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House of Illusions by Pippa J. Frost – Review by Jenni Bishop

House of Illusions: A Dark Fantasy RomanceHouse of Illusions: A Dark Fantasy Romance by Pippa J. Frost
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

House of Illusions: A Dark Fantasy Romance by Pippa J Frost is an enticing dark romance fantasy story that keeps the pages turning. Pippa has given us all the elements to take us on an adventure with fascinating characters that are well written and likable. With elements that will delight the most avid reader, from danger and suspense, drama and evil, magic and romance and let’s not forget the Dwarves. The plot is well done and well developed as are the characters. With all kinds of twists and turns and secrets and lies you won’t want to put this book down.

 

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Alamir (Blood of Kaos Series Book 1) by Nesa Miller – Review by Jenni Bishop

Alamir: Blood of Kaos Series: Volume 1Alamir: Blood of Kaos Series: Volume 1 by Nesa Miller
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Alamir: Blood of Kaos Series by Nesa Miller is a unique darker fantasy story and Nesa has done a great job with its development and weaving the tangled web to give us something that is enthralling and engrossing. Alamir is full of danger and action, adventure and drama and let’s not forget the fantasy and paranormal. The characters are complex, fully developed people and they are very well written, you can’t help but like them. Nesa’s world building is great and so vivid that it is easily imaginable, and the plot is spot on.

It is a great start to a series and I very much look forward to the next book.

 

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Old and New: The Enchanted Wedding Dress (The MacLellan Sisters Trilogy Book 1) by Lucinda Race – Review by Jenni Bishop

Old and New: The Enchanted Wedding Dress Book 1 (The MacLellan Sisters Trilogy)Old and New: The Enchanted Wedding Dress Book 1 by Lucinda Race
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Old and New: The Enchanted Wedding Dress (The MacLellan Sisters Trilogy Book 1) by Lucinda Race is a wonderful romance story. It is nice to read something that is original and different from the norm. The story flows nicely although at times it seemed a little rushed but you are soon swept away on the journey from Vermont to Scotland and I love Scotland so it was easy to see the author’s vision. I loved the family dynamics and camaraderie, their support and friendship and family bonds to each other.

The story focuses around the MacLellan sisters and a wedding dress with a legend.

I am looking forward to see what Lucinda gives us next.

 

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Alligators in the Trees by Cynthia Hamilton – Review by Jenni Bishop

Alligators in the treesAlligators in the trees by Cynthia Hamilton
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Alligators in the Trees by Cynthia Hamilton is a romantic love triangle story. It is an interesting, and complex read. There is a lot of dialogue as the characters reflect back on their lives and how they got to where they are. Cynthia has a talent for creating complex characters with lots of layers and as the layers are peeled back like an onion, we get a view into their minds and world. The book as it is full of charm and wit but is also full of heartache and regret.

 

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Love Song: A friends-to-lovers rock and roll romantic suspense by KG Fletcher – Review by Jenni Bishop

Love Song (A friends-to-lovers rock and roll romantic suspense)Love Song by K.G. Fletcher
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Love Song: A friends-to-lovers rock & roll romantic suspense by K.G. Fletcher is a lovely story. KG is one of my go to authors. She has a knack for writing great stories and does the genre proud. It will have your heart breaking and yet be heart-warming the next as you traverse the sexy and alluring, to tense and suspenseful journey with the wonderful characters. The alluring beat of the music and the song to the dance of love captured together to become one of the most heartfelt and beautiful love stories that I have read this year.

 

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The Lightning Horse (Empire at Twilight Book 1) by N.L. Holmes – Review by Jenni Bishop

The Lightning Horse (Empire at Twilight Book 1)The Lightning Horse by N.L. Holmes
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The Lightning Horse (Empire at Twilight Book 1) by N.L. Holmes is a historical mystery fiction story where lies and secrets, murder and political espionage, danger and acts of war are the name of the game. NL is passionate and clearly well researched in the genre that each story is written, and she paints a vivid picture. The Lightning Horse is a slow cosy read that transports the reader to a different time and world and way of life.

If you like a story where fiction meets historical mystery, then give this one a shot.

