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The Queen’s Dog (An Empire at Twilight Novel) by N.L. Holmes – Review by Sheri Schrader

The Queen's DogThe Queen’s Dog by N.L. Holmes
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The Queen’s Dog by N.L. Holmes is the third book in the Empire at Twilight series. This is my favorite book in the series so far. What will you do for the love of another? This question falls on a eunuch slave who has fallen for his Queen in the Syrian kingdom of Ugarit. This becomes not a story of failed romance but of mystery and intrigue. I really enjoy the descriptive powers of the author taking me back in time to an ancient kingdom. The characters are well written and interesting. I want to know what is going to happen next as I am reading which causes me to stay up all night. I usually enjoy my historical fiction in the Victorian age but this has me hooked. I look forward to reading more from this author in the future.

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Shattered Reality (Summoned Book 1) by C.A. King, USA Today Bestselling Author – Review by Sheri Schrader

Shattered Reality (Summoned Book 1)Shattered Reality by C.A. King
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Shattered Reality by C.A. King is the first book in the new Summoned series. I always enjoy a new book by C.A. King and this did not disappoint. Retelling and reworking the tale of Medusa and Perseus into modern times wonderfully I flew through the pages of this book. Mudesa Black, a psychiatrist, who has a new role to take in her life is the main character. Perry P. is a private investigator with a mysterious new client. I have always enjoyed this classic tale and many do not take it on especially reworking to modern times. C.A. King did a great job and created characters I really enjoyed and a story which was fantastic. I look forward to more from this series and the author in the future.

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Eternal Wanderings: The Continuing Journey of Kara O’Keefe by Danielle Ackley-McPhail – Review by Sheri Schrader

Eternal WanderingsEternal Wanderings by Danielle Ackley-McPhail
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Eternal Wanderings: The Continuing Journey of Kara O’Keefe by Danielle Ackley-Mcphail is the fourth book in the Eternal Cycle series. I do recommend reading the series in order. I picked up here on the fourth book and enjoyed it a lot by it felt like I was missing bits and pieces. I am now going back to pick up the pieces of the story. Kara O’Keefe is a wonderful, smart, and strong female character. Her tale caught my attention and did not let go. There are attention and details paid to the world-building and story development which allowed Kara to lead the story. I really enjoyed the creativity of the book and also the extra mini-stories included at the end. It was a great bonus. I look forward to reading more from this author soon and catching up to pick up the pieces.

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Better To Have Loved by Christy Nicholas – Review by Sheri Schrader

Better To Have LovedBetter To Have Loved by Christy Nicholas
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Better to Have Loved by Christy Nicholas is a beautiful story based on true stories of love lost and found. Starting in the ’60s, this follows the story of Julie Jensen and her growth in romance and herself. I will not speak further about the story because I do not want to ruin this for anyone. This is a well-written book and I really enjoyed the historical side of the story. I have read some other books by this author and this is very good and hard to compare to the other stories, I enjoy how she is able to write in different styles depending on the story she is telling. I really look forward to reading more from this author in the future.

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VANISHING DAY (A Logan McKenna Mystery Book 4) by Valerie Davisson – Review by Sheri Schrader

Vanishing Day: Logan Book 4 (The Logan McKenna Series)Vanishing Day: Logan Book 4 by Valerie Davisson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Vanishing Day by Valerie Davisson is the fourth book in the Logan McKenna series. This can be read as a standalone book, but I believe better enjoyed if read in the series order. Logan has another mystery on her hands. What is going on with her new neighbor and child? Grab the book to find out. Logan has grown a lot since the first book, and she has a great group of friends who make occasional appearances to help her out. This book has some wonderful descriptions of the Pacific Coast, as well. If you are looking for a great female lead character with a story of twists and turns than this is a great book for you. I look forward to reading more from this series in the future.

