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The Book of Hours (Coin/Hours Duology Book 2) Audiobook by Maria Elena Alonso-Sierra – Review by Shelly Kittell

I sure enjoyed this continuation of The Coin series. Gabriela and Richard took this story to a whole new level. The spy game and time travel just made it so fanflippingtastic. I used to think The DaVinci Code was great but I have since changed my mind. I found the protagonist in this series are well-written and developed. The antagonist fit their role perfect. The story flows smooth and it just is. Listening to this in audio was different. It is enjoyable in audio. I do with the variety in voices had been more. I am and always will be a fan of variety and not just the same voice. It’s worth the listen because it’s got the same thrill and is exciting.


Cruel Start (Hidden Valley Elite) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Deb Robinson

Cruel Start (Hidden Valley Elite #4.5)Cruel Start by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This prequel drew me in right away. Aspen is dealing with so much parent drama that she escapes to the cove to cliff jump. (That would not be relaxing to me.) I’d be terrified. This is where she meets Phoenix, the super hot guy that makes Aspen speechless.

The author is focused on the main characters but the back story and characters are going to hook you as well. I will most definitely read the next two books in the series.

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Cruel Start (Hidden Valley Elite) by Isla Vaughn – Review by M Policicchio

Cruel Start (Hidden Valley Elite #4.5)Cruel Start by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Not even sure where to start. Phoenix, the responsible cousin. Aspen, the new girl in town, the one he can’t seem to take his eyes off of. A one-night stand that took Aspen’s virginity and left her with a parting gift. They don’t really know each other. Not even sure they like each other. But when the stick turns pink again and again, Aspen makes the decision for herself. She will let Phoenix know to make the decision for himself.

When Phoenix finds out, the trauma of his past comes roaring back at him. Phoenix won’t do what his dad did to him. He will be there. He will be a good dad, even if it means risking everything he has worked for his entire life, all the plans he has made. The question is now what about Aspen.

Aspen’s life is in flux. Her parents never stop fighting. They just moved to town because of her parents’ financial situation. Her sister is barely around. All she has is starting college in the fall. Her waitressing job will help cover everything her scholarships won’t. She just needed a little fun in her life. Cliff Diving was her escape. Until she saw him. She knew he was dangerous and a player. She liked the risk and took it. Thinking it was going to be easy to walk away. Now, she can’t. Her life is forever changed but that doesn’t mean his has to be.

Phoenix and Aspen start navigating what this means to each of them, separately and together. Throw in some family drama, some college frustrations, and some planned deception, what could go wrong? I can’t get enough of these characters. I love, love, love this series!!! I never want it to end. I love that all the boys are back together again at Thane. Can’t wait for the next installment. I need my fix. Seriously addicted to all things HVE!!!

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The Silent Woodsman (The Olympic Peninsula series Book 1) by Cat Treadgold – Review by Jennifer Gordon

The Silent Woodsman (The Olympic Peninsula series Book 1)The Silent Woodsman by Cat Treadgold
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This was an enjoyable and engaging contemporary romance which kept me happily turning the pages. Country music heartthrob Joe Bob Blade is under strict doctors orders to not speak, and so takes himself off to an isolated cabin in the Hoh Rain Forest. He didn’t expect to find a woman collapsed on his doorstep during a freak storm, however he takes Ali in to look after her. Joe is surprised when it is obvious that Ali does not recognise him, and so decides to keep his identity a secret, as he’s enjoying being treated like a ‘normal’ guy. Even though Joe can only communicate by writing the connection between the pair is obvious, however they both resist as the timing is awful. It’s not until they are both back in the real world again that Joe realises that Ali never told him her surname. Both of them struggle to move on, and even a year and a half later they have not forgotten the two magical days they spent together. No spoilers as to whether they find each other again! I loved the original storyline with the main male character not being able to speak, as this added a different dimension to the story. The chemistry between Ali and Joe really came across in the story and the descriptive narrative brought both the characters and the setting to life.

