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Evan (Billionaire Blind Dates Book 2) by Toni Denise – Review by Beverly Finnie

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Evan: A Steamy Billionaire Workplace Contemporary Romance (Billionaire Blind Dates Book 2)Evan: A Steamy Billionaire Workplace Contemporary Romance by Toni Denise
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I love this series! It’s different from the usual romances I read, I can’t wait till the next one! Evan was no different. The author keeps you interested.
Evan and Kayla are partners in The Blind Date restaurant app, well Evan is the silent partner. It’s also his turn to be set up on blind dates by his friends to find something real. So what happens is the communication is through an app then the dates are in a restaurant in complete darkness so you can’t see who you’re with. Getting to know someone on personality vs what they look like. When Evan makes the call it’s his turn Kayla is taken aback by it. She secretly crushed on him. Not realizing the next call would be from one of his friends asking her to be his choice of date for Evan.
These two should be together but they aren’t and it makes the blind dating experience between them that much difficult.
When their restaurant is targeted the investigation into it is what brings them closer together. But will it work out? Will Evan ever figure out Kayla is “K?”
You want a fun romance with some dramatic flair. This series is perfect! Though a series this book works very well as a standalone. But let me tell you, once you read one you’re going to want to read them all!

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Hit on You by Brooke May – Review by Beverly Finnie

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Hit on YouHit on You by Brooke May
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I enjoy Mafia romances! This was my first taste of Russian Mafia romance. Hit on You was good. I enjoyed it enough that I didn’t want to put it down. I’ve read this author before and she did not disappoint with this one. This author is creative and thorough so you know everything that’s going on. Not one to confuse because info is overlooked. She sucks the reader in. gets you invested in her characters. Which is what makes her good at her craft.
Luke and Nikolai are two people from different walks of life who happen to cross paths. However that path now has them forever connected, even if Luke isn’t aware. She runs away from Nikolai a year earlier when he uses the “L” word. Little did she know he knew where she was and kept tabs on her ever since. And when she becomes a witness to an unexpected incident gives him the opportunity to swoop back in.
Nikolai is a made man in his Seattle family. Doing everything his uncle asks of him, while his cousin does what he wants. But despite all that his wants for the one who got away never cease. It’s when protection is needed, does he jump on the opportunity to come back into her life. Protection that he may need to give against someone of his very own. He just doesn’t know who.
Who would be that careless? And is it connected to his sister’s death? Those are the questions he needs to answer.
Love, lust, anger, stubbornness, happiness, sadness, devastation this book has it all. I wanted to read more about these characters, I didn’t want it to end.

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Handle With Care (Chase Care Book 1) by R.L. Dunn – Review by Beverly Finnie

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Handle With Care (Chase Care Book 1)Handle With Care by R.L. Dunn
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I’m not sure how I feel about this book, so I’m going to start this another way and I’ll make a decision at the conclusion. First let’s start by saying the way this book reads, tells me the author did a lot of research before writing. It might be a book of fiction but Handle with Care read as something that could be very informative as well. There was slight romance tied in, but it mainly focused on a deadly outbreak and how to stop it. Finding the source of how it started. Containing it to the general encampment of 400,000 people. Yes, that’s a lot of people but worldwide would be worse. Finding out why it impacted men at a more casualty rate than women. The author when answering those questions put lots of thoughts and responses behind it.
There was really only one question that came to mind while reading it. That was, Was this intentional? A question that’s addressed by characters and becomes part of the context about midway through, then till the end is how to answer that question and respond.
Dr. Hunter Montgomery and Dr. Selma Bryant have known each other for years. Both of them former military medics for different branches of the military. However they constantly crossed paths and worked together. Selma was married at the time so personal interest between them wasn’t a thing. Even though her husband suspected it was. Now years later they’ve found one another again and are building a life together, till Selma runs. And ran she did, right to the UN relief agency Doctors Abroad, which landed her in Northern Rusda. Signing a contract that would bring her home in April she thought she was doing a great thing and helping out those who didn’t have easy access to care, despite the real reason she was there.
You can guess what happens next: people start getting sick/dying at an alarming rate and they can’t figure out the how and why? As I continued to read I started to wonder if the jealous ex-husband had something to do with it. At the same time that would be a lot to get revenge on one person. So I bumped it to the back burner but the question continued to simmer.
This book is written to me in a journal type format, each day this is what happens. I think that’s what took me out of it some. I didn’t dislike it but I didn’t love it either.
If you enjoy medical outbreak dramas this is definitely for you. The author displays knowledge and understanding of what’s being written. Giving the reader so much information to help them understand everything that’s going on keeping them locked in on the story.

