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

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.

Murder Creek (Audio Book) by Jane Suen – Review by Amanda Glaspie

This was a fun quick mystery. Eve who felt a strong connection to Murder Creek immediately knows that she needs to look into an unsolved murder for her journalism class. I loved that this was an easy listen but was able to get touch on important little details. The ending was sad but perfect. Definitely worth listening to.

 

The Lie That Binds by Amy Argent – Review by Amanda Glaspie

The Lie That BindsThe Lie That Binds by Amy Argent
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This was an incredibly written book following a young man as he battles his secret illness and the girl that helps him along the way. I grew up with a brother who had epilepsy so this book hit close to home. The author was able to capture the real emotion of Nathan and the fear that encompassed him. All he wanted to be was normal. Each episode he had, his pain could be felt. Combine that with the raw emotion that Holly brings and your heart will go through all sorts of feelings. I found myself smiling, crying, and hoping for everything to work out. I had the hardest time putting this book down. Read it, you will not be disappointed.

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PREMEDITATED: A Trust Betrayed, Lives Sabotaged, A Love Undaunted (Agents of Justice Book 2) by Susanna Haymond – Review by Amanda Glaspie

PremeditatedPremeditated by Susanna Haymond
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

A great wholesome book with a great twist. The start of the book had me slightly confused where each group of characters were connected but it all made sense. This was a wonderful mix of heartfelt romance, suspense, and excitement. This was a fun quick read that you will have trouble putting down.

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Heart Broken (Satan’s Devils MC #5) Audio Book by Manda Mellett – Review by Amanda Glaspie

Another great book in the series and this by far is my favorite. Following Heart after he is voted out as a Ronan, he chooses to travel his late wife’s road trip. Along the way he starts talking to Mark, one of the investigators for his and Crystals accident, where it becomes evident, she was meant to be in his life. This book brings one surprise after another while bringing hope and love. Fantastic!

 

Collateral Damage (Mafia Elite Series Book 6) by Amy McKinley – Review by Amanda Glaspie

Collateral Damage: A Second Chance Mafia Romance (Mafia Elite Book 6)Collateral Damage: A Second Chance Mafia Romance by Amy McKinley
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

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.

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Targeting Dart (Satan’s Devils MC #4) by Manda Mellett – Review by Amanda Glaspie

This series continues to keep getting better. This time we watched Dart grow and mature as he meets Alex and her son Tyler. I loved the growth that we saw in not only Dart as he realizes that he might need more than sex, but the club grows and matures as they realize it’s time to change their rules. In this book, we see the Satan’s Devils once again come together to protect someone that needs them, this time it’s Alex who has just escaped an abusive relationship. Dart takes on her protection only to find that he has growing feelings for her. Definitely recommend if your looking for a heart warming story with great action and suspense.

Class Clown (Ghost Girl Series) by Allan Evans – Review by Amanda Glaspie

Class ClownClass Clown by Allan Evans
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This was a fantastic paranormal young adult novel. Paranormal and suspense is my favorite genre and this met both. Abbey who has seen ghosts since she was 7 has found herself suddenly attracting ghost clowns after going to the circus with her parents. Can Abbey along with the help of her friends solve the mystery? This was a story that instantly pulled me in and I found myself having a hard time putting the book down and read it in a couple of days. You felt the fear as the characters encountered the ghosts and the hope that all would be resolved. The ending was sureal but perfect. My only complaint, I wish there was a list of all the 80s song Abbey refers to so I can make my own play list … I guess I’ll just have to read the book again.

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Ruthless Heir (Mafia Elite Book 5) by Amy McKinley – Review by Amanda Glaspie

Ruthless Heir: An Enemies to Lovers Mafia Romance (Mafia Elite, #5)Ruthless Heir: An Enemies to Lovers Mafia Romance by Amy McKinley
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

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.

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The-Know-It-All-Pencil (Invisible Magic Wand Series) by Lois Wickstrom – Review By Amanda Glaspie

The Know-It-All PencilThe Know-It-All Pencil by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This was a cute children’s story that I thought taught trust and helping others. A special gift from his Grandpa for his unbirthday, Caspian never knows what to expect. This year was no different when he received a pad of paper a pencil. This pencil took Caspian on an adventure where I thought the story did a great job of showing the importance of helping other and trusting those that are out to help you. Both my daughters enjoyed this cute story and really like the illustrations.

