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Lake of Flowers (The Lord Hani Mysteries, book 5) by N.L. Holmes – Review by Sheri Schrader

Lake of Flowers (Lord Hani #5)Lake of Flowers by N.L. Holmes
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Lake of Flowers by N.L. Holmes is the fifth book in The Lord Hani Mysteries series. I recommend reading these because it helps to understand the characters and the story elements that continue from book to book. This book features a more complex series of events that ties with Hani. He is such a loyal man, and he is being forced to pick sides. I really enjoy the historical elements and how the author works a mystery and sleuthing into ancient Egypt. Also, I have enjoyed the interactions between the characters. There is always complexity in relationships when government, religion, and personal relationships merge and weave together. I look forward to reading more in this series soon.

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The Arsonist’s Handbook by L.A. Detwiler – Review by Sheri Schrader

The Arsonist's Handbook: A Gripping Psychological ThrillerThe Arsonist’s Handbook: A Gripping Psychological Thriller by L.A. Detwiler
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The Arsonist’s Handbook: A Gripping Psychological Thriller by L.A. Detwiler is a fiery thriller. This author was a new one for me, but I was not disappointed. This is a dark thriller with two men on different paths that are joined by one person. There are twists and turns and lots of suspenseful moments. I really enjoyed the two stories and how they interconnected. The story is well-plotted and reads quickly. I was quickly engulfed in the story and wanted to finish it in one sitting. I look forward to reading more from this author soon.

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Her Blackened Rose (The Blackened Series Book 3) by Isra Sravenheart – Review by Sheri Schrader

Her Blackened Rose (Blackened #3)Her Blackened Rose by Isra Sravenheart
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Her Blackened Rose is the third book in the Blackened Series by Isra Sravenheart. I highly recommend reading the series in order because the story continues throughout the books. This time the dark Lady Isra is challenged with trust and deception. Whom can she trust? Astrid and Isra are facing issues and then there is a missing man whose family blames Isra for the disappearance. In this book, the stakes are higher and there is more action and suspense to the story. I like how the series has developed and I have become more interested in Lady Isra’s story. Also, there is an interesting development of what constitutes dark and evil. Perceptions change when there is more knowledge.
I look forward to reading the next book in the series and seeing what happens with Lady Isra next.

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Her Blackened Heart (The Blackened Series Book 2) by Isra Sravenheart – Review by Sheri Schrader

Her Blackened HeartHer Blackened Heart by Isra Sravenheart
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Her Blackened Heart by Isra Sravenheart is the second book in the Blackened series. I recommend reading the first book before this to enjoy the book fully. The story takes us and gives us insight into the past of Lady Isra. There are battles of light and dark and of mortal and immortal. I really enjoyed the new characters and the development of Lady Isra and Astrid. I also enjoyed the development of the ongoing story and am curious as to what will happen as the series progresses. I look forward to reading the next book in this series soon.

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Her Blackened Soul (The Blackened Series Book 1) by Isra Sravenheart – Review by Sheri Schrader

Her Blackened Soul (The Blackened, #1)Her Blackened Soul by Isra Sravenheart
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Her Blackened Soul by Isra Sravenheart is the first book in the Blackened Series. Lady Isra is a dark witch and the primary character of this book. I enjoyed the idea of the story from the villain’s point of view. She is a dark character who has taken on powers that limits who can see her. I liked that the story is from a different view and that she is a relatable character despite being bad. The story kept me reading and wanting to know how this would work with Lady Isra and her powers. I am looking forward to reading more in this series soon.

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Shield & Shade (Ascended Guardians Book 1) by Misty Hayes – Review by Sheri Schrader

Shield & ShadeShield & Shade by Misty Hayes
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Shield & Shade by Misty Hayes is the start of the Ascended Guardians series. This book is labeled as a YA story, but adults can also enjoy this. I was interested in the book blurb and was rewarded with a well-written story and characters. The author has included significant attention to detail, and it works well and does not overwhelm the reader. I fell into the story and did not want to emerge until I was done with the book. There are paranormal, romantic, fantasy, and dramatic elements to the story. I look forward to reading more from this author and series in the future.

