Book Review: The Beautiful by Renee Ahdieh (The Beautiful Quartet Book 1)

     Celine was forced to leave her home and dress-making apprenticeship in Paris after an unfortunate event. On the run, she finds herself in a convent bound for New Orleans. The church has agreed to take in the girls until they find suitable matches and are married off. Celine quickly finds herself caught up not only in the entertainment of her new home, but in La Cour des Lions and their leader, Sebastian. Still, this mysterious man and her keepers are not Celine's biggest concern. A murderer stalks the streets and it soon becomes apparent they are targeting her. 

    I was lent this book by a friend of mine and I really enjoyed it. This is a dated book, if the dress-maker description didn't give that away along with the suitable matches to be married off to. It takes place in the late 1800s, which isn't something I read a lot of simply because I am not big on women being treated as little more than property. Still it was a YA vampire book, so I was going to give it a shot.     

    The book started off with some concerns. First, of course, was the time frame. Followed closely by the fact she is in a convent. We know I don't do religion so I was concerned. But, I kept reading and it paid off. While there are some minor religious contexts this is not a down your throat Christian book. In fact, it's a morally grey male main character book. We do have a good guy to choose from too, but the morally grey's are so much more fun. 

    Celine does not fit in the tiny boxes women used to fit into and by the time we finally discover what she was running from it wasn't even a surprise. I kind of assumed from the beginning, but there were a lot of clues leading up to. I genuinely loved Celine almost as much as Sebastian. Although the woman she made the dress for was very close to being my favorite character. So much attitude and did not care what anyone thought. She was wonderful. 

    Then, of course, we have the added thrill of murders happening around town. Bodies of women who were being courted by others found drained of blood. Celine keeps showing up in the wrong places until it becomes clear that she is the killers newest target. We get to flop back and forth between perspectives in this story and it provides an added element of fun. Especially when we see through the killers thoughts but not enough is given away to know who they are. 

    This book is available on Amazon for $5.99 by clicking here. 

Book Review: Ricochet by Krista Ritchie (Addicted Book 2)

     Lily and her long-time boyfriend Loren have addictions they both struggle with. For Lily she is a sex addict while Loren is an alcoholic. While Loren is in rehab Lily must face her own addition so that they can stay together and move forward together. She must go 90 days completely celibate. The reward is the only man she has ever loved. But, addiction is hard and even self pleasure comes at a cost. 

    I was handed this book by a friend of mine with absolutely no warnings. Just said that her sister enjoyed it and she thought I would too. After reading it I realized that she knows I read waaay too much smut. If there is such a thing. Once I read the back of it I had to read the book, even if I typically avoid books that deal with addictions. I have been getting out of my comfort zone a fair bit recently and haven't been disappointed in what I've found. 

    This book jumps time periods with some frequence. Jumping between things that are happening in the present with Lily and things that happened in the past between she and Loren, primarily. The couple is extremely co-dependent and are both enablers of the other's addictions. This time apart will either tear them apart completely or let them move forward together towards a better future. That being said, the time jumping helps to tell of the couple's history without taking away from their current struggles. 

    There is addiction (obviously), porn use, and cheating depicted in this book. These are your trigger warnings if any of these things bother you. Personally, I think the book was great and I look forward to reading more by this author in the future. This book nicely sets up a tension between Lily's little sister and Lo's brother. This could go really well, if done right, and how this book went I have no doubt it will. Unfortunately, I can't go into much more detail with the book without giving things away. I hope you enjoy this book as much as I did, though. 

    I will say that you can read this as a stand alone. I have not read book 1 and did not feel like I was missing important bits. 

    This book is available on Kindle Unlimited or buy it on Amazon for $4.99 by clicking here. 

Book Review: Splintered by A. G. Howard (Splintered Series Book 1)

     Alyssa Gardner had always been a bit different. Her mother had been locked into the ward for most of her life. Ever since she was a child and her mother had taken after her with scissors. She didn't really want to hurt her daughter. In fact, she wanted to protect her from the butterfly. So, when the flowers began to talk to Alyssa she ignored it until she couldn't any longer. After-all. She was the descendant of Alice and she too was destined to fall down the rabbit hole. What she finds was more intoxicating and amazing than she could have guessed. 

    I got this book as a gift from a friend of mine years ago and it has just sat on my shelf as a beautiful trophy. Given, I'd never read the back of it to know that it was Alice in Wonderland themed. Otherwise I would have read it long before I did. Bear in mind I am still ridiculously behind on my reviews. I finished this book August 2nd, 2023. I keep a notebook filled with my read dates just for moments like this. On to the good stuff. 

