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The Cannibal Caper (Sparky of Bunker Hill Mystery Series) by Rosalind Barden – Review by Alison Risher

The Cannibal CaperThe Cannibal Caper by Rosalind Barden
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I’m loving this series! This mystery is set in Los Angeles in the 1930s. The main character is this scrappy little orphan who has been living on the streets. It is told in the first person, from her point of view. Although she now has a safe place to sleep and regular meals, she struggles to leave behind her life on the streets. She struggles with making good choices, which is something we can all relate to.

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The Cannibal Caper (Sparky of Bunker Hill Mystery Series) by Rosalind Barden – Review by La Toya Lewis

The Cannibal Caper: A Sparky of Bunker Hill MysteryThe Cannibal Caper: A Sparky of Bunker Hill Mystery by Rosalind Barden
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The Cannibal Caper is the second book in the Bunker Hill Mystery Series. We are once again hanging out with street kid turned sleuth Sparky. Sparky’s life has gotten better as she builds a life with Tootsie. She has her own room and much to her chagrin Tootsie wants to send her to school. Of course, Sparky lands smack dab in the middle of another mystery. This time Sparky finds herself on the trail of a cannibal. Once again I found myself on a wild ride with spunky Sparky. This book was even better than the first. The author draws you into the shady 1930s perfectly. I love how immersive everything feels. Of course, I also loved the relationship between Tootsie and Sparky. This was a fun and adventurous story with a very well-written plot.

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Master of the Abyss (Painted Souls Series Book 3) by Rob Samborn – Review by Elisha Johnson

Master of the Abyss (Painted Souls, #3)Master of the Abyss by Rob Samborn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Master of the Abyss by Rob Samborn- 5 out of 5 stars

My first read by this author and the third and final book in this series. I highly recommend that you read the first two installments before picking this one up. This crazy unique historical thriller is a book you will have a hard time putting down. There were so many twists and turns, and souls getting trapped inside painting! Wow, this series will have you on your toes! I highly recommend these books.

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Master of the Abyss (Painted Souls Series Book 3) by Rob Samborn – Review by Betsy Melano

Master of the Abyss (Painted Souls, #3)Master of the Abyss by Rob Samborn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The final book of the Painted Souls Series which happens to be an amazing story filled with action, adventure, danger and so much more. Julia and her friends must work together to save Nick from purgatory. As you read this book, you can’t help but feel like you’re on the edge of your seat ready to help. The connection between Julia and Nick and how much their friends love them and want to help them.
I highly recommend reading the series in order. The author does a wonderful job of world and character development throughout the story and you won’t want to stop reading!

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Master of the Abyss (Painted Souls Series Book 3) by Rob Samborn – Review by Shannen Kern

Master of the Abyss (Painted Souls, #3)Master of the Abyss by Rob Samborn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This has been one of my absolute favorite series! I cannot say enough good things about it. This is not one you should read as a standalone because they only make sense in order with all background provided. They build off each other quite a bit. This book (and series) is captivating, thrilling, and you won’t be able to put it down so clear your day! The flow of the story feels natural, and the characters are very well-developed. The author makes it impossible to NOT be fully invested within minutes. Can Julia save her husband or is his fate sealed? Do yourself the biggest favor and pick up this series, you won’t regret it!

Reviewed by @shannlynn

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Master of the Abyss (Painted Souls Series Book 3) by Rob Samborn – Review by Bobbi Wagner

Master of the Abyss (Painted Souls, #3)Master of the Abyss by Rob Samborn
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is a series that I have enjoyed reading from the first book. It is a fast paced, hard to put down story and the last book of the series. This is a series that I highly suggest reading from first book to last. It will help you understand where the characters have been and where they are going. I look forward to seeing what is next for this author. This is a well written story that is engaging and hard to put down. Julia and her group have one last chance to free her husband. What happens is something you don’t want to miss. I enjoyed watching the growth of the plot throughout the story. The characters are relatable and add so much to the story. I really enjoyed them and what they brought to the story. I highly recommend this book.

