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Something Lost (Funerals and Weddings SeriesBook 1) by Bernadette Marie – Review by Barbara Bohls

Something LostSomething Lost by Bernadette Marie
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

You will fall in love with love during this book. It has everything that any romance reader could ever dream of. It contains suspense, character development, tragic life struggles, loves being brought back together due to unforeseen circumstances, and an amazing group of friends. The author keeps you on the edge of your seat by building the suspense about what happened and where things are going to go. The character development seems genuine and is completely relatable. You can feel the burn that the main characters have for each other, their love makes even the most skeptic people believe in love.

 

Reviewed by @bbohls

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Swindler’s Revenge (Karina Cardinal Mysteries series Book 5) by Ellen Butler – Review by Jules Herbert

Swindler's RevengeSwindler’s Revenge by Ellen Butler
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Swindler’s Revenge is book 5 in the Karina Cardinal Mysteries series by Ellen Butler but for me it was the first book I have read not only in this series but by this wonderful author. I will definitely be finding more books by Ms Butler to read and back tracking to read the rest of this fun series. Even though I did started with the 5th book in this series and there was small references to other the books, my enjoyment of this book was in no way diminished by not having read the first 4 books. Would I recommend you read them first? Well yes I would but purely because if they are anything like this book you will absolutely love them and not because it is needed to enjoy this book.

Karina Cardinal is a vivacious, fun and spirited character whose talented for unintentionally finding trouble has once again found her in the middle of a mystery she just can’t leave alone. When her Ex Boyfriend, FBI agent Mike Finnegan, is accused of a serious crime, she just knows right from the start that he is innocent. With help from the gorgeous and very serious Rick Donovan and his team at Silverthorne she will do all she can to prove just that.

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Potager Plot (A Backyard Farming Series Book 5) by Vikki Walton – Review by Donna Dawkin

Potager Plot (A Backyard Farming Series, #5)Potager Plot by Vikki Walton
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Quite the cast of characters join our heroine Anne, as she uncovers yet another mystery in the not so sleepy town of Carolan Springs..

We are given a bird’s eye view as Anne winds her way through the suspects and clues in Book 5 of Vikki Walton’s, A Backyard Farming Mystery Series. This small town murder mystery is simmering with intrigue, a little romance, small town secrets (you know the kind!) When the President of the local Gardening club is found dead.. there are a lot of unanswered questions and Anne can’t help herself but get to the truth of the matter!

My first book by this author, but I was impressed with the way she pulls all the tiny details together to build a great easy to read mystery! It worked well as a stand alone, but I will definitely be looking for the other books in this series.

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SPOOKED BY A SUSPICION by Risa Nyman – Review by Heather Lovelace

Spooked by a SuspicionSpooked by a Suspicion by Risa Nyman
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I really enjoy the way the author crafts her stories. This is definitely written a way to be easily followed by younger readers and as such will draw them in quickly. The story kept a good pace and kept you guessing as to how things would progress. If you have a young adult in your home that enjoys mysteries this book is one i think they would enjoy.

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Dating the It Guy by Krysten Lindsay Hager – Review by Angela Hayes

Dating the It GuyDating the It Guy by Krysten Lindsay Hager
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

 

3 Stars

 

Dating the It Guy by Krysten Lindsay Hager is a sweet, cute, YA story- about first love, teenage drama + angst, friendship, dating the ‘popular’ guy, miscommunications, family drama, emotion, romance, self-doubt, grief, and heartache.
It is definitely a YA story- although it isn’t quite so light and ‘fluffy’ as others. This does have an emotional component with the family complexities faced by Emme. The miscommunication and teen drama were a little frustrating for me, but still a nice story overall, with just enough added complexity, angst, and drama to keep things interesting- while still keeping things suitable for the younger (YA) reader.

Thank you, Krysten Lindsay Hager!

