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Love Between the Lines by A.D. Brazeau – Review by Lisa Helmick

Love Between the LinesLove Between the Lines by A.D. Brazeau
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I really liked the idea of this story. The model and the writer. The writing flowed nicely and the characters held my interest. The story is relatively low key. My major issue is the friends drama really overpowered the main story. It’s was too much information about them and their predicaments. The girls night would have been good with just touches of Iris and Lucy and keeping the focus on Marlow and Heath. I did enjoy the character of Iris very much. She added some fun to the story.

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Forged by Secrets (Deadly Isles Special Ops, book 3) by Amy McKinley – Review by Lisa Helmick

Forged by Secrets (Deadly Isles Special Ops, #3)Forged by Secrets by Amy McKinley
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

While this started off a little confusing for me (Timeframe). It actually got better as the book went on. I enjoyed getting to know Malina (whose name I love) and even Tyler. The best thing about Tyler is his mindset about Malina. He is fun and flirty and definitely possessive of her. I also enjoyed hanging out with his brothers and their women. One of my fav scenes with them is the Top Gun scene. Just made me smile and smile!

Overall this might be my favorite of the series. And that cover? It add to the delight!

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THE ISTANBUL HEIST (CODE RAVEN SERIES Book 8) by LYNDA FILLER – Review by Lisa Helmick

THE ISTANBUL HEIST: Code Raven 8THE ISTANBUL HEIST: Code Raven 8 by Lynda Filler
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is a fast paced story! It’s one of the things I enjoy about this series. Tons of action, wonderful friends and always a secret comes to light. This story revolves mostly around Luke, Samaar (his wife) and child Alice. Years have gone by and Alice is a teenager now but appears more mature. That isn’t the only storyline David and Rachel run Across an issue that the team is trying to figure out.

Overall this is a good solid story. Its I retesting to see how far and where these characters have spread their wings to.

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The World Beyond the Walls: epic dystopian eco-fantasy (Natural Forces Book 3) by Jean Gill – Review by Lisa Helmick

The World Beyond the WallsThe World Beyond the Walls by Jean Gill
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is the third book in this series. The story holds true to the other two. I would recommend reading them to follow along more easily in here. The characters are lively and there seems to be a lot of movement between the Citadel and the Forest.
I did struggle with this one a bit. There is a lot of looking into the scenes and not a lot of dialogue. That is the type of story I am not a huge fan of. I enjoyed the discussions the characters had as the story unfolded. I got their meanings and felt their feelings. Panic, fear, loyalty and friendship.
Overall while the story is good it’s not my favorite of the series.

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The Executive’s Decision (The Keller Family Series Book 1) by Bernadette Marie – Review by Lisa Helmick

The Executive's Decision (Keller Family, #1)The Executive’s Decision by Bernadette Marie
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Office Romances are one of my favorite go-to genre. So when I saw this book it was a no brainer. I am so glad because this book is amazing. It has thrills and chills, fun and sun with delightful characters who come into their own.

I love how determined Zach is to get her to date him. Their first meet was inspiring and that first date was adorable! Zach is an ideal guy..hard in the office and a big softie out. Regan didn’t want to fall into the same trap she had once before. She is involved but always holding Zach at arms length. I loved her business savvy. Their story is one of my favorites…a definite reread.

The Keller’s are quite a different family. I loved their uniqueness and how they stand together! Zach’s mom is fun and delightful. Always pushing but she never seems over the top. I look forward to the next in this series but I’m thinking this office romance will be my fav.

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Secure Her (The Chase Security Series Book 4) by R.L. Dunn – Review by Lisa Helmick

Secure Her (Chase Security #4)Secure Her by R.L. Dunn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Do you want a story that makes you not want to put it down? How about stay up reading late into the night? THIS is that book! It took me on a ride of ALL of my emotions and I loved the charcTers for all their difference and strengths. Every once in a while a book comes along that just touches me..this is it.

