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The Alien & the Crime Boss by Naomi Valkyrie – Review by Rayne East

The Alien & the Crime BossThe Alien & the Crime Boss by Naomi Valkyrie
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I truly adore Naomi Valkyrie’s work and was pleased to come across this short story of hers.
Alien and the Crime Boss is a short MM alien romance that features Leilphun who is on the run after being exiled and heads to Earth for sanctuary. He ends up crossing paths with Kasper, a mafia crime boss, and gets more than he bargained for. Totally engaging from start to finish. This is one not to miss. Highly recommend.

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Dangerous Rhythm (The Echo Series Book 4) by C.R. Alam – Review by Rayne East

Dangerous Rhythm (The Echo Series, #4)Dangerous Rhythm by C.R. Alam
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Passionate, suspenseful romance with a twist
This is book 4 of The Echo series and it was engaging from the start. With rockstars, bodyguards and twists and turns, I was held captive right through until the end. I love how the author bought a fresh take and reversed the roles in this one. Curtis and Lena certainly provide some sizzle as their chemistry oozed off page. If you love spicy romance with action and a dabble of humour then check this one out. Highly recommend.

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Detective Dylan and the Case of the Missing Mail (A Youth Sleuths Chapter Book Series) by MJ Murray – Review by Rayne East

Detective Dylan and the Case of the Missing Mail: A Youth Sleuths Chapter Book SeriesDetective Dylan and the Case of the Missing Mail: A Youth Sleuths Chapter Book Series by MJ Murray
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Delightful early reader short story
Detective Dylan and the Case of the Missing Mail is an engaging story that would make a great introduction to chapter book reading for early readers. The characters are relatable, the plot interesting and the writing has good pacing and is easy to follow. Great addition to a classroom or home library. Recommend for ages 7yrs-10yrs.

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To Catch An Elf by Debra Parmley – Review by Rayne East

To Catch An Elf: Pennsylvania Fighter PilotTo Catch An Elf: Pennsylvania Fighter Pilot by Debra Parmley
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Romance, suspense and drama
This book has a bit of everything – mystery, suspense, drama and romance. I was so vested in Marcie and Ted right from the start. The writing drew me and had me on the edge of my seat, the anticipation was intense. If you love a good romance with a dose of mystery and suspense- this is one not to be missed. Recommend.

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Dreamscape (J.J. Morris Mysteries) by J.N. Sheats – Review by Rayne East

DreamscapeDreamscape by J.N. Sheats
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

YA paranormal suspense
The second book in the J.J. morris series, Dreamscape, follows Joey as she tries to navigate a normal life but is drawn into the fantastical paranormal world. There is so much between the pages along with strong characterisation and vivid imagery this book did not disappoint. Emotional, unpredictable, mysterious and creative this book kept me turning the pages well into the night. Looking forward to more of this series. Highly recommend!

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Secrets at the Café: A Novel of Suspense about Family and Friendship by Susan Specht Oram – Review by Rayne East

Secrets at the CafeSecrets at the Cafe by Susan Specht Oram
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Engaging suspense
Secrets at the Cafe is an intriguing mystery read with interesting characters and suspenseful writing. Karina has been thrust into a life not of her choosing. Her grandmother’s dying wish was for her to take over her cafe. This one decision leads to an unpredictable adventure with a missing journal and a possible treasure hunt. This author always knows how to deliver a multilayered story with a captivating narrative and vivid imagery. Recommend.

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

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

Cozy mystery
The third book in The Diamond District Mystery Series is a story filled with tension, suspense and intrigue. This was balanced with witty banter and an array of interesting characters. I enjoyed the storyline but did struggle to connect to Mimi, she was a bit over the top at times. This didn’t detract from the story as the writing was good and flowed well and kept me engaged until the end. I’m curious enough to want to check out other books in this series. Recommend.

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Woman Unbroken by Alexandra Fleder – Review by Rayne East

Woman UnbrokenWoman Unbroken by Alexandra Fleder
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Relatable, emotional and raw
This story holds nothing back. It is raw and at times confronting. Devorah has faced unimaginable pain and suffering over the years and has finally escaped. Now she needs to rebuild her life and herself. This is well written and had me on an emotional roller coaster the whole time. Highly recommend.

