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Notebook Mysteries ~ Emma (Notebook Mysteries Book 1) by Kimberly Mullins – Review by Deborah White

Emma (Notebook Mysteries, #1)Emma by Kimberly Mullins
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This book starts off with the fictional retelling of the Chicago fire of 1871 and quickly introduces the main character Emma. The story follows Emma as she grows and matures into a wonderful character full of intrigue and strength. I enjoyed how the author incorporated the use of historical events to lend credibility to the book. I am looking forward to the next book and the further development of the characters and their adventures.

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River Witch by Cheryl Burman – Review by Santana Hicks

River WitchRiver Witch by Cheryl Burman
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

From a young age Hester has always been different. She spends her time talking to the River. When she was only 4 years old, Hester met a strange man by the name of Aaron. He knows a lot about herbs and flowers and of their uses. He also can hear the voice of the river which is actually a goddess by the name of Sabrina.

Once Hester is older, her mind starts to wonder to the man she met years prior and of his knowledge. Her great grandmother healed the sick and hurt with her knowledge on plants and potions. Hester wants to be just like her. Hester decides to seek Aaron to teach her his ways. At first he is reluctant but once he realizes Hester will not stop until she gets her way, he decides to start lessons with her.

Hester’s mother has always been against natural remedies as it is seen as witch-like. She just wants Hester to be a normal lady, find a husband and birth his children. As Hester gets older, her mothers ambitions get stronger and Hester wants to flee the life her mother has laid out for her. She runs to Aaron only to find he agrees with her mother. He thinks it would be safer if they cease their lessons and Hester should go on to be a bride. This does not bode well with her and she decides to do everything in her power to get what she wants.

This book was not at all what I was expecting but in a good way. The synopsis doesn’t give this book justice. There is so much going on within the book and in different points of view which makes it even more interesting. I loved Hester, she was strong and independent (well as much as one could be in that day in age as a woman). She was determined and humble.

The only downfall for me personally is I found the book very repetitive. I found myself starting to read ahead when it started to say the same things which made immersing myself completely into the world hard.

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Notebook Mysteries ~ Haunted Christmas by Kimberly Mullins – Review by Dahnielle Hibbert

Notebook Mysteries Haunted ChristmasNotebook Mysteries Haunted Christmas by Kimberly Mullins
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is the latest in the series that follows teenage amateur sleuth, Emma. The series itself is full of adventure, mystery, fun, and drama. This book is no exception. While being a quick read it continues to follow the life of Emma who while preparing for Christmas finds herself embroiled in another mystery. You can read this as a stand alone but while you will get a great storyline and fun characters you are missing out on what really makes all those characters tick. Throughout the series we learn so much about each one’s backstory and you always get a great storyline and another adventurous mystery that must be solved! I definitely recommend reading this story and all Emma’s stories!!

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Unveiling Beulah Audiobook by Dana Wayne – Review by Kerry Baker

This book is one of those that took me by surprise. I was sure that I would enjoy it but I didn’t expect to be drawn into the story the way I was. As I listened to the story being narrated I could so easily imagine everything that was happening. I was really interested in the main character as well. She was so strong and really seemed to carry the story.

I definitely became more invested in this story than I expected and I through it was a great book. I am looking forward to more work from  this author.

Unveiling Beulah Audiobook by Dana Wayne – Review by Sunday Barnaby

Unveiling Beulah by Dana Wayne
Narrated by Katie Marchant
Five Stars

This is the second book have listened by this author. She really has great details for historical romances. B. and Luke make a great couple. I absolutely love grandpa and the uncles. The story flowed and I really didn’t want it to end.
This book was narrated by Katie Marchant. I’m going to be looking for more books narrated by her. Katie’s voice is very mellow and soothing. Excellent listen. I highly recommend!
Review by @sunbarn

Notebook Mysteries ~ Haunted Christmas by Kimberly Mullins – Review by Desiree Ottinger

Notebook Mysteries Haunted ChristmasNotebook Mysteries Haunted Christmas by Kimberly Mullins
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Emma is asked by a fellow coworker to prove his father’s death was murder. His family has an obsession with Dicken’s “A Christmas Carol” which becomes apparent as soon as they visit the house. It also adds some extra spooky happenings that seem very similar to the tale. As they prepare for Christmas, Emma brings in her crew to help get to the bottom of this mystery. Can they solve it before the next victim is claimed?