    This is and isn't an Alice in Wonderland retelling. We pick up on Alice's family a few generations later. She is living a mostly normal life, even if her mother long ago went off the rocker. She visits her mother frequently, has a crush on her best friend's brother, and has favored hobbies. Normal enough life. But, when the opportunity presents itself to see if Wonderland is real she has to travel there. Even if she accidentally takes her crush with her. 

    This isn't the wonderland she read about. Chaos rains and it is up to her to set things to rights. Undo the damage done and regain her life. Can she right the wrongs without losing herself to a certain mischievous creature?

    This book...gods. There is nothing I want more than to finish this entire series. It is on my list. While the person she ends up with hits all the right feels something is off. I may be reading way too many dark romances but there is just something about that morally grey character that will melt me every time. As I mentioned a bit above when Alyssa gets to wonderland she realizes things aren't the same as in Lewis Carroll's book. Not just that that was romanticized.  

    Alyssa has to go through wonderland fixing the things Alice unintentionally broke from her sea of tears to waking a slumbering tea party. The goal is setting her family free of it's curse. Along the way she must decide who to trust. 

    This book is available on Kindle Unlimited or buy it on Amazon for $8.26 by clicking here. Personally I suggest getting a physical copy. It does make such a beautiful shelf trophy. 

Book Review: Darklands Online by David J Bushman (Darklands Online Book 4)

     After the challenges in both the real world and the game after facing the Ithkari Kurt has taken a step back from Darklands. In fact, he hadn't had a desire to rejoin the game since. But, when the Goddess decided to call him from his computer, offering the one thing he could possibly want, he had no choice but to rejoin. Upon re-entering the game he quickly found a bounty placed on his head. Can Kurt and his friends achieve the Goddess' goals so Kurt can be reunited with the one lost?

    I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review. I need to start by saying this book CANNOT be read as a stand-alone. You HAVE to read the others first. That being said, they are all on Kindle Unlimited and beyond worth the read. Personally, I have read the audiobooks each time and they are amazing. I tried to be vague in my above summary in case there were newbie's to this book. Anything beyond this point is likely to include spoilers about books 1-3. Not intentional, it's just going to happen. Feel free to check out thoughts on those books with links at the bottom. 

    This book picks up basically after Greg's death. Kurt is mourning the loss, as can be expected. He doesn't have any intention of going back to the place where he last seen his brother, not even thinking of the friends he had made there. It just wasn't a priority. When he is offered the chance to see his brother again he will take it no matter how remote the possibility actually is. Once back into the game while trying to be up with his friends Kurt finds a bounty on his head. With a revenant intent on killing him, programmers pulling out all the stops to contain him, and gamers also looking to collect on his bounty it is only a matter of time before he dies. But, the prize at the end is worth it, if he can survive. 

    We have most of our favorite characters from the other books in this one as well as a few new additions. As always, I loved the books and can't wait for literally anything else this author publishes. There is action, adventure, the tidbits of romance, and of course loss. Kurt is a far cry from the noob he once was to this game, but the challenges never stop. I can't wait to find out what will happen next with the ending we got here. Yup, as always it was a cliffhanger of the best kind. 

    This book is available on Kindle Unlimited or buy it on Amazon for $4.99 by clicking here. 

Books by this author: 

Darklands Online Book 1

Darklands Online Book 2

Darklands Online Book 3

The Guy Who Accidentally Started the Apocalypse 

Book Review: The Haunting of Gordon's Lake by Danny Gunn (Van Diemen's Valley Book 1)

     Brad is forced to spend the last weeks of summer with his aunt and uncle, but he is promised lots of fun. Crickets, swimming, and barbeque. While his cousin doesn't initially seem very interested in hanging out, the friends he slowly begins to make warn of ghosts in the area. He doesn't believe it at first, but he may just lose his life the same way a group of kids did years ago if he isn't careful. Will he join the eternal playground or go home with his family at the end of summer?

    I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review. This is a middle grade horror novel that is well done. Just in case you can't handle child death you might want to be leery of this one. A group of teenage kids die in this book. It doesn't go into a lot of detail about that and it is something that happened years before the book begins, but it is mentioned throughout multiple times. 

    We start by following a young boy as his parents drop him off with his aunt and uncle while they have to travel. Everything seems normal about them, including a surly older cousin, and the cabin they go to seems nice enough. The longer he is there, however, the more weird things begin to happen. While his aunt and uncle assure him that his cousin was only teasing with her warning of ghosts in the area, some things aren't adding up. Following along as Brad decides who is real and who is a ghost out of each he encounters. 

