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Under Ground (Under Ground #1) by Alice Rachel – Review by Bobbi Wagner

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Under Ground (Under Ground #1)Under Ground by Alice Rachel
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Under Ground by Alice Rachel is a dystopain romance that is haunting and suspenseful This story is about living in a society that is not what would be acceptable in today’s world, fighting for what you believe in could cost you everything. This story is full of suspense, excitement and a touch of romance. The author created characters that will pull at your heart strings and characters that you would rather just knock on the head. It has been awhile since I have read a dystopain story that holds your attention from the first page. The characters will take you on a journey that will cause you to feel a various emotions but it is a journey you will want to take.

Thai Clay is a seventeen year old that was born in a society where women have not rights and no chance for a bright future. Her parents has sold her into a marriage to a man she doesn’t know, doesn’t love and has caused her to be depressed. What kind of person is he? Will she like him? Will he marry her? What will happen when she meets another man? Will he change things for her?

Chi Richards was born illegally and has been forced to hide from authorities most of his life. He is part of the under ground rebellious group that planning to overthrow the government. His only goal right now is to save his parents from the prison camps. What will happen when he meets her? She wasn’t part of his plan, what will he do now? He never expected to have feelings for her, how will this effect his plans?

Thai and Chi’s relationship is one that is forbidden and could mean a death sentence. Will they risk everything to be together? How will she react when his secrets are revealed? If she relies on instinct to make a choice, will it save her or will it destroy her? You will love how the author has made these two characters connect. Their feelings for each other are dangerous and taboo, how far are they willing to go to be together?

This is my first story by Alice Rachel and it certainly won’t be the last. Alice loves spending time with her husband and guinea pigs. When she is not writing, she teaches French, reading and drawing. This author has created a story that you will read in one sitting. This story is a page turner and will leave you wanting to see what will happen on the next page. You will totally lose time while reading this story. These characters will make you feel what they are feeling, you may even want to have a box of Kleenex sitting next to you. I highly suggest this story as I know you will love to read what happens on every page of this story and will enjoy reading it as much as I have.

Review by @bjwagner
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Part of Me (Friendship, Texas #3) by Magan Vernon – Review by Jana Teppih

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Part of Me (Friendship, Texas #3)Part of Me by Magan Vernon
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Part of Me by Magan Vernon is the third book in her Friendship, Texas series. It is the first one I read and yes, you can read it as a standalone though I think one might benefit from having read the other 2 as well.
Friendship is a town in Texas and as we know everything is bigger in Texas and Magan does not disappoint us! It is fun and quirky and emotional and thought provoking and makes you laugh so hard you pee your pants and makes you cry so you reach for the box of Kleenax.
The writer has a way with her words, she paints a picture and it starts from the first Chapter. I have to admit that it took me a bit to get into the story as at first it felt as if it is a high school story but as I read along, it pulled me in and I realized that it is NOT a high school story and that Sofia is actually someone who has had to grow up fast and knows the lows of life. The same about Johnny, he is not the jolly go fellow who works hard on swimming but parties the rest of the time, he is very attentive and caring and considerate.
I love how the author writes about very important and sensitive issues in a goofy and sweet way. You will not regret picking up this book and spending couple of hours with Sofia and Johnny. I know that I will go back for some more Friendship, Texas stories!

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Fated by A.S. Roberts – Review by Stacey Baxter

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FatedFated by A.S. Roberts
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Frankie accepts her dream job which is located in New York but she’s excited for the change plus she gets to live with her best friend who already has apartment over there. Frankie has been through a lot but she’s strong and is ready to put all the grief behind her. Will she truly be able to move on? What happens when someone from her person comes back into her life , can she forgive and move on or will the demons of her past hold her back, Alex is this sexy alpha ex military now business man during week to rugby captain at the weekends , when he see her again he remembers everything about her even her smell he wants her but he knows she has her walls up so he has to go about this slow and he know he’s got a lot of explaining to do.
This story is great I loved Frankie she’s strong and feisty when she needs to be which makes her even more real , Alex is all alpha and dominate but there is a sensitive sweet side to him which makes you feel all warm inside and makes him even more desirable . I also fell in love with the other characters her best friend Bella is absolutely amazing she has Frankie’s back and is smart mouthed at the right times makes you smile and chuckle to yourself when you read some of the things that come out of her mouth , Nathan Alex’s younger brother is the sexy smooth talker who is as a ladies man but also has a heart of gold you will love instantly. The novel is a greatly written you can imagine yourself in there world visualise everything around them and you get hooked to there story which is the main thing it really is a wicked novel really enjoyed every second of it .

