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Vampires of Atlantis by Courtney Davis – Review by Helen Dawkins

Vampires of AtlantisVampires of Atlantis by Courtney Davis
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I enjoy just about everything Courtney Davis writes. She is so creative!

Vampires of Atlantis is such a fresh and interesting perspective and so creative. The vampires are the only thing that stands in the way of protecting humans from the vicious monsters. Long ago, in order to keep the human race safe, they sunk Atlantis with the Vampires to guard over a magical spelled prison in the Bermuda Triangle. While the Vampires do need to feed, they used to feed off of the Descendants of Atlantis. That is until they were sick of being controlled, and they fled Atlantis before it sunk. Now, Ian (Vampire King) is in Miami searching for not only an escaped prisoner but also his older brother who is up to no good. He was then sidetracked when he smelled the most sweetest scent, Katherine. In his effort to capture Norgis, he came across an almost dead Katherine. Ian would not settle for anything less than nursing her back to health. It was soon after he realized she was his mate. Throw in vicious werewolves, an almost extinct crazy vampire killing Aristotle Society, and lots of misunderstanding.

I absolutely loved Ian and Katherine. Both were incredibly strong and kind, but I wish there was MORE. I felt there were a good bit of subplots that ended up unfinished. Lots of unanswered questions.

Did Katherine find the Blood Moonstone?
What happened to Sorcha and Samson?
What happened to the two werewolves now in the Aristole Society’s cages?
Did anyone care that Katherine “died”? Where is her friend?
Who has the descendant stone now?
What is now happening with the descendants?

I thoroughly enjoyed this book, even with the unanswered questions. My only criticism is how many loose ends there are. Courtney Davis has an amazing and creative mind, and I can’t wait to see what she writes next! I definitely recommend this book!

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Reticent Hawke (The Hawke Family Second Generation Book 2) by Gwyn McNamee – Review by Helen Dawkins

Reticent Hawke: (A Second Generation Hawke Family Novel) (The Hawke Family Second Generation)Reticent Hawke: (A Second Generation Hawke Family Novel) by Gwyn McNamee
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I absolutely love just about everything Gwyn McNamee writes and this is no exception!

This is the second book in the “The Hawke Family Second Generation” series. While it can be read as standalone, I do highly suggest not only reading the Book 1 in the Second-Generation, but also reading all of the books in the First-Generation Hawke Family. There is a ton of useful information in all of the books that make the reading experience that much better and easier to make deeper connections.

This is book includes tropes such as forbidden romance, billionaires, reverse age gap (The woman is older), Best friends’ older sister. There is a good bit of angsty, spicy romance scenes that are AMAZING! One of the main points, the author, Gwyn, is trying to get across is that blood doesn’t necessarily make you family, your heart and the love you share makes you family.

The forbidden romance is between Jude, who technically is not a Hawke, but has been best friends with Alessi since they were 10, and Alessi’s older sister Angelina (Angie). Alessi and Angelina are the children of Storm Hawke.

Jude has only ever had one obsession, one woman who stands taller than all of the rest, and it is the one person who he cannot have. He is teetering hard on whether or not he should keep ignoring his feelings for Angie, or if it is time to come clean and hopefully have a shot at his happily ever after — his family PLUS the girl.

Angie pretty much despises relationships, and always has due to losing her father at such a young age. But she cannot deny the insane pull she has to Jude – who is also forbidden, he is technically family after all.

In the midst of Angie’s sibling Alessi going missing, lying about small things, avoiding family members. Her and Jude now have to work side by side to figure out what the heck is going on. Now that they are together regularly, that pull, and connection only grows stronger. They both have had so many obstacles and more heartache than a person should deal with, but neither allow themselves to open up which causes them to be misunderstood quite a bit.

Prepare to be captivated by this series, as Gwyn never fails to deliver a compelling storyline filled with romance, danger, family, love, and angst. But what truly sets this series apart is the emotional rollercoaster it takes you on as a reader. Each book allows you to intimately know the characters, every word resonating with you long after you’ve finished reading.

I cannot wait for the 3rd book to come out!

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Marked Wolf (Protector Wolf Shifter Series Book 2) by Lilliana Rose – Review by Helen Dawkins

Marked Wolf (Protector Wolf Shifter Series Book 2)Marked Wolf by Lilliana Rose
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is book two in the Protector Wolf Shifter Series. It begins at the exact moment book 1 ends.

Kodiak and Tamaska are both still actively looking for the stolen Blood Opal. Tamaska wants absolutely nothing to do with Kodiak, but she can’t deny the pull she has towards him. Kodiak tries to protect her as much as possible, but it seems to be an impossible task. Their relationship is a forbidden love.

I think the characters in this book are a little bit more tolerable than they were in book 1. I do think this book is definitely better than book 1, and I am eager to read book 3.

Tamaska puts herself in more harm’s way (The Vampires) and Kodiak is having to answer to the pack.

What makes Tamaska so special that the vampires keep coming for her? Will they be able to put away their fears and succumb to their intense connection? Even if they embrace their relationship, will the pack accept her?

I recommend reading this series, but the characters put a damper on the storyline for me. I will continue to read to finish the storyline!

