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A Toast for Laurent (Vine Valley Book 1) by Theresa Paolo – Review by Ashley Mertz

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A Toast for Laurent (Vine Valley, #1)A Toast for Laurent by Theresa Paolo
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

A Toast for Laurent by Theresa Paolo is available now in eBook and Physical Book
⭐️⭐️⭐⭐ Book Review

A Toast for Laurent is a small town, fake relationship, second chance at romance novel. This novel is the first installment of the Vine Valley series, introducing us to the story of Laurent and Phoebe. After 20 years Phoebe is back to commit to the pact of marrying Laurent if they were both single at the age of 40. However, Laurent has moved on, Phoebe broke his heart all those years ago when she walked out and never looked back.

This is a new to me author. Theresa Paolo is known for writing novels about sassy heroines, sexy heroes, and feisty townspeople. The characters within this novel, to include the secondary characters, are relatable and well developed. Laurent was strong willed, successful, and full of life. Phoebe was insecure and selfish. I quickly found myself falling in love with Laurent and disliking Phoebe. This quickly changed as I learned the reasoning behind the shield that Phoebe held close. Paolo knows how to immediately draw her readers in and secure them for the remainder of the novel. I couldn’t put this one down, needing to know exactly what was going to happen next. I highly recommend this novel to anyone interested in the small town, second chance at love genre. I can’t wait to see what else this series has in store.

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Brutal Nights (Hidden Valley Elite Book 4) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Ashley Mertz

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Brutal Nights (Hidden Valley Elite #4)Brutal Nights by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Brutal Nights by Isla Vaughn is available now in eBook and Physical Book
⭐️⭐️⭐⭐⭐ Book Review

Brutal Nights is the fourth installment within the Hidden Valley Elite series. Brutal Days ended Damon and Sky’s story on a cliffhanger. Brutal Nights picks up right where we left off to tell the remainder of their story. Full of secrets, lies, and sacrifices this installment puts us through all the emotions. Vaughn is known to write about complex characters, strong alpha males, and fierce women. This installment revolved around each and everyone of those. I loved the characters within this duet. In the first two books I did not like Damon’s character but he has grown on me this time around. I found myself rooting for the two of them the entire way. I can’t wait to see what else this series has to offer. I highly recommend this series to anyone who reads romance and enjoys a little suspense. Don’t waste any time, pick up this series right away!

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Brutal Days (Hidden Valley Elite Book 3) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Ashley Mertz

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Brutal Days (Hidden Valley Elite #3)Brutal Days by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Brutal Days by Isla Vaughn is available now in eBook and Physical Book
⭐️⭐️⭐⭐⭐ Book Review

Isla Vaughn has not written a book that I did not like. Brutal Days can officially be added to the list. Brutal Days is the third installment of the Hidden Valley Elite series telling the story of Damon and Skylar. This installment is 190+ pages of banter, secrets, lies, angst, chemistry, and tension. I highly recommend reading this entire series in order due to the introduction of characters; however Brutal days could be read as a standalone with Brutal nights as they both reflect solely on this couple of characters. Vaughn knows how to draw her readers in, keep their attention, and have them begging for more the entire time. The cliffhanger at the end of Brutal Days left me thanking the book heavens that Brutal Nights was already in my digital library. Not only do I recommend this book and series, I recommend this author to anyone who enjoys romance novels, enemies to lovers genre, and hidden relationships. This new adult, high school bully romance should be enjoyed by a mature audience but you wont regret the decision to pick up this series!

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Falling Again (Buckeye Falls Book 3) by Libby Kay – Review by Ashley Mertz

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Falling Again: A Buckeye Falls NovelFalling Again: A Buckeye Falls Novel by Libby Kay
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Falling Again by Libby Kay is available now in eBook and Paperback
⭐️⭐️⭐⭐⭐ Book Review

Libby Kay has won me over once again! Falling Again is the third installment of the Buckeye Falls Series but can easily be read as a standalone. Each novel revolves around a specific couple in Buckeye Falls. Previously we met CeCe and Ginny. This time we are introduced to their friend Natalie and her husband Anthony. Natalie and Anthony have hit hard times in their marriage. They have two young children and very demanding jobs. Natalie owns a business and Anthony is the mayor. With the demands of their everyday lives they have not been able to devote any time to their marriage and one another. When given the opportunity to spend the weekend at the family lake house they attempt to rekindle what is left.

