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Punk (Popov Boys Book 6) by Leslie Georgeson – Review by Rebeca Elliott Figueiras

Punk (Popov Boys #6)Punk by Leslie Georgeson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is the 6th book in the Popov Boys series and can be read as a standalone however after discovering the author in December reading the previous 2 books, I highly recommend you read from the beginning of the series!

Once again, the author has proven why they became a fast favourite. They’ve created another set of characters to fall in love with and root for and hooking me from the very start.

I’m once again left with a longing for more of this series and an impatience at not being able to dive straight into another new read in the series.

I though the age gap was written well and made believable. Given everything Miranda has going on in her life, she proves herself to be a strong and independent mother. I love how she was written and how things build between her and Efram.

It’s not just the romance that keeps you reading either, there’s more to it than that. The secrets and suspense were incorporated so nicely, it really came together well.

I’ll be honest and say I had my doubts as the blurb didn’t seem like the rest of the series, but I was blown away by how much I loved this instalment.

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Twisted Bond by Danielle Jacks – Review by Rebeca Elliott Figueiras

Twisted BondTwisted Bond by Danielle Jacks
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is an enjoyable enemies to lovers paranormal romance between Rose and Titan.

The author was able to create a unique story which was both well written and gripping. There were several brilliant scenes that immerse you right into the middle of the story and I couldn’t tear my eyes away from the pages. Plenty of suspense and romance

The characters were interesting and had great chemistry keeping me engaged in their situations.
Both Rose and Titan share admirable qualities – strong and determined to see things through, but my favourite was Rose. She’s just brilliant.

I expecting to like this book, but I wasn’t prepared for just how much I enjoyed it. I’ll be seeking out more from this author in future!

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Concert Hall Hit (A Darcy Gaughan Mystery) by J.C. Kenney – Review by Rebeca Elliott Figueiras

Concert Hall Hit: A Darcy Gaughan MysteryConcert Hall Hit: A Darcy Gaughan Mystery by J.C. Kenney
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is the second book in the series which I didn’t initially realise but that wasn’t a problem when reading. There is enough information given about the background to understand previous events and not feel lost reading. I will go back and read the first book later though!

I loved this cozy mystery, it’s one of my favourite genres, and this book certainly lived up to the expectations I had. It was fun, full of adventure and mystery which was cleverly constructed to keep you guessing and trying to solve the mystery alongside Darcy. There were plenty of old school music and film references sprinkled throughout so I was in my element – I was hooked from the first page!

I loved the cast of characters, they were fun and unique which made an already enjoyable book miles better. I loved Darcy and her journey in solving the case and working towards clearing her name.

This was great fun to kick back and relax with, reading something engaging but laid back was just what I needed. I’ve fallen in love with this series and look forward to meeting Darcy again!

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Consigliere’s Revenge (Sicilian Gods Book 3) by Via Mari – Review by Rebeca Elliott Figueiras

Consigliere's Revenge (Sicilian Gods Book 3)Consigliere’s Revenge by Via Mari
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This instalment focuses on Lorenzo and Isabella. Once again, the story was written well and almost comes to life on the pages whilst the chemistry between the characters sizzles and leaps off the pages.

I once again loved the female lead, Isaabella, she’s strong and independent, and fights for what she believes in, I admire that.

This book is full of action, danger and more. It is probably my favourite of the 3 books so far, not only because of the couple’s chemistry where I was rooting for them, but also because the storyline was not entirely as expected, it was so much better.

This series can be read as standalones but for the characters growth and underlying events which occur, I would recommend reading this series in order.

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Underboss’s Retaliation (Sicilian Gods Book 2) by Via Mari – Review by Rebeca Elliott Figueiras

Underboss's Retaliation (Sicilian Gods Book 2)Underboss’s Retaliation by Via Mari
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is the second book in this mafia romance series. Each book can be read as a standalone, but I advise you go back and read the first for a better understanding of some characters/the world the characters inhabit.

