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Ashes (Modern-Day Fairy Tale Book 1) by MK Harkins – Review by Amy Brennan

Ashes (Modern-Day Fairy Tale, #1)Ashes by M.K. Harkins
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I am obsessed with fairy tales being retold. In all sorts of ways. Cinderella I feel is one that has been done in the cinematic world over and over again, as well as the literary world, but I can’t say I feel it’s been overdone. I especially loved this one, and the authors way of weaving the tale to add in some aspects that make the reader hold their breathe, think they know what’s coming, and end up being turned around over and over again. I felt like I was really able to connect to the characters, especially some off the original path character that I won’t spoil for you!

Overall, immaculately woven world development, character building and suspense, and of course, the beautiful romance and the many kinship’s shared too. I very much look forward to reading more of these Modern Day Fairy Tales by this author, and imagine most would feel the same. Highly recommend!

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Scandalously Yours (Titans of Manhattan Book 5) by Anise Storm – Review by Amy Brennan

Scandalously Yours (Titans Of Manhattan #5)Scandalously Yours by Anise Storm
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I struggled for a couple years with infertility and know the emotional hardship that the inability of conceiving naturally can bring. The fact that Alessia helped a couple (one of the Titans and his love,) no less, is amazing. It made me fall in love with her character before even really diving into this novel. Her character is so strong, so sure yet so guarded and scared at the same time which deeply resonates with me.

Kristopher. Oh Kristopher. It has been quite some time since I have felt so deeper for a male character to the same depths that I feel for him. Having to do everything he can to appease his ex-wife to ensure he still gets to spend time and be a part of his children’s lives would have to be so very difficult. He steps up to the plate in more ways than one, and gathers the strength to open his heart again which, in my experience, is no easy feat. I love this authors writing style and ability to bring the characters to life over and over again, and I know this won’t be the last of her written work that I’ll be indulging in. Highly recommend!

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Love’s Mulligan (Stroke of Love Book 1) by CA Miconi – Review by Amy Brennan

Love's MulliganLove’s Mulligan by C.A. Miconi
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I really needed a solid pick me up and believe in love again romance novel, and this one just hit the mark for me in so many ways. I think it’s important to realize that not every moment is going to be the right moment, and that sometimes things can go sideways, but that doesn’t mean that they always will. I absolutely loved Kellie’s character of course, but for once, I feel I really connected with the male lead in this novel. Harrison is everything you could want from a man, and more. He had some growing up to do, and after seeing the love of his life again, he looks back and realizes that’s exactly what he’s done. Grown.

Overall, this novel had beautiful character building, the love just flowed from the pages, and the characters popped with enough energy to keep the reader (me) enthralled. I look forward to reading more by this author, and specifically more of this series. Bring it on! Highly recommend.

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Fairly Royal (The Fair Series Book 4) by Grace Grahme – Review by Amy Brennan

Fairly Royal (Fair, #4)Fairly Royal by Grace Grahme
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Beautifully written, the characters were wonderful, and the connection between Anna and Philip is precious. The only thing that I would have to say is I did find the story itself to be a bit long-winded, but that is likely because I have been reading shorter novels as of late. The storytelling that this author weaves together within these pages is something fairy tales are made of, and I really would be very happy to be able to read it anew over and over.

I very much look forward to reading the remainder of the Fair series, as I hadn’t fully noticed that it was one of many in a series, and am very glad to have discovered this after finishing this novel. I absolutely adore Anna’s character, as I do believe it’s quite important to be who you are regardless of what anyone else thinks. Our dear Philip is quite the character, so much depth despite his inability to shine for the majority of his life, thank goodness these two grew together. Overall, certainly worth a read, and I’ll be looking more into this authors written works in the near future!

