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Almost and Forever by Angela K. Parker – Review by Shelly Kittell

Almost and ForeverAlmost and Forever by Angela K. Parker
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I loved this story. Beautiful, tragic and original. A story of how love is not easy. Such beautiful writing. The characters are written and developed so very well. You can’t help but be sucked into this story. You’ll feel every emotion that is felt. I couldn’t put this story down. I felt like i was on a roller coaster.

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Tracker (The Talisman Series) by Tam DeRudder Jackson – Review by Shelly Kittell

Tracker (The Talisman Series)Tracker by Tam DeRudder Jackson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Reading Riley and Lynette’s story was fascinating. My understanding is that this is the prequel to the series. I came into the series later and I have to say that this gave me a different perspective. I enjoyed the writing. I have enjoyed the characters in the story. Reading about and following each as they find their match of talisman to warrior signs is fun. Their is strength, courage and bravery in each character. The writing is very well done. I love this series.

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Saint Con by Seelie Kay – Review by Kerry Carr

Saint ConSaint Con by Seelie Kay
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Wow this book was amazing. It si a passionate love at first sight story but with so many twists and turns I wasn’t sure our couple would ever get their happy ever after.
The author’s writing really brings the characters to life and it makes this story so engaging that you won’t be able to put it down.

When Con and Jessica meet after literally bumping into each other at a bar, Con knew she was the one for him and he had to be with her. Jess on the other hand was not as confident, not wanting to get her hopes up. However Con is determined to prove to her that its love at first sight and goes out of his way to do that. So Jess is more than a little confused when their date arrived and Con doesn’t show up.
Feeling heartbroken and angry at being led on Jess leaves feeling like she was played with. She plans to move on and forget Con until it comes to light that Con is missing.

What follows is a story that at times made me cry and made me doubt that they would ever get the break to see if what they have is real. With kidnapping, amnesia, PTSD and an attack which altered the course of both of their lives will they ever be able to find their way back to each other or will what they have disappear just like Con did on that fateful day.

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Tracker (The Talisman Series) by Tam DeRudder Jackson – Review by Desiree Ottinger

Tracker (The Talisman Series)Tracker by Tam DeRudder Jackson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Riley, with his brother and friend, goes to a party after attending a training on how to find their Talisman- their other half to help guard their back in a battle. All are looking for a good time but also, they each secretly want to be the first to find their Talisman. Lynnette and her friends are at the same party. Knowing that they are to be on the lookout for their warrior, no one really thinks it is going to happen THAT night. Low and behold, Riley and Lynnette are matched pretty quickly. Riley takes Lynnette to a cabin to finish their bonding. However, in his boldness and thrill of being the first of the guys to find his Talisman, he forgets the most critical part. He has left them unprotected and open to attack. Can they complete the ritual before it is too late? Or will they be forever separated because of Riley’s pride?

I started reading this series prior to the prequel. It was nice to be able to read Riley and Lynnette’s origin story. It added a different insight as to how they play their parts in the books I have already read. I do not think I was missing anything, but I enjoyed reading their action-packed story. It was like experiencing a flashback in a movie, only in the book series. It was a quick read and worth reading because I can see the character added in this book coming back to play a bigger role. I am looking forward to reading the next book in the series!

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Gumshoe Goes To A Quinceanera (Gumshoe Mysteries Book 2) by Laura Hawks – Review by Tanya Wall, October 2023

Gumshoe Goes To A Quinceanera (Gumshoe Mysteries Book 2)Gumshoe Goes To A Quinceanera by Laura Hawks
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This was a great YA read. I loved that it was written around the beautiful ceremony of the quinceanera. The tradition of the coming of age ceremony for Mexican American’s is such a special day, and thank goodness Mia was intent on making sure nothing spoiled her friend Zoey’s special day. Mia, a witch, and Gumshoe, a ghostly inhabited cat, work together to solve a murder mystery. Gumshoe has the advantage of being in places where he can hear the gossip of the town and nobody thinks twice. This story is full of action and twists and if you are into the paranormal – this is your read. I think this would be a good read-a-loud for parents of tweens, one you can do together.