I loved the character of Emelia. She’s strong, determined to protect her family and she’s resourceful.

Dominic and Emelia had me invested in their relationship and the outcome, both characters showed themselves to be more than met the eye at face value and loyal to those they care about.

I thoroughly enjoyed this instalment in the series, and will get started on the next book immediately.

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Boss’s Vendetta (Sicilian Gods Book 1) by Via Mari – Review by Rebeca Elliott Figueiras

Boss's Vendetta (Sicilian Gods Book 1)Boss’s Vendetta by Via Mari
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is a mafia romance which focuses on Salvatore Larussio and Adrianna. These two start out hating each other but as the events unfold, this grows into something more.

This story is full of suspense, action, secrets and of course romance. It’s a well-written and enjoyable to read with lovable characters.

I love Salvatore’s protectiveness and loyalty – he comes across as cold but underneath it, there’s more than meets the eye.

I admired Adrianna’s strength and independence, standing her ground even in the face of danger.

The two together share sizzling chemistry and I was rooting for them from the beginning. I’m glad I came across this book and will move onto the next book as soon as possible.

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Stars Like Gasoline by Jessika Grewe Glover – Review by Rebeca Elliott Figueiras

Stars Like GasolineStars Like Gasoline by Jessika Grewe Glover
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This was the first book that I read from this author and found it to be enjoyable. This paranormal mystery has it all – ghosts, romance, danger and more!

The plot was intriguing and the author balanced suspense and humour well to create a great story. This alongside a collection of well-developed characters made the story really stand out to me. I loved it!

Events and characters are woven together so well in a way that isn’t always obvious. The ghost element drew me in at first, but the connections in mystery elements blew me away.

I was very invested and couldn’t put the book down. I’ll be looking out for more from this author!

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Cabin Eight (The Millersville Series Book 3) by Susan Specht Oram – Review by Rebeca Elliott Figueiras

Cabin Eight (The Millersville series)Cabin Eight by Susan Specht Oram
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Reading this series, I’ve realised that they can all be read at standalones as they each have a different focus.

As with the earlier books in the series, this one is full of suspense and twists. The characters are yet again written well, and the plot is great.

Miranda is the main character, grieving a friend and searching for peace as many do, unknowingly getting herself deeper into danger. Her strength in fighting and way of thinking kept me rooting for her survival as she progressed.

I became fully immersed into this original story, wishing for Miranda’s success and genuinely fearing for her safety and the minor events became increasingly dangerous.

I hope to read more from this author in future!

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The Thieves (The Millersville series) Audiobook by Susan Specht Oram – Review by Rebeca Elliott Figueiras

The ThievesThe Thieves by Susan Specht Oram
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is the second book in the series, and I enjoyed it just as much as the first. It’s filled with twists and turns and suspense.

I enjoyed the plot and the lovable characters – I was hooked. The writing style of the author was great in aiding in the enjoyment of reading. I loved that once again the characters were well-constructed and the way the story is told through multiple points of view givens a deeper feel for character narrating.

I adored Jas, I was rooting for her from the start. Although she does some not-so-great things, her motive and actions come from a good place – love for her father and the wish to pay for his treatments. Her determination is admirable, even if a little reckless. I was so invested in her outcome.

I’m excited to move onto the next book!

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Shore Lodge by Susan Specht Oram – Review by Rebeca Elliott Figueiras

Shore Lodge: A high-stakes psychological thriller (The Millersville series)Shore Lodge: A high-stakes psychological thriller by Susan Specht Oram
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is my first book by the author, and I had high hopes. I was not disappointed. I really enjoyed the plot of this story and the way in which the author built the tension.

The characters are well-written, and they stand out from the get-go. The emotions Jacklyn feels soon becomes yours, especially her pain. It’s a skill I admire.

I loved Jacklyn’s character, despite her grief (and then on top of that the betrayal and further heartbreak) she finds the strength to build up her courage and fight. I truly felt for her and quickly got invested in her story and how it would turn out.

