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Death & Mirrors (All Things Dark & Deadly Book 1) by SF Benson – Review by Sheri Schrader

Death & Mirrors: All Things Dark & Deadly, Book OneDeath & Mirrors: All Things Dark & Deadly, Book One by S.F. Benson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Death & Mirrors is the first book in the All Things Dark & Deadly series. I was intrigued by the cover and synopsis of the story, and I was not disappointed. Evaline Wainwright is a delightful character, and she helped draw me into the story. I liked the nods to Alice in Wonderland and Sherlock Holmes. The mirror world concept was fantastic and helped guide the story’s fantastical elements. The story was a quick read. I am looking forward to reading more from this author and reading more from this series soon.

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Murder Most Pemberley (Eliza Darcy Mysteries Book 1) by Jessica Berg – Review by Sheri Schrader

Murder Most Pemberley (Eliza Darcy Mysteries Book 1)Murder Most Pemberley by Jessica Berg
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Murder Most Pemberley is the first book in the Eliza Darcy Mysteries series. I always enjoy a new take on Austen’s works, and this was a fun read. This story is set in modern-day times with the ancestors of Darcy and other characters from Pride and Prejudice. Eliza is American and has skipped across the pond to meet her father’s family in England. What starts as curiosity about her family turns into a murder mystery.
I enjoyed the characters and the story. It was a fun, light-hearted read, which leaves me looking forward to the next book in the series. I look forward to reading more from this author and this series soon.

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Key to His Heart by Kristina Beck – Review by Sheri Schrader

Key To His HeartKey To His Heart by Kristina Beck
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Key to His Heart is an emotional read. It is told from a dual point of view through the eyes of TJ and Katrina. The story is sweet and touching. I enjoyed getting the story from both of the main characters. It was great to see how the same story is seen through the eyes of the different characters. Love stories often deal with the situation’s timing, which this one also did. I enjoyed that the story was not outlandish or off the rails with unrealistic scenarios. I haven’t read much from this author, but I look forward to reading more from her in the future. This is a great read to grab if you need some realism and a HEA.

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Paige and the Reluctant Artist by Darci Garcia – Review by Sheri Schrader

Paige and the Reluctant ArtistPaige and the Reluctant Artist by Darci Garcia
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Paige and the Reluctant Artist is a delightful story of a successful gallery curator and Mark, a reluctant artist. I enjoyed the New York art gallery aspect as well as the Montana ranch setting. Paige and Mark are an exciting match that, at times, mirrors the different locations of the story. I like the tension between the characters and how the story develops. This book was my first read by this author, and I really enjoyed the story. I like that the story read quickly but did not feel lacking in any aspect. I look forward to reading more from this author in the future.

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Enchanted in Time by Nikki Lynn Barrett – Review by Sheri Schrader

Enchanted in TimeEnchanted in Time by Nikki Lynn Barrett
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Enchanted in Time is a wonderfully woven story. I will not say anything specific because I do not want to give anything away. The story is multifaceted and brings all the feels. I laughed, cried, and ripped through the pages of this book. I enjoyed the characters and how their stories wove themselves together. The story read quickly and left me wanting more from the story. I haven’t read much from this author before, but now I will be looking for more from her. I was absolutely enchanted.

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Distant Memories (Nurse Morgan Series Book 2) by Kate MacInnis – Review by Sheri Schrader

Distant Memories: A Nurse Morgan Series: Book TwoDistant Memories: A Nurse Morgan Series: Book Two by Kate MacInnis
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Distant Memories: A Nurse Morgan series is the second book in this delightful series. I recommend reading the first book before this one since the story picks up where it left off. Nurse Morgan has got the spirits in her home under control. The ground rules have been laid. She’s in a romance with Dr. Caleb Lightfoot. But now there are some new challenges presenting themselves. The story is full of laughs, some thoughtful emotional moments, and more. I really like seeing how Nurse Morgan is developing as a character and the spirits in her home make me laugh. I look forward to reading more about Nurse Morgan’s life soon.

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One in A Billion (Pierce Brothers Book 3) by Belinda Williams – Review by Sheri Schrader

One In A Billion (Pierce Brothers, #3)One In A Billion by Belinda Williams
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

One in a BIllion is the third book in the Pierce Brothers series. The series does have connections from book to book, but each can be read as a standalone book. I have read the previous two books and was glad to see another from this author. The story is a sweet romance that throws a twist on the office billionaire trope. I enjoyed the banter of super organized Victoria and businessman Seth. The book reads quickly, and I didn’t want to put it down. This book is a great grab if you need a sweet romance on a hot summer day. Make sure you grab the others in the series once you read this one. I look forward to reading more from this author in the future.

