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Bowled: Facing the Yorker of Love (To Love a Sportsman Book 1) by Pamela Q. Fernandes – Review by Liz Vrchota

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Bowled (To Love a Sportsman Book 1)Bowled by Pamela Q. Fernandes
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Bowled: Facing the Yorker of Love was a fun little read that I scooped up and devoured in just one afternoon. I normally adore all things sports romance, odd since I’m not a major sports fan, but something about them just has all the right stuff to make a delectable read. I have read a few of Pamela Q. Fernandes’s works in the past but must say, this has to be my favorite of hers. You can see the growth in her writing and this was just a much smoother flow than the last few of hers I have read.

Rose and Matthew both have been through the wringer of bad relationships. Neither of them saw a fresh new romance on the horizon but when they meet and things start to fall into place the connection and attraction is undeniable. Will they be able to weather all that life throws at their new relationship? I enjoyed these two and reading all about the adventures they find themselves in. I am looking forward to seeing what will come in book two as well!

Review by @lizaileen
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A Protector’s Touch by Parker Sinclair – Review by Liz Vrchota

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A Protector's TouchA Protector’s Touch by Parker Sinclair
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

A Protector’s Touch from Parker Sinclair truly captivates the reader from the very first chapters until that final page. I have not had a chance to read Parker Sinclair’s work prior to this but I am glad that this was my first and I got a great picture of the strong and talented writing she is capable of. I will be going back and reading her other novels as well now. This book is raw, and it deals with some difficult situations and features details of a troubled and abusive relationship.

April is reeling from a terrible relationship. The things this man did to her would make anyone feel as low as a grain of salt and you can feel that emotion, and all that accompanies it, projected from the kindle/book as you read. I felt her sadness and her desperation. The beautiful part of the story comes when she begins to see herself through the eyes of Shan. He is a man with his own dark history and they may just have more in common than originally meets the eye. Will he be able to show her that she can love and be loved right? Prepare yourself to read this in one fell swoop because this is one story that will grasp your soul and never let go. I look forward to seeing what else we will get in the future from Ms. Sinclair!

Review by @lizaileen
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The Embers We Seek: Prequel | War of Giants (A Rebel Princess Serial Book 1) by Acacia K. Parker – Review by Liz Vrchota

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The Embers We Seek (A Rebel Princess Serial, #1)The Embers We Seek by Acacia K. Parker
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Well I do believe I have found myself a new obsession with The Embers We Seek from Acacia K. Parker. I have never had the pleasure of reading anything by Ms. Parker prior to this and so I went in blind. I was sold on the book from the moment I saw the gorgeous and flashy cover and the idea of visiting one of my favorite fairy tales in a new light. I was not one moment disappointed.

Be fully prepared to devour this gem in a short time as it only contains 58 pages of story. I was shocked at how I still felt as if I had read a 200 page book by the time I had finished. I love this is going to be a serial story told in ten parts and released rather quickly at one a month until done. I am super thankful because I am already dying to know what will happen next. In the meantime I will go back and check out what else there is to see from Acacia K. Parker as I wait for them to release.

Review by @lizaileen
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Too Hot to Handle (The Catch Series Book 3) by Avery Scott – Review by Liz Vrchota

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Too Hot to Handle (The Catch, Book 3)Too Hot to Handle by Avery Scott
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Oh holy hotness! Avery Scott you really have nailed this one down to every last detail! I absolutely could not put this novel down from the moment I started the very first chapter. Now Avery Scott is not a new author to me and I have devoured the other two novels in this series, although they are written well enough you can read as a standalone each of them, but this book right here made me a true mega fan!

Too Hot to Handle has it all! All the right pieces of the puzzle are present for a steamy and gripping romance. There is plenty of antagonists at play as well that keeps the reader on their toes the entire time. I adored Gigi (Georgia). She has not necessarily had the best of luck when it comes to men, and when her fiance, Chaz, calls off their engagement she is only set and determined to figure out how to win the man back. What she never anticipated was fate throwing the ever handsome firefighter Tony, into the mix. What will happen when Tony slowly starts to melt her heart? Will Gigi make the right decision and find her perfect match?

I can’t wait to find out what will come next in The Catch series. In the meantime I will be ordering some hard copies of these gorgeous novels to grace my shelves at home. I know whatever will come next from the ever talented Avery Scott will be the first on my next read!