There are many days that I struggle to balance my kids and my job and realize sometimes by the end of the day I am too tired to give my husband the attention he deserves. Despite this being a work of fiction, it reassured me that this happens more than people know. Marital struggles are real! Kay’s story line and characters are down to earth and relatable in so many ways. This installment was definitely spicier than any of the others but this couple deserved every moment of it. I consistently found myself rooting for Anthony and Natalie in hopes they could rekindle their love and have their second chance at love. I highly recommend not only this novel, but this series to all romance readers. These are an absolute must read!

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A Way Out (Rock Star Book 2) by Tami Lund – Review by Ashley Mertz

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A Way Out (Rock Star Book 2)A Way Out by Tami Lund
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

A Way Out by Tami Lund is available now in eBook
⭐️⭐️⭐⭐⭐ Book Review

A Way Out by Tami Lund is the second installment of the Rock Star series. Full of energetic, charismatic characters Lund wins you over in this romance novel. This is my first time reading a novel by Lund and it did not disappoint. Her story line was spot on, keeping my interest the entire way. In the very beginning I found myself trying to figure out who was who and how they all fit in, but once that was cleared up I could not put this one down. Oz was my ultimate favorite character with not only his devotion to the children but his devotion to his happiness. I will definitely get my hands on the remainder of this series and seek out other novels written by Tami Lund. I highly recommend this romance novel for a quick easy weekend pick me up.

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Stalked by the Devil (To Kiss a Stalker Series) by Stacy-Deanne – Review by Ashley Mertz

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Stalked by the Devil: BWWM Thriller (To Kiss a Stalker Series)Stalked by the Devil: BWWM Thriller by Stacy-Deanne
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Stalked by the Devil by Stacey-DeAnne is available now!
⭐️⭐️⭐⭐ Book Review

Stalked by the Devil is part of the “To Kiss a Stalker” series but can easily be read as a standalone. I personally have not read any other novels written by this author and had no troubles making it through this one. Stacey-DeAnne is known to bring versatile stories full of passion, thrills, emotion, and intriguing characters to the table. You never know what you are going to get. Stalked by the Devil was nothing less. This fast paced, suspenseful love triangle was full of intensity. Just when I thought I knew who the stalker was, another twist happened and once again I found myself wrong. The story was so well written, you couldn’t figure out who to trust and who to blame. The characters were realistic. The females in the story were bold and packed a punch. Keith was arrogant and I was not a fan, but doesn’t every novel have one of those? Although this was not my typical genre, I thoroughly enjoyed this novel and would recommend it to any friend looking for a quick unpredictable thriller.

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Underneath The Whiskey by Chelsea Lauren – Review by Ashley Mertz

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Underneath The WhiskeyUnderneath The Whiskey by Chelsea Lauren
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Underneath the Whiskey by Chelsea Lauren is available now in eBook and Physical Book
⭐️⭐️⭐⭐⭐ Book Review

Underneath the Whiskey is about a successful business owner who is living a double life. Ben is the perfect husband and father, but he knows deep down this life isn’t for him. Although he is content, this lifestyle doesn’t make him feel whole. When Caden comes to Ben’s shop for an interview there is tension in the air, tension that Ben just can’t shake. Will Ben be able to be honest with his family and take back his life and happiness?

Underneath the Whiskey is a M/M romance. This was my first time reading a novel written by Lauren and I was extremely satisfied with this one. There have not been many M/M romances that really struck my fancy but this one had me hooked from the very beginning. Lauren introduces you to some very hard topics: abuse, mental health, and homosexuality. She discusses these topics with such hospitality. Her characters are extremely likable. The story line is believable and flows extremely well. The story is so detailed, I felt like I was on this journey with Ben, his family, and Caden. I will not hesitate to pick up another novel written by Lauren in the future. If you are looking for a fast paced, heart felt, action packed novel for the weekend, this one is highly recommended.

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Lap Baby by Amy Q. Barker – Review by Ashley Mertz

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Lap Baby: Emotional Women's FictionLap Baby: Emotional Women’s Fiction by Amy Q. Barker
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Lap Baby by Amy Barker is available now in eBook and Physical Book
⭐️⭐️⭐⭐ Book Review

Lap Baby is a heartwarming, inspirational woman’s fiction novel about redemption, forgiveness, and finding oneself after a tragedy. 20 years ago three women Julie, Marie, and Paige were the only survivors of a horrific plane crash. Julie was the flight attendant on duty that day and lives with self doubt and guilt daily. Her only focus the last twenty years has been to have the rules of a flight changed with no success. Will she ever be able to let the actions of that day go so she can live her life to the fullest?

