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Deepest Midnight by Clara Winter- Review by Anna Hirsch

Deepest Midnight (The Immortal Kindred Series #1)Deepest Midnight by Clara Winter
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Deepest Midnight by Clara Winter
4 Stars

This is book one in the Immortal Kindred series. As far as vampire stories go, this one is interesting because the author throws in the idea of reincarnation as well. Millicent was alive in the 1700’s and was a French noblewoman. She fell in love with a man who wasn’t her husband. Soon after she became a vampire and for over two hundred years mourns the loss of her true love. By chance, she meets a man who is the spitting image of her lost love. Does reincarnation exist? Can this actually be him?

The story switches back and forth between the 18th century and present day so we fully understand Millicent’s life. The author did a good job because you never get lost within the story. Milli’s knowledge of vampire history is limited to only what her maker told her, which isn’t much. She has only lived with her maker and another vampire, rarely meeting any other immortal. Guaranteed this will lead to some interesting situations later in the series.

This is the first book that I have read from this author. I found the story to be easy flowing and interesting. There was romance, drama and mystery rolled all together which made an intriguing story. I’m looking forward to seeing what happens next.

Review by @annahirsch
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Movie Star by Pamela DuMond- Review by Anna Hirsch

Movie Star (21st Century Courtesan, #2)Movie Star by Pamela DuMond
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Movie Star by Pamela Dumond
5 Stars

Honestly, this book is amazing! This is part two in the 21st Century Courtesan Series and it is hands down better than the first book. Once I started reading, I couldn’t put it down. This series is original, sexy and addictive. I’m anxiously waiting for the next installment.

The story continues as Evie takes on her next client. Jake is a big time movie star with a secret as big as he is. He’s lost his way and is shutting down. It’s up to Evie to get him back on track. As much as I loved Dylan in the first book, I fell head over heels for Jake. He’s there for her as well and helps her in her time of need. There are many revelations for Evie in this book that knocks her off kilter. Someone from her past keeps popping up and throwing a wrench in her plans and her psycho “fan” has stepped it up a notch.

So much happens in this book that I was blown away. Pamela DuMond has written an exceptional story filled with suspense, angst and of course steamy moments. I highly recommend this book!

Review by @anna

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Caught in Make-Believe by Sharleen Scott – Review by Anna Hirsch

Caught in Make-Believe (The Caught Series Book 3)Caught in Make-Believe by Sharleen Scott
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Caught in Make-Believe by Sharleen Scott
4 Stars

This is book three in the Caught Series. As far as I’m concerned, it’s another winner. Each book can be read as a stand-alone seeing as they focus on a different couple in each one. I highly suggest that you read the whole series because it is really good. This story focuses on Samantha Dylan, manager of Harlie’s bakery. She finds out things about her fiancé and breaks off the engagement. She’s fed up and actually considering leaving Angel Beach but then Jace Colton walks into her life.

Jace Colton has finally decided to return to Angel Beach to face some demons from his past. He needs to put them to rest. Unknowingly, someone has followed him which puts his and Samantha’s lives in danger. Secrets can destroy you, and Jace has plenty. Can Jace survive and protect Samantha as well?

Once again Sharleen Scott managed to play with my emotions. I had moments where I literally held my breath in anticipation of what was going to happen. There is a bit of mystery throughout the book which keeps you intent on piecing things together. When the author finally reveals what’s happening, it truly is a complete surprise. The story was entertaining and filled with wonderful characters. I absolutely loved this series and I’m sure you will too.

Review by @anna

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Caught in Cross Seas by Sharleen Scott – Review by Anna Hirsch

Caught in Cross SeasCaught in Cross Seas by Sharleen Scott
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Caught in Cross Seas by Sharleen Scott
4 Stars

This is my first book that I’ve read from this author and it was good. There was romance, some drama and mystery. The element of a serial killer added excitement and the thrill of figuring out who it is. I realized who Hunt Masterson was early on in the book but it was interesting to see how the story would unfold and how the characters would find out. The story was well written and the characters were well developed. The main characters each had their own issues to deal with. The author did an excellent job of tying all the sub plots together and wrote an exciting story. I adored Clay and Harlie, they were so cute as a couple. They each lived through tremendous heartache and they found each other. I look forward to reading the rest of the series and recommend that you read this book.