 

Reviewed by @angelahayes

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Weep, Woman, Weep: A Gothic Fairytale about Ancestral Hauntings by Maria DeBlassie – Review by Jenni Bishop

Weep, Woman, WeepWeep, Woman, Weep by Maria DeBlassie
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Weep, Woman, Weep is a Gothic Fairy tale about Ancestral Hauntings by Maria DeBlassie. This novella is a short read but filled with plenty and what a quagmire. It is set in New Mexico and details the lives and curse of generations of women who have lived with pain and sorrow, fear and hatred, racism, and misogyny, ghosts, and magic. This haunting tale shows so much suffering that is so heavy it almost becomes palpable. Generations of Mexican children have grown up afraid of La Llorona and this story is no different. I am so grateful I don’t live with that.

The myth of La Llorona in Latin American folklore is that she is a ghost who roams waterfront areas mourning her children whom she drowned.

 

Reviewed by @jennadb

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Dating the It Guy by Krysten Lindsay Hager – Review by Jenni Bishop

Dating the It GuyDating the It Guy by Krysten Lindsay Hager
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

3.5 stars

Dating the It Guy by Krysten Lindsay Hager YA contemporary romance where insecurities rein. The usual emotions, drama, angst, and jealousy. But let’s not forget the mind games others play when they don’t get what they want but there is also some deep feeling due to family issues. I would not like to go back and relive that time in my life. There are characters that you can’t help but like and then there are those who you just want to rip into and give a piece of your mind with a healthy dose of a slap.

Dating the “IT guy” should be a wonderful thing, but with it comes self-doubt and feelings of never being enough when compared to others and deep-seated insecurities.

 

Reviewed by @jennadb

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Ye Gods! The Law is an Ass! (Donovan Trait Book 2) by Seelie Kay – Review by Jenni Bishop

Ye Gods! The Law is an Ass!Ye Gods! The Law is an Ass! by Seelie Kay
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Ye Gods! The Law is an Ass! (Donovan Trait Book 2) by Seelie Kay is an original is a paranormal suspense story that is different than the norm and that is what makes it fun. A Lawyer who is a vampire, but the ancient Vampire law has let him down. There is suspense and fear, vampires, and sexy charm. Seelie has given us complex and beautifully written characters with words that brings them to life.

Facing outdated and antiquated laws and beliefs of others Donovan is persecuted and on the run. With the Vampire Coalition on his back Donovan is being hunted and he will do nothing to protect his family even if it means going up against those that want to see heads roll.

 

Reviewed by @jennadb

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A Natural Passion by Tammy Mannersly – Review by Dawn Daughenbaugh

A Natural PassionA Natural Passion by Tammy Mannersly
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

5 Stars
A Natural Passion by Tammy Mannersly
A Natural Passion by Tammy Mannersly is a short sweet romance story that I read in one sitting. I’m a fan of this author and her attention to detail simply amazes me. This story is centered around the preservation of turtles and poachers. The things people will do for money simply amazes me. I love turtles and found this story to be very well written and rhe authors details made me feel like I was right there with them. Kya just started an internship at Merchant Marine Science Center where she finds herself kinda crushing hard on the boss’s son Jake . Jake is to me a jerk I didn’t really warm to his character as much as I did Dylan. He’s a marine biologist who takes great passion in his job so when yet another nest comes up missing he has to do something. Him and Kyra whom he is in love with set out to catch the poachers. Find out what happens next in this absolute must read. I can’t wait to read more from this Author.

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Stormwood by Luna Mayfield – Review by Kerry Carr

StormwoodStormwood by Luna Mayfield
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I really enjoyed this fast paced paranormal story. The author does a great job of filling the story with  lot of action and details even though it’s a short story. The characters are well written and the lesson of the grass isn’t always greener on the other side really rings true for me in this book.

Luci has been left an estate after her aunty pasts away. However its not just an estate she’s left with. There is a secret in the home, a secret that’s been responsible for the death of all of Luci’s female ancestors.