I was hesitant at first because of the whole Dom/sub storyline. That is not something I care to read about. I was wrong. This author did an outstanding job of showing part of this lifestyle. The rest of the book has suspense, drama and action

Zack! You are one of a kind! Devoted, smart and sexy. I loved everything about you! You impressed me with you heart and soul. I could really *feel* the connection you and your treasure. While at times I hated what you both went through..the connection between you gives everyone hope.

Saoirse…Dang Girl! You are strong and resilient! I hated but loved reading your story.

Overall this is my favorite book I have read by this author. She had great follow through on all storylines and characters. I was impressed by this book and it left me feeling happy.

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Hacker (The Mercenaries Series) by Nadine Travers – Review by Lisa Helmick

Hacker (The Mercenaries, #2)Hacker by Raven White
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is the second in the series. In here we meet Hacker and Marie. There is a ton of action and some crazy times. I wanted to love this but Hacker seems flat. Some working background would be wonderful. See him at his job and bonding with the team. He is deemed a computer expert but nothing is shown in here to that aspect other than at the gunfight he seems to want to “talk” the others down. Marie is a mafia princess treated like dirt. About to be sold off for marriage she asks for help from Hacker. She wants to fight for her rights and does show some moxy later in the book. Her personality does a 180 deg turn that threw me off. Then the ending confused me as to why they both are doing nothing.

Overall this has some good points and is a quick story. It covers the action well and throw in mafia mentality. It moves along at a fast pace that easily keeps my interest. I wish the characters were more well developed so that I could *like and feel* them.

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Witness (Ash Park Series Book 9) by Meghan O’Flynn – Review by Lisa Helmick

Witness: An Ash Park Novel (Volume 9)Witness: An Ash Park Novel by Meghan O’Flynn
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is one ride I didn’t want to get it off. The story is one of this authors most twisted. It filled me with sadness but it’s quite a mystery/thriller. We follow Ed Petrosky as he navigates a kidnapping gone wrong. It quickly turns into murders and cults. We get to see Shannon again but not really in the capacity I expected. A case from their past (both Ed and Shannon) can bring them together to tear them apart.

The epilogue was something I didn’t expect. I think I read it a couple times to understand it. I feel like we will be going back again to the past.

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10 Days by KJ Holliday – Review by Lisa Helmick

10 Days10 Days by KJ Holliday
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

This beginning of this book was great! I enjoyed the inner dialogue of Alex and his stress of going camping. I was really getting to *feel* for the characters. Then something happened. It just stopped…well maybe dwindled away. The story became hyper focused on teaching him camping and the discovery of love. The ending picked back up and became the fun loving story. The dynamic between the three was good. Problem was half the time I couldn’t remember they are older characters because their antics seemed like teenagers. I liked the insight into Penny’s character.

Overall this started with a huge promise of a wonderful story. It lost its way but found it again in the end.

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Price of a Rose: a Beauty and Beast tale (Historical Fantasy Fairytale Retellings Book 2) by Byrd Nash – Review by Lisa Helmick

Price of a Rose: A Beauty & Beast Tale (Historical Fantasy Fairytale Retellings Book 2)Price of a Rose: A Beauty & Beast Tale by Byrd Nash
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Wow! I enjoyed this retelling of Beauty and the Beast. The book is perfect and the writing is fluid. The story really touched my curious side. The world that was built is set back in time but that some magical elements to it. That house! I would love to wander around and open doors just to see what would happen.

The characters are fantastic and The real fun starts upon meeting them. They come in all shapes and forms and each one added to the story. Some are gruff, delightful or devious. I was held in awe as each one was introduced. Wondering who they are and what they can do.

Overall this is simply outstanding and I loved it. It left me with a smile of my face and lightness in my heart. The author did a great job with the world and the characters. This is my favorite of hers yet!

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Slash & Burn (Nite Fire Book 4) by C. L. Schneider – Review by – Review by Lisa Helmick

Slash & Burn (Nite Fire, #4)Slash & Burn by C.L. Schneider
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is quite the story. I love reading more about Dahlia and her escapades. There is a lot that happens and it really kept me on my toes. Even re-reading passages to make sure I am understanding the flow of the story. Do you like action? Well this one has it in spades! Deceit, trickery and strong friendships all Fall into line within the story.

