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Beast (Popov Bratva Book 5) by Leslie Georgeson – Review by Shelly Kittell

Beast (Popov Bratva #5)Beast by Leslie Georgeson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This book was an intense romantic suspense. I have to admit that I did figure out who the interloper was. The suspense was well written and drawn out. Watching Adrik deal with his feelings and guilt made you feel like you were there. The characters were really written to feel like they fit the personality and the story. Once I started, I could not put that story down. It does pull you in and engage you. A definite 5 star read. I love this series and I believe you will too.

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Secrets Never Die (Tallie Brown Suspense Book 1) by Laurie Lewis – Review by Shelly Kittell

Secrets Never DieSecrets Never Die by Laurie L.C. Lewis
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Wow! I fell in love with this one. Life as Tallie knew it was all a deception. After the death of her mom, she set out to find out the truth. With the help of Jackson, they set out on a suspense trip that puts them in the hands of danger and mystery. Will they find the answers they look for? This author had me sitting on the edge of my seat holding my breath as I read. The suspense was palpitating. You can feel it as you’re reading. The characters are so well written and developed. You feel like you’re in the story with them. That plot, it flows smooth and the, BAM, plot twist, and back to smooth, repeat. Fantastic tale of intrigue, deception, suspense, lies. This is a must read. I would give it more than 5 stars if I were allowed. It’s that good!

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Taming Beckett (The Playmakers Series Hockey Romances Book 1) by G.K. Brady – Review by Shelly Kittell

Taming Beckett (The Playmakers, #1)Taming Beckett by G.K. Brady
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

A tale of second chance romance. Beckett is realizing that the way he’s been living is life is ruining his career and his life. He has to go back to Denver and basically start over having been downgraded to the minor leagues. Paige, a home renovator, remembers him from school. She is the coach’s real estate agent. Let’s just say the chemistry is still there , though Beckett takes a little longer to remember and Paige has some baggage to lose. The story is entertaining and heartfelt. You feel Beckett’s suffering and Paige’s heartbreak as she realizes that her spouse doesn’t support her. These two belong together and they have a long road back to each other. There are misadventures and misunderstandings. There is relationship trouble that must be worked out. Can they do it? I felt they could. This is a must read. The characters are true to life and very relatable. It is fun to read about anything in Colorado, being a Colorado girl. The plot was smooth and flowed well. A wonderful story that is a must read. Well-written and enjoyable.

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If I Had a Magic Wand by Melissa Lavi – Review by Shelly Kittell

If I had a Magic WandIf I had a Magic Wand by Melissa Lavi
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I found this book to be beautiful written. It felt peaceful, thoughtful and full of heartfelt wishes. This is a book that would be a beautiful gift to give at baby showers, or to any new parents. A book of wishes to share with your children. I think the wishes can be shared with all ages. We are raising our grandson and I think that those wishes will be beautiful to read with him at bedtime or at special times. I am in love with this book. Thank you for sharing it author. Beautiful and well-done.

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Snow in Love by Libby Kay – Review by Shelly Kittell

Snow in LoveSnow in Love by Libby Kay
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Connor and Sierra are two skiers at a local lodge meeting up to train. Poor Sierra feels like a brand and all she wants is to feel like a woman. Connor is coming to terms after losing his leg in a motocross accident. This is a beautiful romance written in such a way that you feel their pain and the emotions felt as they come to terms with trying to make this relationship work. Even the antagonist, Beverlly, Sienna’s mom, is a bit of a troublemaker but you still feel for her. I enjoyed the story. It was a fairly quick read with a simple plot. Quite entertaining with a little fun in there. You root for Conner and Sierra. A quick Christmas read that would make a great read for those snowy nights by the fire with hot cocoa.

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Knight In The Museum (Jorja Knight Private Investigator Mystery Series Book 5) by Alice Bienia – Review by Shelly Kittell

Knight In The Museum ( Jorja Knight Mystery -Book 5)Knight In The Museum by Alice Bienia
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Fabulous story. Jorja is a strong woman PI that takes on a case to look into the death of a father. It involves a cursed object. I loved the adventure and the drama. Jorja ends up with her hands full. I found the writing delightful and full of detail. The story was entertaining and easy to read. The characters were spicy and full of drama, which made for a very exciting story. A definite must read for mystery lovers.

