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Beneath the Surface (A Gray Ghost Book 3) by Amy McKinley – Review By Felicia Bates

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Beneath the Surface (Gray Ghost #3)Beneath the Surface by Amy McKinley
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Beneath the Surface (A Gray Ghost Book 3)
Amy McKinley
5 out of 5 stars

Beneath the Surface is the third book in Amy McKinley’s Gray Ghost series, the books read well as standalone stories but I would recommend reading them all just to get the most of this incredible series. Amy McKinley had me
hooked on her writing by the very first installment, she has a talent for creating fast paced stories with great characters and non stop excitement. Beneath the Surface fulfills my expectation of an action packed romantic story, and I would recommend it to anyone looking for a great read, or even a series that gets better with each book.

Review by @fnbates
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Climbing the Walls (Hart & Cole Series Book 1) by Sacha T.Y. Fortune – Review By Felicia Bates

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Climbing The Walls (Hart & Cole Book 1)Climbing The Walls by Sacha T. Y. Fortuné
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Climbing the Walls book 1 Hart & Cole Series
Sacha T.Y. Fortune
5 out of 5 stars
Climbing the Walls is a bit longer than books I’ve been reading as of late but it was well worth my time. I was drawn to this book, and new to me
author because the premise of the story seemed realistic but different than most books I read.
Honestly, Sacha T. Y Fortune did not disappoint.
Climbing the Walls kept my attention from beginning to end with characters that truly highlighted the complexities of marriage. The plot flowed well with twists and turns that took me on a rollercoaster of emotion. I’m really looking forward to reading on in the Hart & Cole series.

Review by @fnbates
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Shadow’s Keep by Meghan O’Flynn – Review By Felicia Bates

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Shadow's Keep: A NovelShadow’s Keep: A Novel by Meghan O’Flynn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Shadow’s Keep
Meghan O’Flynn
5 out of 5 stars

Shadow’s Keep is not the first book I’ve read by this author and most certainly will not be my last. My genre of choice is a good thriller and let me just say Meghan O’Flynn has writing a good thriller down to a science!
The plot twists and turns were heart pounding and I can tell you with complete honesty I did not have this one figured out.
There is so much I want to say about this book yet I am completely speechless. If you like dark, twisted, suspenseful stories then this book, this author is for you. 5 stars for sure!
Review by @fnbates

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The Memory of Us by Lisa Sorbe – Review By Felicia Bates

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The Memory of UsThe Memory of Us by Lisa Sorbe
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I’ve been hooked on Lisa Sorbe’s writing since the first page of the first book in her Prairie Tales series. Needless to say when I saw a book I haven’t read written by her I pounced without giving it a second thought.

The Memory of Us has everything I have come
to love in Lisa Sorbe’s writing. The story itself is emotional without becoming too overpowering, it is real and raw. Elena is a strong, admirable character that makes the story unforgettable.

The Memory of Us was a book that hooked me
from the start and kept my interest to the very last
line. I am looking forward to more to come from Lisa Sorbe. This is definitely another 5 star read I would highly recommend to others.

Review by @fnbates
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Heart of a Hunk: A Limited-Edition Collection of Bad Boy, Billionaire and Hunky Romance Heroes By Various Authors – Review By Felicia Bates

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Heart of a Hunk: A Limited-Edition Collection of Bad Boy, Billionaire and Hunky Romance HeroesHeart of a Hunk: A Limited-Edition Collection of Bad Boy, Billionaire and Hunky Romance Heroes by Nicole Morgan
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Heart of a Hunk: A Limited-Edition Collection of Bad Boy, Billionaire and Hunky Romance Heroes
Various Authors
4 out of 5 stars

For a while I would shy away from anthologies, there was something about a collection of shorter stories that didn’t sit right with me. Completely ridiculous thought process now that I stop to think about how anthologies have a little bit for everyone and it’s so easy to pick up and put down as you see fit.

