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Checking Boxes by Magdoline Ward – Review by Piper Foster

Checking BoxesChecking Boxes by Magdoline Ward
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Grace and Ian. They are not a match I would have put together. Who said a room advertisement with you having to make dinner would become this. Been my first book by this author I didn’t know what to expect. There’s a chemistry spark between this pair from the start. However, there is more beneath the surface and skeletons in both closets to be revealed. Ian is more than he seems on the surface. Can they heal each other’s past wounds? You don’t want to miss this adventure.

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Unchecked: A Steamy Love Triangle Love Romance by Carina Alyce – Review by Amy Brennan

Unchecked (MetroGen Downtown Kiss and Tell, #1)Unchecked by Carina Alyce
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I am sure I am not the only one that wants to know how the author really came up with this crazy story, and certainly not the only one glad that she did! This was the first book that I have picked up by this author, and I very much enjoyed the fast pace of this adventure. Back in college, I did have a friend that lived her life very similar to the way that Stella lives hers, so I did have fun being transported back to the good ole days through her character. It really did feel like we were in an alternate version of Grey’s, or some such show, with the way this author really brings the reader into Metro Gen216.

I do wish there was a bit more of a backstory on Stella, I know that there was some, but the book was so quick to jump into the here and now moments that it made it a little difficult to completely relate or feel for her character as a whole. A large part of me really wishes it was a graphic novel, so we could see how hot these colleagues of hers really are, though I did immensely enjoy picturing Marcus, if we’re honest, we all need a little luck of the Irish! I recommend this quick, fast paced read, to anyone looking to get all down and dirty with their books. P.S. Pulling my hair out with the cliffhanger, and you will be too.

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Checking Boxes by Magdoline Ward – Review by Donya Pedigo

Checking BoxesChecking Boxes by Magdoline Ward
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This book is an emotional ride. With the dual POV I got to see what each person not only experienced, but what they thought about people and situations. Those tidbits just brought me that much closer to the characters of Grace and Ian. Neighbors, Grace and Ian soon become roommates as Grace becomes in need of a better environment to stay in. Ian offers her a room as long as she cooks for him every night at his expense. Sweet and frustrating moments both arise for these two as Ian struggles with a secret from his past that he is determined to keep buried. Grace isn’t sure how to take Ian and his monumental hot/ cold spells, which makes her reevaluate herself and her past as well. What does the future hold for these two? This is the first book I’ve read by this author, but it is definitely worth the read.

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Cosplay Worthy by Quiana Glide – Review by Darla Yocom

Cosplay WorthyCosplay Worthy by Quiana Glide
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I was immediately hooked when I read the title and synopsis of this book. I’m a huge fan of comics, cosplay, sketching/drawing and writing so once I had the chance to read this book, I was all in.

The author quickly introduces you to the main character, Layla who works a 9-5 in real estate as a personal assistant, which she is not passionate about in any shape or form. Her true passion is in drawing, comic books and cosplay.

In the beginning, you follow Layla’s short trip to a comic convention where she attends wearing her handmade cosplay outfit, representing her favorite female comic book character, Diablo that was created by her favorite writer, Vic Williams. When she meets the comic writer (Vic) and artist (Daisy) face to face, Layla is starstruck. She literally cannot speak besides a few mumbles. Thankfully her bff, Alex comes to the rescue with introductions.

You cannot help but smile when Daisy immediately approves and appreciates Layla’s cosplay costume. Her enthusiasm and genuine kindness is a breath of fresh air.

Vic’ interaction with Layla was sweet and a bit flirtatious. Layla of course was smitten and this starts their journey into friendship and more.

The book successfully keeps you engaged and will easily make you laugh, smile, and possibly cry since the author clearly evokes emotion with her words.

I really enjoyed this book, the characters, the storyline and it’s intent.

Also if you are a fan of romance writing, you may enjoy the author’s writing with the few encounters referenced in the book.

I give this book 5 out of 5 stars.

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Faithful in Love (Cliff Walk Cousins Book 1) by Cecily K. Wolfe – Review by Crystal Jimmo

Faithful in Love (Cliff Walk Cousins, #1)Faithful in Love by Cecily K. Wolfe
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I loved reading this book. The feelings between Nico and Faith was pulling on my heartstrings. Family means so much to these two it almost nips things in the bud. Being in historical 1900’s was a great look into the world that was so long ago and the mannerisms and culture. Nico’s background of not having much hit close to home. I felt for him because i know what it’s like. Having a relatable character is huge for me. It makes the story more real. The pacing in this book was well paced out, it didn’t take too long or drug it out at a slow pace. The writing was phenomenal. It felt like I was right there being a background character watching these events between Nico and Faith happen. I cant wait to read the next books in this series!

