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The Mastermind (WaterFyre Rising Book 1) by Nadia Han – Review by Angela Hayes

The Mastermind (WaterFyre Rising, #1)The Mastermind by Nadia Han
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

 

4 Stars

 

The Mastermind is the first book in the WaterFyre Rising series and debut novel by Nadia Han. It is a brother’s best friend/billionaire boss romantic suspense. It is well woven with enough intrigue, danger, mystery, tension, chemistry, dramatic developments, angst, push-pull, agendas, and deadly secrets to keep me flipping the pages to discover how it all plays out in the end.
I loved the camaraderie between the WaterFyre men and look forward to finding out more about each one, as their stories release. This is Remi’s story, the Mastermind of WaterFyre (you’ll have to read the book to find out what WaterFyre is), billionaire businessman, and brooding alpha-male. His latest business acquisition brings him back to his hometown, with all the painful and disturbing memories associated with it. But it is also home to his best friends, and a certain woman who intrigues him on so many levels. He shouldn’t feel attracted to Audri, after all he has known her since she was a child- she’s his best friend’s sister, and therefore totally off limits. But he also happens to be her new boss, and pretty soon it is hard to ignore the chemistry that has ignited between them. But danger seems to be stalking them, and dark secrets will soon be revealed- so strap yourself in for a bit of an intense ride as all is revealed.
There were some moments where I felt the story lagged just a little, or was slowed down by ‘flashbacks’- I do understand that the author was building backstory, but I felt that some of the momentum of the story was lost at these times- but, in saying that, this issue did improve as we got further into the book- and it didn’t detract from my overall enjoyment of the story.
Looking forward to ‘The Daredevil’ (Book #2), due to release in Nov 2022.
Happy Reading!

Thank you, Nadia Han!

 

Reviewed by @angelahayes

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Finding Starlight (Quimby Grove Book 1) by Shannon Nikole – Review by Wendy Wary

Finding Starlight (Quimby Grove #1)Finding Starlight by Shannon Nikole
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This book is a rollercoaster of emotions with big dips and breezy, weightless highs that left me with mixed feelings. I really enjoyed reading about Ellawyn and her journey to self-discovery in Quimby Grove. I loved that the author made her a strong, independent character and someone who perseveres through some really heavy life circumstances. The friendship she forms with Benji, and then Beckett and Max, was so sweet and genuine. A definite tear-jerker of a book, and I have a lot of respect for an author that can elicit emotion from his/her readers. I’m probably going to need a couple more days to process it all.

The Mastermind (WaterFyre Rising Book 1) by Nadia Han – Review by April McCoy

The Mastermind (WaterFyre Rising, #1)The Mastermind by Nadia Han
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This was a 10 out of 10 for me honestly. I was not expecting the outcome of this book and the characters were amazing!! So many twists and turns and unexpected antagonists! It truly had me on the edge of my seat one minute and swooning the next! This story was truly so well thought out and I would re-read this one over and over for sure! If you’re into angsty, push and pull, brothers best friend romances this one will NOT disappoint!!!

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The Happily Ever After Bookstore by Bernadette Marie – Review by Charlisa Wahtomy-Alba

The Happily Ever After BookstoreThe Happily Ever After Bookstore by Bernadette Marie
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This was a cute, feel good type book. Leona owns a bookstore which is her first love. She can find a book for any type of mood or situation whether it be new or old. She seems to be so focused on helping other people find their special someone that she doesn’t leave time for herself. That is until she meets Jon. Will Leona finally get the happily ever after that have been evading her?

