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Game of Fear – A gripping psychological thriller with a shocking twist (Fearless Series) by Gledé Browne Kabongo – Review by Jonell Collins

Game of FearGame of Fear by Glede Browne Kabongo
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Game of Fear by Glede Browne Kabongo is an interesting Young Adult book. Not murder and mayhem but blackmail and manipulation. A book about mistakes and how they come back to haunt us and a book about facing our prejudice and overcoming it. It’s a good clean story that is well suited to teenagers and older adults who like a good mystery to unravel. A really good, laid back read.

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Dagda’s Daughter (Raven and Hummingbird Book 2) by Nikki Broadwell – Review by Jonell Collins

Dagda's Daughter: Raven and Hummingbird Book 2Dagda’s Daughter: Raven and Hummingbird Book 2 by Nikki Broadwell
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Dagda’s Daughter, Raven and Hummingbird Book Two by Nikki Broadwell is truly a story about a very dysfunctional family. Who doesn’t have one of those? This is a story about betrayal, discovery, recovery, and love. So much in this one. There are a few steamy scenes but nothing that distracts from the story line. This was a nice little story that stood alone although it is book two of a three book series. I will certainly be reading the next one too.

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Kermode (Legends Series Book 2) by Maggie Adams – Review by Jonell Collins

Kermode: Legends Series Book 2Kermode: Legends Series Book 2 by Maggie Adams
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Kermode: Legends Series Book 2 by Maggie Adams is a rollicking little tale. Pure entertainment. If you are looking for a little light reading this is brain candy. A just reward for all those serious books. Imagine someone tells you that you are the big lottery winner, and you never bought a ticket. That’s the situation Piper Sweet finds herself in. Noah, just an innocent looking for some troublemakers walks into her shop and doesn’t even know what hit him. Reader be aware, there are some steamy situations that some may find uncomfortable. This is a nice little read that can be read as a standalone, but why miss the big picture.

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Lillie (Maggie Trilogy Series Book 3) by Mya O’Malley – Review by Jonell Collins

Lillie (Maggie Trilogy Series Book 3)Lillie by Mya O’Malley
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I must confess, the first two books in this Maggie Trilogy was so good, that I set aside a whole block of time so that I could sit and read this third book: Lillie by Mya O’Malley. And let me tell you it was not a disappointment. Since the first two were so good I thought surely this one had to be just as good. To tell you the truth it was even better. By book three you are so invested in these characters you are spellbound. Everything that Naomi has done and achieved due to her special gift she now stands to lose. Naomi is strong and has faith. This was truly a good book.

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Naomi (Maggie Trilogy Book 2) by Mya O’Malley – Review by Jonell Collins

NaomiNaomi by Mya O’Malley
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Another intriguing “who done it” in Naomi by Mya O’Malley. Once again Naomi is caught up in murder and suspense on behalf of her “ghostly” friends. It’s an easy to read quick little book that will keep you turning the page. This little enterprise interferes with her love life, and all her plans for her happily ever after. Naomi is a strong woman but is she that strong. You’ll have to read it to find out. This is the second book in this little trilogy, can’t wait to start the next one.

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Tanuja Ramachandran: Hunter Seeker by Kumar Sivasubramanian – Review by Jonell Collins

Tanuja Ramachandran: Hunter-SeekerTanuja Ramachandran: Hunter-Seeker by Kumar Sivasubramanian
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Tanuja Ramachandran:Hunter-Seeker by Kumar Sivarsubramanian was quite a surprise. I have to confess when I first started reading it, I thought this is the craziest thing I’ve ever read, and I must say I had my doubts about it. As it turns out it was crazy good. Our main character Tanuja is one tough gal, made even tougher by the fact that she has narcolepsy. Not what you would expect by an ultra-bad James Bond type gal. Tragic thing have happened in her life that drives her, and she is teamed up with her brother Max to do a job. It is a very touching note to the story that no matter how far out there his sister is Max believes there is redemption for her. To sum it all up, this was a story well worth my time and I think I want to follow Tanuja on more of her adventures.

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Maggie (Maggie Trilogy Book 1) by Mya O’Malley – Review by Jonell Collins

MaggieMaggie by Mya O’Malley
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Maggie by Mya O”Malley was quite a nice surprise. It’s basically a “who done it” book with a little good clean romance thrown in. It’ the “who done it” part that was the big surprise. One of the reasons I like mystery is because I like the anticipation of figuring out the villain. In Maggie, it’s quite a trick. I thought I had it, but then I didn’t, then I had it, but then I didn’t. A thoroughly enjoyable book……and did I mention the ghost? A sweet little paranormal story with quite an interesting little twist.