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Absolution by Anise Storm & Taylor L. Ray – Review by Beverly Finnie

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AbsolutionAbsolution by Anise Storm
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

What a twisted story! But let me tell you how much I loved it!! I read it straight through and couldn’t put it down. There’s a lot going on in Absolution with some twists and turns. Especially emotional ones. The author doesn’t let up at all. Putting the reader through the ringer. At the same time making you fall in love with the characters as well. I figured the two big twists out before reveal but it was worth the mystery and suspense of it all.
If you don’t mind spice and you can look past it to get to the meat of the story, you’ll be hooked. The spice is just an added bonus. You’ll be the one trying to solve the mystery and get closure. You’ll be emotionally invested that you will need to finish. That you will want to know if you’re right or wrong. It’s the challenge of figuring out the puzzle that keeps one glued to the pages.
Whitney has an uncanny resemblance to Dominic’s ex-girlfriend Juliana. So uncanny he thinks she’s here back to torment him. Her family put him through the ringer when she disappeared and now he was prepared to get his revenge. Which means she must be here to disrupt his plans. It’s too much of a coincidence.
Whitney on the other hand, at Juliana’s insistence, is the only one who will be able to bring him closure. It’s just a matter of how? Especially when Dominic loathes her, for someone he believes she is.
I drew a lot of comparisons when reading this story. For one spicy romance, which meets Count of Monte Cristo revenge, sprinkled in with a supernatural element. If that does intrigue you, I don’t know what will.
My parting words for anyone who comes across this book. READ IT! And TRUST me when I say, you won’t be disappointed.

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True Colors (Landry’s True Colors Series Book One) by Krysten Lindsay Hager – Review by Beverly Finnie

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True Colors (Landry's True Colors #1)True Colors by Krysten Lindsay Hager
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

True Colors was exactly what I expected it to be. The author brought me back to being a teenager at that age. It reminded me that kids are cruel and ruin your life. I was a floater, I spoke kindly towards everyone. Did everyone like me? No. Did people talk behind my back? They still do. But when you’re that age you care too much. It can destroy one’s confidence and will to live. This book is all that and more.
What makes a true friend?
I ask that because in this story Landry finds out the hard way who is and isn’t her friend. Landry is dragged by her two best friends to a model audition. Little did she know it would change her life. Because when she got the call to say she was through to the next round, those so-called best friends turned on her. She was left alone to navigate life by herself. Did she make acquaintances? Sure but was anyone really there for her? Did anyone truly support her? She needs to learn really quickly that what other people say and think doesn’t matter to embrace oneself is what does. Easier said than done. I’ve been a Landry at one point. I can relate oh so well.
The author has you rooting and cheering for her. Keeping you on the edge of your seat, about what would happen. The growth is beautiful and beautifully written. You should definitely give this author a chance.

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Throwing the Curve (Playing for Keeps Book 2) by Lauren Fraser – Review by Beverly Finnie

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Throwing the CurveThrowing the Curve by Lauren Fraser
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I love baseball! And I do thoroughly enjoy sports romances. Of course this one is nothing short of drama as well. Throwing the Curve was enjoyable and entertaining. Of course the title didn’t make sense to me till the end, but it’s not my place to explain why. Read it you will understand. Trust me it’s worth the read. Book 2 in the Playing for Keeps Series and though it’s part of a series it’s very much a standalone in its own right. The author pulls you in to the point you don’t want to stop. And when you do stop it’s over, and all you want is more!
Peyton ends up in an unfortunate situation, as the other woman, who is bailed out by none other than star pitcher Ryan Graves. Now though I mention he’s a pitcher doesn’t auto connect him to the title, because he’s known for his 100+ mph fastball(so my point again read it, you will understand.) Anyway these two make assumptions about one another that are further from the truth. But was starting their relationship under dislike what brought them together? Do a mistress and a broken man fit together? Let’s not make judgments, because the way this book is written is how it keeps on interesting. Yeah they both have a crappy back story, but how they move forward and persevere is what keeps you reading. It’s what pushes anyone forward in life as it does the characters in the story. Are there speed bumps along the way? Absolutely! But what’s more entertaining than a little drama?
I like everything about this book, and though it’s book 2 it’s the first book I read in this series. So while you read this, I’m going to go find book 1 to read!

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Sharing His Nanny (Forever Our Girl Book 2) by Tori Chase – Review by Beverly Finnie

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Sharing His Nanny (Forever Our Girl, #2)Sharing His Nanny by Tori Chase
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Wow! Just Wow! Sharing his Nanny was so much better than I thought it would be going in. I was intrigued which is why I chose to read it, but what the author wrote was amazing. I read it without putting it down. Spicy, sexy, hot, ect! Who knew a polyamorous MMMF story could be so hot and intriguing. Plus the forbidden fruit step-sibling aspect. Though it’s a mental thing, they are blood relations nor did they grow up together. Just a formality.
Stella, Charles, Alex, and Jordan definitely never expected to end up where they are.
Charles had a baby dropped on his doorstep right before him and his bestfriends headed to his Malibu home for a July full of sex and debauchery. Which completely threw a wrench in their year tradition. Charles thought that he, Alex and Jordan could manage, 3 men and a baby style.
Stella is not your average woman. She’s plus sized and has the ambition of creating a fashion line for women of plus-size stature to be proud of. Unfortunately the investor had other plans, that Stella wasn’t on board with. At a loss she called her step-mother, which is how she landed right in the middle of the guys’ July in Malibu with a baby in tow.
You want fun, you want conflicting feelings, you want sexual adventure with some romance thrown in the book is for you. It has it all! Again the author took an intriguing idea and made it a masterpiece.