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Blood Sector (V-Clan Book 1) by Lexi C. Foss – Review by Amy Brennan

Blood Sector (V-Clan #1)Blood Sector by Lexi C. Foss
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Let me start by saying that I have made it my mission to devour anything written by this author. Her ability to make something a little more dark so intriguing is astounding and I just cannot get enough. It has the magic that is needed to bring all my senses to attention and I am not ashamed to same I may be a little addicted to her writing style. If this doesn’t entice you, I don’t know what will.

This specific novel introduces us to the V-Clan world, and to Quinn (my favorite name,) and Kieran. Quinn wants nothing but to make the world, her world, a better place, and has to make some questionable choices to do so. Kieran wants what is promised to him, and in turn, wants to help her in all that she strives to accomplish. More than that, he wants to make her his, in every way possible. Yes, you will get the tingles from the intimate scenes within these pages. Immaculate character development, world building, and all around just a wonderful read. Highly recommend!

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Shake Down (First Coast Thriller Book 1) by Armand Rosamilia – Review by Amy Brennan

Shake Down (First Coast Thriller Series)Shake Down by Armand Rosamilia
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I absolutely love the way the characters are introduced and how we are able to connect with Clayton ‘Clay’ on a personal level before really getting to the plot. It brings in a comedic aspect to the suspense filled adventure with some heartache, some doubt, some mystery and just a lot of action as a whole. The writing itself draws the reader in, and I personally felt like I was too intrigued to not continue reading. Humans make mistakes, and we shouldn’t be defined by those mistakes, be it if they were in the past, are in the present, or to happen in the future. I feel this novel touched on that very well.

I think that this author really knows how to build up his stories all around, and to keep the reader guessing by staying one step ahead, but also letting the reader in on the thoughts of the characters to the point where we feel we know where the next step will land, and who really knows if they’ll misstep. I guess you will have to read it and find out! I look forward to reading more of this series, and author. Worth a read!

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Shake Down (First Coast Thriller Book 1) by Armand Rosamilia – Review by

Shake Down (First Coast Thriller Book 1) by Armand Rosamilia – Review by Amy Brennan

Shake Down (First Coast Thriller Series)Shake Down by Armand Rosamilia
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I absolutely love the way the characters are introduced and how we are able to connect with Clayton ‘Clay’ on a personal level before really getting to the plot. It brings in a comedic aspect to the suspense filled adventure with some heartache, some doubt, some mystery and just a lot of action as a whole. The writing itself draws the reader in, and I personally felt like I was too intrigued to not continue reading. Humans make mistakes, and we shouldn’t be defined by those mistakes, be it if they were in the past, are in the present, or to happen in the future. I feel this novel touched on that very well.

I think that this author really knows how to build up his stories all around, and to keep the reader guessing by staying one step ahead, but also letting the reader in on the thoughts of the characters to the point where we feel we know where the next step will land, and who really knows if they’ll misstep. I guess you will have to read it and find out! I look forward to reading more of this series, and author. Worth a read!

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Return of the Elf Lord (Kingdom of the Elf Lords Book 1) by Heidi Vanlandingham – Review by Amy Brennan

Return of the Elf LordReturn of the Elf Lord by Heidi Vanlandingham
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This was far different from the novels I have been reading as of late, and really stole my attention away from the real world. The author brings the reader into a world where females are, in my opinion, the far stronger sex, which is always exciting, and to a dystopian world like no other. The choices made, words used to describe the characters, world, and adventure that ensues is delectable to say the least. Ultimately, everything happens for a reason, and timing is a large part of that, as you’ll soon find out.

I love a good read that includes two characters that separate, are unsure of the future, but together make for a brighter future. This novel brought me that join, along with a smile, sadness, goosebumps and the hope that this world continues on in future adventure, as I have become a huge fan of this authors work, and look forward to following Bernard, Alva, and the rest of their world for some time. Highly recommend!

