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Master Campania (Masters of the Consulate Book #7) by Sylvia Black – Review by Angela Hayes

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Master Campania: Dark Vampire Romance (Masters of the Consulate Book 7)Master Campania: Dark Vampire Romance by Sylvia Black
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

 

5 Stars

 

Master Campania is the seventh book in the Masters of the Consulate series by Sylvia Black. I know I keep saying it, but this series really does get better with each new instalment- Ms. Black ups the ante every time- seven books in and the spark and intensity are still dialled up on high. This is another superb paranormal romance in this fantastic series- a romantic suspense/dark romance with vampires, an underworld society, mafia vibes, a fated mates element, chemistry, sizzle, witches, magic, agendas, politics, danger, emotion, action, dramatic developments, duty vs love, trust issues, choices, and plenty of passion.
This could be read as a standalone if you wanted- but having said that, I highly recommend reading the other books in the series before beginning this one because each instalment in the series focuses on its own separate character/s, and there are also some interconnected details, as well as recurring characters that span the series- so I really recommend reading from the beginning, so you know what’s happened right from the start. Plus, you would be seriously missing out on some fantastic stories if you ignored the other six books.
The best part about this series is that there are 12 books planned…. which means more sexy vampires still to come!
Oh, and did I mention VAMPIRES!!!!!
Bring on Book Eight- I can’t wait!!!
Happy Reading…

Thank you, Sylvia Black!

 

Reviewed by @angelahayes

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The Magic Carousel (The Brass Ring Series Book #1) by K.L. Small – Review by Angela Hayes

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The Magic Carousel (The Brass Ring #1)The Magic Carousel by K.L. Small
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

 

4 Stars

 

The Magic Carousel is the first book in The Brass Ring Series by K.L. Small. It is a wonderful children’s chapter book- a fun fantasy adventure with action, carousel, horses, a brass ring, magic, time travel, history, challenges, imagination, drama, and learning.
The story is quite captivating with lovely illustrations sprinkled throughout, which really help to bring the story to life. I liked the notes provided for each chapter which was provided at the end of the book as they added extra insight and information that enhanced my appreciation of the adventure. There is also a helpful glossary of words at the end of the book.
Another fun read from this talented author. A story for the young- and the young at heart.
And… Can we take a moment to appreciate the fabulous cover!
Happy Reading…

Thank you K.L. Small!

 

Reviewed by @angelahayes

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Love, Only Better (Bold Journeys Book #1) by Paulette Stout – Review by Angela Hayes

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Love, Only BetterLove, Only Better by Paulette Stout
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

 

3 Stars

 

Love, Only Better is the first book in the Bold Journeys series by Paulette Stout. This is the first book that I have read by this author, so I really didn’t know what to expect from one of her stories. But the cover drew my attention and the blurb sounded interesting- so I took a chance and set off to explore the book.
It is a women’s fiction story- but focuses on a subject matter that is only too real. The story hopes to highlight this ‘secret’ issue in the hopes of helping other women who have the same struggles. The subject of intimacy, sexuality, gratification, and pleasure aren’t always easy topics of conversation- especially if you struggle to reach fulfilment. This can lead to secrets, angst, anxiety, feeling ‘defective’, confidence issues, and self-worth issues that puts even more pressure on the woman, and their (intimate) relationship/s. The story takes us on Rebecca’s journey as she grapples with these issues. This is an honest and insightful account of Rebecca’s experiences and her quest to find a ‘solution’ to her problem- and is a bit of a journey of self-discovery.
I found the story interesting, and I really felt for Rebecca and what she was going through. I really tried to connect with her and become invested in her story, but never quite got there.
I felt that the story got too ‘bogged down’ and a bit lost in all the details and descriptions- some areas are way too detailed and very ‘blow-by-blow’ – while other areas lack the detail I would have liked to see. This is also a ‘romance’ story- but I felt their ‘connection’ was kind of washed over a bit. But, maybe we will get ‘more’ of that in the second book- ‘What We Never Say’, so I will have to wait and see what happens there- so stay tuned.
Happy Reading…

Thank you, Paulette Stout!

 

Reviewed by @angelahayes

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Regaining Integrity (Code of Honor Book #4) by Brooke May – Review by Angela Hayes

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Regaining IntegrityRegaining Integrity by Brooke May
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

 

4.5 Stars

 

Regaining Integrity is the fourth book in the Code of Honor series by Brooke May. I can rely on Ms. May to deliver a captivating story that never fails to pull me in and immerse me in the lives of her characters as everything unfolds- crafting ‘real’ and relatable characters that I can’t help but become completely invested in and have me rooting for them right from the outset. But that’s not to say there weren’t some frustrating moments where I wanted to shake them, well especially Chase, and tell them to get their (his) act together 😊 But they really were perfect for each other- even if they didn’t fully realise it to begin with. I also loved catching up with some other familiar faces we’ve met previously- that added an extra element of fun for me, too.
This proved to be another sublime contemporary military romance, with a little drama, chemistry, steam, and plenty of emotion. Definitely worth the read!
Happy Reading!