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Wondogfilled (Boys Unboxed) by Dr. Kimberlie Harris – Review by Tanya Wall, October 2023

Wondogfilled: Look, a Dog! The story for children who love dogs between the ages of 0-8. A perfect addition to home and classroom libraries. (Boys Unboxed)Wondogfilled: Look, a Dog! The story for children who love dogs between the ages of 0-8. A perfect addition to home and classroom libraries. by Dr. Kimberlie Harris
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

A beautifully illustrated book about a toddler learning about animals! Kingston loves his walks with his mom, especially when he sees a dog. Then he learns that not every furry creature with four legs is a dog. Ms. Harris has written a story that helps parents to teach their young children about the world around them. This would be a great book for the bookshelf of any new parent!

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Beautiful Dangerous (Philly Heat Series Book 4) by Becky Flade – Review by Heidi Schoolman

Beautiful Dangerous (Philly Heat series, #4)Beautiful Dangerous by Becky Flade
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is the fourth and final book of this series. Hannah is a lawyer whose brother passed away about a year ago. She also has a stalker who is becoming increasingly threatening. Doyle is a detective who has taken a step back from police work to find himself. A friend sought out Doyle in hopes he would take her case. This is just what he needs to jump back in. This one leaves you on the edge of your seat!

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Tracker (The Talisman Series) by Tam DeRudder Jackson – Review by Jenni Bishop

Tracker (The Talisman Series)Tracker by Tam DeRudder Jackson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

4.5 stars

Tracker is a prequel and where it all started for the Talisman series. This paranormal fantasy series is a definite must-read. It’s easy to become immersed in Tam’s magical world of modern-day alpha Celtic warriors.
It is written in multiple POV which makes the story so much more interesting hearing from different perspectives.
This unique series has a lot going on and all the paranormal goodness with Celtic mythology druids and mythology, gods and goddesses, shamans, supernatural abilities, magic, a curse, revenge, and good vs evil.
Tracker is a quick action-packed well written read and a good introduction to the colourful and badass warriors in this series.
Tracker is the fun story of Riley and Lynette and how he found his Talisman. Riley is a skilled warrior, but a young man who likes to have a good time and thinks he is all that. There were times I wanted to smack some of that out of him.
Lynette is level-headed and keeps him in check on top of trying to learn about her gift.
Now all they have to do is stay one step ahead of Morrigan a goddess who does not want warriors and their talisman to bond.

Reviewed by @jennadb

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Merry Christmas, Montana (The Millers of Marietta Book 3) by Elsa Winckler – Review by Jenni Bishop

Merry Christmas, Montana (The Millers of Marietta Book 3)Merry Christmas, Montana by Elsa Winckler
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

4 stars
Merry Christmas, Montana is the third book in the heart-warming series The Millers of Marietta by Elsa.
This small-town romance is a fun story and a nice read to escape for a few hours. Plus, we get the added bonus of it being set around Christmas. It gives you all the feels and gets you in to Christmas mode.
The Millers of Marietta is about the Miller siblings as the name suggests, who moved to Marietta for a new start. You really should read the books in order as these wonderful characters cross over and you get to find out so much more about them. I love the characters and it is nice to catch up.
As I said this tale is filled with mixed emotions, taking chances, laughter, family, love, weddings, with slow burn romance and spicy undertones.
With just the right pace, some tension, and realistic characters that you can’t help but like it is easy to become invested.
I had mixed emotions about Riley in the beginning, but a broken heart will do that to a person, so I understand. She doesn’t have time for or want love. She is only in town for a cousins wedding. AND the fun begins.
Mitch was so easy to like and being the eldest he is a little overprotective and can come across as a grump. It was fun to watch these two dance around each other.
Plus, you hope that one little boy gets his Christmas wish.
This delightful story is also the perfect gift for Christmas, birthdays or just because. It leaves you eager for what’s to come next.

