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Savage Start (Hidden Valley Elite Prequel) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Juls Dick

Savage Start: A High School Bully Romance: Hidden Valley Elite PrequelSavage Start: A High School Bully Romance: Hidden Valley Elite Prequel by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Savage Start is the prequel to the Hidden Valley Elite series by Isla Vaughn. This was a great short read to introduce the main characters and give a background to what I think will be a really interesting series (which is now on my to be read list!). The story introduces Riley, a young girl who has had an unusual upbringing moving around the country running cons with her mother, and Cole, one of the Elites of his school who has a tough time at home. When Riley and Cole bump into each other at a party sparks fly and they are unable to forget each other. This was a perfect intro to the new series.

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Absolution by Anise Storm & Taylor L. Ray – Review by Juls Dick

AbsolutionAbsolution by Anise Storm
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I have read a few books by Anise Storm in the past so was really looking forward to this book and wasn’t disappointed. Her collaboration with Taylor L Ray was a success! The story follows Dominic, a successful self-made man, who is living in the shadows of his past after the disappearance of his girlfriend Juliana, and Whitney who apart from having an uncanny resemblance to Juliana, also has some hidden paranormal talents that she finds impacting on her life. This book was really enjoyable, there was a good mix of tension, mystery and steamy moments. I would highly recommend to lovers of a good romance.

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Fear Inc: Volume 3 by Melinda Valentine – Review by Juls Dick

Fear Inc.: Volume ThreeFear Inc.: Volume Three by Melinda Valentine
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Fear Inc: Volume 3 is a fantastic book by Melinda Valentine. This second chance /brother best friend romance follows Kasper and Krysta as the try to work out their feelings towards each other after a disastrous break up years previously while also trying to stay safe from external threats that are out to interfere. I found this to be a very enjoyable read, it had a likable group of characters, some very steamy moments and some suspense and excitement. My only complaint is I finished it too quickly! This is the first book of this series I have read however I will be going back to read the first 2 volumes in the series.

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Handle With Care (Chase Care Book 1) by R.L. Dunn – Review by Juls Dick

Handle With Care (Chase Care Book 1)Handle With Care by R.L. Dunn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Handle with Care is the first book in the Chase Care series by R.L Dunn. I have read all of the previous series and loved them. I was not disappointed by this book. Hunter and Selma are deeply in love after getting a second chance with each other later in life. When Selma has a sudden surprise she flees to Africa as part of a relief effort but she is not aware of the danger she will be in. This is a fantastic book, fast paced, exciting and full of intrigue. I thoroughly enjoyed it and cannot wait until book 2 comes out. I recommend to fans of romantic suspense.

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Love Tools (Bluestone Series Book 1) by Isobel Reed – Review by Juls Dick

Love Tools (Bluestone Series, #1)Love Tools by Isobel Reed
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Love Tools is the first book in the Bluestone series by Isobel Reed. This is a lovely heart-warming romance that kind of makes you want to give up everything and go and live in a tiny town and open a shop! When Lily finds out that she has inherited her late father’s estate, that is exactly what she does. With nothing keeping her in London she takes over her father’s little hardware shop and tries to find out more about the man who abandoned her as a child. When Lily meets local rancher Jake, it is hardly love at first sight but when he sets his mind on things it is hard to put him off. This was a lovely romance, looking forward to book 2.

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Degrees of Innocence: Dark Mafia Romance (Cruel Deceptions Book 1) By Via Mari – Review by Juls Dick

Degrees of Innocence (Prestian Series, #1)Degrees of Innocence by Via Mari
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Degrees of Innocence is the first book in the Cruel Deceptions series by Via Mari, I found it a little confusing as it was described as a “dark mafia” romance and there is only one small mention of the mafia at the very end of the book, the content didn’t really match the description. However, it did have a good premise and I am assuming that the mafia connection is more prominent in the later books in the series. When Kate is sent to Aruba to head a week long planning retreat for her company she is not expecting to meet a charismatic stranger who makes her feel things she has never felt before. When it turns out that this stranger is also the CEO of the company she is there to meet she is torn between love and her career. When she then becomes the victim of a series of attempts on her life she is confused as to whether the attacks are random or something more sinister. I thought this book was ok, it didn’t have the mafia romance element I was looking for, but it did have a strong female lead and a domineering sexy billionaire.

