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Grace Under Fire (The Anderson Sisters Book 2) by Jennifer Raines – Review by Diane Sennett

Grace Under FireGrace Under Fire by Jennifer Raines
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is the second book in the Anderson Sisters series but it can be read as a stand-alone book. This book focuses on Grace Anderson; artisan cheese-maker and fifth generation farmer. Grace hopes to own the farm when her father retires, and that day is coming sooner than later for Grace.
Grace’s father arranges for Grace to have some help from her childhood friend, Ryan. Ryan and Grace haven’t been on the best of terms since the death of his brother, Danny. Their relationship is strained from Ryan’s exit, Grace’s stubbornness and Ryan’s willingness to open up about the past.
This book is full of romantic tension, twists and turns, trust and love, and is beautifully written. It was a page-turner from beginning to end.

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Taylor’s Law by Jennifer Raines – Review by Diane Sennett

Taylor's LawTaylor’s Law by Jennifer Raines
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This contemporary romance has everything: loss, love, greed, secrets, lies and humor. Set in Australia, Ella Anderson is dealing with the loss of her sister, raising her niece and now having to deal with a custody battle.
Jake Taylor has been trying to clean up the reputation of his law firm, thanks to his last partner. When he receives a letter demanding money from his family; he sends a letter to Ms. Anderson. However, he was expecting Chrissy Anderson, not Ella to show up. Ella tells Jake of Chrissy’s death; leaving Jake to believe Ella is part of Chrissy’s plot.
Jake and Ella have immediate chemistry. They begin to work together to understand why Chrissy wrote the letters. As the secrets and lies unfold Ella finds herself scared to lose her niece and possibly Jake too.

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Absolution by Anise Storm & Taylor L. Ray – Review by Diane Sennett

AbsolutionAbsolution by Anise Storm
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This book was a page turner. Dominic and Julianna are young lovers, forbidden to see each other. After a romantic evening turned to an argument, Dominic leaves and Julianna disappears. Dominic is accused of her disappearance and murder.
After a year and a half, Dominic is acquitted of the charges and begins a new life, fueled by revenge. His life is turned on axis again when he sees Whitney, Julianna’s doppelganger.
This romance is full of dark romance and BDSM scenarios. The plot takes many twists and turns, as we learn that Whitney didn’t just cross paths with Dominic, she has a purpose: Julianna.
This book had me hooked from beginning to end; although some parts of Whitney’s life go unanswered, I enjoyed reading and would recommend this book.

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Chasing Redemption (The Quimby Grove Series Book 2) by Shannon Nikole – Review by Diane Sennett

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

After I read Finding Starlight, the first book in the Quimby Grove Series, I couldn’t wait to read Chasing Redemption, the second in the series. This book did not disappoint! Shannon Nikole has once again written a beautiful story.
After they have a nameless encounter on the beach, Marley Halligan and Max Quinn seem to have gone on with their lives. Unbeknownst to Marley, Max has always wondered about the one that got away. When fate intervenes, Marley and Max are face to face and the spark is still there; can a surprise from Marley and a string of unusual events in Quimby Grove keep them together or tear them apart.
These characters are well written, and the twists and turns keep happening from beginning to the end, making it hard to put down.

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Finding Starlight (Quimby Grove Book 1) by Shannon Nikole – Review by Diane Sennett

Finding Starlight (Quimby Grove #1)Finding Starlight by Shannon Nikole
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This was such a wonderful story. I wanted to read this book in one sitting, but I also didn’t want it to end. Finding Starlight, brings Ellawyn Calloway finds herself in Quimby Grove, Pennsylvania starting a new life after leaving the old one behind.
Ellawyn finds solace at Starlight bookstore and café. She befriends Benji the store’s owner; who lets her work on her art. When Benji asks his grandson, Beckett to return to Quimby Grove to help out at Starlight, Ellawyn finds herself befriending Beckett. Through Benji, Beckett, Ellawyn lets down her guard, and opens up to friendship and love; but not everyone in Quimby Grove is honorable.
Have tissues ready, and enjoy Finding Starlight!