    The truth behind who is a ghost was a bit obvious to me, but it didn't take away from the story. Again, this is a middle grade horror. Still, it is well written and engaging. 

    This book is available on Kindle Unlimited or buy it on Amazon for $3.99 by clicking here. 

Book Review: Civil: Revolution in Turn by Frank Visone

     Jack Miller is an average man who wants nothing more than to protect his family. After joining a local militia, he learns more about how to protect his family. Now that China-men have taken the opportunity to land on their shores in an attempt to take over the country Jack will protect his family and land through any means possible. Standing toe to toe with trained military men as they fight to protect what matters most will Jack be able to save his home, or will he lose his life along with everything he loves?

    I received a physical copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review. This book was a bit of a slow start for me, but once it got exciting it got VERY exciting. It was well written, and I completely enjoyed it. No trigger warnings that I can think of to warn people about. Well...unless you get butt hurt over putting down Trump and are for having guns removed from the general population. Then you should probably not read this. You'll be really mad. Course I should hope I don't have those on my page anyways...(The no gun people. Don't care one way or the other about the trump people. Politics doesn't have a place here.)

    Anyways, we follow Jack as he tries his level best to protect his family, home, and neighbors. When a foreign military breaches homeland shores he is on the front-line to protect it. Armed with just the guns he owns he soon amasses the foreign weapons as well as he takes them down. No, he isn't perfect. He isn't Rambo. He is just a regular guy doing whatever it takes, no matter how afraid he is. We see him leave his family time and again in an effort to keep them safe. Even when he is home, he is doing everything he can to help his neighbors.     

    Be it threats from home or threats from outside the challenges are met again and again. While there are plenty of casualties it is worth it in the end. Once the threats are over and life goes as close as back to normal as possible the next threat comes from the government. However, that is another fight no one is willing to back down from. Can't say I blame them. 

    This book is page after page of fights, threats, and willpower. Worst part is it is a possible threat. I'm not saying the Chinese are going to attack us or that the government would make any headway with taking away the general public's weapons. But it is a matter of time before someone somewhere decides to attack on American soil. 

    This book is available on Kindle Unlimited or buy it on Amazon for $4.99 by clicking here. 

Book Review: The Queen of Reckoning by N. C. Hayes (Redfern Legacy Book 2)

     After risking everything to find a teacher to help with her volatile magic Shaye's troubles are far from over. Between a looming wedding, others opinions of her and her families past, and now mysterious visions she may just lose herself. In fact, the more she deals with the person in her visions the more she learns that he was far from the person he was made out to be. Can one secret have so completely shaped her entire past?

    I received a request from this author to read this book after having already read it. She sent me book one and I enjoyed it, but when I finished I lent it to a co-worker, Ms. Deb, who enjoyed it so much she bought book 2. After she was finished with book 2 she gave it to me. So these are books I have the physical copies of. I want to start by saying they are gorgeous and I love having them on my shelves. 

    Book 2 picks up directly after book 1 ends and this is not a book that you can read as a stand-alone. I tried to be as vague as possible with the above so if you haven't read book 1 yet you can go check it out first without a lot of spoilers. 

    Just like in book one this book has a very YA Fantasy feel. Yes, the characters are of age, but there is magic and very innocent scenes. I'm not saying there isn't activity. There is plenty and there is even some possible trigger warnings. I read this book while I was pregnant and it was a lot for emotions at points because of a miscarriage and subsequent depression. If that is something you can't handle, even in literature, this is your warning. 

    I am not by any stretch of the imagination trying to put you off this book. I fully enjoyed book 1, as you will see in by review, and I enjoyed this one as well. I just try to give disclaimers as some people have certain triggers they go to lengths to avoid. The characters are still just as amazing as they were in book one. The same characters have continued on to this one, although character relationships have changed a bit, in the best possible way. 

    We still have the loveable cat of Skye's and her teacher's snake, in case you were wondering. There is also attempted progress made on reclaiming the throne and castle that the mortals currently occupy. That is something that made great progress and I look forward to what will happen next there. I read this book rather quickly and I look forward to reading more from this author in the future. Although, we will need to wait for the next instance in this series as there are only the two books at this time.

    This book is available on Amazon for $2.89 by clicking here. 