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Chasing Redemption (The Quimby Grove Series Book 2) by Shannon Nikole – Review by Beverly Finnie

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Chasing Redemption (Quimby Grove #2)Chasing Redemption by Shannon Nikole
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I love this series! After reading book 2 Chasing Redemption I love it even more. This author knows how to pull at one’s heartstrings the right way, and to add in just enough drama/fear to keep you on the edge of your seat. One becomes invested in these characters based on how they’re written. I will also say this, though it’s a series this book very well works as a standalone novel.
Max and Marley have both been through their fair share of misery in life. Maybe that’s why they are drawn to one another. Though they never expected that one night would lead to a world more. That they would still crave and what the other. Problem they don’t know who the other person is.
Max never thought he’d see her again, besides hoping otherwise. But there she was, by Ellie’s side on her big day. Little did he know that not only was she walking back into his life, but an instant family as well. Unfortunately someone was out to hurt/scare Marley and Max couldn’t have that.
One truly becomes invested in these characters. You get mad for them, sad for them, you feel happy for them. The author makes you feel like you know these characters personally by the words used on the page. I look forward to more potential books in this seires.

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Delicious Death (Madame Chalamet Ghost Mysteries Book 2) by Byrd Nash – Review by Beverly Finnie

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Delicious Death (Madame Chalamet Ghost Mysteries #2)Delicious Death by Byrd Nash
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I enjoyed Delicious Death. I think I may have enjoyed it more than book 1 in this series. The author brings us back to Alenbonne and into Madame Chalamet’s life. This time it seems to be a bigger adventure and a bigger mystery.
The resident Ghost Talker has been invited to The Winter Revels by the king. This season’s competition is among 6 chefs across the land. Of course Madame Chalamet feels Duke Archambeau is behind it. But what happens when all the fun and games turns serious. Someone poisoned the King and with all these people in the same place from high society as well as common, anyone could’ve done it.
Together and apart the Duke and Madame start an investigation to get to the bottom of it. Despite everything the push and pull between them, they make a great team. It could also be that the author is showing more chemistry between them within the writing.
I look forward to continuing on into this series!

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Ghost Talker(Madame Chalamet Ghost Mysteries Book1) by Byrd Nash – Review by Beverly Finnie

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Ghost Talker (Madame Chalamet Ghost Mysteries #1)Ghost Talker by Byrd Nash
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Ghost Talker was interesting. I struggled to get into it at first but the author wrote an interesting mystery with a supernatural element. I’m a sucker for the supernatural, books of fiction in this genre have always intrigued me. Ghost Talker was no different.
Madame Chalamet has been brought into an investigation that lands her in house arrest. All because of what the spirit revealed to her. Revealing who he was and what relations said person has, Duke Archambeau felt he needed to keep a close eye on her. Despite being present in the morgue of the spirit talking he still had his doubts about Madame Chalamet’s profession.
Forced to work together to solve the murder and keep the peace treaty signing in order, the Duke and Madame find as much as they frustrate one another they also entertain as well.
The mystery the author lays before you is different because ghosts are helping to lead the investigation. But that different element makes it stand out. Keeps the book in the reader’s mind even after they are done. Makes one look forward to more books in this series. As well as what could develop between the Madame and Duke.

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A Dowry of Snails and Mud by Brittany Tucker – Review by Beverly Finnie

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A Dowry of Snails and MudA Dowry of Snails and Mud by Brittany Tucker
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

A Dowry of Snails and Mud was interesting. I wasn’t too sure what I was reading at first. It took some time to pique my interest, but once it did I appreciated what it was. The author wrote a beautiful story that starts off kind of slow(don’t let that deter you) but turns into something so much more. A very strong female lead that grows even so much more throughout. I struggled to get into it but once I was, I couldn’t put it down. So worth it.
Rhia has been bartered to marry the King’s 6th son in hopes of the king forgiving her home for refusing to pay taxes on the land. Frustrated and treating it as the end of the world she does everything to make everyone miserable with her. Prince Emerys may be soft but he is no pushover. The push and pull between the two of them will be the end of Lians. Unfortunately dealing with the wildmen brings that potential to a screeching halt, but it could be just what they need.
Now saying all that, I’m sure you’re curious. Why would I go to the trouble? Because this story and author deserve some recognition for what was presented in this book. Keep an open mind and jump in. If you struggle like I did at first trust me when I stay push forward because it’ll be worth it!

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The Hawke Family Complete Collection by Gwyn McNamee – Review by Beverly Finnie

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The Hawke Family Complete CollectionThe Hawke Family Complete Collection by Gwyn McNamee
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The Hawke Family Complete Series is fantastic! If you enjoy steamy, spicy, action-packed drama, romance, and so much more this series is for you!
The web this author weaves connecting everyone worked out beautifully. The Hawke Family is more than just blood relatives, its friends and coworkers/employees as well.
This Collection consists of 6 books, each their own. Each one involves all characters throughout, but each focusing on a specific two. Written from the point of view of both main characters. I enjoy when authors do that because then you know what each character is thinking and what the author might’ve been thinking when writing them.
Savage Collision – Savage & Danika
Tortured Skye – Gabe & Skye
Stone Sober – Nora & Stone
Building Storm – Landon & Storm
Tainted Saint – Caroline & Saint
Steele Resolve – Byron & Luca
I enjoy and appreciate each book in a different light. However there were two books that stuck out to me. Two books that rose to the top for me, which were Stone Sober & Tortured Skye. I loved both of them. I was pulled to Stone even before his novel, I wanted a deeper dive into his character, and man the author definitely did not disappoint. Everything he went through and dealt with reading and digesting it just made me love him even more. Yes, Stone is my favorite Hawke Family member. Stone and Skye were the most troubled Hawke siblings, however they were all broken souls, that gave me hope they would grow and mend themselves even “adopted” son/brother Gabe.
These books are hard to put down, there’s just so much going on, that sometimes it could seem too much. However the balance the author gives throughout gives you time to digest even in thoses moment.
Is there love? Yes
Is there happiness? Yes
Is there tragedy? Unfortunately
Is there action? Absolutely
Those are just a few reminders on why you should jump into this world. Am I going to say what happens in what books? Absolutely not, what’s the fun in that! It’s up to you to read THEM!

