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Pharoah’s Forgery (The Karina Cardinal Mysteries Book 4) by Ellen Butler – Review by

Pharaoh's Forgery: Karina Goes on Vacation (The Karina Cardinal Mysteries Book 4)Pharaoh’s Forgery: Karina Goes on Vacation by Ellen Butler
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Pharoah’s Forgery is Book Four in the Karina Cardinal Mysteries Series. It is a cozy mystery following the adventures of Karina Cardinal. In her latest adventure she finds herself in Mexico where she is hoping to relax and soak up the sun. However, the mystery package she has been asked to bring by her neighbor. The seemingly innocent package turns out to be a magnet for all sorts of criminal elements which leads Karina into a world of danger. Karina and her friend Rodrigo find themselves facing certain death and it could mean the end for them both. This book had action, suspense, mystery, drama, danger, suspense, humor, crooks, killers, swindlers, and an ancient Egyptian death mask. The characters are unique, quirky, lovable, and feisty. Bring on Book Five!

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Diamonds and Deception (The Karina Cardinal Mysteries Book 3) by Ellen Butler – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

Diamonds & Deception (Karina Cardinal Mystery, #3)Diamonds & Deception by Ellen Butler
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Diamonds and Deception is Book Three in the Karina Cardinal Mysteries Series. It is a cozy mystery with action, adventure, danger, mystery, suspense, secrets, lies, and a diamond heist. Karina again finds herself in the middle of a mystery when her sister calls her asking for help. Their friend has been accused of stealing some diamonds and Karina and her sister are determined to clear her name. As the two sisters delve into the case, they come face to face with criminal elements that would have been better off left alone. The tension and suspense escalate as the secrets and lies are revealed. The storyline is intriguing and really draws you in because it has been so well written and clearly well researched. The character of Karina is smart, strong, feisty, and determined. I look forward to reading Book Four.

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Fatal Legislation (The Karina Cardinal Mysteries Book 2) by Ellen Butler – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

Fatal Legislation (Karina Cardinal Mystery #2)Fatal Legislation by Ellen Butler
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Fatal Legislation is Book Two in the Karina Cardinal Mysteries Series. This is a cozy mystery set in the world of politics. It has action, adventure, murder, drama, danger, intrigue, suspense, and romance. Karina is off sleuthing once again as she tries to solve the murder of a senator. A bit of a tricky situation for her as she is also a person of interest in the case. She also has a budding relationship with her old college friend Mike, whom she became reunited with in Book One. Karina is determined to clear her name and delves deep into the case digging for clues as to who the real murderer is. The story takes some twists and turns as the tension builds. A great storyline with admirable characters. Karin is smart, class, courageous, and feisty. I look forward to book three.

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Isabella’s Painting (The Karina Cardinal Mysteries Book 1) by Ellen Butler – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

Isabella's Painting (Karina Cardinal Mystery #1)Isabella’s Painting by Ellen Butler
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Isabella’s Painting is Book One in the Karina Cardinal Mysteries Series. This book is cozy mystery that centers around the character of Karina Cardinal. Karina is a lawyer and lobbyist working on Capitol Hill. who fancies herself as an amateur sleuth in her spare time. When she goes to a fancy dinner party at the home of her boyfriend’s wealthy parents, she spots something that seems a bit odd. In her boyfriend’s father’s library, she sees what looks like the stolen masterpiece that had been robbed from a museum. Having only caught a glimpse of the painting before it disappeared behind a secret hidden panel Karina is uncertain if this is indeed the stolen masterpiece worth millions of dollars. She wants to investigate farther but is conflicted because not only is this her boyfriend’s wealthy father, but anyone that encounters the painting dies a horrible death. With her every move being monitored, Karina is unsure what to do. A wonderfully written story with an intriguing storyline based on a true event. The character of Karina is smart, strong, independent, determined, and feisty. I look forward to reading book number two.