Books by this author: 

The Wayward Prince (Redfern Legacy Book 1)

Book Review: An Angel and a One Armed Man by B. D. Lawrence (The One Armed Detective Series Book 1)

     Lefty has been a PI of sorts since he left the department, but he wasn't really looking for a case. When a beautiful woman approached him at the bar and wanted to dance with him he didn't suspect her ulterior motive until it was too late. While talking she let him know that her niece was missing and she'd like to hire him to find her. With Angel's picture safely in hand Lefty begins tracking down known sources to find the missing girl. Caught between two human trafficking operations Lefty may not be able to make it out of this one with his clients life, let alone his own. 

    I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review. When I read this book I didn't know that it was book 2 in a series. It seems that it can be read as a stand-alone, though, as I haven't read book one and have no idea what it may have been about. 

    The main character in this book is skeptical of everyone, but it seems he has plenty of reasons to feel that way. From the woman who just wanted him to talk to her (although there is plenty of opportunity for more there) to the mobsters who do want the meddlesome ex officer dead. Although he comes off as gruff Lefty is a bit of a softie as we see as the story goes on. I don't know how he was in the other books, but that is what I got the impression of with him. 

    I do want to give the disclaimer that although the book is good and interesting there is human trafficking, prostitution, and drug use in the book. That is just a head's up for anyone who can't handle reading about those things for one reason or another. That being said, the book holds the readers interest from the beginning as we try to figure out just who has Angel and what their intentions with her are. The author leaves plenty of room for interpretation of that until they want you to know the truth. 

    This book is available on Kindle Unlimited or buy it on Amazon for $2.99 by clicking here. 

Book Review: In Shadows Lie by T. Emiller (In Shadows Lie Book 1)

     Liana worked hard in her video game testing job, and they were just about to launch a new product. When two new men were added onto her team, she didn't think much of it, no matter how attractive they were. But visions and dreams have begun to plague her starring these two. When one carts her away at the game launch she learns that her past is a lie and must uncover who she is now. 

    I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review. To be honest by the time I started reading this book I had long since forgotten the blurb. So, I went into this book blind. With the set up from the beginning I honestly thought that this was going to be a smut book. Possibly even a multiple male smut, which isn't something I read. Although smut I never complain about. I won't say I was disappointed to discover it was a fantasy book, they have their own charms. 

    That being said, while the characters in this book are all adults the book reads similarly to a Young Adult Fantasy. There is a special main character, a very innocent budding love interest, betrayal, and magic. All the best things in a YA fantasy. The only deviation from the normal is that this is adults. Still, I am never against a good YA to sink my teeth into and I haven't read any in a while, so I was pleasantly surprised. 

    Watching Liana develop as we go through the story I half wondered who she would choose as her memories were unlocked. The options were definitely left open, and even with how things were left there may be some wiggle room in the future. The book ends on a bit of a cliffhanger and reminds me a bit of Cassandra Clare's. Decent read and I do have book 2 for this, so you will be seeing another from this author at some point. 

    This book is available on Amazon for $4.99 by clicking here. 

Book Review: The Clattering by Joan Wendland

     With no memory of who you are or how you arrive you walk up to a group at a table in a bar. They tell you that people only come to a bar for two things to drink or for information and ask what you are there for. After a moment you hear yourself speaking, filling them in on your past and asking them to band together to travel on a quest. Suddenly, you remember these details about yourself and your past. As you travel every once in a while you hear a clattering before anything, or nothing at all, happens. What could this be and what could this mean for yourself and your newfound crew?

    I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review. I say book, but honestly it is barely countable as a Novella. It is tiny. In fact, most of what I said above is most of the book. But, the author's blurb gave away more than I wanted to. In fact, it basically gave away the only mystery the book had it in. So, I am leaving it out. You'll probably still be able to guess what the clattering is, but maybe not. 

    What little of a book there is to this it was decently written and the characters weren't bad. If there was more meat to the story it would have been more enjoyable. Instead, it felt a bit rushed and condensed. Not a bad thing if you are going for a short story, but for an actual book or even Novella it needs to be longer. Again, I am not saying I didn't like the story. It was good and I love D&D as much as the next girl, and LitRPGs are among my favorite. 

    This book is available on Kindle Unlimited or buy it on Amazon for $2.99 by clicking here. 

Book Review: The Violins Played Before Junstan by Lou Kemp

     Celwyn hasn't cared about anyone since the lost of his great love, but some people have a way of worming their way into your heart. He is about to find out just how much he was missing and how much he now has to lose. As he picks up one after another in his band of misfits he knows he will do whatever he can to protect them from both the vampires that took his last and a deity that is able to possess different people. 