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Amy’s Santa (Satan’s Devils MC Second Generation #1) by Manda Mellett – Review by Jonell Collins

Amy's Santa (Satan's Devils MC Second Generation #1)Amy’s Santa by Manda Mellett
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

In Amy’s Santa, Satan’s Devils MC-Next Generation Book 1 by Manda Mellett we have a story about lost love and a tragic experience. It’s a fast and easy read. This is about courage and making a tough decision and seeing it through. It’s not only about love lost but its about love regained. It’s not only about a tragic experience but it’s also about overcoming it in spite of the fear and the anxiety. There is much to think about in this little novel. There is some strong language, steamy situations and some violence that some might find offensive. But there is much to be learned if you are a deep-thinking type.

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Goddess of the Wild Thing by Paul DeBlassie III – Review by Jonell Collins

Goddess Of The Wild Thing: A Dynamic Spiritual JourneyGoddess Of The Wild Thing: A Dynamic Spiritual Journey by Paul DeBlassie III
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

There is a lot of back story in the beginning, just be patient, its necessary. If you like the paranormal, the spooky, witch demon thing, then this is definitely a book for you. Ultimately it’s a story about good versus evil, and how love conquers all. In Goddess of the Wild Thing by Paul DeBlassie III, Sam and Eve are on a roller-coaster of emotion where nothing is as it seems and danger is everywhere. Mr. DeBlassie’s use of language is beautiful and almost poetic. I loved the flow of it.

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Testament of Feats: Book of Sorrows Book Two by K.H. Jones – Review by Jonell Collins

Testament of Feats: Book of Sorrows (Book Two 2)Testament of Feats: Book of Sorrows by Kimm Jones
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

It’s very hard for me to describe how I feel about this book. I am so blown away by this series. This is the second book in The Testament of Feats series. The second book, Testament of Feats: Book of Sorrows (Book Two), K.H. Jones is just as carefully crafted as the first book. If you haven’t read the first one, Testament of Feats:Book of Judgments, you really should pause and go back and read it. I was so excited to once again fall into this world. The characters in this story are all very strong characters so well-written you become very attached to them, they are like old friends. We join Scream as he continues on his journey to find a fellow Ranger but plans never turn out like we hope. A lot can happen between point A and point B and it does. The characters that we were introduced to in the first book are built upon and more fully developed in this book. There’s suspense, there’s action, romance and many unexpected turns. And there IS sorrow. This book will take you away it will transport you to another universe, another time, you will be lost in it. I can’t recommend this book enough.

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Addie: To Wager on Her Future (Other Pens, Mansfield Park book 5) by Leenie Brown – Review by Jonell Collins

Addie: To Wager on Her Future (Other Pens, Mansfield Park #5)Addie: To Wager on Her Future by Leenie Brown
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Addie: To Wager On Her Future the, fifth book in the ‘Other Pens, Mansfield Park’ series by Leenie Brown was such a delightful story to read. I loved the language, the description of the estates, the mood of the times, it was just very smooth. It’s about the loyalty and faithfulness of friends and their love for one another. It’s a great love story,and I mean a really good love story. I love stories like this. The love and affection was there and you could feel the intensity between Robert and Addie. It’s so rare to read a good love story without all the steamy by product. No discomfort level at all in this great story. You will leave this one feeling warm and fuzzy. Well worth the read.

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The Crown of Stones: Magic-Borne (Book 3) by C. L. Schneider – Review by Jonell Collins

Magic-Borne (The Crown of Stones, #3)Magic-Borne by C.L. Schneider
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I must confess. After I read the second book of The Crown of Stones Trilogy I knew I was hooked. I had this one, The Crown of Stones: Magic-Borne by C.L. Schnieder standing by and I started it as soon as I finished Magic Scars and read it from cover to cover. Did not do anything else till I had finished the book. It was that good. From the beginning of Ian’s story and the tremendous guilt he carries, to the dawning of his realization of what his world needs, all things come to a climax in this last book of the series. If I was to boil it all down, I would say love and sacrifice is what this book is about. Truly outstanding. There are a few steamy scenes but nothing that distracts from the core of this story. I can’t say enough good things about this story. I will be reading it again and maybe a third time. This is a book you will add to your library and come back to. I am only disappointed that this book completes the trilogy. I am ready for more adventures with Ian Troy!

