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Seraphina (Heartstrings Series) by Brooke May – Review by Carrie Cross

SeraphinaSeraphina by Brooke May
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Seraphina by Brooke May is an enchanting tale that takes readers on a magical journey filled with romance, suspense, and captivating characters. Set in a fantastical world, this book follows the story of Seraphina, a young woman with a mysterious past and hidden powers.
May’s writing style is simply mesmerizing, creating a rich and vivid world that leaps off the page. The attention to detail in the world-building is impressive, and the author effortlessly weaves together elements of fantasy and romance. From the lush descriptions of the landscapes to the intricate political dynamics, every aspect of this world feels well-crafted and thought out.
The characters in Seraphina are the true highlight of the book. Seraphina herself is a strong and relatable protagonist, with layers of complexity that make her journey all the more compelling. The secondary characters are equally compelling, each with their own unique personalities and motivations.
The pacing of the book is well-paced, with a perfect balance of action, suspense, and slower moments of introspection. May keeps readers on their toes with unexpected twists and turns, making it difficult to put the book down.
In summary, Seraphina is a captivating and well-crafted fantasy romance that will transport readers to a world filled with magic and intrigue. Brooke May’s storytelling abilities shine through, and fans of the genre will be delighted by this enchanting tale.

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Malayeka (Heartstrings Book 3) by Brooke May – Review by Carrie Cross

Malayeka (Heartstrings Book 3)Malayeka by Brooke May
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Malayeka (Heartstrings Book 3) by Brooke May is a poignant and beautifully written exploration of love, family, and self-discovery. In this installment, May switches gears and takes readers on a journey into the life of Malayeka, a young woman struggling to come to terms with her past and pave the way for her future.
May’s writing is once again mesmerizing, evoking strong emotions in readers with her vivid descriptions and poetic prose. The author has a talent for making every character feel real and relatable, and Malayeka is no exception. Through her journey, readers witness the power of forgiveness, the importance of family, and the courage required to follow one’s dreams.
As with the previous books in the series, the supporting characters in Malayeka are just as compelling as the protagonist. May continues to intertwine the characters’ stories in unique and thought-provoking ways, adding layers of depth to the narrative. The themes of loyalty, perseverance, and second chances are woven throughout the book, making it a powerful and uplifting read.
In conclusion, Malayeka (Heartstrings Book 3) is a beautifully crafted and emotionally charged novel that will leave readers feeling inspired. Brooke May’s masterful storytelling and ability to create relatable and complex characters make this a must-read for fans of the Heartstrings series.

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Faida (Heartstrings Book 2) by Brooke May – Review by Carrie Cross

Faida (Heartstrings Book 2)Faida by Brooke May
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Faida (Heartstrings Book 2) by Brooke May is a breathtaking continuation of the Heartstrings series, delving even deeper into the lives of the characters we grew to love in the first book. This installment follows Faida, a strong and resilient woman determined to find her own path in life.
May’s writing continues to be captivating, with her ability to evoke emotions and paint vivid imagery with her words. The author effortlessly transports readers into the world she has created, making it feel real and tangible. Faida’s story is filled with ups and downs, heartache, and triumphs, keeping readers hooked from beginning to end.
The character development in Faida is exceptional. Faida herself undergoes a remarkable growth throughout the book, grappling with difficult choices and facing her own demons. Supporting characters from the previous book return, their stories intertwining and adding layers of depth to the narrative.
The romance in this installment is beautifully executed, with a slow-burn build-up that adds to the intensity of the emotions. May’s ability to convey the intricacies of love and relationships is commendable.
Overall, Faida (Heartstrings Book 2) is an emotionally charged and captivating novel that will leave readers eager for more. Brooke May’s masterful storytelling and well-developed characters make this a worthy addition to the Heartstrings series.

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Aiko (The Heartstrings Series Book 1) by Brooke May – Review by Carrie Cross

Aiko (Heartstrings #1)Aiko by Brooke May
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Aiko (Heartstrings Book 1) by Brooke May is a beautifully written and emotionally charged romance novel that tugs at the heartstrings. Set in a small town, this book follows the story of Aiko, a young woman trying to navigate the complexities of love and life.
May’s writing style is captivating, drawing readers in with its poetic prose and heartfelt storytelling. The author effortlessly captures the raw emotions and vulnerabilities of the characters, making them relatable and easy to connect with. Aiko is a well-developed and likable protagonist, whose journey of self-discovery is authentic and inspiring.
One of the strengths of this book is the depth and complexity of the characters. May has created a cast of supporting characters that add depth and substance to the story. Each character is intricately woven into the narrative, their own stories intertwining with Aiko’s in compelling ways.
The pacing of the story is well-balanced, with a mix of tender moments, dramatic twists, and introspective reflections. The writing flows smoothly, making it difficult to put the book down once started.
In summary, Aiko (Heartstrings Book 1) is a beautifully crafted romance novel that explores the complexities of love, self-discovery, and second chances. Brooke May’s evocative writing style and compelling characters make this a must-read for fans of the genre.

