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Ashes (Modern-Day Fairy Tale Book 1) by MK Harkins – Review by Felicia Bates

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Ashes (Modern-Day Fairy Tale, #1)Ashes by M.K. Harkins
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I have mentioned in reviews before that I shy away from main characters in their teens because I find them immature and whiny… I suppose that’s a sign of a well written character as immaturity is part of our teen years but there is often something off putting about it. ANYWAY, MK Harkins is an author I’ve read and loved in the past so I decided to take a chance. Ashes was a fun, easy to read, modern day spin on Cinderella. I thought the characters were actually really well written with supporting characters being just as charming as the main. I feel like this author did a great job proving to me that all YA fiction is not the same and retelling a classic tell can be unique and enjoyable. I really enjoyed feeling as though I knew about and cared for the characters and I felt like I was there right in the halls or high school with the vivid imagery.
I would definitely recommend giving this book a chance for a fun escape from your day to day and I look forward to reading more.

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Stitch by Stitch by Marie-Therese Hernon – Review by Felicia Bates

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Stitch by StitchStitch by Stitch by Marie-Thérèse Hernon
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Stitch by Stitch was not as “fast moving” as I had hoped it would be, yet it managed to keep my attention from start to finish. Elizabeth as a character was real and relatable as she tried to do what was best for her kids and readjust to life. The author’s rich character development and attention to detail really made you feel like you knew the characters on a personal level. This is probably what I liked most about the novel! The author manages to pull in humor with real life scenarios all while throwing murder and the obvious mystery element without the book feeling sloppy or unreasonable.
I would definitely recommend Stitch by Stitch and hope to read more of this author in the future.

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Misfortune of Vision by Christy Nicholas- Reviewed by Felicia Bates

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Misfortune of Vision (Druid's Brooch #4)Misfortune of Vision by Christy Nicholas
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Misfortune of Vision: Druid’s Brooch Series #4
Christy Nicholas
4 out of 5

First and foremost, I absolutely love the cover of this novel. While it’s much like those in the rest of the series the colors to me, are gorgeous.
Moving on, I’ve come to expect rich, vivid storytelling from Christy Nicholas. Typically my genre of choice is a thriller of some sort so the Druid’s Brooch series is a testament to how addictive great writing can be. While these books don’t need to be read in order (I actually bounce from book to book) I have been invested in seeing if the next book really does beat the one before it. If you are interested in historical writing and a mix with fantasy I would recommend giving this book a go.

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The Secret Cure: A Gripping Psychological Thriller with a Twist by JD Spero – Review by Felicia Bates

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The Secret CureThe Secret Cure by J.D. Spero
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I LOVE psychological thrillers and this book was no exception. I was glued to the pages from the very beginning and couldn’t put it down until it was finished. I love that the author not only alternated between past and present but also included every main character’s perspective. The story never felt rushed or over saturated with details yet the author managed to pay an incredible amount of detail to each character’s storyline- past and present. I loved that at any given time I could love and appreciate a character and then decide they were despicable and none of them were likable at all. I can not say enough about the shifts in perspective throughout this whole book.
The twists and turns of this story did not disappoint and despite EVERYTHING that happened, I was fixated on one line from the beginning half of the book… “I wonder does he see her as an ice cream or martini kind of woman? That one data point would answer all my questions.” I loved the book from beginning to end and will need a minute to digest how much so!

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This Time Around by Jane Suen – Review by Felicia Bates

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This Time AroundThis Time Around by Jane Suen
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

If you are looking for a short, face paced romance by a talented author, look no further.
When I stumble across ANYTHING written by this author, it is a must read. This was no exception. This was such a believable storyline that felt unique… something impressive with how second chances are such a popular romance trope. I loved the main character and she was someone I feel a lot
of women (or people) could relate to. How many times have people chosen a career over a “life”.
This was the perfect late night read as it was short and I never wanted to put it down. I can’t wait to read more from this author.

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Enchanted in Time by Nikki Lynn Barrett – Review by Felicia Bates

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Enchanted in TimeEnchanted in Time by Nikki Lynn Barrett
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I LOVE the cover art of this book. Admittedly it was what attracted me to the book in the first place, the author was a close second.
I have read several books from this author and as usual, this didn’t disappoint. The storyline was unique and drew me in from the first few pages. The book itself is fairly short and reads quickly, so not once did my interest fade. What I’ve come to love from this author’s writing is the strong, lovable characters you become invested in.
If you’re interested in a well written, captivating storyline… give this book a go!

