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The Messy Kids by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Rebeca Elliott Figueiras

The Messy KidsThe Messy Kids by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is another great kids book by this author. As usual, the writing is clear and fun and the illustrations bright and colourful.

I know I was a messy kid as a child to the point my mum put photos/stickers on each toy box so I’d know where things went and it still made no difference. I did not want to clean my room. Having a kid that feels the same way as the main character makes them more relatable for other children, keeping them engaged with the story.

As usual after reading one of the author’s stories, kids walk away feeling like they learned something in a fun way.

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Twisted Proposal (Central Florida Stories Book 3) by Victoria Saccenti – Review by Rebeca Elliott Figueiras

Twisted Proposal (Central Florida Stories)Twisted Proposal by Victoria Saccenti
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is the third instalment of the Central Florida Stories series, focusing on Ethan and Siena. Each book in this series can be read as a standalone, but I advise reading from book one.

As with the previous two books, the author has managed to enhance the reading experience with descriptive language and a smooth writing style. The characters are well-written, and you can’t help but get invested in them. Both Ethan and Siena show great growth and development as the story progresses from the difficulties of their pasts to their current predicaments.

This was another enjoyable read from the author and now I’ve come to the end I’ll be exploring other series by them.

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Undeniable (Central Florida Stories Book 2) by Victoria Saccenti – Review by Rebeca Elliott Figueiras

Undeniable (Central Florida Stories, #2)Undeniable by Victoria Saccenti
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is the series book in the Central Florida Stories series and focuses on Arely and Kurt. This series can be read as standalone but previous characters do reappear so I would recommend reading the first for a deeper understanding.

The authors descriptive writing style adds to the reading experience and the characters are well-written. Arely and Kurt show great character development as their story progresses, which I love. Their struggles and reactions feel real, and you can’t help but root for them.

The more I read from this author the more I want to devour, and this hasn’t been any different. On to the next exciting read.

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Deception by Victoria Saccenti – Review by Rebeca Elliott Figueiras

Deception (Central Florida Stories, #1)Deception by Victoria Saccenti
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is the first book in the series and focuses on Joe and Hunter.

I enjoyed the descriptive writing from the author and the way in which this book was written, it added to the reading experience. However as much as I loved the plot, it was the characters that left a mark on me. I loved that we came to know them both over time, not everything was revealed right away. This I felt also led to great character development.

There were times I wasn’t sure what was coming next, there were certainly some twists and turns and I was hooked beginning to end.

I thoroughly enjoyed this book and look forward to reading the rest of the series.

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Talks Like Thunder (Red With Native Blood Book 1) by Randal Nerhus & Marjorie Carter – Review by Rebeca Elliott Figueiras

Talks Like Thunder (Red With Native Blood: Novella One)Talks Like Thunder by Randal Nerhus
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is the first book in the Red with Native Blood series. While I was expecting this to be a powerful emotional read, I don’t think I was fully prepared for the emotional impact it would have.

There is clearly research which has gone into this book and the history that went into it is truly heartbreaking. While I will never know what the pain and suffering they endured feels like, reading this build on my own knowledge making it feel more real and devastating that I could have imagined previously. It’s opened my eyes further in a well-written story following Talks Like Thunder. You can’t help but get emotionally invested in her and root for her beginning to end.

I look forward to getting started on the next book in the series, it’s a powerful piece of writing which highlights parts of history that aren’t always known.

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Sacrifice Bunt (Ground Rule Book 2) by Bree Kraemer – Review by Rebeca Elliott Figueiras

Sacrifice Bunt (Ground Rule Book 2)Sacrifice Bunt by Bree Kraemer
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is the second in the Ground Rule series, a lovely addition to the series. Each book can be read as a standalone as each book focuses on a different couple. Characters from the first book do pop up so I would recommend reading the first to get a clearer picture of who everyone is.

I love a good ‘enemies to lovers’ trope so I knew I’d enjoy this book. The plot was enjoyable and flowed well, as did the author’s writing style making more an easy read. Although it isn’t exactly enemies to lovers, it was still a fun story to get lost in.

I loved the characters of Zara and Noel and am so happy with the conclusion of their story.

I can’t wait to get my hands on the third book!

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Walk Off (Ground Rule Book 1) by Bree Kraemer – Review by Rebeca Elliott Figueiras

Walk OffWalk Off by Bree Kraemer
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is the first book in the Ground Rule series and, for me, served as a great introduction to the author.