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Moonlit Kiss (A Venice Romance) (Moonlit Destination Series) by Amy McKinley – Review by Sheri Schrader

Moonlit Kiss (A Venice Romance)Moonlit Kiss by Amy McKinley
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Moonlit Kiss: A Venice Romance by Amy McKinley is part of the Moonlit Destination Series. This can be read as a standalone and thoroughly enjoyed. I always enjoy a book by Amy McKinley because there is romance, suspense, intrigue, and more. This book did not let me down. I love and study art and have always dreamed of going to Venice and can relate to Gianna Bellini, the main character. She has landed a dream assignment working with a fresco but senses more to Venice than meets the eye. Opposite Gianna is Sergio Vitale, a native of Venice. Will the city of romance bring the two together? The two have to take on challenges in more than the romance department and find out if they can solve the issue with the fresco. I loved the descriptions of the city and the characters featured in the story. This book was a great excuse to stay out of the heat and read inside. I look forward to reading more from this author soon.

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Secure Decision (Chase Security Series Book 5) by R.L. Dunn – Review by Sheri Schrader

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

Secure Decision by R.L. Dunn is the fifth book in the Chase Security Series. These can be read in any order but I highly recommend reading them in order, because the various characters make appearances throughout. This book focuses on Wes “Alamo” Crockett, who is now in charge of the Training Center in Virginia. He’s coming off of a mission in New York and not feeling spectacular. The exciting part of his new assignment is the Equine Training Center for disabled veterans. Eleanor West is the lead on the new equine center and has her own past to bear.
I really enjoyed both characters and the storyline. Eleanor was relatable and made me want to hug her. I really wanted the best outcome for her as well as Alamo. These books are full of action, suspense, and of course romance. This book didn’t disappoint and left me wanting more like the rest of the series. I look forward to reading more in this series and from the author soon.

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The Eclipse Dancer by Laura Koerber – Review by Sheri Schrader

The Eclipse DancerThe Eclipse Dancer by Laura Koerber
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The Eclipse Dancer by Laura Koerber is a story full of honesty, a bit of magical realism, and fantasy. I enjoyed the story and how the main character is not a young 20 something. She is a woman in her middle years and her life is shifting again from adult to caretaker. I got the feels while reading this and was able to relate to some of what the character was experiencing. I do not have a mother like Andy but still could relate to how relationships change as your life progresses. This story deals with a lot of hard truths but in an honest but thoughtful, relatable way. I like the bits of magic and fantasy brought in and thought it was helpful to the story. I look forward to reading more from this author in the future.

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Kissing Scars by Jim Shomos – Review by Sheri Schrader

Kissing ScarsKissing Scars by Jim Shomos
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Kissing Scars by Jim Shomos is a sweet, romantic novella. I am not going to mention much detail so that I do not give the entire story away. This was a fast read and I read from beginning to end in one sitting. Sanaya is moving on with her career but is ready for love, marriage, and babies. Leo is ready to enjoy his empty nest as his youngest child leaves home. What will happen when these two people meet? I enjoyed the realistic scenario and that the characters are not completely in sync with one another. Completely realistic! Will the two be able to compromise in order to be together is a huge question? I was rooting for them and understood their struggle. I liked the characters and the setting of Australia, makes me want to start traveling. This is my first book from this author but I look forward to reading more from him in the future.

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Blue Magnolia (Red Farlow Mysteries Book 2) by W.F. Ranew – Review by Sheri Schrader

Blue Magnolia (Red Farlow Mysteries, #2)Blue Magnolia by W.F. Ranew
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Blue Magnolia by W.F. Ranew is the second book in the Red Farlow Mysteries series. This can be read as a standalone story and enjoyed. I have been reading the series out of order and enjoying the mysteries that Farlow gets himself involved in. I have been enjoying the character of Red Farlow and his tough persona. This story focuses on family trauma and secrets with lots of twists and turns. I enjoyed the mix of the country music story and a mystery/suspense story. This book kept me on the edge of my seat reading and not wanting to put it down. I look forward to reading more from this author in the future.

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East Beach (Red Farlow Mysteries Book 3) by W.F. Ranew – Review by Sheri Schrader

East Beach (Red Farlow Mysteries: #3)East Beach by W.F. Ranew
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

East Beach by W.F. Ranew is the third book in the Red Farlow Mysteries series. These books can be read as standalone but I’m finding are better enjoyed reading them in order. I am catching up on the books I missed in the series. The story is well written and sets the reader up with twists and turns. Everyone looks forward to retirement but FBI Agent Joseph Trammell is not. When Farlow finds him dying from being shot at home the mystery starts. There are some great twists and suspense involved in the story and it keeps me reading until late at night. I really am enjoying the stories and characters. I look forward to reading more in this series and author in the future.