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The Cave of Rúin Ársa (The Cross of Ciaran Book 3) by Andrea Matthews – Review by Misti Maggio

The Cave of Ruin Arsa (The Cross of Ciaran Book 3)The Cave of Ruin Arsa by Andrea Matthews
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I loved this book as much as the first two. The world building and character development were well done. I couldn’t put this book down till I was done. This book was the perfect addition to this series. I can’t wait to read more from this author.
Review by @mimimadge

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The Cave of Rúin Ársa (The Cross of Ciaran Book 3) by Andrea Matthews – Review by Kerry Baker

The Cave of Ruin Arsa (The Cross of Ciaran Book 3)The Cave of Ruin Arsa by Andrea Matthews
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is another brilliant book to this series. I would definitely suggest reading these in order so that you get a full appreciation of the story. It is so easy to get pulled into this book. It was well written and a pretty exciting read. I was completely invested in the characters and their lives. I wanted to see what was going to happen, be a part of their journey.
The author is doing a fantastic job of creating a strong and captivating series. Each book for me gets better and I always look forward to the next. This is a great series and I would urge everyone to read it.

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The Cave of Rúin Ársa (The Cross of Ciaran Book 3) by Andrea Matthews – Review by Jennifer Gordon

The Cave of Ruin ArsaThe Cave of Ruin Arsa by Andrea Matthews
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Having read and enjoyed the previous books in this series I was looking forward to reading this one, and I was not disappointed. I would recommend reading them in order as the storyline, a historical romance with a paranormal twist does continue throughout each novel. This was another wonderfully written and heartwarming story, which had me hooked from start to finish. Ciarán Donnelly is ready to leave his past behind and concentrate on his new life, however, he is suffering from horrible dreams. These dreams seem to be telling him that the long dead priest, Ruadhán, who had entombed him fifteen hundred years before, is now threatening to kidnap his unborn twins, but is he interpreting the dreams correctly.
The dreams and his anxiety about them are putting stress on his new marriage to Caitlin, who believes the dreams come from Ciarán’s own insecurities over becoming a father. After all, the chances of Ruadhán suffering the same fate as Ciarán and having survived over fifteen centuries is very low. But when his brother Aodhán discovers an empty tomb in the Hills of ár Sinsear that appear to have been occupied, it looks like Ruadhán could have survived after all, but if so is he a risk to Ciarán‘s family. The descriptive narrative and the historical details bring both the settings and the era vividly to life, making me feel immersed in the story. The characters are likeable and so well defined that after three books I now feel like they are old friends. An enjoyable and engaging read which is a real page turner and one which left me thinking about it long after I had read the last page.

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Queen of Hearts (Heels, Rhymes & Nursery Crimes Vol. 21) By Natalina Reis – Review by Dawn Daughenbaugh

Queen of Hearts (Heels, Rhymes & Nursery Crimes, #21)Queen of Hearts by Natalina Reis
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

5 Stars
Queen of Hearts (Heels, Rhymes & Nursery Crimes Vol. 21) By Natalina Reis

Queen of Hearts (Heels,Rhymes &Nursery Crimes Vol 21) is a fast paced retelling of the classic Nursery Rhyme and made it much darker and more adult like. I’ve read several books by this author and her style of writing is like no other ,her ability to pull you in from the beginning and doesn’t let go till the end. Her characters are well developed and fun and she makes them come alive. Queen of Hearts is by far my favorite yet. It’s a bit darker but I absolutely loved it. Every man in town better watch out for The Queen of Hearts because she’s very determined to make them pay for all the bad things they’ve done. I don’t want to give to much away . I highly recommend reading this book to find out what happens next. You guys don’t want to miss out on this incredibly written story. I can’t wait to read more from this Author.

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Queen of Hearts (Heels, Rhymes & Nursery Crimes Vol. 21) By Natalina Reis – Review by Trish Taub

Queen of Hearts (Heels, Rhymes & Nursery Crimes, #21)Queen of Hearts by Natalina Reis
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

I enjoyed the spin on the Queen of Hearts. I like her fierceness and cleverness. It was enjoyable to watch the different events unfold for the prey she chose. I am hesitant to give more detail because I do not want to spoil the delectable ways of the queen. I hope to read another by this author.