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Goldilocks and the Six Simple Machines (Science Folktales) by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Tia Martel

Goldilocks and the Six Simple Machines (Science Folktales #3)Goldilocks and the Six Simple Machines by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

When Goldilocks comes up to the home of the Three Bears, she’s there to fix things. Now that she knows how to use six simple machines, she’s doing everything she can to help fix the stuff she broke and more!

It’s still Goldilocks like we know it, because the tools she has are too big or too small and she’s got to find what’s just right. When the bears come home to Goldilocks sleeping in the bed, they use a simple machine to lift her out.

Baby bear asks Goldilocks for help with her project, but can Goldilocks figure out how to use the six simple machines to help her?

This is such an adorable take on a fairytale. It would be a fun introduction to the simple machines or even just to help identify in a lesson.

A great little story for kids who love fixing things, teachers using simple machines, and homeschooling parents with science lessons!

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The Book of Hours (Coin/Hours Duology Book 2) Audiobook by Maria Elena Alonso-Sierra – Review by Amanda Swindle

The Book of Hours (Coin/Hours Cycle 2)The Book of Hours by Maria Elena Alonso-Sierra
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

While this is the second book in this duology, The Book of Hours is the first book I have read by this author. That being said, I was easily able to follow the story without having read the first book. I do feel like I could have benefitted by reading The Coin beforehand, and learned more of these characters, and will be going back to read that soon. The characters were easily relatable and the scenes were vivid and easy to picture. While there is suspense and romance, there is plenty of action and danger as well. When art enthusiast Arnold Wickham wants to purchase Gabriela’s work before an upcoming auction, and she refuses, things get a bit intense. Fueled by the rejection, Wickham will do whatever it takes to get what he wants. Richard Harrison, the man in love with Gabriela, will do anything within his power to keep her safe. I am not usually interested in romance novels but there was plenty of mystery, suspense, danger and action to keep me turning the pages. I definitely feel like reading the prior book would have helped me “know” the history and characters better, but I still enjoyed this read.

Reviewed by @zoltrixes
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A Match Made in Montana (The Millers of Marietta Book 2) by Elsa Winckler – Review by Jessie Hopkins

Annie is not looking to settle down. She is over the entire aspect of getting married. Craig doesn’t have any interest in being serious with anyone, ever. But for whatever reason, they have an unquenchable, undeniable attraction to one another. After an agreement to just let the next 2 weeks run their course and then be done. But will 2 weeks really be enough when all they can think about is one another?

 

This book has it all – the emotions, the turmoil, the “fun” of small town drama, and steamy scenes.

 

The Silent Woodsman (The Olympic Peninsula series Book 1) by Cat Treadgold – Review by Rebeca Elliott Figueiras

The Silent Woodsman (The Olympic Peninsula series Book 1)The Silent Woodsman by Cat Treadgold
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is the first in the Olympic Peninsula series focusing on Ali and Joe.

The beginning chapters were very sweet and started the story well. The writing was very descriptive, painting a vivid picture of the rainforest and log cabins. The chemistry builds between Ali and Joe quite well and I began rooting for the couple.

My heart went out to Ali and what she was going through (and what she previously went through) but admired the strength she displayed in surviving and moving forward.

Following the initial chapters, we are shown the pair separately which started well, however I personally felt this went on a little longer than necessary and slowed the pace of the book right down. This did then pick up again in part 2 but then there were a couple of things thrown in which felt a little random. Despite this, the story was still very interesting, and I enjoyed reading.

I look forward to reading more in the series.

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The Silent Woodsman (The Olympic Peninsula series Book 1) by Cat Treadgold – Review by Kerry Baker

The Silent Woodsman (The Olympic Peninsula series Book 1)The Silent Woodsman by Cat Treadgold
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This book is fun and entertaining from the get go and the perfect afternoon type read. The main characters are so well written and are so easy to like. I loved watching their initial connection develop, even if it wasn’t the most conventional start. Their relationship felt so natural and unforced, it was a joy to read.
This is another new author I will be adding to my list as I enjoyed every moment of reading this book. I love that it is the first book of a new series and I am excited to see what else will come.

