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A Miracle In Muffin: A True Story by Darlene Duemo – Review by Katie Kearney

A Miracle In Muffin: A True StoryA Miracle In Muffin: A True Story by Darlene Duemo
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is a very warm hearted story about believing in faith and the great unknowns. This is a cute book to read slightly older kiddos maybe in Sunday school or something. I really like the illustrations, the book isn’t full of them but the ones it has are beautiful. It’s a quick read great for a lesson in faith and believing. Well written and Lovely pictures. Four stars and highly recommended.

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Deceptively Yours (Titans of Chicago Series) by Anise Storm – Review by Robin Rankin

Deceptively Yours (Titans of Chicago, #1)Deceptively Yours by Anise Storm
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Deceptively Yours (Titans of Chicago Book 1)

She has done it once again. I started this book just before going to bed. Laid in bed reading and before I knew it I was almost half done with the book.

Harper breaks my heart. She has such a happy young life. Parents are happy, is with the boy of her dreams, school is going well and overall she’s happy until she isn’t after some world altering news.

Gabriel is the next generation of the Chicago Titans, while we don’t know the first generation at this point I have a feeling we will get to know them through their kids.

I have read several books by Ms. Storm over the past years and she has yet to disappoint me. She is an instant click as soon as I see her name and will continue to click without thought.

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Perfect Office Pact (Perfect Romance Series) by Maria Jane – Review by Carla Clemmons

Perfect Office PactPerfect Office Pact by Maria Jane
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I love this author’s writing style so I was very excited to jump into this romance! I really enjoyed this enemies to lovers romance. Mira is just starting out in her new job and is already not excited about her office mate. Then she meets her boss and he is also someone from her past. When a line is crossed Mira uses it to her advantage to get a leg up. I mean who can blame her. It was so easy to get into this story and will keep you turning pages to see what happens next. You don’t have to read all of the books in order either. I definitely recommend reading the others as they are really great reads!

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Beach Ball Blunder (The Adventures of Cray Series) by G Pa Rhymes – Review by Katie Kearney

Beach Ball Blunder (The Adventures of Cray on the Bay)Beach Ball Blunder by G Pa Rhymes
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

While this one may be for slightly older than my almost two year old we still loved it. He was very interested in the picture ms throughout this story always stopping me so he could have a good look at everything. As a momma I really liked to lesson to be learned within the story. I think these books are great for kiddos. Nice and easy to read with wonderful illustrations to engage kids. Short and sweet with wonderful characters. My young one may not quite understand the lesson behind the story just yet, but he was mesmerized with the are working and we’ll definitely be keeping this one to read more times as he get old enough to understand the lesson later on. Five stars and highly recommended.

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Vacation Flirtation…or More? (Winter Getaway Romance Series) by Stacey Komosinski – Review by Robin Rankin

Vacation Flirtation...or More? (Winter Getaway Romance Book 1)Vacation Flirtation…or More? by Stacey Komosinski
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Vacation Flirtation…or More? (Winter Getaway Romance Book 1)

What a cute book in a glorious location. I could imagine myself on the beach and have decided my friend and I need to take a trip like this.

Giuliana’s annual trip with her best friend Morgan is exactly what anyone living in the cold would need during the winter. Mother Nature has different ideas and delays Morgan so Giuliana is on her own at first.

That changes quickly on her flight over when she meets Landon who is heading down for business.

I enjoyed everything from the way they met to the very end. Definitely worth it and can’t wait to see more by this new to me author.