    I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review. Once I got into this book I really enjoyed it. It was a bit of a slow start for me, although it does have action sections from the first page. I didn't truly become interested in the story until after they had left the ship. Given, this isn't very far into the book. 

    We begin the story with Celwyn and follow him as he is conscripted to track down and capture an automaton. As plans change we slowly start to see a softer side to the prickly magician, including a doting on orphaned children. Although there are lots of characters within the book that all play their own parts, my favorite was the crow. You'll find out all about the little guy while you read. 

    That being said, the other characters aren't without merits of their own. From the automaton who emotes like a human to the magician himself who can conjure images and music from thin air and even to a young strong-willed woman whose Aunt was intent on marrying her off to someone. Each draws the reader in in their own way. I particularly like the fact that although the book is set in a steampunk version of Victorian England there is no qualms with the female character speaking her mind and thinking what a woman should and shouldn't do is entirely not her problem. 

    I will warn you. Anyone who has a problem with child deaths may want to steer clear. There is a couple rather vivid scenes involving child murder and torture. 

    This book is available on Amazon for $4.99 by clicking here. 

Book Review: Buymort: Bull Market Mayhem by Damien Hanson (Shopocalypse Book 5)

     With the fall of Kraken Silken Sands has risen through the ranks of the multiverse. Darth conglomerate is plummeting, and things seem to FINALLY be going well for Tyson. Yet, appearances may not be what they seem. The Church has named Tyson their hero, giving him the honor of fighting the sleem within Storage and on the newly to-be-inducted BuyMort planet. All that is at risk is the entirety of the Multiverse. The sleem will devour everything if they are allowed to add these newest additions to their collective. Silken Sands is all that stands in the face of this foe. Will they fall or gain more than they ever have before?

    I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review. If you have read any of my other BuyMort reviews, you know by now that I LOVE Tyson and everything to do with the BuyMort books. Even if I didn't get these books from the author, I would be reading them. I am hooked and will not be stopping this series until it is completely finished. Not that I am in a rush for that to happen. I genuinely love these characters. 

    Tyson continues to mature while still keeping his sense of humor and desire to rid the multiverse of BuyMort completely. His enemies have remained the same, but the threats against him continue to increase. Not only are they becoming more plentiful they are also growing in power. These new sleem are not only numerous but are much more powerful than any of the creatures they have dealt with before. Silken Sands will have to give it all they have if they are to escape with their lives, let alone complete their mission. 

    We have not lost any of our favorite characters and yes, my absolute favorite, Phyllis, is still alive and well. In fact, she is better than ever. I can't wait to find out what happens with this absolute legacy. We also continue to have Molls, Reyna, and even Tower from the other books. Tower begins to play a larger part in the story while the relationship between one of our favorite couples becomes strained. I truly hope they are able to overcome it in the next book! I won't give away which couple or why. You'll get to figure that out for yourself. 

    As always, this is my disclaimer that this book cannot be read as a standalone. Don't worry, though. The ENTIRE series is available on Kindle Unlimited. Or, go all in and purchase the books to keep forever. Personally, I am considering getting printed copies to decorate my shelves at home at some point. 

    This book is available on Kindle Unlimited or buy it on Amazon for $5.99 by clicking here. 

Books by this Author: 

Grand Opening (Shopocalypse Book 1)

Smart Shopper (Shopocalypse Book 2)

Rise of Windowpuncher (Shopocalypse Book 3)

30,000 Leagues (Shopocalypse Book 4) 

Book Review: Photograph and the Atomic Juggernaut by Michael Blatherwick (The Photograph Chronicles Book 1)

     Dana has always tried to have a normal enough life. Sure, her father had drawn up plans for Laverne and Shirley, her rocket powered skates. And her mother died young while her grandfather gave her an edict on his deathbed to bury the atomic juggernaut he had built in the military. Still...she was normal enough. But, her grandfather wasn't the only one on that long ago team, nor is she the only one looking for his legacy. With highly paid killers that go only by numbers on her tail and only the help of an electrician in training named Nick will they be able to destroy the juggernaut or even escape with their lives? 

    I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review. While Dana is constantly trying to make her life less exciting because of how her parents and grandfather died Nick would give anything to get him and his father out of the life they lead. His dad has struggled for years, but has never let it get him down. Meanwhile, Nick is intent on going to college while working to make a better life. 