Review by @lizaileen
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The Last Dance (The Sorrel Janes Mysteries) by Lonna Enox – Review by Liz Vrchota

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The Last DanceThe Last Dance by Lonna Enox
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I have never had the pleasure of reading anything from Lonna Enox prior to picking up The Last Dance but, I can promise that it will not be my last. The Last Dance is a part of the Sorrel Janes Mysteries, and I am not positive as to what exact order these should be read in, I find that a bit confusing, but it did not affect my enjoyment of the story that I had not read the other available.

This has the perfect amount of everything from romance to mystery, murder, and intrigue, I was never one moment bored with this novel. I found the flow to be flawless, and that there was never a confusing moment for me. Our lead Sorrel Janes is such a fascinating character. She has fled to Saddle Gap after the murder of her husband. They have yet to find the murderer and so she is also in a bit of danger. When the danger follows her to Saddle Gap though, and bodies start piling up will she be able to keep her nose clean? Then there is the Detective Chris Reed. I loved the banter these two maintained and the undeniable attraction and sexual tension between the two. Throw in the fact that there is a lack of trust between the two and you end up with fantastic material for a good story. I highly recommend this book, and I am anxious to read the others available as I wait for the next one to be released!

Review by @lizaileen
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RETURN (Rewind Book 2) by Rowan Shaw – Review by Liz Vrchota

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Return (Rewind #2)Return by Rowan Shaw
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

RETURN is the second book of the Rewind series from Rowan Shaw. I would recommend that you pick up book one first if you haven’t done so as this is where we first meet and see the lead, Raphael, and for me where I actually fell in love with his character. This book was a tad slower to me and I found myself struggling to get through the first bit. However, that did subside and I soon found myself needing to know what would become of the story.

This one brought the heat factor quite a bit, so fyi if that isn’t your thing it’s here. With that said, Rowan Shaw can sure write some awesome bedroom scenes, and truly I feel, does it with tact and grace. That is no easy feat, and I feel a lot of times it muddies the waters of a good LGBTQ novel. This is never the case here and I adored every second of it. I loved the growth that we got to see with Raphael. I found his story to be gripping and raw, something that I love in a good novel. I can’t wait to see what will come next!

Review by @lizaileen
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Never Let Me Go (Bayou Devils MC Book 6) by A.M. Myers – Review by Liz Vrchota

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Never Let Me Go (Bayou Devils MC #6)Never Let Me Go by A.M. Myers
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I absolutely have to start this review with a nod to the gorgeous cover that graces Never Let Me Go. It is just to die for, and had I not read any of the other Bayou Devils MC novels it would have drawn me in without knowing a single thing about what the book would be pertaining to. It is so fitting to have such a beautiful and striking cover as the story of Juliette Shaw and Sawyer Michelson. These two consumed my heart and soul and left me feeling as if they were very real friends that I couldn’t bear to let go of by the end of the novel.

This is a complex story, something you often find with AM Myers’s writing. She weaves depth and detail to make you feel as if you are right there with the characters and experiencing everything first hand. This is the sixth book in the Bayou Devils MC series, but you could probably start here and be okay. The others are just as delectable so I would recommend that if you enjoy this one you go back and read them as well.

Juliette has it all with the exception of a few important things. Namely the most complicated it the fat that she can’t remember any of her life for the last five years. A tragic accident took that from her as well as her father. When everything becomes too confusing and she starts to desire answers she turns to her best friend to take her where else but, home, Baton Rouge. Here she finds herself in the presence of the dangerous man with a heart of gold, Sawyer Michelson. Things will get complicated and as Juliette begins to unravel her memories more questions are brought to the forefront. Will these two be able to survive the storm that is about to overtake their lives? Will the romance these two so obviously have get the happily ever after? You will have to devour the book for those details! I absolutely can not wait for the next installment in the Bayou Devils. Thanks so much for the fabulous read Ms. Myers!

Review by @lizaileen
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Nite Fire: Smoke & Mirrors (Book 3) by C. L. Schneider – Review by Liz Vrchota

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Smoke & Mirrors (Nite Fire #3)Smoke & Mirrors by C.L. Schneider
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Nite Fire: Smoke & Mirrors is the third book in the series and is quite possibly the strongest of the three. I have read the previous two and really enjoyed them, so I was excited to see what would come next. C.L. Schneider did not disappoint. Now, normally I don’t choose these types of novels that get really sci-fi. They tend to bore me with details and end up just leaving me confused and unfulfilled. That is never the case with Schneider’s novels. They come alive right before your eyes and grip your attention quite demandingly from the very first few pages. I always feel as if I have embarked on a wonderful adventure and often left missing the strange new lands we found, anxious to go back.

