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Shadow Patterns of Melt by J. R. P. Fogg – Review by Amanda Glaspie

Shadow Patterns of Melt - Book OneShadow Patterns of Melt – Book One by J.R.P. Fogg
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is not my typical genre and was hesitant going in but I really enjoyed this collection. It started off a little confusing as there was terminology that was created for this book but as the book progressed, it made sense. Likewise, the beginning was slow but quickly moved to a page turner that I could not put down. Nialla and Bishr create a wonderful team that you cheer on while feeling their heartache, exhaustion, and fear. I am anxiously awaiting the next collection to be completed for Book two to be released.

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Weep, Woman, Weep: A Gothic Fairytale about Ancestral Hauntings by Maria DeBlassie – Review by Amanda Glaspie

Weep, Woman, WeepWeep, Woman, Weep by Maria DeBlassie
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Mercy is a young native woman who has been taught to not show her tears and never walk the riverside at night otherwise La Llorona will get you. She does everything in her power with her best friend Sherry to break the cycle that has plagued the women of their tiny town. Unfortunately, her Sherry does not escape the fate and we soon follow the story of Mercy and her growth. This a powerful story of a young woman who doesn’t give up, despite the hardships that are consistently thrown at her. I really enjoyed this book. It was quick and short, but so much was packed into this story and I didn’t feel like anything was lost or rushed. I truly enjoyed Mercy’s growth.

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Divided Lives by K.R. Mullins – Review by Amanda Glaspie

Divided LivesDivided Lives by K.R. Mullins
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I really enjoyed this book and that it had the same feel as the Notebook Diaries. Following Lottie, Tim and Dora’s daughter, we learn that she has grown into a fiercely independent woman just like her Aunt Emma. I liked that there was a mystery to be solved and Lottie aimed to seek justice for all. Lottie isn’t afraid to have her true self known and grows into string woman. I think it sends a great message to all to not be afraid of who you are. Finally, the ending was another great shock that I did not see coming but brought everything together fantastically.

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Rage (Marcy Series Book 1) Audiobook by Linda Burson – Review by Amanda Glaspie

This was an intriguing listen. Marcy who owns her own business has recently developed an uncontrollable rage that starts to effect her life. This leads to issues with her boyfriend Brad and befriending Liam a vigilanty. The story has a weird plot that at times didn’t make sense and was hard to follow but ultimately all made sense in the end. I did find myself getting frustrated with Marcy by allowing such toxic men to be part and control so much of her life. The ending was a surprise albeit a little off the wall; maybe book two in the series will help things make more sense.

Ice Dance by Vik Azeem – Review by Amanda Glaspie

Ice DanceIce Dance by Vik Azeem
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Hassen has lost his job, has no money, and is getting evicted, what more could go wrong? Yasmine has escaped Holly-Maid, a nation from another relm only to find out her fiance has found her. The two meet and the craziness begins. This was a fun quick read that brought modern day problems to a fairytale like realm.

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Defiant Princess (Mafia Elite Series Prequel) by Amy McKinley – Review by Amanda Glaspie

Defiant Princess (Mafia Elite Prequel)Defiant Princess by Amy McKinley
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I truly enjoyed this prequel to the Mafia Elite series. In the series we hear a lot about Marissa but never really got to know her. I enjoyed reading about her and her hopes before tragedy hits along with the other girls. It gave a quick glimpse into their lives before things got complicated. This can be read before the main series as a quick intro to the Mafia princesses or after to experience their college lives. My only complaint, it was too short.

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Stumble & Fall (A Legacy of Silence Book 2) by Amy Rivers – Review by Amanda Glaspie

Stumble & Fall (A Legacy of Silence, #2)Stumble & Fall by Amy Rivers
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I didn’t realize this was book two in a series until after I started it but it did not hinder the experience within the book. It is a continuation of Kate and Tilly and their life working with abused and sexually assaulted victims. I enjoyed the book but at times felt it was a lot of fluff without anything being resolved. However, I did enjoy the read and will go and read book one. The was good character development amongst Kate and Tilly and I enjkyed watching them grow. At the end, I found myself wanting more and needed mysteries to be resolved but I suppose there could be a book three, at least I hope so.

