Rebeca Elliott Figueiras – Page 9 – Itsy Bitsy Book Bits

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Straight for the Kill (Benoit and Dayne Mystery Book 3) by Winter Austin – Review by Rebeca Elliott Figueiras

March 3, 2023/0 Comments/in Reviews /by Rebeca

Straight for the Kill by Winter Austin
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Book 3 of the series and it was another incredible read. Once again, I was gripped beginning to end wanting desperately to know who was behind it all.
As with the last book, the author wrote this very well. The plot twists and clues had me second-guessing myself and who I believed was responsible/what I thought was happening. I truly believe the author found their calling writing crime thrillers, they do it so well!
The characters are written very well as before and learning more information about my favourite characters was great, and strategically done. The support that the characters show each other is great and I found myself getting emotionally invested and worrying for the safety of the characters and their family. I could not put it down.
Now I have the joy of being able to go back and read the first novel. I’ll be on the look out for more from this author!

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Hush, My Darling (Benoit and Dayne Mystery Book 2) by Winter Austin – Review by Rebeca Elliott Figueiras

March 3, 2023/0 Comments/in Reviews /by Rebeca

Hush, My Darling by Winter Austin
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Oh man, this was a good one! I was gripped from the beginning and I was kept guessing until the end.
The author wrote this so well – the plot twists and the clues sprinkled throughout were amazingly done and had me suspecting someone then changing my mind with the small details they added. The author definitely knew what they were doing throwing suspicion one way then the other.
The way the characters were written, fit with the twists and suspicions so well whilst also being the ‘perfect’ characters. Their interactions with each other, and the support they offer was great to witness. I went through a whole range of emotions and as I suspected one or another, my feelings about their actions changed as I read on.
I didn’t initially realise this was the second book in the series and although I will go back and read the first book I don’t think I missed anything too important. The author included the important and relevant information which I likely missed out from the first book so I felt like I had all the information I needed to enjoy the story. The thing I lacked from not reading the first is likely another great story.
I can’t wait to read more from this author!

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What I Wish I’d Known: For Writers by H.D. Thomson – Review by Rebeca Elliott Figueiras

March 2, 2023/0 Comments/in Reviews /by Rebeca

What I Wish I’d Known: For Writers: 100 Authors Reveal What They Wish They’d Told Their Younger Selves by H. D. Thomson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I found it very interesting to read what various writers went through and they advise they would give their younger selves about the writing process. I enjoy writing for myself, not for publishing but still managed to feel inspired/motivated by some of the advice given.
The authors had various backgrounds and publishing journeys which made the book more inclusive, and I imagine relevant to more people who may not be considering the traditional routes to publication.
Not all advice focuses on the publishing side of things though, there are authors who touch on subjects such as writing techniques and self-doubt (this one is my downfall) which was both interesting and inspiring to see how others overcame these issues. There are even some pieces of advice that can be taken away and used outside of writing.
Each author is different, and it helps to show that what works for one person, may not be the best option for another and to keep an open mind to various possible solutions which may benefit you.
This is a useful book which tips for writers, but even if you’re an avid reader I think this would be an interesting read and insight into the authors behind the story.

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Master Calabrea (Masters of the Consulate Book 6) by Sylvia Black – Review by Rebeca Elliott Figueiras

February 28, 2023/0 Comments/in Reviews /by Rebeca

Master Calabrea: Dark Vampire Romance by Sylvia Black
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is the 6th book in the Masters of the Consulate series, and it’s just as good as the rest of the series.
As with the previous books, the novels are short and easy to follow, and the writing flows nicely. The novels are descriptive, and the characters are lovable and unique. I thoroughly enjoy this series and always look forward to the next book in the series.
Master Calabrea has been given an important task by the Overmaster, he is thrown in the path of Embry’s (a recurring character in previous books) cousin who is visiting. They both fight the attraction but are forced together to complete the task given to them.
I really liked the character of Tansia, she’s flawed but devoted and so strong. She’s had her share of problems but is strong enough to push forward despite her setbacks.
Although this book could technically be read as a standalone, I would highly recommend that the series be read in order to gain a deeper understanding of the ongoing story which begins in book one and to get the know the other characters a lot better.
I cannot wait for the next book to be released so I can find out what happens next and get some answers!