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Ritual Obsession (Blood Obsession Book 1) by R.L. Dunn – Review by Felicia Bates

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Ritual Obsession (Blood Obsession Book 1)Ritual Obsession by R.L. Dunn
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I was drawn to this novel originally because I looked forward to a book with a female detective as a main character. So many novels have your typical, tortured male detective and I was looking forward to a different approach to your average crime
thriller. I really enjoyed the book as early as the first few pages. The author uses a lot of clever metaphors and the style of writing seemed unique to me. Maybe just because I read so many of the same authors, it was a treat to read something from someone new to me. The author has a way of painting a vivid picture- this makes the trigger warning at the bottom of the synopsis all that more important. While there is some graphic subject matter, the author really does navigate the topics in a well written, entertaining matter that reads as smoothly as watching a crime movie on the big screen. The book quite literally left me wanting more and I look forward to book number two.

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I’m Not Your Difference (Fitz Series Book 4) by Theresa Sederholt – Review by Felicia Bates

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I'm Not Your Difference (Fitz, #4)I’m Not Your Difference by Theresa Sederholt
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I am a HUGE fan of this series and was SO excited to read the newest installment. As predicted, it did not disappoint. It has been a long time since I read book number three, so I could have easily reread it to refresh my memory but I couldn’t wait to dive right in. Literally my only “complaint” is that I had a foggy memory when it came to some of the characters. Of course, this in no way impacted the storyline or quality of writing.
I love that not only does this book have action and suspense it has well written and developed characters with a genuine bond between each other. I feel as though not only are they closely connected, they’re written in a way that feels like they’re my best friends too.
I can not recommend this book (or series) enough!

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The Lie That Binds by Amy Argent – Review by Felicia Bates

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The Lie That BindsThe Lie That Binds by Amy Argent
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

I don’t read a lot of books with high school characters because I tend to get caught up in feeling they’re too immature, flat or even annoying. I decided to pick up the The Lie That Binds because I’ve read and enjoyed books by this author in the past and wanted to give it a fair try.
It took me a while to get into the storyline because I was confused by all the characters and keeping them straight was hard. As the storyline picked up, I was definitely more invested. I didn’t connect to the main characters as much as I hoped I would, but that could have been my personal issue vs the characters themselves. My favorite thing about the book was how the chapters begin with a quote, just as unique to me as finding a book that still names the chapters!
Overall, it was a good read with the emotional rollercoaster I have gone to expect from this author.

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Distant Memories (Nurse Morgan Series Book 2) by Kate MacInnis – Review by Felicia Bates

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Distant Memories: A Nurse Morgan Series: Book TwoDistant Memories: A Nurse Morgan Series: Book Two by Kate MacInnis
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

If you know me personally in any capacity you would automatically know my draw to this series!
Being a nurse of over 10 years and someone with strong spirit/paranormal beliefs, this series feels like it was created for someone like me.
That being said, I really enjoyed the continuation of Morgan’s story. The book reads quickly because at it’s core, I thought it was a lot of fun. There is a little bit of everything- enjoyable characters, wit and a unique yet strong, storyline.
The way the book reads in my mind is almost like a tv sitcom that you have to watch “just one more episode”- the imagery is great.
I look forward to reading more from this author and really encourage you to pick up this book! I know I keep referring to the series as a whole but I do recommend starting from book one- while the detail in the second book would likely keep you from feeling lost, you want the FULL experience!

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Devil’s Breath by Lang Johnson – Review by Felicia Bates

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Devil's BreathDevil’s Breath by Lang Johnson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I wasn’t sure what to expect when I first picked up this novel. This was a new to me author and not a genre I read frequently. I was drawn in by the synopsis and I stayed for a fierce female main character. I can’t recall ever reading a book where the female lead was the assassin and the “role reversal” didn’t disappoint.
This book had a little bit of everything, action, suspense, spice but it also had a lot of depth not only within the storyline but the characters as well, especially Sera.
I would genuinely recommend this book. You’re in for a ride from start to finish.

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Burned by Fire (Firehouse 13 Book 4) by Danielle Jacks – Review by Felicia Bates

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Burned by Fire (Firehouse 13, #4)Burned by Fire by Danielle Jacks
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Burned by Fire is the first book I’ve read by this author. It was a short and an easy read, one that I found myself picking up in little crevices throughout my day.
I have to admit I was not a big fan of Sol as a character, I had a hard time connecting and sympathizing with him. Ember on the other hand, was a great main character. She was meant to be young at age 21 but she was mature and reasonable.
I enjoyed that the author alternated between perspectives throughout the book.
There were times where I was uncertain how much time had lapsed and I felt a bit lost but I attributed this to sporadically picking up the book.
Overall, I appreciated the storyline and would recommend the book to others.