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The Intruders by Brett McKay – Review by Amanda Glaspie

The IntrudersThe Intruders by Brett McKay
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This was an fast paced intense sci-fi mystery. Dex thought the most difficult part of his life was finding a better paying job outside the car dealership and then a silver eyes man shows up. Little does he know that was the start of a series of life changing events. This was a book that made you wonder what else is out there and if there are other worlds. This was certainly a hard book to put down and each chapter brought more uncertainty. There was minimal character development but I really felt like I got to know each character and was rooting for their victory or loss. Ending was not what I was expecting and not sure if there are plans for a second book but it left it open to another.

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From Brick & Darkness by J.L. Sullivan – Review by Amanda Glaspie

From Brick & DarknessFrom Brick & Darkness by J.L. Sullivan
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This was a book that certainly keeps you on your toes and teaches that not all things are as they seem. Bax finds a homeless man on his steps who gifts him a ring. Little does Bax know is that ring will lead to some of Bax’s deepest desires to come true in the most horrific way. This was a good story that led from desire and greed and to acceptance and love. I ejoyed seeing the characters grow and friendships formed. Bax, Jason, and Ashley are proof that you can always find friends in the most unexpected ways and they will always be with you. The ending was cute and had a solid conclusion but seemed rather dull after the excitement of the book. Overall it was a fun and suspenseful book.

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Mafia Elite Series Box Set Volume 2 by Amy McKinley – Review by Amanda Glaspie

Mafia Elite Box Set: Volume TwoMafia Elite Box Set: Volume Two by Amy McKinley
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The Mafia Elite series is one that cannot be out down. Volume two continues an absolutely amazing series. Each book continues to build on itself but can be read alone, but you won’t want to. The romance, action, and excitement can’t be beat. You’ll want to keep reading more and more. Highly recommend!

Savage Secrets
The fourth installment doesn’t disappoint with the introduction of Elena and Marco. We instantly fall in love with these two new characters. Even as they fight their chemistry, you can feel it in their body language. This installment brings a new mix of twists and turns that keeps you wondering what is next.

Ruthless Heir
Another fantastic installment in the series. I loved the outside looking in feel of this book and the introduction of two new characters. Luc and Summer, a classic enemy turned to love story. These two fit perfectly with the current mafia bosses and wives. Once again, you can feel the love and pain that each of these characters feel. I connected to Luc and Summer more than the previous characters as they were not born into the Mafia. I really enjoyed this book in the series and am intrigued to find out what comes next.

Collateral Damage
Book six in the series did not disappoint. This was another action packed read that kept you on yours toes. A fast read makes it easy to read in one day, which is good because you will not to put it down. This book we meet Trey, sibling number three of the De Larosa family and the family doctor. He is hired by Allen, who is the director of the hospital, to find his abducted step-daughter Hailey. Instantly, you can tell this is a lost connection between Trey and Hailey and leads you to wanting more. However, life in the Mafia does not make it easy for them. Twists and turns keep you wanting more. Great characters who bring just another great element to the Mafia families. Big tip, due yourself a favor and read the first five books in the series, although the book is fine as a stand alone, many things make more sense when the other books have been read.

Rivals
What can I say about this book other than I’m sad the series is coming to a end but with a great final book. Nico thinks he is getting away where no one can find him, Mia has other plans. It is time to merge the Chicago and New York mafia families. The final book brings everything full cicle as Nico, the final brother finds love in unexpected places. Mia learns what family is really like and that there those that she can trust. I love that this book brought the right amount of needed vindication and love. Another book in the series that will keep you guessing and wondering what will come next. Wonderful end to the series.

