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The Fifth Daughter of Thorn Ranch by Julia Brewer Daily – Review by Terri Jo McAllister

The Fifth Daughter of Thorn RanchThe Fifth Daughter of Thorn Ranch by Julia Brewer Daily
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Emma Rosales knew her destiny. She was the fifth generation of women to run the Thorn Ranch, one of the biggest in Texas. Emma’s life growing up on the ranch was all about learning how to manage the ranch. Emma graduates from college and the reality of her future hits her. She takes out on a ride to clear her thoughts. An accident happens and Emma finds herself stranded on her own property. How long before anyone misses her? Emma is found, but not by those she was expecting. Now Emma has to decide if her life is really what she wants. I really enjoyed this book and the different perspectives from mother and daughter. The characters and description of the Texas landscape is amazing!

Reviewed by Terri Jo McAllister

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Shadow Patterns of Melt by J. R. P. Fogg – Review by Terri Jo McAllister

Shadow Patterns of Melt - Book OneShadow Patterns of Melt – Book One by J.R.P. Fogg
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This book was definitely not the usual type of book I read. However, the world building was pretty awesome throughout . It did take me a few chapters to grasp what was going on. And the main characters, Bishr and Nialla, grew on me as their relationship unfolded in the the story. If you’re a sci-fi enthusiast, I recommend this book.

Reviewed by Terri Jo McAllister
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Elemental Fire (The Hidden Realms Book 1) by EG Manetti – Review by Terri Jo McAllister

Elemental Fire (The Hidden Realms #1)Elemental Fire by E.G. Manetti
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Sin Marston has a gift, she can see past the glamour of the Hidden. Hidden are a diverse group of otherworld creatures that can move between the veil that separates realms. Previously a member of the task force in charge of dealing with Hidden, Sin has since struck out on her own doing contract work for both sides. Life is pretty simple until she meets Rad Cray, a fire elemental. Sin and Rad get involved in trying to stop an illegal magic harvesting ring. This was a great weekend read, lots of action and great characters.

Reviewed by Terri Jo McAllister
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Devlin by Angela K. Parker – Review by Terri Jo McAllister

DevlinDevlin by Angela K. Parker
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Evelyn and Devlin have been coworkers for a few years now. Devlin has a reputation as a ladies man, but he has always had feelings for Evelyn. She was in a relationship, so Devlin never pursued anything with her beyond the occasional flirtatious comment. But when Evelyn announces she has broken things off with her boyfriend, he dares her to go out with him. This was a fantastic weekend read. It was a romantic story that I couldn’t put down.

Reviewed by Terri Jo McAllister

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The Veil by Wanda Luthman – Review by Terri Jo McAllister

The VeilThe Veil by Wanda Luthman
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

It is a big day for Samuel and his family. Today is his thirteenth birthday, and the day he becomes a man. He has been studying and preparing for this day and he is confident all will go well. This is a coming of age story, and the incredible retelling of the veil that was torn at the moment Jesus Christ was crucified on the cross. This is a very short and sweet retelling that I think would be great in a children’s sermon.

Reviewed by Terri Jo McAllister

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Nightfall in Deptford (Crescent Moon Chronicles Book 4) by L.E. Towne – Review by Terri Jo McAllister

Nightfall in Deptford (Crescent Moon Chronicles #4)Nightfall in Deptford by L.E. Towne
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

History, as we know it, is kept in balance by time travelers. Time travelers that battle beings from another realm. Being part of a series, I know I’m missing part of the story, but I was able to easily pick up on what’s going on. I’m even thinking I have to go back and read the previous books. I highly recommend this book.

Reviewed by Terri Jo McAllister

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Mafia Elite Series Box Set Volume 2 by Amy McKinley – Review by Terri Jo McAllister

Mafia Elite Box Set: Volume TwoMafia Elite Box Set: Volume Two by Amy McKinley
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The action continues in this second boxed set about Chicago’s hottest mobsters. Continuing with Marco La Rosa finding out the only woman he ever loved and thought dead is very much alive and hiding out with a contract on her head. The rest of the La Rosa family is featured in this boxed set. These books are action packed, both figuratively and romantically. I always enjoy books by this author. This set is highly recommended.

Reviewed by Terri Jo McAllister

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Notebook Mysteries ~ Haunted Christmas by Kimberly Mullins – Review by Terri Jo McAllister

Notebook Mysteries Haunted ChristmasNotebook Mysteries Haunted Christmas by Kimberly Mullins
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Christmas is a busy time of year for Emma’s family’s business. All the baking orders and decorating for Christmas, there’s barely any free time. When a friend asks for help, Emma cannot refuse him, especially when it involves a haunted house. Strange noises, ghost sightings, and people disappearing all make for an entertaining read. I really enjoy this series and all the recipes from the story that are included. I highly recommend it!

