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A Divided Mind (The Divided Series Book 1) by M. Billiter – Review by Meg Tyrrell

A Divided MindA Divided Mind by M. Billiter
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is my first book by M. Billiter and Kyle Thomas. I am a fan of the books that address mental illness and this one did not disappoint. I loved this book and honestly couldn’t stop reading all day! I can’t even fully explain my emotion with this book. As a mother I was bawling. As a best friend with someone who has a mental illness disorder I was gutted and felt every single word printed like a stab wound. It was beautifully written and thought out brilliantly. I absolutely recommend this book. I can’t wait for book two, I’m headed there now!

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Isabella’s Painting: A Notorious Art Heist Mystery (Karina Cardinal Mystery Book 1) by Ellen Butler

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Isabella’s Painting: A Notorious Art Heist Mystery (Karina Cardinal Mystery Book 1) by Ellen Butler

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Genre – Fiction, Thriller & Suspense, Mystery, Police Procedurals, Amateur Sleuth, women sleuths, cozy, crime fiction

Page Count – 280 pages

Cover Designer – RLSather

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Peeling back layers of lies could save a masterpiece…or reveal a killer.

After a long week lobbying on Capitol Hill, all Karina Cardinal wants to do is chill with Netflix and her boyfriend, Patrick Dunne. Instead, she’s slipping her aching feet into red stilettos for his parents’ annual holiday bash.

When she accidentally interrupts Patrick’s father in his study, her embarrassment is tempered by suspicion that Martin Dunne and his dapper, secretive guest are hiding something. Maybe the painting she barely glimpses right before it disappears behind a secret panel.

An internet search raises her curiosity to full-blown alarm. If she’s right, Martin is in possession of a stolen masterpiece. Infamous because everyone close to it has turned up dead. As in Mafia-style-execution dead.

As she’s chewing over which instinct to follow—back off while she still can, or dig deeper for the truth—she crosses paths with FBI agent Mike Finnegan. An old friend and not-quite flame from her college days. When she looks into his warm, mocha eyes, she’s tempted to tell him everything.

Trouble is, she’s already being watched. And the next move she makes could destroy innocent lives…including her own.

~ AMAZON BARNES AND NOBLE ~ IBOOKS ~ KOBO ~ 

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Ellen Butler is a bestselling novelist writing critically acclaimed suspense thrillers, and award-winning romance. Ellen holds a Master’s Degree in Public Administration and Policy, and her history includes a long list of writing for dry, but illuminating, professional newsletters and windy papers on public policy. She is a member of International Thriller Writers, Sisters in Crime and the Office of Strategic Services Society. She lives in the Virginia suburbs of Washington, D.C. with her family.

Author Interview With Ellen Butler

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Shattered: a Logan McKenna Mystery Book 1 (The Logan McKenna Series) by Valerie Davisson – Review by Heather Lovelace

Shattered: Logan Book 1 (The Logan McKenna Series)Shattered: Logan Book 1 by Valerie Davisson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This page turner had me riveted from the outset. I was fascinated by the setting and the details we had on each character. I was immediately invested in the story and was kept guessing as to how everything would resolve. If you like a good suspense, you must pick this up immediately!

Reviewed by @heatherlovelace
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The Slaughter of Leith Hall by Lexie Conyngham – Review by Mirela Ruiz

The Slaughter of Leith HallThe Slaughter of Leith Hall by Lexie Conyngham
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The Slaughter of Leith Hall by Lexie Conyngham was an interesting historical read. I had some trouble getting into the story but found myself picking it up time and time again. The writing was well done and the character development felt authentic. I loved the little surprises that came up now and again. I did not see the story going in the direction that it did. While not being my normal genre to pick up and dive into this was definitely worth the read!

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The Trouble With Paradise (A Madeline Dawkins Mystery Book 4) by Cynthia Hamilton – Review by Rosanna Ingram

The Trouble with Paradise (Madeline Dawkins #4)The Trouble with Paradise by Cynthia Hamilton
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is the fourth book in this series…and it just keeps on rollin’. This book is interesting in that there are two cases being investigated simultaneously…and everything is not quite as it appears to be. Madeline is approached by the DA to look into a suicide when the widow is convinced there is more at play. Meanwhile, Mike is approached by Steven (yes…Madeline’s ex) to look into a murder on behalf of another inmate.
There is a lot going on in this book with the different story lines…but as they move forward, Mike and Madeline find that there are some similarities that could link the two. But, if they are linked, then where is the mastermind behind it all? You will have to read it to find out.
This story, while busy with storylines, doesn’t really move forward in terms of character growth. Don’t get me wrong, Madeline has grown a lot since book 1. Maybe I just want more. Both she and Mike are great people and I want to see more from them. But, all in all, it is another great book in this series!