The home is possessed by a demon. A demon that feeds of his victims slowly draining them. He captures them under his spell but becoming what ever the lady wants. Now Luci is set on a course to possible self destruction. Can her partner Beckett figure out a way to save her? How can the past help him find a solution? Will true love win the day or will Luci completely succumb to the promise of her dream that hides a nightmare?

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No Way Out (Mafia Elite, book 1) by Amy McKinley – Review by Brittany Angel

No Way Out (Mafia Elite, #1)No Way Out by Amy McKinley
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Liliana is a mafia princess in a gilded cage waiting to be used as a pain to help her father. But when she gets a new guard, that all soon changes.

From the very first chapter you are drawn in and getting the POV of both Liliana and Max keeps you reading non stop. Liliana is not a helpless princess but quite the opposite. She and her best friends, Em and Sofia really steal the show and I can’t wait to read their stories.

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THE BOW (HER THREE IMMORTALS Book 3) by HAZEL STORM – Review by Christine Taysom

The Bow (Her Three Immortals, #3)The Bow by Hazel Storm
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Wow again, I absolutely loved this book and am so glad to have found these books. This book mostly involves Vanessa, Aroz and Antaroz and most of it takes place in the upper world. Finding out the truth of what happened with Aroz and his twin and Vanessa’s prophecy is what is focused in this book. It was again such a fantastic development on the story with these characters and really just cemented this series as a definite favorite of mine. I love a good Greek retelling romance and this series is a perfect touch of myth retelling with an urban twist. Absolutely fantastic and highly recommended!

Reviewed by @prettybird-marie

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THE GOD (HER THREE IMMORTALS BOOK 2) by HAZEL STORM – Review by Christine Taysom

The God (Her Three Immortals, #2)The God by Hazel Storm
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Book 2 of Her Three Immortals was just as fantastic as the first. While the first book took place mostly in the mortal world and Raef, this book mainly revolves around Grey, Adonis and Vanessa in the Overworld. Grey is so hesitant to let Vanessa in and Vanessa is determined to mark her own way/place in the Overworld. She is the color to his greyscale, literally and it was such a fantastic way to continue the series! Again highly recommended, this book series is quickly becoming an absolute favorite of mine!

Reviewed by @prettybird-marie
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The Don (Her Three Immortals Book 1) by Hazel Storm – Review by Christine Taysom

The DonThe Don by Hazel Storm
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Honestly this book deserves all the stars, five isn’t even close to enough to convey how great I thought it was! This book is the beginning of Her Three Immortals Book series, revolving around characters, Vanessa, Grey, Raef Fox, and Aroz. The way their stories intertwined is so seamless and you can never guess what’s going to happen next. Vanessa’s brother is dying of cancer and she would do anything to help him recover.

Honestly this book was fantastic and had me giggling along and feeling emotional as the scenes changed. I have a feeling book 2 is going to give us even more information and development between the characters and I just can’t wait. So speaking of such, I’m off to read it! Read this book, you won’t regret it!

Reviewed by @prettybird-marie

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Weep, Woman, Weep: A Gothic Fairytale about Ancestral Hauntings by Maria DeBlassie – Review by Angela Hayes

Weep, Woman, WeepWeep, Woman, Weep by Maria DeBlassie
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

 

4.5 Stars

 

Weep, Woman, Weep by Maria DeBlassie has a definite Gothic fairytale feel to it. Set in New Mexico, the story is full of wonderful detail and vivid descriptions. The story was so well crafted that I could visualise everything easily. As expected from Ms. DeBlassie, this story is very original, interesting, and quite quirky.
This is a tale of heartache and despair, of ‘the weeping woman’ and her quest for pain and sorrow. With magic, witches, generational trauma, mystery, suspense, and a touch of horror- the story kept me turning the pages to find what lay on the next page- within all the emotional angst and drama, this story also tells a tale of healing, hope, and rebirth.
Well worth the read!

Thank you, Maria DeBlassie!