Review by @annahirsch
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A Christmas Wish by Engy Neville- review by Anna Hirsch

A Christmas WishA Christmas Wish by Engy Neville
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

A Christmas Wish by Engy Neville
3 Stars

I feel that the title is a little misleading. I started reading this book fully expecting a Christmas romance and instead got a story that took place at Christmas time. It seems like the author wanted to write a romance and also a story about coming of age. Either way I feel it fell short.

The main characters meet and immediately have a perfect relationship. There was no romantic lead up to a relationship. They came across a few issues but Amy made it out to be more than it was. Speaking of Amy, I couldn’t connect with her at all. She was frustratingly self absorbed. She made everything about her as if she was the centre of the universe. She was too much inside her head. There were too many details about nothing and not enough details when something happened.

I did like the evolution of the relationship between Amy and Sarah. It shows the characters changing and growing. This shows me that the author has the potential to be a great writer. These two characters were realistic seeing that there are many people who are insecure and self absorbed. Though the book didn’t quite hit the mark for me, it has potential. If you like stories with Hallmark endings then you will definitely enjoy this one.

Review by @annahirsch

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The Way You Are (The Carolina Connections) by Sylvie Stewart – Review by Anna Hirsch

The Way You Are (The Carolina Connections, #5)The Way You Are by Sylvie Stewart
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The Way You Are (The Carolina Connections) by Sylvie Stewart
4 Stars

This is book five in the series The Carolina Connections but it can be read as a stand-alone. This is an easy going romance with not too much drama. I’ve been reading some intense books lately and this was a nice respite. This is my first book from this author and it was quite enjoyable. I will be looking forward to reading more of her books. The main characters were well rounded and likeable ( maybe not so much Troy). The secondary characters were interesting as well. I’m assuming they were in the books prior to this one. I liked that Brett wasn’t portrayed as a Greek god/ billionaire stud. He was good looking and fit but he was also pierced and tattooed yet wasn’t a “bad boy”. He was respectful, smart and had a good job. He is a walking contradiction. All this to say that I loved him. Luv was great, she made me laugh on several occasions. They both had amazing personalities with chemistry that continued to build throughout the story.

I was delighted with the baseball aspect of the story. I love baseball and football so when I get to read a book that involves either sport, I am thrilled. The humour and witty banter definitely made this a fun read. I highly recommend it.

Review by @annahirsch
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Player by Pamela Dumond – Review by Anna Hirsch

Player (21st Century Courtesan #1)Player by Pamela DuMond
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Player by Pamela Dumond
4 Stars

Evie Berlinger is a kindergarten teacher by day, escort by night. Evie had a whirlwind of a childhood where she learned to suppress her empathic abilities. Now that she’s all grown up, she realizes that she can use this “power” to heal her clients. These men pay enormous amounts of money to the Ma Maison Agency just to be with her.

Though the blurb on the back of the book speaks of four different clients, this book mainly focuses on one in particular; Dylan McAlister. I’m assuming each book in the series surrounds a client in particular. Dylan is swoon worthy. Him being a gambler kind of turned me off a little but other than that, he’s the man. I believe he’s also good for Evie and I would like to see them together in the end. This story is about Evie becoming who she was meant to be and believing in herself. Dylan helps her with that and more. There is a bit of drama with Glenn (the pervert), some mystery with her fan (stalker?) and many sizzling moments with Dylan. There were a few parts that I found a little long but the story overall kept me interested to keep reading.

There is not a happy ending. This story is a part of Evie’s life. I’m interested to see what will happen with her next client and curious to find out who her fan is. I’m looking forward to the next book in the series.
Review by @annahirsch

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Awakening of a Soul Keeper (Soul Keeper Series) by Brienne Dubh – Review by Anna Hirsch

Awakening Of A Soul Keeper - Prequel to the Soul Keeper SeriesAwakening Of A Soul Keeper – Prequel to the Soul Keeper Series by Brienne Dubh
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Awakening of a Soul Keeper (Soul Keeper Series) by Brienne Dubh
4 Stars

This short novella is the prequel to the Soul Keeper series. It is a good introduction. It explains how the characters all met and the beginning of Theodora and Lyzander’s relationship. Although Lyzander is made out to be the bad guy keeping Theodora and her husband apart, I love him. I know he’s not the true antagonist of the story. He is introduced at the end of the book but we still don’t know who he is. This was smart on the author’s part, everyone will want to read the next book to find out who he is.