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The 45th Parallel (Antipodes Series Book 6) by T.S. Simons – Review by Rebeca Elliott Figueiras

February 27, 2023/0 Comments/in Reviews /by Rebeca

The 45th Parallel by T.S. Simons
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This book in the Antipodes series is different from the others as the min focus is not Cam and Freja like the previous books, however this by no means affected to quality of the author’s work. The story focuses on other characters who inhabit the same world – Caitlin and Seraphine. They are given a purpose however they are unhappy with the life that has been laid out for them so leave on their own adventure. The way this was written, much like the author’s previous books, is great. The writing flows so well and makes the world they have created more accessible and easier to navigate.
I was a little apprehensive that given my love for the characters in the previous books, I may find it difficult to relate and connect with the new characters in the same way, but I needn’t have worried. As usual the author delivered complex and compelling characters that you can’t help but get emotionally invested in.
Caitlin and Seraphine have a great dynamic and unfortunately experience their share of turmoil when they are forced to make difficult decisions which affect not only them, but the people they love. This doesn’t stop their personalities from shining through, making you fall in love with them.
I am so glad I gave this series a chance and will certainly keep my eye on this talented author for more!

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Sessrúmnir (Antipodes Series Book 5) by T.S. Simons – Review by Rebeca Elliott Figueiras

February 27, 2023/0 Comments/in Reviews /by Rebeca

Sessrumnir by T.S. Simons
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is the fifth book in the Antipodes series, and it’s been a joy witnessing the character development and world building expand throughout the series.
Cam and Freja must once again come together, but this time it’s a little different. Their children are in danger, and they must work together to protect them despite their issues with each other. Given the previous books, I didn’t see this storyline coming, but it was so good!
As usual, this is an emotional journey for the characters as well as the reader as we are drawn into their lives, but well worth the emotional torment to see how it ends. I was again able to step into the story and picture myself there alongside the characters with the descriptive language used and the easy-to-follow writing style the author has makes the experience even more enjoyable.
The character’s emotions in this book felt that much more vivid and the turmoil they feel is heart-breaking. The progression in Cam and Freja’s relationship though left me hopeful and loving the two of them all the more!

The author is very talented in both their style of writing and their ability to create an ongoing narrative which constantly leaves you guessing. I will certainly be looking out for more books by this author moving forward.

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Caim (Antipodes Series Book 4) by T.S. Simons – Review by Rebeca Elliott Figueiras

February 27, 2023/0 Comments/in Reviews /by Rebeca

Caim by T.S. Simons
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Another great book in the series, I’m not sure I’ll ever get bored of this author’s ability to surprise me and it keeps me hooked start to finish every time!
We once again join Cam and Freja in an impressively descriptive world which you can step into as you join the pair on their adventures. Things appear to be going well when a shocking development leads to yet another adventure in search of answers. There’s little I can say that I haven’t said after reading the previous books but wow. The world building as always is amazing and the characters are lovable and relatable, despite the hardships they face. I’ve been emotionally invested in Cam’s story since the first page of book one, and this has only increased as the books progress.
Their new journey leads to shocking answers and plot twists which leave you wanting to reach out and comfort the characters and yet you find yourself needing more which is why I am so happy there’s another book for me to dive into!
I need to know what is next for Cam and Freja and their relationship!

