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The Secret Humankind (The Discoveries of Julia Xero Book 1) by Gloria Oliver – Review by Jenni Bishop

The Secret Humankind: An Urban Fantasy Thriller (The Discoveries of Julia Xero Book 1)The Secret Humankind: An Urban Fantasy Thriller by Gloria Oliver
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The Secret Humankind is an engaging urban fantasy mystery. It is the first book in this new series from Gloria Oliver. Gloria is a new author to me, and I enjoyed her work. Her world-building is well done, and she has cleverly woven together complex threads in a multi layered story.
The intriguing plot is fast-paced and full of suspense, tension, frustration, fear, desperation,
This darkish occult thriller is a page-turner and is action packed with mayhem, aliens, supernatural beings, humans, secrets, mystery and magic.
Gloria’s narrative and a few twists and turns makes it easy to become intrigued with the characters and their journey.
Have a murder on your hands? Have a crime scene? Need the mess to go away? Need a crime-scene cleaner? Then Julia is your girl.
I wonder where the series goes. I look forward to reading more.

Reviewed by @jennadb

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Cruel Start (Hidden Valley Elite) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Hannah Porter

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

Cruel start was a short but truly amazing beginning for the Aspen and Phoenix story. This is the prequel to the next two both which will revolve around the two.😭😭😭 It makes me so sad to have to wait for the next 2 books in this series. I need to know what happens between them now 🤣😭. I’m also looking forward to seeing all the complex characters again and what role they play in these next books. Hopefully they help out and not make things worse 😂. I hope Aspen and Phoenix can work it out for the little one or ones lmao you know twins run in the family lmao

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Cruel Start (Hidden Valley Elite) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Kristan Anderson

Cruel Start (Hidden Valley Elite #4.5)Cruel Start by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Cruel Start is part of Isla Vaughns Hidden Valley Elite series. Let me tell you what is cruel… me not realizing this was a prequel novella! As I finished I was internally screaming NOOOO that’s it?! It was, over too soon. Really though, I should have known better. However, this is just the prequel for the two part story of Aspen and Phoenix. When one moment of passion turns their worlds upside down, the pair need to figure out how to deal with the impending future. I am so excited to see where this couple goes and what happens between them. I’m also excited to hopefully catch some glimpses of our previous characters.

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The Secret Humankind (The Discoveries of Julia Xero Book 1) by Gloria Oliver – Review by Toni Sellers

The Secret Humankind: An Urban Fantasy Thriller (The Discoveries of Julia Xero Book 1)The Secret Humankind: An Urban Fantasy Thriller by Gloria Oliver
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Fantastic! What a wonderful start to a series. I can’t wait for more; I didn’t want to put it down. Julia was easy to relate to in a lot of ways for me, all the characters were well written. There are good twists and turns with plenty of action. Mystery, murder and magic. What else do you need? I definitely recommend this book.

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Cruel Start (Hidden Valley Elite) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Michelle Austin

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

This was a great 5 star read. This author continues to pull me in with her writing. This is quickly becoming a favorite series of mine. This is 4.5 prequel that has me wanting the next two books now. Phoenix and Aspen have a chance encounter that turns into a steamy fling that could change both their lives forever. You could feel their chemistry coming off the pages. What will happen when Phoenix gets the news? What will they do?
I can’t wait to see where things go for these two. All of the characters added a great element to the story. There is adult content and we get a heck of a cliffhanger. 1-click and get started today on this series.

Reviewed by @mab54615
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Love Bites More (The Darkness & Light Duology, and the Love Bites World) by TL Clark – Review by Jenni Bishop

Love Bites MoreLove Bites More by T.L. Clark

Love Bites More is part of TL Clarks the Darkness & Light Duology and the Love Bites world. Even though it is part of this world it is most definitely a stand-alone. She made sure to give a quick overview of things that have happened in the other books so as a reader we understand where they come from and who they are.

It is just as good as the other books, but it is very different to the other Love Bites books. Even though there are other things happening in their world this book is primarily about the relationship of these sexy but growly men with wants and needs.

It is a paranormal romance tale of a male triad. They now have to find a new norm in their relationship that was once only two but is now three. It is fund and a bit of an intense emotional rollercoaster as we watch these possessive males find each other and become fated mates.

In this intriguing read there is never a dull moment as we get to know and understand the complexities of these characters, their ways of living and their world.

TL made this an action-packed exciting read. Add in a little fun banter, a whole lot sexy, Elinafae, witches, Magick, dragons and you have everything to keep you entrenched in the story.

