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Rule Breaker by Phoebe Alexander – Review by Liz Vrchota

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Rule BreakerRule Breaker by Phoebe Alexander
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Once again I am just a girl staring at her computer screen wondering where to start with another fantastic Phoebe Alexander novel. I can’t possibly do this storyline justice outside of what has already been said in the blurb, and frankly I couldn’t bear to ruin a single thing with spoilers so you won’t find them here. For all the fabulous details you will have to take my highest recommendation to discover the wonder that is a Phoebe Alexander novel.

I will tell you I adored the characters in this book. Athena is a fierce woman who has embraced herself and is doing her best to live her best life. Warren was funny and doting, something I really loved seeing and made him relatable and lovable. Ramsey is the sexy heat of the book really and sounds swoon-worthy. The ‘thriple’ that ensues is one sexy, intriguing, and enjoyable read! Prepare for the steamy scenes that Phoebe Alexander is famous for doing so well. I know there were several tall glasses of ice water consumed during the reading of this book lol. I can’t wait to see what else Ms. Alexander has in store for us!

Review by @lizaileen
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Siren’s Call: Cursed Seas by Amy McKinley – Review by Liz Vrchota

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Siren's Call: Cursed SeasSiren’s Call: Cursed Seas by Amy McKinley
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Siren’s Call would not be my typical go to read, but anything that is by the talented Ms. McKinley I have to get my hands on regardless of what it is supposed to be about. I have never been disappointed yet with a novel of hers and this one is no exception to the rule. I loved the way Amy McKinley wrote this twist on Greek Mythology and spun into it a complex tale of love and life as a woman.

I will admit that the first few parts of the book were slow to start, but it was evident that was due to the story being set up to take off into a beautiful tale I couldn’t stop reading. I was glad I remained patient because the way the story unfolded was absolutely perfect and quite frankly it captured my number one favorite spot of Amy McKinley’s novels. I won’t go into much more detail than this or what she has chosen to divulge in the blurb. I couldn’t bare to spoil one moment of the journey. You will just have to take my ultimate high approval and word for it. I can’t wait to see what will come next from the talented Amy McKinley!

Review by @lizaileen
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Bound (The Torzial Affair Book 2) by Via Mari – Review by Liz Vrchota

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Bound (The Torzial Affair Book 2)Bound by Via Mari
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Bound is the fabulous second installment in the Torzial Affair novels from the ever-talented Via Mari. I would recommend HIGHLY that you read book one, Shattered, before you dive into this one. There is some major groundwork laid out in that one that makes this book possible. I will be doing my best to not divulge any spoilers but I can say that this is the continuation of Jenny and Brian’s story. They have a whole set of obstacles to overcome, will they be able to do it together and without compromising their love for one another in the process? It was one heck of a ride with plenty of twists and turns to keep you on your toes and enthralled as you read. I love the way that Via Mari can spin a tale with an originality. Even if it is an old trick so to speak as far as story lines go she manages to sweep you away in a flurry you wouldn’t expect. I can’t wait to see what will come in the series next. I am sure it will be enthralling and wonderful.

Review by @lizaileen
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Finding Ruth: A Daughter’s Quest to Discover Her Mother’s Past by Cynthia Hamilton – Review by Liz Vrchota

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Finding RuthFinding Ruth by Cynthia Hamilton
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Finding Ruth is not my typical type of go to read, often biographical books just tend to not keep my attention quite the way fiction books do. However, I adore Cynthia Hamilton and her Madeline Dawkins novels have really been some of my absolute favorites that I have read this year so I decided I needed to give this one a go as well. I am so glad that I did. It was eloquently written story that I never expected to grasp me by the heartstrings quite the way that it did.

Finding Ruth tells the life story of Ruth, Hamilton’s mother. I can’t imagine how that must have felt to do, especially with knowing the outcome of the life secrets and trials she would unearth. I loved how this never failed to stay real, it was quite frankly raw and beautiful in all its scarred edges. I really ended up absolutely admiring Ruth for the life she managed to live, and give to three children on her own. It makes you feel really lucky to have the things I do as a mother, I couldn’t imagine doing without some of the basics like Ruth does so often. There isn’t really a negative comment I could make about this novel. I would highly recommend that you scoop it up! I can’t wait to see what will come from the ever talented Cynthia Hamilton.