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Queen of Hearts (Heels, Rhymes & Nursery Crimes Vol. 21) By Natalina Reis – Review by Sheri Schrader

Queen of Hearts (Heels, Rhymes & Nursery Crimes, #21)Queen of Hearts by Natalina Reis
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Queen of Hearts: Heels, Rhymes, & Nursery Crimes Vol. 21 is part of a multi-volume series reworking classic nursery rhymes. I was excited when I saw this author had a new book out. The series is standalone stories, but I want to read at least a few more to delve further into this world. I enjoyed the main character, Mimi, and how her story was built. Men might find her evil, but she is just trying to punish those that are cruel and make things better for the ones they torture. I like the twists and turns and the pace of the story. I look forward to this next author’s read and exploring more of this intriguing series.

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The Happily Ever After Bookstore by Bernadette Marie – Review by Sheri Schrader

The Happily Ever After BookstoreThe Happily Ever After Bookstore by Bernadette Marie
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The Happily Ever After Bookstore is a lovely read. Centered around the Happily Ever After Bookstore owned by Leona, we see three love stories come together. The stories are sweet and tie together seamlessly. I enjoyed the individual stories and characters and how they all tied together. I have a hard time picking my favorite part because they all drew me into their stories differently. I also enjoyed the bookstore being a central location of the story. One of my favorite places to go is my local bookstore. I look forward to reading more from this author in the future.

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Dark Sparrow Box Set: The Complete 6-Book Series (A Dark Sparrow Novel) by India Kells – Review by Sheri Schrader

Dark Sparrow Box Set: The Complete 6-Book SeriesDark Sparrow Box Set: The Complete 6-Book Series by India Kells

Dark Sparrow Box Set: The Complete 6-Book Series is a great way to get a complete series all in one. I have read several in the series but this gives me the complete set so that I can read all the books in this series.
Book 2: Cold Bastard
The story is about Zoe Somersby and Archer Blackwood. Zoe had been brought in to work for Archer as an undercover agent.
The characters are well written and allowed the story to flow. There was lots of suspense and mystery as well as a little romance. I really like this is a well-thought-out story and the characters are interesting people. Everyone is not always what one would assume.
Book 4: True Bastard
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.
Book 5: Dark Bastard
This story follows Sam and Ellie. Both of them are going through a really rough time in life but can they help each other see the light? This book is about the depths of the human soul and how some handle it. There are some sensitive sections of sexual abuse and suicide. I believe the author handles them well and uses them to develop the characters. I liked the characters and it was interesting to finally get to more of Sam in this book.

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Dark Sparrow Box Set: The Complete 6-Book Series (A Dark Sparrow Novel) by India Kells – Review by Sheri Schrader

Dark Sparrow Box Set: The Complete 6-Book SeriesDark Sparrow Box Set: The Complete 6-Book Series by India Kells

Dark Sparrow Box Set: The Complete 6-Book Series is a great way to get a complete series all in one. I have read several in the series but this gives me the complete set so that I can read all the books in this series.
Book 2: Cold Bastard
The story is about Zoe Somersby and Archer Blackwood. Zoe had been brought in to work for Archer as an undercover agent.
The characters are well written and allowed the story to flow. There was lots of suspense and mystery as well as a little romance. I really like this is a well-thought-out story and the characters are interesting people. Everyone is not always what one would assume.
Book 4: True Bastard
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.
Book 5: Dark Bastard
This story follows Sam and Ellie. Both of them are going through a really rough time in life but can they help each other see the light? This book is about the depths of the human soul and how some handle it. There are some sensitive sections of sexual abuse and suicide. I believe the author handles them well and uses them to develop the characters. I liked the characters and it was interesting to finally get to more of Sam in this book.

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Distant Heart Sounds (Nurse Morgan Series Book 1) by Kate MacInnis – Review by Sheri Schrader

Distant Heart Sounds (Nurse Morgan #1)Distant Heart Sounds by Kate MacInnis
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Distant Heart Sounds is the first book in the Nurse Morgan Series. This is an excellent find if you are looking for a fun, paranormal romantic mystery. Nurse Morgan is a fun and understandable character. She is returning to work from a near-death experience and now sees things that no one else does. Her new psychic abilities have her questioning her sanity and causing her alarm, especially after she returns to work at the hospital. I liked her character and the other characters as well. The story is well-written and enjoyable. In addition, I enjoyed the mix of several genres. Though there were resolutions to the story, I’m excited to see where this story goes. I look forward to reading more from this author and seeing more of Nurse Morgan in the future.