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The Crown of Stones: Magic-Scars (Book 2) by C. L. Schneider – Review by Jonell Collins

Magic-Scars (The Crown of Stones, #2)Magic-Scars by C.L. Schneider
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

If you read Crown of Stones Magic Price then I know you are in line for this one. The Crown of Stones Magic Scars by C. L. Schneider was a stellar encounter. I was blown away by Magic Price but this second book in the trilogy has me hooked for good. The nearly unbearable guilt that Ian Troy has been burdened with sees a new direction in Magic Scars. You can see the struggles that our own society is going through in the pages of this book. To see a thing and know that it is good and feel such sorrow because others can’t or won’t see it. There are a few steamy scenes that may be uncomfortable but this is a story you must read. You have my word you will not be disappointed.

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Misplaced (Joined Book Two) by Mara Gan – Review by Jonell Collins

Misplaced: Joined: Book TwoMisplaced: Joined: Book Two by Mara Gan
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

What a sweet sweet romance. It has been such a delight to read this second book Misplaced by Mara Gan. If you have not read her first book Joined you owe it to yourself to read that one first, if for no other reason but to appreciate the pure joy of a love story that happens twice to the same two people. Even if you have not read Joined, this book will stand alone. It’s a wonderful story about an ever increasing love. Meda doesn’t know anything beyond her name. Who she is, or where she came from. Whatever her situation though she is a gal with a can-do attitude. Perseus, doesn’t know why but he feels drawn to her in spite of himself. This is a feel-good love story without the distractions of steamy situations. This one was a true treasure.

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Found in the Lost (Special Forces: Operation Alpha)(The Leonidas Corporation Book 1) by Tarina Deaton – Review by Jonell Collins

Found in the Lost (Special Forces: Operation Alpha / The Leonidas Corporation Book 1)Found in the Lost by Tarina Deaton
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Found In The Lost by Tarina Deaton is a quick little romance in the jungle. All Kinley wants to do is show the world her accomplishment. Desperate to get to an archaeological dig so she can let her light shine she gets left out when she lands at the airport. All good love stories have a hero and Shane does not disappoint. A former Navy SEAL is there to pick up her pieces. Starting out Kinley doesn’t seem to be the strong individual that she turns out to be, in short, Kinley is surprising all the way around. This is a steamy little romance with some situations that might make some people uncomfortable. But a sweet little love story none the less.

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Alice Will: Dreams of Chaos Book 1 by Ashley Chappell – Review by Jonell Collins

Alice Will: Dreams of Chaos Book 1Alice Will: Dreams of Chaos Book 1 by Ashley Chappell
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Alice Will: Dreams of Chaos, Book 1, by Ashley Chappell is an awesome book. I’m almost at a loss for words to describe the complete ecstasy I’ve had reading this book. If I could give this book 10 Stars I would. The world that Ashley Chappell builds for us in this story is remarkable. The language is like butter. The characters are all striking and so unforgettable. Trotter who is our heroine in this story, you will bond with this young girl and the way that Ms. Chappelle writes you will feel what Trotter feels, you will be Trotter. Love and risk and sacrifice it’s all here. You need to make sure you’ve done everything you need to do because once you get to the middle of the book you won’t do anything else till you finish.

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Forbidden Love; Written by Lisa Jones Gentry, As Told by Joe Steele – Review by Jonell Collins

Forbidden Love: As Told By Joe SteeleForbidden Love: As Told By Joe Steele by Lisa Jones Gentry
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Oh, what a wonderful little love story this was. I love to see courage from real people in real life. It’s a wonderful thing to see that there were some people that knew all along that there was only one race and it’s the human race. In Forbidden Love by Lisa Jones Gentry as told by their son Joe Steele, the love and devotion of Sophie and Billy was truly inspiring. There are a few physical situations that might make some people uncomfortable, but it’s tastefully done. This real-life story is better than any fictional romance I have ever read. I think you’re going to like this one.

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Lost in Carmel by Terri Lee – Review by Jonell Collins

Lost in CarmelLost in Carmel by Terri Lee
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Very good read. Bittersweet story. I left it feeling all was right in the world. In the beginning you see how fragile Natalie is. As you progress through the story, we see how she got there. In Lost In Carmel, Terri Lee gives us some foundational principles that a listening heart could use in their own life. Natalie faces many issues that most of us face, and hard decisions. Even though it’s just a story, it’s a story that imparts hope. Easy to read and fast paced. A bittersweet romance you will like.