I look forward to seeing what comes next.

Reviewed by @jennadb

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The Sisterhood of Secrets (The Gods’ Scion Book 4) by Winnifred Tataw – Review by Ayla Phipps

The Sisterhood of SecretsThe Sisterhood of Secrets by Winnifred Tataw
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Diversity. Balance. Though this is the fourth book in the series it is the first book I have read by the talented Winnifred Tataw. While I was initially concerned about being confused about the story or not being able to understand what was going on I found I had no issues with understanding. This book was very informative about building the world and characters in the first several chapters. So, I am confident in saying that from experience this book could be read as a standalone, though I plan to go back and read the previous three soon. Told through several characters’ perspectives, it gives a well-rounded story.
Alistine was once a part of the castle staff now with the crowned prince Rayden. Arcelia is the girlfriend of Prince Rodrick, Rayden’s brother. Rodrick, prince of Diar but also the Acolyte of Time. Nikolai the Acolyte of Life. While all the characters have their side story or own situations, they are all tied together to varying degrees. Arcelia is determined to prove that she is not like her family that she is not with Rodrick for power but for love, primarily to his mother Queen Riva. Nikolai has many duties as the acolyte of life, one being as an unbiased tiebreaker for the beings of balance. In past situations when he was needed, he was given details on who or why a person was so important to upcoming events but this time he has told very vague details. Leading him to wonder if he knows the person that could be the single sacrifice. When all things begin to change where will they fall in the balance of the world.
What is better sacrifice one or many, did Nikolai make the right choice? Will Alistine and Rayden finally complete the process of her becoming his princess? How will Arcelia’s visit with her estranged family go? Was Alistine’s feeling that something wasn’t right worth worrying about? The world that the author creates is beyond fascinating in not only the mix of cultural diversity but with the blurred lines between the past and present. Honestly at first, I thought this was a story placed more in medieval times, or closer to that era, until the mention of “scrolling through my phone” and the realization that it was a more current story in terms of technology. The story reminded me in many ways of Game of Thrones in terms of one overlaying story but each character or set of characters having their own side story simultaneously to the main plot. I can’t wait to read the previous books and will be keeping my eyes out for what comes next.

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Forbidden Blood (The Shadow Chronicles Book 4) by CR Robertson – Review by Crystal Jimmo

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

I was so excited for Kimber to get her own book when she was introduced in book one. Kimber is another interesting character. Her family has kept her secret for most of her life. Seeing her as weak and useless, until she comes into her power. She is then conscripted into the vampire army, and her coven leader finds out about her powers. Enter Fabian. He is a shaman that is supposed to help maintain balance, but evil has woven it’s way into this organization so it’s hard to know who is friend and who is foe. The character’s chemistry when they are introduced to each other is off the charts! I loved the continuation of the story from their perspective and the series just keeps getting better and better! I loved this book just as much as the others and I hope she keeps going!

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The Secrets they Hide (A Commissario Scala Mystery in Rome) by P.J. Mann – Review by Jenni Bishop

The Secrets they Hide (Commissario Scala #2)The Secrets they Hide by P.J. Mann
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

4.5 stars
I have only read one book by P.J. and enjoyed it so was happy to scoop this book up and start reading. The Secrets they Hide is the second book in this A Commissario Scala Mystery in Rome crime series. This book may be part of a series, but it reads just as easily as a standalone novel.
Detective Maurizio Scala is back with a new case in the beautiful city of Rome, Italy. He finds himself tangled in a web of lies and deceit. A cryptic message leads him to a series of murders. It is not in his nature to give up even if it leads danger to his door.
The Secrets they Hide is a gripping murder mystery that is full of action, suspense, and a few twists and turns to keep you interested. It is fast paced with lots of tension and suspense and realistic interactions and banter between characters.
This whodunnit is well written and kept me intrigued throughout.
If you enjoy a crime story, you won’t be disappointed.

Reviewed by @jennadb

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The Misery House (The House on the Hill Book 1) by David Kummer – Review by Lucy Machard

The Misery House (The House on the Hill #1)The Misery House by David Duane Kummer
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This book sucked me in right from the start. I typically don’t read soft horror or paranormal psychological thrillers, but I could not put this damn book down! It’s so good! It’s told from the perspective of the Woods family in split POVs, with a couple third person chapters thrown in there too. I’ve never read anything by this author before, but he’s definitely one of my new go-tos. The only thing about this book that upset me was the ending, since it ends in a cliffhanger because it’s part of a trilogy. However, the writing style is immaculate. It’s a very quick and easy read: Under 300 pages. Y’all, do not wait on this book. It’s absolutely fantastic and 100% worth the read. And for the author, thank you. And hurry up with book 2!!

