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Kingdom of Embers (Kingdom Journals Book 1) by Tricia Copeland – Review by Jamie Zabolotney

Kingdom of Embers (Kingdom Journals #1)Kingdom of Embers by Tricia Copeland
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I seriously got into this book! What do you get when you cross a witch and a vampire? A recipe for a very strange senior year of highschool. Alenda Scott isn’t like other girls but has to appear that way in order to fly under the radar. Her mother, the Queen of the vampires, is overprotective and doesn’t allow her daughter too many freedoms and isn’t allowed to date. Enter several boys who would like to hold the position of boyfriend.

Alena is a very strong willed character who knows her own mind. She trains hard at her mother’s request but she is ready to push the boundaries of what she is allowed to do.

She meets Nick, a new boy at her school who is interested in her but she isn’t sure where her feelings lie with him. Hunter is her imaginary friend from childhood who turns out to be a real person. Sparks fly between the two of them.

I look forward to future installments by Tricia Copeland.

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Cursed Luck (Broderick Coven Book 5) by AJ Renee – Review by Jamie Zabolotney

Cursed Luck (Broderick Coven, #5)Cursed Luck by A.J. Renee
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is the 5th installment in the Broderick series. Edward Broderick is a smooth talking witch whose natural talent lies with making businesses thrive. Mia Hemlock is a born earth witch whose strong powers make her the perfect florist. When she and Edward meet, sparks fly but neither is willing to bend completely to the Goddesses’ will in who their mates will be.

This book did fit nicely into the series and satisfied my curiosity about Edward. I could have asked for more drama in regards to the story line, less internal and more external as it were. This will not discourage me from looking forward to the next Broderick novel.

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The Book of Carraig (The Cross of Ciaran Book 2) by Andrea Matthews – Review by Jamie Zabolotney

The Book of Carraig (The Cross of Ciaran #2)The Book of Carraig by Andrea Matthews
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The second book in Andrea Matthews Cross of Ciaran series. I quite enjoyed this book and the progression of the story from book one. After fifteen hundred years “asleep” Ciaran is learning how to navigate this new time. Ciaran and Caitlan go to Ireland on a dig in the same place where Caitlan found Ciaran in the first place.

I have always been intrigued by archaeology and this book drew me in, topped with romance and drama and I was in seventh heaven! Matthews paints a great picture of Ireland and the surroundings. If you like paranormal romance, you won’t be disappointed.

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Entwined (Stone and Cinder Book 1) by A.L. Morrow – Review by Jamie Zabolotney

Entwined: A Cinderella Retelling (Stone and Cinder Book 1)Entwined: A Cinderella Retelling by A.L. Morrow
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

A completely new retelling of an old tale and it was perfect! This is not the story of your youth so buckle up and get ready! Ashling (our Cinderella for this telling) has been raised on stories of monsters told to her by her now deceased father. The story really takes a new twist when Ashling decides to go to the ball put on by Prince Callum (Charming) and his husband who are in search of a mother to be for any future children they may have.

I loved the pace of this book and the characters. I will definitely be looking for more books by A.L. Morrow, she has piqued my interest.

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THE BOW (HER THREE IMMORTALS Book 3) by HAZEL STORM – Review by Jamie Zabolotney

The Bow (Her Three Immortals, #3)The Bow by Hazel Storm
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I have really enjoyed this series so far and this book did not disappoint. It was filled with all of the same awesome level of romance, drama and intrigue.

Vanessa once again finds herself in a predicament after having come to the notice of Grey’s mother. With only 24 hours to complete her mission or suffer permanent death, she has little time to waste…but there is always time for romance! She gets transported back to the Overworld on a task where she is reunited with Raef briefly before she is kidnapped by Aroz to Upperworld.

I love how all of these characters have developed through this series and I love how each of the Gods is so very different from the others. The cliffhanger at the end will have you hoping Book 4 comes out very soon!

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Code Name: Vulture (The Order of the Condor Series Book 1) by Maya Daniels and Sylvia Black – Review by Jamie Zabolotney

Code Name: Vulture: Dark Vampire Romance (The Order of the Condor Series Book 1)Code Name: Vulture: Dark Vampire Romance by Maya Daniels
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

In a word, steamy! If you are looking for an easy read that will lead you down the path of dark vampire romance. When Danielle is thwarted in her efforts to buy a high priced artifact for the museum she is the curator for, she has no idea how strange her life is about to get
.
Vulture is a member of the Order, an ancient group of Purebloods. He is contracted to get both the ancient artifact and Danielle for an unnamed client. He discovers Danielle is more than she seems, as are his feelings for her. The obstacles between the two seem to mount as their time together continues.

I can’t wait to see where this story line goes.