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Ouroboros (Antipodes Book 3) by T.S. Simons – Review by Rebeca Elliott Figueiras

February 27, 2023/0 Comments/in Reviews /by Rebeca

Ouroboros by T.S. Simons
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Another great read – the third book in this series is just as good as the first two. We once again encounter Cam on his journey to seek answers. We also find ourselves with Freja again and how the two navigate this dynamic was interesting to see given their past. This was made more difficult for them by the addition of new challenges and threats to their way of life.
The way the author is able to portray the complex emotions contained within is amazing. Everything is balanced so well – the intriguing plot and the character developments work so well together to create an emotional and gripping story.
Once again Cam takes the prize as my favourite. His misfortunes have obviously affected him as they would anyone, but his journey is not over as he continues his search for answers. With the author’s descriptive writing you feel as though you’re right there with Cam as he feels his pain and understanding that things are not easy for him, even as things start to become a little clearer.
I love the way that the books follow on from each other so well. I was a little concerned that the story may begin to go stale, but the author keeps managing to surprise me in the best ways!

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The Liminal Space (Antipodes Book 2) by T.S. Simons – Review by Rebeca Elliott Figueiras

February 27, 2023/0 Comments/in Reviews /by Rebeca

The Liminal Space by T.S. Simons
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Cam’s story continues in this second book of the Antipodes series. Again, I’m so glad I gave this genre a chance, I would have missed out on this amazing series if I hadn’t.
This book we once again follow Cam’s life post-outbreak. He’s now married and working hard within his new community but once again goes on an emotional journey to find someone he loves. In this book Cam remains relatable, his reactions and emotions are believable as his adventure continues, and his reality becomes uncertain once again. He remains my favourite character, his development only goes to improve him and adds to the story tenfold.
Despite the storyline appearing to be quite similar to the first, it’s entirely different in its own way so it isn’t repetitive or boring.
Just as with the first book, I was engrossed from beginning to end and a contributing factor to this is the fact that the author writes so well. The descriptive world building and the easy to follow writing style make the emotional journey we take with Cam as he begins to question what he knows, that much more enjoyable.
I’m sure the next book in the series will be just as good.

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Antipodes (Antipodes Book 1) by T.S. Simons – Review by Rebeca Elliott Figueiras

February 27, 2023/0 Comments/in Reviews /by Rebeca

Antipodes by T.S. Simons
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

There’s something about the way the author writes that even when nothing has happened yet, they still have you gripped and wanting more. I loved their writing style, it was descriptive whilst also feeling smooth and easy to follow.
I admit I was initially apprehensive as this isn’t my usual go to genre, but I’m so glad I gave it a chance!
I really liked the character of Cam; he was relatable from the offset. He was believable in how he overcame the struggles in the transition from his old life to his new one in a post-outbreak community. As is so often the case, just when things start to improve, something awful happens – his partner Freja goes missing. Cam sets off to look for Freja and going on his journey with him as he made connections to new people was heart-warming as he ventured out to find her but the choices he had to make, and the strength shown in his character development was emotional at times.
Much to my surprise (and delight), I found myself engrossed from start to finish, not just because of the great characters but also because of the world building produced by the author. I was able to picture myself in the world right beside the characters, travelling along with Cam as he searches for Freja.
I am so glad I gave this book a chance and have the rest of the series to look forward to!

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Chatroom With A View by Glenn Maynard – Review by Rebeca Elliott Figueiras

February 27, 2023/0 Comments/in Reviews /by Rebeca

Chatroom with a View by Glenn Maynard
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

It was the killer gene aspect of this book that drew me to it as I love seeing the way psychology is used in thrillers, and I was not disappointed. The aspects of nature vs nurture were intriguing, but it was ultimately the way the characters were written which made the book for me.
The ways the characters viewed the world and how the events in their lives shaped them was extreme at times but the fact the author chose to delve into the darker decisions and aspects fascinated me and I was hooked from the first chapter. The descriptions and the emotions created an intense need to know what they’d do next.
I enjoyed how Troy was written, as although I was at times wanting to shout to him that he was making the wrong decisions, his ‘descent into madness’ was expressed very well and shown through his irrational responses.
Veronica is also an interesting character. She’s determined and hopeful to make things work. Some of her decisions irked me given her pregnancy however I can see why she was written as she was, and she does bring the nature vs nurture element I enjoyed.
I enjoyed this dark psychological thriller and would certainly read it again.