I would have loved to have seen a more ‘just’ ending but c’est la vie. It’s more realistic and frightening this way.

This may be my first book by this author, I will ensure it won’t be my last – I look forward to more!

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Healing Kiss by Amanda Uhl – Review by Rebeca Elliott Figueiras

Healing KissHealing Kiss by Amanda Uhl
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is an enjoyable paranormal romance which focuses on Lillian and Tristan. Ultimately a story about love, both romantic and familial, as they both fight to save their loved ones.

I loved the character Lillian – she’s so strong in the face of the danger, and risks everything for her sister. Her determination to save her is admirable and I think her fears and desires are written well.
I got very invested in the characters’ stories and the outcome of the events they go through.

I enjoyed the writing style used in the book, it was easy to follow, and valuable information was drip-fed at the perfect times to make it feel more real and aids the story. The author built chemistry between characters so that it was almost tangible, and I couldn’t get enough!
This was the first book I’ve read by the author, but I’ll be on the lookout for more!

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The First Sin (South of Eden) Audiobook by Lisa Beth Darling – Review by Rebeca Elliott Figueiras

I will preface this review with the advice of if you do not enjoy religious interpretations or texts to be altered or stray from the original form, this book is not for you, and I would advise you not to read this. It’s a work of fiction and is to be read with that in mind for enjoyment.
I was raised Catholic and absolutely loved this paranormal romance!

I love the way that the author has brought together the Christian elements and the Olympian elements in a way that makes sense. I enjoyed the way the story was told, occasionally jumping back to provide glimpses into the past.
I also enjoyed the way the narrator voiced the characters with emotion – it brought the author’s descriptive writing and characters to life.

The characters were constructed very well, each of them given their own distinct personalities which suited their roles.
I thought making the Olympian Gods and Christian God siblings was creative and created many humorous and interesting dynamics which were made believable.

I absolutely hated Adam, the author did well to create that feeling through the viewpoint of Lucifer so quickly.

I loved Eve’s sass when facing God and her strength in everything she faced however there were parts in which she frustrated me (her indecisiveness when it came to her romantic relationships for example).

Ares I have mixed feelings about, he’s caring (at times to the point of irritation) but also stubborn yet desperate? That’s the only word that comes to mind there. But I think I’m mostly annoyed by him because of my love for another character.

God a.k.a Chuck was written in a way that fits so well with the story of sibling rivalry – it made sense to me that it was written this way and although I was annoyed by some of what He did, I could see how His personality and family history led to it. The story would not be the same or as good if He had been changed in even the tiniest way – I am in awe of how well the author tied everything together through Chuck.

My absolute favourite character from beginning to end was Lucifer. Made out to be evil but cared for humanity, was fair and just and was punished for it. If I was Eve, there would be no question who my heart would go whole-heartedly to. I can’t give away too many reasons I love Lucifer in this book without revealing spoilers, just know he is caring, smart and fair. He deserves better.

I could rave for days about so many more characters and ways the author wove together an incredible story with surprises, manipulation and complexity, but revealing any more will give away spoilers and you really must experience this for yourself.

I loved it and I will be seeking out more by this author. Extremely talented!

The Serpent and the Firefly by Courtney Davis – Review by Rebeca Elliott Figueiras

The Serpent and the FireflyThe Serpent and the Firefly by Courtney Davis
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I really enjoy this paranormal romance; it has a bit of everything – action, magic, paranormal creatures, good vs. Evil, secrets, a dash of romance and more!

My favourite character is Baal, I love that he’s not the typical hero character we root for. His interactions with others are interesting and his ‘flaws’ make him more lovable to me.

There is a lot of action which I love meaning there are no dull moments. However, there were moments when it felt a little too fast-paced and a little rushed. There were also parts which I felt needed further development to add more depth to the characters (to give them more growth) but despite this, the plot is original and creative, and I couldn’t put this book down!

