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What I Wish I’d Known: For Writers by H.D. Thomson – Review by Shelly Kittell

What I Wish I'd Known: For Writers: 100 Authors Reveal What They Wish They'd Told Their Younger SelvesWhat I Wish I’d Known: For Writers: 100 Authors Reveal What They Wish They’d Told Their Younger Selves by H. D. Thomson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is a fantastic resource. As a wannabe writer (I still need to sit my butt down and spill out my story), I am grateful to these authors for sharing these tips. There are so many helpful ideas and thoughts shared. The added benefit is that I’ve even found some new authors to try. As in independent reviewer, I find that the tip to read in the genre you want to right is spot on for me. It has developed into that for me. I read what I enjoy and I find that I have already been using these tips as a reader. There are authors I love because of the way they write and the way they can grab me and keep my attention. The book is very easy to relate to and is a definite resource that will be on my desk. I’ve already ordered a paperback for my desk. If you have any dreams about writing, I highly recommend this book to join your library. Very informative and well put together.

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Three Made In Heaven (Made In Heaven #1) by Elena Kincaid – Review by Shelly Kittell

Three Made in Heaven (Made in Heaven, #1)Three Made in Heaven by Elena Kincaid
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Sweet, romantic and erotic, that’s how I’d call this one. It’s a quick read about Cole, Charlie and Maddie. They came together in their dreams. So much in the story that I just can’t give away, you have to try the book. The chemistry with these three is sparking. The fact that they came together in dreams and met in real life is out of this world. The story is intriguing. I found the characters well-written. I was pulled into the story from the very beginning. I’ll be reading more from this author. I will be looking forward to more in the series.

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Evan (Billionaire Blind Dates Book 2) by Toni Denise – Review by Shelly Kittell

Evan (Billionaire Blind Dates #2)Evan by Toni Denise
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I love this series. You can read it as a stand alone or the series. I recommend read book 1 first. Evan’s story is sweet and romantic. His dates are an adventure. He and Kayla are meant to be and the trick is to realize it. I enjoyed reading their story. A truly wonderful friends to lovers story. Sweet and romantic, the characters are well done and feel like friends. I do wish Luke would get what’s coming to him. Such a young turkey, lol. The story is perfect for the both them to go through the restaurant. You should read this series. I strongly recommend it.

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Night Hawke (The Hawke Family Second Generation Prequel) by Gwyn McNamee – Review by Shelly Kittell

Night Hawke (The Hawke Family Second Generation #0.5)Night Hawke by Gwyn McNamee
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Get the extinguisher! The heat between Jack and Isaac lights up this book. The prequel to The Hawke Family Second Generation, this starts out on a fast roll and gets you ready for an adventure that will have you fanning yourself off. Jack is only out for a night, but things could change. Can’t tell ya more, You’ve got to read this. The story, the characters, all of it is exciting and entertaining. It’s a quick read that will have you ready for book 1, Ruthless Hawke, of the new series. I can’t wait. This author has such a way of writing that leaves you wanting more.

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The Exchange by Nadija Mujagic – Review by Shelly Kittell

The Exchange: A NovelThe Exchange: A Novel by Nadija Mujagic
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This was quite the suspenseful story. I found it a quick read. There were a few predictable spots. It’s an original story that will have you feeling the suspense. The characters are young and modern, so they are fairly relatable. The story flows well. I enjoyed it. I loved the suspense and it kept me glued till the end

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Wild Lavender (Heart & Hand Series Book 1) by Nicole E. Kelleher – Review by Shelly Kittell

Wild Lavender (Heart & Hand, #1)Wild Lavender by Nicole E. Kelleher
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Oh my goodness! First, the cover on this book is lovely! Those colors just caught my eye. Second, this story is so enthralling. I found the historical touch to it to be just right. It gave the plot just the right touch. The storyline flowed like water. I am a fan of historical romance. A strong heroine in these romances are always a treat because they don’t happen often. I found the author’s writing just sucked me in write from the beginning. I’m looking forward to the next book.

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The Veil of Corruption (The Virus of Beauty Book 2) by C.B. Lyall Review by Shelly Kittell

The Veil of Corruption (The Virus of Beauty #2)The Veil of Corruption by C.B. Lyall
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is one of the most exciting wizardry books I’ve read since Harry Potter. This is Book 2 of the series and Wilf is getting himself involved in some more mystery searching to bring Myra to justice. The adventure involving Katryna and trying to deceive the other witches had me on the edge of my seat. Wilf is a teen just trying to get some answers and justice for his dad. While he’s doing all this, he has normal teen issues going on. He deals with a lot. I root for Wilf because he doesn’t give up. He’s a strong kid (a little hard-headed) and very easy to relate to). I love the story and the characters. It’s suspense, adventure, teen romance, and an exciting series. You must try this story. Better read as a series than a stand alone. I can’t wait to read Book 3.

