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Tasha and the Biologist (A Better Man, Book 2) by Amy Q. Barker – Review by Stephanie Runyon

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Tasha and the Biologist: A Heartwarming Small Town Birding Romance (A Better Man Book 2)Tasha and the Biologist: A Heartwarming Small Town Birding Romance by Amy Q. Barker
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Tasha Moore was tired of being a doormat in all of her relationships. Inspired by a television show, Tasha decided she would stop hiding her feelings. Brutal honesty became her mantra. Her best friend, Ella, agreed it would be a new way of handling any new relationships she entered. Ella begged Tasha to join her at Winter fest because Ella’s mother-in-law was visiting. Liam and Ella had been going to a fertility doctor; however, his mother was persistent with her insistence for grandchildren. Tasha agrees, hoping to see the new tour guide from Granger Pond. She had met him as he led their group to see the whooping cranes. Despite going on the tour multiple times for years, Tasha is excited to see Daisy, a crane she had seen there for years.

Caleb was immediately smitten with Tasha when he had taken her and a couple to see the cranes. Her familiarity with the area and the flock captivated him completely. At the Winter Festival, Caleb sees her with Ella and they decide to meet later at the local bar, Beakers. The evening goes well and a drunken Ella sets Tasha and Caleb up on their first date. Neither of them can wait for the date, engaging in text phone calls for the following days. Then Tasha stops communicating with Caleb. She arrives at his cabin on Friday evening and he is instantly relieved. After revealing why he had moved to Indiana, the couple shared kisses. The next afternoon, Tasha invites Caleb to join her and her friends at Beakers for karaoke. Tasha’s past is about to make a scene, and it’s not the only thing she hasn’t told Caleb about.

Tasha and the Biologist is a romance story that unites two people who are recovering from their painful pasts. The tension as each one tells their past secrets is palpable. The unpredictable plot adds even more suspense when Tasha and Caleb are separated for several weeks. Will a brand new loving spark flicker out? I found the story fascinating, and the wildlife information was provided in an easy to understand way. This is a 5-star story with excellent character development.Barnaby, a wiggly French bulldog, was even involved in the story, which provided a light despite the dramatic nature of the human revelations.

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Sanctuary by Bree M. Lewandowski – Review by Stephanie Runyon

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SanctuarySanctuary by Bree M. Lewandowski
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Petra was on a mission to discover how her brother, Aldeny, had died in the Cloistered City. She knew her brother had become a courier and refused to believe the letter that he had killed himself. She was assigned to the Washing House, where she did the laundry for the city. She became friends with Winfred, who was the target of a hateful trio of girls. When one of the girls had stolen Winfred’s lotion, Petra tried to stand up for her. Winfred was whipped unconscious and became extremely sick. Petra stayed by her side until she could work again. One evening, Petra’s life changed. She encountered a courier who had spent the night with a man. The courier gave Petra the message, which was extremely late, and her courier cloak before leaving the city.

Petra became an official courier that night. On her way to deliver the message, she crossed paths with a group of Shilvary guards. Captain Larkin grabbed her arm and shook Petra, intending to punish her for not bowing in respect. Captain Rand Tsenturian instructed his fellow guard to release her, as she was clearly a new courier.

Emperor Cyprian’s engagement to Lady Theophania enraged Lady Sunniva. She had intentionally come to Vale to marry Cyprian and form an alliance with Bessaraiah. Lady Sunniva sent a notice to her home country, which placed Captain Tsenturian in place to lead the troops to defend the country. Petra had become Rand’s personal courier and learned that he was the Shivalry guard that buried her brother. Rand led Petra to the garden that held the Antediluvian stone. Rand confirmed that Aldeny did commit suicide and was buried in the garden. Petra refused to believe him. She placed her hand on the Antediluvian stone and demanded that he swear he spoke the truth, or she would take him as her sacrifice. Upon her declaration, Petra bound Rand to her. They both bore undeniable marks of the Ensign of Sacrifice and his Sacred.

Rand refused to live with Petra without being married, something that Shilvary normally did not do. She had made him break his vow of celibacy; therefore, going to war with his men was in jeopardy. Rand took her before the Emperor and Cyprian performed the ceremony. Petra’s action required her to join Rand and his troops in the fight against Bessariah’s soldiers.

A slow-burn romance builds from the tragic loss of a brother forced to work before his time. Petra’s view is relatable, and I could feel how she wished to find retribution for the loss of her brother. His letters had kept her and her mother alive with hope. The plot of the story is unpredictable, and the power of the Ensign adds suspense to a burning point. Rand was unable to pick between his loyalties, and I wondered how long he would continue to lead Petra on without committing even after they were married. The addition of Lindy created another element that forced reality to reach Rand and Petra. There were some questions left unanswered; therefore, I am rating Sanctuary four stars.

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Shadows In The Dark (Dark Lotus Series) by Anise Storm & Taylor L. Ray – Review by Stephanie Runyon

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Shadows in the Dark (Dark Lotus #1)Shadows in the Dark by Anise Storm
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Adrian is a private man with a dark past. He is plagued with sleepwalking and not knowing what he has done. He often woke up several miles away from home or in different rooms, with no recollection of how he got there. Adrian has sadistic tendencies and enjoys being a dominant at Lotus, a BDSM club that requires a specific invitation. He rarely invited anyone more than once.
Brynn’s sister, Blair, was found in the San Francisco Bay. After she moves into Blair’s former condo, Brynn accesses Blair’s laptop and discovers a shocking secret. Blair had a darker side; she was a submissive who found pleasure in pain.

Brynn discovers her sister’s stash of journals inside a secret compartment in a wall. She researches the lifestyle in detail after meeting Erebus69. After following Erebus69’s verbal instructions, Brynn receives an invitation to Lotus. What she is unaware of is that Blair had been one of Erebus69’s submissives. However, Erebus69 doesn’t know that Brynn is the half-sister to Blair.

Brynn’s work environment has become uncomfortable because of Randall’s attempts to get her to go on a date with him. He is her boss, and she has always refused his invitations. After Brynn’s condo is broken into, the only item missing was a pair of panties that Erebus69 had sent her. When Adrian learns about the incident, he asks for her number and hires Barry to watch her. Adrian doesn’t have feelings of love for anyone, but he feels a strong attraction towards Brynn.

For a story full of suspense and a slow-burn romance, Shadows in the Dark is an exceptional book. A dark past mixed with the painful memories of a lost loved one plagues both sides of this story. Brynn never knew her sister’s affinity for being a masochist. Adrain’s guilty conscience for his twin sister’s death. The isolation of both characters puts them at risk of harm. If Adrian is possibly killing people in his sleep, Brynn is a prime victim. Their shared time on Olympus and trysts on Lotus bring the steam factor in a tasteful way. The emotions that the sexual acts are displayed, the primal desire for dominance driving both to trust the other. The intricate details lead the plot into unforeseen circumstances for both characters. The story sets a solid foundation for the trilogy, and the intense end left me anxious to read the sequel. This is definitely a 5-star book I recommend for mature adults who like to delve into the BDSM world, featuring two lost people meeting physically. Will they also connect on an emotional level?

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Love and Fate (A Braebeach Rockstar Romance) by Loriana Cappello – Review by Stephanie Runyon

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Love and Fate (Braebeach Rockstar #2)Love and Fate by Loriana Cappello
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Calla and Ash are getting married. Tommy catches sight of Angie, the woman who got away. She is married to Scott and Tommy has a clingy girlfriend. Chelsea hints at marriage all the time, but Tommy doesn’t think marriage will ever happen for him. While waiting for their plane to Los Angeles, Bernie calls Tommy saying that Ash has been in an accident.

Once in the family room, Max and Tommy learn that Ash’s injuries weren’t life threatening. However, Scott had died in the accident. Both men were jogging when a car veered off and crashed. Scott and the driver didn’t survive. Angie, who is pregnant with Scott’s baby, is devastated. Tommy returns to New York to break up with Chelsea, only to learn she is pregnant. A whirlwind marriage in Vegas has Tommy married to a nightmare.