    When he captures a picture of a girl on rocket skates he feels the spark to get to know her better. From roller derby to her impulsiveness as she tries to right the wrongs of her predecessors Dana is far from ordinary. In fact, she just might be the thing he needs to get out of his ruts. There are very small romance aspects of this book, although that is far from the point of it. We see relationships mostly broken in this, although there is the possibility for more in the coming series, based on how this book ended. Mostly, the story is non-stop action. 

    We come to a good stop in this book with the initial threat handled, however, the story is far from over. There is a bit of a cliffhanger that gives you just enough interest to want to continue one without feeling like the first book was unfinished. All in all I don't have any complaints about this book.   

    This book is available on Amazon for $5.99 by clicking here. 

Book Review: Becoming Insane by Leyla Cardena

     When the body of a junkie is left outside one man's apartment he and his previous best friend reconnect, only to slowly descend into madness together. The trigger may be a long buried shared memory from their childhoods that has come for them once more. Will the pair be able to regain their sanity and return to a normal life, or will their newfound afflictions bring them into a permanent institutionalized state?

    I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review. I found this book a bit hard to get into. We jump around between the two characters as they complain about their average lives not going how they want, without ever actually doing anything to change them. Then, the madness slowly starts to overtake them with one insane instance after another to the point the reader doesn't know what is going on half the time. 

    Don't get me wrong, the insane bits held some excitement, although all the details on what actually happened to the pair I am still unclear on after actually finishing the book. Even though the book wasn't my favorite that I have read recently I didn't walk away from it with any feelings of distaste. My favorite part was where the agent and psychologist were tracking down the man. I'd say more about him, but considering that was the best bit, I'll leave it out. 

    This book is available on Kindle Unlimited or buy it on Amazon for $3.97 by clicking here. 

Book Review: Dead Sound by Anise Eden

     Neve has worked in the psych ward at a hospital for years. She is a psychotherapist and likes to think that she is good at her job. Still, when she is stabbed by a patient at work it becomes hard to face coming back. Determined to battle these demons on her own she comes back to work as soon as she is able. Upon returning she finds her favorite patient, Amos, has returned to the floor. He has a new delusion about her being the only one that could stop the apocalypse. The truth soon leads her down a spiraling path that sometimes has her questioning her own sanity, all while fighting off the advances of her awful ex. 

    I received a copy of this eBook from the author in exchange for an honest review. This book is great. Normally I prefer books I choose over my review requests, but I honestly forgot that this was a review request. It was written well and very engaging. I will say that the author does tend to explain Neve's best friend's past in Ireland a bit too often. Telling the details of his parents once would have been sufficient. We didn't necessarily need it repeated another few times. 

    Other than this I really enjoyed the book. Neve reacts about how you would expect anyone to act in the situations she is put into. Cornelius is basically perfect, even with his physical limitations. The book plays out making you go through each of the feelings that Neve is going through, which keeps the truth hidden until the author wants you to know about it. I will say that the book ends in a way that solves the immediate issues, but the story is far from over. Thrilling and suspenseful to the last page. 

    This book is available on Amazon for $5.99 by clicking here. 

Book Review: Journeys by Jeanne Roland (The Archers of Saint Sebastians Book 1)

 

    It is the 14th century and the longbow is renowned. The archers of Saint Sebastians are known far and wide, those who make through trials will be narrowed down until one becomes the Prince's new guardsman. One men are allowed to participate in the trials which take place over 2 years, but when Marieke's father is killed she seeks refuge under the guise of a young boy in these sacred halls. While squiring for a Journeyman Marieke discovers more about her father and current threats. If only she isn't caught for being a girl first. 

    I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review. This book is very slow to pick up and it took me a long time to actually become invested in the story. I would "reward" myself for completing a chapter by reading something I was enjoying more. Still, I persisted, and I am glad I did. Once you actually get into the story it is very interesting. A bit bogged down in details, but it works in it's own way.     

    While it took me a while to become interested in the book, once I did I would read only on this instead of deviating to other books, as I am prone to do while reading. This book gives serious Eon vibes, without the disclosure at the end of that book. Still, I loved Eon, and I eventually grew to enjoy this book as well. To the point when it ended I considered immediately grabbing book 2. Afterall, this book ends on a cliff-hanger and I needed to know if they survived. I say they so you don't know who until you read it for yourself!

    Even though Marieke is under the guise of a boy, that doesn't mean her feelings and attraction has magically changed. Instead, she gets to ogle these men as they train, even if she rarely gets to enjoy it as she is trying to hide her own identity. The internal conversations where she attempts to battle these feelings is amusing, as well as the dangers faced both within the grounds and outside of them. Marieke does gain one enemy of sorts, but I don't know about him. I don't think he is as bad as he is portrayed and I kind of wants to see her end up with him instead of with anyone else. If this series were to go down the romance aspect it seems like it will lead into. 