Reviewed by @jennadb

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Melt My Heart (North Fork Series Book 3) by Alicia Street – Review by Jenni Bishop

Melt My HeartMelt My Heart by Alicia Street
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

4.5 stars
Melt My Heart by Alicia Street is book 2 in the North Fork series, and it will lift your spirits. I was first introduced to this sweet romance tale in the anthology Irresistible at Christmas – Pets to the Rescue and thoroughly enjoyed it.
It is a wonderfully written tale this is a quick and easy read. It is heartwarming and heartfelt with adorable characters.
I was so engrossed and drawn into their journey so much that before I knew it, I was turning the last page and at some stage hubby was calling for me and I didn’t hear him. He’ll get over it because it’s not the first time he has been ignored whilst I was reading.
The story was a little predictable, but it is still a fun story with some steam and lots of surprise twist and drama.
They come from different worlds but when a rich ex-SEAL falls for a waitress at the local café the chase begins even if she is not sure they are a good match.
Let’s not forget the adorable four-legged creature who worms their way into hearts as well.
Who doesn’t love a sweet story with fur babies and romance?
I am excited to read the rest of the series.

Reviewed by @jennadb

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Almost and Forever by Angela K. Parker – Review by Jenni Bishop

Almost and ForeverAlmost and Forever by Angela K. Parker
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

4.5 stars
**This book contains adult content and the loss of a loved one. It is not suitable for all readers. **

Almost and Forever is a heartachingly beautiful tale. Tissues please……. This old saying holds true in this case – “If you love something, set it free. If it comes back, it’s yours. If not, it was never meant to be,”

It is a tale of love, loss, guilt, hope, want, need, anger, angst and forgiveness and so much more that it will have you smiling one moment and then crying the next all throughout.

The story flowed smoothly and with likeable but heartbreaking characters. I love that this book was written in both of the characters points of views, and I loved the care, the tenderness, and everything in between. There were times when I wanted to shake them and others when I wanted to wrap them in big hugs but as they say the road to happiness is not always straight.
When truths come to light it may just destroy everything.
He is all she has ever wanted but how can you compete will a ghost, when one’s heart is with another. Playing second fiddle is not a place she wants to be.
He is a mess, but she makes him want more only he is buried in his grief.
If you like a sweet romance with a few twists and turns, then give this author a go.

Reviewed by @jennadb

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Lies That Bind (Logan McKenna Series Book 6) by Valerie Davisson – Review by Dawn Daughenbaugh

Lies That Bind (A Logan McKenna Mystery Book 6)Lies That Bind by Valerie Davisson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

4 Stars
Lies That Bind (Logan McKenna Series Book 6) by Valerie Davisson

Lies That Bind is the sixth book in the Logan McKenna Series and is a Crime/ Thriller that is hard to put down once you start reading. This story is packed with drama, family, secrets, trust, lies and so much more. Logan is back at it again, she’s got a pot going on, she bought a house to fix up, found out she has a half sister, and a young woman is found murdered. Let the adventure begin as Logan and her half sister find themselves right dab in the middle of an investigation. The twists and turns had me turning the pages trying to figure out what was going to happen next. Can Logan get through all the lies and secrets before it’s to late? I highly recommend reading this book to find out what happens next. I’m already ready to dive into the next book. As always can’t wait to read more from this Author.

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Tracker (The Talisman Series) by Tam DeRudder Jackson – Review by Kerry Baker

Tracker (The Talisman Series)Tracker by Tam DeRudder Jackson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Prequels aren’t usually my favourite type of books, as I prefer to read the stories as they develop rather than going back and forth. However, this is a great example of how a prequel should be done. It was engaging and well written, offering a new storyline without feeling like we were being told the same things we already knew. It was a great insight into characters we have already been introduced to and I enjoyed finding out more about them.
The author has created a well developed and intriguing series. Each book pulls me in and I find myself caught up in what is going on. Whenever a new book or new series is released by this author, I am always excited to see what I will find. This is a fantastic story and I would highly recommend the series as a whole.

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Tracker (The Talisman Series) by Tam DeRudder Jackson

♥♥ )˖°°˖✧ BOOK SPOTLIGHT SHOWCASE ( ♥♥ )˖°°˖✧
Tracker (The Talisman Series) by Tam DeRudder Jackson
Genre – Paranormal Romance
Page Count – 204
Cover Designer – Steamy Designs

A skilled warrior with a life-changing task…

Every warrior needs a talisman – but for Riley Sheridan, he cares more about partying with his buddies than finding the mate he’s supposed to bond with for life. That is, until a stunning raven-haired woman steps up to the keg and asks for a beer.