This book series is such an enjoyable read! Each book has its own twists and turns that I didn’t see coming. I always think I know what is coming but it’s never as black and white. I enjoy reading about Emma and her family and how they help others. They have such compassionate hearts for others and the author does an excellent job conveying that to their readers. Looking forward to the next installment!

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Bycatch by Alexander Blevens – Review by Tausha Treadway

BycatchBycatch by Alexander Blevens
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Bycatch by Alexander Blevens. I absolutely loved this book. Its a very different story but it was so good. Its about Rex Thompson who is a Vietnam Veteran and when he commits a crime in Vietnam years ago he never expect to have it come back on him years later on the Mississippi Gulf Coast. Rex has regretted this act for years and when it comes back to haunt him it brings it all back. His sons thinking they are protecting their father, commit another crime to cover up their dads. This story brings to light a lot about the Vietnamese people who have made the Mississippi Coast their home. Will Rex be able to protect his sons from their crime or will it uncover the ugly truth. Read this amazing story to find out!

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River Witch by Cheryl Burman – Review by Paula R Sayers

River WitchRiver Witch by Cheryl Burman
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Hester is a farmer’s daughter who wants more out of her life. Hester meets Aaron who teaches her how to use herbs to heal. Hester is soon labeled as a witch by a man who feels he has been done wrong by her. She must save herself as well as others. This story drew me in more and more as I read it.

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Unveiling Beulah Audiobook by Dana Wayne – Review by Jenique Bornman

Unveiling BeulahUnveiling Beulah by Dana Wayne
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Historical Romance is fast becoming one of my favorite genre’s. And this exceptional listen definitely contributed to it.
Physically and emotionally scared Bea decides to go to Texas to pave her own path away from the New York social scene. There she meets this strapping (always wanted to use that word) gentleman, who unbeknownst to her also fled the New York society.
Together the heal each other’s scars.
What more could you ask from a love story!!! What made this such a great book was the amazing character development and the authors extraordinary writing style.

Perfect Read!!!!

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Notebook Mysteries ~ Haunted Christmas by Kimberly Mullins – Review by La Toya Lewis

Notebook Mysteries Haunted ChristmasNotebook Mysteries Haunted Christmas by Kimberly Mullins
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Oh boy, did I enjoy this novella! Emma is back in an A Christmas Carol-type mystery. I loved the light-heartedness mixed with a bit of spookiness. Emma is back at it, helping a friend investigate a haunted mansion. This book was the perfect fall/Christmas read. There are some twists and turns and it keeps you hooked. This book is fast-paced and a page-turner. It is also a quick read. I was very sad to be done reading it. The ending is clever. You will definitely enjoy this book.

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Notebook Mysteries ~ Haunted Christmas by Kimberly Mullins – Review by Elizabeth Sanchez

Notebook Mysteries Haunted ChristmasNotebook Mysteries Haunted Christmas by Kimberly Mullins
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Haunted Christmas is another book in the Notebook Mysteries series. It could probably be read as a stand alone, but with some difficulty. There are a lot of characters, which I know from past books, and their relationships and professions. While you may follow and enjoy as a stand alone, some might struggle keeping the characters straight. This is a quick read, much shorter than the others in the series. It takes place around Christmas time, and has many references to Dickens “A Christmas Carol”. I enjoyed it, and like how the case was wrapped up. The author is so creative with the crimes and methods used, as well as fitting of the time. I look forward to more adventures with Emma and her family.

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Reviewed by @way2gosmartguy

Notebook Mysteries ~ Haunted Christmas by Kimberly Mullins – Review by Devon Pulliam

Notebook Mysteries Haunted ChristmasNotebook Mysteries Haunted Christmas by Kimberly Mullins
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The only downside of a novella is that it leaves you wanting more! I loved The Christmas Carol nod in this story.