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

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

Another wonderful series comes to an end. I have to tell you, I have been so in love with the Five Families throughout these novels, and how close they all are, or how close they have all become to one another. Promising protection, love, and acceptance no matter the consequences. It also opens ones eyes to the differences of folks, regardless of the fact they were all part of the same organization (so to speak.) I have been waiting with baited breath for Nico’s story, and I’m so very glad that it was the finale of the series, as it was one of the best. This author truly knows her way around a pen and a piece of paper.

Mia is in need of someone loyal, encouraging, and who offers protection when others have never done so for her in her life, at least since her Mother passed, and she feels comfortable with Nico long before even meeting him. The want to protect women from an awful end, and getting the help needed from those that we’ve grown to love and for me, obsessed with, is endearing and I’m so glad that this series ended on the page it did. I very much look forward to any and all spin off series, and anything else released by this author. Amazing, a must read novel and series for sure!

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The Liminal Space (Antipodes Book 2) by T.S. Simons – Review by Amy Brennan

The Liminal Space (Antipodes #2)The Liminal Space by T.S. Simons
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This series is incredible. As I will read almost anything dystopian based, I was eager to pick this novel up, especially after being so hooked to the first installment. I enjoy the way that I have been learning more and more about Antipodes, and all the things surrounding such. The portals included in this novel, the way they believe they function, and historical facts and theories, keep the reader eager to know more, not just for the story, but to take that knowledge and build on it.

One of my favorite things when reading this novel is that it’s one of the only ones that I’ve read with a male’s first person narrative. I occasionally forget that, and get a little confused here and there, but that is my own doing, and it’s so refreshing to have that perspective. I have thoroughly enjoyed following Cam’s adventure so far, and look forward to reading the next installment. There were certainly aspects of this one that I didn’t see coming, at all! Highly recommend.

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This Time Around by Jane Suen – Review by Amy Brennan

This Time AroundThis Time Around by Jane Suen
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Pure, good vibes to be found within these pages. This little novel, with big feelings, goes to show that timing really is everything. You may find your person when you are young, and not ready for that reality, and you go off to live your life and dreams, only to be pulled back into the arms of that same person. There are so many scenarios in which this could be played out, and this author really did the best job at allowing for us to connect with both Katie and Chase, and root for them once all the cards were on the table.

Life really does have some crazy twists and turns, and some changes make us even better. A wonderful read, I admit I devoured it in a day, and had some laughs, cries, and held my breath at the beautiful story that was woven. If you’re looking for a quick read with lots of love, care, and beautiful memories, this is it!

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Princess of Prias by Courtney Davis – Review by Amy Brennan

Princess of PriasPrincess of Prias by Courtney Davis
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Yes! I love the idea of Elle’s mother running to give up her life for her daughters, for her ‘Aunt’ Sara for doing everything she could to raise her to be her own person and to protect her from the truths until she knew it’d be time for L to take that next step to becoming who she needed to become (whether this was known or not.) The novel itself is a well written adventure, I love when tales are told from different narratives, and how it moves at just the right speed as to keep the reader immersed in its pages.

Strong female lead, strong supporting characters, romance and suspense all woven into this adventure and I certainly made sure I took the time to focus and really focus on the story. I feel like all of us have a certain ‘ I don’t belong here’ aspect to our lives, and how L feels, i felt very much akin to. I very much enjoyed the descriptive nature of the worlds, and the adventure that unfolds. If you’re looking for a lovely quick read, but not too quick, I would recommend giving this a go. I know I will be looking for more by this author soon!

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Something About Aimee (Girls from the Street Book 1) by S.E. Smith – Review by Amy Brennan

Something About Aimee (Girls from the Street Book 1)Something About Aimee by S.E. Smith
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

To be honest, I picked this novel up because I really love when the novels I read have a character with the same name as I do, even if it isn’t spelled correctly! I absolutely loved the plot of this adventure, and the way that the female lead, Aimee, is a strong, independent woman, that way because she had no other choice. She knows what she wants and goes for it, and puts her all into everything that she does. I love that about a person, and I really was able to connect with her throughout this fantastic read.