I enjoyed the writing style the author used, that alongside the plot flowed well and make for an easy read. The characters were lovable and well-written, their chemistry almost tangible. I really enjoyed Celia and Kyle as a couple and was rooting for them throughout.

The story was sweet, and I can see why the characters made the decisions they did out of love. I was emotionally invested in Celia and Kyle’s journey and am happy with how their story ends.

This was the first book I read by the author and I’m now a fan, I look forward to reading the rest of the series.

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House of Arsceneaux (Servants of Morrigan: Immortal Creatures) by Caterina Novelliere – Review by Rebeca Elliott Figueiras

House of ArsceneauxHouse of Arsceneaux by Caterina Novelliere
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I’m a sucker for a paranormal romance so I was all in for this book. It had me hooked beginning to end, the idea of a love that transcends time appealed to me.

The author created incredible, well-structured characters who I adored. I especially loved Caitlin – she started so relatable with her work life balance and yet as things changed and we (and she) came to know the truth she kept that relatability. Of course, I also loved Evariste. His emotions really came through as he was determined to be reunited with his lost love. The two face many dangerous obstacles and I was emotionally invested, rooting for them every step of the way.

I loved this book, and although I’ve read others with a similar premise of a returned dead love, this book was still able to be unique and at times surprising.
This was the first book I’ve read by this author, but I will definitely be looking out for more!

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The Master of Demise by Nadija Mujagic – Review by Rebeca Elliott Figueiras

The Master of DemiseThe Master of Demise by Nadija Mujagic
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Wow, it has been a while since I’ve disliked the main character so much. But it worked for the story so well.

This was a dark book, full of suspense and twists which kept my eyes glued to the page. There were points I wasn’t even sure if I was rooting for Mitch or hoping he’d fail and most of the time I honestly didn’t know if he was the perpetractor. The plot and characters were so well-written, I was invested to find out what would come next.

I really enjoyed this psychological thriller, and I will certainly be looking for more like this from the author.

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Trapping the Butterfly (Butterflies Fly Free Series Book 1) by Debra Parmley – Review by Rebeca Elliott Figueiras

Trapping the ButterflyTrapping the Butterfly by Debra Parmley
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This short book was an enjoyable start to the Butterflies Fly Free series.

I enjoyed the author’s writing style; it was easy to follow, and the descriptions painted a clear picture of the scene. You could get a sense of the characters’ personalities and emotions through the descriptive writing too before/without it being stated outright which I enjoyed.

The characters were well-written, their personalities shone and my blood boiled at the way poor Bethany was treated. The emotions you’re made to feel about some of the characters is very real and there were times when I very almost believed that Bethany wouldn’t get her HEA.
I absolutely loved Paul and there were a couple of times I was convinced he’s been killed and my heart almost broke.

My only criticism would be that the ending seemed a little rushed. I would have loved for the book to be longer so that the character development which occurred could be explored in more depth and that some of the scenes could have been extended. But given the length of the book, the author did a great job!

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Rise of the Hunter (Blood Prophecy Series) by Barb Jones – Review by Rebeca Elliott Figueiras

Rise of the HunterRise of the Hunter by Barb Jones
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is not only the 4th book in the Blood Prophecy series but also the 1st in a trilogy. I would recommend reading the first 3 books of the Blood Prophecy Trilogy before reading this one so you can know the character’s portrayed and voicing the stories as well as understand the events which have led to this point.

As with the previous books, this is written from multiple perspectives and from multiple different periods of time. This may be confusing at first but the author does a good job at making it lear what is happening.

I enjoyed the characters and what each brought to the story, their backgrounds and experiences have shaped them well into even more interesting individuals. Another element I enjoyed was the historical side of Hawaii, I wasn’t expecting it, but I found it fascinating and thought it made the series more unique.

I’m looking forward to reading more in the series as I’m now invested in their lives.

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Queen’s Destiny (Blood Prophecy Book 1) by Barb Jones – Review by Rebeca Elliott Figueiras

Queen's Destiny (The Blood Prophecy, #1)Queen’s Destiny by Barb Jones
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is the first book in the Blood Prophecy series which caught my interest.

As I got into the story, I was a little concerned that the differing periods of time that it was written in would cause confusion, but this was not the case. The author was able to keep things clear as the story progressed through various points of view and times.