6 years pass and Chelsea leaves Tommy and their son Ozzie. Thankfully, Tommy has a spectacular nanny. However, Koolum Law suffers another setback when Brett quits the band. The remaining members go to Braebeach to stay at Calla and Ash’s beach house. Connie and Josh accompany the group. Tommy feels angry that Chelsea has made no attempt to even call Ozzie. Connie tells him that Ozzie won’t take his mother’s absence as much as Tommy would think.However, Chelsea arrives at Calla’s house to attempt to take Ozzie with her. Angie arrives to pick up Josh and Chelsea automatically starts accusing them of having an affair.

Tommy meets with an attorney to set up the court proceedings for his divorce. WHen he sees Fraser at a table with another woman, he automatically thinks Fraser was cheating on Angie. Despite not harming Fraser, the man takes advantage of the situation to make a fast buck. Chelsea takes the story and tells reporters that Angie was a homewrecker and she was why the marriage failed.

Drama enters this book from all directions. Family drama involving Tommy and his wife causes tension to rise. I feared for Ozzie’s safety when she showed up out of the blue. Angie’s grief over Scott seems to keep her on an emotional rollercoaster. Tommy’s patience is unending when it comes to Angie’s pain. After Chelsea, I doubt anything could phase him. I wonder if Brett will ever reconnect with the band, even just on a friendship level. The stress levels of the characters are understandable and their resiliency is captivating. Plenty of romance shines throughout this intense novel. The hate I have for mainstream media is reinforced with the situation that Tommy and Angie have to face. I recommend Love and Fate for readers who enjoy romance novels with realistic problems involving relatable characters. This beautifully crafted novel easily earns a five star rating for me.

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Strings Attached (A Braebeach Rockstar Romance) by Loriana Cappello – Review by Stephanie Runyon

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Strings AttachedStrings Attached by Loriana Cappello
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Ash remembers Calla from secondary school. He claims she stole his heart instantly. It had been 5 years since he had seen her. Calla cries, holding her head, crying out in pain. She recognizes Ash. An older woman claims Calla walked into the lamppost. Ash offers her a ride to the hospital. The woman agrees to wait with Calla’s stuff while Ash carries her to the car. Ash recalls the past and Calla mentions Scott Knox. Scott was Ash’s best friend from school but a bully to Calla. He blows off a meeting with Dani. He didn’t go home until lunchtime the next day.

He shared a house with Tommy. Entering the house, he noticed that his house was clean, laundry washed, dishes done, and his room was neat. His mother enters the room with a clean load of laundry. A knock at the door reveals Dani Hill. She worked at Election records and offered a contract to Ash’s band. His mother walks in as Dani has made herself comfortable and is trying to push Ash to make a decision on the contract. Ash’s mother knocks Dani down a notch and makes her leave.

Calla didn’t get along with her mother and her father was absent. However, her grandparents had given her a happy childhood. Her mother had always blamed her for the multiple men who left her. Calla had found her safe space at school. Now she works at Rosie’s Café and her mother has moved to be with her latest man. Calla enjoys her time at Braebeach living in her grandparent’s second home.

Ash notices Calla is with a friend, setting up a lounge on the beach. Calla wonders if she could handle a summer fling. Ash tells her about his band and asks Calla on a date. He offers Angie and Calla backstage passes to his band’s performance at the Dunbar Hotel.

After performing, Ash and Tommy take the girls to join them for dinner. Famous music icon, Bernie Hill, and his daughter, Dani, are present. Bernie asked Calla what she looked for in music and she was honest. Dani seemed not to like Calla when her father preferred to listen to Calla instead of her. Bernie said Calla could have a job in the music business industry. Calla and Ash both fall for each other but their thoughts about their relationship are not in sync.

The unpredictable twists in this book built tension from the first page. The vivid depiction of their emotions was captivating. It was easy to understand how their childhood lives dictated how they handled their relationships with people. Calla’s mother’s instability prevents her from forming attachments to anyone and her independent nature is a gift and a curse. A theme of forgiveness and trust intertwines with the drama that fills this book. I recommend this dramatic romance novel to fans who like seeing the inner turmoil of each person’s thoughts.

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The Crown of Stones Trilogy Box Set (The Crown of Stones Series) by C. L. Schneider – Review by Stephanie Runyon

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The Crown of Stones Complete TrilogyThe Crown of Stones Complete Trilogy by C.L. Schneider
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Ian Troy is a Shinree who is capable of using magic through special stones. He was fortunate to not be a slave like the rest of the Shinree. Using Kany’l on all magic casters was the law resulting in Shinree to become complacent slaves, However, Troy was to be a champion for Rella. He was involved in an affair with Queen Aylagar Argana who was set on defeating the Langorians. Despite his insistence to retreat with their remaining soldiers, she refused and rushed into a deadly battle. An earthquake knocks down the forces and creates a chasm where Troy discovers an artifact full of power. He looks towards Queen Aylagar and Troy sees her fall to an enemy sword. Filled with agony and anger, he uses the Crown of Stones to unleash an uncontrollable power over the battlefield.. Everyone died on both sides of the war. Troy curses King Draken of the Langorians with insanity.

Ten years later, Tory has become a bounty hunter. He refuses to use magic since the day he brought the queen back to Kabri. King Reynan gave him an obsidian stone from the crown and told Troy to leave Kabri. The crown was buried with the Queen. Guilt and anger plague every moment of Troy’s life. As he is pursuing Taren, a female assassin, she uses a red ring. A dark male voice overtakes Taren and forces Troy to use his magic. Taren is dead and the surroundings in the swamp are void of all life. However, the possessive voice invades Troy’s mind and his casting ability. Troy realizes the crown may have been removed from the royal tomb.

Troy’s life was thrust into a battle last year. Troy became soul-linked with a talented archer, and befriends the half-brother of the mad king. Troy’s love life becomes twisted with nightmares and revelations. The lives of the people he encounters are dependent upon him fulfilling a prophecy. Would Troy survive the brutality of the war with a target on his back? Will he ever be free of the guilt and hatred that has hardened his heart?

Magic Price, Magic Scars, and Magic Bourne follow Troy’s journey. The vivid writing is full of detail and leaves no stone unturned. Former enemies become powerful allies and family ties are severed and reformed. Love becomes a strong force that can cripple or bloom into something beautiful. Troy must make decisions that sacrifice every belief he stands for.. Every character is easy to envision and the graphic depiction of the war made me tremble with the loss of life. The distinct personalities of every character make them come alive on each page. The unpredictable plot builds in suspense and the conclusion wasn’t anything I would have imagined. The growth of the characters is an emotional story that will evoke feelings of grief, joy, anger, and more as each revelation will captivate the imagination.

This is a series best suited for mature adults. There are explicit scenes, profanity, and graphic violence that could be triggering. The ugly effects of war mixed with magic will transport a reader into Troy’s mental turmoil. Troy must choose between helping a kingdom that held him captive by forcing him into war, or turning his back and seeking vengeance for the Shinree who were forced into slavery. Will he ever be able to make the right decision? Is a right choice even possible?

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Midnight Falls by John Evans – Review by Stephanie Runyon

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Midnight FallsMidnight Falls by John (ronin) Evans
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Midnight Falls is a thriller that involves a writer who has looked into the eyes of an evil monster intent on killing him and anyone who stood in its way. Josh had chosen to move to Midnight Falls, where he obtained a job as a freelance writer for the local paper. Bringing along his faithful dog, Nimrod, he settles into a house with his neighbors, Brad Jefferson and Joey Ackerman, being unofficial outsiders to Midnight Falls. Brad was the only black man in the town, and Joey was homosexual. One afternoon, Josh and Brad had been working on the roof when Elizabeth “Lizzie” Caldwell came to Josh’s house to offer some iced tea. Life was ideal for Josh… for a while.

Jarrod Earlywine was the son of the sheriff and spoiled. Josh was shining his Dodge Charger when he first met Jarrod. The impudent teen wanted to buy the car, but Josh refused to sell it. In an attempt to intimidate Josh, Jarrod started to invade his personal space. Normally a big goofball, Nimrod came to his aid by growling at the boy. Later that day, Sheriff Earlywine gave Josh a sinister warning to watch out or he would come after him. A week later, Josh and Lizzie go to the community potluck. When Lizzie dragged Josh out on the dance floor, she caught the attention of Jarrod and his two friends. Josh hears Jarrod and his buddies call Lizzie a slut. Josh attempts to show Jarrod he isn’t afraid of him. Despite his nose being broken, Jarrod suffers humiliation by an accidental depantsing.

