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Fuller Sight by John Stone – Review by Chrissy Spulak

Fuller SightFuller Sight by John Stone
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This book was right up my alley, and it did not disappoint at all! I love a good story with well-developed characters that truly makes you think. This is a metaphysical story but is relatable and keeps you on the edge of your seat. This is not a book I had to force myself to finish or follow along with. I love the concept of the protagonist, Danny, learning all about his loved ones and helping them from the other side.I am fascinated by past lives, the great beyond, what it means to be human, and how we all connect. I enthusiastically recommend this book and look forward to more from this author!

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Divinely Dramatic (Divine Vintage Series) by Sandra L. Young – Review by Chrissy Spulak

Divinely Dramatic (Divine Vintage Series, #2)Divinely Dramatic by Sandra L. Young
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This story is fun and kept me at the edge of my seat wondering how Marcy was going to handle everything thrown at her! Marcy is a costume designer for a particular play set in the 60s and encounters obstacles at every turn. The well-developed characters’ interactions with each other weave the story together dramatically. Paranormal, romance, intrigue – a little bit of something for everyone. It is a book that I dove into and barely came up for air. It was done way too fast! I definitely recommend this book and can’t wait to get my hands on another from this author!

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Group Hug by Ariella Talix – Review by Chrissy Spulak

Group HugGroup Hug by Ariella Talix
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This book is so much fun! This is actually the first MMF story that I have felt drawn to ready, and I’m glad I did! It is for mature readers, but I did not find the sexy parts distracting or over-gratuitous at all. The characters are unique and well-developed and the way they intertwine makes the story compelling and relatable. Weston, Petra, and Callum find themselves as roommates, and the reader gets to watch the chemistry brew until it bubbles over. To be totally honest, I chose the book because of the cover – because dogs – and, boy, was I ever pleasantly surprised and swept off my feet! I am intrigued by this author and am glad I picked this up. I highly recommend this book even if it’s not something you would normally reach for.

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Curse of the Forbidden Island by C.A. King – Review by Chrissy Spulak

Curse of Forbidden IslandCurse of Forbidden Island by C.A. King
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This paranormal romance was NOT long enough! This is an intriguing and spell-binding treat to indulge in. I started the story sympathizing with Selene and then rapidly found myself quite jealous of her! It is a steamy tale but well-written, and it left me wanting oh so much more. This is a good one to dig into when you don’t want to commit to anything lengthy, but you will definitely wish it was longer and that’s my only complaint here. I love the way this author writes and highly recommend this story.

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Kingdom of 7 Sovereigns – Wolf (Kingdom of 7 Sovereigns Series) by R. C. Reigh – Review by Chrissy Spulak

Kingdom of 7 Sovereigns: WolfKingdom of 7 Sovereigns: Wolf by R.C. Reigh
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is a new author to me, and the first book in this series. I am very excited to report that this book is so much fun to read! Fantasy, magic, romance, shape-shifting, suspense, action – this young adult book has it all. The characters are amazing and will hook you from the very beginning. Anyone who is a fan of Lord of the Rings or Game of Thrones or even Harry Potter will appreciate this story. It centers around students of a magical Academy and includes pretty much all the elements of a fantasy – medieval princes and princesses, heroes, villains, etc. I highly recommend this book to anyone who loves a magical, vibrant tale full of a little of everything! Even if you aren’t typically a young adult/fantasy reader, this is definitely one to pick up.

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Hope For A New World (Gaia’s Voice Series) by Renee W Peek – Review by Chrissy Spulak

Hope For A New World (Book 1)Hope For A New World by Renee W Peek
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I am pretty picky when it comes to Science Fiction. It was never my cup of tea growing up and only recently have found a few books or series that actually grabbed me and didn’t let go. I am now adding this book to that list. For me, there is something so intriguing about a dystopian, end-of-the-world epic that makes the reader question the future of the planet. I can’t say enough about the descriptive writing and vibrant characters this author created. This is the first book I’ve read from this author, and I have to say that I’m excited it’s the first in a series. The story takes place over one hundred years into the future and the more you read, the more invested you become and more questions you ask yourself. The story is led by strong female characters, which I always appreciate, and the message it delivers is a stark, eye-opening possibility. You will definitely want to continue following the journey of Maddison Bear’s Heart into the next books.