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The Taste of Light (The Winemakers Book 2) by Giovanna Siniscalchi – Review by Beverly Finnie

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The Taste of Light (The Winemakers, #2)The Taste of Light by Giovanna Siniscalchi
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I actually enjoyed The Taste of Light better than the previous book in this series. The author wrote a redemption piece for Pedro. He definitely ended up the villain in the previous book. Again the tale comes together beautifully. Forbidden Fruit, one he can’t have. Why do authors suck me in with that narrative? Illegal fall for it everytime.
Anne decides to help her brother and sister in law out by spreading the news to the neighbors on how to combat the Phylloxera. When she comes across an estate that’s beautiful but the crops have been ravaged but Phylloxera. She ends up being in the wrong place at the wrong time and ends up on an adventure. Of not only self discovery but of her heart as well.
Pedro was ready to strike a deal with the king to marry the princess. Until his past came back to haunt him. While on the run for being accused of an attempt on the King’s life. Trying to clear his name as well as protect the beautiful woman by his side becomes a bigger task and adventure than he realized. Her life has been threatened because of him. She’s the sister of the man he hates for stealing Julia. Can’t be coincidence, could it? Sounds more like Karma to me. What he doesn’t expect is to lose control. Anne has the power to bring him to his knees, and he can’t let that happen.
What happens between Anne and Pedro?
Does Pedro make everything right?
The growth of Pedro’s character in this book is leaps and bounds. I didn’t care for him prior to reading this book, but now I have a soft spot.
If you enjoy a romance adventure this book is for you. And you don’t necessarily have to read the previous book. It works very well as a standalone novel.

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The True Purpose of Vines(The Winemakers Book 1)by Giovanna Siniscalchi – Review by Beverly Finnie

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The True Purpose of Vines: An intoxicating historical romance about wine and love. (The Winemakers Book 1)The True Purpose of Vines: An intoxicating historical romance about wine and love. by Giovanna Siniscalchi
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The True Purpose of Vines was different from something I usually read. Yes the romance aspect pulls me towards it but it’s still different. It gave me Walk in the Clouds vibes. Different scenario but the vineyard was still damaged. In this case it was by Phylloxera vs a fire. I liked it. Sometimes different is good, and this case it was. The author wrote a beautiful story based in Portugal across a few of the country’s vineyards.
Griffin has become the owner of Boa Vista, he needs to travel into the country to get it right. Before leaving he makes an arrangement to become Mr.Croft’s partner as well as an arranged marriage with his daughter. Sounded like a great plan, until the vineyard’s changed him.
Julia runs Vesuvio in place of her late husband. Doing everything she can to keep Tony’s future afloat. What those around her don’t realize is it’s her doing everything vs a man. Women during that time didn’t do manual labor, that was left to the men of the household. When she comes into contact with an English stranger things begin to change.
Pedro has wanted Julia for 10 years. Now that she’s available he intends on making her his. One thing he didn’t realize, she doesn’t want him. Not like that. They were good friends growing up and that’s how she wants to keep it.
The tension between these 3 characters is palpable for different reasons. A triangle of sorts. The author navigated beautifully.
Who ends up with Julia?
Does Phylloxera destroy all their crops?
Is there a way to stop it?
Those are just some of the questions the author makes you ask yourself while reading this story. It’s written like it should be told like a tale, or legend for that matter. Which gives it a different depth that I liked.

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My Pearl Heart by J.N. Sheats – Review by Beverly Finnie

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My Pearl HeartMy Pearl Heart by J.N. Sheats
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I loved it! I want it to be a movie! My Pearl Heart was well written and had such a strong female lead. The author wrote her with so much potential, that the growth displayed throughout turned out beautifully.
If you enjoy sweet forbidden romance?
This book falls right into your wheelhouse.
Jasmine owns an event planning business with her best friend. Reality her best friend brings in the clients and she does all the work. Cadence walks all over her and the business, and Jasmine lets her. This book turns into a book of self discovery for Jasmine, as well as to cut the toxic people out of her life. Along the way she meets James, who she wants but can’t have. Why? Because he’s engaged to Cadence.
How does one navigate feelings they can’t act on?
Reality, by walking on eggshells around one another. However the author broadcast that connection and that concept beautifully throughout the book.
Now I’m curious to check out what else this author has written. While I do that, you can read this!!