Josh and Lizzie were attempting to finish the night with romance, but Nimrod was upset. Locking him out of the bedroom failed to dissuade the dog. Nimrod broke through the door. Before Josh could address the dog’s intrusion, Lizzie points at the window. For a fraction of a moment, he saw something with burning red eyes. A gunshot, and Josh finds his neighbors staring at a creature that none of them can identify. The next morning, the creature had decomposed beyond recognition. The neighbors and Lizzie are about to face a legend that has been hidden in Midnight Falls that nobody will ever believe.

John Evans masters the suspense in this novel. The vivid details of the monsters that emerge in the story are terrifying, and Josh’s inclination to run was understandable. The opening to the book foreshadowed his desperate attempt to escape the creatures that haunted him, which immediately caused tension to build from the first page. The multiple opportunities that Josh had to escape the chaos that he would eventually face showed his compassion for Lizzie, especially when her grandmother was upset. Ironically, Nimrod has a major role in the story, but I won’t reveal any secrets. This book would be best suited to readers who are mature and enjoy horror stories.
 

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Falling Down (The Rockstar Series) by Anne Mercier – Review by Stephanie Runyon

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Falling Down (Rockstar, #1)Falling Down by Anne Mercier
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Luciana “Lucy” Russo and Serafina “Sera” Manzini were fans of the rock music band Falling Down. At 17, Lucy and Sera were in a Chicago airport waiting for a flight when Sera spotted Jesse. She drags Lucy over to the rock star. Jesse spends time with the two girls. When he takes a personal picture with Lucy, their flight is called. Jesse and Lucy look into each other’s eyes and feel something between them spark. Parting ways, Lucy and Sera start their lives with memories of their encounter.

Six years later, Lucy was a successful and famous actress. Lucy and Sera have agreed to do a music video job that Cage Nichols was directing. After both girls were ready for filming, both went to the staging area. Seeing the band’s equipment, the girls borrow some of the equipment. Not paying attention to their surroundings, the girls don’t realize that the members of Falling Down and Cage have arrived. Everyone is impressed by their amazing talent. Jesse remembers both girls and introduces them to the remaining band members.

The first day of filming has finished. Lucy and Sera were relaxing in the dressing room when the band entered. Jesse tells Lucy that he intends on having sex with her by the time they are done with filming. That evening, the girls go to a club to blow off steam. Lucy sees Jesse, and they start dancing together. When other people begin taking their pictures and filming the intimate way they are dancing, Lucy’s bodyguard interrupts them. Paparazzi were en route to the club.

Sera and Lucy have been collaborating about forming their own band. They had both dreamed of being musicians. When they approach Cage about the idea, Jesse and Xander overhear the conversation. Taking a break from being a movie actress, Lucy expects backlash from her mother, Regina. She is not shocked when Regina claims she is throwing away her fame and profitable career.

Lucy had always wanted to spend a night with Jesse, believing he wanted a fling as well. Jesse’s reputation as a playboy is well known. Agreeing to go to dinner with Jesse, Lucy is surprised by his devoted attention. Dinner turns into something more intimate at Jesse’s house. What Lucy doesn’t know is that the spark from six years ago threatens to consume them.

Falling Down is the first book in the Rockstar series by Anne Mercier. The best way to describe the plot is by comparing it to a spark building into an inferno. Lots of steamy scenes for the romance fans while still having a story of personal growth for Lucy and Jesse. The Chicago mafia ties to the girls lingering around the edges. The character development for each person was beyond exceptional. The clear changes in perspective between Jesse and Lucy are easy to follow. The vivid details make it easy to envision each scene clearly. Mercier didn’t make Lucy, Sera, and the group of Falling Down infallible. This made it easy to find their actions and thoughts relatable, a trait that I admired. I have nothing negative to say about this amazing story and look forward to continuing the series.

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Wildfire Knockout (The Predator Series) by Brooke May – Review by Stephanie Runyon

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Wildfire Knockout (The Predator #3)Wildfire Knockout by Brooke May
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Beth and Scott are working the women’s featherweight boxing circuit. Scott fell in love with Beth a year ago but since then, Beth refuses to let him get close again. Beth visits a children’s cancer center and meets Tilly. Returning to the hotel, Scott is shocked to see Beth’s hair is gone. She had her hair cut to make Tilly a wig.

In Denver, Bob enters the locker room while Scott uses the bathroom. Seeing Beth standing frozen and Bob telling her to give him a kiss, Scott rushes to her side, telling Bob to leave immediately, claiming to be her boyfriend. Later that evening, Scott discovers Beth has a hidden secret. She takes a step to confide in Scott, telling him the details as to why she doesn’t trust anyone. Instead of abandoning her, Scott consoles her and declares he will always be there for her. In Dallas, Beth and Scott are closer, though she still isn’t fully committed to Scott. They are spending time in a dance club when someone from the past changes the future of Wildfire’s rise to the championship.

The dive into Scott and Beth’s love/hate relationship was written tastefully. I found the sentimental recollection seen through Scott’s memory of their night in Las Vegas during K.C and Chamberlain’s wedding gave a better idea of how he was willing to abandon his playboy reputation. Beth’s visit to the Children’s Cancer Treatment Center brought tears to my eyes. I would have had the same reaction as Scott when he learned why she shaved her head. The surprise revelations were captivating. Connecting with the emotions of the two characters was effortless and the transitions between each point of view were seamless. The use of italics in Scott’s recollection of the path made it clear what point of time was being reflected. I would recommend this romance novel to mature adults who enjoy seeing both sides of a relationship as it develops.

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The Predator Part Two (The Predator Series) by Brooke May – Review by Stephanie Runyon

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The Predator Part TwoThe Predator Part Two by Brooke May
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Chamberlain has been on the professional boxing circuit for four years. The entire time, he has been celibate, confident he would find Katie. A private investigator fails to find her. When Katie was disowned, her father sent her to Denver to live with his sister, Jackie. Jackie is a lesbian and has also been disowned by the Cunningham family. Katie was thankful for her Aunt and her partner, Karmin’s support during her pregnancy. She met Beth while she was at a grocery store when her water broke. Beth had helped Katie get to the hospital and stayed while she gave birth to Marissa Fiona Lawrence. Seeing Chamberlain’s Denver fight has Katie scared, but she knows Chamberlain needs to meet his daughter sometime. When they meet at the aquarium, Katie knows that Chamberlain will be a great father to Marissa.

The love story between Chamberlain and Katie continues. I found Chamberlain’s belief in his love for Katie endearing. Scott is loyal for remaining by his side throughout the four years that Chamberlain was searching for Katie. Internet searches, a private investigator, and an attempt to get Katie’s family to tell Chamberlain where she was didn’t dissuade him. Marissa’s sassy attitude and obvious ability to interpret feelings makes her a challenge for everyone. There are several moments in the plot that I wanted to shake Katie for her indecisiveness. Appearances by their past “baggage” add intrigue to the unpredictable plot. By the end of the story, I could see Scott and Beth as a distinct possible continuation of this series. The amazing detail and engaging dialogue add even more depth to this amazing story. This is a five-star romance novel that I couldn’t put down.

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The Predator Part One (The Predator Series) by Brooke May – Review by Stephanie Runyon

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The Predator Part OneThe Predator Part One by Brooke May
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

K.C works as a waitress at The General’s Golden Club with Beth. Since she graduated from college, she has been looking for a job as a teacher. All night long, she has to deal with grabby men in the bar. Her best friend, Beth, begs her to watch the upcoming boxing fights. She agrees, and Beth helps her dress up for the event. K.C becomes nervous when she watches her ex, Chamberlain “The Predator” Lawrence, fight. He wins and turns toward her. Shocked that her nickname is tattooed on his chest, K.C grabs Beth and rushes towards the exit. One of his entourage stops them, saying Chamberlain wishes to speak to her. She refuses and drags Beth into the car, waiting for them. Beth tells her to explain what the heck was going on. K.C shares her past with Chamberlain and what led to her move from Boston to Denver.

