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This Time Around by Jane Suen – Review by Lucy Machard

This Time AroundThis Time Around by Jane Suen
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

What a cute little romance! Lots of fluff! I do believe this is the first book I’ve read by this author, and I will be back for more! It’s a very quick read, I think I finished it in about an hour. The author does a fantastic job of sucking the readers in, I honestly lost track of time while I was reading. It’s a very refreshing romance. I read a lot of the darker types of romances, so having a little fluffy one was super nice for a change. Definitely finished it with a happy heart! Highly recommend it!!!

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Something About Aimee (Girls from the Street Book 1) by S.E. Smith – Review by Lucy Machard

Something About Aimee (Girls from the Street Book 1)Something About Aimee by S.E. Smith
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Let me just say this book is so freaking good. I absolutely loved it. It does have some spice in it, so if that’s not your thing, here’s your warning. But the romance is amazing. The author does such a great job. I just wish it was longer, I need more of this story!! A very quick read, it’ll suck you in and pull you under, and you’ll be done before you know it!

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Enemies of Doves by Shanessa Gluhm – Review by Lucy Machard

Enemies of DovesEnemies of Doves by Shanessa Gluhm
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This book is fan-freaking-tastic. It definitely lives up to “mystery,” and the way everything gets unveiled is a work of art. This is one of the best books I’ve read this year. This author has a knack for weaving a fantastic tale of romance and mystery, ensuring any reader can get caught in her web. I HIGHLY recommend this book, if you love mystery you won’t be disappointed.

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Ballet School Rumours (Amberwood Hall Ballet School Adventure Book 3) by Eleanor Dixon – Review by Lucy Machard

Ballet School Rumours: An Amberwood Hall Ballet School AdventureBallet School Rumours: An Amberwood Hall Ballet School Adventure by Eleanor Dixon
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is the third book in the series, and it’s a good one! I really enjoyed reading it! It’s a quick little book, but still full of adventure. Once again, it is probably best suited for younger audiences, but it’s still enjoyable for adults! It’s like the ghost version of Percy Jackson! I think I actually might buy these for my little cousin for Christmas this year, excellent books!

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The Graceful Ghost (Amberwood Hall Ballet School Adventure Book 1) by Eleanor Dixon – Review by Lucy Machard

The Graceful Ghost (Amberwood Hall Ballet School #1)The Graceful Ghost by Eleanor Dixon
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is such a cute story! I definitely would have loved it when I was younger, and probably have been obsessed with it. While I feel it’s a book meant a little more for younger people, I still really enjoyed it. It’s a cute little story and an excellent read. This is the first book I’ve read by this author and I really enjoyed it!

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Love in the Roses (Love Through the Ages Book 1) by TL Clark – Review by Lucy Machard

Love in the RosesLove in the Roses by T.L. Clark
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is the first book I’ve read by this author, and the amount of work she’s put into it is phenomenal. While I was hoping for a bit more action, a bit of a better romance (no hate, still a good book), I thought the book was a little but flat for my tastes, but still incredibly well done. She put in so much research and time, it was akin to almost being there and experiencing life with Isabel. Her writing style isn’t something I’d probably read again unless I was in the mood for it (kinda like Jane Austen) but once again, it was so well done. Great job!

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Murder in the Lightning Room by A.D. Brazeau – Review by Lucy Machard

Murder in the Lightning RoomMurder in the Lightning Room by A.D. Brazeau
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This isn’t the first book I’ve read by this author, but it is the best. Immediately, the reader is pulled into the story, as the lead protagonist goes to find the culprit behind Tesla’s missing documents. An incredibly fast-paced book that you won’t be able to put down. Anyone who knows me knows I love history, and I love fiction books. I’ve read plenty of historical fiction, but I think this is probably my new favorite. I hope to see more books like this from this author, and they’ll be added to my collection in a heartbeat.

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Between Darkness & Light (War of Destiny Book 3) by Theresa Van Spankeren – Review by Lucy Machard

Between Darkness & Light (War of Destiny #3)Between Darkness & Light by Theresa Van Spankeren
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

(SPOILERS) (CONTENT WARNING- SELF HARM; SUICIDAL IDEATION)

This is the latest book released in the series, and it starts with Julia fighting the demons from the last book as she navigates life in Italy. Like in the first book, I do wish there had been a content warning for self harm and other heavy topics. Some of the language used when describing Julia’s self harm that can be heavily triggering for people who have struggled with SH in the past, and who still do. It doesn’t help that one of the characters that finds out about Julia’s mental health struggles also calls her insane while cleaning out her wounds, which honestly left a bad taste in my mouth. There was also some suicidal ideation in the beginning. However, it is fun to see the development of the writing style throughout the series, and the character development is done well, and the book has a sweet ending.