Thank you, Brooke May!

 

Reviewed by @angelahayes

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The Anchor Knot (The Knot Series Book #3) by DonnaLee Overly – Review by Angela Hayes

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The Anchor Knot: Securing the knot of truthThe Anchor Knot: Securing the knot of truth by DonnaLee Overly
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

 

3 Stars

 

The Anchor Knot: Securing the Knot is the third book in the Knot series by DonnaLee Overly. This is the first book that I have read by Ms. Overly, so I really wasn’t sure of what to expect from one of her stories, but the blurb promised something a little different from what I have been reading of late, so I took a chance and grabbed a copy to explore.
It is a contemporary woman’s fiction story with drama, secrets, romance, agendas, family, meddling, responsibility, ambition, pressure, challenges, doubts, choices, emotion, following your heart, and more.
This book had all the ingredients that I normally love to find in a story- but I just couldn’t connect with the characters and get invested in their story. It was slow to get going and I found it hard not to get distracted by other things as the story wasn’t holding my attention like I had hoped it would. I have been reading a lot of thrillers and darker stories of late, so I wonder if that has affected how I feel about this book. So, having said that, I have decided to revisit this book again soon for a reread to see if I still feel the same way, or if perhaps find that I was just having an ‘off’ reading day. So stay tuned…
Happy Reading…

Thank you, DonnaLee Overly!

 

Reviewed by @angelahayes

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Ten Little Starfish by Kim Ann – Review by Angela Hayes

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Ten Little Starfish: A Counting BookTen Little Starfish: A Counting Book by Kim Ann
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

4.5 Stars

Ten Little Star Fish: A Counting Book by Kim Ann. It is a fun learn-to-count picture book that is accompanied by lovely, cute, interesting, and colourful illustrations that easily captures your attention, while bringing the whole story to life.
The rhyming verses that told the story are a great way to help teach young children to count. This also has the added interest of having some starfish ‘facts’ listed at the end of the book, as well as a ‘finder’ puzzle that made this storybook both educational and fun.
Highly recommended. An engaging, fun, imaginative, and enjoyable children’s picture book that helps them learn to count along the way.
Looking forward to whatever Kim Ann brings us next.
Happy Reading!

 

Reviewed by @angelahayes

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Complicated Choices by Risa Nyman – Review by Angela Hayes

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Complicated ChoicesComplicated Choices by Risa Nyman
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

 

4 Stars

 

Complicated Choices by Risa Nyman is an emotional story that tugged on my heartstrings. It is a story of choices, coming of age, self-discovery, family, responsibility, challenges, teen angst/drama, complex issues, secrets, dramatic developments, and heartwarming moments.
Claire is a high school senior who has life-changing choices to make when an unplanned pregnancy leaves her with a baby to take care of. What happens here makes for an emotional and heartwarming journey.
Be sure to have some tissues on standby, as you are going to need them.

Thank you, Risa Nyman!

 

Reviewed by @angelahayes

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How to Catch Little Boys and Eat Them by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Angela Hayes

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How to Catch Little Boys and Eat ThemHow to Catch Little Boys and Eat Them by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

 

4 Stars

 

“A giant’s gotta eat. But people are afraid of him. A giant does what he’s gotta do. And so does Jack.”

How to Catch Little Boys and Eat Them by Lois Wickstrom is another charming children’s fantasy story with interesting and colourful illustrations, plenty of fun, and adventure. It is a bit of a dark and humorous take on the classic fairytale “Jack and the Beanstalk” – with a twist.
In this quirky story, Ms. Wickstrom gives us the giants POV- which gives the story added interest, and results in a fun and engaging story.
The illustrations are great- big, bright, bold, and colourful – and really grabbed my grandchildren’s attention.
Looking forward to more from Ms. Wickstrom.
Happy reading…

 

Reviewed by @angelahayes

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Love Bites More (The Darkness & Light Duology, and the Love Bites World) by TL Clark – Review by Angela Hayes

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Love Bites MoreLove Bites More by T.L. Clark
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

 

4.5 Stars

 