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Oathbreakers Anonymous by Scott Warren – Review by Kerry Baker

Oathbreakers AnonymousOathbreakers Anonymous by Scott Warren
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

What a fantastic and entertaining book this is from start to finish. This book had a completely different feel to what I was expecting and I think that drew me in even more. I couldn’t help but root for the main character Marluck. There was just something about him that helps you to engage and makes you feel like you really get to know him. His journey is incredible and I became fully invested in it.
This is a new author to me and I loved their word building. The world and story created were well written and the book had the perfect flow. This book was thoroughly enjoyable and I cannot wait to see what else this author has to offer.

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Murder in a Gated Community by Laura Koerber – Review by Jo Wright

Murder in a Gated CommunityMurder in a Gated Community by Laura Koerber
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

If I had known this book was about snarky elderly women with twisted thoughts… I would have read it sooner!! Murder in a Gated Community is such an awesome short story. I really love the way that Koerber develops the characters and how the animals come into play. I love that they all have their own mental issues, but I was surprised by the end, definitely went a different way than I anticipated this bitter, wild-card of a woman would fall off her rocker. Loved it! Put it on your list!

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@jowright

The Book of Hours (Coin/Hours Duology Book 2) Audiobook by Maria Elena Alonso-Sierra – Review by Emily H

The Book of Hours (Coin/Hours Cycle 2)The Book of Hours by Maria Elena Alonso-Sierra
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Gabriela Martinez is ready to start a new chapter in her life. Gabriela is still waiting for the love of her life Richard Harrison to honor the words of love he promised her four years ago. Now she is under threat by a man named Arnold Wickham who is determined to get his hands on her manuscript and not allow anyone else to get a chance to see it. He is ruthless with his tactics, but little does Gabriela know this will set in motion to bring Richard back into her life sooner then he planned.

Richard felt he needed to make himself the man who deserved Gabriela. Now he is back and has no plans to go anywhere. Can he keep Gabriela protected while earning her trust again, can they find their second chance?

I listened to this on audible. I thought the story was great, it was full of twists and turns. You are pulled into a complicated relationship and suspenseful story. The audiobook though I was not a fan of the narrator, she is soft spoken and has no real inflection in her voice which conflicts with the overall tone of this edge of your seat story. Overall I would check out more by this author and go back to read the first book.

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Oathbreakers Anonymous by Scott Warren – Review by Kerry Carr

Oathbreakers AnonymousOathbreakers Anonymous by Scott Warren
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is a interesting and captivating fun fantasy adventure. The author does an amazing job of creating characters that grip you and don’t let go. I was fully invested in Marluck’s journey and learning about all the people he meets along the way. This story is unique and filled with twists and turns that I couldn’t put it down. I was gripped from beginning to end.

Marluck has been disgraced and discarded as part of the Goddess’s of fates champions. He had everything and lost it all. Now he’s on a quest to find his way back to claiming his position and everything he has lost. When he teams up with other disgraced and discarded people they band together to journey and reclaim their places. Each person’s story is different but they share one goal. To get back what they have lost.
What follows is an adventure filled with twists and turns as they all follow their own paths to hopefully find redemption and to return to their lives as they were before.

This is a great fantasy adventure filled with moments of laughter and fantastical beasts that really spark the imagination. The story is unique and captivating. I loved it

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The Book of Hours (Coin/Hours Duology Book 2) by Maria Elena Alonso-Sierra – Review by Jamie Burns

The Book of Hours (Coin/Hours Duology Book #2) by Maria Elena Alonso-Sierra continues the adventure of Gabriela and Richard. This is not the first time that fate has put these two together in difficult, life and death situations. This book is full of mystery and suspense, but it does kind of start off slowly in the beginning. The wait is well worth the twists and turns that Maria puts the reader and characters through, you will be captivated by the precision used to describe the various places Gabriela and Richard explore. Needless to say the action and suspense will keep you hooked until the very end of the book. Throughout the whole book, I kept rooting for Gabriela and Richard to find a way to make their love work and to finally put all of the danger behind them… However, knowing Gabriela, trouble would find another way to crash into her life. If you like mysteries and suspense, this is a wonderful read, and I highly recommend it!

