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Winter’s Wolf (The Cursed Series Book 1) by Lou Grimes – Review by Felicia Bates

Winter's Wolf (The Cursed, #1)Winter’s Wolf by Lou Grimes
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Winter’s Wolf
Lou Grimes
4 stars

If I’m being completely honest, I was drawn to this book initially because of the gorgeous cover. Shortly after, curiosity took over. I’m still fairly new to the world of shape shifting and werewolves and wasn’t entirely sure what to expect. Winter’s Wolf was a great young adult read with action, danger and suspense and it kept me interested from the first to last page and everything in between. I look forward to reading more from Lou Grimes, especially the Cursed Book series.

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Tangled Fates (Tangled Magic Series: Book 2) by Denise D. Young – Review by Felicia Bates

Tangled Fates is the second book in Denise Young’s Tangled Magic Series and a solid 4 star read, in my opinion. I did not read book one in the series (Tangled Roots) and while I was able to enjoy this book without having read it, I wish i had read the series in order. I am someone that loves witches and other paranormal elements and I was really drawn to the synopsis for Tangled Fates, even though my usual genre is more of the psychological thriller type. I am really happy I branched out, this book was a quick read with great characters that you feel as though you know personally. I really enjoyed how the author alternated perspective throughout the storytelling. Overall, this was a really fun, engaging read. It won’t be the last I read of Denise Young.

Spring’s Calling: A Seasons of Magic Urban Fantasy Novel by Sarah Biglow – Review by Felicia Bates

Spring's Calling (Seasons of Magic, #1)Spring’s Calling by Sarah Biglow
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Spring’s Calling: A Seasons of Magic Urban Fantasy Novel by Sarah Biglow
4 out of 5 stars

Spring’s Calling is the first book I’ve ever read by Sarah Biglow and honestly, this falls into a genre I don’t often read. This being said, I wasn’t what to expect when I started the book. I will say, I was blown away by Sarah Biglow’s writing. The storyline had me hooked from the very beginning and there was no shortage of action or excitement throughout. Not only did Spring’s Calling have a strong female lead, the supporting characters had depth as well.
I was really impressed with how well this novel “checked all the boxes” in what I love from a story and goes to show how trying new genres almost always pays off. I will certainly be reading more from Sarah Biglow.

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Grace’s Ghosts by Stephenie Wilson Peterson – Review by Felicia Bates

Grace's GhostsGrace’s Ghosts by Stephenie Wilson Peterson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Grace’s Ghosts is a book suitable for children as young as 9 to 12 years of age. I am not ashamed to say, at 31 years of age, I loved it.
From the very first page I was intrigued and drawn into the storyline. I can honestly way, I don’t recall reading a story like this in the past. It was fast paced, exciting and unique. I feel as though Grace was a character kids could relate to or feel empathy towards. I can’t say enough about Grace’s Ghosts but I will stop here as to not spoil anything. Regardless of age, if you’re looking for a short, fun read, I recommend this 5 star book.

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A High Price to Pay (The Madeline Dawkins Series Book 2) by Cynthia Hamilton – Review by Felicia Bates

A High Price to Pay (Madeline Dawkins, #2)A High Price to Pay by Cynthia Hamilton
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

A High Price to Pay, the second book in the Madeline Dawkins series is a fantastic continuation of Spouse Trap. I feel this book deserves a 4 star rating as I thoroughly enjoyed the book from start to finish, just as much, if not more than the first book.
I really liked Madeline’s character in the first book but her development throughout this book makes her even more enjoyable. I believe I mentioned in my review of Spouse Trap that the first book I read by this author was a completely different genre and I was truly impressed with the range of writing, the strength of storyline and the twists and turns that kept me invested. Once again Cynthia Hamilton has impressed me with the strength of her writing and I would recommend this series to anyone that enjoys a well written mystery.