Lap Baby is told by all three women who survived the plane crash. With the story being told from all three perspectives the reader understands how each person can be affected so differently from the same tragedy. The characters are well developed, and the story line believable. This emotional story had me on a roller coaster ride from the very beginning. My heart ached for all three women for many different reasons. I so badly wanted all of them to forgive Julie and understand that accidents are called accidents for a reason. This was my first time reading a novel written by Amy Barker and I am glad that I picked this one up. I would highly recommend this novel to anyone looking for a heartfelt summer afternoon read.

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Breathless Love (The Bennetts of Langston Falls Book 3) by KG Fletcher – Review by Ashley Mertz

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Breathless Love (The Bennetts of Langston Falls, #3)Breathless Love by K.G. Fletcher
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Breathless Love by KG Fletcher is available now in eBook and Physical Book
⭐️⭐️⭐⭐⭐ Book Review

Breathless Love is the third novel in the Bennetts of Langston Falls Series. Although part of a series, this installment can easily be read as a standalone. This novel tells the story of Hank Bennett, Ella Mae Miller, and Travis Miller. Breathless love will have you laughing, cursing under your breath at certain characters and their stupid actions, and crying all in the matter of one chapter. Each character has a heart of gold in their own individualized way making all of the characters lovable and relatable. I’m not much of a country music fan but this novel had my heart strumming to the beat of a guitar! It’s been awhile since I have read a book that gave me a good “ugly cry” but this one did it for me. I highly recommend this small town, friends to lovers romance.

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Living with Conviction: A True Crime Memoir by Toby Dorr – Review by Ashley Mertz

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Living With Conviction: Unexpected Sisterhood, Healing, and Redemption in the Wake of Life-Altering ChoicesLiving With Conviction: Unexpected Sisterhood, Healing, and Redemption in the Wake of Life-Altering Choices by Toby Dorr
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Living with Conviction by Toby Dorr is available now in eBook, Audiobook, and Physical Book
⭐️⭐️⭐⭐⭐ Book Review

“Toby Dorr takes full responsibility for the actions that sent her to prison but refuses to let the worst decision of her life determine the rest of her life.” Living with Conviction is so much more than a story of a woman serving a sentence for helping a convicted murderer escape from prison. “She reveals that beneath the reality of her life altering decisions was the innate desire to be loved, have value, worth and significance.” Dorr’s story allows one to realize that redemption is always possible. Her story is emotional, heartbreaking, and honest. Dorr accepted her fate and made the best of it. Developing a sisterhood and standing her ground for what is right in prison. The transparency within will keep you pondering how one could deal with such a decision and its consequences with such positivity. This memoir stole my heart from the very beginning. I have personally worked in a jail and have my own feelings about staff/inmate relationships but reading about Dorr’s personal growth and self-rediscovery has really allowed me to open my mind and see this in a different perspective. Thank you Toby Dorr for sharing your story with the world. May you continue to find happiness in all that you do. I highly recommend Living with Conviction to all readers.

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The Promised Plan by Sharon Hughson – Review by Ashley Mertz

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The Promised PlanThe Promised Plan by Sharon Hughson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The Promised Plan by Sharon Hughson is available now in eBook and Physical Book
⭐️⭐️⭐⭐⭐ Book Review

I am a “judge a book by its cover” kinda gal. This beautiful cover is truly what drew me into reading this novel. This was my first time reading a novel by Sharon Hughson and I am so glad that I picked this one. The characters are lovable and relatable. The realistic story line and events these characters endure are heartfelt. There were many times I sympathized with each character on many different levels. I really wished the sisters could have reconciled their differences before Ruth’s passing but that’s the nature of the beast. Sometimes we humans just have to learn the hard way. Sometimes something unwanted has to happen for us to realize what we are missing out on. Overall, I truly enjoyed The Promised Plan and I will not hesitate to recommend this quick, easy read to a friend.

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Cabin Eight (The Millersville Series Book 3) by Susan Specht Oram – Review by Ashley Mertz

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Cabin Eight (The Millersville series)Cabin Eight by Susan Specht Oram
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Cabin Eight by Susan Specht Oram is available now in eBook and Audiobook
⭐️⭐️⭐⭐ Book Review

Cabin Eight is the third book in The Millersville series. Although being a part of a series, it can be read as a standalone.This psychological conspiracy thriller is full of suspense, drama, and foreboding danger. This was my first time reading a book by Susan Specht Oram. I found this novel to be very unbelievable making it hard for me to get roped in. I had to keep putting the book down and coming back with an open mind. Despite these obstacles, the book was fast paced, there was great character building, and the overall story line had me invested until the end. I would not hesitate to recommend this book to a friend or to anyone who enjoys the psychological thriller genre.. I would definitely take the time to read another book by this author in the near future.

