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Not So Far (Love Grows Series Book 3) by Renee Regent – Review by Jennifer Gordon

Not So Far (Love Grows series, Book 3)Not So Far by Renee Regent
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I enjoyed this standalone story in Renee Regent’s ‘Love Grows’ series, it is a lovely second chance at love story. Silas and Audrey were young when they first fell in love and came from very different backgrounds when Silas just disappeared they were both left heartbroken. When fate brings Silas back to Atlanta, Georgia he is determined to have a second chance at love with Audrey, the only girl he has ever loved. However telling Audrey why he left will devastate her and Silas is not the only one with a secret. I loved the two main characters and the attraction between them was obvious as was the hurt and distrust. I found this an enjoyable read and although this is the first book I’ve read by Renee Regent it will not be the last.

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Hansel & Gretel (Down the Rabbit Hole) Anthology – Review by Jennifer Gordon

Hansel & Gretel: Down the Rabbit HoleHansel & Gretel: Down the Rabbit Hole by Autumn Sand
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I found this anthology a fascinating read, it includes seven different stories retelling the Hansel and Gretel fairy story. The stories are written by seven different well known authors and each story in this multi genre anthology will either, “tantalise you, scare you, or titillate you”. Each author gives you a version of Hansel and Gretel that has never been told before. The following stories are Hansel and Gretel reimagined by the various authors. “Come and join us…Down the Rabbit Hole!”, The Witch in the Woods by Amy Allen, The Surface by CeeCee Elaine, The Sweetest Day by Debra Parmley, Hazel and Gretchen by Erin Lee, The Reaper Within by Jess Bagnall, Shadows that Move by Lorah Jaiyn and, The Dragon and the Phoenix by Rachel Pudsey.
I enjoyed all seven of the stories and liked how different each one once and that the anthology covered many different genres. For example, in Debra Parmley’s, The Sweetest Day, Harry and Greta become lost in the woods and remember their Grandmother telling them the fairy story, Hansel and Gretel. Determined not to make the same mistakes they are reminded not to take candy from strangers and not to enter gingerbread houses.
Having reached a house that is not made of candy and are invited in by a lady telling them not to eat sugary foods they except. However when they wake up with magic shackles on their ankles after having tea and a muffin they realise they have been tricked. Nearing Harry’s eighteenth birthday six years later the witch must eat him soon or he will be unpalatable, and Greta is now addicted to the sugar the witch gave her to plump her up. Can they both escape before the witch cooks them, no spoilers as I recommend reading the story as I was hooked from the start.
In Hazel and Gretchen, Erin Lee tells a twisted and contemporary version of the fairy story. Hazel and Gretchen have been locked away by horrible parents and are now running out of bread and milk. The light outside the locked door is also fading stopping the sisters from returning to the real world, will they escape or be stuck for eternity. Again no spoilers, and again I was hooked from page one.
Lorah Jaiyn’s retelling, Shadows That Move had me gripped from the start. Daphne had heard a warning her entire life following her mother’s unsolved murder, “Don’t look for movement in the shadows, watch for the shadows that move”. It never made any sense to Daphne until she got lost in the forest and then the shadows came for her.
Each story had me fully immersed in its storyline and had well developed and engaging characters. I liked reading the short stories by the seven different authors and found that it gave me an insight into each of the writers and their varying styles. I would recommend all seven of the stories and was amazed at how many ways the Hansel and Gretel fairy tale could be retold, each story was unique and original.

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Satan’s Devils MC Boxset Books 1-5 (Satans Devils MC Series) by Manda Mellett – Review by Jennifer Gordon

Satan's Devils MC Boxset Books 1-5Satan’s Devils MC Boxset Books 1-5 by Manda Mellett
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

“Brothers protecting their own”
I absolutely loved this boxed set of Manda Mellett’s ‘Satan’s Devils’ MC series, it includes books 1-5, as the blurb says, “Start your exciting ride with the first five books of the Satan’s Devils MC now available in a box set”. Although each book is a standalone story it is better to read the series in order as the characters crossover and past events are mentioned in future books. I loved having the box set as I could just ‘binge read’ them one after the other and having fallen in love with the characters I was desperate to know what was going to happen next.
The series follows the members of the ‘Satan’s Devils’ MC which includes “hot alpha males who certainly aren’t shy in the bedroom”, and their strong feisty women, “who they want to ride with through life”. Book one, Turning Wheels, introduces the club and its members seen through the eyes of a disabled English woman, Sophie who is under their protection. Sophie is still coming to terms with being in a wheelchair and is overwhelmed at suddenly being in the middle of an American MC. We meet Wraith, the VP, who shows Sophie that her disability doesn’t define her. Wraith try’s to fight his attraction but when he needs to protect her from enemies he can not deny their chemistry.
Book two, Drummer’s Beat, introduces MC President Drummer who has yet to find a women strong enough to be his ‘Old Lady’ until he meets Sam a fellow biker broken down at the side of the road. To make things complicated she claims to be another member, Vipers daughter. This storyline is a bit darker as it involves a sex trafficking ring and Drummer must find Sam before she’s lost to him forever.
In book three, Slick Running, Slick had claimed Ella but then she ran away so when she returns needing help Slick is wary. The Satan’s Devils find themselves having to break up a child grooming ring and rescue Ella’s young sister. In,Targeting Dart, confirmed bachelor Dart fights his attraction to curvy black girl Alex. However all he can offer her is friendship as she fights for the life of her sick child. Dart has to step up when her violent ex reappears in her life and then they can’t fight their feelings for one another. Book five is, Heart Broken and following the death of his wife Heart is depressed and goes on a road trip he does not intend on returning from. The voice of a cop on the end of his phone keeps him going though and she alone seems to understand the emotions he is feeling but he does not think that a cop and an outlaw biker can have a relationship, can they?
This series of books is full of amazing characters from officers, prospects and patched members of the Satan’s Devils and their Old Ladies to the club sweet butts. All the characters are well developed and have their own backstories which adds to the overall storylines. The books do deal with some dark themes, from disability, sex trafficking, grooming of young girls, racism, and overcoming the grief of losing a partner but this just adds depth to the books making this series so much more than, just another MC series.
Each story is full of drama, action, suspense and of course romance and plenty of steamy scenes as the chemistry between the various couples sizzle off the page. Each book also takes you on an emotional rollercoaster but you always feel as though you are among friends as you get to know the characters so well thanks to the authors wonderful descriptions of them. I felt completely immersed in the Satan’s Devils world and found Mellett to be a wonderful writer and storyteller. I look forward to future books in this series and others by the author.