I really enjoyed the characters in this one as well, Dahlia is one of those strong and fearless leads that you just can’t help but fall in love with. I enjoyed seeing some familiar faces as well. And, as always, the creatures are detailed and as realistic as they could be. I loved the vibrant pictures they painted in my mind as I read. My only complaint being this book ended when it did, never enough when it is a fantastic read. I look forward to seeing what will come next!

Review by @lizaileen
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Girl Trap (A Madeline Dawkins Mystery Book 3) by Cynthia Hamilton – Review by Liz Vrchota

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Girl TrapGirl Trap by Cynthia Hamilton
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I have absolutely become obsessed with Cynthia Hamilton’s Madeline Dawkins mysteries. Girl Trap is the third installment, and I would highly suggest that you read the previous two books in the series prior to this one for the best enjoyment and understanding. They are the best poolside reads though so perfect to slip in the beach bag and devour while soaking up some sun. Madeline is the type of character that I find myself wanting to be like and following her growth as a person and in her profession truly make these books multidimensional and completely fabulous.

Girl Trap finds Madeline and Mike twisted up in two dangerous and high stakes cases. The two and the team struggle with these and find themselves often working against each other and split. Both of them are looking for missing persons, will they be able to find them alive and well? Can they figure out how to work together in the end? You won’t find much more as far as details here, I couldn’t bear to spoil any of this delicious novel for you. I can’t wait to get my hands on the next installment, hopefully soon!

Review by @lizaileen
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Wayward (Billionaire Bodyguards Book 1) by Via Mari – Review by Liz Vrchota

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Wayward (Billionaire Bodyguards Book 1)Wayward by Via Mari
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Wayward is the first of Via Mari’s newest series, the Billionaire Bodyguards. If you haven’t had the pleasure of reading anything from Ms. Mari, a little note, this is the spin-off series to her previously released Prestien Series and has some of the fabulous characters that came from them present. I don’t think its necessarily necessary to read those novels first, but I truly think that it enhanced my enjoyment and just made me even more of a fan of these fab people. I don’t think you would be disappointed one bit if you started from the beginning.

Now in this book we get the hot and steamy back stories of Jay and Sasha. I really grew to adore Sasha. Admittedly, I was skeptical that I could like her just based off of her character portrayal in previous novels, but man did Via Mari turned my opinion around right away. I truly love each of the backdrops and the way that Via makes you feel as if you are right there with the characters and enjoying each lavish scene around them right at the same time. Her writing is still strong, detailed, and gripping, only growing stronger with each book. I can’t wait to see what will come next for these fabulous characters that I have grown to love so much! Thanks for this fabulous read Ms. Mari!

Review by @lizaileen
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Dread by Jeff Wade – Review by Liz Vrchota

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DreadDread by Jeff Wade
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Well oh well… where shall I start with this. I suppose it’s worth a mention that Jeff Wade was a completely new author to me when I stumbled upon this twisted psychothriller. I knew nothing about the writing that would be between the cover that so intently drew me into reading this. I didn’t read the blurb I just dove right in and was so stinking thrilled that I did!

Dread takes the reader and thrusts you into the creepy and devilish world of Frank. While reading I will admit I was quite confused at times. However, when the story came to the conclusion that everything fell into place and I could see this was all a part of the story, believing that Jeff Wade wrote this thriller in a completely fresh way that sent my brain into a frenzy whilst reading. A truly wonderful thing in the end.

There is another little snippet of a story included in this book. I will say it seems that it needs more, but again I am thinking this is all the way Jeff Wade spins his stories. I look forward to seeing what else will come from him, and if we will get more of the second story in the future. Definitely a five star read though, that I can’t wait to reread the next time I need a bit of thrill!

Review by @lizaileen
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Steele Resolve (The Hawke Family Book 6) by Author Gwyn McNamee – Review by Liz Vrchota

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Steele Resolve (Hawke Family #6)Steele Resolve by Gwyn McNamee
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I can’t believe this is it for the Hawke family saga! I am pretty sure that I cried simply from that very fact being realized when I completed the last few pages of this hot and delectable read. With that said this is part of a series obviously and really it could be read as a standalone, but I assure you will get spoilers to previous novels and a lessened enjoyment by doing so. This series has become a major favorite, probably one of my top three, and I couldn’t imagine not enjoying it all together. The Hawkes have become like a family that I know and so real! The way that Gwyn McNamee writes these characters truly spins them into your life.