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Guardians of the Garden by Theresa Pocock – Review by Kayla Kearney

Guardians of the Garden (Guardians Book I)Guardians of the Garden by Theresa Pocock
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This book was definitely not what I expected! It was a bit slow at first as the story was set up, but by the end of the book I was very excited to read the second book in the series.

The writer has a great attention to detail, not many books I read am I able to fully picture what is going on in the book but this author had such talent that I was able to do so. She did a great job transitioning between the characters throughout the story, I was easily able to see things from each of their points of view. I’m very excited to jump into reading the next book

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The Thunderbird Academy Trilogy by Valia Lind – Review by Crystal Jimmo

The Thunderbird Academy TrilogyThe Thunderbird Academy Trilogy by Valia Lind
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Magic, and Werewolves, and evil oh my! This trilogy was fun to read! although I was a little lost about a few things that happened in the past, I was able to get through with no problem! Now that I know it takes place after The Hawthorne Trilogy, I will be going back and reading that one too! The tension between Aiden and Maddie is so palpable you can cut through with it like a knife! Aiden hates Maddie with a fiery passion for unknown reasons to her. While dealing with Aiden’s hatred, she has to deal her magic not working properly!! My heart went out to this girl who has the weight of the world on her shoulders. The writing and pacing was done beautifully I couldn’t put it down! I cant wait to read more by this author!

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Apocalypse (Guardians of the Garden Book 2) by Theresa Pocock – Review by Kayla Kearney

Apocalypse (Guardians Book II)Apocalypse by Theresa Pocock
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Picking up where the last book left off, this was a quick read for me! The writer continues to impress me with her writing skills and great attention to detail.

The book left me wondering what would happen next at the end of every chapter. I was sucked in right from the beginning, making it easy for me to read it quickly.

The book was like the first one in that the points of view were from different characters and she continued to amaze me with her ability to do so eloquently. I am a huge fan of this writer and can’t wait to read future books by her.

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My Valentine’s Day Cookie Match (Welcome to Cupid’s Cove) by C.A. King – Review by Whitney Morrison

My Valentine's Day Cookie Match: Welcome to Cupids CoveMy Valentine’s Day Cookie Match: Welcome to Cupids Cove by C.A. King
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This book was so cute and I loved everything about it. I enjoyed Graham and Lara’s characters and loved following along on their journey. I really liked Tom and Jenny at the beginning of each chapter, so funny! I can’t wait to try some of the recipes, such a cool idea. Overall this was such a good book.

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Santa… Nope the Grimm Wolves (Grimm Wolves MC Book 3) by D.M. Earl – Review by Bobbi Wagner

Santa...Nope the Grimm Wolves (Grimm Wolves MC #3)Santa…Nope the Grimm Wolves by D.M. Earl
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is the third book in this series. I highly suggest reading the previous books in this series as they are just as awesome as this one. This is an author I have loved reading from the first book I picked up. One of the things I enjoy most about this author is her ability to pull me into the story by her writing skills as well as her attention to details. This story is no different. I was pulled into the story by the creative characters. They not only bring the story to life on each page but also keep the story engaging. This is a fast paced paranormal story that is easy and entertaining to read. I enjoyed how the characters are connectable and their growth throughout the story is great. This is a story about what happens when the past comes knocking at your door. Beast is faced with making some choices that just may take what little control he has over his life. What will he do when life throws in some threatening danger to his family? I enjoyed the twists and turns that had me coming back for more. Beast is my favorite character as he is strong and really made the story for me. This is a great story that I loved reading and I highly recommend it.

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Review by @bjwagner

The Ghastly Gumball by Naomi Valkyrie – Review by Amanda Williams

The Ghastly GumballThe Ghastly Gumball by Naomi Valkyrie
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This was the first book I have read by this author and I was pleasantly surprised at how much I enjoyed it. Well written, good world building and characters you can connect to. Very fast paced and really unique. Very funny and crazy, I loved it. Will be keeping an eye on this author.

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Cosplay Worthy by Quiana Glide – Review by Moriah Venable

Cosplay WorthyCosplay Worthy by Quiana Glide
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Layla Bennett dreams of being a comic book artist. She has the chance to meet her favorite comic book artist Vic Williams at a convention but the meeting doesn’t go well when she becomes speechless.