Heart of Hunk is a great collection of stories that really vary enough to appeal to everyone. I was drawn to this particular collection because of Tamara Ferguson’s writing, it’s been something I’ve really enjoyed in the past.

Tamara Ferguson has a gift for crafting stories with characters that make you feel “at home”. They’re heartwarming and relatable with a Hallmark channel type feel to them. A Kiss Under a Blue Christmas Moon is a second chance romance that met every expectation I’ve come to have with Tamara Ferguson’s writing!

Foxxy Christmas by Allyson R. Abbott was my first read by this author but I will definitely be looking into more of her writing. The chemistry between the characters was fantastic and the storyline was fast paced but never rushed. I thoroughly enjoyed this story!

Heart of a Hunk was the perfect anthology to help me hold on to the Christmas season just a little bit longer! Definitely would recommend.

@fnbates
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The Crazy Yates by Kimberly Packard – Review By Felicia Bates

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The Crazy YatesThe Crazy Yates by Kimberly Packard
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The Crazy Yates
Kimberly Packard
5 out of 5 stars

The Crazy Yates by Kimberly Packard is the perfect novella to curl up and read surrounding the holidays! Despite being short, the story packs a punch with great characters with depth. I really enjoyed Callie, the strong writing and emotion throughout the novella made me feel like she was one of my close friends. I would give this book 5 stars and encourage anyone to give it a go. It’s really a heartwarming read!
Review by @fnbates

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Awakening of a Soul Keeper (Prequel to the Soul Keepers Series) by Brienne Dubh – Review By Felicia Bates

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Awakening Of A Soul Keeper - Prequel to the Soul Keeper SeriesAwakening Of A Soul Keeper – Prequel to the Soul Keeper Series by Brienne Dubh
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Awakening of a Soul Keeper (Prequel to the Soul Keeper Series)
Brienne Dubh
5 out of 5 stars

I love a good vampire book but I’m also pretty particular about how I like my vampires to be written, I want a unique story that still stays true to your “typical” vampire tendencies. I thought that Brienne Dubh crafted a fantastic book that exceeded my expectations and I’m incredibly curious to see how this series plays out. I feel like like a prequel is so crucial to determining whether a series is “worth it” or not, especially with no prior knowledge of the author’s writing style. This was my first book I’ve read by Brienne Dubh and the fast paced storyline with strong, well built characters tells me it won’t be my last. This book leaves you needing more, not in the lacking sense but in the anticipatory sense!
5 stars for this book and definitely adding Brienne Dubh to my authors to watch out for list!

Review by @fnbates

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The Progeny Assassin: A Tarnished Lands Story (Forgotten Woods Book 2) by P.A. Wikoff – Review By Felicia Bates

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The Progeny Assassin: A Tarnished Lands Story (Forgotten Woods Book 2)The Progeny Assassin: A Tarnished Lands Story by P.A. Wikoff
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The Progeny Assassin: A Tarnished Lands Story
(Forgotten Woods Book 2)
P.A Wikoff
4 out of 5 stars

The Progeny Assassin is the second book of PA Wikoff’s Forgotten Woods series. While I don’t necessarily think you need to read the first book in the series to follow along with this book’s storyline, I enjoyed having read the first book prior.
The Progeny Assassin is one of those books that transports you to another time and place until the story is over. The description in PA Wikoff’s writing is impressive, it’s dark and captivating all at once. The characters in this book are as unique and exciting as is the twisting storyline!
I’ve always considered myself to be someone that wasn’t a fan of fantasy type reads but as of late I’ve really been exploring the genre more.
This book and really the Forgotten Woods series has truly captured my attention. I look forward to reading more from PA Wikoff.