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Rise of the Y (The Y Chronicles Book 1) by Angela D. Shelton – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

Rise of the YRise of the Y by Angela D. Shelton
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Rise of The Y is Book One in The Y Chronicles. It is a YA post apocalyptic dystopian novel full of adventure, danger, secrets, and a quest to find the truth. It is set in a world where food has been turned into bland bars because humans are considered too wasteful. Decisions on who to have as your mate, what job you have, and where you live are made for you. These decisions are based on tests and genetics. The story centers around a young girl named Lexi who refuses to live her life under a dictatorship and decides to rebel. She is strong, smart, courageous, and pigheaded to a fault as she does what she wants. An intriguing storyline with interesting characters. I look forward to reading more in this series and see where the story goes.

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Baking a Bicycle (Invisible Magic Wand Book 7) by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

Baking a Bicycle: Invisible Magic Wand Book SevenBaking a Bicycle: Invisible Magic Wand Book Seven by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Baking a Bicycle is a children’s book that centers around the character of a young boy named Caspian. When he asks his Grandpa for a bicycle for his Unbirthday he receives a box full of Baking Up Dust. Now Caspian wonders if that will work to bake a bicycle. This was cute story full of magic and fun that children of all ages will find delight in reading. A great way to teach young children how much fun baking can be. The illustrations were bright, colorful, and really brought the story to life. Another great book by this amazing author!

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Ghost Takes A Vacation (Genie and Adriana Darling Cozy Paranormal Ghost Mysteries Book 2) by Carmen Radtke – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

Ghost Takes A VacationGhost Takes A Vacation by Carmen Radtke
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Ghost Takes a Vacation is Book Two in the Genie and Adriana Darling Series. It is a cozy paranormal story with ghosts, humor, witty banter, adventure, murder, mystery, hauntings, and ghostly escapades. The story centers around the character of Genie who pairs up with the ghost of her deceased great-great aunt Adriana to solve a mystery. In order for Adriana to hold onto her otherworldly powers she needs to hold onto her possessions which requires a quick trip to Tuscany where they have been placed up for auction. While in Italy, Genie and Adriana stumble onto a mystery that involves arson and manslaughter. It is up to the dynamic duo to find the real culprit responsible and clear the name of the man who has been wrongfully accused of the crime. Adriana and Genie get into hi jinx along the way and mayhem ensues. I love the quirky characters and how Genie has her ghostly great-great aunt helping her solve mysteries. The storyline was unique, funny, and had me reading until the end to see what happened next. I look forward to reading more of the adventures of this quirky duo.

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Doombringer by Marcel Liemant – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

DoombringerDoombringer by Marcel Liemant
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Doombringer is a dark fantasy book full of danger, action, adventure, magic, monsters, secrets, lies, and prophecies. The story centers around the character of Oden who has recently lost his wife and has been left to raise his young daughter on his own. His village has been ravaged by war and their future looks bleak, but Oden is determined to do whatever it takes to shelter his daughter from the doom and gloom of the world around them. He uses magic to keep his daughter’s world looking hopeful but each time he does so he slowly loses a piece of himself. When war looms again, Oden is determined to save his daughter and the world. This was beautifully written story set in a dark fantasy realm with vivid scenes that pull you into the world alongside the characters. The relationship between Oden and his daughter is magical and truly heartwarming. This story had war, loss, hope, love, perseverance, and strong family dynamics. I look forward to reading more by this talented author!

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Sea of Demons (Blood and Sand Book 5) by Heidi Stark – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