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The Traveler: Book 2 by Deborah Dugan – Review by Amanda Glaspie

The Traveler: Book 2The Traveler: Book 2 by Deborah Dugan
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The story follows Harry, who over has gone by many names over many years, and his adventures. I will start by saying that although the first book is not necessary to follow along but makes book two significantly more enjoyable. With that being said, I had a much harder time getting into boom two but having read the first book, I knew it would get better and answers to my questions would be resolved. I enjoyed learning more about Harry and his past lives. The author did a really nice job seamlessly blending the past with the current time while also building wonderful character development. I found myself missing the same people Harry was and wondering what happened to them. We also continue to find out how Tristan is doing and his budding romance with Elena. My favorite interactions will always be with Tristan and Harry. I’m excited to read the third book.

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Vox Astra: The Black Box (Vox Astra Series Book 1) by James Chambers – Review by Amanda Glaspie

Vox Astra: The Black BoxVox Astra: The Black Box by James Chambers
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Reading this book I really wasn’t sure what to expect as I don’t typically read this genre but was pleasantly surprised. It was a several different short stories combined to create a quick and fun read. The description of the book really doesn’t give it justice. The stories were exciting, scary, sad, a bit of everything. I really enjoyed the futuristic take within each story. One thing that was alike in each story, Earth is at war with the cosmos and all that it holds. If you are looking for something quick and slightly thought provoking, this certainly is the book for you.

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The Billionaire’s Slave by Stacy-Deanne – Review by Amanda Glaspie

The Billionaire's Slave by Stacy-DeanneThe Billionaire’s Slave by Stacy-Deanne by Stacy-Deanne
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

I felt dirty reading this book and not because it is a romance novel. Although this was a fairly historically accurate book, it felt like there were things that were glamorized that should never have been. I’m thankful it was a quick and easy read as I just couldn’t get into it. I’ll give it three starts because the character development was strong and you felt their emotions otherwise, I just couldn’t enjoy it.

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Divine Vintage by Sandra L. Young – Review by Amanda Glaspie

Divine VintageDivine Vintage by Sandra L. Young
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This was a thrilling quick read of murder, love, and hope. Tess having just opened her dream store in Michigan City, Indiana gets the opportunity to model a early 1900s gown which ultimately leads to her helping to solve a 100 year old murder mystery. Trey, who was simply helping his dear relative Esther, finds himself also entranced when he begins seeing the same visions as Tess. This book flawlessly moves from modern times to the past. I found myself spellbound as the story of Phoebe and Edward is told through the eyes of Tess and Trey. You will find yourself on the edge of your seat each time a vision arises. I thought the last chapter was an after thought but it did not take away from the solved mystery and left me feeling happy This is a beautiful love story blended with mystery, hope for the future, and so much more.

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The Bear at Midnight (Orkneyinga Murders Book 4) by Lexie Conyngham – Review by Amanda Glaspie

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

Two deaths, one of old age, one of death, brings Ketil and Sigrid back together to solve who the killer is. Has long lost relatives compete to take over their deceased relatives home and power, things go awry and nobody is without suspicion. Although this is the fourth book in the series, it can easily be read as a stand alone. I’ve read the first and this book and didn’t feel like I was lost. The original characters continue to grow while meeting new ones in the series. It still amazes me how even after a few short paragraphs,I find myself disliking or loving a character. Just as you think you know the killer, bam, what a great ending.

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Tomb of an Eagle (Orkneyinga Murders Book 1) by Lexie Conyngham – Review by Amanda Glaspie

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

This book was a nice mix of historical fiction and murder mystery. This is the first book in the series and is the introduction to the village of Orkney and all the people within the village. Book starts with Sigrid finding an unknown body and the hunt for the murderer is on. At this time Ketil rides in so speak to the Earl of Orkney, Thorfinn and some distressing news. This is when the who done it really starts. I’m not usually a fan of historical fiction but I really enjoyed this book. It had a good mix of character development, mystery, and twists and turns. Sigrid and Ketil make a good team and I hope they continue in reigniting their friendship.

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Journeys Through Collection: Volumes 1-3 by James Talisman – Review by Amanda Glaspie

Journeys Through Collection: Volume 1-3Journeys Through Collection: Volume 1-3 by James Talisman
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Book one: It follows the stories of several different characters among different time frames and multiverses as they hear a mysterious voice. The beginning of the book, while describing the main characters, feels like it was written with a minimum word requirement with the excessive describing of every single detail. It became almost overwhelming at times. It wasn’t consistent with the style of writing for the remainder of the book which I was very happy to see. However, if you like a book that gives strong vivid details to set the scenes, this is the book for you.