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Savage Truth (Hidden Valley Elite Book 2) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Ashley Mertz

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Savage Truth: A High School Bully Romance (Hidden Valley Elite Book 2)Savage Truth: A High School Bully Romance by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Savage Truth is available now in eBook and Physical Book
⭐️⭐️⭐⭐⭐ Book Review

Savage Truth is the second installment of the Hidden Valley Elite series. It is an enemies-to-lovers, dark high school bully romance featuring the conclusion of Cole and Riley’s story. I have been following this series since the prequel and have absolutely fallen in love. The amount of heat, angst, secrets and emotion is top notch. Vaughn is known for her romance books that are full of complex characters, strong alpha males, and fierce women who bring them to their knees. This installment does not let you down in any of those categories. Vaughn’s previous book left you on a cliffhanger. Savage Truth picks up right where it left off, keeping you roped in from the very beginning. I recommend reading this entire series in order so you do not feel confused or miss any detail. Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed the characters, story line, and plot of this entire series. I would recommend Vaughn as an author to all my reader friends along with this series. I can’t wait to see what else Vaughn has up her sleeve.

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I’ll Love You Tomorrow (Trading Heartbeats Trilogy Book 3) by Julie Navickas – Review by Ashley Mertz

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I'll Love You Tomorrow (The Trading Heartbeats Trilogy #3)I’ll Love You Tomorrow by Julie Navickas
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I’ll Love You Tomorrow by Julie Navickas is available now in eBook and Physical Book
⭐️⭐️⭐⭐⭐ Book Review

I’ll Love You Tomorrow is the third installment in the Trading Heartbeats Trilogy. “What happens in Vegas, Stays in Vegas.” In this contemporary romance Lauren Templeton thinks she has it all, until she doesn’t. Her marriage is failing and her restaurant has burned down to the ground. Fueled by the flame of injustice, Lauren stacks her chips, ready to risk it all on red.

Julie Navickas has done it again! Her relatable, lovable characters have swooped me up, keeping me frantically reading until the very end. I absolutely love all of her characters, main and secondary. Each one brings just enough to the story to keep you guessing. I thoroughly enjoy the emotional roller coaster she sends you on in each novel. As a reader, I feel all of the emotions her characters do throughout their journey. My heart ached for all of the hurtful things Lauren endured. I am sad to know this is the final installment in this trilogy. I can’t wait to see what Navickas comes up with next. I highly encourage all romance lovers to get their hands on this trilogy. You won’t regret your decision!

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I Love You Today (Trading Heartbeats Trilogy Book 2) by Julie Navickas – Review by Ashley Mertz

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I Love You Today (The Trading Heartbeats Trilogy Book #2)I Love You Today by Julie Navickas
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I Love You Today by Julie Navickas is available now in eBook and Physical Book
⭐️⭐️⭐⭐⭐ Book Review

I Love You Today is the second installment in the Trading Heartbeats Trilogy. In this contemporary romance Austin Templeton has two strikes against him in the bottom of the ninth, will he strike out or hit a home run? After undergoing total heartbreak, Austin packs up and moves 2000 miles away to Chicago. Relocating in hopes of leaving the past behind him, he meets Casey, a spunky outgoing Cubs fan.

I Love You Today came just in time for baseball season for me. I love a good baseball game and a good romance novel. Having both in the same setting is heaven! The characters were down to earth, lovable, and relatable. Both brought baggage along with them into the relationship. Navickas writing style allows the reader to feel the emotions along with the characters as the story unfolds. I was so excited to read Austin’s story. I can’t wait to see what’s to come in installment number three. If you haven’t begun reading the Trading Heartbeats Trilogy you won’t want to miss out!

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I Loved You Yesterday (Trading Heartbeats Trilogy Book 1) by Julie Navickas – Review by Ashley Mertz

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I Loved You Yesterday (The Trading Heartbeats Trilogy, Book #1)I Loved You Yesterday by Julie Navickas
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I Loved You Yesterday by Julie Navickas is available now in eBook and Physical Book
⭐️⭐️⭐⭐⭐ Book Review

I Loved You Yesterday is the first installment in the Trading Heartbeats Trilogy. In this contemporary romance Mavis must choose between the brother for whom she broke her own heart, and the brother who picked up the pieces. After an unplanned pregnancy at the age of 17, Mavis Benson skips town leaving Josh Templeton with so many questions and even more emotions.

I Loved You Yesterday is a second chance at love romance novel filled with love, hope, and forgiveness. This love triangle will take you on an emotional journey with the most complex characters. The plot twists will keep you on your toes, begging for more up until the very end. I Loved You Yesterday is Navickas debut novel. She has quickly won me over. I already have book number two in my TBR pile. I highly recommend this book to anyone who thoroughly enjoys romance novels, especially when they include a love triangle with twin brothers. You won’t regret spending the weekend reading this one!

