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Complicated Choices by Risa Nyman – Review by Kerry Carr

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Complicated ChoicesComplicated Choices by Risa Nyman
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is a YA family story. It is a story of strength resistance and so much love. It is a very moving story about a young girl called Claire who has her whole future ahead of her. But when her mum has another baby and then falls into a pit of depression and despair it is up to Claire to raise her brother. Dealing with a parent that is unwell is hard enough but also dealing with the responsibility of a newborn is more than any young person should have to shoulder. But Claire steps up and does that. Putting her life and dreams and ambitions on hold to care for her mum and brother.
There is a member of the family who seems to want to help though and that’s Claires Uncle. He offers to give her the money for her college fund but there’s a catch, she has to give up her brother for adoption.
Now Claire has a decision to make that doesn’t just affect her but everyone she loves. Should she allow her brother to be put up for adoption so that her life can return to normal? Or should she fight to keep her brother and her family together?
This is is a very moving and inspiring story and Claires character is so well written. You feel every emotion she goes through and you feel like your fighting every fight that she does.
Overall I enjoyed this story and everything it was trying to teach us but more importantly I loved Claire. Her strong character is what really made this story for me. The strength it took to not only care for herself and her brother but also her mum was amazing I’m not sure I could have been that strong at her age.

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Dead Keen (Things Unseen Book 2) by Anise Eden – Review by Megan Conley

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Dead Keen (Things Unseen #2)Dead Keen by Anise Eden
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is the second (and final) book in the Things Unseen series. I highly recommend reading the first book prior to reading this one simply so you have a better understanding of the characters and the trials and tribulations they’ve been through. It will definitely give you a better understanding of them. I found Eden’s writing style to be very addicting. I was pulled in from the beginning and she didn’t let me go until the very last page. This is a romantic suspense, psychological thriller that has drama, twists, turns, emotion, action…you name it…it’s in here. I can’t really say enough good things about this book. It’s fantastic and well written…I couldn’t put it down and I look forward to my next read by Anise Eden.

 

Reviewed by @meggs1717

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Deadly Vengeance (The Vaccaro Empire Collection Book 2) by Anise Storm – Review by Angela Shirley

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Deadly Vengeance (The Vaccaro Empire #2)Deadly Vengeance by Anise Storm
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Luca has a plan, the Vaccaro’s took something away from him and his family he is determined to get pay back, in the form of Vaccaro’s eldest daughter but can he convince her he is the one for her.

Valenzia has had a sheltered life, her father have kept them away from the world, not really understanding the family business but hearing the rumours of her Papa and mother. Until one day her world is turned upside down and in walks Luca, a mysterious dark stranger with a past like her fathers.

Valenzia becomes infatuated by Luca and although they start off as enemies, they stat to have trust and affection but will her family understand or will the riff that has been decades in the making ruin their lives.

This is the second book in this series and it just as full of twists and turns as the first one. Luca’s character starts off as a normal man but understanding his his makes his character more interesting as the story goes on. The character of Valenzia made an equal too Luca and she was just as sassy and strong to push back at the strong alpha character.

I loved the secondary characters who enhanced and made the story more intense as you continue to consume this brilliant story. I can’t wait to read more from this wonderful series in the future as the writing is engaging and keeps you on the edge of your chair.

Love Shots (Bluestone Series Book 4) by Isobel Reed – Review by Jennifer Gordon

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Love Shots (Bluestone Series Book 4)Love Shots by Isobel Reed
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Another enjoyable and engaging story in the Bluestone County Series, and I love being back in this small town and meeting its residents. Finding herself back in Bluestone County where she grew up was not in Summer’s plan, neither was having no home or job. Having left behind a dangerous ex boyfriend Summer still dreams of being able to take over her grandfather’s bar, but she soon learns that it’s already been bought, and by her childhood friend Teddy. I don’t know who was more surprised Summer of retired Navy SEAL Teddy when she completely looses it and starts throwing very expensive bottles of whiskey at him! However, Teddy had missed his old friend and was interested in more than friendship with her, having already missed his chance with her once before he was not going to let that happen again. This is a second chance at love romance with a friends to lovers theme. I loved both Summer and Teddy, and although they are complete opposites their chemistry sizzled off the page. As usual the descriptive narrative really brings the characters and the small town feeling to life, making me feel immersed in the story.