I’m enjoying the characters that the author has created. They each have their own characteristics which make them stand out and their backgrounds feed into who they are. Seeing how these things shaped the characters made them feel more believable to me and drew me into their lives.

I’m looking forward to reading more about how everything is connected and how the story develops.

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The Synchronicity of Love: Stories that Heal, Transform, and Awaken by John David Latta – Review by Rebeca Elliott Figueiras

The Synchronicity of Love: Stories that Heal, Transform, and AwakenThe Synchronicity of Love: Stories that Heal, Transform, and Awaken by John David Latta
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I wasn’t one hundred percent sure what to expect before reading this, but it was certainly worth the read. An inspiring story which must have taken a lot of courage to share with everyone.

I enjoyed how the book was set out, a chapter for each story, and the way it was written spoke to me. It inspired and encouraged self-reflection. It was what I needed to hear without realising it at the time.

Regardless of whether this is something you feel you need; I think this is well worth a read, it might just begin to open your eyes to your relationship with love.

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Breathless Love (The Bennetts of Langston Falls Book 3) by KG Fletcher – Review by Rebeca Elliott Figueiras

Breathless Love (The Bennetts of Langston Falls, #3)Breathless Love by K.G. Fletcher
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is the third book in the series and can be read as a standalone. Although you don’t lose anything in relation to the couple by not going back and reading the first two books, I do recommend going back to read them.

The author’s descriptive writing paints a vivid picture of the scene and how the characters feel. The descriptions really let their personalities shine through and make the characters lovable.

I absolutely loved Hank and Ella together, they had such great chemistry and I almost squealed in delight as things developed. Ella’s brother was an interesting character and felt very real to me as I’ve known people with similar motivations.

This has been another great read and I’m gutted I must wait for the next book to be released to continue the series.

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Shameless Love (The Bennetts of Langston Falls Book 2) by KG Fletcher – Review by Rebeca Elliott Figueiras

Shameless Love (The Bennetts of Langston Falls, #2)Shameless Love by K.G. Fletcher
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is the second book in the series and although it can be read as a standalone, I wholeheartedly recommend going back to read the first book.

The author has done it again, not only by creating brilliant characters for me to fall in love with, but also the use of descriptive language making it so easy to fall into the scenes with the characters, and feeling what they feel.

From the very beginning I was hooked (again), emotionally invested in the characters and the outcome of their relationship. I am so grateful that this series has happily ever afters otherwise I’m sure I would be curled up in bed grieving for days on end.

I’m so happy I found this series; I binged it in about two days and am left wanting more!

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Faultless Love (The Bennetts of Langston Falls Book 1) by KG Fletcher – Review by Rebeca Elliott Figueiras

Faultless Love (The Bennetts of Langston Falls, #1)Faultless Love by K.G. Fletcher
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is the first book in the series, and I have fallen in love with it!

From the offset, the author had me intrigued with the wrongful conviction and how Teddy would cope. Not only this but the descriptive language painted a vivid scene that I was easily able to step into alongside the characters. Just the simple act of eating an apple was written so well. You can feel the emotions of the characters and I got so emotionally invested I had to move straight onto book 2 to at least try to avoid the inevitable book hangover.

From the very first chapter you get a clear picture of who Teddy is and insight into his vulnerabilities. He’s such a sweet character, you can’t help but want to scoop him into your arms and squeeze all the hardship away!
Robyn was so right for him she never stopped believing in him and seeing their reunion and how it progressed was a treat.

I binged this series so hard while on holiday and I loved every second of it!

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Seen by Lori Nelson – Review by Rebeca Elliott Figueiras

SeenSeen by Lori Nelson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This was different that anything I’d read recently which was great. It wasn’t what I was expecting but that’s a good thing, it’s original and had me gripped beginning to end.

There are well placed twists and a sense of danger and betrayal throughout. I was on the edge of my seat desperately reading to find out what would happen next.

I loved mouse, her name seemed to fit so well for what was expected of her but she overcame the obstacles which were presented to her and showed great determination to survive the ordeals. She developed as the book progressed from a little naïve in regard to her family, to a more aware and strong young character. She was well written and although mature for someone her age, it worked well for her passion and personality.

I’m looking forward to seeing what the author brings out next.

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The Wandering Isles: A Crown of Stones Novella (Soulbound Journeys Book 1) by C. L. Schneider – Review by Rebeca Elliott Figueiras

The Wandering Isles (The Crown of Stones)The Wandering Isles by C.L. Schneider
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I wasn’t expecting to find this novella which continues the Crown of Stones series, so it was a nice surprise. Although it can be read as a standalone, I recommend reading the Crown of Stone series first to truly grasp the undertones and background.