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Shadow Wolf (Protector Wolf Shifter Series Book 1) by Lilliana Rose – Review by Helen Dawkins

Shadow Wolf (Protector Wolf Shifter Series Book 1)Shadow Wolf by Lilliana Rose
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

This is the first book in the Protector Wolf Shifter Series.

It is in dual POV of the two main characters, Tamaska and Kodiak.

Tamaska is a woman who is on the path to success. She is an event coordinator, and the auction of the Blood Opal may be her ticket to her own company.

Kodiak is the beta in the Wolf Shifter Pack. The pack is having to learn how to adapt to modern times. They have created the Shadow Protection company to earn an income as security. In addition to their modern job, they are meant to protect all humans. Everything had been smooth with the vampires, or was it all a smoke screen?

Kodiak and his team were last-minute security added to Tamaska’s event. Immediately, they had a strong distaste for each other, but neither could deny the immense attraction. During the event, Kodiak notices the presence of vampires. While his sole duty was to stand guard at the glass case, he left his post for a mere second in order to save Tamaska, who was drugged by a vampire.

Will they get the blood opal back? Is it even possible for a relationship to blossom between Kodiak and Tamaska? One is a wolf shifter who hates humans, and the other is a human who hates dogs.

What is so special about the blood opal that makes everyone want it so badly?

I love the storyline and plot. It is a wonderful mystery of who is lying, who is on whose side, and ultimately what is everyone’s motives. The heated scenes with Tamaska and Kodiak are amazing.

With saying all of that, I strongly dislike ALL of the characters…. they are all insanely immature and slightly annoying. I completely understand the push/pull dynamic with Tamaska and Kodiak, but when it is explaining their thoughts, they are very whiny and sometimes don’t even make any sense. The entire Shifter pack I dislike as well. It seems that literally none of them care for each other.

I will continue to read the next book because of the storyline, and I hope the characters get better along the way.

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Tempting Fate (Black Shamrocks MC: Australia Book 1) by Bella Faust – Review by Helen Dawkins

Tempting Fate: a dark and angsty love triangle romance (Black Shamrocks MC: Australia Book 1)Tempting Fate: a dark and angsty love triangle romance by Bella Faust
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

This is the 1st book in the Trilogy, but there is a previous book, Craving Control, from the beginning. I personally don’t think it needed to be read before reading Tempting Fate, but if you do want to read it, please note it is way darker than most books.

Tempting Fate is a dark book as well, but it isn’t too dark. I do warn you to read the trigger warnings beforehand, though!

I have conflicting opinions about this book. It isn’t a bad book, but it isn’t a book I will remember or read again. I really doubt I even read the next book in the series.

The author has a great writing style. I do enjoy how she describes things and leads up to certain situations. But, I felt the book was extremely predictable. There wasn’t any “twist” or “turn” that I didn’t already think was going to happen.

I love Lily (Anna/Lilianna/Cherub). I think she is a wonderful character, and you get to see her at every angle. She is a force to be reckoned with, and I do love to see her on her journey. She is the main reason I am giving 3 stars. I loved her transformation and just her in general.

The only other character I did like was Slash. But I felt like I needed to know more about him. His character was a breath of fresh air, and I feel his character showed how a person can be an enforcer but still has a heart.

Now… other characters in the book I truthfully didn’t care for…. Venom(Zeke) specifically I did NOT like. I felt his character constantly was going from one extreme to the other. His actions were very chaotic and didn’t make much sense… In all honesty… I don’t find him much different than Alex. Except he didn’t PHYSICALLY harm Lily. But his character truthfully wasn’t that different from Alex.

I think that the storyline itself was decent, but it could have been better. Again, I don’t think it’s a bad book, just… wasn’t spectacular either.

The one thing I did LOVE, though, was that Bella Faust did not take a back seat to the darkness. She went full throttle in explaining and detailing the darker aspects of this book. I also love that the darker, horrible psychopath who was head over heels for a woman was not redeemed… but the other dark men were never a “threat”. Sometimes, we need that realness that some psychopaths are just that. Psychopaths. And just because they have an object of affection does not mean the woman will fall for them.

One last note, PLEASE READ TRIGGER WARNINGS BEFORE BEGINNING THIS BOOK OR CRAVING CONTROL.

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Forbidden Moon (The Shadow Chronicles Book 3) by CR Robertson – Review by Helen Dawkins

Forbidden Moon (The Shadow Chronicles)Forbidden Moon by C.R. Robertson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is book 3 in The Shadow Chronicles, and so far, my favorite. It is still following the story of Levi and Tasha, as well as the war with the hellspawns.

Finally, Lycans and Vampires are now allying instead of enemies and have created a new army in order to fight the hellspawns that have emerged from nowhere. Secrets are flying every which way and the truth will be revealed.

The story of Tasha and Levi is coming to an end, and it is bittersweet. They have taken us on a wild ride throughout these 3 books and I loved every second of it. I highly recommend that you read both of the previous books before reading this one. We are also introduced to a few new characters in this book, and I cannot wait for book 4 for the spin off involving Tasha’s younger sister!

While there is a war going on with the hellspawns, there is also evil that is threatening to tear Tasha and Levi apart. They have been through so much as a couple and their love prevails through everything thrown at them.

