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The Sisterhood of Secrets (The Gods’ Scion Book 4) by Winnifred Tataw – Review by Darla Yocom

The Sisterhood of SecretsThe Sisterhood of Secrets by Winnifred Tataw

This incredible book is the fourth installment in the God’s Scion series. The gorgeous cover art pulled my eye to the title and I’m so glad I chose to read it. I love Fantasy Fiction and although I had never heard of this author or this series, I was able to fully engage with the overall plot, character building and emersion into this unbelievably compelling world.

I especially enjoyed the characters created and effectively grown throughout this story. You can find that they were so well written that their uniqueness and complexity works in their favor versus being distracting to the reader.

I found this story interesting and intriguing. I think I’ve not only found myself a new fave author but a new series to read in full. I give this book five out of five stars. Excellent read.

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Underneath The Whiskey by Chelsea Lauren – Review by Darla Yocom

Underneath The WhiskeyUnderneath The Whiskey by Chelsea Lauren
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

What a great romance story. Ben is an entrepreneur, loving husband and doting father. He remembers the trauma he previously experienced when his family learned of his indiscretion with another man, leading to him being treated in the controversial means of conversion therapy. His wife honestly believes that Ben being gay can be handled if he stays the course and focuses on what was learned in therapy and his love for his wife and children.

We find Ben struggling with his personal thoughts when confronted with an interesting moment while interviewing an intriguing young man named Caden who often frequents Ben’s coffee shop. Ben immediately finds himself wanting to know more about him and even hires him to help run his second business location. To keep things on the up and up, he mentions Caden and how interesting he is to his wife. Even in doing so, he finds himself thinking of ways to spend more time with Caden.

The reader is brought along with Ben’s journey through conflicts and awakening throughout the book. While the journey is difficult, I think it could truly be an eye opening story for anyone looking to explore their own personal journey and experiences, or simply learn how someone in this situation tries to deal with life altering situations.

The author did a great job expanding on the depth of the two main characters and the complexity of the subject matter.

I thoroughly recommend reading this book.

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The Master of Demise by Nadija Mujagic – Review by Darla Yocom

The Master of DemiseThe Master of Demise by Nadija Mujagic
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I’m still reeling from the conclusion of this book! I am still shaking from the unexpected plot twists. This is a fantastic riveting thriller.

At the beginning of the book you are instantly brought into the events after a mysterious murder. Then you are introduced to the cocky main character who has an extremely inflated ego. The author’s placement of the post murder intro plus the introduction to Mr Ego makes you wonder if the two events are connected. Hold on to your hats because then the story reveals additional characters, more ego, lots of drama, mysterious circumstances and more to help create a mystery unlike any mystery.

I found myself hating the main character only to feel sorry for him a bit later and changing over and over again as intriguing pieces of information are shared about his background, and his current state of mind.

If you enjoy mystery, thrillers and impeccable storytelling, this book is for you!

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Seen by Lori Nelson – Review by Darla Yocom

SeenSeen by Lori Nelson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This thrilling sci-fi masterpiece finds siblings Mouse and Meph living their lives in a dystopian world. Mouse hopes to land a full time position as a journalist yet her father has different aspirations in mind.

Mouse uses her pda to fly her personal drone, which interestingly enough is shaped like a gorgeous raven named Gossip. She uses it to snoop around the city and find a nice juicy headline for her big break.

In addition to her concerns about landing a big story to help obtain a full time journalist position, she’s also hoping that her brother will stick around a bit longer vs obtaining a job further away from home.

The siblings begin to encounter things that only bring more drama in this story. The author did a fantastic job writing a believable sibling duo that love each other but may not always see eye to eye. Also the interesting love interest that happens to be her brother’s best friend just fuels the family dramatics.

I really enjoyed this book from start to finish. It creates a drastically challenging dystopian world that compliments the sci-fi twists.

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Fireflies (The Physical Collection) by A.R. Hadley – Review by Darla Yocom

Fireflies (The Physical Collection)Fireflies by A.R. Hadley
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This book is the third book in the author’s series, The Physical Collection. While this is my first read by this author I have to say I do not think you will have any problems following along if you read the titles out of order.

Mike and Dane are in an open relationship together. They have been with each other for years and love one another. This book begins with Dane suggesting they search for the addition of a woman to join their relationship that will eventually grow into a full time polyamorist relationship and family.