 

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Forest Park: A Logan McKenna Mystery Book 2 (The Logan McKenna Series) by Valerie Davisson – Review by Jenni Bishop

Forest Park: Logan Book 2 (The Logan McKenna Series)Forest Park: Logan Book 2 by Valerie Davisson
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Forest Park: A Logan McKenna Mystery Book 2 (The Logan McKenna Series) by Valerie Davisson is a Muder/Mystery story. I found it to be a little distracting as the story jumps back and forwards in time but also the narrative changes with different POV’s, which I love, but they are not clearly defined. There are a lot of different characters and it is hard to keep track of them all and I am not sure they all need to be part of the story. I also found it hard to connect with them. As with the first book the plot is intriguing, but the mystery was a little lacking. I found myself rereading parts thus not making the story flow seamlessly for me. I really found it hard to finish the story, but I pushed through.

Just because it didn’t hit its mark with me does not mean you should not at least give it a go.

3 stars.

 

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Drawn to Him by Tammy Mannersly – Review by Jenni Bishop

Drawn to HimDrawn to Him by Tammy Mannersly
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Drawn to Him by Tammy Mannersly is a captivating small-town contemporary romance story with a twist. I love a good romance story and Tammy’s writing makes it easy to be transported into the world she has created with lovable characters and enough drama/suspense to give it that little bit more. The romance between Matt and Erica is a nice blend of sweet and spicy, seductive and steamy. This is a read that is enjoyable and easy to get lost in for an afternoon, with a nice glass of wine and some sunshine. The story flowed nicely, and the narrative often had me going through a lot of different emotions.

 

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A Duke Never Forgets (The Duke Hunters Club Book 3) by Bianca Blythe – Review by Jenni Bishop

A Duke Never Forgets (The Duke Hunters Club, #3)A Duke Never Forgets by Bianca Blythe
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

A Duke Never Forgets (The Duke Hunters Club Book 3) by Bianca Blythe is a historical romance/enemies to lovers’ story. It has a little bit of everything with charm and wit, humour and drama make for a good read. It was easy to see where the story was going but it was an interesting journey none the less. The story flowed nicely, and the narrative often had me laughing out loud. Bianca is a very descriptive writer which makes it vivid and easily imaginable.

 

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Falling for the Texan (Prentice Brothers of Sweet Ridge Book 2) by Nicole Flockton – Review by Jenni Bishop

Falling for the Texan (Prentice Brothers of Sweet Ridge, #2)Falling for the Texan by Nicole Flockton
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Falling for the Texan (Prentice Brothers of Sweet Ridge Book 2) by Nicole Flockton is a charming contemporary romance story. But not everything is easy on the road to love. It is a fun but emotional ride. It took me a while to warm up to some of the characters and some I outright hated but all in all I loved the others. The story in this small town and its residents was endearing. The story is a fast paced and the pages keep on turning to see what is going to happen next. Gotta love small towns.

Gianna is a strong and independent woman and good at her job and is finding herself falling for Tyler her client. The chemistry between the two is palpable and sizzling.

I really enjoyed the book and look forward to reading the next.

 

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Better Than Goodbye (Venture Book 1) by Kinney Scott – Review by Jenni Bishop

Better Than Goodbye (Venture Book 1)Better Than Goodbye by Kinney Scott
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Better Than Goodbye (Venture Book 1) by Kinney Scott is a sweet second chance romance story. It is very well written and flows well and is a read you get easily caught up in. I found myself invested in the characters that have depth and are fully realised and the chemistry between the two sizzles. There is a little bit of everything like angst and drama, second chances and lots of emotions that make the story pop and keep you engaged.

Amanda leaves behind her love to find her dreams but is the grass any greener? Unfortunately, that is harder to do than she realised. Returning home, she must face the reality and pain of her leaving has left behind. Kent feeling rejected and hurt comes to find that love and hate are a fine line.

 

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Shooting Star (Back Door Records Book 1) by Xana Jordan – Review by Jenni Bishop

Shooting Star (Back Door Records Book 1)Shooting Star by Xana Jordan
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Shooting Star (Back Door Records Book 1) by Xana Jordan is a captivating romance story. The chemistry between the two main characters is intense but great and makes you believe in great things. I felt the connection with the main characters, and I loved the banter between them. The emotions in the book with leave you feeling a little raw at times. Xana has done a great job in writing this magical story and I love the premise and the way she developed it and brought it all together.

This is one story you should not miss.

