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Softest Touch by Adina D. Grey – Review by Ashley Mertz

Softest TouchSoftest Touch by Adina D. Grey
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Softest Touch by Adina Grey is available now in eBook and Physical Book
⭐️⭐️⭐⭐ Book Review

Softest Touch was short, sweet, and to the point. I loved the story line and the characters. Sometimes I enjoy reading a short quick romance, however I felt this one could have been so much more. Everything happened so quickly between Derek and Melinda. I felt the relationship was forced. The spicy language within was distracting at times for my personal liking (hence the 4 star review). This was my first time reading a novel written by Grey and despite the few dislikes, I would not hesitate to pick up another novel written by her. The story line behind Melinda and Derek’s relationship really kept me invested in this one. I would not hesitate to recommend this novel to anyone who thoroughly enjoys a quick contemporary romance with lots of spice and suspense. I look forward to seeing what else Grey brings to us book lovers.

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I Am An Outer Space Alien (I am an Alien) by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Tanya Wall, August 2023

I Am An Outer Space Alien (I am an Alien)I Am An Outer Space Alien by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is a cute children’s book about Shirley, who doesn’t like her name. She is sure she isn’t from planet Earth, so she contacts the Aliens to come to visit. Shirley and Eee-ahh have fun adventures on planet Earth together – they learn that although they are different, they can be friends.

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The Magic Carousel (The Brass Ring Series Book 1) by K.L. Small – Review by Tanya Wall, August 2023

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

I really enjoyed this middle grades adventure book. It was fun to meet Russell and his Grandpa. Rusty learns many lessons throughout this story = the importance of his grandpa, friendships and trust. When Grandpa takes Rusty on his first ride on the carousel, Rusty learns why his Grandpa loves to visit the carousel every day. Rusty continues to visit the carousel after his Grandpa has a stroke – he searches for his lead horse and finds Jimmy = the one that takes him to the most important time period of all.

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Lilly Tames Her Worries by Carole Heaney – Review by Donya Pedigo

Lilly Tames Her WorriesLilly Tames Her Worries by Carole Heaney
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is by far one of the best children’s books I have ever read. I truly just wish this book had been around when I was a kid experiencing the heebie-jeebies, as Lilly calls them. As someone who has suffered from anxiety most of my life, I would truly recommend this book to all ages as there is a simple but beautiful message and spot-on techniques to help face everyday life when you feel anxious or scared. The colorful and detailed illustrations just add to this remarkable story. I would suggest everyone pick up a copy of this book, even if you or your child doesn’t suffer from anxiety. I’m sure we all know someone who does and using this book you can learn techniques that might help them. I can’t wait to read more books by this author!

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Cruel King by K.M. Scott – Review by Kirsten Berkebile

This is the first book I’ve read from K.M. Scott. I couldn’t put it down to be honest with you!!! Ava Sutton grew up with the five King boys, Matthias, Theo, Marius, Kellen and Ronan. Theo was her best friend and for some reason Matthias was her enemy, or at least that is how she was made to feel about him. Locked away in the King’s home because of a snow storm, does she find out why Matthias doesn’t like her or does something else happen? There are some serious sad parts to this story that bring all the characters together at times, but I truly believe that this story about two people whose love for each other is tainted by their parents

Cruel KingCruel King by K.M. Scott
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is the first book I’ve read from K.M. Scott. I couldn’t put it down to be honest with you!!! Ava Sutton grew up with the five King boys, Matthias, Theo, Marius, Kellen and Ronan. Theo was her best friend and for some reason Matthias was her enemy, or at least that is how she was made to feel about him. Locked away in the King’s home because of a snow storm, does she find out why Matthias doesn’t like her or does something else happen? There are some serious sad parts to this story that bring all the characters together at times, but I truly believe that this story about two people whose love for each other is tainted by their parents.