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Rock Bottom (Satan’s Devils MC Book #7) Audiobook by Manda Mellett – Review by Amanda Glaspie

It’s hard not to continue to fall in love with this series. Rock swears he’ll never find himself an old lady and with so many of the Satan’s Devils slowing down, he finds that he is bored. Rebecca was raised not to think and is forced into marriage with an abusive pastor. The two find each other in the most heartbreaking way. Once again, the series touches on very delicate subjects (abuse, sexual harassment) and may be triggering for some but does an excellent job showing how its not ok and will find for those that are victims. This has me falling in love with each character more and more. My heart hurt when members were injured and happy when good things happen. I’m curious what is going to happen. next and wonder what’s going on with mouse. I’m also wondering what they put in that water as their a fertile bunch of bikers.

Gathering of the Four (The Serrulata Saga Book 1) by A.E. Bennett – Review by Amanda Glaspie

Gathering of the Four (The Serrulata Saga #1)Gathering of the Four by A.E. Bennett
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This book was a fantastic read. It was a fast and smooth read. It followed along the typical civilization ended and a new civilization began trope but brought its own twist. I loved getting to really know the four main characters as their development and growth throughout the book was wonderfully written. Leora proved that when placed in the worst circumstances, it is all about how you overcome to be the best you can be. Roland found himself falling for the most unlikely of people and grew to be a hero instead of the thief. Aurora is proof that looks don’t simply define a person and her wit and intellect are top of the line. Finally Leopold truly funds himself against all odds and everything he has been taught and ultimately finds his inner emotions and cares for those around him. These four unlikely characters come together to help lead the next revolution. There are so many twists and turns in this book that the ending will make you wanting for more. I cannot wait for book two.

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Dainty Damsels by J.N. Sheats – Review by Amanda Glaspie

Dainty Damsels: Halloween Collection 2022Dainty Damsels: Halloween Collection 2022 by J.N. Sheats
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is a cute coloring book that would geared towards older teens and adults. The artwork is fun and good fir Halloween. Pictures are detailed enough to have good artwork but not so much it isn’t easy to add your own details. Fun activity.

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Breathless in Love Audiobook (The Maverick Billionaires Book 1) by Bella Andre & Jennifer Skully – Review by Amanda Glaspie

What happens when two people meet that don’t think they deserve love, it creates a fun love story. Will, one of the maverick billionaires, accepts the request to come view his car collection from an exuberant young man, Jeremy. He didn’t expect, Harper, Jeremy’s sister, to instantly catch his eye. Harper can’t help her attraction to Will but is afraid to let it grow due to his play boy attitude and her need to take care of her brother. This is a book that shows we all deserve love even when our past says otherwise. I enjoyed watching the growth in Will, Harper, and even Jeremy.

Hungry Business: A Gothic Story about the Horrors of Dating by Maria DeBlassie – Review by Amanda Glaspie

Hungry BusinessHungry Business by Maria DeBlassie
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This was an intriguing quick shirt story and the difficulties of dating during a time when not everyone is human. This was an entertaining tale of the challenges of internet dating, something that isn’t easy under normal circumstances. For 15 pages it gave quite a bit of character development and the ending made me wanting more. Not usually a fan of short stories, but this was deep and I really enjoyed it.

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Grave Digger Academy II (Grave Digger Academy Book 2) by C.A. King – Review by Amanda Glaspie

Grave Digger Academy IIGrave Digger Academy II by C.A. King
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Another great book in the series. This time the group comes together for the Inter-Academy games. What could go wrong? The students are forced to find their inner strengths and their bond with their helpers. You can feel the growth in the students and their confidence in themselves. I really enjoyed seeing those who were thought to be from the lessor school overcome the tasks at hand and show that they are also a force to be wrecken with but can also come together to save those in need. Overall, a fun quick read.

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Grave Digger Academy (Grave Digger Academy Book 1) by C.A. King – Review by Amanda Glaspie

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

This was a really good quick read. I get Harry Potter vibes but with a twist. Makayla ends up at the school no one wants to attend, herself included. What she soon finds out, she is there for a reason. This fast paced magical book packs a punch in only 150 pages with the ending leaving you wa ting more. I felt for her as she made and lost friends, as she feared for her life, and as she sought out hope. There were parts that I felt it sped through but for a short book, did a great job. Can’t wait to read the 2nd book.