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Master Catteneo (Masters of the Consulate Book 5) by Sylvia Black – Review by Rebeca Elliott Figueiras

February 19, 2023/0 Comments/in Reviews /by Rebeca

Master Catteneo by Sylvia Black
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is the 5th book in the Masters of the Consulate series and although each love story can be read as a standalone, I would wholeheartedly recommend reading the series in order. The reason being that there is an ongoing storyline which links them all together and progresses which each book and previous characters/couples often make an appearance.
Each book focuses on a different Master of the Consulate and their mates as the underlying storyline unfolds. Each love story is unique, and the characters all have their own personalities which makes for an entertaining read. In this book it is Master Catteneo’s turn to be in the spotlight as he is given an important task and in working towards completing this, he meets Alessia his mate.
I enjoyed how their relationship progressed, initially they fight their attraction to one another and seem to hate each other but as they work together towards their goal, the attraction turns into something more. It’s not an easy journey towards their love and they face numerous obstacles, but I liked how these were tackled and the growth shown as a result.
The book is an easy read being fairly short and am always pleased when, as is the case here, the plot does not suffer as a result. The story wasn’t rushed which is sometimes a concern for me when reading shorter books and the writing style of the author flows easily which adds to my enjoyment of reading as it felt natural and not stilted.
I have enjoyed the entire series and love the author’s way of spinning a story and getting me invested in the characters’ lives. I cannot wait for the next couple of books to me released, I find myself double-checking the release dates often in anticipation!
If you’re looking for an enjoyable paranormal romance with some action and mystery, look no further!

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A Dowry of Snails and Mud by Brittany Tucker – Review by Rebeca Elliott Figueiras

February 5, 2023/0 Comments/in Reviews /by Rebeca

A Dowry of Snails and Mud by Brittany Tucker
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

What can I say about this book other than I absolutely loved it! I couldn’t put it down at all, I enjoyed it from beginning to end, I can’t think of a single thing I disliked even in the slightest.

The writing itself flowed extremely well making it easy to read and the beautifully descriptive language made the world feel so real to me allowing me to fall into the pages as if I were there myself.
The historical aspects included, for example the politics of Wales at the time and marital ages, were included wonderfully and worked into the story amazingly well. This is something I often find can hinder the story, but this cannot be further from the truth here. I honestly cannot rave about this book enough!

The characters were perfect! They each had their own personalities, and I absolutely loved the main character, Rhia. I felt the way she was portrayed, her thoughts, emotions and actions really reflected how a 16-year-old may respond in her situation. She felt so real to me, and her growth was great to see the way it occurred. Rhia was amusing and sarcastic and I could not get enough of her.

The plot was well thought out, flowed perfectly and was not rushed in any way. I was gripped throughout and did not lose interest at any point.
This is a book I would definitely recommend, and an author I will be keeping an eye out for in future.

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Divided Lives by K.R. Mullins – Review by Rebeca Elliott Figueiras

February 4, 2023/0 Comments/in Reviews /by Rebeca

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

Initially I did struggle getting into the book as I felt the writing flow appeared a little ‘clunky’, however the story kept me going and after the first few chapters the flow was much improved and reading the writing style was enjoyable.
There were parts which felt repetitive for example when the main character had thought something, and immediately after the narrative also stated this. This was not common throughout the book but was something that stood out to me as I was reading.
The story line itself was promising and I enjoyed trying to work out what had happened and who was behind it all. The twist ending was enjoyed despite feeling a little rushed.
I also enjoyed the true historical elements which were included, it was clear that the research had been conducted to improve the story and make it feel more real.
I enjoyed how the characters had been written, their individual personalities and how they were linked together was done well, I absolutely loved Lottie and Hen!
There were some interactions which felt a little unnecessary but did not detract from the storyline.
The plot was amazing, and I enjoyed reading the books once the initial flow improved and although the ending was not what I had hoped for and felt a little rushed, it was still satisfying. There were no lose ends and everything seemed to wrap up nicely.
I enjoyed the author’s take on the real trial which is tied into the book at the end, it was insightful and an interesting addition to the book!