 

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Deception by Victoria Saccenti – Review by Jenni Bishop

DeceptionDeception by Victoria Saccenti
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Deception by Victoria Saccenti is a sexy military romance story where revenge is the name of the game. The story is a little different from your norm and I liked that. Joe is a Dominant he has Hunter in his sights and with his sexy good looks he knows just how to reel them in. I enjoyed the story premise and Victoria’s writing style. There were a couple of the characters I could have done without but overall, I liked the MC’s. Truths are revealed but trusts are broken and may never heal. It is an emotionally charged story as past horrors are brought to the present.

 

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Flicker to Fire (Crimson Sash Book 3) by Amanda Marin – Review by Jenni Bishop

Flicker to Fire (Crimson Sash, #3)Flicker to Fire by Amanda Marin
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Flicker to Fire: Crimson Sash: Book 3 by Amanda Marin is a YA dystopian fantasy story. It is a bittersweet tale and sadly the end of the series. It is both heart breaking and heart-warming and is engaging. You really need to start at the beginning with the first book and work your way up to this one. The story is wonderful and full of many new characters as well as those from the first two books. Amanda has done a wonderful job with the two leading characters who are beautifully written. The journey they have been on has been fraught with heart ache and I have never seen two people more deserving and who all they want is love and freedom and are finally fighting back.

 

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Blue Magnolia (Red Farlow Mysteries No. 2) by W.F. Ranew – Review by Jenni Bishop

Blue Magnolia (Red Farlow Mysteries, #2)Blue Magnolia by W.F. Ranew
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Blue Magnolia: Red Farlow Mysteries: #2 by W.F. Ranew is a crime/mystery story. It is multi layered and has an original storyline. The premise is good, but I found it tough going in the beginning as it was a little slow and had to retrace my steps sometimes. There are also a lot of players and it took me a while to settle in to WF’s writing style. Having said that it was an interesting read and I was definitely intrigued to see how it would all play out. It is a compelling puzzle that keeps us on our toes.

Hank is a magnet for trouble, mayhem and havoc and Red is hired to look out for him. Red must dig deeper than he has before to keep Hank out of trouble.

3.5 stars

 

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Trey: European Redemption (Russian Mob Chronicles Book 7) by Shandi Boyes – Review by Jenni Bishop

Trey: European Redemption (Russian Mob Chronicles Book 7)Trey: European Redemption by Shandi Boyes
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Trey: European Redemption (Russian Mob Chronicles Book 7) by Shandi Boyes is a dark romance story. Shandi Boyes is not one to shy away from the darker side of things and likes to push the boundaries to give us something raw and twisted. There may be triggers for some as it deals with human trafficking, violence, abuse and more. If you can see past these you will find that whilst it makes you cringe at times it is a great story. Shandi’s writing always captivates and enthrals me as I stepped into the world of mafia’s and the utter despicable darkness in there.

 

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The Walls Between Us: A Borderland Love Story by Kate McGahan – Review by Jenni Bishop

The Walls Between Us: A Borderland Love StoryThe Walls Between Us: A Borderland Love Story by Kate McGahan
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The Walls Between Us: A Borderland Love Story by Kate McGahan is based on a true story. One of love but nearly impossible with the boarder/wall between Mexico and America. It is also one of hardships for those who want to find a better life and one where human trafficking, drug trafficking and more take place. It is an emotional read and some of the characters were not to my liking. There are moments when the story takes us back in times and I sometimes felt a little lost. It is one of those stories that lead to what if’s as it is a real problem in today’s world.
3.5 stars

 

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The Abduction of Sarah Tarbell: As Her Soul Remembers by Stuart Ledwith – Review by Jenni Bishop

The Abduction of Sarah Tarbell: As Her Soul RemembersThe Abduction of Sarah Tarbell: As Her Soul Remembers by Stuart Ledwith
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The Abduction of Sarah Tarbell by Stuart Ledwith is a compelling read that will stay with you long after you have read it. Be sure to have tissues at hand because it will wreck you emotionally. It is fast paced and a short read, but it definitely packs a punch. The story is about a young woman who has a harrowing and gruelling time after her abduction in the early 1700’s and captivity by Indians. She was also sold on and lived to tell her tale of a life she never dreamed about. The way Stuart tells her story you can feel everything that she goes through as if you were the one experiencing it.

It is just like the saying, sometimes “the truth is stranger than fiction”. Not a story to be missed.