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Just the Way You Are by Allison M. Boot – Review by Jennifer Gordon

Just the Way You AreJust the Way You Are by Allison M Boot
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is a lovely modern day fairytale with a difference, in that the main character, the princess Misty Miles has a disability. Misty is the the princess of a faraway land known as Starryton and for twenty one years she has been in a tower and her disability and her wheelchair have been hidden from the kingdom. Her parents are worried that the monarchy will look weak and even though her parents have hidden her away to protect her it has left Misty feeling that she is unable to do anything. Misty’s Prince Charming, Derrick Denison is the prince of the neighbouring kingdom of Mooncrest and he’s a gifted dancer. Misty and Derrick have not actually ever met. To make things more complicated there has been a long running feud between Misty and Derrick’s families. The conflict caused the once beloved kingdom of Starrycrest to break apart into two separate kingdoms. Having realised that she must take matters into her own hands Misty visits a troll,
Trovella who is rumoured to grant wishes for a price. This wish sends the princess off on an exciting and dangerous adventure and in the process she battles her own self doubt and learns that she is far more capable than she ever imagined. As well as dealing with feuding families, a disability, and ensuring no harm comes to her or Derrick’s kingdoms, along the way Misty encounters a little girl with her own disability who is in need of a forever family of her own.
This is a fairly quick read but the author has packed so much into the pages of this young adult story and as an older adult I was absolutely hooked from page one. I found it both a lovely romantic story with plenty of action and also an inspiring read. The fact that the main character has a disability is sadly a rare thing in a book and this in itself makes Allison M. Boot’s novel unique. The author has written about the disability with such sensitivity and honesty that she has bought disability awareness to the reader along with a wonderful storyline and likeable, realistic characters. I was very impressed with this novel and I hope it makes other readers feel as empowered as the princess becomes in the story and educates young readers that disabilities do not need to hold a person back from fulfilling their potential.

New Jerk in Town: An Enemies-to-Lovers Romantic Comedy (Carolina Kisses Book 2) by Sylvie Stewart – Review by Jennifer Gordon

New Jerk in Town (Carolina Kisses, #2)New Jerk in Town by Sylvie Stewart
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This can be read as a standalone story but some of the characters cross over from previous books in Stewart’s ‘Carolina Kisses’ series. In ‘New Jerk in Town’ Jill, the younger sister to Jenna from ‘The Nerd Next Door’ is the focus of the story. Jill is a natural flirt but seeing Milo Papatonis again she’s reminded that he is the king of all jerks. Surly, rude, selfish, and extremely attractive Milo crushed Jills dreams when they were children had now she’s being forced to share a house with him. Thankfully the situation is only for business and is temporary, however that dose not stop Milo’s bad manners effecting Jill or picturing him in the shower, or imagining his smile, no Jill is definitely not going there.
This is a fun sexy, enemies to lovers romance with plenty of comedy thrown in and steamy scenes as neither Milo or Jill can deny their obvious attraction to each other and their chemistry sizzles off the page. I was cheering the main characters on hoping they both got their HEA, and the secondary characters are all intriguing as well and I hope to see them pop up in future books in this series. A great read for some escapism.

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Humiliating Revenge: Contemporary Young Adult Romance by T. Christensen – Review by Jennifer Gordon

Humiliating RevengeHumiliating Revenge by T. Christensen
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This contemporary YA romance by author T. Christensen sent me on an emotional rollercoaster whilst reading it, it’s so much more than an enemies to lovers story. The book had me hooked from page one due to its fast paced storyline and great characters. Rich, snooty, spoiled town princess Olivia Crawford was ‘famous’ for being all those things whilst Calum Breen was the easy-going, adored high school athlete. Having been childhood sweethearts, Olivia then not only ended the relationship with Calum but did so in such a way that his humiliation at her hands and anger drove him away and he joined the MMA. Now successful as a MMA fighter, Calum is back in town and as he is no longer the love struck boy he once was is determined to get his revenge on Olivia. However the more he learns about the mayors daughter the more he realises things are not as they seem. This book definitely has a “Hot Alpha Male and a Determined Heroine”, I loved Olivia and Calum as the main characters and their chemistry sizzled off the page leading to some steamy moments. I thought the storyline of Olivia being abused by her controlling father was dealt with sensitively and realistically and gave the story added depth than just another teenager romance.
The book was full of twists and turns and unexpected secrets coming to light which kept me turning the pages and I was immersed in Olivia and Calum’s world. I was cheering them on to a HEA. A great read and the first book I’ve read by this author and I now look forward to reading other books by T. Christensen.

