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The Lone Star Child (The Gods’ Scion Book 3) by Winnifred Tataw – Review by Shelly Kittell

The Lone Star ChildThe Lone Star Child by Winnifred Tataw
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Caro’s tale and full of family drama, fantasy, and star-hopping, this story was exciting right from the start. I do recommend you read books 1 and 2 first. Oh, this book is just as good as the previous. The characters are relatable. The story/plotline flows well. I found myself totally engaged as I read. I am guilty of having my phone glued to my palm so I could keep reading. The world-building and mythological fantasy of this series is so good and I have enjoyed it so much. This is a new author to me and I hope to read so much more from her.

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Descendants of Time and Death (The Gods’ Scion Book 2) by Winnifred Tataw – Review by Shelly Kittell

Descendants of Time and Death (The Gods' Scion, #2)Descendants of Time and Death by Winnifred Tataw
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I fell in love with this book. Roderick and his brother got to go on the journey of a lifetime. What a world-building experience this was. I found it to be full of action, fantasy, lots of just excitement. The characters kept me glued to the story. I couldn’t put it down. I sure am glad that my Kindle app is on my phone. I had to read every moment I had. Once you started, you just had to keep going to see what was coming next. It’s a tremendous fantasy story that is well-developed.

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Esprit de Corpse by Ef Deal – Review by Shelly Kittell

Esprit de CorpseEsprit de Corpse by Ef Deal
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I jumped into this one and had to finish it in one setting. Somehow, Jacqueline’s twin sister is a she-wolf, and they find an automaton. I saw hints of steampunk and a bit of paranormal with suspense. Oh, this was such a fun treat. I have not had the pleasure of reading anything like this. It will make you chuckle and had has a few surprises. There are adventures, some drama and a bit of romance. A story that flows well, has entertaining characters and a plot that comes together just right sure does make for a must read.

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Right in Front of You (Morris Valley Gang Book 1) by Brooke May – Review by Shelly Kittell

Right in Front of You: Volume One: Brinley & Adrian (Morris Valley Gang Book 1)Right in Front of You: Volume One: Brinley & Adrian by Brooke May
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is one heck of an exciting romance. Brinley just wants some peace. She’s trying to get away from a stalker. She goes to visit friends and meets the hot Adrian. Oh my, do the sparks fly. I love the chemistry with these two. The interactions are witty and quite entertaining. Their friends, seeing as they both know the same people, are quite relatable and entertaining also. There is some baggage and drama in the group that I look forward to reading about in further books. The story is feels like you’re hanging out with them. This author has a way of writing that puts you right into the story also so that you are experiencing everything. You feel the emotions, etc. It’s a terrific romance that I recommend you must read. Adrian and Brinley are now on my list of favorite characters.

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God of Fire: Greek Myths A New Retelling Audiobook by Helen Steadman – Review by Shelly Kittell

5/5 stars

Heph is a pretty cool God that ends up going through some crazy stuff. I found this to be quite the entertaining story. The author did some pretty good research on her historical research. The characters were interesting and kept me engaged. I found the narrator had a pretty good range of voices so this kept the story with variety of changes throughout. The action and drama, what can I say 🙂 At times, I feel like the Greek Gods were similar to Shakespeare plays. It’s a really good story to listen to on audio. I’m really glad I did.

The Sweet Temptations Trilogy (Sinful Delights) by L.M. Mountford – Review by Shelly Kittell

The Sweet Temptations Trilogy (Sinful Delights)The Sweet Temptations Trilogy by L.M. Mountford
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

A trio of age gap romance stories. Robert is having a mid-life crisis and must deal with this. Written from the male POV gives this a unique narrative. If you are looking lots of steamy erotic romance, this is your book.