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Caring for Kingsley, Believing in a Better Way When Canine Cancer Comes Crashing Into Your World by Alli Eldridge – Review by Felicia Bates

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Caring for Kingsley, Believing in a Better Way When Canine Cancer Comes Crashing Into Your WorldCaring for Kingsley, Believing in a Better Way When Canine Cancer Comes Crashing Into Your World by Alli Eldridge
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I can write anything I want about this book- the writing style, the author but the main thing that comes to mind is how absolutely therapeutic it must have been to get this story out on paper. I am one of the few that consider themselves “not a dog lover”. I have a hard time wrapping my head around loving a pet as if they were my own blood for them to leave me too soon. The story of Kingsley and the love he was shown reminds me of why so many find the journey worth it. This was a tough read for obvious reasons but a story of hope and love all the same. There were times that the author repeated herself- I don’t say this as a criticism, it made the writing feel more authentic, as if we were talking about the experience over coffee or a friendly visit.
I could go on and on about various aspects or personal thoughts but I’ll leave you with the recommendation that you should read this with the expectation that your heart will break and simultaneously warm with hope.

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Finding Starlight (Quimby Grove Book 1) by Shannon Nikole – Review by Felicia Bates

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Finding Starlight (Quimby Grove #1)Finding Starlight by Shannon Nikole
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I was drawn to this book initially because I LOVED the cover. Secondly, I don’t was intrigued by the synopsis, as intended. The book itself did not disappoint. I felt the author’s writing was strong from the very beginning. I didn’t notice that the author spent too much time focusing on description yet at the same time, felt like I had been within the pages myself. Both main characters were fantastic. The kind of people you find yourself rooting for, just like an old friend. The storyline was not always light and fluffy and I felt the author navigated some heavy, darker topics that may be triggering to some, very well. I really can’t say enough about this book, I am so excited to see what more the author has in store.

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As Close to Perfect by Maria Jane – Review by Felicia Bates

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As Close to PerfectAs Close to Perfect by Maria Jane
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Close to Perfect was a fun, fast paced read that really showed the trials and tribulations of the dating world. I really liked Bree as a main character and felt that above all else, she was relatable. Who hasn’t had “enough” bad experiences to swear they’re “never” doing that again? I really enjoyed the growth of Bree throughout the storyline and the way the author’s writing just flowed. While this is a part of a series, I thought it read really well as a standalone and I never had difficulty keeping up. I would definitely recommend this book, especially as the summer months are coming and everyone is looking for a good beach read!

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Collateral Damage (Mafia Elite Series Book 6) by Amy McKinley – Review by Felicia Bates

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Collateral Damage: A Second Chance Mafia Romance (Mafia Elite Book 6)Collateral Damage: A Second Chance Mafia Romance by Amy McKinley
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I was really looking forward to reading this book and as of right now, I would call it my favorite in the series. I was really looking forward to read more about Trey, I feel like he is such a multidimensional character with all he’s been through and I have a soft spot for him. I feel like the medical/surgeon aspect has not been done in many (or at least any I’ve read) Mafia novels. As a nurse myself, I’m always drawn to plots or characters involving the medical field. As much as I loved Trey, I feel that Hailey is just as strong and relatable as a character. The book (or series) is a must read. Never short of excitement, strong characters and a stronger plot. I’d strongly recommend this novel.

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The Scent of Gardenias by Lorraine Haas – Review by Felicia Bates

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The Scent of GardeniasThe Scent of Gardenias by Lorraine Haas
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I could probably count the number of historical or historical women’s fiction I’ve read in my life, on just one hand. When I stumbled across The Scent of Gardenias, I fell in love with the cover and couldn’t help but give it a chance. I really fell in love with the story pretty quickly. The author really told the story with such imagery that I felt like it was my vivid memories being retold. I loved the range emotion that I felt while reading and I felt personally connected to Margaret as I watched her navigate through life. I would highly recommend this book, even if you don’t consider yourself a fan of historical fiction.