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The Authorpreneur Yellowpages by Winnifred Tataw – Review by Shelly Kittell

The Authorpreneur YellowpagesThe Authorpreneur Yellowpages by Winnifred Tataw
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

What a wonderful resource for new and independent authors out there. The author explains what things are and gives some resources for cover designers, illustrators, editors publishers and more. It’s a definite resource new and independent authors to add to their library.

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My Inner Critic by Christine Bernard – Review by Shelly Kittell

My Inner CriticMy Inner Critic by Christine Bernard
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

What a wonderful book! She’s say everything most of us are thinking in our heads. Though have biographical, half fiction, I found I could totally relate to this story. So gripping, I was glued right from the beginning. This is a book that I can recommend to anybody that has had that inner critic judging themselves. Well done, author! I hope to read more from this author. She is a new author to me

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Grace Under Fire (The Anderson Sisters Book 2) by Jennifer Raines – Review by Shelly Kittell

Grace Under FireGrace Under Fire by Jennifer Raines
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Grace and Ryan are going to have to work together to save her family’s farm. It is being sold because her parents have to relocate for their health. Grace has 3 months to secure financing to buy it. She and Ryan have been friends but a falling out damaged that. Can they work together to save the farm and her business? The chemistry between these two is there the whole time. What makes this story so fascinating is watching them work through the relationship and the issues. The story feels realistic and relatable. The characters feel like they could be your neighbors. It was nice to see Ella and Jake and Tessa pop in. A lovely story that you just can’t pass by.

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Caspian’s UnBirthday (Invisible Magic Wand) by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Shelly Kittell

Caspian's UnbirthdayCaspian’s Unbirthday by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Who doesn’t want Hot Chocolate Socks? Caspian has the best adventures. This time Grandpa got him the best socks. Pour hot chocolate on them (don’t try this at home) and off they flew with a broom. Fun adventure all day. Another winner for this author. Bright and colorful pictures. An exciting story that brings out conversation with the kiddos. We love Caspian in this house. We are starting our own Unbirthday for our little boy in March this year. We can’t wait to read more.

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StoryTeller’s Tale (Wretched Soulz MC) by Manda Mellett – Review by Shelly Kittell

StoryTeller's Tale: Wretched Soulz MCStoryTeller’s Tale: Wretched Soulz MC by Manda Mellett
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This author has done it again! ST, as he is known, is pretty much a nomad but his home club has called him home for an assignment. He found a book at a rest stop in his travels that starts a search for a missing woman. I can’t share anymore or I’ll give away the story. There is thrills, drama, a bit of violence (hey, it’s an MC), romance and a bit more. I was sucked in from the beginning. The story is always intriguing and you can’t put it down. The characters are badass and hard. It was cool to see a few with some soft hidden deep under in their personalities. Oh please, make this a series. Another hit that you can’t pass by. A definite must read.

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

The White Knight Cowboy Stacy-DeanneThe White Knight Cowboy Stacy-Deanne by Stacy-Deanne
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This author writes very interesting stories with usually a twist. I found this one to the same. This time period is one that doesn’t usually support the BWWM. Dusty and Lovely Jo are a rare combination that come together. I found the story one that really kept me intrigued and I couldn’t put it down. I had to know what was going to happen. The characters were wonderful. The story is well written, as usual. The author always does a wonderful job of trying to make it as historically accurate as possible. You can almost feel that you are right there. A quick romance to devour.

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The Muffin Shop Murder (A Delilah Crumbworthy Mystery by Holly Tierney) Review by Shelly Kittell

The Muffin Shop Murder: A Delilah Crumbworthy MysteryThe Muffin Shop Murder: A Delilah Crumbworthy Mystery by Holly Tierney
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

What an adorable cozy mystery. I loved Delilah. The story is entertaining. Even with being a mystery, you have your little chuckle moments. My favorite parts of cozies are all the characters. There always your quirky ones that just make the story. I found the plot quite cute. I enjoyed trying to figure out who did it. I look forward to reading more from this author. A quick and fun read.

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The Man in Black by L.R. Liverpool – Review by Shelly Kittell

The Man In BlackThe Man In Black by L.R. Liverpool
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

I found it an interesting story. The details are fascinating. The characters are exciting. The story will keep you involved if this is your type of story. Lots of drama, adventure and other items. A good read.

