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Shadows of Doubt (A Crawford Mystery) by Merissa Racine – Review by Shelly Kittell

Shadows of Doubt (A Crawford Mystery)Shadows of Doubt by Merissa Racine
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I do love the Crawford Mysteries. They are entertaining because the town is full of characters that are just like people you might find in a small town. Lauren is usually the one in the middle of the mystery. It’s funny how families are always causing such chaos around money. This installment of the mysteries lived up to its expectations. It was funny, had challenges with some twists you weren’t expecting and just fun to solve. Well worth the cost and I promise you’ll get a kick out of it.

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Come Back Tomorrow (Embrace Tomorrow Duet Book 1) by Amy Argent – Review by Shelly Kittell

Come Back Tomorrow (Embrace Tomorrow, #1)Come Back Tomorrow by Amy Argent
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

One of the best fiction books I’ve read for 2021!!!! Powerful! Emotional! This book will take your breath away. The author has written a phenomenal book that sucks your breath away as you begin the story of Will and Tori. Will is a terminal cancer patient and Tori is a clinical Psychologist that befriends him yet it turns into love. No more from me because you MUST read this book. The story is written strong and powerful. It is so emotional. You get hit in the gut by the feelings they each have and are going through. The characters are feeling real feelings. I just went through cancer with my mother and these are real feelings. It is realistic down to the doctor being late. I was so into the story that I couldn’t put it down until this morning and I found myself crying over the ending. I can’t wait to read the sequel.

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Engaño (The DeWitt Agency Adventures Book 2) by Lance Charnes – Review by Shelly Kittell

Engaño (DeWitt Agency Adventures, #2)Engaño by Lance Charnes
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This book was enthralling, intriguing and like reading a chick action movie. Carson is a bad ass. She acknowledges that she is not getting younger. She unfortunately is stuck doing things she isn’t fond of thanks to her father. Hunting Vyktoria down is one them, but she does it. This is one mission that is wearing and may not be what it seems. Someone is out to get Vyktoria it seems and Carson is determined to find out what is going on. The characters, the action and the story are so well written that you just can’t put it down. You have to keep reading once you start. I am sure glad that my phone is small and I can take it anywhere. This is a must read that will “blow you away!” Highly recommend.

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Whisper Creek: A Logan McKenna Mystery Book 7 by Valerie Davisson – Review by Shelly Kittell

Whisper Creek (A Logan McKenna Mystery Book 7)Whisper Creek by Valerie Davisson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is one of the best purchases I’ve made for a mystery. The action sets you up from the beginning and slowly develops until you don’t realize that you are in the middle of it and you just can’t put it down. Logan gets in the middle of thins to help her friends. I loved the action. A book that can keep me pulled in with action in the story is a great story. It’s hard to stick with stories that drag. Logan and the other characters just mesh so well that the plot intertwines in such a way that you want to know who did it. I love playing sleuth. Wonderful descriptions, her details of the coast are terrific. This book is a must read!!! Highly recommend.

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Born to Fight (Can’t Resist You Book 1) by Brittany Anne – Review by Shelly Kittell

Born to Fight (Can't Resist You, #1)Born to Fight by Brittany Anne
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is a phenomenal book! It is definitely for 18+ group. From the start Hunter and Rain go through some intense struggles and trials. Can they make it through? There are some things that are not as it seems. Since the United States has fallen, there are some really bad things going on. I was sucked in and could not put the book down unless it was absolutely necessary. I do love a good action mystery. I highly recommend this one.

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Cursed Luck (Broderick Coven Book 5) by AJ Renee – Review by Shelly Kittell

Cursed Luck (Broderick Coven, #5)Cursed Luck by A.J. Renee
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Cursed Luck by A.J. Renee is funny, witty and romantic. Edward and Mia are fated to be together; but, like a lot of us, they tend to fight or misunderstand what the signs are telling us. They have chemistry and man, do they fight it. I fell in love with this couple watching their interactions. Mia is fascinating because of her earth powers! The garden she created for Serena… Fantastic!!! Edward is pretty fascinating because his powers are just WOW!! I can’t even describe them. These two go through some intense adventures and if they can come out good on the end of the trials then maybe there is hope?! This whole series is great. Edward amid Mia just round out this whole family. You have got to get out and purchase this book, better yet, the series. Highly recommend.

