Review: Strange Magic

Strange Magic by Michelle Mankin
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

•••I listened to the Audible Audio Edition of this book•••


This was one of the most unique stories I have ever had the pleasure of listening to! Kai Kennicott and Wen Ross bring the characters to life far better than I would have imagined them by just reading the book :) I can't fathom this world without their voices bringing their world into vivid realism despite the fantastical nature of their existence!


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×××When I listened to it this book was two separate books but now has been consolidated into one complete book instead. I feel that part one (originally book 1) is a sort of Prequel and that part two (originally book 2) is truly the first book. Putting them together in one volume makes more sense :)×××


The Strangest Of Magicks


This series must be listened to (or read) in order. This is the first book. I can't wait to listen to Dream Magic!


•••{Part One}•••


A Dark Twist Of Fate


Billy is a musician just out of rehab. Too bad that didn't solve his problems. He probably didn't even NEED rehab. When he plays his mouth harp he sees the angry dead. Ghosts that appear out of nowhere. He would think it a gift but he never sees the ghosts he wants to see. Being named King of The Bacchus Krewe should have him deliriously happy but instead all he can think of is his apparent Curse. Will the dead leave alone when he quits playing? Why has he received this honor? Who is the beautiful girl with the violet eyes begging him to help her?


Thyme has a pretty good life running a successful ice cream shop in the French Quarter. Her boyfriend Shane is her best friend as well as the love of her life. She has the best grandmother in the world who loves her unconditionally. Even though they are not related by blood she has always had a true home with her. If only she didn't still miss the mother she adored who abandoned her. If only she knew who her father was. Why does the sinister Leon want to buy her ice cream shop so badly? What does he see in her that makes him change his mind? What does he really want from her?



•••{Part Two}•••


Fated For Each Other


Thyme is a Shade and she has been searching for ten years for her lost fiance. Her apartment in the French Quarter is her refuge and Haunt. Usually she cannot wait for a new tenant to leave... But not this time! Billy intrigues her. Does he really see her? Is it worth breaking the rules to spend time with him? Why is she so drawn to him? Is their burgeoning relationship worth risking obliteration over?


Billy is finally getting used to the ghosts. Finding out his new digs in New Orleans are Haunted should have him running for the hills. But he isn't. After catching sight of the beautiful ghost girl he is shocked to see that she is the woman who was begging him to save her during his last concert. How can that be when she died over ten years ago? Why does she make him feel so much more than any other woman ever has? How can he be with a Shade? Can he right the wrongs that stole her from him before they even met?


***This series is suitable for adult listeners (or readers) who enjoy urban fantasy filled with Old Gods and creatures of legend with suspense, intrigue, black magic, thrills, mystery and horror as well as a dash of romance :)



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Review: Love Hurts

Love Hurts by Mandi Beck
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

•••I listened to the Audible Audio Edition of this book•••


Definitely the voice acting by Wen Ross and Kai Kennicott made this experience the most enjoyable :) Even when the characters were being idiots and I wanted to throttle them the actors kept me at rapt attention! The story was really good... But sometimes it was really hard to empathize with the two main characters. With this being an at least two part story I completely understand though. Reading this might have been difficult while listening to it was an experience not to be missed :)


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How Not To Get Your Girl



This series must be listened to (or read) in order. This is the first book. I can't wait to listen to Love Burns!


Frankie has grown up with the Loves and has always been the only girl. Well except for Indy. Noone gets more attention or love from the guys (and Indy)! She is THE Princess. The center of all of their worlds. And her life is perfect. She has her dance studio and her family. She even has a steady boyfriend, Andrew, who she lives with. When he proposes (and she says yes) it puts into motion an increasingly destructive sequence of events that spiral out of control until noone knows what will happen next. Why did she say yes? How will it affect the rest of her relationships? Will her life ever be the same?


Deacon has ALWAYS loved Frankie. And been in love with her since he doesn't know when. He has been hiding his time... For him to be ready to settle down. For her to be willing to look at him in another way. For both of their careers to be established. Now that Andrew has proposed he is panicking. He can't let her marry him! Will he be able to convince her to give them a chance? Can he even talk her out of marrying the nowhere near good enough for her douche she's already said yes to? How will he get her to see him? Can he convince her she is not like any other girl he has spent time with?


***This series is suitable for adult listeners (or readers) who enjoy MMA romantic thriller suspense with plenty of angst and violence as well as some intrigue and two characters who can't seem to get out of their own way that leads to more questions than answers with a cliffhanger ending lacking a HEA :)




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Review: House of Royals

House of Royals by Keary Taylor
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

In The Blood

This series must be read in order. This is the first book. I can't wait to read House Of Pawns!


Alivia knew nothing of her father while her mother lived. Finding out he cared about her and died before he could do anything about it was a shock... Finding out she inherited a mansion and the rest of his estate is an even bigger one! She feels like a faerie princess! Why does her staff seem to fear her? Was her father a monster? What is everyone hiding? Why does noone go out at night? How did her father die exactly?


***This series is suitable for mature young adult through adult readers who enjoy paranormal small town new adult fiction filled with star crossed love, thrills, action, suspense, intrigue and mystery :)

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Review: Cold Justice Series Box Set: Volume I: Books 1-3

Cold Justice Series Box Set: Volume I: Books 1-3 by Toni Anderson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

•••I listened to the Audible Audio Edition of this book•••



Eric G. Dove is the only voice I could ever imagine for this series! He does better with every consecutive book even though his narration of the first was amazing. He knows the characters inside and out which allows him to convey they myriad emotions and personalities in a very entertaining and believable manner. Tue seamless transition from one book to the next makes it easy to get lost in the world created by his performance and the author's writing. I hope he continues with this series as I am sure he is the only one who can do it proper justice :) I can't wait to listen to more by this talented voice actor!


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Patriotic Romantic Suspense



This series must be listened to (or read) in order. This contains the first three books in the series. I can't wait to listen to Cold Fear!