I have always loved vampire stories. This one had an original twist to it that I found intriguing; a person being the soul Keeper of a vampire. I tip my hat to Ms. Dubh for coming up with the idea. I really like Theodora, she is an independent woman who speaks her mind and doesn’t take crap from anyone. Her love of comic book characters makes her quirky and lovable. I feel bad for Dam but I think he’s handling things pretty well. Even though I know he loves Theodora very much, I want him to step aside and hurry up about it. I believe the love between Theodora and Lyzander is going to be epic and I can’t wait to read the next book.

Review by @annahirsch
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Hope’s Defeat (The Fated Series) by Angela McPherson – Review by Anna Hirsch

Hope's Defeat (The Fated #3)Hope’s Defeat by Angela McPherson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Hope’s Defeat (The Fated Series) by Angela McPherson
4 Stars

Another action packed book in the Fated Series. Trinity has to take extreme measures to set Blain free. Now she has to face Cronus and dealing with gods is always tricky business. They never fight fair and it may cost Trinity her life. She’s decided that no cost is too high to save the other half of her soul.

This is a truly fascinating series and being the third book, I’m sad to see it end. It had action, drama, magic and intrigue. It had gods and goddesses based on Greek mythology, which I love. The characters were well developed and evolved with every book as did the plot. I not only enjoyed the main characters but the secondary ones as well. Maybe we’ll be able to see some stories involving some of the other watchers or demi gods? All in all, this was a fantastic series, one I highly recommend reading.

Review by @annahirsch
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The Confectioner’s Truth (Confectioner Chronicles) by Claire Luana – Review by Anna Hirsch

The Confectioner's Truth (Confectioner Chronicles Book 3)The Confectioner’s Truth by Claire Luana
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The Confectioner’s Truth (Confectioner Chronicles) by Claire Luana
4 Stars

Life is definitely not better under the rule of the new emperor. Wren and her few friends are forced to flee Maradis. In her search for Lucas, she manages to gather an alliance with some new and old friends. They need to take back their city but the craziness has upped a notch putting her life at stake yet again. Will Wren be able to survive or will the evil finally win?

There were so many heart stopping moments in this book. You didn’t know who to trust. With many twists and turns, the author kept you on the edge of your seat. Like any war, there were losses and people had to make sacrifices. Some of them saddened me while others shocked me. This was an amazing conclusion to the Confectioner Chronicles. Though the ending satisfied me, I was a little upset. I enjoyed this series so much that I was sad to see it end. Thank you Ms Luana for bringing this world and these characters to life.

Review by @annahirsch
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The Debt Collector by India Kells – Review by Anna Hirsch

The Debt Collector (An Underground Bad Boys Romance)The Debt Collector by India Kells
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The Debt Collector by India Kells
4 Stars

This book is sizzling hot! The sexual encounters in this story will set you on fire. The chemistry between Locke, Tessa and Gage is incredible. Tessa is a strong, independent woman who manages to get herself in serious trouble. Locke succeeds in saving her but Tessa is now indebted to him and he always collects his debts. Locke is a very complex character. He is very serious and closed off with a touch of OCD. There are reasons for the way that he is. Gage is a monster of a man. He’s a giant sized muscled machine who cage fights for fun. He’s rough and tough but we find out his soft spot. I loved all the characters. Each one was unique and they complimented each other. There was drama and some action and many heated moments. There are scenes that are explicit therefore I would suggest a mature audience but it is so worth it. I really enjoyed the book and am looking forward to reading more about these characters. Hoping the next book centres around Gage.

Review by @annahirsch
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The Confectioner’s Coup (Confectioners Chronicles) by Claire Luana – Review by Anna Hirsch

The Confectioner's Coup (Confectioner Chronicles, #2)The Confectioner’s Coup by Claire Luana
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The Confectioner’s Coup (Confectioners Chronicles) by Claire Luana
5 Stars

Oh my god, this book was amazing! I could not put it down. It was filled with action, lies, deceit and betrayals. Wren manages to not get executed but ends up in more trouble in this book. Guild members are getting kidnapped and an army is at the gates of Maradis ready to invade. Negotiations for the accord are not going well and there is dissension within the guilds. War is imminent and everything is falling apart, a rebellion might be the only solution.