Review by @lizaileen
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Ruin: The El Diablo Chronicles by Autumn Sand – Review by Liz Vrchota

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Ruin (The El Diablo Chronicles)Ruin by Autumn Sand
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Wow! I know, I know, cliche to start with, but honestly just, WOW! This book completely consumed me and frankly still plays through my mind a few days later. Of course, this is the type of book that a book junkie like me chases, but the true delight comes with the one that were unexpected. Don’t get me wrong I have enjoyed previous works of Autumn Sand in the past but this book puts her on the must stalk list… err follow religiously LOL.

Prepare yourself for Raymond and Tallie. These two will sear the cover on your kindle and leave you thirsting for some water. Some scenes do tend to hit some possible trigger warnings so do note that. However, Sand does a wonderful job of writing even the difficult scenes with a class that is effortless. These two both have pasts and when things are all thrown into the pot at once you are bound to get some serious storylines cooking. I can’t divulge much more than the blur about these two, but I can assure you that the time spent reading it for yourself will be well worth every sizzling moment. I can’t wait to see what will come next in this series!

Review by @lizaileen
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Proper Impulse (Jaded Lily Book 4) by Zeia Jameson – Review by Liz Vrchota

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Proper ImpulseProper Impulse by Zeia Jameson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Zeia Jameson really hits the mark with Proper Impulse. This is the fourth book in her Jaded Lilly series, and honestly my favorite of the bunch. It could be read as a stand alone but I would recommend that you take the time to read the previous three books before diving into this one. The characters are rich with detail behind them that is only gained by reading the series in completion and order.

This one gave us the fabulous story of Milo and Juniper. What isn’t to love about these two? Milo lives and breathes his life as a police officer. It is bread into him and he is just wired to follow the rules. Well, Juniper is literally the oil in the water with her sweet free-spirited liberalism. She is all about bending those laws as far as they can go. So you can see the equation for a fun and interesting relationship between the two, especially when you start to add ‘feelings into the mix. I won’t give away anything else but I can guarantee you won’t want to miss out on seeing how things play out for Milo and Juniper.

Review by @lizaileen
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Happily Ever After – Brothers of Camelot Style by Necie Navone – Review by Liz Vrchota

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Happily Ever After - Brothers of Camelot StyleHappily Ever After – Brothers of Camelot Style by Necie Navone
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Well, first I must start with the title, Happily Ever After – Brothers of Camelot Style, how stinking awesome is that. Now if I had never read anything from Necie Navone prior to this I would have still scooped up this read simply based on the title. I love novels like that, especially when they live up to the fabulous title they are carrying. This is part of Necie Navone’s Brothers of Camelot series so I would recommend that you read the previous published novels before this one if you get the chance to do so knowingly. It is possible to read as a standalone, but it would be in my opinion difficult to really fall for the characters or know them for who they are. S

This was the story of Bella and Fitz, and it was so eloquently perfect. I absolutely adore Bella and she really wins over the reader’s heart pretty easily. I can’t see a more perfect match that the charming Fitz either. He too was a fun and engaging character that has the ability to swoon the lady readers. I can’t recommend this read enough, and while your at it grab the rest of the series. You will want them on hand to ease the book hangover this will surely cause you.

Review by @lizaileen
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Undercover (Billionaire Bodyguards Book 2) by Via Mari – Review by Liz Vrchota

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Undercover (Billionaire Bodyguards Book 2)Undercover by Via Mari
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Via Mari never ceases to amaze me with her novels. One of the unique things, in my opinion, of Mari’s writing is that she tends to rewrite of sorts tales that we have seen, but she adds a sort of pizazz and spin that is incomparable. Each time I finish one of her novels, I am often left missing the characters as if they were missing from my very own life.

Undercover is book two of the Billionaire Bodyguards series and follows along the story of Marenah and Matt. First off, how wonderful of a name is Marenah! The character has a special flair right out the gate with a name like that and she only manages to make you fall in love with her more and more as you delve into the story. I was also a fan of Matt. These two have some obstacles to overcome, and not just the basic ones you see on the surface. With Marenah being the granddaughter of the head of the Russian Bratva she already has complexities you don’t normally face. But there is even more to her that that and as each twist unfolds about her I was sucked in deeper. Matt seems like the perfect Alpha male to me. I really enjoyed how he carried his dialog, not being condescending or cliche.