Review by @fnbates

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The Confectioner’s Truth (Confectioner Chronicles Book 3) by Claire Luana – Review By Felicia Bates

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The Confectioner's Truth (Confectioner Chronicles Book 3)The Confectioner’s Truth by Claire Luana
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The Confectioner’s Truth
Confectioner Chronicles Book 3
Claire Luana
4 out of 5 stars

As I likely mentioned in my reviews of the first two books in this trilogy, this series is meant to be read in sequential order. Each book ties in well with the storyline of the book before it, picking up where we left off.
I really enjoyed this series as a whole, I don’t read this genre too often but every now and then a book will catch my eye. The Confectioner’s Chronicles truly surpassed my expectations, I enjoyed the series from each cover to the conclusion. There was never a shortage of excitement, twists and turns to keep you on the edge of your seat. Wren was a great character with depth and I enjoyed seeing the character progression throughout the series.
It’s difficult to share the aspects of this book I really enjoyed without running the risk of spoiling anything. That being said, I felt like the Confectioner’s Truth wrapped up the Chronicles very well and I wasn’t left disappointed. Claire Luana has crafted must read series for sure!

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The Confectioner’s Coup (Confectioner Chronicles Book 2) by Claire Luana – Review by Felicia Bates

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The Confectioner's Coup (Confectioner Chronicles, #2)The Confectioner’s Coup by Claire Luana
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The Confectioner’s Coup (Confection Chronicles Book 2)
Claire Luana
4 out of 5 stars

As if I wasn’t already invested in this series after the first book, The Confectioner’s Coup has me hooked and looking forward to reading more. I have really come to love Claire Luana’s style of writing, each story has so much to offer really making you feel every emotion. Not only is the storyline exciting and packed with twists and turns that kept me engaged from start to finish but the character development is also just as great. I have enjoyed learning more about Wren as the series progresses and seeing just what kind of chaos will find her next. As with the first book, The Confectioner’s Coup left me wanting more and anxious to see what is to come. Honestly looking forward to reading book number three of this unique, entertaining series.

Review by @fnbates

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Degrees of Power by Via Mari – Review By Felicia Bates

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Degrees of Power (Prestian Series, #4)Degrees of Power by Via Mari
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Degrees of Power (Prestian Series Book 4)
Via Mari
4 out of 5 stars
When I found out there were four books in Via Mari’s Prestian Series I was a bit skeptical. I feel like so many books are made into trilogies that provide you with “just enough” and that a fourth book may be “too much”. My preconceived notions were far from correct, I couldn’t get enough of Chase and Katarina.
I really enjoyed how each book picks up where the last left off with seamless continuation. Degrees of Power is no exception to this and I would recommend reading the series in order for that very reason.
Once again I am impressed with Via Mari’s ability to craft a story in not just one, but four installments that has a bit of everything. Romance, passion, drama, the list goes on. I feel like in a book series like this a relationship like Chase and Katarina’s that is constantly tried could have the potential to become redundant. This was never the case in this book or series in general. I was along for the ride through every bump, twist and curve in the plot. Overall this was a great addition to a great series. I am looking forward to reading more from Via Mari!

Review by @fnbates

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It Ends Tonight (Bayou Devils MC Book 4) by A.M. Myers – Review By Felicia Bates

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It Ends Tonight (Bayou Devils MC Book 4)It Ends Tonight by A.M. Myers
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

It Ends Tonight (Bayou Devils MC Book 4)
A.M. Myers
5 out of 5 stars

If you’re looking for a series that gets better with each book then A.M. Myers’ Bayou Devils MC Series is probably what you’re looking for. These books read well as standalone books but I would still recommend reading them all as they’re THAT good.
It Ends Tonight was a rollercoaster of emotion and surpassed all of my expectations. The connection between Lucas and Quinn is true but with every love story comes trials and tribulations. Once again A.M Myers had me on the edge of my seat wondering if we would see a happy ending and needing to know what was going to happen next.
Another great read from this author and series.

