellett
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Red’s Peril Part 1: The making of an MC Prez (Satan’s Devils MC Vegas Chapter) by Manda Mellett – Review by Allyson Ware

Red is your stereotypical blue collar worker that gets tired of being selfless. Who can blame him? Dealing with his mother taking off and his father passing away after caring for him for years, he decides to take off and start a new life for himself and what a life he makes!

The detail in this book is beyond outstanding. The synopsis truly does not do this book justice. I love the fact that this novel’s first person character is a male figure. The author could have taken the position of Cheryl and based the book off of that perspective. I do not know that I have ever read a romance novel from the male perspective; it is refreshing. Not only that, Manda Mellett captivated me. I did not want to stop reading, even though my body forced me to. I cannot fathom any reader being disappointed in this book, but that is my opinion and I will leave it at that.

Review by @aware

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Blood Oath (Mafia Elite, book 2) by Amy McKinley – Review by Allyson Ware

Blood Oath (Mafia Elite, #2)Blood Oath by Amy McKinley
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Blood Oath (Mafia Elite, book 2) by Amy McKinley – Review by Allyson Ware

I am addicted to this series. It is nearly impossible to put down one you start reading. As I was reading, it was almost as if Amy McKinley can read my mind because at the beginning/middle of the book I started to think, “I wish I could understand what Enzo thinks of this or that.” I kid you not, barely a chapter later and McKinley dove further into Enzo’s point of view.

I could go on and on about Enzo and Sofia. These two are amazing characters and the drama that surrounds them pulls you in, refusing to let go. Not only are you trapped in the personal drama of their relationship, but the family/mafia drama is intense. I cannot wait to get my hands on Born in Darkness.

Review by @aware

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Twilight’s Curse (Twilight Realm Series Book 1) by K. M. Wray – Review by Allyson Ware

Twilight's CurseTwilight’s Curse by K.M. Wray
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Twilight’s Curse (Twilight Realm Series Book 1) by K. M. Wray – Review by Allyson Ware

People always say not to judge a book by its cover. That is easy enough for me to overlook, but the title of the book is what catches my eye. When I started this book based on the title, I never imagined it would turn out the way it did. Does the title make sense now? Of course. However, when I read this book, this is what I imagined “The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo” would be about.

This novel is enveloped in a vast array of magic and uncertainty; within the characters, of course. Nix and Zoe each tell their story in a way that leaves the reader wanting more information. You get to watch these two find themselves through each other. I feel that this novel would be amazing for any uncertain soul; there are a few amazing lessons that have the potential to be incredibly helpful to anyone willing to take such advice.

Review by @aware

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Born to Fall (Can’t Resist You – Book 2) by Brittany Anne – Review by Allyson Ware

Born to Fall (Can't Resist You, #2)Born to Fall by Brittany Anne
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Born to Fall (Can’t Resist You – Book 2) by Brittany Anne – Review by Allyson Ware

I absolutely love that we got to know and understand not only Derek and Julia more, but Hayden too. The possibility of this story being or becoming a reality is a serious fear I have. If not just like this, something similar. I honestly would not be surprised. This is one dystopian world that I would not wish to be a part of; it is terrifying to imagine.

If you loved the first book in the series, you will love this one too. I am beyond excited for the next novel. It is going to be so different from the past two, but similar, which I know does not necessarily make much sense. It will make sense, however, when you get the the end of this book. *HINT* : make sure you read the epilogue!

Review by @aware

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The Elements of the Crown (The Elements of Kamdaria Book 1) by Kay L. Moody – Review by Allyson Ware

The Elements of the Crown (The Elements of Kamdaria, #1)The Elements of the Crown by Kay L. Moody
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The Elements of the Crown (The Elements of Kamdaria Book 1) by Kay L. Moody – Review by Allyson Ware

Talise is the ultimate protagonist. She is strong, determined, and independent. Even though she forms a connection with Aaden, she is perfectly capable on her own. Kamdaria is a dystopian world that I want to dive into myself.

The character and world development in this novel are outstanding. This story forced me to the edge of my seat and kept me up late in order to finish it. I know it is going to be the same way in the next book, which I cannot wait to get my hands on. If you enjoyed the Hunger Games or Divergent, this novel is for you.

Review by @aware

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Engaño (The DeWitt Agency Adventures Book 2) by Lance Charnes – Review by Allyson Ware

Engaño (DeWitt Agency Adventures, #2)Engaño by Lance Charnes
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Engaño (The DeWitt Agency Adventures Book 2) by Lance Charnes – Review by Allyson Ware

This novel may sound like your typical mafia boss fiction based on the summary, but the characters and storyline are unbelievably developed. Carson gains so much confidence throughout the book and I was cheering her on from start to finish. Then there is Celeste. She will find a way into your heart; if she doesn’t, then I will automatically assume you have no heart.

Between the love, the hate, and the distrust, this story will have you awake at 3AM holding your breath. If you pick up this book, you will not regret it.

Review by @aware

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Kingdom of Embers (Kingdom Journals Book 1) by Tricia Copeland – Review by Allyson Ware

Kingdom of Embers (Kingdom Journals #1)Kingdom of Embers by Tricia Copeland
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Kingdom of Embers (Kingdom Journals Book 1) by Tricia Copeland – Review by Allyson Ware

Tricia Copeland is a great writer. I enjoyed this book, but it did take me a little time to get into it; just a little slow on the takeoff is all. The character development was amazing. Copeland had me convinced that I could smell Theron in the stadium and Hunter’s cold hands on mine. I also enjoyed the different take on vampires and witches, it was refreshing.