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Unexpected Entanglement (The Echo Series Book 3) by C.R. Alam – Review by Ashley Mertz

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Unexpected Entanglement (The Echo Series, #3)Unexpected Entanglement by C.R. Alam
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Unexpected Entanglement by C.R. Alam is available now in eBook and Physical Book
⭐️⭐️⭐⭐⭐ Book Review

Unexpected Entanglement is the third installment of the Echo series. C.R. Alam loves to write heartfelt and steamy love stories that feature characters her readers would root for. Unexpected Entanglement is the story of Rowan and Chris. It is most definitely heartfelt and steamy. And Rowan and Chris are both lovable, relatable, and the type of characters you just can’t get enough of. Alam writes with such emotion the readers feel as if they are alongside the characters on an adventure. The detail in her descriptions allow the reader to feel the heat on their face, feel the flutter in their heart when someone special walks in the room, and smell the scents of all the great food. Some of the characters from previous books return but there are many new characters throughout that bring me to believe there could be a fourth installment to The Echo Series. C.R. Alam has quickly become one of my favorite, go-to authors and I would recommend her books to ANYONE who will stop and listen to me rant and rave about my most recent reads. I will shout it from the rooftop: This is a MUST READ! You won’t want to miss this one. And if you haven’t read the other installments in this series, you won’t want to miss out. Promise!

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Breach of Trust (The Madeline Dawkins Series Book 8 ) by Cynthia Hamilton – Review by Ashley Mertz

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Breach of Trust (The Madeline Dawkins Series Book 8)Breach of Trust by Cynthia Hamilton
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Breach of Trust by Cynthia Hamilton is available now in eBook
⭐️⭐️⭐⭐⭐ Book Review

“A missing eighteen-year-old, a victim of physical and sexual abuse. An ugly divorce that was threatening to get even uglier. A self-righteous busybody targeting the elderly. We’ve been up against bigger challenges and prevailed, Madeline reminded herself.” Madeline Dawkins is at it again. Utilizing her entire team, she is determined to crack all three cases.

Breach of Trust is the eighth installment of the Madeline Dawkin’s Mystery series. Although part of a series, Breach of Trust could be read as a standalone. The story line for this novel is seamless allowing numerous cases to be worked without causing confusion to the reader. The characters are well written and likable. Full of suspense and mysterious adventures, I sat on the edge of my seat the entire time. This is only the second time I have read a novel written by Hamilton and she is quickly making her way to the top of my TBR pile. I highly encourage you to read Breach of Trust, you won’t regret it! Off to get my hands on her next novel!

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Other People’s Money (The Madeline Dawkins Series Book 7) by Cynthia Hamilton – Review by Ashley Mertz

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Other People's Money (The Madeline Dawkins Series Book 7)Other People’s Money by Cynthia Hamilton
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Other People’s Money by Cynthia Hamilton is available now in eBook and Physical Book
⭐️⭐️⭐⭐ Book Review

Maddie and Mike, a married Private Investigative team, are hired to investigate three separate cases. Funds are missing, people have vanished, and Daphne is marrying a man thirty years older than she is. Full of suspense, secrets, and surprises these three cases intertwine and provide a shocking ending.

Other People’s Money is the seventh installment of the Madeline Dawkin’s Mystery Series. Although part of a series, this installment can easily be read as a standalone. This one was a binge reader for me. I could not put it down. Just when I thought I had it all figured out, Hamilton threw in another wrench causing another twist and turn. The characters within this novel were very well written; lovable and relatable in so many ways. The plot was well developed and believable. This was my first introduction to Cynthia Hamilton. After reading Other People’s Money I will not hesitate to pick up another book written by this author.

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Savage Lies (Hidden Valley Elite Book 1) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Ashley Mertz

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Savage Lies: A High School Bully Romance (Hidden Valley Elite Book 1)Savage Lies: A High School Bully Romance by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Savage Lies is available now in eBook and Physical Book
⭐️⭐️⭐⭐⭐ Book Review

Savage Lies is the first installment of the Hidden Valley Elite series. It follows the prequel, Savage Start. It is an enemy to lovers, dark, high school bully romance. Picking up where Savage Start left off, Riley and her mother are back in town and Riley’s mom is telling her to make herself comfortable as they will be staying for a while. However, Riley can’t quite figure out how to get comfortable when Cole gives her all the negative vibes. Determined to run Riley right out of town, is she and her mother truly safe?

