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Cruel Love (Hidden Valley Elite Book #6) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Angela Hayes

September 28, 2023/0 Comments/in Reviews /by Angela Hayes

Cruel Love by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

5 Stars

Cruel Love is Book #6 in the Hidden Valley Elite series by Isla Vaughn. OMG- I can’t get enough of this series!! This is the continuation of Aspen and Phoenix’s story which started in Cruel Start, continued in Cruel Hate, and concludes here in Cruel Love. So if you haven’t read those previous books, I highly recommend you do so you have all the important details on board before diving into this book…
After the cliffhanger ending in the previous book, I really couldn’t wait for this instalment to release. And boy, Ms. Vaughn didn’t disappoint!! This picks up right where we left off in the previous book and all the dramatic developments that entailed. Phoenix’s memory has been impacted by the accident and with things the way they are, poor Aspen is beginning to wonder what the future holds for her and their unborn baby. Gah- Ms. Vaughn loves toying with my emotions!
I know I keep saying it, but this series really does keep getting better as we go- getting more intriguing and angstier with each new addition. Ms. Vaughn outdoes herself every time.
Wicked Games is next- and I am already anticipating what Ms. Vaughn has in store for us there!
Happy Reading…

Thank you, Isla Vaughn!

Reviewed by @angelahayes

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Chasing Cheer (Emerald Hollow Book 1) by Heather Schneider – Review by Daryian Lucas

September 28, 2023/0 Comments/in Reviews /by Daryian Lucas

Chasing Cheer by Heather Schneider
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

4/5 stars
This was a cute holiday romance. I love Christmas so I love reading Christmas books throughout the year. With it getting closer to the holidays, I picked this book up and it hit the spot. A nice clean read!

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Cruel Love (Hidden Valley Elite Book 6) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Beverly Finnie

September 28, 2023/0 Comments/in Reviews /by Beverly Place-Finnie

Cruel Love by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I enjoyed Cruel Love more than Cruel Hate. The duet in the series is mind boggling. There’s so much going on, however it all works. This author beautifully ties everything together/up with a little bow. Book 6 in this series did not disappoint.
What would you do if you had a chance to start over? Meaning when getting to know someone?
Well that’s exactly what Aspen gets. After the car accident Phoenix doesn’t remember the last 5 years. He’s changed, he’s kinder and more open with her, should she take advantage? A chance to get to know her baby’s father, without all the walls that held both of them back.
Unfortunately Phoenix’s grandad plans to put a stop and end things between them. Aspen isn’t worthy and his threats and promises, bring some thoughts and decisions to make.
The drama of it all keeps you turning the page. Keeps the reader wanting more. I can’t wait for the final duet, books 7-8 on how the author ends this series.
All I can say is start from the beginning and don’t look back. It may be broken down into duets, but they are all connected. So I leave you with this, Happy Reading!!

@placexba
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Cruel Love (Hidden Valley Elite Book 6) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Hannah Porter

September 28, 2023/0 Comments/in Reviews /by Hannah porter

Cruel Love: A College Sports Romance by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Man ohh man after a much anticipated wait I finally got to gobble down every last word in this book and I did it in one sitting lmao. After that cliffhanger that left me wanting , no needing more. Picking up and reading this was a no brainer and hot damn this Isla Vaughn did not disappoint in the least. I just had to know how Phoenix and Aspen were going to get their Happy ending. Just like all the previous books in the series, this one was just as freaking AMAZING. Passion, drama, secrets, lies and jealousy. With twists and turns that’ll leave you upside down and on the edge of your seat. Also this story made me love Aspen even more.
This will always leave you wanting more, point and case I’m literally counting the days til the next release withWinter and Shane’s story🥰 Whoooot whoot now bring on

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Cruel Love (Hidden Valley Elite Book 6) by Isla Vaughn – Review by M Policicchio

September 28, 2023/0 Comments/in Reviews /by M Policicchio

Cruel Love by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Dearest Author, Why do you hate me? You know the next book doesn’t come out for months and months, and (even if it is only next week, it will seem like) months? That ending truly was cruel love.

We pick up where Cruel Hate ended. Phoenix, Shane and Aspen are dealing with the aftermath of the car accident. Their world has been turned upside down in more ways than one. People Phoenix and Shane have known all their life are not who they seem to be. Phoenix struggles to find himself.

