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The Changed Man (The Olympic Peninsula Series, Book 4) by Cat Treadgold – Review by Amanda Glaspie

The Changed Man (The Olympic Peninsula series Book 4)The Changed Man by Cat Treadgold
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

As we continue to follow the stories of each member of this talented family we meet Jake O’Connell. Jake, who has quite the successful career in business has decided to leave that life behind and showed back up to Port Townsend. There he instantly rocks the boat, especially when he meets Chiara. Chiara is married to a man who clearly doesn’t love her and she is quickly swept away by Jake. This is a sweet romance with many ups and downs and ultimately ending in a surprise ending. This book continues to bring new and surprising things to the surface with members of the family having special talents. It could get a bit confusing at times as there are so many characters and it doesn’t focus solely on Jake and Chiara but overall, a good read.

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The Changed Man Audio Book (The Olympic Peninsula Series, Book 4) by Cat Treadgold – Review by Amanda Glaspie

As we continue to follow the stories of each member of this talented family we meet Jake O’Connell. Jake, who has quite the successful career in business has decided to leave that life behind and showed back up to Port Townsend. There he instantly rocks the boat, especially when he meets Chiara. Chiara is married to a man who clearly doesn’t love her and she is quickly swept away by Jake. This is a sweet romance with many ups and downs and ultimately ending in a surprise ending. This book continues to bring new and surprising things to the surface with members of the family having special talents. It could get a bit confusing at times as there are so many characters and it doesn’t focus solely on Jake and Chiara but overall, a good listen.

Divinely Dramatic (Divine Vintage Series) by Sandra L. Young – Review by Amanda Glaspie

Divinely Dramatic (Divine Vintage)Divinely Dramatic by Sandra L. Young
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Marcy is asked to help put together costumes for the local theaters upcoming play. Mike, the director, wants the beat play possible. Marcy finds herself battling with Mike, her ill mother, and a ghost she encounters in thr costume room; can overcome it all to help solve the mystery that was brought to her. This was the second installment in the series and was just as good as the first. It was a fast paced mystery that pulled you right in. This can be read as a stand alone novel but I don’t know why you would want to.

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Thorfinn and the Witch’s Curse Audio Book (The Forerunner Series, Book 1) by Jay Veloso Batista – Review by Amanda Glaspie

I really like the story. The character development was strong, the characters each had a crucial role, and the ending wrapped everything together nicely. Listening to the book was challenging as at times I had a hard time figuring out who was talking as first person as it was told in different characters point of view but once you learned the narrators voices, it was much clearer. The narrator for the book was fantastic and was the perfect choice for this genre. I really felt like I was with the characters. Transition music was also nice as it set the tone for the next passage. Overall, I enjoyed the book.

Test of the Four: Book Two of The Serrulata Saga by A.E. Bennett – Review by Amanda Glaspie

Test of the Four (The Serrulata Saga, #2)Test of the Four by A.E. Bennett
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Book two in the series did not disappoint. The ending from book one instantly had you excited for the next in the series and this was exactly what I hoping for. The book starts right back from where the previous book ended with the four leaving the realm. As the story progresses, we learn more and more about each character as the story is told in their individual point of views. This will always be one of favorite ways for character development to expand and it is done very well in this series. This is best to be read in order in the series but could potentially be read as a stand alone. This book continues to focus on the four main characters but brings back old and introduces new characters that help move the story along. It is very important to note that there are some very heavy topics in this book but it is written very well and there is a warning at the beginning off the book. Overall, great futuristic read that will keep you wanting more.

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Savage Truth (Hidden Valley Elite Book 2) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Amanda Glaspie

Savage Truth (Hidden Valley Elite #2)Savage Truth by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Book one and book two could have easily been one book but I can definitely see why it was split. With that being said, this book cannot be read as a stand alone. Cole and Riley are now forced to live in the house together. Cole is plotting how to get rid of Riley and her mom, Riley is trying to convince her mom to leave. The tension that is felt in this book can be cut with a knife. Hot, captivating, twists at every turn, and an ending that will shock you. You will not be able to put this book down.

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Murder off Route 82 Audio Book (Eve Sawyer Mystery) by Jane Suen – Review by Amanda Glaspie

Eve finds herself enthralled in another mystery when a childhood friend disappears. With limited clues, Eve finds herself grasping any lead she can find. The narrator kept my attention while switching between different characters. The story was interesting and full of well done character development. This was fast paced book with several mysteries packed into one.