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Bad for You by Charity Ferrell – Review by Shannon Fowler

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Bad For YouBad For You by Charity Ferrell
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Bad for You is a story about Nautica and her love for her brother’s best friend, Bracken. Somewhere along the way Bracken and Nautica were told that they must not have feelings for each other much less hook up. Of course, bratty little sisters and grown men don’t always follow the rules and the chemistry between these two is super hot. Even after they try to get each other out of their systems, there is more chemistry and hotness to come!
There are several stories inside Bracken and Nautica’s story which makes this book well worth the read. Nautica’s best friend, Macy is the kind of friend we all need, caring, funny and loyal. She’s looking for her own true love. Bracken’s parents have issues, which could be another story altogether. Nautica’s father passed away years ago causing Nautica’s brother, Simon, to become very protective of Nautica And their mother.
When tragedy strikes the whole family, who will stand strong and who crumbles under the devastating pressure? Will love be enough? Can time heal all wounds?
I loved these characters. I loved the way Ferrell makes these characters feel so real, drawing the reader right into their world. There is heart break, love and just the right amount of intrigue giving this story a little of everything. Only one thing I didn’t like was Nautica’s reaction to Bracken after all the bad things happen…ugh I don’t want to give anything away so just read this story and see if you agree, personally I think I would have reacted differently. I highly recommend this story and hope there are more stories to come!

Review by @shannonlovesbooks

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Connie by Tracy Lorraine – Review by Tracy Manderson

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Connie (Angel #2.5) by Tracy Lorraine
5 out of 5 stars

I have read every book in the Angel series and I have loved them all. We met Connie and Fin in Emma’s book and this story picks up where Emma’s book ended.
Connie and Fin have an unusual relationship they grew up together and Fin is Connie’s brother Rubens best friend. They have had feelings for each other since they were both young.

Connie is a strong young woman. She has a successful business, an amazing family and now a great best friend. There is something missing though and no matter what she does she can’t put him behind her.
Throughout the years they tried fighting their feelings by moving on. Unfortunately their feelings for one another are too strong .I loved the hidden interactions between Fin and Connie they were epic.

Fin’s jack the lad persona is helping him to hide a lot of secrets. His friends think they know all there is to know about him but they are very wrong. Fin has become the master at hiding his pain and struggles. Fin has one weakness though, and she is getting harder and harder to resist and he knows she’s something he shouldn’t be allowing himself to have. He knows the possible consequences for his actions but he’s powerless to stop himself until the actions of his best friend forces his hand.
Can Connie move past the secrets that Fin has kept to himself? Will Fin Let Connie in enough for her to help him? Can their love overcome the obstacles in their way? Will they have their happily ever after? You really need to read this story to find out but I highly recommend you start with the first book in this series…..
I can’t wait for Lily’s story!!!!!
By Tracy Manderson

review by @tracym

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Forever Mine: (Inspirational Romantic Suspense) (The Lake Shores Series Book 4) by Aimee Martin – Review by Jana Teppih

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Forever Mine: (Inspirational Romantic Suspense) (The Lake Shores Series Book 4)Forever Mine: (Inspirational Romantic Suspense) by Aimee Martin
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Forever Mine by Aimee Martin is the fourth and last book in her The Lake Shores series, I had not read the first three when I started with this one and I feel that it did in no way hinder me to enjoy this one so I say that you could read it as a standalone!
I have never been into inspirational stories that refer to God and scriptures but I decided to read the story anyhow and I liked how Aimee had used it as guidance for the characters in their decision making. You do not need to be a Christian to relate to it!
It was an amazing story, it is a love story of Blake and Kellina who both carry their own baggage that makes it hard from them to dare to open up to each other and to love but it is in vain, what needs to happen will happen! The story keeps you on your toes and you really root for both Kellina and Blake. On top of that there is a bit of mystery and suspense involved that gets revealed only in the end so that is an additional driving force for not to stop before you get to the end!
I have to say that I got intrigued by the story and I will find time to read the first three books of the series, we meet the other 3 couples in this book so I am sure that you will feel the same way as me!
Thank you Aimee for a wonderful book that left me crying and smiling and made it so worth the late hours I got into to finish it!

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Addiction by Angela McPherson – Review by Jenni Bishop

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Addiction (Distraction #2)Addiction by Angela McPherson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Heather, Elle’s sister is in Rehab for a drug addiction but Elle doesn’t know, she hasn’t seen or heard from her for months. Months and months of worry over where she is or if she is even alive. Their father has told Heather that he will take her home for christmas but pulls out at the last minute. He pays Heather’s airfare and after much debating manages to catch the flight. Elle and Tristan are finally together, so in love and going strong and they have just arrived home
to celebrate Christmas with family. Heather finally contacts Elle and tells her she will be home for Christmas. After enjoying Christmas day they receive a call that will change their lives forever. Elle is not able to deal with the terrible tragedy pushes Tristan away, the one person who loves her more than anything and vowed to be there if she fell. Tristan tells her he will wait but for how
long? Will Elle be able to forgive and find what she needs to continue a relationship with Tristan? I understand what Elle is going through but I just wanted to smack some sense into her. Having said that I really like this story and the characters Elle and Tristan. Angela has a way of writing that draws you in.