We meet new characters and say hello to some old ones. Each on add some spice and fire to the story. Dahlia has been fighting for her life, her friends and even sometimes her enemies. She is strong if mind and body as she struggles to understand what is happening to her and her town. Evans is still a great side kick and they have a few comedic moments. Creed is up in the air and not really sure which side he is landing on.

Overall this is a nice add to her series. The characters all come to life in their roles. The story has many ups and downs so be prepared. It looks like this might not be the end for her but we will see.

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Vengeance (The Sundown Series Book 5) by Courtney Konstantin – Review by Lisa Helmick

VengeanceVengeance by Courtney Konstantin
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The Duncan’s just ROCK! I can’t help but be impressed by this group. They are living in a difficult world now but have become stronger as the days go by. This story kept me reading and on the edge of my seat. Never knowing what was going to happen next unless it involved the infected (then…I knew). The emotions and thought process I went through while reading was enormous! Fright, worry, tears (yes I teared up!), happiness as well as wondering how I would do as one of these Characters…pretty sure the answer is not well.

The characters are simply Bad to the Bone! They all have little issues but they each have wondrous strengths that complement each other. Alex is the leader/mother type figure. But don’t cross her because she will go “Mamma Bear” on you! Rafe and all his knives… he just impresses me! He is a physically and mentally strong one. Max is on another level than these two. She speaks her mind, has one goal and loves her family. I loved watching how these and the others band together and fall apart.

This is an interesting series. I have only read a couple books in here. Each book explains what has happened or is happening to everyone so they are basically stand alones. I loved reading this and look forward to the last in the Sundown Series!

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Third Time’s a Ghost (Haunted Ever After Book 3) by Carrie Pulkinen – Review by Lisa Helmick

Third Time's a Ghost: A Ghostly Paranormal Romance (Haunted Ever After, #3)Third Time’s a Ghost: A Ghostly Paranormal Romance by Carrie Pulkinen
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is the last of this series. While I liked Gage and wanted his ever after…I can’t say I loved this book. It’s a second chance romance with some ghost issues. The story just didn’t call to me but it could others. I didn’t feel connected to either character other than the evilness from the mirror. It was easy (for me) to figure out how this one would go. The characters seemed indifferent. While Gage is a good secondary character he needs more to hold his own as a lead. His sisters did not really add to the picture.

So overall I usually enjoy this authors imagination but this one fell flat for me. It just didn’t grip me and make me not want to put it down. The evilness in here made this one a little dark. Not my cup of tea but it could be yours.

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Second Chance Spirit (Haunted Ever After Book 2) by Carrie Pulkinen – Review by Lisa Helmick

Second Chance Spirit: A Ghostly Paranormal Romance (Haunted Ever After #2)Second Chance Spirit: A Ghostly Paranormal Romance by Carrie Pulkinen
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This takes a bit of a scarier tactic on the ghost side. There were times I thought there might be black shadows in my corner and it creeped me out. This also has romance which is hot and steamy between a couple characters we met in book 1. I met and liked them. Tina is smart and sassy. She owns her sexuality and doesn’t apologize for it. Trent is a cool as a cucumber womanizer. He works had and loves to play. He does have a few secrets that show up in here. The story flows nicely but it has the edgier feel to it. Like I stated before it takes a little turn and is mostly a haunted ghostly story with a side of romance.

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Love at First Haunt (Haunted Ever After Book 1) by Carrie Pulkinen – Review by Lisa Helmick

Love at First Haunt: A Ghostly Paranormal Romance (Haunted Ever After Book 1)Love at First Haunt: A Ghostly Paranormal Romance by Carrie Pulkinen
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is an enjoyable read. The writing made me wonder what was going to happen next. All of the characters are solid. Each has a secret and they worry that the other will not like what they learn. I enjoyed them meeting and everything that came after.