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The Book of Carraig (The Cross of Ciaran Book 2) by Andrea Matthews – Review by Jennifer Reimer

The Book of Carraig (The Cross of Ciaran #2)The Book of Carraig by Andrea Matthews
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This book picks up right were the first book ends, so highly suggest that you go and read the first book first or you might be a little lost, but I don’t think it would be too much if you really want to read this book that bad. Caitlin and Ciaran go on a trip to Ireland, and the road of everything leaves them with more questions then answers. The past to the future and the romance between these two grows more and more, I almost feel like Im invading on something I shouldn’t be. The written into this book is so amazing the tory makes you feel like you’re going on this history adventure with them. the story line follows with everything and reads so well. And once again the characters are amazing and well developed and, in this book, you learn more and more about them. I can not get enough of books that they weave in history; it fascinates me so much and the research that went into both of these book is incredible. I highly recommend this book.

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The Cross of Ciarán (The Cross of Ciarán Book 1) by Andrea Matthews – Review by Jennifer reimer

The Cross of Ciaran (The Cross of Ciaran #1)The Cross of Ciaran by Andrea Matthews
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is absolutely one of my favorite types of genres, I love when an author can weave in different timelines and stories always has my attention. I was captivated right from the beginning. And I could not pout this book down till I read the whole thing. This book was filled with so much from archaeology, romance, fantasy, history, on the edge of my seat suspense. This story was well written and makes you really feel like your there, the story was so well developed it was hard sometimes to remember that this is a fantasy book as while. the character in this book were just as amazing, they felt real and that these people Caitlin and Ciaran were real people too. This book crosses in a lot of timelines but is well worth the read. I highly recommend this book.

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Lilly Tames Her Worries by Carole Heaney – Review by Jennifer Crain

Lilly Tames Her WorriesLilly Tames Her Worries by Carole Heaney
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I appreciate the worries Lilly has are worries that many kids can relate to- washing a beloved stuffed animal, sitting next to someone new on the bus.

As an educator, I appreciated the inclusion of a breathing technique through the story, always great to find SEL related books that still tell a story! And includes the scientific words kids love to learn about. My school used brain in the hand, and this is a perfect fictionalized story to go along with it. Beginning and ending with a stinky stuffy leaves a clear message/reminder to kids (and adults) to be brave!

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I Am An Outer Space Alien (I am an Alien) by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Jennifer Crain

I Am An Outer Space Alien (I am an Alien)I Am An Outer Space Alien by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Adorable part of the alien hating his/her name, which kids that dislike their name for whatever reason can connect to. The alien and girl playing together is a subtle but powerful hint of inclusion and finding games all can play. As a teacher, I had a giggle when the “alien” only wants red foods, I have met many a kid that is addicted to red.

Overall, a cute read with colorful illustrations. You can’t go wrong with a Lois Wickstrom book.

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Love Shots (Bluestone Series Book 4) by Isobel Reed – Review by Rebeca Elliott Figueiras

Love Shots (Bluestone Series Book 4)Love Shots by Isobel Reed
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is the fourth book in the Bluestone series but can be read as a standalone; however, I would recommend reading the series from the start. This instalment focuses on Teddy and Autumn, and I loved these two, they have great chemistry and were once best friends.

I think the opening to this book is my favourite of the series. I was hooked from the beginning when Autumn’s throwing expensive whiskey at Teddy in her anger and his concern at her bruises.

There were emotional parts to this book and my heart went out to Autumn with everything she went through, and this was incorporated into the story very well. I enjoyed both the storyline and the characters immensely; they were all well-constructed and believable. The descriptive language paints a vivid picture of the scenes as well as the characters and their mannerisms, bringing making you feel as though you’re experiencing it right alongside them.

I love this series and want a lot more!