A fiery beauty with untapped powers…

Lynnette Montgomery came to the festival to relax, celebrate, and take her mind off her still-undiscovered magical powers. But after fate draws her to a suave and cocky warrior, she’s shocked to realize that she’s his fated talisman. But finding your mate is never supposed to be this easy.

And the wrath of a goddess bent on their demise.

Drawn by a ripple in the cosmos, the infamous goddess Morrigan sets her sights on the pair. She’s dead-set on stopping the next Sheridan from bonding to his talisman – and when they retreat to a remote cabin to complete the ritual, she sees her chance to strike. After the goddess kidnaps Riley, Lynette is quickly thrust into a deadly battle with a seemingly impossible goal: to save him from a fate worse than death.

Bursting with all the pulse-pounding action and rich worldbuilding of a riveting fantasy adventure, this gripping prequel is a must-read for fans of Tam DeRudder Jackson’s Talisman Series, or as a starting point for your adventure into a world of modern-day Celtic warriors.

~ AMAZON ~

Click here to view the Book Trailer for Tracker (The Talisman Series) by Tam DeRudder Jackson

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Tam DeRudder Jackson’s love of all things Celtic led her to write the Talisman Series. Steeped in Celtic mythology, these steamy, fated mates, fantasy romance adventures are set in the mountains of Tam’s native Montana and the Highlands of Scotland. Rogue, the most recent book in the series, was named a best book read in 2022 by the Independent Book Review. 

An avid fan of rock music, Tam never misses a chance to see a live show. Her love of rock music inspired her contemporary rock star Balefire Series, a sexy fun ride following the lives and loves of the members of a fictional mega-band. Play For Me, book one in the series, was a finalist for the 2023 Amor Book Awards. 

Tam earned her BA in English from Montana State University and her M.Ed. in literacy from Lesley University. After a short teaching stint in Bath, England, she settled in the wilds of Wyoming where she taught adolescents all about the Celts and a bit about writing before she stepped out of the classroom to pursue her writing career full time. 

When she’s not writing, you can find her working her way through her mountainous TBR piles, alpine skiing, or traveling to some new place on her ever-expanding bucket list. To stay up to date on her adventures, connect with Tam on her website www.tamderudderjackson where you can subscribe to her newsletter.

Author Interview with Tam DeRudder Jackson

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💜 ➹⁀✵‿➹⁀💜 COVER REVEAL 💜 ➹⁀✵‿➹⁀💜 Dark Moon Secrets (The Witch Moon Series Book 1) by Lilliana Rose

💜 ➹⁀✵‿➹⁀💜 COVER REVEAL 💜 ➹⁀✵‿➹⁀💜
Dark Moon Secrets (The Witch Moon Series Book 1) by Lilliana Rose
Genre – Paranormal Romance
Page Count – 300
Cover Designer – Christian Bentulan

Tanjie is a witch but doesn’t know it. Will she accept her power for good or evil?

Tanjie is pushed to face her destiny by an unexpected inheritance. The bookshop isn’t what she anticipated and is part of a magical world she doesn’t belong to. Tanjie can’t wait to leave, get back to her own life, but then she is shown what her magical powers can do.

Alaric detests the witches and their control over the pack as much as every other wolf shifter. The alpha is planning a rebellion and Alaric will help lead the attack on the witches. But then he meets Tanjie.

Secrets are being hidden from them both.

Tanjie must learn quickly otherwise her mistakes will cost her life. If Alaric isn’t clear what side he is on, he risks losing the pack forever.

Who will pay the consequences of their ignorance?