Reviewed by Terri Jo McAllister
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Notebook Mysteries ~ Emma (Notebook Mysteries Book 1) by Kimberly Mullins – Review by Terri Jo McAllister

Emma (Notebook Mysteries, #1)Emma by Kimberly Mullins
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is such an inspiring series for young readers. Emma is a forward-thinking young woman. She enjoys learning about engineering from her father and especially loves detailing her observations in her black notebook. This leads to Emma actually recording observations of illegal activities and getting her in the middle of some very dangerous situations. Again, an inspiring story, I highly recommend it.

Reviewed by Terri Jo McAllister

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In Plain Sight (Logan McKenna Mystery Series Book 8) by Valerie Davisson – Review by Terri Jo McAllister

In Plain Sight: A Logan McKenna Mystery Book 8In Plain Sight: A Logan McKenna Mystery Book 8 by Valerie Davisson

Logan Mcakenna enjoyed volunteering at the wildlife sanctuary. She especially loved working with the raptors. Life was falling onto a comfortable routine, and she was good with it. That all changes when one of the employees is found dead at the center. Logan can’t believe one of the raptors is responsible, the evidence just doesn’t add up for her. This is not the type of book I usually read, but I liked it.

Reviewed by @Terri Jo McAllister

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Notebook Mysteries ~ Unexpected Outcomes (Notebook Mysteries Book 4) by Kimberly Mullins – Review by Terri Jo McAllister

Notebook Mysteries ~ Unexpected Outcomes (Notebook Mysteries book #4)Notebook Mysteries ~ Unexpected Outcomes by Kimberly Mullins
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The book immediately begins with the excitement of a train wreck, and doesn’t slow down until the end. Solving cases is what Emma and Jeremy do best. However, this book hits close to home with events from the past that affect the whole group. I really enjoy reading this series. Very well written and I love that recipes are included at the end of the book. Very clever.

Reviewed by Terri Jo McAllister

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This Time Around by Jane Suen – Review by Terri Jo McAllister

This Time AroundThis Time Around by Jane Suen
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Chase was Katie’s first love. They were high school sweethearts that had big plans. Plans that left Chase broken hearted the night Katie ended their relationship to go fulfill her dream in the city. When Katie comes back for a friend’s wedding and she runs into Chase, that’s when the story really gets good! I recommend this book.

Reviewed by Terri Jo McAllister

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Key to His Heart by Kristina Beck – Review by Terri Jo McAllister

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

Katrina has finally settled in and is enjoying her new start in life. All of that changes when she hears “his voice”. It’s the voice from her past that has comforted her in the tough times. How can she be hearing it now? As she gets to know “him”, she wonders how many more of her visions are going to keep happening. This was an intriguing book that kept my interest piqued. Great story that I highly recommend.

Review by Terri Jo McAllister

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Twilight’s Spy (Twilight Realm Trilogy Book 1.5) by K.M. Wray – Review by Terri Jo McAllister

Twilight's SpyTwilight’s Spy by K.M. Wray
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Prince Phoenix has become King Phoenix of the Twilight Realm and now he is working to bringing his sister, Zyanna, home. Raised in obscurity, the princess lives in the Night Realm. Yarissa is determined to become an Elite, the highest ranking of the Twilight Realm soldiers. Her plans are put on hold when she is summoned by King Phoenix to travel to the Night Realm to bring his sister home. This was an interesting, quick read, with new characters being introduced. I cannot wait to read how it all comes together!

Reviewed by Terri Jo McAllister

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The Lie That Binds by Amy Argent – Review by Terri Jo McAllister

The Lie That BindsThe Lie That Binds by Amy Argent
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Nathan has a secret he has kept for years. Holly witnesses something she shouldn’t have. One secret keeps them tied together, but is it enough? At first, I thought the story was going to be slow, but it surprised me and I couldn’t put it down! This book hits on a very important social issue and is an inspiring story!

Reviewed by Terri Jo McAllister

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Levi (The Brothers of Creekside Ranch Book 1) by Edith Mackenzie. Reviewed by Terri Jo McAllister

LeviLevi by Edith Mackenzie
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Levi is an ex-SEAL that is settling into life on the family ranch. After the tragic loss of both their father and stepmother, Levi and his two brothers are also raising their much younger sister. Things become interesting when Levi is asked to keep a mysterious woman safe so she can testify against her criminal ex-boyfriend. Posing as “Beccy”, a nanny for their sister, Bella is not anyone’s nanny, let alone housekeeper. One small act upsets the whole operation and puts the little sister at risk. How can Bella make things right with the brothers, especially Levi? This is going to be an excellent series. The first book sets the stage for some interesting stories to follow. Highly recommended!