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Knight In The Museum (Jorja Knight Private Investigator Mystery Series Book 5) by Alice Bienia – Review by Juls Dick

Knight In The Museum ( Jorja Knight Mystery -Book 5)Knight In The Museum by Alice Bienia
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Knight in the Museum (Jorja Knight Private Investigator Mystery Series Book) by Alice Bienia was a fun, fast paced mystery that was full of surprises. When private investigator Jorja Knight is asked by her old friend to look into the death of his old colleague, what initially seems like an open and shut suicide is quickly determined to be a lot more than it seemed. The more she digs into the mystery the more questions it brings up and the more dangerous the investigation becomes. This is a well written and enjoyable mystery with a cast of likable characters. This is the first book I have read in this series, but I will be going back and reading the other books by this author.

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Defiant Princess (Mafia Elite Series Prequel) by Amy McKinley – Review by Juls Dick

Defiant Princess (Mafia Elite Prequel)Defiant Princess by Amy McKinley
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Defiant Princess is a prequel to the Mafia Elite series by Amy McKinley, it follows the sisters of the families prior to the events of the books in the main series. I really liked this story, even the sad parts. It was quite short though and I would have liked it to be longer (as I always do with this series as I am never ready for them to finish and want to know more!). It was really interesting to learn more about the events that are mentioned in the future books and I was screaming in my head to warn them about the traitor among them! I think this is a must read for fans of this series.

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Petty’s Crime (Satan’s Devils MC Las Vegas Book 3) by Manda Mellett – Review by Juls Dick

Petty's Crime (Satan's Devils MC Las Vegas #3)Petty’s Crime by Manda Mellett
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Petty’s Crime is the third book in the Satan’s Devils MC Las Vegas series. I really have enjoyed this series. This book does however touch on themes of domestic violence which may trigger some readers. The story follows Petty, who so far has been known for his brash nature in the MC. This book delves into his past as his (ex) wife Britney makes an unexpected return to his life. It also tells the story of RoseLyn, a Vegas singer who is being stalked by her abusive ex and needs the help of the MC. I loved how this story explores the theme of female against male DV, which is something that is rarely found especially in the masculine world of an MC. Highly recommend.

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The Warrior (The Freemasons Book 3) by Nicole Flockton – Review by Juls Dick

The Warrior (The Freemasons #3)The Warrior by Nicole Flockton
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The Warrior is the third book in the Freemasons series by Nicole Flockton. Sienna has feelings for Jude however he is reluctant to open up to her as he has dedicated his life to looking for his sister Renee. When a sighting of Renee leads him to start looking for her in another country, Jude and his fellow ex-military friends need Sienna’s help to infiltrate the organisation that has her. This is a good read, the chemistry between the two main characters is there and you can feel the pain and panic while Sienna is undercover. It is quite fast paced which is nice and the story is intriguing. I would recommend.

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Mafia Elite Series Box Set Volume 2 by Amy McKinley – Review by Juls Dick

Mafia Elite Box Set: Volume TwoMafia Elite Box Set: Volume Two by Amy McKinley
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is a brilliant series and I highly recommend:

Savage Secrets is the 4th book of the series, I have read all the books in this series so far and have nothing but praise for them. In this book we finally meet the elusive Elena, who has been presumed dead for a number of years. When the threat that made her leave initially finds out that she is still alive, boss Marco is sent to retrieve her. When reunited the pair get to know each other again, without a pesky arranged marriage in the way. I really like how strong the female characters are in this series, Elena especially has her own very valuable skill set that she can use to protect those she loves.

