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The Elements of the Crown (The Elements of Kamdaria Book 1) by Kay L. Moody – Review by Desiree Ottinger

The Elements of the Crown (The Elements of Kamdaria, #1)The Elements of the Crown by Kay L. Moody
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Wow. Just wow. This is my first time reading Kay L. Moody. I have seen several of her books because they pop up on my “suggested next reads” on my Kindle and I am so glad I picked this one up!!

From the beginning of the book, I was pulled in to the story of Talise. She comes from nothing in the Storm region to studying at the academy because of her talent to be able to shape 4 elements at the tender age of 7. Ten years later, she’s worked her way to the top of her class and has made some close friends. She realizes that she has relaxed in her training/shaping (because she’s the best), when Aaden comes to compete against her for the place of Master Shaper. He is surly and distrustful of everybody, but he is masterful in his fire shaping. If she doesn’t win, she gets sent back to Storm to live a life of poverty. I don’t really want to share more about the book because it really is about Talise finding her path; discovering who she is despite what others say she is. It’s also about family and the lengths that we will go to protect them.

As I was reading this book, I was afraid that the end of the book was near only to discover I was only 40% into the book! I was overjoyed!! It felt like there were massive conspiracies going on and I just wasn’t sure which one was going to pan out. Just when I thought I knew what was happening something shifted in the plot and it kept me turning pages well past midnight to find out how it was going to work out.

I truly enjoyed this book! It is a perfect YA book. There’s no bad language, no overly romantic scenes, and all around a wonderful read.

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Nite Fire: Flash Point by C. L. Schneider – Review by Amanda DelFemine

I had a lot of fun listening to this book. This is the first book by this author and wowza does she know how to make this book entertaining. There were so many fight scenes that the detail in them just add you feel like you were in it. My favorite part of the whole book was the steamy sex scene made me want to jump in there and be a part of it all.

Cross-Country Christmas (A Silver Buckle Brides Romance) by Laurie Lewis – Review by Lorrene Huisman

Cross-Country Christmas (Silver Buckle Brides #1)Cross-Country Christmas by Laurie L.C. Lewis
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This was an amazing romance read, on more than level for me. The writing and how the story plays out was more than amazing for sure! It was heart felt with a lot of emotion and beautiful in every which way. The moments that brought the main two souls together truly was a fated meet and beautiful destiny.

For me I truly loved how these two souls, CC and Reese meet under circumstances that were truly less than ideal, neither of them wanted to take refuge with Reese, but perhaps destiny had other plans. They are stuck together, but maybe this could be a new light both of them needed, but never knew they wanted. Through out my reading I watched not only themselves grow, but also their hearts. Things came to light with a lot of emotion and it really added to the story, it was so beautiful, and amazing to watch this romance to take flight. The story was very well done and very blissful I dare to say!

For me I loved most was the emotions that were behind the two souls and why at first glance they were the way they were. It really made the story real, and true in every way. I loved this story, it was just what I needed, I finished it smiling with great joy! A must read for sure, a very high recommendation from me!

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Ashes of Aldyr (The Obscured Throne Trilogy Book 1) by Russell Archey – Review by Dani Honeycutt

Ashes of AldyrAshes of Aldyr by Russell Archey
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

WOW! I don’t usually pick books that are fantasy, but I was willing to give it a shot and I am so glad that I did. I don’t understand why I don’t read more fantasy, since I love LOTR and the like. I was instantly drawn in as Russell Archey explains in the prologue just how uniquely the book is constructed. As a fellow writer, I love how Russell Archey put the book together. I love how each story is distinct but there remains an over all story line.

I was instantly captured by “The Rupture” and I knew I couldn’t stop then. Like the mysteries in the first chapter, I was swallowed whole, and all memory of any other story that I have read was swept from my memory. That is just how much I enjoyed this book.

Another fabulous perk to Russell Archey’s writing is the grotesque but amazing detail of his conjured creations. Some of the beasts in this book! Absolutely made of nightmare’s! I still find myself wondering how he dreamed up such horrid things. I loved the descriptions of these “things” because my mind gets to paint vividly, horrible creatures.