I enjoyed it but think that had the plot progressed more slowly, for example with a second book, the characters would have that development to give them more depth. Overall, this was an original and enjoyable read with a lot of potential.

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Aliens on Earth Anthology (Limited Edition Romance Collections) by Various Authors – Review by Rebeca Elliott Figueiras

Aliens on EarthAliens on Earth by Mandy Melanson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Overall this collection contains a good selection to try out some new authors and genres. Being short and sweet, these stories give you a quick taste of the authors and sub-genres and if you enjoy it, you can then go and explore more or follow the series they belong to. There are so many sub-genres that you’re bound to find something that suits you, for example I love criminal elements, so I was drawn to The Alien and the Crime Boss.

There are too many books for me to review each and every one so I’ll be reviewing a small selection individually.

ALICE’S ILLUSIONS:
This one had me a little emotional at parts due to the portrayal off the aftermath of the loss of Alice’s sister and the effect it has on her and her parents. I really felt for Alice and how she was feeling and I just wanted to reach out and comfort her.
I felt the pain the characters were experiencing, and this is what stood out to me the most in the author’s writing.

THE ALIEN AND THE CRIME BOSS:
This is the one I was looking forward to reading the most – I love a good mafia character. I thought this was an original concept and I was invested beginning to end. I enjoyed the story running in the background as well, not just the romance blossoming between Leilphun and Kasper, it added more depth and complexity to the story and was another point of interest in the story. It’s one of my favourites from the collection. I enjoyed experiencing Leilphun and Kasper coming together, learning each other’s mannerisms and coming into their own. I especially loved Leilphun’s character development, it was great to see him really come into his own as a warrior in his desire to defend and protect Kasper.

HER ALIEN ROCK STAR:
This is the shortest story of the collection at only 3 chapters, but it still packs a punch. AJ and Ceol get a second chance at love, and it certainly gets steamy. For such a short contribution I was impressed by how well it had been put together. I was a little apprehensive to read it as I thought it may feel like key elements would be missing but I’m glad to say that was not the case. The characters were interesting, as was the alien anatomy.

CHASTITY UNCHAINED:
From the first sentence I loved this one. I was chuckling at Harker, the way she came across from the beginning made her my favourite in the entire collection. She was written so well, her personality really stood out. My only issue is that the story ended too soon, I wanted a whole lot more from Harker. Another thing I loved about her is that Harker is a plus-sized character, and I love the representation as being desirable. I know I keep singing her praises, but I love her strength in the face of abduction after a series of already emotional events. She shows no fear in ‘fighting back’ to both Zaron and Cahn. She’s hilarious and I could read her point of view all day.

MY BROTHER’S ALIEN MATCH:
This one is sweet, it gets intense and very steamy, but it’s sweet. I wasn’t too keen on Taylor when I first started reading, I get he was hurting but my poor Robin didn’t deserve his lashing out. Robin is a very supportive brother to Taylor, and I love the loyalty and the support he shows his brother but my heart broke when I learnt how Robin viewed himself. In trying to help his brother, Robin meets Lando. I adore Robin and Lando, I really do, they’re both so sweet and supportive! I enjoy the character development in this story as Lando helps Robin see his worth and I can’t get enough.

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REIGN: The Rise of the Lich (The Silver Blood Knight Book 2 by Carol McKibben – Review by Rebeca Elliott Figueiras

REIGN: The Rise of the LichREIGN: The Rise of the Lich by Carol McKibben
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The cover initially drew me to this book before even thinking about the blurb/synopsis, but when I did, I knew this was the book for me and immediately went to buy the first book without even reading its synopsis and I have no regrets.

The world that the author has been able to create in such a short book is incredible and I absolutely love how the mix of supernatural creatures, mythology and more all come together so nicely within it!

I got so lost in this book I did not put it down. The concept and plot are original – full of action, magic and good vs. Evil. The writing flows well and is easy to follow and really enjoyed the perspective in which the point of view was written. The mannerisms which many people writing this would have missed (e.g., the turning to settle down) in writing this just makes it all the more believable and immersive to me.