This series is filled with strong, independent characters who are driven to find the truth no matter the personal cost. Finding killers, righting wrongs, stopping terrorists, exposing cover-ups are all in a day's work! Humor keeps the stories from being too dark even though the horror and suspense are intense and disturbing. The characters eventually find what they are looking for in a partner and find their requisite HEA but not before an intense action packed thrill ride filled with intrigue and mysteries that are not easy to solve. It will keep you on the edge of you seat and constantly wanting more!



***This series is suitable for adult readers who enjoy romantic psychological thrillers with loads of suspense, intrigue, action, adventure, horror and a broken hero learning to live again with a few steamy sex scenes :)






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Review: Cold Light of Day

Cold Light of Day by Toni Anderson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

•••I listened to the Audible Audio Edition of this book•••


Eric G. Dove is the only voice I could ever imagine for this series! He does better with every consecutive book even though his narration of the first was amazing. He knows the characters inside and out which allows him to convey they myriad emotions and personalities in a very entertaining and believable manner. I can't wait to listen to more by this talented voice actor!


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Uncovering The True Spy



Scarlett has spent her whole life almost failing against the erroneous conviction of her father as a spy. He was a good FBI agent. And an amazing father. He never would have betrayed his country! Now that he has cancer and is dying, she can no longer wait. Designing a bug that is more effective and advanced (as well as almost impossible to detect electronically) she comes up with a plan. She will bug the Russian Ambassador her father suspected was running the spy ring and finally find proof that her father was framed. Will she be able to get into his office? Will she get caught in the act? Can she even walk in these heels? Will anyone believe her even if she has real proof? Or will her father die before she can accomplish anything?


Matt is a former SEAL. He believes in serving his country and protecting the American Way. Being forced to stand in for his boss at a Christmas Party at the Russian Consulate is not his idea of a good time. Then he sees her... And things seem to be looking up. Does he even have a chance with a politician's daughter? Or should he give up before he is in over his head? Why is a woman so used to being in the limelight so reserved and shy? Did she spill her drink on him on purpose?


***This series is suitable for adult readers who enjoy romantic psychological thrillers with loads of suspense, intrigue, action, adventure, horror and a broken hero learning to live again with a few steamy sex scenes :)

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Review: Cold Pursuit

Cold Pursuit by Toni Anderson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

•••I listened to the Audible Audio Edition of this book•••


Eric G. Dove has done it again! He clearly understands the characters in this series very well and puts all of that into his performance. It was a very enjoyable listen even when the subject matter was incredibly dark. I love the way he performs this series and can't wait to listen to more! I can't imagine this voiced by anyone else.


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Being At The Wrong Place At The Right Time



This series must be listened to (or read) in order. The first book is A Cold Dark Place. This is the second book. I can't wait to listen to Cold Light Of Day!



Vivi has made her life about her special needs son Michael. Nothing else really matters. Be hasn't uttered a sound in years. He can't communicate in any normal form. Not even writing. Noone knows what is wrong with him. He could be Autistic or he could just be traumatized by his cruel and abusive father. Noone knows. She takes him to Minnesota to meet with a specialist and even that traumatizes him... No more MRIs that's for sure! Trying to salvage the progress that had been made before the disastrous tests, she takes him to the mall so he can ride the rollercoaster. What boy doesn't like rollercoasters? That plan turns out to be a disaster because there just happens to be a terrorist attack. What are the odds? Will she be able to get herself and her son out of the mall unscathed? What is this latest trauma going to do to him? Did he witness anything that would cause people to try and eliminate him?



Jed has been forced to take a vacation from the BAU. He is burning out. Deciding to make it a holiday trip and fulfil all his family obligations at once, he stops at the mall for some quick Christmas shopping. Little did he know he's was about to be in the middle of a terrorist attack or he would have skipped it! Keeping a calm head, he tries to mitigate the situation and do some good. Meeting Vivi has him entranced but his main concern is saving as many lives as possible. Will he be able to protect the intriguing woman and her son? Will they get to the bottom of the terror plot? Why does he feel so protective of Vivi and Michael? Is he ready to try again? Or will the loss of his first love always destroy any chance of happiness he might find?


***This series is suitable for adult readers who enjoy romantic psychological thrillers with loads of suspense, intrigue, action, adventure, horror and a broken hero learning to live again with a few steamy sex scenes :)

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Review: Storm

Storm by Skye Knizley
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Possessed By Evil Outside Of Time


•••NOT for the homophobic or closedminded•••


This series must be read in order. The first book is Stormrise or the newly released Stormrise Special Edition. The second book is Stormrage. The third book is Stormwind. The fourth book is Shadowstorm. The fifth book is Raven. This is the sixth book. I can't wait to read Aspen!


Raven is benched. Traumatized. Off her game even. Finding out she has a twin sister and that her father is still alive would have been traumatic enough... If she had found out some other way... Some other day. Noons blames her for what happened... Except herself. Cleaning out a nest of skinwalkers is NOT the time for a reunion with your dead father and an unknown identical twin. So... She shot her father... Through the heart. Luckily he is Immortal and will survive. Now she is buried in guilt and can't even shoot a gun. Will she ever get over what she thinks she did? Is she a bad daughter? Why did he let her keep thinking he was dead? Why was she never told she had a twin? Can she reconcile this new reality enough to wrap her head around the truth? Or has she failed herself, her family, and everyone she loves?


Aspen is worried about Raven. All she can do is be there. Getting promoted to actual field work seems odd without her ... But she still has to do her job. If King says she is the only one qualified how can she say no? Can she lead a team of agents? What will she find on the Ghost Ship? Is King's faith in her misplaced? Can she solve the mystery and bring her team out alive? Will Raven forgive her for going into danger without her?


***This series is suitable for adult readers who enjoy dark urban paranormal fantasy with an incredible snarky heroine who never gives up or gives in when pursuing justice in all forms and filled with action, adventure, mystery, intrigue, suspense, thrills and a dash of romance and plenty of horror laced with humor :)

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Review: Stormrise: Special Edition

Stormrise: Special Edition by Skye Knizley
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The Beginning Of A Beautiful Partnership?