I loved how everyone on her team was involved with this case. How each of them expressed their concerns at various times. The fact that some of the help was trying to keep a secret, and had managed to for so many years just to protect Ethan. Family will protect family, which shows a lot in this story not just with Ethan but with Emma and her family.

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Notebook Mysteries ~ Changes and Challenges (Notebook Mysteries Book 3) by Kimberly Mullins – Review by Devon Pulliam

Notebook Mysteries ~ Changes and Challenges (Notebook Mysteries book #3)Notebook Mysteries ~ Changes and Challenges by Kimberly Mullins
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I love that this book concentrates on some personal details of Emma. Plus bringing some babies into their family. Emma has to divulge a secret to those closest to her in this book.

She also has to face her past yet again, but with the help of Jeremy she is able to not do it face to face or be involved in that side of the adventure.

Tony reaching out to her for help means the world to her. Shows that they can work together and be friends again as well. Especially when she told him about the case Jeremy was working on when he put her on the ship. That even made me laugh because we all know after this far into the series that was the only way that was going to play out!

I was so happy with how this particular book turned out. How the family all came together and even brought in more. Emma seems to add to her team with a variety of people each and every story and then they become “family”.

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Notebook Mysteries ~ Decisions and Possibilities by Kimberly Mullins – Review by Devon Pulliam

Decisions and Possibilities (Notebook Mysteries, #2)Decisions and Possibilities by Kimberly Mullins
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is the second story in the Notebook mysteries and was such a great continuance of Emma’s story. She travels to NYC in this book, helps women get jobs outside of the home (that was largely frowned upon in the time period this series is based in), and solved several cases. She even flipped the script on a kid and set him off to the right path!

The boom brought the ending of a relationship for Emma but started a new one. Added a baby that was named after Dora and Emma’s late mother into the family.

My favorite parts were the setups they did to catch people! Not just Emma either! Even finding out she was working with someone involved with the case she was trying to solve! I knew when she started getting more responsibilities that something was in the works there.

Helping a women’s shelter, which broke my heart that someone would lie and risk the lives of other women like that!

I’m excited to see what Emma does with her reward monies and where the story takes her next!

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Notebook Mysteries ~ Emma (Notebook Mysteries Book 1) by Kimberly Mullins – Review by Devon Pulliam

Emma (Notebook Mysteries, #1)Emma by Kimberly Mullins
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

My heart hurt for Emma learning exactly how and why her mom died. You can tell this family is tight knit and that they’d do anything for each other. I love the happy ending to her last case she was involved in. With Emma and Dora both finding closeness again with that case bringing them together. Even Tim and Tony being such a huge part of their lives and becoming family in the process.

Finding the newspaper articles from her mom, I knew something fishy was going on when the writer pushed her out of his office without giving her anything.

I was relieved when the “watcher ” was revealed and it was someone who was protecting her from the same people that hurt her mom. She is very aware of everything and I loved how she made and left baskets of food for her “watcher”. Like he thought he was all sneaky and not being seen.

Since I did read these out of order I am glad this book gave some back story that I was missing out on from reading a later book first.

This is such a great series to read to suck you into the mysteries of Emma’s life. I also loved on this one how the “narrator and Dear One” chime in with some input to give more back story when needed.

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Kara, Shieldmaiden of Eire (Forerunner Series Book 4) by Jay Veloso Batista – Review by Mercedes Jones

Kara Shieldmaiden of Eire (Forerunner book 4)Kara Shieldmaiden of Eire by Jay Veloso Batista
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I loved that at the beginning of the book, there was a summary of what has happened in the first three books of this series. This was very helpful for me since I started on this book, number four. Kara wants to be a warrior, not settled down in an arranged marriage. With this in mind, she runs away in order to fight in the battle. Does Kara have what it takes to become an amazing warrior and for those around her to see her more than just a girl? This was a fun, action packed, mystical book. The characters were easy to like and the story kept you reeled in.