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Sunshine Kisses (A Kisses Novella) by Elaine Marie – Review by Felicia Bates

Sunshine KissesSunshine Kisses by Elaine Marie
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I am just going to come out and say, I loved this novella. Sunshine Kisses by Elaine Marie is most definitely a 5 star read for me. It wasn’t quite what I anticipated at the start (whatever that even means) but I was invested by page two. It was a quick read and truly enjoyable from start to finish. This was my absolute first read by this author and I am ready to download everything by her. I loved the premise of the book when I read the synopsis and truly feel like the writing and storyline delivered. I enjoyed the characters, the flow of the story and really, like I mentioned, I loved it. Period.

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HIT AND RUN by Diane Hester – Review by Felicia Bates

Hit and RunHit and Run by Diane Hester
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Hit and Run was the first book I have read by Diane Hester and she really exceeded my expectations. The only way to find new writers to love is to take a chance but that doesn’t prevent me from being skeptical each time I stray from my typical to be read pile. The storyline captured me from the very first page and kept my attention through each twist and turn. Not only was Hit and Run captivating, it had a cast of characters you really find yourself growing “close” to and really loving. Hit and Run had every element that I look for in a book and remained as intriguing as it’s synopsis eluded. If Diane Hester has more writing like Hit and Run, I truly look forward to reading more of her work. I would definitely recommend this book to family and friends and award it 4 stars.

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Humiliating Revenge: Contemporary Young Adult Romance by T. Christensen – Review by Felicia Bates

Humiliating RevengeHumiliating Revenge by T. Christensen
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Humiliating Revenge is the first book I’ve read by T. Christensen and for that reason, I wasn’t exactly sure what to expect. I was afraid this book would be a lot like most second chance Romance stories but it really was an emotional rollercoaster. There was a lot more depth to the characters and storylines than I was anticipating. The book itself really exceeded my expectations. I found myself interested from the very first page and my interest never faded. After reading this 4 star book, I would definitely read more from this Author in the future.

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Perfect by Tricia Copeland – Review by Felicia Bates

PerfectPerfect by Tricia Copeland
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Perfect
Tricia Copeland
3 out of 5 stars

I have read and loved books by Tricia Copeland in the past so I didn’t hesitate to give Perfect a try. Overall, it was a fun, easy to read, clean romance that read very quickly.
At times I felt confused about how much time had lapsed within the pages, especially within the first half of the book. I enjoyed the growth we experience with Chloe through the several years the book takes place and the progressions each of her relationships take. There were times I had to remember myself that Chloe’s story spans several years and the decisions and experiences she has didn’t happen close together. While I did enjoy Chloe as a main character, my favorite character in the book was Isaac and I loved the dynamic between him and Chloe.
Overall, this was an entertaining read and I would read more by Tricia Copeland in the future.

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And The River Runs Deep: The Cold Case Murder Mystery of Leah Marcus by A.J. Ullman – Review by Felicia Bates

And The River Runs Deep: The Cold Case Murder Mystery of Leah MarcusAnd The River Runs Deep: The Cold Case Murder Mystery of Leah Marcus by A.J. Ullman
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

And The River Runs Deep: The Cold Case Murder Mystery of Leah Marcus
A.J Ullman
4 of 5 stars

And the River Runs deep is my first experience with A.J Ullman’s writing and a different feel of book than I am used to reading. Throughout the book there are several facts shared, while it was informative and well written, it at times felt too… factual.
Overall, I enjoyed the book and was incredibly wrapped up in the case. The writing is strong and engaging and I would definitely read more work from this author in the future.

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SPOUSE TRAP: Madeline Dawkins Mysteries (The Madeline Dawkins Series Book 1) by Cynthia Hamilton – Review by Felicia Bates

Spouse Trap (Madeline Dawkins, #1)Spouse Trap by Cynthia Hamilton
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Spouse Trap: Madeline Dawkins Mysteries
(The Madeline Dawkins Series Book 1)
by Cynthia Hamilton
4 out of 5 stars