•••NOT for the homophobic or closedminded•••


This series must be read in order. This is the revamped prettied up & reedited new version of the first book. I adore both versions, but if new to the series I suggest you stick with this one :) (Though I suggest avoiding the extra material at the end until after reading the newest book Raven to avoid any chance at spoilers) I can't wait to reread the next book Stormrage!


Raven is a both a Vampire Princess and a Homicide Detective. She, in many ways, is heir to both of her parents' legacies. Being half Vampire and half Human makes her place as heir and enforcer hard for many Vampires to reconcile but her ability to walk in the sun while having Mistress level powers makes her much more powerful... If only she could get over her pesky aversion to claret (blood). Often when her "weird" cases and her familial responsibilities collide she is conflicted so she chooses what to do in each situation on a case by case basis trying to do as much good and as little harm as possible while still keeping the supernatural world a secret. And she can't seem to keep a partner to save her life... No pun intended. She is lucky to keep them alive while working with her. Getting assigned Levac seems like a cruel joke... They call him Codumbo after all! Can he survive working with her? Or will he be the one to get them both killed? How good can he possibly be when he can't even keep his clothes clean? What in the world could kill someone by apparently exploding their stomach outwards from the inside? Is it a weird murder? Or some new supernatural threat? Who or what is following Raven? Is it because of this case or her family? Both?


***This series is suitable for adult readers who enjoy dark urban paranormal fantasy with an incredible snarky heroine who never gives up or gives in when pursuing justice in all forms and filled with action, adventure, mystery, intrigue, suspense, thrills and a dash of romance and plenty of horror laced with humor :)

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Review: RAVEN

RAVEN by Skye Knizley
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Mayan Mayhem


•••NOT for the homophobic or closedminded•••


This series must be read in order. The first book is Stormrise. The second book is Stormrage. The third book is Stormwind. The fourth book is Shadowstorm. This is the fifth book. I can't wait for Storm to come out so I can find out what happens next!


Becoming a Federal Agent is a learning experience for Raven. She is not quite ready to deal with it but what other choice is there? She misses home. She misses Levac. At least she has Aspen. King is always evading her questions but at least he pretty much lets her do what she wants. Except he has assigned her a new partner... A new Lycan named Kole. How will she deal with babysitting a werewolf who is so new to the supernatural world? It will be worse than when Levac was just starting to see what he shouldn't! Will they figure out what is going on early enough for her to meet Aspen in Chicago for Halloween? Or will her green new partner get them both killed trying to follow human rules and human laws? Why does it seem like they are trapped in a cheesy horror movie come to life?


***This series is suitable for adult readers who enjoy a little romance in their urban paranormal action adventure crime mystery fantasies with lots of thrills and a dash or two of horror :)


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Review: Shadowstorm

Shadowstorm by Skye Knizley
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Shadows Escape From The Past


•••NOT for the homophobic or closedminded•••


This series must be read in order. The first book is Stormrise. The second book is Stormrage. The third book is Stormwind. This is the fourth book.


The serial killer that stole so much of her (dead) father's time from Raven is back. Now she has to stop the killing before she becomes a victim herself.... Or worse. Can she solve the case that stumped her father and Frost (for her whole entire life) before it is too late? Or will the case that was Mason's obsession be the end of her and all she loves?


Written from both Mason's and Raven's point of view this book encompasses both the past and present killing sprees creating a unique reding experience. Almost all the unanswered(truly maddening) questions lingering from the prior books are answered even as new conundrums arise :) I was incredibly happy with this book, and can't wait to read Raven next!!!



***This series is suitable for adult readers who enjoy snarky goodness in their urban paranormal crime solving suspense thriller action adventures with a dash or two of romance and a healthy serving of horror :)

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Review: Stormwind

Stormwind by Skye Knizley
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Beware The Wolf Moon


•••NOT for the homophobic or closedminded•••


This series must be read in order. The first book is Stormrise. The second book is Stormrage. This is the third book. I can't wait to read Shadowstorm!


Raven should be ecstatic as her mother's dead husband is well and truly dead AGAIN. Her psycho brother Xavier is also... But of course people are refusing to believe that. More drama for her ever increasing list of crap she really wishes she didn't have to deal with... Now people are turning up skinned and hanging around the city?! What next!? Seriously Raven and Rupe NEED a vacation! How will Rupe take it when Raven FINALLY tells him he is her Familiar? Will everyone survive the unrest caused by the failed coup? How will Raven balance being Fürsten as well as the only cop allowed to tackle the "strange" cases in Chicago in these strange times of unrest? What is it exactly about the Wolf Moon that has her so on edge?


Another action packed thrill ride with Raven and Rupe left me wanting MORE and NOW !!! I absolutely adore Skye's writing more and more with each book !!! The paranormal suspense is always second only to the action and adventure found along the way while trying to solve cases and mysteries or dealing with the intrigues of Court life :D It is always a mystery who will be the big bad monster tearing apart the city but it is always original and entertaining along the way! Raven's snark is a great foil for Rupe's banter and they are the best "odd couple" I've ever read! I can't wait for the next one!


***This series is suitable for adult readers who love snark and mayhem in their supernatural mystery thrillers with a side of awesomeness!!!

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Review: Stormrage

Stormrage by Skye Knizley
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

He Is Dead.... Right?


•••NOT for the homophobic or closedminded•••


This series must be read in order. The first book is Stormrise. This is the second book. I can't wait to read Stormwind!


Raven so did not realize the mess she was getting herself into when she killed her stepfather (who was supposed to be dead ages ago) but now she's in a bit over her head. There is a way going on over a dead man (she SWEARS she truly killed him forever like) and the renegades who want him to rule are seriously making her crazy. All she does all day every day is kill renegades ... Investigate crimes... And defend her family as the rightful rulers of the city. It is getting to be too much... Can't her siblings help even a little? So what if she's stronger... They ARE vampires after all!