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Fool Me Twice by Gledé Browne Kabongo – Review by Shelly Kittell

Fool Me TwiceFool Me Twice by Glede Browne Kabongo
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is one heck of a page-turning thriller. From the beginning scene in the restraint until the heart-rendering scene at the end, you just can’t put the book down. This is writing that grips you at the heart and has you feeling every emotion and feeling that the character feels. Every description has you feeling like you are there in the story, so vivid and detailed. This is a must read for action and thriller fans. Highly recommend.

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The Guardian’s Legacy (The Coin of Time series Book 1) by Luciana Cavallaro – Review by Shelly Kittell

The Guardian's Legacy (Coin of Time, #1)The Guardian’s Legacy by Luciana Cavallaro
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Wow!! This story was an incredibly power-packed thriller. It was just what I needed. Every once in awhile I need a good thriller and this one brought it all. You get sucked in at the beginning with an action chase and you don’t want to leave even when you hit the big power cliff-hanger ending. Tremendous characters written with adventurous personalities that fit the story. Amazing!! My 2021 thriller pick for the year. You have to read this. I just can’t tell you enough about the good things. HIGHLY RECOMMEND.!!!!

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The Bastard Prince (It’s Raining Royals) by Alix Nichols – Review by Shelly Kittell

The Bastard Prince (It's Raining Royals, #2)The Bastard Prince by Alix Nichols
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Sasha and Arnaud have the adventure of a lifetime. I am a fan of this series because it kind of reminds me of a rom-com version of the Davinci Code. The secrets, intrigue and mystery entwined with fun and steamy romance make this an enjoyable and quick read. Sasha’s sassy stubbornness makes her quite the character. Arnaud’s tenacity to stay with her makes him the perfect man. A perfect second book to this series that was just as good as the first. I eagerly await the next one. Highly recommend.

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Noémie’s Journey AUDIO BOOK by Victoria Saccenti – Review by Shelly Kittell

What a fantastic book! Based in the south in 1069, dealing with racial issues and romance and injustices made this book still relevant today. My favorite part was watching Noemie grown and take her life back. When she told Serena off, I was so happy for her. So well-written and beautifully done, I recommend this book to everyone.

The Book of Carraig (The Cross of Ciaran Book 2) by Andrea Matthews – Review by Shelly Kittell

The Book of Carraig (The Cross of Ciaran #2)The Book of Carraig by Andrea Matthews

What a wonderful second book in the series. The continuation of the story of Cieran keeps you just as enthralled as the first. This installment has truths, lies, secrets, etc. intertwined into the story. It is so exciting and so mysterious. The mystery will carry you through the book. The wonderful characters and descriptions of the the beautiful country of Ireland will amaze you. Such a good investment. So worth the purchase. Highly recommend. I could tell you more but you truly have to read this book to experience it.

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Silent Gavel (A Crawford Mystery Book 1) by Merissa Racine – Review by Shelly Kittell

Silent Gavel (Crawford Mystery #1)Silent Gavel by Merissa Racine
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is a mystery that will grab you from page 1 and keep you reading until the very end. Lauren finders her boss dead when she picks arrives to pick her up. From there, the adventure and mystery begins. Lauren has a cast of characters around her that are so well-written as support. They each have their role to play from the ex-husband, who conveniently stops by to check on her and try to make a move; to the Detective, who has an attraction to her (and where will this go). I loved the fact that I just could not pick who the killer was. I thought I knew but then I was wrong. Great first novel and I’m looking forward to reading her next book in the series. There is nothing like a good legal thriller. Highly recommend!