The action starts right from the beginning and continues straight through until the end. There are so many twists and turns. When I finished reading the book, I was left speechless. Shocking events occur within this book. Characters that I didn’t really like in the first part, I found myself cheering for. Characters that I loved, I’m upset with. My emotions are all over the place. These characters go through so much in this story. Wren’s new found family has fallen apart and she’s adrift in a sea of sorrow. I am right there with her. This series keeps getting better with each additional book, I’m truly blown away. I can’t wait to read part three.

Review by @annahirsch
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The Confectioner’s Guild (Confectioner Chronicles) by Claire Luana – Review by Anna Hirsch

The Confectioner's Guild (The Confectioner Chronicles, #1)The Confectioner’s Guild by Claire Luana
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The Confectioners Guild (The Confectioners Chronicles) by Claire Luana
4 Stars

I adore this author! I enjoyed her Moonburner series but after reading this book, I know I’m going to love this one! Claire Luana is so talented and imaginative. Who would have thought about putting magic in cupcakes?

Wren doesn’t know she possesses magic and infuses it in the desserts she makes. The secret is revealed to her when she’s asked to join the Confectioners Guild. Unfortunately she’s framed for murder soon after. Now she must navigate her way through the political and magical mess to clear her name. Not knowing who to trust, Wren must get to the bottom of the conspiracy.

This is the first book in this series and it will keep you intrigued until the very end. Just when you think you have it figured out, the author throws another loop at you. I loved the characters and the storyline is so interesting. Towards the end I was literally holding my breath waiting to see what would happen. I can’t wait to read the next part!

Review by @annahirsch
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Leaving Jackson Wolf by P.A Kane- Review by Anna Hirsch

Leaving Jackson WolfLeaving Jackson Wolf by P.A. Kane
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Leaving Jackson Wolf by P.A Kane
4 Stars

This is not the type of book that I usually read but I decided to step out of my comfort zone a little. I’m glad that I did, this was a poignant story. On the surface it is a story about two teens who are bullied that become friends but it is so much more. It is a story about a friendship that grew from unlikely circumstances, about growing up and discovering the person you are and the person that you want to be. It is about facing harsh realities and overcoming them. It is about becoming stronger through adversity. It is about the bonds that tie people together.

I think that the book was well written and speaks volumes. It is my first book that I have read from this author and I will definitely be looking for more.

Review by @annahirsch
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Guilty Pleasures Volume 2 by Joyce McCarthy – Review by Anna Hirsch

Guilty Pleasures Volume 2Guilty Pleasures Volume 2 by Joyce McCarthy
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Guilty Pleasures Volume 2 by Joyce McCarthy
4 Stars

This is a compilation of short stories. It is only forty eight pages therefore a really quick read but totally worth it. The stories follow Brad on his sexcapades including situations with a MILF, his teacher and next door neighbour. Some people would consider some of these taboo but they are erotic fantasies which make them more enjoyable. If you are looking for something that will get you hot and bothered with your pulse racing, this is the book for you.

Review by @annahirsch
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It Ends Tonight (Bayou Devils MC) by A.M Myers- review by Anna Hirsch

It Ends Tonight (Bayou Devils MC Book 4)It Ends Tonight by A.M. Myers
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

It Ends Tonight (Bayou Devils MC) by A.M Myers
4 Stars

I love this series! Each book focuses on a different member of the MC so you don’t need to read the first three books. I highly suggest that you do though because they are fantastic. This one focuses on Lucas Smith and his lady love, Quinn Dawson. Years ago a devastating occurrence happened that cut Lucas’s childhood short. Since then he’s been taking care of his brother Clay. The last few years though, Lucas has been chasing his drug addled brother, not what he expected out of life. A chance encounter with Quinn has made him realize that he wants more.

Quinn has her own demons to overcome but Lucas gives her hope. She is starting to trust men again and can actually see a future for herself and her daughter. Unfortunately the skeletons of the past don’t always stay buried. Is this something that they can survive or will it tear them apart?