Amazingly she still has the same partner and he's all in one piece ! Rupert and Raven are called Le Storm by the locals and are on a roll solving crimes and kicking butt. Then the past is brought glaringly back to haunt Raven in the form of the evil drug Thirst... And the bizarre murders that look like the end stages of Thirst Addiction. Thirst cost her her partner ... Her "little sister" and her job on vice squad... Raven is going to stop Thirst and the people who make it if it kills her. Poor Rupe has NO idea what they have gotten themselves into with this case or how far Raven will go to put it to bed for good... Preferably 6 ft under! How long can Rupert stay in the dark about the true nature of their cases? About Raven? Read it and see!


I personally believe this sequel was better than the original even if there was no real romance or sex or anything to classify it as an adult and not young adult book (other than the murders and their disturbingly graphic nature). I found it very realistic and refreshing that Raven did not rush off and jump into bed with anyone right away after François ripped her heart out. It isn't every day your lover drugs you and serves you on a silver platter to your mortal enemy after all :) If you liked the first book you will love this one I promise! I can't wait for the next book and really hope it is out soon!!!


***This series is suitable for adult readers who enjoy dark urban paranormal fantasy with an incredible snarky heroine who never gives up or gives in when pursuing justice in all forms and filled with action, adventure, mystery, intrigue, suspense, thrills and a dash of romance and plenty of horror laced with humor :)

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Review: Stormrise

Stormrise by Skye Knizley
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Dhamphire Detective Does Homicide :)


•••NOT for the homophobic or closedminded•••


This series must be read in order. This is the first book.


This book was so awesomely understated I loved it! Ravenel is a homicide detective and Fürsten (bodyguard, enforcer, heir to the throne, and second in command to her mother the vampire queen)... She is also a dhamphire (only half vampire and not harmed by any vampire weaknesses ie sunlight etc).


Even though none of the cops know that she is a preternatural (or even know that such a thing exists) Raven manages to get assigned ALL the preternatural crimes in Chicago which has her going through human partners really quick. Every time she turns around her partner is in the hospital (or dead) and they assign her a new one... Gotta feel sorry for the guy she's stuck with next!


Raven is awesomely snarky and I had a lot of fun reading her story! I loved the banter she kept up even when nothing was in her favor... Outnumbered? Who cares? There is mystery and action aplenty not to mention adventure and suspense :) There is even a little bit of romance to keep the book believable as a real world. I truly can not wait to read the next book Stormrage!


***This series is suitable for adult readers who enjoy dark urban paranormal fantasy with an incredible snarky heroine who never gives up or gives in when pursuing justice in all forms and filled with action, adventure, mystery, intrigue, suspense, thrills and a dash of romance and plenty of horror laced with humor :)

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Review: Fatal Fugue

Fatal Fugue by Maelani
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Dark And Deadly


This series must be read in order. This is the first book. I can't wait to read Fatal Truths!


•••This series is not for the homophobic, closed minded or violence adverse and deals with disturbing themes and situations for for adults only•••


Waking up covered in blood with a dead man is no way to start your day. Realizing you have no idea who he is or what happened is the stuff of nightmares... But knowing nothing of who you are beyond your name? That is terrifying beyond belief! What happened to her? Who is she? What has she done? Why can't she remember? Does she want to? Is she the victim? The victimiser? Or both? How will she get herself out of this mess, whatever it is, when she is a blank slate? Is there anyone she can trust?


This series is set in a world darker than dark. Human trafficking, rape, torture, abuse of all kinds, murder, and all manner of injustices are the norm in this world. If you can not handle this... Read something else! This is the darkest of dark romantic suspense and it is amazing! Filled with antiheroes and deception it sucks you in and refuses to let go! I can't wait to find out the hidden truth right along with Haley! Will she become who she was? Or become someone new? Can she be redeemed by forgetting everything? Or will she fall back into the dark world she once ruled?


***This series is suitable for adult readers who enjoy the darkest of romantic suspense thrillers where deception and manipulation rule, filled with chilling revelations and uncertainty as the antiheroine struggles to make sense of everything while fighting to survive long enough to solve the mystery of who and what she was and what she is going to do about it now :)

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Review: Spell/Sword

Spell/Sword by G. Derek Adams
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

•••I listened to the Audible Audio Edition of this book•••






This is the first performance by Rachel Ahrens I have ever listened to but I look forward to listening to many more by this talented voice actor! She portrays all the characters with depth and irreverence just as they are obviously written. I can't imagine either Rime or Jonas voiced by anyone else. I think I would cry. I fervently hope she continues on with this unique series so we can continue to enjoy it to its full potential :)




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Rime Beyond Reason?


This series must be listened to (or read) in order. This is the first book. I can't wait to listen to Riddle Box!


Rime is a wlid mage. Her kind has been searched out and eradicated because of their madness and incredible power. Lucky for her, her father loved her and hid her, all the while educating her and shielding her from her true nature. Too bad she knows she will now be hunted... If only she can get to the Gray Witch and learn the secrets of controlling her magic! She does not want to die or go mad. Does the Gray Witch truly exist? Or is she the false of of a Faerie tale? Will she be able to find her? Can she convince her to help?


Jonas is still at heart a Squire. He loved his Master and took his teachings to heart. No matter what anyone says or does, he will stay true to the Code. So what if he is a bit of a slow learner... At least when he learns something he learns it fully! He longs for a purpose now that he can no longer be a true Squire. Will he ever find anything to give his life meaning? Will the mistakes of his past catch up with him? Can he continue to be true to himself and his Master's teachings when noone else plays fair? Should he quit drinking?