I will definitely be back for more with the next book to come. I also want to note that Via Mari has several other books in this genre that is worth a scoop while if you love this one!

Review by @lizaileen
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Unchained Memory (Interstellar Rescue Series Book 1) by Donna S. Frelick – Review by Liz Vrchota

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Unchained Memory ( Interstellar Rescue Series Book 1)Unchained Memory by Donna S. Frelick
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Unchained Memory was a new experience for me as a reader, both with this author and this sort of sci-fi book being one I chose to pick up. I normally don’t choose sci-fiction laden novels without lots of high recommendations. This one however drew me in with some fantastic teasers on my feed. I had to see what was to come, and I am so excited to report that this was nothing short of fantastic.

It is hard to describe a lot of this novel’s story without giving away details that I feel would disappoint the reader if they were spoiled. The blurb provided really does a great job of summing things up and drawing you in, it doesn’t fall short of all the excitement you imagine whilst reading. I personally really enjoyed Asia’s character. Her emotions were strong and felt through the kindle screen as I read. I am even more excited that there will be more to come from this series, Interstellar Rescue Series. While I wait for that to release I will go visit some of Donna S. Frelick’s previously published works.

Review by @lizaileen
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17 Marigold Lane (Prudence Penderhaus Book 1) by R.M. Gilmore – Review by Liz Vrchota

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17 Marigold Lane17 Marigold Lane by R.M. Gilmore
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

What an OUTSTANDING read! R.M. Gilmore was a completely new author to me when I picked up 17 Marigold Lane, but she will now be on my top fav list! I must check out all that is available from her now! This book is one that completely consumes you from the very first page to the last twist and turn to the end. I found myself so engrossed that I barely noticed the ticking hours well into the early morning hours, sleep be darned. I was so sad to see this end, but find solace in the fact that there will be more Prudence Penderhaus novels.

Prudence Penderhaus… this girl! I completely fell in love with her character. She has been the girl that everyone loved to hate, bullied all through high school and struggling to find her place in the world. Everything is about to change for her with death sentence that she is giving. Who knew that the day she found out she was dying would in turn be the day she began to live? So many fantastic suspenseful moments kept you on the edge of your seat. The emotions are real and you feel everything right along with Prudence. I loved the supporting characters as well and was fascinated with the boy who looked like a character from a Tim Burton film. I can’t say enough great things, but I won’t spoil any of the good details for you. For that you will have to take my recommendation and one-click this 5 star read!

Review by @lizaileen
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Orion’s Kiss by Claire Luana – Review by Liz Vrchota

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Orion's KissOrion’s Kiss by Claire Luana
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I really hate to be a downer but this book really missed a few points for me. Claire Luana isn’t new to me and I have enjoyed a few of her other books so I was hopeful when my eye caught the beautiful cover. If only the book had more of that, well beauty for lack of a better word. I enjoyed the parts where Greek mythology came into play and loved that the characters centered on that concept were strong and reminiscent. However the twist for me just didn’t stick. Murderous teens that get thwarted with happenstance just fell short. I felt as if maybe the struggle came with trying to steer this towards a young adult reading audience. It to me should be new adult and I feel if the pressure to make this a ‘teen’ book was removed the characters could have that added development that would take the book home for me. Otherwise the writing was strong when it came to descriptive world building and vivid scenes to make you feel as if you are right there with the characters. This is one thing I have always loved about Claire Luana’s writing so I was happy to see it still strong. While this one wasn’t for me I will for sure be back to see what will come next from her!

Review by @lizaileen
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Two Hearts Under Fire (Two Hearts Wounded Warrior Romance Book 8) By Tamara Ferguson – Review by Liz Vrchota

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TWO HEARTS UNDER FIRE (Two Hearts Wounded Warrior Romance Book 8)TWO HEARTS UNDER FIRE by Tamara Ferguson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Whenever I go to pick up a Tamara Ferguson novel, especially from her Two Hearts Wounded series, I know I am in for quite a treat. Two Hearts Under Fire was no exception to the rule. This book is actually the eighth of the series, but it can be read as a standalone. I will say that it is nice to have that full build up of the story by starting from the beginning. Each one is absolutely worth every moment of the read too, so its hard to imagine not reading them.