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Blood Mug (Red Farlow Mysteries Book 4) by W.F. Ranew – Review by Sheri Schrader

Blood Mug (Red Farlow Mysteries: #4)Blood Mug by W.F. Ranew
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Blood Mug by W.F. Ranew is the fourth book in the Red Farlow Mysteries series. This can be read as a standalone but I think it would be best enjoyed in order. I started with this book in the series and am going back to the previous books to catch up. This book focused on a murder at an art center with a medieval knife as the weapon. Will PI Red Farlow solve the murder before the killer strikes again? I really enjoyed the character Red Farlow. He is a solid, hard-boiled detective who helps to drive the story. I like the pacing and storyline filled with twists and turns. I look forward to checking out more in this series and from this author in the future.

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THE DEVOTED FAN (21ST Century Courtesan Book 5) by Pamela DuMond writing as P. S. DuMond – Review by Sheri Schrader

THE DEVOTED FANTHE DEVOTED FAN by Pamela DuMond
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The Devoted Fan by Pamela DuMond writing as P.S. DuMond is the fifth book in the 21st Century Courtesan book series. I will start by recommending that you should read the books in order. The series builds throughout the books and with this being the last book you need the context. The story helps conclude the series that includes twists, turns, suspense, and romance. I have enjoyed seeing the character Evie has evolved throughout the series. There is a lot going on but I am not going to spoil the story for you. Just know that if you doubt that karma exists you will not after reading this book. I have enjoyed this series and will be looking for other books by this author to read soon.

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Bovine Tricks (Royals Gone Rogue Book 1) by Seelie Kay – Review by Sheri Schrader

Bovine TricksBovine Tricks by Seelie Kay
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Bovine Tricks by Seelie Kay is the first book in the Royals Gone Rogue series. The story features MISix Agent Mathilda Honoria Spencer and her partner Agent Abdul Ali looking for the missing Lady Annabelle Trask. I have enjoyed this author’s books in the past and enjoyed this one as well. The story is creative and not your usual missing-person story. At times I wondered where the story was going but it added to the fun of the story. This is a quick read with romance and special agents. I enjoyed Agent Mathilda, Tillie, her reactions to the situation made me laugh and made her a relatable character. I look forward to reading more in this series to see what happens next.

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Betrayal at the Beach (Dangerous Curves Book 1) by K.L. Montgomery – Review by Sheri Schrader

Betrayal at the Beach: A Cozy Christian Mystery (Dangerous Curves Book 1)Betrayal at the Beach: A Cozy Christian Mystery by K.L. Montgomery
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Betrayal at the Beach: A Cozy Christian Mystery by K.L. Montgomery is the first in the Dangerous Curves Book series. I was excited to pick up another book by this author because I have enjoyed her other books. This was no exception. We are taken to Bryce Beach and get to follow Sunshine as she uncovers what happened to the missing Library Gala fundraising money. Sunshine is a perfect name for this character because she just exudes happiness. I love her background of sleuthing knowledge and her devotion not only to the library but to her town. This is a great start to a fun, easy reading series. This was the perfect curl up with a cup of tea and read type of book. I look forward to more adventures in this new series.

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Queen Of My Heart (Life Won’t Wait Book 1) by Nikki Lynn Barrett – Review by Sheri Schrader

Queen Of My Heart (Life Won't Wait Book 1)Queen Of My Heart by Nikki Lynn Barrett
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Queen of My Heart by Nikki Lynn Barrett is the first book in the Life Won’t Wait series. This is a sweet contemporary romance featuring the characters Quinn Winters and Tucker McGinnis. Set in Nashville, the story focuses on Quinn, a former actress, wanting to start over as a country singer. Tucker, a reality singing show winner, needs a muse. The two meet and Tucker offers to help her through all the obstacles in the singing world. I enjoyed these characters and enjoyed the emerging romance as they worked together. Also, there are some obstacles they have to overcome. Music City is a great setting and gives a different flavor to New York or L.A. and lends itself as a background character. I enjoyed the characters and appreciated Quinn starting her career over to follow her dreams. I enjoyed this book and look forward to reading more in this series.

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THE HUSBAND (21ST Century Courtesan #4) by Pamela DuMond writing as P. S. DuMond – Review by Sheri Schrader

HUSBAND (21st Century Courtesan Book 4)HUSBAND by Pamela DuMond
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The Husband by P.S. DuMond is the fourth book in the 21st Century Courtesan series. First, make sure you are reading this series in order! Otherwise, you will miss out on so much as the series progresses. This series is different (in a good way) from what I initially expected. This book is darker than some of the others, but it works for the story. There are twists that were unexpected and the ending just leaves you wanting more. I know this series is getting towards the end and it is leaving me excited to see what happens next. I have grown to be interested in all of the characters and the part they play in this drama. I will be waiting for the next book and look forward to reading more from this author in the future.