Love Bites More is the third instalment in the Darkness & Light Duology series and is a wonderful addition to the Love Bites World by T.L Clark. I fell in love with the ElineFae in the first two book- so to say I was so excited to find this third book had released is a bit of an understatement.
I loved rediscovering the ElineFae, and even though it had been a while since I read the original two books Ms. Clark refreshes our memory with a bit of an overview of what has happened previously- so this could definitely be read as a standalone, if you want. But having said that, I really recommend reading the previous books before starting on this one- because the original duology is truly exquisite, and you would definitely be missing out by not having read them first.
As with the other two books, this is an original story full of imagination and clever and intriguing touches. This instalment is a little different from the previous books, in that it is a MM menage romance (threesome)- but woven around it is the wonderful fantasy world we have come to know and love from the original two books. Cleverly crafted with paranormal details, witches, magick, dragons, mystery, suspense, violence, danger, kidnapping, longing, angst, action, adventure, and so much more that resulted in an enthralling read.
After reading the first two books and loving them as much as I did, I must admit that I had high expectations for this one- and I am sooo happy to say that Ms. Clark didn’t disappoint, she delivered everything that I was hoping for, and more.
This story reintroduces us to Elan and Arwyn whom we met in the original duology, as they are Pryderi’s friends. But joining them is Hassan- shaking things up and adding a large dose of spice to the mix. I loved that we also got to catch up with Shakira and Pryderi from Books one and two, too- making the story even more captivating, for me.
As expected, the characters are wonderfully developed individuals with their own personalities, quirks and flaws. And I have to say, again, that I am blown away by all the unique touches that Ms. Clark has given her story and the characters- there is such a vast array of magical creatures who inhabited these books- they really made the story/series such an exciting and memorable experience. And then, there is the matter of the incredible world building skills that Ms. Clark demonstrates throughout this story/series. She really brought the whole thing to life using her rich imagination, and flare with words.
I really can’t wait to read whatever Ms. Clark writes next!
Happy Reading…

Thank you, T.L. Clark!

 

Reviewed by @angelahayes

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The Secrets They Hide (Commissario Scala Mystery Series Book #2) by P.J. Mann – Review by Angela Hayes

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The Secrets they Hide (Commissario Scala #2)The Secrets they Hide by P.J. Mann
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

 

4.5 Stars

 

The Secrets They Hide is the second book in the Commissario Scala Mystery series by P.J. Mann. Having read an Inspector Scala mystery before, I knew this would be another well-woven and suspenseful crime & investigation mystery- which is exactly what I found between the covers of this intriguing story. With murder, police procedure, action, gripping developments, drama, twists, secrets, tension, lies, corruption, and interesting characters, Ms. Mann doesn’t disappoint, delivering an engrossing story.
Another mystery is set in Rome, which definitely adds an extra element of interest to the whole story. Scala is drawn into another complex case when a mysterious message leads him to a series of murders. Time plays a factor, especially if he’s to unravel everything before the murderer strikes again.
Looking forward to more Commissario Scala mysteries.
Happy reading…

Thank you, P.J. Mann!

 

Reviewed by @angelahayes

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The Secret Humankind (The Discoveries of Julia Xero Book #1) by Gloria Oliver – Review by Angela Hayes

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The Secret Humankind: An Urban Fantasy Thriller (The Discoveries of Julia Xero Book 1)The Secret Humankind: An Urban Fantasy Thriller by Gloria Oliver
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

 

4.5 Stars

 

The Secret Humankind is the first book in The Discoveries of Julia Xero series by Gloria Oliver. This is the first book that I have read by Ms. Oliver, so I really didn’t know what to expect from one of her stories- but I love action-packed urban fantasies, and the blurb promised a gripping read- so I let my one-click finger loose and snapped up a copy and immediately set off to join the adventure.
I have to say that this turned out to be a surprising little gem! While I knew by the blurb that I would probably like the story, I certainly didn’t expect to love it as much as I did/do! I am now kicking myself that I hadn’t discovered this talented author before now- but am also a little excited to now have a new author to follow and enjoy. I feel a massive book-binge coming on.
This was such a fantastic urban fantasy with mystery, action, adventure, suspense, thrills, crime and investigation, assassins, paranormal beings/creatures/monsters, complexity, layers, secrets, quirky characters, superb world building, rich details + descriptions, dramatic developments, and so much more.
Julia is a glass-half-empty kind of girl. Her life hasn’t been easy, and she could do with life giving her a bit of a break. When she scores her ‘dream’ job, she has no idea that her whole world is about to be turned upside down. What she discovers sets her on an action-packed adventure that she could never have predicted. What ensues makes for a sublime read.
I really can’t wait to devour more instalments in this exciting series- as well as to explore Ms. Oliver’s other works. Colour me happy right now.
Highly recommended!
Happy Reading…

Thank you, Gloria Oliver!