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Hero High: Figure In The Flames by Mina Chara – Review by Jennifer Gordon

Figure in the Flames (Hero High, #1-3)Figure in the Flames by Mina Chara
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is a box set that includes three books from the ‘Hero High’ series, Denial, Anger and Bargaining.
The series is centred around, Friday Fitzsimmons who is one of the “One in a Thousand People on Planet Earth who have a Supernatural Power”. Friday is sent to ‘Hero High’, a school for the supernaturally gifted to train. The school is in the glamorous Icon City, a haven for all those with supernatural powers. However Hero High is not just a school for trainee superheroes it is also a reality TV show and one of many on the Hero Channel. As a ‘gifted’ student Friday has to take part in a reality TV show where good fights evil for the city’s soul. However not all the students use their powers for good, like the mysterious masked boy or the man on fire who calls himself The Figure In The Flames. Along with friend Jake, Friday struggles to come to terms with her new situation and her new powers all whilst battling her crippling anxiety. Luckily Friday has Captain Fantastic on her side.
Each book is a short read but packed full of adventure, with a fast paced storyline and each book continues Friday’s adventures at Hero High. I have come to love Friday over the three books and think she is a great lead character as she is very likeable and relatable as a character especially as she battles with acute anxiety. The world building is great and thanks to the authors wonderful descriptions I felt totally immersed in Icon City and Hero High. I thoroughly enjoyed all three books and found that as it was a box set I could just continue with Friday’s story in the next book straight away.

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Night Justice (A Chicago Vigilantes Novel Book 1) by India Kells – Review by Jennifer Gordon

Night JusticeNight Justice by India Kells
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This was a book full of drama, action, suspense and romance, it also has a sassy heroine and a strong hero who’s chemistry sizzled off the page and led to plenty of steamy scenes. I was hooked from page one, reporter Orla Karlsen is determined to track down and prevent the distribution of a new drug in Chicago. She is even prepared to enter the underworld of Chicago, however she’s not alone as the ‘Vigilante’ has also sworn to protect the city. Their common quest sees the reporter and the masked man working closely together and sparks start to fly but when they both enter dangerous territory will they fight together or apart. No spoilers, this was an exciting read and I thoroughly recommend this first novel in India Kells new series.

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Finding Leda; the Science of Happiness (Italian College Novel 1, The Italian Saga) by Gaia B Amman – Review by Jennifer Gordon

Finding Leda, the Science of Happiness (The Italian Saga #5)Finding Leda, the Science of Happiness by Gaia B. Amman
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

In the heart of Milan in 2000, Leda Balni is nineteen and hoping to graduate in genetic engineering. Having read Gaia B Amman’s previous series of her fictionalised account of her own childhood and having read about her school years I was pleased to catch up with Leda and I was not disappointed.
Leda is pondering her happiness along with her feelings as she enjoys her independence, her learning and her rock band. Does she really have time for falling in love and surely she’s to clever for her feelings to be for Sergio, as although he is handsome in a smouldering way he is also unreliable, brooding, and a pothead.
The author manages to capture the thoughts and feelings of a nineteen year old which make Leda so realistic and relatable as a character. She is able to touch on raw emotions and write with such honesty as well as give good life advice. The book is both a great read with an exciting storyline and an independent, feisty and clever heroine at its heart and is also an empowering read. I also felt completely immersed in the wonderful Italian setting due to the authors detailed descriptions, I felt I was in the heart of Milan along with Leda. I look forward to continuing Leda’s adventures with her in future books.

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Turn up the Tempo (Lyrical Odyssey Rock Star Series Book 4) by Charli B Rose – Review by Jennifer Gordon

Turn up the Tempo (Lyrical Odyssey Rock Star series, #4)Turn up the Tempo by Charli B. Rose
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is a great rock star romance with lots of heat. Although book 4 in the ‘Lyrical Odyssey Rock Star’ series, it can be read as a standalone story, however some of the characters do overlap. For Brittany it was a one night stand with a sexy well known rock star, no strings attached and definitely no feelings. For Lyrical Odyssey’s guitarist Brooks it was another one off, one night only encounter with a women, after all he doesn’t like them to get to clingy. However when Brittany and Brook spend a fun night and unusually for Brooks a morning together with plenty of sex involved, neither of them can deny their chemistry, which literally sizzles of the page. Brittany does not believe in love but Brooks can not get Brittany and the night they shared together out of his mind.
I loved both the main characters, and their chemistry led to some very hot and steamy scenes between the pair but there was also plenty of romance and some great narrative between the couple. I liked how the book was written from both their point of views which made both the characters come alive more for me. I was happily immersed in Brittany and Brooks story and am keen to read the previous books in the series.

