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Blue Summer Part One by Everly Taylor – Review by Karen Pearman

Blue Summer Part OneBlue Summer Part One by Everly Taylor
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This was a first for me by this author and not really quite what I expected it to be. However, it turned out to be just as good, if not better, than what I thought when I started. I did feel like there was much more that needed to be written when I finished it, so I am glad to now know that the second part is now available. I am hoping that this will continue and finish off some of the questions that I had from this one. I will say that after a few chapters in I found myself immersed in a world of romance, magic, mystery, and a lot of laughter. The main character is brilliant on so many levels and I truly wanted to be in her little world. It was a fast read for me and I felt like I needed it to go on longer than it did.

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Elusive: Dark Billionaire Mafia Romance (Billionaire Bodyguards Book 5) by Via Mari – Review by Karen Pearman

Elusive (Billionaire Bodyguards #5)Elusive by Via Mari
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I was super excited for the next book in this series. And this was perfect. The author has an amazing talent of drawing you into her stories with the way she describes every little minute detail. You can tell that she certainly does her work based off the description of each character, items, and surroundings. I can visually imagine it in my head while reading her books. This was probably my favorite couple she has written about so far in her series. Their chemistry is so steamy yet as with all good stories there is always something standing in their way. If you are a fan of sexy, steamy, mystery and suspense then this is a great selection to read.

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Walker Pride (The Walker Family Series Book 1) by Bernadette Marie – Review by Karen Pearman

Walker Pride (The Walker Family, #1)Walker Pride by Bernadette Marie
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This was the first time reading a book by this author but was a recommendation from a friend so I thought I would pick it up and give it a try. I’m glad that I did. While I didn’t immediately get into the story I am glad that I continued reading because it turned out to be a fantastic book. I expected it to be just a romantic story, but it contained quite a bit of suspense as well. The author did a really great job with the twists and turns she incorporated into this book and I found myself really wanting answers and the truth. The main characters are so different, yet so alike and meant for one another. I can’t wait to read the next installment in this family read.

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CHAMELEON by Zoe Kalo – Review by Karen Pearman

ChameleonChameleon by Zoe Kalo
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I have never read a book by this author previously, but I found it to be very intriguing once I got into the first few chapters. I thought that her way of developing the characters was different but in a positive way. There was a lot of mystery, secrets and lies. No one could be trusted and just when you thought you knew what was about to happen a curve in the road lie ahead to throw you off course. It was a mystery. A puzzle that you had to put together and the last piece wouldn’t be put into place until she was ready. I really didn’t feel a huge connection with any of the characters but could sympathize with them with their dark pasts. If you love books that will keep you on the edge of your seat right up until the end, then this is the right book for you.

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The Way to Storey by L. B. Anne – Review by Karen Pearman

The Way to StoreyThe Way to Storey by L.B. Anne
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This was a delightful & fun read from the very beginning. I read this book in about 3 hours that was how much I couldn’t get enough of it. The main character is such a smart, adventurous, and brave girl. She reminds me a lot of Merida from the Disney movie “Brave”. However, I think the author did a really great job with all the characters as they all have their own abilities and skills to use in various ways. She did an amazing job describing the surroundings as well and I feel like I need to take a trip there. This is a great adventure and a definite recommendation for your kids. Especially the ones that love fantasy worlds. And I must say that as an adult I thoroughly enjoyed it and recommend it for you as well. Or perhaps, pick it up and read it to your kids. I think this would be a great bonding and sharing time story.

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Southland Academy for Supernatural Youth by Sandra Tentler and Brooke Tentler – Review by Karen Pearman

Southland Academy for Supernatural YouthSouthland Academy for Supernatural Youth by Sandra Tentler
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This was a highly entertaining paranormal children’s story. I personally can’t wait to see how and what develops in the next installment. These characters were so entertaining I connected with them from the beginning. In my opinion, the characters brought this story to life. This is written by a mother/daughter author team and THEY DID A GREAT JOB! I found myself flying through this book. It’s aimed at early teen readers, but like the Harry Potter books, this is a great read for all ages. I highly recommend parents sit down and read this book alongside their kids. I will say I would like to see this book come to either a TV or movie screen in the future. I loved it.