While Phoenix is on the mend, Aspen finds her community. The family that includes Cole, Damon, Riley and Skylar rallies around Aspen to support her and assist with her dream of her own business. No matter what happens with Phoenix, Aspen knows that she will always have family for her little one.

Ugh! This is so hard. There is soooo much to love about this book but I don’t want to give away its secrets. I don’t want to be that reviewer that tells way too much. Not to mention the way this one ends. This is one of my favorite series of all time. The found family bond and strong female characters rival the Elite Mafia series by another author who is constantly on my TBR List. Super! Wonderful! Fantastic! I could throw in a few more but I will wait for the next one to add to that list.

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Atonement (The McIntire County Series Book 1) by Winter Austin – Review by Heidi Sturgess

September 28, 2023/0 Comments/in Reviews /by Heidi

Atonement by Winter Austin
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

First off i just want to say thank you to Austin for broaching a subject that many either shy away from or that is taboo to other PTSD is a very real thing ! I salute you for “ going there” secondly thank to all those who go to war to keep me and mine safe 🙏 I honour you and your families and your sacrifice ❣️
Another thing that got me is Cando and others like him , what happens to service dogs ?

Nicolette Rivers aka Nic , first female sniper , now retired from the marines is working as a deputy in Mctinre county and we meet her having to the unimaginable but the necessary, she has to a man to save his wife and children , she manages one but not the other and most of the townsfolk are questioning her and giving her a hard time but she followed orders …. People are dying by their own hand and something is amiss , my worries was that she’d be next ! She’s vulnerable with the ghosts that chase her and theses people that are dying by their own hand aren’t doing it by choice they’re being assisted! Twisted I know ! Someone had a god complex and is dumbed “The priest “

Due to Nic being involved in a fatal shooting and investigation / debrief has to take and Detective Con O Hanlan , our Irish Yumminess joins the story , trust me to find a little spark 🔥 but what can I say I’m a sucker for the accent 🤣🫣 anyhoo back to the task at hand ….

Nic and hee spitter ended up getting romantically involved and after a specific incident he took his life and she found him and it hones for me because I lost my mum to suicide so my heart just aches for Nic and having to carry on after is very hard and this new case is a massive trigger for her and I’m so grateful to Con for being there for her !

I’ll just say this expect the unexpected, what seems to be obvious isn’t and just as I thought I I knew who “ Tbe priest “ was I’d be left in the dust again , you’re kept on your toes 😉

There were other elements that added to this ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ read , Con’s family own the local pub so there’s that element which is warm and inviting , it’s home if you like , Cando, the German shepherd , adopted by Con after his retirement from the military ( thank you for your service 🐾❣️) and while he follows order he has a soft spot for Nic that’s for sure and again I’m floored at the compassion of animals , there’s romance yes and it’s enough to take the edge off the tension of this read ….there’s family drama as well , as I said a little bit of everything thing and expect the unexpected 😉

Looking forward to more of Winter’s writing it’s almost fictional non fiction if that makes sense ….

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Cruel Love (Hidden Valley Elite Book 6) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Ayla Phipps

September 28, 2023/0 Comments/in Reviews /by Ayla Phipps

Cruel Love by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The accident took every moment they had but gave them everything they needed and more. What an incredible finale to Phoenix and Aspen’s duet. As always, the talented Isla Vaughn takes you on a rollercoaster of emotions, happy, sad, angry, devastated and keeps going without warning. This book picks up one month after the events of the first half of the duet, Cruel Hate.
Phoenix has been in a medically induced coma to help his mind and body heal as much as possible before he woke up. Aspen other than minor bumps and bruises is okay and so is the baby, much to her father’s dismay. Just when things seem to be the darkest Phoenix wakes up, and for a moment everyone is happy until reality sets in. Phoenix thinks he is fourteen years old and a freshman in high school, but still every fiber of his being is drawn to Aspen. With his defenses out of the way the door is opened wide for them to get to know each other without attitudes or fears getting in the way. Information starts to seep through when Jillian, yes, the punt bunny returns, with some vengeance and spills the beans about Aspen being pregnant. Shane’s mysteries in the first book get some insight when he lets out that Grandad has been running him to death with errands for the family business. Reckless ideas of reconciliation with their father come to light and so much more.
How will Phoenix get his memories back? Without their defenses can Aspen and Phoenix finally find the balance they need? While the world of the Hidden Valley Elite is the same, essentially, the characters go on so many journeys throughout this book. Phoenix loses his defenses and Aspen drops hers to let him in. Knowing that we are always promised a happy ending at the end of each duet keeps me counting down the days to each new entry to find out what will happen next and how it will all end. There are no perfectly wrapped little packages here, the author makes sure the characters fight for what they want, nothing is handed over easily. More so, the mystery, suspense, and growth never end. My lord the way she set up the final duet, Shane’s story will finally be revealed part one, Wicked Games, October 26th, 2023.