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Savage Start (Hidden Valley Elite Prequel) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Shelly Kittell

Savage Start: A High School Bully Romance: Hidden Valley Elite PrequelSavage Start: A High School Bully Romance: Hidden Valley Elite Prequel by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Wow! I feel like I got tripped and am hanging off a cliff. This author wrote a hell of a prequel!!! Talk about a cliffhanger. The chemistry is sparking and gonna blow. I did have my suspicions and now I know they are confirmed. That volcano is going to blow and I have to be there to see Riley and Cole blow. Their parents are creating some family drama. The question is, can these two get through it and come out together on the other side. (cue dramatic music) Until the next book. On a serious note, the author packs a lot into the story with these kiddos. Drama, romance, suicide attempts, affairs, and more drama. I felt like I’m watching 90210, only better. I can’t wait for the first book. Bravo!!!

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Hot For Me (The Balefire Series Book 4) by Tam DeRudder Jackson – Review by Shelly Kittell

Hot For Me (Balefire, #4)Hot For Me by Tam DeRudder Jackson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I fell in love with this book. Adam and Christy are so different, they seem so right together. The attraction and chemistry just works. I loved it all: the story, the characters. I came into the series with this one. I can’t wait to go back and read from the first one. What a fantastic romance.

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Absolution by Anise Storm & Taylor L. Ray – Review by Shelly Kittell

AbsolutionAbsolution by Anise Storm
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Hot, hot, hot! Romantic suspense that will put you on the edge of your seat until you get to the end, plus the bonus of lots of steam. The story is terrific. I found the mystery and suspense quite thrilling. I loved the characters. I hope for more of this to come.

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Titanian Warrior (Titanian Chronicles Book 3) by Victoria Saccenti – Review by Shelly Kittell

Titanian Warrior (Titanian Chronicles #3)Titanian Warrior by Victoria Saccenti
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I found this book kept me enthralled right from the beginning. I started the series with book 2. This book is full of drama, mysterious and supernatural things. Lots of drama, suspense, some romance. You won’t be able to put it down once you start. Hagen and Faiza have an instant connection that Master O obviously doesn’t want. This keeps you so involved in the plot. The characters are so well written into the story. They fit right into the plot. It’s a wonderful story that you should read. You could read stand alone but I’m going to recommend read the series. Great work!

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Vaughn’s Xena (Dirty Rockhard Billionaire Book 1) by M.I. Rosegold – Review by Shelly Kittell

Vaughn's Xena (Dirty Rockhard Series, #1)Vaughn’s Xena by M.I. Rosegold
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

An erotic romance for those that love them. Vaughn has it bad for Xena (his little sister’s college friend). I can’t share anymore or I’ll give away secrets. You’ll have to read it for yourself. It’s a hot story and has a bit of everything in it. The story is good and the characters are well-written. For fans of the erotic, this may be a winner. It’s 1 of 2 books.

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True Colors (Landry’s True Colors Series Book One) by Krysten Lindsay Hager – Review by Shelly Kittell

True Colors (Landry's True Colors #1)True Colors by Krysten Lindsay Hager
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I found this to be a wonderful book written for teen girls. Landry is a teen going through some of the same drama we see in today’s society when she enters a modeling contest and her friends turn on her. The author does a great job of portraying the teen angst. This is a book that should be a staple for all teen girls. Easy to read. The characters were very easy to relate to. Loved it all the way around.

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The 45th Parallel (Antipodes Series Book 6) by T.S. Simons – Review by Shelly Kittell

The 45th Parallel (Antipodes, #6)The 45th Parallel by T.S. Simons
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This author has again done an extraordinary job of adding to this series. Continuing with the story of Cait and Sera and the communities around them, she gives us adventures and drama. Again, what would you do if survival of everyone were put on your shoulders? The characters are written so well. They all blend into the story so nice. Cait and Sera make a perfect team. They each bring their own personalities and gifts. I can’t wait to read the next book. This is one of my favorite series and I’m glad to see more on the horizon. This plot just sucks you in from book 1 and you don’t want to leave ever.

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Lucky Stars by Fantasia Yu – Review by Shelly Kittell

Lucky StarsLucky Stars by Fantasia Yu
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I found this a quick and interesting read. All Princess Mora wants is a normal life. She gets an opportunity and takes it. It makes for a fun adventure and lets her help put things toward being right. I found the the characters to be well-written and they fit into the story line just right (even the tourist, Jake). The best part is the name of the bounty hunter (didn’t see that coming.). It’s an entertaining fantasy that ends with a cliff hanger. I hope there’s another one coming, I’ll be eagerly awaiting it.

