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Soul Redeemed (War of Destiny Book 5) by Theresa Van Spankeren – Review by Amanda Swindle

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Soul Redeemed (War of Destiny #5)Soul Redeemed by Theresa Van Spankeren
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Soul Redeemed is the 5th book in the War of Destiny series, and they should be read in order to be able to follow the timeline of events. Typically I am not a fan of vampire stories, but this series has surprised me more than once and kept me interested and engaged throughout the series. With this book, we are back to Julia’s POV, and she is trying to learn to control and hone in on her powers to prove to the resistance they exist and how special they are. The trouble is, Julia is on a time crunch. She has to learn as much as she can before Ka-tet or the villagers are destroyed. As things get more chaotic and stressful, Julia struggles with self harm, and eventually, how to cope with recovering from that. Will Julia get a hold on her powers and overcome the resistance? Will Valentino get to her before she is strong enough? Can they overcome all of the obstacles that keep coming at them? There is so much to unpack in this one. The world building and ever-continuing character growth shines through once again. This is an amazing vampire paranormal series and I hope to see the story continue again!
Reviewed by @zoltrixes

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Fetching Dreams by Mary Bleckwehl – Review by Tanya Wall, July 2023

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Fetching DreamsFetching Dreams by Mary Evanson Bleckwehl
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This book is one that I walked about thinking about after every reading session. There was hope, tears, celebrations and the gut wrenching realization that this is real for so many today. The story is told through a penpal relationship between two girls – one in America and one in Africa. Two girls, with two very different lives that learn they can have a voice to make a difference. There were times in this story that I was faced with big feelings knowing that so many go without the basic necessities like water, education and a childhood – while many take having these things for granted. I was glad there was a positive outcome even in the shadow of sorrow – and I will remember the power of raising one’s voice!

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Twisted Oath (Bound By Blood Book 1) by A. S. Roberts – Review by Lorralei Hoerner

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Twisted Oath (Bound By Blood Book 1)Twisted Oath by A. S. Roberts
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

5 Stars 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟

If you love dark mafia romance like I do ………. do yourself a favor and read this story! Fantastic, raw, revenge, dark and the push and pull between Salvatore and Serafina….wow! I highly recommend this book..the story is top notch.

Salvatore is ruthless and powerful looking to seek revenge on those whom did him wrong. Serafina is part of another powerful family and had her eyes on Salvatore for a very very long time. She grows up having dreams of more to life….but she know she must protect her family. The push and pull between Salvatore and Serafina is a roller-coaster intense ride as they both are doing what they feel is best…..never expecting to fall…..

Fantastic story….this book will definitely stick with me for quite awhile……..Wow…..

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My Goodbye Girl by Anna Gomez – Review by Crystal Brehant

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My Goodbye GirlMy Goodbye Girl by Anna Gomez
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is a heartwarming romance story. I think it is very well written with beautiful character creation and story line. It was difficult to put down. I just wanted to keep reading until I finished! This was a fun read and I hope to read more of this authors books soon.

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Fallen Soul (War of Destiny Book 4) by Theresa Van Spankeren – Review by Amanda Swindle

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Fallen Soul (War of Destiny #4)Fallen Soul by Theresa Van Spankeren
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Book four of the War of Destiny series is a bit different than the previous three. This time, we are seeing things from the POV of Lane and Fallen Soul is a re-do of book three from his perspective. I actually enjoyed this, as it shed some light on his past and showed us why he is the feared loner. Lane has been wanted for a very long time. When Julia approaches him in a friendly and respectful manner, and not in fear or hatred, he is intrigued and amused. As he becomes closer to her and her group, he struggles with upcoming decisions. Should he stay the solo vampire he has been for so long? Or should he join the group that is willing to accepting him as one of their own, and the power struggle with Valentino that comes with it? Can he ever be truly trusted and accepted, or is he better off alone? This installment really put things into a different perspective and helped us understand just who Lane is, and why he is the way he is. If you are into vampire stories, this is surely a series you will enjoy.
Reviewed by @zoltrixes

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Shalom Israel by Melissa Lavi – Review by Tanya Wall, June 2023

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Shalom Israel: A place like no otherShalom Israel: A place like no other by Melissa Lavi
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I enjoyed this peek of the different places in Israel. I loved the illustrations – a mix of drawings with real photos – they really gave me the vison of the places the book introduced me to. The story tells a history of Israel in a rhyme, it is highly engaging and educational – in a fun way!