Once again, the way the author describes the world creates such a vivid picture you can also step into it yourself.

The characters continue their personal growth and its great to see how the relationship between them develops.

I really enjoyed reading this after recently reading the entire Crown of Stones series, it was great to jump back into the world and I hope for more.

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Acting Counsel (Kings of Screen Book 3) by Morgana Bevan – Review by Rebeca Elliott Figueiras

Acting Counsel (Kings of Screen, #3)Acting Counsel by Morgana Bevan

This is the 3rd book in what has become one of my favourite fun easy-read series. Each book can be read as a standalone, but I recommend reading them all, especially as past characters make an appearance.

I enjoy the author’s writing style, it’s easy to follow and draws you into the world of Hollywood through the scenery depicted and characters created. The characters are developed and show growth as the book progresses.

This was a fun read which follows Nathan and Catrina as the work closely together after their ‘history’. I was rooting for them, as with every couple in the series so far, from the beginning.

I can’t wait to get hold of the next in the series!

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Married Blind (King of Screen Book 2) by Morgana Bevan – Review by Rebeca Elliott Figueiras

Married Blind (Kings of Screen, #2)Married Blind by Morgana Bevan
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I love this series! I fell in love with the first in the series and so had to read the second. It’s just as good if not better!

I don’t usually watch reality TV; I find it too cringey, but this wasn’t an issue reading this book. There’s a solid foundation to the plot (which is what is lacking for me in over the top reality TV) and the characters are well developed with their back stories and personal growth in the story. It was a fun read as was the first, and I’m sure the author is quickly becoming a favourite of mine.

I enjoyed Abi and Finn as a couple and I’m sad that their story has ended, but I look forward to the next book and next couple!

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Hope and Lies (The Abredea Series Book 1) by C.H. Lyn – Review by Rebeca Elliott Figueiras

Hope and LiesHope and Lies by C.H. Lyn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is the first book in a dystopian series and I’m glad I came across it. The blurb did not do it justice, it was so much better!

The author created a unique class system and within this system built an incredibly vivid world for the characters to inhabit. The plot(s) had me gripped beginning to end, I’ve not read a dystopian novel that had me so invested in a long time, I’m obsessed.

There’s twists, turns and corruption and it’s written so well! I want to rave about it but don’t want to accidentally give away any spoilers.

I’m emotionally invested in Juliana, her situation and the adjustments she’s had to make and the strength and determination she’s found to survive is palpable. You can feel her emotions as she muddles through the new life she’s been forced into.

Can’t wait to see what’s yet to come in the series!

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Truly Unfortunate (Welcome to Knollville Book 1) by C.A. King – Review by Rebeca Elliott Figueiras

Truly Unfortunate (Welcome To Knollville #1)Truly Unfortunate by C.A. King
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is the first book in the Welcome to Knollville series. I was really drawn to the not remembering anything aspect of this story. The book is on the shorter side but is certainly not lacking. There were great characters, brilliant world-building and an enjoyable writing style used.

I love Truly the most of all the fabulous characters, she’s so lovely and works hard to provide for herself. Despite amnesia she powers through, and you can’t help but root for her.

Other characters are just as memorable, easy to love and relatable to people you may encounter in everyday life.

I loved it and can’t wait to get started on the next book!

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Someone to Watch Over Me (Wounded Hearts Series Book 3) by Debbie Cromack – Review by Rebeca Elliott Figueiras

Someone to Watch Over Me (Wounded Hearts, #3)Someone to Watch Over Me by Debbie Cromack
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is the third in the series but it can be read as a standalone. Personally I think it best to read the first two books to get some background of the people around them and the world they inhabit.

I wasn’t expecting this to be so heartfelt and affect me emotionally in the way that it did, and despite the book hangover I now have, I love how emotionally invested I was in the couple.

Angelo and Luciana’s story is a slow burn but it’s the sweetest and so worth all the tension and waiting. I love this couple so much.

The characters are lovable and feel real. As usual, I want so much more from these characters and this series.

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Stalked by the Devil (To Kiss a Stalker Series) by Stacy-Deanne – Review by Rebeca Elliott Figueiras

Stalked by the Devil: BWWM Thriller (To Kiss a Stalker Series)Stalked by the Devil: BWWM Thriller by Stacy-Deanne
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is the second book in the series which I didn’t initially realise as it can be read as a standalone. I’ve read some other books by the author, so I was really looking forward to reading this one. It did not disappoint.