 

Reviewed by @angelahayes

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Jake the Growling Dog Shares His Trail (Jake the Growling Dog Book 3) by Samantha Shannon – Review by Beth McKitrick

Jake the Growling Dog Shares His TrailJake the Growling Dog Shares His Trail by Samantha Shannon
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This book was exactly what my kindergarten-age son needed. He has been struggling with fears and worries lately, and this book helps address these things beautifully. I really appreciated the notes at the end of the book for parents, as I was at a bit of a loss at how to help him handle these big feelings. I also appreciated the subtle representation for kids with disabilities – the character Tuck opened up a discussion with my son and allowed him to ask questions without the risk of being insensitive to a real person. We talked about why someone might be missing a limb, that it can happen to anybody, and that they can still play and do everything that he and I can, they just might have to do things a little differently and that’s okay. I thought the pictures were very cute and that the writing did a beautiful job of being descriptive while remaining simple enough that my son could read most of it, as well as being enjoyable and engaging with its easy flow and rhyming scheme. Plus, my son loves animal books, so it was able to keep his interest! We will definitely be looking at the other “Jake the Growling Dog” books after reading this one!

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Code Name: Vulture (The Order of the Condor Series Book 1) by Maya Daniels and Sylvia Black – Review by Krista Vaughan

Code Name: Vulture: Dark Vampire Romance (The Order of the Condor Series Book 1)Code Name: Vulture: Dark Vampire Romance by Maya Daniels
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Code Name: Vulture (The Order of the Condor Series Book 1) by Maya Daniels and Sylvia Black – Review by Krista Vaughan

A dark and steamy novel of magic and vampires! History meets fantasy as Danielle and Vulture come together while bidding to own a relic that holds the key to an ancient race’s survival.

Vulture is hired to find the relic, and to take care of Danielle to find out it’s secrets. The difficulty is that she makes him feel. She makes him…care. He vows to protect her if she shares the secret to the relic, only to find himself protecting her life because he doesn’t want her to die. He wants her for life.

This book is 18+ and has a Dom male and Sub female. If this is up your alley you will not be disappointed with this novel!

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Code Name: Vulture (The Order of the Condor Series Book 1) by Maya Daniels and Sylvia Black – Review by Beth McKitrick

Code Name: Vulture: Dark Vampire Romance (The Order of the Condor Series Book 1)Code Name: Vulture: Dark Vampire Romance by Maya Daniels
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

If you’re like me – someone who enjoys fantasy/sci-fi with a bit of steamy romance – you’ve probably read one or two (or a few) “fated mate” type books. So when I saw fated mates in the description, as well as lycans, vampires, etc., I expected the book to be on par with the others I’ve read. This is not the case. Most of those books tend to be pretty light and fluffy on the writing itself, with fairly shallow descriptions, characters, world-building, etc., and pretty heavy on the smut. This book however, has beautiful, descriptive writing, with complex characters who develop throughout the book. It is absolutely on another level from other books in the same genre. While it does have s*x scenes, they don’t make up the majority of the book like others tend to; instead there is a slow build up, that pays off later in the book. I would describe it as a story-centric book that has romance and more built in. That being said, if you are someone who enjoyed Fifty Shades of Grey, there are similar themes hinted at here that I suspect will come into play later in the series. Overall I did enjoy the book and I look forward to reading the rest of the series!

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The Boss Prince (It’s Raining Royals) by Alix Nichols – Review by Stephanie Nicole

The Boss Prince (It's Raining Royals, #1)The Boss Prince by Alix Nichols
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The Boss Prince (It’s Raining Royals) by Alix Nichols is a great fun romantic comedy. While I have never read a book by Ms. Nichols before I can definitely say that I will be reading more from her in the future. Her story was perfectly developed, with just the right mixture of fun, romance, and just a light touch of paranormal. I actually picked up this book because the cover intrigued me, and I was looking for something light-hearted, and a quick read. Boy was I not disappointed, Ms. Nichols developed not only wonderful characters but a fantastic country that will keep her readers hooked through the whole story.