 

Reviewed by @angelahayes

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Sleeping with the Enemy (Astoria Royals Book #3) by Deborah Garland – Review by Angela Hayes

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Sleeping with the Enemy (Astoria Royals, #3)

 

 

4.5 Stars

 

Sleeping With the Enemy is the third book in the Astoria Royals Series by Deborah Garland. This story is every bit as wonderful as I had expected from Ms. Garland, as she certainly knows how to weave a riveting story. It is a gripping contemporary Mafia romance with a second chances element, forced marriage, action, violence, chemistry, steam, danger, drama, tension, mafia politics, intensity, emotion, and suspense. Also keep in mind that there are sensitive subject matters contained in the story (abuse, sexual assault etc) so if you have triggers make sure to read the TW before diving in.
OMG- I can’t believe that this is the third book in a series, and I have only just discovered it and am yet to read the other two books. I have read and adored many of Ms. Garland’s previous books, so I will definitely be going back to devour the other two books asap before continuing the rest of the series.
The story certainly starts off on a very intriguing note that hooked me right from the outset. I was soon engrossed in all the developments, glued to the pages as I followed along to see how everything would play out in the end. I have always said that one of the things that Ms. Garland does really well is that she’s able to get her reader to completely invest in her characters and their story, whilst also crafting her story with palpable tension, as well as plenty of emotion..
I can’t wait to explore the rest of the series now. Highly recommend this gripping story, especially if you love a great Mafia romance.
Happy reading…

Thank you, Deborah Garland!

 

 

Reviewed by @angelahayes

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Tempting Fate (Black Shamrocks MC: Australia Book #1) by Bella Faust – Review by Angela Hayes

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Tempting Fate: a dark and angsty love triangle romance (Black Shamrocks MC: Australia Book 1)Tempting Fate: a dark and angsty love triangle romance by Bella Faust
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

 

4.5 Stars

 

Tempting Fate is the first Book in the Black Shamrocks MC: Australia series by Bella Faust. OMG- this series!!! It’s quite edgy, raw, dark, intense, and twisted! I seriously recommend reading ‘Craving Control’ first before starting on this book, as “Craving Control’ is a prequel to this book/series and sets the groundwork and lays out the backstory that sets everything here in motion.
I won’t go into the story here, as I really don’t want to give anything away that will spoil it for you. But I will say that there are a lot of potential triggers in this book/series, things do get quite dark at times- and the story/series isn’t for the faint of heart, that’s for sure… so if you are looking for a light-hearted read, hearts and flowers, have triggers, or don’t like having your emotions toyed with- then this probably isn’t the book for you. For everyone else, strap yourself in because you’re in for a bit of a wild ride as Ms. Faust takes a dark turn, with shocking details that will strips you bare, then toy with your emotions, unbalance you, and twist your mind- all with an evil grin on her face and a sinister cackle echoing around her as she unleashes the tsunami of angst that’s brewing for her readers. Ms. Faust certainly proves her writing prowess with this dark tale.
Bring on Book #2!!!
Addictive Reading…

Thank you, Bella Faust!

 

Reviewed by @angelahayes

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Flowers of Evil (Hani’s Daughter Mysteries Book #1) by N.L. Holmes – Review by Angela Hayes

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Flowers of Evil (Hani's Daughter Mysteries Book 1)Flowers of Evil by N.L. Holmes
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

 

4 Stars

 

Flowers of Evil is the first book in the Hani’s Daughter Mysteries series by N.L Holmes. It is an intriguing new series which is a direct spin-off from The Lord Hani Mystery series that I love, so it was a given that I would be diving into this as soon as it hit my Kindle.
It is a cozy historical mystery, set in ancient Egypt- with plenty of vivid detailing and descriptions which brought everything to life. There is a definite ‘crime and investigation’ aspect to the story, a bit of a murder mystery that has all the ingredients that kept me avidly reading to find out whodunnit.
As I have come to expect from Ms. Holmes, the story is woven with wonderfully rich historical details, texture, depth, interesting characters, intrigue, suspense, dramatic developments, and emotion—- which made for an engrossing read.
This first instalment certainly sets this new series off to a really great start, and if it is anything to go by, Hani has some stiff competition.
Looking forward to seeing what adventures await in the next instalment…
Happy Reading…

Thank you, N.L Holmes!