I 100% recommend this book to anyone who loves action, suspense, and paranormal romance!

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Forbidden Mate(The Shadow Chronicles Book 2) by CR Robertson – Review by Helen Dawkins

Forbidden Mate (The Shadow Chronicles)Forbidden Mate by C.R. Robertson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is book 2 in The Shadow Chronicles and is a continuation of Tasha and Levi’s forbidden love story. Tasha is a unique Vampire and Levi is a Lycan. This book is full of action and more secrets are unveiled. There were a lot of twists and turns. It took me a little longer to read this second book than the first, but it is still an absolutely wonderful book. My biggest issue with this book is how much Tasha starts to lean on Levi, when she knows she is strong and perfectly capable. It makes her seem a good bit weaker throughout the book.

Tasha begins to learn how much of her life was based on lies. How far will Castus go to claim something that was never his in the beginning? Will the Vampires and Lycans be able to work together and defeat the hellspawns?

The book focuses on two things, the war and the love between Tasha and Levi. While the war is full of action and violence, their love is sweet and steamy!

Cannot wait to read book 3. Definitely recommend this series to anyone who loves a good paranormal romance!

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Forbidden Wolf (The Shadow Chronicles Book 1) by CR Robertson – Review by Helen Dawkins

Forbidden WolfForbidden Wolf by C.R. Robertson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is the first book in The Shadow Chronicles and follows the story of Tasha and Levi. It is a vampire and Lycan forbidden love story. The book from the beginning sucked me in and I couldn’t put it down. I have read plenty Lycan/Vampire forbidden love, but this book was insanely different and nothing like I have read before.

There are a few steamy scenes, lots of suspense and action, and includes hidden agendas, drama, and of course magic!

Tasha is a young vampire with unique abilities unlike anyone else in her species. She is trying to protect her younger sister from their leader and is willing to sacrifice everything, that is, until she met Levi.

The book is told mainly from Tasha’s POV, but there are a few chapters where we get to be inside Levi’s mind and see how he feels about Tasha.

So much time has passed since they first seen each other. Will the feel the same after ten years? Will they succeed in find out what is killing every person they know? Will they meet in Paris? Will they end the war between their species?

Love, Love, Love this book and cannot wait to run and read book 2!

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Forbidden Blood (The Shadow Chronicles Book 4) by CR Robertson – Review by Helen Dawkins

Forbidden Blood (The Shadow Chronicles Book 4)Forbidden Blood by C.R. Robertson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is the fourth book in The Shadow Chronicles. It is a continuation of the first three books, but this book is the story of Kimber and Fabien. I absolutely loved this everything in this book. C.R Robertson always makes sure in include wonderful imagery that pulls you right in. The Shadow Chronicles are paranormal stories about vampires and Lycans on their journey to love. I was glued to this book from the time I opened it to the time I finished it.

Kimber is the younger sister vampire of Tasha (who the first 3 books are about). She possesses special abilities that regular vampires do not have. Kimber has the ability to sense and feel everyone’s emotions and pain as well as has visions of the future. She has never felt like she belonged anywhere and felt like she was never enough because she was in the shadow of her older sister.

The story is very fast paced so hold on to your pants, because it will take you through almost every emotion within a small-time frame. It is an incredible action packed, paranormal romance, with vampires, lycans, magic, HOT chemistry, secrets, violence, and my favorite – forbidden romance.

“I followed Kimber out the door into the inky darkness of the night, because for her alone I would break all the rules and cloak myself in death.”

Fabien is the only person who ever made Kimber feel safe, who believed her, and who would burn the world down just to make her smile.

Absolutely wonderful book to read, and I definitely recommend.

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Taz (Devil’s Handmaidens MC: Timber-Ghost, Montana Chapter Book 3) by D.M. Earl – Review by Helen Dawkins

Taz: (Devil's Handmaidens MC: Timber-Ghost, Montana Chapter)Taz: by D.M. Earl
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is book 3 in the Devil’s Handmaidens MC by D.M. Earl. I thoroughly enjoyed this book; it was a good bit more engaging than the other two books. Just bad a$$ women who are fierce but also are compassionate. I was hooked from the first chapter and finished in one sitting. The book is full of suspense, romance, love, and true meaning of family.

Taz looks like the general wild, crazy, hell on wheels type of woman. Her hair alone screams rebel, with all of the different colors. While this can be her, she’s actually more quiet, loyal, and loving mother. She is the accountant/treasurer for the Devil’s Handmaidens.

Taz’s past comes back to haunt her, her ex abusive boyfriend comes to town and all hell breaks loose. There are lots of secrets that are spilled. On top of the issues the ex-boyfriend brings, both clubs are attacked by a white supremacist group that is hellbent on kidnapping Teddy (Taz son). Taz knows they are in severe danger, but her body locks up getting lost in the memories of her abuse.
Throughout the danger lurking in every corner, something does flourish from it – Taz relationship with Travis “Enforcer”.

Taz is a wonderful heroine and I absolutely love women MCs. This book shows several very strong women with supportive men. I couldn’t help but to tear up how this unconventional family comes together for one another and is there every step of the way. I think the ending wrapped up really quickly, a tad to quickly, making me want even more from Taz and the Montana Chapter.

