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Murder the Tey Way (Golden Age of Mystery Book Club) by Marilyn Levinson – Review by Kerry Carr

Murder the Tey WayMurder the Tey Way by Marilyn Levinson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is the second book in A Golden Age of Mystery Book club series. I would recommend reading the first book just so you get an idea of the characters involved but other than that it could be read as a standalone as each case is separate. This is a cosy mystery, filled with intrigue, danger, secrets, lies and deceit all culmantating in a murder mystery that turns out to be just as thrilling as the ones the book club read.

When Lexie’s sister Gayle arrives at her home fearing for her life during the book club meeting. Lexie knew she needs to figure out what was happening. When a dead body is discovered in her garden Gayle confesses she is scared for her life after witnessing something horrific, she isn’t save so she flees again leaving Lexie with a dead body and a mystery that needs to be solved.
Who was responsible for the murder? Was is the people who are after Gayle or was it someone closer to home? And with members of the book club hiding secrets and not being who they seem will she get to the bottom of this case?
This story gives a nod to the author Josephine Tey which I like how each story pays tribute to a different authors writing style.

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The End Of Try Try Again by Kristen Carter, MS – Review by Robin Rankin

The End of Try Try Again: Overcome Your Weight Loss and Exercise Struggles for GoodThe End of Try Try Again: Overcome Your Weight Loss and Exercise Struggles for Good by Kristen Carter
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The End of Try Try Again: Overcome Your Weight Loss and Exercise Struggles for Good

At this stage of my life I almost like I could be considered a professional dieter. I have been told I was overweight since I was 12, looking back I wasn’t but I didn’t fit the normal body type.

I have tried almost every option available. Paid programs, medications, fasting, etc. but nothing has stuck. This book gave me some things to think about and wish I had found it sooner.

I have been on my most recent journey down the weight loss path since January 2021, while I have successed in not losing focus I haven’t tried much to change my habits. This book has given me some great ideas on how to make decisions and form better habits.

If you’re thinking about losing weight or keep it off, even if it’s a different habit you’re wanting to change I would suggest giving this a try.

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Rock Crush and Roll by Hunter Snow – Review by Dawn Daughenbaugh

Rock Crush and RollRock Crush and Roll by Hunter Snow
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

4 Stars
Rock Crush and Roll by Hunter Snow

Rock Crush and Roll is a Romantic Comedy that had me turning the pages till the end. This is my first book by this author and their debut novel. I love a good RomCom and this one definitely checks all those boxes. The characters make the story come to life and I felt like I was apart of the story. They are fun, relatable and fully developed. I devoured this book in one sitting because I couldn’t put it down. I’m a huge fan of Rockstar Romance. Tyler has sworn off dating musicians and is a music manager. Cary is the biggest rock star in the world. Can these two have a work relationship without Romance? What will happen when it becomes more than about just work? Can she give in to what heart wants? I highly recommend reading this book to find out what happens next. I’m looking forward to reading more from this Author.

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The Queen’s Dance (Heart & Hand Series Book 2) by Nicole E Kelleher – Review by Jules Herbert

The Queen's Dance: A Sizzling Slow Burn Fantasy Romance (Heart & Hand Series Book 2)The Queen’s Dance: A Sizzling Slow Burn Fantasy Romance by Nicole E. Kelleher
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

So do you like Fantasy, Romance or a bit of both?? then this fantastic book is definitely for you! This extremely talented author brings her imaginary worlds to life so vividly for us her readers, that you’ll truly be drawn into the Magical realm of Aurelia and believe you are really there with Clare seeing and feeling everything that’s going on right along with her. Chapter after chapter I was drawn more and more into the story so much so that I just couldn’t put it down.