Beware, the book can be hard to follow and it can be confusing how each story is connected. Jumping back and forth between the different realms, I found myself having to go back to the previous chapters to remind myself who these characters are. Thankfully, James does provide a character list in the beginning of the book that I found incredibly helpful. Once I stopped trying to connect the different realms/characters and read each chapter as individual short stories, it became a page turner that I couldn’t put down. I was excited to see what happened next and the final wrap up at the end was the perfect ending.

Ultimately, I was hesitant to read the story as the overview seemed overwhelming and confusing but I am so happy that I did. Journeys Through Space Time ended up being an exciting book following different characters who had to find the good in themselves to beat the bad. Classic good versus evil written in a completely new way.

Book Two: This was another exciting read as we follow Matthew, Julia, and Dan, in their attempt to save the world. I enjoyed this second book much more than I did the first. It was evident that James found the writing style that fit this book. I enjoyed following the different adventures between Matt, Julia, and Dan and their growth to learn their new abilities. I found that much of the book revolved around these three and their travels, I wish there was more character development in some of the other key players. I would recommend this to anyone that enjoys scifi as well as mystery and adventure. I also recommend reading the first book to find out who the characters are and their importance.

Book Three: The third installment in this series was the character development I was looking for in book two. Although this can be read as a stand alone book, I highly recommend reading the first two books in the series to get the full understanding of this book and all that it builds up to. Matt, The Ancient One, and his ancient twin Rashella, are called upon to help save the many universes against Diavolos who seeks to go against the Celestial ranks. This is an exciting adventure of love, uncertainty, fear, and so much action. The style the book is written allows the reader to easily jump from one point in time to another without major confusion. This was definitely my favorite in the series and the ending left the possibility for more to come, I hope so.

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Journeys Through AllCreation (Journeys Through Book 3) by James Talisman – Review by Amanda Glaspie

Journeys Through AllCreation (Journeys Through Book 3)Journeys Through AllCreation by James Talisman
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The third installment in this series was the character development I was looking for in book two. Although this can be read as a stand alone book, I highly recommend reading the first two books in the series to get the full understanding of this book and all that it builds up to. Matt, The Ancient One, and his ancient twin Rashella, are called upon to help save the many universes against Diavolos who seeks to go against the Celestial ranks. This is an exciting adventure of love, uncertainty, fear, and so much action. The style the book is written allows the reader to easily jump from one point in time to another without major confusion. This was definitely my favorite in the series and the ending left the possibility for more to come, I hope so.

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Sinful Vow (Dark Mafia Sins, book 1) by Emily Bowie – Review by Amanda Glaspie

Sinful Vow (Dark Mafia Sins, #0.5)Sinful Vow by Emily Bowie
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I never thought of myself as a Mafia themed reader but this is the second series and this was another that did not disappoint. Aly and Luca both have a troubled childhoods that led them to paths niether pictured themselves in. The start of the book was a little slow and jumpy. I was hoping for a little more background of Aly and Luca as it started the book in the last jumping to different points in their lives. Each time frame gave a brief history and encounter. However, the build up and ending make up for the slow start. I wouldn’t mind following Aly and Luca further to see where their lives take them.

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Savage Secrets (Mafia Elite, book 4) by Amy McKinley – Review by Amanda Glaspie

Savage Secrets (Mafia Elite, #4)Savage Secrets by Amy McKinley
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

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.

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Slick Running (Satan’s Devils MC #3) AUDIO BOOK by Manda Mellett – Review by Amanda Glaspie

Another great addition to this series. I loved the fact that it seamlessly brought past events and intertwined them to current time. In this book, we follow Slick and Ella, who both thought they lost each other and only to reunite. This book does not disappoint with it’s strong emotions and heartfelt worry. Once again, the Satan’s Devils prove that they are a different club and with their heroic actions make us fall in love with them. I loved how in this book, there was a strong emphasis on consent. The way Slick treated Ella is how every man should treat a woman. Another great book.

Exiled South by Harriet Cannon – Review by Amanda Glaspie

Exiled SouthExiled South by Harriet Cannon
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This was a delightful read of a woman who suffered great tragedy and ended up finding herself and so much more. Lizbeth, after losing her husband, moves back home to the south where she embarks on quest to find her long lost relatives; little did she know she would be solving a 100 year old mystery. I found myself wanting more, wondering what the next piece of information Lizbeth would find, and finally cheering with excitement as all comes to together. The way this book was written was wonderful. I loved being transported backs to the 1800s and how they may have done things in Charleston and then back to present day to connect the pieces. I am finding myself wanting to know more about Lizbeth and what her future held as I was truly rooting for her. All in all, a very good read.