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Forever: A Diamond Doms Novel by Ivy Nelson – Review by Shelly Kittell

Forever (Diamond Doms #9)Forever by Ivy Nelson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This story will suck you in from page 1 and won’t let go until the last page. There is spice for the romance lover; intrigue for the adventure lover; and lots of romance for the all. The cast is well-written and so intertwined that they just blended into the story like they all belonged together. The plot is fantastic and like a spy novel with some BDSM. Every time I thought I knew what was happening; BAM, plot twist. The women in the book are strong willed and stubborn. They are not held back by much. This author has just been put on my list of favorites. I love a good book that can make my head spin trying to figure out who’s the bad guy and what’s going on. I thoroughly enjoyed this book. I highly recommend. 18+ crowd only.

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Wrong for Him (The Love Lottery Series Book 3) by Christi Barth – Review by Shelly Kittell

Wrong for Him (Love Lottery, #3)Wrong for Him by Christi Barth

This is a sweetly romantic book. Amelia has had a crush on Teague her whole life. When the opportunity of a lifetime drops into their laps to run a hotel, they go for it. Along with her brother (who happens to be Teague’s best friend), they go through a series of challenges. They somehow come out on the other side together and love each other. A well-written story that just flows together and reminds a little of a slightly “dysfunctional” family with the bickering amongst themselves, etc. But there is also laughing, hijinks and fun adventures. A good read to lift some of your spirits. Highly recommend.

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Wild Desire (The Protectors Series Book 1) by Toya Richardson – Review by Shelly Kittell

Wild Desire (The Protectors, #1)Wild Desire by Toya Richardson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The Story of Elias and Mila feels like a story of love that has overcome so many odds to be. Mila grew up being bullied for being different. She preferred animals to people. Who doesn’t? I know most days, I do. She felt the pull of the forest. After he parents where tragically killed and after being bullied by the jerk, Drake Scott, she left town. Now she is back as a forest ranger….and she put herself right in harm’s way. Drake has her back on his radar. Elias has a few secrets to hide but he has been waiting for a long time to find his mate and now she is here. He throw himself into protecting Mila. These two learn during time of trouble about each other. They go through fire and hell and come out loving each other more on the other side. Mila meets the other supes and together they battle the evil that has befallen on their community. This is a tremendous book. The action sucks you in. the characters all blend together and work in such a way that it just blends naturally. The plot just goes like a river. I couldn’t put the book down.
I will be reading the rest of the series. You have to find out what happens. This is a book that leaves you, the reader, feeling like you are part of the community. You just can’t be left hanging. Great book. One of my must reads of the year! Highly recommend!

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Why We Don’t Die in Dreams: Book 1 by Debbie Zello – Review by Shelly Kittell

Why we don't die in DreamsWhy we don’t die in Dreams by Debbie Zello
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

What an intriguing book! What is reality? Which is the dream? Gavin is a very interesting character. A cop with heart and a very interesting personality. Lou, Gavin’s new partner, is an intriguing woman that excites Gavin in more ways that one, is smart and shows how she can go with the big guys. I literally could not stop reading once I started. I was pulled into the story and wanted to figure out if this was a dream or reality. The plot was exciting, with its twists and turns. These a bit of spice spattered throughout to heat up the action. For 18+. Strongly recommend.

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Love’s Refrain (The Stardust Duet, Book 1) by KG Fletcher – Review by Shelly Kittell

Love's Refrain (The Stardust Duet, #1)Love’s Refrain by K.G. Fletcher
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is one of the most romantic books I have read in awhile. Katherine and Peter’s love transcends time. Peter knew her most of her life. The writing was beautiful and romantic. Her jealous piano player seemed to be a buzz kill and I sure wish they would have punched him out earlier. The transition between time periods seemed to flow effortless which kept the story going smooth. The characters were just so well written. Sasha and Pete were written to be supportive friends. It is such a great story that you must read it. I can’t wait to read the next book in the series. This is a 2021 must read.