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Our Wicked Lies by Gledé Browne Kabongo – Review by Karen Pearman

Our Wicked LiesOur Wicked Lies by Glede Browne Kabongo
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is the first book I have read by this author and I must say I thoroughly enjoyed it. There were so many twists and turns that I didn’t see coming which made me want to keep reading to find out the ending. The author did a great job describing the characters and their relationships. I loved that she writes the story from multiple points of view as this just adds to the story in my opinion. I was drawn in from the beginning that it felt so realistic that and lifelike. Just what I like in a thriller.

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Tapestry of Worlds, Part Two: Running and Gunning by Hadley Thorne – Review by Karen Pearman

Tapestry of Worlds, Part Two: Running and GunningTapestry of Worlds, Part Two: Running and Gunning by Hadley Thorne
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is the second book in this series by this author. I haven’t read the first book, but this cover stood out to me and reminded me of the Halo series covers, and I love that series. I was impressed with this book and will be reading the first one as well. I thought that the author did a fantastic job making the characters real and her description of the world around was phenomenal. I found this to be a very fast paced read and a real page turner. If you love books or games like the Halo series then you will love this book. I can’t wait to see what happens in the next one.

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Bake Believe by Cori Cooper – Review by Karen Pearman

Bake BelieveBake Believe by Cori Cooper
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I ABSOLUTELY LOVED THIS FABULOUS BOOK! This was a first time read by this author, but it will not be my last. The characters were so real that I felt like I was back in the late 80’s/early 90’s in my high school years. This is geared towards middle school/young adult readers but let me just tell you adults that you are missing out if you don’t pick it up and read it for yourself. You will be taken back in time to the teen angst and the years that you “knew it all” but really knew nothing at all. The characters are both adorable and lovable. You may even find that you long for the main character to be your best friend. Or like me, wishing I could have been her in her school years. Some of these recipes had my stomach growling and me feeling as though I needed to get into the kitchen and do some baking. It is so worth taking the time to read especially if you are looking for a great book to read alongside your daughter. Pick it up. You won’t want to put it down. I hope there is a sequel!

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Love is What You Bake of It (The Meraki Series Book 1) by Effie Kammenou – Review by Karen Pearman

Love is What You Bake of itLove is What You Bake of it by Effie Kammenou
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is a new author to me, but one that I can see myself reading more of from now on. I found this love story quite enjoyable. There was a lot of romance, some disappointment, drama, and tears on my part. But it was worth the read. Oh, and it left me starving in the end. For food. As in the delicious delectables that she describes in such a way that had me salivating. I thought that the characters were amazing, and I would love to be friends with them. The author did a great job of pulling at my heartstrings with this story. I look forward to reading more of the books by this author.

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Murder at Honeybee Lake (Shadow of a Doubt Book 2) by Jessica Aiken-Hall – Review by Karen Pearman

Murder at Honeybee Lake (Shadow of a Doubt, #2)Murder at Honeybee Lake by Jessica Aiken-Hall
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

So, after reading the first book in this series I had to pick up this one to continue. And it didn’t disappoint. I will say I do highly recommend you reading the first one before this if you haven’t. Just as with the first book, the author continued to have me reading as fast as I could to see what happened next. She has a way with words that keeps you enthralled in the story. Not only is this a paranormal mystery, but there is a love story intwined that will keep you on the edge of your seat and tear at your emotional heartstrings. Personally, these characters made the entire story come to life. And as with any good mystery you will find yourself pointing fingers at certain individuals but watch out who you blame because people may be destroyed in the process. Read it to find out if your suspicions are correct.