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THE PATIENCE OF KARMA (A Madeline Dawkins Mystery #5) by Cynthia Hamilton – Review by Sheri Schrader

The Patience of KarmaThe Patience of Karma by Cynthia Hamilton
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The Patience of Karma by Cynthia Hamilton is the fifth book in The Madeline Dawkins book series. These books can be read as standalone but I believe much better enjoyed if read in order. Madeline is up for a crazy time in this book with three different cases at one time. Can Madeline and her partner Mike solve all the cases before anything gets crazier? Madeline is a smart, adventurous, detective who has found her calling since the first book. Mike is a great counterpart to Madeline and I really enjoy their back and forth. I look forward to reading more from this series and this author in the future.

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Secure Heart (Chase Security Series #3) by R.L. Dunn – Review by Sheri Schrader

Secure Heart (Chase Security Series Book 3)Secure Heart by R.L. Dunn
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Secure Heart by R.L. Dunn is the third book in the Chase Security Series. This can be read as a standalone book, but I’ve enjoyed reading in order to see how the different characters develop. Each book focuses on a different member of the Chase Security team and someone who has captured their eye. This book focuses on Julian Dupart, the new head of the San Diego branch and Holly Dupree Morrison. These stories have thrills, mystery, romance, and more to them. I have enjoyed how the series draws the attention to a different couple each story, while you still get to see the ones from past books. I really enjoyed the character of Holly and how she will fight for her daughter no matter the danger. I look forward to reading more in this series and from this author in the future.

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Pharaoh’s Forgery (Karina Cardinal Mysteries Book 4) by Ellen Butler – Review by Sheri Schrader

Pharaoh's Forgery (Karina Cardinal Mystery Book 4)Pharaoh’s Forgery by Ellen Butler
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Pharaoh’s Forgery by Ellen Butler is the fourth book in the Karina Cardinal Mystery Book series. I recommend reading the books in order because of development to the characters and relationships, but this can be enjoyed as a standalone book. Karina is finally getting a well-deserved vacation away from D.C. Of course, as usual things don’t go as planned for Karina. This story has crime, thrills, mystery, laughs, and more. I always enjoy Karina’s adventures and her partners in getting her out of trouble and solving the case. Karina is smart, full of adventure, but also conscientious and not a detective. Trouble just seems to find her in the unlikeliest of places. I look forward to reading more in Karina’s mysteries in the future and more from this author.

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Tompkin’s School: For The Dearly Departed (A Supernatural Academy Trilogy Book 2) by Tabi Slick – Review by Sheri Schrader

Tompkin's School For The Dearly Departed (Supernatural Trilogy #2)Tompkin’s School For The Dearly Departed by Tabi Slick
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Tompkin’s School: For The Dearly Departed by Tabi Slick is the second book in A Supernatural Academy Trilogy. The book continues from where book 1 left off, so I recommend reading book 1 first. The twins, Izara and Kain, are getting more control of their powers. The problem comes into with their ever-changing world who can they trust? This series got even better with this book. There is intrigue and adventure for the characters. I really enjoy how the characters are changing and adjusting to their situation and look forward to where they go in the future. This has great world building, as well. I look forward to reading more from this author and this series in the future.

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Hero High: Heartbreak Rebellion (Hero High Collections Book 2) by Mina Chara – Review by Sheri Schrader

Heartbreak Rebellion (Hero High, #4)Heartbreak Rebellion by Mina Chara
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Hero High: Heartbreak Rebellion by Mina Chara is the second collection of this great series. This collection contains books 4- Depression, 5- Acceptance, and 6- Hero. You must read the first three books in the series first because each book is a continuation, and they all build on each other. Friday Fitzsimmons is a wonderful, realistic character. She has grown so much since the first book in the series. I love that her life hasn’t been easy, and she is often faced with tough decisions to make which have consequences. Imagine finding out you have special powers as a teen and that you are meant to be a hero or a villain. As if the teen years are not difficult enough. This is a fun, exciting series that is well thought out and not the same old story rehashed. I look forward to reading more from this author in the future.