I wasn’t finished with the first page of the prologue before I felt as though my pulse was quickening and I needed to know what was going to happen. If that isn’t the promise of a good book, I don’t know what is. This wasn’t my first experience with Cynthia Hamilton’s writing, I had read her book Finding Ruth a while back and fell in love. While the Madeline Dawkins series is an entirely different genre, I still suspected to enjoy her writing.
Spouse Trap was one of those addicting books where I found myself actively making excuses to keep reading. “It’s already 1222 in the morning, I’ll read for another six minutes then go to bed”. “I can’t stop in the middle of a chapter”… you get the idea.
It may be an unpopular opinion but I thought Madeline was a fantastic character, you could tell from the first page that she was intelligent and independent, despite her comfortable lifestyle, I appreciated that about her.
I look forward to reading more in the series and from this Author in general.

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Turn up the Tempo (Lyrical Odyssey Rock Star Series Book 4) by Charli B Rose – Review by Felicia Bates

Turn up the Tempo (Lyrical Odyssey Rock Star series, #4)Turn up the Tempo by Charli B. Rose
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Turn up the Tempo (Lyrical Odyssey Rock Star Series Book 4) by Charli B. Rose
3 stars

Turn up the Tempo is the fourth stand alone book in the Lyrical Odyssey Rock Star series and my first experience with Charli B. Rose’s writing. While I really did enjoy the story without reading any of the previous books in the series, I wish I had read at least book one first. Right away we were introduced to several close friends and I found myself wanting to know more about these characters and their connections to Britt and Brooks in better detail. Overall, I enjoyed the book. It was fast paced and kept my interest. The characters were enjoyable, though, I admittedly favored Britt over Brooks. Turn up the Tempo was a fun read with the elements of any good romance and it was the perfect escape from reality for a bit. As I mentioned above, I really want to read the other books in the series and learn about the supporting characters more. Though the dynamic between Brooks and Britt didn’t miss a beat, I felt I was missing more background. Look forward to adding more from Charli B Rose to my library!

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Claimed (The Torzial Affair book 3) by Via Mari – Review by Felicia Bates

CLAIMED (The Torzial Affair Book 3)CLAIMED by Via Mari
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Claimed (The Torzial Affair book 3)
Via Mari
4 out of 5 stars

After reading Via Mari’s Prestian Series, I was looking forward to reading the Torzial Affair series. Quickly I became hooked and if we are being honest, I enjoyed this series even more than the other!
Much like the other two books in the series, Claimed kept me engaged from start to finish while managing to keep me on the edge of my seat.
By now, chances are you’re aware that the Torzial Affair series moves along in chronological order and shouldn’t be read as a standalone but it’s worth mentioning just in case. Claimed is the final book in the trilogy and while many trilogies feel rushed by the end, this wasn’t the case here. Via Mari truly has a talent for crafting stories that are hot and steamy with an exciting storyline.

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Truck Stopped (Satan’s Devils MC #11) by Manda Mellett – Review by Felicia Bates

Truck StoppedTruck Stopped by Manda Mellett
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Truck Stopped Satan’s Devils MC #11
Manda Mellett
5 out of 5 stars

I’m sure if we looked back on my reviews of this series I would have one or two exclaiming that particular book was my favorite but I’m pretty sure THIS was my favorite!
Truck Stopped is the 11th book in the Satan’s Devil MC series and the story between Truck and Allie. While I haven’t read all eleven books of the series, I’ve read many because I enjoy how lives from different installments are woven together. I think I loved this story because I was familiar with characters. This book was everything I have come to enjoy from Manda Mellett’s series, an engaging story with characters you can identify with. Though the books in the series don’t necessarily need to be read in order, this story gave me such a sense of familiarity. I am looking forward to see what Manda Mellett has in store for her readers next.