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Eastern Shore Swingers Books 1-3 (Boxed Set) by Phoebe Alexander – Review by Felicia Bates

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Eastern Shore Swingers Books 1-3 (Boxed Set)Eastern Shore Swingers Books 1-3 by Phoebe Alexander
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Eastern Shore Swingers Books 1-3 (Boxed Set)
Phoebe Alexander
5 out of 5 stars

When I picked up my first Eastern Shore Swingers novel I wasn’t sure what to expect as the subject content was somewhat new to me and outside of my comfort zone. I had read Phoebe Alexander’s writing in the past so I decided to give the series a chance and I couldn’t be happier that I did. The books within this box set are honestly some of the most entertaining, enjoyable and even emotional reads I have read in 2018. I didn’t read them all in sequential order as they are still great as stand alone books. Each story is comprised of the most relatable, honest and raw characters with their own unique past and present. I could go on forever! Do yourself a favor and grab this box set so that you have all the books in one place after you’ve been hooked by the first.

review by @fnbates

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Burning Night: where the ashes of the past awaken the future by Nikki Broadwell – Review By Felicia Bates

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Burning Night: where the ashes of the past awaken the futureBurning Night: where the ashes of the past awaken the future by Nikki Broadwell
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Burning Night: Where the ashes of the past awaken the future
Written by Nikki Broadwell
4 out of 5 stars

This is the first book I’ve read by Nikki Broadwell and I’ve heard it’s very different than her typical style of writing. I’m curious to read more of Nikki Broadwell’s work to see how diverse her writing style really is. It’s definitely a sign or a great writer if they can stray from their norm and still knock out a 4- 5 star reads.
While there is romance in this novel, I really enjoyed it as the story of a woman that is finding her self esteem and overcoming obstacles after escaping an abusive relationship. Collie is a character that you root for from the beginning to the end and the course of the story is truly gripping. I would recommend this entertaining even relatable 4 star read!

Review by @fnbates

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The Killmores (Killmore Book 2) by Martha Sweeney – Review By Felicia Bates

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The Killmores (Killmore #2)The Killmores by Martha Sweeney
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Killmores (Killmore #2)
Martha Sweeney
4 out of 5 stars

Killmores is the perfect follow up to the first book in Martha Sweeney’s Killmore series. These books aren’t meant to be read as stand alone reads, if you haven’t started from beginning of this action packed rollercoaster then I highly recommend doing that now.
I wasn’t sure what to expect from Killmores with such a strong set up of book there was no way the second would be just as captivating, action packed as the first book. Of course I was pleasantly surprised to see the series continues on without a hitch with memorable, enjoyable characters both new and old.
This is the type of book you crave reading when you don’t quite have the time, the kind you take with you anywhere “just in case” you need something to do while you wait.
Martha Sweeney is a new to me author that is officially on my radar. I look forward to reading more in the future.

Review by @fnbates

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Killmore by Martha Sweeney – Review By Felicia Bates

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Killmore (Killmore #1)Killmore by Martha Sweeney
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Killmore
Martha Sweeney
5 out of 5 stars

I have no idea how I didn’t know of Martha Sweeney’s writing prior to stumbling across Killmore. This is my first novel I’ve read by Martha Sweeney and it most certainly will not be my last (and not just because I’m dying to read the follow up book!) The very first page starts off with a bang and there are enough edge of your seat twists and turns to keep the pages turner until the very end.
When I tell you this book has everything I could ask for in a great romantic thriller, I mean it. Heart pounding suspense, danger, romance, the list goes on.
The storyline flowed very well and kept the fast pace throughout. I don’t want to spoil the story anyway but I recommend you read Killmore and see for yourself why this 5 star read made me anxious to read more of Martha Sweeney.