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Review by @bjwagner

Master of the Abyss (Painted Souls Series Book 3) by Rob Samborn – Review by Sheri Schrader

Master of the Abyss (Painted Souls, #3)Master of the Abyss by Rob Samborn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Master of the Abyss: The Epic Conclusion to the Painted Souls Series is the third and final book of this action-packed series. Julia is trying to save her husband and others from purgatory while stopping Salvatore della Porta from reigning over the globe with his cult of followers. There are the dual timelines that started in the first two books of the series. I enjoy how the author delves into the rich past of 16th-century Venice while balancing it with the contemporary timeline. This is definitely a series you need to start at the beginning but trust me; it is worth reading the entire series. The story, characters, and action keep you reading and not wanting to put down the book. Though this was the last book in this series, I will keep an eye out for more by this author.

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Master of the Abyss (Painted Souls Series Book 3) by Rob Samborn – Review by Samantha cleaver

Master of the Abyss (Painted Souls, #3)Master of the Abyss by Rob Samborn
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I’m not sure how, but Rob has done it again! He has such a wonderful imagination and storytelling skills. He easily makes me forget that I’m reading a fictional novel. The characters draw me in and I couldn’t put this book down!

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Painter of the Damned (Painted Souls Book 2) by Rob Samborn – Review by Samantha Cleaver

Painter of the Damned (Painted Souls, #2)Painter of the Damned by Rob Samborn
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Rob Samborn is at it again! This book takes us to Nick’s previous life in 16th century Venice. Rob takes us between two different time periods beautifully. This book, like the first in the series, was hard to put down! Can’t wait to read the next in the series!

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The Prisoner of Paradise (Painted Souls Book 1) by Rob Samborn – Review by Samantha Cleaver

The Prisoner of Paradise (Painted Souls, #1)The Prisoner of Paradise by Rob Samborn
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This was my first book by Rob Samborn. It took me a few chapters to get into this book, but then I couldn’t put it down. So much happened with the main characters: Nick and Julia. It ended up being a page turner! If you enjoy historical fiction, while also being action packed, then this book is for you!

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Master of the Abyss (Painted Souls Series Book 3) by Rob Samborn – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

Master of the Abyss (Painted Souls, #3)Master of the Abyss by Rob Samborn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Master of the Abyss is the third and final book to the Painted Souls Series. It is a spine-tingling, high stakes, twisted, historical thriller. If you have not yet read the first two books in the series, I highly recommend that you do, or you may feel lost. The first two novels give backstory and important details that are imperative to getting the full experience of this amazing series. In the gripping finale to the series, Julia must try to save her husband from eternal purgatory. In her quest to save him she finds herself trying to save the world from a religious fanatic. The author weaves an intricate, multi layered story full of rich historical details. This book was riveting from the first few pages and full of action, suspense, drama, mystery, intrigue, and twists and turns. I highly recommend this book, and this series!

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Master of the Abyss (Painted Souls Series Book 3) by Rob Samborn – Review by Finn Cunningham

Master of the Abyss (Painted Souls, #3)Master of the Abyss by Rob Samborn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Master of the Abyss is Rob Samborn’s incredible conclusion to the Painted Souls Series. Where do I start, considering this series has it all? From book one I have been thoroughly hooked on this sags, filling all of my spare time with this mind-boggling thriller. Rob never misses a single beat, with beautiful imagery, drama, and mystery. I had a terrible time pulling myself away from this series, continuously coming back for more. I just had to know! I loved this from book one, page one, and i recommend it to anyone who enjoy action thrillers full to the brim with raw talent.

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Painter of the Damned (Painted Souls Book 2) by Rob Samborn – Review by Finn Cunningham

Painter of the Damned (Painted Souls, #2)Painter of the Damned by Rob Samborn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Painter of the Damned is the second book in Rob Samborn’s breathtaking Painted Souls series. Much like the first installment, you will be on the edge of your seat from page one. The world is amazing, and the mysteries, conspiracies, and suspense will keep you reading deep into night. Action at every turn, and just enticing from the start to finish, Rob will continue to awe you with each new page. I have absolutely adored this series so far and cannot wait for the conclusion!