Definitely recommend to those who love fierce women MCs, romance, and suspense.

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Cruel Start (Hidden Valley Elite) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Helen Dawkins

Cruel Start (Hidden Valley Elite #4.5)Cruel Start by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is book 5 in the Hidden Valley Elite series. It is the prequel to Aspen and Phoenix’s duet (Book 6 and 7). It is has both enemies to lover’s trope and bully romance. I highly recommend reading books 1-4 before starting this one, but it is not a must, I just think it gives a good background context for Phoenix’s character, and some of the other non-main characters.

This series just keeps getting better and better! I cannot wait to get my hands on Cruel Hate & Cruel Love.

Aspen is new to town and is barely hanging on as it is when her life was turned upside down after what was supposed to be a small fling with Phoenix.
Phoenix is the star football player at the Academy, and is headed to Thane University after this summer, and then most likely the NFL.

The chemistry between these who is electric and starts from the minute they set eyes on each other. One night between the two of them may impact both of their futures. What will they decide to do about the big surprise? This is the first time we really get to see Phoenix’s mind when it comes to women, besides being told he is a ladies’ man. His thought process has always been ‘one and done’ type of mentality.

Phoenix I feel is the biggest bully out of the 4 Elite boys. He literally could care less about anything or anyone unless it has to do with his football career. I can’t really blame him though, because he has worked so hard to get to where he is. Like pretty much the other two boys, Phoenix and Aspen meet at a party, but this time at the Cove.

This big surprise threatens to undo everything both Phoenix and Aspen have worked so hard for. So what will they choose? Will they only think of themselves, regardless of what the other one wants?

I read this in one sitting, and I am so excited to see how their relationship or non-relationship evolves. This book is super-fast paced, but Isla Vaughn does a wonderful job giving you just enough details to suck you in, but also not so little details that you are left confused. This book DOES end in a big cliffhanger so be prepared!

Such a must-read series, and book.

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Brutal Nights (Hidden Valley Elite Book 4) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Helen Dawkins

Brutal Nights (Hidden Valley Elite #4)Brutal Nights by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I absolutely loved this book! This is the 4th book in the Hidden Valley Elite Series, but it is a part of Damon and Skylar’s duet, so you technically don’t need to read books 1 & 2, but I recommend it as they interconnect!

The connection and energy between Damon and Skylar is off the charts. I think this second part of the duet is better than the first, but there is less of the bully aspect in part two. Skylar and Damon have just been discovered, and everyone is pissed. Especially Gia. So what will they do? Confess their attraction? Absolutely not, because why on earth would they do something like that? HAHA.

I am heads over heels for Sky. She is an AMAZING person, and friend. My heart absolutely breaks for her in every situation. She gets the short end of the stick every time it seems.
Damon grows A LOT in this book, and it is so beautiful and mesmerizing to read as it unfolds in front of you. You get to see deep into both of their minds, and in the end, they both have to ask their selves, what do they truly want? Not only do Damon and Sky have to deal with what they have done behind closed doors, Sky also is battling a horrible situation with her father, that threatens everything in Skys life.

Will their true feelings come to light? If they do, does it even matter or have things gone too far past repair? Will Damon or ANYONE be able to protect Sky from her father? How will this end? In love… or in possible death? Will Damon and Sky stand up for what they truly want, or will they let everyone else’s feelings and wants to dictate their future?

I highly recommend this book, duet, and entire series! It is a show stopper!
There is plenty of drama, spice, angst, and also pure love.

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Bound by the Hinterlands by Bree M. Lewandowski – Review by Helen Dawkins

Bound by the HinterlandsBound by the Hinterlands by Bree M. Lewandowski
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Bound by the Hinterlands is a fantasy romance tale full of darkness, panic, tension, danger, and drama. At first, I struggled with the story as it is written in Early Modern English, and it took me a little longer to get into the storyline. After about midway, I was completely in love with the book. It is a tale of a woman whose father is very abusive and has arranged for her to be married off. The characters are very well thought out and it is easy to connect with them. Cressida and Caravahl’s story is full of discovery and danger. The mystery unfolding goes hand in hand with their feelings also becoming deeper. I was on the edge of my seat for the 2nd half of the book.

Will Cressida find what she has been looking for? Will she be seduced by the secretes in the dark forest? Will the arranged marriage be a complete disaster, or will Cressida fall for this stranger who is now her husband?

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Seen by Lori Nelson – Review by Helen Dawkins

SeenSeen by Lori Nelson
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

I have neutral feelings towards this book. I feel like the storyline itself was pretty good, but the writing style was a little hard for me, a lot of it seemed forced, stiff and underwhelming. “Seen” by Lori Nelson is a dystopian science fiction. The story is full of mystery, family drama, with a sci-fi background. During the book, the viewpoint switches between Mouse and her older brother Meph. I wanted to love this book so badly, but I just couldn’t. One of my biggest issues being that I could not really picture the dystopian world or understand either of the characters mindsets. Personally, to me, it read as spoiled brats just wanting to do whatever they wanted. While I can understand them not wanting anything to do with their father due to his actions, it just didn’t describe that being their reasoning in any manner.