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Festive Fates: 11 Spirited Holiday Tales Anthology by SE Smith, Jill Wallace, Eliza Sinclair, Kyndra Hatch, Candace Colt, Natalie Palma, Winnie Winkle, Electra Gajdos, Stephanie Harrell, Pauline Baird Jones, Cassandra Chandler – Review by Rayne East

Festive Fates: 11 Spirited Holiday TalesFestive Fates: 11 Spirited Holiday Tales by Natalie Palma
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

An collection of original Christmas tales

*Twas the fight before Christmas- an alien/earthling Christmas party. This short story was engaging and fun.
*Home for Christmas- paranormal/alien Christmas story about family and forgiveness.
*unwrapping the True Spirit – This short Christmas story is about remembering that Christmas is about more than just physical gifts.
*Christmas Trappings – what happens when aliens find out about Santa Claus? Hilarious antics- that’s what. Alex and Beth gave their hands full when their resident aliens hear the story of Santa Claus and take on the role of self-appointed protectors.
*The Winter Queen – the enchanting story of Kris Kringle finding his magical Mrs Kringle.
*Retired but not forgotten – when a case needs solving and you have to put up with the too cheery Christmas spirit of a partner – what’s a girl supposed to do?
*Sunshine’s War – when 2 people who should not have an attraction do, not even war can keep them apart.
*Wicked beginnings- This is Jareth and Hazel’s story. It was a great read with both of them skirting around the obvious.
*Magical Mayhem – Christmas for the supernatural is Halloween. This is the story of a snarky Keeper who needs to navigate the most celebrated night in the magical community.
*Seshka’s gift – Magical Academy with danger and battles.
*Searching for Thanksgiving – dragons and cat-shifters on an adventure to find the magic that is Thanksgiving.
I enjoyed every book in this collection. Each was well written and bought an individuality that was endearing. Highly recommend!

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Orenda (The Latitude Series) by T.S. Simons – Review by Rayne East

Orenda (The Latitude Series Book 2)Orenda by T.S. Simons
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The second book in The Latitude series, Orenda follows Caitlin and Gio as they continue to bring together the community and face unexpected obstacles and tough challenges.
I fell in love with this world from the very beginning in The Antipodes series. The author draws you into a world that is reflective of our own and makes the reader vested in each outcome. Immersive, creative and unpredictable this whole series is amazing. Eagerly awaiting the next book. Highly recommend.

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Master Sardinia (Masters of the Consulate Book 8) by Sylvia Black – Review by Rayne East

Master SardiniaMaster Sardinia by Sylvia Black
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

An evolving world
How amazing is this series! Book 8 and I am totally fan girling!
Each book in this series is so strong in their own right but together makes for one hell of a ride. I love the world this author has created with mafia-esk vampires, alpha males, equally strong females and fiery passion ❤️‍🔥 that bleeds from the pages. This is Master Sardinia’s story and boy does he protect what is his – swoon! Bring on book 9. Highly recommend!

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Dark Moon Secrets (The Witch Moon Series Book 1) by Lilliana Rose – Review by Rayne East

Dark Moon Secrets (Witch Moon #1)Dark Moon Secrets by Lilliana Rose
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Brilliant series starter
The first book in the Witch Moon series, Dark Moon Secrets was a strong start. With immersive world building, strong characters and a solid story line, this engaging paranormal fantasy had me hooked. The scene has been set for so much more to come and with a range of different characters which I feel will all play a role in Tanjie & Alaric’s future. I eagerly await book 2. Highly Recommend.

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Porter and Midge (Porter and Midge Children’s Book Series) by Jennie Chen and Giselle Nevada – Review by Rayne East

Porter and Midge: Paws for Safety: A Kid's Guide to Safe Dog Interactions (Porter and Midge Children’s Book Series)Porter and Midge: Paws for Safety: A Kid’s Guide to Safe Dog Interactions by Giselle Nevada
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Engaging, educational & fun!
Colourful, educational and engaging this addition to the Porter and Midge Children’s Book series is sure to be a hit with children of any age. The writing is easy to read, with rhythmic rhyming and the illustrations vivid and interesting. The important message about canine safety is clearly delivered. This would make a wonderful addition to home and school libraries. Highly recommend.

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Lost and Found (Logan McKenna Mystery Book 9) by Valerie Davisson – Review by Rayne East

Lost and Found: A Logan McKenna Mystery Book 9 (Logan McKenna Series)Lost and Found: A Logan McKenna Mystery Book 9 by Valerie Davisson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Intriguing mystery thriller
The 9th book in the Logan McKenna series, Lost and Found is an intriguing kidnapping mystery that is full of suspense, suspicion and drama. I am loving this whole series. Logan is a character that you become easily invested with and the author has created a world that is vivid and realistic. Recommend.