I love the characters in this series, each one is special. I have fallen in love with each couple. They are not perfect, each one has flaws and problems. It’s what makes them relatable. I was happy to see appearances of older characters, Logan and Ali crack me up. Another winning novel by Ms. Myers. I hope to see another in the series, maybe about Fuzz?

Review by @annahirsch

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Venganza (The Fuentes Legacy) by Greta Cribbs – Review by Anna Hirsch

Venganza: The Fuentes LegacyVenganza: The Fuentes Legacy by Greta Cribbs
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Venganza (The Fuentes Legacy) by Greta Cribbs
4 Stars

This is the prequel to Primogenito and it is a haunting and intense story. The Fuentes family has been entangled with black magic and has been committing evil acts for centuries. Leo wants nothing to do with the family legacy and has been trying to protect his son Damian for years. Unfortunately good intentions pave the way to hell and one fateful night Damian ended up in his own private hell. It was violent, malicious and degrading. His family didn’t only injure him physically, they crushed his soul. It will take Damian a long time to piece himself together again.

This book is definitely not for the faint of heart and can be a trigger for some people. It was so detailed and well written that I felt like I experienced everything as well. There were moments where I needed to step back and breathe. The book shows the aftermath of what a victim goes through. It enlightens you to all they need to overcome mentally in the road to healing. It doesn’t only affect them but the ones they love as well.

The author did an excellent job explaining Damian’s story in this book. It is a good lead into Primogenito and Damian’s reluctance into returning to Asheville.

Review by @annahirsch

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Hope’s Deceit (Fated Series #2) by Angela McPherson- Review by Anna Hirsch

Hope's Deceit (The Fated #2)Hope’s Deceit by Angela McPherson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Hope’s Deceit by Angela McPherson
5 Stars

Another fantastic book in this series. This one picks up where Hope’s Decree finishes. The author holds back no punches with this story. It is action filled from beginning to end. We meet a slew of new watchers who add an interesting dynamic to the story. There are some exciting surprises involving Trinity’s father and her friends. There are gripping twists and turns that will keep you on the edge of your seat. The author starting building the tension from the start, leading to the climax of the final battle. What an ending to the book! I wanted to scream.

I highly suggest that you read the first book before this one. Not only will you understand who and what everyone is but because this series is amazing. Ms. McPherson, please hurry up with the third book because I can’t wait to read it!

Review by @annahirsch
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Hope’s Decree (The Fated Series #1) by Angela McPherson – Review by Anna Hirsch

Hope's Decree (The Fated #1)Hope’s Decree by Angela McPherson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Hope’s Decree by Angela McPherson
5 Stars

I have read other books from this author and have never been disappointed so it was an easy choice for me to pick up and read. I love this book! When I finished reading it, I knew that I had found another series that I would love. I can’t wait to read the other two books.

I enjoy when authors are able to intertwine mythology into their storyline. This one was phenomenal! It was an original take on Pandora’s box. Trinity is a descendant of Pandora and she must learn how to wield her powers and save mankind. It’s a little much for Trinity to accept seeing as she’s just trying to get through her senior year of high school. I liked Trinity a lot. She was strong yet weak, brave and insecure. She didn’t want to cause trouble but she stood her ground and didn’t let people walk all over her. Being only seventeen, her emotions were all over the place and she was constantly changing her mind about being with Blain. It was a little frustrating.

Blain is a drop dead gorgeous guy who happens to be Trinity’s guardian. He is her protector and he has to teach her how to use her powers. You can see that he really loves her too but Blain is just as stubborn as her. Indecision between doing his duty and wanting to be with Trinity as more than her guardian. He doesn’t want her with anyone else either. This leads to some interesting scenes.

Morpheus has to be my favourite character even though he’s a bad guy. He has the dark looks that I like and he’s sarcastic and funny. There are many layers to him which I love.

This story has many twists and turns which constantly kept me on my toes. The fight scenes added fast paced action which felt like I was watching a movie. The characters were down to earth and relatable which had me cheering them on. The book was creative and kept me captivated until the very end. It doesn’t end in a cliffhanger but it is an open ending which will lead into book two. I’m very excited to read the next one in the series.