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Hit on You by Brooke May – Review by Diane Sennett

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

Luke Williams is determined to live her life on her terms. She has left her family behind and has forged her way in life. Afraid of giving in to another, she leaves the man she won’t admit to loving in the middle of the night.
Nikolai Bazenhov, a made man in his family’s business, knows where Luke is. He’s been keeping tabs on her since the night she left him.
When Luke finds herself in a dangerous situation, she has to give in to her stubbornness and trust the same man she left a year prior.
These characters have a lot to offer each other if they can reconcile their past histories. This novel is full of steamy romance, dark situations and it was truly and enjoyable read.

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The Taste of Light (The Winemakers Book 2) by Giovanna Siniscalchi – Review by Diane Sennett

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

The Taste of Light is a wonderful historical romance novel. Set in Portugal, it follows the romance between Pedro Daun and Anne Maxwell. Pedro who also appears in The True Purpose of Vines; was not my favorite character, but I was looking forward to reading this second book in The Winemakers series.
I have to say, “wow”! I was routing for Pedro and Anne from their first encounter and felt their love build from beginning to end. I cannot wait to read the next in the series; and recommend reading.

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The True Purpose of Vines (The Winemakers Book 1) by Giovanna Siniscalchi – Review by Diane Sennett

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: 5 of 5 stars

This historical fiction romance takes place in Portugal, 1870. The book is written in vivid detail.
Julia Costa struggles to keep her vineyard productive after the death of her husband. Her financial struggles are only part of her burden as many other wineries are dealing with a plague that could also threaten Julia’s vineyard.
Griffin Maxwell is tasked with collecting Mrs. Costas debts in exchange for a partnership in a larger firm.
Their first meeting isn’t ideal, but it is one that neither of them can forget. The romantic tension that builds between these characters is palpable, and I couldn’t put this book down.

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The Hawke Family Complete Collection by Gwyn McNamee – Review by Diane Sennett

The Hawke Family Complete CollectionThe Hawke Family Complete Collection by Gwyn McNamee
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The Hawke family sure has their drama. This collection follows the lives of the Hawke siblings and their friends. This family regardless of their circumstances comes together in life, love, and friendship. They are guided by the eldest, Savage Hawke who runs dance clubs.
Throughout the series of six novels, we learn about each of the characters, their flaws and their strengths. This collection is full of suspense and steamy romance.
While I enjoyed the entire collection, Storm’s story, Building Storm was my favorite. For me, this story had the strongest plot and characters. I would recommend this book.

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Falling Home (Buckeye Falls Book 1) by Libby Kay – Review by Diane Sennett

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

Ginny Meyer left her small town life with her husband, for a job in New York – her dream job. When her father needs surgery, she takes time off from work, to go home. Ginny has one problem, Max Sanchez. Ginny’s ex-husband whom she hasn’t spoken to since she left two years prior.
When Max finds out that Ginny will be in town to help her father during his recovery, he wonders if seeing Ginny will reignite their flame. Will they find love again, or will this be their chance for a proper good-bye?
Libby Kay has written a wonderful story of two strong characters who put their work first. This story is full of tension, love, anger, strength and patience and I could not put it down.

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Knight In The Museum (Jorja Knight Private Investigator Mystery Series Book 5) by Alice Bienia – Review by Diane Sennett

Knight In The Museum ( Jorja Knight Mystery -Book 5)Knight In The Museum by Alice Bienia
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This mystery had me from the start. PI Jorja Knight is almost carjacked. Jorja later learns that the would- be carjacker has been involved in a hit and run; unbeknownst to her the man may be connected to an investigation she has taken on involving an accidental death.
While Jorja works on piecing together pieces that she’s found; she realizes she may in over her head. She tries a few times to put her gut feelings aside and agree that the accidental death was just that-Jorja stumbles onto another clue leading her trudging murky waters.
This book is part of a series, but reads well as a stand-alone. I enjoyed every twist and turn and it kept me on the edge of my seat. The end may surprise you as it did me and I wholly recommend this book.

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Kamana Wanalaya by Susan Renee – Review by Diane Sennett

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

This is an entertaining book! I was hooked right away by the humor and the witty playful banter between the two characters. Tenley and Teagen have very opposite opinions when it comes to love. They both have podcasts on the subject.
When Teagen inadvertently invites Tenley on a romantic retreat in Hawaii, things don’t go as planned for either one of them.
Their story is fun and entertaining, and the author tells a wonderful story. While the story is centered around the Christmas holiday, I recommend it for anytime of the year!