***This series is suitable for middlegrade through adult readers who enjoy irreverent, snarky fantasy filled with comical characters and indomitable antiheroes who eventually learn that they need friends or life is not worth living or even survivable :)


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Review: Without Armor: Elemental Fire

Without Armor: Elemental Fire by Alexia Purdy
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The Woman Who Owns His Heart


This is technically a spinoff series of the Dark Faerie Tale series. Personally I believe it should be read inserted within that series or you will constantly be confused :) The reading order for both together will follow. The first book is The Withering Palace. The second book is Evangeline. The third book is Ever Shade. The fourth book is Ever Fire. The fifth book is Ever Winter. The sixth book is The Cursed. The seventh book is Ever Wrath. The eighth book is History Of Fire. The ninth book is Ever Dead. This is the tenth book. I can't wait to read Legends Of Fire!


While hunting Unseelie and Slugah slave traffickers Benton runs across the one woman he can never forget... Isolde. She has always been more than she seems and was the only person he ever really dated. Back when her first discovered he had magic she was there for him. He has never been able to move past the regret he carries for abandoning her (without so much as a word) to fight the War in Faerie. Will he be able to make it up to her? Or will she refuse to even let him explain? Why is she here of all places? And hiding with a group of barely Fae kids? Where has she been this whole time? Can he get her to give him another chance?


***This series is suitable for mature young adult through adult readers who enjoy dark modern fantasy action adventures filled with mystery, intrigue, thrills, horror and a bit of romance of the forbidden variety :)


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Review: Caller 107

Caller 107 by Matthew S. Cox
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Finding The Escape Hatch

This is a stand alone novel.


This was an amazing and angsty story that still managed to be sweet and uplifting. It showcases how badly children of divorce can take their parents using them as a weapon against each other. Natalie was willing to throw everything she had worked so hard for away to pay back some of the pain her parents had caused her. While written about a young adult protagonist, I would not suggest this book as suitable reading material for any but the maturest of young adults as it deals with very serious issues and depicts graphic violence. It was an amazing reading experience filled with plenty of plot twists and a great ending!


Being a child of a very antagonistic divorce has caused Natalie to burn down her old life and look for new "friends" who fit the way she feels inside better than her old ones. She has blown off school and started shoplifting as well as hanging with a "street gang" to hopefully hurt her parents. Them fighting over her like she was some prized piece of property was bad enough... Now her father has abandoned her completely! Does he really not want her anymore because she is a "bad girl" and will ruin his "reputation"? Can she fit in with her new, rougher crowd? Or will she always be a wannabe? Will her parents ever see the damage they have done and the pain they have caused her?


***This book is suitable for incredibly mature young adult through adult readers who enjoy action packed, drama filled, angsty adventures with plenty of violence and a bit of the supernatural :)

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Review: Ever Dead

Ever Dead by Alexia Purdy
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Finding Out All About Faeries



This series must be read in order. The first book is The Withering Palace. The second book is Evangeline. The third book is Ever Shade. The fourth book is Ever Fire. The fifth book is Ever Winter. The sixth book is The Cursed. The seventh book is Ever Wrath. The eighth book is History Of Fire. This is the ninth book. I can't wait to read Without Armor!



Hank has had a rough life. He lost his identical twin brother Howie to a heart defect when they were only two. Then he was badly injured in a car wreck that took both his parents' lives before he was even a teen. At least his grandparents took him in and raised him well. He could have been way more unlucky. Now all he has left is his grandmother and his dog Lucifer (Luci for short). Becoming a cop was a good way to put the martial arts his grandfather taught him to good use... And he is the onky homicide detective with a dog (Luci) for a partner! Life seemed to be turning out pretty well for him... Too bad he has an impossible case with victims turned to ash that only contain a modicum of human DNA... What are these new people exactly? Who is killing them? And why? How are they turned completely to ash? Where did they come from?


Benton is starting to get sick of all the Unseelie and Slugah he has to kill... Enough is enough! It seems to be an exercise in futility because for every one he kills three more seem to appear! They also seem to be getting stronger... And he has no idea why! Add to that some human cop that has been dogging his every move and you have a recipe for disaster! Where are all the extra Unseelie coming from? How are they getting so much stronger? What is the meaning of the strange Talismans he keeps finding in their ashes? Why is the cop so obsessed with him? Will he ever be done killing Unseelie and free to live his own human life? Or has that ship sailed without him even realizing it?


***This series is suitable for mature young adult through adult readers who enjoy dark modern fantasy action adventures filled with mystery, intrigue, thrills, horror and a bit of romance of the forbidden variety :)

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Review: Making Amends

Making Amends by Melinda Clayton
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

•••I listened to the Audible Audio Edition of this book•••


This was an amazing performance by Michelle Babb! She brought each character to life in blaring color. I felt their pain and fear as well as their happiness and uncertainty. I was sucked into the story so completly I could not stop listening... Even when I was convinced I was not going to like where it led. I truly enjoyed the experience though I don't normally partake of anything near as tragic. She made this well worth the listen :)



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What Really Matters In The End



This is a stand alone novel.


Tabby is an addict who was abused and abandoned by her mother to be shuttled around the foster system until she aged out... This did not give her any level of self worth or any skills for coping with reality or responsibility. Verne was no better... Probably worse since he was abusive and an addict as well. Finding out she was pregnant while high on cocaine made Tabby get sober. If only to protect her unborn children. Eventually she became a drunk though, until the fateful day her ex stole Bobby away from her when he was only five. She still had her "sister" Von and his twin Ricky but she alawys grieved Bobby. Missing him consumed her life... Made her be less to Ricky than he deserved. Finding out that Bobby is in Tampa, has killed his father and is under arrest has to be the biggest shock of her life since he was taken from her. Will she be able to have a successful reunion withe her missing boy? Will she be able to make amends? Or is it too late for them all?



***This book is suitable for adult readers who enjoy flawed characters struggling with a painful past and is filled with plenty of drama, horror, suspense, mystery and poignant moments :)

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Review: Cogling

Cogling by Jordan Elizabeth Mierek
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The Price Of Magic


This seems to be a stand alone book though I hope the author changes her mind and turns it into a series... Or at least writes other books in this world!