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Pursuit into Darkness (War of Destiny Book 2) by Theresa Van Spankeren – Review by Lucy Machard

Pursuit into Darkness (War of Destiny, #2)Pursuit into Darkness by Theresa Van Spankeren
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

This is the second book in the series, and takes place over half a century after the last. The book seems to be written in partial modern vernacular, and then switches to “Ye Olde” vernacular, almost inconsistently which leads to some strange phrases that I WILL be using in my everyday life. The author does leave the book on a good cliffhanger, which means I will be reading the next book to find out what happens to Julia next!

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Lost Soul (War of Destiny Book 1) by Theresa Van Spankeren – Review by Lucy Machard

Lost Soul (War of Destiny # 1)Lost Soul by Theresa Van Spankeren
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

(SPOILERS) (CONTENT WARNING- DOMESTIC ABUSE AND CHILD DEATH)

This is the first by this author I’ve read. The synopsis looked promising, especially since I’m a sucker for vampire novels. However, I was a tad bit disappointed. The first 25% of this book (I read mainly on Kindle) is mostly the story of how the main character is domestically abused by her husband. As a survivor of abuse, I wasn’t expecting it to be that intense, or have such a strong focus so early in the book. There is also the violent death of a child. If there was a content warning, I didn’t see it, so if you’re reading reviews before reading the book, this is the content warning. To me, the writing felt way like there was too much dialog- and the descriptive sentences around for the setting and plot seemed dry and rushed. While that might be great for some people, it wasn’t for me. It is a quick read though, I finished this in the few hours of downtime I had before work. However, I did like that the MC got her vengeance at the end, and started to heal from the crap that happened to her in the beginning. There’s also a bit of a love triangle, with a bit of slow burn romance at the end. I am looking forward to the second book, and I’m ready to see how the main character’s story develops throughout the series!

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The Lie That Binds by Amy Argent – Review by Lucy Machard

The Lie That BindsThe Lie That Binds by Amy Argent
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This isn’t the first book I’ve read by this author, but it is my favorite. She immediately pulls you into Tillamook High’s world, leaving the reader wanting more. I felt like I was hanging on to every word while reading, on the edge if my seat for what came next. The romance is done well, she really does a great job of writing the awkward teenage love trope. A little clichè, but with an amazing ending. Absolutely loved this book and recommend.

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

The Cave of Ruin ArsaThe Cave of Ruin Arsa by Andrea Matthews
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is the first I’ve read by this author, and I’m not gonna lie, it’s pretty good. There are a lot of Irish Gaelic names and vernacular, and while the author does have a cheat sheet in the back, on Kindle it’s easier to just look everything up. I do love how there are also recipes in the back, and I’m probably going to try a couple. It is a bit of a longer book, it took me a couple days to finish it. I thought it came off to a bit of a slower start, but it still pulls the reader in on the adventure.

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Saved by Love (Bellevue Bullies Book 7) by Toni Aleo – Review by Lucy Machard

Saved by Love (Bellevue Bullies #7)Saved by Love by Toni Aleo
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This was my first book by this author, and let me tell ya, it’s amazing. It’s a GORGEOUS slow burn romance, and I love the emphasis and importance the author put on bring recognition to the mental health of men, and I especially love how Evan is actively trying to take steps to better himself, and how he’s learning to overcome his anxiety instead of succumbing to it. Callie is so witty and determined, she’s just a superstar. This book had me by the toes, and sucked me right in. Now to read the rest!

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Blood & Vengeance (The Casket Girls Book 2) by A.D. Brazeau – Review by Lucy Machard

Blood & Vengeance (The Casket Girls #2)Blood & Vengeance by A.D. Brazeau
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This book is the second book in the series, and it is just as good as the first. This story follows Desiree and Jaxon as they start to discover their true selves in New Orleans. Desiree, who refuses to let herself stay helpless, and Jaxon, a vampire being taught by Theron to not kill when he feeds. A wonderful love story, full of its own twists and turns. Can’t wait to see what the next one holds!

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

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

This book is incredibly intense. Going into it, I knew it would be a little heavy, considering what the synopsis is about, but it was way heavier than I expected. I am a person suffering from PTSD, and even though I didn’t get mine through war, the details and intensity of the flashbacks did almost trigger mine, so if you struggle with PTSD go into this book carefully and delicately, and take breaks when you need to. That being said, however, it is a very good book, and wonderfully written. The author is keen on details, and it goes from a rocky beginning to a well done ending. I’m looking forward to the second book, now that I know what I’m expecting.