Click here to view the Cover Reveal for Dark Moon Secrets (The Witch Moon Series Book 1) by Lilliana Rose

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Merry Christmas, Montana (The Millers of Marietta Book 3) by Elsa Winckler

❤️ ~ 🏞️ ~ ❤️ BOOK SPOTLIGHT SHOWCASE ❤️ ~ 🏞️ ~ ❤️ ~
Merry Christmas, Montana (The Millers of Marietta Book 3) by Elsa Winckler
Genre – Contemporary Romance
Page Count – 240
Cover Designer – Lee Hyat

Single mom Riley O’Sullivan isn’t one to complain, but with her closest family members now settled in Marietta, Montana, while she still calls Portland home, finding good help isn’t as easy as it used to be. With Christmas approaching, Riley and her young son Dylan are excited to be in Marietta with family for the holidays; but she certainly doesn’t need maddening Mitch Miller coming to her rescue, awakening her senses, or making Dylan ask questions about what dads do.

Mitch Miller left his successful financial career behind him when he moved to Marietta with his two sisters. He’s not looking for love, but Riley captivates him like no other woman ever has. She thinks he’s an overprotective grinch–with good cause–but it’s clear to everyone Riley and Dylan could use a little Christmas magic and he’s willing to help. It’s not as if he’s offering his heart.

Perhaps all it will take to bring them together is the Christmas wish from one special little boy.

~ AMAZON ~ BARNES & NOBLE ~ KOBO ~ APPLE BOOKS ~ AMAZON UK ~

Click here to view the Book Trailer for Merry Christmas, Montana (The Millers of Marietta Book 3) by Elsa Winckler

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Elsa has been reading love stories for as long as she can remember and when she ‘met’ the classic authors like Jane Austen, Elizabeth Gaskell, Henry James The Brontë sisters, etc. during her Honors studies, she was hooked for life.

She married her college boyfriend and they are fortunate to live in the picturesque little seaside village of Betty’s Bay, South Africa.

She adores writing kissing books with strong, beautiful, feisty, independent and headstrong heroines and dashing Alpha heroes who loves fiercely and protects the ones they love. Her stories typically incorporate the family background of the characters to better understand where they come from and who they are when we meet them in the story.


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Almost and Forever by Angela K. Parker

❤️ 🌹 💕 BOOK SPOTLIGHT SHOWCASE 💕 🌹 ❤️
Almost and Forever by Angela K. Parker
Genre – Contemporary Romance
Page Count – 221
Cover Designer – Angela K. Parker

Hope

 

Adam Emerson was meant for me, but unfortunately, his heart belonged to someone else.

At a pivotal point in my life, I decided to end my relationship to make room for something new. My change of heart couldn’t have come at a better time.

My future began the moment I met Adam. Our first encounter showed his kindness. He swept in on a wish and was whisked away just as fast. During our second encounter, I got a glimpse of his anger. But the third revealed all of him—a man who loves fiercely, even in the midst of grief.

Adam

While dealing with a heartbreaking loss, I visited a local cafe for a reprieve. I didn’t expect to run into Hope again or to intervene when some guy approached her. The timing couldn’t have been worse for my interference, but she looked like she needed a reprieve too. After spending minutes with her, I wanted days, and the days turned into weeks. Hope showered my grief with kindness and doused my anger with love. When I wanted to lose control, she wouldn’t let me. She gave me space but kept me close. But there was more to her than I realized.

When a shocking discovery is revealed, I’m left wondering if our connection is strong enough to sustain us. Or is it the very thing that will tear us apart?

**

Almost and Forever is a beautiful, heartwarming story of loss, love, and forgiveness!

**This book contains adult content and the loss of a loved one. It is not suitable for all readers.**

~ AMAZON US ~ AMAZON UK ~ AMAZON CA ~ AMAZON AU ~

Click here to view the Book Trailer for Almost and Forever by Angela K. Parker

Click here to experience a Chapter Reading of Almost and Forever by Angela K. Parker

Angela K. Parker is an author who believes in HEAs. She writes intense romance with heart, emotion, and steam brought to life by strong heroines and their swoon worthy heroes.

Angela lives in South Carolina. Amongst writing, she has a passion for reading, music, and math. When she’s not engaged in any of the above, she’s spending time with her family or catching up on the latest movies. She’s always had an active imagination. Now she’s putting it to good use.