Edna has evil inside her but she does her best to not let it out. This can be very difficult especially when someone threatens anyone she cares about... Or her. Being of a lower class is not a walk in the park but at least she and her little brother Harrison have good jobs in a noble house. Dealing with the noble Rachael is difficult and she really only does it for Harrison. Too bad there is something wrong with him today. He is just not himself. What has gotten in to him? Has he developed some new rare illness? Can she figure out how to make him better? Will she lose control of her temper and the evil inside if she can't figure it out?


Ike has secrets. He is not just some ragged thief on the street. He has a vendetta against the Hags and he must get his revenge at any cost. When he sees the Cogling watch in Edna's possession he comes up with a desperate plan. He will both get the proof he needs to expose the Hags' sinister plot and help her free her brother from the Factories before he becomes just another snack. Will his plan work? Or will they fail before they even begin? Will he be able to keep Edna safe? Or will they both end up at the mercy of the Hags? Will the King believe them?


Filled with intrigue and mystery, this steampunk fairy tale is a very enjoyable read! I loved the vividness of the world and the originality of all the characters. Never have I read anything quite like this! Filled with hope and despair it takes you for a rollercoaster ride you will never forget!


***This book is suitable for young adult through adult readers who enjoy paranormal steampunk adventures set in a world vastly different from our own with plenty of mystery, intrigue, thrills, action, adventure and romance :)

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Review: Emma and the Banderwigh

Emma and the Banderwigh by Matthew S. Cox
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

To Believe Or Not To Believe... In Magic

This series must be read in order. This is the first book. I can't wait to read the next one!


Emma is too old to believe in faerie stories. She spends her days helping her mum and taking care of her younger brother Tam. She loves her Nan and would do anything for her... Except believe in her silly made up stories! She worries that her Nan is not long for this world and refuses to wear anything but the old ratty dress her Nan made for her. She just knows there is something special about it... It makes her feel safe and loved and protected. Finding a forlorn girl started and out of her mind on the edge of the woods by her house plants the seeds of doubt in Emma's mind. Might monsters be real? What really happened to the girl to drain her of all emotion and sense? Could it really be the Banderwigh? Then the unthinkable and unbelievable happens... Tam makes her take him out to the privy and they wake up in an impossible room suspended from the ceiling in cages. Is it a nightmare? Did they just become the Banderwigh's newest victims? How will she save them? Can she ever escape a cage with no door in a room with no exit? Or will the Banderwigh feed on their sadness until they are just like the girl he cast aside? Is there hope or will they meet a grisly end?


***This series is suitable for middlegrade through adult readers who enjoy faerietales with a dash or two of horror and plenty of action, adventure, mystery and suspense with engaging characters and plenty of humor :)




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Review: Shattered

Shattered by Sarah M. Cradit
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

•••I listened to the Audible Audio Edition of this book•••


LC Kane's performance always enthralls me. This is one of my favorite audio serieses! The dark southern gothic themes should be out of place on a small Maine island but the author's eloquent writing and the narrator's expressive performance draw you so deeply into the world of this series it is impossible to doubt any facet of the characters' world. I eagerly await each new installment. I have no doubt I will be relistening to this series for years to come!



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The True Power Of Love, Hate & Doubt



This series must be listened to (or read) in order. The first *real* book is The Storm And The Darkness. This is the second book. There are ancillary books that may be listened to (or read) at any time but I suggest leaving them for later! I can't wait to listen to The Illusions Of Eventide!


Ana and Finn have found safety and love in each other's arms. Everything should be perfect. John is livid that Ana does not return his feelings and just wants her gone. He is willing to go to almost any lengths to accomplish his goal of forcing Ana away ... From the island, his brother, him. Ana is trying to reconcile her feelings and doubts along with the hurt Nicholas' abandonment has caused. Can she let herself be happy with Finn? Does she even deserve happiness with all the Darkness inside of her? Will Finn decide she is not worth the trouble like all the others? Why can't she be more like her sainted mother?


***This series is suitable for adult listeners (or readers) who enjoy dark paranormal fantasy with Southern Gothic mores and conflicted villians (who hide behind kindness) with touches of romance, family secrets and plenty of thrills, mystery, suspense and horror while still allowing for hope :)


***Not for the closed minded or feint of heart***

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Review: Mirrors and Magic

Mirrors and Magic by Katina French
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

•••I listened to the Audible Audio Edition of this book•••


Hollie Jackson brought each and every character to life vividly, but I have to say Neve was my favorite character! She grows from a scared little girl, afraid to lose her place with her adopted family, into a strong and vivacious woman at ease with herself and unafraid of anything or anyone :) The accents were truly amazing and the best I have heard so far from any voice actor on Audible! I can't wait to hear what she does next :)


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The Princess Of The Circus And The Evil Queen


This series does not need to be listened to (or read) in order as it consists of stories just based in the same world and not necessarily connected to each other via plot or storyline. This is the third book written based in this world. I suggest listening to (or reading) Bitter Cold first though (as I did) because it seems to be the first book chronilogically speaking. I can't wait to listen to more!



Neve has lived with the circus for as long as she can remember. She lost her mother when she was very young and her father died in a tragic accident when she was merely 8. That was ten long years ago and now she is afraid her time with her adopted family is almost up. Her guardian, the owner of the circus, has been avoiding her. She has a secret she is reluctant to share with anyone... They might laugh at her... She might be terrible. And, of course, the reigning Queen of the Circus hates her with a passion. Her father was the greatest Illusionist that ever lived and she is not sure that his tragic life ending accident was truly an accident. She does what she can to keep the Circus running smoothly. Feeding animals, helping people prefect their acts, any odd job she can find, even though nothing is expected of her. Will she be able to stay? Or will her gaurdian kick her out after this season? Is the Circus failing? And if so, why? Can she do anything to bring it back to its former glory? Or is it already a lost cause? What really happened to her father? Could a man that talented really kill himself accident? Can she trust Brendan? Why does the reigning Queen have her so? Will she ever live up to her father's legacy?