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Return to Gallanvaig (A Quirk of Destiny Book 2) by Catherine Greenall – Review by Shelly Kittell

Return to Gallanvaig: Beyond A Quirk of DestinyReturn to Gallanvaig: Beyond A Quirk of Destiny by Catherine Greenall
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Oh my stars, the intensity and drama of this story! I absolutely loved it. This book is just as much, if not more, as good as the first book (Quirk of Destiny). The writing is superb. The suspense builds like a thriller movie. You can almost here music building as you are reading. That plot feels so realistic; it almost scares me because it could happen. The elite are out to take control of our world. Honestly, this plot leaves you thinking, a lot about some major issues in our world. The author includes a lot of current topics going on in our current events. The characters are superb. Good guys, bad guys, they all have such detail to them. The interlopers should have been taken out as soon they started causing problems. And that cliffhanger!!!!…..I will be moving on to book 3. I don’t recommend starting anywhere other than book 1 with this trilogy. You must read it if you love suspense/thrills. I would give it more than 5 stars if I could. Wonderfully done.

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Reckless Heart (Second Chance Romance Series Book 2) by Jane Suen – Review by Shelly Kittell

Reckless HeartReckless Heart by Jane Suen
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This one of those stories that will have you riding the emotion roller coaster. Early crushes but another got in the way. Now they have a second chance. Will they make this work? Will they overcome the baggage? A beautiful story of Mary and Brad that is so well-written. It truly felt like you were there sharing it will friends (kind of like Laurie). They writing is real, heartfelt and you can feel their issues. You can feel them going through relationship struggles and joy. The characters are well-developed. It was great to have Katie, Chase, Timmy, and others from ‘This Time Around’ make an appearance. The descriptions make the town sound like any small town, USA. A beautiful second chance romance that you must read.

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Amaleigha and the Big Idea by Janice Pratt – Review by Shelly Kittell

Amaleigha and the Big IdeaAmaleigha and the Big Idea by Janice Pratt
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

What a great book! My first thought is that it teaches to go for your dreams. She had an idea and ran with it. Barefoot parks, how fun is that. It’s kind of like stopping to smell the roses. A neat idea. I loved the story. What a fun character. It has wonderful illustrations. A really great storytime book for the kids.

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Kamana Wanalaya by Susan Renee – Review by Shelly Kittell

Kamana Wanalaya for the Holidays: A Grinchy/Sunshine Holiday RomanceKamana Wanalaya for the Holidays: A Grinchy/Sunshine Holiday Romance by Susan Renee
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Oh my goodness! The TJ’s will have you feeling all the emotions. Teagan, better known as the Love Guru, invites Tenley, the Love Grinch, to a weeklong couples resort the fun begins. They have only seen each other on the web. She doesn’t believe in love. He’ll prove her wrong. But, can they survive scandal, family pasts, and their personal beliefs? I loved this author’s writing. Real and humorous. A mixture of story and texts, this is the funniest I have ever read. It’s the first I’ve read of this author. I’m going to go back and read about the other couples from the week. Their stories look fantastic also. The characters are terrific. They feel like your friends. They are down to earth. The story had a great flow. I can’t tell you more without super spoiling it. You just have to hit one-click and buy that book. You won’t regret. A quick and fun read.

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Murder on Oak Street ( A South Shore Mystery Book 1) by I.M. Foster – Review by Shelly Kittell

Murder on oak streetMurder on oak street by I. M. Foster
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is a fantastic book. I thoroughly enjoyed the mystery and suspense. The detail taken throughout the book to make you feel like you were there was amazing and down to every last drop. The characters were so well written. That prologue just grabs you by wrist and yanks you write in to the story. My heart was racing as I read it. I found the plot to be fairly smooth. There were twists and turns that I didn’t quite expect but it all still tied in nicely. A new author to me and, quite frankly, I hope to read more. These are my favorite type of mysteries. I highly recommend you give this book a shot. Well done!

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Malayeka (Heartstrings Book 3) by Brooke May – Review by Shelly Kittell

Malayeka (Heartstrings Book 3)Malayeka by Brooke May
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is another fun romp in the cupid assistant series. Malayeka is sent to deal with Billie and Leo. They have a heartstring but live in a town with a scenario that’s a cross between Romeo and Juliet & The Hatfield and The McCoys. What a web weave, they think they can be just friends, but…. She has her hands full with this assignment. I love the author’s writing. Fun and contemporary, lots of humor. I almost felt like we would see rednecks coming out of the woods. I loved the people of the story. Billie and Leo were two perfect people to watch as their relationship developed. Following Mala as she put it all together and tied it in, was a treat. I loved the story and am now a huge fan of this series.