I would recommend this book to any reader that enjoyed the Twilight series. I have a feeling that the drama is only beginning with Alena and Hunter. I’m looking forward to reading the second book.

Review by @aware

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Born to Fight (Can’t Resist You Book 1) by Brittany Anne – Review by Allyson Ware

Born to Fight (Can't Resist You, #1)Born to Fight by Brittany Anne
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Born to Fight (Can’t Resist You Book 1) by Brittany Anne – Review by Allyson Ware

Throughout the entirety of this novel I felt like I was engrossed in a movie. If someone were to make this book into a movie, I WILL be the first person in line for tickets. The way Hunter and Rain find each other and love each other through their flaws and misgivings is a love that all of us hope to have one day. “For you, I can do anything.”

With a career in Victim Advocacy, I felt like Rain’s abuse was depicted accurately. While everyone experiences and handles trauma differently, I felt like it was not just brushed over in this novel. I will be re-reading, then again, and then probably a third or fourth time. I am definitely looking forward to the next book in this series.

Review by @aware

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THE BOW (HER THREE IMMORTALS Book 3) by HAZEL STORM – Review by Allyson Ware

The Bow (Her Three Immortals, #3)The Bow by Hazel Storm
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

THE BOW (HER THREE IMMORTALS Book 3) by HAZEL STORM – Review by Allyson Ware

This has to be the spiciest read out of all three of these novels. I won’t spoil anything here because you have to find out for yourself. If you are even remotely considering this book, just do yourself a favor and read it. You do, however, have to start from the beginning with The Don.

Bow and arrows; Beau and Aroz. Why did it take me SO long to realize the connection? This novel ties together the past two books unbelievably well. Run, don’t walk, to read this one and the next. I am already so excited to find out what happens next!

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THE GOD (HER THREE IMMORTALS BOOK 2) by HAZEL STORM – Review by Allyson Ware

The God (Her Three Immortals, #2)The God by Hazel Storm
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

THE GOD (HER THREE IMMORTALS BOOK 2) by HAZEL STORM – Review by Allyson Ware

Queen of the Underworld needs to simmer herself down. I dislike her almost as much if not more than I dislike Professor Umbridge in Harry Potter. She may even be worse than taking a trip to Tartarus.

Once again, I could not put this book down and I cannot wait to jump into the next. Halfway through this book it was brought up again that Vanessa used to be a hairdresser. That feels like an ETERNITY ago. I completely forgot about it and the fact that Ms. Underworld was responsible for destroying her career. I’m going to do my best to take my time reading the next book because I do not want this series to end!

Review by @aware

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The Don (Her Three Immortals Book 1) by Hazel Storm – Review by Allyson Ware

The DonThe Don by Hazel Storm
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The Don (Her Three Immortals Book 1) by Hazel Storm – Review by Allyson Ware

I read this book in a matter of hours. I intended to pick it up for about 30 minutes, but I could not put it down once I started. I even rescheduled plans so I could read it. The drama never ends and my love for these characters is beyond this world.

Now, I’m going to delve into the second book. See you again in four to five hours.

 

Review by @aware

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Journeys Through TimeSpace (Journeys Through Book 2) by James Talisman – Review by Allyson Ware

Journeys Through TimeSpaceJourneys Through TimeSpace by James Talisman
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Journeys Through TimeSpace (Journeys Through Book 2) by James Talisman – Review by Allyson Ware

Throughout the entirety of this book, I felt like I was immersed in a movie. The detail in this book is immaculate. After the conclusion of book one, I could not wait to dive into this novel and I was not disappointed. As I was reading, I had a feeling something was going on with Matt and Julia, but I will not spoil the surprise here! By the way, Thomas is still the absolute worst, just in case anyone was curious.

Review by @aware

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Journeys Through SpaceTime (Journeys Through Book 1) by James Talisman – Review by Allyson Ware

Journeys Through SpaceTimeJourneys Through SpaceTime by James Talisman
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Journeys Through SpaceTime (Journeys Through Book 1) by James Talisman – Review by Allyson Ware

Wow. When I began this book, I never could have guessed what was contained inside. I also struggled at first with so much going on, but the author does SUCH a good job brining it all together cohesively.

I do have to say, I think my favorite character is Cassius. He almost reminds me of Sampson from the Bible. I love that he follows his intuition and seems to truly have a good heart. I cannot wait to see what the second book has in store for everyone involved.

Review by @aware

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Scarlet Princess (Lochlann Feuds Book 1) by Robin D. Mahle and Elle Madison – Review by Allyson Ware

Scarlet Princess (The Lochlann Feuds, #1)Scarlet Princess by Robin D. Mahle
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Scarlet Princess (Lochlann Feuds Book 1) by Robin D. Mahle and Elle Madison – Review by Allyson Ware

It all starts with a few bottles of vodka and bright red hair. What an adventure. I swear I was watching a tv show, not reading a book. The writers are immaculate at what they do. I truly cannot put into words how excited and anxious I am to read the second book. This series could become my new favorite, and that is saying something considering how much I adore Harry Potter.

Rowan is perfect. Her personality is so bubbly that you cannot help but love her, even though she might be a little over the top. And for her to find someone that has the exact opposite personality, it is really curious how they got along so well. I want to re-read this right after finishing it because I want to find out what I missed while reading it the first time. Maybe I am a little obsessed, but that’s okay, right?

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