Reviewed by Terri Jo McAllister

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The Mastermind (WaterFyre Rising Book 1) by Nadia Han – Review by Terri Jo McAllister

The Mastermind (WaterFyre Rising, #1)The Mastermind by Nadia Han
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Remington Starke is the “mastermind” behind the collaborative venture Waterfyre Rising, a video game that had been a childhood dream. But that’s just his side-venture. Remington made his living buying struggling businesses and reselling them. He was a ruthless businessman that knew everything about everyone he dealt with. When he purchases a marketing firm, Audrie Wu is the last person he expected to run across. The sister of his best friend, old feelings are ignited as he spends more time with her. Can he afford to let things go beyond being friends? He sure hopes so. I was wrapped up in the story from the start. Full of action and twists, this book will not disappoint.

Reviewed by Terri Jo McAllister

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The True Garza (Red Cage Book 3) by S. Ann Cole – Review by Terri Jo McAllister

The True Garza (Red Cage Book 3)The True Garza by S. Ann Cole
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

True Garza was the “good one”; the fun-loving, easy-going one of the family. But when he meets the woman from his past that haunts his dreams, everything goes haywire. London Bridges is a woman in a league of her own and she has set her sites on the one man she can’t forget.

I loved this book! True’s story was so intriguing. I really felt the difficulties these two would have with this relationship. Great characters and an intriguing plot make this book one for your TBR list.

Reviewed by Terri Jo McAllister
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Collateral Damage (Mafia Elite Series Book 6) by Amy McKinley – Review by Terri Jo McAllister

Collateral Damage: A Second Chance Mafia Romance (Mafia Elite Book 6)Collateral Damage: A Second Chance Mafia Romance by Amy McKinley
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Trey has been able to live his own life somewhat separated from the family business. Being a doctor does come in handy though, when gunshot wounds need to be tended without the authorities being involved. However, when the director of the hospital’s daughter is kidnapped, Trey gets involved more than he intended. He never trusted his boss anyway, so why would he involve Trey to go after his daughter? And why was this woman’s kidnapping not as it appears? Another addition to this steamy series. If you haven’t read it, I recommend it!
Reviewed by Terri Jo McAllister

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A Veil of Gods and Kings (Apollo Ascending Book 1) by Nicole Bailey – Review by Terri Jo McAllister

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

This was a new spin on Greek mythology. Apollo has not yet ascended to his god-status, nor does he really want to. Zeus assigns him to seek out Hyacinth to learn how to become more like a ruler. Apollo and Hyacinth don’t trust each other at the onset, but the more they are forced to work together, each sees the potential, as well as the shadows of doubt, in the other and a bond is formed. This was not the usual type of book I read, and while I don’t care for the M/M, it was still a great read
Reviewed by Terri Jo McAllister

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Spring’s Showers (Romantically Seasonal Series) by C.A. King – Review by Terri Jo McAllister

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

Cupid’s job is harder than all his colleagues know. Mother Nature, Santa Claus, the Grim Reaper, Neptune, none of them understand the intricacies involved in pairing two people – the right two people, for true love. A wager is made and Mother Nature is first up to try to play matchmaker. How hard can it be anyway? Love is in the air in this romance-gone-awry. I enjoyed the bickering between the celestial beings and am looking forward to the rest of the series. It’s a fun, quick read!

Reviewed by Terri Jo McAllister

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Reunion in the Outback (Welcome to Bunya Junction Book 4) by Nicole Flockton – Review by Terri Jo McAllister

Reunion in the Outback (Welcome to Bunya Junction, #4)Reunion in the Outback by Nicole Flockton
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Yolanda and Michael had been high school sweethearts and had a storybook love. Lately, however, they had been drifting apart. Having eloped and leaving their quaint hometown when they were just out of school, Yolanda stayed home with their daughter and made makeup tutorials on YouTube. Michael was a successful executive chef, working his way up from dishwasher. So, when Yolanda suddenly announces she’s leaving and taking their daughter, Michael is blindsided. How could he convince his wife that they still belonged together? I thoroughly enjoyed this latest book in the series. I was drawn into the story and loved every minute of it.

Reviewed by Terri Jo McAllister
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Doctor in the Outback (Welcome to Bunya Junction, Book 3) by Nicole Flockton – Review by Terri Jo McAllister

Doctor in the Outback (Welcome to Bunya Junction, #3)Doctor in the Outback by Nicole Flockton
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Dr. Scott Carruthers is a doctor in the neighboring town where he drew up. Dr. Franceen Lewis has only been a part of the staff for six months, but has found her place as a women’s doctor and obstetrician. When they realize their feelings are mutual, will his jaded past and the burden of hers keep them from finding peace with each other? This is a great read, wonderful characters and storyline. I highly recommend it.