Review by @annahirsch
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Claiming Her Mates by Dia Cole – Review by Anna Hirsch

Claiming Her Mates (Claiming Her Mates #1)Claiming Her Mates by Dia Cole
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Claiming her Mates by Dia Cole
4 Stars

This is a paranormal shifter story. I think the idea behind this book is original; shifters dealing with a zombie apocalypse. The story starts off full of action which quickly grabbed my attention. It was interesting how the author explained the way the apocalypse started. The rest of the book continues with hormone induced, lust filled pages. A mention of the zombies an after thought. Don’t get me wrong, I enjoyed every moment of them especially the scene between Havana, Mason and Liam. It was panty wetting. I just feel if the author had blended the two storylines a little more, it would have been better.

There are characters that were spoken alit about that we don’t meet and the book ends with the story being incomplete. This book is a terrific setup for the rest of the series. I’m interested in finally meeting Nathan and seeing what happens with Tasha in the next part.

Review by @annahirsch
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Nathaniel (Dragon Hearts Series) by Carole Mortimer – Review by Anna Hirsch

Nathaniel (Dragon Hearts #1)Nathaniel by Carole Mortimer
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Nathaniel (Dragon Hearts Series) by Carole Mortimer
4 Stars

This is a paranormal story about dragons of myth and legend. I love dragons so any story involving them, I am inclined to read. I found this story very interesting. The legend of King Arthur was integrated in the book but the author did a good job keeping it as a back story and didn’t let it overtake the story. The book stayed centred on the dragon shifters, Nathaniel in particular.

Nathaniel and his brothers have been around for hundreds of years searching for their mates. Nathaniel has all but given up hope until he crosses paths with a smart mouthed, head strong journalist. His dragon is roaring and demands that he claim her. Chloe is vacationing in Wales when she comes across Pendragon Castle. A castle that isn’t on any map yet has existed for as long as anyone can remember. She instinctively knows there is a story there and knows she needs to investigate. Her life changes as she’s held captive in this exciting adventure.

The book is not long so the author had to pack a lot of information in this book. Though I would have liked a little more depth in the characters, I did like them. Chloe is quirky and doesn’t know when to shut her mouth. Nathaniel, though an alpha male, tries to do right by Chloe and treats her with respect. The story was fun to read and the author did a good job laying the foundation for the rest of the series. I’m looking forward to reading about the rest of the brothers.

Review by @annahirsch
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Truly Unfortunate (Welcome to Knollville Series) by C.A King – Review by Anna Hirsch

Truly Unfortunate (Welcome To Knollville Book 1)Truly Unfortunate by C.A. King
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Truly Unfortunate (Welcome to Knollville Series) by C.A King
5 Stars

Ms. King is an excellent author who truly has a wild imagination. I have read several of her books and each one is completely unique. This is another well written original storyline. It is a twisted tale that blurs the lines of reality. It is the first book in the Knollville series and I think it’s off to a great start. It is a paranormal story with a dark fantasy flavour to it.

Truly is a woman whose childhood is a complete blank to her. She has no memories at all. She has been to several doctors who all say the same thing, that she has blocked traumatic experiences. The only luck she seems to have is bad and as memories slowly start resurfacing, death seems to be following her. Jeff is a detective whose current cases all seem to point to Truly. To uncover the truth, he needs to open his mind and think outside the box.

This story has many twists and turns that it’s addictive. It is definitely not black and white, there are many shades of grey. You will not be able to put it down. I highly recommend that you read it. This has to be my favourite book from this author.

Review by @annahirsch
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The First Backwards Christmas by Brooke Williams – Review by Anna Hirsch

The First Backwards ChristmasThe First Backwards Christmas by Brooke Williams
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The First Backwards Christmas by Brooke Williams
4 Stars

This is a feel good Christmas story. It takes place in a small town called South Pole in Alaska. The population has been slowly dwindling in the past few years. Jack Furst loves the town and between him and his girlfriend Joyce, they come up with a crazy idea to bring a little life back into the South Pole.

Though short, it is a cute story with a Hallmark feeling to it. I admit, I did get teary eyed at the end. It definitely gets you into the Christmas spirit.