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The Slaughter of Leith Hall by Lexie Conyngham – Review by Jenni Bishop

The Slaughter of Leith HallThe Slaughter of Leith Hall by Lexie Conyngham
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The Slaughter of Leith Hall by Lexie Conyngham is an interesting historical murder mystery set in early Scotland and I love Scotland and its history having visited there several times. And I can still remember the feel of Culloden and the resting place of many and this brought it all back. Historical fiction is not always my thing, but I occasionally don’t mind reading them. The story was a bit slow to start with and I found it hard at times to settle in but once I did finally did, I enjoyed the mystery and suspense that the story brings. Lexie is very detailed in her writing, so it was easy to imagine the world she has created. If you love a good mystery and a bit of history, then The Slaughter of Leith Hall is one to grab and read.

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Her Blackened Soul (The Blackened Series Book 1) by Isra Sravenheart – Review by Jenni Bishop

Her Blackened Soul (The Blackened, #1)Her Blackened Soul by Isra Sravenheart
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Her Blackened Soul (The Blackened) by Isra Sravenheart is about a villainess who is a witch and very, very dark witch at that. It is a dark fairytaleish type story even as dark as the Grimm brothers. Not that this bothers me, I like dark and twisted sometimes but only if it is done right. For me the characters didn’t quite have the depth and growth I would have liked, and I found the constant reminder that our villainess was bad and had a dark soul a bit too much. I also found the story to be slow and found myself wandering whilst trying to stay focused. Just because it didn’t live up to my expectations, I have high standards, does not mean it will not for others, so please give it a go as it is an original concept.

 

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Shattered: a Logan McKenna Mystery Book 1 (The Logan McKenna Series) by Valerie Davisson – Review by Jenni Bishop

Shattered: Logan Book 1 (The Logan McKenna Series)Shattered: Logan Book 1 by Valerie Davisson
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Shattered: a Logan McKenna Mystery Book 1 (The Logan McKenna Series) by Valerie Davisson. This story jumps from being slow and the pace picking up which made it hard to keep my mind from wandering. The plot is intriguing, but the mystery was a little lacking. The story also bounces back and forth between times and I found it a little disconcerting until I worked out the authors writing rhythm. I also found it hard to like the characters. I am sure many will love it, but it just did not grab me.

 

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Breaking Traditions: The Shifter And The Mage by Madilynn Dale – Review by Jenni Bishop

Breaking Traditions: The Shifter And The MageBreaking Traditions: The Shifter And The Mage by Madilynn Dale
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Breaking Traditions: The Shifter And The Mage by Madilynn Dale is a sweet paranormal teen love story. Whilst the story is well written, and the plot is good, but it didn’t grab me as well as it could have. It needs more drama or action to give it that something more. The premise is a shifter and has her parents pushing her towards marriage. Alex is a Mage and works his way into her heart but is it enough for the staunch shifter community and where does it all fit with Natalie’s want of a different life?

 

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Center of Gravity (An Ice Tigers Hockey Romance Book 2) by Isabella Cassazza – Review by Jenni Bishop

Center of Gravity (Ice Tigers #2)Center of Gravity by Isabella Cassazza
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Center of Gravity: A Standalone Friends-to-Lovers Sports Romance (An Ice Tigers Hockey Romance Book 2) by Isabella Cassazza is a slow burn romance. The story line, the characters, and Isabella’s words make this an enjoyable read. It is an emotional journey and tugs on those heart strings. One magical night of passion and their world is tipped upside down as two people come together with what their souls have always known.

 

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One Hot Texas Summer (Prentice Brothers of Sweet Ridge Book 1) by Nicole Flockton – Review by Jenni Bishop

One Hot Texas Summer (Prentice Brothers of Sweet Ridge, #1)One Hot Texas Summer by Nicole Flockton
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

One Hot Texas Summer (Prentice Brothers of Sweet Ridge #1) by Nicole Flockton is a quick read and a good start to the series. I enjoyed the characters but at times I wanted to smack Tate because of frustration. The relationship is tense at times and I felt there could have been a bit more lightness and witty banter to loosen things up a bit and the age difference didn’t help. Having said all that, it is a sweet romance and the story came together nicely as trust and love came into the equation.