Ruthless Heir – I think this was one of my favourites in the series so far. Each book in the series follows a member of one of the main 5 Chicago Mafia families and the nice difference in this book is that Luc doesn’t know he is part of the elite, through the mother he never knew he is the rightful heir to one of the 5 families. A successful businessman in his own right, he is surprised when he is forced to go to Chicago to discover his true heritage, taking his reluctant assistant Summer along with him. Summer is on the run from her past and doesn’t want to get involved with anything to do with the mafia but finds protection in the strangest of situations. I really liked this book, there is lots of action, strong female characters and interesting storylines.

Collateral Damage – In this book Dr Trey La Rosa is tasked with finding the kidnapped stepdaughter of a colleague, but it is not as straight forward as it may seem at first. Trey and Hailey need to work together to find out her stepfathers true intentions. I liked this book but feel it was a bit short, I would have loved more!

Rivals – This book is the story of Nico and Mia. Mia, after escaping from the clutches of her twisted family tracks down Nico for help and in return she will give him the information that he needs to take down her family. I really enjoyed this book, I loved the dynamic between the two main characters but the main thing I really like is how the men in these stories treat the women as equals, fighting side by side rather than being left at home while the guys do all the fighting. The female characters really make this series for me. Cannot wait to get my hands on the next book!

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Grave Digger Academy II (Grave Digger Academy Book 2) by C.A. King – Review by Juls Dick

Grave Digger Academy IIGrave Digger Academy II by C.A. King

Grave Digger Academy year 2 is the continuation of this fun new series by C.A King. The story follows Makayla as she begins her second year at her new school, after the drama of the previous term she is hoping for a quiet year however that is not to be. The Inter Academy Games are about to start, and Makayla and her friends become reluctant participants but there is a gate crasher that is determined to change the rules. I liked this book, it is a fun concept and I really liked finding out more about the other characters such as Frankie and Makayla’s brothers, you also learn a little more about some of the other academies which was a good way of expanding this new magical world. I just wish this book had been longer, I got so engrossed in it, I wasn’t prepared for it to end. Looking forward to the next instalment.

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Grave Digger Academy (Grave Digger Academy Book 1) by C.A. King – Review by Juls Dick

Grave Digger AcademyGrave Digger Academy by C.A. King
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Grave Digger Academy is the first book in this series by C.A. King, the story followed Makayla, the youngest child of a very successful magical lineage who is ready to start her first day at the magical academies. Makayla is not the same as her brothers, who are all very accomplished in their areas, and she ends up at the Grave Digger Academy, the least respected of the magical schools. Not everything is as it seems at her new school however, the teaching staff refuse to talk about certain subjects, and she feels that there is something sinister lurking in the shadows. This was a fun novel and did well at introducing the different characters in the new magical world. I enjoyed it, would recommend to younger readers who like the paranormal genre.

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A Love Restrained by Becky Flade – Review by Juls Dick

A Love RestrainedA Love Restrained by Becky Flade
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

A Love Restrained by Becky Flade is a romantic suspense thriller that is hard to put down. Jayson and Kylee should have been high school sweethearts but Jayson’s family situation stopped that from happening. Fast forward a few years and the pair apparently find themselves on opposite sides of the legal system but unable to stay away. When a threat tears them apart, it is a shock for both of them when they meet again and things are not the same as they were. This was a fast paced book, split into three distinct parts. I was a bit skeptical when I first started it but quickly found that I really liked the characters and the storyline was fast paced and an engaging read. I really enjoyed this story.

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Ritual Obsession (Blood Obsession Book 1) by R.L. Dunn – Review by Juls Dick

Ritual Obsession (Blood Obsession Book 1)Ritual Obsession by R.L. Dunn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Ritual Obsession by RL Dunn is the first book in the Blood Obsession series and what a way to start a series. This book was hard to put down and I actually got annoyed I finished it too quickly. The story follows Bobbi, a detective in the NYPD. Bobbi is not your typical police officer as she comes from a wealthy background and was a debutante. When she is sent to a new precinct it is not easy to fit in however she proves her worth to her tough partner Rose. I don’t want to spoil the story, but this book has you feeling all sorts of things! There are some trigger warnings as it does touch on some very sensitive subjects but if you want a thrilling, gritty crime novel with a hint of romance. I have read a few books by this author and loved them, this book did not disappoint.