Reviewed by @jennadb

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Tapped (Brewing Passion, #1) by Liz Crowe – Review by Jana Teppih

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Tapped (Brewing Passion, #1)Tapped by Liz Crowe
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Tapped is the first book of Liz Crowe’s Brewing Passion series. It is the first book by this author that I have had an immense pleasure to read. I think you can guess from my previous sentence what I thought of the book – I really liked it and I am looking forward to the next installment, I hope she will not keep us waiting too long!
The book is set in the Midwest and in the never ending battlefield of relationships of people from blue collar world and the privileged world. You could expect something along the stereotypes but Liz is very good at going beyond them. We see some great fireworks between Evelyn and Austin and they are understandable when thinking of how different worlds they come from though both of them carry their own baggage. It is true that money does not buy happiness and it comes with strings.
Another layer of dynamics comes in the form of the relationship among Evelyn, Austin and Ross. I loved the way how the “screwing around and sharing women as young men” grew into something amazing and eventually essential to both Austin and Ross. It was also great to follow Evelyn in her discovery in her relationship with Austin and in her relationship with Austin and Ross.
There are a lot of extremely erotic scenes but they are well written and they feel true to the characters involved in them… it is never without the emotions.
There is a lot of passion and love and doubt in this story and it keeps you on a rollercoaster until the last page. It felt as if the ending was a bit abrupt but on the other hand, there will be another book!

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Teach Me Something by Aubrey Bondurant – Review by Jenni Bishop

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Teach Me Something (Something, #4)Teach Me Something by Aubrey Bondurant
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

*****Contains Spoilers*****

After low self esteem and self confidence with herself after a failed marriage, Catherine is at Club T to try to learn to live again. She finds herself second guessing about being there as she wasn’t so comfortable with the last person she met there. After facing her fears she goes ahead and meets Calvin who starts her on the path of self discovery. Catherine on her road to self discovery becomes closer with Will someone she has known for a while through friends and they become close friends. While Catherine is trying to heal and find herself her ex husband continues to interrupt her life. After his mother’s death Catherine is forced to reveal a few home truths to him to try to help him get back on track. Will is trying to make ends meet, after sending money home to Australia to his mother to pay for his brothers care, by modelling and working at a club. He has trouble letting people help him and thinks his brother is his responsibility to provide care for financially. Will Catherine find herself and love again? Will, Will be able to let go and realise that he is not responsible for his brothers care and be able to finally accept help?

OMG Aubrey is a true storyteller. I am glad to have read her work and strongly suggest you do to. I will certainly be reading more of Aubrey’s other work.

Reviewed by @jennadb

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Bad For You by Charity Ferrell – Review by Jenni Bishop

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Bad For YouBad For You by Charity Ferrell
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Simon, Nautica’s brother has warned everyone and anyone that his little sister is off limits. He is worried about her going to college whilst he is in the army but Bracken has assured his best friend that he will look out for her.

Nautica is out for night on the town with her best friend, Macy, but yet again her best friend has left her high and dry. Contemplating her next move, she hears the familiar voice that has a hold on her, the one she has had a crush on, a crush she has had for as long as she can remember, her brothers best friend Bracken Casey. After Bracken catches her at the bar he is talked into letting her hanging out with him and his friends to keep an eye on her. After having nowhere to spend the night she spends the night at Brackens in his bed.

Simon, Nautica and Bracken all head home for the holidays and Simon finds out about Nautica’s secret. Simon, being unable to handle what he has learned he takes off and ends up in an accident and on the critical list. Bracken unable to deal with all that has happened that night takes off and is not see or heard from for five years. Now he is back and wants to take back what is his.

Will friendships and broken hearts be mended? This book is a good read and well written. If you like young love, forbidden love, betrayals and finding yourself, then this book is for you.

Reviewed by @jennadb

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A Taste of Utopia by L. Duarte – Review by Jana Teppih

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A Taste of UtopiaA Taste of Utopia by L. Duarte
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

A Taste of Utopia by Luciana Duarte blows you away! I cried and I laughed and I cried and I could not fall asleep as the images I got in my head while reading the book refused to leave me … You are amazing, I am humbled by your talent of creating characters that resonant so much with one that it is so hard to let them go!
This story is not an easy or light romantic read, it is beautiful, amazing, steamy and romantic with some really heavy baggage that BOTH of the main characters carry with them. They are PERFECT for each other, they balance each other out, they enable each other to express the sides they have suppressed or that they think they have no right for …. It is a journey to discovering what love means to one, how a completely broken person can be put back together when they meet the right person and when they open themselves up to the possibility of love … We will meet again Luna and Caleb and Caleb’s parents from Fall Out Girl here but it is not continuation of their story!
I have always been drawn to words and the emotions and images they evoke and I am telling that after having read two books by Ms Duarte that are linked with each other, she is a master with words! You have no choice but keep reading as you are caught in the net from the first page on and you know that there is no escape until you have reached the last page …
Do yourself a favor and read this book, you will not regret the time you will use for it, it will make you to appreciate your life or it makes you to re-evaluate your life, you will NOT walk away from it untouched!