 

Reviewed by @angelahayes

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The Ring of Eagna (The Cross of Ciaran Book #4) by Andrea Matthews – Review by Angela Hayes

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The Ring of Eagna (The Cross of Ciaran #4)The Ring of Eagna by Andrea Matthews
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

 

4 Stars

 

The Ring of Eagna is the fourth book in The Cross of Ciaran series by Andrea Matthews. This is a paranormal romantic suspense teeming with adventure, action, mystery, magic, time travel, history, danger, family, intrigue, a treasure hunt, an ancient manuscript, powerful rings, dramatic developments, and plenty of tension.
As this book follows on from the events in the previous book/s, I highly recommend reading them before diving into this one, as there is a lot of pertinent information, details, and back story contained there that will set you up to better appreciate this instalment, as well as the series as a whole.
Ciaran and Aodhán embark on a bit of a treasure hunt with the aid of an ancient manuscript. But things aren’t going to be easy as they soon find that there are others intent on finding the treasure, too. With danger, twists, and plenty of drama- things get quite intense. Ms. Matthews certainly ramps up the intensity with each new instalment and puts her characters to the test every time. What happens makes for a gripping read.
Intriguing and well-woven…
Happy Reading!

Thank you, Andrea Matthews!

 

Reviewed by @angelahayes

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Shadowed Obsession (Shadow Defense Security Series Book #1) by Mavery Ellscott – Review by Angela Hayes

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Shadowed Obsession: An Action-Packed Romantic Suspense Thriller (Shadow Defense Security Series Book 1)Shadowed Obsession: An Action-Packed Romantic Suspense Thriller by Mavery Ellscott
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

 

3.5 Stars

 

Shadowed Obsession is the first book in the Shadow Defense Security series and debut novel by Mavery Ellscott. It is an engrossing romantic suspense with a dangerous and obsessed stalker, a deadly game of cat and mouse, sinister intent, slow-burn romance, thrills, action, tension, intrigue, suspense, chemistry, humour, creepiness, and more.
Keira O’Ryan is a hardworking P.R. specialist whose life has taken a bit of a sinister turn when an obsessed stalker begins following her every move, sending creepy messages that destroy her peace of mind. Cade Hartford is a former Navy SEAL turned private security operative who is recovering from an injury sustained during a previous mission gone wrong. He has just moved in next door to Keira and can’t help but be drawn into her stalker ordeal. When the stalking takes an even more dangerous turn, Cade and his team are determined to uncover the stalker before it’s too late. But this sinister foe seems to always be one step ahead of them- so the story takes a bit of an intense turn, bringing plenty of thrills along the way….
While I did enjoy the story, there were some issues that kept pulling me out of the story and interrupting the flow of the storyline. There was quite a lot of repeated information, thoughts/inner dialogue- as well as a lot of contradictions/conflicting information and details that I felt detracted from the otherwise stellar story. It has left me with mixed feelings as to what rating I should give this book because if there were not so many little issues, this would definitely be a five-star read for me… but as things stand the issues have detracted from my overall enjoyment of the story, so I feel that I can’t justify awarding it more than 3.5 stars, as things stand. I feel that these issues should have been caught in the beta reading stage, but definitely should have been picked up during the editing process. I feel for the author because these things should have been noted/corrected, which would make her book not only a superb story, but a professionally polished piece of work too. But, looking at the other reviews, I seem to be the only one who has noticed or feels this way, so maybe you should read the book for yourself and make up your own mind.
I will be following this series and look forward to seeing what happens in Book #2.
Happy Reading…

Thank you, Mavery Ellscott!

 

Reviewed by @angelahayes

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Murder in a Gated Community by Laura Koerber – Review by Angela Hayes

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Murder in a Gated CommunityMurder in a Gated Community by Laura Koerber
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

 

3 Stars

 

Murder in a Gated Community by Laura Koerber is a fun cozy mystery set in a retirement community. This is something a little different from Ms. Koerber, but I enjoyed following along on this entertaining read.
This is a short story, so it makes for a very quick and easy read. I easily read it during my lunch break.
I enjoyed Ms. Koerber’s dark humour which added an extra element of interest to the overall story. The idea of this gated community and the neighborhood ‘politics’, a cast of quirky characters, drama, friendships, and all their dynamics made this a really fun read.
I did feel that there were a few loose threads at the end that I would have liked to have seen ‘tied’ up- but perhaps Ms. Koerber is leaving things a bit ‘open’ to allow for more stories set in this retirement community. I will have to wait and see…
Anyway, Happy Reading…

Thank you, Laura Koerber!