One of my other favorite things is that there aren’t any lulls. There seems to be something always going on, and not in a way that makes the reader feel overwhelmed or unsure as to what the real story is. The author has a wonderful way with words, the descriptive nature brings the reader in and doesn’t let them go, even after the story ends. I very much look forward to reading more about the Girls from the Street, and by this author. Well done!

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Caging Grace (Grace Series Book 1) by Carsen Lane – Review by Amy Brennan

Caging Grace (Grace Series, #1).Caging Grace (Grace Series, #1). by Carsen Lane
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Wow! Am I ever glad I decided to pick this novel up. I was very unsure as I have never been a fan of the UFC nor any form of wrestling for that matter, but this was so much more than that. The connection you can feel between Grace’s family members within these pages, and the yearning she has to provide for those she loves.

I thoroughly enjoyed this authors writing style, the way the characters are built up and you just get to connect with the main character on the deepest level possible, and as the novel goes on, that love and adoration grows. I very much look forward to reading more of the Grace series, and do hope you decide to purchase this novel as well, you won’t regret it!

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Tale of a Body Thief (Rovena Silvex Book 1) by Kristy Centeno – Review by Amy Brennan

Tale of a Body Thief (Rovena Silvex chronicles Book 1)Tale of a Body Thief by Kristy Centeno
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Wow! Where to start, where to start. Honestly, this novel was much different than any other that I have read, and I think that that is a very good thing. Just the back and forth between Rovena and Lakyn would be entertaining enough, in my opinion, never mind the demons and responsibilities that came from Rovena’s line of work. It takes a little while to really get into it, but once connections are established, boy oh boy was it an addictive read.

There is so much tension, sexual and otherwise, fantastic character development, and world building and I felt as though it was just the right length. I love the lessons within these pages as well, such as not judging a book by it’s cover, and by following your gut instinct, and all those delicious life lessons. I very much look forward to reading more by this author, and I think you would do well to give this a read. Well done!

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Amber Waves of Grace by Jessica Berg – Review By Amy Brennan

Amber Waves of GraceAmber Waves of Grace by Jessica Berg
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I’ll start off by saying that the amount of faith, despite all the things that Corrie, Aaron, Luke, Violet, and all the other amazing folks in this novel go through, is really incredible. I have never been one to really look to the higher ups, whomever they may be, to get me through the tough times, but after reading this, I can certainly see the mentality behind doing so. Truly, the writing in this novel was very well done, had a great touch of mystery, romance, and family.

I really enjoyed the character building, and found it fairly easy to relate to Corrie and her need to keep the farm afloat, as well as the struggles she went through in the past. The only thing I found difficulties with, is that the past seemed to stick right where it was, and decisions were being made based on such over and over again, which seemed a bit overdone. That being said, everything else was phenomenal, and it just proves that if you have the right people by your side, you can get through anything! I do recommend giving this a read, it will give you the tingles and make you feel as though you can overcome anything!

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Death & Mirrors (All Things Dark & Deadly Book 1) by SF Benson – Review by Amy Brennan

Death & Mirrors: All Things Dark & Deadly, Book OneDeath & Mirrors: All Things Dark & Deadly, Book One by S.F. Benson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I do enjoy a good mystery novel, and I thoroughly enjoyed the paranormal and magical aspect that this one introduced. The beginning of the novel, we learn of Evaline is a necromancer, and the daughter of an important man, one who only wants to keep him and his daughter safe, and ensure that she will be taken care of in the manner she has become used to. Little does he know, she has ore of an interest in making a difference and helping people, than she does staying safe and being a ‘proper’ lady.

This rabbit hole was one that brought great entertainment to this reader, the character development and world building was extremely well done, and there were a few different side story lines to the main plot that brought on laughter, gasps, and applause for how strong a female lead she is. Of course, being the first installment, the end of this leaves many questions, and I for one, am very excited to follow Evaline and Del wherever their narrative may take them. Don’t hesitate to pick this gem up!