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Glass Houses by Sinister Styx – Review by Rebeca Elliott Figueiras

January 22, 2023/0 Comments/in Reviews /by Rebeca

Glass Houses by Sinister Styx
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Before reading this, I would advise checking the trigger warnings: unhealthy relationship spiral, physical domestic violence, adultery and ‘unaliving’. Please note that the story does not appear to encourage such things, but portrays them as part of the characters’ lives.
The revenge aspect of this very short novella is what drew me to it as I love psychology. Even though the story is very short, the thoughts and emotions leading to the actions of each character is described well and I was not expecting the ending (the final chapter), I enjoyed the surprise twist.
It’s a very fast-paced novella, full of suspense and a little fantasy of only 20 pages. I think that being able to put as much emotion and action into such a short story is quite the talent, especially when done so well! It kept me engaged and wishing it were longer. I didn’t feel as though the story was being rushed or that things were being added just for the sake of it, which was a nice change from other novellas I have read recently.
I would have loved this to have been longer as a full novel so that it didn’t end so quickly, but I am still very impressed with it at the length that it is.
I would recommend if you wanted a quick and interesting read, but please do read the content warnings first!

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Delicious Death (Madame Chalamet Ghost Mysteries Book 2) by Byrd Nash – Review by Rebeca Elliott Figueiras

January 19, 2023/0 Comments/in Reviews /by Rebeca

Delicious Death by Byrd Nash
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I read the first book and loved it so immediately had to next this one next and it did not disappoint. I love it just as much as the first book, if not more!
The story continues nicely from where the last left off and the relationships between the different characters only became more engaging. It was great to witness the ongoing interactions between Elinor and the Duke, how the growing attraction/relationship continues to grow from the first novella.
The author once again impressed me with their writing style, I was easily able to envision the world they had created and felt like I really had fallen into the world walking alongside Elinor as she navigated the new scenery.
While I was able to learn some more about my favourite characters there is still so much, I don’t know, but wish to, and so I eagerly await the next books in the series! Just as with the first novella, I could not put this one down and I can see how this will be the case for the entire series.
I whole-heartedly recommend this series to those who enjoy historical investigative stories, ghosts and romance!

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Ghost Talker (Madame Chalamet Ghost Mysteries Book 1) by Byrd Nash – Review by Rebeca Elliott Figueiras

January 19, 2023/0 Comments/in Reviews /by Rebeca

Ghost Talker by Byrd Nash
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Ghost Talker is a fast-paced novella but by no means lacks intrigue and action.
I love the genres which this story includes fantasy (paranormal), historical, crime and romance so this was right up my alley! The combination was woven together very well, and the elements felt perfectly balanced – they complimented each other throughout the story. I was initially concerned that it may have felt thrown together without much thought, but as my first introduction to this author’s abilities, it is safe to say she has quickly found her place on my favourites list. It was clear that the combination of genres, events and characters were used with a purpose in mind, and all came together to create an enjoyable and gripping adventure.
The way that the characters bounce off each other and each have their distinct personalities alongside the descriptive way they are portrayed make falling in love with the characters (and the world they inhabit) so easy. I especially love Elinor’s independence and I wish I had even half of her self-confidence!
I can’t wait for the rest of the series and hope to learn more about Elinor, but I especially wish to learn more about the events of the Duke of Archambeau’s past as the series progresses.

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Whispers in the Waters (Blood of the Fae) by Sarah Chilson – Review by Rebeca Elliott Figueiras

January 18, 2023/0 Comments/in Reviews /by Rebeca

Whispers in the Waters by Sarah Chislon
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The is a short prequel which seems to prepare us for the later series by introducing the main character Jessa and allows us to get to know her as the story progresses. We come to know her secrets and fears and her past and leaves us speculating what will happen next. Jessa’s compassion and concerns make her a relatable character and her relationships with those around her feel real to me.
I thought the world created was well-written and the combination of the more unique fae elements with the better known and ‘real’ world was captivating. I enjoyed the period setting and how the pressures of societal norms incorporated the fantasy (fae) side of things. It was clear to me that this prequel only dipped its toe into the waters of the world building and character development, and I am keen to read more about Jessa and the challenges she faces.
I look forward to reading the rest of this series and can see it becoming a favourite of mine if this book is anything to go on!