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The Guardsman (The Olympic Peninsula Series Book 2) Audiobook by Cat Treadgold – Review by Cindy Mayberry

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This is Liam and Teresa’s story. Once again this author took me by surprise. The audio story puts your mind into the audience. This story holds all the suspense and romance you could ask for. Teresa is a strong independent woman and Liam has seen and been through enough trauma. While both are tied together by family and blood, their banter is fun to follow. Can Liam and Teresa fight their true hearts and stay away from each other? Will their siblings help to keep them apart? Having been to Port Townsend, this story fits perfectly, even if there were some fabrications.  I still love this story. This could be a standalone, but I feel you should read this series in order, as book one has some information that will keep you on track with this story. Yes I will be waiting to see where this author takes the next in this intriguing series.

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Complicated Choices by Risa Nyman – Review by Rosanna Ingram

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Complicated ChoicesComplicated Choices by Risa Nyman
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Claire has her future planned out, until her mother has a second child and Claire’s life is upended. Her mother is struggling with this surprise pregnancy and Claire goes from only child to taking on the mother role for her mom and her brother, Harry. As secrets come to light, Claire’s planned out future is no longer attainable…and her family might be torn apart. With the help of her best friend, Mads, and their new friend, Chad, Claire is forced to make decisions that will change the course of her life. When push comes to shove, which is more important…family or future?

Claire’s sense of loyalty to family is inspiring. She is willing to do whatever it takes in the name of family. At times, my heart broke for her and the situation she was in. And that final shocker…I was so mad for her. I enjoyed the loyalty her friends had, as well, and the support they gave her less than ideal situation. This was a story that I could not put down until the end. There were twists and turns along the way that kept me invested. Overall, a good story that I enjoyed reading.

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Softest Touch by Adina D. Grey – Review by Bobbi Wagner

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Softest TouchSoftest Touch by Adina D. Grey
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I enjoyed reading this sweet romance story. This is a shorter story but it packs a punch in a short amount of time. This is a well written story about Derek and Melinda. When Melinda becomes Derek’s assistant they never expected to find a strong attachment to each other. Their story is one of challenges and strength that it brings to their lives. This is a story you don’t want to miss. A fast paced story that I read in one sitting. An engaging story that kept me coming back to the end. I enjoyed watching the growth of the characters and how easy they made it easy to read. This is a great story that I highly recommend.

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Review by @bjwagner

A Rainbow Like You by Andréa Fehsenfeld – Review by Bobbi Wagner

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A Rainbow Like YouA Rainbow Like You by Andréa Fehsenfeld
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is my first book by this author which I enjoyed reading. I found this book to be well written with characters that keep the story engaging to the end. I enjoyed how the characters pulled me into their story from the start. They are creative, strong characters that add so much to the story. This is a story about Adrain, his band, a journalist and a fate that holds nothing back. There is great growth throughout the story. You don’t want to miss what fate has in store for these characters. This is a fast paced, engaging story that I highly recommend.

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Review by @bjwagner

Cruel King by K.M. Scott – Review by Robin Rankin

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Cruel KingCruel King by K.M. Scott
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Cruel King

It took me a little bit to get into the book but once I did I couldn’t put it down and I’m currently suffering from a book hangover.

It took me quite a while to warm up to Matthias, I really didn’t want to like him. Still not sure why he was so cruel to her since none of it was her fault, it was outside forces that caused most of the problems

Ava and Matthias’s story was sad in so many ways. They both had to deal with way too much loss at a young age and unfortunately like most the older you get the more you end up losing.