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Unclutter (Inner Voice Book 1) by Winnie D Pagora – Review by Carrie Cross

Unclutter: A Survivor's Story (Inner Voice, #1)Unclutter: A Survivor’s Story by Winnie D. Pagora
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

“Unclutter: A Survivor’s Story” by Winnie D. Pagora is a powerful and inspiring memoir that takes readers on a journey of resilience, self-discovery, and ultimately, healing.
Pagora’s writing is raw and honest, inviting readers into her world and sharing her experiences with authenticity. The author’s storytelling ability is commendable, as she navigates through difficult and traumatic events while providing insights and moments of reflection.
The book delves into the depths of trauma and its impact on one’s life, but it also shines a light on the strength of the human spirit and the power of healing. Tina’s journey from victim to survivor is both heartbreaking and inspiring, and her courage in sharing her story is evident throughout the pages.
What sets “Unclutter: A Survivor’s Story” apart is its focus on the process of self-healing and personal growth. The book provides valuable lessons and practical advice for readers who may be facing their own struggles, making it not just a memoir, but also a guide towards finding inner strength and moving forward.
Although the subject matter can be difficult and heavy, Pagora’s writing is imbued with hope and resilience. This creates a balance in the narrative that allows readers to connect with the author and find solace in her words.
In conclusion, “Unclutter: A Survivor’s Story” is a powerful memoir that sheds light on the journey of healing and resilience. Winnie D. Pagora’s ability to share her story with vulnerability and grace makes this book a must-read for anyone seeking inspiration, understanding, and hope in the face of adversity.

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To Catch An Elf by Debra Parmley – Review by Carrie Cross

To Catch An Elf: Pennsylvania Fighter PilotTo Catch An Elf: Pennsylvania Fighter Pilot by Debra Parmley
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

“To Catch an Elf: Pennsylvania Fighter Pilot” by Debra Parmley is a heartwarming and charming Christmas story. This novella is a delightful read that perfectly captures the magic of the holiday season.
Parmley’s writing style is engaging and descriptive, painting vivid pictures of the quaint town of Stilton and its inhabitants. The protagonist, Grace, is a relatable and endearing character, with her quirks and insecurities making her feel like a real person.
Overall, “To Catch an Elf: Pennsylvania Fighter Pilot” is a delightful holiday read that will surely put a smile on your face. Parmley’s writing captures the essence of the season perfectly, making this novella a must-read for anyone looking to get into the holiday spirit.

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Jade: Hidden Scars: A Forbidden Age-Gap Romance (Book 1) by A. Akinosho – Review by Carrie Cross

Hidden Scars (Jade #1)Hidden Scars by A. Akinosho
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

“Jade: Hidden Scars: A Forbidden Age-Gap Romance (Book 1)” by A. Akinosho is an emotionally charged and compelling read. This book delves into the complex dynamics of an age-gap romance, blending passion, heartache, and personal growth in an engaging and thought-provoking way.
A. Akinosho’s writing style is immersive and eloquent. The author skillfully crafts a deeply emotional narrative that explores the nuances of forbidden love, societal expectations, and personal transformation. The character development is exceptional. Their struggles and desires are portrayed realistically, making it easy to connect with and become invested in their journey.
The forbidden romance aspect of the story is tastefully handled, with the author delving into the complexities and consequences of their relationship. Akinosho tackles taboo themes with sensitivity, exploring the emotional turmoil and growth.
The pacing of the book is well-balanced, with a mix of intense and intimate moments that keep the story moving forward. The chemistry between Jade and Gabriel is palpable, and their relationship develops in a natural and believable way.
“Jade: Hidden Scars: A Forbidden Age-Gap Romance (Book 1)” is an enthralling and beautifully written story that goes beyond the typical tropes of the genre. It delves into deeper themes and forces us to question societal norms and the boundaries we set for ourselves. If you enjoy emotionally charged romances with captivating characters, this book will not disappoint.

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Dark Moon Secrets (The Witch Moon Series Book 1) by Lilliana Rose – Review by Carrie Cross

Dark Moon Secrets (Witch Moon #1)Dark Moon Secrets by Lilliana Rose
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

“Dark Moon Secrets” by Lilliana Rose is a captivating and thrilling read. The book effortlessly combines elements of mystery, romance, and the supernatural to create an engaging story that keeps you hooked from the very beginning.
The author’s writing style is fantastic, with vivid descriptions that bring the setting to life and well-developed characters that you can’t help but become invested in. The pacing of the story is just right, with a good balance between suspenseful moments and quieter, introspective scenes.
The plot of “Dark Moon Secrets” is intriguing, filled with unexpected twists and turns that kept me guessing until the very end. The book explores themes of love, loss, and the power of secrets, making it not just a thrilling read but also a thought-provoking one.
One of the highlights of the book is the complex and layered characters. Each character has their own secrets and motivations, which adds depth to the story and keeps you guessing about their true intentions.
Overall, “Dark Moon Secrets” is an enthralling book that effortlessly combines genres and keeps you on the edge of your seat from start to finish. Lilliana Rose’s storytelling skills shine in this novel, making it a must-read for fans of mystery and romance.

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