Sea of Demons: A Dark Enemies to Lovers Mafia RomanceSea of Demons: A Dark Enemies to Lovers Mafia Romance by Heidi Stark
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Sea of Demons is Book Three in the Blood and Sand Series. This would be the Fifth Book in the series because the Second Book in the series was previously sold separately under three different titles but has since been combined and released under one single title. Sea of Demons is a dark romance with drama, suspense, intrigue, action, danger, murder, mayhem, violence, passion, chemistry, and complicated family dynamics. As the first book that I have read in this series I wish that I had started with the previous books to gain a better understanding of the characters and their backstories. The storyline focuses on the character of Devon who is confronting her abusive father who sold her to pay off debts he had incurred. She was rescued by four brothers who would do anything for her and will go to great lengths to protect her. Each brother is deeply in love with Devon, and she is in a unique relationship with each of the four brothers. After exacting revenge on her father for his atrocities they decide to deal with the man that bought Devon. However, things do not go as planned and their lives are in danger at every turn. This book was action packed and full of twists and turns that kept me hooked until the end. The characters were intriguing, unique, and engaging. Each was smart, tough, brave, and not afraid to confront danger as it came at them. The reverse harem aspect with Devon and the four brothers was unique and it was interesting to read the dynamics between her and each of the brothers. Overall, a great read with some spicy scenes, tense moments, an intriguing storyline.

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This Egg Won’t Hatch by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

This Egg Won't HatchThis Egg Won’t Hatch by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This Egg Won’t Hatch is a kid’s book designed for children between the ages of four to eight years of age. It tells the story of a Mama Warbler who is waiting for the last egg to hatch in her nest. The first egg was too large and turned out to be a Cuckoo that was laid in her nest. Mama Warbler decide to accept the Baby Cuckoo as her own and treat it as she would if it were one of her own eggs. The last egg, Timid Chick, will not hatch because the baby is too scared to come out of her shell after being told by the Baby Cuckoo that she should stay in her egg because it is no fun inside. One day while Mama Warbler is off getting food to feed her babies the Baby Cuckoo kicks Timid Chick out of the nest. This gives her a whole new outlook on things. Mama Warbler is very patient as she tries to coax Timid Chick out of her shell. This was a beautiful story with cute characters that teach valuable lessons in patience, understanding, love, kindness, family, bullies, confidence, and overcoming fear. The illustrations are fun, bright, colorful, and really bring the story to life.

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Lottery of Secrets by Nadija Mujagic – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

Lottery of SecretsLottery of Secrets by Nadija Mujagic
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Lottery of Secrets is a psychological thriller full of action, suspense, angst, danger, mystery, intrigue, drama, and secrets. The story centers around the character of Lynn who has just won the lottery and is dreaming of how she will start a new life with her winnings. She is currently living in a rundown house with her abusive husband and wants to leave but has been unsure how. When Lynn discovers she has won the lottery she grapples with the decision of whether she should tell her husband or if she should just start a new life somewhere else. Winning the lottery does not change her life the way in which Lynn had hoped and dreamed that it would. Instead, she finds her life spiraling out of control as she receives anonymous notes, and her past comes back to haunt her. This book takes some twists and turns that kept me reading to see what happened next. Lynn is a character that is easily likable and relatable. Suffering from an illness and living with an abusive husband left me hoping she would be able to get the happily ever after she deserved. The book ends with a cliffhanger, and I anxiously await the next book in this series.

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Porter and Midge (Porter and Midge Children’s Book Series) by Jennie Chen and Giselle Nevada – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

Porter and Midge: Paws for Safety: A Kid's Guide to Safe Dog Interactions (Porter and Midge Children’s Book Series)Porter and Midge: Paws for Safety: A Kid’s Guide to Safe Dog Interactions by Giselle Nevada
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Porter and Midge: Paws for Safety is a children’s book designed for children between the ages of three to twelve years of age. The book follows the adventures of Midge and Porter and their owners, CJ and Lora. Through their interactions children are taught important lessons about how to interact safely with dogs. The text is easy to understand, and the illustrations are bright and beautiful bringing the story and messages to life. Valuable lessons are taught regarding how to safely play with dogs, about being a responsible pet owner, and how to treat dogs with love and respect. This book is a must read for anyone who is considering getting a puppy or even has a dog already. Great for all ages!