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The Rise of House Valdis (House Valdis Book 1) by Naomi Valkyrie – Review by Jonell Collins

The Rise of House Valdis (House Valdis #1)The Rise of House Valdis by Naomi Valkyrie
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Rise of the House Valdis by Naomi Valkyrie is a fast-paced little story about relationships. All kinds of relationships. Xenobia is just trying to keep her girls safe in her own household, but her household keeps growing and becoming more than she ever imagined. The story is told from several different viewpoints and sometimes it seems repetitious but you’re just getting a different viewpoint. And that’s kind of different. But it all works together in the end.

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Pigs by Daniel James – Review by Jonell Collins

PigsPigs by Daniel James
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

When I first considered giving this book a read, I thought, this sounds a little gory and violent. So, I drug my feet. But I can truthfully say, I am so glad I gave this story a read. Pigs by Daniel James is a fast-paced little novel about regret and vengeance. The stages that Isaac goes through from the time he is released from prison until the end of his nightmare brings both deep sadness and hopeful joy. Just when you think you have it all figured out it takes a sharp turn that’s both surprising but understandable. There is violence but its not graphic, and it sets the stage for all that comes after. This is just a good little novel and I think you will really like it. I know I did.

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Vampire State by Alexander Charalambides – Review by Jonell Collins

Vampire StateVampire State by Alexander Charalambides
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is a great little story. It comes along at a great time in our own country. In Vampire State by Alexander Charalambides we get a great story about change. Change is seldom easy, and I think this author does a good job of showing us different aspects of the difficulties of change. Our heroine, Rowena, slowly recognizes her part in the need for bringing about these changes, but she is up for the challenge. Vincenzo and Luka have very different approaches to change but in the end….it works. The real shining point of this story is the dialogue between Dominus and Rowena. It’s there that we see the solution for real change. This is a fast-paced little story and was over too soon. I found myself wanting more. If you are like me and you like the story within the story this is a book that you will really enjoy.

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Testament of Feats: Book of Judgement Book One by K.H. Jones – Review by Jonell Collins

Testament of Feats: Book of Judgment,Testament of Feats: Book of Judgment, by K.H. Jones
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is an Oh My God surprise! When I picked this book to read, I thought, this sounds interesting. It was so much more. Such a good book. In Testament of Feats: Book of Judgment, K. H. Jones leads us into a richly woven world. Each culture carefully woven, artfully described. You are in that world. There is so much detail in this story, food, geography, games, weapons, even the animals are thoroughly described. K. H. Jones has taken the slumbering parts of my brain and forced them to build a world that I can clearly see. This book even has romance. Our hero in the story, Scream, is a deep thinker but he doesn’t let it cripple him or lose sight of his objective. A balance of justice and compassion. There are so many things I loved about this book. I am completely and totally sold out to this series. If you like this genre, this is an absolute must read. Even if you don’t you will love this story.

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Ricochet by Kathryn Berla – Review by Jonell Collins

RicochetRicochet by Kathryn Berla
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I’m not so sure where to start with this story. Parallel universes are always an interesting theme. So many ways to go there. In Ricochet, Kathryn Berla, takes us on a journey with four very different girls, but so much alike in many ways. There is a mild, same sex romance in this story that I think opens the doorway to address all the emotions that are on stage in this story. Guilt and shame versus confidence and self-assurance, a life of plenty, a life of poverty, timid versus bold. So many facets of the human nature addressed in this story. Its not a book to just whiz through. It’s a story to think through. I found myself having to back track a time or two just to verify my own thoughts. If you are looking for a good story, that is also mind stimulating this is a book for you.

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Diamonds & Deception (Karina Cardinal Mystery Book 3) by Ellen Butler – Review by Jonell Collins

Diamonds & Deception (Karina Cardinal Mystery, #3)Diamonds & Deception by Ellen Butler
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I do love strong female leads, and a good mystery is always a winner with me. In Diamonds & Deception by Ellen Butler we get both. This is an excellent little mystery. It is my first Karina Cardinal Mystery Story, but I can tell you it won’t be my last. Although Karina is the star of our show her sister Jillian is every bit in the thick of this as Karina. The dialogue and the interaction between the sisters in this book is spot on., and even better than all of that is the “story within the story”. I always love that. This sweet little mystery is well worth your time.

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Stalking the Stalker (Valley View Mysteries Book 2) by Laura Hawks – Review by Jonell Collins

Stalking the StalkerStalking the Stalker by Laura Hawks
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This little mystery is an easy quick to read story. But don’t be fooled, it packs a powerful punch. It’s an intriguing little story with many suspects, turns, twists and surprises. Thought I had it figured then changed my mind, then changed my mind again. Romance but not the steamy kind, just very sweet and touching. But the best thing for me is the deeper story that Laura Hawks is giving us in Stalking the Stalker. Pick this one up, I think you will like it.