 

Reviewed by @angelahayes

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The Silent Woodsman (The Olympic Peninsula Series Book #1) by Cat Treadgold – Review by Angela Hayes

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The Silent Woodsman (The Olympic Peninsula series Book 1)The Silent Woodsman by Cat Treadgold
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

 

3.5 Stars

 

The Silent Woodsman is the first book in The Olympic Peninsula series by Cat Treadgold. This appears to be Ms. Treadgold’s debut novel, so I will be keeping an eye out for more of her work in the future.
This is a sweet contemporary romance with a secret identity element, grief, loss, a wilderness rainforest, a might storm, a cozy cabin in the woods, chemistry, connection, and two truly unforgettable days.
Ms. Treadgold has crafted a touching story woven with plenty of emotion and enough angst and drama to keep things interesting. I did feel that the story was a little slow to get going and while the pace did pick up a bit it still tended to lag a bit in places, but then the ‘ending’ seemed to be rushed. I put this down to being a debut novel and it didn’t detract too much from my overall enjoyment of the story.
I am interested in seeing what the author has in store for us in ‘The Guardsman” (Book #2)- which is Ali’s twin brother Liam’s story.
Happy Reading…

Thank you, Cat Treadgold!

 

Reviewed by @angelahayes

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Oathbreakers Anonymous by Scott Warren – Review by Angela Hayes

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Oathbreakers AnonymousOathbreakers Anonymous by Scott Warren
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

 

4.5 Stars

 

Oathbreakers Anonymous by Scott Warren is a zany, madcap romp that had me hooked right from the beginning. It felt like a bit of a Terry Pratchett or Douglas Adams epic fantasy adventure with a D & D flavour.
This highly humorous and unique story highlights Mr. Warren’s superb storytelling abilities, as he deftly weaves a fantastical action-packed adventure that takes us on a quest for redemption with a motley crew of quirky characters. What happens makes for a very entertaining read that left me wanting more of this world (and characters), in the best possible way. I hope Mr. Warren has plans for more works set in this ‘world’. Looking forward to more from this talented author!
Happy Reading!

Thank you, Scott Warren!

 

Reviewed by @angelahayes

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Tequila Midnight (Southwest Suspense Novels Book #1) by Kathryn Dodson – Review by Angela Hayes

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Tequila MidnightTequila Midnight by Kathryn Dodson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

 

4 Stars

 

Tequila Midnight is the first book in the Jessica Watts Southwest Suspense series and debut novel by Kathryn Dodson. It is an intriguing crime and investigation story with mystery, suspense, danger, resentment, damaged/flawed characters, action, adventure, and more.
Jessica Watts gets a bit more than she bargained for when she goes on the hunt for a missing girl. Dangers, twists, and tension make this a fast-paced and intriguing read. I will definitely be keeping me eye out for the rest of this series, as well as anything else Ms. Dodson produces.
Happy Reading!

Thank you, Kathryn Dodson!

 

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Sage Advice by Cori Cooper – Review by Angela Hayes

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Sage AdviceSage Advice by Cori Cooper
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

 

4 Stars

 

Sage Advice by Cori Cooper is a YA story with humour, emotion, teen angst & drama, self-discovery, friendship, family, clean romance, first love, growing up, message/lessons, learning that you don’t need to ‘know everything’, and it’s ok to not have all the answers.
As I have mentioned before, Ms. Cooper is a talented storyteller who has the ability to create such wonderful characters and really interesting plots that have a deeper meaning, which to me, is a true testament to her writing skills. She never fails to draw me into her world, keeping me engrossed the whole way through.
As expected, this is a sweet story that mixed some poignant ‘lessons’ and issues with some fun and a little emotion.
Another enjoyable read from her. Looking forward to more from Ms. Cooper!
Happy Reading…

Thank you, Cori Cooper!

 

Reviewed by @angelahayes

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Planting Hope by Jennifer Raines – Review by Angela Hayes

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Planting HopePlanting Hope by Jennifer Raines
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

 

4.5 Stars

 

Planting Hope by Jennifer Raines is a wonderful women’s fiction story with a contemporary romance, dealing with trauma, garden therapy, a research project with a difference, chemistry, quirky characters, passion blooms, family, friendship, connection, drama, the healing power of love, finding love unexpectedly, and hope.
This is a sweet story that has a real heart and soul to it. With plenty of emotion that tugged at my heartstrings. Holly and Kit aren’t your ‘typical’ romance leading characters, but their story is definitely romantic and heart-warming- and they’re just perfect for each other. I love seeing what Ms. Raines brings to the table with every new release, and I think this book might just be her ‘best-yet’!
Looking forward to what she does next.
Happy to recommend this as it is well worth the read!
Happy Reading…

Thank you, Jennifer Raines!