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The Hawke Family Complete Collection by Gwyn McNamee – Review by Rebeca Elliott Figueiras

January 12, 2023/0 Comments/in Reviews /by Rebeca

The Hawke Family Complete Collection by Gwyn McNamee
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The Hawke Family books each focus on a different member of the Hawke family and their romantic interest – this can sometimes put me off a series if the underlying story suffers as a result, but I can assure you that this is not the case with this collection. I really enjoyed how the ongoing story continued throughout the books and was written in a way that made the books flow well as a series whilst ensuring that it didn’t detract from the romances (and vice versa!).
I was initially concerned that the stories would end up being very similar and blur into one, but they were certainly unique, and each kept me gripped to the end! The characters each had differing motivations, ways in which they overcame challenges and interactions with others, and this left me falling in love with all of them as their stories unraveled. They were well written, and it was great to witness events from both sides lending a greater understanding to their building relationships and actions.
These easy and enjoyable reads are considered romance novels but there is also danger throughout which go well together and flow nicely. I would recommend this collection to anyone who loves a steamy romance but also enjoys elements of action and suspense.
I read these back-to-back unwilling to put them down so I can’t wait for the second-generation books to all be released so I can dive into those but in the meantime, I will be reading other books by this author!

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Night Hawke (The Hawke Family Second Generation Prequel) by Gwyn McNamee – Review by Rebeca Elliott Figueiras

January 9, 2023/0 Comments/in Reviews /by Rebeca

Night Hawke by Gwyn McNamee
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Night Hawke is a short novella but is by no means lacking in intrigue and steam.
I was hooked from the very beginning of the first page and couldn’t put it down!
The novella was an easy read which contained perfectly crafted characters. I found myself wishing to know more about them all and found them to be very well written. The author’s style of writing throughout flowed nicely, and when descriptions were made, I was able to picture myself there as if seeing it for myself.
This novella is the prequel to the second series of the Hawke Family and was my introduction to this author. I am anxious to read the next books as this one certainly left me wanting more! Luckily, I’ll be able to read the 1st series of the Hawke Family while I wait for the next book(s) following this prequel to be released.

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Practically Pagan – An Alternative Guide to Magical Living by Maria DeBlassie – Review by Rebeca Elliott Figueiras

January 5, 2023/0 Comments/in Reviews /by Rebeca

Practically Pagan – An Alternative Guide to Magical Living by Maria DeBlassie
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

From the title, I expected the book to be more centred on paganism and although there was not a focus on pagan practices this book did not disappoint.
I loved how the author is realistic in terms of acknowledging that change isn’t easy, whilst still being encouraging to those wishing to make such changes. I also enjoyed the style in which the book was written, it was very easy to absorb and didn’t feel too formal as other similar books have to me.
The addition of the author’s own experiences throughout the book made the guidance given more relatable and easier to understand. This went a long way in showing me how I could also be successful in making my desired changes.
Although the book references magic, you don’t have to believe in magic or be a practitioner to benefit from reading this book. It offers clear advice and strategies to appreciate the little things in life, take joy in what you do and making time for yourself.
Overall, I found this book enlightening and even though I’d heard similar advice (and given it to others) a million times, I had never fully appreciated the impact it could have or felt deserving of such self-care until reading the way it was instructed in this book.
The book was very motivational and I’ve already taken steps to make the recommended steps towards rediscovering what excites me in life and start looking after myself.