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Family Secrets (A Whispering Pines Mystery) by Shawn McGuire – Review by Jo Frizzell

Family Secrets (Whispering Pines Mystery #1)Family Secrets by Shawn McGuire
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I adored this book! I really wanted to meet everyone! Meeka was adorable and I wanted to be her friend. I wanted to have the opportunity to walk around the town and meet all the people, and try the cookies! Tripp made me smile and Morgan intrigued me. The conflict was relatable and I really just generally wanted to find answers for her. I really just wanted to know everybody and be a part of Whispering Pines.

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THE BOW (HER THREE IMMORTALS Book 3) by HAZEL STORM – Review by Michelle Austin

The Bow (Her Three Immortals, #3)The Bow by Hazel Storm
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I was once again pulled right into this series, it was another great 5 star read.
The author does a great job of pulling you in with her writing, you won’t want to put it down.

We pick up where the last book ended. In this book Vanessa goes on a mission and she has limited time to get it done. She is sent back to the Overworld to get some very special water. There is a twist when Aroz finds out she is there. Let’s just say things get very interesting.

Will Vanesa complete her mission on time?

Overall this was a great read, there are several twists and turns. I feel the more I read this series the better I am understanding the worlds and people in it. All of the characters added a great element to the story. You could potentially read this as a stand alone but I highly suggest reading from the beginning, things will make much more sense. I look forward to reading more from this author. 1-click and get started today.

Reviewed by @mab54615
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Scarlet Princess (Lochlann Feuds Book 1) by Robin D. Mahle and Elle Madison – Review by Beth McKitrick

Scarlet Princess (The Lochlann Feuds, #1)Scarlet Princess by Robin D. Mahle
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This book absolutely blew away my expectations! It had all of my favorite elements – a ton of wit, humor, romance, a bit of magic, a strong female protagonist, everything! In fact, I enjoyed it so much that I immediately preordered the second book! If you enjoy the style of writing and characters like Max from the earlier Maximum Ride books, this is absolutely a book for you. The two main characters do an excellent job of pulling you in, and the twist at the end will leave you wanting more! I cannot recommend this book enough.

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Swallowed by a Secret by Risa Nyman – Review by Stephanie Nicole

Swallowed by a SecretSwallowed by a Secret by Risa Nyman
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Swallowed by a Secret by Risa Nyman was a wonderfully told story. While the main characters are younger some people would consider this book a younger read, but the plot is very real to even a lot of adults. Her plot is fantastic, her settings are beautiful, and overall Ms. Nyman’s characters are wonderful. I actually read this book after reading it’s sequel and I can honestly say that I love both books equally and am looking forward to more books from Ms. Nyman.

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The Boss Prince (It’s Raining Royals) by Alix Nichols – Review by Tamisha Janay

The Boss Prince (It's Raining Royals, #1)The Boss Prince by Alix Nichols
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Alix did a fantastic job bringing these characters and this world to life. Lucie has just lost her job, her boyfriend, and her positive outlook. Max and his family were preparing for what his mother had seen; the key to the keys, the solution to their ongoing problem. A job listing is put out where Lucie will find it and the company name gave me quite a chuckle the first few times I read it. The progression of the relationship between Lucie and Max and the ongoing mystery throughout the story made for an excellent read. There is chemistry, there is drama, and there is so much more going on than what either character realizes. I loved the first portion of this series. The writing is great, the characters are easy to love (or loathe depending on who we’re discussing), and the storyline is left open for so much more as it goes on. I look forward to reading more from Alix Nichols and if you’re looking for a romantic and funny story with a bit of mystery, I highly suggest you pick this one up!

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No Way Out (Mafia Elite, book 1) by Amy McKinley – Review by Robin Rankin

No Way Out (Mafia Elite, #1)No Way Out by Amy McKinley
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

No Way Out: An Arranged Marriage Mafia Romance (Mafia Elite Book 1) by Amy McKinley

She did it again, she got me hooked from the very beginning and refused to let me go until the book was done.