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The Confectioner Chronicles: The Complete Fantasy Mystery Series by Claire Luana – Review by Felicia Bates

The Confectioner Chronicles: The Complete Fantasy Mystery SeriesThe Confectioner Chronicles: The Complete Fantasy Mystery Series by Claire Luana
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The Confectioner Chronicles : the Complete Fantasy Mystery Series
Claire Luana
4 out of 5 stars

If you find yourself even slightly interested in Claire Luana’s Confectioner Chronicles, I recommend doing yourself a favor and purchasing the box set.
Each installment of this series is fast paced and exciting with fun characters and fantastic imagery.
I would be surprised if you didn’t want to dive into the second book immediately after finishing the first. That being said, this isn’t a stand alone series, I would recommend reading each book in sequential order to get the most of the storyline.
I’ve read books by Claire Luana in the past so her name itself drew me to the Confectioner Chronicles but the unique plot and rich storyline is what kept me coming back. If you’re looking for a fun, magical adventure, I would definitely recommend this box set.

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A Divided Mind by M.Billiter – Review by Felicia Bates

A Divided MindA Divided Mind by M. Billiter
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

A Divided Mind
M. Billiter
⅘ stars

I didn’t quite know what I was getting into when I picked up A Divided Mind. I had been expecting a suspenseful thriller but this is a whole different genre. That being said, the story really delivered. This was a gripping story about family and mental illness unlike anything I’ve ever read before.
A Divided Mind had me feeling the words and imagining what the characters were experiencing. The story is really well written. I have not read anything by M. Billiter in the past but I would be curious to do so in the future.

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Monty and the Monster by Rhonda Smiley – Review by Felicia Bates

Monty and the MonsterMonty and the Monster by Rhonda Smiley
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Monty and the Monster
By Rhonda Smiley
5 out of 5 stars

Monty and the Monster is the exact kind of book I would have loved when I was younger. I am looking forward to sharing this book with my children when they’re a bit older.
Monty and the Monster was creative fun from start to finish but not without holding meaning within the story line. Great book!

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Finding Ruth: A Daughter’s Quest to Discover Her Mother’s Past by Cynthia Hamilton – Review by Felicia Bates

Finding RuthFinding Ruth by Cynthia Hamilton
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Finding Ruth
By Cynthia Hamilton
5 stars

I had not heard of Cynthia Hamilton before reading Finding Ruth, what a book to make a first impression. Cynthia took a diagnosis that is real and personal and crafted a memorable, heartwarming story.
I am having trouble finding the words to describe how this story made me feel. The detail was raw, emotional and real. I can’t even begin to imagine the emotion that was conjured up while writing the book.
Certainly a 5 star read, I am curious to read more from this Author.

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Undercover (Billionaire Bodyguards Book 2) by Via Mari – Review by Felicia Bates

Undercover (Billionaire Bodyguards Book 2)Undercover by Via Mari
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Undercover (Billionaire Bodyguards Book 2)
Via Mari
4 out of 5 stars

How I could go from never reading a particular Author to becoming hooked on multiple series at once is beyond me, but Via Mari has me completely hooked.
With likable characters and intense passion, each book I read by this author impresses me through and through. I had a preconceived notion that steamy romances meant the storyline wouldn’t have depth or substance. Via Mari has shown me this couldn’t be further from the truth. Undercover has twists and turns that kept me interested from start to finish. Looking forward to reading more from Via Mari, as usual.

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Legacy of Luck (The Druid’s Brooch Series Book 3) by Christy Nicholas – Review by Felicia Bates

Legacy of Luck (Druid's Brooch #3)Legacy of Luck by Christy Nicholas
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Legacy of Luck: Druid’s Brooch Series: #3
By Christy Nicholas
4 out of 5 stars

When I started the Druid’s Brooch series, I wasn’t sure to expect but now that I’ve finished book 3, it’s time I admit how much I’ve enjoyed it.
Each story can be read as a standalone and the more I read from this Author, the harder it is to pick a favorite.
Legacy of Luck had the imagery and authentic feel I’ve come to expect from the Druid’s Brooch series with a Fantasy element that proves to be fun and exciting.
I really enjoy the depth and character development in this book. There were characters you love and those you love to hate, yet somehow find yourself invested in just the same.
As always, looking forward to reading more from Christy Nicholas.