Steele Resolve gives us the story of Luca and Byron. I loved these two! The chemistry between them is absolute fire hot enough to melt ‘steel’. Nothing they go through of course can be easy, making for delicious reading material and wonderful storylines that will keep you glued to your kindle until you finish the novella in one fell swoop. Don’t be concerned though that this is just a novella and that it will be shorting you on anything that you would get with a full length novel. Steele Resolve gives you the whole story and doesn’t skimp on any of the goods. While I am sad to see this family saga come to a close, I am super excited to see what other characters dwell in the mind of Gwyn McNamee and I Iook forward to each of their stories.

Review by @lizaileen
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The Arrangement Duet Box Set by Madison Quinn – Review by Liz Vrchota

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The Arrangement Duet Box SetThe Arrangement Duet Box Set by Madison Quinn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I have really loved just about everything that Madison Quinn has written and so when I saw this box set of two fabulous books for the price of one I had to get my hands on it. I was so stinking happy that I did once I made it through the first book because boy did they need it! I would have felt so underwhelmed if they didn’t have that final realization of their love for each other.

Kenzie and Nicholas start out as nothing but an ‘arrangement.’ Neither one has had a great past with life, and well, with love as well. But these two both need something that the other can provide. So the funny situations that come from an arranged ‘relationship’ ensue all while the characters do not realize how perfect they are for each other as an actual couple. I was so stinking excited that these two developed slowly, as I love slow burn love stories. They truly know how to sweep you off your feet up into the whirlwind of love. These two books do a wonderful job of giving you all the feels with the appropriate amount of comedic relief inserted amongst the seriousness as well. I absolutely cannot wait to get my hands on whatever else comes next from the wonderful Ms. Madison Quinn. I am sure whatever it is, it’ll be fantastic!

Review by @lizaileen
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Saint Code: Lost: Book Four of the Lucky Devil Series by Megan Mackie – Review by Liz Vrchota

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Saint Code: Lost: Book Four of the Lucky Devil SeriesSaint Code: Lost: Book Four of the Lucky Devil Series by Megan Mackie
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I don’t think I truly knew what I was getting myself into when I first started the Saint Code series from Megan Mackie, but I truly and loving it four books later. I would HIGHLY recommend that you read all of this series in order. With that said, this is supposed to be able to be read as a standalone. However, with this series I personally think it would be highly difficult to fully grasp everything that is going on without the full build of each book. The world that is created is magical and fun but complicated. Granted, this is just my opinion, however, and one from someone who normally finds books in this genera complicated and confusing. I promise that though Mackie’s Saint Code is one of those, it is worth it.

You won’t find any spoilers in this review, but I will tell you that I adored St. Augustine. She is one kickbutt female character and I truly enjoyed reading all about her. The adventure and detail to the story is vivid as ever and one that you will find yourself lost in until you realize you have finished the book in a quick fell swoop. I know I had only intended to read a bit at first with this book but found myself reading well past my bedtime to see how things worked out. I can’t wait to see what will come next from Ms. Mackie!

Review by @lizaileen
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Hidden Magic: A Sanctuary Chronicles Novella by India Kells – Review by Liz Vrchota

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Hidden Magic: A Sanctuary Chronicles NovellaHidden Magic: A Sanctuary Chronicles Novella by India Kells
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Normally I am not one to pick up a book with other worldly people written into the scenario, I tend to have a difficult time with sci-fi books keeping my interest, however with any India Kells novel I will devour it without question. Hidden Magic wasn’t any different for me. I absolutely adore how India makes one feel as if this normally outlandish idea of were/shifters co-mingling among us is completely plausible and fascinating. Every single one of the Sanctuary Chronicles has been wonderful and this little gem is the perfect novella addition. I don’t believe you have to read the others persay to enjoy this one as well, which is nice for those that enjoy standalones. I do highly recommend you read all the available ones however if you enjoy Hidden Magic.

In Hidden Magic we get the tale of Kat and Brant and holy hades this is a fabulous little romance that buds between these pages. I love the detail of not only the scenes in which these characters interact, but also of them as well. I felt as if I finished this novel fully knowing Kat and Brant as realistic beings I know, just like a friend. I absolutely can’t wait to see what else will come from the brilliant India Kells!