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Master Bistrita (Masters of the Consulate Book 11) by Sylvia Black – Review by Jules Herbert

Master Bistrita (Masters of the Consulate #11)Master Bistrita by Sylvia Black
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Another Amazing instalment in the Masters of the Consulate series that will keep you turning page after page while keeping you on the edge of your seat. The whole time I was reading it I had such mixed feelings…I wanted to hurry up because I had to know what was going to happen but I also didn’t want it to end. LOL I know we can’t have it both ways but wouldn’t it be good if we could! This book takes us further again into the battle against the rogues and yet more betrayal stings hard. Master Bistrita finds his fated mate in Chara, who proves to be a challenge at times herself.
I hope book 12, which will be the exciting conclusion to this fantastic series, isn’t too far away..I just have to know what’s next!!!!!!

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Glass Houses by Sinister Styx – Review by Micalah Weatherholtz

Glass HousesGlass Houses by Sinister Styx
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This being a new to me author I didn’t know what I was getting myself into, but I was incredibly intrigued by the premise of the story. I can say I was pleasantly surprised. Now this story is short, but it most definitely packs a punch, pulls you in, and doesn’t let go until you’re finished. I went into it blind because I don’t have many sensitivities when it comes to reading, although I can see where someone who does would want to check into the trigger warnings beforehand as Ivy and Falcon definitely sent up some red flags. If twisted, revenge/murder plots, and dysfunctional relationships are your jam I think you won’t regret giving this book a go.

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The End Of Try Try Again by Kristen Carter, MS – Review by Shannon Fowler

The End of Try Try Again: Overcome Your Weight Loss and Exercise Struggles for GoodThe End of Try Try Again: Overcome Your Weight Loss and Exercise Struggles for Good by Kristen Carter
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is a helpful book with encouraging ideas to change your thinking about food and weight loss. A lifestyle change that is sustainable.

This author is well versed in fitness and educating those about fitness. This book is educational and easy to follow. Giving the reader a chance to reflect on their own choices and how to make changes that will last.

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Lost Hollow: A Small Town Science Fiction Romance (Alienville Series Book 1) by Donna S. Frelick – Review by Megan Pesek

Lost Hollow : A Small Town Science Fiction Romance (Alienville Book 1) (Alienville Series)Lost Hollow : A Small Town Science Fiction Romance (Alienville Book 1) by Donna S. Frelick
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Along with a great story, Frelick delivers well-developed characters. It’s easy to get lost in Moira’s search for her sister and curiosity as she learns more about the community in which she seemingly vanished. It is equally easy to feel Seth’s internal conflict as he decides how to handle the situation keeping Moira from seeing more than she should. Sci-Fi usually isn’t my cup of tea, but the characters and fast paced plot kept me interested and ready to read the entire series.

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Wheel of Evil (Hani’s Daughter Mysteries) by N.L. Holmes – Review by Jennifer Gordon

Wheel of Evil (Hani's Daughter Mysteries Book 3)Wheel of Evil by N.L. Holmes
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is the third book in this series of historical cozy mysteries set in Ancient Egypt, and featuring Hani’s (from a previous series of books) daughter Neferet. I’m a big fan of both Neferet and this series of books and was not disappointed by this latest novel. Once again I was transported back in time thanks to the wonderfully written and detailed descriptive narrative and the added historical details. The intriguing storyline had me hooked throughout and I enjoyed investigating alongside Neferet, Bener-ib and their band of teenage detectives. Neferet’s Uncle Pipi has got involved in a ‘get rich quick’ scheme at a chariot workshop. She starts to investigate when investors start turning up dead. The team must discover what’s going on and who’s behind it, but the investigation turns deadly when Neferet becomes the next victim. The storyline kept me gripped and the plot twists kept me guessing as to the outcome of the story. I’m now waiting ‘impatiently’ for book four in this enjoyable and engaging series!