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Kara, Shieldmaiden of Eire (Forerunner Series Book 4) by Jay Veloso Batista – Review by Christen Ware

Kara Shieldmaiden of Eire (Forerunner book 4)Kara Shieldmaiden of Eire by Jay Veloso Batista
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Having the ultimate pleasure of starting this series recently has been a blast, and as always, I enjoyed the continuation of this family’s adventures. Meeting the twists and turns, and being hanked to a halt with the multiple cliffhangers leaves readers anxiously awaiting the author’s next move. All of these characters have been a joy to experience, and without adding any spoilers, we await your next move, Batista.

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Kara, Shieldmaiden of Eire (Forerunner Series Book 4) by Jay Veloso Batista – Review by Savanah Schwarz

The fourth book, for me, was, hard to get into. Only because I went straight from reading the 1st i the series to then reading the 4th. There is a brief description or synopsis of what happened previously, which is why I think I was ultimately able to read this one. This part of the Forerunner series begins Kara’s journey as she is hell-bent on escaping an arranged marriage and chasing her desires and intense need to be a warrior, just like her father. Kara, now armed with a sword and her wits, must prove She can be a warrior and not just a girl. This continues as the Clan is battling for their lives through Midgard and into unforeseen beginnings and endings!
The Forerunner series is overall very descriptive and easy to be drawn in with its mystical world and great characters. The world-building is very good and it is hard not to love Kara and Kaelan’s blossoming relationship. It was so easy to fall in love too with both of them and root for them. The ever-changing perspectives, not unlike the Witcher, take some time to get used to. However, because the characters and the story are so easy to follow and love, it eventually becomes less distracting. I love this series so far and cannot wait to read more.

Thorfinn and the Witch’s Curse (The Forerunner Series 1)) by Jay Veloso Batista – Review by Savanah Schwarz

This Viking tale starts off with Thorfinn, a young boy in a Viking family. He is shy and a little timid, but as he goes through this tale he starts learning and growing into his own. the fact that this story isn’t all about fighting, wars, and gruff men in battle is a plus as well. There are ancient Viking rituals and celebrations as you would imagine, and a Viking wedding ceremony that was very interesting to read about. The author does such a good job of putting the story together and making the words flow together, even though it is very much an old language and could easily be the hardest part to read through.
Ultimately this story reminded me of the Witcher series, the last wish. The history and storytelling of the Vikings and this series are so good. However, It was in multiple POVs and continuously switching, if you were not into the story, that could be intimidating.

The story starts with Thorfinn when he and his brothers’ adventure and go too far by waking an ancient crone atop a crumbling tower, which in turn, brings a curse upon them. As Thorfinn continues to see and hear things he shouldn’t because of the ghost and his curse. It seems it may not have been a curse. Thorfinn grows into himself rapidly and you can see the character growth and his thoughts change from sweet and innocent to something else. As Thorfinn attempts to put everything back and somehow make it right again, he ends up with unexpected results and consequences for not just him, but his family line.
Under the elder spirit, Raga, centuries old and a character all their own – appears to Thorfinn and his family as a black old raven, who has seen better days. Guided by Raga, Thorfinn quickly navigates his way from the existing, and what seems as the real world of Midgard and the Realm Between.

It was at times hard to get through due to the running on of the story sometimes, with too much description, long chapters, and never-ending pages. Reading it was smooth and easy enough but took some time.
I would still recommend it.

Kara, Shieldmaiden of Eire (Forerunner Series Book 4) by Jay Veloso Batista – Review by Amber Howard

Kara Shieldmaiden of Eire (Forerunner book 4)Kara Shieldmaiden of Eire by Jay Veloso Batista
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Although I am happy that all of the kids live and survive, the trials and tribulations they go through I couldn’t imagine my kids surviving. Finn is still my favorite character. He’s young and has a lot to learn but he has such a big heart. Probably one of the most selfless characters in the book. Kara I’d becoming her own woman and finding her way. After seeing how most people are during this time I admire Agne even more. He chose to pay for everyone who worked his land and helped his household when most took slaves. He treated the women decently and made sure his workers were well kept. I hope that Gurid and her family can rebuild and reunite. Can’t wait for book 5.