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Shattered: a Logan McKenna Mystery Book 1 (The Logan McKenna Series) by Valerie Davisson – Review by Jenni Bishop

Shattered: Logan Book 1 (The Logan McKenna Series)Shattered: Logan Book 1 by Valerie Davisson
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Shattered: a Logan McKenna Mystery Book 1 (The Logan McKenna Series) by Valerie Davisson. This story jumps from being slow and the pace picking up which made it hard to keep my mind from wandering. The plot is intriguing, but the mystery was a little lacking. The story also bounces back and forth between times and I found it a little disconcerting until I worked out the authors writing rhythm. I also found it hard to like the characters. I am sure many will love it, but it just did not grab me.

 

Reviewed by @jennad

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Shattered: a Logan McKenna Mystery Book 1 (The Logan McKenna Series) by Valerie Davisson – Review by Kerry Baker

Shattered: Logan Book 1 (The Logan McKenna Series)Shattered: Logan Book 1 by Valerie Davisson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Shattered: A Logan McKenna Mystery book by Valerie Davisson is the first book in the Logan McKenna series. I found this book to be a really exciting read with strong characters and a great storyline. As the first book that I have read by this author I didn’t know what to expect but I loved how real everything felt. The main character was good because she was “perfect” she was great because she was imperfect but strong.
I thought the story itself was really interesting and enjoyable. I was almost instantly hooked on it and knew I had to find out what was going on. This is a really strong start to a series and I am already excited to see what else is to come.

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Shattered: a Logan McKenna Mystery Book 1 (The Logan McKenna Series) by Valerie Davisson – Review by Katie Kearney

Shattered: Logan Book 1 (The Logan McKenna Series)Shattered: Logan Book 1 by Valerie Davisson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Shattered: a Logan McKenna Mystery Book 1 (The Logan McKenna Series) by Valerie Davisson. Ok first of wow just wow this story had me completely captivated! Logan was a character that I won’t soon be forgetting that’s for sure. She’s strong even after all she’s been through and I loved her defense of a friend in need. This story was incredible and I found myself on the edge of my seat more than once. The author created characters with such unique personality’s and you can’t help but follow their story and get lost happily in their story world. I found myself trying to read both faster and slower, then sad when I reached the end. But I’m definitely looking forward to reading more from this author. It’s a well written story and was definitely paced nicely never feeling rushed or lacking. I can’t wait to see where this author takes readers next. Four stars and highly recommended.

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The Divided Twin (The Divided Series Book 2) by M. Billiter with Kyle Thomas – Review by Kimberly Griffiths

 

The Divided TwinThe Divided Twin by M. Billiter
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The Divided Twin
By
Mary Billiter

Book two of the divided series books, this book is mostly centered on the twins and how one of them hears another twin’s voice in his head. It is as gripping as the first book and I advise you to read the first one also. The story grips your emotions as much or more than the first. With just as much intensity, I was surprised with the ending, it brought tears to my eyes. Good job.

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The Slaughter of Leith Hall by Lexie Conyngham – Review by Francis O’Sullivan

The Slaughter of Leith HallThe Slaughter of Leith Hall by Lexie Conyngham
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The Slaughter of Leith Hall by Lexie Conyngham is a rich, enticing historical mystery, set in 18th-Century Scotland. John Leith, the master of Leith Hall, tried to regain favour and social status following the defeat of the Jacobites by fighting for the British army in America. He has returned to Scotland but continues to be preoccupied with his experiences in America and the people with whom he fought.
The story is told in third person, over the shoulder of Charlie Rob which works very well. He has worked with the Leith family for many years but has only recently begun taking on more senior duties. We see him accompany his master to Aberdeen for the first time, encountering the space for the first time through Charlie’s naïve eyes. He is experienced enough to know to be observant but discrete, although he does not always piece together what he has observed which allows the reader to get a few steps ahead at times. Thrown into situations he feels completely unprepared for, we find ourselves rooting for Charlie and admiring his tenacity.
There is plenty of mystery in this story. The reader gets a slow drip of information we know will be relevant, as well as sudden shocking events. It’s a real page-turner as we race to piece together the facts and figure out what happened, and why.
For me, this is a five-star read. A great way to delve into an interesting part of history, and a really gripping story! I’d recommend it to fans of historical mysteries, particularly if you’re interested in Scottish history!