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Falling Again(Buckeye Falls Book 3) by Libby Kay- Review by Heather Knalls

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Falling Again: A Buckeye Falls NovelFalling Again: A Buckeye Falls Novel by Libby Kay
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Anthony is mayor of Buckeye Falls, he is successor to his father and still feels as if he is living in his shadow. Natilie is his wife who has just recently opened her own business N&G. They have both been neglecting each other since he has become mayor, she started her business and they had their two children. Anthony’s parents have asked them to go pack up the lake house because they are thinking of selling it. He feels this is their chance to get their marriage back on course. Is the time away what they need or are things to far gone for them to fix it?

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Helpful Hudson by Dannielle Pickford – Review by Angela Plate, June 2023

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Helpful HudsonHelpful Hudson by Dannielle Pickford
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This book was really cute. It’s geared towards young children, but I think parents will enjoy it as well. It’s a great reminder to parents that it’s okay to take the time for self care while teaching the littles about it without guilt or embrassment. This book was well written and nicely illustrated.

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Fallen Soul (War of Destiny Book 4) by Theresa Van Spankeren – Review by Nina Maes

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This story has it all, very engaging and full of action. Lots of tense and magical moments.
This a thrilling quick read. Recommend to all readers. Fallen Soul (War of Destiny #4)Fallen Soul by Theresa Van Spankeren
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This story has it all, very engaging and full of action. Lots of tense and magical moments.
This a thrilling quick read. Recommend to all readers.

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Pursuit into Darkness (War of Destiny Book 2) by Theresa Van Spankeren – Review by Nina Maes

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Great story telling with plenty of details. This has lots of adventure with an engaging storyline. Full of suspense, fast paced. Once you get started hard to put down. Recommend to all readers.Pursuit into Darkness (War of Destiny #2)Pursuit into Darkness by Theresa Van Spankeren
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Great story telling with plenty of details. This has lots of adventure with an engaging storyline. Full of suspense, fast paced. Once you get started hard to put down. Recommend to all readers.

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Soul Redeemed (War of Destiny Book 5) by Theresa Van Spankeren – Review by Nina Maes

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Whoa! This series is phenomenal! Strong characters and well written. Full of action, suspense, twisted and heart wrenching. This story is very fast paced and captivating. Once you start you can’t stop until it’s finished. Recommend this series and author to all.Soul Redeemed (War of Destiny #5)Soul Redeemed by Theresa Van Spankeren
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Whoa! This series is phenomenal! Strong characters and well written. Full of action, suspense, twisted and heart wrenching. This story is very fast paced and captivating. Once you start you can’t stop until it’s finished. Recommend this series and author to all.

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Helpful Hudson by Dannielle Pickford – Review by Hannah Porter

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Helpful HudsonHelpful Hudson by Dannielle Pickford
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Reading Helpful Hudson by Dannielle Pickford I loveeeeed everything about it. The illustrations, I loved them. They reminded me of toy story style. I will be rereading this often to my little one. I loved the message, we all get that way sometimes even kids so it’s important for them to understand that and figure out how to work through their feelings. I look forward to reading more books by this author.

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Between Darkness and Light (War of Destiny Book 3) by Theresa Van Spankeren – Review by Nina Maes

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Great story well written seamless story with each book. Very engaging, will pull you in and keeps you wanting more. Strong characters, very emotional read. Recommend to all readers.Between Darkness & Light (War of Destiny #3)Between Darkness & Light by Theresa Van Spankeren
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Great story well written seamless story with each book. Very engaging, will pull you in and keeps you wanting more. Strong characters, very emotional read. Recommend to all readers.