Crying or tearing up is something I do often enough that I don’t think about it. Sobbing is reserved for those gut punch moments and I did in fact sob.

I suggest having kleenex close by if you’re a Cryer and sit back and get lost in this story. I do hope we get to see all of the King boys travel down the love path.

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Refrain (Off the Record Book 3) by Madelynne Ellis – Review by Barbara Bohls

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Refrain (Off the Record Book 3)Refrain by Madelynne Ellis
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

WOW, is all I can say. This book took me through it. It has drama, trauma, romance, steam, friendships, sizzle, and a great plot. The inner turmoil that the main character has, is the center for the book. How he reacts to everything being brought to light about his past and the way he deals with it, is what keeps you turning pages. I couldn’t put the book down. It is the 3 book in the series and there is even a prequel to this series. It would be helpful to read the other books first if you really want an understanding of everything. However, it is not necessarily needed and you will find yourself wanting to read the other books in the series after this if you haven’t already. The books builds and builds and you will get lost in the feelings of the characters. My mood even shifted while reading this book. So be advised that you might need to take a time out from other people while reading this. You won’t want to be disturbed. I can’t give this book high enough praises by the way it handled certain situations and the feelings that it provokes within you. You won’t be disappointed with this book.
Reviewed by: @bbohls

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Cruel King by K.M. Scott – Review by Jules Herbert

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Cruel KingCruel King by K.M. Scott
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is the first book in quite a while where I have wanted to reach into the pages and slap one of the main characters up the side of the head or as my daughter would say Gibbs slap him!! LOL To me that is the sign of a talented author if they can have the reader that invested in the lives of the characters they have created, that they have such a emotional response to the storyline. I loved Ava and Matthias and I can’t wait to explore more books from this truly wonderful author.

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Lilly Tames Her Worries by Carole Heaney – Review by Lorralei Hoerner

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Lilly Tames Her WorriesLilly Tames Her Worries by Carole Heaney
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

5 Stars 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟

Lilly is a young girl who is ready to head back to school but forgets her best friend, her stuffed bunny Hun Bun. Lilly is nervous with her “heebie-jeebies” on what to do and how she can go about her day at school without her stuffed bunny, Hun Bun.

With different ways to help Lilly when she feels this way, Lilly learns from the school nurse and a new friend, Noah, how to cope when her “heebie-jeebies” come back and make her feel nervous all over again.

This is a beautifully illustrated book that is a great teaching story as well. I loved how the author explained in the story to Lilly the different ideas on how to overcome her worries. While this book -is for ages 7-10, I believe this is a great story for all ages, I even learned some different ways to help me with my worries too. Wonderful book.

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Refrain (Off the Record Book 3) by Madelynne Ellis – Review by Jules Herbert

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Refrain (Off the Record Book 3)Refrain by Madelynne Ellis
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The best way to sum this book up is to simply say it is written by a very talented author who gives us a storyline and characters that are dark, gritty and full of emotion. Now I stupidly came to this series in book 3. Take my advice and don’t do that! Start from book one because it took me a while to get a proper grip on who everyone was and I only had a slight understanding of what had happened prior. I really believe had I started from the very beginning that I would have enjoyed the book so very much more because I would have understood the characters more. I will now go back and start again! This series is so worth it!

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Mesmerised (Hybrid Lovers Book 2) by Toya Richardson – Review by Dawn Daughenbaugh

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Mesmerised (Hybrid Lovers #2)Mesmerised by Toya Richardson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

5 Star’s
Mesmerised (Hybrid Lovers Book 2) by Toya Richardson

Mesmerised is the second book in the Hybrid Lovers Series and is a wonderfully written Paranormal Romance that I absolutely loved reading. I’ve read other books by this author and this one is my favorite yet. It’s fast paced and the characters are developed and engaging, they make the story pop off the pages. Antonie is a hybrid ready to meet his mate and Donna is ready to end hers and meet her maker. Antonie saves her life but can these two work out their differences to defeat the demons? I highly recommend reading this book to find out what happens next. I truly enjoyed reading this book and look forward to reading more from this Author.