The secondary characters were wonderful. They are interesting and fun and add to the story. I hope we get to see more of them in the future.

Overall I Enjoyed this and zipped through it fairly quickly. I look forward to reading more.

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Nobody Knows (Razes Hell Book 1) by Kyra Lennon – Review by Lisa Helmick

Nobody KnowsNobody Knows by Kyra Lennon
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is one story that really drew me in! The writing flowed so nicely that I couldn’t help but get involved with these characters. The author did a good job of having me live in the present while periodically taking me on a trip down memory lane. That made me love and care about these three friends. This triangle they have is a tough one. Ellie seems to be in the push and pull between the boys no matter how hard she tries to not be there. It’s a tough spot to be in. She cares for both but hurts one when she pays attention to the other. This is quite a journey for her as well.

Overall I loved it. Getting to know these three is as easy as hanging out with my bestie. The story is a short portion of their lives but yet I feel like I have known them their whole lives. This is a great story and I look forward to more.

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Bound by Secrets (Deadly Isles Special Ops Series Book 2) by Amy McKinley – Review by Lisa Helmick

Bound by Secrets (Deadly Isles Special Ops, #2)Bound by Secrets by Amy McKinley
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The beginning I had a few problems with while reading. There is issue between Kayla and her ex seemed weird and not natural. Four months isn’t long and their whole situation just didn’t flow or fit. Maybe more time spent on that would have made it and her fear more believable. Second hugging and all up in Jax’s business at the first meeting?? I mean ten years is a long time and they had one night together…that just seemed rushed as well.

Otherwise it’s a good story. I liked getting to know Kayla and her troubles (not current). While I empathized with Kayla she is all over the map emotionally. Too much. Jaxon is a strait forward guy who has held secrets for years.
This has some surprising moments. I was shocked over some and expected others. It was artfully done to make everything difficult to figure out.

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At All (The Adams Brothers Book 3) by Mindy McKinley – Review by Lisa Helmick

At All: Adams Brothers: Book 3At All: Adams Brothers: Book 3 by Mindy McKinley
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I just can’t believe how much I loved this story. I really was looking forward to Seb’s and I was worried it might be too dark. I was bothered for no reason. I was concerned he would be self centered but nope…Seb is just the nicest, sweetest guy. I enjoyed getting to know a bit more about him. Maelie is exactly what he needs. I could see it coming about as they got to know each other. I really could feel the connection between these two.

I love love LOVED all the great scenes with his brothers and family. The fun and teasing makes me just smile fondly and I just soak it up. I have a few fun passages highlighted just as a reminder how thankful I was to get to know this family.

This author does a good job of making me enjoy the book as well as fall for these characters. The is a last book of a wonderful series. It you want a light hearted story and leaves you with the feel-good fuzzies….pick this or this series up.

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Capturing Fate by Abbie Roads – Review by Lisa Helmick

Capturing Fate (Fatal Truth, #2)Capturing Fate by Abbie Roads
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This author does it again! She WOWed me and I became obsessed with this book! I couldn’t believe what was happening…with just about every swipe of the page! Envision….eyes bugging out of head and mouth dropped open! I kept repeating what…the WHAT?

Shocking and surprising are the two words I would say describe this story. I couldn’t stop the expressions flitting across my face or the stuttering of words coming out of my mouth. (See above 😉)

This book is closely intertwined with the first book in the series. A lot of the same characters with the two main ones telling a story of their own. I have no words to say about them other than devotion and stunned! Figure that out!

While the story might be crazy, fascinating and MIND BLOWING it ends on a happy note with me ginning my face off. (A great epilogue always does me in!)

If you have read this far….just one click already!

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Titanian’s Phoenix: Titanian Chronicles by Victoria Saccenti – Review by Lisa Helmick

Titanian's Phoenix: Titanian ChroniclesTitanian’s Phoenix: Titanian Chronicles by Victoria Saccenti
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Well this author just smashed this book out of the park! I am impressed with the world building, characters and story line. I just couldn’t get enough. I enjoyed watching Maya take her journey and find her way. She is a smart gal and that just help enhance her in her new life. Soren is a protective, possessive guy! He is all about making sure she is safe while he leads the other enforcers.