***This series is suitable for mature young adult through adult listeners (or readers) who enjoy steampunk fantasy fairytales with a dash of horror, romance & plenty of action and adventure :)

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Review: Blowhard

Blowhard by Katina French
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

•••I listened to the Audible Audio Edition of this book•••


Jason Davidson did a good job conveying all the different characters and their personalities but I have to say my favorite character was Elias. He was, by far, the most interesting character! Brave and loyal and unable to be cowed, he was an inspiration both to the reader and all the other protagonists in the book :)



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The Big Bad W.O.L.F Machine


This series does not need to be listened to (or read) in order as it consists of stories just based in the same world and not necessarily connected to each other via plot or storyline. This is the first book written based in this world. I suggest listening to (or reading)  Bitter Cold first though (as I did) because it seems to be the first book chronilogically speaking. I can't wait to listen to more!



The Hamm brother are trying to make a new life for themselves as pig farmers in Kansas. Far from the city, and all its distractions, getting along is more difficult than ever! Add the pressure of all living in a damp, rotting house filled with mildew, must and mice... How will they survive long enough to thrive? Deciding to build other houses seems to take a bit of pressure off. If only the sinister Otto von Rudolph wasn't pressuring them to sell their claim!
Will they ever learn to get along? Where did the twister come from in the middle of winter?  How is Otto involved? Should they give up and sell?


***This series is suitable for mature young adult through adult listeners (or readers) who enjoy steampunk fantasy fairytales with a dash of horror, romance (though there isn't really any real romance in this particular installment) & plenty of action and adventure :)







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Review: The Goat Children

The Goat Children by Jordan Elizabeth Mierek
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Chosen By The Goat Children


This is a stand alone book as far as I can tell.


I choose to believe this is a modern fantasy though I can see the argument for shared delusions. This writer has never written anything but fantasy and I use that as my justification. While dark, as a fantasy this story works, leaving the audience with a happy ending. I can't see her can't see her writing a tragedy. With that in mind, I still do not think this book would be appropriate for any but the maturest of young adult readers and strongly advise caution when sharing this book with anyone under the age of 18.


Keziah’s had a rough time of it lately. Being almost accosted by a man on the subway extoring the dangers of "Goat Children" did not help. Only she could draw the attention of a crazy drunk guy on the subway the one day she is running late and has forgotten her phone! Finding out her Oma (grandmother) is suffering from dementia is just the icing on the cake. Keziah’s solilution is to move in with her Oma and give her the care she needs to stay at home. Even if it means missing her family... Even if she has to enroll in public high school and deal with all that entails. Her Oma needs her. This is her duty. The strange comments from the drunk on the subway keep haunting her though. What or who are the Goat Children? Are they realbor pure fantasy? How can some drunk in New York and her grandmother both know of them? Can her Oma truly be as old as she has said? How could that be possible? Why does her Oma hate her father and her baby sister so much? What is the big secret noone will let her in her on? Can she actually take care of her grandmother and still finish school all on her own? Why does it have to be all up to her?


***This book is suitable for adult readers who enjoy dark matter modern fantasy with plenty of drama centered around the real sadness and tragedy of the disease dementia with a lot of mystery, suspense and thrills and a dash or two of romance :)

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Review: Legally Undead

Legally Undead by Margo Bond Collins
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

•••I listened to the Audible Audio Edition of this book•••



I LOVED the way Laurel Schroeder performed all the characters but I have to say Elle was my favorite by far! She was indomitable and unique and refused to take anything from anyone. I could hear the determination in her voice... Not to be misled or marginalized... To learn to true reality of her world and face what needed to be faced. It was inspiring and kept me rooting for her until the end! I hope she continues on with this series as I can't imagine anyone else voicing these characters near as well!



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Vampires Are Real?!


This series must be listened to (or read) in order. This is the first book. I can't wait to listen to Crazy, Stupid, Undead!


Elle has her whole life planned out ... And it is going to be amazing! She is finishing her PHd and getting married to an amazing man who is already a lawyer at a really good firm. Nothing could possibly derail her life... Until the night she comes home to find a *gasp* Vampire?! Eating her fiance Greg!!! She just gets so angry the only thing she can think is KILL... So she grabs her team letter opener and stabs him right through the heart. How are Vampires real?! Why would one want to eat her fiance? How did he even get mixed up in all of this? Before she really has time to process anything really some guys show up and marvel at the fact she has killed the Vampire. Will her life ever be the same? Why are the guys there? How did they know about the Vampire? Where did Greg's body to? He was dead right? Can she get to the bottom of this Vampire thing? Or should she pretend they don't exist like a normal person?


***This series is suitable for adult listeners (or readers) who enjoy romantic urban paranormal suspense thrillers with a lot of snark and mystery as well as a bit of intrigue and horror to spice up the action& adventure of this fun thrilling romp :)

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Review: Craze

Craze by Anne Conley
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

•••I listened to the Audible Audio Edition of this book•••


Sarah Grant performed all the characters very well, but I especially adored her portayal of Krista. I felt her pain and misgiving as well as her joy and relief. The suspense and horror were palpable and I felt fully immersed in the story. I truly hope she carries on with the series as I cannot imagine these characters voiced by anyone else :)



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Why My Boss Creeps Me...


This series must be listened to (or read) in order. This is the first book. I can't wait to listen to Wire!


Krista has always been a little creeped by her boss Mr. Lowe... She just has no idea why. Him inviting her and her nephew Tate for a private weekend at his vacation house on the river makes her feel very odd. He didn't mention inviting Tate's parents... But that was an implied invitation right? Why would he want the two of them only? Who is the gorgeous guy who always kinda flirts with her in the park at lunch?


Working late one night to finish the reports she has due leads Krista to see something she cannot unsee. She thought she was alone in the office. All she was doing was her job. Finding her boss with a naked young boy in his office while another masked man watched and recorded as he fondled the boy made ALL the misgivings and odd feelings she had ever had about him click into place. She grabs the boy and runs straight to the cops. After the interrogation by a second officer who implicates her in the crime and calls into question the validity of her claims about "such an upstanding citizen" she realizes she has to run... And disappear... Before they make her disappear for good. Will the boy be safe? Can she get safely away? Will her family be safe? Especially Tate? How is she going to survive?