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Rivals (Mafia Elite Book 7) by Amy McKinley – Review by Juls Dick

Rivals (Mafia Elite, #7)Rivals by Amy McKinley
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Rivals is the 7th book in the Mafia Elite series by Amy McKinley, and I am loving this series. I have read every book so far and each one I have finished in less than a day as I couldn’t put them down. This book is the story of Nico and Mia. Mia, after escaping from the clutches of her twisted family tracks down Nico for help and in return she will give him the information that he needs to take down her family. I really enjoyed this book, I loved the dynamic between the two main characters but the main thing I really like is how the men in these stories treat the women as equals, fighting side by side rather than being left at home while the guys do all the fighting. The female characters really make this series for me. Cannot wait to get my hands on the next book!

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The Secret Cure: A Gripping Psychological Thriller with a Twist by JD Spero – Review by Juls Dick

The Secret CureThe Secret Cure by J.D. Spero
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The Secret Cure is a gripping thriller by JD Spero, I didn’t know what to expect when I started this book from reading the description, but I was pleasantly surprised. The story switches between the 4 main characters Rosalie, Vincent, Anastasia and Cate. I think seeing things from each of the different perspectives really adds a different dimension to this book. I found it to be a compelling read and finished it in one day as I couldn’t put it down. The story had lots of twists that I wasn’t expecting and really enjoyed. Will definitely be looking out for other books by this author.

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Love is Worth Fighting for (The Meraki Series Book 3) by Effie Kammenou – Review by Juls Dick

Love is Worth Fighting forLove is Worth Fighting for by Effie Kammenou
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Love is worth fighting for is the third book in the Meraki Series, I have really enjoyed the series so far. Each book so far has followed a different sister, each going through a different stage in their life. This book follows Krystina and her turbulent relationship with childhood friend Loukas. Who have been destined to be together since childhood. I really liked this book, the fact that it tactfully covered the COVID period made it more heartfelt. As always I love the connection with the characters Greek culture and makes me want to visit Greece again. A very enjoyable read.

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Victoriously Yours (Titans of Manhattan Book 4) by Anise Storm – Review by Juls Dick

Victoriously Yours (Titans Of Manhattan #4)Victoriously Yours by Anise Storm
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Victoriously Yours is the 4th book in the Titans of Manhattan series by Anise Storm, this series is just fantastic, it doesn’t hide from the big issues and doesn’t pretend that everyone in a novel like this is perfect touching on issues such as mental health and childhood traumas. Kenzie is a flawed character, she has been hurt in the past and this has affected her view of relationships, when she goes to audition for the job of a lifetime, she doesn’t expect her potential employer to be the same boy that broke her years ago. Jonas is a successful businessman, a playboy about town, but no one realises the extent of his struggles. This was a really enjoyable read; the main characters are very likable and the story keeps you engaged. I am very much looking forward to book 5 in the series.

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As Close to Perfect by Maria Jane – Review by Juls Dick

As Close to PerfectAs Close to Perfect by Maria Jane
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Bree has been burned by love in the past, she has had her heart broken by her past two boyfriends and has since given herself a strict list of rules to adhere too when it comes to men, no jocks, no corporate suits and no intimacy before relationships. When Bree meet Latvian- American Nate at her tennis club she he instantly hits the first two of her rules so she friend zones him and focusses on finding someone more suited to her goals. However, she quickly finds that things aren’t always as they first appear. This was a nice read, I initially didn’t really relate to the main female character, she was too closed off and judgemental, however she started to grow on me towards the end. I did like the main male character from the beginning.