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Queen of Hearts (Heels, Rhymes & Nursery Crimes Vol. 21) By Natalina Reis – Review by Ashley Hasting

Queen of Hearts (Heels, Rhymes & Nursery Crimes, #21)Queen of Hearts by Natalina Reis
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This Queen of Hearts gives a cruel justice to men who abuse and torture women. She’s good at what she does. So much so that a man comes out of nowhere to help and assist. She’s had a rule about men after her past, but ever so slowly she welcomes this one as her partner in crime. They go through a very hard trial that takes a lot, but it’s so good!! Cheers to a great book!

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Queen of Hearts (Heels, Rhymes & Nursery Crimes Vol. 21) By Natalina Reis – Review by Lorralei Hoerner

Queen of Hearts (Heels, Rhymes & Nursery Crimes, #21)Queen of Hearts by Natalina Reis
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

My first sight of the book cover alone I knew I had to read this book…the cover is totally stunning!

Intriguing story and kind of a guilty pleasure in a dark way…it is all about revenge…. They call her
The Queen of Hearts….a different take on the story. Mimi, The Queen of Hearts, is smart and deceiving…but rightfully so. Men know no boundaries when they believe they win against The Queen of Hearts..but later they find out who truly wins at this “game”.

This book is a quick read, but wow….the story of deceit, lies, revenge against truly cruel men …. a twist and take on The Queen of Hearts story…but oh so worth it!!

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Queen of Hearts (Heels, Rhymes & Nursery Crimes Vol. 21) By Natalina Reis – Review by Jenni Bishop

Queen of Hearts (Heels, Rhymes & Nursery Crimes, #21)Queen of Hearts by Natalina Reis
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Heels, Rhymes, & Nursery Crimes is a 27-book series and each book is written by many different talented authors. Queen of Hearts by Natalina Reis is just one of them.

Queen of Hearts with its deliciously dark and twisty themes are what you get in this fantasy romance book. Natalina never fails to give the reader something in the realm of unusual and that is what I love about her work.

A quirky look at a nursery rhyme with crimes that is full of thrills and intrigue, suspense and mayhem. This is a short little novella and a great quick read that is definitely entertaining.

She loves to take on anything in lipstick and high heels. You’d better stay out of her way or you could be next. But you will never see her coming, or will you?

I look forward to reading each and every book in this quirky series.

Reviewed by @jennadb

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Queen of Hearts (Heels, Rhymes & Nursery Crimes Vol. 21) By Natalina Reis – Review by Kelli Harper

Queen of Hearts (Heels, Rhymes & Nursery Crimes, #21)Queen of Hearts by Natalina Reis
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This story was well written. The story line is fabulous. To use her place at the head of the “house of ill repute” as a means to get close to the ones she is targeting. You can even tell that she is anxious about the tasks she is carrying out.
Then she ends up with help and they are able to target the biggest offender. Will they be successful?

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Queen of Hearts (Heels, Rhymes & Nursery Crimes Vol. 21) By Natalina Reis – Review by Kerry Carr

Queen of Hearts (Heels, Rhymes & Nursery Crimes, #21)Queen of Hearts by Natalina Reis
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Wow I really enjoyed this story. It is an amazing story about overcoming your past and learning to trust and love again. I love the characters of Mimi and Jac. Both are strong determined characters that need to let down their guard to learn to love. Both of them have suffered in their pasts and their connection and attraction is unreal.

Mimi is a survive of domestic abuse. When she flees her home she takes up residence at a brothel called Ace. Here she plots to get her own back on men who cheat and abuse their wife’s/partners. She never kills but makes them feel the pain and humiliation that they inflict.
Things were going smoothly until her new supplier of herbs arrives called Jac.
Jac knows what she does with the herbs he provides and he wants to help her.
Can Mimi trust him? Is this all a trick? And what is the strange feelings she is experiencing when she’s around him?