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THE HUSBAND (21ST Century Courtesan #4) by Pamela DuMond writing as P. S. DuMond – Review by Sheri Schrader

HUSBAND (21st Century Courtesan Book 4)HUSBAND by Pamela DuMond
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The Husband by P.S. DuMond is the fourth book in the 21st Century Courtesan series. First, make sure you are reading this series in order! Otherwise, you will miss out on so much as the series progresses. This series is different (in a good way) from what I initially expected. This book is darker than some of the others, but it works for the story. There are twists that were unexpected and the ending just leaves you wanting more. I know this series is getting towards the end and it is leaving me excited to see what happens next. I have grown to be interested in all of the characters and the part they play in this drama. I will be waiting for the next book and look forward to reading more from this author in the future.

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Everything, Somewhere by David Kummer – Review by Sheri Schrader

Everything, SomewhereEverything, Somewhere by David Duane Kummer
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Everything, Somewhere by David Kummer is a coming of age story set in the Ohio River Valley. What happens when high school seniors Hudson, Mason, and Willow start coming to terms with the changes occurring in their lives moving from high school to adulthood? These three are relatable teens whom many could see themselves or someone they know in them. Also, add a retired, movie actor to the sleepy town and more questions abound. I really appreciate the author hitting on some tough subjects such as mental health issues and how they can change a person’s outlook on life. It was handled well and did not hide from the truth of the matter. I enjoyed this story and the characters. I look forward to searching out more of this author’s books in the future. He brings a young vision and depth to the stories.

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Sure As Hell (Life Is Hell Book 4) by Naomi Valkyrie – Review by Sheri Schrader

Sure As Hell (Life is Hell #4)Sure As Hell by Naomi Valkyrie
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Sure As Hell by Naomi Valkyrie is the fourth book in the fantastic Life is Hell series. This time the story focuses on Jaru and Larkspur. The great part of this series is the recurring characters and getting to see them each tell their own stories, but how they work into the stories of other characters. I recommend reading each of these in order, but I think this is written to be read also as a standalone. I really enjoyed the story of Jaru. It had me laughing and enjoying the story but also relating to the idea that when things go too well things tend to go to crap. How relatable! I love how the characters are developed and entwine around each other despite their differences. I always love picking up this series and look anxiously to the next book by this author.

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On Viking Seas (The Forerunner, Book 3) by Jay Veloso Batista – Review by Sheri Schrader

On Viking Seas (Forerunner Series)On Viking Seas by Jay Veloso Batista
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

On Viking Seas by Jay Veloso Batista is the third book in the Forerunner series. I had not read the other books in the series and plan on going back to them. This is a highly detailed and well-thought-out historical fantasy. It is set in a time of emerging Christianity but also where the Gods rule over the people. The characters are well developed and I enjoyed the interactions between them and how they move the story forward. I also enjoyed the different aspects which take place separately but all come together in ways. There is a lot to take in and this is why I plan to go back and grab the other books so I can better appreciate all the different storylines. This is a good story and I look forward to reading more from this author in the near future.

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Jinxed (Hell on Heels Book 2) by Maggie Adams – Review by Sheri Schrader

Jinxed (Hell on Heels, #2)Jinxed by Maggie Adams
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Jinxed by Maggie Adams is the second book in the Hell on Heels series. This was a quick read that kept me wanting more. There is romance, fun dialogue, relatable characters, and more. I have enjoyed other books by this author in the past and this did not disappoint. I really like the characters have lived life and are not just starting out in adulthood. I appreciate this more as I get older. There is an opposite attract storyline which leads to some good banter between the characters. I enjoyed reading this and look forward to more from this author in the future.

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Forged by Secrets (Deadly Isles Special Ops, book 3) by Amy McKinley – Review by Sheri Schrader

Forged by Secrets (Deadly Isles Special Ops, #3)Forged by Secrets by Amy McKinley
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Forged By Secrets by Amy McKinley is the third book in the Deadly Isles Special Ops book series. This can be read as a standalone and enjoyed but there are recurring characters from earlier books in the series. Malina has secrets and now she has been accused of treason. Who can she trust and will everything from her past come to light? Tyler wants to help Malina but will he put it all on the line for her?
This is full of action, romance, intrigue, and more. I really have enjoyed Amy McKinley’s books in the past and this did not let me down. I really look forward to reading more from this author in the future.