I was hooked immediately, as K.C is the black sheep of the family. I completely empathize with her struggles to establish her identity as an individual. The status quo of privileged socialites and power marriages is present in the book. Chamberlain is the guy every girl dreams of as Prince Charming. Despite possessing endearing traits, he also has several flaws, such as severe jealousy and not recognizing that Gwen, his best friend, is a bit too handsy. The character development in this story makes the unpredictable plot breathtaking. Exceptional detail made it easy to envision what was going through K.C’s mind as she told her story. I am eager to read the sequel and fully support a five out of five star rating for this book.

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Red (Modern-Day Fairy Tale Book 2) by MK Harkins – Review by Stephanie Runyon

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Red (Modern-Day Fairy Tale, #2)Red by M.K. Harkins
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Merilee had messed up on her mission. She had been sent to Earth to help Ashley Adams find her soulmate, Harry James, who was a famous singer. Posing as Laura Vanetta, Merilee had become best friends with Ashley, keeping her safe from her stepmother, who had attempted to kill her. She had spent time with Harry’s best friend, George Sparks. George had fallen in love with Merilee. Ashley’s Guardian Angel, Zuriel, was furious because he now had to work with Merilee and Fannetta to keep Ashley safe from her stepmother and help George be open to love again. Merilee and Zuriel are not happy about working together.

George’s new roommate, Hunter, was desperate to get George out of his depression. Now at the University of California, George still wasn’t over, not knowing why Laura was just gone. After convincing him to attend a party, George spiraled further into depression by drinking every day and missing his classes for two weeks. Hunter warned him that he was on academic probation and was risking his dream of being a veterinarian. Hunter convinced him to talk to a counselor. Meadow was going to help him move forward with life.

Lily was staying at an Airbnb and worried she was going to fail with her plans. Her mother had wanted her to stay nearby and go to medical school. However, Lily didn’t want to be a doctor for people. She wanted to work with animals and decided to leave Washington to take the veterinary program at UCLA. While at Target, Ashley overhears Lily talking to the cashier. She offers Lily a room in her house.

During Ashley and Harry’s first anniversary, George meets Lily. They had so many things in common and agreed to meet at a coffee house for a date. The date goes well and extends all day. At the end of the date, they kiss passionately. Suddenly, George stops the kiss and tells her he has to leave and can’t see her again. Lily is hurt.

Red is full of suspense that is filled with tension on every page. Merilee and Zuriel seem to have a love-hate relationship that grows the longer they try to intervene in George’s downward spiral and refusal to admit his feelings for Lily. The emotional turmoil is easy to understand. There are some darker themes; however, the romance is appropriate for high school-age readers. This is a five star novel capable of being a standalone, despite being the second in the series.

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Discovering Desire (Shattered Embrace Series) by Alyndra Quinn – Review by Stephanie Runyon

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Discovering Desire (Shattered Embrace #3)Discovering Desire by Alyndra Quinn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The third book in the Shattered Embrace Series, Discovering Desires, features the points of view of Derek, Jordan, and Justine.

Derek is head of Nightshade Security and has taken on the task of removing Lucian Clareno from leadership of the Clareno Crime Syndicate. He meets with four of the syndicate’s lieutenants to discuss Lucian’s poor judgment. Since Derek’s brother, Zach, is the oldest, the lieutenants suggest that Zach take over the syndicate. Derek advises them that Zach doesn’t want to be the leader since he has become the head of the Ingram conglomerate. Because Lucian’s actions are putting his family and the syndicate at risk, he proposes a plan to eliminate Lucian. The men agree to support him during the operation.

Justine is writing a dissertation on sexual authenticity for her master’s degree. Zach has allowed her unlimited access to the BDSM club, Shattered Embrace. He agrees to her demystifying lifestyle, stipulating that he read her dissertation prior to submission. She also cannot reveal any member identities in her work. Originally, before Zach became attached to his submissive girlfriend, Ashton, he had been a dominant mentor for Justine. However, now Derek is her mentor. While she is fascinated with Derek, she doesn’t think she is submissive.

Jordan, a switch, enjoys her time with Derek. She has never been monogamous, though she has begun to entertain the idea of becoming Derek’s devoted submissive. However, she also sees the possibility of including Justine.

Derek, Justine, and Jordan have no idea how far their boundaries will be tested as the insane Lucian Clareno begins targeting everyone close to Derek.

This is an intense book that builds tension at the perfect pace. Despite being the third book in a series, it is easily capable of being a standalone. An element of danger adds to the building suspense from the first page to the last. Zach and Derek are opposites outside the club. Zach doesn’t engage in the criminal world; Derek has the intestinal fortitude to do battle without flinching. Intertwining Justine and Jordan inside and outside of Shattered Embrace takes readers on a roller coaster ride, seen through the eyes of three exceptionally developed characters. The plot twists are captivating. The balance between steamy scenes and action is beyond remarkable. A perfect 5-star story sure to entice any romance reader without fail.

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The Handshake Agreement (Book 1) by A. Akinosho – Review by Stephanie Runyon

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The Handshake AgreementThe Handshake Agreement by A. Akinosho
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Declan was not the type of person who looked to marry anyone. His dad said he would need to marry someone with the right background and work hard to keep their company in the top 1%. He feels that an arranged marriage would suit him fine and has no intention of being committed. He shakes hands with his dad as he takes over the business. Eight years later, Declan has to pick up his younger sister from school. Sara asks if he will give Anne a ride home, too. When he arrives, Sara tells him that Terry pushed Anne into the pool, and she is soaking wet. She tells him not to mention it because she doesn’t want Anne to feel embarrassed. He makes eye contact with Anne and feels a spark, but keeps the feeling to himself.

In the car with Sara and Declan, Anne felt a connection whenever she looked into his eyes. She didn’t want to fall in love because of what happened to her parents. Her parents loved each other, and her father’s death had caused a big life change. Their mother, too depressed to care for them after his death, sent her and her brother to the United States. That night, at Sara’s birthday party, Declan meets Anne in the garden. He shares a tender kiss with Anne before they part ways.

Three years have passed; Anne is now working at a lounge, and Declan has been following her closely. She hadn’t realized how much he wanted her since the night of his sister’s birthday party. After work, Anne takes the risk of spending a night without obligations to Declan. However, Declan has long-term plans in mind. Likewise, his father hasn’t forgotten their deal from twelve years ago. Anne does not fit into the deal.

This story follows a twisted plot as two people who never wanted to fall in love struggle to fight their feelings. Both viewpoints are clear when switching between Declan and Anne. Just when a happily ever after story seems likely, a sudden plot twist shatters any predictability for this romance novel. The man, who maintains a separate apartment for his flings away from his home, exhibits an obsession with Anne that verges on stalking. Anne’s boyfriends could never resist her first kiss. The suspense builds intensity as supporting characters make their feelings known. Add in a sinister power play, and this makes The Handshake Agreement my number one favorite. I wish I could give this amazing book a higher rating than 5 stars.

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Finding Love (The Oath Series) by Lacey Furr – Review by Stephanie Runyon

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Finding Love (The Oath Series)Finding Love by Lacey Furr
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Hailey has accepted a four week booking at her Bed and Breakfast for a famous rockstar. Loch is the lead singer for the famous band, Oath. HIs manager, Alex, tells Hailey that Loch is there to heal from a traumatic event and requires extreme privacy. Hailey cuts her hand and has a panic attack from the sight of the blood. Loch finds her and helps her care for the wound. He finds Hailey attractive and feels an intense connection to her.

Hailey sets up a picnic and invites Loch to stargaze in the evening. She shares a trauma she has experienced and how she got through it. Loch opens up and confides in her, sharing his emotional pain from losing his sister. They spend several nights together comforting each other until they move into an intimate relationship. While Loch is open with his feelings, Hailey keeps her feelings hidden, believing he will leave soon.