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The Prisoner of Paradise (Painted Souls Book 1) by Rob Samborn – Review by Finn Cunningham

The Prisoner of Paradise (Painted Souls, #1)The Prisoner of Paradise by Rob Samborn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The Prisoner of Paradise is the first book in the Painted Souls Trilogy. An enrapturing start to what i can already tell is gonna be an epic series. It’s full to the brim with twists and turns, action, and beautiful world building. Rob makes his books hard to put down, and I can’t wait to see what waits for me in the next book. I definitely recommend this work of art to anyone looking for a beautiful, action packed, page turner, Angelo will not disappoint.

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Master of the Abyss (Painted Souls Series Book 3) by Rob Samborn – Review by Kerry Carr

Master of the Abyss (Painted Souls, #3)Master of the Abyss by Rob Samborn
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is the 3rd and finally book in the Painted Souls Series. I do recommend reading them from the start so you get the complete story and you won’t be disappointed. Reading them from the beginning also helps you to understand the switch between times from the past to present day. I can imagine without knowing the reason for it, it would make the books confusing.
These books are historical thrillers. They are books you can’t help but get lost in. Their is romance, danger, evil, past and present and countless souls needing to be saved from purgatory.

With Julia’s husband Nick’s soul trapped in purgatory it is a race against time for her and her friends. They need to stop Salvatore della Porta from taking over the world by Veritism—the one religion and they need to save Nick’s soul as well as the souls of other people who have been trapped and condemned to purgatory. Will Julia and her friends be able to find the ancient relic needed to save everyone and stop Salvatore or will they run out of time?

This author has weaved a fantasy tale in this series. One that has you gripped and on the edge of your seat. I am sad that this is the last book but I thoroughly enjoyed it and will definately read it again.

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Master of the Abyss (Painted Souls Series Book 3) by Rob Samborn – Review by Nina Maes

This book was very intriguing. Fast paced, keep me at the edge of seat from start to finish. Very strong characters and strong story line. I love when an author can paint you a picture of exactly what you are reading. I would recommend to all readers, can be read as stand alone. Looking forward to the next read.Master of the Abyss (Painted Souls, #3)Master of the Abyss by Rob Samborn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This book was very intriguing. Fast paced, keep me at the edge of seat from start to finish. Very strong characters and strong story line. I love when an author can paint you a picture of exactly what you are reading. I would recommend to all readers, can be read as stand alone. Looking forward to the next read.

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Master of the Abyss (Painted Souls Series Book 3) by Rob Samborn – Review by Crystal Brehant

Master of the Abyss (Painted Souls, #3)Master of the Abyss by Rob Samborn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This story is loaded with mystery and exhilaration. It is one of those books that you keep saying “okay one more page. Okay maybe one more chapter”, again and again until you finish the book at 4am. You really get sucked into the story and at times you forget about reality. Exceptional story telling.

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Master of the Abyss (Painted Souls Series Book 3) by Rob Samborn – Review by Dawn Daughenbaugh

Master of the Abyss (Painted Souls, #3)Master of the Abyss by Rob Samborn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

5 Stars
Master of the Abyss (Painted Souls Series Book 3) by Rob Samborn

Master of the Abyss is the third book and final book in the Painted Souls Series. This is wonderfully written Historical Thriller that will have you turning the pages till the end. I would highly suggest reading this series in order as each book plays off the last and you get a better understanding of what has been going on and you get to know the characters better and the back story. I literally read the second book and realized I missed the first one so it was read afterwards and I’m glad I did. This is a on the edge of your seat thriller that is packed with drama, suspense, action, mystery, a ancient journal, adventure and so much more. Get ready for quite the epic adventure as Julia O’Connor and friends set have there work cut out for them as they race save not only her husband but all the others that are trapped in enteral torment. I literally read this in one sitting because I couldn’t put it down. I had to know how everything was going to pan out. I highly recommend reading this book to find out what happens next. Buckle up cause you are in for quite the ride. I can’t wait to see what this author brings us next.