Like any relationship, there are complications, mixed emotions, and drama. Overall, the magnitude of the characters dynamics together are fiercely HOT!

I think the author does a great job describing the complexity of different personalities and desires clashing and meshing together. I wish more details had been shared regarding the females within the story, as I was left wanting to know more about what made them tick.

I enjoyed this book and cannot wait to read the other titles in this collection.

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Other People’s Money (The Madeline Dawkins Series Book 7) by Cynthia Hamilton – Review by Darla Yocom

Other People's Money (The Madeline Dawkins Series Book 7)Other People’s Money by Cynthia Hamilton
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This book is the 7th in this incredible crime/mystery. The loveable characters, Maddie and Mike are back and ready to dive into another round of crazy cases. As PI’s they find their workload a bit overwhelming with the incoming volume of new cases, but the main focus is for a missing bookkeeper. This book follows the cute married couple through their adventure into mysteries, claims of embezzlement, strange disappearances and more.

As usual this author provides a lot of twists and turns. You will thoroughly enjoy reading due to the easy flow of the plot. Also you may find that the ending was not as you thought it would be.

Overall it was a wonderful read and a great addition to this series!

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A River of Crows by Shanessa Gluhm – Review by Darla Yocom

A River of CrowsA River of Crows by Shanessa Gluhm
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This book was brilliantly written with a complex but strong character development. The author keeps the reader intrigued and excited to continue reading the book with its many twists and turns.

Sloan, the female lead character is living a complicated life while trying to distance herself from her past. Her life hasn’t been easy and thing’s drastically changed after the mysterious disappearance of her younger brother many years ago. Her father was convicted, her mother committed and Sloan had to make her way through the thick of things mostly on her own. She had a few loved ones back home who helped her with her mother, which she constantly felt guilty about each day. When she found out that she needed to come home again due to family drama, she reluctantly returns and soon finds her life flipped upside down.

This book is a fantastic mystery and crime story with a few twists and turns that will have you questioning who did it!?

I highly recommend reading this book!

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

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: 4 of 5 stars

The title of this book grabbed my attention right away. Also I’m a huge fan of all things paranormal, so I was pleasantly surprised and thrilled that I quickly became hooked with this story. This book has everything: snarky wit, vampires, witches, inheritance drama, a haunted mansion, werewolves, and a good old mystery.

Gwen Carter is the main character and I gotta say I love her sass. She returns to her hometown much to her chagrin, due to a mysterious inheritance matter. While trying to minimize her stay, she has another run of bad luck, as she witnesses a horrific murder. To make matters worse, she is a possible suspect. She deals with obstacles, sarcasm, ghosts, a handsome ex, and all things paranormal in this book.

This is my first time reading a book from this author and I enjoyed it. I think the main character is easily relatable to most readers and who doesn’t love a strong leading lady? You definitely get the feeling that if you knew her in real life, she would tell you how it is, straight forward, no BS but would never lie and act like she knows everything.

I enjoyed reading a fantastic story with a diverse set of characters and a beautiful atmosphere. I can’t wait to read something, anything else from the author.

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The Crown of Stones: Magic Borne by C. L. Schneider Review by Darla Yocom

Magic-Borne (The Crown of Stones, #3)Magic-Borne by C.L. Schneider
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is book 3 of this series and the final installment, wrapping up this portion of the incredible dark fantasy fiction story.

I thoroughly enjoyed the fast pace of this book and series. I was hooked from the beginning and blown away by the twisted conclusion of this story. The build up, suspense, good vs evil back and forth, etc. was incredible. What an adventure!

I found the author’s ability to describe the extensive world and developed characters within this story quite illuminating. The vividness expressed quite a scary and dark setting and ambiance, which is perfect for readers who enjoy this type of a read.

Ian Troy’s character appears to be quite strong and resourceful. When he gathered the resistance and attempted to save the Realm, I found myself rooting for him immediately. He has a lot riding on his ability to successfully save as many folks as possible, which would have been a heavy responsibility to have sitting on his shoulders. By the end of the story, you’ll find yourself thinking or rehashing the story in your mind. It sticks with you.