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Entwined (Stone and Cinder Book 1) by A.L. Morrow – Review by Shelly Kittell

Entwined: A Cinderella Retelling (Stone and Cinder Book 1)Entwined: A Cinderella Retelling by A.L. Morrow
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

What an inventive retelling of Cinderella. Ashling is a brave young woman who can jump right in there and fight monsters with the guys. Prince Callum and his husband, Teague, think she is the perfect candidate to carry their heir. Along the way, we have monsters, evil stepmonsters (oops, stepmothers) and a ball, along with a few other items. There is a bit of steam included for the romance fans (definitely 18+). I loved the well-written characters and detail. The original story with its little bits of unpredictability were fun and quite refreshing. I’m looking forward to Book 2 coming out in March 2022.
Highly Recommend.

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Ye Gods! The Law is an Ass! (Donovan Trait Book 2) by Seelie Kay – Review by Shelly Kittell

Ye Gods! The Law is an Ass!Ye Gods! The Law is an Ass! by Seelie Kay
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

First things first, I want more of this! Donovan has his hands full with a pregnant Shirley. They are dealing with violating the agreement they made with the Coalition and that’s kind of like war. Hiding on an island of Nuns, Donovan and Shirley are trying to fight this battle, deal with the pregnancy and have the babies when they come early. Trying every method and with every resource they can, they go to battle with the Coalition to prove that vampire babies can be born from a vampire/human mating. The Coalition, being made up of good old vamps, can’t get their heads out of their asses to see the problem. So, big steps must be taken. This book is exciting, fresh, full of adventure and fun! You should read it. It’s a quick weekend read. Well-written, a few twists where you don’t expect them. Highly recommend. I’m looking forward to reading more of this author.

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Weep, Woman, Weep: A Gothic Fairytale about Ancestral Hauntings by Maria DeBlassie – Review by Shelly Kittell

Weep, Woman, WeepWeep, Woman, Weep by Maria DeBlassie
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This was an amazingly original book. Mercy tells the story of her encounter with La Llorana, the River Witch. She shares her encounter and how it changed her life. Mercy is a very strong young woman. Granted, she shouldn’t have been out walking by the ditch/river that late but still, she is a survivor. There are tough topics such as domestic violence, abuse and possibly suicide touched on. They are covered in a serious and respectful way. Mercy is so strong and well-written that you root her on as she battles the River Witch. An incredible book that you just can’t miss!! I highly recommend.

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To be a Fae Queen (Realm Chronicles Book 1) by Tricia Copeland – Review by Shelly Kittell

To be a Fae Queen (Realm Chronicles #1)To be a Fae Queen by Tricia Copeland
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Titania is a 15 year old fae princess facing the toughest decisions of her life. She is the last of the line in her family. Her mother is basically catatonic with grief after her brothers where lost in the last wars. She has to decide whether to fight to rule the kingdom or should she allow a male to rule? Should she help with the search for the Kobolds and why they are getting in without being noticed? Or will a marriage help? Tough decisions for an adult, much less a teen. Her father sees her as a child and a girl. He seems to leave her out of decisions so she has to fight ever step of the way. She is amazing strong, stubborn, and brave. With the help of a few friends, she gets through every challenge thrown at her. This is a book that you cannot put down once you start. You will be drawn in by the characters. The descriptions of the house and palace system; the character descriptions; to the action will completely draw you in. It’s got a little of something for everyone. You really just need to read this. I’m looking forward to reading more of thiss series. I hope you’ll join me. Highly recommended.

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No Strings Attached by Lara Ward Cosio – Review by Shelly Kittell

No Strings AttachedNo Strings Attached by Lara Ward Cosio
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

A quick, fun and easy read that will have you giggling. Kayla and Tanner have such a fun chemistry that it sizzles. Neither thinks they have time for romance so they choose to go for no-strings attached. All the fun and no commitment which works nice until someone else enters the picture. The someone else happens to be Kayla’s ex, can we say green-eye’d monster here? Kayla has a child with him and that makes it very complicated for her. Tanner soon realizes that strings have attached. The characters in this story are hilarious and well-written. There scenes in the beginning of the story are classic. When she is caught butt-staring, her responses are lame yet funny, but Tanner is busted too. I mean, come one, who hasn’t done that? And when she tried to text her bestie a picture of his butt and he was right behind her? I started laughing so hard my chest hurt. This is an incredibly funny romance that you should definitely read. It will make your day brighter. Highly recommend.