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Wicked Games (Hidden Valley Elite Book 7) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

Wicked Games (Hidden Valley Elite #7)Wicked Games by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Wicked Games is Book Seven in the amazing Hidden Valley Elite Series. The characters in each book intertwine with the next book and builds on the previous one so I do recommend reading previous books in this series first. This book is full of angst, betrayal, love, deceit, lies, bullies, drama, tension, chemistry, passion, and an enemies-to-lovers romance. It centers around the characters of Winter and Shane and is told from each of their POV. The storyline starts off with intense tension and drama as Shane is pulled into a situation that could result in him going to jail on charges of involuntary manslaughter. Shane is a football player and is strong, smart, intense, dark, and dangerous. As one of the privileged ones of the Elite he has a reputation for playing to win at all costs and not allowing anyone to stand in his way. Winter has just started the semester at Thane University and is trying to put her dark past behind her. Although eight years have passed, she is traumatized by having to return to the place where her father died and where her mother killed her sister. When she runs into Shane at a local coffee shop, Winter is attracted to him and warnings of how dangerous he is fall on deaf ears. Shane recognizes Winter immediately and memories of her from his past come flooding back. Winter tormented him in grade school so horrendously that he wanted to end his life. When Shane has the opportunity to get to know Winter, he initially decides to plot his revenge against her for the years she bullied him. However, once they spend time together, he begins to see her in a new light. Can the two of them move past the hurt, lies, secrets, and dark pasts to have a bright future? This book took me on an emotional rollercoaster ride and was full of intense twists and turns that kept me riveted until the final page. And that cliffhanger, wow! Cannot wait for the next book in this fantastic series!

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The Men of Eden Cove Manor by Naomi Valkyrie – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

The Men of Eden Cove ManorThe Men of Eden Cove Manor by Naomi Valkyrie
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The Men of Eden Cove Manor is a MM Paranormal Romance with mystery, intrigue, suspense, action, danger, vampires, demons, and supernatural elements. Set around Halloween adds to the spooky, mysterious, creepy vibe of the story which centers around the characters of Lucifer and Mordecai. These two characters had their own unique quirks and personalities, and I was completely drawn into their worlds as they told their story from their own POV. Lucifer is impulsive, bold, reckless, and determined to live life on his own terms. When he hears about a mystery surrounding the men of a local manor he is determined to investigate and find out what all the fuss is about. According to locals, the manor is creepy, and they are terrified to go anywhere near it. Lucifer sees this as a challenge and while the men of the manor are away at a party he decides to break into the manor and explore. As he does so he gets more than he bargained for when he makes a startling discovery. Not only that, but Lucifer does not go unnoticed by Mordecai, one of the men at the manor. Mordecai is dangerous, cunning, and determined to toy with Lucifer as punishment for violating his privacy and trespassing in his home. Neither men are willing to back down from the challenge nor are either expecting to be attracted to the other. The ensuing story is full of blackmail, centuries old secrets, humor, witty banter, romance, and chemistry. Another amazing book by one of my favorite authors!

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Finding Your Heart by Nadia Han – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

Finding Your Heart: A Journal for Discovering Your HeartFinding Your Heart: A Journal for Discovering Your Heart by Nadia Han
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Finding Your Heart is a journal where you can unclutter your life by writing your thoughts and feelings. It is full of positive affirmations, creative prompts, and activities that will guide you in practicing love and self care. The exercises contained throughout the book will help you feel empowered and aid in your journey to letting go of past hurt and loss. After reading through this journal and following the exercises I had a different outlook on life and felt ready to move forward past the hurt, loss, abuse, and mistreatment I endured throughout my life. This journal was powerful, inspiring, motivating, and thought provoking. The artwork throughout the journal was stunning and the quotes were relatable. I highly recommend this journal for anyone looking to let go of past hurt and trauma.