If, like me, you enjoyed this series, you may also enjoy the continued adventures in this author’s additional creation of the series, Soulbound Journeys. This series will pursue the adventures after The Crown of Stones trilogy. I cannot wait to continue my reading adventure with the author’s future dark fantasy fiction creations.

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The Traveler: Book 3 by Deborah Dugan – Review by Darla Yocom

The Traveler: Book 3The Traveler: Book 3 by Deborah Dugan
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Book three of this series is by far the best in my opinion. I previously read book two and was unable to put it down, but while reading this one, I found that I did not want to step away from the pages, not even to sleep.

My love for sci-fi was definitely a driving factor in me picking up book number three of this series and continuing the adventures of Harry. Harry is a unique character with a lot of personality. He has lived many lives in many different forms or what he calls configurations. He’s lived in many different time frames as well. The things he has witnessed and experienced makes for an interesting background for this character.

When we last left Harry, he was a fuzzy and loveable tarantula who awoke from stasis and dealt with the trials and tribulations of trying to survive within his new configuration. Book three finds Harry once again in a new configuration, this time as a giant Asian mantis. He tries to find his way back to Tristan who constantly worries about Harry and his well being. I swear Harry is a danger magnet!

New characters are introduced, and the previous characters continue their roles, such as Tristan and his love interest, Elena. The suspense build up in this book surpasses the levels in books one and two.

I think if you have read books one and two prior to this one, you will find yourself uncovering answers to questions you may have had lingering from the previous books. Once you connect the dots and learn about the additional character building that the author created in this book, you’ll be even more amazed at the remarkable production established within this series.

Admirable world building, character development and the extraordinary plot.

Personally, I thought the interactions between Tristan, Elena and Harry were heartwarming and adorable. I laughed and teared up multiple times throughout this story. I hope everyone enjoys this book and overall series. This is a unique work of art!

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Destiny of Light (Quirk of Destiny Book 3) by Catherine Greenall – Review by Darla Yocom

Destiny of Light (Quirk of Destiny, #3)Destiny of Light by Catherine Greenall
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This book is the final piece of this trilogy, bringing the Quirk of Destiny storyline to an incredible conclusion.

If you haven’t read books 1 or 2, please do so because they are incredibly written. If this is the start of your journey with this series, you will not be disappointed.

As you may have gathered from the synopsis or the cover art, this is an apocalyptic tale for the ages. Genetically modified food is the source of destruction of human kind and triggers the mutated group called Genies to be born with powers beyond your imagination. Some immediately think the end of times is upon them as they are consumed by fear and the unknown reason for all of this.

The main characters fight to save their friends, family and fellow humans against the destruction and mayhem, which the author set up beautifully within this series. The Elite group within this series was very intriguing. Overall the content makes you think about how similar situations in real life could ultimately trigger catastrophic events here on earth, now or in the future. Perhaps things would not be quite like that which occurs in this series, but then again, you never know.

I believe the author’s background helped create a landscape and qualities that someone else would have missed out on. She has a true gift when providing descriptive and passionate dialogue making the reader feel as if they are truly a part of the story.

Phenomenal conclusion to this series! Kudos to the author. I cannot wait to see what else she has in store for us readers in the future.

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Notebook Mysteries ~ Suspicions (Notebook Mysteries Book 5) by Kimberly Mullins – Review by Darla Yocom

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

Book 5 of this series was yet another impeccable piece by this talented author. If you are a fan of this series like me, you will thoroughly enjoy this addition. If you’ve never read any of these, you can easily follow along and appreciate the multiple levels of mystery and suspense.

We find Emma as strong and independent as ever at the beginning of this story. She’s ready to take action to help those who do not have a strong voice of their own, all while finding a case from her past is directly linked to the existing case.

Emma’s love, Jeremy is right by her side and raring to go to find the bad people hurting the innocent. While he’s always looking out for Emma, he is not attempting to be her knight in shining armor, as she can handle herself.

This book finds Emma facing multiple cases, heartbreaking journeys, heartless men and women who are trying to take advantage of others, tender moments with her love and a challenging interaction with an Alpha male thinking he can get the best of her.

This book did not disappoint!

I cannot wait for the next book to be released later this summer so we can see what Emma is up to yet again.