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Victoriously Yours (Titans of Manhattan Book 4) by Anise Storm – Review by Lucy Machard

Victoriously Yours (Titans Of Manhattan #4)Victoriously Yours by Anise Storm
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I’ve been in love with series since book two, but let me tell ya, book four just HITS DIFFERENT. This book was over the top awesome, exceptionally, astounding, marvelous, sensational and sensual book that she’s had so far in the series. I’ve been waiting for this book to come out, and I was ecstatic when it was released. This author does not disappoint, and I’m already dying for book two. The chemistry between the characters was phenomenal, and I love the parallel between a specific character and the name of the book.

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PREMEDITATED: A Trust Betrayed, Lives Sabotaged, A Love Undaunted (Agents of Justice Book 2) by Susanna Haymond – Review by Lucy Machard

PremeditatedPremeditated by Susanna Haymond
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is the second book I’ve read by this author, and it’s not bad. I did like it a little better than
the first, because it was easier to understand the characters and who was who, and how they
were tied together. If you like crime and Christ, this is a good series for you. Not graphic, no bad
language or uncouth scenes, pretty mild all around. While I’m someone who lives for the
hardcore action, it’s a pretty decent book for something that’s tone down. Honestly, this is a
great option for teens who like suspense and thrillers, even though it’s not 100% my style I still
recommend giving this series a shot.

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Caging Grace (Grace Series Book 1) by Carsen Lane – Review by Lucy Machard

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

I’m not a sports person. Never have been, never will be. But let me tell you- this author has COMPLETELY made me a fan of cagefighting. This book is phenomenal! It does go off to a slower start, with a lot of flashbacks to give history to the character and to build the series, but when the rising action starts, it’s so hard to put down! I loved the way the author created the dynamics between the characters, and I honestly can’t wait to read the novella, or to read the next book. Absolute 100/10.

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Collateral Damage (Mafia Elite Series Book 6) by Amy McKinley – Review by Lucy Machard

Collateral Damage: A Second Chance Mafia Romance (Mafia Elite Book 6)Collateral Damage: A Second Chance Mafia Romance by Amy McKinley
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I was so excited for this book to come out, and even more excited to hear it was about Trey. This author has created yet another fantastic story to follow the rest of the Five Families in Chicago. Another riveting novel, filled with twists and turns and a gorgeous finish. Honestly, I think my husband might be a little jealous with how in love I am with the La Rosa family, but what can I say? The Elites are quite addicting!

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A Veil of Gods and Kings (Apollo Ascending Book 1) by Nicole Bailey – Review by Lucy Machard

A Veil of Gods and Kings (Apollo Ascending, #1)A Veil of Gods and Kings by Nicole Bailey
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This was my first book by this author, and I loved it. It’s a bit of a slower book, since she’s building her own lore around the original myth, but she does a fantastically eloquent job with it. I love how in the beginning of the book she had put a content warning for those who might struggle with certain types of subject matter. This is the first author I’ve ever seen do that, and I adored that she had the consideration for her readers to put it there. I love books that put new spins on old myths (e.i. Riordan’s series, Circe, Song of Achilles, etc.), and this was so well done. I’m ready for book two!

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Blood & Ravens (The Casket Girls Series Book 1) by A.D. Brazeau – Review by Lucy Machard

Blood & Ravens: A dark, paranormal romance (The Casket Girls Book 1)Blood & Ravens: A dark, paranormal romance by A.D. Brazeau
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is probably the best vampire story I’ve read to date. Right from the start, the author pulls you in and drags you under with Greer’s riveting tale. A very quick read full of twists and romance as Theron and Greer manage the beginnings of their romance and lives together in New Orleans. I absolutely love and recommend this book and series, and I’m excited for the next one to come out!

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The Traitor (An Underground Bad Boys Romance Book 2) by India Kells – Review by Lucy Machard

The Traitor, An Underground Bad Boys SeriesThe Traitor, An Underground Bad Boys Series by India Kells
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

While I was hoping that Book Two would follow more with Tessa and Locke and how things unfolded with the trafficking ring, I was pleasantly surprised to read this one. The author does continue with the MFM romance trope, which again for all the bi people (Including myself), is just giving everything I’ve ever needed. Once again, a quick and easy read. I had trouble sleeping this morning so I was up at 5:30 and decided to get some reading done off my TBR, and I could follow everything pretty well for being half awake. Also, full of spice and smut, and it can be read as a standalone

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The Debt Collector (An Underground Bad Boys Romance Book 1) by India Kells – Review by Lucy Machard

The Debt Collector (An Underground Bad Boys Romance)The Debt Collector by India Kells
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Tessa is a doctor working in the ER when one night, a young girl wanders in in need of saving from an underground slave ring. As Tessa makes the decision to hide this girl from her captors, she puts a target on her back. She is saved by a man, only under the agreement that she pays back her debt by staying with him.
This book is definitely full of spice and smut, and for all the bisexuals out there, fan-freaking-tastic. The M/F/M threesome trope is for sure something not seen in a lot of mainstream books, and it was for sure interesting to see here. I really enjoyed this book, it was a super quick read with shorter chapters, and I’m excited to see where the other one goes.