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Scarlet Princess (Lochlann Feuds Book 1) by Robin D. Mahle and Elle Madison – Review by Jamie Zabolotney

Scarlet Princess (The Lochlann Feuds, #1)Scarlet Princess by Robin D. Mahle
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I devoured this book! I couldn’t get enough of the story line and really connected with the main character. When Princess Rowan and her cousin Davin make the poor choice of buying bootleg vodka from a kingdom they are not supposed to be in, they are caught, drugged and facing death at the hands of their captors. When their captors, Clan Elk find out who they have captured, they realize they must call a Summit to decide what must be done with her.

It quickly becomes apparent that Rowan does not fit into her new surroundings here in Socarian. Women in this kingdom are expected to be demure and defer to the men. Rowan is outspoken, mischievous and even her fiery hair can not be understated. This book is a rollercoaster of emotions that will keep you on the edge of your seat and I loved every second of it.

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Cursed Whispers (Broderick Coven Series Book 3) by AJ Renee – Review by Jamie Zabolotney

Cursed Whispers (Broderick Coven, #3)Cursed Whispers by A.J. Renee
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Very frequently when you reach book three in a series the story line can become tired. AJ Renee does a great job of spicing up this third instalment and taking the reader into the most turbulent story so far!

When Max Broderick, a witch veterinarian who can speak to his clients, feels the pull to the woods to attend to an animal in need he doesn’t expect to meet his mate. Claudia, a werewolf, has lived in a world with nothing but violence and mistreatment for the last eight years. Max’s patience and affection for Claudia and her daughter Katia slowly wear down the last of her reserves to become full mates.

I very much enjoyed this book and look forward to the next.

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Cursed Touch (Broderick Coven Series Book 4) by AJ Renee – Review by Jamie Zabolotney

Cursed Touch (Broderick Coven, #4)Cursed Touch by A.J. Renee
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

AJ Renee once again knocks it out of the park! I just can’t get enough of this author and every time you think a book can’t get better than the last, it happens. This fourth instalment takes us into the life of Carter Broderick, a witch whose skill lies in healing. As a doctor he uses his skills daily and when Vanessa, a human, brings a neighbor into the hospital, there is a compelling connection that neither can deny.

I really enjoyed this book and devoured it quickly. I loved the concept of the two worlds, human and supernatural, colliding. I am really looking forward to more from AJ Renee.

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Cursed Sight (Broderick Coven Series Book 2) by AJ Renee – Review by Jamie Zabolotney

Cursed Sight (Broderick Coven, #2)Cursed Sight by A.J. Renee
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

A great follow up to Cursed Love. Ethan Broderick is just trying to come to terms with his newly found powers but he can’t seem to get Serena Bishop, his high priestess, mentor and friend out of his mind. As they begin to navigate their feelings for one another it becomes apparent that Serena’s life may possibly be in danger. Renee keeps you on the edge of your seat trying to guess what is going to happen next. The characters are well rounded, the scenes are always evolving and pace is fast. I very much look forward to the next book in the series.

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THE GOD (HER THREE IMMORTALS BOOK 2) by HAZEL STORM – Review by Jamie Zabolotney

The God: A Greek Myth Fantasy Romance (Her Three Immortals Book 2)The God: A Greek Myth Fantasy Romance by Hazel Storm
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

A great follow up to book one. After a one way ticket to hell in trade for her brother’s life, Vanessa finds herself in close quarters with the Don of the Underworld; Grey. Despite her location, she soon finds out she is not alone and makes friends and even finds family. This book is fast paced and easy to read and the characters are relatable.

I loved the fact that this book had so many twists in the plot that you didn’t know what was coming. The ending of this book will leave you wanting more.

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Bittersweep by Wareeze Woodson – Review by Jamie Zabolotney

BittersweepBittersweep by Wareeze Woodson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

A classic historical western romance. When Elizabeth arrives back in Bittersweep under an assumed identity, she doesn’t expect to do anything more than find her Mother’s treasured box and live a normal life as the new school teacher. JP, the local wealthy rancher and school board chair is the first to meet her at the station and take an interest in her. Enter the murder, robbery and intrigue!

I found all of Wareeze’s characters very easy to identify with. Her easy style of writing has me coming back time and time again, no matter the period she is writing in. I look forward to reading many more.

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Beginnings and Endings: A Selection of Short Stories by Jane Suen – Review by Jamie Zabolotney

Beginnings and Endings: A Selection of Short StoriesBeginnings and Endings: A Selection of Short Stories by Jane Suen
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This selection of short stories really hits the reader and makes them want more! I’m usually not a huge fan of short stories because I really like to get into a story when I read but with Jane Suen’s stories, I was left satisfied. Each of the short stories captivates the reader and really brings them along for the ride and keeps your emotions high. Each story is very different from the others. I won’t spoil anything for the readers other than to say, my favorite pick of the stories was “The End Of Summer”.