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Tickety Tock (Wicked Warriors MC Arizona Chapter) by Manda Mellett – Review by Juls Dick

Tickety Tock: Wicked Warriors MC Arizona ChapterTickety Tock: Wicked Warriors MC Arizona Chapter by Manda Mellett
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I have read a lot of the Satan’s Devils series by Manda Mellett and have loved every one of them however, I really liked the change of pace in this book from the others. The supernatural element was a great addition and it felt really refreshing. Raven has to return home to her childhood home after the death of her grandfather, however the cabin holds some ghosts from her past that just wont let her rest, when she literally runs into Dwarf on the road he is there to help her get past her demons. I liked the dynamic between the two main characters and feel that it would be good to get to know the rest of the brothers in the MC as they find their old women. I enjoyed this book and will definitely be reading more.

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Collateral Damage (Mafia Elite Series Book 6) by Amy McKinley – Review by Juls Dick

Collateral Damage: A Second Chance Mafia Romance (Mafia Elite Book 6)Collateral Damage: A Second Chance Mafia Romance by Amy McKinley
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Collateral Damage is the 6th book in the Mafia Elite series by Amy McKinley. I am really enjoying this series and have read all the books so far. I do recommend reading them in order as you get to know each of the characters individually and it will make the continuing storylines make more sense. In this book, Dr Trey La Rosa is tasked with finding the kidnapped stepdaughter of a colleague, but it is not as straightforward as it may seem at first. Trey and Hailey need to work together to find out her stepfather’s true intentions. I liked this book but feel it was a bit short, I would have loved more! I have so many unanswered questions but hopefully, some of these will be answered in Nico’s story. If you like a mafia romance with overbearing males but equally powerful females this is a series for you.

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Unabridged (Lovestruck Series Book 2) by Melinda De Ross – Review by Juls Dick

Unabridged (Smart & Sassy in the City, #2)Unabridged by Melinda De Ross
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Unabridged is the first book I have read in the Lovestruck series by Melinda De Ross, this is a charming second chance romance with a bit of action thrown in. When Angie left the love of her life, Blade, she thought that she would never see him again. She had convinced herself that she made the right choice for them both but has never let him go, focusing on her career instead. When she finds out that her new boss is none other than the love of her life, Angie doesn’t know what to do, so she runs. Blade has never forgotten her either and is determined to get her back. This is a fun story, I liked the leading couple, enjoyed the twist of the crazy ex, and the other supporting characters. I would read the next book in this series.

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Ruthless Heir (Mafia Elite Book 5) by Amy McKinley – Review by Juls Dick

Ruthless Heir: An Enemies to Lovers Mafia Romance (Mafia Elite, #5)Ruthless Heir: An Enemies to Lovers Mafia Romance by Amy McKinley
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Ruthless Heir is the 5th book in the Mafia Elite series by Amy McKinley, I think this was one of my favourites in the series so far. Each book in the series follows a member of one of the main 5 Chicago Mafia families and the nice difference in this book is that Luc doesn’t know he is part of the elite, through the mother he never knew he is the rightful heir to one of the 5 families. A successful businessman in his own right, he is surprised when he is forced to go to Chicago to discover his true heritage, taking his reluctant assistant Summer along with him. Summer is on the run from her past and doesn’t want to get involved with anything to do with the mafia but finds protection in the strangest of situations. I really liked this book, I have been enjoying all the books in the series, there is lots of actions, strong female characters and interesting storylines. Highly recommend, looking forward to book 6!

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Seductively Yours (Titans of Manhattan Book 3) by Anise Storm – Review by Juls Dick

Seductively Yours (Titans Of Manhattan, #3)Seductively Yours by Anise Storm
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Seductively Yours is the 3rd book in the Titans of Manhattan series by Anise Storm. Similarly, to the other books in this series it follows the lives of one of the most powerful businessmen in New York. This time it is Nightclub tycoon Mason, a playboy of epic proportions who is a love him and leave him kind of guy. When he has a chance encounter with Rhyann, a small-town Kansas girl who has come to the city to study dance, he struggles to process the feelings that she brings. I really enjoy this series; I have read them all so far and have struggled to put them down. I would recommend this book to anyone.