There are parts which make me believe another book is in the works and I really hope that is true because I need more!

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Where Fire Meets Flame (Yours From The Ashes Book 1) by Elena Kincaid – Review by Rebeca Elliott Figueiras

Where Fire Meets Flame (Yours From the Ashes, #1)Where Fire Meets Flame by Elena Kincaid
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

This was an easy to read, short romance which focused on Tristan the firefighter and Riley the private detective.

I thought the characters were well-written, especially as the story is told from both perspectives, and felt that the tougher subjects in the plot were approached respectfully; however, I felt that there were parts which appeared to be a little underdeveloped.

I enjoyed the plot, it was a unique idea and considering the length of the book and the events which take place, the author did a great job. I strongly believe that had the story been a little longer, the author would have been able to provide the depth necessary to take this from a good read, to an incredible one.

I absolutely loved the characters. Tristan’s strength and protectiveness whilst also being sensitive and unafraid to display emotions won me over. I also loved Riley’s strength and independence, but mostly I loved that her career was one that is usually reserved for the men in these types of books. The chemistry between the pair kept me rooting for the couple in the face of the dangers they faced. That paired with the steam, great!

Overall, I enjoyed reading this and would consider reading it again in future, but I feel that an increase in length would have allowed for further development which would have made all the difference.

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Hero Complex (Bluestone Series Book 3) by Isobel Reed – Review by Rebeca Elliott Figueiras

Hero Complex (Bluestone Series, #3)Hero Complex by Isobel Reed
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is the third book in the Bluestone series but can be read as a standalone as each book focuses on a different couple.

I love the fake relationships trope so I was really looking forward to reading this one and it did not disappoint!

The author’s writing style makes the story easy to follow as it flows nicely and gets the information across clearly. The author wrote the characters very well and I very quickly became emotionally invested in them.

I fell in love with both Ivy and Ace. Ivy for her strength in her grief and pulling through the tough times to continue with the ranch (and the sexism from potential clients) and Ace for his support and instinct to help which ends up getting them into the fake relationship situation.

From there, it was amusing and heartwarming to see the pair grow closer and overcome their fears and insecurities to get the happiness they deserve.

I’ve loved reading the stories in this series and am holding out for more!

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Love Tools (Bluestone Series Book 1) by Isobel Reed – Review by Rebeca Elliott Figueiras

Love Tools (Bluestone Series, #1)Love Tools by Isobel Reed
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is the first book in the Bluestone series which focuses on Lily and Jake’s story.

I was a little worried at first that this would be like a lot of other cowboy love stories I’ve read before but I am so glad to have been wrong. I thought the characters were really well written, they really shone through and found a place in my heart.

I loved Lily, she had the strength to start over somewhere new, away from everything she knew, and I admire her bravery in doing so. I loved her attitude and found her fun and entertaining, especially when around Jake. The chemistry between them kept me rooting for them to get together.

In addition to the great characters, I enjoyed the author’s writing style, it was clear and simple without being dull or patronising; it really increased my enjoyment in reading this.

I can’t wait to read more from this author!

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Unexpected Entanglement (The Echo Series Book 3) by C.R. Alam – Review by Rebeca Elliott Figueiras

Unexpected Entanglement (The Echo Series, #3)Unexpected Entanglement by C.R. Alam
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is the third instalment of The Echo series; This series can be read as standalones as each book focuses on a different couple.

Once again, the author has created vivid imagery of both the scenery and the characters. I found myself picturing each scene with ease and feeling like I had stepped into the story to join them. The writing style used was smooth and flowed very well, making the experience more enjoyable.

I must say that the fake relationship books are up there in my favourites so I was already loving this book before even properly starting!