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Fractured Hearts-Prospect (Grimm Wolves MC Book 7) by D.M. Earl – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

Fractured Hearts-Prospect (Grimm Wolves MC Book 7)Fractured Hearts-Prospect by D.M. Earl
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Fractured Hearts is the seventh book in the Grimm Wolves MC Series. If you have not yet read the first books in this series, I highly recommend that you do. Not only is the series amazing, but each book continues from the one prior and the characters overlap from book to book. This book has action, suspense, mystery, drama, romance, humor, passion, romance, bikers, villains, and intrigue. The story centers around the characters of Celee and Dingo who met by chance on a dating app. Dingo is a prospect of the Grimm Wolves MC’s and trying to prove himself to them. He is smart, funny, sexy, strong, and willing to do anything to protect those he cares about. Celee is smart, courageous, sweet, and fun loving. Both characters come from dark and painful pasts that help them to better understand one another and brings them closer. When they meet the chemistry and passion between Dingo and Celee is undeniable and off the charts. The story grabbed my attention from the first few pages as Dingo and Celee are being pursued by some heinous villains who are after Celee and Dingo is determined to protect her at all costs. A high-speed car chase, gunshots, a car wreck, and a new furry companion for the duo happens within the first few pages. From there the tension is palpable as the twists and turns kept me captivated until the final pages. I loved how the characters from previous books came into play and how they all banded together to protect Celee. This was another great book by this talented author! I highly recommend this book, and this series!

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No Amends by Angela Lam – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

No AmendsNo Amends by Angela Lam
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

No Amends is a taut, F/F psychological suspense full of action, drama, mystery, intrigue, suspense, forbidden love, secrets, lies, deception, passion, and raw emotions. This book grabbed my attention from the first few pages and gripped me until the end. The story centers around the main characters of Tang and Dee who meet by chance and start a secret affair. Unbeknownst to Tang, their affair is not the only thing that Dee has been keeping a secret from her. When Tang’s live-in girlfriend, Layla, starts to suspect the affair Tang calls things off with Dee thinking that she can move forward and fix her relationship with Layla. Dee does not understand why Tang suddenly calls things off and refuses to fade into the background. When Dee suddenly ends up dead after a horrific car accident Tang is devastated and consumed with guilt. As it turns out, Dee is not the only one keeping secrets and running from the truth. As the investigation into Dee’s accident continues it starts to unravel secrets and lies that may have been better left hidden. This story was full of twists and turns as it took us into the world of a twisted mind that would do anything for love. A riveting, edge of your seat thrill ride that will keep you hooked until the final pages. I highly recommend this book!

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Unclutter (Inner Voice Book 1) by Winnie D Pagora – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

Unclutter: A Survivor's Story (Inner Voice, #1)Unclutter: A Survivor’s Story by Winnie D. Pagora
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Unclutter is Book One in the Inner Voice Series. This is the debut novel by this talented author and was so beautifully written that I anxiously await more novels written by her. This book touches on difficult topics such as abuse and self harm but was done in a way that is realistic and honest yet done in a respectful and empathetic manner. The story centers around the character of an eighteen-year-old girl named Tina who has never felt like she belongs. After a traumatic incident with an abuser young Tina is labelled as a liar, slandered, and bullied. She must find the inner strength and courage to stand up to her abuser and overcome her inner demons. This was a powerful and poignant read about the journey that victims of abuse struggle through and as a survivor of abuse, this story really hit home for me. I know how difficult it is to find the courage to not only move forward but to find the strength to face your bully or abuser. It is imperative to create a support system as Tina did and have those that will support you through the highs and lows. I loved the character of Tina who was vulnerable yet strong, smart, feisty, determined, and resilient. I loved that she found the inner strength she needed to come forward. Unfortunately, society is often too quick to judge and label victims of abuse while allowing the abusers to get away with what they have done. This creates a cycle of revictimizing the victim which adds to the trauma they have already suffered. This book contained themes of trauma, abuse, gaslighting, cover-ups, injustice, friendship, hope, and faith. A great book and I look forward to reading more by this author.