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Lies That Bind (Logan McKenna Series Book 6) by Valerie Davisson – Review by Rayne East

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

Adventure mystery crime thriller
This is the 6th book in the Logan McKenna Mystery series and it was amazing. The imagery is excellent, and the author kept me on the edge of my seat right til the end. A brilliant addition to the series. Highly recommend.

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The Podcast Chronicles by Kathryn Dodson – Review by Rayne East

The Podcast ChroniclesThe Podcast Chronicles by Kathryn Dodson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

One inspirational lady
The Podcast Chronicles is an inspirational story. It addresses issues faced by women regarding careers and returning to work after being a stay at home mum. Sue is a great character, she is steadfast and motivated to achieve her goal. The author covers so many topics but delivers them in an engaging and entertaining way. Recommend.

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Threads of Time (Toronto Time Agents Series) by C. N. Jackson – Review by Rayne East

Threads of Time: A Historical Time Travel Adventure (Toronto Time Agents)Threads of Time: A Historical Time Travel Adventure by C. N. Jackson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Time travel adventure
The second book in the Toronto Time Agents, Threads of Time is a brilliant sci-fi story that takes the reader on a journey filled with mystery, history and laugh out loud moments. Wilda Firestone is a great character and I enjoyed her witty outlook. The author presents a world layered in history, danger, suspense, drama , science, paranormal and vivid imagery. This is a great addition to the series. Recommend.

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Murder at the Wedding (Modern Midwife Mysteries Book 1) by Christine Knapp – Review by Rayne East

Murder at the Wedding (Modern Midwife Mysteries #1)Murder at the Wedding by Christine Knapp
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Delightful cozy mystery
Book One in the Modern Midwife Mysteries introduces the reader to Maeve, a nurse-midwife at a hospital in Langford, New England. Her husband, Will, caters the prestigious wedding of the daughter of her boss and what follows is a mystery shrouded in drama, deceit and a race against time. Maeve has help from her mother and sister who are awesome characters. An enjoyable read that strikes the perfect balance between mystery and fun. Highly recommend.

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My Big Red Monster (Giants and Monsters) by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Rayne East

My Big Red MonsterMy Big Red Monster by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Educational and engaging
This bright and colourful picture story book is fun, engaging and educational. Every child has a fear, and when it comes to the monster under the bed this story offers a way to deal with them, and that fear, in a positive and supportive way. Unique, imaginative and brilliantly illustrated, this book is bound to become a favourite book of many 4-8 year olds. Recommend.

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Reckless Love (The Bennetts of Langston Falls Book 4) by KG Fletcher – Review by Rayne East

Reckless Love: A Small Town Slow-Burn Forbidden Love Romance (The Bennetts of Langston Falls Book #4)Reckless Love: A Small Town Slow-Burn Forbidden Love Romance by K.G. Fletcher
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Heart warming HEA
The 4th book in The Bennetts of Langston Falls is Becky’s story. She is the younger sister of the Bennett boys and is a strong, hard working and dedicated woman who knows what she wants and goes after it – that is until Glen Kirby. What unfolds is a brilliant story that holds you hostage until the end. I have thoroughly enjoyed every book in this series and even though this can be read as a stand alone it is so worth starting from book 1. Highly recommend.

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The Inquisitor (WaterFyre Rising Book 4) by Nadia Han – Review by Rayne East

The Inquisitor (WaterFyre Rising, #4)The Inquisitor by Nadia Han
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Second chance romance
Book 4 of the WaterFyre Rising series is Forrest and Kiera’s story. I have enjoyed each book in this series and this was no exception. Forrest is the doctor of the WaterFyre group and takes the dominating protector role to whole new level especially with Kiera. The author knows how to deliver a highly engaging, suspenseful with a touch a spice storyline.each of the books in the series can be read as a stand alone but I feel to really know what WaterFyre really is – you must read them all. You won’t be disappointed. Highly recommend.

