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House of Blood and Whispers by Natalina Reis – Review by Angela Hayes

House of Blood and WhispersHouse of Blood and Whispers by Natalina Reis
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

 

4.5 Stars

 

House of Blood and Whispers by Natalina Reis is an epic and immersive romantic fantasy that really showcases the authors masterful worldbuilding and storytelling talents. I know that I can always count on Ms. Reis to deliver an engrossing and enjoyable read, and this book was all that and then some. It turned out to be one of my all-time favourites of her works, so far- and that’s saying something because Ms. Reis has some truly fantastic books to her name.
Apart from the incredible world-building and superb characters, there is so much more happening in the story, from action, adventure, danger, drama, romance, politics, corruption, agendas, intrigue, secrets, lies, emotion, and high stakes. The book also comes with a map that really helped to bring everything to life and helped me visualise the world so much better.
As always, Ms. Reis writes beautifully, and her talent is very apparent throughout the book. This is pretty captivating reading. The premise is not only intriguing, but it has also been executed beautifully. The author did a great job of infusing quite a lot of emotion, tension, and romance into her story that had me avidly reading the whole way through.
The inclusion of the glossary of the translations for some of the words used in the story, also helped and added another dimension to my reading experience.
I can’t wait to get my hands on ‘House of Blood and Pirates’ the prequel to this book- which is set to be coming soon. Colour me excited!!!
Happy Reading…

Thank you, Natalina Reis!

 

Reviewed by @angelahayes

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Ross (Central Florida Stories Book #4) by Victoria Saccenti – Review by Angela Hayes

Ross: Central Florida StoriesRoss: Central Florida Stories by Victoria Saccenti
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

 

3.5 Stars

 

Ross is the fourth book in the Central Florida Stories series by Victoria Saccenti. Even though this is the fourth instalment in the series, it can be read as a standalone as each book in the series focuses on a different ‘couple’. This is a contemporary romantic suspense with DDLG dynamics (he’s a DD and she’s a Middle), tension, chemistry, pain, angst, danger, drama, agendas, mystery, action, and emotion. (Possible triggers of abuse and violence)
For Ross, Hadley was always ‘the one who got away’. He’d secretly given her his heart but never thought he was good enough for her, to give her the future he thought she deserved. Now he hasn’t seen her in in the four years since she rode out of his life, so when she contacts him out of the blue, begging for help, his protective instincts kick in and he can’t refuse. Throw in Outlaw MC danger, drama, angst, and the DDLG dynamic and things certainly get interesting.
Again, Victoria Saccenti developed her characters really well- crafting fully realised individuals with their own unique quirks and flaws. Both our MC’s have their own complexities, challenges, and pain- which adds an extra element of angsty tension, and plenty of emotion, to the whole story. The history between them that adds another layer to the story and gives them more depth, and a little vulnerability.
I didn’t realise going into the story that there is a DDLG dynamic, as I am not a huge fan of that genre- but in saying that, the DDLG component of this story worked well.
Looking forward to seeing what Ms. Saccenti does next.
Happy Reading!

Thank you, Victoria Saccenti!

 

Reviewed by @angelahayes

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LAB SPILL: A Dark Comedy. Maybe. by Robert Rife – Review by Erin Vosters

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

This is definitely a unique book!

The story is very well written and you get to follow the timeline through various characters so when you get done, it’s almost like reading 4 different stories. The characters are defined very well and although this is sci-fi, it feels like it could actually happen.

The dark humor was a wonderful touch.

This is a book that I would keep on my shelf!

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Soliloquy by Janet Fogg – Review by Carisa Saenz-Videtto

SoliloquySoliloquy by Janet Fogg
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This book, wow. Pulls you in first 10 pages. I was stuck reading. The author describing the dolls that Erin got from her grandmother. I was all about it. Then later the romantic side came later. I spent all day with this book could not put it down.

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Dream-Shifter by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Carisa Saenz-Videtto

Dream-ShifterDream-Shifter by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I think at some point in everyone life people can relate to this book. Having a dream and turning into someone else whether that’s an animal or a person and having an adventure in dream space. It is a touching story. The author does a great job on explaining a child’s life then turning into this grand adventure.

