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The Traveler: Book 2 by Deborah Dugan – Review by Angela Hayes

The Traveler: Book 2The Traveler: Book 2 by Deborah Dugan
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

 

4 Stars

 

The Traveler: Book Two is the second instalment in The Traveler series by Deborah Dugan. As with the first book, it is a sci-fi fantasy with time travel, adventure, plenty of originality and imagination, tension, and intrigue- making for a highly creative read .
This is the second book in the series and follows The Traveler in their journey, so in saying that I highly recommend reading the first book in the series before starting on this one. The first book will help ground you in the storyline, as well as provide interesting and important details that will help enhance your reading experience of this book.
As we discovered in Book One, The Traveler is an ancient ‘being’ who has travelled the universe and has taken on various forms over the millennia’s, using these ‘experiences’ as a means to gaining knowledge and power.
I felt this second story was even more complex, impactful, and emotional than the first. I felt it also had a lot more depth and development than the first- the author has really found her groove with the story and character/s. I enjoyed the first book, but this second book is better still.
Another unique, interesting, and somewhat thought-provoking read.
Happy reading!

Thank you, Deborah Dugan!

 

Reviewed by @angelahayes

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The Mesmerist by Claire Luana – Review by Candida Hopper

The MesmeristThe Mesmerist by Claire Luana
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This was an excellent read. This book is full of mystery, intrigue, fantasy, secrets, danger, romance, twists and turns and so much more. I was pulled in from the start and couldn’t put it down until I got to the end. I was kept on the edge of my seat trying to figure out what was going to happen next and who could or couldn’t be trusted. This story is full of wonderful characters that change and grow throughout the story. I found this story to be original and entertaining. This is a must read story. I can’t wait to read more books by this author. I highly recommend this book.

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Reverence of a Ronin by Bree M. Lewandowski – Review by Lorralei Hoerner

Reverence of a RoninReverence of a Ronin by Bree M. Lewandowski
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

First, I love the cover…..it is stunning!! I really enjoyed this book with fantasy, romance and folklore. Aia is a geisha and at by chance she meets Nen, the guard of the king that comes to visit. The story unfolds as when unexplained things happen. Nen is there for Aia….and you are enveloped into this fantasy world of beings. I love the power of love between Nen and Aia. This story is different, intriguing and I would love to see more of Nen and Aia in their journey together. 🌟🌟🌟🌟 4 stars!

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Doctor D’s Orderly Affair (Doctors of Eastport General) by C.A. King – Review by Kay Stritesky

Doctor D's Orderly AffairDoctor D’s Orderly Affair by C.A. King
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This was a fun read and easy to relate to! The characters were relatable and the story line was one everyone knows. I believe there is a transition towards the end that could have used more back story but overall the author does a good job of bringing readers into the story!

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Daire’s Devils (Daire’s Devils Series Book 1) by Danielle Ackley-McPhail – Review by Mandy Ott

Daire's DevilsDaire’s Devils by Danielle Ackley-McPhail
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Daire’s Devils was not in my normal genre of reading, and have not read anything before by this author, but I am so impressed. Danielle Ackley-McPhail creates a wonderful mix of characters that are realistic and relatable. The reader can’t help fall in love with the comradery and quick humor between the characters. There is also great works building, much of that world created in space. There is a lot of information in the book concerning characters and other information, and that sometimes muddled the story a bit, but it is all relevant and useful to the story itself. Overall, Daire’s Devils is a great, fast-paced read full of twists and turns, drama, but also friendship. I look forward to reading more from this author in the future!

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A Spider in the Garden by Courtney Davis – Review By Rachel Moss

A Spider in the GardenA Spider in the Garden by Courtney Davis
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This was an interesting read! Not the kind of story I was expecting, even with reading the synopsis. It was an entertaining story with various threads of suspense, crime, action and other elements woven throughout the story. While I enjoyed reading this one it wasn’t my favorite. I felt like I had some trouble getting into the story and staying enthralled. It was hard for me to escape during this book. I liked the characters and it was a very unique (in my humble opinion) spin on shifters but I just had trouble concentrating with this one. I wouldn’t be opposed to reading from this author again in the future and maybe I’ll like the next one just a little better!