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Murder in the Lightning Room by A.D. Brazeau – Review by Amy Brennan

Murder in the Lightning RoomMurder in the Lightning Room by A.D. Brazeau
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I have had the opportunity to read other novels by this author, and I have to say, her writing style calls to my senses and pulls me into the novels pages more than I thought, especially when it comes to this genre. I have been picking up a lot of novels as of late with a strong female lead, based in the 1800’s, and this is definitely in my top five list, if not three. I admire Cora, what with her perseverance after the loss of her father, and then to not have the full support of her mother when it comes to who she really wants to be.

I loved the way the characters were built up, the friendship shared between Dove and Cora, and the respect that the community seems to have for them both. Cora is young, and watching her build a new relationship with Mr. Byrne as well was very fun and entertaining. The suspense, intrigue, potential for romance, and friendship woven into these pages made for a delightful read, one you should pick up, now! Highly recommend this authors work.

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Antipodes (Antipodes Book 1) by T.S. Simons – Review by Amy Brennan

AntipodesAntipodes by T S Simons
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Oh, you can’t help but feel for Cam. Not to mention the others that are swept away via this whirlwind of a decision, change of lifestyle, and knowledge that those you are leaving behind, are those that you will never get to see again. I admire the writing style of this author, the research and information given through this story is well done, and you are bound to learn something while whipping through these pages. The character development, world building, and everything else you could possibly want made for a well polished story for the anyone that loves Dystopian adventures.

This is the first installment, and I have to tell you, I have the remaining four novels of this series already in my shopping cart, though, tempted to purchase the hard copies as I would love to have them on hand in my personal library to read over and over again and to lend to anyone who asks for a good recommendation. To read this series on the other side of our pandemic was a trip, and I am grateful that ours wasn’t nearly as severe as Cam’s world. Highly recommend, and very much look forward to reading the rest, well done!

P.S. This is worth checking out: https://www.antipodesmap.com/

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Key to His Heart by Kristina Beck – Review by Amy Brennan

Key To His HeartKey To His Heart by Kristina Beck
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

There are things you feel you can learn from novels, but rarely is there a novel out there that has you learning how your own emotions work again. That was this one for me. Honestly, I laughed, shook my head numerous times, and cried. Man, did I cry. Happy tears, devastated tears, helpless tears, all of them. This author is something else, and I can’t say enough about her writing that just made me so happy that I read this masterpiece.

The relationship between Katrina, TJ, and Toby is one for the ages. Building, and maintaining a family dynamic is difficult, and I found that this story gave the difficulty the recognition it needs. Having been a single Mom before meeting my partner, the emotions enveloped me immediately, throughout their story. The strength and courage that each of them brought to each other was genuine, and I loved every moment. Not to mention all the precious baby moments. Just when I thought I had my tears in check, the epilogue took that and, well, I will be reading this again soon, and you should too! Highly recommend.

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Mermaid and the Water Magnifying Glass (Mermaid Science Series) by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Amy Brennan

The Mermaid and the Water Magnifying Glass (Mermaid Science, #3)The Mermaid and the Water Magnifying Glass by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

What a sweet little story! I really do enjoy reading this authors books to my daycare kids, as well as my own daughter. Their ages range from 1 to 9, and my 9 year old thoroughly enjoys reading the stories to the kids just before nap time too. As it’s a hot summer, we were most interested in trying to science experiment and will be doing so later today. She captures the attention of the audience, and keeps us coming back for more. What more could you ask for? Highly recommend the Mermaid science books to all those with little ones running around!

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Paige and the Reluctant Artist by Darci Garcia – Review by Amy Brennan

Paige and the Reluctant ArtistPaige and the Reluctant Artist by Darci Garcia
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I can tell you that I was caught off guard by Paige and Mark’s story more than once. Their love story is certainly one that is a slow burn, you know what’s coming, or at the very least, you hope that the end brings all the happiness to them both. I love how this author built up both characters so that the reader is able to connect with them, and understand the choices they make, at least, most of them, and is able to root for them regardless of the hurdles they may encounter.