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The Queen’s Dance (Heart & Hand Series Book 2) by Nicole E. Kelleher – Review by Kerry Baker

The Queen's Dance: A Sizzling Slow Burn Fantasy Romance (Heart & Hand Series Book 2)The Queen’s Dance: A Sizzling Slow Burn Fantasy Romance by Nicole E. Kelleher
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is the second book in the Heart and Hand series and is a brilliant addition to the series. From the first book, I knew to expect strong characters and a unique story but this book really surprised me with just how true that was. I loved Lady Claire and the whole journey she goes through. So much seems to be stacked against her and to see her fight against it all was amazing.
The connection between her and Trian was so captivating. It was not a typical start for them and so much seemed to stand in their way. I couldn’t wait to see how everything – characters and story – would turn out in the end. I was not disappointed.

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The Veil (The Veil Realms Series Book One) by Karli Rush – Review by Kerry Baker

The VeilThe Veil by Karli Rush
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This book is a brilliant dystopian fantasy that really caught my attention with ease. I was intrigued just from the description and knew I would have to read this book. The author has successfully created an imaginative and exciting story. It pulls you in and keeps you guessing as to what might happen. I never felt like I had a full grasp on the direction the story might take which made it so much more exciting to read.
I love the characters and their dynamic. They way they developed as the book progressed made the storyline even better. As this first book in what appears to be a new series, this is a strong start and I cannot wait to see what is to come.

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Taste of Honey (Taste of Honey Series) by Julie Castle – Review by Kerry Carr

Taste of HoneyTaste of Honey by Julie Castle
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is 4 book in the taste of honey series. This contains 3 books which are romance stories around the Dom/submissive type of relationships. Each story is unique and they are all steamy reads.

The gift.

In this book we meet Penny and Victor. After Penny recieves some very saucy gifts from a secret person she goes to the hotel to find out who is actually behind them. Little does she know that this meeting will change her life in a huge way. When she discovers it’s Victor all her dreams and dark desires come true as he introduces her to the world of BDSM and the pleasure/pain involved in being a submissive. Will Penny submit and finally experience pleasure she could never imagine was possible or will Victors role as her master push her away?

The Commander’s Club
In this story we meet Courtney Fox. She is a journalist and when her young apprentice goes missing while looking into a slave ring she knows she has to find her and the only way to do that is to go undercover.
FBI Agent Ty Dragon is also undercover trying to bring down the slave ring. He is acting as a slave trainer however in his personal life he likes his women submissive to him. After so long alone he gives up meeting anyone to fit that role until he meets Courtney. When they are together sparks fly and the more he teaches Courtney about submission the more they realise they could actually be the perfect fit for each other.

Once In Love
In this story we meet Laura Brooks. She finds herself in a tricky situation when she is stranded in Paris with no money to her name. When she is approached to become a courtesan she isn’t exactly thrilled by the idea but needs must. When she is brought at auction by Nick Renault she learns so much more than she ever thought possible including the art and pleasure that can be achieved by being submissive.

All three of these reads are very steamy and certainly points definitely made me blush when I was reading them in public. All 3 stories are different and unique and very enjoyable.

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The Chaos Clock: Tales of Cosmic Aether edited by Danielle Ackley-McPhail – Review by Chrissy Spulak

The Chaos ClockThe Chaos Clock by Danielle Ackley-McPhail
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is an awesome collection of short stories that all share a similar theme: time. For anyone who loves steampunk and the like will appreciate this anthology. Admittedly, I am not too familiar with the writings of H.P. Lovecraft or H.G. Wells, but I may be after reading this. I found this to be entertaining and definitely intriguing. I love the late 19th/early 20th century Industrial Revolution era when inventing and creating were so prevalent. Each story is engrossing, and I wanted to spend a great deal more pages intertwined in each of their worlds. I highly recommend this book to anyone looking to spark their creative energy and travel across time and space.

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The Predator Part Two (The Predator Series) by Brooke May – Review by Samantha cleaver

The Predator Part TwoThe Predator Part Two by Brooke May
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Holy cow! This book did not disappoint! I was hooked through every page and could not put it down. Definitely recommend this.