I loved Rowan and Chris; they had such chemistry! I was most certainly rooting for them all the way through reading.
I enjoyed reading about the inn and seeing Rowan and Chris work together and the attempts to remain profession were so sweet.
I didn’t have a favourite as I loved both Rowan and Chris equally, they both were strong individual characters.

I found this book the most heart-warming and my favourite so far in the series! I will be looking out for mor by this author.

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His Forever Muse (The Echo Series Book 2) by C.R. Alam – Review by Rebeca Elliott Figueiras

His Forever Muse (The Echo Series, #2)His Forever Muse by C.R. Alam
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is the second instalment of The Echo series, another enjoyable romance. This series can be read as standalones as each book focuses on a different couple.

Once again, the author has created vivid imagery of both the scenery and the characters. I found myself picturing each scene with ease and feeling like I had stepped into the story to join them. The writing style used was smooth and flowed very well, making the experience more enjoyable.

Calliope has had some trauma in her past which throws a spanner in the works for the budding relationship between her and Brandon, however the development she goes through shows how strong she is.
Brandon also experiences some character development and I love his character a lot, but Calliope’s resilience and strength make her my favourite.

Please be aware domestic violence is addressed in this book, but it is not graphic. I would still advise anyone who is affected by this topic to consider this prior to reading.

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Echoing Hearts (The Echo Series Book 1) by C.R. Alam – Review by Rebeca Elliott Figueiras

Echoing Hearts (Book 1 of The Echo Series)Echoing Hearts by C.R. Alam
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is the first book in The Echo series, and I was not disappointed.

The author created vivid imagery of both the world surrounding the characters, as well as the characters themselves. I could picture each scene with ease and almost felt as it I had stepped into the story to join them. The writing style used was smooth and flowed very well, making the experience more enjoyable.

Dean and Rae are both very stubborn and combined with their past experiences leading to trust issues, leads to obstacles in their growing attraction.
Both showed development at times, moving forwards toward each other, but only one at a time causing the other to drawback. This is one of the reasons that the character felt more real, they’re flawed and their responses to obstacles (e.g. the pulling back) felt believable.

My favourite character was Rae; she possesses patience while still knowing her worth. This combined wither her confidence and independence makes me wish I had half of her personality.

In the next books of the series, I hope that we learn more about the ‘supporting’ characters as the series progresses.
I can’t wait to get my hands on the next book.

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Reaper (War Brothers MC Book 1) by Bianca Lee Ward – Review by Rebeca Elliott Figueiras

Reaper (War Brothers MC, #1)Reaper by Bianca Lee Ward
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Reaper is the first book of the War Brothers MC series. I will say that this dark MC romance book could be triggering to those who are affected by themes of domestic violence as this is portrayed in this book. There is also plenty of suspense, violence and romance.

The author had a wonderful style of writing – it flowed well, and they were able to creative vivid imagery with the descriptive language used.
I enjoyed the way on which the author portrayed the motorcycle club loyalties and the culture there is within the group. There is of course illegal activity taking place, but the brotherhood and sense of family is clear in their writing. It is a lot bigger than just criminals running around on motorbikes. There’s more to the club and the characters involved than you may have originally thought.
Another aspect I thought was written well was the portrayal of the domestic violence. The dangers that are faced and the manipulation that goes with it which I think is often forgotten in literature. The effects had on the character and how this bleeds into other aspects of their life was done so well.

I absolutely loved Reaper and Ava – they are both incredibly strong characters fighting to overcome their individual traumas and finding themselves (and each other). I loved how they supported each other and made each other stronger for it. (And honestly, who wouldn’t want their own Reaper?!)
I hope to get to know more about other characters in the book as the series progresses and seeing how they evolve and develop in their own books.

It was a brilliant first book to get roped into and I look forward to being able to get my hands on the next book!