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A Bride for Noah (Brides of Broken Arrow) by Cheryl Wright – Review by Sarah Vanscoy

A Bride for Noah (Brides of Broken Arrow #1)A Bride for Noah by Cheryl Wright
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

A Bride for Noah (Brides of Broken Arrow Book 1) written by Cheryl Wright is a very cute historical novella. After the death of his father, Noah discovers that in order to inherit the land, he must be married. Mary, living in horrible conditions with her uncaring father, agrees to a marriage of convenience contract to Noah in order to escape. The story follows them as their relationship develops, allowing the reader to wonder if the marriage will last after the contract is up. This was a very clean and heartwarming story. I look forwarding to reading more from this author!

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The Worry Knot by Mary Bleckwehl – Review by Elizabeth Sanchez

The Worry KnotThe Worry Knot by Mary Evanson Bleckwehl
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I loved the Worry Knot. I thought it would be good for my middle schooler, but wanted to read it myself first, and make sure it was appropriate for her age. It is rated as a 10-18 year old range, but I have in my 30s and loved it. The book focus’s on Rourke, a 7th grader with a big heart. He cares so big for others, it causes him to constantly have a “knot of worry” in the pit of his stomach. The ending had me in near tears, but I love the meaning behind the story. It lets us know how life can be for kids, when the have the weight of the world on their shoulders. Rourke is faced with even more hardship, having a sibling with special needs, and friends with heavy problems of their own. I highly recommend this book for middle and high school, as well as adults. I really enjoyed it, and will look for more from this author.

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Reviewed by @way2gosmartguy

Doctor D’s Orderly Affair (Doctors of Eastport General) by C.A. King – Review by Robin Rankin

Doctor D's Orderly AffairDoctor D’s Orderly Affair by C.A. King
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Doctor D’s Orderly Affair

I enjoyed this book.  There were some laugh outnloud moments that I still chuckle about when I think about them and not a lot of angsty drama which fit with these characters and made me like it that much more.

Emily is way too serious for such a young woman but also reminded me if my daughter who is also Emily.  Very focused on school and achieving goals.  It must be the name.

Desmond was really put in a tough spot with his family and that made me mad.  That was so not fair of any of them to be that way.

This was a fast read but worth the time spent.

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Road Rage (Outlaw Series Book 4) by Katrina Kantas – Review by Jacque Flynn

Road Rage (OUTLAW, #4)Road Rage by Karina Kantas
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Motorcycle clubs are a tough life choice for women apparently. I know nothing about motorcycles, but the bikes described sounded extreme. Gemma made bad choices and had a lot of bad things happen to her. Yet, she’s still kind hearted, has a strong will and is protective of her loved ones. I’m so happy she was able to finally find someone to help her get through it and give her a happy ending.

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Divine Vintage by Sandra L. Young – Review by Bobbi Wagner

Divine VintageDivine Vintage by Sandra L. Young
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I enjoyed this historical mystery. This is a newer author for me which I enjoyed her writing style and attention to details. I enjoyed being pulled into the story by the characters. They are connectable and engaging. I enjoyed how they brought the story to life and made the story fun and entertaining to read. This is a well written story about Tess and Trey. They find themselves in the middle of trying to find a murderer. As their list of suspects grows, so does their relationship. I enjoyed their chemistry and growth throughout the story. This is a great suspenseful story that is fast paced and hard to put down. It is worth the pick up and I highly recommend it.