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Other People’s Money (The Madeline Dawkins Series Book 7) by Cynthia Hamilton – Review by Shelly Kittell

Other People's Money (The Madeline Dawkins Series Book 7)Other People’s Money by Cynthia Hamilton
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Madeline, Mike and Samir are back. I found this to be quite the intriguing suspense thriller. I loved the cases in this story. The fact that they all end up somehow related makes for such a complex and complicated story. The way it kicks off with the appearance of her ex in Switzerland is fantastic and a heck of way to just srt with a bang. Here I am, let’s jump right into the story… I found the characters to be flat out, well written. Her former friend popping up, and looking sneaky, just gave it right away. Some clues are within the writing and I love that. The details are in the story. The reading grabs a hold and won’t let you go. I find that the flow is very smooth and just flows well. You go from case to case. A terrific suspense read.

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Pulling Together by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Shelly Kittell

Pulling TogetherPulling Together by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is a cute story of friendship and working together. This author creates fun stories that teach valuable lessons and values. They are always enjoyable stories to read at storytime.

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Insomnia: (A Short Stories Collection) by Kelly Covic – Review by Shelly Kittell

Insomnia (A Short Stories Collection)Insomnia by Kelly Covic
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

You might want to read this with the lights on. One of the best books of spooky short stories that I have read in while. My favorite is Silent Sighs. This one gave me some serious creeps. Each story gave me the early Stephen King horror chills. I found they had the just right psychological chill thrill. That is just what you are looking for in a good horror story. The flow had a good rhythm. Excellent book for horror fans.

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Return to Hoodoo (Boudin, Bourbon, and Barbecue, Book 1) Audiobook by Reggi Dupree – Review by Shelly Kittell

5/5 stars

Gwen is a character that I would want to be friends with. Sassy, strong and independent, she’s back and just wants to do her business. I found this to be quite the story. I loved it because it wasn’t your basic cookie cutter. It’s unique, creative and full of paranormal goodies in the story. I love a hot werewolf too. I’ve been naughty. Lock me up. You can feel the intensity of the emotions throughout the story. I found everything so entertaining and intriguing that I stayed up late to finish it. Well worth losing sleep over. I can’t wait to read more. Bring on more of this deliciousness. Listening to this on audio was a treat. The narrator made it even better because her tone and narrating made it sound like she was from down south. It was just made the story even more enjoyable, and I just didn’t think that was possible. The writing is good, the characters are crazy and it has a paranormal flow that you just roll with. I loved it. I had to sit and listen in one sitting.

Dawnbreaker: The House of Blood and Sun by Hadley Thorne – Review by Shelly Kittell

Dawnbreaker: The House of Blood and SunDawnbreaker: The House of Blood and Sun by Hadley Thorne
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Fantastic book! Niamh and Connor have an amazing adventure. I have not really read a Fae story even remotely close to this. The whole premise of this *blew* my mind. Fae and vampire, amazingly well-written. The author tries to give us some backstory, even with this being a first book. I loved the characters. I want to see Kyle get more. I was entertained and couldn’t put the book down. Niamh and her mom, the Queen, now that drama, who can’t relate? Mother/daughter drama… A page turning story that will grab you right from the get go. I loved how the story pulls you in. The Fae are scattered throughout the story and within the two worlds. This is a must read.

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White Picket Fences by Kyle Ann Robertson – Review by Shelly Kittell

White Picket FencesWhite Picket Fences by Kyle Ann Robertson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Julie is just trying to do the right thing and put her family together again after the loss of her son, Curtis. Oh my, that family would make me lose my mind. I have to say that I would do what she did also. I mean, I could not fathom that type of loss but still… The writing is beautifully done as the author transports us back and forth from the tragedy to current times. We see how the how family adjusts. It’s a lot and you feel all the emotions they are going through. The characters are well-written. Her win daughters are so relatable. I think the only semi-normal one is Roger. I did feel as if I was intruding on a private moment but that is what makes it a wonderfully done family book. Love it. 5 stars for sure. Definitely on my Best of the year for sure!