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Dating the It Guy by Krysten Lindsay Hager – Review by Shelly Kittell

Dating the It GuyDating the It Guy by Krysten Lindsay Hager
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This was a fantastic book. I found it completely entailed the teen relationship cycle. Angst over dating from previous relationships and how they affect your next ones to dealing with issues in your current relationships. Emme is struggling with the aftermath from her previous relationship with John, when she starts dating Brendon, the popular boy. Emme has many insecurities and you can see these come out throughout the stories. You may even feel them with a familiarity from your youth I did. The story is so well-done that you just continue watching Emme grow through the story as she matures through the insecurities and into the relationship. Brendon is a pretty amazing fellow. He’s down to Earth. He doesn’t see the girls falling over him. It is a really good story for Young Adults. I think it’s a wonderful story for all. Emme learned to appreciate what she had in front of her.

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Goddess of Everything: A Blood-Curdling Tale of Truth, Freedom, and Love by Paul DeBlassie III – Review by Shelly Kittell

Goddess of EverythingGoddess of Everything by Paul DeBlassie III
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Goddess of Everything by Paul DeBlassie III is one of the best psychological horror books I believe I have ever read since Stephen King or Dean Koontz. This author has given me the creepiest case of the wiilies that I have ever had. Gabriel has grown up with “Mom of the Year.” She also happens to be Mother Superior. Oh, and did I mention that she has some creepy supernatural powers that she uses to hurt people, including Gabriel, his wife and child? Through the years, we see Mother Juana pretend to be awesome and use her powers to hurt people. Gabriel has always had the power of light on his side. This story is an intense battle of good and evil. Gabriel and his wife, Consuela, are trying to protect their child and the children from the orphanage. Consuela is the one to show that Mother Juana is a mother-in-law from Hell. You can feel the tension and suspense as you read. I love a good story that leaves me so creeped out, I need a night on. Well-written and well-developed, this is a worthy purchase and must-read for all fans of horror and suspense!!!! Paul DeBlassie III is now one of new favorites. HIGHLY RECOMMEND!! Phenomenal book!

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Saratoga Roan by Bree M. Lewandowski – Review by Shelly Kittell

Saratoga RoanSaratoga Roan by Bree M. Lewandowski
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This book is so heartwarming and heartbreaking all at the same time. Cassandra broke up with Rhett five years ago in such a harsh way. Now Rhett is running his family’s farm in Wyoming and taking care of his brother and father, who has Alzheimer’s. Cassie waltzs back into his life. They try to pick things up but a bit of chaos ensues from all angles. A lot of it from his father. Taking care of a patient with Alzheimer’s is not easy. Issues and arguments can arise. Rhett and Cassie learn what caused many of theirs. Rhett was really hurt by her. The story is so intriguing and so heartfelt as so many of the issues are really gone through by families of these patients. She even includes sundowning. There is so much to repair in Rhett and Cassie’s relationship. They went through the trouble and came through it together stronger for it. Every character was so well-written with strength and character, even Callum. Her Aunt Louise was my personal favorite because she was kind of the devil’s advocate. The book was so incredible and left me with so many feelings. What an incredible story. I hope to read more from this author. She was new to me and I will be looking for more from her. Highly recommend.