Mouse is wanting to become a journalist and is interning for a newspaper that is located in a not so safe part of the city. Within the first few pages the action immediately starts with a traumatic situation that Mouse and her brother experience. Then later on, Mouse witnesses something that will forever change her, and her viewpoint of her family. This will set the tone for the remainder of the book.

There is more going on than meets the eye, lots of background subplots happening. The characters themselves were well developed (with the exception of their thought process/mindset). Their personality types were very well shown, as well as their flaws and quirks. I think the storyline itself was excellent, and pretty unique.

There are some triggering topics such as, abuse, graphic violence, gore, murder, emotion abuse, betrayal, assault, manipulation, kidnapping and attempted rape.

While I personally didn’t love the book, I still think it is worth others reading and finding out for themselves if they enjoy the writing style. I will recommend this book to others based off the unique storyline.

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Brutal Days (Hidden Valley Elite Book 3) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Helen Dawkins

Brutal Days: A High School Bully Romance (Hidden Valley Elite Book 3)Brutal Days: A High School Bully Romance by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Brutal Days is the third book in the Hidden Valley Elite series, but it is the first book for Damon and Skylar. I didn’t think I could love a couple more than Riley and Cole (Book 1 and 2) but I was so wrong. Completely obsessed with them both separately and together. The “relationship” between Skylar and Damon starts out on completely crazy terms, but slowly it turned into something they both actually wanted, craved even. Their relationship is pure mind games from the beginning, on both sides. At the beginning Sky does not care AT ALL about Damon, at least that is what she says out loud, internally she is memorizing his insane body structure. Sky’s personality just makes Damon want her even more, they become a game for each other.

What will happen when the dust settles? Will Damon and Sky always hate each other, or can they get over it? Will Gia find out what Sky and Damon have been up to behind her back?

Skylar’s abusive father is set to be released soon from prison, what does that mean for her mother and herself? Will they need to flee in order to stay safe?

I cannot wait until June 22nd so I can read more of Damon and Skylar’s story!

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The Serpent and the Firefly by Courtney Davis – Review by Helen Dawkins

The Serpent and the FireflyThe Serpent and the Firefly by Courtney Davis
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I enjoyed the book and the authors writing style. This is an urban fantasy that has non-stop action with a realistic feel. With the excellent writing and attention to detail the characters and plot really made me feel like I was there in the story. The story is filled with prophecy, magic, shifters, Fae, other supernatural elements, demons, angles, secrets, danger, revenge, drama, chemistry, romance, humor, quirky moments, and sooooo much more. Literally everything you would want in a book to keep you captivated. The MC heroine’s character has their entire life turned upside down and is faced with all new challenges and rules. I would say that some characters are morally grey which are always my favorite. The heroine is attracted to the bad guys and trouble always seems to find her. One of the main struggles she faces is her ex putting a hit out for her, so she must go into witness protection. So many ulterior motives mixed with love and prophecy.

Definitely a fan of Courtney Davis’s writing, and will continue to read her books! Also, will recommend this book to anyone wanting an excellent magical read that transports you out of reality!

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Obedience (Ties That Bind Book 1) by Liza Snow – Review by Helen Dawkins

ObedienceObedience by Liza Snow
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Obedience is the first book in the series Ties That Bind. It is about a student/teacher romance mixed with a freaking circus! How could it be any more interesting? The student/teacher relationship revolves around two aerialists, the Master and the Protégé. This book hooked me from the beginning. It is well-paced, intriguing, and engaging. The whole story had me captivated, from the romance plot and the aspect of reading about the aerialists. I will definitely be adding more books from this author. It had an intriguing storyline with the circus, many plot twists, a sexy slow burn that turns hot as fire, and plenty of spice! I recommend this book even if you aren’t typically into student/teacher romance. It is excellently written, with a wonderful plot, and surprising key elements.

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Savage Truth (Hidden Valley Elite Book 2) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Helen Dawkins

Savage Truth: A High School Bully Romance (Hidden Valley Elite Book 2)Savage Truth: A High School Bully Romance by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I am becoming such a huge fan of Isla Vaughn’s! This is the second book in the series, but concludes Cole & Riley’s Duet.

It is an absolutely amazing High School bully romance! The author definitely knows how to keep you on your toes!

I read this book in one sitting, I couldn’t wait to devour it after reading the first book. The dynamic between Riley & Cole is so intriguing, it is a “will they-won’t they” type of vibe. Their personalities alone are spectacular and I love that we get to see inside of both of their inner thoughts. It shows why they feel and act the way they do during circumstances.

My favorite part of this book is when they both are both terrified if rejection but they decide to take the leap anyway.

Lots of secondary plots Interconnected and I love that it adds more to the story than just a boy meets girl, girl hates guy type of scene.

Will definitely read more to come from Isla Vaughn and this series.

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Return to Hoodoo (Boudin, Bourbon, and Barbecue, Book 1) by Reggi Dupree – Review by Helen Dawkins

Return to Hoodoo: A Paranormal Women's Fiction Novel (Boudin, Barbecue, and Hoodoo Book 1)Return to Hoodoo: A Paranormal Women’s Fiction Novel by Reggi Dupree
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is an amazing and hilarious book! If you love supernatural, paranormal, romance with a dash of southern, this is the book for you!