I’m hooked on this series and so glad that this is just book one!

Reviewed by @danihoneycutt

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Practically Pagan – An Alternative Guide to Magical Living by Maria DeBlassie – Review by Naomi McDonald

Practically Pagan - An Alternative Guide to Magical LivingPractically Pagan – An Alternative Guide to Magical Living by Maria DeBlassie
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

“I had disempowered myself when I stopped valuing my happiness and overall wellness.”
“…remember that beauty standards are often racist, gendered, ableist, and shaped
by a ton of other toxic -isms.”
“Saying no is a form of self-care. No is a two-letter spell for happiness.”

This book came into my life at the perfect time, as all magical things do. Even though a lot of the material in this book wasn’t new to me, it was a great reminder of things that I haven’t thought about in a while.
It’s so easy to fall into the trap of performance pressure, especially when it’s essentially what our society runs off of. We’re steeped in it from birth. I love how this book reminds us that even the most mundane thing can be magic if we tune into it and allow it. That is exactly what I need for myself right now.
If you are feeling overwhelmed and disconnected from the life you want, this book may be exactly what you need.

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Born to Fall (Can’t Resist You – Book 2) by Brittany Anne – Review by Amy Brennan

Born to Fall (Can't Resist You, #2)Born to Fall by Brittany Anne
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Seriously, this series has been giving me hard Hunger Game or Divergent vibes, and this second installment just made it that much stronger. Dystopian works of written and cinematic art have always had a soft spot in my heart, mind, and soul, and Brittany Anne has not failed to provide exactly what I look for. From the prologue, to the decision not to read the epilogue, I was immersed in her writing, and absolutely loved how I was better equipped to picture the world in which Derek and Julia are fighting hard to make it a better place.

Overall, these two are soulmates in the craziest of ways, and they come to learn of the inner turmoil that torments them both and allows for their bond to grow even stronger. It is very admirable the way that they can support each other while growing into their own skins, while protecting those they care for and love. They fight for what they believe in, both to protect the Resistance and the people that are currently under their protection, and the ones they want to provide their protection for as well. I felt the emotions come up from the pages, sadness, hope, love, fear, and strength, and didn’t want to put the book down. I loved every moment, and very much look forward to getting to know more about Anna and Hayden in the next installment. Wow, Brittany Anne, wow! Highly recommend.

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Shadows of Doubt (A Crawford Mystery) by Merissa Racine – Review by Karen Pearman

Shadows of DoubtShadows of Doubt by Merissa Racine
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is the second book in this mystery series by this author. I found it to be just as enjoyable and suspenseful as the first one. In fact, maybe just a little bit more. I love mystery novels. I especially love mystery novels with women doing the investigating. More so when they are not “the investigator” but go out on their own to solve the crime. I thought that this story was very well written. I was on the edge of my seat throughout most of it. I couldn’t put it down, so I was up almost all night reading just to finish this book. I love the way she captivates the reader with her characterization that literally makes me feel like I am writing the story. I must admit that the ending was so not what I was expecting it to be and that blew me away because it was such a plot twist. I highly recommend you pick up this book. But, before you do, make sure that you read book one in the series. I feel as that will be beneficial to you to know and understand the story and characters.

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Born to Fall (Can’t Resist You – Book 2) by Brittany Anne – Review by Shelly Kittell

Born to Fall (Can't Resist You, #2)Born to Fall by Brittany Anne

Derek and Julia made this a book to really enjoy. You will feel almost every feeling there is. They have both had hard pasts and are now doing their parts. Fighting through past history leads to some big challenges that they have to fight through. I enjoyed the action because there was so much going on that the story truly held my attention. It was hard to stop reading when life interrupted me. All the characters feel so three-dimensional. When characters have personalities that you can relate too, it really helps the story. In a small way, I could relate to both Derek and Julia. The plot ran smooth enough that it was easy to stay in story. A few twists and turns made for the final kicker. I’ve loved this series so far. This is book 2 and it was just as intriguing as the first. The ending was a terrific cliffhanger to book 3 (which I will be eagerly awaiting.)