Review by @annahirsch
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Embattled Hearts (Lost and Found Series) by J.M. Madden – Review by Anna Hirsch

Embattled Hearts (Lost and Found, #1)Embattled Hearts by J.M. Madden
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Embattled Hearts (Lost and Found Series) by J.M Madden
4 Stars

This is a military romance novel. John Palmer was injured in Iraq where he lost the use of his legs. He hasn’t felt like a real man since it happened. John and a few other veterans opened a detective agency called Lost “N” Found Investigative Services. The cool thing about this agency is that it only hires veterans, giving them a purpose again and allowing them to fit into society. This is where he meets Shannon Murphy. She is hired as the office manager. Everyone adores her but none more so than John. For the first time in a long time, he is attracted to a woman. He’s less miserable when she’s around. He knows he’s falling for her but doesn’t believe he can be the man that she needs because he is stuck in a wheelchair.

Shannon wasn’t looking for love but finds herself instantly attracted to John. Even though he’s always grumpy, she notices that he is less so around her. She wants to make a move but is nervous that he won’t reciprocate. The action starts when someone from her past starts threatening her again. John and the rest of the veterans step in to protect her.

The good thing is that you never really know who is after her until the end. The author kept the mystery going which kept me intrigued. The suspense was really good. I loved the fact that the men weren’t “ perfect”. Whether they were crippled (like John) or amputees or had PTSD, each had their own issues. I think the author did an excellent job of showing the after effects and psychological issues that veterans go through after returning from the war. The author showed the slow healing process of trying to reintegrate themselves into a normal life. The novel was well written and thought out even the love scenes were realistic and touching. This truly is an amazing book and a must read!

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Elegantly Denim (An Elegant Series Prelude) by Tee Smith- Review by Anna Hirsch

Elegantly Denim: An Elegant Prelude (Elegant Series- Prequel)Elegantly Denim: An Elegant Prelude by Tee Smith
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Elegantly Denim (An Elegant Series Prelude) by Tee Smith
4 Stars

This is the first book that I have read from this author. It is a short novella, a prelude to the Elegant Series. This story gives us a deeper understanding of the heart and mind of Denim Gargliano. He is making his way through his father’s empire of drugs, violence and power, slowly taking over. Deep down, he truly is a good guy. He wants to help everyone. He has to learn who to trust and know that everyone has a price. Even though the book was short, I think it did a good job of laying the foundation for the rest of the series. The introduction of Lili at the end of the book was a smart move on the author’s part. She has piqued my curiosity to found out who she is and what she will become to Denim. Looking forward to reading the rest of the instalments.

Review by @annahirsch
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The Confectioner’s Exile (The Confectioner Chronicles Prequel) by Claire Luana – Review by Anna Hirsch

The Confectioner's Exile: The Confectioner Chronicles Prequel NovellaThe Confectioner’s Exile: The Confectioner Chronicles Prequel Novella by Claire Luana
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The Confectioner’s Exile (The Confectioner Chronicles Prequel) by Claire Luana
4 Stars

I’ve read the author’s Moonburner series which I really enjoyed. After reading this prequel, it looks like she has another winning series. I’m excited to read the rest. This story is about Hale Firena’s life before he joined the Confectioners Guild. He is a rich spoiled brat of a high ranking government official until there was a coup d’état. Now Hale, along with his mother and brother, are political refugees running for their lives. There are plenty of obstacles and challenges on their journey out of the country. Hale needs to learn that things will not be handed to him on a silver platter anymore and his ego gets taken down a few notches. Though he lives through some devastating experiences, luck is on his side.

To be honest, Hale annoyed me through the first half of the book. He was spoiled rotten and I didn’t like his attitude. Once he dropped his pretentions, I definitely warmed up to him. The good thing is that the action starts almost at the beginning and continues throughout the whole book. Towards the end, I was biting my nails with the excitement and danger. This was a fun adventurous read worthy to be a part of this series.