Reviewed by Terri Jo McAllister
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Home to the Outback (Welcome to Bunya Junction Book 1) by Nicole Flockton – Review by Terri Jo McAllister

Home to the Outback (Welcome to Bunya Junction, #1)Home to the Outback by Nicole Flockton
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Ryan Flanagan was a well-respected plastic surgeon in Sydney. He was living the life most people just dreamed of. After a tragic accident, he finds himself back in his hometown, not sure if he fits in anymore. Sindy Carruthers has worked hard to get where she is as the practice nurse at the small-town medical clinic. After her boss is in an accident, everything looks so out of control. How will the replacement doctor handle the practice? Will she still have a job? I love this series, the characters, setting, all of it!

Reviewed by Terri Jo McAllister
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Notebook Mysteries ~ Changes and Challenges (Notebook Mysteries Book 3) by Kimberly Mullins – Review by Terri Jo McAllister

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

Emma and her colleagues are busy once again solving cases. Emma inherits an estate and the wealth that comes with it. She sets up a foundation to help different charities. Someone else wants that money, as well, and it’s up to the gang to find out who. In the meantime, Emma’s friend, Tony, requests her help finding a colleague who has gone missing in Paris, While Emma is in Paris, Jeremy works to stop a killer who has been tracking Emma. If you’ve read the previous books in the series, you won’t be disappointed in this one.

Reviewed by Terri Jo McAllister

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Midnight Masquerade (The Brightly Sisters Book 1) by Halley Larkin – Review by Terri Jo McAllister

Midnight Masquerade (The Brightley Sisters #1)Midnight Masquerade by Halley Larkin
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Charmaine Brightley is the eldest daughter of her family and three seasons past her time to secure a husband. She has her own plans and ideas, and they do not align with 1800s English society. At the masquerade she and her sisters host each year, a stranger asks her to dance, and like a Cinder-FELLA story, he disappears at midnight. Her sisters offer a wager that if they can find the mysterious man, Charmaine will agree to marry him. This was a delightful, romantic story that I recommend.

Reviewed by Terri Jo McAllister
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A Bride for Noah (Brides of Broken Arrow) by Cheryl Wright – Review by Terri Jo McAllister

A Bride for Noah (Brides of Broken Arrow #1)A Bride for Noah by Cheryl Wright
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Noah is beside himself when he discovers his father has changed his will and has taken away the family farm that had been gifted to him. Noah has spent years working this farm to make it what it is today. The only thing keeping it from him now, he has to get married in the next three weeks or the farm goes to his older brother, Jacob. Where does he even begin to look for a wife?

Mary is living a lonely life with a father who barely acknowledges her existence. When a neighbor women presents her with the prospect of becoming a proxy wife to a stranger so he can keep his family farm, Mary jumps at the chance to leave. But what is she really getting into? This is a very quick, romantic read and I highly recommend it.

Reviewed by Terri Jo McAllister

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Blood Oath (Mafia Elite, book 2) by Amy McKinley – Review by Terri Jo McAllister

Blood Oath (Mafia Elite, #2)Blood Oath by Amy McKinley
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Enzo Vitale is being groomed to succeed his father and take over as boss of the Vitale family. But he knew the weight being in charge carried. All those you loved were a target to get back at you. His sister had been sold into human trafficking at the same time his arranged fiancé, Elena, had died. His sister was safe now, but how could he get close to anyone again? Sofia La Rosa had always had a crush on Enzo since they were young. He had hung out with her older brothers when they were young and always took time for her. Enzo had been promised to Elena, her best friend. Would they be able to finally be together?

Reviewed by Terri Jo McAllister

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Born in Darkness (Mafia Elite Book 3) by Amy McKinley – Review by Terri Jo McAllister

Born in Darkness (Mafia Elite, #3)Born in Darkness by Amy McKinley
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Stefano Rossi has lived under the rule of his cruel father for long enough. The only one left at home, he lost his brother at a young age, his father went his older sister to be married to a Russian mafia family, their mother jumped to her death, and his younger sister was murdered. But his father thought him weak and not worthy of leading the family. Emiliana Vitale was abducted and sold into human trafficking. Her brother Enzo had rescued her, but it had been Stefano who had found her and carried her out, leaving a trail of blood behind them. He had always been there for her, would he continue to do so?

Reviewed by Terri Jo McAllister

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No Way Out (Mafia Elite, book 1) by Amy McKinley – Review by Terri Jo McAllister

No Way Out (Mafia Elite, #1)No Way Out by Amy McKinley
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Maximus Caruso was thought dead. Growing up and learning the family business in Italy, Max was biding his time. Well now is that time and change was coming to the Italian American mafia. First he had to secure a few things. Liliana Brambilla was a captive in her own house. It was only her and her father, the boss of the Brambilla family and that’s all she was to him, his property. Planning her escape before her father marries her off to who knows, she is aided by her father’s newest hire, but is she trading one prison for another. This book is the first in a new generation of mafia families.

Reviewed by Terri Jo McAllister

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