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The Christmas Carousel (The Brass Ring Series Book 2) by K. L. Small – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

The Christmas Carousel (The Brass Ring Series, Book 2)The Christmas Carousel by K.L. Small
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The Christmas Carousel is book Two in The Brass Ring Series. It is a kids book that delivers a powerful message about the true meaning of Christmas. Rusty is back with the magic ring his grandpa gave him but the magic carousel in the park is shut down for winter. He finds a small Christmas themed carousel in the mall and decides to ride each of the different animals. To be able to afford each ride Rusty shovels snow in his neighbor’s driveways. He wants to go on adventures on the Christmas carousel while also saving money to buy his family gifts. During each of his rides he learns about the true meaning of Christmas and receives the powerful message that Christmas is about love. The character of Rusty is well written, and I love the special bond that he has with his grandfather. The author does a great job of creating vivid, magical scenes that fully immerse you into the story alongside the characters. I am a huge fan of this wonderful series and believe it delivers an important message for readers of all ages. I highly recommend this book!

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Lies That Bind (Logan McKenna Series Book 6) by Valerie Davisson – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

Lies That Bind: A Logan McKenna Mystery Book 6 (Logan McKenna Series)Lies That Bind: A Logan McKenna Mystery Book 6 by Valerie Davisson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Lies That Bind is Book Six in the Logan McKenna Mystery series. It is a crime thriller full of drama, intrigue, action, mystery, and suspense. Although this book can be read as a standalone, I do recommend reading previous books in this series to get Logan’s backstory. Logan’s latest adventure finds her meeting long lost family members, buying a fixer-upper with her boyfriend, and trying to solve a mysterious death. Through a series of confessions and old journals Logan discovers some long-buried secrets that put her life in danger. I loved the characters that were introduced in this book and found each one of them relatable. Of course, Logan remains my favorite because of her strength, determination, and courage in the face of danger. I loved how the author took us back in time throughout the book to a different era. I cannot wait to see what Logan’s next adventure will be!


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Safe Harbor (Logan McKenna Series Book 5) by Valerie Davisson – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

SAFE HARBOR: Logan Book 5(The Logan McKenna Series)SAFE HARBOR: Logan Book 5 by Valerie Davisson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Safe Harbor is Book five in the Logan Mckenna Mystery Series. It is a crime thriller packed with action, mystery, intrigue, loss, angst, and drama. Although this book can be read as a standalone, I do recommend reading previous books in the series to get Logan’s backstory. This time around Logan’s life is going well and she feels content. She goes on vacation with her family to the coast of Oregon and they are having a peaceful, much deserved vacation when a murder takes place in the small community. Suddenly Logan is confronted with her past after becoming the prime suspect in a murder investigation. Not only must Logan try to prove her innocence, but she is faced with having to make a difficult decision. This was yet another fantastic book in this series with great characters and an intriguing storyline. The descriptions of the Oregon coast were vivid and made me feel as though I was there with Logan and her family. Looking forward to the next book!

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Vanishing Day (Logan McKenna Series Book 4) by Valerie Davisson – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

Vanishing Day: A Logan McKenna Mystery/Thriller Logan Book 4 (Logan McKenna Series)Vanishing Day: A Logan McKenna Mystery/Thriller Logan Book 4 by Valerie Davisson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Vanishing Day is Book Four in the Logan McKenna Mystery Series. It is a crime thriller with mystery, action, drama, suspense, and intrigue. Although this book could be read as a standalone, I do recommend that previous books in the series be read first in order to know more about Logan and her backstory. This book will leave you on the edge of your seat as Logan is once again facing danger as she tries to help her new neighbor after she was viciously attacked and left for dead. The three-year-old daughter of the young woman was the sole witness to the attack, but it leaves little for the local police to go on. Logan steps in to help the woman and her young daughter but quickly realizes the woman is not who she says she is, and this puts her life in danger, along with that of the woman and her daughter. I love this series and the character of Logan. She is smart, feisty, strong, courageous and determined. This book takes some twists and turns that will have you reading until the end. Looking forward to the next book in this amazing series!

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Sarge by Stuart Ledwith – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

SargeSarge by Stuart Ledwith
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Sarge is a Fantasy Adventure that tells the story of Lieutenant Commander TJ Madison, AKA Sarge, who we were first introduced to in Mission 3047. This book gives his backstory and tells about his upbringing, how he first met his wife and how he came to work for a top secret agency. Sarge had a challenging upbringing and worked hard to put food on the table at an early age. When he was given an opportunity to have a better life he took it and through hard work, perseverance, and determination he became a highly decorated Navy Seal. Sarge met the love of his life when he rescued her but lost her when she passed away. The story is full of love, loss, drama, action, suspense, UFO’s, aliens, and top secret missions. The author has a unique writing style and I loved how entertaining and intriguing his stories are. I highly recommend this book!