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

Shadow and Crystal Thorns (Fae and Crystal Thorns, #2)Shadow and Crystal Thorns by Kay L. Moody
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I was excited to see how the adventure continues. It is so easy to get sucked into this book. I enjoy reading how far Chloe and Quintus’ journey takes them!

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Flame and Crystal Thorns (Fae and Crystal Thorns Book 1) by Kay L. Moody – Review by Kassandra

Flame and Crystal Thorns (Fae and Crystal Thorns)Flame and Crystal Thorns by Kay L. Moody
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I enjoyed the mix of drama, adventure, and action! The two main characters were good. The ending left me eager to read the next book.

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Yesterday’s Over: Philly Heat Series by Becky Flade – Review by Krystal Gregory

Yesterday's Over (Philly Heat series, #3)Yesterday’s Over by Becky Flade
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Yesterday’s Over: Philly Heat Series by Becky Flade
4 out of 5 Stars
Yesterday’s Over is the third book in the Philly Heat Series. This book follows Trudy Beasley, the Assistant Chief Medical Examiner for Philadelphia. Philly was hit with a massive explosion and bones were found under the rubble of row houses.
Trudy Beasley, along with Forensic anthropologist Ben Roberts work together to try to find out what happened to their city and to the body. They clash, both professionally and romantically. They have to figure out how to work together to find out who is destroying both the city and people. This book is beautifully written. The push and pull between Ben and Trudy gives the reader something to hold onto yet allows for yearning. Lovers of mystery, romance and suspense will adore this book. 4 out of 5 stars.

Review by @kgregory

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Ice Dance by Vik Azeem – Review by Heidi Sturgess

Ice DanceIce Dance by Vik Azeem
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is not my typical read but what a gem I discovered !

Hassan is a kind and funny soul and he’s at loggerheads with his family , he may soon be homeless if his landlord carries out his threats , yet this gentle man still smiles despite his trial and tribulations, you just can’t help but love him

Yasmine , a mysterious beauty that not only beat but brave , bold and quite sharp 😉

This read , as I said was different . It was funny and entertaining but also rich in culture and tradition to a degree and once you’ve read it my views should make more sense and yes I do wonder what will happen next ❣️📕😉

Yesterday’s Over (Philly Heat Series Book 3) by Becky Flade – Review by Heidi Sturgess

I couldn’t wait to read Trudy’s story she played such a big role in Lexi and Xavier’s story ❣️📕

Again , don’t let the cover fool you , yes you get romance but you also get soooooooo much more and I love this about her books !

Philadelphia is rocked by a massive explosion and when bones are discovered in the rubble the expertise of a medical examiner is needed and out girl Trudy is on the job …

Ben , a forensic anthropologist is also called to the scene and he and Trudy team up to find out the who , what and why if these bones . These two are chalk and cheese and they’re o very different but this is exactly what makes them brilliant both in and off the field ❣️😉

All my itches were scratched yet again 😂 there was romance , suspense, mystery , secrets , thrills and chills !

Scepter of Flint (The Lord Hani Mysteries Book 3) by N.L. Holmes – Review by Melissa Saxton

Scepter of Flint (Lord Hani #3)Scepter of Flint by N.L. Holmes
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

A thrilling historical fiction with suprising levels of historical accuracy!
Raids into multiple tombs unleash a plague onto Lord Hanis Palace (after covid this book gets your attention!)
Lord Hani struggles to find answers as his palace is descimated a devastating plague with his daughter; a physician, right in the center trying to save everyone. Lord Hani really struggles with many heartbreaking intense decisions… not always making the best choices but always having his people close in his heart.
Who is the real culprit? Can Lord Hani figure it out before its too late? Will Justice prevail?
Great historical fiction set in the Egyptian era!