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In The Arms of Morpheus: A Speculative Romance (Antiheroes Series Book 2) by Gaia B Amman – Review by Jenni Bishop

In the Arms of Morpheus: A Speculative Romance (Antiheroes Book 2)In the Arms of Morpheus: A Speculative Romance by Gaia B Amman
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

In the Arms of Morpheus: A Speculative Romance (Antiheroes Book 2) by Gaia B. Amman is a thought provoking and mysterious read. It is an interesting, gripping and original tale that has sci fi aspects to it. The story is well written, and it is easy to be drawn to these complex characters. As usual with Gaia’s stories there is a lot more to the characters and the story that she slowly reveals like peeling back an onion. She is also not one for shying away from taboo topics, sensitive topics and issues and she doesn’t disappoint in this story.

 

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Bird in a Snare (The Lord Hani Mysteries Book 1) by N.L. Holmes – Review by Jenni Bishop

Bird in a Snare (The Lord Hani Mysteries)Bird in a Snare by N.L. Holmes
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Bird in a Snare (The Lord Hani Mysteries Book 1) by N.L. Holmes is a historical cosy mystery set in ancient Egyptian times where NL takes us on a journey where there is a dark, deadly and sinister plot. She paints a vivid world and her writing invites you into the storyline. Having said that the story did start out a little slow and I also found myself wandering and skipping things to move it along at times and having to go back and reread somethings. NL’s passion for the subject matter is clear within her writing and this is not just a story it is also a lesson on 13th century Egypt.

3.5 stars

 

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Confidentiality (Scope of Practice Book 2) by Jessica Aiken-Hall – Review by Jenni Bishop

ConfidentialityConfidentiality by Jessica Aiken-Hall
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Confidentiality (Scope of Practice Book 2) by Jessica Aiken-Hall is a dark, gripping and intriguing read. This one picks up not too long after the first book left off, so you need to read book 1, Boundaries first. Like the first book it is a very emotive and suspenseful story where events eventuate that you did not see coming. Jessica has given us a deeper and darker web of secrets and lies, mystery and murder and deeper bonds between those who came together out of tragedy. She has given us something that will have your heart pumping, and everything hidden until the end.

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The Princess and the Pit Bulls (The Fairy Tale Series Book 4) by Jody Lynn Daniels – Review by Jenni Bishop

The Princess and the Pit Bulls: Book Four in the Fairy Tale SeriesThe Princess and the Pit Bulls: Book Four in the Fairy Tale Series by Jody Daniels
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The Princess and the Pit Bulls: Book Four in the Fairy Tale Series by Jody Lynn Daniels is a great fantasy story that is easy to become part of the story. With magic and mystery of love and let’s not forget the furry characters, what could be better to keep you engaged and turning pages. It is a sweet, fun and heart-warming story and the characters are loveable. The story definitely has all the feels and warm and fuzzies and is a great way to get lost for an afternoon and have a good laugh at the antics of our female lead. If only the past doesn’t raise its ugly head.

 

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The Wandering Isles: A Crown of Stones Novella (The Crown of Stones Novella Series Book 1) by C. L. Schneider – Review by Jenni Bishop

The Wandering Isles, A Crown of Stones Novella (Novella Series #1)The Wandering Isles, A Crown of Stones Novella by C.L. Schneider
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The Wandering Isles: A Crown of Stones Novella (The Crown of Stones Novella Series Book 1) by C.L. Schneider is dark, mystical and magic. It is a complex and thrilling tale and this new world CL has created is unique and intriguing. Her writing always manages to leave you with vivid scenes that are easily imaginable, and you can see where she takes you. This gripping tale will keep even the keenest reader guessing at each and every turn. This is a standalone novella but I recommend reading the others, so you get the background of the characters and an understanding of who and what they are.

 

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Calamity under the Chandelier (A Sleuthing Starlet Mystery Book 1) by Camilla Blythe – Review by Jenni Bishop

Calamity under the Chandelier (Sleuthing Starlet Mystery #1)Calamity under the Chandelier by Bianca Blythe
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Calamity under the Chandelier (A Sleuthing Starlet Mystery Book 1) by Camilla Blythe is a “who did it” cosy mystery and a fast-paced story with lots of characters. It seemed rather simplistic and predictable in its telling at times. It is a quick and easy read that will keep you occupied for an afternoon. With a cast of so many, things get interesting as everyone is viewed as a possible killer.

 

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