Curse of the Forbidden Island by C.A. King – Review by Amanda Glaspie

Curse of Forbidden IslandCurse of Forbidden Island by C.A. King
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

If you want a quick raunchy read with a twist at the end, this is the book for you. This was a quick short story that can be read in one sitting that made you wanting more. Each chapter is a tease of what is to come and easily built onto each other which led to a tantalizingending. It did however, felt like a campfire story for adults as there wasn’t much depth. Nonetheless, I really enjoyed it.

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Savage Lies (Hidden Valley Elite Book 1) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Amanda Glaspie

Savage Lies (Hidden Valley Elite #1)Savage Lies by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Cole and Riley are from two different worlds but find themselves thrust into the same world. They’re both cunning but distrustful which leads to a dark and heated book. Although this is the first book in the series, I am happy I read the prequel first. This books does a great job of instantly pulling you into the series; the prequel just answers some early questions. Be prepared for a constant page turning and an ending that leads you to want more.

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Savage Start: A High School Bully Romance Prequel (Hidden Valley Elite Series) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Amanda Glaspie

Savage Start (Hidden Valley Elite #0.5)Savage Start by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This was an intense quick read that will instantly pull you into this series. Riley finds herself in another new town where she is promised by her mom that they’ll get to settle down. Cole is trying to live his life but is having to protect his mom. A chance meeting, broken promises, and an ending that leaves you wanting more is what you’ll find in the prequel. If you were unsure about this series, this book will change your mind to an instant yes.

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Lost Property (The Tom Grant Series Book 6) by Samantha Adair – Review by Amanda Glaspie

Lost Property: A Tom Grant Novel (The Tom Grant Series Book 6)Lost Property: A Tom Grant Novel by Samantha Adair
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Tom is pulled from retirement after two girls show up only willing to talk to him. Learning there is a third girls from a group that could bring down a major kidnapping ring; it becomes quickly apparent that was no longer retired. I love thrillers with fast faced action and this book did not disappoint. I haven’t read any other books in the series but the author does a really great job at “introducing ” characters. Her descriptions effectively give sufficient background but also their personalities. I knew I was going to enjoy this book when I found it was written in character point of views. This writing style is not for everybody but it was done very well and didn’t feel overwhelming. Great read. You won’t be totally lost if you haven’t read the first books in the series but as someone who hasn’t read them, I feel like things would have made more sense if I had.

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Knight In Peril (A Jorja Knight Private Investigator Mystery) by Alice Bienia – Review by Amanda Glaspie

Knight In Peril (A Jorja Knight Private Investigator Mystery #6)Knight In Peril by Alice Bienia
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

From the very beginning this book grabbed me instantly in. Page one and on, the author’s ability to describe situations and Jorja’s emotions, I knew I was going to be able physically feel what Jorja is feeling. There were so many twists and turns, and heart stopping moments I couldn’t put the book down. This was the sixth book in the series and I didn’t feel like I needed to read the first five to understand what was going on, however, I’m pulled in and will be going reading book one.

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Grave Digger Academy IV (Grave Digger Academy Series) by C.A. King Reviewed by Amanda Glaspie

Grave Digger Academy IVGrave Digger Academy IV by C.A. King
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Another quick and exciting installment in this series. Makayla finds herself thrown back into a world that is becoming stricter each and everyday. She can’t be helped by her helpers, she doesn’t know who she can trust; she must find the path that leads her to the answers. We are introduced to many new characters in this book and the reader quickly learns who can be trusted and who cannot, unfortunately, Makayla is not privy to that information. This is a book you will read in one sitting and find yourself ready for more. My one complaint about all the books in this series is I wish they were longer, although the bonus chapter was a nice touch and helped to tide over until the next installment.

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Secrets at the Café: A Novel of Suspense about Family and Friendship by Susan Specht Oram – Review by Amanda Glaspie

Secrets at the CafeSecrets at the Cafe by Susan Specht Oram
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Although they are not a series, this is another story that takes place in Millersville and I’m staring to wonder if this town is cursed. This time around Karina is back home running her grandmother’s (Gigi) Cafe after her death. Karina soon finds that she has a mystery when Gigi’s diary goes missing. The book provides strong character development as the list of subjects is created and the reader gers to learn about each character that may have taken the diary. The resolution was quick and finalized in a single short chapter; so it felt a little rushed. Ultimately, this is a fast read that will keep you wanting more.