Review by @fnbates

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Degrees of Control (A Prestian Series Book 3) by Via Mari – Review By Felicia Bates

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Degrees of Control (Prestian Series, #3)Degrees of Control by Via Mari
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Degrees of Control (A Prestian Series Book 3)
Via Mari
5 out of 5 stars

Degrees of Control is the third installment of Via Mari’s Prestian Series and all I can really say is wow. So many series start to fizzle out by the third book but somehow this one is still hot!
I would recommend starting the series from the very beginning if you haven’t already because each story builds upon the last, picking up where the others left off. Not to mention, you wouldn’t want to miss a single plot twist.
I would have to say Degrees of Control is my favorite installment of the series thus far. Intrigue, edge of your seat suspense and even a few tears shed all while keeping up with the steamy factor of the last two books.
Once again Chase and Katarina prove to be enjoyable characters with obstacles to overcome within and outside of their relationship and to say I’m invested is an understatement. Once again Via Mari hit it out of the park and left me craving more.

review by @fnbates

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Everyday Enchantments: Musings on Ordinary Magic and Daily Conjurings By Maria F. Deblassie – Review By Felicia Bates

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Everyday EnchantmentsEveryday Enchantments by Maria F. DeBlassie
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Everyday Enchantments: Musings on Ordinary Magic and Daily Conjurings
Maria F. Deblassie
4 out of 5 stars

I try to read or listen to a form of personal development every day. While Everyday Enchantments is not a self help or personal development book and she certainly doesn’t spend the span of the book telling you how you should live, I was drawn to it because it was written to show the joy of the seemingly small things in life and centered on mindfulness. The book is comprised of essays so you can take your time indulging in the writing of you so choose.
Maria F. Deblassie’s writing style is captivating and each story almost has a calming effect. She does a great way of making you reflect upon your life and how you approach it. There is magic in the day to day but you have to choose to see it. I would give Everyday Enchantments four stars and I look forward to rereading it from time to time as well as more to come from Maria F. Deblassie.

Review by @fnbates

 

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Courage (The Sisterhood Series) by Chelsi Arnold – Review by Felicia Bates

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Courage (The Sisterhood Series #2)Courage by Chelsi Arnold
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Courage (The Sisterhood Series)
Chelsi Arnold
5 out of 5 stars

Courage is the second book in Chelsi Arnold’s Sisterhood series. It is a continuation of the first novel, Brave so I would recommend reading Brave first for the background and a solid foundation.
For the second time I am thoroughly impressed by Chelsi Arnold’s strong writing, she has the ability to make the reader feel like they are right in the midst of the action and as though each character is one of their closest friends. I am equally as impressed with the strength of each of the women in this book.
I have not read many military novels but I love how unique this series feels. So many books focus on the males in the military, it isn’t as often we see a well crafted story from the female perspective. I like that the series is set a bit in the future and is entirely realistic and thought provoking. If I were to describe Courage in one word it would truly be strong. Strong plot, strong writing, strong women, strong bond. I have loved the Sisterhood series thus far and look forward to more from Chelsi Arnold.

Review by @fnbates

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A Must For Christmas (A Darling Cove Novella) by Deborah Garland- Review By Felicia Bates

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A Must for Christmas: A Darling Cove NovellaA Must for Christmas: A Darling Cove Novella by Deborah Garland
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

A Must For Christmas: A Darling Cove Novella
Deborah Garland
5 out of 5 stars

A Must For Christmas is a different kind of edge of your seat, suspenseful story that hooked me from the very beginning. I loved being reunited with all of my favorite characters from the Darling Cove series and the element of family that these characters embody.
Faith and Gregory took me on a rollercoaster ride of emotion in this novella, through health and marital complications and really just life’s obstacles in general. Throughout the novella I found myself thinking that everything HAD to be okay, Deborah Garland wouldn’t break my heart completely. I didn’t stop reading until I found out either way, good thing this was a short read!
I don’t want to divulge too much about A Must For Christmas because it’s too great a story to spoil for you. I recommend giving this (and any Darling Cove novel) a read!