In Two Hearts Under Fire brings us the story of Russ and Claire. Russ faced a mountain of trouble a few years ago with his team and the only one who managed to escape unscathed was him. Now he finds himself facing more danger and trouble when he is being framed for something that never happened. When Russ seeks his friend Brand and his wife for help he ends up meeting Claire, and his whole world changes. He feels so much for her but he also needs to focus on keeping himself safe and alive. Things get even more dynamic when an assassin attempts to kill them. Is this connected too or does Claire have a few secrets of her own that are coming back to haunt her? Will these two make it out of the chaos alive, and with a relationship that can test the times?

I couldn’t put this one down, and frankly I feel like this quickly became my favorite of the series so far. I loved these two and felt a connection to them that had me cheering for them beginning to end. I loved that I was also kept at a suspenseful pace throughout as well. The book is multidimensional and captivating. I struggled to see it end as much as I wanted to know how it would all turn out. I can’t wait to see what will come next from the ever talented Tamara Ferguson!

Review by @lizaileen
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My One Love (The Brothers of Camelot Book 2) by Necie Navone – Review by Liz Vrchota

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My One Love (The Brothers of Camelot Book 2)My One Love by Necie Navone
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I feel like I need to start this review with a touch of a disclaimer. If you have not read the My Life prequel trilogy from Necie Navone I would highly recommend that you do so prior to starting on The Brothers of Camelot and this book My One Love. My One Love is actually the second book of The Brothers of Camelot series so you will need to also read the first one before this in my opinion as well. I say this because I found myself struggling with getting a touch lost at times with storylines and felt as if I needed a bit more of some story refreshing in the writing.

With all that being said, I really did enjoy My One Love. These books never seem to disappoint when I am in need of a good solid love story with some adventure thrown in to keep it exciting and fresh. This is something Necie Navone manages to do quite well. The characters were fairly easy to connect with and fully believable. I almost felt as if they were realistic people in my life by the time I finished the novel.

Aless and Grayson have always had nagging but suppressed feelings for each other. The constant ‘what if’s’ may just finally get to become what is. Aless will have to fully leave her Princess role behind to focus her attention on herself and Grayson, but will she be able to do so undistracted? Grayson doesn’t care what warnings Aless may come with, his needs to know if she is the one that was truly made for him like he so suspects. Of course there is some underlying drama and intrigue that will make things multidimensional and interesting as you fall for these two’s love story. I can’t wait to see what will come next with book three!

Review by @lizaileen
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The Dreamer’s Vengeance by Helen Tyree – Review by Liz Vrchota

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The Dreamer's VengeanceThe Dreamer’s Vengeance by Helen Tyree
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I must stress, I rarely gravitate so quickly to fantasy novels. The Dreamer’s Vengeance however, was an impulsive choice that I am so glad I made! Helen Tyree is a new author to me, but when I saw this cover and read the blurb I was hooked already. The novel that lies between the covers is a fantastic journey that I became lost in. Tyree writes with a vividness that is rare. I felt as if I was visiting this new world, following right along with the characters. I smelled and felt the air as if they did, her writing really transforms you that much.

The plot is original with characters that you can’t help but falling in love with. Honestly, this book checks all the boxes and it is hard to say anything to the contrary. However, I will say that there were several times I did become lost in the transitions. It was complicated to decipher which character I was reading, and I found myself re-reading at times to sort it all out. The story and descriptive writing makes that an easy thing to deal with though. I can’t wait to see what else we will get from Helen Tyree. I am gonna go get some of her other novels while I wait!

Review by @lizaileen
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A Divided Mind by M. Billiter – Review by Liz Vrchota

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A Divided MindA Divided Mind by M. Billiter
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Thrillers are often one of my guilty pleasures. So when I saw the gripping cover for A Divided Mind I sort of went in blind. I have not read M. Billiter before so I was also new to her writing. I think I was quite pleasantly surprised by what this book turned into being. I will say right now, this book doesn’t really belong in the thriller category, to me at least. It doesn’t mean this book wasn’t great it is just miscategorized for what the story truly does tell.