Review by @annahirsch
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Bound by Blood (Crescent City Wolf Pack Series) by Carrie Pulkinen – Review by Anna Hirsch

Bound by Blood (Crescent City Wolf Pack, #3)Bound by Blood by Carrie Pulkinen
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Bound by Blood (Crescent City Wolf Pack Series) by Carrie Pulkinen
4 Stars

Let me just say that I love this series. The characters are well rounded and likeable. They have the same insecurities as we do, which makes them relatable. This is book three in the series and I suggest you read part one and two because they are just as amazing as this book. This story focuses on Bryce and Alexis. Bryce Samuels is a no nonsense homicide detective. He gets promoted to sergeant and becomes a negotiator. His dream of helping people is coming true. He has fallen for his ex-partner’s sister and when he finds her in the hospital beaten and bruised, he is hell bent on protecting her; if only she’d let him.

Alexis Gentry is trying to get away from her psychotic ex and doesn’t want Bryce to get caught in the crossfire. Though she doesn’t want to care for him, her Wolf has decided that Bryce is her mate. How can she be with a human that doesn’t know that the supernatural exists?

I’m so happy that the author wrote a book about these two. The chemistry is good and I think Bryce handled the situation very well. Eric was the perfect miscreant, psycho is definitely an understatement. This is an excellent drama filled, action packed paranormal story. A must read!

Review by @annahirsch
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Jesse (Glass City Hearts Book 3) by Desiree Lafawn – Review by Anna Hirsch

Jesse (Glass City Hearts Book 3)Jesse by Desiree Lafawn
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Jesse (Glass City Hearts Book 3) by Desiree Lafawn
4 Stars

I love this series and with each additional book, it just keeps getting better. The storylines are interesting and the characters are lovable. Each character has found a place in my heart. This installment is Jesse’s story. It has been drilled into his head since he was a little boy that family always comes first. When his mother dies, Jesse returns home to take care of his alcoholic father even though the man was never there for him. Two years later and Jesse is at his wits end trying to run his father’s bar. A bathroom accident in the back alley of the bar changed his life forever. Harlow came into his life when he least expected it.

Harlow has struggled her whole life. She wants one break so she can give her son a better life. She knows her interview with Glass City Guard is it but her son’s bladder has other plans. A chance meeting with Jesse in a back alley has turned her life around. She has everything she could ever want within her grasp, she just has to protect her son and get through one of the scariest nights of her life.

I loved Harlow and Jesse but fell in love with JJ as did all the other characters. This little boy was adorable. It was nice to see the reappearance of characters ie: Jolene and Gerta. Rosalina cracked me up especially towards the last few scenes. I was dying of laughter! I think this is a winning book by this author. I’m looking forward to more books in this series.

Review by @annahirsch
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Do Not Open Until Halloween by C.A. King – Review by Anna Hirsch

Do Not Open Until HalloweenDo Not Open Until Halloween by C.A. King
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Do Not Open Until Halloween by C.A King
4 Stars

This is definitely an original story. It was kind of like Dungeons and Dragons, Alice in Wonderland, Charlie and The Chocolate Factory and the Wizard of Oz all rolled into one story. It is a fantastical journey into the imagination.

Caitlyn promised her Aunt Petunia that she would house sit while she went away for the weekend. Caitlyn’s friends pressured her to invite some guys over as well. Unexplainable things happen and they accidentally stumble upon a real live fairy. Having to save the fairy, they need to believe and take a leap of faith into a magical realm.

The action starts pretty much from the beginning and is quick paced. I did feel like the story was rushed at times. It would have been nice if the author incorporated the fairy a little more. I liked the underlying anti bullying theme that was happening. I enjoyed the book though I think it is better suited towards a younger audience.

Review by @annahirsch
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Silk Road (Code Raven 6) by Lynda Filler – Review by Anna Hirsch

SILK ROAD (Code Raven, #6)SILK ROAD by Lynda Filler
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Silk Road (Code Raven 6) by Lynda Filler
4 Stars

Another action filled adventure in the Code Raven series. This is book six and this time the Raven Group is trying to save the world from a sex trafficking ring. Between China, Kyrgyzstan, London and the United States, we travel the world again. With the help of Himanesh, they locate the whereabouts of the missing children. It’s personal once again when two of the children were kidnapped from Luke’s personal hideaway in the Maldives. It is a fast paced book that will have you racing towards the end. I was happy to see Luke and Luci trying to take a vacation even though it got cut short. It would be nice to see them open their hearts and jump into a relationship.

Review by @annahirsch
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