Savage Lies is a teenage drama full of angst, emotion, and plenty of banter. The characters are realistic, lovable, and relatable. This is my second time reading a book by Isla Vaughn and I am absolutely hooked. Her writing reels you in from the very beginning leaving you begging for more. Savage Lies ends in a cliffhanger, which had me disappointed but once I put into perspective that meant I would get the pleasure of reading another Vaughn novel, I was stoked. I can’t wait to get my hands on Savage Truth.

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Doctor Frank Enstein (Doctors of Eastport General) by C.A. King – Review by Ashley Mertz

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Doctor Frank Enstein (Doctors of Eastport General)Doctor Frank Enstein by C.A. King
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Doctor Frank Enstein by C.A. King is available now in eBook and Physical Book
⭐️⭐️⭐⭐⭐ Book Review

Get ready for all the naughty nurses, dirty doctors, and patient shenanigans that take place in Eastport General.

Dr. Frank Enstein is a part of the Doctors of Eastport General series. This contemporary romance packs a lot of spice and heat in these short 93 pages. Dr. Einstein was a cosmetic surgeon who took on a new job in the burn unit. Following a tragic past, taking a job that will make a difference is his ultimate goal. When he meets a busty barmaid looking for a permanent fix, she gets more than she bargained for.

This installment grabs you right from the beginning. You won’t want to put this one down. I was amazed by the amount of WOW! in these few short chapters. The only regret about this book is that it ended so quickly. There was so much packed into these few short pages that I just didn’t want it to end. I can’t wait to get my hands on more of this series. I highly recommend this to anyone who thoroughly enjoys medical dramas.

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The Challenger (The Hustlers Trilogy Book 2) by Rowan Rossler – Review by Ashley Mertz

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The Challenger: A Sports Romance Saga (The Hustlers Trilogy Book 2)The Challenger: A Sports Romance Saga by Rowan Rossler
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The Challenger by Rowan Rossler is available now in eBook and Physical Book
⭐️⭐️⭐⭐ Book Review

“When love meets its match, its game on!”

The Challenger is the second installment of The Hustler’s Series. Although part of a series, it can be read as a standalone. This reverse age gap, sports romance is full of steam, spice, and suspense. When Chavez Delgado, a tennis prodigy, leaves a tennis tour unexpectedly his fans are heartbroken. Flynn Dryden, a motivational speaker, meets Chavez at just the right time and agrees to go on tour with him as his mental fitness coach. Sparks fly and the two of them have to decide if their unresolved issues can stay in the past. Will they both be able to overcome their challenges for a happily ever after?

Rowan Rossler aims to make the world a better place one love story at a time, adding a touch of spice to kick it up a notch. The Challenger will give you nothing less. Just when you think Flynn’s life couldn’t fall apart any more another piece comes crumbling down. The family drama and insecurities within this novel are heartbreaking. Rossler will send you on an emotional roller coaster so don’t forget to grab the box of Kleenex for this one. The witty banter, tension, and chemistry between Flynn and Chavez stole my heart. I highly recommend reading The Challenger. I will definitely be on the lookout for other novels by this author.

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Under My Care (Chase Care Book 3) by R.L. Dunn – Review by Ashley Mertz

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Under My Care (Chase Care Book 3)Under My Care by R.L. Dunn
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Under My Care by R.L. Dunn is available now in eBook and Physical Book
⭐️⭐️⭐⭐ Book Review

Under My Care is the third installment of the Chase Care Series. Although part of a series, this can be read as a standalone without any confusion. This medical romantic thriller features heroes with hearts and healing hands. Pete Walter and Rowena Andersen share quite the history. Years ago they were in the Air Force together where they endured many obstacles that caused tension between the two. When they are reunited during an emergency situation the chemistry immediately resurfaces.

If you are a lover of medical dramas, this one’s for you. Full of secrets, evil intentions, and risks this medical romance thriller will have you sitting on the edge of your seat, frantically flipping pages, while you impatiently try to determine what happens next. The characters are strong and full of adventure. The steamy scenes are definitely geared towards a mature 18+ audience. I am in the medical field, and these medical dramas always draw me in. I don’t regret it! This was my first time reading a novel by R.L. Dunn, and it won’t be my last! I can’t wait to get my hands on the remainder of this series.