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Grave Digger Academy III (Grave Digger Academy Series) by C.A. King – Review by Amanda Glaspie

Grave Digger Academy IIIGrave Digger Academy III by C.A. King
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The third book in this installment did not disappoint. There is so much detail in such a short book. Makayla finds herself back at the Grave diggers Acedemy fle the third year, but this time, she isn’t allowed to leave. In the book Makayla continues to grow in her magic and when she is forced to rely on herself, she finds her powers are much stronger than she ever imagined. Small details build up and all culminates in the conclusion of this book. I do not recommend reading this without the first two books; it is definitely not meant as a stand alone.

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The Man in Black by L.R. Liverpool – Review by Amanda Glaspie

The Man In BlackThe Man In Black by L.R. Liverpool
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is a an adventurous book that will keep you constantly on the edge of your seat, once you get through the first few chapters. It was a slow start and I had a hard time connecting with Fenimore, aka, Simon Shaw. However, after the first few chapters, I really felt a connection with him. There is a lot going on within the book between Simon’s “coming of age”, budding romances, a mystery man, and murders, there is something to appeal for everyone in this book.

As the book progressed I found myself loving characters I hated and hating characters I loved. The character development was very strong. You really got to know many of the members in the gang and their background. For example, Ford had has a unique and volatile personality. Early on in the book, you learn his history and his characteristics make sense. I ultimately really enjoyed all the twists and turns and absolute surprises.

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Necrosis Audiobook by C.L. Schneider – Review by Amanda Glaspie

This was powerfully and beautifully written. The details and descriptions were incredibly vivid and made me a little squeamish at times. The emotions felt in each sentence were strong. The narrator did a wonderful job with her vocal inflections and telling the story.

1897 A Mark Sutherland Adventure (Mark Sutherland Adventures) by Kimberly Mullins – Review by Amanda Glaspie

1897 A Mark Sutherland Adventure1897 A Mark Sutherland Adventure by Kimberly Mullins
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Another great book from this author and what I hope is a new series. Mark who works for the paper as a journalist and butnis always seeking adventure. Mark soon finds that adventure is all around. This was an awesome read with all the side adventures leading up his bug adventure. I also loved that Mark was a character in the authors other series. It was as if he got his own spin off. You’ll find yourself falling on love with old characters and welcoming new all in the first chapter.

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Truck Stopped (Satan’s Devils MC) Audiobook by Manda Mellett – Review by Amanda Glaspie

Once again, this book proved why this is one of my favorite series and I’m so incredibly sad to see it end for the Tucson chapter. This was wonderfully and beautifully written. I felt every single emotion between Trucker and Allie. I found myself unable to stop listening and when I had to “put the book down” I found myself thinking a out it. I loved how this followed the same normal format as all the other books but also gave closure to the Tucson club. As always the narrators were fantastic and were absolutely perfect.

A Death on Fools Lane (An Eve Sawyer Mystery) by Jane Suen – Review by Amanda Glaspie

A Death on Fools Lane (Eve Sawyer Mystery #4)A Death on Fools Lane by Jane Suen
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This was a quick murder mystery read. If you want some mystery but only have an hour to read, this is the book for you. Eve and friends are helping to house sit when they are suddenly awoken by the police. A body was found hanging in the tree in the backyard. Eve quickly starts to unravel the mysterious murder of Mead Parker. There was a lot of twists and turns in such a short amount of time I just wish it was longer. Character development was quick and brief but provided sufficient information to learn about the characters. The ending is not what you would expect; which is my favorite type of ending for a murder mystery.

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The Mother’s Threat by Susan Specht Oram – Review by Amanda Glaspie

The Mother's ThreatThe Mother’s Threat by Susan Specht Oram
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Another interesting read by this author taking place in non other, Millersville. This is the first book by this author that didn’t feel like it came completely out of left field. Violet recently opened her own security firm and upon meeting her first client, finds herself deep in a security issue. This book really touched on how much individuals in high places are so easy to dismiss those not in their circle. Violet really had to hold her own, even after finding out that her mom is one of the masterminds of these protests. This is a standalone and no other book needs to be read to know what is going on, however, the glimpses into previous books were a nice nod to the others that take place I’m Millersville.

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Notebook Mysteries ~ A Party to Remember (Notebook Mysteries Series) by Kimberly Mullins – Review by Amanda Glaspie

Notebook Mysteries ~ A Party to RememberNotebook Mysteries ~ A Party to Remember by Kimberly Mullins
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This book is proof good things come in small packages. The beginning felt choppy and didn’t feel like the normal writing style for this series but it quickly fell into the groove we know and love. This Christmas novella was the perfect mix of mystery and family. Definitely don’t pass on this fast and fun read.