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Orenda (The Latitude Series) by T.S. Simons – Review by Chrissy Spulak

Orenda (The Latitude)Orenda by T.S. Simons
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This sequel in the Latitude series is just as good as its predecessor. We continue to follow the journey of Caitlin and Gio on to Canada, as they become ambassadors. This dystopian fiction is exciting and enthralling and has a unique mythological concept that will get you thinking about your own world. I highly recommend reading the first book to get all of the intricate details and nuances of character development before diving into this one. That being said, the way this author writes is so descriptive that I wouldn’t think you would necessarily have to have read the first book to appreciate the writing and storytelling aspect of this book. I also would highly recommend reading this author’s other works, as well.

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Festive Fates: 11 Spirited Holiday Tales Anthology by SE Smith, Jill Wallace, Eliza Sinclair, Kyndra Hatch, Candace Colt, Natalie Palma, Winnie Winkle, Electra Gajdos, Stephanie Harrell, Pauline Baird Jones, Cassandra Chandler – Review by Chrissy Spulak

Festive Fates: 11 Spirited Holiday TalesFestive Fates: 11 Spirited Holiday Tales by Natalie Palma
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I love a good holiday story! This anthology has eleven of them! Even if you’re not big on holiday stories, this compilation has something for every reader. The characters are all well-written, and their journeys are interesting. This cozy, entertaining book will keep your hands glued to each cover (or to whichever electronic device) and will also leave you wanting more from each of these authors. I could not try to pick a favorite, and I’m glad I did not have to choose just one story to read. There is no better way to get into the holiday spirit than with this book. I recommend this book to everyone, not just those who may be more jolly this time of year. There really is something for everyone in this anthology! It really “hits the spot.”

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Dreamscape (J.J. Morris Mysteries) by J.N. Sheats – Review by Chrissy Spulak

DreamscapeDreamscape by J.N. Sheats
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is book 2 in a series – I admittedly did not read the first one before picking up this one. I still enjoyed this book very much, and I will be definitely jumping into the first one to get the full experience. The cover art is amazing and inside the covers did not disappoint, either. It was super easy to fall into Joey’s story and stay intrigued with all that’s going on. There’s a little bit for everyone – paranormal, action, suspense, etc. The story is addictive and the characters are vivid and come to life easily in this great world this author has made! I highly recommend this book, and I will venture a guess to say that this series is going to become a fast favorite! This is worth five stars in my book!

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Quick Affirmations for Children (Quick Affirmations Series) by Kim Ann & Yobe Qiu – Review by Chrissy Spulak

Quick Affirmations for Children: A to Z of Easy Motivations for Creating Better days - Positive Affirmations for Happy ChildrenQuick Affirmations for Children: A to Z of Easy Motivations for Creating Better days – Positive Affirmations for Happy Children by Kim Ann
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I read this book along with my three-year-old, and we both love it! This has become one of her go-to books that she will request at any time of day. I love the concept of affirmations using the alphabet, and the illustrations are vibrant and eye-catching. I will read each page, and she will echo each affirmation loud and proud! My favorite part of the book is the discussion each page can provoke. For example, if it says “I am helpful to others,” we can then talk about a time she was helpful to someone that day or things she could do TO be helpful. Just the other night, she got to pick what we had for dinner. I told her that was a wonderful idea (spaghetti!) and she replied, “I have UNIQUE ideas!” And my heart melted…So, it promotes vocabulary, too! I whole-heartedly recommend this book. It is delightful and a breath of fresh air for anyone of any age! Five stars!

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Woman Unbroken by Alexandra Fleder – Review by Chrissy Spulak

Woman UnbrokenWoman Unbroken by Alexandra Fleder
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is the first piece of work I have read by this author, and I hope it will not be the last! I found the character Devorah Fields to be interesting and relatable, and her story to be captivating and inspiring. I am always drawn to books with a strong female protagonist, and while Devorah might initially seem “unreachable” being an actress and model, I actually found it very easy to slip right into her world and feel the things she goes through. As a working mom and wife, I found her quest to rediscover herself to be endearing and on point. Reading Devorah’s story will inspire anyone to take a good look at their own life and ask “Is this really who I am?” I highly recommend this book to anyone who wants a good emotional story to get lost in.

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Rise of the Y (The Y Chronicles Book 1) by Angela D. Shelton – Review by Chrissy Spulak

Rise of the YRise of the Y by Angela D. Shelton
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is a dystopian young adult novel – the first installment in The Y Chronicles series. There are so many of these types of books on the market now, but I assure you, you are not going to want to skip over this one. There are exciting characters, plot twists, and intrigues that will keep you hooked! Lexi is an awesome female lead character, and it was interesting to watch her character develop and grow throughout the story. Even if you are not totally sold on the dystopian genre, there is a little bit of everything for everyone waiting in these pages. I enjoyed it and will be anxiously awaiting the second book!