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Savage Lies (Hidden Valley Elite Book 1) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Shelly Kittell

Savage Lies: A High School Bully Romance (Hidden Valley Elite Book 1)Savage Lies: A High School Bully Romance by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Oh my, Riley and Cole meet again. I must say, he has some set of cojones to act like that. Big bully that needs his butt set straight. I enjoyed getting to read more of their story. Getting some more background into where Riley came from helped set the tone and the mood. Cole’s need for revenge is setting up some bad stuff down the pipeline and I can’t wait for book 3 to see what happens. This installment of the series will have you right on the edge because it is intriguing, exciting and drama filled. The elite 4 and their ”witches” create problems. The characters are so well done. If this were on TV, I’d be glued. I’m glad it’s not, the picture in my head is so much more. I couldn’t put it down. The nightmare Riley had gave me a nightmare, so I’ll give a trigger warning DV. But this a must read romance that will pull you in and not let you out. The story is believable and relatable. These characters could be kids from your town. The drama, well, let’s just say that we’ve all been there. A must read. Definitely a series on my Best for 2023.

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Return to Hoodoo (Boudin, Bourbon, and Barbecue, Book 1) by Reggi Dupree – Review by Shelly Kittell

Return to Hoodoo: A Paranormal Women's Fiction Novel (Boudin, Barbecue, and Hoodoo Book 1)Return to Hoodoo: A Paranormal Women’s Fiction Novel by Reggi Dupree
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Gwen is a character that I would want to be friends with. Sassy, strong and independent, she’s back and just wants to do her business. I found this to be quite the story. I loved it because it wasn’t your basic cookie cutter. It’s unique, creative and full of paranormal goodies in the story. I love a hot werewolf too. I’ve been naughty. Lock me up. You can feel the intensity of the emotions throughout the story. I found everything so entertaining and intriguing that I stayed up late to finish it. Well worth losing sleep over. I can’t wait to read more. Bring on more of this deliciousness.

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With Fire and Sword (Thunder On The Moor Book 4) by Andrea Matthews – Review by Shelly Kittell

With Fire and Sword (Thunder on the Moor, #4)With Fire and Sword by Andrea Matthews
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Another breathtaking book of this winning series. Book 4 is Will and Maggie’s story and it is a whirlwind of time-travel, suspense, deceit and romance. I found the story so exciting that I just jumped in and didn’t come up for air until I was done. Thank you, Kindle, for the reading app on my phone. I was sucked in and loved it all. The author gives it the authentic feel with the language and descriptions. The personalities of the characters are so well-written and well-done. I had to chuckle at the conversations of the ladies and the men. This was a thoroughly enjoyable story. I’m going to be eagerly awaiting more, I hope. If you like time-travel romance, this whole series is for you. I can’t recommend this enough. Another author on my favorites list.

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The Traveler: Book 3 by Deborah Dugan – Review by Shelly Kittell

The Traveler: Book 3The Traveler: Book 3 by Deborah Dugan
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This installment of the Harry’s adventures had me on the edge of my seat. I can’t really tell you much because it might just spoil it. At times, you feel you are right there with him experiencing his small world, teetering on the edge of his “cliff.” The story keeps you engaged and thinking as you follow along. I couldn’t put it down because I wanted to know what was going to happen next with Harry. I love Tristan and Elena but Harry is my favorite. He’s also our main character. Critter was an interesting twist. The story had a really interesting flow and ran smooth. I enjoyed the story and can’t wait to read what happens in his next adventure.

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Notebook Mysteries ~ Suspicions (Notebook Mysteries Book 5) by Kimberly Mullins – Review by Shelly Kittell

Notebook Mysteries ~ Suspicions (Notebook Mysteries book #5)Notebook Mysteries ~ Suspicions by Kimberly Mullins
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Another fantastic book in this series. Emma and her friends solve three mysteries in this installment. The mystery & suspense are palpable. The tension can be cut with a knife (maybe even with Emma’s). I love the characters. Emma & Jeremy seem so good together. It’s nice to see familiar favorites. For the time period, it was interesting to see topics such as human trafficking and bigamy dealt with, as well as prison corruption. An entertaining story that will have wanting to hunker down and follow Emma on her journey. I can’t wait to see what is com