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Notebook Mysteries ~ Haunted Christmas by Kimberly Mullins – Review by Amanda Glaspie

Notebook Mysteries Haunted ChristmasNotebook Mysteries Haunted Christmas by Kimberly Mullins
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This was a fun quick read continuing the mysteries that Emma enjoys solving. Who doesn’t love a Christmas haunted house and the looming who done it. This mystery focused primarily on the one mystery that Ethan, Emma’s coworker at the law firm, brought to her. Was his dad murdered by a ghost, did he really commit, or was there something more sinister. Although this was just a shirt book, it continued to show Emma’s growth as she encounters her own demons.

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Notebook Mysteries ~ Emma (Notebook Mysteries Book 1) by Kimberly Mullins – Review by Amanda Glaspie

Notebook Mysteries ~ EmmaNotebook Mysteries ~ Emma by Kimberly Mullins
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This was an interesting story of Emma who grow up in the late 1800s and after surviving the great Chicago Fire. Emma is observes everything and notices things that no one else does. This leads her to start solving mysteries and solve a crime no one knew was a crime. I did feel like there could have been a bit more character development as some things I felt like were skimmed over. Overall, this was a fun listen with a twist at the end. Don’t forget to check out the recipes for the desserts that are discussed throughout the book. I can’t wait to try them.

View all my reviewsNotebook Mysteries ~ Emma (Notebook Mysteries Book 1) by Kimberly Mullins – Review by

Ashes (Modern-Day Fairy Tale Book 1) by MK Harkins – Review by Amanda Glaspie

This was a cute adaptation of the Cinderella in modern day times. Ashley is a self proclaimed loner; our Cinderella. Harry is a troubled artist who found himself in trouble with the law (our prince). The two find each other in the most unlikely of places. The story was entertaining and fun to follow. I enjoyed listening to both sides of Ashley and Harry and the transition was very well done. The fairy godmothers seemed like an odd mix but definitely left for a potential sequel because lf them.

Chasing Hope Audiobook by Dana Wayne – Review by Amanda Glaspie

This was a cute romance about two people who didn’t know they needed love. Skylar, a single mom to Maddie finds herself in a small town where everybody knows your name. Max is a former Marine who recently moved back after being injured to his hometown. Lol and behold, fate named Maddie brought the two together. This was a simple romance about two people who needed each other and learned to trust again despite things going against them.

Stand Your Ground Audiobook by A.J. Ullman – Review by Amanda Glaspie

I was not expecting this book to be as politically charged as it was. It had good character development which led to the reader able to make their own decisions on the guiltiness of our leading character. The story found itself with a lot of subplots in my opinion that led to more questions that I feel were never answered. Overall, interesting listen with a twist at the end that I was not expecting.

Notebook Mysteries ~ Changes and Challenges (Notebook Mysteries Book 3) by Kimberly Mullins – Review by Amanda Glaspie

Notebook Mysteries ~ Changes and Challenges (Notebook Mysteries book #3)Notebook Mysteries ~ Changes and Challenges by Kimberly Mullins
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Book 3 in the series brings more mysteries. Whereever Emma seems to go, Emma’s power of observation allows her to see things that others don’t. The series continues as Emma has now established herself as a strong investigator. This round she helps to find missing children, paintings, and solve the case of murdered husband. This book delves further into the complexities of being a woman in a man’s world. I really enjoyed how Emma is written in such a way that she exudes confidence and captures the attention and respect of everyone she speaks to.

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Notebook Mysteries ~ Decisions and Possibilities (Notebook Mysteries Book 2) by Kimberly Mullins – Review by Amanda Glaspie

Decisions and Possibilities (Notebook Mysteries #2)Decisions and Possibilities by Kimberly Mullins
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Once again the book begins with stories from years prior. Emma is now becoming firmly established as her own detective and works with her sister and other friends to build and solve cases. I really enjoyed this book and found it was written better than the firs; the author finding her voice in the series. Emma is a wonderful and strong female lead who continues to show that woman can do anything. This point in further proven in both of the main cases. Entertaining quick read that is a wonderful continuation of the first book but can also be read as a stand alone.