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Fade into the Night (Philly Heat Series) by Becky Flade – Review by Shannen Kern

Fade Into the Night (Philly Heat series, #5)Fade Into the Night by Becky Flade
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I have been following this series closely, waiting for the next book, so once I saw it I grabbed it up immediately! After cancelling my day, I got lost in the Philly Heat series world. You can read this as a standalone, but you will end up getting the rest of the series because it’s remarkable! We get to follow Noah and Sadie through this story, and they may be my favorites in all of the books. I was fully invested from the first page as the author expertly crafts another suspenseful tale to keep us on the edge of our seats. Just when I thought I had everything pinned down, they threw another twist at you, then a turn right after that. I loved every moment of it! The multiple points of view is something I also enjoy in a book as it helps you get into each character’s mindset and experience the story a little deeper. The chemistry between Sadie and Noah feels natural, and the flow of the story is flawless. If you’re looking for a suspenseful read with a bit of romance thrown in, this is the one for you because there are plenty of scary things throughout this book! I can’t wait to see what this author has up their sleeve next because I am SO ready for it!

Reviewed by @shannlynn

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Test of the Four: Book Two of The Serrulata Saga by A.E. Bennett – Review by Carla Clemmons

Test of the Four (The Serrulata Saga, #2)Test of the Four by A.E. Bennett
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I cannot wait for book 3 and I only just finished book 2! This book picks up where book 1 left off so I definitely recommend reading them in order but you don’t have to. I love the world building and character growth in this one. And they even have a few steamy parts! This one is filled with action, drama, tension, mystery and so much more. You do get to read from multiple POV’s which I always enjoy. You get some questions answered from book 1 but more questions arise in this one. I am super excited to see where the author takes us in this series!

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Beautiful Dangerous (Philly Heat Series Book 4) by Becky Flade – Review by Shannen Kern

Beautiful Dangerous (Philly Heat series, #4)Beautiful Dangerous by Becky Flade
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

If you haven’t read anything from this author, do yourself a favor and pick this up! Although this is the fourth book in the Philly Heat series, you can absolutely read it as a standalone. I find myself hoping this author continuously releases books because they always surprise me! We get to read about Hannah and Doyle in this installment, and they both stole my heart right away. Emotions run high in this book as Hannah’s brother was tragically murdered, and Doyle is looking to do all he can to protect her from harm. I loved seeing their relationship evolve and the chemistry between them is electrifying! As with the previous books, I devoured this in one day because it’s a story you simply can’t stop in the middle of. It’s fast-paced, the tension is high, and the characters are divine. I highly recommend picking this book up without hesitation, and you’ll soon see why I rave about this author. Set aside your chores for the day, grab some tea, and get cozy because you’re in for a suspenseful nonstop read!

Reviewed by @shannlynn

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

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

Wow! I am continually blown away by this author’s amazing creations! This is the third book in the Philly Heat Series, but you can definitely read it as a standalone. I have a feeling you’ll be running to pick up the rest of the series afterward! It took me a little bit to find my groove in the story, but once I did, I couldn’t put it down. One of my favorite parts of this book is the characters. They are strong, unique, quirky and all over relatable. The book itself has plenty of tense situations, danger, suspense, and romance. What would you do if you uncovered a serial killer’s secrets? That’s the big question here. I won’t give anything away but do yourself a favor and get lost in this thrilling romantic suspense this afternoon. You’ll be glad you did! This author comes with a very high recommendation from me!

Reviewed by @shannlynn

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Fall to Pieces by Becky Flade – Review by Shannen Kern

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

This is the second book in the Philly Heat Series although you can read it as a standalone. It is simply phenomenal! I devoured this book in one day because I had no choice. I couldn’t put it down, I was addicted. The author has vaulted to the top of my watch list, and I’ll be picking up any and everything they release. This is a fast-paced story that will hook you from the beginning and never let go. After reading the synopsis and knowing it will include determination to bring a child killer to justice, you know it will be captivating. Emotions ran high and I’m not ashamed to admit that I shed tears here and there in some parts, but I won’t spoil any part of this marvelous book. Getting to know Lexi and Xavier and being wrapped up in their world was exhilarating to say the least. The characters were incredibly well-developed, and the plot has nothing missing. I highly recommend this book even if it isn’t your normal genre because I think you’ll fall for the author’s writing!