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Straight for the Kill (Benoit and Dayne Mystery Book 3) by Winter Austin – Review by Shelly Kittell

Straight for the Kill (Benoit and Dayne Mystery, #3)Straight for the Kill by Winter Austin
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Man, Benoit and Dayne are two badass cops. A murder mystery from 25 years ago pops up. Dayne jumps in to take charge because Benoit just has emergency appendix surgery. Do you thing that keeps Benoit down? Nope. Personalities clash among the townspeople and cops. Secrets are unveiled. I love this series. The ladies are strong-willed, independent and not afraid of much. They’ll step right into the fracas. The other characters fit right into the story. That town is full of characters. The plot is perfect. I loved the little bit of twists thrown in there. It all tied together just dandy. The clashes, the drama, the family hooha, oh my! At times, it felt likes fists were gonna throw. The fact that everyone got to be involved from Young to the victim’s parents. It’s a community mystery. You have to read it can be read as a stand alone. Highly recommend.

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The Golden Garza (Red Cage Book 4) by S. Ann Cole – Review by Shelly Kittell

The Golden Garza (Red Cage, #4)The Golden Garza by S. Ann Cole
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This series just gets better and better. Tripp Garza is one hot hunk of man. Soleil has been hot for him ever since she was younger. Coming to LA for a mission to find the truth about her family, Soleil ends up on an adventure that has her life in danger and Red Cage trying to help. Oh, the suspense will have you holding your breath (didn’t even realize I was). You’ll feel all the emotions. Old favorites will make appearances throughout the story. The storyline runs smooth, even with all the drama, adventure, and plot twists. Romance will abound. These two have chemistry. They just need to admit it, will they? A wonderful read that I would give more than 5 stars if I were allowed to. An early winner for this year.

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Arrrgh! Me Hate To Wait! by Mary Bleckwehl – Review by Shelly Kittell

Arrrgh! Me HATE To Wait!Arrrgh! Me HATE To Wait! by Mary Evanson Bleckwehl
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

A winning story in this house! The story is bright, colorful. We were all laughing. A story of not wanting to rush but then being scared of new things. I loved the characters names. The story kept my grandchildren engaged. There was lots of interaction by all of them. This story is a must for your book corner. I may be buying one for all my grandchildren.

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Hit on You by Brooke May – Review by Shellly Kittell

Hit on YouHit on You by Brooke May
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Man, this is an intense book. Dark mafia and it turned great. This was the first for this author and I’m a fan. I hope she’ll do more. Luke and Nik’s story is powerful and a true story to love and letting those walls down. They both have intense issues. Can Luke let hers down to claim that love? Powerfully written, you are pulled write in from the beginning. Luke is tough and vulnerable when she feels safe enough to let her guard down. The plot of the story was amazing and so well-done. I would love to see move of these characters. Definitely a story I would recommend.

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Saving the Bellydancer (Green Brotherhood: SEAL Team XII Book 3) by Debra Parmley – Review by Shelly Kittell

Saving the Bellydancer (Green Brotherhood: SEAL Team XII Book 3)Saving the Bellydancer by Debra Parmley
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is a bittersweet story of second-chance romance. Tony, aka Cutter, finally really he wants to date a high-value woman. He finds that in Zarifah, aka Edith Smith. She is a belly dancer and gymnastics teacher. They both have issues from previous relationships. The attraction is there. The question is, can they work through this and be the couple they want to be? The story is sweet and romantic. It does have a topic of domestic abuse. We get to see both characters grow. Cutter grows up right before your eyes. The plot could have used a dash more excitement. It had a few dry spots but it really is a beautiful story. I wish we could have seen more as to what happened when he took her home to meet Grandma. She is my favorite character.

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Bees in Loretta’s Bonnet (Loretta’s Insects) by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Shelly Kittell

Bees in Loretta's Bonnet (Loretta's Insects #2)Bees in Loretta’s Bonnet by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I found this story to be entertaining and informative. Miss Loretta gets a lesson in bee habitats. The story is fun, age appropriate. It gives just enough information to not overwhelm but to make the child want to learn more. My grandson will be studying gardening and insects. This book will be going in that unit with hopes it will encourage him to learn more. Engaging, fun and a great read.

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Talisman (The Talisman Series Book 1) by Tam DeRudder Jackson – Review by Shelly Kittell

Talisman: The Talisman SeriesTalisman: The Talisman Series by Tam DeRudder Jackson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

An entertaining romance built around a Celtic myth! I fell in love with this tale of Rowan and Alyssa. He must break a curse and needs her. Oh, the adventures that include all the figures you would expect: the druids, fairies, bairds, etc. This story is so well-written and planned out. I was glued to it from the beginning. I am a big fan of anything that feels like time-travel. Romance makes it even better. I could feel the chemistry between these two. All the characters were done well and just all tied in to the story in such a way to entertain. My husband kept wanting to know what I was reading because I kept smiling as I read. I’m looking forward to reading the rest of the series as this is book !.

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