 

Reviewed by @angelahayes

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Guarding the Crease (The Playmakers Series Hockey Romances Book #9) by G.K. Brady – Review by Angela Hayes

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Guarding the Crease (The Playmakers #9)Guarding the Crease by G.K. Brady
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

 

3.5 Stars

 

Guarding the Crease is the ninth book in The Playmakers series by G.K. Brady. It is a contemporary sports (hockey) romance with opposites attract, drama, angst, family, friendship, teammates, banter, humour, emotion, sweet details, character growth and development, and finding love unexpectedly.
I wasn’t sure I was going to enjoy this book to begin with because from what I thought I remembered of Wyatt from previous books, I hadn’t particularly liked him- so I was worried that I would hate him and his book. But, surprisingly, he won me over.
This is a bit of a slow-burn story that I had a little trouble settling into to begin with. I found parts felt like they were too slow, and made the story feel like it was lagging/dragging. But once I found ‘my groove’ and the pace picked up a bit, I enjoyed the ride. I have missed a few books in this series between this the last instalment I had read, so I might need to go back and catch up before continuing with any new additions.

Thank you, G.K. Brady!

 

Reviewed by @angelahayes

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Broken (Green St. Girls Series Book #2) by N.D. Jackson – Review by Angela Hayes

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Broken.: A Green St. Girls RomanceBroken.: A Green St. Girls Romance by N.D. Jackson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

 

4 Stars

 

Broken is the second captivating instalment in the Green St. Girls series by N.D Jackson. I love it when one of Ms. Jackson’s books hits my Kindle and I can lose myself in her lovely creation- and after getting a taste of this series from the first book, I very happily dove right in to this second addition to follow along with the Green Street Girls to see what they had in store for us this time.
It is another great read- a contemporary romance- with a bit of a friends to lovers element, plenty of emotion, family, friendship, challenges, risks, self-doubts, chemistry, wonderful characters, angst, drama, discovery, and heartwarming details. Again, Ms. Jackson has produced a book which has all the ingredients that I look for that will keep me avidly reading- which this story definitely had, so before I knew it I had devoured the whole book- and now I can’t wait for Book #3.
As expected, N.D Jackson writes beautifully- her descriptive details brought the whole story to life. The characters especially are really well developed, complex, and quite endearing. I love the Green St. Girls- Indigo, Athena, Gwyn, and Charlie…. so, I am really looking forward to more of their stories.
Happy Reading!

Thank you, N.D Jackson!

 

Reviewed by @angelahayes

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Notebook Mysteries ~ Parisian Intrigue (Notebook Mysteries Book #6) by Kimberly Mullins – Review by Angela Hayes

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

 

4.5 Stars

 

Parisian Intrigue is the sixth book in the Notebook Mysteries series by Kimberly Mullins. This is a fabulous historical mystery with crime and investigation, intrigue, drama, family, friendship, travels, and adventure.
The series goes from strength to strength, with each new addition slightly eclipsing the last. Ms. Mullins me engrossed right from the outset. I was immersed in all the adventure, and sights and sounds of the Paris world fair, while I followed along to find out how everything would play out in the end.
I also found the historical notes at the end of the book were quite fascinating too.
This could be read as a standalone, if you wanted, without feeling like you are missing anything major. But having said that, I highly recommend reading the previous books before starting on this one, as I feel that knowing what happened previously will give you a far greater appreciation of the characters, motivations, and series foundations- as well as enhancing your reading experience of this book.
Looking forward to seeing what Emma (and the team) get up to next…..
Happy Reading…

Thank you, Kimberly Mullins!

 

Reviewed by @angelahayes

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Love Is What It Is by Marina Hanna – Review by Angela Hayes

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Love Is What It Is: A holiday RomanceLove Is What It Is: A holiday Romance by Marina Hanna
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

 

4.5 Stars

 

Love Is What It Is by Marina Hanna is a fun contemporary romance with a vacation fling, some angst, push-pull, chemistry, and steam.
As expected from Ms. Hanna, I was completely captivated right from the very first page. She crafted a wonderful story about how a holiday fling brings something unexpected- and about taking a chance on love, with just enough drama and angst to add some tension and keep things interesting.
I am happy to recommend this book- it is well worth the read!
Looking forward to more from Ms. Hanna.
Happy Reading…

Thank you, Marina Hanna!