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Mesmerised (Hybrid Lovers Book 2) by Toya Richardson – Review by Hannah Porter

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Mesmerised (Hybrid Lovers #2)Mesmerised by Toya Richardson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

As this is my first time reading work from author Toya Richardson and I gotta say I am Mesmerised 😂 but no really I truly was. This author has written such a unique and captivating story that I for one could not put down.I don’t think I have ever read a book yet that has the Hybrid as a vampire/angel. That in itself was amazing, everything else was just icing on the cake. But the demon Gutstov is a real piece of work ill tell you what. And Antoine and Donna are in my opinion perfect for each. Lol i mean his waiting over 600 years for his fated mate i’m glad the chemistry between them is there and growing stronger.Although this can be read as a standalone, I am definitely going to go read the first book in this series Captivated

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Vampires of Atlantis by Courtney Davis – Review by Susan Ratchford

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Vampires of AtlantisVampires of Atlantis by Courtney Davis
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Vampires Of Atlantis
By: Courtney Davis
Review by: Susan Ratchford
5 Stars

This book was right up my alley! I absolutely love vampires and mythology! Courtney Davis always does a wonderful job of making her novels so relatable and addicting and this is one of my favorite novels by her so far! In Vampires Of Atlantis she creates an intriguing world filled with monsters and romance! Speaking of romance, I love the relationship between Katherine and Ian. I couldn’t get their interactions out of my head or my heart! I am a sucker for relationships like theirs! I really hope this novel isn’t the last we see of them or their adventures! It’s such a fun twist on the mythology of Atlantis! I highly recommend this book to anyone that likes the paranormal, romance, vampires, myths, or monsters! You will not be dissatisfied!

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Russian and Royally Complicated (The Crowned Hearts Series Book 2) by Gwyn McNamee and Christy Anderson – Review by Hannah Porter

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Russian and Royally ComplicatedRussian and Royally Complicated by Gwyn McNamee
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Yes after reading the last book with Bridget and Fynix, with that little tease at the end with Daphne and Lev. I just had to run and read this book. OMG this was even better than the last. Although I really liked Bridget and Fynix, Daphne and Lev are my absolute favorite. Their semi-enemies to lovers is filled with so much passion and angst it was almost tangible. The authors really make you feel like you are the characters making us feel all their emotions lol i love it. I would definitely clear your day cause this would make you want to finish it all in one go and leave you frustrated when someone or something interrupts you.i really hope this isnt the end of this world. I would love to see it continue somehow 🥰 I would 100 % recommend reading not just this one but both of the bools in the series.

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Mesmerised (Hybrid Lovers Book 2) by Toya Richardson – Review by Nina Maes

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Intriguing
Strong characters with a great storyline. This novel had me from the beginning and I didn’t want to put it down. I love how the author was able to tap into my imagination and panted a beautiful picture for me to follow. I recommend this book to anyone who wants to escape the norm and dive into a fast-paced book. Looking forward to reading more of this author.Mesmerised (Hybrid Lovers #2)Mesmerised by Toya Richardson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Intriguing
Strong characters with a great storyline. This novel had me from the beginning and I didn’t want to put it down. I love how the author was able to tap into my imagination and panted a beautiful picture for me to follow. I recommend this book to anyone who wants to escape the norm and dive into a fast-paced book. Looking forward to reading more of this author.

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A Rainbow Like You by Andréa Fehsenfeld – Review by Paloma Fierro 21/08/2023

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Adrian is a songwriter for a rock group with several accomplishments under his belt. But now after the success the public demands more, and Adrian’s colleges as well, and since he himself is having a hard time trying to write anything worth recording. Alas, a lucky lady has arrived on his bus in the form of a girl named Hastings, and this may be the beginning of an amazing journey for the both of them.