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Murder in a Gated Community by Laura Koerber – Review by Santana Hicks

Murder in a Gated CommunityMurder in a Gated Community by Laura Koerber
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This book is a day in life of multiple seniors in a gated community. A woman who will do anything to keep her plot in the community garden. A dog being left to its own devices while its owner is away, barking non stop making a few members angry. Maybe even angry enough to do something about it. A tiny woman with a huge dog who farts a lot. A very active HOA with its own agenda. All these things seem basic enough. No way are any of these grounds for murder…right?

I have read a few novellas from this author. While they normally write more towards a fantasy aspect, I was excited to try something different from them. The book was quite amusing. Each character had their own things to deal with with a big personality. It was like reading a soap opera with a bunch of seniors. So much drama. I loved it.

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Grand Slam (Ground Rule Book 3) by Bree Kraemer – Review by Lyndsey Fairley

Grand Slam (Ground Rule Book 3)Grand Slam by Bree Kraemer
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

As with all stories in this series it can be read as a standalone but I prefer to read them all in order.

Heath and Grace was one of my favorites of this series and I think it had to do with Maggie.

I love how the women while sensitive and have insecurities are also strong willed and stick up for themselves. I really enjoyed watching their story unfold.

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Murder in a Gated Community by Laura Koerber – Review by Felicia Bates

Murder in a Gated CommunityMurder in a Gated Community by Laura Koerber
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Murder in a Gated community was the perfect short read to liven up my week. The cast of characters was a lot of fun and took me back to my days as a nurse in an assisted living community and silently watching the interactions between “neighbors”. This was a fun story with wit and a humor that kept me engaged from start to finish. I enjoyed the scattered communication with the BOD and that each chapter had a title. As mentioned, I really did enjoy this short read and I’m curious to see what else the author has for me to delve into.

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Cruel Start (Hidden Valley Elite) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Donya Pedigo

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

I’m so in love with this series and this author’s writing! This is the beginning of Phoenix and Aspen’s story, which is part of the Hidden Valley Elite Series. Personally, I can’t wait for the next book in the series to find out where their story goes from here. It is possible to read this amazing story as a standalone, but I’d definitely recommend reading the whole series as you get to learn more about Phoenix throughout his family’s books. Also, it’s an incredible young adult series that is enjoyable to read.

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Oathbreakers Anonymous by Scott Warren – Review by Betsy Melano

Oathbreakers AnonymousOathbreakers Anonymous by Scott Warren
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This author is new to me and after reading this fantasy story added with lots of humor and characters you can’t forget. I throughly enjoyed the book and can’t remember ever reading a fantasy book that made me giggle and laugh so much throughout the pages. Marluck is such an important character and as you read the book you feel like he could be one of your friends or an adventurer/companion navigating through life.
Looking forward to reading more from this author.

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Cruel Start (Hidden Valley Elite) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Lyndsey Fairley

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

I did not expect this to end the way it did, i need the next like right now, please of course .

So much happens in this quick prequel that I had to read it twice to be sure I didn’t miss anything the first time around.

if you liked any of the others from this series then you don’t want to miss this one. And if this is your first of this series I recommend reading the others, not that you need to but you’ll want to because they’re that good!!
Can’t wait to get the next one, I need to know what happens!

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Cruel Start (Hidden Valley Elite) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Robin Rankin

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

Cruel Start: A Dark College Bully Romance (Hidden Valley Elite)

Another Hidden Valley Elite Book I blew through because I couldn’t put it down. I am so completely and totally in love and obsessed with this series.

Phoenix is starting college in the fall with his brother Shane, they’re on the football team and life is good for them. Then there is a change for both of the boys and I hope it will be good for them both.

We meet Aspen and I was able to relate to her, trying to do the opposite of her parents and looking forward to college in the fall. Then she meets Phoenix.

I am impatiently waiting for the next book and don’t know if I will survive the wait.

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Goldilocks and the Six Simple Machines (Science Folktales) by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Cindy Rushin

This is a cute take on the story of Goldilocks and the three bears. I especially like how Goldilocks worked to fix different things around the bears home. The story included some quick fixes that kids can do if they are interested in working or building something. It also showed them that the size of the tools can matter when doing repairs. I recommend this book to anyone who has children that love to learn about building stuff and love to read.