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This Time Around Audiobook by Jane Suen – Review by Amanda Glaspie

This was a quick, sweet romance of a lost love. Katie comes back home for a wedding after ten years of being gone. Chase is raising his nephew and never expected the woman who broke his heart to show up. Little did they know, the love was still there. If you want a quick romantic novel, this is it. The narration was great and really rounded off the book.

Russian and Royally Complicated (The Crowned Hearts Series Book 2) by Gwyn McNamee and Christy Anderson – Review by Amanda Glaspie

Russian and Royally ComplicatedRussian and Royally Complicated by Gwyn McNamee
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Classic foe to lover story between Daphne and Lev. Who knew love could be found in the person you hate the most? If you haven’t read the first book, there are many references that may not make sense in this book. I do not recommend reading as a stand alone. This book brought out many emotions; you’ll find yourself, sad, shocked, surprised, and oh so happy.

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Royally Complicated (The Crowned Hearts Series Book 1) by Gwyn McNamee and Christy Anderson – Review by Amanda Glaspie

Royally ComplicatedRoyally Complicated by Gwyn McNamee
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

If Hallmark made raunchy movies, this would be it. Small town girls meets her Prince after a horrible breakup while she goes on her pre-purchased honeymoon. Sprinkle in civil unrest and an evil princess, you have the classic romance novel. I wish we got a little more backstory with each character. Even though they felt an instant connection, I didn’t feel that with our two main characters. I did however, feel the instance hated if Fyn’s parents and abigail towards Bridgette. The descriptions of their encounters were spot on. Ultimately, this This was a quick entertaining read that you will not want to put down.

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Fortune’s Favorite (Soulbound Journeys Book 2) by C. L. Schneider – Review by Amanda Glaspie

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

Another great adventure with Ian Troy and Jarryd Kane. This trip takes them into a world where two Shinrees are worshiped as God’s and known as “The Twins”. Ian and Jarryd soon learn that things are not always as they seem. The character development was great in this book. I really felt like I got to know the personalities of the two better than the first in thos series. The writing just keeps getting better. This is book two, but you get to knkw the characters so well, you could read as a stand alone book, but you won’t want to. Another great fantasy book.

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The Guardsman (The Olympic Peninsula Series Book 2) Audiobook by Cat Treadgold – Review by Amanda Glaspie

When I started this book, I had no idea this was the second book in the series. itnhad great description ls of each character, and it was very easy to learn and feel their emotions. The story was intriguing and a little unique; at times, the storyline seemed a little far-fetched. The narration did sound forced which made it hard to focus on the story but I was able to get used to it as the story progressed. Overall, if you’re looking for a cute romance, this will definitely fill that need.

Reticent Hawke (The Hawke Family Second Generation Book 2) by Gwyn McNamee – Review by Amanda Glaspie

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

First generation or second generation, I can’t get enough of this family. Another great book for this author. Jude has always been a mystery from the moment he was introduced and this book did not disappoint in learning about him and his past. Angelina is the oldest of thr kids and owns her dream coffee shop. This book brought life to these characters. This book is no different than the rest where you can feel each emotion that is expressed. I thoroughly enjoyed book two from the second generation series. You will not be disappointed.

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Notebook Mysteries ~ Parisian Intrigue (Notebook Mysteries Book 6) by Kimberly Mullins – Review by Amanda Glaspie

Parisian Intrigue (Notebook Mysteries #6)Parisian Intrigue by Kimberly Mullins
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Another book in this series that has enforced my love of this author. Another round of mysteries for Emma and Jeremy but this time, Dora and Tim are involved. The four are invited by a mystery organization on an all expense paid trip to the exposition in Paris, France introducing new and upcoming technology. They all decide it would be a nice trip and getaway but it doesn’t take long for Emma to feel like something is not right. I love the prologue that instantly pulls you in. From there you will find two mysteries seemingly not connected, intertwine for an exciting fast paced mystery where surprises keep you on your toes. This is part of a series but can easily be read alone as the characters are described in detail and gives you just enough to not be lost.

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House of Arsceneaux (Servants of Morrigan: Immortal Creatures) by Caterina Novelliere – Review by Amanda Glaspie

House of ArsceneauxHouse of Arsceneaux by Caterina Novelliere
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The moment the book starts you know it will be filled with passion. Caitlin, must go to New Orleans on business instead of vacation; Evariste owns the company that Caitlin is inspecting. From the first moment the two interact, there is instant connection. Evariste knows that fate had to bring Caitlin to him as she appears to be his late wife. Caitlin doesn’t understand her intense attraction. This was an intense book with constant surprises. If you’re looking for a great fantasy with wonderful character development, definitely pick this book up.

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