The secondary characters are plentiful and delightful. The author does a good job not overwhelming us with a bunch of characters all at once. They are slowly introduced which helps build their characters as well as the connection to the main ones.

Overall this is excellent. The story took me on a journey and the characters kept me interested. There is lively conversations. I eagerly look forward to more!

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Daddy’s Girl (Freshwater Book 3) by Belinda Williams – Review by Lisa Helmick

Daddy's Girl (Freshwater Book 3)Daddy’s Girl by Belinda Williams
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This story just really pulled at my heart strings. At first it’s all sassy and fun then the serious stuff hits. It’s weird for the male lead to be the one thinking they are unworthy. But Joel does and it plays out full of heartache and strength of character. As you can tell I enjoyed this story. It has depth, hope and strength. This drew me in with the fun and I became fully involved with the storyline.

I loved the spunk and fire of Em. She knows her self worth and doesn’t let others think less. She is kind, thoughtful and smart. Joel is surprised by Em. She is not what he was expecting…she is better. They have ups and downs to conquer and Work, family, friends and the past to all figure out how end up together …or apart.

Over all this is a story that affects my heart. It was filled with joy, sorrow and relief. I love it all! It was great to chat here u with the characters from the previous books.

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At Once (The Adams Brothers Book 2) by Mindy McKinley – Review by Lisa Helmick

At Once (Adams Brothers, #2)At Once by Mindy McKinley
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I have looked forward to this book ever since I read book 1. This is another nice read from this author. I enjoyed how Mason was thrown completely off kilter in dealing with Gabi. He starts off very loose with his morals but once he see Gabi he really starts to come into his own. Gabi..I didn’t love her character. She is a great friend, artistic but she has a weird past with an ex and she is very hush-hush about it and him. I feel this didn’t get explained or resolved to the reader very well. Changing numbers and blocking calls…I don’t know this just didn’t feel right to me

It was lovely to Dom and Lu as well as Seb and their Mom again. They all have wonderful interactions with each other. Kylie is a super BFF and business partner of Gabi. I loved seeing these girls looking out for each other.

I look forward to Seb’s story.

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Black Dog Rising by Kat Caulberg – Review by Lisa Helmick

Black Dog RisingBlack Dog Rising by Kat Caulberg
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This story really keeps my on my toes. One minute I can’t wait to figure out who everyone is. Then the next I feel like I have been slammed against a wall and I have no idea what it going on. Each of the characters is filled with mystery but they each have a purpose. Some of them conflict and others they coincide.

With all that being said…I still could not wait to get back to this book every day. If you love the Fae and all their trickery, then You will enjoy this foray with the Unseelies.

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Murder at Lolly Beach (Eve Sawyer mystery series Book 2) by Jane Suen – Review by Lisa Helmick

Murder at Lolly Beach (Eve Sawyer #2)Murder at Lolly Beach by Jane Suen
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

This is a nice mystery that moves along at a quick pace. I like that this author uses short chapters to move the story along in a quick fashion. The story is good and even though this is the second in the series it can be read as a stand alone. The characters are choppy and they leave holes. But this seems to be part of the quick pace. Fully fleshed characters are not needed. Just read until the end to get all the answers.

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Twisted Secrets (Deadly Isles Special Ops Book 1) by Amy McKinley – Review by Lisa Helmick

Twisted SecretsTwisted Secrets by Amy McKinley
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

I normally enjoy this authors work. This one I struggled to connect with the characters and the story just didn’t do anything for me. Well the mystery side of thing did surprise me. Not sure what the problem really was with the rest, Just that I felt bored while reading at times.

The idea for the story is a good one and throw in a little mystery and BAM an nice read. The characters each have their own lives before he “hears her voice” and they come together. I did like the honesty that Riley had and used frequently.

Overall this is an okay read but just not for me.