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Cherishing You (Thirsty Hearts Series #3) by Kris Jayne – Review by Jana Teppih

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Cherishing You (Thirsty Hearts Series #3)Cherishing You by Kris Jayne
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Cherishing You by Kris Jayne is the third of the series and it is the second book by Ms Jayne that I read. I read the fourth book couple of months ago so I am sort of going backwards you could say.
I gave the fourth book 4 stars and recommended it but I would give this one five stars and recommend it even more (I am planning to read the first and second books as well as I want to know how we got to where we got to with this book).
As I had not read the previous books leading up to the story, I did not have any preconceived notions about Shannon, we get glimpses into her previous actions and get a feeling that she was not such a ‘nice’ person the second book of the series but in my eyes, it simply means that she is one very complex character and I am looking forward to getting to know her even more.
I read this book in one setting and it has been a while since I cried as much as I did with this book and I am telling you, they were not happy tears … I feel for Shannon, it takes a lot out of her to turn her life around, to keep fighting for her right to be loved, to deserve to be loved, gain loyal friends …
The book shows us how through hard work and determination and forgiving ourselves we can raise like a phoenix from ashes and get onto a right path … it is though the person themselves who needs to want it and who needs to look oneself in the eyes and say “no longer will I be in denial, no longer will I let myself to be stepped on as I have the right to love myself and be loved”!
Thank you Ms Jayne for an amazing book, despite bowling my eyes out and having hard time to fall as sleep as bits and pieces of the book kept interfering with it, you created characters that stay with us, make us think and isn’t that what great books are supposed to do?

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Distraction (Distraction, #1) by Angela McPherson – Review by Jenni Bishop

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Distraction (Distraction, #1)Distraction by Angela McPherson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Tristan has been happy attending the University where he is playing what he loves, football. It wasn’t his first choice but he sacrificed it for his best friend, Elle, after his father threatened to ruin her chances. Encouraged by his fiance, Kellie, he applied to the same Uni she will be attending and has been accepted. Kellie knows Elle and Tristan are best friends but she does not like the closeness between them and feels threatened especially now since they will be attending the same college. Tristan has not told Elle about Kellie and is worried what Elle’s reaction will be when she finds out about his engagement to Kellie.

After the transfer Tristan finally contacts Elle and lets her know about Kellie and his transfer to the same Uni. Elle is taken aback at this news and tries to hide her feelings for Tristan, the one she has loved her whole life. Elle tries to be friends with Kellie and get over Tristan but finds she can’t. Alyssa, Elle’s other best friend gives her the kick she needs to move on and starts to date Eric. Tristan is given an ultimatum from Kellie, it’s either her or Elle but Tristan refuses to give up Elle, the girl he has loved his whole life.

Will Tristan and Elle finally be brave enough to tell each other how they feel or will they continue to make do?

I really wanted to smack some sense into both Tristan and Elle but enjoyed this story along with the background stories. If you enjoy contemporary romance, then this is a book for you.

Reviewed by @jennadb

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Teach Me Something (Something, #4) by Aubrey Bondurant – Review by Jana Teppih

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Teach Me Something (Something, #4)Teach Me Something by Aubrey Bondurant
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Teach Me Something is the fourth book in the Something series by Aubrey Bondurant and I have read all four of them by now and I cannot wait for the next one (as there will be a next one at some point later this year!)
WARNING! You do not need a magic eight ball to tell you that this is a highly addictive series and every time you finish a book you start thinking of characters you encountered that you hope that Ms Bondurant would give their own book to! When I finished the third book I knew that the fourth one would be about Catherine and I have to say that this is the best one of all of them!
I think that Ms Bondurant’s writing gets better and better with each book, the topics she touches upon become more and more complex and challenging and she does justice to them! In this story we have the older woman-younger man situation, how to find yourself after a divorce, how to find your confidence as a woman, how to deal with guilt that is actually not yours as you were too young to have a choice about the situation that brings the guilt about, difficulty with asking for help and feeling that you deserve the help and love … Ms Bondurant really tackled some hard issues in her story about Catherine and her man!
I read this book in one sitting, I could not put it down as I wanted to know how Catherine and her man find their way to their HEA … I am so happy to have been able to take this ride with them! I invite all you to take a chance and take the ride as well!

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For Finlay (For You, #1) by J. Nathan – Review by Jenni Bishop

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For Finlay (For You, #1)For Finlay by J. Nathan
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

After putting of going to University for two years, Finlay Thatcher is finally attending the University of Alabama. For two years Finlay Thatcher is trying to move on with her life after losing her best friend, her other half, her brother, her twin, Cole. Cole had been her life but that life was sadly taken away from her. Cole was becoming the one thing he always wanted to be, a quarterback in football and he was damn good but Finlay was pushing him away because his fame was too much for her, now he had been taken away, when she had treated him so badly, and now she would never have the chance to make amends for her actions.

Now Finlay is a water girl for the football team and has to face Caden Brooks. A man she has hated for two years. A man who has taken the place on the football team that should have been her brothers. A man she knows she should stay away from but the more they are together the more she can’t find the reasons she once had to hate him.

Caden Brooks is the quarterback and feels himself drawn to Finlay. A girl he should not have feelings for. A girl who is not only beautiful but is sassy and smart. Caden Brooks hates his father and wants nothing to do with him for cheating and walking out on his mother. But is Caden in trouble of doing what his father once did? Will Finlay be able to forgive herself and move on to be alive again?

This is a sweet story of two people overcoming their past. I was in tears and felt for Finlay a girl who had lost so much and was trying to find her way back. If it makes me emotional it is a good story.