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The Veil (The Veil Realms Series Book One) by Karli Rush – Review by Charlisa Wahtomy-Alba

<a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/214515517-the-veil” style=”float: left; padding-right: 20px”><img border=”0″ alt=”The Veil” src=”https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1718122220l/214515517._SX98_.jpg” /></a><a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/214515517-the-veil”>The Veil</a> by <a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/6425233.Karli_Rush”>Karli Rush</a><br/>
My rating: <a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/6722444109″>5 of 5 stars</a><br /><br />
I honestly don’t really know what to say about this book other than it was a great read. This book was not what I expected, although I don’t really know what I was expecting. I solely chose this book based on the cover without reading the synopsis. It started off innocent enough but before you know it things turn into chaos. I have been venturing away from romance more often so this genre and author are both new to me. This kept me on the edge of my seat and turning the pages to see what was going to happen. I look forward to book two coming out and seeing where this series is going to take us.
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The Chaos Clock: Tales of Cosmic Aether edited by Danielle Ackley-McPhail – Review by Alicia Furlan

The Chaos ClockThe Chaos Clock by Danielle Ackley-McPhail
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

What a fun anthology of short stories! Ackley-McPhail has put together a fun and thought provoking anthology. Each author’s story is unique but all are told with a steampunk theme. The anthology delves into the chaos, horror, and power of time. I felt like even though all the stories were unique they flowed well together.

Reviewed by @aliciaknoke

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Murder the Tey Way (Golden Age of Mystery Book Club) by Marilyn Levinson – Review by Jennifer Crain

Murder the Tey Way (Golden Age of Mystery Bookclub Book 2)Murder the Tey Way by Marilyn Levinson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Marilyn Levinson’s “Murder the Tey Way” delivers a cozy mystery with a charming premise—a Golden Age of Mystery Bookclub, a puzzling murder, and an amateur sleuth determined to uncover the truth. The story centers on Professor Lexie Driscoll, who finds herself in the midst of a murder investigation after her sister Gayle arrives in a panic, claiming to have witnessed a murder and fearing for her own life.

The book starts off with a compelling setup, introducing a classic cozy mystery environment with a bookclub setting and a series of mysterious events. Levinson does well to incorporate elements of Golden Age mysteries, from the book discussions to the eccentric characters, offering a nostalgic nod to the genre’s traditional tropes.

Lexie, the protagonist, takes on the role of amateur sleuth with determination, and her involvement in the investigation drives the plot forward. The bookclub members, each with their own secrets and quirks, add to the intrigue and complexity of the story. However, while the characters are colorful, they sometimes lack depth, making it difficult to fully connect with their motivations and backgrounds.

The plot is layered with red herrings and twists that keep the reader guessing. However, the execution of these twists can feel a bit overwhelming at times, leading to moments where the storyline becomes confusing rather than captivating. The numerous secrets and revelations, while intended to add complexity, sometimes detract from the overall clarity of the mystery.

Pacing is another area where the book wavers. Certain sections drag as Lexie delves into the background of the bookclub members, while others rush through key developments. This uneven pacing affects the overall suspense and engagement with the story.

Despite these issues, “Murder the Tey Way” has its strengths. Levinson’s affection for classic detective fiction is evident, and the book offers a light, enjoyable read for fans of cozy mysteries. The references to Josephine Tey and the bookclub setting provide a nice touch for those who appreciate literary nods within their mysteries.

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Rock Crush and Roll by Hunter Snow – Review by Felicia Bates

Rock Crush and RollRock Crush and Roll by Hunter Snow
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Rock Crush and Roll by Hunter Snow was the perfect summer romance. Light and witty yet an absolute page turner. The characters were fun and likeable with good banter. The storytelling was unique, giving both main characters perspectives but not through their personal narration. I found this style of writing a wecomed change. I was attracted to this book originally by it’s bright, attractive cover art but really came to enjoy the author.