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Devlin by Angela K. Parker – Review by Vanessa Estrada

Devlin by Angela K. Parker
My Review

Vanessa Estrada
17 reviews

November 4, 2022
I loved Devlin and Eve’s banter and most of their relationship, but I just cannot stand the miscommunication trope anymore. It makes it SO frustrating when the characters just REFUSE to talk to each other. I mean I get it, it’s hard to be vulnerable and honest, but I just felt like it was overly repetitive and then it somehow also felt really rushed. The writing itself was….there was just more to be desired. But it was an entertaining book so that’s why I gave it the stars. I loved the overall plot and the twists, it just felt like it took forever to get there. And I absolutely LOVED the spicy scenes!

Lucas the Spy Cat (Jake the Growling Dog) by Samantha Shannon – Review by Ashley Westerman

Lucas the Spy CatLucas the Spy Cat by Samantha Shannon
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

So much fun to read to my kids. They loved the adventure and mystery. They keep asking to re-read this book! I always enjoy reading books to my kids that cause them to ask questions and be more engaged in the stories, and this book did just that. Highly recommend.

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Breathe Underwater by Anise Storm & Taylor L. Ray – Review by Heidi Sturgess

Breathe UnderwaterBreathe Underwater by Anise Storm
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I often wonder how undercover agents cope because in essence you’re playing a role and at times for long periods of time , surely you start adopting some of the traits of your “alter ego “ and parts of the real you “die” I do t think it’s way at all , so shout out and respect to these men and women that are so very brave ….

Damien and Evelyn as youngsters shared a spark but before anything could come of it Evelyn’s dad interferes and I really don’t like him he’s really not a pleasant kind of man in any case his folks also suddenly up and leave and poor Evelyn is left nursing a broken heart 💔

Years later their paths cross when Damian is sent to Dallas , Texas to work undercover with the mob and my heart is nearly beating out of my chest because if rumours are true the Sicilian mafia has started business with Mexico and Damien is entering dangerous ground ….

After Damien left Evelyn put everything into her studies and became a teacher against her father’s wishes but she’s a born teacher so good on you girl !

Soon enough Evelyn has more than Max her cat for company and things between her and Damien are rather eventful , nerve racking , hot , edgy , steamy , thrilling and suspense filled 🔥

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Ghost Talker (Madame Chalamet Ghost Mysteries Book 1) by Byrd Nash – Review by Alisa Boomer

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

I am new to this author but I was extremely impressed! I am all for a strong, independent female lead and Elinor fits the bill! The witty writing style just naturally pulls you in. It just eases you into an engaging, spooky tale! MUST READ!!

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@vetforchrist

Stumble & Fall (A Legacy of Silence Book 2) by Amy Rivers – Review by Tausha Treadway

Stumble & Fall (A Legacy of Silence, #2)Stumble & Fall by Amy Rivers
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Stumble & Fall (A Legacy of Silence Book 2) by Amy Rivers. I LOVED this book. It’s the second in the series but can be read as a standalone although I highly recommend reading them in order. Its the story of Kate Medina who is a psychologist who has returned home to New Mexico following her father and her rape at a prison where she worked. Her sister Tilly has also decided to head back home with her current boyfriend. Tilly had gotten mixed up in a sex trafficking ring in this same town. Luckily she got out but so many others have not. Kate wants to find out what happened to her dad along with exposing the secrets of this town. She also wants to open up a home for these lost girls. Tilly has overcome all the past and become a trauma nurse so she gets a job in town to try to help these girls that were so much like her. When Tilly and Kate start digging and stirring things up their lives become endangered. Will they be able to solve these horrible secrets in this town or will it be the death of them. Read this fast paced thriller to find out!

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Divided Lives by K.R. Mullins – Review by Mercedes Jones

Divided LivesDivided Lives by K.R. Mullins
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I don’t normally read books that have historical themes about them, but this book was amazing. A unique mystery that takes you through the life of Lottie. She has a side of herself she shows to everyone and then one that she saves for a special someone. Working as a clerk, she gets thrown into a twist when her personal life and professional life become entwined. Things begin to go astray when Lottie begins being blackmailed for her life style choices. She must figure out who is behind these cruel intentions.
Wonderfully written and magnificently mysterious! I cannot wait to read more from this author!