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Breach of Trust (The Madeline Dawkins Series Book 8 ) by Cynthia Hamilton – Review by Rebeca Elliott Figueiras

Breach of Trust (The Madeline Dawkins Series Book 8)Breach of Trust by Cynthia Hamilton
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is the 8th book in the series and can be read as a standalone, however I will be going back to read from the beginning for character backgrounds to better understand them.
This is the second book of the series that I’ve read and I enjoyed it as much as the other I read. I enjoy the characters we return to and their investigative styles and the personal connections which seem to appear. The characters are strong, and each stand out in their own right, especially Madeline who is strong and resilient despite everything thrown at her.
Once again there are multiple cases on the go, but a combination of the flow the author’s writing possesses and the talent the author has of clear communication, the cases remain easy to follow. This clarity does not interfere with the author’s ability to build the tension and danger within and surprise you with a twist here and there which is great.
As with the last book, the cases being investigated are engaging, keeping you invested in the characters and resolution of the investigations.
I can’t wait to go back and read from book 1!

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Other People’s Money (The Madeline Dawkins Series Book 7) by Cynthia Hamilton – Review by Rebeca Elliott Figueiras

Other People's Money (The Madeline Dawkins Series Book 7)Other People’s Money by Cynthia Hamilton
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is the 7th book in the series, but this is the first I’ve read. This can be read as a standalone, however I will be going back to read from the beginning for character backgrounds to better understand them.
I found the author’s writing style easy to follow, which was great as the plot has a number of cases ongoing at once. Firstly I’m impressed by the author’s ability to have multiple on going cases at once and being able to communicate these in a clear way, even when they appear to link. The tension was built in the right places at the right time which kept me reading ‘just one more chapter’.
There are plenty of twists to keep you guessing and I like that there is a feeling that you are investigating these cases alongside the PI characters Madeline and Mike.
My only (very minor) issue is that there were times that things could get a little repetitive in relaying information but this is small price for such an enjoyable read.
I look forward to reading the rest of the series.

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Corpse Pixie by Sinister Styx – Review by Rebeca Elliott Figueiras

Corpse PixieCorpse Pixie by Sinister Styx
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is the second novella I’ve read by this author, and I think I may even have enjoyed it more than the other. This novella has all the elements I love in a good story – murder, mystery, twists and the paranormal.
Once again the novella’s short length does not take anything away from the story and the author’s style of writing makes it much more enjoyable .
The world the characters inhabit has been described very effectively in such a short piece of writing. The vivid imagery still made me feel as if I had stepped into the story and the characters were very intriguing. The dark grittiness to the novel is present throughout and I love it, I was gripped beginning to end; not everything is as it seems so it added another layer to the enjoyment I had reading this. There are twists and surprises which are revealed as the story progresses and as with everything else, the author does a great job of timing it right.
I thought the storyline was unique and I only wish it were longer so that there would be more for me to devour.
Once again, I look forward to more from this author!

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Raising Elle (Sweet Valley Series Book 1) by S.E Reichert – Review by Rebeca Elliott Figueiras

Raising ElleRaising Elle by S.E. Reichert
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

First, I need to mention trigger warnings – this book is not for everyone as it contains graphic descriptions of domestic violence (and the aftermath) and addiction. If you are comfortable with reading about these topics though, reading this book is worth it.

This is the first book in the Sweet Valley series, and it is beautifully written. The topics of domestic violence and addiction are described in graphic detail at times, but it is clear that the author has taken great care to represent these topics as accurately as possible, whilst also being respectful.

There are elements of Elle’s situation which make her relatable to me. It took a great deal of strength for her to leave her situation behind and try to move on with her life and she only grows in strength as the story processes.
Blake is another great character fighting his own issues. He too is a strong character trying to better himself.
They are both fighting their own demons but manage to come back together for a potential second chance at love. What I love about this pair is that they are both flawed, their isn’t one perfect character swooping in the save the other. They both grow over the course of the story and by the end have shown genuine character development.

I certainly got emotionally invested in this story, and am very glad I read it. I look forward to what book 2 holds, I just hope I don’t have to wait too long for its release!