    This book is available on Kindle Unlimited or buy it on Amazon for $2.99 by clicking here. 

Book Review: The Confrontation by KM Ryan (What If Book 4)

     Haley has hated Seth since the moment he first came into the bar. But since he is her best friend's friend there was really no avoiding him. Not at work and not outside of it. He is immature and a playboy, but when one Friendsgiving ends in a sexy interlude, he quickly becomes her naughty indulgence. At least on Thanksgiving. Still, he is not boyfriend material, and she needs to cut her losses sooner rather than later. As sexy as Seth is, their Friendsgiving interludes cannot continue. 

    I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review. I thoroughly enjoy books by this author. Nothing like a little contemporary romance to spice up your reading pile! This is book 4 in a series, and while you CAN read them out of order, I don't suggest it. Characters from the other books play a part in this one, so it would ruin their stories to know the ends before you begin. 

    I have been WAITING for Haley and Seth's story. It was bound to happen eventually. They were at each other's throat's way too often in the last book for them not to end up at least sleeping together. All that tension HAD to end up either in the bedroom or with one of them killing the other. My money was on Haley, even with Seth's background. 

    Still, it was fun getting to know their story and I loved every second of it. As always, I look forward to more from this author in the future. If you haven't already, check out some of her other books I've read below!

    This book is available on Kindle Unlimited or buy it on Amazon for $4.99 by clicking here. 

Books by this Author:

The Reunion (What If Book 1)

The Meeting (What If Book 2)

The Encounter (What If Book 3)

Save Me (In the Moment Book 1)

Book Review: A Healer’s Gift by Tao Wong (Adventures on Brad Book 1)

     Daniel was gifted by the Gods at birth with the ability to heal even the most grievous wounds. However, this gift is not without great cost. Each time he heals he looses an equal amount of memories and experiences. While his gift is not something he advertises, he does use it when the need arises. With his goal of becoming an Adventurer Daniel travels to a nearby town, leaving his previous mining experience to go on Dungeon runs. Whether he succeeds or not will depend on the friends and decisions he makes along the way. 

    I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review. This book is a LitRPG where the main character lives the RPG without thinking it is a game. He levels, has gifts that have an exchange rate, and can obtain new skills. The characters within the book range in a wide variety of species, but they all work well together with their own skillsets. 

    This book is a nice change of pace from my normal readings. Normally I read the books that the character is entering into a VR world that is completely immersive versus this is their daily life. The change of pace was nice, and the book had a lot to offer. The dungeon runs and friendships along the way rounded out the book nicely.     

    The book does end on a bit of a cliff-hanger after the healing, but I don't want to spoil anything. It was an enjoyable read and I look forward to more in the future. 

    This book is available on Amazon for FREE by clicking here. 

Book Review: An Amorous Dance by Jessica Lauryn (Rabourn Theater Book 2)

     Hannah Rabourn has tried her best to continue her father's theater. While he never believed in her acting abilities, he entrusted the care of the theater to her. She would not let him down, no matter how much her previous love would like to see her fail. Working so close with the man who had broken her heart years ago had been hard, but she would never give the man the privilege of knowing he got to her. But, when there are threats against herself she finds an ally in the most unlikely of places. 

    I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review. I was hesitant when I first started this series, but with the completion of Book 1 I began to come around. I wasn't sure what to expect when starting this series, but a fun mystery with a large helping of romance wasn't it. I am not in the least bit disappointed by that fact, mind you. 

    Book 2 picks up shortly after book 1. While you could read these books as a stand-alone and still know what is going on, I personally suggest starting with book 1. Instead of Alicia we have moved on to her cousin, Hannah, who played a role in book 1 as well. While the threat to Alicia was removed, temporarily, there is now a threat to both the theater and to Hannah. Slowly the pieces begin to tie themselves together as to who is behind the threats and violent attempts. 

    Can she truly trust those around her? Who is the most likely to turn? These are questions Hannah must ask herself as she goes along. But, her ex deciding they needed to run the play her father was killed during may skew her focus. After-all, she was once the leading role along-side Evan Masters before her father took her out of stage-life and the play had not been ran since. Can she focus long enough to find out who is behind these attacks or will the seemingly long burnt flame rekindle only to be extinguished with her life?

    As I mentioned, a lot of mystery with a big helping of romance. You will be turning pages and waiting to see what will happen to this newest couple. 