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Cruel Love (Hidden Valley Elite Book 6) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Crystal Jimmo

September 28, 2023/0 Comments/in Reviews /by Crystal Jimmo

Cruel Love: A College Sports Romance by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

With the way Cruel Hate ended I was absolutely devastated. I waited on baited breath before Cruel Love was released. Reading through this third book in Phoenix’s and Aspen’s story put me on an emotional rollercoaster. Seeing Phoenix not remember his child and Aspen was heart wrenching. Aspen struggling to help him remember but at the same time caring for their child was hard to read. She was dealing with basically being a single mom and mourning the loss of her alive partner, while trying to juggle everything else on her plate. I loved the ending and felt like it did the couple justice and brought everything together beautifully!

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Cruel Love (Hidden Valley Elite Book 6) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Lucy Machard

September 28, 2023/0 Comments/in Reviews /by Lucy Machard

Cruel Love by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again: this author is so freaking talented and amazing! I absolutely DEVOURED this book, and after everything the characters went through, I’m so happy that they got their happy ending. Seeing Phoenix grow after everything that happened made me so happy. All I wish is that we got more time with the characters, but I can’t wait for Shane’s book!!

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Cruel Love (Hidden Valley Elite Book 6) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Lorralei Hoerner

September 28, 2023/0 Comments/in Reviews /by Lorralei Hoerner

Cruel Love by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

5 Stars 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟

I was waiting in sheer anticipation for this continuation of Aspen and Phoenix’s story as this book picks up where Cruel Hate ends….and my gosh. Starting right from the first page 1 my heart was beating so fast, not knowing where the story will take me and I could not put it down. I love Aspen and Phoenix so much…giving me all the feels that I love about this series….passion, secrets, drama, lies, angst and sizzle.

The odds are totally against Phoenix and Aspen, from an unplanned pregnancy, juggling college work, family drama and Phoenix being determined to make his shot at the NFL. When an unfortunate event leads down a path of struggle and determination and opening up family wounds and secrets, will Aspen and Phoenix make their own choices in life and in process of becoming parents and not be influenced by money and greed………

I do not want to give any spoilers away as I could talk about this book forever…but I highly recommend reading this series right from the beginning to get to know all the characters and the progression of the story-line right from the start. I cannot wait until the next installment to know what happens to Shane and his story…

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Born to Die (The McIntire County Series Book 2) by Winter Austin – Review by Micalah Weatherholtz

September 28, 2023/0 Comments/in Reviews /by Micalah

Born to Die by Winter Austin
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Born to Die is the second book in the McIntire County book series and another great romantic suspense/mystery from Winter Austin. This book is its own case/story but we do meet Cassy and Boyce in Book one, Atonement, which is the story of Cassy’s sister, Nicolette, and Con. We hear a continuance from book one of their life over the past two years but we get plenty of suspense, twists, and turns concerning Boyce and Cassy. Cassy and Boyce have a history and a bitter one at that because she got hurt and he ran away when she needed him the most claiming his job would get in the way and ruin a case they were building on his mother. So struggling with her own mental health and PTSD she is shocked to find him re-entering her life to aid a murder/bank robbery case in McIntire County. Can she find it in her head to solve this case, and in her heart to trust him again? Winter has written another winning novel in my book.

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Shadow’s Fall (Shadowstalker Series Book 3) by Natalie Johanson – Review by Betsy Melano

September 28, 2023/0 Comments/in Reviews /by Betsy Melano

Shadow’s Fall by Natalie Johanson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is the third book in the Shadowstalker Series. The author does a wonderful job of describing the world and the characters are well written. The book has some darker moments, drama, magic, and so,e surprises! As a reader of many years, I always enjoy finding a new author or series that brings me the joy of connecting with the main characters, when it’s a series, we get to learn so much more of that world. This is a young adult series and I know I would have loved reading it back when I was a teen.