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Review by @bjwagner

Divine Vintage by Sandra L. Young – Review by Sarah Young

Divine VintageDivine Vintage by Sandra L. Young
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

What a powerful and timeless romance. Tess owns a vintage dress store and meets Esther, a sweet older lady, who asks her to come model a vintage bridal piece at a fundraiser. Trey is her handsome grandson. He will be wearing the groom’s tuxedo. Somehow, the house has a sad mystery and Tess channels the primary participant. Bam, we now have a romantic suspense. She wants to prove that the “killer” didn’t do it. She enlists Trey’s help in more ways than one. Terrific paranormal plotline. I love the characters. We have homeless fights in the town going on (do we get rid of them or let them stay). Issues from any town. Makes the story feel real. Esther and her friends are cute. The plot twists are great. I love how the memories are blended in and not choppy. I highly recommend for anyone. Click that buy button. You’ll be happy you did.

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Road Rage (Outlaw Series Book 4) by Katrina Kantas – Review by Edie Kelleher

Road Rage (OUTLAW, #4)Road Rage by Karina Kantas
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

A extremely fast paced MC romance. Emotional and intense, this book gave me more then I was expecting – MC romances can go either way for me, but I really felt the author delivered. Action, Romance, Drama, Chemistry, Suspense makes for a great read. Overall, well written and I would definitely recommend.

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Doctor D’s Orderly Affair (Doctors of Eastport General) by C.A. King – Review by Edie Kelleher

Doctor D's Orderly AffairDoctor D’s Orderly Affair by C.A. King
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

A enjoyable short and sizzling read! Romance, Chemistry and Drama- everything you want in a contemporary romance read. Emily and Dr Desmond were likable characters and the author did a great job at forming a palpable connection between them. I also enjoyed the hospital side to the story, felt very believable and added a extra reason to keep turning those pages.

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Doctor D’s Orderly Affair (Doctors of Eastport General) by C.A. King – Review by Karyn Taylor

Doctor D's Orderly AffairDoctor D’s Orderly Affair by C.A. King
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

At 124 pages, I was able to devour this novella in one sitting. I had read work by this author before and knew I’d be in for an enjoyable read. This is the first book in a new series and if this first book is anything to go by, then it’s a series I’m going to really enjoy.
Although a novella, the author manages to pack quite a bit of content into this entertaining read. It also has scenes that will seriously tug at the heartstrings.
Set in a hospital in recent times, this book also tackles the subject of the present pandemic affecting the world.
In addition to that, I loved the two main characters. Dr D himself, Des has been burned by having a fling with a colleague before and has sworn off having a workplace romance but that’s before he meets orderly Emily. That would be Emily who has named her new vibrator Dr D! This leads to some very funny scenes.
I really enjoyed reading about the shenanigans of those working at Eastport General and look forward to seeing what the author has in store for them next.

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The Ghastly Gumball by Naomi Valkyrie – Review by Lorrene Huisman

The Ghastly GumballThe Ghastly Gumball by Naomi Valkyrie
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This was a great read! I am a huge fan of the author! I seriously love their work, but this one was a different take I found, and it was a damn good read. It had the humor and the craziness I truly live for! If you have never read this author before, you must for sure read this book by them!

Lockwood King was a treat for the visual of your mind. The way they were written, really gave the story the funny moments as well as the laugh out loud ones, and those moments where you raise an eye brow and wonder did I just read that kind of thing. There was never a dull moment in reading this one. I had a lot of fun, and reading this in one sitting was a perfect way to start my day!

Thank you to this wonderful author for such an amazing book. I do highly recommend this book, it is a fast read but for sure an enjoyable one. One that you can go back and easily read again! I most certainly recommend the author as well with no doubt. Freaking amazing author and writing!

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The Worry Knot by Mary Bleckwehl – Review by Angelina Frazzini

The Worry KnotThe Worry Knot by Mary Evanson Bleckwehl
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is the first book I’ve read by this author but I was pleasantly surprised. This would be a good book for middle school kids. This was a good read!

Rourke has many worries just like the rest of us. He feels like he has so much to worry about including making sure his older brother isn’t being bullied but also regular worries like whether he will make any friends. I think as adults with our own worries, we forget how stressful it can be as a kid. This would be a good read for kids too so they can see that they aren’t alone and they aren’t the only ones who struggle. I think this would be a good book for any kid to relate to.