Author Interview with Angela K Parker

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Melt My Heart (North Fork Series Book 3) by Alicia Street

-ˏˋ♥̩͙♥̩̩̥͙♥̩̥̩ ⑅ BOOK SPOTLIGHT SHOWCASE ⑅ ♥̩̥̩♥̩̩̥͙♥̩͙ˊˎ
Melt My Heart (North Fork Series Book 3) by Alicia Street
Genre – Contemporary Romance
Page Count – 236
Cover Designer – Swell Cat Design

A rescued dog. A mysterious letter. A secret history shared. Can the challenge that brings Wynter and Caleb together melt the hearts of two people who have given up on love? Wynter used to like schmoozing with wealthy people and talking them into donating their money to a good cause. As a professional fundraiser working for nonprofits, she thought she had the best of both worlds, even felt a bit like a female Robin Hood. But after falling for a charming liar who shattered her career as well as her heart, Wynter has sworn off all men. Ex-Navy SEAL Caleb has not sworn off women, but love is definitely off the table. Now making big money selling high-priced yachts, one-night stands are easy to come by. So many parts of himself have been dead since his last military tour that he is done with opening his heart or trying to be anybody’s hero. But then he meets Wynter.

~ AMAZON US ~ AMAZON CA ~ AMAZON UK ~ AMAZON AU ~

Click here to view the Book Trailer for Melt My Heart (North Fork Series Book 3) by Alicia Street

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Alicia Street is a USA Today bestselling author and a Daphne du Maurier award winner. She writes both steamy and sweet romance and sometimes collaborates with her husband, Roy. She spent many years as a professional dancer, choreographer, and teacher. A compulsive reader of every genre, Alicia loves watching old black-and-white movies and inventing new recipes for soup.

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Slay It With a Diamond (Diamond District Mystery Book #3) by Rob Bates – Review by Angela Hayes

Slay It With a Diamond (Diamond District Mystery Book 3)Slay It With a Diamond by Rob Bates
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

 

3.5 Stars

 

Slay It With A Diamond is the third book in The Diamond District Mystery Series by Rob Bates. This is an intriguing cozy mystery with crime and investigation, drama, a snapshot of the diamond/jewellery industry, secrets, scandal, revelations, humour, witty banter, sassiness, danger, tension, suspense, and surprising developments.
I hadn’t realised that this was the third instalment when I dived in- but luckily, even though it is well into the series, it can be read as a standalone. Having said that though, I am intrigued by what might have happened in the previous books, so I will definitely be going back and explore the other two books before continuing on with any new instalments.
I did enjoy the story, although it did get a little wordy in places, but thankfully that didn’t detract from my overall enjoyment of the mystery. Mimi took some getting used to, as she really annoyed me to begin with, which made it hard to connect with her- but I eventually found my groove as I got to know her better. The characters are well developed individuals with their own unique quirks and flaws, which gave the story an added element of interest and believability.
I also appreciated the glossary of Yiddish/Hebrew/ and Diamond Industry terms provided at the back of the book- it also added interest, as well as making things easier to ‘understand’.
The series (so far) contains:
-A Murder Is Forever (Book #1)
-Murder Is Not A Girl’s Best Friend (Book #2)
-Slay It With A Diamond (Book #3)
Looking forward to more from Mr. Bates.
Happy Reading…

Thank you, Rob Bates!

 

Reviewed by @angelahayes

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Spectral Revelations (The Karina Cardinal Mysteries Book #6) by Ellen Butler – Review by Angela Hayes

Spectral Revelations: A Karina Cardinal Mystery (The Karina Cardinal Mysteries Book 6)Spectral Revelations: A Karina Cardinal Mystery by Ellen Butler
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

 

5 Stars

 