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Rebecca Remains by Jessica Aiken-Hall – Review by Karen Pearman

Rebecca Remains (Shadow of a Doubt, #1)Rebecca Remains by Jessica Aiken-Hall
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is the first book by this author that I have read, and I was hooked from the moment I started reading it. I found it to me a suspenseful book that I couldn’t put down. I was so wrapped up in all the secrets, lies and deception that was taking place I was sitting on pins and needles until the end. And to be quite honest, I was sweating when I reached the end from all the elements that I read. Great book and one that I highly recommend if you are into paranormal crime and mystery. I think she did a fabulous job describing everything and everyone in this book. In some areas, too much because I was a little frightened and looking over my shoulder in some places. Overall, a fabulous read and I look forward to reading other books by her as well.

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Betrayal at the Beach (Dangerous Curves Book 1) by K.L. Montgomery – Review by Karen Pearman

Betrayal at the Beach: A Cozy Christian Mystery (Dangerous Curves Book 1)Betrayal at the Beach: A Cozy Christian Mystery by K.L. Montgomery
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I was super excited to read this book because I had heard so many good things about it from my reader friends. I have read a couple of books by this author previously so I was pretty sure I knew I would like it. Turns out, I didn’t just like it. I LOVED IT! The author did a wonderful job writing for “plus-sized” women that don’t normally get this joy. I think it adds to a positive image for the readers and makes them feel confident and comfortable in their skin. Which is the way that life should be for women. This book also contains some religious undertones which I have never known her to do before but think that they are perfect, and I hope that she continues to use them. The world needs more of that in my opinion. I fell in love with the main character and really want to be her in another life. The writer did such an amazing job describing her and everything little detail around her and her world. This is a mystery as well, but without all the typical gore and brutality. I loved the ending and absolutely cannot wait to read the next installment when she puts it out. This is a very quick read and once you start you won’t want to put it down. I highly recommend you read this book for yourself. And then recommend it to all your girlfriends to read as well.

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Relentless: Dark Billionaire Mafia Romance (Billionaire Bodyguards Book 4) by Via Mari – Review by Karen Pearman

RelentlessRelentless by Via Mari
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is the second book by this author I have read in the Billionaire Bodyguards series. I think I enjoyed this one as much as the previous book honestly. I am quite glad that I had read book three otherwise I would have been a little out of the loop, but I don’t think it is necessary as a reader to have to read it. You could pick it up without it, but it may take a few more chapters to really get into the nitty gritty and understanding of it. As with the previous book this one is also full of action and adventure, drama and danger, and sex, secrets, and suspense. In other words, everything that a keeps me interested and gripping the edge of my seat reading. Just as with the previous book, the author does a tremendous job of keeping the characters interesting and their connection instantaneous. A recommended book from me.

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Key West Dead (Jake Wolfe Book 6) by Mark Nolan – Review by Karen Pearman

Key West DeadKey West Dead by Mark Nolan
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This book starts off with a bang. Literally. And wow, does the story only grow page by page. I am not usually a fan of this genre, but it was recommended by a friend so I thought I would give it a read. And I am glad that I did. I could see this story becoming a TV movie with all the action and romance taking place. I don’t think it would be a good fit for Hallmark but would be perfect for the Lifetime channel thanks to the murder and mystery that keep you in suspense. I loved the way the characters worked to solve their crime and even included a bomb sniffing dog as well. I love animals so it’s always nice to see them get their share of a story line too. I haven’t read any of the previous books featuring these two detectives, but after reading this one I certainly plan on it.

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Queen Of My Heart (Life Won’t Wait Book 1) by Nikki Lynn Barrett – Review by Karen Pearman

Queen Of My Heart (Life Won't Wait Book 1)Queen Of My Heart by Nikki Lynn Barrett
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is an amazing love story, so if you love contemporary romance books then you will find yourself engrossed in this one. At least I did. It is set in the country music scene which I didn’t think I would enjoy as much as I did since I am normally more of a rocker chick. However, the author created a page turner set inside of a world I wanted to find my own self living in. The characters growth throughout the story is so good to see because it really does have a lot of real-life issues I could also relate to. This, in my opinion, always makes a story better. I have read a few other books by this author, so I know her writing draws me in on all levels. If you have never read a book written by her before I think you will find her to be a new favorite writer of yours.

