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More Text Than Sex by Jim Shomos – Review by Rayne East

More Text Than SexMore Text Than Sex by Jim Shomos
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Music, a balm for the soul
This book is a multilayered melody with emotion-filled undertones. The story follows Cat, Annie and Robbie as they navigate the music industry that is Merger Music. They all have secrets and need to resolve and the author brilliant,y executes this while wrapping the reader in a blanket of tunes. There is a good balance between the drama and the banter and the characters are well developed and easy to relate to. An entertaining and enjoyable read.

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Devlin by Angela K. Parker – Review by Rayne East

DevlinDevlin by Angela K. Parker
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Frenemies to HEA
I really enjoyed this contemporary romance. It’s the first book I have read from this author and her writing style is engaging and easy to read. Devlin is a great character and I loved his banter with Eve and the chemistry that built around them. Told in dual POV this forbidden office romance creates steam. There’s a few surprising twists along the way that made for a thoroughly entertaining read.

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Ghost Talker (Madame Chalamet Ghost Mysteries Book 1) by Byrd Nash – Review by Rayne East

Ghost Talker (Madame Chalamet Ghost Mysteries #1)Ghost Talker by Byrd Nash
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Fascinating start
This is a very intriguing Gaslamp fantasy story featuring Madam Chalamet who is a trained medium. I loved the setting and the characterisation. Elinor Chalamet isn’t one to be trifled with. This book has mystery, action and slow burn romance, a great combination. This is the first of six novellas, and I am keen to see where the story goes.

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The Warrior (The Freemasons Book 3) by Nicole Flockton – Review by Rayne East

The Warrior (The Freemasons #3)The Warrior by Nicole Flockton
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Friends to lovers
Third book in and loving the Freemasons Series. This is Jude and Sienna’s story. There has always been an attraction but circumstances push them to face their truth and boy, does it create some steam. There is all the alpha maleness that we have come to love from this series and the strong FMC that keeps the man in line. There is an interwoven story that has continued since book one so it is recommended to start at the book one. A brilliant addition to the series.

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The Hunter (The Freemasons Book 2) by Nicole Flockton – Review by Rayne East

The Hunter (The Freemasons, #2)The Hunter by Nicole Flockton
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Secrets, revenge and romance
This is the second book in the contemporary romance series The Freemasons. The heat doesn’t simmer down in this instalment. Dominic has his work cut out for him with Gemma who is on a warpath to prove her point in this enemy to lovers addition. We catch glimpses of Cole and Ava from book one which made my heart sing. I am really enjoying this series with its strong characters, steamy romance and the underlying story line that the author has cleverly interwoven throughout the books. Looking forward to Jude’s story next.

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Master Catteneo (Masters of the Consulate Book 5) by Sylvia Black – Review by Rayne East

Master CatteneoMaster Catteneo by Sylvia Black
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Another great addition to the series
The fifth book in the series and this is Master Catteneo and Alessia’s story. As with each of the books the FMC, Alessia, is a strong character. She is confident in her abilities and in her beliefs. Catteneo is alpha through and through. The storyline from the previous books continues throughout this instalment, so it is best to read these all in order to be able to connect the dots. I love reading these books and catching glimpses of characters from previous books and seeing them through the eyes of others. A big plus is the dual POV, it just makes for a deeper connection to the characters and storyline. Highly recommend and eagerly awaiting the next book.

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The Magical Summer of Miranda Stone (The Emergence Duology Book 1) by A.D. Brazeau – Review by Rayne East

The Magical Summer of Miranda StoneThe Magical Summer of Miranda Stone by A.D. Brazeau
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Self-discovery, growing up and magic
This is the first part of The Emergence Duology and lays a foundation for our MC., Miranda. I really liked the story and was swept away with Miranda’s journey of self-discovery, friendships and life challenges. I am really keen to explore the magical side as now I feel relationships are set up and the stage is set for more to come. I enjoyed the flow of the story and the way the author interspersed the humour to balance some of the heavier aspects of the story. Looking forward to second part in book 2.