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Threads of Time (Toronto Time Agents Series) by C. N. Jackson – Review by Chrissy Spulak

Threads of Time: A Historical Time Travel Adventure (Toronto Time Agents)Threads of Time: A Historical Time Travel Adventure by C. N. Jackson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is the first book I have read by this author and the first Toronto Time Agents book. It can be read as a standalone; however, I will be picking up the previous installment as soon as I can. Any time I am asked what superpower I wish I had, the answer is always time travel. Of course that’s what caught my attention first! Wilda Firestone is a tough and fiery protagonist who reluctantly sets out on an investigation in order to fix the past and save the present. Wilda agrees to team up with Alergnon and teach him what she knows, much to her chagrin. The way these characters play off each other is so fun! This book is full of awesome characters and mysterious thrill-rides. The story is well-written and fleshed-out and contains a little bit of everything. I highly recommend picking up this book. You won’t be bored for a minute!

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1897 A Mark Sutherland Adventure (Mark Sutherland Adventures) by Kimberly Mullins – Review by Chrissy Spulak

1897 A Mark Sutherland Adventure1897 A Mark Sutherland Adventure by Kimberly Mullins
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I am a huge fan of this author and have read every single installment of her Notebook Mysteries series. I had very high expectations for this book before picking it up, and I am excited to report that it DID. NOT. DISAPPOINT. Mark Sutherland’s adventures as a reporter in the late 1800s are captivating and intriguing, and the author’s talent for capturing and describing the given time period is evident. This is an excellent read for history buffs, as well as mystery chasers, and will absorb you from start to finish. What added an even deeper appreciation for me was the connection to the main character in the Notebook Mysteries series, Emma. This book can be read by itself, though, so if you have not yet indulged in that series, no worries…although, I highly recommend doing so. As with everything this author writes, if I could give it more than five stars, I totally would.

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Wild Lavender (Heart & Hand Series Book 1) by Nicole E. Kelleher – Review by Chrissy Spulak

Wild Lavender (Heart & Hand, #1)Wild Lavender by Nicole E. Kelleher
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I was shocked when I learned that this is the author’s first book. I cannot recommend it more highly! It is beautifully written and so easy to get lost in. This historical fantasy romance is perfect for curling up on the couch with a blanket and just losing yourself in the pages. The characters are interesting and relatable, and I could not help but be intrigued by Anna’s story with Roger and then Lark. This book does involve mature themes but was not a problem for me. I found that every aspect of the story made the world that much richer in my mind’s eye. You will find a little bit of everything in this book, and I guarantee you will not be disappointed. Get ready to devour!

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Notebook Mysteries ~ A Party to Remember (Notebook Mysteries Series) by Kimberly Mullins – Review by Chrissy Spulak

Notebook Mysteries ~ A Party to RememberNotebook Mysteries ~ A Party to Remember by Kimberly Mullins
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Another great tale from one of my favorite authors! I seriously never want this series to end. In this Christmas tale, Emma is thrust into another thrilling mystery that is full of intrigue (not to mention festive)! As per usual, the storytelling is superb and descriptions and characters are vibrant and spot-on. Each time I pick up a new installment of the Notebook Mysteries is like revisiting an old friend, and I dread the time that there are no more mysteries to solve with Emma. This book can be read as a standalone, but I of course highly recommend getting your hands on each part of the series for full enjoyment. With the holiday season fast-approaching this cozy read will put you right in the spirit!

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The Calamities of Camden Callahan (A Revenant Novel) by Brittany Tucker – Review by Chrissy Spulak

The Calamities of Camden Callahan (A Revenant Novel)The Calamities of Camden Callahan by Brittany Tucker
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

For some reason, I have been on a real “piratey” kick lately (so much so that the little one has decided, on her own, to be a pirate for Halloween). Suffice it to say that this young adult, swashbuckling tale hit the spot! Having read this author before, I knew that I was destined to love the vibrant characters and immersing details and definitely was not disappointed! Camden and Annie take turns telling their story, and it did not take long for me to sink right into both of their worlds. There is so much action, adventure, twists, and turns that anyone can appreciate this book. You don’t have to be a young adult or even much into pirates to enjoy yourself with this. After you inhale this book, you are definitely going to want to go check out the author’s other work – I guarantee it.