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Dance of Hearts: a Cinderella Regency Romance Retelling (Historical Fantasy Fairytale Retellings Book 1) by Byrd Nash – Review by Lisa Helmick

Dance of Hearts: a Cinderella Regency Romance Retelling (Historical Fantasy Fairytale Retellings Book 1)Dance of Hearts: a Cinderella Regency Romance Retelling by Byrd Nash
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is a quick read that encompasses a wonderful faery tale. It is easy to read and enjoyable. It’s been a while since I’ve read a historical romance. I was delighted in being taken back to a different time. The story moves at a fast pace. The character easily drew me in. While I didn’t connect much with the Davenports, the two guys seemed fun and I liked their camaraderie.

Overall for a sweet, fun read..this is your book! Who doesn’t love a little faery tale?

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The Longest Run: a Ski Patrol Rescue Romance (Lawson Family #4) by Tracey Cramer-Kelly – Review by Lisa Helmick

The Longest RunThe Longest Run by Tracey Cramer-Kelly
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The beginning of this book starts out with a BANG! It literally gave me chills! I loved reading this! Reading about a ski patrol job is as interesting as it probably is exhausting. I enjoyed all the little details and joy that came with Carly’s job.

I was excited to get Carly’s story. And Chris? He is a total surprise and shock. I enjoyed his tenacity and strength. He was a winner in my book already even before getting together with Carly.

It is nice to see her brothers, wives and kids. Catching up is alway fun with them. I want to give a shout out to Taylor. He is a friend of Chris’ but he goes above and beyond his duties. He is the Best kind of friend there is.

Overall this is a wonderful story. I don’t feel Carly’s issue was as big as her brothers stories. But still a problem for her. Chris really stole the show for me.

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Matching Miriam by Mya O’Malley – Review by Lisa Helmick

Matching MiriamMatching Miriam by Mya O’Malley
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Well this is a surprise! I enjoyed this and read it in one setting. No I’m not a speed reader..this is just good. The characters are fun and the story just kept me busy. I was trying to figure out who is the murderer. Guess what? I didn’t do it. I was suspicious but I didn’t guess right. Kudos to the author!

Overall it’s a good mystery with some romance. It’s nice to meet new characters and see some old ones. This author always keeps me on my toes and this book is no exception.

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Crave (Clark Family Series) by Evelyn Sola – Review by Lisa Helmick

Crave (Clark Family Series Book 1)Crave by Evelyn Sola
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Wow! I really enjoyed this book! It is family drama that makes you question a few things. Something that is never thought about. When certain family members are fighting how does it affect everyone else? Choosing sides? Ignoring? Or just never visit? This story took me on a journey. It involves a family that has been broken apart and a girl who could be the answer everyone seeks.

This story just would not let go of me! I wanted answers and I couldn’t put this down until I had them all. The characters are misguided, flawed and all looking for something. They are all simply delightful from the two MC to their respective families. I want to give a shout out to Sandra’s mother. She brought some joy to this and made me smile whenever she encountered those boys.

That epilogue!!! OMG I cracked up! Such a great ending plus setting up another book. Perfect!

I just really loved this and look forward to more from this series or this author.

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Stormy’s Thunder (Satan’s Devils MC Utah #2) by Manda Mellett – Review by Lisa Helmick

Stormy's Thunder (Satan's Devils MC Utah #2)Stormy’s Thunder by Manda Mellett
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Wow the Utah chapter surprises me time and time again. I just never really know what is going to happen in the story when they are involved. While stating that I really enjoyed the story. It’s not a favorite but there are many areas in here that I loved and others I just tolerated. Besides that this is greatly written and I loved seeing more with Swift and the guys from the mother chapter.

Stormy has always been a character you either hated or loved. He is argumentative, bossy and doesn’t care for anyone…brothers included. He makes changes in here and becomes a nicer guy who isn’t out For only himself. I never saw him or expected him to find someone he could care about. I think that surprised me the most.

Overall this is a good story. Not my fav but still strong and worthy. These Utah boys are always a surprise.

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