Review by @lizaileen
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A High Price to Pay (The Madeline Dawkins Series Book 2) by Cynthia Hamilton – Review by Liz Vrchota

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A High Price to Pay (Madeline Dawkins, #2)A High Price to Pay by Cynthia Hamilton
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Okay this series just gets better and better with each novel! I can’t wait to get my hands on the next Madeline Dawkins book, Girl Trap, but alas I will divulge some tidbits about this current installment, A High Price to Pay. In this novel we find Madeline finishing up the PI training and making the necessary steps to being a full-time detective. In order to do so she must first finish up and survive the last major event that she is responsible for. Things only take on more twists and turns when a crazed man that Madeline testified against is let out of prison on a plea deal. There is nothing boring about this novel, it just keeps on throwing punches right up until those last few chapters. I adored every moment of it and truly was on the edge of my seat from beginning to end! I look forward to seeing what will come for Madeline in the next book, I am sure it will be fantastic and most likely will be even better than this one, a hard task considering I would give this 10 stars if I could. Thank you so much for the fabulous read Ms. Hamilton!

Review by @lizaileen
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Cult (Feisty Lawyers Book 3) by Seelie Kay – Review by Liz Vrchota

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CultCult by Seelie Kay
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Hands down, Cult is my favorite Feisty Lawyers novel yet! I get so excited whenever there is going to be a new one, and this time was only enhanced by the fact that Seelie Kay has incorporated the ever elusive ‘cult’ theme. I don’t know what it is about reading books with the theme present, or even movies, but it is something that I must read just about every time.

I would recommend that you read the Feisty Lawyers books in order for the full experience, and to get to know the cast of characters as they develop. In Cult we see a lot of agents Dianna Murphy and Anders Mark. These two are so fun, and being newly married adds a nice twist to the dynamic. Whatever you do, prepare yourself for one thought provoking and twisted adventure with Cult. I can’t wait for book four!

Review by @lizaileen
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Tracking Numbers (Lost Boys MC BOOK 1) by Janice M. Whiteaker – Review by Liz Vrchota

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Tracking NumbersTracking Numbers by Janice M. Whiteaker
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I first fell in love with the writing of Janice M. Whiteaker when I read her Ring True novel, and I have been dying to get my hands on something else of hers ever since. I suppose you could say that had given me high hopes, sorta setting the bar high for how I rated this one. Whiteaker hits the marks and soars past! Tracking Numbers is the first of her Lost Boys MC series, and it truly kicks it off with a bang. There’s that lovely slow burn banter between the main characters, Kerosene and tracker. These two really made the story great. I adored Kerri as a lead female, probably bringing her to one of my top favorites I have read so far this year.

After growing up immersed in the MC lifestyle wither her father Kerri decides she has had enough and wants a simpler and quiet life living away from danger and disaster. However she never expected to be slung right back into the life which is exactly what she gets when Tracker is set to be her protector. The adventures these two find themselves in, and the romance that broods between them are not a story you want to miss out on! I can’t wait to meet the rest of the MC crew in future novels!

Review by @lizaileen
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Behind Blue Eyes (Stockholm Murders Book 1) by CS Duffy – Review by Liz Vrchota

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Behind Blue EyesBehind Blue Eyes by C.S. Duffy
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Oh my-freaking-lanta!! Where has CS Duffy been? I was completely new to the author when I picked up Behind Blue Eyes, but I can say that I will be devouring everything I can get my hands on with this lovely author’s name attached! This book totally took me on a whirlwind of a trip to Sweden. It gripped my attention from the very get-go and didn’t let go until the surprising ending. If you love fast-paced crime novels with a dash of mystery and dark comedy then you will want to grab this book as soon as possible. I am so thrilled to find out that this is book one in the Stockholm Murders series and that there will be more to come from these characters! I will be stalking like no other for book two to be released.

Behind Blue Eyes brings up to Sweden, like I previously mentioned, and we find Ellie a smart, sassy, and confident investigative reporter deeply embedded in a new environment and facing some pretty crazy mysteries surrounding a body. Not only is Ellie facing that she is trying to adjust to a completely new land. Previously from London, Sweden is all new territory for her. Will she be able to find her place among the new home, or will she find herself regretting everything? There are several layers to this book, but some will just give away too much goodies and I can’t bear to spoil this for anyone! Trust me you need this book in your life. I have already added this to my re-read list for the summer! Thank you so much for the fabulous read CS Duffy!