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A Spider in the Garden by Courtney Davis – Review By Jamie Zabolotney

A Spider in the GardenA Spider in the Garden by Courtney Davis
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I really enjoyed this book! This author was a first for me but I can say with certainty that it will not be the last book of hers that I will read. I found the writing and story line to be fast paced and very entertaining and the characters relatable.

Aranha is the last of her kind, a spider shape shifter. Being one of a kind can prove to be very lonely. Enter Jonas, her adopted werewolf son who helps to give her life a bit of purpose and companionship. They thought having each other was all they would need until Dag, a daywalker, entered the picture.

This book was a rollercoaster for me and I didn’t want it to end. I hope this series has many more to come!

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Midnight Masquerade (The Brightly Sisters Book 1) by Halley Larkin – Review by Netania Lim

Midnight Masquerade (The Brightley Sisters #1)Midnight Masquerade by Halley Larkin
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

It’s been a minute since I read a historical romance but I really enjoyed this one. And I liked that while it’s a Regency romance, it also brings in Russian aristocracy. You feel for the characters, especially Charmaine, who seems to be caught between her desires and her social responsibilities as well as her responsibilities to her sisters’ wellbeing. There’s plenty of intrigue and pining, but Charmaine and her sisters are also pretty unconventional, which was really enjoyable to read. If you like Bridgerton, this is the book for you!

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Road Rage (Outlaw Series Book 4) by Katrina Kantas – Review by Angela Hayes

Road Rage (OUTLAW, #4)Road Rage by Karina Kantas
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

 

 

Road Rage is the fourth book in the OUTLAW series by Karina Kantas. This is a story full of tension and intrigue, woven through a dark MC romantic suspense that had me wondering about the outcome right from the beginning. This isn’t my first book from Ms. Kantas, but it is probably my favourite, so far.
With intensity, emotion, interesting characters and storyline, a fast pace, MC politics, danger, violence, drama, chemistry, spice, betrayal, and more- this book made for a bit of a thrill-ride!
There were moments where the story slowed down or lagged a bit, and parts where I would have like to have seen just a little more detail and development- but this didn’t detract too much from my overall enjoyment of the story.
Happy Reading!

Thank you, Karina Kantas!

 

Reviewed by @angelahayes

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A Spider in the Garden by Courtney Davis – Review By Heather Goodman

A Spider in the GardenA Spider in the Garden by Courtney Davis
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

When I first started to read this book I expected it to be along the same line as other paranormal books but it completely surprised me. It’s very interesting to see other characters besides vampires and werewolves. This book draws you in from the first chapter and keeps giving you twist and turns until the very end. You will not be disappointed after reading this one.

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A Spider in the Garden by Courtney Davis – Review By Ember Daley

A Spider in the GardenA Spider in the Garden by Courtney Davis
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I don’t even know where to start. This book was beyond good, and honestly one of my favorites I’ve read so far this year. This is my first book I’ve read written by this author and I’m invested. I really hope to see more for this series.

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Seven Strengths: A Tale from Turaset (The Industrial Age) by P.L. Tavormina – Review by Jenni Bishop

Seven Strengths: A Tale from TurasetSeven Strengths: A Tale from Turaset by P.L. Tavormina
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

3.5 stars

This is a coming-of-age a Sci Fi dystopian novella and is the prequel to The Industrial Age trilogy. It is a futuristic tale set on other planets. It soon becomes known that not all is as it seems. Climate change crisis, pollution and technology cause damage and large corporations are out for themselves. To that end they will hunt those who have different abilities that may hinder their desired outcome. It is a dangerous enemy and one who will stop at nothing to win. Drama, political agendas, struggles, science, genetic modifications, greed and fortune are all things that this tale has that make it thought provoking.