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As Though You Were Mine by J. Marie Rundquist – Review by Chrissy Spulak

As Though You Were MineAs Though You Were Mine by J. Marie Rundquist
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I recommend that you pick up this book and also a box of tissues. This book is so emotionally-wrenching (in a good way) that you will feel like you are experiencing life right along with Julie and the twins. I became so wrapped-up in this story that I did not want it to end. If you are looking for a book that will take you along for the ride and make you feel ALL the feels, then this is for you. A unique story of becoming a parent that you don’t have to actually be a parent to appreciate and love. A book has not made me feel so deeply such a range of emotions in a long time. I guarantee that you will fall in love with Julie, and the people who come in and out of her life, and will be recommending this book to everyone in yours.

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Conversations with the Tarot by Maria DeBlassie – Review by Chrissy Spulak

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

This book has me so excited! I immediately felt drawn to read it as I have read several of this author’s works and am obsessed, but became giddy at the title! I am a burgeoning Tarot reader and love to read anything and everything I can about it. This is a short read with a mix of poetry, tidbits, and descriptions that will captivate anyone wishing to delve more into the mystery of the Tarot – or even if you aren’t, it is still an interesting perspective to learn more about it. If you are interested in magic, the Tarot, or anything witchy, I highly recommend this author and her work. She is a knowledgeable and skilled writer, and I give this five sparkling stars!

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Oathbreakers Anonymous by Scott Warren – Review by Chrissy Spulak

Oathbreakers AnonymousOathbreakers Anonymous by Scott Warren
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is the first book I have picked up by this author, and I wasn’t quite sure what to expect. I was hesitant to start a fantasy/science-fiction as I have really been in a historical fiction phase and didn’t know how it was going to set with me – usually I hyperfocus on a certain genre and have a hard time getting back out of it. It was totally worth it. The way this author writes and uses humor in small details was such a breath of fresh air for me, and I devoured this book. I followed Marluck and his fellow paladins on their quest to redeem themselves and was never disappointed. This book is well-written and the characters are vivid. I had no problems finding relevance in Marluck’s story, and I can’t wait to get my hands on another book by this author!

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

The Secret Humankind: An Urban Fantasy Thriller (The Discoveries of Julia Xero Book 1)The Secret Humankind: An Urban Fantasy Thriller by Gloria Oliver

I am excited to recommend this new series by a new (to me) author! This was such a fun read and has pretty much everything to hook the reader and leave them wanting more. Julia Xero is an original and interesting lead character that intrigued me from the start. The details of Julia’s normal life are spot-on and just get more spicy when they take a turn for the unusual. This is definitely one of those books you will pick up and won’t put down until it’s done. I cannot wait for the next installment!

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

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

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

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Notebook Mysteries ~ Parisian Intrigue (Notebook Mysteries Book 6) by Kimberly Mullins – Review by Chrissy Spulak

Notebook Mysteries Parisian IntrigueNotebook Mysteries Parisian Intrigue by Kimberly Mullins
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Emma is back with another edge-of-your-seat, intelligent mystery. This time, she is offered a trip to Paris, no charge; however, something seems suspicious to her. Set during the Paris Exposition of 1889, the French landscape comes alive, as well as marvelous inventions of the time. As with all the Notebook Mysteries installments, I am pleased with where this story took me. It is a well-researched, intricate series that will whisk you away to Emma’s world, as if you are trying to solve the mysteries right along with her. Emma remains one of my favorite heroines and this author has become one of my favorite authors of historical fiction. This sixth book in the series can be read as a stand-alone, but I highly recommend checking out the entire series. I will be eagerly anticipating more installments!

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A Teacher’s Heart by Melissa Lavi – Review by Chrissy Spulak

A Teacher's HeartA Teacher’s Heart by Melissa Lavi
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This book is so delightful and heart-warming! As a former teacher, I can confirm that it takes a big heart to teach kids and help them grow. The illustrations are colorful and interesting and definitely attention-grabbing. It is fun to read aloud and obviously fun to hear read aloud because my little asked for it several times again. I would recommend this book to any little, big, or current or former teacher, especially with school starting again soon (and even afterwards). I think anyone who reads this will be able to identify the teachers that they remember within these pages. 5 stars!