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Shadow Wolf (Protector Wolf Shifter Series Book 1) by Lillian Rose Review by Darla Yocom

Shadow Wolf (Protector Wolf Shifter Series Book 1)Shadow Wolf by Lilliana Rose
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Book 1 of this series introduces the main heroine of this series, Tamaska. Work is her life and she has a big event coming up that requires a last minute change in security. This is when she meets the abrasive and prickly head of security, Kodiak with Shadow Protection. He’s a tall drink of water that immediately gets on her bad side. Yet, there’s something about him that she cannot ignore. The attraction is instant but she tries to ignore it since she has to focus on this big event. Things quickly go wrong and the Blood Opal is mysteriously wrong. Now her job is on the line. She’s still on the fence if Kodiak had anything to do with it even if he vehemently denies it. She needs to find the Opal, save her job, and shake off this pull she feels every time she looks at the handsome security guy. Who can she trust? How can she find the Opal? Can her friend Tahla help without getting into danger?

This book is a romantic mystery that will have you feeling all while falling for the characters.

I cannot wait to read book #2!

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Lucky Stars by Fantasia Yu – Review by Darla Yocom

Lucky StarsLucky Stars by Fantasia Yu
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I was intrigued to read this wonderful space romance novel when I saw the gorgeous colors on the cover giving off galaxy vibes. Then I read the synopsis and you had me at Space Pirates. I think any fellow star wars/trek or Guardians of the Galaxy fans will enjoy this book and Princess Mora’s dilemma to fight for the life that she wants and deserves – or – the life her family wants her to follow, as the first born Princess. I honestly had quirky Space Balls vibes when reading this story.

This was absolutely a fun read and not what I expected which was quite refreshing. I loved Mora’s personality, quirks and all. Somehow I knew immediately that Darin would be her forbidden interest in this story. I mean the idea of marrying someone you do not know, love, etc does not sound appealing to me in any shape or form, but that is because this is not a custom that I’ve ever had to accustom to; however, I would assume that I may react to such a demand in much the same way. Stay and be forced to share a life with a complete stranger or leave your life behind and have fun adventures with a handsome stranger who quickly becomes more.

I love the vast imagery and world building described throughout the story. This could easily be adapted to the big screen. The author also did a remarkable job building up the characters and their story arc.

Sci-fi lovers and those who enjoy a good romantic adventure will highly relish this book and the author’s craft.

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Shore Lodge by Susan Specht Oram – Review by Darla Yocom

Shore Lodge: A high-stakes psychological thriller (The Millersville series)Shore Lodge: A high-stakes psychological thriller by Susan Specht Oram
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This book is described as a psychological thriller and that is exactly what this author created. Initially the story starts with a sad story regarding the main character, Jacklyn Stone, losing her true love, her husband of many years, her rock. She deals with the aftermath of his passing that most of us would struggle with if put into this situation, including the fact that she finds that her husband made a number of questionable decisions related to their financing. Due to this fact, she will be unable to sell their business since she will be forced to recoup the money taken from their savings.

While Jacklyn is riddled with grief, which is expected, she finds that she sometimes struggles to remember things like the placement of her keys, her last name, etc. Her two children, a son named Dusty and a daughter named Rose, are very concerned for her well being. Therefore, they decide to look into a medical facility that could assist their mom in the grieving process and help her deal with latest struggles.

When Dusty and Rose present her with the opportunity to stay at a nice retreat that helps grieving widows/widowers, Jacklyn is not immediately receptive. After a bit of convincing and assurance that she will only stay a few days, she agrees to a few days of extra rest and relaxation. This is when readers learn of the Shore Lodge, where nothing is quite what it seems. Quickly Jacklyn realizes that her children were not very forthcoming or truthful with the details surrounding her stay and she finds herself in a scary and dangerous situation.

Readers will commiserate with Jacklyn and her situation. Anyone dealing with an abrupt change in circumstances could understand why such an aggressive response should be expected in this situation due to the overwhelming feelings of helplessness. Thankfully the main character is stronger than even she expected and has a lot of fight left in her as she deals with the heartbreaking betrayal and struggle for control over her life again. All she wants is to return to her own home and continue to own/run her impressive and successful garden store.

I enjoyed this book from the get go and it made me internally question what I would do if I were ever in this situation. I think readers will enjoy this book as well while trying to determine how this story will end with so many twists and turns.