Reviewed by @jennadb

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Slaving Over Christmas by Allyson R. Abbott – Review by Jenni Bishop

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Slaving Over ChristmasSlaving Over Christmas by Allyson R. Abbott
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Jill and Tom are spending Christmas home alone, no family, no kids, just the two of them . Tom has been out of work for two years and it has put a strain on not only their finances but their love life as well. Both are missing the intimacy that they have shared and wonder if it will ever come back. Tom has a new job to start and with it has bought a new found confidence that he has been sadly lacking the last two years.

They have decided to only spend five dollars on each other for Christmas presents and little do they know that they will be the best presents they could each have received at a much needed time.

I really enjoyed this book. This is a lovely story about two people rediscovering each other in more than one way and realising their love for each other is stronger than ever.

Reviewed by @jennadb

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Seraphina’s Awakening (Seraphina, #1) by Sheena Hutchinson – Review by Jenni Bishop

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Seraphina's Awakening (Seraphina, #1)Seraphina’s Awakening by Sheena Hutchinson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Nathaniel has been summoned before God for what he thinks is a promotion. Once in his presence he is given an assignment on Earth. Nathaniel is not happy but does as he is told, thinking if he does a good job he will be looked upon favorably in God’s eyes and be able to return to Heaven.

Nathaniel takes up his role as guardian to watch over Seraphina (Sera). Nathaniel doesn’t know why he’s been sent to watch over her but begins to suspect there is more to her than meets the eye. When he starts to feel things for her he takes time out to think about things. Unfortunately when he is not watching over her an accident happens and he does the only thing he can think of, to save her life. God calls Nathaniel back to be punished for what he has done. Nathaniel is now a fallen angel, Nate, who can’t wait to get back to Sera and finally meet her.

Sera has been having strange dreams and always dreams about he man with the blue eyes. The dreams, having happened ever since she was 18 years old, makes her feel she is living two lives and is always exhausted from them. When strange things start happening to Sera, she thinks she is going crazy but she also believes she is meant for more. Sera grudgingly goes with her best friend, Amanda, to see a psychic. Whilst waiting for Amanda she is approached by Anna, another psychic who tells her that she needs trust in herself to face what is to come.

This story is well written and if you are into good and evil, Angels and Demons and romance then this book is for you.

Reviewed by @jennadb

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Jasper (The Guardian League #1) by T.K. Lawyer – Review by Jenni Bishop

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Jasper (The Guardian League #1)Jasper by T.K. Lawyer
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Tatiana has a good life, a good job, good friends and her dog but Tatiana is looking for a man to love, a man that won’t up and leave her, the man of her dreams. Tatiana has been hurt in the past by men and finds it hard to trust and self esteem issues. On her way to work on day Tatiana is involved in an accident but instead of being hurt she somehow finds herself outside the car with a mystery man who has saved her. When she turns around to inspect the car and turns back he has gone but she cannot stop thinking about this mystery man.

Tatiana crosses paths again with this gorgeous mysterious man, Jasper. Jasper is more than he seems, he is a Guardian angel for the Guardian League. Jasper sees Tatiana as more than his charge, she is his mate. Tatiana is trying to let go of her past relationship fears as she builds a relationship with Jasper. Jasper will do anything for Tatiana and shows her his true self and does things that he is not supposed to do with a human and because of this gets called to front up at the Council. The council gives Jasper an ultimatum give up being an angel or give up Tatiana. Will Jasper give up the woman he loves or give up the job he loves? Can Tatiana get over her fears and have a life with the man she loves?

I am looking forward to reading more of this series. Who wouldn’t want to have their very own guardian angel?

Reviewed by @jennadb

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Tangled Up In You (Fleur de Lis #1) by A.L. Vincent – Review by Jana Teppih

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Tangled Up In You (Fleur de Lis #1)Tangled Up In You by A.L. Vincent
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Tangled Up In You by Ms Vincent is a good feel PG rated story of second chances. It is the first book in her Fleur de Lis series and I am looking forward to reading the next book (which luckily at this time has already been released).
I loved the slower pace of the story and while I was reading it, I felt like I was back in Louisiana – taking your time, heat and humidity, smells, flavors, people taking care of each other … I remembered walking down the Bourbon Street in the evening with masses of people going from a bar to bar, laughing and drinking, the music… Having beignets in Café Du Monde, the sweetness of them melting on my tongue … Tarot readers on the Jackson Square, sitting down and having my past and future read … (well, we are not going to talk about if it was correct or not).
I loved the way the author described the closeness of people in a small community, how people look out for each other and are there for each other, the acceptance of one’s mistakes and quirks, even when you are as crazy as Fuzzy Bear.
The main characters of this story are Emily and Noah, each has their own baggage and challenges … As I said, it is a story of second chances and the way they find the way (back) to each other is beautifully and soulfully told. You feel like you are journeying along with them and at times you mentally reach out your hand to comfort them … at times you mentally clap your hands when they have overcome a challenge. They have a great group of people supporting them and I am looking forward to hearing more about them!
Please keep writing Ms Vincent! You are bringing us all to Louisiana and to the ordinary people living their daily lives, facing similar challenges we are facing and interweaving it with the essence of Louisiana! Thank you for writing it so that everyone can read it (no steamy sex scenes, simply intimacy and closeness)!