As usual I enjoyed the writing style used, it added to my enjoyment in reading. The story had me hooked, now I’m not usually one to go for love triangles as I feel they’re a bit over-done, but it was done well and, in the plot, it worked.

There’s darkness, suspense and mystery which I thrive on when reading so this was a great book for me. I’ll be going back to read the first in the series and impatiently wait for another!

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Earl of Griffith (Once Upon a Widow Book 6) by Aubrey Wynne – Review by Rebeca Elliott Figueiras

Earl of Griffith (Once Upon a Widow Book 6)Earl of Griffith by Aubrey Wynne
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is a short historical romance but despite being short it captivated me. It was the perfect balance of emotional (sad) and sweet happier moments. The descriptive writing had me right there with the characters, experiencing the same things they did.

I was rooting for the characters from the beginning, they were written well and were so lovable, I couldn’t help but want them to succeed.

My only wish would be for the book to be longer, so it wouldn’t be over so soon. But I recently discovered that this was part of a series, so I’ll definitely be checking out the rest!

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Huff… Puff… Grind! (Science Folktales) by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Rebeca Elliott Figueiras

Huff... Puff... Grind! The 3 Little Pigs Get SmartHuff… Puff… Grind! The 3 Little Pigs Get Smart by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The author has yet again created a fun twist on a classic to inspire kids. I always love the author’s ability to take a classic and find the science that can be learnt from it.

The illustrations are lovely, and the language is accessible to children. The science included encourages children to take an interest in what materials are strong and how to measure this.

I would recommend this book to those with kids both as a fun story and a learning aid.

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What Do the Plants Say? (Alex, the Inventor) by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Rebeca Elliott Figueiras

What Do the Plants Say? (Alex, the Inventor)What Do the Plants Say? by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I love books by this author as they are always able to make learning fun for kids. This one is a little different, it seems to be more inspirational to follow dreams.

The illustrations are lovely, and the language used is accessible to kids. The science added into the story makes the learning more accessible to kids in a fun way

I’ll continue to look out for books by this author as they have done an amazing job.

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Editor Kill Fee (The Taylor Browning Cozy Mysteries Book 3) by GG Collins – Review by Rebeca Elliott Figueiras

Editor Kill Fee (Taylor Browning Cozy Mysteries #3)Editor Kill Fee by G.G. Collins
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Prior to reading I didn’t realise this was the third book, and although I am going to go back to read the first books for background and to see a more complete picture, this is able to be read as a standalone for the mystery element.

This was a fun mystery with interesting characters and an intriguing plot. There are cats, drama and suspense all rolled together and a little humour on the side. Right up my street – I love a good cosy mystery and I really enjoyed this one.

I particularly enjoyed the descriptions given and the feelings the author created around the Devils Road Forest and the lovable characters

Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed the book and have become a fan of the series so will be keeping an eye out for more.

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Fee, Fi, Fo, Grow! (Science Folktales) by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Rebeca Elliott Figueiras

Fee, Fi, Fo, Grow! The Real Magic of the Beans (Science Folktales)Fee, Fi, Fo, Grow! The Real Magic of the Beans by Lois J Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This isn’t the first book I’ve read by this author, and won’t be the last! This was a lovely retelling of a classic story with a twist. I like the science that the author incorporates into children’s stories, it encourages fun learning in children. It engages kids in a way that’s easy to learn and makes it enjoyable for them. I wish there were more books like this when I was a kid.

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Bound by the Hinterlands by Bree M. Lewandowski – Review by Rebeca Elliott Figueiras

Bound by the HinterlandsBound by the Hinterlands by Bree M. Lewandowski
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I was initially drawn to this book because of the blurb – I found it intriguing and different from the other romances I’ve read recently.

The author paints a vivid picture of the amazing world they have created and I felt like I could step right into the landscape alongside the characters. Both the plot and characters are well-written, developed and gripping. I couldn’t wait to find out what was past the darkness and how the characters would face the dangers in front of them.

The characters were amazing – some really riled me up and others stole my heart. I loved getting emotionally invested in these characters for example Cressida – I really felt for her and everything she faced.

I really enjoyed the writing style used in this book, and I’ll be looking out for more by this author in future.

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