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Delicious Death (Madame Chalamet Ghost Mysteries Book 2) by Byrd Nash – Review by Darla Yocom

Delicious Death (Madame Chalamet Ghost Mysteries #2)Delicious Death by Byrd Nash
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This gas lamp fantasy novella is number 2 of a 6 part series that mystery lovers will enjoy.

Mysterious deaths, Royal families, unknown motives, and a chef competition makes this a lively and endearing mystery.

Elinor is a strong main character that appears witty and charming. She’s also quite intelligent which comes through quite clearly throughout the story.

A little ghosts and intrigue makes for a good read. I look forward to reading the next novella in this series.

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Practically Pagan – An Alternative Guide to Magical Living by Maria DeBlassie – Review by Darla Yocom

Practically Pagan - An Alternative Guide to Magical LivingPractically Pagan – An Alternative Guide to Magical Living by Maria DeBlassie
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I really enjoyed reading this book. I think anyone interested in the Pagan lifestyle, magic, or a new way of thinking about life will thoroughly enjoy this one.

You can immediately feel the energy and passion the author has when describing the many different topics covered in this book. I had a feeling as if a teacher was thoroughly explaining the subject to me in a way that I can easily comprehend the subject.

I look forward to learning more from the author.

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Revenge Never Rests (Tallie Brown Suspense Book 2) by Laurie Lewis – Review by Darla Yocom

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

This is Book 2 of the incredible tale of Tallie Brown. I never read the first book but I’m now a convert and huge fan of this author. The characters are rich and their growth is quite refreshing.

Tallie has baggage and an extremely complex background that she struggles to hide from herself and others. The pain of loss, the confusing secrets unveiled because of the loss, new relationships and a scary new mission with ties closer to home.

If you enjoy mystery, adventure, drama and suspense, you’ll enjoy this book.  It was a page-turner.

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Return to Gallanvaig (A Quirk of Destiny Book 2) by Catherine Greenall – Review by Darla Yocom

Return to Gallanvaig: Beyond A Quirk of DestinyReturn to Gallanvaig: Beyond A Quirk of Destiny by Catherine Greenall
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Book two of the “Quirk of Destiny” trilogy was mind blowing. Based on a post apocalyptic world, genetically modified food has greatly reduced the world’s population and caused the humans to agree to no longer eat animal based foods. On the other hand, the newly gene-mutated diseased humans, also known as “Genies”, are attempting to make a grab for power.

The author did an impressive job with this work of fiction that has a creepy twist of possible truths hidden within it. It also is a great adventure with a good vs evil storyline. It is a refreshing take on a fictional tale with wonderfully compelling characters and riveting story building. What a great addition to this series and I think readers will thoroughly enjoy it.

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Freedom Rings (The Circle Book 3) by Brenda Hardwick – Review by Darla Yocom

Freedom Rings: Book Three of The CircleFreedom Rings: Book Three of The Circle by Brenda Hardwick
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Fantastic writing, great storytelling and a real gem of a book!

The main character, Soraya is a well rounded character who has yet to tap into her full potential. In this book she heads up the investigation into the killing of the Elders. She finds herself in a pickle when using her new found leadership skills while dealing with the Circle, only to find an antagonist is waiting to try their hand at leadership.

The need to unite together may take some convincing but can they survive without it!? The power struggle is real and creates a lot of drama and action in this book which is fitting for the finale of this trilogy.

I think readers will become true fans after reading this book, no matter if they’ve read the previous titles in this trilogy. The author’s brilliant talent shines throughout this story.

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Better Gnomes & Gardens (Mysty Haven Mystery Book 1) by Casey Cardel – Review by Darla Yocom

Better Gnomes & Gardens (Mysty Haven Mystery)Better Gnomes & Gardens by Casey Cardel
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Bob McLarney recently moved to a quaint little town called Mysty Haven. He also started a new job at a local newspaper but after a disagreement about a creative story about a Bigfoot sighting, he is fired. Down on his luck, he falls into an odd situation that presents itself in the form of an investigative job regarding a missing gnome named Charlie. Could Bob’s luck be turning around?

While investigating the intriguing missing gnome case, Bob learns more about the different folks living in Mysty Haven. Nothing is quite what it seems and could undercover a few secrets in Bob’s lineage.