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Beast (Popov Bratva Book 5) by Leslie Georgeson – Review by Rebeca Elliott Figueiras

December 22, 2022/0 Comments/in Reviews /by Rebeca

Beast by Leslie Georgeson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Beast is the second book I’ve read by this author and I’m even more obsessed than I was before! Though the characters are linked to previous books, there is no critical information missing so each book can be read as a stand alone despite being a part of a series.
I couldn’t help but fall in love all over again (having initially ‘met’ Adrik in book 4). My love for Beast only deepened as the plot progressed and seeing how the characters pasts shaped them and how they evolve as the current events unfold had me reading through the night.
I was really rooting for Adrik to get his happy ending with everything I learnt about him and still hold him in my heart.
Obviously, I wanted Annika to get her happily ever after too and I admire her strength given everything she was put through.
The characters felt so believable to me I genuinely felt a loss when the book ended but I’m excited to throw myself into the author’s next book in March. Until then, I’ll be throwing myself into the first books of the series and their equally lovable characters.
This is fast becoming one of my favourite series by a new favourite author. I cannot recommend this enough!

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Thief (Popov Bratva Book 4) by Leslie Georgeson – Review by Rebeca Elliott Figueiras

December 22, 2022/0 Comments/in Reviews /by Rebeca

Thief by Leslie Georgeson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Thief is the first book I’ve read by this author, and I wish I had discovered her sooner! I feel the need to read everything she’s written and am sure I’m going to be spending the whole of my Christmas break doing just that! After finishing this book I couldn’t wait and started the next book immediately.
I love a good enemies-to-lovers trope, and this did not disappoint, I was hooked from the beginning! The way the characters met was different to anything else I’ve read, and the pair’s development was never dull. The secrets that they each have drive this and the twists experienced as a result were created very well.
I was a little concerned that I was going to have missed something important starting in the middle of the series, but despite starting at book 4, and previous characters seem to be present, there’s absolutely nothing missing as this can be read as a standalone. This was perfect for me being introduced mid-series.
I enjoyed the fact that both characters appear to be one thing but as you get to know them both, you realise there is more to their stories and I couldn’t help but fall in love with them.
If you love steamy romances, mafia elements and great characters, this is definitely the book for you!

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Degrees of Innocence: Dark Mafia Romance (Cruel Deceptions Book 1) By Via Mari – Review by Rebeca Elliott Figueiras

December 14, 2022/0 Comments/in Reviews /by Rebeca

Degrees of Innocence by Via Mari
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

The romance in this novel started almost immediately and I admit that I initially struggled to stay engaged, however as the chapters progressed and the tensions grew it gradually reeled me in.
I think what I found the most difficult was the interactions between the main characters, it didn’t seem to fit the way I would expect one to talk to someone they’re interested in – but overall, I was still able to enjoy the story.
As the truth was revealed and seeing how the characters were forced to confront their own issues and their misgivings about their relationship I was pulled into the story and able to ignore my initial misgivings.
The events that take place and the dangers Katarina faces are what make this book for me and as the first book in the series, I can see how promising this couple is.
I do plan to read the rest of the series as I did enjoy it, and the interactions improved as the books progressed so I am hopeful that the next books will continue on the same path and that the mafia part is explored in more depth.

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Raine Down (The Shadow Guardians Book 1) by CB Samet – Review by Rebeca Elliott Figueiras

December 6, 2022/0 Comments/in Reviews /by Rebeca

Raine Down by C.B. Samet
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This book has a unique twist on Greek Mythology and lovable characters which combined is just magic.
It’s been a long time since there was a book which I honestly couldn’t put down, reading well into the early hours to finish.
I was initially interested by the criminal investigation and inter-agency elements but was captured by the supernatural.

I loved both main characters, Will and Raine, and enjoyed experiencing their investigative journey and their relationship progression. But even how they evolved as individuals was portrayed very well and I was emotionally invested from the start.

There were time reading that I was unable to contain my joy, grinning like an idiot and others that I wanted to slap them both on the back of the head Agent Gibbs style in loving frustration.

I can’t wait for the rest of the series to be released and get immersed all over again.
This quickly became one of my favourites and I’m so happy I chose this book. I will definitely be looking for more books by this author.