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Aiko (Heartstrings Book 1) by Brooke May – Review by Shelly Kittell

AikoAiko by Brooke May
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Aiko is one of six cupid assistants. She is sent to help Alejandro find his true love. Will it be Everest or Celestina? This fantasy romance is a fun little romp through paranormal land. The writing is quite entertaining, as are Aiko’s hijinks. She’s just coming off a 50 year time-out. She just wants to do things right. The characters are timeless. Dogs jumping, “cupid sisters” insisting on checking on her, I don’t know how she gets her job done. Al just wants her gone. The plot stays smooth threw out, even with a twist here and there. A fantastic quick read that any romance lover would enjoy. I recommend.

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National Parks: An Angsty Second Chance Multicultural Romance by Laikyn Meng – Review By Shelly Kittell

National ParksNational Parks by Laikyn Meng
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

First off, this story does have a trigger warning for suicide and PTSD from an attack.
On that note, it’s a sweet, angsty tale of two young people going through the challenges of a relationship. Because of their backgrounds, the family history, they have some issues. I found the writing style was confusing at times with the POV going back and forth between National Parks and countries. I was able to get back on track. The characters were okay. I would have loved to see Phoebe develop into a stronger woman. My favorite part of the story was when she met Kenzo’s family and was hearing about his mom’s family history. Overall, it’s an okay story that if you like relationship drama and second chances, you’ll enjoy this one.
First off, this story does have a trigger warning for suicide and PTSD from an attack.
On that note, it’s a sweet, angsty tale of two young people going through the challenges of a relationship. Because of their backgrounds, the family history, they have some issues. I found the writing style was confusing at times with the POV going back and forth between National Parks and countries. I was able to get back on track. The characters were okay. I would have loved to see Phoebe develop into a stronger woman. My favorite part of the story was when she met Kenzo’s family and was hearing about his mom’s family history. Overall, it’s an okay story that if you like relationship drama and second chances, you’ll enjoy this one.

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Raine Down (The Shadow Guardians Book 1) by CB Samet – Review by Shelly Kittell

Raine Down (The Shadow Guardians, #1)Raine Down by C.B. Samet
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Wow! This is one intense story. I loved it. The action is fast paced. The mixture of human/paranormal is exciting and most intriguing. The chemistry between Will and Raine sucked me in right from the start and I was totally invested. I loved the fact that she fought it but eventually was worn down. The writing is so fast paced and just grabs you that you can’t put it down. You just want to keep reading to find out what’s next. I can’t wait for the next book.

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Road to the Mansfield (Express Investigations Book 1) by CB Laurence – Review by Shelly Kittell

Road to the Mansfield (Express Investigations, #1)Road to the Mansfield by C.B. Laurence
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Man, I was hooked from the beginning. This is an intense mystery/suspense that will have you on the edge-of-your-seat, holding your breathe wanting to know what’s going on. There are some twists and turns, but it all tends to come back together nicely in the plot. The characters are fantastic. I found them all so intricately well-written. The detail of their personalities is wonderful and fits into the story. I thought I had figured out what was going to happen and BAM, plot twist. Fantastic start to a series. I was shocked by the cliffhanger but I will be eagerly awaiting the next book to see where the story continues for Ruby and Rose. This is a new favorite mystery author for me.

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Operation Blackbird (Brass Compass Series Book 2) by Ellen Butler – Review by Shelly Kittell

Operation BlackbirdOperation Blackbird by Ellen Butler
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

What a thrilling spy mystery. Miriam is doing her best to help keep the next war from happening. She has many adventures in this story. She’s people she shouldn’t, things she shouldn’t. Who does she trust? Can she believe in anyone? This is an story that will have you intrigued and pull you in from page 1. It is the follow up to The Brass Compass. The author did a wonderful job with the historical references. The characters were well developed. Between them and the plot, this is one historical suspense that you just can’t pass up.

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Gunner (Hollins & Haring Book 3) by T.J. Beach – Review by Shelly Kittell

Gunner (Hollins & Haring #3)Gunner by T.J. Beach
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is a pretty intense thriller once Gary starts telling his story. At first, Gary sounds kind of like a schmo but he’s really kind of a nice guy that has some issues. He just needs some pushing that might be a “nag” or two. The story gets pretty intense. I loved the action and drama. Intermixed with the story, we go back to Debbie and her family dealing with Nan having Covid. There are some pretty tense moments. He goes through some tough emotions sharing this with Debbie to help her focus on something else. The writing was strong. The characters are very easy to relate to. The struggles are very real. The descriptions made you feel you were right there in the thick of things. A really good thriller that I highly recommend. I came in at book #3 (this one). I will be going back to catch up on the first two. A new favorite author for me. I love the back and forth between Gary and Debbie.