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The Elements of the Crown (The Elements of Kamdaria Book 1) by Kay L. Moody – Review by Michelle Downing

The Elements of the Crown (The Elements of Kamdaria, #1)The Elements of the Crown by Kay L. Moody
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This book was absolutely amazing! When choosing to read this book, it sounded promising, and I figured I’d enjoy it. I wasn’t prepared to love it as much as I did. The story was well written, it had some twists that I wasn’t fully expecting, the characters were witty and fun to read. The remainder of this series is definitely in my TBR list.

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Fate, Frankincense & Funerals by Naomi Valkyrie – Review by Francis O’Sullivan

Fate, Frankincense & FuneralsFate, Frankincense & Funerals by Naomi Valkyrie
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Fate, Frankincense & Funerals is a paranormal shifter romance by Naomi Valkyrie. It centres around Acheron, a vulture shifter whose restlessness results in him being sent on an unusual and dangerous assignment.
Death is a main theme in this book. Acheron, by virtue of being a vulture shifter, is responsible for carrying out end of life rituals. I really liked the rituals and traditions Valkyrie detailed in this book – it’s a well-developed culture and presents an interesting perspective on life and death.
To an extent, I felt like the romance between Errapel and Acheron was a bit rushed. I would have appreciated more time for trust to build between the two of them. That said, it’s a short book and where fate is involved one can skip through courting.
This is a sensitive and interesting story, which gets four stars from me. Valkyrie has definitely whetted my appetite and I would love to read more with these characters! I’d recommend this book to fantasy fans who enjoy M/M romance looking for something they can comfortably read in one sitting.

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Surprise Baby for Mr. Fischer (Curvy Ever After Book 2) by Stephanie Harrell – Review by Jenny See

Surprise Baby for Mr. Fischer (Curvy Ever After, #2)Surprise Baby for Mr. Fischer by Stephanie Harrell
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is the second book to the Curvy Ever After series but can be read as a standalone. Harper has had a rough time with being insecure. Lincoln had a tough childhood and is trying to make his own way as an actor. After he saves her the second time they spend the weekend together, the. Go their separate ways. Months later he comes back to find out she’s pregnant with his baby. Can they let go of their past and be a family? While this isn’t the normal type of book I usually read I did enjoy it and would definitely recommend it!

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Unlikely to Fit (Parker Lake) by Olivia Sherwood – Review by Jenny See

Unlikely to Fit (A Parker Lake Novel Book 2)Unlikely to Fit by Olivia Sherwood
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is my first book by this author and OMG I LOVED it! This can be read as a standalone but is the second book of the Parker Lake Series. I will definitely be reading the rest of this series. I can’t wait to learn the other character’s story’s. Breckin has a crappy ex husband who wronged her in an embarrassing way, so she has a little bit of trust issues. Griff lost the love of his life and can’t seem to move on. Can they both work out their issues and be together? I promise you’ll enjoy this story. Griff’s Meemaw is one of the most hilarious characters I’ve read in a long time. I absolutely LOVE her!

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Check In (Bobbins Sisters Series Book 2) by Debra Parmley – Review by Rachel Moss

Check InCheck In by Debra Parmley
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Check In was a good read. If you’re looking for an easy, quick read with a happy ending this one is for you. I felt a little rushed and there wasn’t a clear distinguished time period throughout the book and some scenes felt a little choppy and rushed but overall this was a really good book. The characters were likeable enough and the storyline was decent so this was a great book to me to read if you want to waste time but don’t want to get sucked into a longer, more drawn out novel. This is the first book I’ve read from Parmley again and I would read more in the future.

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Cross-Country Christmas (A Silver Buckle Brides Romance) by Laurie Lewis – Review by Daryian Lucas

Cross-Country Christmas (Silver Buckle Brides #1)Cross-Country Christmas by Laurie L.C. Lewis
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I’m a sucker for Hallmark holiday romances so this book was right up my alley. The twist with CC’s upbringing made me grab my chest because I did not see that coming. This book did make me want a Tesla, lol. It’s a clean romance, but it wasn’t cheesy. I cannot wait for the holiday season after reading this book!