Reviewed by @shannlynn

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A Love Restrained by Becky Flade – Review by Shannen Kern

A Love Restrained (Philly Heat series, #1)A Love Restrained by Becky Flade
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

What an amazing start to the series! This is the first book in the Philly Heat Series and my first story from this author altogether. I have to say that I TRULY enjoyed the differing points of view throughout the entire book. Kylee and Jayson seem to personify the saying of “opposites attract” because they have had quite different childhoods. She is a police officer with the mindset of everyone and everything fits into a box. But will Jayson help her see that not everything can be that straightforward? This book caught me by surprise several times with the twists and turns the author has cleverly placed. If you are looking for an amazing romantic suspense read, this should absolutely be your next book!

Reviewed by @shannlynn

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Magic Wanda (Grandma’s Closet) by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Anantha Rusum

Magic WandaMagic Wanda by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

There are so many wonderful things hidden in Grandma’s closet and Carrie keeps opening them one after another. This time, she picks up a wooden flower, these are magical flowers which do not like to be wet. Carrie seeks grandma’s advice but grandma wants her to explore on her own.
More than the magic itself, it is a beautiful bond between the grandma and the granddaughter which are a highlight of this story. The illustrations can be a little better . But the overall heart of the story is set in the right place. Children will love this story.

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Vacation Flirtation…or More? (Winter Getaway Romance Series) by Stacey Komosinski – Review by Shannen Kern

Vacation Flirtation...or More? (Winter Getaway Romance Book 1)Vacation Flirtation…or More? by Stacey Komosinski
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This was such a fun book to read on my lazy Saturday! It is a pretty quick read, but it doesn’t feel rushed at all which I love. I wouldn’t mind if it was longer, but that’s just because I love it so much, not because the author skimped on details. I laughed out loud more than a handful of times which is a super big bonus for me! Giuliana felt completely relatable, and Landon is such a dreamy heartthrob. I can’t wait to read more from this author, they gained a loyal follower for sure! If you like romance, witty banter, and wonderful characters, this should be your next read without question!

Reviewed by @shannlynn

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Perfect Office Pact (Perfect Romance Series) by Maria Jane – Review by Shannen Kern

Perfect Office PactPerfect Office Pact by Maria Jane
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This was such a cute office romance to read over the weekend. It’s a clean, sweet romance that was a nice break from my usual reading. This was my first book from this author, but I’ll be picking up more. It was refreshing to read about Mira and Declan as they evolved throughout the story. Mira is a strong woman that doesn’t take any guff from anyone. Declan wants to be more than just an office boss in Mira’s life. What’s more important, your career or love? It was fun to read, and though the flow of the story felt a bit jolting at times, overall, I really enjoyed the experience. If you like sweet, clean office romances, look no further!

Reviewed by @shannlynn

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Perfect Office Pact (Perfect Romance Series) by Maria Jane – Review by Aranza

Perfect Office PactPerfect Office Pact by Maria Jane
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Perfect Office Pact by Maria Jane

3.5 out of 5 stars

Really cute and fun romance. The main character are so much fun and well developed. I enjoyed reading this book. The story was interesting and easy to read. Can’t wait to read more from this author.

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Deceptively Yours (Titans of Chicago Series) by Anise Storm – Review by Shannen Kern

Deceptively Yours (Titans of Chicago, #1)Deceptively Yours by Anise Storm
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I have read other series from this author, and I can’t believe they can keep creating such magnificent stories! This is the first book in the Titans of Chicago series, and what a start it is. I loved the emotional rollercoaster twisting and turning throughout, the highs are heartwarming, and the lows are heart-wrenching. I enjoyed the flow of the story as it grabbed me from the beginning and never let go. The characters are well-developed, and I felt invested in them immediately. Harper and Gabriel start out as teenagers that are in love but are quickly dealt some devastating blows. Will they be able to recover at all? Does time really heal all wounds? I raced through this book because I needed answers, and I cannot wait for the next in this series. If you enjoy romance, suspense, and plenty of emotion, you’ll absolutely love this book!