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The Veil (The Veil Realms Series Book One) by Karli Rush – Review by Anastasia Dodson

The VeilThe Veil by Karli Rush
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This book is a great introduction to a new world/series. It was filled with monsters and it’s action packed and chaotic but I enjoyed this book alot. I am looking forward to reading more of this series soon!
Happy reading!

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The Predator Part Two (The Predator Series) by Brooke May – Review by Robin Rankin

The Predator Part TwoThe Predator Part Two by Brooke May
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The Predator: Part Two (The Predator Series Book 2)

If you haven’t read the first book in the series you need to stop what you’re doing and binge book one. Otherwise there will be gaps and events that don’t make sense. Then you can grab this one.

I fell in love with Chamberlain and Katie in book one. I fell deeper in love with them in book two.

Their story isn’t a short one, took over four years to find their way with obstacles along the way with the biggest being her family.

Their story is a sweet one, but definitely stressed me out at times. Thankfully Karma has the last word. The family they built wasn’t traditional, but it works for them in the best possible way.

I really had a hard time putting this book down, finished half of it in one evening with my family interrupting me. I couldn’t wait to see what was going to happen next.

I think my favorite part was Vegas with the aquarium coming in a close second. Not going to give anything away, hope you love this as much as I did.

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The Veil (The Veil Realms Series Book One) by Karli Rush – Review by Desiree Ottinger

The VeilThe Veil by Karli Rush
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Selene’s life is that of a small-town girl, newly engaged. She owns and runs her family’s herbal store, until her life is abruptly thrown into chaos the day that a veil rips through the center of her town. She is stuck on one side while her fiancée is on the other. Terrified she is taken into another realm with other women from her town. As she learns more about her new surroundings and species of people, she begins to understand that to survive she is going to have to adapt quickly. When her fiancée is taken and he sees the changes in her, can he love her despite the changes? Can she still love him? Or will she choose to stay and explore this new life that she has found?

I can honestly say, I had no idea what was coming next in this book. It kept me guessing from chapter to chapter as the story progressed very quickly. The cover didn’t give anything away either. About the time that I felt comfortable with what I knew, it changed. I would have liked to have had more information but that is only because I like to have a full picture. However, I found that in the end, I didn’t really need more information. There was enough for me to figure out what was happening. All in all, I liked this book. It was not my normal type of read, but I enjoyed it!

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The Predator Part Two (The Predator Series) by Brooke May – Review by Kerry Baker

The Predator Part TwoThe Predator Part Two by Brooke May
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This book is a fantastic follow up to the first book. It picks up right where the first one left off, so I would highly recommend reading these in order. I was pulled straight back into these characters and the journey they are going on. Their connection is just as intense as I remember and I was probably even more invested in them this time around.
I loved the story and how the author moved it forward in this book. It had a slightly different feel to the first book but it was just as good to read. I love this author and the versatility she seems to bring to all of her work. This is a brilliant story and a fantastic follow up to the first story.

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No One Could See the Flea by Tricia Gardella – Review by Kerry Baker

No One Could See the FleaNo One Could See the Flea by Tricia Gardella
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is the third book that we have read by this author and I am sure she is going to become a firm favourite. This book is an entertaining yet educational book that teaches kids the importance of not making assumptions. The characters in this book are so engaging and you really find yourself getting caught up in them.
This illustrations in the book really bring the story to life. They make it so easy to visualise what is going on. We really enjoyed reading this book as a family and we are all excited to see what is next.

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The End Of Try Try Again by Kristen Carter, MS – Review by Kerry Carr

The End of Try Try Again: Overcome Your Weight Loss and Exercise Struggles for GoodThe End of Try Try Again: Overcome Your Weight Loss and Exercise Struggles for Good by Kristen Carter
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This was a really refreshing read for me. As someone who works in the health and fitness industry it was really refreshing to read a book about diet and exercise that wasn’t offering quick fixes and diet plans that are unsustainable and in some cases leads people to develop a unhealthy relationship with food.
This book was really well written. It was very informative but also written in a way that anyone can understand. As well as giving the reader a better understanding into why we can stick to diets and the mindset changes that need to take place for you to be successful it also offers practical examples for you to try and start your fitness journey on stronger more solid foundations.
You can tell from reading this that the author knows what they are talking about. And it was interesting how there was information about the negative effects of being overweight as well as practical ways you can combat that and maybe stop or reverse those illnesses.
The main thing I like was the focus on mindset and forming habits rather than just eating less carbs or cutting something out. It encourages people to get started on their journeys as it only takes the smallest step to start building better, healthier habits.