Review by @lizaileen
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Hoosier Dad by Elizabeth Seckman – Review by Liz Vrchota

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Hoosier DadHoosier Dad by Elizabeth Seckman
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I have not had the pleasure of reading anything from Elizabeth Seckman until I picked up Hoosier Dad, but I am glad that I have found a new author to love. I really enjoyed this playful and sweet contemporary romance. I easily got wrapped up in the lives of Richland and Sarah, finding myself finishing the book in one swift sitting. Richland seeks out the help of Sarah for her lawyer skills as he is faced with a custody battle for his daughters. These two have the perfect couple banter back and forth and eventually the feelings become too much to hide. How will things workout for Richland? Will he get his fair time with his girls? Will he get the sassy lawyer too? You will have to dive into this book for yourself to find out all the answers but I can promise you this will be a favorite read once you are finished. I look forward to seeing what else is available from Ms. Seckman and whatever will come next!

Review by @lizaileen
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Spouse Trap: A Madeline Dawkins Mystery (The Madeline Dawkins Series Book 1) by Cynthia Hamilton – Review by Liz Vrchota

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Spouse Trap (Madeline Dawkins, #1)Spouse Trap by Cynthia Hamilton
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I am absolutely hooked on Cynthia Hamilton and her character Madeline Ridley. I am so stoked to get my hands on the rest of the available novels in this series as I anxiously await the newest addition this summer. Spouse Trap is the high paced and gripping first novel in the Madeline Dawkins series from Cynthia Hamilton. I find it hard to believe anyone could pick up this novel and find fatal flaws. I had never read anything by Ms. Hamilton prior to this book, but I can tell you that I am now a full-fledged fan and will be devouring everything from her as soon as possible.

Madeline and her husband Steven Ridley are considered the couple to be by all who know them. Madeline’s got a few jobs she juggles but importantly most lately is planning a perfect and enchanting charity ball. Everything seems to be going smashingly until her husband decides things aren’t so perfect. Throw in the fact that she wakes up the next morning in quite the precarious situation and you already have some pretty fabulous reading material. Things never take a dull moment on and I found myself finishing this is record timing. Now off to the next book in the series, A High Price to Pay. Thanks for the fabulous read Ms. Hamilton!

Review by @lizaileen
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The Brass Compass: A Novel by Ellen Butler – Review by Liz Vrchota

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The Brass CompassThe Brass Compass by Ellen Butler
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The first time I really got a chance to get to know Ellen Butler’s writing was with her fabulous Karina Cardinal mysteries. I love each of them and was super excited to see a historical fiction from her especially when I found out it was centered around WWII, an absolute favorite time period of history for myself. One thing I adore about Butler is the strong and evident way you can tell she pours herself into whatever she is writing about. You can definitely see the amount of time spent pouring over each detail. It makes the story rich and immersive.

The Brass Compass takes us on numerous dangerous and white-knuckled situations with Lily St. James, an American who was recruited to the civilian OSS as a spy during WWII. As you can imagine this was a very scary time and there were lots of situations that people found themselves in that they never would have imagined themselves facing. I loved how this was written as a fiction with fictional characters, but Lily St. James is ever as real as anyone that would have a real story. I can’t wait to see what else Ms. Butler will churn out. I know it will be fantastic and on my TBR list before I even glance at what it is about.

Review by @lizaileen
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Alex: An Eidolon Black Ops Novel by Maddie Wade – Review by Liz Vrchota

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Alex: An Eidolon Black Ops NovelAlex: An Eidolon Black Ops Novel by Maddie Wade
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

YES! So much YES with this new series from Maddie Wade. The Eidolon Black Ops novels are a spin-off from the Fortis Security Series and I couldn’t be more excited to see what else we will get in the novels to come. I adored The Fortis Security series and remembered Alex fondly. I would say that you could pick this up prior to reading the Fortis Security series, but I truly think that you will absolutely adore it and understand the cast of characters so much better if you read through those first.

This one we see Alex again like I said but we find him now in a new battle for Evelyn’s heart and safety. I just really enjoyed reading about Alex, he is the kind of man I would want my daughters to date so I truly found him carving a space in my reader’s heart. I am almost confident to say he is my favorite lead male that I have read so far this year. Now on to wait for the next fantastic installment. I can’t wait to get my hands on it! Thanks for the fabulous read Ms. Wade!