@fnbates

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Must Be Crazy (Darling Cove Book 3) by Deborah Garland – Review By Felicia Bates

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Must Be CrazyMust Be Crazy by Deborah Garland
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Must Be Crazy is the third book in Deborah Garland’s Darling Cove series and so far it’s my absolute favorite. I was drawn to the story the second I read the first page and my attention was captured throughout the entire thing. The characters are the type that you can’t help but relate to and want what’s best for them as if they’re your own close friends. It doesn’t hurt that we have met these characters in the first two books as well. The synopsis of Must Be Crazy is incredibly intriguing and I don’t want to spoil anything about the story here but I will say that this book touches every emotion, the road to happiness for Skye and Edward is anything but smooth and nothing short of entertaining.
I’ve really enjoyed the Darling Cove series as a whole but this one surpasses all my expectations. I’m looking forward to reading more from Deborah Garland in the near future but this 5 star read was definitely satisfying enough to hold me over. I highly recommend Must Be Crazy!

Review by @fnbates

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Ring Tru (Thick as Thieves Book 1) by Janice M. Whiteaker – Review By Felicia Bates

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Ring Tru (Thick as Theives Book 1)Ring Tru by Janice M. Whiteaker
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Ring Tru (Thick as Thieves book 1)
Janice M. Whiteaker
4 out of 5 stars

Ring Tru is the first book in Janice M. Whiteaker’s Thick as Thieves series and my first experience with this author’s writing in general.
I felt like Ring Tru was slow to take off but when it did I felt like the twists, turns and pace of the storyline really were perfect for the rest of the book. This turned out to be the type of story you don’t want to set down until it’s completely finished.
The synopsis and gorgeous cover work for this book roped me in pretty quickly. I’ve read suspenseful second chance romance novels before but something about this one felt like it would be different and I honestly felt that it was.
I am not necessarily a fan of second chance romance but I do love stories with danger and suspense mixed so this really hit the mark. I can’t recall reading any books with a female thief as the main character, so really Ring Tru was a refreshing, unique read.
I thought the push and pull between Tru and Will was very intriguing and felt both were really strong characters. Overall I thought that Ring Tru was a great introduction to the Thick as Thieves series and I will definitely be following along with the other books. I would even be interested in exploring more of Janice M. Whiteaker’s writing outside of this series.

Review by @fnbates

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Degrees of Acceptance (A Prestian Series Book 2) by Via Mari – Review By Felicia Bates

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Degrees of Acceptance (Prestian Series, #2)Degrees of Acceptance by Via Mari
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Degrees of Acceptance (A Prestian Series Book 2)
Via Mari
4 out of 5 stars

Degrees of Acceptance is the second book in Via Mari’s Prestian Series. This book picks up where Degrees of Innocence left off so it’s best to read the books as written in sequential order to get the true impact of the story.
Via Mari pays close attention to detail in all aspects of the story and for some this may come across as slow or stiff, especially since this book focuses a lot on the career aspect of these characters. I still find the series, especially this book in particular to be intriguing and suspenseful. I don’t want to delve too much into the plot because I don’t want to spoil the story in anyway. It is important to note for the sake of triggers there is mention of assault and rape.
Overall I enjoyed Degrees of Acceptance even more than Degrees of Innocence and in true Via Mari fashion, the book ended leaving me dying to see how the story will continue. Looking forward to more of the Prestian Series.

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Elegantly Denim: An Elegant Prelude (Elegant Series) by Tee Smith – Review By Felicia Bates

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Elegantly Denim: An Elegant Prelude (Elegant Series- Prequel)Elegantly Denim: An Elegant Prelude by Tee Smith
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Elegantly Denim: An Elegant Prequel
(Elegant series prequel)
Tee Smith
⅘ stars
Elegantly Denim is the prequel to Tee Smith’s Elegant series. The story is short but effective, starting off with excitement and holding the reader’s interest throughout. This is the kind of story you don’t want to put down until it’s finished.
I felt like Elegantly Denim did a great job giving the reader a sense of the author’s writing style and setting the tone for the series. I am not entirely sure how I feel about Denim’s character as a whole, I went back and forth about him a few time. Couple my uncertainty with the intrigue of the storyline and I am curious to see how the rest of the Elegant series unfolds. I will most definitely be reading more from Tee Smith.