Things take an unexpected turn when Vic and Layla connect online and soon get into a long distance relationship.

I really enjoyed this novel even more so with an African American protagonist. Not something I see a lot when it comes to stories like these.

I loved Layla and her ability to make costumes for Cosplay. It is amazing the things people are able to make.

I highly recommend this story.

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Depending on You by Jessica Aiken-Hall – reviewed by Gretchen Dildine

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

First time reading a book by this author & I have fallen in love with her writing. This book is a story about life long friends and a tragic event on prom night that sets in motion a life on the run for Cate. The story has twists & turns that I never saw coming & kept me turning the pages late into the evening!!

When Cate returns to deal with her father, she decides to stop running. Patti, her best friend since high school, is there to stand by her & provide support. This is a true story of friendship & forgiveness, love & loss. I could relate to Cate & Patti & their relationship. Look forward to reading more by this author.

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The Prisoner of the Dead (Dead World Book 1) by Megan Mackie – Review by Amanda Williams

The Prisoner of the Dead: Zombie Thriller Dystopia (Dead World Book 1)The Prisoner of the Dead: Zombie Thriller Dystopia by Megan Mackie
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Very entertaining and adventurous. I love the rebellious character of Baron. Thalia is also a kickass heroine. The world building was fantastic and I am so looking forward to the next in the series. Will definitely be reading this author’s books in the future.

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Checking Boxes by Magdoline Ward – Review by Kerry Carr

Checking BoxesChecking Boxes by Magdoline Ward
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I really enjoyed this romance story. It is fast paced and the chemistry between the two main characters is pretty much felt from the beginning of the story and increases as you progress.
One thing I really enjoy is the realistic stories about Ian and Grace. Both of them come into this situation / relationship with a background and wounds from previous relationships. Like most new relationships it’s hard to find the happy ground so there is a bit of drama and some issues around trust however the passion and chemistry between then is amazing.
Grace needs to leave her current home so when she sees her neighbour Ian looking for a roommate she is interested. The ad says there’s no rent as long as Grace is prepared to cook him a meal every night. How hard can that be right.
Neither of them expected the connection between them to grow as it does but with them being new to each other and roommates on top of that does their budding romance stand any chance at all?

This story is full of twists and turns and things you just don’t see coming which keeps the reader hooked

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Apocalypse (Guardians of the Garden Book 2) by Theresa Pocock – Review by Ashley Johnson

Apocalypse (Guardians Book II)Apocalypse by Theresa Pocock
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I did not read the first book of the series but I am going to now! This book had me hooked from the first chapter. I’ve read so many books this year that have been fresh and original. Usually with Fantasy books you get the same story over and over again but with this one was so different. I am ready for the next book and will definitely read the first one.

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Bella: An Appalachian Love Story & Jagged Dawn: Logan’s Beginnings by Valerie Davisson – Review by Robin Rankin

Bella-An Appalachian Love Story & Jagged Dawn-Logan's BeginningsBella-An Appalachian Love Story & Jagged Dawn-Logan’s Beginnings by Valerie Davisson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Bella-An Appalachian Love Story & Jagged Dawn-Logan’s Beginnings (Logan McKenna Series)

I was drawn to this book by the cover which isn’t something normal for me.  I don’t regret it one bit.  I was moved by the back story of Logan’s family not realizing it at the time this was a prequel for a series.

I loved everything about Grandma Norah and her story.  She didn’t have the easiest life but I imagine it was that way for a lot of young women there around that time.

Was there a connection due to the West Virginia roots?  Maybe.  My Daddy was born and raised in a tiny town in the hills tbough not nearly as remote and Logan’s Grandmother would about the same ages as Daddy.

The prequel has made me want to read this series and I fully intend to.

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Divine Vintage by Sandra L. Young – Review by Corine Lombardi-Quiles

Divine VintageDivine Vintage by Sandra L. Young
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This book was AMAZING!
Now I love historical crime novels but this was a masterpiece.
The author kept me encased word for word, it is addicting the more you read.
This has everything you want …a twist of time travel …love …and murder.
This was truly an adventure and this should be on everyone’s to read list this year.
Perfect for book club or just a good read.
Finding out this is a series has me so excited for more.
If I could have any super power, now I want premonition.
This was so well crafted with the words and vision jumping of the page. This author knows what they are doing and I need more.
Five stars isn’t enough for this.
One of the best books I ever read.