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The Groomsman (Unexpected Series – Book 2) by Marina Hanna – Review by Michelle Austin

The GroomsmanThe Groomsman by Marina Hanna
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The Groomsman was a great steamy 5 star read.
The steaminess starts right from the beginning. It’s tradition that the maid of honor and the best man hook up at the wedding and these two didn’t disappoint.

Problem is they couldn’t get enough of each other and they wanted more. Will they allow their fears to keep them from exploring more than a physical attraction?

Lauren was great and she was determined to get through Mark’s walls and get what she wants. Mark at times was frustrating but I really liked him as well.

Overall I really enjoyed this read. All of the characters were great. The author does a great job with her writing and pulls you right in, you feel like you’re right there with the characters on their journey. If you’re looking for a great love story, then I highly suggest this one. I look forward to reading more from this author. 1-click and get started today.

Reviewed by @mab54615
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Nite Fire: Smoke & Mirrors (Book 3) AUDIO BOOK by C. L. Schneider – Review by Bridget McCullough

This audiobook is a little on the long side (15 hours!) but don’t let that scare you away from the incredible world that C.L. Schneider has created. The action is well written and easily visualized and the interpersonal relationships are wonderfully realistic and thoughtfully cultivated. I look forward to seeing where the characters end up in the next book and how it affects the professional, platonic, and romantic relationships of everyone involved.

The Groomsman (Unexpected Series – Book 2) by Marina Hanna – Review by Jenna Knee

The GroomsmanThe Groomsman by Marina Hanna
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Where to start? This book grabs your attention in the first sentence. Lauren and Mark. Mark and Lauren. Two completely opposite people drawn to each other. You find yourself immersed in their lives and you don’t want to stop reading. I can tell you that I only put this book down twice. Once when the doctor came into the room for my appointment and then again when I had to cook dinner! Other than that I would have loved to not have been interrupted during this read. I was longing for it to continue and wished that it could have been longer. Maybe a book three will be in the works because I tell you what, there is so much more story to be told of Lauren and Mark and of course of Rose. Rose brings a whole new element that could be and should be explored more. Please Ms. Hanna don’t let this be the end of this wonderful couple’s story.

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Twilight’s Curse (Twilight Realm Series Book 1) by K. M. Wray – Review by Jamie Zabolotney

Twilight's CurseTwilight’s Curse by K.M. Wray
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

It had been awhile since I had read a fantasy novel and this had a lot to live up to and it was up to the task! K.M.Wray has a way with words and is able to spin them to create a wonderful world.

Prince Phoenix of the Elves witnesses both his parents murdered by usurpers to the crown and on that night he knows he must grow up much faster than normal elves. Zoe, daughter of those usurpers, has escaped her mother’s experimentations in hopes of a better life. When they meet neither one knows who the other is. Together they must go up against Zoe’s parents and take back the Twilight Realm and in the process learn about themselves and each other.

There are so many ways this story could go and I look forward to reading that journey.

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The Elements of the Crown (The Elements of Kamdaria Book 1) by Kay L. Moody – Review by Erica Fish

The Elements of the Crown (The Elements of Kamdaria, #1)The Elements of the Crown by Kay L. Moody
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is a great start to a series. This is not my first book and it definitely will not be my last book by Kay L. Moody. She grabbed me from the first sentence and kept my attention until the very last sentence of the book. The story is a simple one but it is so detailed that I saw everything in my mind’s eye. The story takes an adventure of a student, Tailse, who wants to be the top in her class. She is on her way until he comes along and they are paired together. She knows there is a war coming she is hoping that she has enough power to meet the danger coming at her. All she wants to do is escape from the emperor. Will she be able to escape? Will she and her partner be able to take on the war that is coming? I highly recommend this book as it is a great start to a series.