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Rise of the Hunter (Blood Prophecy Series) by Barb Jones – Review by Kirsten Berkebile

This is the fourth book in the Blood Prophecy series and it is the first book of the new trilogy for the Tall Dark Man. While I love a good book, I will be honest with y’all. I had a hard time following along, from the different perspectives to the action packed parts of the story. This is the only book from Blood Prophecy that I have read, so maybe I need to read the other three books first. There is always going to be a good vs evil fight but I really see that in this book.

Rise of the HunterRise of the Hunter by Barb Jones
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

his is the fourth book in the Blood Prophecy series and it is the first book of the new trilogy for the Tall Dark Man. While I love a good book, I will be honest with y’all. I had a hard time following along, from the different perspectives to the action packed parts of the story. This is the only book from Blood Prophecy that I have read, so maybe I need to read the other three books first. There is always going to be a good vs evil fight but I really see that in this book.

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

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

Oh my! First off…make sure to read tthe author’s trigger warning. After that, you are in for a ride. This is one of the most intense romance stories I have ever read. I don’t really want to give away too much. You must read it to find out more. The chemistry is off the charts. The characters are so well written and drawn into the story so well that you can’t help but be pulled in right from the beginning.
At times, I found myself holding my breath waiting to see what happened. I am waiting to see what comes out in the next book.

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Sage Advice by Cori Cooper – Review by Tonya Merritt

Sage AdviceSage Advice by Cori Cooper
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I really enjoy reading Cori Cooper. She does an excellent job of telling the story and pulling you in. In this story it did take me a bit longer to get into but that is most likely because I’m a thirty year old woman and this story is based more on high school age kids. There is a lot at that age going on and I believe many young adults will love this story and Cori Cooper’s writing skills.

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Cruel Start (Hidden Valley Elite) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Barbara Bohls

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

This book is an amusing quick read. It sets you up for the new series and gives you a glimpse of what is to come. It draws you in from the start and doesn’t let you go even when it finishes. This book has me wanting more and more. The writing grips your attention and the story line keeps you turning pages. This book also kinda piggy backs iff of the Elite Series by this author. It deals with the siblings that have been around but not prominent and now they are. If you like everything tied up with a pretty bow then this not the book to read at the moment. You will want to wait till you have time to read the next book as you are left with a cliffhanger. I am normally not a fan of those but this book just spoke to me and I can’t wait to see what happens. This is a must-read for anyone and especially those that have read the Elite Series.

Reviewed by: @bbohls
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Love Bites More (The Darkness & Light Duology, and the Love Bites World) by TL Clark – Review by Tonya Merritt

Love Bites MoreLove Bites More by T.L. Clark
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This story is definitely a one of a kind one. It was a step too much for me but I would never rate it just on my preferences. It was spicy, paranormal, suspenseful,and romantic. A great story if you are into more than one guy involved. Three isn’t a crowd in this one.

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The Secrets they Hide (A Commissario Scala Mystery in Rome) by P.J. Mann – Review by Jennifer Gordon

The Secrets they Hide: A Commissario Scala Mystery (Book 2) (A Commissario Scala Mystery in Rome)The Secrets they Hide: A Commissario Scala Mystery (Book 2) by P J Mann
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

A gripping Italian murder mystery which had me hooked throughout. Set in Rome and Detective Maurizio Scala has sworn to protect its citizens and deliver justice to any victims of crimes. In this fast paced story Scala has to find and stop the killer of a young man found dead in a cemetery, before he becomes a victim himself. Along with the body a note was found which mentioned his dark secrets, and as the Detective digs deeper into the victim’s life he discovers a tangled web of lies and corruption. Scala’s investigation hits a breakthrough when other seemingly unconnected murders have a link to the latest one. Scala then needs to identify the killer before there are anymore victims. The storyline is full of drama and suspense, whilst the plot twists kept me guessing as to the outcome of the story. I liked the relatable Detective Scala, who as the main character really brought the story together. The descriptive narrative made the Italian setting come to life and I felt immersed in Scala’s world. An entertaining and engaging novel, and I look forward to future books featuring the Detective.

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The Secret Humankind (The Discoveries of Julia Xero Book 1) by Gloria Oliver – Review by Kerry Baker

The Secret Humankind: An Urban Fantasy Thriller (The Discoveries of Julia Xero Book 1)The Secret Humankind: An Urban Fantasy Thriller by Gloria Oliver
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This book is the first book in an new fantasy series. It is fast paced and a brilliant story. I was pulled into it right from the start and really connected with the main character. The book was action packed and really exciting to read. As the first book in a new series it really kick starts things with a bang.
This is a new author to me and I hope that her work continues just like this book. I could have read this book for so much longer and I cannot wait to see what the next installment brings.