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Kiss of the Swan by Natalina Reis – Review by Amanda Williams

Kiss of the SwanKiss of the Swan by Natalina Reis
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Started really slowly but eventually got into it. I liked the twist on fairytales but found the cursing a little uncomfortable to deal with. The book was an okay read and I’m sure others will love it but it just wasn’t for me. Unfortunately I won’t be continuing the series.

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Faithful in Love (Cliff Walk Cousins Book 1) by Cecily K. Wolfe – Review by Amanda Williams

Faithful in Love (Cliff Walk Cousins, #1)Faithful in Love by Cecily K. Wolfe
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Quite enjoyable start to the Cliff Walk Cousins series. Even though this features characters from another series it also reads as a standalone. I felt I could follow along quite easily. I liked the world building and how close the characters are. For me personally I wish it would have been a little more in depth.

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Checking Boxes by Magdoline Ward – Review by Amanda Williams

Checking BoxesChecking Boxes by Magdoline Ward
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This was my first book by this author and I thoroughly enjoyed it. This book came with all the feels and was a nice slow burn relationship which is a nice change from all the insta love stories out there. I really got to grips with the characters and the storyline was excellent. I’m excited to pick up more books by this author.

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The Thunderbird Academy Trilogy by Valia Lind – Review by Erica Shoebridge

The Thunderbird Academy TrilogyThe Thunderbird Academy Trilogy by Valia Lind
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Maddie Hawthorne, teenage witch, has a life which is far from dull. At just 15 years old, she fought a battle against the ancients with her older sisters, binding their collective magic to save her town from certain ruin. Now, in year two at Thunderbird Academy, she has to navigate not only her newfound infamy, but doing so without her bestie, and oh yeah, the Ancients are back to threaten their world again. Thus, the trilogy begins, and it is quite the ride. Heart-pounding action and lots of supernatural powers at work in this awesome collection of books. I loved the authour’s voice in these books, they have a way of gripping your attention immediately and not letting go until you’ve completed the set. High drama, epic battles, and even a romance in there, with a devilishly handsome hero. Definitely, happily, recommend.

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The Killer Jack Mystery (The J.D. Pierson Case Files) by C.H. Sessums – Review by Erica Shoebridge

The Killer Jack Mystery (The J.D. Pierson Case Files)The Killer Jack Mystery by C.H. Sessums
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is a really fun murder mystery that I thoroughly enjoyed. J.D. Pierson (Jenny Dee, that is, not the famed PI, but his plucky daughter) is a great investigator who proves herself to be smart, daring, capable, and talented. Even though she isn’t meant to be looking into this murder, she’s unable to resist when her father is in hospital and money is tight. That isn’t the only reason however – like her father she has a nose for danger, and her natural curiousity, bravery and stubbornness don’t allow her to back down until every clue has been chased down. This book is written superbly, and is engaging and quick-witted. It is a shorter book, but the plot felt appropriately brisk and well-timed. I found it very well planned-out and a pleasure to read.

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The Thunderbird Academy Trilogy by Valia Lind – Review by Angela Hayes

The Thunderbird Academy TrilogyThe Thunderbird Academy Trilogy by Valia Lind
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

 

4 Stars

The Thunderbird Academy Trilogy Boxset contains all three books in The Thunderbird Academy Trilogy by Valia Lind. As soon as I laid eyes on the cover of this box set, I knew I needed to read it. It promised all the ingredients I LOVE to find in a story- and to have all three books in one great package was the icing on the cake for me. So even though I had not read anything by this author before, I happily grabbed a copy and jumped right in- excited by what I might find.
What I found inside the intriguing cover was a superb YA fantasy, full of imaginative and clever paranormal touches, magic, witches, shifters, supernatural elements, adventure, action, angst, danger, friendship, family, romance (enemies to lovers), good vs evil, high stakes, agendas, betrayal, and so much more. I was hooked right from the beginning and ended up reading the entire trilogy in one sitting. #sleepissooverrated
I really enjoyed my introduction to M. Lind’s work and am so excited to see she has plenty of other books for me to explore. I am so happy her book popped up on my recommended book feed, otherwise I may not have discovered her books till much later, or at all.
There is one thing that I will mention though, and that is that this trilogy is set in a ‘world’ that has already had other series/stories released from it. From what I understand is that The Thunderbird Academy follows on from the Hawthorne Chronicles, and as such, there are many references to the events that occurred there, which did make me wish I had read the Hawthorne Chronicles before diving into The Thunderbird Academy, because I really think if I knew what happened previously I would have better understood and appreciated this trilogy. Don’t get me wrong, this trilogy could be read and enjoyed as a standalone- but having so many references to past events made me feel like maybe I was missing important backstory and information.
A fun read nonetheless!
Looking forward to exploring more of Ms. Lind’s work.
Happy reading!