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Awaken (Divine Hunter #1) by L.J. Sealey – Review by Jenni Bishop

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Awaken (Divine Hunter #1)Awaken by L.J. Sealey
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

He knows he is dead but how or why he doesn’t know. He also knows he spent time in Hell and doesn’t know how or why he is back from there. He knows he now inhabits the body of a man called Michael. He knows he was a successful businessman before he died but now he hunts monsters.

Michael takes note of the suicides of students at a University in Oakland and knows there is more to the story. He knows he needs to go to the Uni to investigate and sets about making sure he gets a job there as a psychology professor. There he meets Lacy an assistant professor in the psychology department who he forms a friendship with. Michael mentions to Lacy that he has noticed that one of the students seems to be acting strange. Lacy notices the same thing and lets Michael know what she has seen.

Michael learns that a demon is involved and he calls in his friend Evo for help. Together as they investigate they realise they are all in danger and are in a battle for their lives. Evo calls in a favour and they meet Alethia who agrees to help them. After ending up back in Hell, Michael is saved but Evo ends up stuck there. When Michael trades his own life for the one he loves he is once again pulled from entering Hell and finds out who and what he truly is.

Can Michael fight the demons and find his way back to the one he loves? Will Evo be saved from a life in Hell?

I enjoyed this book. It is action packed full of all sorts of paranormal beings. I want to read the next book to see where this story goes.

Reviewed by @jennadb

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Fixing Fate (Pleasant Valley, #1) by Anna Brooks – Review by Jenni Bishop

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Fixing Fate (Pleasant Valley, #1)Fixing Fate by Anna Brooks
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

As Mellie stands looking at the house her grandfather has left her, Mellie realises she has done the bravest thing she has ever done in her life, driven by herself away from her safety net, to a place she has never seen. Taking a look around she discovers that the place needs more work than she expected and even though she knows she has a crew coming to do the repairs she decides to make a start on things. Mellie becomes scared out of her mind when she realises she is not alone in the house but once her panic attack subsides she realises it is her brothers friend, Smith, the one who is going to do the repairs. Smith comes to realise that something bad has happened to Mellie and knows he wants to be the one to help her, protect her. He knew it was bad but when he finds out exactly what happened to her it makes him even more protective of her. Jay, Mellie’s brother is a detective and is trying to juggle his job and keeping an eye out to protect his baby sister. It now seems that there is more than one threat to her life. Can both Smith and Jay keep Mellie safe? Can Mellie finally get over being frightened and having a normal life? Can Smith finally find peace with his past?

I thoroughly enjoyed this book. I loved the characters and my heart ached for them as I went on this journey with them.

Reviewed by @jennadb

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Taking Tiffany (Breaking and Taking #2) by M.K. Harkins – Review by Jenni Bishop

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Taking Tiffany (Breaking and Taking #2)Taking Tiffany by M.K. Harkins
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

After her high school boyfriend cheated on her Tiffany has sworn off relationships. Tiffany and Jain keep trying to set Todd up with women and fail to notice that he happens to have his eyes on someone. Now Tiffany finds herself at another fundraiser trying to set Todd up once again with a long lost friend. When said friend turns up Tiffany has to come to terms with her true feelings for Todd. After Tiffany is accosted by her drunk ex boyfriend Todd comes to the rescue and gives in to his feelings. Tiffany and Todd talk and decide to give it a shot but strange things start to happen that seems that someone is trying to keep them apart.

Rich socialite, Angela, has been sent to Romania to work at an orphanage for a year by her parents for all the trouble she caused. She has spent all her life lying and manipulating and her family want nothing to do with her. When she arrives Angela wants nothing to do with Romania and the appalling conditions she finds there. Through Ivy, Angela starts to find a side of herself she has never known and realises just how little money can make you happy.

Lurking in the background is someone out for revenge. A plot has been hatched to kidnap Tiffany and make others suffer. While Tiffany thinks she is out for a day of fun, everyone else is trying to find her after receiving a ransom letter.

Will Tiffany be found in time and who are her kidnappers? Will Angela be able to face her past and make amends for all the bad she has done?

M K Harkins has done it again with the next instalment of this series. I love the characters and enjoyed the stories of Tiffany and Angela. You will love this story and won’t want to put it down.

Reviewed by @jennadb

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Magic-Scars (The Crown of Stones, #2) by C.L. Schneider – Review by Jenni Bishop

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Magic-Scars (The Crown of Stones, #2)Magic-Scars by C.L. Schneider
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Malaq tells his brother King Draken that Ian Troy is dead. His death came about due to the collapse of a mine.

Ian Troy was captured and kept prisoner by King Drakens demand. Prisoners are kept at Darkhorne prison which is a bleak and horrifying place and kept under control with a drugs. Troy has lost his memory as a result of the drugs administered to him while he was in prison. He wakes on a ship and doesn’t remember who he is and what happened to him. Troy tries to recover his memories but gets frustrated with how slowly they are returning. As the memories start to return he wonders if it was better not knowing. Troy’s magic use and the effects it has on his body and mind leads him to wonder if he will turn out like his father, a Reth.