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Shattered: a Logan McKenna Mystery Book 1 (The Logan McKenna Series) by Valerie Davisson – Review by Sheri Schrader

Shattered: Logan Book 1 (The Logan McKenna Series)Shattered: Logan Book 1 by Valerie Davisson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Shattered: Logan Book 1 by Valerie Davisson is the first book in the Logan McKenna Series. Logan is a recently widowed woman who has become an amateur detective. I really enjoyed the character of Logan and look forward to how she will develop over the series. This is an interesting mystery with a good development of the story. I also enjoyed the secondary characters who added a lot to the story. I do not want to speak about the plot because there is nothing then worse than a mystery plot being wrecked. There are twists and turns and much more in the story. I will definitely look forward to reading more in this series soon.

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Shattered: a Logan McKenna Mystery Book 1 (The Logan McKenna Series) by Valerie Davisson – Review by Angela Hayes

Shattered: Logan Book 1 (The Logan McKenna Series)Shattered: Logan Book 1 by Valerie Davisson
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

 

 

 

3 Stars

 

“Logan tossed the letter back on her desk. She’d definitely landed in the City of Oz and was in dire need of a pair of ruby slippers.
Not for the first time this year, she wondered why anyone would work in the public school system unless they had a lobotomy or were working off jail time. It all started last October when, as a favor to her friend Bonnie, she’d taken a long-term sub job for a seventh grade teacher at Roosevelt Middle School in Tilcott, CA.
She’d spent the last two years since her husband Jack died wrapping up and selling the computer business they’d built together. The process had been wrenching. After paying off business debts—Jack had been more charmer than money manager—there wasn’t a whole lot left.
Truth be told, she needed the job.”

 

Shattered: a Logan McKenna Mystery Book 1 (The Logan McKenna Series) by Valerie Davisson is a murder mystery- with action, drama, crime investigation, art community elements, Native American characters and cultural references, and more.
This is my first read by Valerie Davisson, so I really didn’t know what to expect going into the story- but as I love a good thrilling mystery, I was excited to jump in and get going. I really wanted to love this book so much more than I did. It should have been right in my wheelhouse and should have grabbed me right from the get-go. But it didn’t. I had trouble connecting with Logan and the other characters- which in turn made it difficult to settle in and invest in the outcome of the story.
Parts of the story felt rushed- while other parts lagged, which really disrupted the flow of the story for me. At times I felt that the story got a little off track- making things a little confusing and I found myself re-reading parts to clarify where and what was happening. But, I have had a really busy and tiring week- so maybe it was just me- so I intend to revisit this book again in the near future, to see if I still feel the same way, or whether I was just having an ‘off’ day when reading it.
As it is the first book in the series, I would be interested to read the next book, or books- to see if some of the issues I had with this story have been resolved in the other additions. I did find the crime/murder part quite interesting, as with the glassblowing/artistic element.

Thank you, Valerie Davisson!

 

Reviewed by @angelahayes

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The Slaughter of Leith Hall by Lexie Conyngham – Review by Katie Matthews

The Slaughter of Leith HallThe Slaughter of Leith Hall by Lexie Conyngham
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

 

I really like historical romance so I thought I would go out of my comfort zone and try a historical mystery book and I have to say I really enjoyed it. Whilst it did take a little time to get into the story was richly detailed and well written. I have read work by the author previously so it was good to read something by her again. I really enjoyed the setting of the story and enjoyed the history that the author brought to the book. The characters were great to read about; in fact it was an enjoyable read overall and definitely one that I would recommend.