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Night Hawke (The Hawke Family Second Generation Prequel) by Gwyn McNamee – Review by Beverly Finnie

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Night Hawke (The Hawke Family Second Generation #0.5)Night Hawke by Gwyn McNamee
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Night Hawke is a steamy short story about two people who anonymously enjoy each other across a weekend. What I mean by enjoying each other is in the physical sense. Jack and Nolan may be their aliases, but their chemistry is off the charts.
So will a weekend be enough?
The author wrote a fun, hot, steamy, passionate story that I wanted more of. Every once in a while I look for a book like this to read. All the good ones are always short, like this one. They also always leave one wanting more. I might’ve found a new favorite author. Only time will tell. This was my first taste and I’m now planning on looking into other books written by the same author, to see if my hunch is correct.
If you want a short and steamy story this book is for you!!

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Minotaur’s Lair (Servant of the Gods Book 3) by Luciana Cavallaro – Review by Beverly Finnie

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Minotaur's Lair (Servant of the Gods, #3)Minotaur’s Lair by Luciana Cavallaro
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Minotaur’s Lair seems to be the epic conclusion of this series, and it did not disappoint. The author keeps you ingrained in an intriguing tale involving descendants of the Gods and Goddesses of old, and well as the Titans that came before them. I give this author a lot of credit you feel the discord between Kronos and his beloved children.. lol Jk
We find Evan and his companions held captive by the Amazons. Not against their will per say but drugged to forget what they are doing. Once the High Priestess is visited by Mother Goddess, she not only gets her companions free but also back on course for their date with The Minotaur so they can retrieve the final relic. Of course anyone who has read the previous books knows this is no easy task, also as Kronos is waiting in the wings. With no intentions of letting his children succeed and taking the relics for himself, leads to an epic showdown.
Who comes out on top?
What obstacles do they run into along the way?
Does Evan get his wish to return home?
I highly recommend this series to anyone who enjoys Greek Mythology. The author is very knowledgeable and makes it entertaining for all!

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Married Blind (King of Screen Book 2) by Morgana Bevan – Review by Beverly Finnie

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Married Blind (Kings of Screen, #2)Married Blind by Morgana Bevan
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Abi and Finn are both independent and feisty. Agreeing to something they never would’ve in the past. Married Blind brings reality tv scenarios to a rom-com book. The author wrote a fun, sad, and happy story that you just get sucked into. There were times I actually laughed. There were times that brought actual tears to my eyes. I fell in love with these characters. I fell in love with the story.
Abi, working 3 jobs hard on money trying to help her sister rid herself of her hundreds of thousands of dollars of medical debt. Agreed to sign up for this show not only for the money but to give herself a chance to find who she is again. She’s had no life, her whole life the last so many years has been her sister and her cancer treatment. She only hoped that it would be more than a marriage of convenience for 3 months.
Finn, Hollywood playboy, is forced into doing Married Blind as a consequence of his actions. Planning to treat it as another movie roll, never intended that he would meet his match. A woman so enthralling to him he had to try extremely hard not to let his walls drop. He’s aware that she could be the very person who could destroy him if he lets her in.
Unfortunately for the both of them they underestimated Tyler, the producer, and the show. Putting them in situations that bring them closer together. The growth between these two is written beautifully. The author has won me over. I need to go back and read the first book, but I also look forward for the next guy in their group to fall.

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Son of Asmodeus by Barb Jones – Review by Beverly Finnie

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Son of AsmodeusSon of Asmodeus by Barb Jones
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I loved this book! Books like this are definitely a guilty pleasure for me. It’s funny because I’m not really religious, I don’t believe in a superior being, but every book of fiction that involves Heaven and Hell I have to read. Son of Asmodeus was no different. Oh can I also say I want more! I realized after so many pages that there’s no way this is wrapping up anytime soon, not even realizing it says book 1. The author kept me intrigued throughout. I didn’t even read the whole synopsis before jumping in.
Sully is written on a path of self discovery. He knows he’s immortal, he knows he’s pledged his loyalty to god, and that he kills demons. What more could there be to learn? Tons! And the author doesn’t short you on the twist and turns during that discovery. It’s not only a path to self discovery but also the purpose he serves to Heaven and Hell. I believe he’s still learning about that as this book comes to an end, which is why I want more.
Mick, a bartender, enlists Sully to find her friend, not realizing the world she was just about to enter. A word that she is a very significant piece of. A journey she doesn’t refuse to join despite trying to understand everything. The author writes about her well. In a way that anyone who discovers that much about themselves and those around them, would react the exact same way!
Why are Sully and Mick so important?
Well that you will just have to read and find out for yourself!
If you enjoy supernatural fiction, let alone supernatural fiction that involves Heaven/Hell, Lucifer, God, as well as Angels and Demons this book is for you!