Goldilocks and the Six Simple Machines (Science Folktales) by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Darian Vester

Goldilocks and the Six Simple Machines (Science Folktales #3)Goldilocks and the Six Simple Machines by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I thought the retelling was great. It was a nice way to add stem to the story without making it boring. Kids don’t realize that they’re using these methods in their everyday life, like how they pour the milk into their bowls. I also liked that in this version, Goldilocks is trying to help make things better instead of being a nuisance like in the original. Like other readers I found the illustrations to be lacking and don’t match the cover you’ll see on purchasing sites.

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A Match Made in Montana (The Millers of Marietta Book 2) by Elsa Winckler – Review by Tori Mitton

<a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/123238823-a-match-made-in-montana” style=”float: left; padding-right: 20px”><img border=”0″ alt=”A Match Made in Montana (The Millers of Marietta, #2)” src=”https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1678729959l/123238823._SX98_.jpg” /></a><a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/123238823-a-match-made-in-montana”>A Match Made in Montana</a> by <a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/6557709.Elsa_Winckler”>Elsa Winckler</a><br/>
My rating: <a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/5699408220″>5 of 5 stars</a><br /><br />
Annie has always dreamed of running a b&b, but isn’t getting enough business. Craig is a Savy marketing expert. Craig offers his services to get Annie some business going, but she couldn’t afford it nor focus with having Craig around. They meet when paths crossed during a wedding and Craig’s aunt is a matchmaker.<br />This was such a cute book, a little spice. But so much romance! Can’t wait for the next one!!
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Shadowed Obsession (Shadow Defense Security Series Book 1) by Mavery Ellscott – Review by Tausha Treadway

Shadowed Obsession: An Action-Packed Romantic Suspense Thriller (Shadow Defense Security Series Book 1)Shadowed Obsession: An Action-Packed Romantic Suspense Thriller by Mavery Ellscott
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Shadowed Obsession (Shadow Defense Security Series Book 1) by Mavery Ellscott. This is such a great 1st book in this Shadow Defense Security Series. Its the story of Kiera who is a high profile Public Relations Rep and very independent, intelligent and hard working. When she finds out she has a very tech savvy stalker. When the Montana Police Department can’t even figure out who he is she goes to her new neighbor Cade Hartford to help her. Cade is a retired Navy Seal and currently works for Shadow Defense Security. The stalking really picks up at one point and Cade is even worried he won’t be able to keep Kiera safe. While Kiera and Cade spend a lot of time together of course they begin to have feelings for each other and there are a few steamy scenes! I loved this book and can’t wait to read the next one!

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A Toast for Laurent (Vine Valley Book 1) by Theresa Paolo – Review by Chelsea Foster

A Toast for Laurent (Vine Valley, #1)A Toast for Laurent by Theresa Paolo
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I absolutely loved this book. The age setting and the love hate and back and forth. Laurent and Phoebe’s story is great. He doesn’t give up on her as she continues to runaway from him after returning 18 years later to use a pact they made in college. I definitely recommend reading this!

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The Book of Hours (Coin/Hours Duology Book 2) by Maria Elena Alonso-Sierra – Review by Tausha Treadway

The Book of Hours (Coin/Hours Cycle 2)The Book of Hours by Maria Elena Alonso-Sierra
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The Book of Hours (Coin/Hours Duology Book 2) by Maria Elena Alonso-Sierra. This is a great second book, in my opinion its better than the first. You can read this as a standalone but I highly recommend reading the 1st book before. Its the story of Gabriela who is a highly known artist who has enough work to sell some for a charity. Wickam is a crazy curator who wants a manuscript that Gabriela has done and will stop at nothing to get it. He is almost become a stalker. Gabriela is determined to keep it from him even if it means putting herself in danger. Gabriela is also trying to keep her husband’s business afloat while he is in a coma from a horrible accident. Enter Richard who has always been in love with Gabriela but was giving her space to be respectful of her marriage. When someone reaches out to him to help her from this stalker he jumps at the chance. Once they are together sparks fly and they are drawn to one another like never before. Read this awesome book to find out if they make it work.