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The Cannibal Caper (Sparky of Bunker Hill Mystery Series) by Rosalind Barden – Review by Tausha Treadway

The Cannibal Caper: A Sparky of Bunker Hill MysteryThe Cannibal Caper: A Sparky of Bunker Hill Mystery by Rosalind Barden
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The Cannibal Caper (Sparky of Bunker Hill Mystery Series) by Rosalind Barden. I love this little series about a 11 year old “detective Sparky who lives in the Bunker Hill area in the 1930’s. In this edition of the series Sparky tries to find a cannibal and a jewel thief who is running loose in LA. Sparky has a guardian who is more worried about getting Sparky in school than catching any cannibals or jewel thief. Sparky also makes a new friend who is kind of weird that works at the pet store. Bobby decides to help Sparky find these criminals. Will they be able to find them before someone else gets hurt or their jewels stolen? Read this fun mystery to find out!

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Master of the Abyss (Painted Souls Series Book 3) by Rob Samborn – Review by Julie Johnson

Master of the Abyss (Painted Souls, #3)Master of the Abyss by Rob Samborn
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I’m a little sad to see this amazing series come to an end!! I am so glad that I gave this series a chance. As previously mentioned in other reviews, I struggle with dual time line stories. This author made it so easy for me to follow the story and I almost felt like I was in the story myself at times!

It’s up to Julia and a few of her close friends to save Nick from this eternal purgatory that he’s found himself in. The Order is just not going to let him walk away from the deeds that he’s done, or that they think he’s done.

This book is just as full of action and adventure as the previous books. It’s vital that these be read in order to preserve the storyline and to have it make sense. If you love historical based reads, grab this one. If you like that this is also a bit of a thriller, it will only enhance your reading experience more. I will be adding this author on my list of those to watch out for because his writing is extremely enjoyable to me!!

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Painter of the Damned (Painted Souls Series Book 2) by Rob Samborn – Review by Julie Johnson

Painter of the Damned (Painted Souls, #2)Painter of the Damned by Rob Samborn
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

It’s very important to read these books in order to understand the context of what’s happening.

This book picks up right where Book 1 (The Prisoner of Paradise) left off. Nick and Julia are still trying to get back home when they are sent back to Venice. The Order is not about to let them get away with what they think is important information.

There is a lot of action and adventure in this story as well! There are a few twists and turns that I did not see coming. I really enjoy this author’s writing and look forward to reading more great stories of his!

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The Prisoner of Paradise (Painted Souls Series Book 1) by Rob Samborn – Review by Julie Johnson

The Prisoner of Paradise (Painted Souls, #1)The Prisoner of Paradise by Rob Samborn
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Nick is an avid hockey player. One wrong move though and he found himself sidelined with a head injury that he is in denial over. When an opportunity for the trip of a lifetime to Venice comes along, Nick and his wife Julia are excited. Julia is concerned that it might be too much for Nick though. Eventually, they make the journey where Julia has an opportunity to write for a prestigious publication but they are going to soak up as much as tourists can while on a working vacation. When they visit an art gallery and see Tintoretto’s Paradise, things start to get a little interesting for Nick. He soon finds himself embroiled in a mystery that is over 400 years old with a need to release trapped souls.

This book is one that I wasn’t sure I would enjoy but I wanted to give it a chance and I’m so glad that I did. Normally, I struggle with dual time-line stories but this one was written in a way that didn’t affect me like others have in the past. I was engrossed in this story from word one page one. I’m super excited about other stories in this series! I love the mystery, intrigue, and the historical aspects of this adventure.

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Mission Improbable: Vietnam (A Blanche Murninghan Mystery) by Nancy Nau Sullivan – Review by Angelina Frazzini

Mission Improbable: Vietnam (Blanche Murninghan Mystery, #3)Mission Improbable: Vietnam by Nancy Nau Sullivan
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is book three of the series and the first book I’ve read by this author. You can read this book without feeling like you missed anything if you didn’t read book one or two. This book has a mystery plot that definitely pulls you in.