Lacey Furr builds suspense with the inner turmoil both characters experience. They share devastating grief and guilt. Loch and Jonas are perfect gentlemen. Jonas, who is Hailey’s best friend’s fiance, threatens Loch’s like a big brother would. I found the moment humorous “F*ck with her and, well, surprises are better than threats, no?” after he expresses he likes Loch’s music. Hailey’s entire life revolves around her business that she does all the work alone.

The band members from Oath added to twists in the unpredictable plot and brought a lively dynamic to Loch and Hailey’s budding relationship. The flexibility of the band members and distinct personalities made them a vital part of the story.

I rate Finding Love a solid 5 stars and I look forward to reading the sequels that Lacey Furr creates for the members of Oath

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Come Home to Death by Marilyn Levinson – Review by Stephanie Runyon

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Come Home to DeathCome Home to Death by Marilyn Levinson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Where is Terry? Erica is disappointed that her husband of nine months has disappeared on one of his mysterious “business” trips. As she is walking up to the apartment complex, she notices a large blue car parked in front of the building. Before she can walk upstairs, Mrs. Bressler, her landlady, stops her and says that two men are upstairs looking for Terry. Afraid, Erica runs away to a local cafe. Unfortunately, the men saw her flee and sit down in her booth. Sean and Andy claim that Terry owes their boss twenty thousand dollars for a gambling debt. Tearfully, Erica claims she didn’t know where Terry went but she gave thema note Terry had left her the previous week. Sean gives her a card and tells her to call if Terry shows up.
On her walk towards her apartment, another man pulls up in a blue car. He claims he is a friend of Terry’s and wondered if she had seen him. Erica says no, the man introduces himself as Doug and gives her a card to contact him. Erica’s determination to help her husband leads her on an uncertain path for the future.

Come Home Death by Marilyn Levinson features Erica’s tumultuous life waiting for her inheritance. Her whirlwind romance with Terry Parker is unconventional. This unpredictable plot takes the reader on a journey seen through Erica’s eyes as she tries to make sense of who she married. Her dislike for Manordale is made clear, especially since she must deal with two eccentric aunts and the attempted romance advances both Doug and Jason make to her. Suspense builds as several revelations and murder fills each page. Whose life is on the line? Read this captivating novel to find out. Come Home Death will appeal to fans of intriguing slow burn romances.

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The Rake (Daughters of Dishonour Series) by Ava Bond – Review by Stephanie Runyon

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The Rake (Daughters of Dishonour #1)The Rake by Ava Bond
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Margot is traveling to London with her sister to meet her biological father. At the Duke’s house, she hears a struggle and discovers an intruder fighting the Duke. When Margot grabs a poker from the fireplace, the intruder aims his gun at her. The Duke jumps to block the bullet. The intruder tries to get a map from the Duke’s hand but it tears. Margot pursues the man into the garden door of Langley’s house, stumbling into an orgy. She sees the killer run upstairs. She tries to follow but Langley, sans pants, blocks her path. Langley attempts to charm Margot, but threatens him with the poker before leaving.

The Bow Street Runner and Mr. Holt don’t listen to Margot. Langley drops by while the men were present. He orders the attorney and runner to find the killer. Margot, despite not trusting the handsome rake, agrees to his offer of assistance. However, his offer has two conditions: they must coordinate the search together and she owes him a real kiss. Mrs. Bowley enters the room and runs Langley off. Mrs. Bowley believes Margot is a debutante and Margot fears this would become an expensive venture. She sends her sister, Elsie, to Cornwall to find the duke’s heir/ She fears Elsie could be hurt by the killer and the inheritance depends on the heir coming to London.

Langley is hesitant to take Margot to the first mark on her map. Limestone was known for criminal activity. After dressing in a dark cape with a hood, Margot and Langley travel to the East Side until they arrive. Langley sends his men inside the inn while escorting Margot towards the clock. Frustrated to find the gate locked, the pair are about to kiss when a man exits the inn. Margot recognizes him immediately. She tries to challenge him to give her the rest of the map. She had brought a kitchen knife with her to defend herself. Suddenly Langley knocks her to the ground and covers her as the sound of a gunshot goes off. The man had pointed his gun at her through his coat jacket. Margot hadn’t seen his actions. Langley’s driver stated that they had seen the man remove a key from the clock.

Now they knew what they were searching for. Unfortunately, many of the places on the map would require Langley to attend society’s balls, ruining his reputation as a libertine. Why does Margot intrigue him so much? It was different with her than his previous flings. How is Langley different from what his reputation is? Despite her claim of not looking for a match, why do his charms make her think of desire? Does Elsie find the heir?

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Touched: Elemental Passions Book One by Skye Turner, Sloane Nicole, April D. Berry, C.J. Pinard, Danielle Jamie, Darlene Tallman, Julie Morgan, Livell James, Machelle Hanleigh, and Melissa MacKinnon – Review by Stephanie Runyon

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Touched (Elemental Passions #1)Touched by Skye Turner
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Touched is the first book in the Elemental Passions series. The book features Aeris, an inquisitive fae interested in humans outside of Laric. Despite warnings from her older brother, Cyrus, she uses glamour and sneaks out to watch humans without interacting with them. However, she learns that Callum, a police detective, can see her. Aeris bumps into Callum on the street. Seeing how distressed Aeris is, Callum tries to offer her help. Aeris flees and disappears from his sight.

Inside a dark bar, Callum meets with his informant about a drug drop location that the notorious Trahan brothers were planning for Friday at midnight. It is evident that Tony is afraid of being caught giving Callum information. When Callum is driving toward his precinct, he drops his phone long enough to distract him. He strikes a pedestrian and runs to the front of his truck to see Aeris lying in a pool of blood. Nobody can see her except Callum. While he is distracted by another person, Aeris heals herself. Callum convinces her to take her for a ride because he wants to know her better.

Aeris hides her interaction with a human from Cyrus. She researches glamour and finds it doesn’t work on mythical creatures. If a mortal has mythical blood, they can also see past glamour. She meets Callum again and reveals she is a Fae. Callum recalls his grandmother telling him he had Sylph blood but didn’t know what that meant. Noticing a storm forming rapidly, Callum tries to take Aeris to his truck but a strong wind snatches her away. Aeris knows she is in serious trouble since her father used a storm to bring her back to Laric.

There is a lot of suspense in Touched. Fae are not supposed to be around humans. Callum didn’t believe in fairy tales until Aeris entered his life. Something between them draws both of them together and it is obvious that the traditional alpha male persona that Callum has will be challenged by the strong-willed Aeris. What is a Sylph? What does it mean to be human and Sylph? Can Aeris convince her family and fellow Fae to accept Callum? Does Aeris have to leave Laric forever if she wants to be with Callum. All of these intriguing questions are answered in an unpredictable story of forbidden romance.

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Sugar & Spice (Spicetopia Series) by Phoebe Alexander – Review by Stephanie Runyon

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Sugar & Spice (Spicetopia #1)Sugar & Spice by Phoebe Alexander
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Phoebe Alexander created an amazing, suspenseful romance in this story. Cyrus Sweet had spent as much of his time pursuing his dreams while he was in college. He wanted to become an artist and had secured a place in a program where he would learn from his idol, Krstiph Kostopolous, in Greece. However, his brothers and parents had other plans. Corden and Ophelia Sweet own Sweetopia, a family-oriented theme park. They had learned that a possible strike was stirring in the company. Cyrus was told he had to find the ringleaders to keep his inheritance. Corden also offered $25,000 as an incentive. Reluctantly, Cyrus agreed, as long as he could go to Greece.

Cyrus is the persona of Marcus Young, a British graduate student in art history. As a seasonal temporary employee, he was assigned to Bard’s Bakery. He had heard his brothers discussing the new Red Velvet Queen as being hot. When he took a look at the woman, he was automatically intrigued. He introduced himself to her as Marcus, and the attraction was obviously shared.

Jolie works as the Red Velvet Queen by day and a paid dominatrix in the evenings. She has to support her mother and two sons. River was a special needs child with cystic fibrosis who was often in the hospital. While Sweetopia had benefits, their health insurance was shabby, and they paid her $5.00 an hour without overtime. She didn’t want a relationship, but after meeting Marucs, she thought it would be okay to have a little fun during the summer.