Malaq is building a force of people from across the lands who are willing to fight for what they believe in. Troy’s relationships are strained and he struggles to rebuild trust as he blames himself for things that he has done whilst in captivity. He discovers he has many friends, old and new, who are willing to help him as they believe that any hope they have of freedom lies with him. Troy’s quest is to restore power to the Crown of Stones with the help of others but there are consequences for the magic users when they cast.

Troy and his best friend are my favorite characters but I felt anger and sadness by the things that happen to them. This is a fast paced story, that is full of drama, action and magic. I am sure you will enjoy this journey into this magical world.

Reviewed by @jennadb

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Dead Before Dying (Shadow Valley Manor #1) by Kerry Schafer – Review by Jenni Bishop

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Dead Before Dying (Shadow Valley Manor #1)Dead Before Dying by Kerry Schafer
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Maureen is determined to get out of hospital and on with her life after spending weeks recovering from being shot. Whilst her doctor is trying to tell her how to look after herself, Maureen is focused on the man lurking outside her hospital room. Abel is here for something but she doesn’t know what it is. He gives her a lift home where she discovers her husband has moved another woman in.

Abel informs her that he has an undercover job for her at Shadow Valley Manor and who her contact will. The welcome she receives it hostile but this does not stop Maureen from barging her way in. Her time of arrival at the Manor coincides with a death of one of the people living there.

Maureen soon discovers her contact has been murdered and more strange deaths keep happening with a lot of unanswered questions. Maureen is used to working with the Paranormal and tries to piece things together. The things she finds leads her to more questions and finds that they could be related to her past.

Will Maureen be able to save the residents of Shadow Valley Manor or will she like so many other fall victim to the unnatural happens?

This story is well written with lots of twists and turns and surprises. If you like crime and paranormal then you will like this story.

Reviewed by @jennadb

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Savage Collision: A Hawke Family Novel by Gwyn McNamee – Review by Colleen Noyes

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Savage Collision: A Hawke Family Novel (The Hawke Family Book 1)Savage Collision: A Hawke Family Novel by Gwyn McNamee
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Savage Collision by Gwyn McNamee is an incredible mix of romance, love, lust, heat, and just the right amount of suspense to keep it interesting. It’s a story about two people who each have their own struggles, hang ups, and walls coming together in the most unexpected way.

Savage Hawke is a man’s man, good looking, powerful, successful and sexy. He exudes all the power you would want in a partner, rough around the edges but a natural born protector.

Danika is the type of woman who walks into a room and commands the attention of everyone there. A woman who puts up with nothing and let’s you know she’s in charge. She has a confidence about her that make the women jealous and the men pant. A woman who will give you a run for your money in the control department.

When their worlds collide in the most unexpected way it takes your breath away. As you read this story you can feel the tension in the room every time they are together. You feel the disgust, the passion, the lust, the heat, the anger. Savage runs a very unsavory business and Danika can’t wrap her head around it. She immediately jumps to the conclusion that he is a disgusting example of a human being. However, you know what they say about don’t judge a book by its cover.

Danika has a job of her own that is becoming increasingly dangerous and she will soon discover just how dangerous. Each of these characters have a past that has built them into who they are now. There are secrets, tragedies, family dynamics, friends, enemies and so much more. This book will take you on a full range of emotions from laughter, to tears, from heat, to ice, from hatred, to love. It will make you stop and think about so many aspects, about what you can give, what you can accept, the true meaning about what love is and isn’t about.

The author did a perfect job of adding more than one layer to the story. She has begun to build a foundation for the secondary characters and you can’t wait to see where they go and if they will show up in future books. I hope this will be the first in a very long line of books with these characters.

Review by @colleennoyes

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Promises of Virtue (Earthbound Angels Book 2) by Randi Perrin – Review by Jana Teppih

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Promises of Virtue (Earthbound Angels Book 2)Promises of Virtue by Randi Perrin
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Promises of Virtue is the second book of the series of Earthbound Angels and Ms Perrin did not let me down! I got fascinated by Cheryl in the first book and I was curious what Ms Perrin had in mind for her …
This story of a fallen angel in Paris, meeting another Earthbound angel who is stalked by Darkness, and then hey, there is this other American with a little orphaned daughter that is somehow connected to the French angel … what do you think will happen? Anything can happen and will … The twist and turns are mind boggling, the art, the food, the chemistry, the steam … olalla … I wonder if I could say ‘What happens in Paris …. needs to happen again!”
Ms Perrin words transport us where she wants us to go and we simply go along on a ride of a life time! Along Cheryl and Luc’s story, we also get a tour of Paris and insight into Monet.
I finished the book the day I got it and now I am in withdrawal … I hope the next Earthbound Angels story will come soon and will be even better. Ms Perrin keeps lifting the bar on herself!
You can read the book as a standalone I guess but I would never recommend you to do so, you would be missing out on so much so please, read Virtue of Death before you tackle Promised of Virtue, you will not regret it!