Blanche has an adventure in Vietnam while using her amateur sleuthing skills to find Jean’s mother. So many secrets and so much history woven through this story! You can tell the author either researched or has personal experience with Vietnam. It is so well written it’s like you are on the journey with Blanche!

It’s a good read and I may very well circle back and read the first two books in the series.

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Master of the Abyss (Painted Souls Series Book 3) by Rob Samborn – Review by Tausha Treadway

Master of the Abyss (Painted Souls, #3)Master of the Abyss by Rob Samborn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Master of the Abyss (Painted Souls Series Book 3) by Rob Samborn. This is the final book in the Painted Souls series and wow its packed full of goodies. I do believe you will better enjoy it if you read the previous books. Its the continuation of Julia trying to get her husband out of purgatory along with others. Julia and her friends are trying with everything they have to stop Salvatore della Porta from reigning supreme over all. They are tracking a very old journal across Europe, to Asia then back again to Venice and all the while they have Salvatore’s men on their tale. Their end goal is find the relic that will destroy the “sun crystal”. Not only Nick needs to be freed but thousands of others are captured. With time against them, Juila and her team will try everything in their power to destroy Salvatore before he takes over and destroys them all. This is a fast paced, sit down and buckle up, historical thriller. I loved every minute of it and hate for it to end!

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Mission Improbable: Vietnam (A Blanche Murninghan Mystery) by Nancy Nau Sullivan – Review by Brandy Rymer

Mission Improbable:Vietnam (A Blanche Murninghan Mystery)Mission Improbable:Vietnam by Nancy Nau Sullivan
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This was a great mystery story that beautifully portrays the customs and traditions of Vietnam both during and after the Vietnam War. The parts that take place during the Vietnam War are so realistic and frighteningly sorrowful, that to feel the fear both sides must have been experiencing, was just heartbreaking. The paths that Jean and Blanche travel around Vietnam, and the people they meet while on their hunt for answers to what happened to their parents, take the reader into places you would not even imagine exist. I love the variety of characters that we meet throughout this story, especially the ones working to help Jean find her missing mother, they all show such deep love for the beauty of family bonds, embracing both Jean and Blanche as one of their own. The author did a great job on her research and gathering background information to keep this story true to the facts in her detailing, making the characters, and the descriptions of the areas she develops made the story come to life. I was on the edge of my seat, cheering for both Jean and Blanche to find the answers that they were seeking along their journey together.
@Brandy Rymer
1/2024

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The Scent of Snow (The Winemakers Series) by Giovanna Siniscalchi

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The Scent of Snow (The Winemakers Series) by Giovanna Siniscalchi
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Genre – Historical Romance
Page Count – 165
Join The Winemakers for an enchanting Christmas celebration!
Amid the snow-covered beauty of the Count of Almoster’s estate, Pedro and Anne Daun’s love story continues, but this Holiday, their desires are on a collision course. Scarred by a painful past, Pedro guards his heart against fatherhood while Anne’s yearning for a child threatens to unravel their perfect marriage.
As the family gathers for a festive celebration, buried secrets set the stage for a winter’s tale like no other. When tragedy strikes, and a young boy vanishes into the snowy wilderness, Pedro’s courage is tested in ways he never imagined. Together, they must confront their deepest fears and find the true meaning of love, forgiveness, and the magical ‘Scent of Snow’ that can transform their lives forever.
Will Pedro and Anne’s love prove strong enough to weather the storm, or will the snowy landscape forever change the course of their destinies?

~ AMAZON ~

Click here to view the Book Trailer for The Scent of Snow (The Winemakers Series) by Giovanna Siniscalchi

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Stories are the very fabric of life. I want to transport readers to exotic settings, where they can find romance and happy endings and hopefully bring some back to their daily lives. Portugal brims with beauty and passion, and I research every tiny detail of my novels, hoping to make the reader treasure my grandparents’ country as I do. I have a loving husband who still is my hero and two amazing kids. When it’s cold and rainy, I run inside to read and watch movies under blankets, sipping wine. You can find me on the beach during summer, surfing with my family.