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Sure As Hell (Life Is Hell Book 4) by Naomi Valkyrie – Review by Karen Pearman

Sure As Hell (Life is Hell #4)Sure As Hell by Naomi Valkyrie
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is apparently the fourth book in a series of books by this author. I have not read and of the previous books or any books by this author until I picked up this one. I enjoyed this book, but I really do wish I had decided to read the previous books before diving into this one. I feel like now I need to go back and read all three of those and then re-read this one again. There were certain relationships in the book that I was unfamiliar with and feel like having read the previous books would have helped with that. I will say that this book made me laugh, cry, feel anger and sadness and felt very realistic. The writing was great, and the author did a great job with describing everything in depth. Towards the end of the story, I was on the edge of my seat to know the outcome with which I wasn’t disappointed. This is a great read and one that I would highly recommend you checking out. But make sure to read them in order of the series to get a better understanding of the characters and relationships.

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Fake Fiancé (A Second Chance Office Romance) AUDIO BOOK by Amy McKinley – Review by Karen Pearman

This was my first audiobook ever. And I loved it. I have always been concerned about listening to a story and not being able to connect with the characters, but I found that is not the case. This is a phenomenal book from this author. I think she did a really great job drawing me into the story and keeping me interested in the characters and what would happen to them in the end. I found this story relatable and very funny with some mystery and romance mixed in. I really hope that she has at least one additional book planned for these characters because I feel there is so much more that can be written about them. Also, the narrator was phenomenal, and I thought did a perfect job with inflection and tone of voice throughout this reading. I feel like I could have listened forever that was how enjoyable it was.

I Will Bury You by Brandy Nacole – Review by Karen Pearman

I Will Bury YouI Will Bury You by Brandy Nacole
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This thriller was AMAZING! Seriously, it was unlike any other thriller I have ever read. The author did an amazing job with the plot twists that kept me on the edge of my seat trying to figure it out. I was so engrossed in this book that I didn’t want to put it down. In fact, I stayed up almost all night to finish it and gosh was I floored by the turns that it took and the ending. My theories kept changing but I wasn’t ready for the ending that she knocked me out with. I think the writer did a wonderful job piecing the story together to fill it with not only suspense, but great deception as well. The characters were great, and it was exceptionally well written. This was the first book I have read from this author, but I am looking forward to reading more by her. Don’t pass up your chance to read a really great book in this thriller.

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Try Right (Aloha Series book 3) by Jill Brashear – Review by Karen Pearman

Try RightTry Right by Jill Brashear
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is the third installment in a series by this author. I have never read the previous two books or any other books by this writer. I was intrigued by the cover as I am drawn into books about the beach. What I found was a FANTASTIC story that sucked me into the Hawaiian waves from the beginning. I was quite concerned because I hadn’t read the previous books but after reading it I don’t think that’s necessary. I could literally see this story happening before my very eyes that is how vivid the writing and details were. Not only did she tug at my heartstrings, but she took me on an emotion roller coaster ride. I have never been to Hawaii but have always wanted to go. This book has only made that desire increase because I can only imagine how breathtaking it is in person since the scenery in my head was so visually stunning. The characters had great chemistry yet so much turmoil that had me on the edge of my seat wanting to know what the conclusion would be. I intend to pick up the previous books to read them as I have fallen in love with this writer. I hope that she will continue their stories.