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Snowflakes & Stockings (A Wilton Hills Christmas Book 4) by Marianne Rice–Reviewed by Jerricka Brown

Snowflakes & Stockings (A Wilton Hills Christmas, #4)Snowflakes & Stockings by Marianne Rice
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Beautifully written. I was honestly shocked that this is book four of a series. It is a great stand alone. The attention to details made it easy to visualize. I love that. I was transported directly into the story.

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Blood Oath (Mafia Elite, book 2) by Amy McKinley – Review by Liz Vrchota

Blood Oath (Mafia Elite, #2)Blood Oath by Amy McKinley
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I love Amy McKinley’s romance novels, but these Mafia Elite books from her are absolutely amazing and have quickly become one of my favorite series by her. I really love the way she has built suspense and drama with the romance and intrigue of the mafia world in a way that makes you crave it. That is truly the best way to describe it. I literally wait for these novels to hit my kindle like I am waiting for a fix and I love every moment that I get with the characters.

In Blood Oath we get the thrilling second story and the story of Enzo and Sofia. These two light up your kindle with passion and suspense.They have been stalking the line of danger and love since childhood and the story really is one you don’t want to miss. I loved every single second. I cannot wait to see what the next book will bring us!

Review by @lizaileen
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Fate, Frankincense & Funerals by Naomi Valkyrie – Review by Changley Cavins

Fate, Frankincense & FuneralsFate, Frankincense & Funerals by Naomi Valkyrie
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Quote: “I will not fight fair on this. Things need to change, and this is how it begins.”

Review: This was a super fast read. Probably the shortest book I’ve ever read. It falls under the forbidden love trope. The 3 main characters are super likable. I liked the storyline- it was creative. There was a few twists in the story that I didn’t see coming (I’ll spare you spoilers for this quick read)! I would definitely read sequels.

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The Groomsman (Unexpected Series – Book 2) by Marina Hanna – Review by Kerry Baker

The GroomsmanThe Groomsman by Marina Hanna
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The Groomsman by Marina Hanna is a brilliant contemporary romance. This book is all about the characters and the off the charts chemistry between them. You can feel it on every single page and it is unbelievably hot. The connection between Lauren and Mark is one of the strongest I have read about in a long time.
The book itself is quite a quick read and is one that you get really engrossed in. It is fun and romantic and everything you want in this type of story. This is a brilliant book that I would highly recommend.

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Ashes of Aldyr (The Obscured Throne Trilogy Book 1) by Russell Archey – Review By Corine Lombardi

Ashes of AldyrAshes of Aldyr by Russell Archey
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Ashes of Aldyr (The Obscured Throne Trilogy Book 1)
By: Russell Archey
Genre: Fantasy/Horror
Pages: 375

Let’s start off with admiring the cover art because that’s why I chose to read this book. Georgia’s and enticing.
This book I felt had many points of views, different stories that keep you wanting to read to the end.
The world that is known is dying and there are challenges and quests that will ensure survival.
Now in parts you will want to close your eyes and take a second cause it gets creepy.
This gave me Harry Potter & the Chamber of Secret vibes.
I would recommend this as a perfect read on a cold and rainy night.
It did not disappoint I liked fantasy but now I love it.
Archey is a five star author and with this series I cannot wait to see what happens next.

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Ashes of Aldyr (The Obscured Thorne Trilogy Book 1) by Russell Archey Reviewed by Jasmin Slagle

Ashes of AldyrAshes of Aldyr by Russell Archey

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The Rupture has destroyed every town around it. This book gives me serious LOTR vibes, that my inner nerd loves. Any book that involves Elves already draws me in. Anticipating book 2!!!!

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Check In (Bobbins Sisters Series Book 2) by Debra Parmley – Review by Hailey Hop

Check InCheck In by Debra Parmley
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Check In by Debra Parmley begins with the reader meeting Len, an officer who was recently injured. He goes to a friend’s barbecue where he sees LeAnn, and the two fall head over heels for eachother. It is love at first sight for the two. Their relationship is easy going yet loving.
I liked watching these two characters develop. It was easy to relate with them. I think pretty much everyone can relate to some aspect of the characters or their lives. It is a quick read with a great storyline.