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Pursuit into Darkness (War of Destiny Book 2) by Theresa Van Spankeren – Review by Jennifer Ramos

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Pursuit into Darkness (War of Destiny #2)Pursuit into Darkness by Theresa Van Spankeren
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Definitely a fan of the first book and wanted to see where this story proceeds. Quite some time after Samuel’s decision to help with the Resistance, Julia along with the ka-tet, have been living among those in the Resistance. Julia has grown into her strength and abilities from the first book and as a vampire as well. It is nice to see the character development in Julia as well as many of the other characters from the previous book.. Lots of action in this one as well, which I absolutely love and don’t want to ruin any details for those who decide to pick this book to read! There is more to come in the next book of the series and cannot wait to see where this story takes us!

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Lost Soul (War of Destiny Book 1) by Theresa Van Spankeren – Review by Jennifer Ramos

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Lost Soul (War of Destiny # 1)Lost Soul by Theresa Van Spankeren
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I’ve always been drawn to vampire and paranormal stories so when I read what this book was about, I had to read it! I was drawn into the story from the beginning. Julia, a then 14 year old girl from a wealthy family, is married off to a man who is not what he seems. Growing up, she ends up falling for her childhood friend, Adam, who is the servant’s son and is furious about this arranged marriage. What happens during the duration of her marriage takes you for a whirlwind in which she ends up getting help from the least suspected of all, vampires. She then makes a decision whether to continue in the horrible marriage life or turn into a vampire herself. She is then brought into the complex world of vampires and learns their defense tactics as well as the abilities she has to adjust to. Similar to Twilight saga but unique in its own way and the author does such a great job with this story. I cannot wait to read the rest of the series.

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Lost Soul (War of Destiny Book 1) by Theresa Van Spankeren – Review by Nina Maes

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Captivating! Very engaging, great story line full of emotions. just enough romance to keep it interested. This was my first book from this author and looking forward to reading more. Recommend to all readers.Lost Soul (War of Destiny # 1)Lost Soul by Theresa Van Spankeren
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Captivating! Very engaging, great story line full of emotions. just enough romance to keep it interested. This was my first book from this author and looking forward to reading more. Recommend to all readers.

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A Teacher’s Heart by Melissa Lavi – Review by Crystal Brehant

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A Teacher's HeartA Teacher’s Heart by Melissa Lavi
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This was a cute story. It is great for kids who may be starting school. A kid who may be worried or nervous about starting school. It is a great example of how much love teachers give to all of their students and how much they care.

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Twisted Oath (Bound By Blood Book 1) by A. S. Roberts – Review by Jenni Bishop

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Twisted OathTwisted Oath by A. S. Roberts
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

WOW! Twisted Oath by A.S. Roberts is another amazing story and the brand-new book in the Bound By Blood series. I have not read a book of hers that I have not loved and have not given 5 stars to. If I could give this book more I would. This is definitely my favourite so far.
The story of Salvatore and Serafina is immersive and enthralling and is told in multiple POV making the characters come to life. A.S. has the knack to make the characters feel real as she puts them through their paces. They are really well written and fully developed.
A.S. quickly draws you into the world in which she weaves and what a twisted ride it is. There isn’t a dull moment in this captivating story that flows smoothly with great pace. With just the right amount of tension and energy in the story makes it even better.
With revenge and justice, vengeance and dreams, solace and power, hunger and passion, anger and jealousy, love and so much more you will not want to put this book down. It will also stay with you long after you have finished it.
There are no spoilers here because this goodness needs to be discovered all on its own.
I love a good dark, raw and gritty mafia romance and A.S. has delivered. Happy reading.

Reviewed by @jennadb

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Soul Redeemed (War of Destiny Book 5) by Theresa Van Spankeren – Review by Rebeca Elliott Figueiras

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Soul Redeemed (War of Destiny #5)Soul Redeemed by Theresa Van Spankeren
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is the fifth book in the War of Destiny series. You should read the previous books in the series before starting this one.

Yet again the author has been able to create wonderful characters and scenes to draw you into their world easily. Again, the characters are met with danger and twists/turns as they make their journey.

Throughout the series I have really loved Julia and really felt for her as she never seems to catch a break, no matter how much she deserves it. The author portrays her character so well I can feel her emotions as she tries to prove herself. Her strength is admirable as she continues, and I love her all the more for it as she perseveres.