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Cruel Love (Hidden Valley Elite Book 6) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Stephanie Runyon

September 28, 2023/0 Comments/in Reviews /by Stephanie Runyon

Cruel Love by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Isla Vaughn’s Cruel Love continues Aspen and Phoenix’s story. Phoenix saved Aspen by shielding her when his father’s car was in an accident. However, Phoenix was in a coma for a month. When he woke, he thought he was only fourteen years old. He recognized his mother and was stunned by how big his twin was. Aspen found out she was having a baby girl. It conflicted Aspen about telling Phoenix that the baby was his. Thankfully, Phoenix’s cousins and their girlfriends were supportive. Despite their support, it appears as though two members of his family are not on board with Aspen’s plan to keep her baby.
Phoenix’s struggle to recover changed his behavior, and Aspen began to stop being as stubborn about a relationship. His grandfather used manipulation to get rid of Aspen by lying that Phoenix didn’t want the baby and wanted her out of his life. On the edge of the story is the strange behavior of Shane. A shocking ending made me want to continue reading. The Hidden Valley Elite Series has been amazing and easy to read. The alternating perspectives give a full picture of what each person is thinking. I definitely recommend this book to anyone who likes relatable characters and romance that is realistically depicted.

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Cruel Love (Hidden Valley Elite Book 6) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Donya Pedigo

September 28, 2023/0 Comments/in Reviews /by Donya

Cruel Love by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This series is such an awesome read about the four elite guys at Hidden Valley School and the girls they care for. I would suggest reading this series in order, not because you have to, but because it’s a great series and you get to see a lot about each of the main male characters as they are present in each other’s stories and lives, being as they are all four related and best friends as well. Also note, this series has two books, a continuation duo for each of the four heroes, making it an eight-book series with a novella that comes before the first book in the series.

I don’t know how Isla Vaughn keeps making the books in this series better and better, but she does. This book is the conclusion of Phoenix and Amber’s story. We pick up here after the cliffhanger in book five to find out how Phoenix and Aspen are going to cope with a plethora of problems, passion, drama, and oh so much more. Will Phoenix ever remember his time with Amber? Should Amber keep fighting or just take care of herself and her child? Wow, Isla Vaughn has written some complex characters who face a lot, but Phoenix and Amber’s story and all they face has really blown me away.. in a good way, that is.. I’m so impressed with the writing and plotting of this series, this duo especially! I truly can’t wait for the next duo of books, because if these are any indications, then the next will be even more mind-blowing. You get so invested in these characters’ lives that you just want to read more. You should definitely check out this series as I’m positive you won’t be disappointed!

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Cruel Love (Hidden Valley Elite Book 6) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Kristan Anderson

September 28, 2023/0 Comments/in Reviews /by Kristan Anderson

Cruel Love: A College Sports Romance by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

EXCUSE ME, how do you just end the dang book like that? Hello?! I neeeeeeed more. Cruel Love by Isla Vaughn is book six in the Hidden Valley Elite series. These really should be read in order but especially this one and the previous, they are the same story and very important to understanding and falling for these characters. After an accident, Aspen finds she’s been given almost a second chance with Phoenix. A chance to see who he is without the jerk attitude, without all the arguments of before, but also, without his memories of her. Once they realize they this is the new norm, both let go and try to get to know one another again. I loved how this story played out. Every single bit of it. I’ve always had a hatred towards granddad and it came to a head in this book for sure. The book ties up a lot of loose ends and does so in the best ways at the right time. I can’t recommend this series enough!

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Cruel Love (Hidden Valley Elite Book 6) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Tonya Merritt

September 28, 2023/0 Comments/in Reviews /by Tonya Merritt

Cruel Love: A College Sports Romance by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Please do not read this till you read the first ones in Phoenix and Aspen’s story. That being said, the first chapter will rip you apart. Phoenix and Aspens has been my favorite story but this book broke my heart so many times. Poor Phoenix and poor Aspen. If you have not read anything by Isla Vaughn, get ready for a ride. She writes the best.

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Chasing Cheer (Emerald Hollow Book 1) by Heather Schneider- Review by Heather Knalls

September 28, 2023/0 Comments/in Reviews /by Heather Knalls

Chasing Cheer by Heather Schneider
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Holly Claus has taken over the family business from her parent, Mr. And Mrs. Santa Claus. Each period Holly must fill the cheer meter and bring it back to the North Pole. However this newest period Holly has stopped in Emerald Hollow and it has her a little on edge. This small town in Oregon should not be giving off enough cheer to fill her meter in one day. Holly needs to find out what is causing this spike in cheer. Is there something magical here?