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Check In (Bobbins Sister Series Book 1) by Debra Parmley – Review by Cindy Mayberry

Check InCheck In by Debra Parmley
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Check In
Bobbins Sisters Series
Book 2
By Debra Parmley
☆☆☆☆☆
This is a full length, short story. While it may not have many pages, it is complete. The Perfect Suspenseful Romance. I love stories like this. When I have a short time frame, this story fills that slot. Leanne Bobbin has finished college and is about to start her new job. Working at the bank, she finds herself in the middle of a robbery. Luckily she is in her office when things start to rise. Her “Check In” calls and it’s her boyfriend, who happens to be a cop. What will happen next? Read on as there are No Spoilers here.

Debra Parmley is a new author for me. Let me tell you, her story is direct and to the point. From the slow burning relationship, which I Love. To the suspense that follows. This is a fast paced story.with characters who will win your heart. I will be looking for more from this author. Well Done Debra Parmley! Well Done! ! !

Review@Cinful

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LUKE (DEFAULT DISTRACTION #4) by A. S. Roberts – Review by Lisa Helmick

Luke (Default Distraction #4)Luke by A.S. Roberts
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I was extremely excited to see this arrive! I love all the others in the series. So I dug right in. I am glad the author saved Luke for last because his story was out (in previous books) and I was curious how she would spin it. I was and wasn’t disappointed. The bad first…It starts off slow until about Chapter 10. There are a lot of details that seemed more filler. Questions asked in conversation then two pages later an answer. In all honesty, I did skim over that stuff and went right to the answer.
I loved a lot about this story! The author does a great job recreating scenes in previous books but this time give us Luke’s perspective (That scene where they play in the hotel-is great). I enjoyed seeing more of Flint and Brie and the fun they have. The band members are also in here and I loved seeing their fun sides as well as their professional sides.

Overall I enjoyed Luke’s story, especially the Epilogue and the ending after that! A perfect ending to the series.

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Fate, Frankincense & Funerals by Naomi Valkyrie – Review by Mikaela Insinger

Fate, Frankincense & FuneralsFate, Frankincense & Funerals by Naomi Valkyrie
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Valkyrie provides a short, but fully intriguing MM paranormal romance. This was my first introduction to the author and I am excited to read other novels by them! The story, while brief, is intertwined with beautiful details throughout. If it was fleshed out a bit more, I know I would have been re-reading it over and over. That said, I wasn’t able to put the book down and felt various emotions in connection to the characters, the setting, and the tension between what the society in this story deems “normal” or not. A beautiful connection at the end has made this a book I will remember!

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A Spell of Rowans by Byrd Nash – Review by Lorrene Huisman

A Spell of RowansA Spell of Rowans by Byrd Nash
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Wow! This book was amazing from start to finish, the writing was so easy to get hooked on and basically spending your time reading, not realizing all the time you are lost in this wonderful book. I was more than impressed with this book, the story was very captivating and a wicked good read! A must read!

I don’t even know where to start. When reading this I am sure you will fine the plots that all mesh into each other (eventually) will blow your mind. There were many different characters, but they were all connected. Each character was made differently and I found they all had their own sense of purpose. For what reasons they were, they had to find out on their own! The story immersed my body and soul, and the twists and turns really kept the interest high and strong! I was amaze throughout my entire reading!

For me the family drama, was very real and I found the toll at times emotional as real as it was. I felt I was right there with the kids, after what happened with their dear mother, they had things to figure out and things with in themselves. It was beautifully haunting the way it was written as well as things unfold and things come to light. I was sad when it ended, as I wanted to read more, and see what what else come come up or happen. The feels I had when reading were vivid and real, truly amazing read!

I had never read anything by this gifted author as of yet, and needless to say i am hooked for sure! The writing was more than fantastic, and there are no words that alone that can describe how impacting the story and all the corks and screws were within this novel. Experience this book and read it, and see the magic it will pour onto you. It is a book that is a must read, highly recommend with all my soul!

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