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The Fighter (An Underground Bad Boys Romance Book 3) by India Kells – Review by Lucy Machard

The Fighter (An Underground Bad Boys Romance, #3)The Fighter by India Kells
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Finally, we get a story for Johnathan Gage! I have been dying to see what this author would give him, and just like the last two, could be read as a stand alone, full of spice, and action. I’m so happy he got his happy ending, because it was so sad for me in the last two books watching him start to pine for a woman only to have her fall in love with his friends. Overall, I think this is my favorite from the series, and it’s for sure one I’m going to read again.

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This Night Has Ended (Vampire State Book 5) by Alexander Charalambides – Review by Lucy Machard

This Night Has EndedThis Night Has Ended by Alexander Charalambides
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This author does not disappoint, yall. His attention to detail makes you feel like you’re living in the Sanguina with the characters. I loved this book, and I’m going to have to re-binge the series, because holy smokes, these books are that good. The ending is so peaceful and beautiful. Definitely recommend!!

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Ruthless Heir (Mafia Elite Book 5) by Amy McKinley – Review by Lucy Machard

Ruthless Heir: An Enemies to Lovers Mafia Romance (Mafia Elite, #5)Ruthless Heir: An Enemies to Lovers Mafia Romance by Amy McKinley
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I absolutely DEVOURED this book. It’s got to be the best book in the series. Holy smokes, the romance, the passion, the typical Mafia twist- it’s all just so amazing. I love, love, love, LOVE, this book. It actually gave me a bit of a book hangover and I almost cried when I found out I had to wait until May for the next one. I hope she does a follow up on Luc and Summer, because I need more! Can’t wait for book 6!

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Seductively Yours (Titans of Manhattan Book 3) by Anise Storm – Review by Lucy Machard

Seductively Yours (Titans Of Manhattan, #3)Seductively Yours by Anise Storm
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Okay, so I’ve read all of the books in this series thus far, but this has got to be my favorite. This author is officially one of my favorites, right up with SJM. This book is a fantastic story of a Midwestern girl who goes to find her dreams in Manhattan. Rhyann and Mason make the PERFECT couple, and I NEED more of their love. I *cannot* express just how much I loved this book. This entire series will be joining my shelves this year, and I know I’ll be re-reading the series again. This book was a very quick read, just like the other two and I am BEYOND excited to read the next book.

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Divine Vintage by Sandra L. Young – Review by Lucy Machard

Divine VintageDivine Vintage by Sandra L. Young
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

So this was a debut by this author, and I was excited to see what she had in store. I am a HUGE history buff, so this being a historical fiction book really piqued my interests. While it doesn’t have a whole lot of detailed history, it is still a wonderful book. I really like how it ties in with the modern age, with the flashes to the past. While I would have love to have more background and more perspective from the historical characters in the book, I really enjoyed this novel, and plan to read more by this author.

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Journeys Through TimeSpace by James Talisman- Review by Lucy Machard

Journeys Through TimeSpaceJourneys Through TimeSpace by James Talisman
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Okay, so book two. Book two was easier for me to follow than the first, and I liked it a lot more. Watching Matt and Julia’s relationship grow as they find a way to wield their new powers in preparations for what’s to come made it easier to fall into this book and relax into the flow. While I’m still not used to this particular writing style, it was easier to understand the way the characters fit together this time. If you’re looking for a reason to give this series another shot, here it is.

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Journeys Through SpaceTime by James Talisman- Review by Lucy Machard

Journeys Through SpaceTimeJourneys Through SpaceTime by James Talisman
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

I’m not gonna lie, I had pretty high hopes for this book and series. I read through the synopsis/cover summary, looked at reviews for the series. I’d heard great things about this book and author.

That being said, I didn’t enjoy the book as much as I thought. This book and the rest in the series are about a multiverse war of some sort. Honestly, I found it extremely difficult to keep everything straight. The writing style wasn’t what I’m used to, and I found it hard to follow. Some of the characters didn’t make sense, but seeing how this is the first book, they’ll probably have a higher purpose in the books to come. It just wasn’t for me, and I couldn’t get into it. That’s not to say someone else won’t be able to, different books speak and connect to different people, it just happened that this particular one didn’t connect with me. I do plan on reading the next two books, because I have the set, so I’m intrigued to see how the author ties everything together in the books to come.

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