@katiem
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The Slaughter of Leith Hall by Lexie Conyngham – Review by Heather Lovelace

The Slaughter of Leith HallThe Slaughter of Leith Hall by Lexie Conyngham
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I loved this book. I felt immediately transported to a place and time that simply fascinates me. I adore good historical fiction. Couple that with a crime/suspense theme and needless to say I found a novel to dive nose first into and one I simply didn’t put down until I read the last page. I thoroughly enjoyed the story that unfolded and found the author to put together a complete story that visually transported me into each page. Highly recommended.

Reviewed by @heatherlovelace
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The Trouble With Paradise (A Madeline Dawkins Mystery Book 4) by Cynthia Hamilton – Review by Angela Hayes

The Trouble with Paradise (Madeline Dawkins #4)The Trouble with Paradise by Cynthia Hamilton
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

 

“Two women in a world of misery, both widowed by circumstances that haven’t been sufficiently explained,”

 

The Trouble With Paradise is the fourth book in the Madeline Dawkins series by Cynthia Hamilton. I am soooooooooo in love with this series- hands down one of the best discoveries I have made this year!!!! This is one of those series that you can read over and over again and never tire of it. After reading the first book and loving it so much, I was compelled to go on a one-click spree for any other books that I could find in the series. I ended up reading the series back to back, and several times over- that’s how much I enjoyed them.
I went into this book with extremely high expectations because all the previous books were so brilliant- so part of me was a little trepidatious about reading it, wondering if Cynthia Hamilton could sustain the momentum and deliver another thrilling mystery. So, I am thrilled to say that I should never have doubted her as this book is every bit as wonderful and brilliant as the previous books- setting my anticipation levels on high for the release of Book Five!!!
The story is so cleverly woven with intriguing mystery, suspense, drama, engrossing developments, action, danger, tension, romance, emotion, and so much more. Cynthia Hamilton once again puts Madeline and Mike through their paces- weaving a smart and thought provoking mystery infused with a dangerous tension that kept me on the edge of my seat for most of the story.
This story takes place four months after the events of the previous book. Madeline and Mike end up with two cases involving grieving widows who need help to uncover what really happened to their husbands. One widow is in jail, charged with the murder of her older, wealthy husband. But did she really kill him? And if not, then what really happened? The other widow wants to prove that her husband’s death definitely wasn’t suicide. But, what will our detectives discover? As I have come to expect from Cynthia Hamilton, nothing is ever simple. She always manages to weave a complex, multilayered mystery with more than a few twisty surprises to get me sitting up and really paying attention. Add in the fact that Madeline’s snake of an ex is now released from prison, had me wondering what he was up to, and when he would make his move. He seems to have turned over a new leaf- but Madeline (and I) know better- and just how underhanded and vile he can be. So what unfolds makes for quite a thrilling read!
As I have mentioned previously, I think The Madeline Dawkins books would make a fantastic television series- reminding me a lot of the old Moonlighting series with Cybil Shephard and Bruce Willis- but with more danger, excitement, and a modern ‘feel’.
So, if you love a cleverly crafted and thrilling mystery then what are you waiting for! Grab yourself a copy and dive in- but be prepared to develop an addiction to Cynthia Hamilton’s stories- you may find that one book will never be enough.
I am so desperate to find out what’s in store for Maddie and Mike- especially after the way this book ended! So, bring on Book Five!!! SQUEEEEEEE!!!! I can’t wait!
Brilliant!!!!

Thank you, Cynthia Hamilton!

 

Reviewed by @angelahayes

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The Divided Twin (The Divided Series Book 2) by Mary Billiter – Review by Roxsanne Lesieur

The Divided TwinThe Divided Twin by M. Billiter
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

We are back with Aaron and Brandon Kovac, the twins are now seniors in college and have their lives together, although hundreds of miles apart, they have jobs, a way with the ladies and are nearly finished getting their respective degrees, but nothing is as simple as it seems.

Their mum is diagnosed with cancer and they are finding it hard to deal with it, as are their other siblings. Branson is still learning how to deal with his mental health and Aaron is still dealing with it too, albeit by keeping his distance and leaving his brother to do his own thing.

This is where we meet David, David is the third twin. David is different and has more dark tendencies than the other twins, but he is the life of the party when he is more encouraging. He voices the things that should stay hidden, but also says the things that people want to hear.