I could rave about this book for hours, but don’t want to give anything away. If you like criminal investigation, paranormal and/or romances, I thoroughly recommend you read this book!

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Soliloquy by Janet Fogg – Review by Rebeca Elliott Figueiras

November 14, 2022/0 Comments/in Reviews /by Rebeca

Soliloquy by Janet Fogg
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This was a lovely historical romance which also contained some time travel. It was nice to see how the time travel was incorporated into the storyline adding beauty to the relationship between the characters rather than seeming out of place.

As the book progressed, I became increasingly engrossed in Erin and Alrick’s relationship, and feared for their safety in the dangers they faced in WW2 era occupied France. The historical elements were well-written and reflected the dangers faced by those living at the time.

Whilst I was expecting a twist, I was not prepared for the reveal of the real twist, and I kick myself, now looking back, for overlooking the well-placed clues.

I loved the ending and how there were clear links to previous parts of the story, which is what I had hoped for.
There are elements which may appear to be unanswered questions; however, this adds to how well the piece was written. These ‘gaps’ fit perfectly into the story and make it more realistic not knowing what happened to certain characters given that even now there are people whose fate are not known from the war. On this point I share a similar view to Erin – it allows me to imagine a happily ever after for them.

I thought the description and use of music in this book was a unique element and as Erin’s compositions were described I could imagine bits and pieces of how the music may sound or make me feel. Music is incredibly powerful, and I have not often come across writing, which is able to portray this effectively, but in this, I was able to feel what Erin felt as she played and hear how her pieces may have sounded.

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Order of Vespers (The Vespers Chronicles Book 1) by Matilda Reyes – Review by Rebeca Elliott Figueiras

October 31, 2022/0 Comments/in Reviews /by Rebeca

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

This is an intriguing book which left me rooting for the main character, Jasper, and groaning in frustration at the cliff-hanger ending as I couldn’t move straight onto the next book!

I was gripped from page one and did not want to stop reading, when at work my thoughts were with Jasper and the difficulties she faced, and I couldn’t help but theorise until I could get back to my kindle.

I really enjoyed the way Jasper was written, her response to trauma (her defences/coping mechanisms) felt very real to me and her growth in both strength and character was admirable as the book progressed.
The darker events of the book were impactful but were well-balanced with Jasper’s sarcasm providing a humorous break, so it wasn’t all doom and gloom. To balance this well can be difficult but I was impressed by how well this was achieved without detracting from the emotional impact had on Jasper.

Overall, I found the storyline engaging and well-constructed and although the book is geared towards teens/young adults, I still thoroughly enjoyed reading this as an adult and can’t wait to find out what happens next!

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Friends with Benies (Paris in Springtime Book 7) by T.B. Bond – Review by Rebeca Elliott Figueiras

October 23, 2022/0 Comments/in Reviews /by Rebeca

Friends with Benies: An AMBW Paranormal Romance by T.B. Bond
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is a sweet paranormal romance story told from 2 points of view (Ryder and Wednesday).
Initially, I didn’t realise that this book was the 7th in the series, but it can be read as a standalone as I didn’t feel I missed any crucial information by not having read the previous books. There are hints at various points about other couples who may have been the focus of other books in the series, but this only makes me want the read their stories rather than detract from Ryder and Wednesday’s story. This was my first book by this author and I cannot wait to dive into the other books in the series!

The emotions felt by the characters resonated with me from my own experiences despite the main characters being a mage and a Panda shifter. As a result, the characters, their emotions and actions were truly believable, and I could see myself and my friends in them.

Even though paranormal romances are one of my favourite genres and I try to read all that I come across, this book pleasantly surprised me – not only by the inclusion of a Panda shifter as one of the main characters, but also the exclusion of the typical toxic controlling mate which are often portrayed in many of the works I’ve read. This paired with the strong female lead who is intelligent and not afraid to show it had me loving this book even more!

Honestly, the story had me smiling all the way through and although I’m sad that it ended, I feel closure as I’m not left with unanswered questions regarding their journey together.

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