It’s a shame there isn’t another book into the series for me to jump straight into, but I’ll be keeping an eye out for more from this author now that I have discovered them.

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Sacrifice Bunt (Ground Rule Book 2) by Bree Kraemer – Review by Dawn Mitchell

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Sacrifice Bunt (Ground Rule Book 2)Sacrifice Bunt by Bree Kraemer
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is the 2nd book in the series but can be read as a standalone. Noah an Zara have a past that they are both running from an Zara avoids Noah like the plague. She makes it known to everyone how much she dislikes him. But in the end will their feelings overcome their past? I liked Noah an Zara story better than the first book.

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Helpful Hudson by Dannielle Pickford – Review by Nicole

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Helpful HudsonHelpful Hudson by Dannielle Pickford
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Helpful Hudson highlights the importance of self-care, a concept often neglected or overlooked. It’s truly a wonderful message to impart at an early age. With his constant helpfulness and selflessness, the character of Hudson eventually realizes the toll it takes on his well-being. By the end of each day, he is completely exhausted and drained, leaving him with no energy to engage in any activities the following day. However, through his journey, Hudson learns a valuable lesson: he must prioritize taking care of himself to care for others effectively. The book effectively conveys the idea that one cannot pour from an empty cup, emphasizing the significance of maintaining one’s physical and mental well-being. Helpful Hudson serves as an engaging and enlightening read, reminding children and adults alike about the importance of self-care and its impact on our ability to help others.

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Soul Redeemed (War of Destiny Book 5) by Theresa Van Spankeren – Review by Jamie Truex

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Soul Redeemed (War of Destiny #5)Soul Redeemed by Theresa Van Spankeren
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is the 5th book in the series. I absolutely recommend you start at the beginning and give this whole series a shot. Plenty of vampires, action, love, guilt, learning. You won’t be disappointed! I’m glad there is room for another book because I wasn’t ready to say goodbye to these characters. Like the rest of the books, I had a very hard time putting this one down.

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Soul Redeemed (War of Destiny Book 5) by Theresa Van Spankeren – Review by Shannen Kern

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Soul Redeemed (War of Destiny #5)Soul Redeemed by Theresa Van Spankeren
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This series has been a complete surprise to me and knocked me off my feet. Each book had me absolutely absorbed throughout the entire story, and Soul Redeemed is no different. The author clearly didn’t have to stretch to make it to five books as I didn’t feel any lulls at any point. I am invested in the characters, but specifically Julia since she has come from such a harrowing past. You will feel every emotion as your own and you’ll be at the edge of your seat through every twist and turn. I definitely recommend starting from book one in the series because it is a complex world, and you’ll kick yourself for missing out on this author’s amazing writing style. The entire series flows so flawlessly, it comes with the highest recommendation!

Reviewed by @shannlynn

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Fallen Soul (War of Destiny Book 4) by Theresa Van Spankeren – Review by Jamie Truex

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Fallen Soul (War of Destiny #4)Fallen Soul by Theresa Van Spankeren
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is the 4th book in a very good series. This one is from the point of view of Lane instead of Julia. Lane is a lone vampire who feeds off of humans and vampires as well. Other vampires think he is insane and Valentino has ordered him killed on sight. He get surprised by Julia one night and realizes not all vampires are the same. He meets and helps her group. I’m not sure what to think about his “relationship” with Kali. Either way, it was a great addition to the series!

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Walk Off (Ground Rule Book 1) by Bree Kraemer – Review by Dawn Mitchell

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Walk OffWalk Off by Bree Kraemer
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

First book of the series and I want to read more! Celia and Kyles chemistry is off the charts electrifying. They havent seen each other in years so when they do they realize their love has never gave up. But can their love make it through the secret Celia has kept from Kyle all these? This book is fun, easy going, steamy an a quick read.

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Brutal Nights (Hidden Valley Elite Book 4) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Jessica Stone

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Brutal Nights (Hidden Valley Elite #4)Brutal Nights by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Brutal Nights (Hidden Valley Elite Book 4) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Jessica Stone

Oh man ohhhh man, I LOVE this series, I cannot get enough!!! I could rant and rave about this author and what she has done with this series and it still wouldn’t describe it.