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Fetching Dreams by Mary Bleckwehl – Review by Jamie Burns

To me, there are many ways to describe this book, but Mary Bleckwehl used a quote that comes to mind, “Go further than you planned. Ask for the moon: you will be surprised how often you get it.” This book was simply amazing, I have high expectations for the books I read, and expect to be over the moon about them when I finish reading. Many authors have succeeded, including Bleckwehl. This book goes far to the land of Africa where people are still struggling to get education, food, and water. The main character, Neyah has to fetch water, and so she misses so many days at school. She dreams and wishes there was a better way. We get introduced to Abby, Neyah’s pen pal who lives with all of the modern conveniences and cannot imagine what Neyah must be going through. As the two girls correspond, they find strength together. Abby becomes less self centered and quickly cares about Neyah and her family’s situation. Through Abby, Neyah finds the courage to speak up about the water situation and about basic hygiene she is learning about at school. Abby and Neyah decide to team up together to work on a solution for the water problem. There are many struggles that both Neyah and Abby face, but can they find the strength to push through and overcome the struggles? Will Neyah be able to bring much needed CLEAN water to her village? To find out, read this book, Fetching Dreams by Mary Bleckwehl. To say that this book is eye opening, is an understatement, but it is also heart warming at the same time. Who knew how much power pen pals from two different countries could change the world! It goes a long way to say that what you say matters, and so does the way you treat people.

The Silent Woodsman (The Olympic Peninsula series Book 1) by Cat Treadgold – Review by Shelly Kittell

The Silent Woodsman (The Olympic Peninsula series Book 1)The Silent Woodsman by Cat Treadgold
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I found this a romantic and charming story. The flirting between these two was fun and quite witty. When one can’t talk and the communication must be done by writing it makes it so much fun. The miscommunication can be fun and quite enticing. Blushing abounds because errors can be made. These two are quite fun characters. I enjoyed their story. It kind of reminded me of a Pretty Woman vibe. I couldn’t put the story down. I had to finish it in one sitting. A quick read that will have you giggling.

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Murder in a Gated Community by Laura Koerber – Review by Shelly Kittell

Murder in a Gated CommunityMurder in a Gated Community by Laura Koerber
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I found this story quite entertaining. So many different ways the plot could go and so many entertaining characters: Hazel, the grouch; Andrea, the hiding ex-wife of an abuser, etc. So much going on and I loved it because I could try to figure out the mystery. Leslie and Jane were my favorites because they seemed so quiet and nonconfrontative (but Jane would surprise us). The plot was well-written and a full of terrific twists. This is a community that I can’t wait to read more about. So much more in the undercurrents of this community. This is a story that is a must read. I can’t wait to read more.

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Shadowed Obsession (Shadow Defense Security Series Book 1) by Mavery Ellscott – Review by Shelly Kittell

Shadowed Obsession: An Action-Packed Romantic Suspense Thriller (Shadow Defense Security Series Book 1)Shadowed Obsession: An Action-Packed Romantic Suspense Thriller by Mavery Ellscott
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Incredible romantic suspense. Cade is a hot security guy I’d want protecting me. Kiera is one I wasn’t to sure about but I’m glad she came into her own as the story developed. This is a story with action, romance, danger, mystery that will have you on the edge-of-your-seat holding your breathe to see what happens. The characters are well-written and it’s nice to see them develop as the story develops. IThis is a fantastic story that really leaves you wanting more. I can’t wait for the next in the series.