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Credence Woods by Alexandria Sure – Review By Felicia Bates

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Credence WoodsCredence Woods by Alexandria Sure
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Credence Woods is the first book I’ve read by Alexandria Sure. I was really excited to see where this story would lead as I read the synopsis and the blurb about the author and felt this could be a truly relatable, heartwarming read.
I am pleased to say I wasn’t disappointed in Kennedy’s story. The book read quickly and kept me interested from start to finish. Kennedy is, much as I had hoped she would be, a relatable character. I love that throughout the book we are exposed to Kennedy’s inner dialogue, sometimes comical and other times just so real, giving us a glimpse into her insecurities and self esteem issues.
The secondary characters throughout the storyline are also fantastic, and we can’t forget Max. The relationship between he and Kennedy is truly real. I feel like I’ve used the word “real” so many times in this review, but to me that’s what this story is. It’s heartwarming with characters that have true depth, you are rooting for them all the while seeing parts of yourself in them.
I’ll definitely be looking into more of Alexandria Sure’s writing. Rumor has it there is a book prior to this one that introduced us to our leading lady, not sure how I missed that one but it’s definitely on my to be read list.

Review by @fnbates
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Sailors Knot (Eastern Shore Swingers Book 4) by Phoebe Alexander – Review By Felicia Bates

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Sailors Knot (Eastern Shore Swingers Book 4)Sailors Knot by Phoebe Alexander
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Sailors Knot (Eastern Shore Swingers Book 4)
Phoebe Alexander
5 out of 5 stars

Sailors Knot is the fourth book in Phoebe Alexander’s Eastern Shore Swingers series and could be read as a stand alone book without any confusion or taking away from the storyline as can every other book in the series. I do recommend reading the entire series because it’s honestly that good!
I have to say each book I’ve read in the series has been better than the last, and that says a lot because I have loved each book thus far. Sailor’s Knot is definitely my favorite though, I have been waiting to hear more about Casey and this doesn’t disappoint.
I love the way the book was written giving us a glimpse into Casey’s past and bringing us back to the present day and giving us every emotion along the way. While the story grabbed me from the very beginning and kept me enthralled throughout, I really loved the last few chapters and the way the book ended. I can officially say I can’t wait to see what more Phoebe Alexander has for us with the Eastern Shore Swingers series, it will be hard to beat Casey’s story.

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Do Not Open Until Halloween by C.A. King- Review By Felicia Bates

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Do Not Open Until HalloweenDo Not Open Until Halloween by C.A. King
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Do Not Open Until Halloween
C.A King
5 out of 5 stars

Do Not Open Until Halloween is not the first book I’ve read by C.A King and while I’ve enjoyed every book I have read by this author, this one is my absolute favorite so far.
This book hooked me from the very beginning as we get a glimpse into Aunt Petunia and Caitlin’s past relationship. As the story progressed I found myself lost in this magical realm and truly intrigued. As someone that has always been interested in fairies this story was truly fun and satisfying from start to finish. Being a fairly short read the pages flew by.
C.A King really knocked it out of the park with this book, but what’s just as great as the characters and unique storyline is the opportunity she took to address bullying both throughout the storyline and the written message after the book concluded.
If you like fast paced fantasy I definitely recommend this five star read.