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In Over Her Head: Lights, Camera, Anxiety (The Cecily Taylor Series Book 2) by Krysten Lindsay Hager – Review by Karen Pearman

In Over Her Head: Lights, Camera, Anxiety (The Cecily Taylor Series #2)In Over Her Head: Lights, Camera, Anxiety by Krysten Lindsay Hager
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is the second book in the young adult series by this author. And I found it to be the perfect follow up from the previous book. I enjoyed reading this book as much as I did the first one. I am in love with these characters and their relationships because I find their story to be very relatable to life. Even life as an adult with the ups and downs of relationships. I have always found these young adult stories to be my favorite genre because they are good, clean fun books but the stories deal with anxiety, love, and drama. Not to mention there is always twists and turns along the way to keep me on the edge of my seat. I think that this is a perfect book, well series, for all female teens to read today. I think that they will find it relatable in many ways I think because they are pushed so hard by their family, friends and even their own selves to be better. However, sometimes all of that pushing is too much for them and what they really need is time to figure things out on their own to make their own decisions in life.

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Wolf’s Beautiful Beast (The Untold Stories Book 3) by Suzanna Lynn – Review by Karen Pearman

Wolf's Beautiful Beast (The Untold Stories, #3)Wolf’s Beautiful Beast by Suzanna Lynn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

After reading the first two books in this series I couldn’t wait to get my “fangs” into this one. WOW! Just wow! That’s all I can say honestly. I truly love how the author uses so many of our favorite childhood fairy-tale characters to interweave this series. It’s truly amazing! As with the previous two book installments I was immediately pulled in and felt like I was “a part of their world”. There are some new characters introduced in this book that honestly made the story even better. And that’s one of the things that I love the most about these stories is how all these characters interact with each other in their realms. I cannot stress enough how in love with these books I am. Nor can I tell you to read them enough. But seriously, go read this series. You will not be disappointed at all.

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Peaceful Slumber (Soul Connection Book 1) by Nikki Lynn Barrett – Review by Karen Pearman

Peaceful Slumber (Soul Connection, #1)Peaceful Slumber by Nikki Lynn Barrett
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I’m not normally a paranormal genre fan, but the writing in this story had me hooked. I’ve never read a book written by this author before, however she really carried me on a ride of emotions with her writing. These characters are very interesting, the writing is phenomenal allowing the plot to flow easy. All things that I love in a book. I loved the paranormal aspect of this story as it’s not something I normally seek out. However, this one was intertwined with a mystery and a love story, so it kept me thoroughly intrigued with the ending. I was on the edge of my seat at certain points of this book and was not disappointed with the ending. I highly recommend you pick up this book and read it.

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Evil Sushi (Evil Sushi Series Book 1) by C.A. King – Review by Karen Pearman

Evil Sushi (Evil Sushi #1)Evil Sushi by C.A. King
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I didn’t think I would like this book at all. Turns out that I loved it! It was a thriller that had me hooked from the appetizer to the dessert. I’ve never read a book by this author previously, but the cover caught my attention because it reminded me of a geisha mask which I love. Reading the back of the book I decided to give it a try. And I’m thoroughly glad that I did. I will say I am a huge horror fan, and this is full of that. In fact, it’s got a bit of everything in it and will leave you scratching your head wondering what is going to happen next. I found it hard to put down and finished it in a day. I think that the author put a lot of time into the details and description, so you feel like you are viewing it in person. At least I did. I will certainly be looking for more works from this writer.

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Jake the Growling Dog Goes to Doggy Daycare: A Children’s Book about New Experiences, Friendship, Stress Relief, and Kindness (Jake the Growling Dog) by Samantha Shannon – Review by Karen Pearman

Jake the Growling Dog Goes to Doggy DaycareJake the Growling Dog Goes to Doggy Daycare by Samantha Shannon
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is a very cute and adorable children’s book about a dog and his friend. I personally loved the rhymes that went along with the cute illustrations. I found this to be a relatable book and Jake to be a very relatable character. I think that this would be a wonderful book to share with you child who is going off to daycare, kindergarten, or camp for the first time in their lives. There are so many animals pictured and incorporated into the story that I think any child will love it, but especially those that love animals. I don’t have any kids of my own to read the story to, but I would think that with the eye-popping illustrations and strong message that are given it should be a book on all kid’s bookshelves.