Thank you, Valia Lind!

 

Reviewed by @angelahayes

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Santa… Nope the Grimm Wolves (Grimm Wolves MC Book 3) by D.M. Earl – Review by Jenni Bishop

Santa...Nope the Grimm Wolves (Grimm Wolves MC #3)Santa…Nope the Grimm Wolves by D.M. Earl
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The books in this series are quick reads but they are packed full of everything you would want in a MC paranormal story. This the third book in the Grimm Wolves MC series and each book gets better than the one before. I suggest reading them in order because they have intercrossing characters in each book.
The story is an emotional one, but it also had me laughing out loud at times with the comradery and banter. There is danger and drama, angst, and suspense, lots of love and some Christmas spirit. It is engaging and intriguing and I am invested in these characters as we follow along on their journeys that these brothers and Old Ladies find themselves in.
Beast thought he could do it all himself but what he soon realises is that no matter what his brothers are his family too and they will do anything to help those they love.
We meet with old friends from the first book. The characters are well written and easy to connect with.
There is so much on the horizon for the Grimm Wolves MC and I can’t wait.

Reviewed by @jennadb

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The Ghastly Gumball by Naomi Valkyrie – Review by Sarah King

The Ghastly GumballThe Ghastly Gumball by Naomi Valkyrie
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

A gumball, that’s right a gumball is all it took for Lockwood’s world to be set on its side. The book has love, humor, good guys, bad guys, shifters, fae, a sea witch, an oracle and a bit of suspense mixed with a whole lot of humor. As Lockwood and Rex’s relationship is explored there were a few places in the book where it took me a minute to realize there had been a small jump in time, but it in no way distracts from the story. With each facing their own set of challenges will they be able to overcome them and get their happily ever after? This was the first book by Naomi Valkyrie that I have read but I will definitely be reading more and hoping to see more of this world. I absolutely recommend.

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Apocalypse (Guardians of the Garden Book 2) by Theresa Pocock – Review by Ember Daley

Apocalypse (Guardians Book II)Apocalypse by Theresa Pocock
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Some books just need more stars… this was just as engrossing as book one in the series, and I couldn’t put it down. Seth is still the best, and will do what he has to. Would absolutely recommend this to my friends to read.

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Class Clown (Ghost Girl Series) by Allan Evans – Review by Erica Shoebridge

Class ClownClass Clown by Allan Evans
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

A trip to the circus with her family brings Abbey a lot more than she bargained for. When all hell breaks loose, and dead clowns overrun her high school, she must scramble to put a stop to it before it’s too late. I liked the pace of the story and the plot brought some interesting twists and turns. I liked that Abbey had a bit of a gift in regards to the supernatural and an quiet intuition that those around her lacked. I had trouble really resonating with her though, and feeling fully pulled-in by the story. It seemed like it was happening at a remove. At any rate, a decent read.

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Juliet’s Journey to Love (Great Smoky Mountain Getaways Book 1) by Elsie Davis – Review by Jess Engel

Juliet's Journey to Love (Great Smoky Mountain Getaways, #4)Juliet’s Journey to Love by Elsie Davis
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

A wonderfully sweet read! I loved Jake and Juliet’s story; it had everything a reader could hope for: a small town, likable characters, a faith-rooted, clean romance, and a serendipitous meeting of lovers.

The author developed both characters and story well, building tension throughout the story by slowly adding depth. It was a fast and easy read that kept my attention and had me rooting for Jake and Juliet throughout. I look forward to additional stories in this series and by this author in general.

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Faithful in Love (Cliff Walk Cousins Book 1) by Cecily K. Wolfe – Review by Erica Shoebridge

Faithful in Love (Cliff Walk Cousins, #1)Faithful in Love by Cecily K. Wolfe
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Faith is a woman of intelligence, integrity, and privilege. Her best friend since the age of 12 Will, has been her constant companion and confidante since the day she met. So when Will takes a stand against her new (and first) love Nico, she shocked and dismayed. How can the two disagree so fundamentally, when they have always agreed on most everything? How can Faith choose between their loyalties, and make the decision that is best for her life and her family?
I liked Faith’s character, that she was thoughtful and giving, despite being raised with every comfort. Will I also appreciated, though he was a bit unknowable in a lot of ways. I found the story a bit detached and surface-level, which made it hard to get invested in for me. Not a bad read, once I committed to finishing.

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