Reviewed by @shannlynn

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Vacation Flirtation…or More? (Winter Getaway Romance Series) by Stacey Komosinski – Review by Aranza

Vacation Flirtation...or More? (Winter Getaway Romance Book 1)Vacation Flirtation…or More? by Stacey Komosinski
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Vacation Flirtation…or More? (Winter Getaway Romance Book 1) by Stacey Komosinski

Such a fun easy read. The story and characters will keep you hooked from the start. I really enjoyed the characters and could relate to them at times. Definitely a feel good happy ending book. Can’t wait for the next one.

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The Scottish Play (Polyam Fam Series) by Phoebe Alexander – Review by Kerry Baker

The Scottish Play (PolyAm Fam Book 1)The Scottish Play by Phoebe Alexander
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I was so excited to see a new series by this author and could not wait to start reading it. And this book is everything I love about this author. It is fantastic writing, brilliant characters and a story that I could not stop reading. I was hooked from the moment I started reading and loved to see how everything developed.
This author always knows how to bring different element to all of her stories and I love discovering what each new one will offer. This book is an incredible way to kick start a new series and it has made me remember exactly what I love about her books. I am really looking forward to seeing what is next for this series.

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Nessie and the Celtic Maze (Nessie’s Grotto) by Lois Wickstrom and Jean Lorrah – Review by Kerry Baker

Nessie and the Celtic Maze (Nessie, #3)Nessie and the Celtic Maze by Lois June Wickstrom
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is another fun filled adventure by a family favourite author and another book that we have read multiple times. It was great to pick up another book in this series and to revisit some familiar characters. The story is entertaining and engaging for the audience it is aimed at, which was evident from how much my kids enjoyed the story.
I always love the illustrations in this authors books. They are bright and colourful and engaging. They really make her stories come to life and grab everyone’s attention. This is book is another great addition to a library of fantastic books and I would highly recommend it.

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Vacation Flirtation…or More? (Winter Getaway Romance Series) by Stacey Komosinski – Review by Kerry Carr

Vacation Flirtation...or More? (Winter Getaway Romance Book 1)Vacation Flirtation…or More? by Stacey Komosinski
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is a standalone romcom. It would be an amazing holiday read and a part of me wished I was on a beach enjoying the sun just like our characters.
This was an instant attraction steamy romance and I loved how the author placed the character together because neither of them was looking for what hit them on the first day of that holiday.

Giuliana jets off to start her relaxing holiday with her childhood friend. She is so excited to spend some time away continuing the tradition they have had in place for years. This is a girl’s holiday no men allowed. However that all changes when her friends plane is delayed and a handsome stranger enters her life.

Landon isn’t heading to the resort for a holiday. He’s there purely for business. That is until he meets Giuliana.
Now his plans have changed and business becomes the last thing on his mind. However Landon is hiding something and if he isn’t careful he will spill everything to Giuliana which could risk what they have between them.

Would it really matter if she found out? If things end it’s not the end of the word right? Holiday romances are ment to be short lived, but what happens when it becomes something more. Something neither of them expected or could stop from happening.
This was a really entertaining read. I will definitely be taking it on holiday with me as well as it’s a proper pool side read.

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Hidden Mischief (Shattered Embrace Series) by Alyndra Quinn – Review by Tausha Treadway

Hidden Mischief: A Best Friend's Brother, Billionaire Alpha Male, Opposites Attract Romance (Shattered Embrace Book 1) (Shattered Embrace Series)Hidden Mischief: A Best Friend’s Brother, Billionaire Alpha Male, Opposites Attract Romance (Shattered Embrace Book 1) by Alyndra Quinn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Hidden Mischief (Shattered Embrace Series) by Alyndra Quinn. This is a great opposites attract story. Its the story of Ashton who is a very independent woman in all aspects of her life especially work but when she feels like she’s ready to explore the other side of her life she joins Shattered Embrace. Zach is a very successful CEO but he and his brother own and run a BDSM club. When a application for his club comes across his desk for the club and its the new hire at his company he thinks he may be just what she needs. Ashton has some trauma from a relationship previously so she’s going to need kit gloves. When she realizes Zach is her boss she is scared that will mess up the chemistry they have. Zach has never wanted to settle down but with Ashton he can see a future with her. Will she be able to let her walls down enough to start a relationship with Zach? Read this fun romance to find out!