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The Guard (A Soppranaturale Series Book 2) by Ashley Pagano – Review by Sheri Schrader

The Guard: A Soppranaturale Series: Book 2The Guard: A Soppranaturale Series: Book 2 by Ashley Pagano
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The Guard by Ashley Pagano is the second book in A Soppranaturale Series. First, read the book prior to this one before delving into this book. This book picks up shortly after where the first ended. Ommily and Link are back and have a lot to get through. There is no rest for them in protecting the Soppranaturale Hotel as the two remaining fae. This book takes the reader to a new and interesting world, which keeps the reader on the edge of their seat. I stayed up late into the night to finish this because I had to know what was going to happen. I just couldn’t wait. I enjoy that this is not a straight up fantasy but has a bit of romance, action, and plenty of twists and turns. It was a great way to spend a rainy day. I look forward to reading more from Ashley Pagano in the future.

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The Dating Itinerary by Brooke Williams – Review by Sheri Schrader

The Dating ItineraryThe Dating Itinerary by Brooke Williams
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The Dating Itinerary by Brooke Williams is a fun read about living in the singles scene. Written in a fun, humorous way, the author takes the characters on a crazy hunt for love. Penny is a cute, smart reporter taking on the a task of the cluster of options on the dating scene. George is her adversary in her work. Will he be her friend or foe in this adventure? This was a fun read which had me laughing and thankful not to be in the dating scene anymore. I enjoyed Penny because she is a determined and smart young woman with her eye on her goals. George is a good counter to Penny. I enjoyed the interactions between the two. This was a fun, quick read that helped to break me out of the doldrums. I look forward to reading more from this enjoyable writer in the future.

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The Crocodile Makes No Sound (The Lord Hani Mysteries Book 2) by N.L. Holmes – Review by Sheri Schrader

The Crocodile Makes No Sound (Lord Hani Mysteries #2)The Crocodile Makes No Sound by N.L. Holmes
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The Crocodile Makes No Sound by N.L. Holmes is the second book in The Lord Hani Mysteries Book series. I recommend reading the first book in the series prior to this one. In this book Lord Hani has his tons on his plate, there are multiple situations going on which affect him all at once. His character is becoming more developed as the series progresses, and I am getting more interested in learning more about him. Also, I love the fact that this is set during the times of ancient Egypt. This takes this story in a very different direction than if it took place in more contemporary days. I look forward to reading more from this series and this author in the future.

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Secure Again (Chase Security Series #2) by R.L. Dunn – Review by Sheri Schrader

Secure Again (Chase Security Series Book 2)Secure Again by R.L. Dunn
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Secure Again by R.L. Dunn is the second book in the Chase Security Series. This is a continuation of the first book, so I highly recommend reading book one in the series first. This story focuses on Dr. Elizabeth Reed, who notices a mysterious medical issue at the jail and Martin Bailey, CEO of Chase Security International, who has his own investigations ongoing. This is a good story that is full of suspense, mystery, and romance. I was drawn into the story and wanted to keep reading to find out what was going on for Dr. Reed and Martin’s cases. I liked there were separate stories, but they intertwined. I also enjoyed the characters. I look forward to reading more in this series soon.

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True Bastard (A Dark Sparrow Novel Book 4) by India Kells – Review by Sheri Schrader

True Bastard (A Dark Sparrow Novel #4)True Bastard by India Kells
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

True Bastard by India Kells is the fourth book in A Dark Sparrow Novel series. The series focuses on a different couple in each book. These can be read as standalone books, but I really have enjoyed reading them in order because they build upon each other. These books are fun and exciting to read. Liam and Catriona are fascinating to read about. The contrast between the two characters is so good and really made me enjoy their story even more. This story is not a straight romance but also contains action, thrills, and twists. I have enjoyed the books in this series as well as others by this author and this one did not disappoint. I look forward to reading more by India Kells in the future.