 

Reviewed by @angelahayes

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Sliding into Home (Playing for Keeps Book #3) by Lauren Fraser – Review by Angela Hayes

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Sliding into Home: A Secret Baby Sports Romance (Playing for Keeps Book 3)Sliding into Home: A Secret Baby Sports Romance by Lauren Fraser
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

 

4 Stars

 

Sliding Into Home is the fourth book in the Playing for Keeps series by Lauren Fraser. It is a contemporary sports romance with a secret baby trope, angst, drama, chemistry, single mother, professional baseball player, jealousy, meddling, tension, and emotion.
This is Kia and Jeff’s story- who had an encounter six years earlier that left more than an impression on them. Now, secrets are about to come to light. What happens makes for a great read.
If you are looking for a quick and easy sports romance that has some emotion, angst, interesting characters, and drama- then this might be the book for you.
The series contains:
-Too Far (Book #1)
-Everything to Me (Book #2)
-Throwing the Curve (Book #3)
-Sliding Home (Book #4)
Looking forward to seeing what Ms. Fraser does next.
Happy Reading…

Thank you, Lauren Fraser.

 

Reviewed by @angelahayes

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Taz (Devil’s Handmaidens MC: Timber-Ghost, Montana Chapter Book #3) by D.M. Earl – Review by Angela Hayes

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Taz: (Devil's Handmaidens MC: Timber-Ghost, Montana Chapter)Taz: by D.M. Earl
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

 

5 Stars

 

Taz is the third book in the Devil’s Handmaidens MC: Timber-Ghost, Montana Chapter series by D.M Earl. This is another fantastic MC romance- a romantic suspense with so much emotion, danger, action, darker themes, drama, suspense, secrets, lies, family, chemistry, tension, intensity, and much more.
I love this series so much- even when Ms. Earl rips my heart out, stomps on it, and then sews it back in my chest… so I was really excited to get my hands on this third instalment. I dove right in as soon as it landed on my Kindle, and stayed glued to the pages until I had read every single word.
All I can say is WOW- this story makes choosing a favourite even harder, as every new instalment just seems to get better and better- making for a sublime series. As I have said numerous times now, I can always count Ms. Earl to deliver a heart-pounding, emotional, and tense read- she never fails to instill plenty of heart and soul into her stories which makes for a very memorable read.
Bring on Book #4!
Happy Reading…

Thank you, D.M. Earl!

 

Reviewed by @angelahayes

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Goldilocks and the Six Simple Machines (Science Folktales Book #4) by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Angela Hayes

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Goldilocks and the Six Simple MachinesGoldilocks and the Six Simple Machines by Ada Konewki
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

2.5 – 3 Stars

 

Goldilocks and the Six Simple Machines is the fourth book in the Science Folktales series by Lois Wickstrom. It is an illustrated children’s fantasy story- a reimagining of the classic fairytale, Goldilocks and the Three Bears- but with a little STEM twist.
The story introduces children to the concept of problem solving, being helpful, kindness, fixing things, and a little ‘science’.
The story is cute, but the illustrations really let the book down. I just wish the internal quality of the illustrations matched the quality of the ‘new’ cover picture- as the internal illustrations are awful, really quite ‘bland’- and don’t grab and hold your attention like the cover image does, so I was left feeling frustrated, and very disappointed…
The Science Folktales Series contains (so far):
-Chicken Little (Book #1)
-Huff…Puff…Grind! The Three Little Pigs Get Smart (Book #2)
-Fee, Fi, Fo, Grow! The Real Magic of the Beans (Book #3)
-Goldilocks and the Six Simple Machines (Book #4)
-Little Red, the Detective (Book #5)
-Just One More Egg (Book #6)
-The Dwarves’ Dilemma (Book #7)
-Saving the Gingerbread House (Book #8)
There’s lots to explore in this series- plenty of adventures to take, with things to learn along the way.
Happy reading…

 

 

Reviewed by @angelahayes

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Smooth Hoperator (Love on Tap Book #2) by Sylvie Stewart – Review by Angela Hayes

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Smooth Hoperator (Love on Tap, #2)Smooth Hoperator by Sylvie Stewart
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

 

5 Stars

 

Smooth Hoperator is the second book in the Love on Tap series by Sylvie Stewart. This was such a fun romcom with witty banter, chemistry, sizzle, antics, endearing zany characters, family, friendship, animal antics, drama, grumpy vs sunshine, finding love unexpectedly, and emotion. The humour, antics, drama, and zaniness were nicely balanced by the emotional aspects of the story, as well as some sweet and tender touches.
I loved Cash and Hollis in the first book and so I was really looking forward to this second instalment in this fabulous series. I think it may have just eclipsed the first book for me, and I loved every second of Sunny and Carter’s story.
The ending has left me anticipating what Ms. Stewart might have in store for us in the next instalment- bring on Book #3!!
If you love a great romcom with endearing characters, emotion, and lots of laughs- then I highly recommend this book and series….
Happy Reading!

Thank you, Sylvie Stewart!

 

Reviewed by @angelahayes

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