When they go for their next target this is the thing that links them. The target is the man who killed Jacs sister. When their normal plan backfires Jac has to think fast to save Mimi.

Their love grows through this story and you can actually feel the moments that help to built trust between them and breaks down the cold walls that Mimi has kept around her heart.

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Queen of Hearts (Heels, Rhymes & Nursery Crimes Vol. 21) By Natalina Reis – Review by Lisa Helmick

Queen of Hearts (Heels, Rhymes & Nursery Crimes, #21)Queen of Hearts by Natalina Reis
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is a short…not sure if I should say sweet story. It is set back in the early times when men were scoundrels and not married women are ladies of the night. In here the men are dark, devious and mean. One woman the Queen of Hearts sets out to right the wrongs of the men. She is rather ingenious and while they call it a crime, I think its pretty smart. Dangerous for her but a smart way to “fix” them.

I enjoyed reading this. Natalina Reis always gives me a story that reaches boundaries. This one does that with a Bonnie and Clyde theme running through here. I have not read the rest of the series but this one seems to be a standalone as I had no problems following along.
Ps Love the Cover!

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Queen of Hearts (Heels, Rhymes & Nursery Crimes Vol. 21) By Natalina Reis – Review by Cindy Mayberry

Queen of Hearts (Heels, Rhymes & Nursery Crimes, #21)Queen of Hearts by Natalina Reis
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

What a fun story. The fact that the Queen of Hearts wants to put a stop to abusive/cheating men, makes this story even more worth the read. This is a new author to me, but I could not resist reading this story. This fast paced story had me on the edge of my seat. I was captured before the first page ended and did not stop reading until the last page was turned. We all know the nursery rhyme, now read the author’s story. The characters are believable and make you feel like your friends. I’m Not going to give out spoilers! All I can tell you is take the chance on this author, you won’t regret it. Now I’m off to read more from this new author..

Review @cinful

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Queen of Hearts (Heels, Rhymes & Nursery Crimes Vol. 21) By Natalina Reis – Review by Angela Hayes

Queen of Hearts (Heels, Rhymes & Nursery Crimes, #21)Queen of Hearts by Natalina Reis
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

 

4.5 Stars

 

Queen of Hearts by Natalina Reis is #21 of the Heels, Rhymes, & Nursery Crimes multi-author series. I snapped up a copy of this book as soon as I saw Natalina Reis had a new release- and how gorgeous is the cover- I couldn’t have resisted it even if I wasn’t already familiar with the author’s work.

This is a dark take on the Queen of Hearts nursery rhyme. Ms. Reis has taken a beloved nursery rhyme and twisted it- producing a darker version full of fantasy and superb world building. I am not going to spoil it for you by giving away too much- but suggest going in a bit blind and let the author and her story surprise you.
It can be read as a standalone, but after reading this, I am intrigued by what the rest of the series might contain, so I will be doing some investigating to see what else I can find in this series.
Happy Reading!

Thank you, Natalina Reis!

 

Reviewed by @angelahayes

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Queen of Hearts (Heels, Rhymes & Nursery Crimes Vol. 21) By Natalina Reis – Review by Mercedes Jones

Queen of Hearts (Heels, Rhymes & Nursery Crimes, #21)Queen of Hearts by Natalina Reis
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Mimi, or as many know her, The Queen of Hearts, is not out for blood but revenge. She plays the game so well, the men think that they are winning even when they are about to lose what means the most to them. Poisoned wine but not the killing kind. What does the poison do? Read this tale and find out. Mimi is a spunky woman who will never be treated unfairly by a man again. She sticks up for the women around her and tries her best to give them the justice they deserve. This book was fun, thrilling, and a bit twisted but a very good quick read.