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Braving Lily (True Platinum Series Book 7) by Morgana Bevan – Review by Shelly Kittell

Braving Lily (True Platinum, #5)Braving Lily by Morgana Bevan
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Lily ends up in an auction, Rhy’s mom bids on her to be his date. He stands her up, tada,……let the adventure begin. I found this story to be funny, humorous and a bit humble. Wonderful writing to make them both human. I felt the angst and what they both felt deep in my heart. These two are meant for each other. The characters are well written. I found the story to be such that I was instantly pulled in because Rhy’s mom is a blackmailer that isn’t letting Lily off the hook and I want to know why… If you want to enjoy a great romantic suspense, check this one out.

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Just One Time (Beaumont Creek Book 1) by Samantha Baca – Review by Shelly Kittell

Just One Time (Beaumont Creek, #1)Just One Time by Samantha Baca
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I loved the story of Abby and Nate. Two best friends coming together. They are a very sweet set of friends. I found them to be well written and so relatable. The story is quite entertaining and very romantic. I believe fans of contemporary romance will love this. I found it to be a quick romantic read that gives you a giggle and a smile.

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Rogue (The Talisman Series) by Tam DeRudder Jackson – Review by Shelly Kittell

Rogue (The Talisman Series Book 6)Rogue by Tam DeRudder Jackson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I loved the action in this one. I found the characters entertaining. Delaney and Baz kept me glued to the story but Teague and Ella were quite fun side story also. I found the story to be well-written. Isn’t Morganna quite the troublesome one? She stirs up trouble all around. A story that will pull you right in and you won’t want to leave until it’s over. Following the adventures of Delaney and Baz was an entertaining adventure for me. If you like paranormal romantic suspense, you should try this series. It’s really good.

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Your Trainer Says Hi! (Vengeful Vixens Book 2) by Indie Sparks – Review by Shelly Kittell

Your Trainer Says Hi!Your Trainer Says Hi! by Indie Sparks
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Saucy and sexy, this story of revenge is a winner. Heath stole Nadine’s money. To get even, she sleeps with his trainer. A quick read that will entertain you and make you laugh, the antics to get back at Heath will have you laughing. One scene involves a muffin pan and I about spit my coffee all over my Kindle when I read it. The characters are a hoot. I love the writing. It’s hilarious and I swear, the author has been in my head reading my revenge plots. It’s so fun to come up with them. Even better to read revenge fiction, I loved this story. If you are looking a spicy, romantic, quick read, this would be it. Check it out.

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The Romanov Heiress by Jennifer Laam – Review by Shelly Kittell

The Romanov HeiressThe Romanov Heiress by Jennifer Laam
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I found this story very intriguing: The story of Olga and her sisters had me right from the start. A very interesting tale of historical fiction. I found the characters well-written. Even being from a different time period, I found the girls relatable. The writing was such that it drew you in and kept you engaged Fans of historical fiction will love this story.

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Under My Care (Chase Care Book 3) by R.L. Dunn – Review by Shelly Kittell

Under My Care (Chase Care Book 3)Under My Care by R.L. Dunn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This has been my favorite series so far. Chase Care has been done with such truth and reality that you just can’t put it down. In this, book 3, we read about Pete Walker and Rowena Anderson. These two have history from their Army days in Afghanistan. Some big secrets will finally come out during this story. The romance will get you. I felt some big emotions just as much as all the characters did. The story has action, lots of drama and it’s full of medical stuff. It’s my favorite book version of New Amsterdam. I devoured every little bit. Nakoma to Mike to Noah to Jacob to sleazebags like Silas. You will be sucked in right from the start. This is written to be engaging, intriguing and downright fantastic. It’s one of the best books you’ll read this year, if you love medica romantic suspense. You can read it standalone. I’m gonna tell you, go read the first two. I will be counting down the days until book 4!! Comes out.