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Fallen Star (The Divine Devils Book 2) by R Weir – Review by Rayne East

Fallen Star: The Divine Devils Book 2: Mystery Suspense Crime ThrillerFallen Star: The Divine Devils Book 2: Mystery Suspense Crime Thriller by R Weir
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Web of intrigue
This book has it all. The second in the series has Hunter and his crew smack-bang in the middle of a web of murder and mayhem. Again the author brings a strong plot line with amazing imagery that had me feeling every single moment. Once I finished the book I felt like I had just stepped out of the world and taken a breath. Highly recommend this book (and book 1) and I am so looking forward to reading more.

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The Divine Devils (The Divine Devils Book 1) by R Weir – Review by Rayne East

The Divine DevilsThe Divine Devils by R. Weir
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Suspenseful thrilling crime
What a fantastic start to a series. This book had me glued with suspense, mystery, edge of seat danger, loads of action and intrigue. The writing just draws you in, and it’s almost like watching a movie. The characterisation is spot on and I was vested from the beginning. I am so looking forward to following this series.

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Hate You Later (Lit Lovers Series Book 1) by Ciara Blume – Review by Rayne East

Hate You Later (Lit Lovers, #1)Hate You Later by Ciara Blume
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Enemies to lovers
This was a very entertaining read. With lots of laugh out loud moments, this romantic comedy will appeal to a wide audience. With relatable characters who say it as it is and a good balance of drama, angst and romance I had a really good time reading this book. Hudson and Georgia were so opposite that when the chemistry started to click it made for a bit of heat. Looking forward to seeing more from this author.

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Shadow and Crystal Thorns (Fae and Crystal Thorns Book 2) by Kay L. Moody – Review by Rayne East

Shadow and Crystal Thorns (Fae and Crystal Thorns, #2)Shadow and Crystal Thorns by Kay L. Moody
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Fantasy adventure continues
This takes off straight after book 1. Chloe grows in this book as does her relationship with Quintus. There is so much to love about this book. With magic, faeries and suspenseful action this is a strong book 2 in Fae and Crystal Thorns series. There was even a dragon – so happy! I recommend reading book 1 first as there are important elements and back story that will help to understand particular aspects in book 2. I love the world this author creates and I can’t wait for book 3.

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The Gauntlet (The Soppranaturale Series Book 1) by Ashley Pagano – Review by Rayne East

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

Enjoyable and unique
This was a fun supernatural read. A very different perspective of the supernatural world with The Soppronaturale refuge. The characterisation was brilliant with a twist on the standards. This is an easy read and the story has a natural flow. There is a lot to take in but the author cleverly weaves the layers within the storyline. With the action of the Gauntlet, the fate of the fairies, destinies, the powers each supernatural has and the secrets that must be kept, I was enthralled from start to finish. Really looking forward to The Guard.

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Boss’s Vendetta (Sicilian Gods Book 1) by Via Mari – Review by Rayne East

Boss's Vendetta: Dark Mafia Romance (Sicilian Gods Book 1)Boss’s Vendetta: Dark Mafia Romance by Via Mari
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Engaging and intense
This is the first book in the Sicilian Gods series and it is a very strong start. The book has depth in characterisation, an intriguing plot and intensity that took my breath away. Salvatore is a dark and fierce alpha male and Adrianna is far from a wilted flower. These two create fireworks and have a chemistry that just melts the pages. There is so much between the pages from mafia politics, revenge, gun fights to drama and an unavoidable romance. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and I can’t wait to secure book 2.

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Chevalier (War Horses Book 1) by Scott Warren – Review by Rayne East

War Horses Book 1: ChevalierWar Horses Book 1: Chevalier by Scott Warren
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Mech warrior
As a child one of my favourite games was Mech Warrior. This book bought back memories of playing that game. I enjoyed the action, battles, mystery, intrigue and dashes of humour. I found myself quickly swept up in a unique sci-fi adventure and vested in the characters survival. The characterisation was very well done. Now to wait for book 2.