Gah! You have no idea how excited I was to find that we were getting another Karina Cardinal mystery. I have adored her, and the series since the very beginning and I was starting to fret that there wouldn’t be another instalment. So colour me EXCITED!!!
Spectral Revelations is the sixth exciting instalment in the Karina Cardinal Mystery series by Ellen Butler. This is an excellent mystery- with intriguing developments, crime and investigation, tension, some action, suspense, drama, emotion, agendas, set ups, banter, humour, colourful + quirky characters, and even a touch of the supernatural.
Ms. Butler is a talented storyteller who never fails to deliver a cleverly constructed story, with each one upping the ante on the last. She always comes up with original and intriguing details that she constructs her stories around- which gives them their own unique flavour and identity. This one has a paranormal/supernatural touch that gives it an extra element of intrigue, tension, and mysteriousness. Again, Ms. Butler manages to create some intensity, with dramatic developments and gripping tension- which made the whole story quite an unpredictable and riveting ‘ride’.
As we know from previous books, Karina Cardinal is a lawyer turned lobbyist in Washington D.C. She’s smart, controlled, spirited, independent and hard-working- but is also a bit of a magnet for trouble. Here, Karina is pulled into another mystery when her beloved aunt goes missing. Things surrounding her aunt’s disappearance are quite suspicious, and as we’ve come to know from past events, Karina can’t help but do some digging into the situation to try to uncover what happened (plus she’s voraciously curious by nature). Is her aunt in trouble, or is she guilty of a crime and gone on the run? With the help of her security expert boyfriend Rick, her sister Jilly, and Jilly’s fiancé Tony- the ‘Scooby Gang’ begin to unravel the mystery- unearthing corruption, greed, desperation, secrets, schemes, and more. Add in a ‘helpful’, albeit spooky ghost- and things take an engrossing turn.
This is a fantastic story – wonderfully woven into a rich, detailed and thoroughly polished mystery- packed full of surprises which kept me avidly reading the whole way through.
I can’t wait for more Karina Cardinal!!

Thank you, Ellen Butler!

 

Reviewed by @angelahayes

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Wolfbane (Wolfbane Series Book 1) by Celia Hart – Review by Amanda Haller-Doris

Wolfbane (Wolfbane #1)Wolfbane by Celia Hart
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This was my first novel from this author and I greatly enjoyed this paranormal shifter romance. I thought that Jasmine was a wonderful heroine caught in a tough situation, being involved in a love triangle. I definitely loved her friendship with Lucy and I thought the contrasts between the friends really showcased their friendship. I loved the multiple POV’s so we could see what the other characters were feeling and thinking. The author did a great job of creating depth to her characters and making you really care about what happens to them. The steamy scenes were especially hot. This is a great start to a dynamic series and I can’t wait to read the rest of the stories.

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The Calamities of Camden Callahan (A Revenant Novel) by Brittany Tucker – Review by Audrie Harrington

The Calamities of Camden Callahan (A Revenant Novel)The Calamities of Camden Callahan by Brittany Tucker
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Such an original story! Pirates and death and magic and revenge. It was funny and dark and suspenseful. Camden is the main character, pirate turned Revenant who gains an elemental magic. Annie is one of the adopted daughters of the doctor who has been experimenting with Pearl Dust and The Rot. She is used to carrying out many of the experiments and has seen way too much. Camden arrives on Little Havana as Lord Callhan and starts working undercover. Annie hates all Revenants but she can see that he may be different, but she wonders if she can trust him and his help to get out of the situation she is in. I was hooked from the beginning when we met Camden at 9 years old and he goes to live with the pirates. The twists kept me reading late into the night. The ideas in this book were so well thought out and the writing was so detailed, both were amazing! I can’t wait to read more from this author.

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Chasing Cheer (Emerald Hollow Book 1) by Heather Schneider – Review by Daree222

Chasing CheerChasing Cheer by Heather Schneider
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Adorable Christmas story, full of magic, love, and all the feels.
When Holly Claus decides to check in on a small-town fall festival, she doesn’t know she is changing her life forever. This slow build love story is a good reminder to be present so we don’t miss the joy to be found around us. I am hoping for more stories around the characters in this book because each brought their own little spark.