Frequent trysts in Jolie’s dressing room have Cyrus feeling guilty about deceiving her about his identity. When he learns of a meeting, he struggles to decide what to do. Should he tell his parents about the impending press conference calling for a strike and boycott of Sweet Enterprises? If he doesn’t do what they demand, he is going to lose his inheritance and trip to Greece. Likewise, he had grown attached to several employees and the beguiling Jolie.

Phoebe brings equal parts sweetness and spice to this novel. The plot is unpredictable, and the points of view of Cyrus and Jolie provide their personal views in vivid detail. Alternating between Cyrus and Jolie was done smoothly, making the transitions effortless. I couldn’t put this book down as I followed the two protagonists, who kept secrets from one another. Their romance blossoms at work while they face impossible odds that could potentially pull them apart. The suspense builds to a climactic scene that I prayed would turn out positively. Sugar & Spice is the first book in the Spicetopia series. I recommend this five-star book to romance readers who like connecting with the characters in a steamy, forbidden romance novel.

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Outcast (Her Royal Harem: Ember) by Catherine Banks – Review by Stephanie Runyon

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Outcast (Her Royal Harem: Ember Book 1)Outcast by Catherine Banks
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Ember is a mage who treats supernatural animal shifters. Born as a mage, her parents treated her as an abomination. They sent her to a mage training school. When she aged out of school, they gave her an isolated cabin on 100 acres in the woods. Afterwards, she had no contact with them. She has the ability to talk to animals telepathically, and she spends her time fixing injured animals and shifters. When Kieran, a hawk shifter, alerts her to an injured bear, Ember follows him to find a badly injured mother with a cub. After patching her up, she learns that a giant black bear that seems cursed was the cause of the injuries. When she arrives home, she finds her cheetah patient awake, and Branson, a healed bear shifter, is blocking it from leaving. The cheetah shifts into his human form and reveals he is the assistant to Prince Caleb.
Within three days, several more patients joined Ember’s entourage. A raven has been bringing magical crystals from the riverbank. Kieran, Branson, and Riddick go to investigate a cave that they had tracked the bear to. Ember is accompanied by Percival, and Triston is collecting more of the crystals. Triston says that they smell like bad magic. Before Ember can ask what he means, a giant bear covered in some type of black slime appears. Branson yells for Ember to run. Percival grabs Ember and runs towards her home, where wards prevent the bear from crossing. Noticing the bear is focused on her, Ember asks what it wants. The bear answers, “Your blood.”
A shifter romance novel full of a colorful cast of characters, Catherine Banks’ Outcast is entertaining. The vivid details describing the shifters and their abilities make it easy to envision each one. Ember’s feelings of isolation and being an outcast are relatable. The amazing journey of self-discovery is captivating, and I am eager to read the sequel. Mature readers who enjoy steamy romances with multiple subplots will find Outcast appealing.

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It Comes From Within (House Valdis Series) by Naomi Valkyrie – Review by Stephanie Runyon

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

Xenobia has her hands full since she has taken over House Muerte without learning that a new blood den has been formed. She has Chiamaka’s request to give his conduit, Ezrah, her blood, and then his request for Xenobia to become his conduit. Matthew and Onyx are present in her room at all times, and their linking invades her mind constantly. Beyond this, Sybil has begun having visions of the victims of a vampire attack. Onyx goes undercover, bringing Sylvia with him so she can teleport if they get into a bind. When challenged to drink Sylvia’s blood, he discovers her addictive secret. Meanwhile, Audrey has been monitoring Emberly’s nightmares, and they have started a relationship. Emberly convinces Audrey to take her to the blood den. She has plans for the rogue vampires to go out in a blaze of glory.
Naomi Valkyrie’s It Comes From Within continues the tale of Xenobia’s struggle to remain a pacifist. She is afraid of her power, which she believes makes her a mass murderer. The exceptional detail and various character views add depth to the unpredictable plot. The suspense, witty remarks, and intrigue made this novel difficult to put down. I was able to envision every moment with vivid descriptions. I have read the previous books in the series, and they just keep getting better. There are no dull moments to be found on any page, and the book is, without a doubt, well worth a five-star rating.

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The Earl’s Match (The Thompsons of Locust Street Series) by Holly Bush – Review by Stephanie Runyon

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The Earl's Match (The Thompsons of Locust Street, #5)The Earl’s Match by Holly Bush
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

In October 1871, Payden MacTavish Thompson and Robbie McClintock traveled to Scotland to reclaim Dunacres. Dunacres was home to the Earls of Taviston but had fallen prey to Cameron Plowman. After his parents were murdered during a voyage to New York City, Payden was raised by his fourteen-year old sister and Aunt Murdoch. Muireall had changed their name to Thompson in hopes that Plowman would not find them. Unfortunately, he found the family and terrorized them with kidnappings and more. Payden was going to end the reign of terror, and his best friend, Robbie, accompanied him. They had thought they would only be gone for a month or two. They were very mistaken.

In May 1876, Payden and Robbie were returning. Payden had successfully reclaimed his family’s Scottish property and killed Plowman. Leaving his trust in Kenneth Mitchell as a steward, he knew Dunacres would recover from the neglect. However, he couldn’t let go of the memories of the horrors he endured and his broken heart. Robbie was bringing his paramour, Colleen Sinclair, with him. The only woman Payden had ever loved was killed by Plowman’s men. Despite killing the men, Payden and Robbie were both placed in a dungeon. Robbie was returning with a limp and a facial scar. Payden returned with anguish and flashbacks of death.

Several days after their return, Muireall asks Payden for assistance. She was helping the Sisters of Charity rescue a woman and her children from an abusive husband. She thought his presence might prevent Mr. Faraday from interfering. Payden called Robbie as a backup and joined Muireall. Despite the presence of a police officer, Mr. Faraday was holding a knife to his wife’s neck. After seeing Robbie take the last child and an elderly woman out the back of the house, Payden and Officer McLean tried to negotiate for the woman’s freedom. Mr. Faraday pointed his knife at the officer and then began to swing the blade towards the woman. Payden pulled his pistol and killed him.

At the orphanage, Muireall and Payden were preparing to leave when the Endicott women brought donations. When Clarice Endicott’s younger sister faints from the sight of blood on Payden’s shirt, Clarice glares at the incorrigible man. A second trip to the orphanage with clothing for Mrs. Faraday finds Payden and Clarice facing each other. After accusing Payden of being a monster for not covering the blood that he probably got from being an apprentice butcher, Payden decides to take her snobbery down a peg. The blood had been from Mr. Faraday. Clarice pales and is horrified to have misjudged Payden by his appearance. This is not the last time Payden and Clarice will bump heads.

This is an intriguing story with amazing character development. Beyond romance, the story dives into overcoming grief and ignoring what is proper to do what is right. I liked Payden’s view, as it felt relatable. The archaic stigma of a woman’s value was based on her family’s background and who she married, which were definite obstacles for Clarice. The alternating perspectives of Payden and Clarice added depth to the story by showing their insecurities.
I recommend The Earl’s Match for anyone who enjoys a forbidden romance full of adventure and intrigue.

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The Rise of House Valdis (House Valdis Series) by Naomi Valkyrie – Review by Stephanie Runyon

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The Rise of House ValdisThe Rise of House Valdis by Naomi Valkyrie
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Xenobia refuses to have a serious relationship with She found Javier beating Maggie five years ago, and Xenobia attacked him. Only Maggie knew that she wasn’t human. Maggie and the girls who were “employed” by Javier left as well. Xenobia had also borrowed some of his money. Despite this being a past issue, Javier has sent Mr. Smith to insist she return the women. Mr. Smith claims Javier has his daughter because of a debt of $100,000. Javier told him that if the girls were returned, then his debt would be excused and his daughter would not be harmed. Xenobia gave Mr. Smith the money, and he set up an exchange. Before he left for the exchange, Mr. Smith told Xenobia that his daughter’s name was Mercy. Something told Xenobia he didn’t think he would survive the exchange.