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HIT AND RUN by Diane Hester – Review by Jennifer Gordon

Hit and RunHit and Run by Diane Hester
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I was hooked from page one reading this suspenseful thriller by Diane Hester, having read and enjoyed a previous novel by her I was looking forward to reading this latest offering and was definitely not disappointed. Raina Wilkins hits a man whilst driving her car, a man that literally comes out of the woods in front of her and if that wasn’t shocking enough he then orders Raina at gunpoint to drive him further into the forest where he abruptly gets out and disappears back into the forest. Raina thinks that is the end of her nightmare but then she discovers that her injured passenger, Alec DeMarco left something behind in her car and wants it back, and he’s not the only one. Raina is then forced on the run with a wanted killer and a homeless teen with a deadly secret and enters a world of abduction, conspiracy, police that want her dead and murder.
I was literally on the edge of my seat reading this gripping novel. It has a fast paced and action packed storyline and great intriguing characters that you get to know. I felt fully immersed in the story thanks to the authors detailed narrative and I would definitely recommend this five star read.

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SPOUSE TRAP: Madeline Dawkins Mysteries (The Madeline Dawkins Series Book 1) by Cynthia Hamilton – Review by Jennifer Gordon

Spouse Trap (Madeline Dawkins, #1)Spouse Trap by Cynthia Hamilton
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

A great mystery read with an intriguing storyline which had me gripped from page one. Madeline Ridley had it all and was very happy with her life, a handsome and successful husband, a high status position in the Santa Barbara society, and everything money could buy. However when Madeline wakes up alone in an unknown hotel room with no clothes on and a splitting headache she soon learns that her position in society, her influence and all her luxurious things suddenly mean nothing. Things become worse when her supposedly loving husband Steven comes home with a selection of damming photos all of which she has no memory off. Whilst visiting Stephan at work to explain her innocence Madeline walks in on a situation that makes her realise who her real enemy is. Madeline’s comfortable world collapses amongst blackmail, sabotage and deceit. In order to salvage something of her life Madeline reverts back to her maiden name of Dawkins and discovers what her strengths are.
Spouse Trap is the prequel to Cynthia Hamilton’s, “The Madeline Dawkins Mystery series”. I enjoyed this book and the author had me hooked from the very beginning. I liked how Madeline’s character developed and changed during the course of the story and whilst to begin with she is rather timid by the end of the book she is ‘Madeline Dawkins’ and I’m sure she will make a great heroine in the series of books that follow. I look forward to reading further books in the series.

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How (Stalker Series Book 3) by Megan Mitcham – Review by Jennifer Gordon

How (Stalker Series, 3)How by Megan Mitcham
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I’m a fan of Megan Mitcham’s, ‘Stalker Series’ of books and this is book three in this series of, “high octane psychological suspense thrillers”. “If you like strong female leads, shocking twists, and a dash of romance”, then you’ll love this series of books. Book three did not disappoint and I was once again hooked from page one by Mitcham’s wonderful storytelling.
FBI Special Agent Libby Irish works in a male dominated workplace and she thrives off the constant pressure of proving herself in this environment. After she busts a notorious weapons ring she thinks she’ll finally get the deserved respect however when a photo of her very curvy figure in front of the guns goes viral she is not prepared for the media frenzy that follows and this only makes her the laughing stock of the division. Having to deal with the media, her suspension, flashing cameras everywhere she goes, a feral cat and unwanted fan mail Libby almost misses the fact that someone has been in her house moving small objects about. Her first thought is that it’s her sexy but slightly awkward neighbour but when she gets to know Jake better she discovers that he’s actually rather skilled and he even offers to help track down her stalker. However the couple must work quickly as the stalker is getting bolder and more dangerous putting Libby’s life in danger, just as Libby is realising that the chemistry between her and Jake is hotting up. Their chemistry literally sizzles of the page and results in some rather hot and steamy sex scenes.
This is definitely a fast paced thriller with plenty of action, suspense, romance and steamy sex scenes between the two main characters who are both likeable and realistic. I was gripped from the start and felt fully immersed in the storyline. A five star read which I definitely recommend.

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Sunshine Kisses (A Kisses Novella) by Elaine Marie – Review by Jennifer Gordon

Sunshine KissesSunshine Kisses by Elaine Marie
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I thoroughly enjoyed this wonderful best friends to lovers romance, it had me both laughing out loud and in tears. Having received bad news from her Doctor Crystal Brooke’s decides to live her life to the full before she has to start treatment, this includes enjoying her best friends destination wedding where she is to be a bridesmaid and indulging in a holiday fling. Crystals plan of a no strings attached hot sex fling goes awry when the man she hooks up with is Spencer Larson who happens to be one of her best friends. Meanwhile Spencer is fed up of his nerdy image and has been secretly crushing on Crystal for years, he decides that at the upcoming wedding he will make his move. However Spencer is not looking for a holiday fling but a long term romance. Unbeknown to Spencer, Crystal has also been secretly in love with him too but due to her current medical condition and poor prognosis she can not see a future with him and pushes him away.
I went on an emotional rollercoaster whilst reading this story, I fell in love with both Crystal and Spencer and just wanted them to both get their happy ever after. I felt that Crystal’s medical condition was dealt with sensitively and honesty and the emotions she went through made her very likeable and relatable as a character. Although an emotional read, I was hooked from the start and literally could not put this book down. I am new to the author, Elaine Marie, and look forward to reading other books by this author.