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Mission Improbable: Vietnam (A Blanche Murninghan Mystery) by Nancy Nau Sullivan – Review by Julie Johnson

Mission Improbable: Vietnam (Blanche Murninghan Mystery, #3)Mission Improbable: Vietnam by Nancy Nau Sullivan
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is a journey of finding lost family members and putting some to rest. When Jean approaches Blanche about traveling to Vietnam with her to help her find her mom, Blanche isn’t prepared for what she might also find while there. Jean is keeping secrets and once they start to come out, Blanche learns even more about herself. There is mystery, intrigue, and suspense woven throughout this story and is sure to keep any mystery lover engaged.

My favorite part of this story is the re-telling of Cinderella. I really enjoyed that little tidbit. There is some history woven throughout this story too. A very good read that I would recommend.

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Mission Improbable: Vietnam (A Blanche Murninghan Mystery) by Nancy Nau Sullivan – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

Mission Improbable:Vietnam (A Blanche Murninghan Mystery)Mission Improbable:Vietnam by Nancy Nau Sullivan
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Mission Improbable: Vietnam is part of the Blanche Murninghan Mystery Series. It is a historical cozy mystery that takes place in the year 2003, 30 years after the Vietnam War. The story follows the adventures of an amateur sleuth named Blanche who has gained a reputation for being determined to solve a good mystery. In her newest adventure she has been asked to travel to Vietnam to help a woman named Jean find her mother. As the two women spend time together, they discover they have a lot in common as they bond while navigating through the mystery surrounding each of their painful pasts. The author takes the reader on an emotional journey of self-discovery as both women try to seek answers and find closure. The characters of Blanche and Jean are relatable and the qualities of each are admirable. Both are strong, smart, determined, and driven to find answers. The attention to historic details fully immerses you into the story and makes you feel as though you are there. A great read with mystery, intrigue, secrets, adventure, family, and friendship.

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Mission Improbable: Vietnam (A Blanche Murninghan Mystery) by Nancy Nau Sullivan – Review by Shannen Kern

Mission Improbable:Vietnam (A Blanche Murninghan Mystery)Mission Improbable:Vietnam by Nancy Nau Sullivan
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I didn’t realize this was part of a series, so I read this as a standalone. While I want to go back to read the previous ones now because I loved this one, I wasn’t lost going through this one at all. I enjoy a good cozy mystery so this one hit the spot! This book definitely pulled on my heartstrings as Jean tells her story and Blanche listens intently and decides to help. Will they be able to find any answers, or will the questionable characters they meet put an end to their journey? The way the author paints the vivid scenery of Vietnam is amazing. I couldn’t put this one down and read straight through. Don’t pass it up!

Reviewed by @shannlynn

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Mission Improbable: Vietnam (A Blanche Murninghan Mystery) by Nancy Nau Sullivan – Review by Tanya Wall, January 2024

Mission Improbable:Vietnam (A Blanche Murninghan Mystery)Mission Improbable:Vietnam by Nancy Nau Sullivan
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

“Mission Improbable” by Nancy Nau Sullivan turned out to be a surprise gem, considering I didn’t realize it was the third book in the Blanche Murninghan Mystery series. Thankfully, you can dive into this one without feeling like you missed a beat. The mystery plot is packed with travel, amateur sleuthing, family drama, and a good dose of emotions.

The Vietnam setting is like an extra character in the story, adding a cool layer to the whole thing. Sullivan’s descriptions of post-Vietnam War Vietnam are so vivid; you can practically smell the rice paddies and feel the energy of Saigon. Blanche is a stubborn but relatable character, and her sidekicks, Jean and Stick, add depth and complexity to the narrative.

Sullivan really knows her history, and it shows. I’m thinking about going back to read the first two books in the series. If you’re into mysteries with a side of history and a splash of travel, this one’s worth a read.

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