I enjoyed this book so much! All of the characters are absolutely delightful, they have snark, they are hilarious, they will keep you on your toes. The dialogue was EVERYTHING! The story was suspenseful enough to keep your interest while also keeping it fast paced and lighthearted.

My favorite part of this story is that Gwen, is midlife. So we get to see her past, present and future, as well as how some of those choices impacted others. She has more depth, experience, and balance than her younger self, as we all do when we get other. It was very relatable and refreshing.

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Savage Lies (Hidden Valley Elite Book 1) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Helen Dawkins

Savage Lies: A High School Bully Romance (Hidden Valley Elite Book 1)Savage Lies: A High School Bully Romance by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Ahhhhh! I love this series! I am not typically one to read bully romances, but this book has definitely changed my mind about them!

This is the first book in the series. But I highly recommend reading the prequel. It makes this book all that better!

I fell head of heels for Riley. She is an amazing character and super easy for me to relate to (even though I’m much older than her). Her dynamic with her mother pulled on my heart strings more than I thought it would! She has been through so much, but yet she is so resilient.

Cole, at first, I didn’t like him too much. He seemed super immature. While I understand his reasoning, I still thought it was just… eh. Like get the over yourself. Lol . But towards the end, he started to reel me in.

Now, the attraction and intense tension between Cole and Riley 🥵🥵🥵 wow. Someone needs to open the window because it was getting hoooottttt in here.

Definitely recommend to other readers, and I will be patiently waiting to read the rest of the series!

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Rogue (The Talisman Series) by Tam DeRudder Jackson – Review by Helen Dawkins

Rogue (The Talisman Series)Rogue by Tam DeRudder Jackson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Rogue is an exciting paranormal romance steeped in Celtic Mythology, and the 6th book in the series, The Talisman Series. The beginning of the book pulled me in immediately. I loved the dual POV. Baz and Delaney find themselves constantly in intense situations with power hungry antagonists. Baz is a rogue, but not necessarily by choice. I adore both MC’s they are both bada$$ and super interesting. The sexual tension between Baz and Delaney is intense and steamy. I enjoyed watching their growth throughout. What happens when the Goddesses come calling? Baz has found himself in a situation for love or to have freedom. Which is more important?

This is fast paced and will keep you entertained the entire time. Definitely recommend this book and the series.

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Shadow (Devil’s Handmaidens MC: Timber-Ghost, Montana Chapter Book 2) by D.M. Earl – Review by Helen Dawkins

Shadow (Devil's Handmaidens MC-Book Two)Shadow by D.M. Earl
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is the second book in the Devil’s Handmaidens MC Series. It is STUNNING!!!!!!!!! It is a fast paced and a standalone. I finished this book in one sitting! I couldn’t put it down. Drama, Danger, Struggles, Scars, Enemies, Survival, Family, LITERALLY EVERYTHING you could want in an amazing book.

The story is about a leader of a MC club that is focused on taking down a pedophile ring in Timber-Ghost. This book definitely showed a glimpse at how dangerous and cruel this world is. That children and teens actually live through this and have to find a way to survive.

Shadow has been through an immense number of struggles and has issues with allowing other people in and trusting anyone. She has a hard time with this especially when she starts to become involved with Panther. Will she be able to work through her issues? Will they be able to uncover the rings? Will they all be able to heal?

I definitely recommend both books in this series. While it is intense and gives a lot of information, it is a rollercoaster of emotions but in a good way.

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Tink (Devil’s Handmaidens MC: Timber-Ghost, Book 1) by D.M. Earl – Review by Helen Dawkins

Tink (Devil's Handmaidens MC-Book One)Tink by D.M. Earl
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I love a good women MC. Tink is the president of a biker’s club called the Devil’s Handmaidens MC. Her club also helps save people who are apart of sex trafficking. Tink has had a lot of tragedy in her short life. But it makes her incredibly strong. Tink only wants to find one person in particular, Hannah. I loved the character development throughout the story. You get action and romance.

“Noodle” comes in, is a Navy SEAL who is in Montana helping with an animal rescue. will he be the one to help her with the demons running through Tink’s mind?

I cannot wait to read Shadow!

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Ruthless Hawke (The Hawke Family Second Generation Book 1) by Gwyn McNamee – Review by Helen Dawkins

Ruthless Hawke (The Hawke Family Second Generation Book 1)Ruthless Hawke by Gwyn McNamee
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is the first book in the series of the 2nd generation of Hawkes. It does NOT disappoint!!!! I absolutely devoured this book in one sitting! I couldn’t put it down. While it is not needed to read the first generation, I definitely suggest to. It will give you an intense amount of back story of most of the characters in the book. Why they act a certain way, or do things a little odd.

Issac and Mina are 🔥🔥🔥 . I recommend reading the prequel, but if you’d like you definitely can just jump right in to this book. I absolutely LOVE their chemistry. Everything about them is electric. This may very well be my favorite book from Gwyn McNamee. Issac may be hard on the outside, but he is ALWAYS loyal to his family. He will do absolutely anything to protect them.