Review by @lizaileen
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Shattered (The Torzial Affair Book 1) by Via Mari – Review by Liz Vrchota

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Shattered (The Torzial Affair Book 1)Shattered by Via Mari
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I’m not going to lie, I couldn’t get this book open fast enough as soon as it hit my kindle. I loved the Prestian Series from Via Mari, so knowing that this was a spin-off with characters that I had already grown to love I was dying to see what Ms. Mari had in store for them. Boy oh boy she did not disappoint, especially given my high expectations. I have a feeling that the Torzial Affair books will be something I am going to adore. I am going to note that it would probably super beneficial to read the Prestian series before you dive into this one. There is just something special about having the full story and knowing these characters lives.

In Torizal Affair we find out all about Jenny, Kate’s best friend. I love Jenny, no lie probably more than I thought I loved Kate. She is one strong and amazing gal and reading her story, while at times difficult and possibly triggering for some, was truly one of my favorite reading times this year so far. I love how you can see Via Mari’s growth as a writer and truly with the grace she wrote Jenny’s story it is evident once again that she has some pretty amazing author skills. You won’t get much as far as spoilers of more details from me, I won’t spoil the goods for you, but take my word for it that this book and the Prestian series is one that you don’t want to miss.

Review by @lizaileen
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Unraveled by Aubrey Bondurant – Review by Liz Vrchota

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UnraveledUnraveled by Aubrey Bondurant
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

To say that Unraveled by Aubrey Bondurant was an emotional rollercoaster ride to read would simply be an understatement. The entire time I was wrapped up in Layla and Kellan’s story I found myself so immersed and overcome with the feelings leaping up off the page that I quickly lost track of time and devoured it in one sitting. I have never had the opportunity before Unraveled to read anything from Aubrey Bondurant but now that I have I must say I am a wee bit obsessed and have been adding everything she has available to my TBR list. I can’t wait to see what else we will get from her too. Kellan and Layla are not your typical love story, they have a devastating twist that will make you stop and question your own priorities and support system. I can’t and won’t sit and give you any more details than that because it would be a real travesty to ruin anything about this novel. You will just have to take my word for it and dive in! You won’t be sad that you did! Thanks for the lovely read Ms. Bondurant!

Review by @lizaileen
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Wrath (The Deadliest Sin Series Book 1) by Gwyn McNamee – Review by Liz Vrchota

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Wrath (The Deadliest Sin Series Book 1)Wrath by Gwyn McNamee
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Holy freaking Hades! Gwyn McNamee has truly gone to the deep, dark, and gritty world of dark romance and she does it so darn well! Now, I will say that I am a massive fan of Gwyn McNamee’s and so I may be a bit biased with anything that she writes. I pick it up without a glance in a blurb because I KNOW it will be fantastic. However, this one quite possibly just turned into my absolute favorite book of hers. I’m not going to dive much into the details and whatnot because this book is brief (my only sadness and negative comment about this book.) but I will say this, be prepared for a dark, violent, and gruesome ride all while trying your damnedest to not fall in love with the antagonist. I wanted to not like Griff but honestly the way this man is when Jade is around is just too much I can’t help but adore these two together. So with that said I think I am going to leave this review with a repeat of the delicious blurb. I can’t even try to top perfection as far as summarizing things, nor could I bare to give away anything spoiling, so the blurb is what you get. I can’t wait to see what will come next in the following book. Thanks so much for the fantastic read Ms. McNamee!

All I see is red.
Blood.
Pain.
Rage.
It consumes me.
The moment he took her, wrath invaded my soul.
I only have one purpose.
End him and take back what’s mine.
Love isn’t always clean, and wrath is the deadliest sin.
All I see is red.
Blood.
Pain.
Rage.
It consumes me.
The moment he took her, wrath invaded my soul.
I only have one purpose.
End him and take back what’s mine.
Love isn’t always clean, and wrath is the deadliest sin.