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Be Brave with Me (Finding Love in Green Springs Book 1) by CA Miconi – Review by Jennifer Gordon

Be Brave With Me (Finding Love In Green Springs Book 1)Be Brave With Me by J.B. Havens
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I thoroughly enjoyed this small town romance set in the small southern town of Green Springs, Mississippi, “Where the days are hot and the nights are hotter!”
This is book one in the, “Finding Love in Green Springs” series and can be read as a standalone story or part of the series. In this book we meet Meg and Drew and the chemistry between the two of them just sizzles off the page, sparks literally flew when the two first met in Green Springs. Drew was destined for football greatness until an accident changed his life but he’s always been the golden boy of his hometown. Having suffered and lived in despair for so long Drew has finally settled into an ordered life although a lonely one. Meanwhile Meg has found herself alone in the world following two tragedies which have tested even her strength. Having been on the move for six months, literally running from her demons, Meg arrives in Green Springs. When Meg and Drew meet Drew recognises in Meg the pain that he has suffered and although Meg tries to hide her feelings she can’t seem to hide them from Drew. Whilst Drew wants her to stay and to help her heal, Meg just wants to keep running. Can either of them be brave enough to either stay or let each other go. No spoilers as I recommend you read the book to find out!
I loved Meg and Drew as individual characters but together they were an amazing couple who had both been through so much and I was really cheering them on hoping they would both get their happy ever after. This novel has a lovely storyline with plenty of steam and although it’s an emotional read it also has some laughter, especially with the witty banter between Meg and Drew.
The secondary characters are all fascinating in themselves and I’m looking forward to maybe learning their stories in future books in the series. A great book for an easy read which had me fully immersed in the story from page one. I look forward to reading the rest of the series.

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Baba Ali and the Clockwork Djinn: A Steampunk Faerie Tale by Danielle Ackley-McPhail and Day Al-Mohamed – Review by Jennifer Gordon

Baba Ali and the Clockwork Djinn: A Steampunk Faerie TaleBaba Ali and the Clockwork Djinn: A Steampunk Faerie Tale by Danielle Ackley-McPhail
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

“Come, Best Beloved, and sit you by my feet. I shall tell you a tale such as sister Scheherazade could have scarce imagined”. Ali bin-Massoud is living in England away from his desert home as he serves as an apprentice to the famed Charles Babbage. Then one night a mysterious box is delivered by a clockwork falcon and Ali’s world is never the same again. Ali has been summoned home on the death of his father and as he makes his journey home he faces much danger, heartache and has to battle thieves. The journey takes all his faith, knowledge and his skill with steam-driven technology, and with a little love he realises his destiny. Ali also has to solve the mystery of the puzzle box and the clockwork djinn as an ancient legacy and his life are at stake.
I found this to be an intriguing read, I liked how the authors wove the retelling of the faerie tale into a new story with a steampunk vibe. The characters were well defined and I fell in love with Ali and I felt invested in his journey and adventures as he looked for answers and returned home. The world Ali lived in was wonderfully created by the authors and I felt totally immersed in this world, I could see, smell, and feel what he did. I’ve not read a steampunk genre book before, however I enjoyed this one and although it was a different type of story for me personally it is one which I am glad I have read as it was an original story and it definitely had me hooked from beginning to end.

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Hawk’s Cry (Satan’s Devils MC Second Generation #2) by Manda Mellett – Review by Jennifer Gordon

Hawk's Cry (Satan's Devils MC Second Generation #2)Hawk’s Cry by Manda Mellett
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I love Manda Mellett’s ‘Satan’s Devils MC’ series and so was looking forward to reading this novel in her new series about the ‘Satan’s Devils MC Second Generation’. Hawk is surrounded by family both blood and club, he was literally born into the club and as VP for the Satan’s Devils MC he is an integral member of the club. Hawk is also recently married to his best friend turned lover, Olivia and they are expecting a baby in six months times, so he should be happy but he’s not. Hawk is questioning his life as everything he thought he wanted in life has become what he least wants, a“What do you do when you’re consumed with the thought there’s something out there that’s better?” Hawks dilemma is whether to leave his club, however his club brothers are not going to let him go easily and what about his wife and unborn baby.
I literally went on an emotional rollercoaster whilst reading this novel, I really felt for Hawk who was obviously dealing with depression, and I felt Mellett handled this with sensitivity and honesty, but I also felt for his pregnant wife Olivia. I fell in love with the Satan’s Devils even more reading this story, and I look forward to reading future books by Manda Mellett.

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Kat’s Conundrum (Raven and Hummingbird Book 3) by Nikki Broadwell – Review by Jennifer Gordon

Kat's Conundrum (Raven and Hummingbird Book 3)Kat’s Conundrum by Nikki Broadwell
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I really enjoyed this fantasy novel by Nikki Broadwell, it is book three in Broadwell’s, ‘Raven and Hummingbird’ series and it continues Katel’s (Kat) adventures. Kat is Dagda‘s daughter from book two and I would personally recommend reading these books in order to really get to know the characters and their backstory and to fully enjoy the series. Having read and enjoyed the previous books in this series I was excited to read this one and I found it to be as captivating a story as the previous stories.
Kat’s life is out of control, the god she is in love with, Bran has not returned from the Otherworld and Kat is surrounded by chaos with Earth in the clutches of unseen forces. She takes a drink from the cauldron of wisdom and inspiration but even that does not help and Kat finds her ability to effect change is lost. Kat’s memories are then stolen and the Fae world is willing to help her but can she trust them or will she lose touch with who she really is. Kat’s destiny lies in the balance.
I could not turn the pages quick enough whilst reading this story as it was fast paced, full of adventure and had great characters. I liked Kat as a character in the previous book and I fell in love with her even more in this novel as she is a great strong female heroine and I found myself caring about her fate and so felt invested in the story. The storyline really swept me along and I was immersed in Broadwell’s magical world of gods, goddesses and magic. I found this to be a five star read and I thoroughly recommend this book.