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Kiss Away Your Pain (Wounded Hearts Series Book 2) by Debbie Cromack – Review by Shelly Kittell

Kiss Away Your Pain (Wounded Hearts, #2)Kiss Away Your Pain by Debbie Cromack
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Could you get any sweeter with this story? Enzo and Candi are both dealing with losses that affect their relationships. Can these two flirty lovebirds let their walls down and take a chance on new love? Oh my goodness, this is one of my favorite romances this year. The flirty chemistry, the sparks that fly from these two; I can almost picture fluorescent lights zinging back and forth. In fact, as I was reading, I kept thinking that maybe Candi need to realized that she will again “zing.” (quoting Hotel Transylvania). I loved the romance, the drama, the reality of it. They dealt with real relationship issues. They shared family issues. The story was very well written. I loved all the characters. The last couple of chapters were my absolute favorites. (I cannot wait for the next book). One of my favorite authors. You must read this.

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Super Enemies by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Shelly Kittell

Super EnemiesSuper Enemies by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

A cute story about sibling rivalry. They can’t agree on what to do but they can agree to disagree. I found this story entertaining. It actually helped start a conversation with my grandchildren about playing nice with their brothers and sisters. Many giggles were had over the sandcastle wars. Another winner with this family. A storytime recommendation from us.w

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And Then She Fell by Dreena Collins – Review by Shelly Kittell

And Then She FellAnd Then She Fell by Dreena Collins
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is one of the oddest books I’ve read. It started like a mom that couldn’t accept her daughter’s death. As the story unfolded, more possibilities came to light (there are 10 in all.) I can’t tell you much about the story, you’ll have to read it for yourself. It is also one of the best stories I’ve ever read. You are led to think about what you are reading. I found the characters to be very interesting. There are several POV and this makes for a well rounded look at what could have happened to her and why she did what she did. The book is pretty powerful too. I found myself feeling some big emotions. I recommend this for those who can handle it. I also give a trigger warning!

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I Love You Today (Trading Heartbeats Trilogy Book 2) by Julie Navickas – Review by Shelly Kittell

I Love You Today (The Trading Heartbeats Trilogy Book 2)I Love You Today by Julie Navickas
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This book is incredibly touching and will have you rooting for Austin, Casey, and even Lauren (Josh & Austin’s sister). The author touches on Lauren’s story here in book 2 but this is mostly to introduce her. You’ll learn more about Lauren in book 3. Austin and Casey are the pair that you love to see together. They have chemistry and they have both deserve happiness. The author has put together a story that will have you drawn in from the beginning. You will want to read ‘I Love You Yesterday’ first. The book picks up right after the first one ended. There is tension and drama as feelings are dealt with. New romance is on the horizon but can it last among new jobs and friends speaking about “concerns”, etc.? The author deals with every issue that comes up with these type of relationships whether rich or poor. The characters are well-developed and show there true-colors. I have to say Mavis is not my favorite. Lauren is more of a BFF to Casey. This is an entertaining read that will have you feeling all the ‘feels’ as you read it. I would give it more than 5 stars if I could. Wonderfully done! I can’t wait to read Lauren’s story.

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Misfortune of Song (Druid’s Brooch Series Book 5) by Christy Nicholas – Review by Shelly Kittell

Misfortune of Song: An Irish Historical Fantasy Family Saga (The Druid's Brooch)Misfortune of Song: An Irish Historical Fantasy Family Saga by Christy Nicholas
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is truly a fascinating fantasy book. It is a historical one at that. Maelan is just trying to do what he feels is right. He’s so conflicted. You feel his pain and discomfort through the story as he tries to protect his granddaughter. The writing of this story is phenomenal. Don’t fret, the author gives a bit of a dictionary to help with the Irish words, so you shouldn’t get to lost. The descriptions of the people and the lands totally make you feel like you are there. I came in at this, book 5 of the series. I do plan to go back and start with the first book because there is a brooch involved and I feel a little lost because I don’t know the history of how it got back through time. I can really tell the author did her research because things are just so laid out. The plot line comes back together when it takes a twist or turn. An amazing book that I definitely recommend for fantasy or historical readers, or both.

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Tink (Devil’s Handmaidens MC Book 1) by D.M. Earl – Review by Shelly Kittell

Tink (Devil's Handmaidens MC-Book One)Tink by D.M. Earl
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is another winner in the MC books this author writes. I am a big fan of her Grimm Wolves series. Tink and her club were introduced in the last book. Tink is both vulnerable and strong. Shadow just has some serious issues but Is loyal to Tink and her family. The two of them make a good pair. We see new friends and some old friends pop up in this book. There is lots of drama, mystery/suspense, romance, and a bit of violence. Hey, it is an MC book. This is one of two of my favorite MC authors. She has a way of writing that grabs you in, sits you down, and says “don’t move until you finish this book.” Intensely entertaining, a little troubling, steamy romance and you have the best book you just might find this year in the romance genre. I can’t wait to read more.