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Better Gnomes & Gardens (Mysty Haven Mystery Book 1) by Casey Cardel – Review by Moriah Venable

Better Gnomes & Gardens (Mysty Haven Mystery)Better Gnomes & Gardens by Casey Cardel
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

After being fired from his previous journalism job, Bob is looking for a new job. Thankfully he has a few months before rent is due so he frequents the local coffee shop hoping to find gossip to write about.

Seems his luck is turning when an older man approaches him asking him to find out who has taken his missing gnome. He agrees to help. Unfortunately, he soon learns that Misty Haven, the town he has just moved to, is not all that it seems.

I just want to say that I loved the paranormal aspect of this. I love when towns have their own secrets.

Bob is also a witty character. The fact he wrote about BigFoot made me laugh too.

This is short. I wish it was longer but I am excited for the next novel.

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Revenge Honeymoon by K.J. Gillenwater – Review by Kelli Harper

Revenge HoneymoonRevenge Honeymoon by K.J. Gillenwater
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Ruby gets left at the altar and her best friend Emily suggests they take the honeymoon cruise anyway since it is already paid for and it will give them some time away.
This book is fun and funny. There are some points when you really want Emily to just get past her insecurities, but being the “unattractive friend” as well, I totally get her point of view. I do enjoy how she starts taking over her insecurities though. I really liked her dynamic with Max.
Fun book that will keep you turning pages just to see what happens next.

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Order of Vespers (The Vespers Chronicles Book 1) by Matilda Reyes Reviewed by Jasmin Slagle

Order of VespersOrder of Vespers by Matilda Reyes
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Jasper is the main suspect in a case about an explosion and the murderer of her own family. Jasper possesses supernatural power that she can’t control. Great story with unexpected aspects. Loved it!

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The Protector (The Freemasons Book 4) by Nicole Flockton – Review by Darian Donaldson

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

I liked this book. It was well-written and made me care about the characters. Renee had a lot to overcome and the patience and love that Declan showed for her were so perfect. I enjoyed going on this journey with them! I had not read any of the previous books, but I think I may go back and read them

Review by @darianamee21

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Divided Lives by K.R. Mullins – Review by Charlene Gonzalez

Divided LivesDivided Lives by K.R. Mullins
My rating: is 4 out of 5 stars

The reason for my 4 stars is that I wish there was a movie LOL. But other than that I love this book it keeps you on your toes.
Divided Lives is one of those types of books that should make into a movie. While Lottie has to struggle to live in New York in those times the suburban area was divided into different beliefs and rules. She had to live with it and manage her life while her career took a twist in a criminal case toward one against Police Officer Becker.
But things become really sticky for her when someone is after Becker and blackmails Lottie.

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Devlin by Angela K. Parker – Review by Skylar Daniels

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

This is the first book that I have read from this author and I fell in love with immediately. This is a stand-alone book also. This is an amazing book and I highly recommend this book for anyone who loves , frenemies-to-lovers office romance.
He’s been warned, but she’s worth the risk.
Devlin Hughes is a businessman first, and a charmer second. With his sights on a big promotion, he just has to follow one rule: don’t fraternize with his coworkers. But when his sexy, shrewd coworker suddenly becomes available, his ambitions may not be strong enough to overcome desire.
Evelyn Parrish is ready to climb the corporate ladder. And planning a company function is an important rung, even if she’s reeling from a breakup. The arrogant but handsome Devlin might just be the distraction she needs… unless they get caught.
When their one-night fling develops into true attraction, it gets harder to keep their distance. Rules weren’t made to be broken, but maybe they can be amended.
I’m excited to read more of this authors books in the near future.

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Cooked: The Chef Blows Her Lid by Cari Schaeffer – Review by Heidi Schoolman

Cooked: The Chef Blows Her LidCooked: The Chef Blows Her Lid by Cari Schaeffer
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Olivia is a young chef that enjoys cooking for people. She had everything anyone could ever want. Then she finds out her husband is cheating on her. She leaves and gets a job in a small restaurant as a bartender. She intends to save her money and open her own restaurant. This was a fun, little story that keeps you entwined in it.