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Enemies of Doves by Shanessa Gluhm – Review by Jennifer Gordon

Enemies of DovesEnemies of Doves by Shanessa Gluhm
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is a great suspenseful mystery, with plenty of twists that keep you guessing, the author had me gripped from page one. In 1932, Joel Fitchett wanders into a diner in East Texas, Joel is 12 years old and has obviously been badly beaten, he is also carrying his brother Clancy, who is unconscious. Thirteen years later the two brothers are plagued with horrific memories of that night and Joel has been left physically scared on his face but the two still deny to police that they remember anything having made a pact together to hide the truth. Joel and Clancy then find themselves at the centre of a murder investigation and enter into a second pact, with another lie hoping this will give them a second chance.
The story is told in alternating timelines from World War II to 1992. The storyline continues in, 1991 and Garrison Stark, a college student travels to Texas to find Clancy Fitchett who has been missing since 1946 and who he believes maybe his biological grandfather. What Garrison uncovers is a tangle of secrets spanning over sixty years involving brothers Clancy and Joel and Lorraine, the woman they both appear to have loved.
This novel had me hooked from page one and I devoured it as I literally could not put this book down, a sign of a great read. It has a fast paced storyline which flows well and the narrative is well written, I liked how the story was told in two different timelines. The story is all about family secrets, jealousy and deception and I found it a five star read.

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Throwback by Zeia Jameson – Review by Jennifer Gordon

ThrowbackThrowback by Zeia Jameson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This novel by Zeia Jameson took me on an emotional rollercoaster whilst reading it. The author had me gripped from the first page until the very last page and along the way I fell in love with Livy and Jeremy, a likeable, realistic and very relatable couple fighting for what they believe in, their love for one another. For Livy and Jeremy they met, fell in love and got married but somewhere along the way life took over. Livy never believed in Prince Charming’s and happy ever afters, whilst Jeremy believed he could be Livy’s Prince Charming, however when disaster strikes, the couple find themselves spiralling out of control and their once solid relationship crumbling. The couple seem to be growing further apart daily, however a glimpse of their happier past has Livy and Jeremy feeling hopeful for their future together. “When life-altering love becomes earth-shattering heartache, only the past can mend it”.
This was a wonderfully written love story with a difference, and that was in its realistic storyline. The chemistry between Livy and Jeremy sizzled off the page and I loved how their relationship developed over time both growing and changing. The storyline flowed nicely and along with the wonderful character building the author had me fully immersed in the book as I devoured this novel in a couple of sittings. A wonderful and emotive read which I thoroughly recommend.

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Sex-O-S; The Tragicomic Adventure of an Italian Surviving the First Time (Italian Teens, novel 2, The Italian Saga) by Gaia B Amman – Review by Jennifer Gordon

Sex-O-S: The Tragicomic Adventure of an Italian Surviving the First Time (The Italian Saga, #4)Sex-O-S: The Tragicomic Adventure of an Italian Surviving the First Time by Gaia B. Amman
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is the second novel in Gaia B Amman’s, ‘Italian Teens’ series, although a fictionalised series it is based on the authors life and she has written the series so it, “empowers girls and women to be their brave true selves”. The series of books are humorous and insightful novels for young adults which take place in Northern Italy. I felt fully immersed in the beautiful setting thanks to the authors wonderfully detailed descriptions. I also like how she has kept some Italian words in the narrative so as not to loose their meaning, mostly swear words, it does add to the immersive feeling.
It is Italy, in the 1990s, and we catch up with fierce, nerdy, independent Leda who is in high school, and hormones are raging. Leda’s biggest decision is, let lust take over or hold off till marriage. The object of her affections is best friend Nico. However Nico has become a bit of a bully and a player, can Leda trust him as she also battles her own emotions, confidence, guilt, parents, but mainly her desire.
This is an emotional read which is told with humour and honesty. The storyline deals with some sensitive issues, teen sex, eating disorders and teenage insecurities all of which are dealt with honestly and with sensitivity. The main issues for Leda in the story are around having sex for the first time and all the emotions that come with this, again the author writes about this openly and honestly but is also never vulgar. I fell in love with Leda again reading this story and think she is a great main character, thanks to the wonderful narrative I went on a emotional rollercoaster along with Leda as she entered into womanhood. An enjoyable book and also an original and empowering read.