What do we get then if not a thriller? A very emotional and thought provoking journey of a young man, Branson, and his fight with his mental health. This is written in dual POV sharing his thoughts and journey and being balanced with his mother’s, Tara, point of view. I really felt so much emotion every single time I would get to his parts of the book. I wanted to reach in and give him a hug. Tara on the other hand, I struggled to get attached to. I kind of feel like she went about things in some questionable ways. In the same point, it made the story have dimension to see her struggles with dealing with single motherhood and a mentally troubled son. Overall, for me this was a pretty solid four star read. I will definitely be on the look-out for more novels by M. Billiter and I look forward to seeing what new things are in the works.

Review by @lizaileen
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Proper Ink (Jaded Lily Book 2) by Zeia Jameson – Review by Liz Vrchota

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Proper Ink (Jaded Lily #2)Proper Ink by Zeia Jameson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Proper Ink is the second book in the Jaded Lily Series from Zeia Jameson. I struggled with book one, mostly because I couldn’t connect at all with the MC’s so I was truly looking forward to getting more with a new focus being the center of the novel. I am so stinking happy that I decided to stick to it and read this book. I personally adored Luca. He has to be on my top ten list of book-boyfriends that I have read this year. I am absolutely in love with this book. I will say that it struggled a tad for me with some of the finishing/flow, and it could have stepped up the steam factor with the couple. It was there as far as potential, it just fell a tad short. This book does follow up or basically take place right after the first book, but I do think you could read these out of order or just choose this one if you so desired. I personally love having the whole series read. Overall this was a solid four-star read with a swoony lead to boot. I will be back for more with book three as soon as it is available!!

Review by @lizaileen
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Blood Relations (The Sorrel Janes Mysteries) by Lonna Enox – Review by Liz Vrchota

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Blood RelationsBlood Relations by Lonna Enox
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

So the background setting for this book was a struggle for me, but having read the first book of the Sorrel Janes Mysteries I knew that I wanted to see what would come next in her storyline. I am glad that I did. Don’t be discouraged by the blandness of the trip Sorrel is embarking on because Lonna Enox has a whole bunch of twists and turns that will be sure to leave you breathless by the time you are done! This time Sorrel and her detective hottie boyfriend, Chris Reed embark on a murder investigations that if full of ups and downs, mystery, intrigue, and plenty of drama to boot. I was never at a lull while reading and I adored the way everything came to a culmination. I for sure will be back to find out what else will come of Sorrel Janes! I am sure it will be an adventure I adore!

Review by @lizaileen
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Blackbird’s Deliverance (Silent Secrets Series Book 4) by Lisette Kristensen – Review by Liz Vrchota

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Blackbird's Deliverance (Book Four)Blackbird’s Deliverance by Lisette Kristensen
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

BlackBird’s Deliverance is the exciting fourth installment of the Silent Secrets Series from Lisette Kristensen. She has one heck of a knack for writing some adventurous and detailed action scenes that will keep the reader on the edge of their seat. I would recommend that you read the rest of the books in the series and in order before you jump into this one. Blackbird’s history and the side characters are all reoccurring for the most part. That and they are all wonderful and quick reads, so why not?

Each book is more on par with a novella type length but reads as a full fledged story with plenty to keep you engaged. I love all the side adventures that Blackbird seems to master beautifully. I won’t divulge much about this book, more so than the blurb already given, because I can’t bare to spoil the fun. Especially with them being shorter novels, I feel everything is key to the plot, and ensuing twists. I can’t wait to see what will come next from the talented Ms. Kristensen.

Review by @lizaileen
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The Trouble With Paradise (A Madeline Dawkins Mystery Book 4) by Cynthia Hamilton – Review by Liz Vrchota

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The Trouble with Paradise (Madeline Dawkins #4)The Trouble with Paradise by Cynthia Hamilton
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I always struggle when I get the the review part of reading A Madeline Dawkins Mystery. Not for lack of good things to be said, rather I often feel like I fail to fully express how wonderful these novels are. The Trouble With Paradise, book number four of the series, is no exception to the rule. Cynthia Hamilton really has a knack for writing engaging mysteries with plenty of plot twists to keep the reader on their toes. I adore how I never find myself bored with the novel, or frankly never seem to figure things out quite like I expect them to. I love that I get to the end and always have a wonderful surprise as far as the finale of the cases goes.