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Captured by the Viscount by Wareeze Woodson – Review by Jamie Zabolotney

Captured by the ViscountCaptured by the Viscount by Wareeze Woodson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Everything a historical romance should be! Lady Isabel Carlyle is just trying to do the right thing when she breaks into Viscount Matthew Rutherford’s home. Little does she know, he is desperately in need of a wife. But for Lady Isabel, things aren’t as bad as they could be. In marrying the Viscount she is able to escape her half brother and his horrible cousin. And for the Viscount it provides him a wife after two engagements that ended in death for his betrothed.

Wareeze sets a perfect scene. The perfect amount of drama, intrigue, danger and romance with characters that are fully developed and carry the story well. I look forward to reading more novels by this author.

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Tangled Roots (Witches of Willow Creek: Tangled Magic Series Book 1) by Denise D. Young – Review by Jamie Zabolotney

Tangled Roots (Tangled Magic, #1)Tangled Roots by Denise D. Young
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I loved this book! It was right up my alley for paranormal romance. Cassie Gearhart, fresh out of highschool escapes a family who has made her suppress her magical nature. In an attempt to hide from her older brother she makes a blind deal with the Goddess. Fast forward 45 years, Cassie stumbles back to the farmhouse she has come to know so well. Only to find that the inhabitant is no longer the woman she knows but her grandson, Nick Felson.

After tragedy struck the small town of Willow Creek, Virginia, Nick had sworn off using magic and had plans of leaving forever. Until Cassie showed up. Both Cassie and Nick can feel the way their magic calls to the other, it’s like they are meant to be, or at least meant to use their magic together for a larger purpose.

I would recommend this book if you are looking for a nice easy read with a great story line.

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Kingdom of War (Kingdom Journals Volume 4) AUDIO BOOK by Tricia Copeland – Review by Jamie Zabolotney

The fourth book in the Kingdom Journals.  This book will keep you on the edge of your seat guessing as to what is next the entire read. Tricia Copeland has a great ability to create her world so that you feel a part of it. This was my first read by this author and while I haven’t read the first three installments, I did not for one moment feel confused as to what was going on. This epic battle of witches versus vampires can go so many ways and I love how it has played out so far. I look forward to reading more and seeing the story through the eyes of the other players in this story.

Carnival of Shadows (Black Water Magic Book 2) by Leslie Scott – Review by Jamie Zabolotney

Carnival of Shadows (Black Water Magic #2)Carnival of Shadows by Leslie Scott
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Carnival of Shadows is the second book in the Firewater Springs series. This book is a page turner and has me looking forward to more! Teagan Blackmore is the local Swamp Witch of Firewater Springs who is still recovering from the murder of her beloved Grandmother when a strange carnival rolls into town.

Leslie Scott really brings her characters to life and makes it easy to feel their emotions. Where they go, you go. It won’t matter if you are into paranormal, romance or mystery, there is something for everyone in this book. I am very much looking forward to another installment of this series.

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Shield & Shade (Ascended Guardians Book 1) by Misty Hayes – Review by Jamie Zabolotney

Shield & ShadeShield & Shade by Misty Hayes
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

A new take on Angels versus Demons. This book is a spinoff of the Blood Dagger Trilogy. Having not read that trilogy, I would still say this is a very good beginning to this part of the story. Zoey, a 15 year old high school student is just trying to get high grades and thinks of the day she can leave home. Having always suffered horrible nightmares and not knowing why it all starts to become clear when she learns about her family’s true nature.

Cruz is a 17 year old boy who divides his time between school, working at an ice cream shop and caring for his ill mother. When he and Zoey meet he is soon embroiled in things that are way over his head.

This book had solid world building and writing that keeps the reader engaged and wanting to know what else could possibly go wrong!

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MORNIN THE SUPER BIRD – FINDS A WAY TO FIGHT EXTINCTION by JULES HEARTLY – Review by Jamie Zabolotney

This was a very sweet story about a bird that is trying to help save all of the bird species from extinction. This book gives children some perspective on the need to save our planet for future generations and keep our animal populations alive at all costs. Mornin begins his journey when he comes across statues of birds that no longer exist and the possibility of his own species becoming extinct becomes very real for him. With the help of his friends and family he is able to bring awareness to the situation and get his word out. This is a great read for young children.