Reviewed by @daree222
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My Murder Year by Kate Larkindale – Review by Amanda Haller-Doris

My Murder YearMy Murder Year by Kate Larkindale
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I thought this was a wonderful YA novel, full of teen angst, drama, murder, mystery, love and complicated family dynamics. I thought the author did a great job of really capturing Stas as a teenager and her interactions felt authentic and realistic. This was a well written story with that really draws you into the mystery and how things will be able to get better for Stas. This story kept me guessing until the reveal and definitely was a page turner. I felt that the author did a great job of showing Stas’s development as a character and showing her growth while still allowing her to make mistakes. I completely recommend this book for anyone who loves YA novels with mysteries, twists, and heart.

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Slay It With a Diamond (Diamond District Mystery Book 3) by Rob Bates – Review by Julie Johnson

Slay It With a Diamond (Diamond District Mystery Book 3)Slay It With a Diamond by Rob Bates
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Max Rosen does not believe in curses so when he’s offered a “cursed” diamond, he goes through with the transaction to acquire a rare black diamond. Max’s daughter, Mimi, is an amateur sleuth who starts investigating the lore behind the diamond. She comes across several different versions of the story that she is able to filter out.

This was a good book that held my attention throughout. The characters are well-developed and the story is easy to follow. There is mystery and intrigue, along with a small bit of romance, although that’s almost as complicated as the mystery.

This book is a part of a series but can be read as a standalone. There are mentions to previous cases involving Mimi but I don’t feel that missing the backstory affected this one.

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Beautiful Dangerous (Philly Heat series, #4) by Becky Flade Review by Victoria McQuigg

Beautiful Dangerous (Philly Heat series, #4)Beautiful Dangerous by Becky Flade
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Beautiful Dangerous is the fourth installment of the Philly Heat Series by Becky Flade. These books can be read as stand alone. This captivating Thriller-Romance follows Public Defender Hannah Patel and Detective Doyle Murphy. This book as well as the other 3 in this series are a beautifully written symphony of suspense, mystery, and sizzling romance. The characters are real, raw, and relatable. Hannah has a stalker that is getting out of hand. When she turns to Detective Murphy for help. But as the two start to get closer they push her stalker to new heights. You will not be able to put this book down until the gripping conclusion. 4 out of 5 stars!

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The Calamities of Camden Callahan (A Revenant Novel) by Brittany Tucker – Review by April McCoy

The Calamities of Camden Callahan (A Revenant Novel)The Calamities of Camden Callahan by Brittany Tucker
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

My son and I read this book together and we both enjoyed it thoroughly! Pirates, powers, and a thrilling adventure had us hooked right to the end! My son was especially happy with the book however even I got some great enjoyment out of it and seeing him really anxious to know what happened next! Great read!

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Beautiful Dangerous (Philly Heat Series Book 4) by Becky Flade – Review by April McCoy

Beautiful Dangerous (Philly Heat series, #4)Beautiful Dangerous by Becky Flade
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I adore this author. Hannah and Dectecrive Doyle were a match. I enjoyed watching the blossom so much and the thrills were the perfect touch to this romance thriller. This series has shaped up to be some of my favorite books of 2023 and this one has to be the top. Well written and easy to read with the perfect amount of omg factor. Adored!

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Wild Lavender (Heart & Hand Series Book 1) by Nicole E. Kelleher – Review by Michelle Troyer

Wild Lavender (Heart & Hand, #1)Wild Lavender by Nicole E. Kelleher
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

A book with romance, sex and a happy ending. Enjoyed it a lot. Looking forward to the next book in this series.

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Beyond Friendship (The Irresistible Series Book 3) by Marlyn Love – Review by Megan Pesek

Beyond Friendship (The Irresistible Series #3)Beyond Friendship by Marlyn Love
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Brian owns Six-Pack, the hottest nightclub, and is the perfect bachelor. He is Mr. One Night and won’t even entertain anything more with someone. Brian is about to act on his impulses when he sees Amanda for the first time. Until he finds out she’s his best friend’s younger sister that is. Amanda is a successful entrepreneur and knows Brian is off-limits, even if she feels their chemistry and longs for more than friendship.
Can Brian set his fears aside before he destroys every chance for happiness?
Beyond Friendship is emotional and pull on your heartstrings for so many reasons. Marlyn Love does a great job making the reader feel so many emptions and getting drawn in to the relationship between Brian and Amanda.

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