In The Trouble With Paradise finds our favorite sassy and headstrong PI, Madeline working together again with Mike to try and solve the deaths of two different men. Both are husbands and leave family and friends behind that question the reasoning behind their deaths. Of course nothing is quite as it seems from the outside looking in and new things are discovered every step of the way. I was once again reading well past that ‘just a few chapters before bed’ limit, and well into the night so I could find out what was going to be the climax. It of course did not disappoint. Now the real struggle begins while I wait for the next Cynthia Hamilton book to be released!

Review by @lizaileen
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The Girls across the Bay (The Knox and Sheppard Mysteries, Book 1) by Emerald O’Brien – Review by Liz Vrchota

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The Girls Across The Bay (Knox and Sheppard, #1)The Girls Across The Bay by Emerald O’Brien
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The Girls Across The Bay from Emerald O’Brien was a toss up for me most of the way through. I absolutely adore O’Brien’s writing and several of her previous books. This one was a bit difficult for me though. I adored the concept and the final way things turned out, but the reading was a tad confusing for myself at times. Don’t get me wrong I fully feel that the story itself is worthy of four stars easily. It just has to be said that this is wordy. So much so that at times I often confused the sisters dialogue and well just the two in general. I usually love dual POV reads because it gives the insight into each character. This did so but it was so much that at times I couldn’t keep it straight.

The story and mystery itself was intriguing. I loved the background it was set against and felt transformed there on the bay myself. The complex mystery that is woven is on point in suspense and intrigue and kept me reading when I got frustrated. This is typical of O’Brien though, as she really knows how to weave a suspenseful storyline. I will definitely be back for more with book two.

Review by @lizaileen
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Proper Irish (Jaded Lily Book 1) by Zeia Jameson – Review by Liz Vrchota

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Proper Irish (Jaded Lily #1)Proper Irish by Zeia Jameson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Proper Irish was quite the little tale and I for the most part really enjoyed my time with Padraig and Stella. I will be upfront about it though and say that a few things just fell a bit short for me personally. I struggled to connect and fall for with Padraig. He is a hot head and honestly I would have given up well before Stella. Heck she gave him all the chances, to which I will say made her shine as a strong-willed and fierce woman. She definitely held her own with Padraig and was probably the only one that could.

The overall writing and storyline was good however and I did enjoy the overall book once I was said and done. The characters did eventually grow on me and by the end I too found myself rooting for Stella and Padraig. Zeia Jameson was a new author to me though, and this is a first novel in a series so I simply see it as room to grow and chances for improvement. I enjoyed it enough to be back for more with book two. Overall a solid four star read from a new author is definitely not something to complain about!

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Scarlet Fever (A Johnny Delarosa Thriller Book 1) by David Stever – Review by Liz Vrchota

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Scarlet Fever: A Crime ThrillerScarlet Fever: A Crime Thriller by David Stever
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Who doesn’t love a sexy and fierce lead? Mix it with the good parts of old detective work and classic mystery movies you get the recipe for a great read. I have not had the pleasure of reading anything from David Stever prior to Scarlet Fever, but I am glad this was my first taste as I will be back for more with baited breath.

I loved how this book read like an old movie, yet it is set in present time. All the good stuff I loved watching in older crime movies was strong assets to this story. It was gripping and I had to follow along quickly to figure out how things were going to end. I was pleasantly surprised that I didn’t predict the ending quite right. Another positive with a thriller novel.

I don’t wanna spoil the details for you, think they are well worth discovering yourself. But I will say I adored Johnny and Jean Harlow. The other characters we just as fun to read! Even the ones you want to hate you have to hate to love by the end. I can’t wait to see what the next Johnny Delarosa thriller will hold.

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Shattered Melody: A romantic suspense novella by Amy McKinley – Review by Liz Vrchota

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Shattered MelodyShattered Melody by Amy McKinley
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I always know that when I pick up an Amy McKinley novel I am in for a treat. Shattered Melody was no different, in fact it quickly became one of my favorites of hers. I never saw what was coming, let alone that it would rock my world in just the first few pages of this book. While the characters that I loved were shattered, the novel was a story of their healing. And boy was it a beautiful one to read. This is a novella so just a tad shorter than what you would typically expect from McKinley, but never did I feel that affected the quality or enjoyment of the story. I truly can only say it left me wanting more in the sense that I needed more of the MC’s, especially Emma.