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I’ll See You Again: A Scottish rock star, standalone opposites-attract romance (Reigning Hearts Book 4) by K.G. Fletcher – Review by Sheri Schrader

I'll See You Again (Reigning Hearts, #4)I’ll See You Again by K.G. Fletcher
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I’ll See You Again: A Scottish rock star, standalone opposites-attract romance by K.G. Fletcher is the fourth book in the Reigning Hearts series. These are fun, romantic books which are standalone and can be read alone or in any order. This story focuses on Nicky and Reid. The two characters seem destined to be once they meet, but will destiny work in their favor? I really enjoy the differences in their characters and how the story develops around them. I always enjoy books by this author and this is without exception. I enjoy that the story isn’t a perfect relationship and that there are highs and lows. Much more realistic to read that the perfect romance. I look forward to reading much more from this author in the future.

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The Body Collector (Bad Boys of Space Book 3) by Landra Graf – Review by Sheri Schrader

The Body Collector (Bad Boys of Space Book 3)The Body Collector by Landra Graf
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The Body Collector by Landra Graf is the third book in the Bad Boys of Space series. This can be read and enjoyed as a standalone story. The story focuses on Big Al and Loyda. The two of them are in opposite parts of society but happen upon one another. Can one possibly be able to help the other? I enjoyed the characters and the space setting. It gives the story a bit of unrealness but still grounded in a futuristic reality. This story is a quick read and has action, adventure, twists, turns, and romance. There is something for almost everyone who wants to get away for a bit. I see this series as getaways from the seriousness of life. Don’t we all need that this year? I look forward to reading more from this author in the future.

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The Body Collector (Bad Boys of Space Book 3) by Landra Graf – Review by Sheri Schrader

The Body Collector (Bad Boys of Space Book 3)The Body Collector by Landra Graf
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The Body Collector by Landa Graf is the third book in the Bad Boys of Space series. This can be read and enjoyed as a standalone story. The story focuses on Big Al and Loyda. The two of them are in opposite parts of society but happen upon one another. Can one possibly be able to help the other? I enjoyed the characters and the space setting. It gives the story a bit of unrealness but still grounded in a futuristic reality. This story is a quick read and has action, adventure, twists, turns, and romance. There is something for almost everyone who wants to get away for a bit. I see this series as getaways from the seriousness of life. Don’t we all need that this year? I look forward to reading more from this author in the future.

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It Comes From Within (House Valdis Book 2) by Naomi Valkyrie – Review by Sheri Schrader

It Comes From Within (House Valdis #2)It Comes From Within by Naomi Valkyrie
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

It Comes From Within by Naomi Valkyrie is the second book in the House Valdis series. I highly recommend reading the first book before this because most of the characters are introduced there. This is a multi-faceted and complex fantasy book. The characters, especially Xenobia, are really deep and interesting. I really enjoy the storyline and it is interesting to see where the author is taking the story. I like the multiple layers of story and character development going on because it pushes the pace of the book and makes it almost impossible to set it down. This is not always one of my favorite genres but Naomi Valkyrie is making a convert of me. She writes and tells a story very well and keeps this reader engaged until the very last page. I look forward to reading more from this author in the future.

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DEVIL’S CLAW (A Logan McKenna Mystery Book 3) by Valerie Davisson – Review by Sheri Schrader

Devil's Claw: Logan Book 3 (The Logan McKenna Series)Devil’s Claw: Logan Book 3 by Valerie Davisson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Devil’s Claw by Valerie Davisson is the third book in the Logan McKenna Mystery series. I really enjoyed this addition to the series. The character of Logan McKenna is great to read about and there is always something interesting which turns Logan’s world upside down. This book hits some themes which all will understand and relate to: resentment, pain, personal loss, and greed. What these do to some is unmentionable while others come through the flames. The story is interesting and kept me reading to find out what all the twists would lead to. I always enjoy a good story with interesting characters which keeps me reading late into the night. I look forward to where this series goes to in the future.