Reviewed by @jennadb

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Reverence of a Ronin by Bree M. Lewandowski – Review by Jenni Bishop

Reverence of a RoninReverence of a Ronin by Bree M. Lewandowski
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

3.5 stars

As lovely as this haunting historical fantasy was if this book was longer, I think it would have reached its full potential. Having said that the story gives you a look at ancient Japan and trying to incorporate Western ways and their own traditions as history and fantasy meet.
The story is unique as Geishas, warlords, culture, legends, mythology, and folktales become reality. The world building descriptions make you feel as though you have been transported to mid-1800’s Japan.
This book is a quick read and is worth checking out.

 

Reviewed by @jennadb

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The Traveler: Book 2 by Deborah Dugan – Review by Jenni Bishop

The Traveler: Book 2The Traveler: Book 2 by Deborah Dugan
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is the authors second book, and it is just as good as the first one. It is a Sci Fi fantasy story that Sci Fi fans will enjoy. The authors creative visual is unusually different and uniquely quirky and different, but it works. It is not just a story it is an experience. The tale is original, and it captivates it audience. The Traveler is a fascinating character. It is a timeless ancient being. This is imaginative storytelling whilst exploring a great unknown. Once again, her passion shines through for this genre in her writing.
The Traveler has a lot to share and those he meets have a lot to learn.

Reviewed by @jennadb

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A Spider in the Garden by Courtney Davis – Review By Lisa Helmick

A Spider in the GardenA Spider in the Garden by Courtney Davis
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I was hesitant about this story. But I love vampire stories so I gave it a try. I was so glad I did! What is in here is a wonderful story with characters that make the reader care and worry about them. I am completely surprised how much I love this story! The writing is smooth and easy to follow along. I was pleased with the movement of the story.

The characters are down to earth and realistic…to an extent. I enjoyed learning about the life of Aranha and the hardship she has endured. When she collects her adopted son, I couldn’t have been happier for both of them. Dag was a surprise and I enjoyed him and his friends.

Overall this story surprised me and made me look forward to diving back into it after a long day. I wouldn’t hesitate to read another by this author.

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Daire’s Devils (Daire’s Devils Series Book 1) by Danielle Ackley-McPhail – Review by Dawn Daughenbaugh

Daire's DevilsDaire’s Devils by Danielle Ackley-McPhail
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

5 Stars
Daire’s Devils (Daire’s Devils Series Book 1) by Danielle Ackley-McPhail

Daire’s Devils is the first book in the Daire’s Devils series. This is a Military/Sci-Fi that has lots if adventure packed with action. I was pulled in from the beginning and had a hard time putting it down. It was a perfect snow day read. I’m a fan of this author and have reaf several other books by her and this one is definitely going on my favorites list. The storyline was easy to follow and the characters are fun and relatable. It’s a fast paced story that is packed full of action. The Daire’s Devils are a special ops team whom is ready to defend their colony from an invasion. Be careful who trust you never know they could be the enemy and you not know it.I highly recommend reading this book to find out what happens next? I can’t wait to read more from this series and author.

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Whatever Tomorrow Brings (Embrace Tomorrow Duet Book 2) by Amy Argent – Reviewed by Dr. Anya Schultz

Whatever Tomorrow Brings (Embrace Tomorrow #2)Whatever Tomorrow Brings by Amy Argent
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Once again I thought this author was able to portray the heartache of reality built together with the ideas of love, hope, and perseverance. In the first book, it leaves you off in a place of fight – fighting to be alive, fighting the will to want to live, and fighting the emotions that come with struggles of cancer. At the beginning of this book, Will has chosen to fight to live, with Tori by his side. This will not be an easy journey and while both of them have their doubts about success, they decide to fight to win a life lived together. Without giving too much away, Will does make it home after extreme chemo and a stem cell transplant. While he does make it home, it doesn’t mean that survival is guaranteed. The story walks you through how Tori, along with others that love him, takes care of Will, both physically and mentally. We see the realistic and sometimes negative effects of recuperation such as low self-esteem, guilt, caregiver burden, and many other weaknesses. However, through these weaknesses, Tori finds ways to provide him dignity and ways of still feeling like a man. And day by day, you can see the shift in Tori as a caregiver, to becoming a full, equal partner in a loving relationship.