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Born to Die (The McIntire County Series Book 2) by Winter Austin – Review by Elisha Johnson

September 28, 2023/0 Comments/in Reviews /by Elisha Johnson

Born to Die by Winter Austin
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Born to Die: The McIntire County Series by Winter Austin – 5 out of 5 stars

Second book in this series and it does not disappoint. This book will keep you on your toes. More mystery, more romance, and more trauma. I am absolutely loving this series so far! I am can not wait to see what else this author will bring to the table.

Review by @elishajohnson

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What We Never Say (Bold Journeys Book 2) by Paulette Stout – Review by Jenni Bishop

September 28, 2023/0 Comments/in Reviews /by Jenni Bishop

What We Never Say: Empowering Contemporary Women’s Fiction by Paulette Stout
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

3.5 stars
What We Never Say is the fast paced second book in the Bold Journeys series a women’s fiction tale by Paulette. Make sure to read the first book Love, Only Better as the story continues on for Rebecca and Kyle. Paulette gives enough backstory in this book, so you don’t have to read the first one, but it does follow on and you are missing a lot.
I like Paulette’s writing style and after enjoying book one was ready to jump in. I enjoyed the first book but am a little torn with this book. Rebecca actions were a little disappointing to start with, she is getting to do her dream job but at what cost. She does however redeem herself a bit after a while.
The first book was more about Rebecca and her wants and needs but in this book, we get to learn more about Kyle. This tale is filled with lots of emotions, angst, disgust, drama, and lots, lots more.
Paulette handles a delicate and taboo subject well and unfortunately it is something that is not discussed enough. It is also a subject that not many thinks happen unfortunately.
Kyle has suffered sexual assault at the hands of a powerful woman, and it seems their paths are about to cross again. He finally has to open up and shares the shame and degradation he suffered with Rebecca, but she only thinks of herself. I was very disappointed in her actions.
I read this in about two days and really wanted to know what was going to happen and if Rebecca and Kyle’s plan would work out.
I look forward to seeing how the next book pans out as I feel that there are some loose ends.
As with the first book I think this is one story that you will either really like or not.

Reviewed by @jennadb

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Tears Into Gold by Cori Cooper – Review by Jenni Bishop

September 28, 2023/0 Comments/in Reviews /by Jenni Bishop

Tears into Gold by Cori Cooper
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

4 stars
Tears Into Gold is a Teen & Young Adult Fairy Tale & Folklore adaptation aimed for those aged 8 to 18 years. But people of all ages will enjoy it too. I have read and enjoyed a lot of Cor’s books and was excited to see what this book was all about.
This whimsical tale is original and fun and entertaining. Cori has cleverly woven several fairy tales together to create a magical mishmash tale. It is a story where class and station matter. A tale of forbidden love.
The characters are beautifully written, and the storyline is intriguing. It is easy to imagine this world that Cori has created and brought to life.
This is a must read for those that like a story that is full of magic, dreams, fantasy, wishes, wants, hopes, a twist or two and much more. But it is a place where the old adage is ‘be careful what you wish for’ holds true.
I look forward to reading more books by this author.

Reviewed by @jennadb

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Born to Die (The McIntire County Series Book 2) by Winter Austin – Review by Rebeca Elliott Figueiras

September 28, 2023/0 Comments/in Reviews /by Rebeca

Born to Die by Winter Austin
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is the second book in the McIntire County series and links back to the first. For this reason, I would recommend reading the first book prior to this one. In this book we follow Cassey and Boyce working on a case involving a dead officer. This is a well-written novel with plenty of suspense, secrecy, danger and romance.
Cassey is strong, attempting to overcome an incident in her past which continues to affect her but is determined not to allow it to hinder her.
Boyce is an interesting character with a surprising background which has caused him to hurt Cassey (unwillingly) in their shared history.
The pair are thrown back together in order to solve the case of the dead officer, and things between them are rocky. The chemistry is there, you can practically feel it sizzling on the page, and I was rooting for them since the moment they ‘reconnected’.
I really enjoy books which have great character development, and this book has that. The growth that you see in both Cassey and Boyce as they work through their issues was exactly what I hoped to encounter, and it added to my enjoyment of the plot.
This was another great read from the author, and I look forward to more!