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Queen of Hearts (Heels, Rhymes & Nursery Crimes Vol. 21) By Natalina Reis – Review by Lauren West

Queen of Hearts (Heels, Rhymes & Nursery Crimes, #21)Queen of Hearts by Natalina Reis
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Little gems like this are what brighten my days. This novella was short, sweet, and spicy.
Our beloved fairy tales takes us down a dark path with unexpected results. This is only on book in a series of 27 twisted and dark versions of our beloved childhood nursey rhymes. Darkness has shadowed the light and this is other side. Jac and Mimi were perfect characters and our Queen of Heart is much more than meets the eye. It was a wonderful change to the story and the other fairy tales are already next on my list!

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Queen of Hearts (Heels, Rhymes & Nursery Crimes Vol. 21) By Natalina Reis – Review by Amanda Haller-Doris

Queen of Hearts (Heels, Rhymes & Nursery Crimes, #21)Queen of Hearts by Natalina Reis
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This was my first story by this author and I am so glad I took a gamble on the getting this book! I wasn’t sure what to expect, but this fast paced short story definitely kept me on the edge. I devoured the story and didn’t stop reading until I got to the end. We meet Mimi the Queen of Hearts, a gambling woman in a house of ill repute, who uses her looks and her games to ensnare the bad guys and teach them a lesson. One by one she will make them all pay, but when one of the richest and evilest men steps foot into her game, will it be too much or will the Queen of Hearts prevail? In a short story, the author was able to fill it with vivid descriptions and well-rounded characters with depth and heart. A definite page turner!

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No Pistol Tastes the Same (PTSD Disaster Book 1) by Jacob Paul Patchen – Review by Erica Fish

No Pistol Tastes the SameNo Pistol Tastes the Same by Jacob Paul Patchen
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is a new author for me. I was not sure how I would react to this story, Being that this is a story about PTSD, it hits close to home. I enjoyed the way Jacob Paul Patchen told this story. The attention to detail was phenomenal. To me, that is what makes this book interesting. I recommend having enough time to read it in one sitting because you will not put it down. His characters are realistic. They are fully developed and personable. Could you take down a child in a suicide vest, especially since it resembles one of your own? Will you become a changed person? Through all the emotions, this book is enjoyable. I highly recommend this book to see that the struggle is real.

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Jake the Growling Dog Shares His Trail (Jake the Growling Dog Book 3) by Samantha Shannon – Review by Shannen Kern

Jake the Growling Dog Shares His TrailJake the Growling Dog Shares His Trail by Samantha Shannon
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I enjoyed this story so much! It has cute rhyming throughout but is also very informative. I thought it taught wonderful lessons on encountering something that might make you scared and uncomfortable. Jake also learned how to be more inclusive going forward which is a terrific thing to start learning at a young age. It wasn’t too short either which was nice as it had more depth than most books aimed towards children. I also really enjoyed the guides at the end of the book, they are very helpful! The rest of the “Jake the Growling Dog” series are just as wonderful so don’t forget to pick them up as well!

Reviewed by @shannlynn

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Human Hearts (Draco Sang Trilogy Book 3) by Mary Beesley – Review by Cintia Leyva

Human Hearts (Draco Sang #3)Human Hearts by Mary Beesley
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Where to even start? Human Hearts was the perfect conclusion to the Draco Sang saga. From page 1 you are pulled into the world and adventures of Jade, Ferth and Suza. Their trials and growth are incredible to read about and impossible to put down once you start.
The epic world building and finale were exhilarating through the end. Absolutely loved every moment of it and binged it in just a few days!

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Finding Starlight (Quimby Grove Book 1) by Shannon Nikole – Review by Kristine Solano-Witucky

Finding Starlight (Quimby Grove #1)Finding Starlight by Shannon Nikole
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This book is absolutely one of my new Favorite. I love Ellawyn, she is so strong for knowing it’s better to get out then staying put with someone who is abusive. It sucks that she had to leave he family behind just to get away. I like Beckett because he loves his pops and uproots his life to be with him during this difficult time. He is so funny when he sees Ellie for the first time, he thought something was going on between the two. I love love love this book so much and hope there is more to come.