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Word Play by Tricia Gardella – Review by Jennifer Reimer

Word PlayWord Play by Tricia Gardella
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This was super cute kids’ book, my kids really loved the pictures in it, which were very well done and illustrated. The pictures went very well with this story and flowed very good together. It was super easy to read that even my 7-year-old was able to read it. the problem that Joe goes through to learn how to read were very interesting and can be very relatable. But what joe learns the most is that everything takes time, and you learn at your own pace. This was a great learning book, especially for my youngest who is also learning new things and had been getting frustrated with certain stuff. It was a great fun read for my kids and very enjoyable.

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“Absurd,” Said Bird : A Fun Children’s Adventure About a Mouse Who Dreams of Travel (Mouse Traveler) by Tricia Gardella – Review by Jennifer Reimer

“ABSURD,” SAID BIRD.: A mouse plans a trip to the moon. by Tricia Gardella

This was super cute kids’ book, my kids really loved the pictures in it, which were very well done and illustrated. The pictures went very well with this story and flowed very good together. It was super easy to read that even my 7-year-old was able to read it. its all about a mouse that wants to fly, but the bord thinks he’s crazy and tells the mouse his idea is “absurd”. But in the end, everyone wants to help, it was a team effort to see if they can bring the mouses ide to reality. This was a super enjoyable read.

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The Queen’s Dance (Heart & Hand Series Book 2) by Nicole E. Kelleher – Review by Terri Jo McAllister

The Queen's Dance: A Sizzling Slow Burn Fantasy Romance (Heart & Hand Series Book 2)The Queen’s Dance: A Sizzling Slow Burn Fantasy Romance by Nicole E. Kelleher
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Trian knows who he was meant to marry, but Clair has to be the one to declare her claim on him. Just as they are getting closer to revealing their love for each other, Trian is attacked and Clair is taken across the sea. Clair must call on the gift she has been hiding if she is to make it back to Trian and her family. I love this series and look forward to the next book.

Reviewed by Terri Jo McAllister

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The Apothecary’s Curse (The Apothecary Series) by Barbara Barnett – Review by Terri Jo McAllister

The Apothecary's CurseThe Apothecary’s Curse by Barbara Barnett
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Alchemist, Gaelan Erceldoune, creates an elixir to help cure cancer. When an acquaintance, physician Simon Bell, desperately seeks Gaelan’s help with his wife, tragedy ensues and Mrs. Bell dies. In hopes of following his wife to the afterlife, Simon takes the remaining liquid. Instead of dying, Simon becomes immortal like Gaelan. The story starts slow, but then picks up and I couldn’t put it down.

Reviewed by Terri Jo McAllister

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From Darkness into Love (Hope & Hearts from Swan Harbor Book 1) by Sophie Bartow – Review by Shelby Wilson

From Darkness into Love (Hope & Hearts from Swan Harbor, #1)From Darkness into Love by Sophie Bartow
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is a fast-paced love story. It was a sweet story to read. I loved Jessie and Cameron! I recommend this to anyone wanting to read a romantic book with a mysterious twist.

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The Chaos Clock: Tales of Cosmic Aether edited by Danielle Ackley-McPhail – Review by Rose McCaskey

The Chaos ClockThe Chaos Clock by Danielle Ackley-McPhail
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

This book had multiple writers who each wrote a chapter to the story. Each chapter was a short story about different characters that meld into one story. It’s not the type of book I would usually choose to read. It was creative and interesting.

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