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The Secret Humankind (The Discoveries of Julia Xero Book 1) by Gloria Oliver – Review by Lisa Helmick

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: 4 of 5 stars

This is a different story. I went into this blind and was pleasantly surprised. The story moves along at a quick pace and is darn interesting. The job she takes..Whoa! That pulled me right in! Then all these characters start coming out of the woodwork. About that time the story took a turn I was NOT expecting! Then a lot of thing changed and I was pleased at the turn in the story. The building the MC works in is so cool!

My only issue was the story slowed down for me in a couple of spots. It seemed to dig too deeply into the why’s and there was a lot of jargon I did not understand. I just ended up skimming these areas.

Overall it is a good surprising story. I enjoy the plot and all the characters. It kept me turning pages and wondering what was going to happen. I look forward to more in this series.

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Conversations with the Tarot by Maria DeBlassie – Review by Jamie Truex

Conversations with the Tarot: Bewitching Meditations on Reading the CardsConversations with the Tarot: Bewitching Meditations on Reading the Cards by Maria DeBlassie
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I have read several books by Maria DeBlassie and I really like her style of writing. This book made me feel like I was having a conversation with her and learning about the cards. I’m sure I will read this one more than once. As always, I never get what I think I expect from her books, but I get exactly what I need to. If you are interested in tarot cards, I recommend this book.

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Cruel King by K.M. Scott – Review by Rebeca Elliott Figueiras

Cruel KingCruel King by K.M. Scott
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is an enjoyable standalone romance novel. I thoroughly enjoyed this book but I can’t lie I often wanted to throw my book in frustration at Matthias, and Ava occasionally too. The way Matthias treated Ava instead of communicating was so frustrating, but it worked well for the story so I can’t be mad about it.

The characters were well-written and developed over time which I enjoy in a book. The writing flowed well and was easy to follow making it an easy read. The plot was great, the secrets that come to light and fall out was well-timed.

I really enjoyed this book and will be looking for more by this author.

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Softest Touch by Adina D. Grey – Review by Jenni Bishop

Softest Touch, Adina D. Grey, Review, Itsy Bitsy Book Bits, Contemporary Romance, RomanceSoftest TouchSoftest Touch by Adina D. Grey
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Softest Touch is a heartwarming contemporary romance story by Adina. This is my first read by Adina and it is a sweet tale that will have you believing in love.
It is a quick read that I would have loved to be a bit longer. This beautifully written tale is sexy and a little swoon worthy. I fell in love with the storyline and characters and with a dash of suspense mixed in it gave it an extra element.
There is some trouble in paradise and their relationship is not without its challenges. There is lots of emotions, some angst, attraction, hope, passion and more.
The story of Derek and Melinda is one you can’t help but fall in love with.
Derek thought he had it all but then she walked into his life.
To find out what happens you will need to read it for yourself. No spoilers here or it would ruin it for you.
If you need a few hours to yourself and are looking for a light, quick read, with a bit of suspense then I recommend Softest Touch.

Reviewed by @jennadb

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The Ring of Eagna (The Cross of Ciaran Book 4) by Andrea Matthews – Review by Desiree Ottinger

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

Ciaran and Aodhan Donnelly are brought back together in Ireland to celebrate a wedding for one of their chosen family members. As they both have families of their own now, they find their past is not quite ready to stay there. Their book from their Tuath has a clue as to where there are hidden treasures, and the team/family is all for solving the riddle. However, they soon discover that someone else is also seeking the same treasures. When lives become threatened, can they discover the answer to getting to the treasure first to protect it? Or will they be doomed to losing a big part of their past to wily thieves?

I enjoy reading this series. The author does a wonderful job of writing inner dialogues that one would have with themself, should they be a person in the situation presented. For instance, Ciaran is used to being the center of attention with his wife. When he feels pushed to the side by the presence of his children, the author does a fantastic job of going through how he feels, recognizing that his behavior is selfish, and looking beyond himself to see what his wife is going through as well. There is growth in not only their relationship because of this, but also in the relationship that Ciaran has with his family members that help him confront his thinking. I like reading examples of good family communication, even if it is a fictional family! I am left wondering and hoping that there will be more in this series. If there are more, I will be picking them up to read!