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Bake Off (Bake Believe Series Book 2) by Cori Cooper – Review by Sheri Schrader

Bake OffBake Off by Cori Cooper
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Bake Off is the second book in the Bake Believe series aimed at pre-teen and young teen readers. The story is a fun, baking magic story. Cat is learning more about her family and coming into her own as a baker. Will this new insight and information on her family help her succeed and excel?
I enjoyed this fun, family-orientated story. The characters are fun, and it is fantastic to see them developing more since the first book. The story is also interesting and will grab the attention of any young teen interested in baking and cooking. I enjoy finding new stories to hand to my niece to grab her attention and get her to read more. I look forward to the next book in the series and where Cat’s story goes next.

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Ancient Reflections: A Mythic Trilogy by Tamara Agha-Jaffar – Review by Sheri Schrader

Ancient Reflections: A Mythic TrilogyAncient Reflections: A Mythic Trilogy by Tamara Agha-Jaffar
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Ancient Reflections: A Mythic Trilogy is a collection of three retellings of classic mythological stories.
A Pomegranate and the Maiden tells the story of Demeter and Persephone, Unsung Odysseys retells the story of Odysseus’ return from Troy, and Gilgamesh of Uruk tells the story of Gilgamesh. It is always hit and miss when authors retell the stories of old. However, the author does an excellent job of keeping the story’s integrity and changing the POV of the female characters. I enjoyed the stories and am now curious to read more from this author. I look forward to reading more soon.

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Flame and Crystal Thorns (Fae and Crystal Thorns Book 1) by Kay L. Moody – Review by Sheri Schrader

Flame and Crystal Thorns (Fae and Crystal Thorns, #1)Flame and Crystal Thorns by Kay L. Moody
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Flame and Crystal Thorns is the first book in the Fae and Crystal Thorns series. This is an off-shoot series based on an earlier series by the author. I had not read that series but had no issues following and enjoying this book. The story is a young adult series but with a new type of hero. Chloe is not a warrior but a healer and does not live in her homeland of Faerie. She goes back against her will when her sister is in danger. I enjoyed the story and liked Chloe. She is intelligent and caring. I like that she isn’t your typical hero but still succeeds at helping others. I look forward to reading more from this series and seeing where Chloe’s story leads.

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The Wolf’s Shadow (The Lycanthropy Files Book 1) by Cecilia Dominic – Review by Sheri Schrader

The Wolf's Shadow (The Lycanthropy Files #1)The Wolf’s Shadow by Cecilia Dominic
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The Wolf’s Shadow: An Urban Fantasy Thriller is the first book in the Lycanthropy Files. This is a different take on the werewolf mythology, coming from a medical outlook. I enjoyed the story and the characters. The main character, Joanie Fisher, is intelligent and exciting. Even though she is a research scientist, I enjoyed how she still has doubts about what she is researching. I look forward to reading more in this series and seeing the path the characters take.

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Witch Switch (Bewitch Me Book 2) (in Midnight Magic Anthology) by Louisa Bacio – Review by Sheri Schrader

Midnight MagicMidnight Magic by Gina Kincade
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Midnight Magic is a collection of paranormal romance stories by many great authors. I started with Louisa Bacio’s Witch Switch (Bewitch Me Book 2). I picked a random story to read and was glad I chose this one. I don’t want to give anything away but think of powers, battles, magic, romance, and more. I loved the title, and it only got better from there. Cheyenne and Rafe are great characters, and I enjoyed getting to know them. I haven’t read a lot from this author, but I will look for more of her books.

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A Veil of Gods and Kings (Apollo Ascending Book 1) by Nicole Bailey – Review by Sheri Schrader

A Veil of Gods and Kings (Apollo Ascending, #1)A Veil of Gods and Kings by Nicole Bailey
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

A Veil of Gods and Kings tells the story of Apollo and Prince Hyacinth. I enjoyed this fresh spin on this tale from mythology. I do not want to give anything away about the story, but this is an enemy to lover’s story, and well done. The story is gripping and drew me in. I enjoyed the worldbuilding and character development. The story was a quick read and left me wanting more. I look forward to reading more in this series and from this author in the future.

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The True Purpose of Vines (The Winemakers Book 1) by Giovanna Siniscalchi – Review by Sheri Schrader

The True Purpose of VinesThe True Purpose of Vines by Giovanna Siniscalchi
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The True Purpose of Vines is the first book in the first book in The Winemakers series. Set during the 1870s in beautiful Portugal, we meet a widow struggling to save her winery. Griffin is a Brit who has gone to Portugal to chase down a debt. This is an enemy to lover romance. I always enjoy historical fiction, and the beautiful setting and characters did not disappoint. I enjoyed Julia’s character and how strong of a female character she is throughout the story. She has a lot on her plate, and she still keeps it together. Griffin is a typical 19th-century male character but seems to work for the story. I look forward to reading more from this author in the future and seeing what the future of this series holds in store.