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Nessie and the Celtic Maze (Nessie’s Grotto) by Lois Wickstrom and Jean Lorrah – Review by Jenni Bishop

Nessie and the Celtic Maze (Nessie's Grotto)Nessie and the Celtic Maze by Lois June Wickstrom
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Nessie and the Celtic Maze is the third book in Nessie’s Grotto series by Lois Wickstrom.
The covers have drawn me in each time I see these books.
Princess Sheona is in trouble and Craig and Linda must find their way from Canada to Loch Ness Ireland to help her.
In the third volume of the popular Nessie’s Grotto series, the children must penetrate a Celtic maze in order to rescue the lovely Princess Sheona.
Nessie and the Viking Gold is the delightful second magical book in the Nessie’s Grotto series. Sara Silvestris Strand once again brings the story to life with her colourful illustrations in this wonderful children’s book.
The story is aimed at children aged between 7 -12 years old and is 108 pages. Lois’s narrative makes this a fun tale that would be enjoyed by children of any age.
Join Craig and Linda on another fantastical adventure involving Nessie’s Grotto there is magic and a little bit of suspense.
Kids will love this adventure.

Reviewed by @jennadb

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A Miracle In Muffin: A True Story by Darlene Duemo – Review by Heidi Schoolman

A Miracle In Muffin: A True StoryA Miracle In Muffin: A True Story by Darlene Duemo
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

What a heart-warming true story. Her cat, Muffin, goes missing and she turns to God and prayer. The pictures are beautifully illustrated. I do not feel there is a restriction on age appropriateness, as God’s workings do not have one. This is a great teaching that God is always there when you need him. a wonderful story.

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Vacation Flirtation…or More? (Winter Getaway Romance Series) by Stacey Komosinski – Review by Megan Conley

Vacation Flirtation...or More? (Winter Getaway Romance Book 1)Vacation Flirtation…or More? by Stacey Komosinski
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Vacation Flirtation is the first installment in the Winter Getaway Romance series and can be read as a standalone. This is Giuliana and Landon’s meet-cute, whirlwind of a romance story and it is fantastic, funny, and flirty. I really enjoyed Komosinski’s writing style along with her plot development and her character development. Her characters have depth to them and are very relatable. I also really enjoyed the sub-plot of Giuliana and Morgan’s friendship (which is the whole reason Giuliana is in Turks and Caicos in the first place) and how it has matured over the years like they have. This is the definition of a slow burn but the spice is still nicely done and sprinkled throughout the book. I loved the witty banter between everyone and the emotional depth later on in the book. I’m really looking forward to reading more of the series and the author.
Reviewed by @meggs1717

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Fuller Sight by John Stone – Review by Allyson Ware

Fuller SightFuller Sight by John Stone
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I really quite enjoyed this book. I felt it was well written and the characters were well developed. It is not a standard novel that I would pick up, but I am glad I did. The only part I did not enjoy was the descriptions of all of the main characters past lives. I was overwhelmed and confused with all of that information and I feel that it did not add much to the story.

Overall, I would recommend this book to those who enjoy philosophical mysteries. It is not a long book and the storyline moves quickly. Definitely a fascinating, self reflective read.