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Love Shots (Bluestone Series Book 4) by Isobel Reed – Review by Jenni Bishop

Love Shots (Bluestone Series Book 4)Love Shots by Isobel Reed
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Love Shots is a contemporary romance and the fourth book in the Bluestone series. The story comes with all the ups and downs of living in a small town with an eclectic group of town folk.
It is a fun read that will have you laughing at times. I think Bluestone may just be a place to be. I really enjoy Isobel’s easy way of telling a story. It makes it easy to fall into the story and the lives of others.
This small-town romance has something for everyone who loves a romance with sexy with sexy cowboys, strong and sassy leading ladies.
I found myself laughing out loud at the banter and goings of when these two come together.
Summer down on her luck finds her way back to Bluestone County only to find her childhood friend taking the one thing she loved.
Teddy has to duck and deal with a certain fiery blonde when she realises, he has the one thing she wants.
I fell in love with the town and the characters as they navigate from friends to lovers.
As always, I look forward to reading more from Isobel.

Reviewed by @jennadb

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Sage Advice by Cori Cooper – Review by Jade Brunton

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

I am an avid YA reader, mostly romance, and I thought that this book was super cute! I wasn’t sure what to expect after the first chapter but it didn’t disappoint. The characters are all really relatable for everyone who has ever been a teenager! Pyper is wonderful lead character and I was happy to follow her journey as the story went on! This book just goes to show that your mind isn’t always made up!! If you’re looking for a light hearted fast read, this is the one for you!

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Lilly Tames Her Worries by Carole Heaney – Review by Jenni Bishop

Lilly Tames Her WorriesLilly Tames Her Worries by Carole Heaney
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Lilly Tames Her Worries is a cute children’s book that showcases Lilly and her need for a favourite toy to be on hand like most kids do. But what happens when mum is trying to ween you from having it 24/7?
Carole has written a clever story for kids of all ages to learn how to let go and deal with the unexpected and their anxiety, the “Heebie-jeebies.”
This not just a story it is a teaching method. It is very well done, and the bright and cheerful pictures help in doing so. The exercises are simple and easy to help calm little minds and
Journey along with Lilly as she learns to be brave and strong and control her need and anxieties.

Reviewed by @jennadb

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Mesmerised (Hybrid Lovers Book 2) by Toya Richardson – Review by Kerry Baker

Mesmerised (Hybrid Lovers #2)Mesmerised by Toya Richardson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This book is a great addition to the series. It is a fast paced story and I thought the characters were interesting. I enjoyed watching their development throughout the story. They had a strong connection that was engaging and relatable.
This author really knows how to write books that are so different from each other. None of her series are the same and her individual.books are so distinctive. This was a great book and I am looking forward to more.

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Cruel King by K.M. Scott – Review by Jenni Bishop

Cruel KingCruel King by K.M. Scott
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

4.5 stars
Cruel King is a captivating dark twisty tale full of frustration, angst, drama, suspense, sexual tension, and chemistry. Cruel is definitely an apt title for this King.
This push pull relationship left me frustrated at times and I wanted to smack someone, well I wanted to do much more harm, but we’ll go with smack and hug the others. Just as well that there was some redemption.
Cruel King an enemies-to-lovers trope that is an emotional train wreck and yanks at your heart strings. KM has cleverly woven a plot that is twisted and at one point disturbing, but it is so good that you can’t put it down.
What happens when everyone is against what your heart wants? Will he destroy the only one he loves? Will she forgive the one who has twisted her thoughts and all but broken her heart? What happens when three does not equal two?
You are going to need a good stiff drink after reading this.
With 5 king brothers there is plenty of fodder for future stories.
I can’t wait to dive into all of them.
I am now off to sample some more of KM’s books.