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Apocalypse Thoughts (The Pox Series Book 5) by Kendra Griffin – Review by Amanda Glaspie

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

This book was funny, heart wrenching, hopeful, and so much more. I loved listening on Kella’s thoughts. This was exactly how people thought a worldwide plaque would be like and I’m so thankful we are not at this point. This book was so wonderfully written and thought provoking. I was honestly hesitant to read it based on the description but am so incredibly happy I did. I found my heart racing many times throughout the book and reading with crossed fingers. I hope there is more to come within this series as I have to know what is going to happen next!

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Black Canvas by Laura Rossi – Review by Amanda Glaspie

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

There is nothing better than a psychological thriller with a twist. Doctor Aria De Luca, fresh from a patient suicide and an impending divorce, finds herself called to a new case that pushes her to the limits. This was a thriller that takes you for a wild ride of mystery, suspicion, jealousy, and lies. This was written so well that I even started questioning my own thoughts and suspicions. If you like a books with so many twists that your head will spin, this is the book for you.

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Hanging Softly in the Night: A Detective Nick Larson Novel AUDIO BOOK by Maria Elena Alonso-Sierra – Review by Amanda Glaspie

Detective Nick Larson is a called to an apparent suicide but not everything is at appears. I really enjoyed this book with the many twists and turns and complete shock at the end. It did get confusing at times as character development was a little off with backgrounds and it felt like several stories combined into one. After a few chapters however, I was able to differentiate each character and their particular personality. I can see how the character introductions and development these the book open for more in the series and would continue with the series. Overall, I did enjoy the book and would recommend.

The Crown of Stones: Magic-Price AUDIO BOOK by C. L. Schneider – Review by Amanda Glaspie

Captivating with a shocking ending. Following Ian Troy as he navigates how to save the kingdom from war and other powerful shinrees all while battling his own demons. This is a story that will have you wondering what’s next. Initially I struggled to get into the book but it didn’t take long that I found myself not wanting to stop listening. The narration was fantastic and helped be to tell the story. The character development was strong especially when you think you’ve figured out a character and it all changes. I am definitely ready for the next bookin this saga.

Born in Darkness (Mafia Elite Book 3) by Amy McKinley – Review by Amanda Glaspie

Born in Darkness (Mafia Elite #3)Born in Darkness by Amy McKinley
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Not many books keep me awake wantimg to finish but I could not go to bed until I finished the book. Another fantastic installment in this series. The book follows Emiliana and Stefano as they navigate their growing feelings while trying to protect the people they love. I don’t know how this series continues to create such strong emotions with each turn of the page. I found myself growing to love each character more and more. The shock at the end just made the book all that much better. I cannot wait to continue reading the next installment in the series.

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A Cold Creek Christmas (Reigning Hearts, Book 5) by KG Fletcher – Review by Amanda Glaspie

A Cold Creek Christmas (Reigning Hearts, #5)A Cold Creek Christmas by K.G. Fletcher
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

What a fantastic quick read. It was hard not to instantly fall in love with Amber and Giovanni. I am always amazed how authors can fit so much detail in shorter books but this book succeeded in giving great detail while not bogging down the story. At the beginning of the story, I was unsure as to how I felt about Amber and Gio but I knew that Gio was the hope that Amber so desperately needed. I enjoyed following along as their relationship evolved and the grew and felt my heart break when things went bad and hope when events went well. This was the first book I read in the series and I will definitely be going to the beginning and start from book one.

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Drummer’s Beat (Satan’s Devils MC #2) AUDIO BOOK by Manda Mellett – Review by Amanda Glaspie

Another great installment following the Satan’s Devil’s. This book follows Drummer and Sam as they navigate their feelings for one another. It all starts when Drummer comes across Sam who is stranded at the side of the road on her way to meet her father for the first time. Little do they know, it is the beginning of a nightmare for all involved. The amount of emotions that are felt in this book is what keeps you on your toes. Anger, hope, love, fear,and finally happiness will have you cheating from everyone involved. This installment of the Satan’s Devil’s shows that even those with the highest walls built up, can still bring them down if the right person comes along.

Fate, Frankincense & Funerals by Naomi Valkyrie – Review by Amanda Glaspie

Fate, Frankincense & FuneralsFate, Frankincense & Funerals by Naomi Valkyrie
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Fate, Frankincense & Funerals by Naomi Valkyrie was, simply put, amazing. I don’t know how Ms. Valkyrie was able to get so much character development in only 57 pages. Story follows Acheron as he is called to take the storey of dying Carissa where he meats Errapel. Instantly you can feel the energy between Acheron and Errapel and their draw to each other. I felt each emotion, fear, happiness, and love. I hope to see more!

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