Mesmerised (Hybrid Lovers Book 2) by Toya Richardson – Review by Manda Kelly

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Mesmerised (Hybrid Lovers #2)Mesmerised by Toya Richardson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This book was AMAZING… I love the Supernatural world, and these HYBRIDS are great. Antoine and Donna are fated mates. They have instant chemistry, and it’s ELECTRIC. I couldn’t get enough of their story. Toya Richardson has created an awesome world within our world, full of amazing beings. I can’t wait to read more of her work! HIGHLY RECOMMEND!!!

Review by Manda Kelly

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Softest Touch by Adina D. Grey – Review by Ashley Sugar

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Softest TouchSoftest Touch by Adina D. Grey
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This was such a cute and quick read! Extremely fast paced romance book but I throughly enjoyed it! The characters were like able and I loved the little bit of spice the author threw in there 😉 I do wish the book was longer because I’d love to read more about Melinda and Derek! I’d love to have more of their story because they’re so cute with each other!

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Oscar and Emmy Lose a Friend (Oscarand Emmy Series) by Terri Sabol – Review by Jennifer Crain

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Oscar and Emmy Lose a Friend: A story about pet loss and saying goodbye to a furry friend. Ages 5-11 and kindergarten through grade 5.Oscar and Emmy Lose a Friend: A story about pet loss and saying goodbye to a furry friend. Ages 5-11 and kindergarten through grade 5. by Terri Sabol
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I appreciated this is a direct continuation of Oscar and Emmy Gain a Friend, which makes the pairing logical for helping children acquire, and sadly, lose, pets. This book continues, as with the first, to depict the cats and playful and cheerful animals and characters. This book has a great description of what a vet may do, which helps with social stories for young kids that have to take their pet to the vet, written in language they can understand, and teaching proper terms such as euthanasia (yes, children can understand big words). For a sensitive topic, the authors handle it well and this book provides a bridge to discuss pet loss with young children.

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The Magic Carousel (The Brass Ring Series Book 1) by K.L. Small – Review by Mandy Ott

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The Magic Carousel (The Brass Ring #1)The Magic Carousel by K.L. Small
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The Magic Carousel is a fast-paced, exciting read! The target audience is 9-12 year olds, but my 39-year-old self absolutely loved it! It has a little bit of sadness with the sickness of Rusty’s grandpa, but it also has excitement, adventure, and magic! K. L. Small delivers unbelievably realistic characters who not only have flaws, but also struggle with different things in life. This book not only creates a magical world full of adventure, but also touches on real-world topics such as bullying, alcoholism, and health issues. This book reminded me that, despite all the negative things around me, there is still magic and excitement all around as well; I just have to look closer. The magical world beyond the carousel was so vividly detailed and explanatory that I felt like I was right alongside Rusty on his exploits. I can’t wait to read more books by K. L. Small!

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Lilly Tames Her Worries by Carole Heaney – Review by Trista Martin

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Lilly Tames Her WorriesLilly Tames Her Worries by Carole Heaney
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I work in children’s mental health and think the author did a great job discussing anxiety. Not only did she normalize anxiety on a children’s level, but she showed how Lily overcame a rough day of forgetting her stuffed rabbit. I look forward to reading this to kids at work.

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Regaining Integrity (Code of Honor Book 4) by Brooke May – Review by Trista Martin

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Regaining Integrity (Code of Honor)Regaining Integrity by Brooke May
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This series keeps getting better and better. The characters are interconnected, but I doot believe reading the books in order is necessary. In Chase and Angelica’s story, Chase returns after serving in the military for many years. His nephew’s teacher quickly catches his eye, and he can’t understand why she isn’t interested. Or why everyone is telling him to leave her alone. Only once he remembers who she is can these two truly have a chance to develop a relationship.