Reviewed by @jennadb

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Cruel King by K.M. Scott – Review by Kerry Baker

Cruel KingCruel King by K.M. Scott
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

What an utterly captivating, emotional and well written book this is. From the moment you start reading it is impossible to stop. The author takes you on such an emotional roller coaster with the characters. I felt on edge the whole time I was reading about them, never quite sure how things would turn out.
The story was amazing. There was sp much going on and I just had to know where things would end up. This author always knows how write brilliant books and I think this has to be one of my favourites so far.

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Flowers of Evil (Hani’s Daughter Mysteries Book 1) by N.L. Holmes – Review by Chrissy Spulak

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

I have always had an obsession with history, particularly Ancient Egypt. I find knowledge of ancient times fascinating, and I jumped when I saw the description of what this book entails – not to mention, the author. I have read this author’s work before and have fallen deep, deep down into the story without much trying. I read a lot of historical fiction – it’s my thing – and I can wholeheartedly admit that this author is one of the best at it. It is evident that this author is not only a talented storyteller, but quite knowledgeable about the subjects of her stories. She is a professional archaeologist who has done excavations and taught ancient history, just to name a few things, so this book is dripping with vibrant details and nuances that pull you right in. I also gravitate towards strong female leads, and Neferet and Bener-ib are fantastic. Holmes’ experience as an educator is also evident in the Historical Notes and lists of terms, characters, and gods offered at the beginning of the book, which sets the reader right into the place and time. I can’t recommend this book, and author, enough!

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The Anchor Knot (The Knot Series Book 2) by DonnaLee Overly – Review by Cindy Mayberry

The Anchor Knot:securing the knot of truth (Knot, #6The Anchor Knot:securing the knot of truth (Knot, #6 by DonnaLee Overly
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Well this is part of a series, and in my search for something new as well as a new author I missed the series part. But it all worked out well as this story can be a standalone. However I found there is so much more to this series. Gabby is strong and independent with many secrets. Her father wants her in the governor’s office and married to the next governor of Texas. Richard Wright is her boyfriend and while he is on the road to becoming said governor, there are a few things the citizens of Texas do not know. But that for you to discover as you read this story. In my opinion the story is well written and easy to follow. The characters are not only believable but loveable as well. I enjoyed this page turner and often found myself behind on things I needed to do, like sleep. So worth staying up all night. Many avenues are touched in this story, and you find yourself wanting more. More you will find in the books before this one. As for me I am headed back to the beginning where this series started.
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Lilly Tames Her Worries by Carole Heaney – Review by Jennifer Reimer

Lilly Tames Her WorriesLilly Tames Her Worries by Carole Heaney
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This was a really cute and entertaining children’s book. My kids really enjoyed it from the story line to the illustrations. The pictures in this book were super cute and went really well with the story line. This book was very informative about how kids can deal with stress and anxiety in situations that they might not be able to control. This also showed kids how to be brave in situations and brave enough to do things that might be harder to deal with or understand. This book was wonderful all around for kids learning about different feelings and how to help themselves with them.

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Conversations with the Tarot by Maria DeBlassie – Review by Darla Yocom

Conversations with the Tarot: Bewitching Meditations on Reading the CardsConversations with the Tarot: Bewitching Meditations on Reading the Cards by Maria DeBlassie
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I was extremely excited to read this book from the moment I read the title. If you were ever curious about Tarot or simply wanting to see how someone’s path may differ from other tarot readers, this is the book for you.

In this unique book, I thoroughly enjoyed how the author chose to describe each card and their placement, along with her personal insights based upon her experiences and knowledge gained over the years.

To top off an even more epic examination of the art of tarot, the author provides a comprehensive conclusion for the readers to learn a bit more about the craft and her love of the process before wrapping it up.

I enjoyed reading this and appreciated the author’s honesty regarding her need to continue the ongoing learning process.