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On Viking Seas (Forerunner Series Book 3) by Jay Veloso Batista – Review by Amber Howard

On Viking Seas (Forerunner Series)On Viking Seas by Jay Veloso Batista
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This has been the best book in the series so far. Following Finn on his adventures is amazing. He serves his uncle Well and his father would have been proud. Each kid has been brave during these times. My heart broke for Finn when he found out about his father. The family has had to endure a lot and each member has been finding their strength and digging deep to survive. I hope Mae is truly happy and that Kara finds her happiness. I was super displeased by Gurids brother and sister in law. I thought they would’ve been more helpful. Hopefully Gurid will be okay after Kara’s actions. I cannot wait for the next book.

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The Vardoger Boy (Forerunner Series Book 2) by Jay Veloso Batista – Review by Amber Howard

The Vardoger Boy (Forerunner Series)The Vardoger Boy by Jay Veloso Batista
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I’m definitely hooked on this series. I love Finn. He may be the youngest son but in my opinion the bravest. The second book broke my heart. The family is definitely about to suffer. I just hope they are able to overcome and reunite again. Cub is extremely smart and brave. I’m glad he survived but I’m fearful of what awaits him.

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Thorfinn and the Witch’s Curse (Forerunner Series Book 1) by Jay Veloso Batista – Review by Amber Howard

Thorfinn and the Witch's Curse (The Forerunner Series #1)Thorfinn and the Witch’s Curse by Jay Veloso Batista
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

  • It was difficult for me to get into this story at first. The language and structure wasn’t something I was used to. After the first chapter I was hooked. This story uses Scandinavian mythology in such a creative way. You get a bit of everything from Vikings, to witches. Definitely worth a read. Most are brave, strong and have such courage.

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Kara, Shieldmaiden of Eire (Forerunner Series Book 4) by Jay Veloso Batista – Review by Heather Goodman

shieldmaiden-of-eire” style=”float: left; padding-right: 20px”>Kara Shieldmaiden of Eire (Forerunner book 4)Kara Shieldmaiden of Eire by Jay Veloso Batista
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

This book is great if you love Nordic history and a lot of detail. It is very well written and has lots of excitement and adventure in it. I would definitely recommend reading the first three books in the series first as it makes it easier to follow along.

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Kara, Shieldmaiden of Eire (Forerunner Series Book 4) by Jay Veloso Batista – Review by Shannen Kern

Kara Shieldmaiden of Eire (Forerunner book 4)Kara Shieldmaiden of Eire by Jay Veloso Batista
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I am absolutely blown away by the stunning writing of Jay Veloso Batista!! I felt completely immersed into this world and clamoring for more when it was over.

The Agneson clan goes through many a different battle throughout this amazing journey. Kara refuses an arranged marriage and wants to fulfill her destiny of being a warrior. She knows she can prove herself, but will it live up to her dreams? Cub and Thornfinn have their own action adventures and I cannot wait until the next book in this series because I need answers! This author does such an incredible job creating this world and then giving you no choice but to delve right into it. You’ll be so glad you picked up this 4th book as well as the entire Forerunner series!

Reviewed by @shannlynn

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Unveiling Beulah Audiobook by Dana Wayne – Review by Lorralei Hoerner

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5 Stars!

If I could give this story more stars I would… one of my favorite audio listens ever….This story is so incredibly beautiful between two people whom find each other in unexpected ways.

Bea Lockhart is shunned by her own family after an accident left Bea with a scar on her face….feeling like no one will love her she is hiding in the shadows of helping run her fathers business. Bea finds herself in a small town in Texas where she runs her own business, makes new friends who welcome her unconditionally and here she find Luc….her love. After a betrayal that led Luc to Texas to get away from his grandfather and an arranged marriage..Luc is a hardworking blacksmith and finds love and friendship with Bea. Will Bea and Luc find an everlasting love when the past comes to Texas and tries to destroy everything?