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Notebook Mysteries ~ Unexpected Outcomes (Notebook Mysteries Book 4) by Kimberly Mullins – Review by Amanda Glaspie

Notebook Mysteries ~ Unexpected Outcomes (Notebook Mysteries book #4)Notebook Mysteries ~ Unexpected Outcomes by Kimberly Mullins
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Another great book in the series. This book feels more mature than the previous three and Emma is really starting to grow. She has always been someone that made hasty decisions without others feelings and she is learning not to do that. This book focused on one major mystery which I really enjoyed because it also allowed character development for the other characters as well. This book did brings twists but was well written. Again, this book can be read as a stand alone book but the others help this book to be elevated to what it is.

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Peg’s Stand (Satan’s Devils MC #6) Audio Book by Manda Mellett – Review by Amanda Glaspie

Peg finds that he is longing for love. Darcy wants to prove that she is just as strong as one of the guys. Can the two find love? Darcy’s roommate turns into her wrist nightmare; Peg becomes her knight in shining armor. I really enjoyed watching the continued growth of the Satan’s Devils and this was no different. Peg really showed his caring side and showed that real men do have feelings and aren’t afraid to show it. Darcy is a strong woman who knows what she wants and provides a nice contrast to the subservient women previously introduced in the books. The story was filled with quite a bit of action but there was a lot of little intense moments versus one big problem taking place. Overall, a really great book where I found myself laughing, crying, getting angry, and then oh so happy.

Rivals (Mafia Elite Book 7) by Amy McKinley – Review by Amanda Glaspie

Rivals (Mafia Elite, #7)Rivals by Amy McKinley
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

What can I say about this book other than I’m sad the series is coming to a end but with a great final book. Nico thinks he is getting away where no one can find him, Mia has other plans. It is time to merge the Chicago and New York mafia families. The final book brings everything full circle as Nico, the final brother finds love in unexpected places. Mia learns what family is really like and that there those that she can trust. I love that this book brought the right amount of needed vindication and love. Another book in the series that will keep you guessing and wondering what will come next. Wonderful end to the series.

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Ritual Obsession (Blood Obsession Book 1) by R.L. Dunn – Review by Amanda Glaspie

Ritual Obsession (Blood Obsession Book 1)Ritual Obsession by R.L. Dunn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This might be one of my new favorite authors. Crime novels are some of my favorite genres and this book was in my top 3 of favorite crime books. The character development and growth was amazing. You could feel everything Rose, Bobbi, and Max felt. They were so well written. The storyline was simply put … intense. You instantly hate Andrew as he seeks out Bobbi, he is the first villain. The bathtub murderer is then revealed and you encounter villain number two. The author successfully blended both antagonists storylines the complete our protagonists. The ending was equally great and frustrating. I will be counting down the days until the next book is released.

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To be a Fae Guardian (Realm Chronicles Book 2) Audio Book by Tricia Copeland – Review by Amanda Glaspie

This was an interesting listen as Titania battles to determine who she can trust while also containing locusts that threaten her kingdom. I have read/listened to the first book but I found that not to be an issue. The author did a good job of referencing the first book and giving a quick background. I did find that the book jumped around and glossed over details or focused on details that were not as important but overall I enjoyed the book. I find myself rooting for strong female characters, especially when their differences are highlighted and focused on trying to make them appear as bad. Titania is a strong character who proves her worth through her actions.

Levi (The Brothers of Creekside Ranch Book 1) by Edith Mackenzie Reviewed by Amanda Glaspie

LeviLevi by Edith Mackenzie
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I really enjoyed this wholesome mystery. Levi, a tough former Navy SEAL, has agreed to help protect and hide Bella who is needed to testify against her ex-boyfriend. Little do each other know, they are exactly what each of them needed. There really wasn’t a dull moment in the book but the beginning had a slower start but boy was it hard to put down. The character development between the key characters was great and I found I was falling in love with the family. At times, I was holding my breath with anticipation at what was to come next. I can’t wait for the next installment.

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