I’m thankful to have come across this book and the opportunity to learn about something that has piqued my interest for many years.

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Cruel King by K.M. Scott – Review by Kerry Carr

Cruel KingCruel King by K.M. Scott
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I really enjoyed this romance. It is a very emotional read. This book had me laughing and crying and feeling really frustrated by Matthias and the way he treated Ava. He loves her and wants her but he treats her so badly that I just want to shake him and make him realise his mistakes.
Ava has been friends with Theo King for years. She gets on well with all the King brothers apart from Matthias. For some reason Matthias hates her and Ava has never known why. Until a snow storm leaves them stuck together for 2 days. During these 2 days secrets and feelings are uncovered that neither realised existed.

Fast forwards 5 years later and after Ava disappeared Matthias trys to move on with his life but forgetting about the only girl he has ever wanted isn’t going to be easy. When he returns because his father is dying he sees Ava again and all those old feelings resurface. But now there’s a even bigger problem. Ava has moved on and is now with another man. Matthias’s brother. How can he justify wanting a woman if having her breaks his brothers heart?
This is a story of passion, hidden feelings, love/hate relationships, and a lot of confusion and twisted stories which keeps this couple apart and separated.
Will they ever get it together? As secrets begin to be revealed and the actions of others are come to light can this couple now make it work?
There is so many things happing that neither Matthias or Ava are aware of but that keeps them apart. You find yourself screaming at them to wake up and see through people’s lies? I loved this romance. It was emotional and gripping. I couldn’t stop reading it.

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Love Shots (Bluestone Series Book 4) by Isobel Reed – Review by Bobbi Wagner

Love Shots (Bluestone Series Book 4)Love Shots by Isobel Reed
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is not my first book by this author but it is one of my favorites by her so far. I enjoy her writing style as well as her attention to details that make her stories realistic. They are well written stories that are hard to put down. This book is no different. I enjoyed reading this second chance romance story. I enjoyed how the characters pulled me into the story from the beginning. They are two friends who have an attraction but will they act on it and finally allow themselves the happiness they deserve? I enjoyed what they brought to the story. They are strong, connectable characters that bring the story to life. I enjoyed watching their growth as well as the growth of the plot throughout the story. This is a fast paced romance story that you don’t want to miss. Will these two friends give in to their attraction? I highly recommend this book.

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Review by @bjwagner

Cruel King by K.M. Scott – Review by Bobbi Wagner

Cruel KingCruel King by K.M. Scott
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is the first book in a new series for this author. A second chance story that is full of attraction and a relationship worth fighting for. This is a well written story where the author used details to bring the characters to life and the world they live in. A story where two days trapped by a snow storm turns into more than ever expected. I enjoyed these characters and what they brought to the story. I enjoyed watching their growth as well as the off the charts chemistry that heats up the story. They are strong characters that keep the story engaging to the end. I found myself wanting to know what happens to them. I enjoyed reading this story and I highly recommend it. You don’t want to miss out on this one.

Review by @bjwagner

Cruel King by K.M. Scott – Review by Terri Jo McAllister

Cruel KingCruel King by K.M. Scott

Matthias King has been in love with Ava since they were young. As the daughter of his father’s estate manager, Matthias’ father forbade him to ever reveal those feelings, to anyone. So instead, he chose cruelty. It was easier that way. In a snowstorm and alone, Ava makes her way to the King mansion for warmth and company. Two days alone with Matthias and only the housekeeper and grounds keeper, Ava finds that she has feelings for Matthias. And then the real story begins. This book was so intense and I highly recommend it!

Reviewed by Terri Jo McAllister

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Softest Touch by Adina D. Grey – Review by Trish Ann

Softest TouchSoftest Touch by Adina D. Grey
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This was a cute, quick read. I liked how the story flowed. I also felt the chemistry developed well with the characters. I did find myself thinking there was something
more I wanted from the story but it didn’t influence the overall feel. I would read others by this author.

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