I am not going to dive into details about the story, the blurb gives just enough away to not ruin anything and I can’t possibly find a way to add to that without ruining things for the reader. What I can say is this book’s characters are so beautifully written. I walked away feeling as if I personally knew Emma and Reese. I loved them like I would a family member. The details of the scenes make you feel as if you are right there with them as well. A beautiful location where I was able to cool down a bit during these hot summer days. I devoured this in quick measure and I am so looking forward to seeing what we will see next from the ever talented Amy McKinley.

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The Fisher Men X My Heart (The Fisher Men Book 1) by Rebel Nicks O’Dey – Review by Liz Vrchota

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The Fisher Men X My HeartThe Fisher Men X My Heart by Rebel Nicks O’Dey
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I have not read anything from Rebel Nicks O’Dey prior to The Fisher Men X My Heart, but once I saw the fun cover and caught a bit of the blurb I was hooked on the story before I even began. It was a nice surprise to fall in love as much as I did with the whole story inside the covers. I could not get enough of Morgan, Connor, Xander and Zack, so it’s a good thing this is not the last we will hear from them with the promise of future books in a series. Thank God because I am already experiencing withdrawal from these characters. This is a dynamic romance novel with several twists and turns throughout that you won’t see coming. I had no idea things would play out the way the did so later in the novel, but it all made sense in the end. This book has it all and if you are looking for something fun, sexy, and gripping I’d highly recommend you pick up a copy for yourself to devour and fall in love with. I guarantee you won’t be disappointed you did.

Review by @lizaileen
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The Gauntlet: The Soppranaturale Series by Ashley Pagano – Review by Liz Vrchota

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The Gauntlet: The Soppranaturale SeriesThe Gauntlet: The Soppranaturale Series by Ashley Pagano
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The Gauntlet: The Soppernaturale Series by Ashley Pagano was such a fun short read! I went in blind, basing my interest solely on the fabulous and eye-catching cover that graces this jam packed little gem. I was pleasantly surprised by how much this book truly sucked me in and gripped me until the very last page. I look forward to seeing what else will come in this series, as well as what else is available by Ashely Pagano while I wait. She was a new author to me when I picked this up and so that is just an added bonus that I get to see discover her other works now as well.

There is so much going on in this little book based around an intriguing and bustling with activity hotel. There is a little of everything you could want in a fantasy and supernatural book, everything from witches and vampires to fae and magic. There is never a dull moment and I absolutely adored following along with Ommily. Might I just say I adore her name and was hooked on her character from the very get-go! I love her and she was just a fun character to read. I highly recommend this book and can’t say enough good things about it. For all the good details though, you will have to take my word for it and scoop it up to devour for yourself! You won’t be disappointed one bit that you did!

Review by @lizaileen
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The Fish that Climbed a Tree by Kevin Ansbro – Review by Liz Vrchota

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The Fish That Climbed a TreeThe Fish That Climbed a Tree by Kevin Ansbro
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Wow this book is a complex and complete journey that I did not see coming whatsoever with what we are given on the blurbs. I will admit though, I was a bit unclear on a lot of things as this was a completely new experience reading anything from Kevin Ansbro. I am glad that I dove it however, as this story really was dynamic and multidimensional, one that will stick with me for quite awhile I am sure.

This book is quite difficult to try and summarize, we really get so much. Everything is explored about good and evil that walks among us as we live our daily lives. There is dabbling is discussing the afterlife and what will come. Kevin Ansbro delves into the several evils, ranging from the difficult discussion of rape all the way to murder and then delves into how this is processed and dealt with by each of the characters. It is one that will leave you on the edge of your seat as you try to piece all the components of the puzzle together and figure out what you will get from reading this novel. I will be looking forward to seeing what else is available from Mr. Ansbro now and what may come from him in the future. I can only imagine it will be one to make me think and ponder as well.

Review by @lizaileen
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Moves by John Michaels – Review by Liz Vrchota

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MovesMoves by John Michaels
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

My goodness! ‘Moves’ by John Michaels was by far in my top ten mystery/thrillers of 2019 that I have had the pleasure to read! John Michaels was a completely new author to me, but when the stunning cover captivated my eye I just knew I had to know what story accompanied it. I am so glad that I scooped this up, and I look forward to now getting to read whatever else by Michaels that I can get my hands on in the very near future.