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The Last Cabin Girl (Detective Josie Thompson Series) by Tom Swyers – Review by Felicia Bates

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The Last Cabin GirlThe Last Cabin Girl by Tom Swyers
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I haven’t read anything by this author before stumbling across this novel. While I wasn’t sure what to expect from the author’s writing style, I was optimistic as the synopsis intrigued me and the book fit my “preferred genre”. I am pleased to say the book did NOT disappoint and I look forward to reading more from this author in the near future. There are so many aspects of this story that I loved. I was drawn into the storyline from the very start and not once would I say my interest wavered. I really appreciated that the pandemic was a part of the storyline, especially since this is the first book I’ve read that incorporates it. I liked the writing style very much. I usually enjoy when books flash back or use letters to give us a bigger picture, so I really appreciated that the author included journal entries throughout. The writing was really strong with just enough of that element of suspense throughout. I would give this book 4 stars, from the well written plot to the depth of characters.

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Ruthless Heir (Mafia Elite Book 5) by Amy McKinley – Review by Felicia Bates

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Ruthless Heir: An Enemies to Lovers Mafia Romance (Mafia Elite, #5)Ruthless Heir: An Enemies to Lovers Mafia Romance by Amy McKinley
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I have really grown to be a big fan of this author, or so I thought. It wasn’t until recently that I stumbled across this series. I was happy to learn that even though I picked up several books in, it was easy to follow along the storyline. It read well as a stand-alone. I would be curious to read more from this series and learn more backstory from supporting characters. I felt like the writing is really strong with a fast storyline. Of all things, Summer was my favorite part of this book. She is a strong, likable character. I would definitely recommend this book to others and I look forward to
starting this series from the beginning.

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The Sound of Murder (Musical Murder Mystery Series) by K.L. Montgomery – Review by Felicia Bates

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The Sound of MurderThe Sound of Murder by K.L. Montgomery
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

It’s been a long time since I read something by this author but I wasn’t disappointed. I loved this cozy mystery. It had humor, great characters and of course- mystery. It was a really quick read but a lot of enjoyment. The storyline flew by and I couldn’t put it down. A great escape from reality… Five stars from me!

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Shamrock & Clover: Field’s Apart by C.A. King – Review by Felicia Bates

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Shamrock & Clover: Fields ApartShamrock & Clover: Fields Apart by C.A. King
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Full transparency- it took me until I was halfway through this book before I really loved it. Once pieces started to fall into place and both characters met, the storyline really picked up for me. I have to say, I love that while this is a casual, romantic comedy, it was a storyline that I felt had a lot of meaning.
I loved Shamrock and appreciated the growth of his character in just a short time.
There was one point in the book where I literally gasped- drawing attention from my whole family. I would definitely recommend this book to others and I LOVE the cover!

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Mermaid and the Rainbow: Mermaid Science by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Felicia Bates

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the mermaid and the rainbowthe mermaid and the rainbow by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I have two young children that love reading with me. Both are intrigued by “experiments” and science and my daughter is a lover of mermaids. That being said, this book seemed like a no brained to one-click. This was a neat, short story that taught you some “magic” in the form of simple experiments. I loved it, and the illustrations aren’t bad either!

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Reunion in the Outback (Welcome to Bunya Junction Book 4) by Nicole Flockton – Review by Felicia Bates

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Reunion in the Outback (Welcome to Bunya Junction, #4)Reunion in the Outback by Nicole Flockton
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

While this book is part of a series, this is the first I have read from it. This didn’t impact the storyline, I still had no problem relating to the characters and following along. There were times, especially at the beginning where both characters infuriated me. Their stubbornness and lack of communication was beyond frustrating. When I take a step back, however, that’s the same thing I enjoyed about the storyline. Both characters were REALISTIC. I overall enjoyed the author’s writing and the book in general. I will be reading more from this author in the future.

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Class Clown (Ghost Girl Series) by Allan Evans – Review by Felicia Bates

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Class ClownClass Clown by Allan Evans
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I have never been one to find clowns creepy or chilling but there was one particular scene in this book that STILL sits very vividly in my mind. I get a shiver even thinking back on it. This was a really well written story that has a lot of description and attention to detail. I enjoyed Abbey and even her friends. I often find teen characters to be childlike and mildly irritating. This wasn’t the case in Class Clown- the girls were enjoyable and almost relatable.
I would really be interested in reading more from this author.

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Behemoth (Grimm Wolves MC Book 1) by D.M. Earl – Review by Felicia Bates

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Behemoth (Grimm Wolves MC #1)Behemoth by D.M. Earl
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

I have a lot of thoughts surrounding Behemoth but I can say I enjoyed the book overall and I do look forward to reading on in
the series. There were segments in the book where I felt like I was missing something, it was eluded that Francis could
often tell someone’s thoughts- even his brothers knew this but I never truly understood the context. I thought a couple times that I must have zoned out when reading and missed the backstory. The only other “criticism” I would have is that I expected a lot more “action” throughout the entire story line.
All of that said… the characters are FANTASTIC. Grace, Stitch and even the secondary characters tugged at my heart strings. I am really excited to see what this author and series has to offer because I am anxious to learn more and be involved in the inevitable character development. The book was a pretty fast read and did keep my attention. I would definitely recommend it if you like motorcycle clubs and relatable characters.