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Talks Like Thunder (Red With Native Blood Book 1) by Randal Nerhus & Marjorie Carter – Review by Chrissy Spulak

Talks Like Thunder (Red With Native Blood: Novella One)Talks Like Thunder by Randal Nerhus
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This novella is a fictional story but steeped in history. Historical fiction is my go-to when I need to be immersed into a world not my own. It is rich in Indigenous culture and fantastic storytelling. This is the first installment in a series, and it is a quick read. My only complaint is that it was not longer; however, that is an element of a novella. This story follows a strong female character, Desert Fox, who loses both parents to sickness and is then forced to leave home with her grandfather as he takes her to his village. We get to see Desert Fox’s transformation from young girl to grown warrior, now known as Talks Like Thunder, as well as her home’s transformation into U.S. territory. I highly recommend this beautiful, and also heart-wrenching, story.

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Obedience (Ties That Bind Book 1) by Liza Snow – Review by Chrissy Spulak

ObedienceObedience by Liza Snow
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I am so thankful this is the first book in a series because whoa… I love how Cassandra and Chandler’s chemistry simmers as the story unfolds. The setting is unique as they are circus performers, and it made their characters compelling and endearing, and I love them together. This story twists and turns like a good mystery should and kept me in suspense and at the edge of my seat the entire time! It was hard to put this book down and not read it in one, long sitting. It’s steamy romance, vibrant storytelling, and characters I couldn’t get enough of. I tend to shy away from a lot of steamy romances, but this one has my full recommendation. I can’t wait to get my hands on book two!

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Brave Kids: Short Stories to Inspire Future World Changers by Janice Pratt – Review by Chrissy Spulak

Brave Kids: Short Stories to Inspire Our Future World-ChangersBrave Kids: Short Stories to Inspire Our Future World-Changers by K.J. Kaschula
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This book of short stories is a winner for me. This is a book for children but absolutely can be enjoyed by adults just as much! Each little story is a vibrant lesson about what it means to be brave. This would be a wonderful tool for parents or guardians to read along with their little and create a dialogue around each story and its message. This book includes great storytelling, and at the same time, keeps the stories short enough to keep hold of little attention spans. I definitely recommend this book of stories for any child or even any adult. The messages are universal and span the ages. Five enthusiastic stars.

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A Curse of Ash and Iron by Christine Norris – Review by Chrissy Spulak

A Curse of Ash and IronA Curse of Ash and Iron by Christine Norris
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This book is not only an intriguing fairy tale, but the historical aspects make it that much better. A Cinderella-esque tale set in 1876 Philadelphia, we see Benjamin’s and Ellie’s worlds collide, and he helps her to unveil the truth that has plagued her and her father for seven years. This action-packed story will have you hooked until the very end and wanting more. On their adventures, Ben and Ellie encounter 19th century United States, and the reader is along for quite a ride. This is the first book I’ve read by this author, and I appreciate the thoroughly-researched setting and landmarks. I will absolutely be looking for more from this author, and I recommend this book to anyone who wants a cozy, action-packed, can’t-put-down read!

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Return to Hoodoo (Boudin, Bourbon, and Barbecue, Book 1) by Reggi Dupree – Review by Chrissy Spulak

Return to Hoodoo: A Paranormal Women's Fiction Novel (Boudin, Barbecue, and Hoodoo Book 1)Return to Hoodoo: A Paranormal Women’s Fiction Novel by Reggi Dupree
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I am so glad I picked up this book! This is the first book in this paranormal series, and I am here for it. I can’t wait to get to the next! I love a well-written, independent woman main character, and Gwendolyn Carter does not disappoint. This book is a quick read but well-paced as it kept me hooked and satisfied all the way through. This is a vibrant, entertaining story, and I will be running to get book number two. Five stars and highly recommend this author.

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Notebook Mysteries ~ Suspicions (Notebook Mysteries Book 5) by Kimberly Mullins – Review by Chrissy Spulak

Notebook Mysteries ~ Suspicions (Notebook Mysteries book #5)Notebook Mysteries ~ Suspicions by Kimberly Mullins
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is the fifth book in the Notebook Mysteries series and is set in early 1889. Emma, along with the Pinkertons, is back with an action-packed journey ahead of her and will face her toughest mystery yet. This book could be read as a standalone, but I highly suggest reading the first four, simply for enjoyment. Since book one, Emma has been one of my favorite protagonists, and I have loved solving mysteries with her. She is smart, brave, independent, and stops at nothing to find the truth – even when it involves her own family and well-being. This book will have you white-knuckling the book covers and flipping pages. It was a fast read and is definitely one of the better historical fictions I have come across.

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