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Enigma: The Final Chapter (Enigma #4) by Shandi Boyes – Review by Jana Teppih

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Enigma: The Final Chapter (Enigma #4)Enigma: The Final Chapter by Shandi Boyes
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Enigma: The Final Chapter Isaac’s Story Book 4 by Shandi Boyes is the fourth book of the Series and definitely not a standalone. As the title says, it is the final chapter of Isaac’s story but it is not the last book, there will be more! Hugo will get his book and Hunter’s book is next so I am sure or more like I hope, we will hear more about Izzie and Isaac and Callie…
I have loved every book of Isaac’s Story and I have to admit, it has gotten better with every installment. At times I thought I had figured it all out and then… a total twist, there was actually nothing that I had figured out and that made the ending even sweeter!
In the final chapter we really find out if the love and trust between Isaac and Izzie will stand in the face of their greatest challenge so far … We will see how far Izzie will go to protect Isaac and how she will face her greatest fear.
I highly recommend the series to everyone! You will have many enjoyable hours ahead of you!

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Two Hearts Surrendered (Two Hearts Wounded Warrior Romance, #1) by Tamara Ferguson – Review by Jana Teppih

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Two Hearts Surrendered (Two Hearts Wounded Warrior Romance, #1)Two Hearts Surrendered by Tamara Ferguson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Two Hearts Surrendered by Tamara Ferguson is the first novella in her Two Hearts Wounded Warrior series which seems to be a spin-off her Takes of the Dragonfly series. You can totally read it as a standalone but if you fall in love with this book like I did, you will want to read the other stories in the series and you want to know more about the people you meet at the Dragonfly Pointe in Crystal Rock.
It is a military romance as you can guess from the title of the series. I have read quite a few books that deal with the challenges that the returning soldiers face. I am humbled by the way how Tamara Ferguson is able to convey it to us with her writing.
The story is obviously fictional but filled so much with the real live challenges that the return vets face that it could easily be based on a true story. It is a beautifully written story that you cannot put down, I cried and I laughed and I cried some more … it is so overwhelming, the pain and the love and the understanding and the support …
For me, the underlying lesson to take away is that it does not matter how much you have suffered and how tragic your life is, if there is someone who is willing to stick by you and has unconditional and bottomless care and love for you, do not push them away … there is a blessing in there and an opportunity to be happy.
I invite you to take the time and spend some hours with Luke and Kelly, you will not regret it!

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Ascenders: High School for the Recently Departed (Ascenders Saga Book 1) by C.L. Gaber – Review by Jana Teppih

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High School for the Recently Departed (Ascenders #1)High School for the Recently Departed by C.L. Gaber
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Ascenders by CL Gaber is a young adult paranormal book where the author gives us an imaginative and creative look into afterlife. She has created a whole new world for us and this is just the first step/book. It is the world between life and the afterlife where the children and teenagers and young adults end up when they die and you are not ‘eligible’ to go up or down.
I loved the writing, it felt as if you were sitting in the movies and there was this amazing 3D blowing your mind away story unfolding in front of you and you just have to hold on for the ride!
The story pulled me in from the beginning, it was crazy to follow Walker in her ‘new’ reality where she was the only one who did not know yet that she was dead. I have to admit, I cried a lot when I read the book, I also laughed a lot … and I never really experienced the high school in the way it is generally portrayed in the books and movies so it was fun to read how the author conformed to the ‘high school stereotype’ but made it so fun that you could laugh your pants off.
I loved the dynamics and intimacy between Walker and Daniel, the compassion both of them inspire in us, we keep our fingers crossed until the last page and I have to say that I jumped straight into the second book when I was done with the first one, you just cannot let go of the story as you want to know … what will be the punishment, what will be next…
And then there were the side characters, oh my… it was really cool to make connection to the famous people who we know from the history and who turn up as teachers or guest lecturers at the Academy aka the high school, as the title says!
Put aside some time and enjoy it! You will not regret it!

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Eve of the Exceptionals: A YA Epic Fantasy by Parker Sinclair – Review by Erica Fish

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Eve of the Exceptionals: A YA Epic FantasyEve of the Exceptionals: A YA Epic Fantasy by Parker Sinclair
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Eve of the Exceptionals by Parker Sinclair is my first book by this author. It is a quick read, but on the other hand if you do not pay attention you may miss a lot of symbolisms in the book.

From the beginning of the story, Gem and Prince Ryzyn were special to one another. They just did not know it at the time. Gem was sent after the Heart of Cyan and she did not realize that is what she was supposed to get from the castle. Gem had her hands on it but to make her escape she left it behind with Prince Ryzyn. She knew that she would be seeing the Prince and the Heart of Cyan again.

This story takes you on a roller coaster ride. There are magical beasts, good magic and evil magic. There is a love story in the background between Gem and Prince Ryzyn. If you miss one line the story will not have the same meaning. Magical forces keep moving towards the Heart of Cyan but only one can master the power, and so they thought.

The phrase “Be Swift Be True” will have a new meaning after you finish this story. I cannot wait to read more by Parker Sinclair.

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