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Reigning Hearts: The Complete Series (Books 1-5) by KG Fletcher – Review by Sheri Schrader

Reigning Hearts: The Complete Series (Books 1-5)Reigning Hearts: The Complete Series by K.G. Fletcher
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Reigning Hearts: The Complete Series is a collection of five sweet standalone, full-length stories. Each is wonderful and swoon-worthy. I haven’t read the entire series yet, but only several of the books.
Book 1: Run to the Sea
Book 2: Stars Fall From the Sky
Book 3: A Sun So Bright
I was drawn in by the cover and had not read the synopsis, so when I started reading, I was unpleasantly surprised to meet the character, Fiona. I wanted to dislike this character because she is rich and snaps her fingers to get what she wants. But, let me explain, don’t give up because she proved me wrong. She is a good character who is more profound than I expected, so she surprised me. I wanted to see where this arrangement with Chris would lead and hoped for a happy ending.
Book 4: I’ll See You Again
This story focuses on Nicky and Reid. Once they meet, the two characters seem destined to be, but will destiny work in their favor? I enjoy the differences in their characters and how the story develops around them. I always want books by this author, and this is without exception. I appreciate that the story isn’t a perfect relationship and that there are highs and lows. Much more realistic to read than the ideal romance.
Book 5: A Cold Creek Christmas
The main characters, Amber and Gio, are a great contrast in personalities and feelings toward each other. Amber is a holiday grinch, and Gio is starting over as a single dad.
The two are lovely and had me falling in love with their story. The only downfall of this book is that I wanted more.
I look forward to reading the rest of the books in this series and getting caught up in the romance.

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Notebook Mysteries ~ Changes and Challenges (Notebook Mysteries Book 3) by Kimberly Mullins – Review by Sheri Schrader

Notebook Mysteries ~ Changes and ChallengesNotebook Mysteries ~ Changes and Challenges by Kimberly Mullins
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Notebook Mysteries: Changes and Challenges is the third book in this series. I do recommend reading the first two books in this series before delving into this book. Parts of the story pick up from book 2 continuing Emma’s story. I always enjoy a book set in the 19th century and this did not disappoint. The setting is in Chicago and we are reminded of how fast the world was changing but also how slow it was to travel or for some news to spread. Emma is feisty and smart as she works her way around a new mystery. She is fun to read about and everything going on around her. I’m glad I stumbled upon this series and look forward to reading more in the future.

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The Sound of Murder (Musical Murder Mystery Series) by K.L. Montgomery – Review by Sheri Schrader

The Sound of MurderThe Sound of Murder by K.L. Montgomery

The Sound of Murder is the first book in the Musical Murder Mystery Book series. I was excited to find this new series by the author. I always enjoy her books and this did not disappoint. Ruby is part of a traveling theatre troupe and murder is afoot. Will Ruby find the culprit?
I love the theatrics of the theatre troupe and what this brings to the story. Also, I liked the character of Ruby. She really wants to succeed but seems to get overlooked often. It is a mixed bag when she gets to step up and take on a larger role. I look forward to reading more in this series and catching the prequel story that I had missed.

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Until There Was You by G. Colgrove – Review by Sheri Schrader

Until there was youUntil there was you by G. Colgrove
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Until There Was You is a take on the fairy tale romance. Regan does not believe in the fairy tales she was fed as a child. She is ready to move on with her life and start over. Jeremy is trying to prove himself and does not need a distraction in his life like Regan. Will the two find their fairy tale?
I enjoyed this story and the challenges that come across the pair. There was a good tension between the two of them, which added to the story. The story is a fast-paced read and left me wanting more. I enjoyed that there was a realness to the story and characters. So many times, romance stories end up being too much fiction. I look forward to reading more from this author in the future.

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Shamrock & Clover: Field’s Apart by C.A. King – Review by Sheri Schrader

Shamrock & Clover: Fields ApartShamrock & Clover: Fields Apart by C.A. King

Shamrock and Clover: Fields Apart is a sweet romance about love and luck. Clover should live a life filled with luck, but she has nothing but challenges. Shamrock lives a life of debauchery and has become complacent in life. What happens when Clover and Shamrock meet? Will they be lucky in love?
I always enjoy this author’s books, and this did not disappoint. There were some tears, laughs, and more as I read the story. This is a short but excellent read. I felt for Clover as she went through her challenges and could relate to her hurt and heartache. Shamrock was harder to embrace, but in the end, he won me over.
I look forward to reading more from this author.