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My Murder Year by Kate Larkindale – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

My Murder YearMy Murder Year by Kate Larkindale
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

My Murder Year is a YA LGBTQ book full of loss, grief, angst, family drama, suspense, intrigue, and ultimately love. The story centers around the character of teenager Stas who has suffered a lot at the tender age of seventeen. When she discovers her mother’s dead body her life goes into a tailspin. Stas’ father becomes the prime suspect and family members that Stas has never met are determined that she comes to live with each of them. A tug-of-war ensues and family drama escalates as the custody battle over young Stas rages on between them. Uncertain who to trust Stas turns to her new friend Zane for support and comfort as she navigates through her grief. She must also try to figure out who really killed her mother. This was a poignant and emotional tale of overcoming loss and the struggles of adolescence that will leave you reaching for the box of kleenex. The characters were relatable and Stas was someone that I immediately felt a connection to. This book took me on a rollercoaster ride of emotions and my heart broke for Stas. I highly recommend this book.

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Tracker (The Talisman Series) by Tam DeRudder Jackson – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

Tracker (The Talisman Series)Tracker by Tam DeRudder Jackson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Tracker is part of The Talisman Series and is a prequel to the other books in the series. It is a paranormal romance full of drama, danger, action, suspense, mystery, intrigue, Celtic Mythology, and fated mates. The story is told from multiple POV and centers around the characters of Riley and Lynette. In the beginning of the series these two were a couple already but this tells how they met. Riley is a skilled warrior who only cares about having a good time and going out to party with his friends. He is cocky, arrogant, and a bit self-absorbed. Riley has completed the sign ritual to begin his quest for a mate but has no desire to find his mate. Enter Lynette who immediately captures Riley’s attention and he instantly knows she is his mate. She is kind, sweet, brave, and down to earth which balances out Riley’s attitude. Lynette has talisman talents but is unsure as to what they are just yet. Riley and Lynette attempt to get to know one another but the evil goddess Morrigan is determined to keep them apart. The ensuing story is a battle of good versus evil as Riley and Lynette battle against Morrigan in their attempt to be together. A great read that kept me reading until the end. I look forward to reading the next book in this series.

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1897 A Mark Sutherland Adventure (Mark Sutherland Adventures) by Kimberly Mullins – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

1897 A Mark Sutherland Adventure1897 A Mark Sutherland Adventure by Kimberly Mullins
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

1897: A Mark Sutherland Adventure is a historical adventure with mystery, intrigue, action, suspense, and drama. The story is set in the year 1897 and centers around the character of a young reporter named Mark Sutherland who works for the Chicago Tribune. Mark is always keen to seek out a new adventure and is happy to travel anywhere in the world to find his next big story. The story starts with Mark being sent off to report on a mysterious crash in Texas that involved an unidentified flying object before being sent to cover the gold rush in the Yukon. Along the way he has plenty of ups and downs, faces some harsh conditions, and is faced with some harrowing experiences that test his strength and resolve. The author did a great job of creating a compelling read with historically accurate details, vivid scene descriptions that fully immerse you in the story, and relatable characters that you feel an instant connection to. As a huge fan of the Notebook Mysteries series, I loved the connection between Emma, the MC from the Notebook Mysteries, and Mark which made me want to read more. Another amazing book by this talented author! I cannot wait to read more of Mark Sutherland’s Adventures!