I hope that this author continues to weave these tales, as I found it very easy to read, and even more difficult to put down. In fact, I devoured this novel in one day! Highly recommend if you’re looking for a sweet, country living type of read. Well done!

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Love in the Roses (Love Through the Ages Book 1) by TL Clark – Review by Amy Brennan

Love in the RosesLove in the Roses by T.L. Clark
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This was a beautiful getaway of a novel. The time travel back to 15th century England and its troubled ways was a change that was needed, and thoroughly enjoyed as I was on vacation. I have read several novels as of late that were based back in 15th-18th century, and this one definitely was all consuming in the words in which were used, the customs we became familiar with, and the emotions of a young lady doing her due diligence to please all those around her, and to fulfill the needs of her people. I especially loved being inside Isabel’s head the night/day after their wedding.

I did find it a little difficult to get into at first, though the author clearly took her time to weave the story so that the reader was able to follow the story more clearly throughout. It kept me guessing as to how closely knit the families within these pages really were, the future of the newlywed, and what it meant for their society and their world. I loved the world-building, character development, and plot line, and would be more than happy to read more by this author in the future!

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Dark Sparrow Box Set: The Complete 6-Book Series (A Dark Sparrow Novel) by India Kells – Review by Amy Brennan

Dark Sparrow Box Set: The Complete 6-Book SeriesDark Sparrow Box Set: The Complete 6-Book Series by India Kells
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Am I ever glad that I thought to pick this set up! I had read a couple of novels by this author before this set, and thought, how could I possibly let this one slide through my fingers. So many deliciously strong, masculine alpha men and women within these pages, and so little time. I spent the duration of my sick week immersed within these pages, and I couldn’t tell if it was the cold that had my body warming up, or the incredibly written adventures, but by my drool soaked pillow, I think you can guess!

I was hoping that I would have one specific installment within this box set to focus on, to tell you it’s my favorite, but as per what I’ve come to expect from this author, they only keep getting better and better, though I certainly have a soft spot for the Aleksei, and Deva! Do yourself a favor, and carve out some time for these novels, you won’t be disappointed. Highly recommend all literature by her!

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Levi (The Brothers of Creekside Ranch Book 1) by Edith Mackenzie – Review by Amy Brennan

LeviLevi by Edith Mackenzie
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Every so often, I’m in need of a good wholesome romance and this author so delightfully delivers just that. I feel we all have our own backstories and that’s part of what makes us us, so I very much enjoyed Bella and Levi’s stories, individually and together.

Very much enjoyed the character building and coming home to their ranch, and following this beautiful family pick themselves up after their devestating loss. Very much tugged at my heartstrings and had me rooting for them all. If you’re looking for some silver linings and sunshine after the storm, check this author out. Will continue to recommend!

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The Hunted (Vampire Navy SEAL: Sam & Layla) by S.B. Alexander – Review by Amy Brennan

The Hunted (Vampire Navy SEAL: Sam & Layla, #1)The Hunted by S.B. Alexander
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Apparently, I have been craving some major Vampire vs. Vampire hunter action. Along with reading this novel, I also was one of the many that have gotten hooked on the show First Kill, and I have to say, this novel took precedence over my show binging while recovering from a cold, which says a lot! I absolutely loved the way the characters developed over the course of this adventure, and how they just couldn’t keep away from one another. Action, undeniable chemistry, and two crazy people by their own right, and even more so together!

This author has a special talent when it comes to starting the novel off, and keeping the readers nose deep in the pages until the very end. At least, that’s why I think, as this is the first, and certainly not the last novel I will be reading by them, especially when it comes to the sassy and egotistically combination that are Sam and Layla! Well done, will be reading this series and recommending it, no doubt.