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(UN)Loved (Mixed Emotions Series) by Katy Hunter – Review by Felicia Bates

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(Un)Loved (Mixed Emotions, #1)(Un)Loved by Katy Hunter
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I enjoyed (Un)loved despite not knowing what to expect from this new( to me) author. I felt like her writing style was strong with an emphasis on detail that really helped the storyline play in my mind. I wouldn’t consider this a fast paced read but I felt like the storyline was strong with well developed characters. I really connected with Sophia and liked the growth I saw in her. The way the story was written from Sophia’s perspective really helped me connect with her, often feeling like I was chatting with a close friend. I look forward to reading on more, thanks to the epilogue!

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Lingering Spirits (Soul Connection Book 4) by Nikki Lynn Barrett – Review by Felicia Bates

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Lingering Spirits (Soul Connection, #4)Lingering Spirits by Nikki Lynn Barrett
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Lingering Spirits is the fourth book in the Soul Connection series and in my opinion it’s a 4 star story worth reading. When I picked up this book, I was certain I had read the three books prior to it but it turns out I was mistaken. I only realized I missed a book prior to this when I was having trouble visualizing some of the secondary characters and had this sinking feeling I was missing something. It is worth saying that this in no way ruined the storyline for me and I feel a reader would love this story even without prior knowledge of the series. For me, characters were so familiar but just wouldn’t click. I was drawn to this book in particular because of Russ and Hope’s connection. I think this would be a connection intriguing to just about anyone. Overall, I really love the paranormal aspects of this book and the characters. I feel like everyone in the book has great chemistry and it is fun to see how everyone’s lives intertwine. I definitely look forward to more in this genre-especially from this author, in the near future.

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Depending On You by Jessica Aiken-Hall – Review by Felicia Bates

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Depending On YouDepending On You by Jessica Aiken-Hall
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Depending on You is most definitely a 5 star read. I grew up in a small town and my adulthood friends are the same women that I have known since elementary school. The bonds in this book meant a lot to me and while my best friends and I have not dealt with what Cate or Patti endured, I felt that their friendship was so relatable.
I can’t really say anything to do this book justice. There are so many elements but the biggest take away is in the meaning of friendship and family, blood or not.
The story really had depth and the storyline flowed seamlessly. I was really drawn to the writing from the very start and I was along for the ride through every bend in the road. I always enjoy when authors alternate between perspectives of the main characters so seeing the story through both women’s eyes was another element of the book I appreciated. Every character in this book was enjoyable and had the potential to tug at your heartstrings. I could literally go on forever. I loved this book. And it wouldn’t be a review of a Jessica Aiken Hall book if I didn’t mention how much I appreciated that she tied in her love for Tom Petty within the storyline as well!

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Road Rage (Outlaw Series Book 4) by Katrina Kantas – Review by Felicia Bates

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

I am new to this stand alone series, Road Rage being the first book I’ve read. It has been a long time since I read a motorcycle club book and I’ve never read one by this author so I was really excited. Overall, I liked the book a lot. Gem was a really relatable character, tough and someone you wanted happiness for. The flow of the book was “weird” for me. I don’t remember at what point of the story that I discovered I felt parts were rushed… maybe it was reading tired in bed that caused the confusion. I wish there was an indication of how much time had passed in between each big event throughout the plot. I loved the high intensity and action in the last quarter of the book and felt like the ending was strong.
I would definitely recommend this book if you like MC reads with strong characters and high intensity action.

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Wild Hare’s Daughter (Wild Hares) by Laura Koerber – Review by Felicia Bates

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Wild Hare's DaughterWild Hare’s Daughter by Laura Koerber
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I hadn’t realized when I started this book that it was a sequel to another book prior. All things considered, I really did enjoy Wild Hare’s daughter. I didn’t have any difficulty following along or relating to the characters, especially gravitating toward Amy. I really liked the writing style of this new to me author. Switching between Bobby and Amy’s perspective throughout the book really gives a larger picture and is one of my favorite elements in a lot of books I’ve read. I felt the writing was strong and the dystopian aspects mixed with reality really made this a unique story for me. I would definitely consider reading more from this author.

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