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Revenge Never Rests (Tallie Brown Suspense Book 2) by Laurie Lewis – Review by Beverly Finnie

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Revenge Never RestsRevenge Never Rests by Laurie L.C. Lewis
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Book 2 in the Tallie Brown Suspense Series Revenge Never Rests, picks up pretty much where book 1 left off. Tallie knows who she really is now! Knows Julia lied to her! Knows she can’t tell her real father who she is because it could cause more harm than good. How does one live like that?
Well by continuing to be the person she was trained to be. Julia may have taken her from her family, but she trained her well in tracking and survival.
Paired together as somewhat of a team Tallie and Jackson take positions working for soon to be Ambassador Kaswell. However before they can start those jobs he disappears. Looks like he was taken, until Tallie evaluates the situation and realizes it’s bigger than that. Tallie is thrown into a mission with Major Norris and his daughter Marlene to track General Kaswell down. While Jackson has been left to work the press circuit to keep things at bay. Unfortunately Tallie and Jackson don’t feel comfortable on how this situation is panning out, nor do they feel comfortable that they are apart figuring it out.
Do they find General Kaswell?
Does he know the truth about Tallie?
The author wrote a fantastic follow-up to Secrets Never Die. The puzzle is what keeps me intrigued, trying to figure out what happened and what’s going on along with Tallie. The writing helps too, since it’s written extremely well. Unfortunately it doesn’t quite work as a standalone novel. You need to read book 1 first, but trust me when I say you will be happy that you did!
If you like puzzles and suspense this book and series is for you! Now while you get on that, I’m going to look up other books by this author to check out!!

@placexba
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Secrets Never Die (Tallie Brown Suspense Book 1) by Laurie Lewis – Review by Beverly Finnie

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Secrets Never DieSecrets Never Die by Laurie L.C. Lewis
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Do you enjoy puzzles? How about puzzles with some suspense thrown in? That’s what makes this book fun and intriguing. Secrets Never Die is a well written and intriguing suspenseful mystery. Bringing together two people in a town who doesn’t take too kindly to visitors. The author wrote a slew of excellent characters but the growth of the main two throughout it is beautiful to behold.
Tallie recently set out to find answers. The woman she knew as mom passed on, but leaves behind a note for her to choose. 1 to just move on and forget that passed. Then the 2nd was to look for answers, however she might like what she finds on the other side.
Jackson is a washed up reporter, who feels like he’s been set up on a wild goose chase. Little does he know he’s been thrown a curveball that could make or break his career completely. Being led byCutler Ridge on a hunch, turns out to be so much more. Dealing with the townsfolk was a different story, they give you a hard time and don’t want to answer questions about the mystery surrounding their town.
When Jackson meets Tallie they are at odds, misjudging each other, but due to the growth they soon discover they need to work together to get the answers they need.
For Tallie, who is my family?
What did my mother mean to this town?
For Jackson, it’s why I was sent here?
How will this get my career back on track?
These characters fit all kinds of molds which makes the book quirky vs all the mystery. I loved the intrigue of the puzzle and the government conspiracy suspense. It made for a very fantastic read. I look forward to reading more from this author in the future.

@placexba

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Falling Home (Buckeye Falls Book 1) by Libby Kay – Review by Beverly Finnie

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Falling HomeFalling Home by Libby Kay
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Communication is key to a successful relationship. One of the many lessons that is learned throughout this holiday rekindling romance. Falling Home is a sweet story about a couple who lost their way. One was selfish and one was selfless, but neither properly communicated. Leading to the demise of their marriage. The author writes a story about their growth apart as well as together now that they are back in each other’s lives.
But will it stay that way or is it temporary?
Ginny and Max were best friends turned lovers in high school. Continuing into marriage, which despite everything they had quickly demised. Ginny wanted bigger things out of life. So when the opportunity presented itself she left and filed for divorce blind siding Max in the process. And he let her go, thinking this is what she wants, and it’ll make her happy.
Max had an opportunity to lay down roots in their hometown. With Ginny by his side he knew they could do anything. But when she left he was devastated and heartbroken. Despite all that he pushed forward by telling himself, this is what makes her happy. Now that she’s back in town to look after her father, he has no intentions of letting her go. He’s hoping to utilize the time they have working on the Jubilee together to sway her to give them another chance.
The growth the author displays is exceptional. It reflects two people who love each other, but struggle to communicate and open up. It shows the steps they take now in regards to one another as opposed to the flashbacks of their past. Showing how far they’ve come. But will it be enough?
Will Max get his wife back?
This is one of those curl up on a rainy/snowy day holiday romances that you won’t want to put down. So grab a blanket and sit on a nice comfy chair, couch, ect and jump in.

@placexba
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Hanging Softly in the Night: A Detective Nick Larson Novel by Maria Elena Alonso-Sierra – Review by Beverly Finnie

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Hanging Softly in the Night (Detective Nick Larson #1)Hanging Softly in the Night by Maria Elena Alonso-Sierra
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Hanging Softly in the Night is a strangely morbid title, knowing what happens in this book. However it works, and I didn’t expect to make that kind of connection when jumping into this book. Wonderfully written this book makes you think. A puzzle to be solved. Striving to connect the smallest of dots to figure it all out. That’s what makes it intriguing. With a little romance thrown in.
Nick was finally reinstated to full duty after living through the suicide and guilt that comes with it of his ex-wife. When responding to a call only to discover it’s a woman death by suicide. Well at least that is how it appears. After autopsy and interviews his gut is telling him this is bigger than that. That this isn’t actually a suicide, but how can he prove it, when all the evidence and interviews keep leading to a deadend.
Then there is Laura, a woman he cares deeply about. Who’s twin sister is crazy and out to ruin her life. How can he protect her and do his job? He wants to be with her but is hesitant since he can’t always be there. Now there’s a chance that her sister may be able to access her more easily, despite restraining orders.
A subplot that I definitely followed. A subplot that made me wonder if she was connected to the main plot. Nick’s the one who landed her behind bars, why wouldn’t she want to play with him? People who are borderline psychotic and out for revenge enjoy games like that.
The author wrote Nick in a way despite everything he’s very level headed. He wants to do his job and do it right. He wants to protect Laura and do it right.
Is he able to close his cases and protect her?
Does he end up having a lapse in judgment?
Those were just some of the questions that came to mind that I wanted answered while reading.
If you enjoy a great crime novel, that gets you really thinking. This book is absolutely for you!