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Bound (The Torzial Affair Book 2) by Via Mari – Review by Felicia Bates

Bound (The Torzial Affair Book 2)Bound by Via Mari
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Bound (The Torzial Affair)
Via Mari
⅘ stars

This is the second series I’ve read by Via Mari and she’s really outdone herself with this one! Bound had me drawn in from beginning to end with a great storyline and likeable, enjoyable characters. The twists, turns and intrigue this book had to offer kept the pages turning. I am really looking forward to seeing what more Via Mari has to offer!

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Siren’s Call: Cursed Seas by Amy McKinley – Review by Felicia Bates

Siren's Call: Cursed SeasSiren’s Call: Cursed Seas by Amy McKinley
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Siren’s Call: Cursed Seas
Amy McKinley
4 out of 5 stars

I was introduced to Amy McKinley’s writing through her Gray Ghost Series and I was addicted pretty quickly. When I saw this novel, I didn’t even hesitate long enough to read the synopsis, despite knowing it wouldn’t fall into my preferred psychological thriller or romantic suspense genres.
As I’ve come to expect, Siren’s Call was a fast paced story that had me hooked from beginning to end with strong, well developed characters. While I wouldn’t say this is my favorite book from this author, it still really signifies just how talented she is to have me hooked on her writing, despite the genre.
Siren’s Call was a vivid break from my day to day, I highly recommend it.

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Two Hearts Under Fire (Two Hearts Wounded Warrior Romance Book 8) by Tamara Ferguson – Review by Felicia Bates

TWO HEARTS UNDER FIRE (Two Hearts Wounded Warrior Romance Book 8)TWO HEARTS UNDER FIRE by Tamara Ferguson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Two Hearts Under Fire
(Two Hearts Wounded Warrior Romance Book 8)
By Tamara Ferguson
4 stars

I have to start off by saying I love the cover of this book almost as much as I’ve loved reading the series! Moving on to the actual content, I feel like each book by Tamara Ferguson is better than the last, Two Hearts Under Fire is no exception.
Tamara Ferguson is the type of author that paints a picture so vivid you feel as though you’re watching a movie as each page unfolds. The characters in each novel are relatable and steal your heart almost instantly. I have never considered myself a reader with a preference for the romance genre, but Two Hearts Under Fire is so much more. If you are looking for a book with a strong storyline, memorable characters, and a vivid escape from your day to day, I recommend this book.

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Blackbird’s Deliverance (Silent Secrets Series Book 4) by Lisette Kristensen- Review by Felicia Bates

Blackbird's Deliverance (Book Four)Blackbird’s Deliverance by Lisette Kristensen
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Blackbird’s Deliverance (Silent Secrets Series #4)
Lisette Kristensen
5 out of 5 stars

Blackbird’s Deliverance is the fourth book in Lisette Kristensen’s Silent Secrets Series. This is honestly a series I’ve been hooked on since the first page of book one.
Blackbird’s Deliverance had me roped in from the very first page, there was no “getting used” to the writing, it was an instant hit for me.
While the book was fantastic to me because it was fast paced and action packed, I most liked the female lead. I am a sucker for a book that centers around strong, intelligent women and this author can really build great characters.
As always, I’m looking forward to what else this author has in store me.

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The Fish that Climbed a Tree by Kevin Ansbro – Review by Felicia Bates

The Fish That Climbed a TreeThe Fish That Climbed a Tree by Kevin Ansbro
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The Fish That Climbed a Tree
Kevin Ansbro
5 stars
Before I stumbled across the Fish That Climbed a Tree, I was not familiar with Kevin Ansbro or his writing. I will say, after just one book it is clear this won’t be the only piece of writing I’ll read by Kevin Ansbro.
The Fish That Climbed a Tree is different than many of the books I’ve been reading lately and it was a welcomed change. This book provided humor while painting imagery that was truly thought provoking.
The Fish That Climbed a Tree was a unique story that has the feel of a literary classic. I was intrigued by the title, then the cover, then the synopsis really piqued my interest but the book exceeded all expectations. I am looking forward to read more of this author’s writing.