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Small Town Hero (Small Town Brides, Book 1) by Kim Koby – Review By Felicia Bates

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Small Town Hero (Small Town Brides, #1)Small Town Hero by Kim Koby
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Small Town Hero
Kim Koby
4 out of 5 stars

Small Town Hero is my first experience with Kim Koby’s writing and it also happens to be Small Town Bride book one. I wasn’t sure entirely what to expect with this book but overall I found that I enjoyed it. I was drawn to the storyline fairly quickly, I liked how the book started with a lot of emotion and kicked off right away. While the book wasn’t slow to kick off, I did feel like it took quite some time for me to connect with Rebecca. If I’m
being honest I am still not entirely sure how I feel about her character.
As far as characters go, I did really love Ryan from the start and despite my feelings toward Rebecca, the chemistry between the two in this story was really sweet and undeniable.
Small Town Hero was short and fast paced and honestly kept me on my toes emotionally. I liked that the obstacles Ryan and Rebecca faced were realistic and relatable, really showing that “Trust was vital when it came to love.”
I would recommend Small Town Hero to anyone that enjoys short, clean romances and after the way Kim Koby ended this book I am looking forward to reading more in the series. This doesn’t have a cliffhanger ending, Kim Koby just sets us up well for who will be the next to share their
story.

Review by @fnbates
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Jesse (Glass City Hearts Book 3) by Desiree Lafawn – Review By Felicia Bates

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Jesse (Glass City Hearts Book 3)Jesse by Desiree Lafawn
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Jesse
Desiree Lafawn
⅘ stars

I am a very family oriented person and a firm believer that family is what you make of it, some of the closest families aren’t blood relatives at all.
I was already drawn to Jesse knowing it was the third book in Desiree Lafawn’s Glass Hearts Series but after reading the synopsis I was completely sold.
Jesse is a book that intrigued me from the very beginning with a touch of drama but really kept hold of me with its wholesomeness. I was really hooked from the moment Jesse and Harlow crossed paths. I truly loved both Jesse and Harlow and the uniqueness of these characters. So often (I think) the single mother in a romance is portrayed as a damsel in distress and we don’t see very many sensitive men so it was refreshing to have such relatable characters that were more “outside of the box”.
Overall Jesse is a sweet romance that touches upon families in more ways than one with the perfect amount of twists, turns and smiles along the way. Despite being part of the Glass Hearts Series Jesse reads really well as a stand alone. I am someone that gets excited when I’m reunited with characters from past stories so I recommend reading the whole series because they really are great books but you definitely don’t have to in order to love this one.

Review by @fnbates

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The Nearness of You by K.G. Fletcher – Review By Felicia Bates

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The Nearness of YouThe Nearness of You by K.G. Fletcher
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The Nearness of You
KG Fletcher
5 out of 5 stars

I thought I had recently become a really big fan of KG Fletcher’s writing, hooked on her stand alone Southern Promises series. When I stumbled across The Nearness of You it was a no brainer that I had to give this romance a chance too. As usual, I was far from disappointed but I realized just how much I was missing about KG Fletcher! What I do know is that KG Fletcher has a knack for creating characters you can’t help but love, they’re realistic, relatable and the kind of people you can’t help but root for.
What I’ve somehow been missing is KG Fletcher’s musical talent and the way she incorporates music and lyrics into her romance novels. I have always been someone that is drawn to the lyrics of a song so while I was looking over the amazing playlist from The Nearness of You and taking in the musical inspiration for Lauren and David’s story I was impressed to see a Cabernet act as well, incredible!
You didn’t come here for a review of the author so I’ll get back to the point! Lauren and David’s story gripped me from the very beginning with the realistic interaction between the two of them,
Lauren’s personality is so real you feel as though you’re just observing an old friend and KG Fletcher’s attention to detail really sets the perfect tone for this story, making you feel like you’re right in the midst of everything.
The Nearness of You is the perfect combination of romance and twists and turns in all the right places, with conflict that is realistic and writing that keeps the pages turning until the early morning hours. I swear I’ve read each of these author’s books in record time, they’re the kind you just don’t want to put down. I am looking forward to reading the last two books on my to be read list by this author and I will be highly recommending the Nearness of You next time I’m asked for a book recommendation…

Review by @fnbates

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