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Hot for Teacher by Felicia Carparelli – Review by Shelly Kittell

Hot for Teacher - Shakespeare Made Us Fall in LoveHot for Teacher – Shakespeare Made Us Fall in Love by Felicia Carparelli
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Jim & Juliet. He’s an ex-marine with no college experience. She’s a college teacher. They are both older, have grown children and are moving on in life. I loved the second-chance romance. The flirtiness between them was awesome. Nothing like firting around Romeo and Juliet. My favorite part was him calling her to ask for dating advice. The story is classic. The characters were well-developed. They were not drawn up as being old, stodgy people. Humor, fun and an entertaining story for all. The writing is contemporary and keeps you interested and quite entertained. I loved this. It’s a new author to me and I hope to read more from her.

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The Perfect Mrs. Claus by Barbara Matteson – Review by Shelly Kittell

The Perfect Mrs. ClausThe Perfect Mrs. Claus by Barbara Matteson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

What a truly adorable story! Another one that Hallmark could make into a Christmas movie. Matthew & Savannah are a cute couple that meet through a bungled attempt to tell her that she would be perfect to play Mrs. Claus. Matthew fell in love with Savannah’s hair color. They are both older with grown kids, widows and deserve happiness. I love how this story is realistic, shares their struggles, and shows their happiness. Supporting characters like Fern are a blessing as she is a fascinating lady that should have her own story. The story is so well done. You have romance, friendship, cuteness, and Santa. The memories brought up through the setting of the store display can also bring back happy memories for readers. This is a wonderful holiday story. I will be buying some copies for gifts. I hope to see more from this author.

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A Crossbow Christmas by Ann Swann – Review by Shelly Kittell

A Crossbow ChristmasA Crossbow Christmas by Ann Swann
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Carina is just trying to get back on her feet after the pandemic threw her life a curve ball. Max offers her the opportunity. This book is the best “feel good” that I have read this year. The writing is heartfelt. You can truly feel the emotions in the writing. She tries to get her husband and family together for a holiday. Who can’t relate to that? I never read the back because I always like to judge a book by my opinion. I went in wondering if this was an “age-gap” romance. I was so glad to see it was “second-chance” and a friendship one. The characters are all so special in this book. They each had their own role in the story. The storyline is exquisite and interesting. You can’t put the story down. You are pulled right in. Get a cup of cocoa and join everyone in town. That ending…..I love this book. Another I will be gifting to friends. A definite holiday must read.

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Painter of the Damned (Painted Souls Book 2) by Rob Samborn – Review by Shelly Kittell

Painter of the Damned (Painted Souls, #2)Painter of the Damned by Rob Samborn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Incredible sequel! Nick and his wife are still on their adventures in Venice, Italy. They would love to get home to Boston but Interpol is wrecking their plans. The adventure, drama, and intrigue are amazing. This book sucks you right back in. You can’t put it down. You have to follow to find out what’s going to happen. Nick is still trying to help free those in the Paradise painting. I love this series and hope to see more. I devour these up and hope to get my husband hooked on them.

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Defiant Princess (Mafia Elite Series Prequel) by Amy McKinley – Review by Shelly Kittell

Defiant Princess (Mafia Elite Prequel)Defiant Princess by Amy McKinley
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The story of Marissa’s murder. This is the prequel to the Mafia Elite series and it is excellent. It answers some questions. I am a big fan of the Mafia Princess Royalty. These ladies are butt kickers and would rather take charge of things for themselves. Lil, Em, Sofia, and the other ladies are dealing with the issues of their fathers arranging their marriages and forbidden loves. Oh, I enjoyed this story so much. I am so sad to see it come to an end. This is a fantastic author. She writes with a contemporary tone that can make you feel like you are right their in the story. This is edge-of-the-seat action. Another winner!!

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Rage (Marcy Series Book 1) Audiobook by Linda Burson – Review by Shelly Kittell

5/5

What a story! I had read this and enjoyed it. The audio takes it to a new level. The narrator adds the tension and suspense in just the right spots. You can feel the anticipation rise and fall like you are there with her. This is a fantastic suspense that keeps you on the edge-of-your-seat needing to know what’s coming next. Listening to this kind of made me think of the old radio shows where you gather around listening. I loved it and recommend it for romantic suspense lovers.