This story is beautiful and well written. I was totally into the narration from beginning to end. If you love a story with love and betrayal, I would highly recommend this listen….the narrator was fantastic as well and really brought the story to light. One of my favorite listens

Kara, Shieldmaiden of Eire (Forerunner Series Book 4) by Jay Veloso Batista – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

Kara Shieldmaiden of Eire (Forerunner book 4)Kara Shieldmaiden of Eire by Jay Veloso Batista
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Book 4 in the Forerunner Series continues with the adventures of Finn, Cub, and Kara. The Agneson clan is now scattered across the world. The focus is centered mainly around the adventures of Kara as she escapes to follow her dream of becoming a Viking warrior. She gains her place in the King of Dublinn’s ranks but soon finds that being a warrior is not what she expected it to be. Cub ventures off to Britany to join Rollo’s horde. Cub’s brother, Sorven, is fighting to survive in the Welsh mountains after being outlawed. Thorfinn is safe in a small fishing village but only temporarily because he gets kidnapped by an 8-armed giant.

The Forerunner series got better and better with each book as the stories of our intrepid Viking heroes continued. The attention to detail was superb and it was impossible to not feel as though you were there with the characters in that time period. The author did a fantastic job of creating characters that were lovable and easy to root for through their respective journeys. I loved reading about the Vikings, Norse Gods, and the supernatural. I highly recommend this series!

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Unveiling Beulah Audiobook by Dana Wayne – Review by Shelly Kittell

5 out of 5 stars

Beulah and Luke come together in a beautiful love story of two people with issues. They have both been hurt and have come to a small town in Texas, to try again. Beulah is a strong woman with lots of determination. Because she has a physical scar on her face, she tends to stay in the background. I do love how Luke makes her feel and helps her remember that she is a woman. Watching their relationship develop and grow is a treasure and truly makes this story a treat to listen to. The narration is pleasant but could stand a little more emotion and variation to it. Overall, I would recommend this story. This author has wonderful writing. Whether just the book or the added narration to it, the stories are always wonderful. You get an honest and realist feel to the story. Always engaging and keeping you wanting more.

On Viking Seas (Forerunner Series Book 3) by Jay Veloso Batista – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

On Viking Seas (Forerunner Series)On Viking Seas by Jay Veloso Batista
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Book Three in the Forerunner Series continues the stories from the first two books in the series. This book does not disappoint as it continues the stories of Finn and his supernatural friends, Kara, and Cub. Finn and his supernatural friends venture off into the dangerous and icy cold waters of the North in a snekke longboat. Kara is trying to escape being forced into an arranged marriage by proving herself as a as a brave shield maiden. Cub is desperately trying to escape slavery so that he can return to his family home. The adventures of our intrepid Viking heroes continue with more supernatural beings, folklore, and curses.

This book is full of action, adventure, challenges, drama, and danger. It does not disappoint and will keep you on the edge of your seat from start to finish. The author has done an amazing job of describing the Viking era complete with the myths, folklore, and traditions.

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The Vardoger Boy (Forerunner Series Book 2) by Jay Veloso Batista – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

The Vardoger BoyThe Vardoger Boy by Jay Veloso Batista
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Book Two in the Forerunner Series continues the story of young Finn who we were first introduced to in Thorfinn and the Witch’s Curse. Finn is not alone in his journey as his father accompanies him as he learns the true meaning of being a Vardoger. Finn’s mother and siblings also play a very critical part in this story. Young Finn is still trying to grasp being half boy and half witch, and the battle he fought with the witch in his earlier story. Finn soon learns there are plenty of surprises he must face in the Nine Realms and finds he is suddenly faced with going up against another mystical being, the Werebear.

Book two not only follows the story of young Finn as it unfolds but introduces us to several other characters and tells us their individual stories. These stories set us up for the third Book in the Forerunner series which I cannot wait to read next!

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