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Braving Lily (True Platinum Series Book 7) by Morgana Bevan – Review by Ashley Mertz

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Braving Lily (True Platinum, #5)Braving Lily by Morgana Bevan
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Braving Lily by Morgana Bevan is available now in eBook and Physical Book
⭐️⭐️⭐⭐⭐ Book Review

“I question whether normal men are worth the effort. Turns out the rock star variety aren’t.” – Lily

“It’s safe to say, after my marriage crumbled before my eyes, that I’m not interested in opening myself up to any kind of heartbreak again, ever.” – Rhys

Morgana Bevan has won me over again. Braving Lily is the seventh installment of the True Platinum Series. Although part of a series, this one can be read as a standalone with no confusion. Lily Tyler, a rock star, sells a date in a charity auction. When Rhys stands her up for that date she is hot! “I’m having this date one way or another.” Lily backs Rhys into a corner and demands at least coffee. Will this setup by his mother turn into more than just coffee? Or will Rhys keep his heart locked away forever?

Bevan is a sucker for a rock star romance, particularly if it involves a soul-destroying breakup or strangers waking up in Vegas. I absolutely loved that Lily was a female rock star. All the books I’ve read in the past focus on male rock stars. I enjoyed Rhys, even though at times I wanted to take him by the shoulders and shake some sense into him. The characters within Braving Lily were all lovable and relatable. The story line was realistic and had me rooting for these love birds the entire way. I read this novel in one sitting and the only thing I regretted was not having more to read. I 100% recommend this novel to all steamy rock star romance lovers and I will not be hesitating to get my hands on more installments from this series.

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His Forever Muse (The Echo Series Book 2) by C.R. Alam – Review by Ashley Mertz

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His Forever Muse (Book 2 of The Echo Series)His Forever Muse by C.R. Alam
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

His Forever Muse by C.R. Alam is available now in eBook and Physical Book
⭐️⭐️⭐⭐⭐ Book Review

“I see fire. Passion. Power. Do I make you feel weak now? Because I don’t see a weak woman at all.”

His Forever Muse is the second installment of The Echo Series. This friends to lovers, second chance at love, novel is full of suspense, spice, and strong family support. Brandon Rossi has just completed a long tour with his rock band. Reflecting on his current life, his friend Rae encourages him to travel and work on his art. While in Morocco visiting his friend Chris, he runs into an art gallerist, Callie Chen-Bisset. Callie and Brandon knew each other as small kids. This blast from the past has Brandon in a tizzy. He thinks Callie is the “one he let get away.” Will this visit reignite a spark from the past?

Despite being a part of a series, His Forever Muse can be read as a standalone. (Although you won’t want to miss out on installment one: Echoing Hearts) I love that Alam can write about such hard topics with such sensitivity. (TW: Domestic Violence) During the fifteen years that Callie and Brandon were apart, Callie endured some horrible events that no woman should ever have to live through. Her strength and courage to fight for what is right in her life is inspiring. Her family support is amazing. Popo was one of my favorite characters. And Ella’s relationship with Brandon stole my heart. Overall, this entire series has roped me in. I can’t wait to see what Alam has in store for her readers next.

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Falling for You (Buckeye Falls Book 2) by Libby Kay – Review by Ashley Mertz

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Falling for You (Buckeye Falls, #2)Falling for You by Libby Kay
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Falling For You by Libby Kay is available now in eBook and Physical Book
⭐️⭐️⭐⭐⭐ Book Review

“Much like the perfect recipe, love cannot be rushed.”

Falling For You is the second novel in the Buckeye Falls series. This sweet, small town romance takes place in Buckeye Falls, Ohio. Pastry chef, CeCe LaRue and Evan Lawson work side by side at Max’s Diner. The two of them share a crush that neither wants to admit to the other. When Eric, a celebrity chef, hosts a food competition in town the people are ecstatic. Evan thinks this could be his perfect chance to get closer to CeCe. CeCe worries that this will stir up the past and destroy any chance she has with Evan. Will everyone be able to turn down the heat in the kitchen to overcome the obstacles?

Although Falling For You is part of a series it can be read as a standalone with minimal reference to the characters/plot of the first novel. However, I do HIGHLY recommend reading the first novel, you won’t regret it! I loved the sweet banter between all of the characters. Each one of them stood beside one another during the hardest of times, especially CeCe when meeting Evan’s family. His father was the most awful type of man! For a while I found myself mad at CeCe for not being honest with Evan, but let’s be honest we wouldn’t have the perfect story if she was honest right off the bat. The setting of the diner, the line of work, and food competition was perfect, believable and relatable. All around, I absolutely loved Falling For You. Libby Kay stole my heart once again. I can’t wait to see what Buckeye Falls has in store for us next.

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The Summer I Went Crazy by Laura Koerber – Review by Ashley Mertz

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The Summer I Went CrazyThe Summer I Went Crazy by Laura Koerber
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The Summer I Went Crazy by Laura Koerber is available now in eBook
⭐️⭐️⭐⭐ Book Review

Trigger Warnings: Rape

Ben had it all: an expensive private school education, summers in Europe, and an admission to Yale. When he lets his so-called friends Clint, Rob, and Marty talk him into attending a party he doesn’t realize the choices made that very night will affect him for the rest of his life. Constantly regretting not coming forth with what he saw, Ben wonders how his life could have changed if he would have been honest. Now forty years later he is making the call that he hopes will help clear his conscious.