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Snow in Love by Libby Kay – Review by Diane Sennett

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

This was a fast-paced, romantic, holiday novel. Connor and Sienna are Paralympians training for an upcoming race. Each are dealing with their own complexities in life, but are determined to train. They each only know each other from stories they’ve read in the press.
When they take the time to talk, Connor and Sienna realize there is more to each other than meets the eye. Their relationship blossoms in the short time they are together bonding over Christmas cookies, hot cocoa and holiday movies.
This was a very entertaining read, and I was hooked from beginning to the end!

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

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

Murder on Oak Street is a historical crime novel set in 1904 New York. We follow Dr. Daniel O’Halleran, a Coroner’s Physician who is fed up with the politics of the job. When he is left at the altar on his wedding day, on opportunity to work on Long Island is just what Daniel needs.
When Dr. O’Halleran is presented with a case by a young woman; he realizes it has connections to his last case in New York City. A murder happens not long after he arrives. Daniel investigates the house full of family members and learns that not everyone is as they’re portrayed.
This book is full of twists and turns and the writer had me guessing from beginning to the end. The details in this book make you feel as if you’re investigating along with Daniel. Murder on Oak Street is the first in the South Shore Mystery series, and I look forward to reading the next book.

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I Love You Today (Trading Heartbeats Trilogy Book 2) by Julie Navickas – Review by Diane Sennett

I Love You Today (The Trading Heartbeats Trilogy Book 2)I Love You Today by Julie Navickas
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I Love you Today is the second book in the Trading Heartbeats Trilogy, and again – I. Loved. It! Julie Navickas has written this book as beautifully as the first.
Austin is trying to move on without Mavis and works to fulfill his dream to be partner in the law firm, he’s been working for. Casey has lost her roommate and best friend, now that Mavis is engaged to Josh. Austin and Casey begin a friendship, that is witty and flirty. When the opportunity for Austin to get the law firm established in Chicago, Casey has a room for him to stay.
Will their budding friendship blossom into more? They have plenty of ups and downs and I was right there with them! This book kept me guessing until the end, and I can’t wait for the next in the trilogy!

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And Then She Fell by Dreena Collins – Review by Diane Sennett

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

Catherine Keely is in Crete at the hotel where her daughter Susie was; one year prior before falling from a balcony to her death. Susie’s death is ruled an accident from too much alcohol. Catherine, a mother who is still coping with the loss of her daughter, is there looking for answers.
And Then She Fell is a stunning suspenseful mystery. Dreena Collins had me reeled in with her writing. After each chapter I wanted to know more about Susie and that fateful night.
Catherine speaks to Susie throughout the book as she meets with Susie’s friends and learns more about her daughter than she thought she knew. Each story gives Catherine a different take on what happened on that balcony. This book had me wanting to know the truth and the ending surprised me!
I recommend this book!

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Dream-Shifter by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Diane Sennett

Dream-ShifterDream-Shifter by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This was a unique story which centers around Gwendolyn a 12-year-old girl who can become an animal in her dreams. When she wakes up naturally, she is a girl again. However, one evening when she is dreaming of being an elk frolicking around with other elk a fire alarm jars her awake. Gwendolyn, stays an elk-and it is elk hunting season!
Gwendolyn has to learn to adapt to this new change will still having her own voice and mind. There were a few things she needed to accomplish as a girl, can she still finish these tasks as an elk?
This book is a great read for all ages, but geared toward middle school readers. There’s plenty of action and adventure, along with a lesson to be learned. Will Gwendolyn remain an elk? You will have to read to find out!

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Order of Vespers (The Vespers Chronicles Book 1) by Matilda Reyes – Review by Diane Sennett

Order of Vespers (The Vespers Chronicles, #1)Order of Vespers by Matilda Reyes
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Order of the Vespers is a well written urban fantasy. Jasper Andrews is a teenager who has a gift she cannot control. Now she’s on the run for a crime she didn’t commit. Her parents had told her that the only way to protect her family was to keep their secrets. Now on the run in Manhattan, she is kidnapped by the Order of the Vespers, a group that would like to train her to be an assassin.
Jasper has much to learn and each time she seems to take a step forward something pushes her back. She needs to trust those around her. Will she learn the lessons needed to protect the Order? Ms. Reyes has written a strong character and a wonderful story.
This book had me hooked page after page routing for Jasper to overcome her fears and find trust and friendship within this new life. I enjoyed reading this book and I know you will as well.