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Auctioned (Billionaire Bodyguards Book 3) by Via Mari – Review by Karen Pearman

Auctioned (Billionaire Bodyguards, #3)Auctioned by Via Mari
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I have never read any books by this author as romantic suspense isn’t a genre I usually read. I was recommended this book by a friend that had read it, so I decided to give it a try. I must say that I was very impressed. Apparently this is part of a series by this author but each one is a stand-alone book so it’s not like a typical series where you are lost when you start reading. That I loved. She pulled me into the book almost immediately. I found that the characters were very relatable and realistic. I was able to stay engaged in the story thanks to the action taking place and the authors description that made me sense that I was watching this story firsthand. This is a fast-paced story line and not only was I turning the pages quickly, but I was on the edge of my seat during some parts. I was so intrigued that I plan to pick up the first two books in the series that I missed. This is an author I will keep my eyes on for more to come.

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Scorching Hot Mess by Brooke May – Review by Karen Pearman

Scorching Hot MessScorching Hot Mess by Brooke May
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I was concerned about this book as it is out of realm of my normal genres. Also, I wasn’t familiar with the author as I haven’t read any of her previous books. However, I will say that after reading this book I am going to check out some of her other books because that’s how much I enjoyed reading this one. I must say that I found this to be a very well written romantic story. The characters were very relatable I thought and while filled with their romantic journey there was quite a bit of drama mixed in as well. I found myself laughing out loud at a lot of the mess that she has managed to get herself into that makes her a “hot mess”. In fact, there were some instances that made me think back to several of my friends during their college years. This was a quick read for me because I found myself turning the pages to get to the end of the story. I was intrigued from the first chapter to see where and what was going to happen with this train wreck, and I wasn’t disappointed. It was a wild but fun ride.

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Red’s Tangled Tale (The Untold Stories Book 2) by Suzanna Lynn – Review by Karen Pearman

Red's Tangled Tale (The Untold Stories, #2)Red’s Tangled Tale by Suzanna Lynn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I just got around to reading this book after finishing Hook’s Little Mermaid earlier this month. And I must say that this was a great follow-up story in the series. I am a huge fan of fairy-tales and this was no exception. The way that the author mixes different fairy-tale characters within one another is phenomenal. She takes these characters that we already know and love so well and makes them into the heroes that we know they are just didn’t have the rest of the story to go with them. She also may or may not foretell of some characters for the future books, but she will keep you engaged and guessing. And trust me, you will love the way she weaves the stories and characters together. I will say that if you haven’t read the previous book then you may have some issues with the story so keep that in mind if you decide to read just this story.

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To be a Fae Queen by Tricia Copeland – Review by Karen Pearman

To be a Fae Queen (Realm Chronicles #1)To be a Fae Queen by Tricia Copeland
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I found this book to be really well written and easy to read. It took me a few chapters to really get into but once I did I was in a magical realm of fairies I didn’t realize I would enjoy. I felt as though I was in this beautiful world so visually stunning in my mind. At times I felt like I was the main character and experiencing her challenges and difficulties. This is a coming-of-age story and the character must standup and fight her way to be the rightful heir to her throne. And it’s not an easy ride I can tell you that. I am expecting this to be part of a series of books, or at least I am hoping that it is. I can only imagine that the ride, or flight, gets even better.

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Ocean’s Light (Blood of the Pirate BOOK 1) by Mina Chara – Review by Karen Pearman

The Ocean's LightThe Ocean’s Light by Mina Chara
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is the first book in a series by a new author for me. The cover is what caught my eye and enticed me to pick up this book to read it. I love books related to pirates so just seeing the ship on the cover drew me in. And gosh did this book sail me on an ocean adventure. I found this to be a fast-paced story and was filled with quite a bit of action. I found that the family story felt familiar to me from the “Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Men Tell No Tales” movie to some degree. Perhaps that was a reason that the story resonated with me so much and I enjoyed it. If you enjoy books related to pirates, ships, and finding lost treasure then you will find this book as enjoyable as I did.

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