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The Challenger (The Hustlers Trilogy Book 2) by Rowan Rossler – Review by Shelly Kittell

The Challenger: A Sports Romance Saga (The Hustlers Trilogy Book 2)The Challenger: A Sports Romance Saga by Rowan Rossler
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The story of Flynn and Chavez is a bit of thrill, mystery and spicy romance. These two set of sparks that steam up the Kindle window just a little bit. They both have some emotional baggage that they need to deal with and that’s what makes this really kind of an exciting story. I enjoyed The Hustler but I think this story sure did give it a run for the money. I can’t wait to see what’s in store for us with the final one in this trio.

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Chicken Little Investigates (Science Folktales) by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Shelly Kittell

Chicken Little Investigates: a science folktale (Science Folktales)Chicken Little Investigates: a science folktale by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I love it! What a fun take on the original story. To investigate the sounds that things make is a really fun way to gain the child’s attention. I found the story entraining and fun. We enjoyed making sound effects with all the noises. I am a large fan of stories that can get the children interacting. Another winner for this author!

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Ocean’s Three (Made In Heaven #2) by Elena Kincaid – Review by Shelly Kittell

Ocean's Three (Made In Heaven, #2)Ocean’s Three by Elena Kincaid
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The author has knocked it out of the park again with book 2 of this series. Jocelyn, Cameron and Reed know each other in dreams, but are they real? I am fascinated by this story. I love the paranormal aspect. It’s such an interesting romance. The storyline is intriguing, to say the least. The characters are well-written. It all comes together so well and is a definite winner. I can’t wait for more from this author.

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Doctor Frank Enstein (Doctors of Eastport General) by C.A. King – Review by Shelly Kittell

Doctor Frank Enstein (Doctors of Eastport General)Doctor Frank Enstein by C.A. King
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is a cute romance for those that thought it couldn’t happen. Barbara has been dealing with a health issue that has left her feeling less confident and in pain. Along comes Dr. Frank. He has never felt this way about any woman. They have a lovely chemistry. A wonderfully quick read that I wish had just a bit more story to it. I loved it anyway and found it quite romantic.

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Taming Brooklyn (The Club Kings Series Book 1) by Charlotte St. Pierre – Review by Shelly Kittell

Taming Brooklyn (The Club Kings Series Book 1)Taming Brooklyn by Charlotte St. Pierre
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Holy hotness! Brooklyn finds herself mixed in with all the Kings men….(run with that how you will). Get a fan, it’s hot in here. Brooklyn is just trying to survive and thinks she is a hot mess. The King boys just want to protect her. I found the story quite entertaining. A lot of steamy romance (if you can’t handle the heat, put the book down). The characters are charming. Must have more. Looking forward to the next book.

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His Forever Muse (The Echo Series Book 2) by C.R. Alam – Review by Shelly Kittell

His Forever Muse (Book 2 of The Echo Series)His Forever Muse by C.R. Alam
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Brandon and Callie’s story was fantastic. They have had a secret “love crush” one each other since they were young. To get a chance again now that they are adults is a dream come true, the only problem is Phillipe. The antagonist is quite the piece of work. I loved Brandon from Echoing Hearts. It’s great to see him find love. Callie is working through her issues to see where she is, to gain that independence. Will their relationship work? I enjoyed watching Callie grow with strength, confidence and stand up to Phillipe. The women in this series are strong and independent which I love. The plot twist was a surprise. I loved this book also.

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The Forlorn Cowboy (The Studs of Clear Creek County) by Stacy-Deanne – Review by Shelly Kittell

The Forlorn Cowboy by Stacy-Deanne (The Studs of Clear Creek County)The Forlorn Cowboy by Stacy-Deanne by Stacy-Deanne
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This author does such a fantastic job of trying to keep things historically accurate. I lover her stories because, like this one, she pushes the limits, with interracial romance, age gap, and other taboo. I found the story quite interesting. I’m always pulled into her stories right form the start and this one is no exception. It starts right off with the action. I am a fan of the women being strong and confident. That is a nice thing to see in stories. This was just a bit better than the first book. I am enjoying this series. I can’t wait for the next one.

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