First off, holy hell that was steamy, I thought after reading the first three books, no one could top my love for Riley and Cole, their chemistry, love story, the angsty back and forth… but man was I wrong. The chemistry between Damon and Sky is quite frankly, panty melting, this book had me in a literal chokehold. I love the direction the author went with the continuation of the series, there is still a lot of unsolved trauma seeping in for Damon from the previous books. Instead of all the drama revolving around Damon and his father, a-lot of it centered around sky and some issues with bulling from a best friend recently turned enemy. Sprinkle in a dash of family drama from sky to keep you on your feet and you have the makings of a wonderfully told story.
I cannot lie, as much as I feel like the author did them all justice I would have enjoyed more cameos from Riley and Cole or even a bit more insight as far as Phoenix and Shane go but also, I’m full of anticipation for the next couple of novels to see what lies in store for the two cousins.

I would, however, not recommend attempting to read any of the books of this series out of order, you will be thoroughly lost and sad when you realize you’ve spoiled these story’s for yourself, this author loves to leave these books as cliffhangers. But I HIGHLY recommend this series to anyone who likes enemy’s to lovers, forced proximity, alpha male, young adult type books. Grab the first one and get ready for a wild ride, because this series is fantastic.

Brutal Nights, Hidden Valley Elite Series, Isla Vaughn, Review, Itsy Bitsy Book Bits, Contemporary Romance, Romance, Jessica Stone, June 2023

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Between Darkness & Light (War of Destiny Book 3) by Theresa Van Spankeren – Review by Shannen Kern

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Between Darkness & Light (War of Destiny #3)Between Darkness & Light by Theresa Van Spankeren
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I don’t know how the author does it, but each book in this series keeps getting better and better! Between Darkness & Light has definitely hit my heart the hardest so far. You can feel Julia’s pain and torment throughout the story, and it is just completely and utterly heartbreaking. She copes with these dark emotions in the only way she can think of at the time, and even that tears me up inside. The author pulls you into this world and makes it feel like you are experiencing the story. I was so invested in these characters and need to know how everything is going to end up!

Reviewed by @shannlynn

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Fallen Soul (War of Destiny Book 4) by Theresa Van Spankeren – Review by Rebeca Elliott Figueiras

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Fallen Soul (War of Destiny #4)Fallen Soul by Theresa Van Spankeren
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is the 4th book in the War of Destiny series. You should read the previous books before starting this one to get a greater sense of the characters, events and setting of the book.

The author’s writing flows well and creates vivid imagery and great characters as usual. This story is a little different from the previous ones but it’s not bad, it’s executed well. This time we get to experience Lane’s adventure as he attempts to make his way to his homeland safely.

It was great to be able to follow Lane’s journey while facing familiar foes and getting a different perspective. Although it may be different, it’s not any less gripping or dangerous.

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Pursuit into Darkness (War of Destiny Book 2) by Theresa Van Spankeren – Review by Shannen Kern

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Pursuit into Darkness (War of Destiny #2)Pursuit into Darkness by Theresa Van Spankeren
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I don’t often run into a series that actually gets better with each book, but I’ve found that in the War of Destiny series. I was taken by surprise with how quickly I became completely absorbed into this world. Julia is finally feeling comfortable with her life, so of course the author shakes us out of that dream with completely unpredictable scenes and incredibly detailed world building. I caught myself staring at the book in disbelief as she encountered some major betrayal and drama. Do yourself a favor and just pick this series up. Start with the first book or you’ll be totally lost. I can’t wait to see what’s next!!

Reviewed by @shannlynn

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House of Arsceneaux (Servants of Morrigan: Immortal Creatures) by Caterina Novelliere – Review by Felicia Bates

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House of ArsceneauxHouse of Arsceneaux by Caterina Novelliere
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

I secretly love a good vampire romance so I couldn’t wait to crack into this novel. This book was longer than what I tend to reach for and for me, it was slow to start. Right off the bat I love that the author named each chapter, something I’ve always enjoyed but rarely see anymore. The attention to detail and imagery really transported me to a different time and place and once I got caught up in the storyline I truly loved the escape. I look forward to exploring more from this author.

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