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Life’s a Witch (New Orleans Nocturnes Book 3) by Carrie Pulkinen – Review by Jennifer Gordon

Life's a Witch (New Orleans Nocturnes, #3)Life’s a Witch by Carrie Pulkinen
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Another fun paranormal romantic comedy in Carrie Pulkinen’s ‘New Orleans Nocturnes’ series “Ride along on a journey from the Big Easy to hell and back again in this fast, steamy paranormal romantic comedy!” states the blurb, and I was not disappointed as that is exactly what I got.
Crimson Oliver is a bad witch, as in she can’t actually cast spells that work and following her latest spell that went awry the high priestess has threatened to bind Crimson’s powers and turn her human for good. Crimson challenges the high priestess to a magic battle which without a miracle she has no chance of winning. Demon Mike Cortez, who happens to be handsome and sexy is also a devil’s advocate who can make miracles happen, for a price of course. Luckily or unluckily for Crimson, Mike has had his eye on her for a while and he would like to date the seductive and sassy witch. Unfortunately Mike accidentally makes a deal which would condemn Crimson to a life of satanic servitude to Satan himself. The couple embark on an adventure to hell itself and back to outsmart the devil and save Crimson’s soul.
I enjoyed this fairly quick read which was packed full of romance, excitement, adventure, laugh out loud moments, plenty of sass from our heroine Crimson, and some steamy chemistry between her and Mike. I’ve enjoyed all three books in Pulkinen’s ‘New Orleans Nocturnes’ series and although there is some crossover of characters each one can be read as a standalone story.

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Sweet Salvation (The Protectors Series Book 3) by Toya Richardson – Review by Jennifer Gordon

Sweet Salvation (The Protectors, #3)Sweet Salvation by Toya Richardson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Sweet Salvation is book three in Richardson’s, paranormal romance series, ‘The Protectors’, but can be read as a standalone story, however some of the characters cross over and the backstory continues throughout the series. Manuela wants a normal life, a human life but having left the safety of her Protectors community her dream turns into a nightmare and she is hunted and used for sport. Manuela is then unexpectedly rescued by her mate, Josh. Josh loves living life within Elias Crane’s Protectors community hoping to find peace following the brutal deaths of his family. When he travels to a Protectors community in Spain, he didn’t expect to discovers his mate. However his mate has been brutalised and is broken. Manuela does not believe that Josh could ever want her especially having used their telepathic bond to show him what has been done to her. Manuela wants revenge but this could have repercussions throughout all the Supernat communities and Josh must stop Manuela before he looses her for good.
This was a gripping paranormal romance which had me hooked from the start. The main characters in this story were Manuela and Josh and they were great characters and I felt I went on an emotional rollercoaster along with them. I felt fully immersed in the Supernat communities, which really came alive by the authors detailed world building. This was an exciting read which moved along at a fast pace and was full of drama and suspense. I look forward to reading the previous books in this series and any future ones.

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Bargaining (Hero High Book 3) by Mina Chara – Review by Jennifer Gordon

Bargaining (Hero High, #3)Bargaining by Mina Chara
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is book three in Mina Chara’s ‘Hero High’ series featuring Friday Fitzsimmons. The series is set in the near future world of Icon City, a place filled with powered one-percenters. Although there is a brief catch up at the beginning of this novel, the series of books needs to be read in order, Denial, Anger, and then this book, Bargaining. The story centres around Friday Fitzsimmons who is a student at Hero High which is a famous school for people with powers. However Hero High is not just a school for trainee superheroes it is also a reality TV show and one of many on the Hero Channel. This book continues from, book two, Anger, and although Friday has joined the ‘Gold Team’ and is now liked by the producers of Hero High things are going wrong for her. Her relationship with friend Jake is falling apart, Dr.Dangerous is not who she thought he is and as soon as she is about to uncover the truth forces she can’t see interfere. Friday still has Captain Fantastic on her side though.
This is another short read but packed full of adventure, a fast paced storyline continuing with Friday’s adventures at Hero High. I have come to love Friday over the three books and think she is a great lead character, very likeable and in this story she is still overcoming her acute anxiety of which she suffers, this to me makes her a relatable character. She is also doubting herself, as she wants to be a good super hero but is worried that she is loosing herself in the process. The world building is great and really pulls you in so you feel totally immersed in Icon City.

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Holding Out for You by Anna Paige – Review by Jennifer Gordon

Holding Out for YouHolding Out for You by Anna Paige
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I thoroughly enjoyed this enemies to lovers and brothers best friend romance. Blair Martel loves her older brother Becker apart from how over protective he is of her however she still likes to hang out with him unfortunately she hates his best friend and the feelings are mutual. Ashton Hunter is Becker’s best friend and partner in crime and they hang out together all the time the only complication is his younger sister Blair, who Becker treats like she’s breakable but he just wants to keep her from the pedestal everyone else has her on. Also on the scene is Blair’s best friend Charli who may or may not have feelings for her best friends brother, Becker. Following a disastrous date with someone else, Blair and Ash have to admit their true feelings for one another.
I loved the four main characters and their relationships with one another and how these changed and developed throughout the novel, and how their complicated feelings also changed over time. I found having the storyline written from different characters point of view made me more in tune with the characters as I knew what they were really thinking and feeling and this made me feel fully immersed in the story. The storyline flowed nicely and the author had me hooked from page one as she took me on an emotional rollercoaster along with Blair and Ashton. The chemistry between the two of them sizzled off the page even as they were denying their mutual attraction as did the connection between Charli and Becker, I’m hoping the author may give them their own book to explore their possible relationship. I found this book a wonderful read and I could not put it down as I cheered the characters on hoping they would get their happy ever after. I definitely recommend this novel.