Xenobia receives a phone call: “Save Mercy.” Xenobia uses her power to keep him alive so he can learn where she is. She felt him die. Xenobia has to hurry to save Mercy. She arrives to find two men raping Mercy, and she intervenes by using her power to make the men commit suicide. Mercy is wounded, and Xenobia takes her back to the brothel house. She realizes that Mercy isn’t going to survive. Xenobia realizes Mercy needs blood. She uses her own to rescue Mercy, despite not knowing if there will be any unintended side effects.

The following day, Detective Matthew Winters questions Xenobia about a body that had her business card. Xenobia denied knowledge of the body. Matthew questions her about Mercy. Xenobia denied knowing her.

Matthew knew that Xenobia was lying. He could smell Mercy and sense Xenobia’s distress when he questioned her. As a wolf shifter, his senses were heightened. There was more about Xenobia that intrigued him as well. Later that evening, Matt falls asleep, and his dream shows Xenobia at the crime scene. Matthew returns to the brothel. He has one question for Xenobia.

“What are you?”

The Rise of House Valdis is a unique fantasy romance story involving Xenobia Valdis, Matthew Winters, and the women they have taken a vow to protect. The vivid details given to the characters display their strengths and insecurities as they face danger from humans and other supernatural creatures. The attraction between Xenobia and Matt is palpable, but they both carry baggage from the past that they have to face before diving into a relationship. The alternating perspectives of the characters made it easy to relate to the inner turmoil they faced. The plot is unpredictable, and the multiple twists kept me fully invested in the book. Readers who enjoy romance novels with magical creatures will enjoy Naomi Valkyrie’s The Rise of House Valdis. This series shows amazing promise to become a favorite for me.

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House Valdis Origins: Xenobia (House Valdis Series) by Naomi Valkyrie – Review by Stephanie Runyon

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House Valdis Origins: Xenobia (House Valdis, #0.5)House Valdis Origins: Xenobia by Naomi Valkyrie
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Xenobia has the sixth sense to avoid falling victim to betrayal. At a young age, she knew not to trust anyone. That is, until Urd became her new roommate at the training center. Headmistress Xiomara assigns Xenobia to make sure that Urd learns the rules; she would be responsible for anything Urd failed. Somehow, Xenobia lets down her guard with Urd, and they become best friends. Unfortunately, every slave’s happiness comes to an end when the Chief Slave Traders arrive. Headmistress Xiomara takes Urd early in the morning. Xenobia worries throughout the day, and Urd enters the room after the night is half over. Xenobia notices a red welt on Urd’s back. The following morning, Urd doesn’t eat with Xenobia but goes to kneel before the Chief. Later that evening, Xenobia sees the man strike Urd. Xenobia attacks him and is thrown into an outbuilding in chains.
The girls are sent to their new master together when they learn that Xenobia can heal Urd’s wounds. One evening, they learn that Prince Xavion is coming, and Xenobia knows they have to escape because Xavion’s reputation for his treatment of slaves is dire. Xenobia had hoped to find the rumored Underground so they could be freed from slavery. Now, they don’t have time and must escape before the prince arrives.
 
House Valdis Origins: Xenobia makes a solid foundation for the series by featuring Xenobia’s early life. Xenobia’s attachment to Urd becomes almost as though they are sisters. It becomes evident that Xenobia isn’t human since she has blue skin, can heal wounds, and has a feral anger that causes fangs to appear. The detail is excellent and doesn’t overwhelm the unpredictable plot. The novella is a quick read but is full of emotion and action that held my interest and left me eager to read the sequel.

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Deceptively Yours (Titans of Chicago Series) by Anise Storm – Review by Stephanie Runyon

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Deceptively Yours (Titans of Chicago, #1)Deceptively Yours by Anise Storm
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Anise Storm’s first book in her Titans of Chicago is Deceptively Yours. Harper Grimes and Gabriel Blake were soul mates planning to marry after graduating. Both of them had grown up together and fallen in love. One evening, Harper and Gabriel were eating dinner at Gabriel’s home when his parents came home. Mr. Blake asked Harper to meet him in his office for a minute. Harper’s parents were killed in a car accident. Devastated, Harper is shocked to learn her uncle was picking her up to live with him in Portland. Despite the Blake family offering to let Harper stay with them in Chicago, he refuses and takes Harper away.

Jayson, Harper’s cousin, tormented her two months later. Jayson rapes Harper and takes pictures of his acts. He sends them to her to prevent her from telling anyone. She felt as though she had unwillingly cheated on Gabriel. In a single phone call followed by pictures, Harper breaks Gabriel’s heart. She also stopped contact with everyone she knew in Chicago.

Nine and a half years later, Harper discovers Gabriel’s parents died in a mysterious plane crash. She knew she had an inheritance, and Mr. Blake had been trying to help her despite her uncle denying she had anything. Her friend, Jackson, had helped her look into Mr. Blake’s work, and they found something off. Just before the plane crashed, her uncle was making incremental payments to someone in Chicago. Now the same payments were being made. Harper fears that Gabriel is in danger and tries to warn him on the phone. He hangs up on her. Determined, Harper has to warn Gabriel of the danger. When White is flying to Chicago, a blizzard strikes the city. She finds Gabriel at a bachelor’s auction for a charity. When it is time to bid for the date, Harper uses over half her savings to pay for the date. However, Gabriel has other plans. Unprepared, Gabriel is angry but won’t turn Harper away since all the hotels are full. He takes her back to his penthouse.

Anise Storm’s Deceptively Yours covers several deep topics in a passionate romance story. The sixteen years Harper and Gabriel had before her parents’ deaths held onto hope. Even a decade after Harper foolishly ended the relationship, Gabriel and Harper never moved on to another real relationship. While they were apart, some of their dreams had come true, while others had fallen through due to unfortunate events that happened in real life. Despite the chemistry between them, the pain of betrayal is brought to light through Gabriel’s eyes. The alternating views are well-transitioned, and they keep the momentum of the story moving forward without being a repetitive rehashing of each detail. The personalities are well-developed, and the vivid depiction of their physical attributes adds to the appeal of this book. Readers who enjoy well-developed romantic suspense novels will find Deceptively Yours a great book for their personal library.

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The Marcy Series Box Set: Books 1-3 by Linda J. Burson – Review by Stephanie Runyon

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The Marcy Series Box Set: Books 1-3The Marcy Series Box Set: Books 1-3 by Linda Burson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The Marcy Box Set contains books one through three featuring Marcy Jenson and her journey navigating trauma while facing reality through a different lense., Marcy is a business owner of her own cafe and has been dating Brad Preston for two and half years. The last four months she has been having nightmares that disrupt her sleep. When her best friend, Jill, mentions that her temper has even caused customers to leave the cafe, Marcy tries to dismiss it as everyone is being too sensitive. Brad dumps her after she shoves him during an argument.. The following evening, Marcy is held at gunpoint by a robber in a gas station. Thankfully, she has professional training and disarms the stunned gunman and beats him down. When the police arrive, she gives her statement and is trying to leave when she is accosted by news crews. She is approached by Liam who would like to speak to him in private. He tells her about his life and the trauma of losing his family and believes she can help him take on the bad people. Marcy begins therapy with Dr. Bengali who claims that they need to find the underlying cause of her rage.

Brad proposes to Marcy and she accepts. The following Monday, Brad is gone on a business trip, Liam contacts Marcy again. He provides her with a burner phone and tells her to meet him at a park after dark. Marcy is used as bait for a group of thugs that Liam executes. On Wednesday, Liam gives her a gun and they take on a gang. Marcy doesn’t shoot one of them but hits them with the gun. At home, Marcy realizes she hasn’t checked her phone for messages from Brad. She listens to them as they become more angry that she hasn’t answered his calls.. Marcy becomes distraught and experiences a breakdown causing her to go to the hospital. Brad flies home and sees her at the hospital where he ends their engagement.. Liam had told her about a cabin in Vermont where he would teach her how to use a gun. She spends two weeks with Liam and they fall in love. Liam dotes on her, but due to his work, they have to keep their relationship secret. While she has been gone, Brad has been trying to find her. Jill claims he has been calling the cafe too.