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Taking Flight (Code of Honor Book 2) by Brooke May – Review by Trista Martin

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Taking Flight (Code of Honor Book 2)Taking Flight by Brooke May
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I enjoyed book one, but Brooke May took it up a notch with Taking Flight. She did a great job developing the characters and setting the plot for Holt and Jody’s story. I was pulled in quickly and can’t wait to read the next book involving one of these military men.

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The Reluctant Suitor (The Studs of Clear Creek County) by Stacy-Deanne – Review by Megan Pesek

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The Reluctant Suitor: BWWM Historical Western (The Studs of Clear Creek County)The Reluctant Suitor: BWWM Historical Western by Stacy-Deanne
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The Reluctant Suitor is a contemporary romance novella which is part of The Studs of Clear Creek County series. While it can be read as a standalone, the characters are best understood when read in order. The Reluctant Suitor is Fisher and Billie Jean’s story in the series.

Fisher Hines is wealthy and he does all he can to earn the respect of his family. Overseeing the employees at Locke Farm is one way to keep their respect and propel himself forward in their eyes.

Billie Jean is visiting family in Clear Creek County from college. What she never expected was to fall for Fisher when she visited home. Billie Jean finds herself conflicted after learning that Fisher works for Locke Farm. She is determined to do what is best for her family and the Black people who work for Locke Farm and she’ll do it with or without Fisher’s help.

Stacy-Deanne does a good job tackling the tough issues. The story between Billie Jean and Fisher was partially eclipsed by what was happening with Sue Ann. I would have preferred more development between Billie Jean and Fisher, but still found it to be a good story overall.

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Russian and Royally Complicated (The Crowned Hearts Series Book 2) by Gwyn McNamee and Christy Anderson – Review by Maria Colon

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Russian and Royally ComplicatedRussian and Royally Complicated by Gwyn McNamee
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The authors take us along the journey of an enemies to lovers path with Lev and Daphne in the second book of The Crowned Hearts Series.

I have to go back and read book one but as far as Lev and Daphne…

Daphne has a secret she stays behind in Lovolia after her best friend’s wedding rather than return to the United States.
Lev is required to go on a mandatory holiday while his best friend goes on his honeymoon.

The two end up together where one thing leads to another and things happen that lead to other secrets coming to light…cue the plot twist I did not see coming.

I’ll leave it there and let you find out what happens.

The book was filled with plenty of banter among the main characters. I will read the first book in the series.

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Courage of Us (Code of Honor Book 1) by Brooke May – Review by Trista Martin

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Courage of Us (Code of Honor Book 1)Courage of Us by Brooke May
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Good second chance romance. Duke essentially leaves right after high school after he and Patience finally take their relationship to the next level. Instead of giving her an explanation, he is gone for many years serving his country. Patience and Duke give their relationship a second chance when he returns home after they have gone through lots on their own.
I look forward to the next book in this series.

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Granting Katelyn (Sweet Valley Series) by S.E. Reichert – Review by Julie Johnson

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Granting KatelynGranting Katelyn by S.E. Reichert
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The Sullivan sisters are a fabulous family that seems like a lot of fun. In book two of this series, we learn more about Katelyn and get to catch up on what Ellie’s been up to.

Katelyn is restless and feels the need to travel again. When an opportunity comes up for her to go and help an injured horse, she’s all in. She might be the only one who is though! The set-up came through a third party mutual friend so when Katelyn shows up at Grant Tennyson’s farm to help rehabilitate his prize-winning thoroughbred, he’s wondering where she came from. Grant is also not wanting her help and will do what he can to get her to leave.

Katelyn is full of sass and vinegar and finds a way into Grant’s horse barn, as well as into his heart. She’s not afraid to put him or anyone else in their place and she will prove that she’s the right person for this job.

There is a lot of raw emotion in this story and it’s one that goes by fairly quickly. My favorite character has to be the butler in this story though! I loved Katelyn and Grant but the butler stole my heart!

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