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Cruel Love (Hidden Valley Elite Book 6) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Kerry Carr

September 28, 2023/0 Comments/in Reviews /by Kerry Carr

Cruel Love by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Ok where to start with this review. This author has blown my mind time and time again. This is book 6 in the Hidden Valley Elite and yes you most definately have to read them in order. This series is amazing as we follow 4 guys, Cole, Damon, Phoenix and Shane as they fight to fulfill their dreams of joining the NFL why tackling problems and issues in their personal lifes. Every one of them is flawed and damaged in some way but the love of a good woman changes things.

This is part 2 of Phoenix and Aspens story. The first part was Cruel Hate which left us on a cliff hanger as they were involved in a car accident. Now I don’t want to give anything away so you need to read it to find out if they were OK or what lasting effects accorded because of it.
The character growth in this book is amazing and so beautiful to see as Aspen and Phoenix finally drop their guards and start to let each other in. However
there are so many secrets and lies to uncover and unravel in this story. The road to Phoenix and Aspen’s HEA isn’t going to be easy especially when there is a force against them plotting to destroy them.
Honestly this series is just captivating. I was holding my breath for this book and I wasn’t let down. And yet again we are left with a cliff hanger of an ending.
Now I want to know what is happening with the final guy Shane. I can’t wait to carry on with this series.

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Vanishing Day (Logan McKenna Series Book 4) by Valerie Davisson – Review by Kerry Baker

September 28, 2023/0 Comments/in Reviews /by Kerry Baker

Vanishing Day: Logan McKenna Book 4 by Valerie Davisson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Vanishing Day: A Logan McKenna Mystery/Thriller by Valerie Davisson is the fourth book in the Logan McKenna series. This book can be read as a stand-alone although for me personally I would recommend reading them all so you get the full character development.
I thought this book was a fantastic addition to this series. It was well writing and full of intrigue. The story was done really well and covered a sensitive topic with ease. It didn’t take long before I was hooked and this book and wanting to find out how it was going to end.
This whole series has been a strong series and this book is probably the best yet. An amazing story and one up would certainly recommend.

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Cruel Love (Hidden Valley Elite Book 6) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Kerry Baker

September 28, 2023/0 Comments/in Reviews /by Kerry Baker

Cruel Love by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I absolutely could not wait to get my hands on this book and see how things would play out after the ending of the previous book. I had to find out what would happen and where the story was going. It was such a tense opening but I got straight into the story as though it were the same book. I loved how everything occurred and it made me root for the characters even more.
This book is just as amazing as the rest of the series I know there is so much more yet to come. I cannot wait to see what will happen with the next book but I am absolutely dying to find out

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Born to Die (The McIntire County Series Book 2) by Winter Austin – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

September 28, 2023/0 Comments/in Reviews /by Tara Johnson Barnes

Born to Die by Winter Austin
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Born To Die is the second book in The McIntire County Series. It is a gripping romantic suspense book that centers around the character of Detective Cassy Rivers. We first met Cassy in Atonement, the prequel to this book. If you have not yet read the first book, I highly recommend that you do as there are details that will overlap. Cassy is the sister to Nic Rivers who was the main character in the prequel, Atonement. She is still dealing with the aftermath of barely escaping from her life two years ago. Now faced with the tragic death of a fellow officer and a string of robberies she must ask the help of her ex against her best wishes. This man broke her heart and has left her with trust issues. What she does not realize is that her ex, Boyce, had very good reasons for doing so. As Boyce and Cassy work side by side the attraction between them grows and things heat up in more way than one.

This book was another well written story with a strong female character who persevered and battled through her own demons. The relationship between her and Boyce was an interesting dynamic that kept me reading so I could see how it all played out. The two clearly had feelings for each other but because of how it ended, Cassy had trust issues. Boyce had his reasons for leaving and did so to protect her, but she still felt betrayed. This book had action, suspense, drama, lies, secrets, betrayals, passion, and romance. I look forward to reading the next book in this fantastic series!