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Never Let Me Go (Bayou Devils MC Book 6) by A.M. Myers – Review by Felicia Bates

Never Let Me Go (Bayou Devils MC #6)Never Let Me Go by A.M. Myers
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Never Let Me Go (Bayou Devils MC Book 6) by A.M. Myers
4 out of 5 stars

It didn’t take me long after starting the Bayou Devils MC series before I realized I loved A.M Myers’ writing. Once I read the blurb for Never Let Me Go, I knew I would have to read book six.
While I really did enjoy the book, something felt different to me. I still can’t really put my finger on it but that being said, I really would recommend this book to fellow readers.
One thing I’ve come to love from these stories is the depth of each character and the relatability each one offers, despite having such different backgrounds. Never Let Me Go is no exception to this.
As always, I’m looking forward to see what other fast paced, original storylines A.M Myers has for readers in the future.

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The Matchmaker’s Match (Man’s Best Friend Book 3) by Nicole Flockton – Review by Felicia Bates

The Matchmaker's Match (Man's Best Friend, #3)The Matchmaker’s Match by Nicole Flockton
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The Matchmaker’s Match
(Man’s Best Friend Book 3)
Written by Nicole Flockton

4 out of 5 Stars

This is my second or third book I’ve read by this author and I’ve honestly enjoyed every exposure to Nicole’s writing as much as the last. The four legged companions in these stories really do make the books!

The Matchmaker’s Match was a fast paced, relatively short read that had my attention from start to finish. Admittedly, I do have a soft spot for stories about one night stands that don’t quite go as expected. This book was a great escape from the day to day grind.

The books in this series can be read as stand alone stories but they really are great stories, you’ll probably find yourself devouring all three pretty close together! I’m looking forward to more to come from Nicole Flockton!

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Wayward (Billionaire Bodyguards Book 1) by Via Mari – Review by Felicia Bates

Wayward (Billionaire Bodyguards Book 1)Wayward by Via Mari
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Wayward (Billionaire Bodyguards Book 1)
Via Mari
4 out of 5 stars

Wayward is not my first experience with Via Mari’s writing, it’s the first of the third series I’ve read. While it isn’t necessary to read all of the books in each series, there are characters that show up throughout each and it’s always fun to see how lives are intertwined.
Via Mari has a talent for crafting hot and steamy chemistry between characters with strong storylines. I used to have a preconceived notion that if a book was sexy it couldn’t have substance too, Via Mari shatters that misconception with each book I read.
I have to say I loved Wayward and it may have been my favorite Via Mari book thus far. I look forward to seeing what more is to come.

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Obsessed (Lila Casey Series Book 1) by J Collins – Review by Felicia Bates

Obsessed: Lila Casey Book 1 (Lila Casey Series)Obsessed: Lila Casey Book 1 by J. Collins
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Obsessed (Lila Casey Series, book one)
By J. Collins
4 out of 5 stars

Obsessed is the first book I’ve read by this author and despite no prior knowledge, I couldn’t pass it up. I am a sucker for a good vampire story.
Overall, I did enjoy the book and will be looking forward to reading more from this author. There were ups and downs without the story for me, times that I loved the book and other times I felt like there was something just “off” for me.
Obsessed ended up being one of those books that I did read pretty quickly, not one that you let sit and “get back to”. I guess with that being said I would say there were way more good aspects than bad!
If you’re looking for a fun, vampire read that really will make you smile, I do recommend giving this a try.

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Saint Code: Lost: Book Four of the Lucky Devil Series by Megan Mackie – Review By Felicia Bates

Saint Code: Lost: Book Four of the Lucky Devil SeriesSaint Code: Lost: Book Four of the Lucky Devil Series by Megan Mackie
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Saint Code: Lost
Megan Mackie
4 stars

Lost is the fourth book I’ve read by Megan Mackie as this is the fourth in this author’s Lucky Devil series.
The Lucky Devil Series is one of those that you realize each story is better than the last. This particular story was similar to others I’ve read in the series in that the storyline flowed well and the excitement was never at a lull.
If you’re looking for a fast paced, action packed, break reality then this is the book for you.

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