I read this book in the car as we drove out of town, read it while I was at a book signing (taking a much needed break from peopling) and finished it instead of watching football.

I was instantly drawn to Matteo/Max, but not sure what it was.  Yeah the bad boys are hot but it wasn’t it.  Something about him spoke to me and I couldn’t learn enough about him.

Liliana is not someone you want to mess with and we got acquainted with the reasons pretty quick.

There are twists and turns, romance and of course suspense.   I have read several books by Ms. McKinley and have yet to be disappointed.   I don’t know if I will be patient while waiting for the next book to be released.

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The Bow (Her Three Immortals Book 3) by Hazel Storm – Review by Alexandria Richard

The Bow (Her Three Immortals, #3)The Bow by Hazel Storm
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

First off I am pleased to know, and share, that this is not the last in the series. The series keeps getting better and better.

I greatly enjoyed the character growth we see in Aroz in this book. It seemed he was barely mentioned in the other books and here he’s front and center (mostly). Go figure from the name of the book, right? I also enjoyed the introduction of Beau/Bow, and how that played out.

I like how Vanessa is growing more comfortable in her own (naked) skin with the guys, as well as in who she is. Sure, she still has growing to do, but don’t all characters? I’m interested to see how the author will continue to make all new characters connect to Vanessa going forward because she seems to be the focal point of everyone we meet, in some way or another. But honestly, can we just do away with all the mothers already?

We get more sex in this book, with more multi-partner scenes as well. Gladly though, this book is not all about the sex; sure we get more statements from the guys about Vanessa making them hard even when she’s not trying to, but the heist and drop off, is the main focal point, and the drama that ensues along the way.

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SPOOKED BY A SUSPICION by Risa Nyman – Review by Stephanie Nicole

Spooked by a SuspicionSpooked by a Suspicion by Risa Nyman
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

SPOOKED BY A SUSPICION by Risa Nyman really hit home for me. Being a girl that had a lot of family changes Ms. Nyman really got all of the details right on the nose. So many emotions in this book that if you have ever felt any of them it will instantly make you feel drawn to the book, and make it that much more realistic. Her characters are well developed, her word building skills are fantastic, and although this is book two it can be read as a stand-alone. However I will be going back to read book one and you should too.

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Stormwood by Luna Mayfield – Review by April McCoy

StormwoodStormwood by Luna Mayfield
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This book had me questioning my life in a good way. It was like a book to all those Netflix haunted house shows. It was different but interesting, Romantic, sad, and all of the in between! I found myself finishing it in one sitting and wondering where the time went. Only one word for how this book left me. Transfixed!

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The Boss Prince (It’s Raining Royals) by Alix Nichols – Review by April McCoy

The Boss Prince (It's Raining Royals, #1)The Boss Prince by Alix Nichols
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The story of Max and Lucie was so interesting and fun! Every girl’s dream maybe to find out the hot boss is actually a prince! With tons of action and Suspense this book had me on the edge of my seat! I thoroughly enjoyed this quick read and would love to find more from the author!

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Forever Valentine: A Sequel to Professor Valentine (Kirk University Series, Book 6) by Diana Vale – Review by Stephanie Nicole

Forever Valentine (Kirk University, #6)Forever Valentine by Diana Vale
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Forever Valentine: A Sequel to Professor Valentine (Kirk University Series, Book 6) by Diana Vale is another fantastic page turner by Ms. Vale. Forever Valentine is book six in Ms. Vale’s Kirk University Series, but in my personal opinion it is the best. Ms. Vale’s characters are amazing, an amazing plot, and I personally loved the different view points. While this book gives us more of a story about Cassie and Diego but we also meet Diego’s ex wife. Will she cause problems between Cassie and Diego? You’ll have to read Forever Valentine to find out.

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