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Broken. (Green St. Girls Series) by N.D. Jackson – Review by Nakyshia Leger

Broken. (Green St. Girls #2)Broken. by N.D. Jackson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I loved book one in this series and book two did not disappoint! In this story we met Indigo, another of the Green Street Girls. Indigo’s story is complex, but the details are portrayed beautifully as you get to know her and her story comes to life. The connection between Indigo and Gideon is undeniably romantic. I was captivated by their chemistry. If you haven’t checked out this series, or this author, you are missing out! Though this book does read well as a stand alone, it’s even better if read along with the first!

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Oathbreakers Anonymous by Scott Warren – Review by Shelly Kittell

Oathbreakers AnonymousOathbreakers Anonymous by Scott Warren
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

What a cool story! The premise drew me in because I love rooting for the underdog. Loved how the characters were written. The personalities are each so unique and quite individualistic. They each fit into their spot in the story. I just couldn’t put it down. To fall out of favor with the Gods and take up the charge to get your spot back, that takes gumption. These guys had some cajones and I enjoyed watching their journey. The writing was strong and you couldn’t help but feel engaged by the story the minute you started. I couldn’t put it down. I thought my kindle was attached to my hand. Fantastic story and I can’t wait to read the next book.

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Goldilocks and the Six Simple Machines (Science Folktales) by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Tonya Merritt

Goldilocks and the Six Simple Machines (Science Folktales #3)Goldilocks and the Six Simple Machines by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

As usual, Lois Wickstrom has written another fairytale with new eyes. You hear the story of Goldilocks but with a great twist that teaches children more values. Lois Wickstrom writes these stories with the thought of teaching kids how to use things, how to help in some way. A great story for children learning to read and at that great learning age.

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The Silent Woodsman (The Olympic Peninsula series Book 1) by Cat Treadgold – Review by Tonya Merritt

The Silent Woodsman (The Olympic Peninsula series Book 1)The Silent Woodsman by Cat Treadgold
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The Silent Woodsman is a fun tale of finding love when you least expect it but there is so much suspense and twists in it as well. Ali needed help during a storm and Joe Bob’s cabin is what she found. This story was fun to read. Cat Treadgold is an excellent storyteller.

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Cruel Start (Hidden Valley Elite) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Angelina Frazzini

Cruel Start (Hidden Valley Elite #4.5)Cruel Start by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This book is a prequel within the series. It introduces Aspen and Phoenix and sets up their story before their duet. It was a quick read and I read it in one sitting but it was good!!

Aspen is new in town. She’s not sticking around long though because she’s off to Thane for college. She meets Phoenix at a party and decides to take a risk other than cliff diving. Phoenix feels a pull toward Aspen and now that she’s pregnant, he’s going to step up unlike his own father. He doesn’t have time for or want a relationship but he’s going to be in his kids life. Having Phoenix involved might be the biggest risk Aspen takes.

This was a fast read but it sets up Aspen and Phoenix’s story very well. I can’t wait to read their duet!

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Sage Advice by Cori Cooper – Review by Kasandra Nunez

Sage AdviceSage Advice by Cori Cooper
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

High school, some peoples dream and others worst nightmare. Pyper is an amazing, outgoing, and popular girl who gives the best advice, but doesn’t seem to take any of the advice she preaches. Prom needs to be canceled, just so Pyper doesn’t have to deal with unresolved issues, but leads to love filling the air, and a high school romance story ending it all.

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Smooth Hoperator (Love on Tap Book 2) by Sylvie Stewart – Review by Kelli Harper

Smooth Hoperator: A Fake-Relationship Romance (Love on Tap)Smooth Hoperator: A Fake-Relationship Romance by Sylvie Stewart
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The 2nd book in the Love on Tap series does not disappoint!
This story has even more mystery but just as many laughs. Sylvie Stewart has definitely become one of my favorite independent authors! Sunny and Carter will take you on quite the adventure. Watch out for Duke though, he may just steal the story and your heart!

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