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Goldilocks and the Six Simple Machines (Science Folktales) by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Kerry Baker

Goldilocks and the Six Simple MachinesGoldilocks and the Six Simple Machines by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is such a unique and refreshing twist on a classic story. I was excited to read this with my kids as it seemed like a great way to visually show them anyone can do anything. I didn’t expect to enjoy this as much as I did. I thought the author did a great job at not only reimagining a classic but at doing so in a way to captivate the audience and educate them at the same time.
Lois Wickstrom is one of my favourite children’s authors. They are always so fun and entertaining. This book has been read multiple times, along with every other book we have read by her. This is a great story that I would highly recommend.

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The Secrets they Hide (A Commissario Scala Mystery in Rome) by P.J. Mann – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

The Secrets they Hide: A Commissario Scala Mystery (Book 2) (A Commissario Scala Mystery in Rome)The Secrets they Hide: A Commissario Scala Mystery (Book 2) by P J Mann
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The Secrets They Hide is Book Two in A Commissario Scala Mystery in Rome Series. It is a crime thriller that is set in Rome, Italy, and centers around the character of Detective Scala. When a body turns up dead in the cemetery it sends Scala into a world of corruption, and he discovers other unsolved mysteries could be connected to the man in the cemetery. When his family comes in harm’s way, he is determined to protect his family from a crazy psychopath who is intent on causing them harm. Detective Scala is smart, ruthless, and relentless in his pursuit of the person responsible for terrorizing his family. He does not back down from a challenge and continues to follow the clues until he solves the mystery. I loved how determined his character is and enjoyed trying to solve the mystery alongside him. He is a lovable character that I found myself rooting for in his quest for truth and justice. This book had action, suspense, drama, intrigue, mystery, murder, mayhem, and some good old sleuthing in the quest for justice.

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Hole in the Rock by Rebecca Bischoff – Review by Lisa Helmick

Hole in the RockHole in the Rock by Rebecca Bischoff
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Enjoyable read that easily held my interest. This is a cute story that made me smile. I enjoyed the flow and the characters in here. There are some interesting characters and word choices about them. That Lizza gets herself into quite the pickle. I liked all her antics as she thinks about what is best for her and causes havoc with a lot of others. This is a good YA story with a nice message for the readers.

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The Sisterhood of Secrets (The Gods’ Scion Book 4) by Winnifred Tataw – Review by Carrie Reed

The Sisterhood of SecretsThe Sisterhood of Secrets by Winnifred Tataw
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Very interesting book. At times I was confused with the changing points of view, and some of the vocabulary, but was able to quickly adapt and understand once I got about a paragraph in on each chapter. Princess Arcelia and Prince Rodderick are fighting for their love, their families and their people. Rodderick’s mother annoys me in that she gives her son and ultimatum regarding his prince title. Arcelia’s family are something else. All of the lies they tell and the secrets they keep, I am proud of Arcelia for standing up to them finally. I don’t see them moving past the most recent debacle quickly but it seem like her mom is devastated at the turn in their relationship. Arcelia’s aunts can go jump off a cliff with that nasty behavior. The world in which this author creates is interesting and gives the story life. This is my first book in the series, and while I was lost on some aspects, and missing out on some things, I was still able to grasp the story. I recommend reading this series in order.

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The Secret Humankind (The Discoveries of Julia Xero Book 1) by Gloria Oliver – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

The Secret Humankind: An Urban Fantasy Thriller (The Discoveries of Julia Xero Book 1)The Secret Humankind: An Urban Fantasy Thriller by Gloria Oliver
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The Secret Humankind is Book One in The Discoveries of Julia Xero. It is a fast-paced, occult, urban fantasy thriller that centers around the character of Julia who is an orphan trying to find solace in her chaotic and stressful life. Her work environment is toxic at the best of times but suddenly she finds herself facing aliens who try to force her into silence by implanting her with a bomb. Julia now finds herself struggling to survive as she battles against the forces intent on destroying her. Along her journey Julia makes discoveries about herself that come as a bit of a surprise. This was a great read with a blending of the real world and the supernatural world melding together. Julia was an interesting character that one can easily relate to. Wanting a less stressful life and trying to make the best of things made her very relatable and easy to root for. This book had action, suspense, mystery, magic, mayhem, aliens, otherworldly creatures, and a few twists and turns that will captivate you until the end.

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