With all the emotions which need to be worked through and the more details that come to the fore, the more the problems start to arise, but who is David talking to and what will he say? These are the million dollar questions!

Prepare for another emotional rollercoaster that takes ups and downs in its stride leaving you not knowing how or what to feel, but sure you want to feel more.

Reviewed by @roxsannel

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A Divided Mind by Mary Billiter – Review by Roxsanne Lesieur

A Divided MindA Divided Mind by M. Billiter
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Meet Branson Kovac, he is a senior in his final year of school and that’s what everyone thinks he is too, but Branson hears voices and that is where this story begins.

We start with Tara, Branson’s mum when he tells her over the phone that he is hearing voices and to say she is in shock with this announcement is an understatement. She goes on a brief trip down memory lane and tries to see what she could have gone wrong and justify what she has heard.

We next see Branson as he starts to realise that these voices aren’t heard by everyone else and also, that these voices are becoming clearer and making more sense. He is in with the office counsellor trying to make sense of what happened earlier on in the day and why this incident has him sitting in this office with someone he doesn’t even know.
As he tries to begin to explain his situation and get some advice, he finds that he may not be as alone as he thinks he is.

As the book continues, we meet Branson’s twin, his girlfriend and his other friend Trevor, but what you find out about them doesn’t quite tally with what you want to believe.

This book is an illuminating look into a tough subject and takes you on a journey from two different perspectives, it will have you on an emotional rollercoaster, but one you will not want to get off.

Reviewed by @roxsannel

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Shattered: a Logan McKenna Mystery Book 1 (The Logan McKenna Series) by Valerie Davisson – Review by Laura Furuta

Shattered: Logan Book 1 (The Logan McKenna Series)Shattered: Logan Book 1 by Valerie Davisson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Shattered: a Logan McKenna Mystery Book 1 (The Logan McKenna Series)
By Valerie Davisson
5 out of 5 stars

I loved reading the book Shattered: a Logan McKenna Mystery Book 1 (The Logan McKenna Series) by Valerie Davisson. It is a story that pulled me in from the very beginning and didn’t let me go until the final page. It is a story of suspense, mystery, and murder. I loved the character of Logan. The author does an amazing job of developing her character and I felt like she would be someone I would want as a friend. Logan is determined to help her good friend Thomas when he is accused of murder. Logan knows that she must find the murderer to clear his name. The book is written in such a way that I felt like I was right there with Logan as she investigates. The story also does have a bit of romance and in parts had my emotions going up and down. I found myself turning pages wanting to know what was going to happen next. Don’t miss out on a book that will hook you in and won’t let you go. I highly recommend reading it.

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Shattered: a Logan McKenna Mystery Book 1 (The Logan McKenna Series) by Valerie Davisson – Review by Faith Jackson

Shattered: Logan Book 1 (The Logan McKenna Series)Shattered: Logan Book 1 by Valerie Davisson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The mystery grips the story as you read this. The characters’ seeking justice for her best friend and the search for a killer merges. This is one of my favorite books and my first time reading this author as it sends us down a tailspin as the reader. This book takes unpredictable turns entertaining with each page. This is an original story that makes it fun to read — I loved it and can’t wait to read on in other books.

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A Divided Mind (The Divided Series Book 1) by M. Billiter with Kyle Thomas – Review by Faith Jackson

A Divided Mind (The Divided Series Book 1)A Divided Mind by M. Billiter

This book is seen through different characters’ perspectives and it’s also a journey for the mom and for one of her sons’, Branson. We follow as Branson struggles with a new diagnosis of schizophrenia but also struggles to balance a girlfriend, life as a twin brother but a sibling to Carson, his sister and being a high school senior preparing for college. This whole book had me feeling for poor little Branson and how his life wouldn’t be the same as he ventures into the world battling so much for the rest of his life as he goes on. This is a beautifully written story of mental illness and how it impacts your world from every which way you can ever imagine. Great and intense read!