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Distant Heart Sounds (Nurse Morgan Series Book 1) by Kate MacInnis – Review by Dessalynn Acosta

Distant Heart Sounds (Nurse Morgan #1)Distant Heart Sounds by Kate MacInnis
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Morgan is an ER nurse who recently survived a life-threatening aneurysm and is ready to get back to her busy life at the hospital. She starts noticing odd happenings; disconnected voices, odd smells, raging parties in her house in the middle of the night, among other eerie occurrences! Could her head trauma be causing these strange phenomena? Are spirits haunting Morgan? Great story and character development, definite page turner.

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Distant Heart Sounds (Nurse Morgan Series Book 1) by Kate MacInnis – Review by Amanda Meady

Distant Heart Sounds (Nurse Morgan #1)Distant Heart Sounds by Kate MacInnis
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The author combines day to day life with the supernatural in a way that makes it seem natural. The character development helps bridge the gap between two worlds by making the reader feel like they know the characters. This book was easy to read and as I finished up, I was already looking forward to the next book in the series. If you are looking for something light with a glimpse into another dimension, this is definitely a book for you!

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Distant Heart Sounds (Nurse Morgan Series Book 1) by Kate MacInnis – Review by Stephanie Nordling

Distant Heart Sounds (Nurse Morgan #1)Distant Heart Sounds by Kate MacInnis
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Morgan is a warm and with character that is written so that you want to follow her along in her journey. She doesn’t know what’s happening and you learn as she’s learning. The characters are all unique from each other and each brings their own brand of wit. If paranormal mystery romance is your preference, this is for you. It’s like a cozy mystery but with spirits. Morgan takes all of these new experiences in stride and is always willing to believe that they are possibly paranormal with a healthy dose of logic. And, of course, there’s Dr. Lightfoot. The romantic interest who can help her navigate this new found life twist. Highly recommended for relaxation reading.

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Devil’s Breath by Lang Johnson – Review by Katrina Jones

Devil's BreathDevil’s Breath by Lang Johnson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This book had a slow start but once you got into it, WOW! Sera has so much depth to her character that it really draws you in.
The relationship you witness between Sera and Cassius is truly captivating. They have such great banter and you can feel their feelings through the story.
I will absolutely read from this author again in the future!

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Deadly Sommer (Nora Sommer Caribbean Suspense Book 1) by Nicholas Harvey – Review by Ana Evelyn

Deadly Sommer (Nora Sommer #1)Deadly Sommer by Nicholas Harvey
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is the first book from this author that I’ve read. I see there is a prequel but I haven’t read it, and thankfully I never felt confused or lost. I loved that this book had a storyline that sucks you in and makes the story come to life (in my mind). I’m an empath so I tend to take on peoples emotions or feelings (even when reading), so when this book had sooo many plot twists and turns I expected to feel queasy. However I felt somewhat excited, full of anticipation, and felt on the edge of my seat. That never happens for me, usually I need to stop reading and take a break! This book was well written and easy to follow. A fast paced – page turner kind of book! Overall really good suspenseful read, strongly recommend!

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Caging Grace (Grace Series Book 1) by Carsen Lane – Review by Mary Espinoza

Caging Grace (Grace Series, #1).Caging Grace (Grace Series, #1). by Carsen Lane
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Caging Grace is a powerful and emotional story about dedication, determination and overcoming barriers. Grace is strong, determined, passionate and is doing everything she can to care for her younger sister and her mom. The chance comes for Grace to make some big moves in her life, she jumps on it! Some amazing characters are thrown her way including Johnny, her trainer and Dar, a rich, snotty kid who isn’t as big and bad as he seems on the surface. Grace, Johnny and Dar end up bringing out the best of each other and they build amazing relationships are true and genuine. From page 1, I was captivated by Caging Grace, she has to deal with quite a bit of adversity, and is determined to succeed from it all!

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Mary Espinoza, June 2022