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House Valdis Origins: Xenobia by Naomi Valkyrie – Review by Sheri Schrader

House Valdis Origins: Xenobia (House Valdis, #0)House Valdis Origins: Xenobia by Naomi Valkyrie
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

House Valdis Origins: Xenobia by Naomi Valkyrie is a prequel to the first novel in this series, The Rise of House Valdis. This is a quick read but very entertaining. I enjoyed getting a new insight into the character, Xenobia. This adds to the first book and the rest of the series and the relationships and characters being developed. I read this in record time and was sad to see the end of this book. I felt like it covered what was needed and now I will be rereading the first book before grabbing the second book. This is a great series and I look forward to reading more from it in the future.

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The Lightning Horse (Empire at Twilight Book 1) by N.L. Holmes – Review by Sheri Schrader

The Lightning Horse (Empire at Twilight, #1)The Lightning Horse by N.L. Holmes
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The Lightning Horse by N.L. Holmes is the first book in the Empire at Twilight series. This is historical fiction with a bit of thriller and mystery thrown in. The author used her experience in archaeology to bring a well-written piece to work. There is a very helpful map at the front and a list of historical notes to refer to as needed. This is about a young Hittite charioteer who learns so much concerning the personalities of man and the pain of loss at a young age. How does he move forward with his life? I will not give more away concerning the plot because I will not be able to stop. There is so much involved and I enjoyed the characters as well as the setting. I look forward to where this series will go in the future and reading more from this author.

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Lucky at Love (Some guys just never give up) by Cynthia Hamilton – Review by Sheri Schrader

Lucky at Love: Some Guys Just Never Give Up...Lucky at Love: Some Guys Just Never Give Up… by Cynthia Hamilton
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Lucky at Love: Some guys just never give up… by Cynthia Hamilton is an interesting, between genres read. It is labeled as a romance, but it covers more than a typical romance. There is romance at different levels. I was not sold on the concept at the beginning and thought I had it all sorted out. Luckily, Ms. Hamilton proved me wrong and gave me a story I didn’t expect. What happens when a journalist is after a story? Do their own perceptions change as they get to know a subject? I think it was interesting and an introspective look at love, relationships, and marriage. I enjoyed how there were challenges put to Allison by Jake concerning her own life. This is a good read. I look forward to reading more from Cynthia Hamilton in the future.

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Finders Reapers: A Paranormal Romantic Comedy (New Orleans Nocturnes Book 4) by Carrie Pulkinen – Review by Sheri Schrader

Finders Reapers (New Orleans Nocturnes, #4)Finders Reapers by Carrie Pulkinen
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Finders Reapers: A Paranormal Romantic Comedy by Carrie Pulkinen is the fourth book in the New Orleans Nocturnes series. Set in New Orleans, we find a reaper Asher having a personal crisis. Will he be able to let necromancer Jasmine in? This series is a fun, paranormal group of stories which interconnect, but each book tells a separate story. They can be read out of order and totally enjoyed, but what is the fun in that? This is again a fun, lighthearted romp with a happily ever after, which had me laughing and enjoying myself. The setting of New Orleans is fantastic for a paranormal story. I have enjoyed this entire series and look forward to reading more from Carrie Pulkinen in the future.

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Composed (An Ash Park Novel Book 8) by Meghan O’Flynn – Review by Sheri Schrader

Composed: An Ash Park Novel (Volume 8)Composed: An Ash Park Novel by Meghan O’Flynn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Composed: An Ash Park Novel by Meghan O’Flynn is the eighth book in the An Ash Park novel series. Let me tell you that I highly recommend starting at the beginning of the series because it helps to have all the background and info concerning Detective Edward Petrosky. This character is great because he is not perfect but flawed and but still an amazing detective. This series is dark, gritty, and full of suspense and this book doesn’t let the reader down. I will not reveal the plot but just know it was hard to tear myself away while reading. This explores the dark minds of people who are working to help us and those out to hurt us. I enjoy the level of description and the development of the characters. The stories keep getting better and better. I look forward to reading more from Meghan O’Flynn in the future.