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Yesterday’s Over (Philly Heat Series Book 3) by Becky Flade – Review by Diane Sennett

Yesterday's Over (Philly Heat series, #3)Yesterday’s Over by Becky Flade
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is the third in the Philly Heat Series, and again, Becky Flade does not disappoint. The writing is fast-paced and the characters are well written. They come to life on each page.
Yesterdays Over follows Trudy Beasley, Assistant Chief Medical Examiner; she works to provide families with closure for victim’s families. After an explosion, and bones are found; Benjamin Roberts, Forensic Anthropologist is brought in to examine the bones.
Trudy and Ben work together, and it isn’t long before they find interest in each other. As they navigate the search for answers about the bones and their spark of romance, someone else has some secrets that they want to keep hidden.
I would recommend this book!

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Fall to Pieces by Becky Flade – Review by Diane Sennett

Fall to Pieces (Philly Heat series, #2)Fall to Pieces by Becky Flade
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Imagine working with people who should be on your side, but are really working against you. Alexandra Danvers, Homicide Detective just wants to bring a child killer to justice.
Xavier Knight, a Police corruption specialist is tasked with evaluating Lexi to report whether or not she should remain on the force.
When the two are partnered together, their first assignment is a child homicide. Throughout the investigation, Lexi and Xavier must overcome their own emotions from the past to uncover the criminal behind this crime.
The two each feel a physical attraction, but try not to show it. When tensions rise and Lexi is suspended from her job; she and Xavier become friends until a moment when it becomes more.
This book is full of suspense, raw emotion and romance. Page after page, I rooted for these characters to solve the crime, overcome their demons and find love.

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The Kidnapping by Linda Burson – Review by Diane Sennett

The KidnappingThe Kidnapping by Linda Burson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Jenna Ladson sees Andy in their favorite bar on many occasions, though they never speak to each other. When Andy is given an envelope by a stranger in a bar, he’s perplexed. When he reads the message inside, he has to make a decision that will impact Jenna’s life and his own.
The author writes with detail that the characters come alive in this story. I was hooked from the beginning to the end!
This book is full of suspense, romance and clever characters. I enjoyed reading this book and was surprised by the outcome.
This is the first book I’ve read by Linda Burson, and I look forward to reading more of her work.

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The Intruders by Brett McKay – Review by Diane Sennett

The IntrudersThe Intruders by Brett McKay

The Intruders, originally published on Amazon’s Vella Platform is now an ebook. While I found the author’s notes at the end of each chapter to be distracting as I read; by the third chapter I skipped them, and the pace of the story flowed well. The story that Brett McKay brings to life was thrilling to read.
Dex Sanders is making his way through life as a car salesman, a career he’d like to change. He is a devoted husband and father. His life is turned upside down in the blink of an eye. Dex, his wife and children are abducted in the middle of the night and taken to an unknown place. When he is faced with a life-or-death situation, Dex only wants to keep his wife and children from harm’s way.
When an opportunity to escape is revealed, Dex and his family take refuge in a hotel with the police to protect them; however, can they trust the police, or anyone else?
Without giving away any details of the story, this book is action packed, fast-paced and I enjoyed reading it. I easily connected with the characters and rooted for them to triumph from start to finish.
I would recommend reading this book.

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Breathe Underwater by Anise Storm & Taylor L. Ray – Review by Diane Sennett

Breathe UnderwaterBreathe Underwater by Anise Storm
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Evelyn Sheridan was happy to tutor Damien Barrett in high school. She wanted nothing more than to be with Damien. Without warning Damien is whisked out of her life without; leaving her broken-hearted, and Damien hurt and angry.
Years later, Damien Barrett, now Damien Solito has something to finish. His undercover life in the mafia is turned upside down when a chance encounter puts Evelyn back into his life. Damien knows rejecting her would be for the best. Evelyn who’s stubbornness could bring her more harm than good, knows that she belongs to Damien at any cost.
This book is about second chances. It’s full of action and suspense, as well as steamy romance and love.
The question is: will they reunite or go their own ways?

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Fighting Chance by Toni Denise – Review by Diane Sennett

Fighting ChanceFighting Chance by Toni Denise
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Fighting Chance was a fast-paced, entertaining read. Kendall, a journalist is on the edge of losing her job as a sports reporter. When she confides in her father, he suggests she checks out the MMA match at the gym he has trained in for her entire life. Chad, a new to MMA fighting ignites a spark in Kendall and she is motivated to get her story.
Chad is not eager to share many details about his life or why he fights, but he can’t get Kendall out of his head.
Will he persistence and his stubbornness keep them from getting together? You’ll have to read it to find out.