Review by @lizaileen
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After Wrath (The Deadliest Sin Book 2) by Gwyn McNamee – Review by Liz Vrchota

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After Wrath (The Deadliest Sin Series Book 2)After Wrath by Gwyn McNamee
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Wow! Wow! Wow! Each time I pick up a Gwyn McNamee book I swear that there is no way this new one could possibly top the last of hers I just read. Yet, every time I am completely proven wrong. There is no exception to the rule with After Wrath. This is the second book in the Deadliest Sin Series, and I would highly recommend that you start with book one, Wrath, before diving into this one. I suppose if you really didn’t want to you could read it as a stand alone, but I can’t imagine these books being anything but worth every single moment of your time. I love that these are short and sweet, well not sweet but you know what I mean. I was able to fully enjoy this book in one sitting during a rainy evening and it was over just in time for me to get a wee bit of sleep. Of course it be over was devastating, especially considering it will be August before we get to see what will come next in this series. Perfect amount of time to do a re-read however!

Alek, oh my goodness Alek. The man I pictured while reading his story was the perfect ideal, the bad boy type that you bring home to mom just to bug her, yet delicious to and sweet when it comes down to romance with Brynn. We don’t see a lot of details from her considering this is written strictly from Alek’s point of view, but I actually like the way things turned out in that regards. Same heads up as last time, this book is a dark read, one that may have you going uh eww a few moments but honestly so worth every one. I like seeding Ms. McNamee write so dark, it is very suiting for her and quite possibly my favorite books that she writes. I look forward to seeing what else she has in store for us, whether it be with this series or any other goodies she may have up her sleeve! Thanks for this fantabulous read Ms. McNamee!

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Secure Again: A Chase Group Story by R.L. Dunn – Review by Liz Vrchota

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Secure Again: A Chase Group StorySecure Again: A Chase Group Story by R. L. Dunn
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Ohhhh my, I just totally adored this book. I was completely sucked into it and couldn’t put it down until I had soon consumed it in one full sitting. Literally, I never even got up to cook supper this book consumed me that much it lead to a fantastic pizza night in our household!

Elizabeth Reed is everything you want to see in a female lead. A strong and fierce force to be reckoned with when it comes to medical integrity, she truly made this book so delicious to read. I Farmer (Martin) Bailey is the type of man that makes you weak in the knees; delicious, strong, protective, and down-right a hot Alpha lead. Elizabeth finds herself questioning the injuries that are coming in with the inmates from the local jail. As a doctor something doesn’t seem right and she is determined to get the the bottom of it. Just as that is heating up she is also faced with the fact that she is keeping the brother of the man she loves alive. These two do not have a pretty past but can they work together and find a beautiful future together? I can’t wait to see what the next book in the Chase Group stories will bring us.

Review by @lizaileen
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Fictional-ish by Natalina Reis – Review by Liz Vrchota

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Fictional-ishFictional-ish by Natalina Reis
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

My goodness I am torn about this book! First of all I love Natalina Reis and all of her books so when I saw this new friends to lovers book with the gorgeous cover I jumped right in without so much as a second glance or blink at the blurb. I truly wanted to love this book and ultimately I did enjoy it, but I just didn’t love it. I had the absolute hardest time wanting to give Kyle a chance from the moment he married the Livie’s enemy. Let’s face it ladies, most of us are not going to put up with that kind of childish and petty behavior no matter how good the love and reasoning is behind it. So I suppose, once I swallowed my opinions and gave the story line a chance I was able to appreciate this as a new twist to an age old love equation such as friends to lovers. My love for Livie’s personality also kept me reading to find out what all she would take and not take. While this was not my favorite of Ms. Reis’ s novels I still find the writing and the ability to keep me reading keeps this at a strong four star read. I will be back for more for sure and am anxious to see what will be next from Natalina Reis.

Review by @lizaileen
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Trickster’s Hunt (Three Tricksters Book 1) by Carrie Whitethorne – Review by Liz Vrchota

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Trickster's Hunt (Three Tricksters #1)Trickster’s Hunt by Carrie Whitethorne
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I have never read Carrie Whitethorne before this but I was captivated by the cover to Trickster’s Hunt and then the blurb sold me fully. I must say while things were a tad confusing at times to keep track of and as far as absorbing the new Egyptian mythology, this book was quite the read. I was hooked by the second or third chapter but truly invested right about the time that crazy cliffhanger drops so abruptly. I am trying to decide if I like this because normally I am not a fan of cliffhangers, but I loved the book. I enjoyed the RH/polyamorous notes and felt that Carrie Whitethorne did a fantastic job of writing it. The characters felt very much real to me and are what will bring me back for the next book in the series. I can’t wait for August so I can see what is to come next!

Review by @lizaileen
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