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Hang On To Your Shirt Tails (Chasing Tails Book 2) by C.A. King – Review by Jonell Collins

Hang On To Your Shirt Tails (Chasing Tails Book 2)Hang On To Your Shirt Tails by C.A. King
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This was just a real good feel good story. In Hang on To Your Shirt Tails, C.A. King gives us a family story. Brodie and Tails are just trying to raise a family. And what teenager doesn’t think they know everything. There are so many things going on in this story you just must keep turning the page. From rebellious teenager, a son that is having massive changes going on in his life, and a desperate desire to start new life, this story mixes it all up and then stirs it with the stick of shadows of the past. Shadows without mercy or compassion. Quite a bit of suspense and several surprises. A laid back tale to enjoy.

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Jax Marlin – To Catch A Marlin by T.K. Toppin – Review by Jonell Collins

Jax Marlin - To Catch A MarlinJax Marlin – To Catch A Marlin by T.K. Toppin
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

What an incredible story! Somehow it managed to have all my favorite things…Pirates?! For Real. Jax Marlin is intelligent, tough and sexy. Michael Pedroni is a cop with a weary edge to him but honest and focused. It’s his job to bring her in. This story was a great adventure, suspense, action, deep introspection. Everything that makes a story good and unforgettable. The main characters are thoughtfully crafted, and have you hooked in at the get go. The main supporting characters are just as carefully crafted. So well described you have no difficulty picturing them. There is plenty of action packed scenes in this book and they are all artfully and thoroughly thought out. This doesn’t feel like an off the cuff story, this feels like and reads like an art form. I love strong female characters and Jax does not disappoint. Not gonna lie, I think I am a big fan of Jax Marlin and I will be looking for more adventures with her. If you’re looking for a good solid read with a wild ride, this is the book for you. You will not regret it.

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Supernatural Love Stories in the Absurd: Four Book Collection by Gwyn McNamee writing as D.P. Payne – Review by Jonell Collins

Supernatural Love Stories in the Absurd: Four Book CollectionSupernatural Love Stories in the Absurd: Four Book Collection by D.P. Payne
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Supernatural Love Stories in the Absurd: Four Book Collection by D.P. Payne was certainly some unique little tales. Very easy to read, and each one a very different story. Romance and really weird happenings is the common thread here. My favorites were Spirited and Loched. In Spirited the enchanting Margot has been haunting her last place of employment for more than a hundred years. When Blake buys the house to renovate it, he gets a lot more than he bargained for. There is some sexual situations that some may find offensive, but all these little stories are quite unique with new little twists on some old legends.

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Beneath the Fallen City (The Omni Towers Series Book 1) by Jamie A. Waters – Review by Jonell Collins

Beneath the Fallen City (The Omni Towers, #1)Beneath the Fallen City by Jamie A. Waters
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

When I first read the synopsis of this book it didn’t really resonate with me. So, I passed it by on one or two occasions. One day when I just didn’t have anything else going on, I picked this book. And WOW I am glad I did. I have to say I am well and truly hooked into this series. In Beneath the Fallen City: The Omni Towers Series, Book 1 Jamie A. Waters has given us a world that is so well described you come away feeling like you are as familiar with that culture as you are your own. The two cultures in this book are meticulously described and so well fashioned. Kayla is tough, tough, tough and stubborn to boot. Right away you are sucked into wondering what could produce a young woman so hard-headed, and you just keep reading cause, you gotta know……right? Carl our hero of this story……or wait……maybe it’s Alec you just won’t know until you pick this one up and immerse yourself into the ruins and the Omnitower. There are some sexual situations that might be offensive to some, but this book gets a maximum rating from me and I really am looking forward to the next one.

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The Crown of Stones: Magic-Price by C. L. Schneider – Review by Jonell Collins

Magic-Price (The Crown of Stones, #1)Magic-Price by C.L. Schneider
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

What a wonderful book! It has a good solid story, great plot, the dialogue was smooth and flowing. C. L. Schneider has written a winner with The Crown of Stones: Magic Price. Ian Troy is unforgettable as are all the well-crafted players in this great book. It gets a little steamy in places but even with all that this book hits my perfect list. Although this is a fantasy it doesn’t feel like one. I can’t wait to read the next one, however I should probably clean my house first because I couldn’t put this one down.

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