Review by @aware
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The Scottish Play by Phoebe Alexander (Stephanie Tellas)

“Molly doesn’t date men.
Lachlan doesn’t date period.
So can they stick to the script?
Molly Rose’s final grad school project is to stage the play she wrote. How on earth did her girlfriend find the absolute perfect cast for the kilt-wearing Scotsman role? Well, he looks the part, but he knows nothing about acting. It hasn’t escaped anyone’s notice that Lachlan Adair is ruggedly handsome. Molly’s polycule insists she keep an open mind, but she hasn’t dated a man since a series of disastrous attempts in high school, and she certainly doesn’t intend to start now. Lachlan doesn’t know how he got roped into helping out with this MFA student’s thesis project, but she’s so curvy and cute. And she seems to like his accent. Apparently she has a girlfriend and lives in a house full of other freaky folks. No big deal. When the play is over, their fling will be too. Right?” Do they fall in love? Will have to read the book to find out.
Great funny characters, bit of spice with suspense and comedy. I suggest readers 18+ and older. Lots of spice. The book was entertaining, gripping, and a quick read. I give this book 4 stars.

The Rise of House Valdis (House Valdis Series) by Naomi Valkyrie – Review by Jennifer Gordon

The Rise of House Valdis (House Valdis #1)The Rise of House Valdis by Naomi Valkyrie
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Having read and enjoyed the prequel to this series and been introduced to Xenobia I was looking forward to reading this novel, and I was not disappointed. This was a real page turner with an original and intriguing storyline and great characters all of whom are a bit quirky. Xenobia arrived on Earth seven years ago and was given a new start with only her best friend Maggie knowing who she really is. However, when Maggie is beaten Xen reacts and her split-second decision leads to her true nature being exposed. Xen must choose whether to keep her secrets or decide that her chosen family is worth exposing her secrets for. I liked the multiple POV’s as it meant I felt engaged with all the main characters. I also liked how the story includes LGBTQ relationship dynamics. Whilst the setting is brought vividly to life through the descriptive narrative making me feel fully immersed in the story. Can’t wait for book two!

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Perfect Office Pact (Perfect Romance Series) by Maria Jane – Review by Jennifer Gordon

Perfect Office PactPerfect Office Pact by Maria Jane
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

An enjoyable contemporary romance with an enemy to lovers and an office romance theme. Declan Jordan is Mira Vasquez’s boss but having crossed a massive line Mira could end his career. However, Mira uses the situation to her advantage and agrees not to say anything to the board if he helps further her career. Soon Declan wants to get to know Mira on a more personal level, but to do so means breaking their pact. He would have to take a chance that Mira won’t want to end his career once she knows him better. I liked having the dual POV as it meant I felt more engaged with both main characters. The chemistry between Mira and Declan came across in the narrative and I liked how their relationship developed throughout the story. A sweet romance with plenty of humour, emotions and a bit of drama all of which kept me happily turning the pages.

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Perfect Office Pact (Perfect Romance Series) by Maria Jane – Review by Lisa Helmick

Perfect Office PactPerfect Office Pact by Maria Jane
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

This one is was rough for me. Mostly because I did not care for the actions of both characters throughout most of the book. She is very combative and he seems restrictive and obviously has some sort of issue. Just their interaction through a large portion of the book was off putting. Him secretly wanting her and she is basically clueless for years. Too many breakdowns and tantrums for the story. There is very little romance and when they do she always has her foot half way out the door. Arg! I really felt for Declan numerous times. Just with his attitude and struggles he has to go through daily but he offers hope because never seems to give up trying.

Overall this is just an okay story for me. I think I wanted more pleasant interaction as time went on between them and it just doesn’t really happen.

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Deceptively Yours (Titans of Chicago Series) by Anise Storm – Review by Jennifer Gordon

Deceptively Yours (Titans of Chicago, #1)Deceptively Yours by Anise Storm
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is a second chance at love contemporary romance with a dark element to it. I found myself engaged with the characters right from the start and the storyline kept me hooked. Harper and Gabriel were teenage sweethearts until tragedy parted them. When they meet again as adults Gabriel is still angry and hurt by Harpers actions. However, Harper has secrets, which explain why she did what she did thinking that by letting him go she could set him free. When they find that they are both in danger they can’t deny that all their old feelings are still there along with their connection. This was an emotional rollercoaster of a read and I found it to be a real page turner.

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