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The Victor (The Freemasons Book 1) by Nicole Flockton – Review by Rayne East

The Victor (The Freemasons #1)The Victor by Nicole Flockton
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Intriguing quick read
This is an unexpected find. I found the storyline fascinating and even at the end I just wanted to know more. I love the way that the reader gets the closure around the romance between Cole and Ava but the underlying story about the Freemasons is left wide open. My curiosity is piqued and I can’t wait to get my hands on book 2 The Hunter.

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Hungry Business: A Gothic Story about the Horrors of Dating by Maria DeBlassie – Review by Rayne East

Hungry BusinessHungry Business by Maria DeBlassie
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Short but riveting story
There is so much within these pages that it didn’t feel like a short story. With a quirkiness that one comes to expect from this author the story delves into the pitfalls of dating in a post apocalyptic world. The imagery and storyline are very well done and had me totally hooked. It’s written in an amusing and unique way. Recommend.

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Lab Spill (The Cool Thing Series Book 2) by Robert Rife – Review by Rayne East

LAB SPILL: A Dark Comedy. Maybe. (THE COOL THING SERIES Book 2)LAB SPILL: A Dark Comedy. Maybe. by Robert Rife
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Comedic madness
This book was such an entertaining read. The second book in the series and the madness continues. The fantastical world that this author brings is original and engaging. The laugh out loud moments are interwoven amongst the mayhem, monsters, suspense, action and a strong plot line. This book is fast paced, has dark humour, is creative and is not to be missed.

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Mafia Elite Series Box Set Volume 2 by Amy McKinley – Review by Rayne East

Mafia Elite Box Set: Volume TwoMafia Elite Box Set: Volume Two by Amy McKinley
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

My favourite Mafia Series
This is Volume Two of the Mafia Elite Boxset. I have loved every single book in this series.
This boxset includes:

Book 4 – Savage Secrets
The brilliance continues. If you haven’t read the first three books in this series, please do so. This series needs to be experienced as a whole. Each book focuses on an important couple within the family. This is Marco and Elena’s story who both have secrets and a past that threatens their future. The author makes me feel so connected with each of the characters. Each book has just blown me away and this one was just as amazing.

Book 5 – Ruthless Heir
This book brings in Luc and Summer. Each has their baggage and must face the trials of their past. The action, drama and romance is off the charts. With old and new characters this book doesn’t miss a beat. I devoured every page and at the end I just wanted more.

Book 6 – Collateral Damage
Mafia mayhem continues with book 6 of the Mafia Elite series. With strong alpha males and equally strong females, this whole series has gripped me from the start. In this book we get Trey’s story. We have met him in book 2 as Sophia’s brother. He has been mentioned a few other times and along with his brother Marco. This family, being mafia, has several people gunning for them. Trey has his hands full but once he meets Hailey, all bets are off. The author brings a brilliant twist to this second chance romance. A must read!

Book 7 – Rivals
Mixed emotions
What a ride! Rivals is the 7th book in the Mafia Elite series and is the last. I have loved every single book in this series. Each pair of characters has become like family and I am so torn now that it is over. Happy to see that there will be a spin off series and that I can still catch up with the Five families in these books. This book us Nico and Mia’s story. Both characters have appeared in previous books. As always, action abounds, along with drama and some stolen steamy moments. It’s everything I have come to expect from this excellent author.

Recommend reading the whole series starting from Volume One!

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Sessrúmnir (Antipodes Series Book 5) by T.S. Simons – Review by Rayne East

Sessrumnir (Antipodes #5)Sessrumnir by T.S. Simons
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Just brilliant!
I have put off reading this book due to it being the (possible) last book of the series. I have thoroughly enjoyed every book and this just made reading this one a little bit harder. The author has brought the whole series brilliantly together and the imagery draws the reader into a dystopian world that has so many parallels to our own. I loved seeing the characters grow and how the tribe came together to face adversity time and time again. This instalment has heightened emotions as it focuses on the children. I can not recommend this series enough. A keeper.