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The Mating Haze (Long Claw Pride) by Brooke May – Review by Rayne East

The Mating HazeThe Mating Haze by Brooke May
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Shifter mates
Book 2 of the Long Claw Pride series, The Mating Haze, is engaging. I love shifter stories, throw in some romance, strong characters and a series that just gets better and better and I’m hooked. As with the first book, the author focuses on another member of the pride, Laramie and her mating call is not all that it should be.
There are road blocks to overcome to get to her HEA with Trigger. A fantastic read that has me eagerly awaiting book 3. Recommend.

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Beautiful Dangerous (Philly Heat Series Book 4) by Becky Flade – Review by Rayne East

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

Whodunnit romance
This is an intriguing story is book 4 of the Philly Heat series. It is a mystery romance that slowly builds throughout the story. As Doyle and Hannah’s romance grows throughout the book, the challenges they face are not easy to foresee which creates a tension that the author cleverly conveys. I enjoyed reading from both their POV as this created a deeper connection to the overall story. Recommend.

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Tracker (The Talisman Series) by Tam DeRudder Jackson – Review by Rayne East

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

Novella
This is the prequel and gives the backstory for Riley and Lynette who are already together in book one of The Talisman Series. The cover is so Riley, his cockiness just shows through.
The story is a modern day take on Celtic warriors who each have a fated talisman that compliments their powers. It was great to meet all the characters that each have a book dedicated to them. Really looking forward to diving into this series. Highly recommend.

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Wondogfilled (Boys Unboxed) by Dr. Kimberlie Harris – Review by Rayne East

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: 4 of 5 stars

Charming picture story book.
This colourful and engaging picture book follows Kingston as he and his mum go looking for his favourite animal, the dog. Who knew there were so many different types of dogs out there, but are they really all dogs? Wonderfully written and illustrated this is one that will be treasured by early childhood children everywhere. Recommend.

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No Amends by Angela Lam – Review by Rayne East

No AmendsNo Amends by Angela Lam
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Different, but in a good way.
A suspenseful thriller, No Amends leaves you guessing. Everything is not what it seems. Even though this is a short story it packs a punch with an unpredictable story line filled with deadly secrets, mystery, intrigue and dramatic plot twists. The writing draws you in, has great pacing and is well executed. Looking forward to the next book from this author. Recommend.

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Wolfbane (Wolfbane Series Book 1) by Celia Hart – Review by Rayne East

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

Angsty werewolf romance
I love a good werewolf story and this did not disappoint. Wolfbane is the first book in the Wolfbane series and it is a strong start. With good characterisation, world building and lots of emotion I found myself reading late into the night. The author gives a different spin on fated mates and the mate bond which I found interesting. I really liked the different POVs throughout as it gives so much more depth to the story. I eagerly await book 2. Highly recommend!

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Cruel Truths (Tessa and Jordan Book 3) by T. Christensen – Review by Rayne East

Cruel Truths (Tessa and Jordan #3)Cruel Truths by T. Christensen
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Contemporary Enemies to Lovers
This is the 3rd book in the Tessa and Jordan series and is Lindy and Cade’s story. It can be read as a stand-alone.
Lindy is Tessa’s younger ‘sister’ and is an aspiring fashion designer. She is a very strong character and doesn’t hold back. Cade is all alpha male and has a jaded view of relationships and women. When their worlds collide it is a battle of wills and led to some fiery scenes. This story had a bit of everything – enemies to lovers, fake girlfriend, second chances, alpha male, billionaire romance. Recommend.

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Killer Smile by Allan Evans – Review by Rayne East

Killer SmileKiller Smile by Allan Evans
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Hooks you in
This is a well executed psychological thriller. It’s dark, gritty storyline has twists and turns that you don’t see coming. This is the sequel to Killer Blonde and the storyline does make reference to events that occurred in the first book but the author does a great job of weaving in key information so it doesn’t detract from this story. I will definitely go back and read the first book though. I enjoyed the character interactions especially Cade and Rook they were like characters of a crime show. This book could easily be made into a movie or tv series. I look forward in this series. Recommend.

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

Wild Lavender (Heart & Hand, #1)Wild Lavender by Nicole E. Kelleher
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Captivating sorry line
This is the first book in the Heart & Hand Series and the first I have read from this author. It is an intriguing historical fantasy romance based in a world made up of realms. There is a little bit of everything in this book -from heartache to love, war to hope, politics to prophecy and so much more. The writing is well paced and executed well. I would have liked a bit more focus on the magic and a bit less focus on the drama but that’s just my preference.
Recommend.

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