The Summer I Went Crazy is a remake of Coyote Summer. It is a thought provoking, coming of Age novel. Laura Koerber knows her way around dark, sensitive topics, writing with such detail and compassion. The problematic decisions made by these teenage boys causes a lot of pressure and guilt. To see Ben go through the different parts of his life with this one decision weighing so heavily on his mind was a perfect example of why we have to think before we act. One decision can affect you for the remainder of your life. Koerber does any amazing job making these characters believable and relatable in so many ways. This book will send you on an emotional roller coaster ride.

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Cry Baby (Pierce Brothers Book 4) by Belinda Williams – Review by Ashley Mertz

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Cry Baby (Pierce Brothers, #4)Cry Baby by Belinda Williams
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Cry Baby by Belinda Williams is available now in eBook only
⭐️⭐️⭐⭐⭐ Book Review

Noah Pierce not only lost his best friend unexpectedly at age 34 to Covid but became the legal guardian to her 7 month old baby girl, Amelia. Noah is a grumpy workaholic who has no idea how to be a father. Noah has no idea how a child will fit into his world. Luckily, happy-go-lucky Amy Highgate saunters into his life and is willing to take the job as his overly paid live-in nanny. Amy thought this was a great opportunity to save money to work towards her teaching degree. She had no idea that this gig would turn into an attraction for her boss.

Cry Baby is the fourth installment of the Pierce Brother series but can easily be read as a standalone. This was my first time reading a novel written by Williams and I absolutely loved her work. The characters were all lovable, relatable, and had a story to share. Amy had skeletons in her closet that didn’t surface until a specific event triggered the past. I love that Williams was able to write about these triggers and the need and response to therapy with such poise. There were times Williams brought tears to my eyes. The loss of Beth was hard on many people and the discovery of the information about Amelia’s father just stole my heart. And the letter, well we won’t talk about what that letter did to my mama heart strings!

Overall, this was a really good book! If I could rate it with more than 5 stars I most definitely would. Probably one of the best I have read all year. I personally have not read any of the other books in this series but I am headed to Amazon now to purchase the remainder of the series. I highly recommend reading Cry Baby by Belinda Williams. You won’t regret it!

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Echoing Hearts (The Echo Series Book 1) by C.R. Alam – Review by Ashley Mertz

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Echoing Hearts (Book 1 of The Echo Series)Echoing Hearts by C.R. Alam
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Echoing Hearts by C.R. Alam is available now in Paperback and eBook
⭐️⭐️⭐⭐⭐ Book Review

Echoing Hearts is the first installment of the Echo series. C.R. Alam loves to write heartfelt and steamy love stories that feature characters her readers would root for. Echoing Hearts definitely does not fall short in either of those categories. This enemies to lovers romance features two amazing characters who are vulnerable, stubborn, and struggle with relationship insecurities. Dean and Rae were lovable and relatable. At times I wanted to shake some sense into Dean and make him realize how crazy he was being. But in the end I found myself rooting for their relationship all the way. They both deserved to be happy. I can’t wait to see what book 2 brings to the table.

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Hush, My Darling (Benoit and Dayne Mystery Book 2) by Winter Austin – Review by Ashley Mertz

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Hush, My Darling (Benoit and Dayne Mystery, #2)Hush, My Darling by Winter Austin
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Hush, My Darling by Winter Austin is available now in Paperback, Audiobook and eBook
⭐️⭐️⭐⭐⭐ Book Review

Two years ago Deputy Dayne survived a serial killer’s attempt to kill her. Night after night she suffers nightmares that bring the past quickly flashing back. The killer is striking again and the team desperately needs Deputy Dayne on their side but she has shut everyone out. Will the deputy be able to put her fears aside before the killer strikes again?

Hush, My Darling is the second installment in the Benoit & Dayne Mystery series. Although Hush, My Darling is part of a series it can easily be read as a standalone with no confusion. Winter Austin writes deadly romantic thrillers that will not disappoint. Full of suspenseful twists and turns Austin has you sitting on the edge of your seat the entire book. Just when you thought you had the mystery figured out she throws another wrench in the plot. The story line was seamless, moving from scene to scene, keeping the reader engaged. I recently read installment three which drew me into this series. Despite reading these out of order, I can’t wait to get my hands on the remainder of the series. Highly recommended!

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