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Cruel Love (Hidden Valley Elite Book 6) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

September 28, 2023/0 Comments/in Reviews /by Tara Johnson Barnes

Cruel Love by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Cruel Love is Book Six in the Hidden Valley Elite series. This book continues with Aspen and Phoenix’s story, so I highly recommend reading the books Cruel Start and Cruel Hate prior to reading this one. Without reading those books prior to this one you will not understand the characters or their backstory. The story starts with a bang that will immediately draw you into the story and hook you until the end. After a horrific car accident Phoenix was hospitalized and is suffering from memory loss. He wakes up to discover a beautiful blonde girl by his bedside but has no recollection of who she is. Phoenix not only does not know who Aspen is but has no memory that he is the father to her unborn baby. In his mind Phoenix is only fourteen years old and has suffered a head injury incurred during a football game. Aspen is devastated that Phoenix does not remember her or that she is pregnant with his child. She fears that she will be left to raise their baby on her own. Everyone is walking on eggshells around Phoenix for fear that they will set his recovery back, but Aspen does not want to hide the pregnancy from him. The car accident has changed the entire dynamic of their relationship and complicates matters even farther. Will Phoenix remember who Aspen is? Will Aspen be left to raise their baby on her own?

This story immediately drew me in from the first few pages and kept me riveted until the end. Phoenix risked his life to save the lives of Aspen and their unborn child. In doing so, the accident has left him suffering from amnesia and he no longer knows who Aspen is or that she is pregnant with his child. It was an interesting dynamic as both Phoenix and Aspen’s lives were changed by that fateful accident. Phoenix wakes up a different person than the bully he was before. Aspen fears setting back his recovery but eventually her pregnancy will be noticeable and will be impossible to hide. Both characters are forced to make some difficult choices and navigate through numerous challenges as they fight for themselves and their unborn child. It was an intense rollercoaster ride of love, loss, tragedy, unplanned pregnancy, drama, lust, passion, secrets, lies, betrayal, angst, and drama galore. I highly recommend this book!

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Cruel Love (Hidden Valley Elite Book 6) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Barbara Bohls

September 28, 2023/0 Comments/in Reviews /by Barbara Bohls

Cruel Love by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This book is amazing and will have you hooked from the jump. There is the mystery, the intrigue, the spice, the love, and the character growth. It picks up right where it needs to. If you haven’t read Cruel Hate, you will want to do so before reading this book or you will not know what is going on. I wasn’t sure what to think going into this book based on how the other one left off. I was not disappointed. It was so worth the wait on every sense of the level. The characters are relatable. You are ale to find traits with all of the that resonate with you. These books keep getting better and better with every single one of them. It is a fast paced read because you are sucked into their world and can’t wait to see what is going to happen and who is going to do what. You are going to find yourself sitting on the edge of your seat in anticipation. You just want to be able to scream at the characters sometimes because you are so caught up in the moment. If you haven’t read any of this series, I highly recommend that you do. You won’t be disappointed and it will go on your reread pile. I know that every book is on mine. They are just that good.

Reviewed by: @bbohls
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Cruel Love (Hidden Valley Elite Book 6) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Robin Rankin

September 28, 2023/0 Comments/in Reviews /by Robin Rankin

Cruel Love: A College Sports Romance by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Cruel Love: A Dark College Sports Romance (Hidden Valley Elite Book 6)

The end killed me. I have to know what’s going to happen next. I know I have said it before but I am 1000% obsessed with this series and totally invested in this group and have been since Chapter 1 of the Prequel.

This is the second part of Phoenix and Aspen’s story and oh my goodness, wasn’t disappointed at all. So much happens and I can’t talk about any if it for fear of giving something away.

There is a lot of growth with all of them and some lingering questions get answered, but I still have more I need to find answers to.

Ms. Vaughn please don’t stop writing these amazing books

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Mr. Wimp (The Human Mating Site Book 1) by B.L. Wilde – Review by Carrie Reed

September 28, 2023/0 Comments/in Reviews /by Carrie Reed

Mr Wimp by B.L. Wilde My rating: 5 of 5 stars Joel is a standard turd! I can’t believe he had the nerve to lie to Bella twice on why […]

Cruel Love (Hidden Valley Elite Book 6) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Carrie Reed

September 28, 2023/0 Comments/in Reviews /by Carrie Reed

Cruel Love by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Wonderful book! I really loved Phoenix and Aspen’s story. After the cliff hanger in the last book, I was dying to find out what was going to happen with these two. Their relationship has been through the ringer, and poor Phoenix has a tough time healing from the accident. I was so sacred that Jillian and Phoenix’s grandfather were going to influence his decisions moving forward but, I was pleasantly surprised with how he handled himself. Phoenix and Shane’s grandfather is a real piece of work, and I really can’t wait to see him get what is coming to him, especially for the way he has treated his daughter and grandkids over the years. This book definitely will leave you begging for the next book, Shane’s story, and I am excited to see how things pan out with him and Tracy.

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