One thing I love most about this duet is the realistic nature of the story. In my previous review of the first book I mentioned that I have a daughter with Cystic Fibrosis and have been her caretaker for 10 years. As I read, I understood all of the feelings that were being portrayed, for both characters. I believe that having a healthy relationship between reality, optimism, and hope – it provides the best combination for fighting and resilience. Do we falter along the way, of course, but if you have a foundation to work from you can always find your way back to success. Will at the beginning didn’t have this foundation, but with Tori’s help ended up finding it in the end. The book portrays this balance very well and could provide a foundation for someone going through a difficult time but hasn’t found that balance yet.

Lastly, what I was most surprised by was the romance aspect throughout the book. Even in these situations I found them not only to be very steamy, but honest. Again the author has a skill for blending insecurities and reality, but still making me blush. The descriptions of these scenes had me picturing everything so clearly in my imagination – this is how I know I love a writer and a book. The characters just possessed and showed so much true love between the two of them that nothing was off limits, limitations could be erotic, and there are just some things that are worth the wait. I really love that I have found this duet series and look forward to reading other things the author has put out.

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Road Rage (Outlaw series Book 4) by Karina Kantas – Review by Erica Shoebridge

Road Rage (OUTLAW, #4)Road Rage by Karina Kantas
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

TW: Domestic violence and SA

A high-octane story with lots of danger and excitement. Gemma is unable to resist the siren call of the hot new MC, Rage. She loves to drive fast and live large, and protection and respect that comes with being a member of a powerful brotherhood. The motorcycle races that the club sets up for her are thrilling, and leave her breathless for more. But as the stakes get higher, and emotions run high, Gemma’s increasingly angry and risky driving puts her in danger. She’s also gained an enemy or two who want to see her dead. Will the club be the family she is seeking, and be able to stop those who wish her harm?

This story is fast-paced, exciting, and action-heavy. I found it to be well-written, and easy to imagine myself in the thick of the action. I was a bit disturbed by some of the violence, particularly towards Gemma, and the sexual expectations that some people had of her being a woman in that world. However, she is a strong character, and navigated these with aplomb. A gritty, dangerous read.

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Divine Vintage by Sandra L. Young

-ˏˋ♥̩͙♥̩̩̥͙♥̩̥̩ ⑅ BOOK SPOTLIGHT SHOWCASE ⑅ ♥̩̥̩♥̩̩̥͙♥̩͙ˊˎ
Divine Vintage by Sandra L. Young
Genre – Romance, Historical Mystery, Paranormal
Page Count – 294
Cover Designer – Diana Carlile
Tess Burton is always up for an adventure. She’s risked her inheritance to open Divine Vintage, a clothing boutique. While modeling an elegant gown from an Edwardian-era trousseau, her mind is opened to a century-old murder. Visions–seen through the eyes of the murdered bride–dispute local lore that claims the bridegroom committed the crime. Trey Dunmore doesn’t share Tess’ enthusiasm for mind-blowing visions, yet the appeal to clear his family’s tainted legacy compels him to join her in exploring the past. Aided by the dead woman’s clothing and diary, Tess and Trey discover that pursuing love in 1913 was just as thorny as modern-day. As the list of murder suspects grows, the couple fears past emotions are influencing, and may ultimately derail, their own blossoming intimacy.

~ AMAZON ~ BARNES & NOBLE ~

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Sandra L. Young’s love of vintage fashion inspired her to write her debut novel, Divine Vintage. She’s gathered an impressive collection spanning the late 1800s to 1980s, wearing pieces onstage through years of performing in community theater. She also sports it out on the town for special occasions. To round out her love of the arts, Sandra sings with a trio, a praise band, and at karaoke nights. She draws from these experiences in her writing, as well as her work focus in communications and nonprofit management.

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