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Love Between the Lines by A.D. Brazeau – Review by Sheri Schrader

Love Between the LinesLove Between the Lines by A.D. Brazeau
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Love Between the Lines by A.D. Brazeau is a book from The Page Turners Series. This is a delightful, chicklit, romance story featuring Marlowe Bennet. She is very relatable wanting to just live her life as a writer. The issue is she writes romance and has none in her life. Heath Rochester is a former model and now running his family’s bookstore and he has his sights on Marlowe. Will they or won’t they? You have to read this fun book to get the answer. I really enjoyed the characters and lightness of the story. I really needed a little romantic pick me up and this fit the bill. I look forward to more from this author in the future.

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Loyalty & Lies (Spicetopia Book 6) by Phoebe Alexander – Review by Sheri Schrader

Loyalty & LiesLoyalty & Lies by Phoebe Alexander
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Loyalty & Lies by Phoebe Alexander is the sixth book in the Spicetopia series. This can be read as a standalone story and enjoyed completely. Calvin and Paisley Mitchell have decided for their anniversary to go to Spicetopia to add some spice to their marriage before the new baby arrives. But does this bring in more questions than answers for the couple? This series has always been spicy but this addition truly brings the heat. This is a crossover to another of the author’s series but I do not feel as if I have missed vital information in order to enjoy this book. As always she brings something new to the table and I enjoy how she develops the ongoing series and introduces us to another layer and element to the overall story. This is not for young eyes but enjoyed by adults. I look forward to where Ms. Alexander takes me next in her books and will wait for her next book.

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The Sun at Twilight (Empire at Twilight Book 4) by N.L. Holmes – Review by Sheri Schrader

The Sun at Twilight (Empire at Twilight #4)The Sun at Twilight by N.L. Holmes
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The Sun at Twilight by NL Holmes is the fourth book in the Empire at Twilight series. This is a fantastic series and this book does not disappoint. The story is set during the Hittite Empire during the reign of Tudhaliya IV. The challenges to the throne and other issues have him questioning how he is to rule the Empire, fair and just or with an iron fist. I really have enjoyed this series and this book is wonderful as well. I feel myself drawn into the stories and wanting to know the story taking place. The author gives wonderful descriptions and creates and imagines the world at hand during these ancient times. I look forward to reading more in this series and from this author in the future.

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Secure Her (The Chase Security Series Book 4) by R.L. Dunn – Review by Sheri Schrader

Secure Her (Chase Security #4)Secure Her by R.L. Dunn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Secure Her by R.L. Dunn is the fourth book in the Chase Security Series. This can be read as a standalone story but has recurring characters from other books in the series. This book is focused on Zach and Saoirse. The two end up making a dynamic pair but are faced with all sorts of danger before getting there. When the two are involved in figuring out a human trafficking ring a lot of dangerous situations occur. Will Zach be able to get Saoirse through to the other side of this situation safely?
I have enjoyed this series but this book really has a lot of twists to it which added to the thrill of Zach and Saoirse meeting and having to work together. I look forward to reading more in this series and from this author in the future.

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Witness (Ash Park Series Book 9) by Meghan O’Flynn – Review by Sheri Schrader

Witness: An Ash Park Novel (Volume 9)Witness: An Ash Park Novel by Meghan O’Flynn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Witness by Meghan O’Flynn is the ninth book in the Ash Park Novel series. This is rare to say but this series only becomes more intriguing and interesting the deeper it goes. Detective Edward Petrosky is back and has gotten what looks like a simple case. Of course, nothing is as simple as it seems. This case links back to a previous case and leaves many questions for Petrosky to figure out. I will not write about the plot more because I do not want to give any of this thrilling book away. This is filled with mystery, crime, thrills, and intrigue. I really look forward to reading more from this author and this series in the future.

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A Tennis Pro To Die For (Cozy Mysteries To Die For Book 3) by Judy Moore – Review by Sheri Schrader

A Tennis Pro To Die For (Cozy Mysteries to Die For, #3)A Tennis Pro To Die For by Judy Moore
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

A Tennis Pro to Die For by Judy Moore is the third book in the Cozy Mysteries to Die For series. This is a nice, quick read and great to return to the familiar characters of Beck, Lizzie, and Devon. This can be read as a standalone and completely enjoyed. I have read the other books in the series and it is nice to have the recurring characters and see how they are changing as the series progresses. I read this quickly and was left wanting the next book in the series. I enjoy the characters and the odd murders they find themselves involved in. This is a great getaway book to get your mind off of all the craziness of the world and allow yourself to find yourself elsewhere. I hope there is more to this series and look forward to more from this author in the future.

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