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A Duke Never Forgets (The Duke Hunters Club Book 3) by Bianca Blythe – Review by Sheri Schrader

A Duke Never Forgets (The Duke Hunters Club, #3)A Duke Never Forgets by Bianca Blythe
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

A Duke Never Forgets by Bianca Blythe is the third book in The Duke Hunters Club. Luckily this can be read as a standalone because I haven’t read the other books in the series. What happens when Duke of Sandridge has a swimming accident? Lots, and I’m not going to give it away. This story follows what happens to the Duke and Genevieve. There is lots of mistaken identities, lies, double lies, and all for a good reason. Will they get a happily ever after or remain enemies? You will have to read this delightful book to find out. This is a quick read but is full of humor and more. I always have liked historical fiction especially the Regency era and this gave me a quick and fun read. I look forward to reading more from Bianca Blythe in the future.

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Alamir (Blood of Kaos Series Book 1) by Nesa Miller – Review by Sheri Schrader

AlamirAlamir by Nesa Miller
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Alamir is the first book in the Blood of Kaos Series by Nesa Miller. This is an exciting read and focuses on the character of Etain. She is an interesting character who is having to decide if the fairy tales she grew up on are real or fiction. Sometimes reality is stranger than fiction. This is a pretty fast paced story built in a fantasy world. I enjoyed the characters and story as well as the world building. Overall, this is an interesting start to a series. It introduced a lot of characters, and I am curious where the story will go next. I like the conflict and the struggle Etain goes through which I think helps make her a believable character. I look forward to reading more from this author in the future.

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Forest Park: A Logan McKenna Mystery Book 2 (The Logan McKenna Series) by Valerie Davisson – Review by Sheri Schrader

Forest Park: Logan Book 2 (The Logan McKenna Series)Forest Park: Logan Book 2 by Valerie Davisson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Forest Park: A Logan McKenna Mystery Book 2 is the second book in the Logan McKenna Series by Valerie Davisson. This is an intense story with multiple points of view telling the same story. There is a lot going on, but Logan McKenna leads the story well. She is having to try to trust her gut concerning new friends and others, but it becomes difficult as everything unravels. I like that, this isn’t just another set cookie cutter mystery. The author delves into the character of Logan McKenna and leaves the reader wanting more. I will not give any clues to the plot because there is nothing worse than a plot being wrecked. I will leave it up to you to pick up and start a great series. Of course, I recommend book 1 first. I look forward to reading more from Valerie Davisson in the future.

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Flicker to Fire (Crimson Sash Book 3) by Amanda Marin – Review by Sheri Schrader

Flicker to Fire (Crimson Sash, #3)Flicker to Fire by Amanda Marin
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Flicker to FIre by Amanda Marin is the third and final book in the Crimson Sash series. I highly recommend reading the books in order because the story lines flow from the beginning to the end of the series. This book is a great conclusion to this series. Neve and Micah are operatives for Sans Murs and are trying to create a better world. The problem gets explosive with the conflicts gaining steam. Will they be able to extinguish the fire before it’s too late?
I have enjoyed the development of Neve and Micah through the series and how they have grown in people with strong beliefs and loyalties. The setting is dystopian with a twist of fantasy but is not so unrealistic to be relatable. I have enjoyed this series and was happy with how the series was ended. I look forward to reading more from Amanda Marin in the future.

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Drawn to Him by Tammy Mannersly – Review by Sheri Schrader

Drawn to HimDrawn to Him by Tammy Mannersly
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Drawn to Him by Tammy Mannersly is a small-town romance. The story is about Erica and Dr. Matt who meet by chance. The two feel instant chemistry. Both have had their hearts broken in the past, will they be able to put the past behind them? I instantly liked the characters, especially Erica. She is smart, independent, and not caught up in all the small-town drama. I found this to be a quick but delightful read and wanted to see how the story would progress. This was a cozy story that I curled up to read. I look forward to reading more from Tammy Mannersly in the future.

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