The Don (Her Three Immortals Book 1) by Hazel Storm – Review by Jamie Zabolotney

The DonThe Don by Hazel Storm
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

All I can say is WOW! This book was a serious page turner that keeps you on the edge of your seat wanting more.
Vanessa Maan is a hard working hairdresser who has a flair for making her client’s inner beauty come to the surface. At home, she has a very sick younger brother who is battling cancer. Vanessa is a very relatable character who you can feel as though you could connect with.
Grey, Don of the underworld, has come to Earth to renegotiate a contract with a human and when he and Vanessa meet, sparks fly. On a trip to see a doctor in New York, Vanessa by chance runs into Grey’s brother Raef. Raef is a billionaire who aside from looking very much like Grey, is also immediately attracted to Vanessa.
Lots of twists and turns in this book and be ready for a cliffhanger at the end of this book. For me that didn’t detract from anything, this was still a great storyline and I will be looking forward to book 2!

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Blue Summer Part Two by Everly Taylor – Review by Jamie Zabolotney

Blue Summer Part TwoBlue Summer Part Two by Everly Taylor
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The continuation to Everly Taylor’s Blue Summer. This second piece once again captivated my attention, I couldn’t put it down! This book begins with Lillie once again being held captive by the sorcerer Erius. Lillie, as always is too feisty to be taken down, makes her move to get back to the Zayed and the new found family she is creating. This book is filled with action and some very steamy parts that will keep you entertained throughout.

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Blue Summer Part One by Everly Taylor – Review by Jamie Zabolotney

Blue Summer Part OneBlue Summer Part One by Everly Taylor
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I was not expecting the very adult version of an old children’s show but I was very pleasantly surprised by this retelling! A quick and fun read that will have you looking for Part 2.

When Lillie is helped on the street by a couple of Zayed, she is falsely targeted by a magician for having ties to them. After her escape from his tower she is taken to their hidden village. She quickly realizes that her connection to these handsome blue strangers is much deeper than she was expecting.

If you are looking for a read that will take you away to another world and possibilities, this is a book for you!

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The Earl’s Scandalous Wager by Wareeze Woodson – Review by Jamie Zabolotney

The Earl's Scandalous WagerThe Earl’s Scandalous Wager by Wareeze Woodson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The Earl’s Scandalous Wager by Wareeze Woodson – Review by Jamie Zabolotney

I am a huge fan of historical romance and this book hit the spot. Historical romance meets murder mystery! The whole book will keep you guessing as to what will happen next. I really enjoyed the characters in this novel. Emily, the leading lady is put up in a game of chance by her guardian/step brother. Enter the Earl of Lenbridge, who wins her and marries her that night.

Through everything, Emily is able to keep her cool and outwardly seem unfazed despite accidents happening, a spurned ex-fiancee and murders.

I will be seeking out more novels by this author.

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Life’s a Witch (New Orleans Nocturnes Book 3) AUDIO BOOK by Carrie Pulkinen – Review by Jamie Zabolotney

5 Stars

Third book in the New Orleans Nocturnes series by Carrie Pulkinen. OMG One paragraph in and I was hooked! I loved everything about this audiobook. Crimson Oliver the “bad” witch just can’t seem to get it together.  Things just seem to go from bad to worse for her until she meets her demon Mike, the Devil’s Advocate. 

Faced with the threat of having her powers forever bound, Crimson hastily challenges the Head Witch to a battle of magic that she can’t possibly win with her current abilities. Enter Mike, the recovering Devil’s Advocate. Crimson and Mike have undeniable chemistry and are just starting to delve into their relationship when Mike accidentally makes a deal with Crimson to sell her soul to the devil.

This book has me seeking out other books by Carrie Pulkinen!  You won’t be disappointed.

CHAMELEON by Zoe Kalo – Review by Jamie Zabolotney

ChameleonChameleon by Zoe Kalo
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

A suspenseful thriller that will keep you reading!  In her senior year of school, Paloma is sent to live in a convent school. Upon first arriving she soon realizes she won’t be able to put her head down and power through the next 7 months. This dark, supernatural suspense will keep you reading till the bitter end and questioning some people’s sanity.

I wasn’t a huge fan of the open ending. Zoe Kalo is a new author for me but you can bet I will be searching out other novels she has written.

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READY FOR FLYNN, PART 1 (READY FOR FLYNN SERIES) AUDIO BOOK by K.L. SHANDWICK – Review by Jamie Horner-Zabolotney

4 Star Review

The first book in the Ready For Flynn series. An absolute roller coaster for your emotions! You follow teenager Valerie as she learns about life and love. You will question if anyone is really ready for Flynn.

Valerie is a girl protected by her 3 older brothers and parents, no one seems good enough when she meets Flynn. There were times I just wanted to scream at her for the moves she makes and others I would have applauded. There were times I couldn’t believe Flynn the rock star would put up with Valerie’s crap. In short, this book will keep you guessing and wanting more!