Marcy returns home and tells Brad she is in love with Liam. However, she can’t deny that she still loves Brad. Brad tells her to no longer see Liam. Liam goes to California to finish his revenge on the men that murdered his family. Marcy follows him and spends time with Liam and Will. Before Liam executes the plan for the men, Marcy returns home. She continues therapy and is stuck with deciding what man she should spend her life with. With nobody to confide in, Marcy’s nightmares and confusion intensify. Dr. Bengali and Marcy have made several breakthroughs in her therapy. However, the revelations are certain to alter Marcy’s life forever.

Intense suspense builds through each book and there is a smooth transition between each edition. Marcy’s relationships are complex and dominate her entire life. Meanwhile, Dr. Bengali seems to be the voice of reason. Marcy is so codependent that she doesn’t miss a beat by running to Brad or Liam when she fights with one of them. While she can’t handle the thought of either of them being with another woman, Marcy doesn’t see herself manipulating them. She refuses to accept accountability for her own actions by blaming them for the predicament.

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A Heart So Savage (The Savage Duet Book 2) by April Moran – Review by Stephanie Runyon

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A Heart So Savage (The Savage Duet #2)A Heart So Savage by April Moran
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Kingston only returned when Ava was asleep. Ava was afraid of Oliver. She also knew that she was owned by Kingston since Carson refused to pay his debt. Despite his claim over Ava, Kingston didn’t have sex with her. He would leave during the day and Ava was allowed free roam of the house with Paulie or Jack following her. One afternoon, Kingston told her to stay in the game room since he was having a meeting with Oliver and other men. That afternoon Kingston took Ava’s virginity. Just as he was dressing himself, a call from his guards brings Kingston running. Ava tricks Jack and finds that Detectives from Bitter Springs are at the door. Ignoring Kingston’s instructions, Ava eludes her guard and comes downstairs where the two detectives are. Is she going to escape Kingston?

April Moran’s second book in the duet, A Heart So Savage continues Ava and Kingston’s unorthodox relationship. Every interaction is a struggle between Ava and Kingston. While their attraction grows, Ava still wants the freedom to choose how she lives. Kingston knows she isn’t safe without him. If he had told her what was happening up front, she might have been more receptive. But that isn’t how the Winter family operates. The ending threw me for a loop. The unpredictable twists build suspense to an intolerable intensity. Involving several steamy scenes and showing the vulnerabilities that both characters try hiding, this is definitely a five star book and duet.

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A King So Savage (The Savage Duet) by April Moran – Review by Stephanie Runyon

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A King So Savage (The Savage Duet #1)A King So Savage by April Moran
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Kingston has always wanted Ava and has kidnapped her, using her brother’s debt of $2.6 million as his reason. His brother, Oliver, had drugged her in an elevator. Oliver wants to violate her, but Kingston warns him that nobody can touch her. Ava fights by using a paperweight to cut his face. While struggling to get away, there was a loud pop that caused her to scream. Dr.Abbott has to treat Ava while he keeps her in a cell. He didn’t like the situation, but he was loyal to Kingston. Ava wakes up from being sedated by the doctor. She hasn’t been given food yet, and she doesn’t know how long she has slept. Kingston brings her food and wants her to clean up. When Ava doesn’t respond and doesn’t try to eat, Kingston forces her into the tub and washes her. Humiliated at her situation, she relents by eating. Ava attempts to escape again when Dr. Abbott comes to check her sprained wrist. Kingston, who caught her in the woods, decides he is going to have to punish Ava for her repeated acts of defiance.

This is a slow-burn romance, with April Moran building suspense. There is a subplot that runs where there is resentment from Kingston towards Oliver, as well as Oliver’s hatred towards Kingston. Dr. Abbott doesn’t like the treatment of Ava, but whatever darker dealings the Winter family is involved in prevents him from helping Ava escape her captivity. The cliffhanger ending has me eager to read the sequel, and I wonder if Carson will make an attempt to steal Ava back. However, I don’t know if Carson is really a better option for Ava since he has little regard for her beyond her inheritance money. With a cliffhanger ending, I am eager to read a sequel to this fast-paced story.

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Renewed (Fateful Justice Series) by Sara Vinduska – Review by Stephanie Runyon

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Renewed (Fateful Justice Book 6)Renewed by Sara Vinduska
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Hayden was shot by a homeless man. His horse brought him to Ruby’s cabin, where he was last conscious. Due to a blizzard, she bandaged his shoulder and tied his horse to the porch. She was hiding from her past with Marcus. As snow continues to fall, Seth calls Mark to tell him that Hayden is missing. The last time he had been seen was the previous morning, when he went to check the far pasture fences before the storm. Meanwhile, Forest had come into the station, claiming he had shot a ghost on a horse. Unable to get a clear story, Sheriff Latham had Forest committed for alcohol treatment and mental health. Several days pass before the weather clears enough for Hayden to ride his horse home. Ruby and Hayden bonded closely during the stay. After exchanging numbers, Hayden called when he had a signal and was met by his brother Mark, Whitney, and his parents. He told them what had happened. It was determined that Forest had mistakenly shot Hayden. Whitney interviewed Ruby to conclude their report.
Ruby started packing her suitcases to continue with her plans to drive to Kansas. As she was preparing to leave, Marcus kicked the door in. She backed into the kitchen as he told her that she was his and wasn’t allowed to leave him. Ruby stabbed his shoulder and fled the cabin, running into the woods in just a sweater, leggings, and shoes. Ruby called Hayden while hiding in the woods. After describing her surroundings, Hayden rode across his ranch and found Ruby. He brought her back to his home. She pleaded for him not to pursue Marcus. He agreed and assured her that she was safe. The following day, Ruby reported what had happened. Whitney brought her car and belongings to the ranch. Marcus had tried to follow, but gave up. He left Wyoming and stayed at Congressman Dixon’s home. The Congressman owed Marcus for his lavish lifestyle. Marcus told the Congressman he was going to bring Ruby back home to Orlando. When Marcus receives a call with information about Ruby’s location, Congressman Dixon and his wife take an impromptu vacation to Hawaii
This story has plenty of steamy scenes; however, Sara Vinduska adds several subplots involving Sheriff Latham and his past, Mark and Whitney’s marriage, and several other supporting characters. The plot is intriguing and full of suspense. The characters are well-developed and relatable, and their interactions are relatable. I enjoyed how the investigations and actions of the police were realistic. There weren’t any superhero-style rescues, which made the story even more appealing. The details were vivid, and I could picture the peaceful scenery on the Goddard Ranch. While this is part of a series, Renewed: Fateful Justice is capable of being a standalone romance. I would recommend this five-star story to readers who enjoy romantic suspense stories involving cowboy ranch life.

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Wicked Ends: A Dark College Bully Romance (Hidden Valley Elite Series, Book 8 ) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Stephanie Runyon

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<img src="Wicked Ends (Hidden Valley Elite #8)Wicked Ends by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Wicked Games is the final book in the Hidden Valley Elite series. Featuring Winter and Shane, the book picks up from the time Winter was kidnapped and Shane was taken into an interrogation room. Winter wakes and finds the door to the room she is being held captive in was unlocked. She sees that she is at the place she dreads the most. McMillan Lake was the place where her sister, Summer, had been drowned, presumably by her mother. However, since her mind blocked so much of her memory, she had begun to think there was more to what had happened. Winter makes it to Estelle’s apartment. The elderly lady had known her family when she was younger. Meanwhile, Shane’s attorney has managed to get him released. Winter arrives at the police station after calling from Estelle’s apartment. She finds a note in her mailbox: “I hope you got the message. Next time, it won’t be so easy to break free.” When the police don’t seem to take her seriously, Winter goes to Shane to ask for his help and apologize for how she had bullied him as a child. Who and why was someone targeting her?

Isla Vaughn never disappoints and this entire series was amazing with its characters. Each book had steamy romance scenes while featuring the individual personalities that were unique to each one. Shane and Winter both progress and heal from past trauma. With the unpredictable plot, there is never a dull moment to be found. This book easily earned a 5 star rating. I look forward to reading more of Vaughn’s books.

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