Mina and Issac had a weekend together 5 years ago, neither have ever been able to forget the other. But, unfortunately they weren’t able to find eachother since they both gave fake names. After Mina’s family is in danger, she is sent to live with the Hawkes, a family friend of her father’s. Fate brought them back together, but it won’t be so simple to just be together. There are many complications now, and they will fight their attraction until it’s impossible to ignore.

I definitely recommend reading this book & any of the others in this series or the 1st generation Hawkes!

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Spirit Guide (Madame Chalamet Ghost Mysteries Book 3) by Byrd Nash – Review by Helen Dawkins

Spirit Guide (Madame Chalamet Ghost Mysteries #3)Spirit Guide by Byrd Nash
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I absolutely love this series by Byrd Nash. It is such a lighthearted story, but immediately grabs your attention and doesn’t let go! I read this book in one sitting! This is the 3rd book in the series “Madame Chalamet Ghost Mysteries” and personally this one has been my favorite so far! It went into a deeper explanation of exactly what the Morpheus Society and what they actually teach their students. The smaller plot with the romance with the duke of Archambeau kept me on the edge, wondering exactly what Madame Chalamet was feeling towards their relationship. I also enjoyed the banter between Madame Chalamet and her new apprentice, it showed a different side of Mys Chalamet and how she interacts with people. I cannot wait until book 4 is released and I can continue reading about their mysterious adventures and the relationship between the duke and Mys Chalamet.

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Savage Start (Hidden Valley Elite Prequel) by Isla Vaughn – Review by helen dawkins

Savage Start: A High School Bully Romance: Hidden Valley Elite PrequelSavage Start: A High School Bully Romance: Hidden Valley Elite Prequel by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This book is the prequel to the Isla Vaughn’s new series Hidden Valley Elite. The story follows two young teenagers, Cole and Riley. They comes from drastically different background and financial statues. Riley and her mother move around constantly, never staying in one place to long because they are con artists and hiding from her biological father. Her mother says that this time is different, that they will hopefully be able to settle in and stay. The first day Riley is in town, she comes across a house party at a mansion sized beach house. After scoping out the house, Riley steals a gold lighter and get caught by a dangerously attractive alpha male. Cole, catches Riley in a bold face lie and when taunted by Riley, kisses her. To both of their surprise it is the most intense kiss either of them have ever experienced. Riley’s mother’s plans of staying are quickly changed and before they know it they are on their way to moving again. The book ends with a cliffhanger! I cannot wait until Book One is released to see what happens between Riley and Cole!

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Family Lucky Stars by Fantasia Yu – Review by Helen Dawkins

Lucky StarsLucky Stars by Fantasia Yu
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

This book is about two star crossed lovers, Mora and Darin. Princess Mora and her sister travel to the moon planet Xot, for the purpose of Mora marrying the Prince Fidge. Mora absolutely hates being a princess and wants nothing more than to be free, she does not wish to marry Prince Fidge, even if it means helping the galaxy. She has just received the best news, she was accepted to go to the Bronze City for school, where she hopes to be far, far away from Fidge and princess duties. Mora is introduced to the rugged criminal and possible terrorist Darin and immediately is smitten. She must keep her real identity a secret from him though, she is not sure he would still be accepting of her being a Princess. How long can she hide her identity from him when the royals send a bounty hunter to retrieve her?

Darin, also only wants to be free and be a pilot. He has is technically a criminal in Xot and must take the people on tours of all kinds to receive credits, once he has enough credits he is able to go home in a community out of orbit. Darin immediately becomes infatuated with Mora. Will be put aside his fears of not being good enough and take a leap of faith to be with her?

While I loved the idea of the book, it was VERY confusing and hard to keep along. The book jumped around Alot and was hard to follow conversations correctly. I found myself constantly rereading passages so I could understand what was exactly going on.

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Delicious Death (Madame Chalamet Ghost Mysteries Book 2) by Byrd Nash – Review by Helen Dawkins

Delicious Death (Madame Chalamet Ghost Mysteries #2)Delicious Death by Byrd Nash
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is book two in the Madame Chalamet Ghost Mysteries by Byrd Nash. The author most definitely did not disappoint. I absolutely loved every aspect of this book, the characters are so easily to fall in love with, and the main plot is excellently woven, with a great complimented sub-plot. Madame Chalamet has been invited to The Winter Revels, a royal arts and skills competition the King throws every year, this year the main competition is cooking. In attendance is most of the nobility and a few commoners, including Mysir de Archambeau. Competing in the competition is her favorite Chef from the Crown Hotel. Madame Chalamet and Dr. LaRue have already found trouble before they even step off the train and they must absolutely help Lady Tulip Langenberg. An attempt on the King’s life makes for an interesting mystery; who in a house full of people want the King dead? Both Mysir de Archambeau and Madame Chalamet must get to the bottom of the assassination attempt, while Madame Chalamet is balancing trying to help Lady Tulip, and also has been called upon to help an older Widow let go of her husband who has been dead for five years. Will they be able to help everyone who needs their attention? What if they cannot uncover who tried to kill the King? Will the person try again? On top of these mysteries, the relationship between Madame Chalamet and the Duke is strengthening and seems to be more than platonic, at least I hope it will be! Cannot wait till I can read book three!