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Mystical Midlife Mate (Boudin, Barbecue, and Hoodoo Series) by Reggi Dupree – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

Mystical Midlife Mate: A Paranormal Women's Fiction Novel (Boudin, Barbecue, and Hoodoo Book 2)Mystical Midlife Mate: A Paranormal Women’s Fiction Novel by Reggi Dupree
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Mystical Midlife Mate is Book Two in the Boudin, Barbecue, and Hoodoo series. If you have not yet read the first book in this series, I highly recommend that you do because it carries on with the zany adventures of the characters we met in book one. Gwen is back and has undergone a few transformations that do not sit well with her. Now on top of her already weird life she has transformed into a demon complete with wings, talons, and even fangs. As if that is not bad enough Gwen is suffering a midlife crisis complete with hot flashes and mood swings that make her less than pleasant to be around at the best of times. Enter Ash, the immortal Prince of Hell who has claimed Gwen as his soulmate and protector of her family. He has more than a few secrets that he guards closely regarding his relationship to Gwen’s family. When Gwen is reunited with some of her family, she learns some of those secrets and begins to have doubts about Ash. I loved the character of Gwen and how fierce, strong-willed, and feisty she was. Ash was a character that you love to hate as he comes across as all bad boy who will do whatever it takes to get what he wants. This was another amazing book by this author that was full of drama, action, suspense, mystery, intrigue, magic, vampires, demons, ghosts, and witty banter. I highly Recommend this book!

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Chasing Cheer (Emerald Hollow Book 1) by Heather Schneider – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

Chasing CheerChasing Cheer by Heather Schneider
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Chasing Cheer is Book One in the Magical Emerald Hollow Series. It is a fun, whimsical, contemporary romance with a Christmas vibe. The story centers around the characters of Holly Claus and Ash Hayes. Holly is traveling the world to collect cheer to power the North Pole when she meets Ash in a small town in Oregon. The two have instant chemistry but she is not looking for love and he is not looking to have a relationship with someone who will not be sticking around. Holly and Ash are lovable characters that you know instantly are clearly meant to be together. The chemistry is instant and magical which kept me reading to see what would become of them and if they could make a relationship work. I loved the magical picture the author painted which really drew me into the story. The book was well written, and the scenes were so vividly described it was as though I was fully immersed in the scenes with the characters. It felt like I was watching a movie play out in front of me and I could visualize myself surrounded by the sights, sounds, and smells of the Christmas season. I look forward to reading the next book in this series.

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The Lightning Horse (Empire at Twilight) by N.L. Holmes – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

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

The Lightning Horse is the first book in the Empire at Twilight Series. It is a historical fiction that takes place in the exotic land of Turkey during the Hittite empire. The story centers around the character of Tiwatipara who is a young Hittite charioteer. He is kind, smart, funny, loyal and a hero to many. He is reeling with grief, guilt, and sorrow over the loss of his father in a chariot accident. When Tiwatipara learns that the death of his father during a chariot accident was actually sabotage intended for the King he sets out to seek the killer. As he sets out to uncover the truth, he finds out that some friends may not be what they seem, and that political corruption is at the root of it. Danger lurks and Tiwatipara must determine who are his true friends and who are his enemies. This book was well written with historical accuracy and a great attention to detail. It had action, suspense, mystery, murder, betrayal, deceit, lies, secrets, and good versus evil.

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The Singer and Her Song (Empire at Twilight) by N.L. Holmes – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

The Singer and Her Song (Empire at Twilight #2)The Singer and Her Song by N.L. Holmes
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The Singer and Her Song is the second book in the Empire at Twilight Series. It is a historical fiction That centers around the character of Uqnitum and is set in the Kingdom of Mittani. Uqnitum comes from a long line of famous singers who must find her way in the world after she finds herself a pregnant widow. When her husband and youngest child lose their lives after Mittani falls to the Assyrians the stress becomes unbearable for Uqnitum. As the pressure of life escalates for her, she becomes a danger to those around her and she must find a way to find who she is without her husband and child. Uqnitum was someone that I instantly felt a connection to and felt great empathy for. Losing her husband and child was devastating and heartbreaking. This book was beautifully written, haunting, and full of rich historical details. It has sorrow, heartbreak, loss, love, tragedy, drama, anguish, family drama, and the horrors of war.

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