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Truth or Kill (Twisted Legends Collection Book 1) by A.C. Kramer – Review by Amy Brennan

Truth or Kill (Twisted Legends Collection, #2)Truth or Kill by A.C. Kramer

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I have a new favorite Genre. Author. Both! I finished this novel yesterday and I haven’t been able to stop thinking about it. The way that the author wrote the story, integrating the characters and the emotions and the points of view throughout, as well as establishing the scene and allowing for the reader to be completely immersed in the Lodge and the Game.

J, K, and L’s backstory is immaculately woven and explains why they live the way they live, and what their endgame is. I will most certainly be reading more by this author and have sent a link to this lovely literary adventure to a few folks already. Was there a Game? I guess you will have to read this thriller and find out! Amazing, just didn’t want it to end!

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Saved by Love (Bellevue Bullies Book 7) by Toni Aleo – Review by Amy Brennan

Saved by Love (Bellevue Bullies #7)Saved by Love by Toni Aleo
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I am typing this with goosebumps and happy tears in my eyes. This novel could be the reason my emotions are on high alert lately, that’s for sure. You better believe I have added the rest of the Bellevue Bullies series to my TBR list for the summer. It pulled at my heartstrings when it came to a few different topics, especially the support it shows for those that have a mental health and developmental difficulties. This author is incredibly talented, and I am not surprised that she is highly recommended in the literary world.

I fell head over heels for Evan, and for Callie, both in different ways. The issues that Evan deals with aren’t unheard of, but more than that, it’s so important for people that suffer to find their support system and believe in themselves, and eventually, to be able to love themselves without doubt. I love how his story was told, and how beautifully Callie was able to support his progress throughout, while her story and his support were given to make sure that they both became the best version of themselves they could be. Beautiful character building, heart-string pulling, and I literally couldn’t stop reading it. (Could also why my emotions may be on high alert.) Highly recommend and look forward to more by her!

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Castor’s Kiss (Soul Bonded in the Stars Book 2) by Tai James – Review by Amy Brennan

Castor's Kiss (Soul Bonded in the Stars # 2)Castor’s Kiss by Tai James
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

It has been a long time since I’ve read anything space bound, and it definitely felt like it was a nice change of pace, while still including the necessary romance I crave, the suspense, and the action that will keep readers turning the pages through this whirlwind adventure. I thoroughly enjoyed the way that the characters are depicted, described and allowed the reader (me) to be able to see what Mia and Castor saw, while remaining connected to the overall story line.

Mia’s past traumas have made it extremely difficult to put trust in many, and to allow for her walls to come down and let people in. I found that to be very easy to relate to, and the strength that her character has, and embraces is incredible. It made it very enjoyable to follow her journey to find her people, and to connect with those around her again, while protecting all she needed to protect. Not to mention the patience and efforts that Castor put into protecting, fighting alongside, and ultimately encouraging Mia to live her life again. I found it to be a very well written story, and I will be going back to read the first installment in this series soon!

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The Colors of Friendship (The Colors Trilogy Book 1) by K.R. Raye – Review by Amy Brennan

The Colors of Friendship (Colors Trilogy, #1)The Colors of Friendship by K.R. Raye
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I don’t know where to begin. This whole time whilst reading this novel I was thinking that something was going on between Melody and Kevin, even more sinister than what really happens, though I will not give anything away. This author truly had my mind running around in circles, wondering what was going to happen next. I thoroughly love the kinship that the three of them share, being Imani, Lance, and Melody, certainly one to be cherished, as chosen family is so special in so many ways.

I did feel like this novel seemed to go on a little longer than it needed to, as I did find myself thinking that this is where the climatic part was, and this is where it was going to be, and so on. I do find this to be a common occurrence within the pages of a first installment, taking away from holding my breath at times. The pressures pressed upon us by other scenarios and expectations as we enter adulthood are made very apparent in this novel, which I applaud. I will be reading the rest of the series and looking forward to getting to know the other characters more intimately. Well done!

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