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A Dowry of Snails and Mud by Brittany Tucker – Review by Helen Dawkins

A Dowry of Snails and MudA Dowry of Snails and Mud by Brittany Tucker
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Super sweet and quirky book. At the beginning it is a little on the slow side, but it does pick up midway and is such a lighthearted pleasant story to read. The main female character Rhia is everything a Royal shouldn’t be. She is loud, insanely tall for a female, and most of all messy. Her town, where her father is the mayor, has not paid taxes to the King of Wales and now he is setting a deadline. Not only is he setting a deadline, but he also demands that Rhia marry his sixth son, Emerys. She is pressured by her father to sway the prince into letting them not pay the owed debt. She is frustrated and does everything in her power to make it a horrible situation instead of coming together with the prince to save her town. Unfortunately, they have a few run ins with the Wildmen, who come and steal anything they may have. After trying deeply to ignore her feelings for the prince, she is put in a predicament where she might not only lose her town, but also the man she loves.

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The Hawke Family Complete Collection by Gwyn McNamee – Review by Helen dawkins

The Hawke Family Complete CollectionThe Hawke Family Complete Collection by Gwyn McNamee
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I absolutely loved this collection. The collection includes all 6 books of the Hawke Family. The author gives just enough detail about each character that gives you the feeling that you are a close personal friend but not so much in depth that you get bored with the words. There is a lot of heat and spice throughout the entire series but also each book has an in-depth plot.

Savage Collision:
This is the first book in the collection and focuses on the eldest son of the Hawke family, Savage. We are also introduced to the entire family in this book and get a good glimpse at different character personalities. I absolutely love Savages character development throughout this book, it is shown through each chapter how much he has grown. The romance is between Savage and his employee’s older sister Danika. Savage owns not only clubs, and restaurants but also a gentleman’s club, which makes Dani call him a “pussy peddler”. Dani is a journalist and is working on a big story that deals with the Mob and Mayor. Savage is a control freak who has lost a good bit of control in his life, which makes him even harder to deal with. Dani is also hardheaded and is definitely not looking for love. Will these two be able to even stand in the same room without going completely insane? This book is full of steam, suspense, and action, in addition to the romance.

Tortured Skye:
This is the second book in the collection and focuses on Skye, the youngest daughter of the Hawke family. The romance with Skye also involves her brother’s best friend, Gabe. I absolutely loved Skye in the first book, and I fell in love with her even more in this book. While Skye is a little bitchy and hot headed, I feel she is really more misunderstood than anything. She lost her twin sister and that alone would give anyone major issues. Both of the fight their love and attraction for the longest time, but once they give in, the flood gates are open, and it gets hot and heavy quickly. Gabe is still quite reluctant to be in a relationship given it is a semi betrayal to his best friend Savage. The author shows us in this book that there is always something more going on with a person that what is shown on the outside. The journey Skye and Gabe take is a long winding road.

Stone Sober:
This is the third book in the collection and focuses on Stone, the youngest Hawke in the family. This what absolutely nothing I expected it to be, but it was much better. This is my favorite story of the entire collection. There is a ton of twists and turns in this book that will have your heart racing and fist clenching. The storyline is a little darker than the others which I loved. Stone has just returned home and is on edge, he has a secret that he has been keeping that only one other person knows about. This secret could set him completely down the wrong path, moreso than it already has done. Nora, is an amazing smart young woman who is also an employee of his brother Savage’s gentlemen’s club. Absolutely no one knows her reasoning for giving up her doctor career to become a stripper, besides that it is more freeing. This story is hot, dark and full of secrets.

Building Storm:
This is the fourth book in the collection and follows the oldest sister, Storm. I ended up so wrapped up in this story that I read it completely in one sitting. In this story, you will definitely feel every emotion possible. The author has written it perfectly for you to feel all of the sorrow, the anger and the lust. There were parts where I felt like my heart actually broke from the way Storm was feeling. From the other books we know that Storm has a daughter and was married, but now we get to see how Storm is putting her life back together. She definitely wasn’t looking for love, but it found her anyway. Landon is from Chicago and ends up in New Orleans after trying to run from his problems. They are both broken, but in different ways and they hope to heal each other. Do you think Storm is ready for a happy ending, or are they both two broken to be fixed?

Tainted Saint:
This is the fifth book in the collection and focuses on Caroline and Saint. Caroline, we met back in book one, she is Danika’s best friend, and a friend of the Hawke women. She is fun, feisty, and adventurous. She has her eyes set on a new bouncer of one of the clubs, Saint. This story is smoking hot with so many different twists. One of my favorite aspects of this book is that Caroline is not the type of woman that takes orders very well, like Saint is used to. I felt there was not a lot of the same depth in this story but loved it, nonetheless.

Steele Resolve
This is book six in the collection and is a M/M romance that follows Byron and Steele. We met Byron in the first book, he is the manager of the gentlemen’s club that Savage Hawke owns. This is a forbidden romance, and enemies to lover’s trope. You can’t help but to love Byron, he is sweet, funny, and loyal. This book is full of high-strung emotion. Steele is Mr. Right but also oh so wrong for Byron. Steele is the enemy, and how is Byron going to choose between his heart and his family?

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