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A Curse of Ash and Iron by Christine Norris – Review by Rebeca Elliott Figueiras

A Curse of Ash and IronA Curse of Ash and Iron by Christine Norris
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This book is a steampunk twist on the classic Cinderella tale set in America. I thought it an interesting twist on both the classic story, and for the steampunk genre. It has everything you’d expect: automatons, magic and mystery.
I enjoyed how the prose was written, it flowed well and made the narrative easier to follow. I really liked the idea for the storyline where the friends reunite to break the spell Ellie is under and the journey the pair go on in an attempt to accomplish this task.
My heart broke for Ellie’s situation and he trying to get through to her father and save him just broke me. I got emotionally invested in her situation and was rooting for her from the beginning.
I have mixed feeling about Ben. He’s relatable in that he’s not perfect and there are times I wanted to yell at him for his lack of urgency, but honestly I think these smaller moments are what make his character, and make him more relatable as a person.
The step-sisters on the other hand, I enjoyed because of their differences. It reminded me of my sister and I (one of us isn’t ‘evil’) and our differences in personality and interests.

Overall, I enjoyed reading this and thought it a great take on the classic tale.

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Last King (Legacy of Riverfall Book 1) by Amabel Daniels – Review by Rebeca Elliott Figueiras

Last King (Legacy of Riverfall Book 1)Last King by Amabel Daniels
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is the first in the Legacy Series and its full of all my favourite things – paranormal beings, action and romance.
There was never a dull moment – my attention was held throughout as the events unfolded and secrets were revealed. I enjoyed the character progression in Maren, her growth in times of uncertainty and danger is inspiring and as a result I became emotionally invested in her. These emotions are heightened by the conclusion of this novel as I am left needing more immediately!
The way the author has created the characters, they feel real and although the couple aren’t quite the pairing you’d expect, it works so well for the story. The way the author has weaved it all together and written it so beautifully I honestly can’t get enough. There’s just something about this book that makes me want to start over again already.

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Dawnbreaker: The House of Blood and Sun by Hadley Thorne – Review by Rebeca Elliott Figueiras

Dawnbreaker: The House of Blood and SunDawnbreaker: The House of Blood and Sun by Hadley Thorne
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I enjoyed this fantasy paranormal romance; it had a different side to the legends and folklore than the books I’ve been reading lately which made it refreshing.
The world was created beautifully- the descriptive language and vivid imagery made me genuinely want to be transported there to experience it for myself. The writing flowed nicely making for an easy read which is always a bonus to me.
The plot, and romance were unique and there were times I sure how it would go which kept me glued to my kindle. I don’t want to give too much away, but the pressures put on the pair only get worse and I thought the way their struggles were written, and how the characters reacted fit really well into their personalities. I had no problem believing the characters were all real as I was sucked into the story.
Given everything, Niamh had to be my favourite. I felt she knew her own mind and I found her independence admirable, especially given her situation at times. She didn’t crumble and surrender with so many things working against her, she’s the kind of person I’d want on my team.

I’ll be looking out for more from this author moving forward!

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Operation Escape (Space Force Rejects Book 2) by Landra Graf – Review by Rebeca Elliott Figueiras

Operation Escape (Space Force Rejects Book 2)Operation Escape by Landra Graf
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is the second book in the Space Force Rejects series which I didn’t realise when I first selected it but that didn’t matter as it can be read as a standalone.
I admit that sometimes I find sci-fi romance books hard to follow, but it’s authors like this one who create great and entertaining chemistry between characters that draw me in instantly. I fell in love with Sera and Markus, and although there are times I want to knock their heads together, their personalities win me over. The determination Sera shows in the search for her uncle is admirable given she’s basically been thrown in the deep end and I really love her for it.
But the thing that captured most of my attention was the world-building. It cannot be easy to come up with alien species and describing new civilisations and so on, but it was done so well here it seems so natural. It’s a talent I am in awe of.
I’ll be going back to read the first book next, and hope that a third is in the works!

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