I loved the quick wit and dynamics between the main character, Bob and the supporting characters in this supernatural story. I found the book to be quite refreshing and had me hooked from the get go. It was an easy read and flowed well. I can’t wait to read more from the Mysty Haven world.

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And Then She Fell by Dreena Collins Review by Darla Yocom

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

This intriguing story follows Catherine Keely and her emotional journey after losing her 20-something daughter in a tragic accident.

While searching for answers, Catherine revisits the overseas location of the tragic accident, while chatting with some of the locals who recall seeing her daughter during her previous visit. Although she finds a bit of comfort speaking about her daughter with others, her preconceived notion’s about the character of her daughter’s friends/acquaintances creates havoc once she begins to receive conflicting accounts of her daughter’s lifestyle.

The author was extremely creative when describing the heartache a mother experiences after losing her oldest child under questionable circumstances. Some questions are never quite answered but perhaps that adds to the intrigue of the storyline leaving it up to the reader to come up with their own answers.

I loved how the supporting characters added more drama to the already emotional scenario.

If you enjoy drama and mystery, I think you’ll enjoy this book.

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The Perfect Mrs Claus by Barbara Matteson Reciew by Darla Yocom

The Perfect Mrs. ClausThe Perfect Mrs. Claus by Barbara Matteson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Savannah is a widow and mom who is struggling with the fact that she will spend the holidays without her family since her son has made other plans. She makes an incredible decision to visit a gorgeous location for a special holiday vacation at The Blue Spruce Inn in the gorgeous mountains in New Hampshire. The Inn’s holiday itinerary makes Savannah crave to be there ASAP. So, she has chosen to save money by limiting her spending which is always a good idea.

While visiting Howardson’s around Halloween time, she reminisces about life with her young son when visiting the location during the holidays, specifically Christmas time. Their Christmas displays were always impeccable and memorable. Little did she know that by visiting Howardson’s on that date would literally change her life forever. A chance meeting with a handsome man results in the receipt of an intriguing proposition. She was not immediately sold on the idea, but charming Matthew was able to change her mind.

This delightful story follows Savannah and Matthew’s adventure in learning about themselves and each other. I found Savvanah’s sense of humor charming. Matthew’s personality, especially after meeting Savannah was quite endearing as well.

I really enjoyed how the author built up the imagery of the Inn and I found myself wishing I could visit the location around the holidays. Who wouldn’t enjoy a gorgeous mountain vacation!?

This story was funny, dramatic and sweetly romantic. I think most readers will enjoy the journey and getting to know the characters as they progress and grow.

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Divided Lives by K.R. Mullins – Review by Darla Yocom

Divided LivesDivided Lives by K.R. Mullins
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I’m such a fan for a good historical fiction book this did not disappoint. Like a great movie, the cast is made up of a group of fantastic characters, especially Lottie, Rose, Chris, & Lisette.

The overall story harbors all levels of murder, mystery, drama and the court room shenanigans reminds me of a great true-crime drama.

The plot is entertaining and the fast paced story will keep you engaged.

Another great book by this gifted author!

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River Witch by Cheryl Burman – Review by Darla Yocom

River WitchRiver Witch by Cheryl Burman
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

What a fantastic historical fantasy adventure! River Witch was captivating, intriguing and full of incredibly written content. The characters were enchanting and the overall plot was incredible.

Who could not relate to characters living in one manner but yearning for something more meaningful. It’s a coming of age type scenario that plays out beautifully throughout this book.

The author describes the forest, river, vivid dreams and characters, Hester & Aaron so well that you feel like you are truly inside of the story surrounded by their lives. I was highly impressed.

I believe most readers will thoroughly enjoy this read thanks to the author’s extraordinary gift. I can’t wait to see what else the author creates.

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Moby Plays the Flute by Eeha Bhatt – Review by Darla Yocom

Moby Plays the FluteMoby Plays the Flute by Eeha Bhatt
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This children’s book is beautifully written. The brilliant illustrations really pop and exudes the author’s descriptions perfectly.

The main character, Moby is a darling young lady dealing with the struggles of being less than stellar in school and in most things she attempts to complete. We can all sympathize with the situation at some point in our lives. The overall message plays out well and I think children will enjoy reading it while also learning a lesson or two.

Any military family knows the struggle they go through when a parent is deployed. The author did a fabulous job describing this in a kid friendly way as well.