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Behemoth (Grimm Wolves MC Book 1) by D.M. Earl – Review by Juls Dick

Behemoth (Grimm Wolves MC #1)Behemoth by D.M. Earl
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Behemoth is a contemporary MC paranormal romance. Francis Stein is living a dual life, firefighter by day and MC biker by night (or days off). He has come to terms with the fact that the combination of his looks and his special talents for reading people, will mean that he is destined to be alone. When a chance encounter with an enigmatic child, Damian, on a school trip leads to him meeting his mother, Grace, Francis starts to rethink his view. Grace is against the MC lifestyle however can see past it to see who Francis really is. Complications however occur when Grace’s ex and his biker brothers do not want her to move on.

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A Hundred Wishes (Band of Sisters) by Marianne Rice – Review by Juls Dick

A Hundred Wishes (Band of Sisters)A Hundred Wishes by Marianne Rice
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

A Hundred Wishes is the third book in the Band of Sisters series by Marianne Rice. This is the first book of the series that I have read, and I was able to understand and follow this as a standalone. When military veteran Gina is retired from the Army on a medical discharge after being injured horrifically on tour, she makes the decision to move to a small community to be close to her best friends. She is content with her new life, slowly recovering from her injuries and adjusting to being a civilian again. She doesn’t expect to find love and is very reluctant to get involved with anyone. When she meets fire investigator Bryce, he makes his intentions very clear from the start, but Gina is not as sure. This was a nice second chance at life romance novel. The characters were likable, and you hope that they get the happy ending they deserve. I would recommend to readers who are fans of contemporary romance.

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Savage Secrets (Mafia Elite, book 4) by Amy McKinley – Review by Juls Dick

Savage Secrets (Mafia Elite, #4)Savage Secrets by Amy McKinley
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Savage Secrets is the 4th book in the Mafia Elite series by Amy McKinley. I have read all the books in this series so far and have nothing but praise for them. Each book focuses on the relationships between two mafia families. In this book we finally meet the elusive Elena, who has been presumed dead for a number of years. When the threat that made her leave initially finds out that she is still alive, boss Marco is sent to retrieve her. When reunited the pair get to know each other again, without a pesky arranged marriage in the way. I really like how strong the female characters are in this series, Elena especially has her own very valuable skill set that she can use to protect those she loves. Looking forward to reading book 5.

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Sinful Vow (Dark Mafia Sins, book 1) by Emily Bowie – Review by Juls Dick

Sinful Vow (Dark Mafia Sins, #0.5)Sinful Vow by Emily Bowie
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Sinful Vow is the first novel in the Dark Mafia Sins series by Emily Bowie. Luca Rossi is an orphan who, after a chance encounter when a prank goes wrong, becomes the heir to the Rossi mafia family. Aly is the daughter of the head of the Mancini family, the Rossi’s rival. When Luca meets Aly she is only 16, he becomes her shadow for the next few years maintaining his distance but making sure she is safe. When Aly is betrothed to someone else, Luca decides he has had enough waiting and makes his move. However, lines become blurred when what initially was a power move against a rival family becomes more. This is a fast paced steamy mafia romance with very likable characters. I really enjoyed the story and am looking forward to the next book in this series.

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Imperfectly Yours (Titans of Manhattan Book 2) by Anise Storm – Review by Juls Dick

Imperfectly Yours (Titans of Manhattan #2)Imperfectly Yours by Anise Storm
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Imperfectly yours is the second book in the Titans of Manhattan series by Anise Storm. This book follows Elsa and Anton in the turbulent few months after their fairy tale wedding. Elsa is a highflying New York real estate broker, while her husband Anton is a major player in Hollywood. Shortly after their wedding the pair experience a tragedy which threatens to tear them apart and their future together hangs in the balance. This book is so emotive, I got emotional at several parts as my heart broke for them. Without spoiling the story Elsa does not cope well with her loss and the strain of this, as well as missing her husband, has serious implications. I really enjoyed this story and feel that many readers will be able to empathise with them. I am looking forward to finding out more about the other Titans in the upcoming books.

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