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No Way Out (Mafia Elite, book 1) by Amy McKinley – Review by Shelly Kittell

No Way Out (Mafia Elite, #1)No Way Out by Amy McKinley
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

No Way Out by Amy McKinley was an intriguingly, intense book. The story of Max and LIliana is intense and full of action. The story starts with Max blowing up Brambilla’s warehouse like it is nothing. BAM! That is just the opening move in a story full of danger, thrills, action, drugs, cartels, bad deals, and any other bad things you can think of. Brambilla thinks nothing of using his daughter, Liliana, in these deals. She’s just property to him. Maxi is out to rescue her. Keep in mind, there may be more than the eye can see. The story is so good that it was like reading a mafia film on paper. I could picture this in my head (that’s the sign of a good book.) The characters were so well written. Your sleaze-bags like Raphe, etc. left you feeling like you needed a shower just after reading about them. This book was so very good. The action just continues until the very end. I cannot wait to read Book 2 in this series. I highly recommend you read this one.

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Runaway to the Outback (Welcome to Bunya Junction, Book 2) by Nicole Flockton – Review by Shelly Kittell

Runaway to the Outback (Welcome to Bunya Junction, #2)Runaway to the Outback by Nicole Flockton
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This book is a sweet romance that brings to mind the movie The Runaway Bride (though Pandora is not a runaway bride). Jonas and Pandora cross paths when she stops in at his pub. She is running away from a modeling shoot (in a high end wedding dress)…. As you can guess, Bunya Junction is a small town and the gossip vine runs rampant. These two start the vine a’hopping. The messes they can get in and the assumptions they make. I found this book quite entertaining. The characters were well-written. All around, Sindy, Randy, Scott, Jonas and Pandora were like watching local good drama. It was romantic and sweet. Jonas and Pandora had rough times and worked through them. I loved trying to picture the area of Australia being written about. Grand book all around. Highly recommend you check this out.

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Murder Among Friends by Linda Burson – Review by Shelly Kittell

Murder Among FriendsMurder Among Friends by Linda Burson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The author did a thoroughly entertaining job with this book. It grabs you from page 1 with Cammie’s back story on how she came to live with her brother and his family to solving the murder of Paula. Cammie is quite the strong character and fairly independent. It is refreshing to watch her work to get back on her feet. The mystery of what happened to Paula was like trying to listen to a bunch of hens cackle when the friends where involved. You think you have it figured out and then, oops, plot twist, try again. It’s a really intriguing tale that keeps you on the edge of your seat with well-thought out characters and a plot that could be taken straight out of the news. Well done! I loved this story. The author is a new favorite for me. Highly recommend you read this one.

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Stormwood by Luna Mayfield – Review by Shelly Kittell

StormwoodStormwood by Luna Mayfield
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Stormwood by Luna Mayfield is a page-turner of a paranormal romance. I started this book this morning and could not put it down. It is a quick and easy read. It was written in such a way that it reminded of the psychological thrill that the old Halloween movies gave me. You have two haunting spirits, an estate with a mystery and a ring left to Luci, her fiance and some major paranormal activity to solve and figure out. I’m telling you that Luci gives mood ring a new definition. The author writes with the write amount of chill and suspense. Tolle gives me the creeps. I may have trouble sleeping tonight (just kidding.) The whole character/spirit angle was great. I was left wanting more. I do believe I found another new favorite for my paranormal books. Highly recommend!!!

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Swindler’s Revenge (Karina Cardinal Mysteries Book 5) by Ellen Butler – Review by Shelly Kittell

Swindler's RevengeSwindler’s Revenge by Ellen Butler
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Wow! Karina has some jacked-up things going on in her life. Good thing she has friends like Rick at Silverthorne to help her. After having the FBI roust her apt and, tada, plant bugs after thinking her ex would contact her after “stealing 1.2 million dollars,” she starts on a big mystery to figure out what is going on. She unravels threads which lead her in this direction to that direction to some of the big deals in D.C. and the walls come down…over what? Can’t tell ya. You’ll have to read the book. I promise you won’t be disappointed. This was a ‘suck me in from the start’ and ‘I couldn’t put it down until the end’ book. So much action and characters that you really enjoy because they feel 3D and like they are part of the action. The whole story is so well done that it just flows smoothly together. That is so rare nowadays that it is a treat to get a story that runs like that. I highly recommend this one.

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