Overall, I believe this beautiful story is a great option for children that the adults will appreciate.

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Grave Digger Academy (Grave Digger Academy Book 1) by C.A. King – Review by Darla Yocom

Grave Digger AcademyGrave Digger Academy by C.A. King
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I enjoyed the concept of a paranormal book series surrounding a strong and witty female lead character. So I was excited to jump head first into this book. Now that I am finished, I cannot wait to read books 2 and 3.

Like most young folks, Makayla hopes to get into the school of her choice but there is always a chance of only getting accepted to the Grave Digger Academy. When she finds out that she was chosen for the inevitable Grave Digger Academy, she is crushed, and her family is heartbroken. What’s a girl to do other than make the best of her situation since she has no other options, right?

I enjoyed how easily the story flowed and found that I read this in one sitting. While I experienced this in a short period of time, I found that it packed a punch. It had everything that you need: a great plot, well developed characters, and a lot of activity to keep you enthralled throughout the pages. Plus, who doesn’t love a good story that has a magical fantasy plotline? You’ll enjoy reading through M’s progress from someone who hates the idea of attending the academy to maturing to a talented student.

I think anyone of any age will enjoy this book and be intrigued to try the entire series. I give this book a 5 out of 5 stars.

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Euphoric Wonderland by Ryan M. Becker – Review by Darla Yocom

Euphoric Wonderland: An Eclectic Collection of Psychedelic Poetry to Stimulate the Senses and Open the MindEuphoric Wonderland: An Eclectic Collection of Psychedelic Poetry to Stimulate the Senses and Open the Mind by Ryan M. Becker
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Poetry is a passion of mine so the synopsis of this title piqued my interest. The author did an incredible job with this beautiful ensemble. The rhythm and descriptive words help you see within their mind, body and soul as they create a depiction of life utilizing their eloquent words and emotions.

Don’t be fooled by some of the entries that are shorter than others, as they too will pack a punch. Some of the poems will make you smile, laugh, feel, etc. To evoke any and all of these actions is a testament to this author’s gift of word.

I thoroughly enjoyed this book and look forward to any future publications.

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In Plain Sight (Logan McKenna Mystery Series Book 8) by Valerie Davisson – Review by Darla Yocom

In Plain Sight: A Logan McKenna Mystery Book 8In Plain Sight: A Logan McKenna Mystery Book 8 by Valerie Davisson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Logan McKenna is a badass character that everyone will fall in love with within the first few chapters. She’s married to her soulmate, Ben who seems to be her perfect match. If you’ve read any of the previous books in this series, you’ll recognize this book continues with their story. As per usual, suspense and mystery seems to follow them everywhere.

As a fan of crime mysteries, I felt this book was an impeccable addition to this genre. I also enjoyed the details regarding the beautiful winged friends described within the storyline.

I felt as if this story had a perfect amount of plot twists that will keep the reader intrigued and second guessing themselves when trying to figure out what comes next. This is anything but predictable.

The author did a fantastic job and fans of this series will be overjoyed with the new addition. For those new to this series, I think they will enjoy this book and want to grab another from the series or start at the very beginning.

This book had great imagery, a beautifully designed plot and fantastic characters.

5 out of 5 stars!

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Ashes (Modern-Day Fairy Tale Book 1) by MK Harkins – Review by Darla Yocom

Ashes (Modern-Day Fairy Tale, #1)Ashes by M.K. Harkins
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I LOVED this book and if I could give it all the stars in the sky as pet of my review, I would.

It feels like the main character, Ashley Adams could easily be one of my closest bff’s. Her amazing qualities made her all the more endearing, as you get to know her throughout this incredible story. Besides being smart and sometimes underestimated, she has the most impeccable timing with her witty remarks.

Also when Harry James was first introduced, I immediately thought of comparing his status to Harry Styles’ celebrity status. Had something like this occurred in the real world with so many HS fans, I’m sure most would close-mindedly assume he should not associate himself with someone like Ash.

I was sold on this book the moment I read the synopsis that mentioned it contained a plot with fairies and magic. Little did I know that it would open up into a magical world with phenomenal imagery and content.

Also I loved the cover art! It gave off dark Cinderella vibes and I adored it.

I think teens and adults will enjoy this book like I did. I give this title 5 out of 5 stars.

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