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Music Man (Romance in Rehoboth #1) by K.L. Montgomery – Review by Jennifer Gordon

Music Man (Romance in Rehoboth Book 1)Music Man by K.L. Montgomery
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Music Man is a single Dad rock star romantic comedy and is a fun and enjoyable read. Book one in a new series by K.L. Montgomery, each book in the ‘Romance in Rehoboth’ series is a standalone story set in Rehoboth Beach, Delaware. “You’re never too old to fall in love with a rock star. Or chase your dreams”. Claire has just turned 40 and fallen in love with Jack, a want to be, rock star. Claire’s not sure if it’s his guitar, his beard or the flannel he wears but she finds Jack utterly irresistible. Music has always been Jacks first love but having failed to make it big as a singer and songwriter he turned to teaching music instead. When he starts teaching piano to Claire, he finds himself falling for the stunning read head. Then just as they start a relationship Jack’s big break comes and he has a chance to become a rock star and fulfil his first love.
I enjoyed this romantic comedy, Claire is an independent and strong female lead character and Jack is essentially a nice guy. I like the fact that Montgomery has written a romance novel where the main characters are over 40, rather than the younger norm. The storyline flowed nicely and I was fully immersed in Claire and Jack’s love story and loved the setting of Delaware’s top vacation destination. I look forward to reading other books in this series.

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Shift Happens: A Paranormal Romantic Comedy (New Orleans Nocturnes Book 2) by Carrie Pulkinen – Review by Jennifer Gordon

Shift Happens (New Orleans Nocturnes, #2)Shift Happens by Carrie Pulkinen
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Another fun paranormal romantic comedy in Carrie Pulkinen’s ‘New Orleans Nocturnes’ series. It can be read as a standalone story although some of the characters are mentioned in previous books. The blurb states, “If you like funny heroines and smoldering shifters, you’ll love this fast, steamy romantic comedy” and I was not disappointed as that is exactly what I got. Sophie Burroughs is determined to be a witch like her Grandmother was but cannot actually cast a spell. What she didn’t want was to become a werewolf but having been bitten by a very handsome one she has until the next full moon to stop becoming one herself. To make things more complicated the sexy werewolf who bit her is also accusing her of crimes against his pack which she also has until the full moon to prove she’s innocent of the crime. Meanwhile Werewolf Trace Thibodeaux didn’t mean to bite Sophie but she is the prime suspect for putting a curse on his pack. He is determined to stop the curse and the witch who cast the spell, but didn’t factor in the sassy witch who he’s bitten and the steamy chemistry between them, but can he literally get into bed with the enemy. This novel has a very funny romantic storyline which flows nicely and has some fascinating characters and lots of steamy chemistry between the main characters Sophie and Trace. I look forward to book three in the series.

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A Moore Affair (Moore Family Saga Book 4) by Michele Sims – Review by Jennifer Gordon

A Moore Affair (Moore Family Saga #4)A Moore Affair by Michele Sims
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The author had me gripped from page one with this novel, which is book four in Sims’s ‘Moore Family Saga’ series. I read this as a standalone story and thoroughly enjoyed it but I would personally recommend reading this series in order as the characters have all been introduced in previous books and you would appreciate the story better. Having said that I adored the fascinating characters especially the two main characters Bella Wahlberg and her fiancé and soon to be husband, performer extraordinaire and music mogul, Miles “Ari” Moore. I loved the relationship the two had and how they have to overcome the many obstacles throughout this novel and their steamy chemistry sizzled off the page. This was a romance with added drama and a background of spectacular scenery, from Miles and Bella’s wedding in Scotland, to their honeymoon in Paris and then Italy. I look forward to reading the previous books in the series and any future ones.

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Why (Stalker Series Book 2) by Megan Mitcham – Review by Jennifer Gordon

Why (Stalker Series, #2)Why by Megan Mitcham
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Why is book two in Megan Mitcham’s ‘Stalker series’ but can be read as a standalone story. It is a suspenseful courtroom thriller. Prosecutor Genevieve Holst loves the thrill of putting the bad guys behind bars and she owes her undefeated court record to her boss and mentor, Perry. Genevieve is shocked when Perry is accused of murdering his wife and children and straightaway works at defending him in court. Her undefeated record continues and Perry is found not guilty however Genevieve begins to wonder is she was right to believe in Perry as his behaviour becomes more and more suspicious. Guilt ridden at the thought she may have ensured a killer went free she begins her own investigation, by following her mentor and in the process runs into the NYPD Detective Owen Graham who told her not to take the case. Genevieve must decide between saving her career and letting an almost-certain killer go free or risk everything to bring Perry to justice.
I loved this psychology thriller which had plenty of suspense and as the blurb says, it really is an “ edge-of-your seat thrill ride”. I found Genevieve a perfect leading character, she is a strong, sassy and tenacious heroine who is likeable and realistic. I found the drama of the courtroom parts gripping and I liked the hint of romance with Owen as well. I found this to be an exciting read with a great fast paced storyline which kept me hooked from page one until the very last page. I look forward to further books in this ‘Stalker’ series.

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Aberration (Aberration Series Book 1) by Naomi Valkyrie & Rebecca E. McEwen – Review by Jennifer Gordon

Aberration (Aberration Book 1)Aberration by Naomi Valkyrie
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Seventeen year old Anyanka Truman, is in self-imposed exiles day has been for two years now as she is what is known as, an aberration. Hiding from those who would use her as a lab rat, Anyanka is used to being on her own. I found this was an exciting read, and the storyline was fast paced and flowed well, it had me hooked from page one. The story had some wonderful characters and I felt immersed in their world.

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