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Snow in Love by Libby Kay – Review by Beverly Finnie

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Snow in LoveSnow in Love by Libby Kay
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Snow in Love is a sweet holiday romance. Gave me hallmark movie vibes. The author wrote a sweet romance between two characters that are broken in their own way. Despite everything influencing their lives these two found themselves within one another. And the way the author perceived that was enjoyable.
Sienna and Conner are polar opposites. She’s lived and trained her whole life skiing with her disability. Conner is new to the disability, after a tragic accident in motocross changed his life. Both missing the same part of their leg, these two are training to compete in the winter paralympics in skiing. Which lands them at the same Aspen resort over the Christmas holiday. Sienna, with a love of tradition and a disappointment of having to spend the holiday alone, is blown away by what Connor does to make her Christmas special.
Unfortunately life happens so nothing has a happy ending, or does it?
This is a book you cozy up with. Under a blanket with a cup of cocoa or tea and enjoy. I’m a sucker for holiday romances and this one definitely pulls at the heartstrings, but it’s so worth it!

@placexba
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Kamana Wanalaya by Susan Renee – Review by Beverly Finnie

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Kamana Wanalaya for the HolidaysKamana Wanalaya for the Holidays by Susan Renee
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

What happens when a cynic and a hopeless romantic challenge one another? Well everything that happened in Kamana Wanalaya for the Holidays. The author wrote an interesting take on an enemies to lovers romance. One that was thoroughly enjoyable. It was happy, sad, funny, spicy, and everything in between.
Tenley has a podcast where she goes on about being practical in life. Especially in love, she doesn’t believe in it. A independent feminist at heart, would rather preach her feelings vs risk her heart. She despises the so-called “love guru.”
Teagan is the love guru and he issues a challenge. After Tenley laid into him and the resort he promoted in her podcast, he propositioned her. He said come to Hawaii for a week with all expenses paid and if he couldn’t show her how to love, he would donate $10k to her podcast and go on record pulling back some. What he didn’t tell her was it was a couples retreat week.
That’s where the author’s humor comes into play. Navigating these two who are complete opposites through a retreat and fake relationship. They take shots and constantly rib one another, but under it all they are both falling.
How do they handle it?
If you enjoy enemy to lovers romances this book is perfect. The author put together a well written story. It has you rooting for the main characters, it also has you wanting the backstory of the others. Which I’m going to be looking into! You should too!

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Road to the Mansfield (Express Investigations Book 1) by CB Laurence – Review by Beverly Finnie

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Road to the Mansfield (Express Investigations, #1)Road to the Mansfield by CB Laurence
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

All roads lead to California or in this case to the Mansfield Supper Club. Road to the Mansfield follows 3 different characters who have been broken. 3 different characters who you could say have been put through the ringer. The author expertly writes their overlapping stories reflecting the trials and tribulations they go through. The common thread, they all end up in California. They also end up at the Mansfield Supper Club. 2 of which are employees/entertainment and the other a spectator.
Francie(Ruby) finds herself in California to put herself back together. Ending up training and working at a gentlemen’s club when she was 17 she went through a difficult and trying year. Betrayal by her best friend and the stealing of her virtue. She married the man who got her out, only to lose him to death 6 years later. Now it’s time to start over and she’s hoping her voice can lead her in the right direction.
Rose is young and naive. Blinded by the words and actions of Rico Valentino. He convinces her to leave her family and friends, to marry him and move to California. Unfortunately it only takes a few months before his controlling and abusive ways present themselves. Tricked into an audition at Mansfield, she realizes despite her nerves it’s the opportunity of a lifetime, but at what cost.
Will she ever open her eyes and leave him?
Beau was broken by the death of his best friend. The death led to a domino effect of him losing everything. Best part he’s okay with that, because he feels like himself again. He also heads to California, and ends up a spectator at Mansfield. After listening to Rose and Ruby sing, he realizes he wants to help Rose any way he can. He is also mesmerized by Ruby.
Will he act on instinct?
How do these 3 characters tie together?
I feel like it’s the California move healing themselves. What do you think?
It’s one story with 3 overlapping substories, each focusing on a different character. It’s good but I have to warn you there are some dark themes that could be a little too much for some, but you should check it out!