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Cooked: The Chef Blows Her Lid by Cari Schaeffer – Review by Diane Sennett

Cooked: The Chef Blows Her LidCooked: The Chef Blows Her Lid by Cari Schaeffer

Cari Schaeffer has written a witty, fast-paced book. The characters are beautifully written. Olivia, our chef has been dealt quite a hand in life. When life tries to bring her down, she picks herself up with the help of her close friend, Taylor. Olivia faces challenges that kept me turning the pages to find out what else could possibly happen to her. The author did a great job making me feel the joys and struggles that Olivia faced as if I was right next to her.
This book had me from the first page to the last, and I would highly recommend reading it.

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Nightfall in Deptford (Crescent Moon Chronicles Book 4) by L.E. Towne – Review by Diane Sennett

Nightfall in Deptford (Crescent Moon Chronicles #4)Nightfall in Deptford by L.E. Towne
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

When I saw the title, I was drawn to this book- mainly for the reason that the nearby town near me is also Deptford. Silly as this sounds, immediately realizing this book is the fourth in a series by E L Towne, I read the synopsis and decided to give it a go.
Christopher Marlowe, a playwright awaits his fate in 1593. Can his love, Tam Paradiso rescue him in time? Oh, by the way she lives in current day Philadelphia. This story was captivating from beginning to end.
I’m glad I stumbled upon this book, because like I said this is fourth in a series, but it read well as a stand-alone book. The characters come alive on the pages and I felt as if I was transported through time with them on their journey. I would recommend reading this book!

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I Loved You Yesterday (Trading Heartbeats Trilogy Book 1) by Julie Navickas – Review by Diane Sennett

I Loved You Yesterday: Book One in the Trading Heartbeats TrilogyI Loved You Yesterday: Book One in the Trading Heartbeats Trilogy by Julie Navickas
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I. Loved. This. Book! I read this book in one day, almost in one sitting; as life kept interrupting! I Loved You Yesterday, was beautifully written. It’s the first book in a trilogy series. The characters came alive with each turn of the page. Mavis and Josh fell in love. Unfortunate events drive them apart and Mavis seeks out Josh’s brother, Austin. This love triangle keeps you guessing until the end. I’m looking forward to reading the next book.

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Into the Light (Moon Harbor Series Book 3) by Kate McWilliams – Review by Diane Sennett

Into the LightInto the Light by Kate McWilliams
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Kate McWilliams brings to life the story of Ellie and Raf. Ellie is living her dream, running her jewelry shop in a quiet town. Raf has a past, which he keeps hidden from his friends. When Raf’s past catches up with him, Ellie decides to try to move on. As they forge their paths in life, not connecting in a way Ellie would like, there’s someone in the shadows. Are they watching Ellie or just a tourist in a tourist town?
This book is romantic and suspenseful. I did not realize when I read it that it was part of a series, but it was written so well, that it didn’t matter that I hadn’t read the others. The tension the author builds between the characters is spot on. I would 100% recommend reading this book.

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A Love Restrained by Becky Flade – Review by Diane Sennett

A Love RestrainedA Love Restrained by Becky Flade
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This book was a page turner. Kylee Parker is a strong woman; dedicated to her job on the police force. Jayson Donovan, works for the wrong people, a drug peddling mobster. Under normal circumstances, these two probably wouldn’t meet; but fate has other ideas.

I enjoyed reading this book, the chemistry between the characters builds as does their romance.

Becky Flade has written a wonderful story that brings these two together, and while they try to navigate a relationship, will Jayson’s secrets and her vulnerability truly tear them apart?

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Destiny’s Daughter (Intimate and Unfiltered Book 3) by Lynda Filler – Review by Diane Sennett

Destiny's Daughter: It was the best of times.Destiny’s Daughter: It was the best of times. by Lynda Filler
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Destiny’s Daughter, by Lynda Filler is an engaging read. Lynda tells her story of finding love after a lifetime filled with ups and downs. Her story of finding a place to write and took her across the sea. While she let destiny and her love led her to Istanbul, she found herself facing new challenges.
Personally, I did not connect to the author the way other readers have, but I still enjoyed reading this book. I would also recommend this to others.

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