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My Valentine’s Day Cookie Match (Welcome to Cupid’s Cove) by C.A. King – Review by Sheri Schrader

My Valentine's Day Cookie Match: Welcome to Cupids CoveMy Valentine’s Day Cookie Match: Welcome to Cupids Cove by C.A. King
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

My Valentine’s Day Cookie Match is part of the Welcome to Cupid’s Cove series. The series is set in Cupid’s Cove, written by different authors. I grabbed this one because I have read many books from this author, and they never disappoint. Graham is new to town and has a great dating app connected to a bakery. Lara works in her mother’s bakery and does not like the new competition.
This is a sweet romance that I read quickly and left me in a great mood. I liked the characters and their will they/won’t they story. I look forward to reading more from this author soon.

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Spring’s Showers (Romantically Seasonal Series) by C.A. King – Review by Sheri Schrader

Spring's Showers: Romantically Seasonal: SpringSpring’s Showers: Romantically Seasonal: Spring by C.A. King
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Spring’s Showers: Romantically Seasonal: Spring is the first book in a four-part series. I always enjoy reading new stories from this author and this didn’t disappoint. Cupid is having to prove to the other Gods and Goddesses that helping people fall in love is a worthwhile and important job. Will he prove his worth to all of them?
I really enjoyed this story and love the Valentine theme to it. The characters are fun and I like that we get a different look at the Gods and Goddesses. I needed a quick jolt of romance and this definitely hit the spot. This is a very quick and delightful read. I really am looking forward to the other books and seasons in this series.

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Vox Astra: The Black Box (Vox Astra Series Book 1) by James Chambers – Review by Sheri Schrader

Vox Astra: The Black BoxVox Astra: The Black Box by James Chambers
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Vox Astra: The Black Box is an engaging, science fiction read. The book is my first book by this author but I’m glad to come across his work. The book flows easily and tells the story of stars and the crisis of political intrigue and humanity. I enjoyed the story and was drawn in by the descriptions and concepts presented. I do not want to give too much information for fear of giving away much of the plot. All I can say is if you enjoy an unexpected story and exploring new worlds give this a read. I look forward to reading more from this author in the future checking out some of his other books.

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Helm of Awe (Anchoress Series Book 3) by D.L. Armillei – Review by Sheri Schrader

Helm of Awe (Anchoress Series #3)Helm of Awe by D.L. Armillei
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Helm of Awe is the third book in the Anchoress series. I think this could be read as a standalone but I would not recommend it because there has been a lot developing in the first two books in the series. Van is dealing with a lot. She has a lot of normal high school angst but also trying to deal with the upcoming Jaychund Games. There is also a new mission with more involved than Van originally thinks.
I really like the story and the characters. Van is very relatable even though her life is different from the normal teen. Also, I like that there are no perfect characters. Everyone is dealing with life and the challenges it brings. I think this is much better than a lot of YA stories. I look forward to reading more from this author in the future.

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Plague of Death (Anchoress Series Book 2) by D.L. Armillei – Review by Sheri Schrader

Plague of Death (Anchoress, #2)Plague of Death by D.L. Armillei
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Plague of Death is the second book in the Anchoress series. It has been a while since I read the first book but was glad to get to read another installment in this series. This book can be read as a standalone book but I think best enjoyed when read in order. The story picks up with Van having to enter the Realm of the Living and Earth worlds to repair a cracked seal. Will this mission be successful?
I really enjoyed the story and character development in this book. I also enjoyed getting to learn more about Van and her team members. The romantic developments were also a nice part of the book. I like the story because it is a nice mix of fantasy, romance, and suspense. I look forward to reading more from this author in the future.

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Claiming My Mate (Wolf Hollow Pack Book 1) by Nicole Howl – Review by Sheri Schrader

Claiming My Mate (Wolf Hollow Pack #1)Claiming My Mate by Nicole Howl
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Claiming My Mate: A Forbidden-lovers romance is the first book in the Wolf Hollow Pack series. I enjoyed this book and the characters. Prince Jason is a significant romantic lead. Lily is a human servant of the pack. I wanted the best for the new couple, and I like the story and how it dealt with sensitive subjects. There is rape, so be warned if that might be a trigger. It is handled well by the author. I like the forbidden romance element of the story and am interested to see if some of the secondary characters will play a larger role in future books in the series. I enjoyed this book and look forward to reading more from this author in the future.

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