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Euphoric Wonderland by Ryan M. Becker – Review by Rayne East

Euphoric Wonderland: An Eclectic Collection of Psychedelic Poetry to Stimulate the Senses and Open the MindEuphoric Wonderland: An Eclectic Collection of Psychedelic Poetry to Stimulate the Senses and Open the Mind by Ryan M. Becker
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Inspiring and thought-provoking
This collection of works was intriguing as it was inspiring. Many of the poems spoke to me emotionally. The author is very talented and has a way of stringing words together that just speaks volumes. The tempo at which the words are written just had me immersed. Each poem focuses on different aspects and the range is diverse. I was particularly drawn to the illustrations which added so much more to the experience. This will be one that I will return to time and time again. Kudos!

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My Bronc Riding Cowgirl (My Cowboy Series Book 6) by Brooke May – Review by Rayne East

My Bronc Riding CowgirlMy Bronc Riding Cowgirl by Brooke May
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Ranches, rodeos and romance
I have read several books by this author and each time I have come to love the story. This contemporary western romance is interwoven with drama, unexpected attraction, plenty of angst and lots of bronc riding. Tori and Cord’s relationship was well written and as usual the characterisation was on point. Both are from well respected families within the rodeo scene but Tori, as a female, feels she has so much more at stake. What follows could lead to possible disaster or something more. Highly recommend.

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Necrosis by C.L. Schneider – Review by Rayne East

NecrosisNecrosis by C.L. Schneider
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Emotional roller coaster
Lost for words. This book is an amazing quick read. Raw, real and riveting this book will have you going through all the emotions. Amy is a formidable character, aware of her flaws but strong regardless. The setting is an apocalyptic zombie world and had me on the edge of my seat. This is a short story but packs so much between the pages. The sacrifices were plentiful. A must read!
“I’m not crying, you are!”

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Gathering of the Four (The Serrulata Saga Book 1) by A.E. Bennett – Review by Rayne East

Gathering of the Four (The Serrulata Saga #1)Gathering of the Four by A.E. Bennett
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Engaging dystopian adventure
An unexpected intriguing read. I was hooked from page one and read late into the night. The world building was amazing and the storyline original. The reader is taken on a dystopian adventure alongside Leora, Roland, Aurora and Leopold as they navigate the Realm in order to survive. There was magic, action, a journey, and witty dialogue throughout the pages and I enjoyed every moment. I am eagerly looking forward to Book 2 of this saga.

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A Love Restrained by Becky Flade – Review by Rayne East

A Love Restrained (Philly Heat series, #1)A Love Restrained by Becky Flade
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Slow-burn romance
This book was a great find. The story has a depth in characterisation that allows the reader to connect easily and to get a better understanding of the decisions that were being made. There was a realistic balance between the drama, angst, suspense and romance that made for a very strong storyline. There are time jumps within the book but I felt they were handled very well. I love dual POV but this author weaves this in an interesting way that was clever and not too distracting from the overall flow. If you are a romantic suspense fan this is one not to be missed.

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Operation Pinpoint (Space Force Rejects Book 1) by Landra Graf – Review by Rayne East

Operation PinpointOperation Pinpoint by Landra Graf
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Sci-Fi Enemy to lovers
I was apprehensive but ended up pleasantly surprised by this book. This is a hold your breath adventure interwoven with romance, betrayal and suspense. The unique world building and characterisation are well done and there is even a ‘fated’ mate storyline thrown in. I enjoyed Ravena’s character she was strong willed, courageous and has a shell around her. Davros is the ultimate sensitive and needs a strong partner by his side. This is a great start to a series and I am looking forward to seeing where the author takes Ravena and Davros’ story.

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