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Revenge Honeymoon by K.J. Gillenwater – Review by Kay Stritesky

Revenge HoneymoonRevenge Honeymoon by K.J. Gillenwater
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I really enjoyed this book! It was fun and lighthearted without having that vibe of “I’m to old to be reading this”
The characters were fun and had good chemistry! There was a witty banter and enough of a story line to keep readers attention without it being to cheesy! It was a nice change from the heavy things I have been reading lately.

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Cooked: The Chef Blows Her Lid by Cari Schaeffer – Review by Heidi Sturgess

Olivia seems to have it all , a job she lives , a husband and good friends . Her world comes crashing down when she finds her husband cheating on her with her best friend 😱 what in the actual !?

Olivia is a go getter and isn’t going to wallow , she moves to a small town and works in a family owned restaurant and just as things start looking better she is let go to make space for a family member who can’t even cook 🙈😱🥲 again Olivia doesn’t wallow she picks herself up and gets a bar tending job and uses her tips to build her own catering business , I say you go girl ! 🥰

This was a brilliant read ! I cried , yes, I’m built differently 😂but I laughed so much more ! Olivia is so relatable and there’s so many times I quoted pieces of what was happening to my kids and friends around me and more than once I had to hear how it sound just like me ! 😂😱❣️📕especially when it came to things Olivia’s mum would say 🙈😂

A highly recommend read 🌟🌟🌟🌟⭐️

The Final Bite by Naomi Valkyrie – Review by Jade Thomson

The Final BiteThe Final Bite by Naomi Valkyrie
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Happy Halloween my spooky friends and what a wonderful time to read this book! I’m pretty sure this is my first read by this author and I really felt captivated from beginning to end. I’m so excited to delve into other stories from this talented creator! This book really pulled me in and kept me interested until the end- the premise of only having 3 days to find your mate (plus all the other rules) in order to avoid purgatory is a really fun idea. I’m excited to read other works by this author to see what other twists and turns they could put me through because this book really was such fun. I loved the MCs. The cover was drool worthy on it’s own and is most of the reason I picked up this book! Loved it and I’m about to go read some more! Check it out y’all.

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Order of Vespers (The Vespers Chronicles Book 1) by Matilda Reyes – Review by Jade Thomson

Order of VespersOrder of Vespers by Matilda Reyes
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Happy Halloween my friends and what a good read this was for it! I’m always a little bummed when I start a new series because I usually wait for multiple books to be out but boy- this was a good one! I LOVED Jaspers character (also cute as hell name!) and She usually kept me laughing too. There were so many cool ideas used in this book that I don’t want to spoil for yall- you’re gonna have to read it for yourself friends! Just know there are some really good twists and turns that makes this book even more worth reading! The only reason I knocked a star off is because it doesn’t let you do half stare and this would have been a 4.5. There were a few places at the beginning that were confusing and seemed that wrong characters were being referenced. Other than that- what an excellent read! I definitely recommend my friends!

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Cooked: The Chef Blows Her Lid by Cari Schaeffer – Review by Faith Jackson

Cooked: The Chef Blows Her LidCooked: The Chef Blows Her Lid by Cari Schaeffer
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I enjoyed everything about this book from the characters, the funny dialogue and how enjoyable it was to read but most of all, I related to Olivia. She’s a lovable character who I can see parts of myself in. Great read!

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More Than by Diane Barnes – Review by Donya Pedigo

More ThanMore Than by Diane Barnes
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I really enjoyed watching the main character grow as she tried to figure out what to do with herself after her kids left for school and she was on her own. Who doesn’t want to root for a widow who tries to reconnect with herself and find out what and who she is. It was refreshing to watch Peggy gain confidence and start to thrive. This is a fun light hearted, hopeful read that I’m definitely glad I picked up. If you want to be uplifted and see how someone deals with questions and doubts that most of us face then I really think you will enjoy this book as well.

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