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The Divided Twin (The Divided Series Book 2) by M. Billiter with Kyle Thomas – Review by Faith Jackson

The Divided TwinThe Divided Twin by M. Billiter
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I fell in love with these twins’ stories when I first read about what happened with Branson and I felt he was not only misunderstood. My heart ached for him as I got through that first read. Coming from a family where mental illness is present, that book had me hooked just as much as the second.
When you meet both twins, who are away at separate colleges in different states, no less but you’re concerned with Branson who has to fight schizophrenia. You’re concerned with what Tara’s sickness can do for his mental health and how it will create new choices for both twins.
I loved how this book was written as much as the first. You also find each brother battling their own emotions in their own ways when they’re hit unexpectedly with a life-altering illness like cancer. This story had my heart aching for the twins as they’re going through the grieving process with one another and battling crippling mental illness all at once. You can’t help but want to jump through the pages of the book to help the characters on their way to survive it all but you can’t which leaves you feeling helpless and upset at a fictional book. Great read and well-written.

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Confidentiality (Scope of Practice Book 2) by Jessica Aiken-Hall – Review by Naomi McDonald

ConfidentialityConfidentiality by Jessica Aiken-Hall
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Confidentiality is the second book in the Scope of Practice series. You need to read the first book in order to get the full picture of what is happening in book two.

In the first book, I related to some of the main character’s attributes, but there is a side of her that I don’t relate to so much. That part of her life started in book one but is further explored in book two as things start spiraling. I found myself wondering how I could relate to a character’s personal attributes so much, but not align with her actions, even though I understand her motivation for it initially. The author has done a great job of layering the main character to give her complexity.

I enjoyed the anti-hero aspects of the story as well. Even though I had it figured out pretty quickly, I thought the choice was interesting.

Overall, this was a great continuation of the first part of the story in book one. As with book one, sensitive readers should note that there are potential triggers in this story.

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The Divided Twin (The Divided Series Book 2) by M. Billiter with Kyle Thomas – Review by Elizabeth Sanchez

The Divided TwinThe Divided Twin by M. Billiter
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The Divided Twin in the 2nd book in the Divided Series by M. Billiter. This book is co-written by Kyle Thomas, and is the continued story following A Divided Mind. You should read them together, in order. I loved the first book, and loved this one just as much. It gives us a deeper look into Branson’s life with psychoaffective disorder. I liked that we got to see Aaron’s life as well, as they navigate into adulthood. They have branched out and now attend different schools but continue to lean on each other. We are introduced to the “third twin” David, who lives in one of their minds. The characters in the story are wonderfully written, and very realistic. The reader develops feelings for the boys as they cope with hardships. It is emotional at times, so be prepared for some heavy moments. Overall, I Highly recommend this book.

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Reviewed by @way2gosmartguy

A Divided Mind (The Divided Series Book 1) by M. Billiter – Review by Elizabeth Sanchez

A Divided MindA Divided Mind by M. Billiter
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

A Divided Mind is the first book in the Divided Series by M. Billiter. It is my first venture with this author but I LOVED it. I have always had an interest in psychology and why people do what they do, so this series is right up my alley. The synopsis is real short so I dont want to give too much away, but I love the way this book was written. The author explains before the book that she has written the book as a work of fiction, but with first hand experience. The book tells the story of Branson Kovac, a teenager who hears voices and may or may not have an imaginary friend. It shows the adjustment period after learning you suffer from mental illness. The stages of denial, anger, acceptance and steps in coping for both the patient, and their family and friends. This book was wonderfully written and I am on to the 2nd book in the series. Highly Recommend this book!

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Reviewed by @way2gosmartguy

The Slaughter of Leith Hall by Lexie Conyngham – Review by Liz Vrchota

The Slaughter of Leith HallThe Slaughter of Leith Hall by Lexie Conyngham
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The Slaughter of Leith Hall was not my typical first choice as far as books. Historical based novels tend to drag and be drab. This one did admittedly stall in the excitement area for the first few bits of the story but once it took off it really took off and I was engrossed to find out how things would come to culmination for the characters and the underlying murder mystery that is prevelant throughout. Once I got over the beginning parts this book drew me into the world of Charlie and Leith. Charlie is far from home and finds a protector and more in Leith. Things take a dark turn when a murder becomes his obsession. He is determined to find justice and closure. I can’t say much else for fear of spoiling the good stuff but this is one you will want to read if you are a fan of dark and suspenseful mystery reads. I know I am looking forward to seeing what else is available from Conyngham and if we will get more in this book as a series.