‘Moves’ literally gripped me from that very first chapter and refused to let me go well past my bedtime. I devoured this in one sitting and honestly it was a constant struggle between wanting to drag it out and savor the delight or scramble to finish in order to find out what will happen! Robert Jake is the kind of main character that you fall in love with and feel as if you know in real life by the time you finish the book. This man struggles with the grief and guilt of the loss of 18 of his soldiers while under his command and protection. He is also a single father and the host of a popular radio show. What doesn’t even seem fair is when the murders of two innocent women and the district attorney winds up coming connected to him! What will come of the situation? Will Robert find a way to live the remainder of his days in peace with his past so he can enjoy his future? You have to pick this gem up for yourself to find out. I can guarantee it is one story you do not want to miss!

Review by @lizaileen
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Children Of The Future by Jane Suen – Review by Liz Vrchota

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Children Of The FutureChildren Of The Future by Jane Suen
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I must start this review with the preface that I absolutely adore Jane Suen, and so every book of hers until this point has been a hit, 5 stars easily for me. I was a tad let down with ‘Children of The Future.’ Upon further looking at reviews and goodreads I found out this was Suen’s first novel and so things really made sense. This is on par with a first time novel from most authors and in the long run it made things easier for me to digest at the end of the day.

Children of The Future is a twisty and mysterious tale of a small town rocked by the sudden disappearance of a bus full of students and their teachers. All have gone without much of a hint as to where except one, Telly. A strong main character among many I still struggled to find his voice in this. The bus driver, also spared from the mysterious disappearing act, teams with Telly, the parents, and the police to try and figure out what happened and how to bring home the children. The trail is complicated and a tad slow, but intriguing enough to wonder what is going on and keep reading. Just as it seems they may have figured things out Telly disappears and even more shocking twists arise. Overall the ending seemed to round out the story and left me for the most part satisfied. While this isn’t a strong five star read for me I enjoyed it enough to give it a solid four stars. I look forward to seeing what else is available, as we await new stuff, from the talented Jane Suen.

Review by @lizaileen
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The Good Neighbors by Kiersten Modglin – Review by Liz Vrchota

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The Good NeighborsThe Good Neighbors by Kiersten Modglin
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

WOWZERS! This book is so good! There is not a single moment while reading that I wasn’t completely hooked into finding out what was going on at the root of everything. I have never had a chance to read Kiersten Modglin’s work prior to this but I can say now, without a doubt, she is going to be one of my go to for a good mind-bending and twisty thriller read. I look forward to seeing what is already available from her and what will come in the future.

This is such a difficult book for me to summarize and review without spoiling too much of that massive twist that one does not see coming. Trust me, I read the reviews and kind of thought I knew what to expect. Nope, this book takes a whole different turn of events and I loved every stinking minute of it. Harper and Bryant are wonderful and deep characters. I felt as if I was right there with them and experiencing all the emotions that they were having. The detail and world building is fantastic. AS for details those you will have to take my word for it and scoop this amazing read up to find out for yourself. I promise you will love it if you are a thriller fan. I for one will be re-reading soon! Thanks for the fabulous book Ms. Modglin!

Review by @lizaileen
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Murder Creek by Jane Suen – Review by Liz Vrchota

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Murder CreekMurder Creek by Jane Suen
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I have yet to find a Jane Suen novel that I have not absolutely loved. Murder Creek is no deviation from the rule. Jane Suen writes with such vibrancy and emotion that I always feel as if I have been on an emotional and physical journey when I have finished one of her novels. In Murder Creek I was right with Eve, our MC, as she weeded her way through the mystery and intrigue that is this book. Her personality is written so that I felt as if I was reading about a real actual woman that had indeed been through all of this. I even felt this girls terror with those grisly nightmares that she suffers through. About half way through I found myself disregarding the 1 am time and pushing onward to figure out what was going to come of this. I am so glad that I did and it was worth every moment of sleep deprivation. I won’t be giving you any more details than that though. You will have to take my word for it that this a book you can’t miss out on and one-click right now. I can guarantee you won’t be disappointed. I am now going to wait with baited breath for the next little gem that Suen produces.

Review by @lizaileen
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