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And Then She Fell by Dreena Collins – Review by Beverly Finnie

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And Then She FellAnd Then She Fell by Dreena Collins
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I’m on a ledge deciding which way to fall when it comes to this book. And Then She Fell was an interesting read. Although I didn’t love it, I didn’t dislike it either. This book was wonderfully written and deserves praise in this regard. The author kept me intrigued, which says a lot because I struggled at the beginning trying to get into the book. I want to be proven wrong, I made an assumption early on which is what kept me reading. But I will neither confirm or deny the outcome of that want.
Catherine is retracing the steps of her late daughter Susie. She doesn’t fully believe her death was an accident(neither do I.) She finds herself back in Crete at the hotel where it happened. She finds herself meeting up with Susie’s two friends Jessica and Sebastien, where she finds out Daniel was a controlling boyfriend. She also ends up in Daniel’s crosshairs. Despite all this she’s being stalked/threatened, somebody doesn’t want her to continue her quest. Susie was changing and she never noticed.
What kind of mom does that make her?
That’s a question she seemed to internally ask herself throughout.
I don’t trust Daniel. I also firmly believed from an early point that he pushed Susie, maybe not intentionally but it still happened. Like I said I want to be proven wrong. Controlling relationships sometimes go too far, unfortunately the next likely scenario is even sadder. There are things that take one’s mind elsewhere when reading that give one hope to be proven wrong, but sad knowing what the outcome would be.
If you like reading for clues and making your own assumptions hoping to be right or wrong, this book is perfect for you. The author gives you so much, it makes you feel one with Catherine in her path of discovery to what happened When She Fell.

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Love Tools (Bluestone Series Book 1) by Isobel Reed – Review by Beverly Finnie

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Love Tools (Bluestone Series, #1)Love Tools by Isobel Reed
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

When the father that wasn’t around leaves you an inheritance after his death. This was pretty much how Love Tools started. Lily, the female lead, was left her father’s property in Montana. Which included a hardware store. So she uproots her life in London to start anew. Little did she know where this would lead her life.
Will she let the past get the best of her?
Jake didn’t know his friend Matthew had a daughter, and a feisty one at that. She comes blowing into his life and doesn’t know how to handle it. But he intends on proving to her she’s more than just a fling.
Can he not get redemption?
The story the author wrote was cute. Full of stubborn and feisty characters to keep one entertained. There were also some snickering laughs along the way. What the author put these two main characters through demonstrated so much growth on both parts it was refreshing.
I enjoyed it and look forward to the next book!

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Murder on Oak Street ( A South Shore Mystery Book 1) by I.M. Foster – Review by Beverly Finnie

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Murder on oak streetMurder on oak street by I. M. Foster
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Murder on Oak Street seems to be a typical who dun it? Well that is till you get into it. Reality it’s an investigation within an investigation. The author keeps you guessing, especially when you think it’s about one death yet about 40% of the way through the meat of the story happens. It gives me Agatha Christie vibes. Though I’ll be honest I struggled at the beginning. I couldn’t stay interested but I pushed on. Once I start a book I do everything in my power to see it through. The author kept me invested as it went on.
Dr. Daniel O’Halleran just recently transferred to this Long Island town, needing a change of scenery. Little did he realize a case that he worked on two years prior that left him unsettled would be coming right back to the forefront. This was his chance to get it right. But when Thomas Brissedon is found dead he’s tasked with being the lead to find the answers. Unfortunately he feels strongly that Cornelius Desmond’s demise is connected.
So now we circle back to who dun it?
Was it Colin Brissedon? Thomas’ son who was promiscuous and an uncontrolled gambler.
Was it Patrick Desmond? Thomas’ troubled stepson who strongly believes Thomas had something to do with his father’s death?
Was it Jeremy Radcliffe? Nephew of the deceased who is a drunkard and just as promiscuous as Colin.
Was it Kathleen Brissedon? Thomas’ daughter who is a kind and gentle soul, who loves her father unconditionally.
That’s just a few of the prime suspects, now who do you think it is?
If you like murder mystery books then jump in and decide who you think brought Thomas to his demise. The author’s witty take in the novel makes it a worthwhile leap to take.

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The Daredevil (WaterFyre Rising Book 2) by Nadia Han – Review by Beverly Finnie

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The Daredevil (WaterFyre Rising, #2)The Daredevil by Nadia Han
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This author continues to impress me with The WaterFyre Rising Series. I enjoyed The Daredevil more than book 1. And I can’t wait for it to continue, knowing there’s 5 guys who have been friends and creating a video game since they were teens. The best part is so far both books work extremely well as standalone novels, but why after reading one would you jot want to read the others?
Book 2 is a friends to lovers romance. Royce and Michelle are part of the same group of friends. Royce being one of the guys and Michelle being really good friends with Audri(Remi’s girl and Grayson’s sister) brought her into the group.
Michelle is continuously fighting the demands of her past. Eating disorders and body dysmorphia that she developed as a child growing up in the pageant world, where everyone has to be perfect. These things about her are not accepted easily in past relationships, she’s viewed as tainted. It wasn’t till some guy saved her life that she decided to fight back against her demons.
Royce doesn’t believe in love. In his eyes all it leads to is broken hearts and abandonment. Since that’s the life he lived. His dad left and his mom suffered, despite his aunt showing him all the love in the world. It wasn’t till he saved a girl’s life on his property that he decided to change his path and just keep a distance.
These two are broken souls and the author does a phenomenal job showing the growth and healing they experience. These two characters were written to need each other, more than they realize. And it turned out beautifully.

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