Review by @lizaileen
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The Divided Twin (The Divided Series Book 2) by M. Billiter with Kyle Thomas – Review by Anastasia Dodson

The Divided TwinThe Divided Twin by M. Billiter
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The Divided Twin Is book two in the The Divided Series by M. Billiter with Kyle Thomas. This book and book one are so different than any book than any other books i have read and i enjoyed that. The emotions in the story were on high and i needed the tissues a few times for those stubborn tears i couldn’t help but shed. This isn’t all sunshine and rainbows and shows the hard truths of what having a mental illness could do to someone and the people they are close to. I am looking forward to reading more by these authors and i would recommend this to anyone that is looking for something different!

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The Slaughter of Leith Hall by Lexie Conyngham – Review by Kerry Carr

The Slaughter of Leith HallThe Slaughter of Leith Hall by Lexie Conyngham
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This was a interesting and gripping historical mystery. It was full of suspense and page turning twists and turns that keeps you guessing all the time.

With it being set in the past some of the language and terms used are a bit hard to understand and the story starts off slow but it is definately a book that is worth sticking with. The characters are well written and you cant help getting attached to them.

The main character is Charlie Rob. Charlie is a bit of a home bird and until John Leigh of Leigh Hall takes him under his wing Charlie had never left his home in Aberdeen. Charlie soon finds himself thrown into a murder mystery and he has the task of finding the truth and getting justice, however with conspiracy theories making the task harder will he be able to find out the truth.

I really enjoyed this book and following Charlie’s story and adventure was great. The list of the characters at the beginning of the book was also really helpful and a nice touch that I havent seen before.

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The Slaughter of Leith Hall by Lexie Conyngham – Review by Gillian Fawell

The Slaughter of Leith HallThe Slaughter of Leith Hall by Lexie Conyngham
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

What an adventure this story was! It took a moment for me to become accustomed to the language used but then I had fun looking up Scottish terms and it was like learning another language! The characters were superbly developed and quickly fell into categories of love them or hate them. Although, it must be said that some characters kept you guessing about their true motives through multiple twists and turns. Highly recommended!

Reviewed by @sparkinside

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The Slaughter of Leith Hall by Lexie Conyngham – Review by Jennifer Gordon

The Slaughter of Leith HallThe Slaughter of Leith Hall by Lexie Conyngham
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is a wonderfully written historical fiction novel which took me back to Scotland twenty years after the Battle of Culloden, when there remained strong feelings amongst the Jacobites. The narrative is written in the Scottish dialect of the era which I found hard going to start with but I soon got used to the language and the list of less common words at the end of the book also helped. The list of characters at the start of the book was extremely useful as there are many characters to keep track off. The main character and our hero of the story is Charlie Rob, and until John Leith of Leith Hall takes him under his wing Charlie had not been away from his home in Aberdeenshire and had certainly never been political in his thinking. However the quiet and steady Charlie soon finds himself in the middle of a murder mystery and having to cope with conspiracies in his journey to get justice. Charlie Rob is a very likeable and realistic character and he really made the story for me. The storyline moved along at a good pace and had plenty of twists and turns that kept me guessing and happily turning the pages. The author really made the Scottish era come alive with her detailed descriptions of both time and place. Her obvious knowledge of the historical background of the era also comes through in her writing and I found the historical note by the author at the end fascinating. I was gripped by the story and although this is the first novel by this author I have read, I was pleased to see she has others that I can also now read and I’m pleased to have discovered a new historical fiction writer.

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Shattered: a Logan McKenna Mystery Book 1 (The Logan McKenna Series) by Valerie Davisson – Review by Bobbi Wagner

Shattered: Logan Book 1 (The Logan McKenna Series)Shattered: Logan Book 1 by Valerie Davisson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I enjoyed this suspense-thriller book. This is my first book by this author and I look forward to reading more from this author. This is the first book in this series and I can’t wait to read the next one. This is a well written story that has characters that are well rounded and made the story easy to read. The twists and turns had me turning pages fast just waiting to see what was lurking around the corner. This is Logan’s story. She has lost everything and just when she thinks she is starting again her best friend is accused of murder. She now needs to find the murderer but the more she digs the more secrets reveal themselves. Will she find the murderer before they strike again? This is a great story that I read in one afternoon. It kept me wanting to see what happened next. I highly recommended this book.

Review by  @bjwagner
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