Ryan has been hired to track down and turn over Krista, the sexy classy woman he has been admiring from afar in the park for over a month. Something about the case doesn't sit well with him. Above all, some unreasonable part of him feels the need to keep her safe. What has she gotten herself into? What exactly could she have stolen that was important enough to hire a private security firm to hunt her down for? Why does this job make him feel so uneasy?


This book has many comedic moments to balance the horror and terror of the subject matter. I found it very enjoyable even though it contained elements that I would normally avoid. I can't see how this book could be done any other way :) It was truly an intense nail biter right up until the very end!


***This series is suitable for adult listeners (or readers) who enjoy their romantic suspense with a great deal of horror and plenty of thrills, chills, action, mystery and romance with the requisite HEA :)


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Review: French Kiss For Hire

French Kiss For Hire by Amanda Lance
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Just A Little Kiss Between Friends ...


This series must be read in order. Those is the first book. I can't wait to read French Kiss For Hire: Episode 2!


Luc loves Chicago and living in the States. Too bad he graduated with a degree in theatre and can't seem to land an acting job. He is broke and his visa is about to expire... And he is in love with his bestfriend and roommate Ben's little sister. Not only is Serena off limits... She does not know he exists. As far as she is concerned he is just a friend. When Serena confides in Luc that her boyfriend Jeremy says she is bad at kissing he scoffs. Her crazy idea they should kiss so he can give her an informed and honest opinion... Too tempting for words. Should he give in and risk everything he cares about for one small kiss? Will he ever forgive himself if he lets her continue to doubt herself so completely? Will one kiss change their relationship? Will he hate himself if he turns her down? Or hate himself if he doesn't?


***This series is suitable for mature young adult through adult readers who enjoy contemporary romance with a bit of culture clash and a lot of introspection as well as a bromance for the ages :)


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Review: Vampire Girl

Vampire Girl by Karpov Kinrade
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Welcome To The Darkside


•••Not for the transphobic, homophobic, or closedminded •••


This series must be read in order. This is the first book. I can't wait to read the next one!


Arianna just turned 18 and has made a few decisions for her life. She has put college on hold and decided to work full time at The Roxy so she can pay off their debts and better take care of her mother. It won't set her back that far since she graduated a year early and already has 3 completed semesters of classes... Or so she thought. Until her life became something she didn't recognize. Filled with people and things that should not exist. Demons are real... And some of them are Vampires. Nothing she dreamed of or planned for even matters anymore. She MUST save her mother no matter what the cost! How could her mother make a deal with a Demon? How did she even know how? Why is she terrified of cars? Who can she trust? Why is she, a lowly human, so important to these immortal beings? Will she be able to survive in a world so unlike her own? How can she walk away from her chosen family and everything she has ever known? How can she not?


This series is peopled with very unique and vibrant characters who really bring life to the story. I was blown away by how quickly I was sucked into their world. I have found a new addiction! The LGBTQIA characters, while being supporting characters, are integral to the storyline and bring hope and reality to an otherwise fantastical world fraught with supernatural dangers and intrigues. Truly unique and merising I can't wait to get sucked in again :)


***This series is suitable for adult readers who enjoy dark modern fantasy with plenty of intrigue and quite a bit of horror along with all the mystery, action, adventure, suspense, and magic with a dash of romance :)

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Review: Heir of the Dog

Heir of the Dog by Hailey Edwards
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Fate Or Fortune?


This series must be read in order. The first book is Dog With A Bone. The second book is Dog Days Of Summer currently only located within the Nightshade Anthology. This is the third book. I can't wait to read Lie Down With Dogs!


Thierry is now partnerless and working completely on her own. She has come a long way from the trusting girl she was at graduation. Shaw and his personal betrayals saw to that. Still guilt ridden for accidentally killing her five best friends and "ruining" her mother's life. She is barely scraping by because she is paying the "support for raising a magickal child" checks to her mom as the Council ones ended when she graduated and became a Marshal. Will she ever meet her father? Will she ever stop trying to make up for her birthright and birth to her mother? If not how will she ever manage to make ends meet much less look at herself in the mirror?


*** This series is suitable fo adult readers who enjoy intrigue and mysteries in their urban fantasy action adventures with a romance chaser :)

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Review: Dog Days Of Summer

Dog Days Of Summer by Hailey Edwards
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Learning The Ropes


This series must be read in order. The first book is Dog With A Bone. This is the second book which is currently only located within the Nightshade Anthology. I can't wait to read Heir Of The Dog!


This story takes place some time after book one and show a snapshot of life as a rookie Fae Bounty Hunter In Training. It is fun and funny while showcasing the difficulty of the jobs she will have to undertake if Thierry wishes to remain in the Mortal Realm. I really don't want to give spoilers so I will just say I totally loved it and *hope* the author will write many more of these kind of stories!


***This series is suitable for adult readers who enjoy urban fantasy romances with loads of action and adventure tossed into the mix :)

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Review: Dog with a Bone

Dog with a Bone by Hailey Edwards
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

One Of A Kind


This series must be read in order. This is the first book. I can't wait to read the short story Dog Days Of Summer in the Nightshade Anthology!


Thierry is half Fae. Her father is the one and only Black Dog of the Fae Courts. Too bad he did a runner when he found out her mum was pregnant. Maybe if he had stuck around she wouldn't have accidentally killed her five human friends. Will she graduate and prove her worth? Or will she be exiled forever from the Mortal Realm?


Shaw is an Incubus with an unhealthy attachment to Thierry. He doesn't do relationships... He feeds. He is her friend and teacher... Nothing more. Will she pass graduation leaving him to be her partner and training officer? Will either of them survive if she does?


***This series is suitable for adult readers who enjoy urban fantasy romances with loads of action and adventure tossed into the mix :)

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