    This book is available on Amazon for $2.99 by clicking here. 

Books by this author: 

A Passionate Play (Rabourn Theater Book 1)

Book Review: Crimson Sands by J. Arthur Klein

 

    James had been waiting on Crimson Sands to come out since he first heard of it. A new VR experience that was taken to the next level by new VR pods? When he learned that the local arcade would be adding a few of the pods in preparation for the new games launch, James was quick to reserve a spot. From the moment he entered the game he could tell this would be an experience unlike any other. No information about the game was released prior to launch, yet everyone couldn't wait to start the game, even with the bugs. How far into the game can James and his new friend go? 

    I received a copy of this eBook from the author in exchange for an honest review. As an avid gamer I love VR and LitRPG books. I have a soft spot for them and very rarely turn down the opportunity to read one. This book is one that I personally would LOVE to read the next in the series of. 

    While there are in-game threats, this isn't a 'God in the Machine' mechanic that we see so often in these books. The gaming experience is fun and amazing while allowing the reader to get to know the characters. Then we get a little bit of real-world inside the pages as well, which is where the real threat lies. I will be completely straight-forward with you and let you know that this book does end on a cliff-hanger. BUT, trust me when I say that this is one book you just want the next one for, even if it does leave you hanging. 

    The characters are amazing. The world building is amazing. You get just enough information to feel like the pods are possible while enjoying the SciFi of it all. The book is well written and I look forward to more from this author in the future! 

    This book is available on Kindle Unlimited or buy it on Amazon for $4.99 by clicking here. 

Book Review: Second Chance Santa by Calia Wilde (Destroyers MC)

     While visiting the hospital Digger ran into the last person he expected, Marie, the love of his life. Although things went bad before, it seems there was some miscommunication, and he is more than willing to spend more time with her. This time, things will be different. 

    I received a copy of this novella from the author in exchange for an honest review. I started this story and finished it in the same day. I know I have raved over Calia's books in the past, but this really is an adorable little story to sink your teeth into. I will say that it is helpful to have read her other Destroyers MC books, because otherwise it is just about a biker named Digger who seems contrite for how things ended previously. 

    With the background we know Digger and how he is from the other books. He deserved his own little happily ever after and I'm glad he got it. Even if their issues were resolved quickly and without fanfare. 

    I don't want to say much more about it without giving away all the details, so I will leave it at if you enjoy the Destroyers, add this one as well. 

    This book is available on Amazon for $1.99 by clicking here. 

Books by this Author: 

Down in Blood (Destroyers MC Book 1)

Dreams in the Dark (Destroyers MC Book 2)

Destroyers Soul (Destroyers MC Book 3)

Truth as Poison (Destroyers MC Book 4)

Lights Camera Mayhem (Destroyers MC Book 5)

Book Review: The Cinnabar Medallion by Lizet Algras

     With the arrival of a comet Nalia knows it is time to begin her quest to find a Cinnabar mine and a someone to help her make the elixir of life. She and a group of her clan begin their travels, meeting up with long lost family along the way. When Nalia finally finds the mine she and her clan have lost much, but will they be able to gain the cinnabar to create the elixir or will they end up being swayed to create fake gold. Or, worse yet, the inquisition could find them and they would lose their lives. 

    I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review. This book is set during the Spanish Inquisition and takes place with a band of gypsies. Not the safest place during that time. Still, we see the inner workings of this clan as they break rules by traveling during their quest. Beyond the constant threat of the Inquisition they have other things to worry about. They must find an alchemist to work with them to create the elixir, but finding one they trust will prove difficult. Then, there is the fact that many in the clan believe that they should create fools gold to become rich from the cinnabar. 

    Each threat is balanced perfectly in this book and you are invested to see if Nalia completes her quest as well as who she ends up with. There is quite a bit of implied sex in this book and it is discussed rather regularly, but not in detail. I only mention this as some people have problems with the very descriptive sexual scenes that I personally love in smut. In this case, it worked. But, if you don't like a lot of overly in depth scenes, this book glosses over the details. 

    I will say that book 1 ends on a cliffhanger. There has been enough given away, through Nalia's dreams that you are confident in how any additional books that may come later will play out, but it does not tell you how it comes to pass. Perhaps the author will tell us more about it, perhaps she will leave it up for interpretation. We will find out. 

    All in all this was a good book, especially for a period piece. This book is available on Amazon for $0.99 by clicking here. 

Book Review: A Passionate Play by Jessica Lauryn (Rabourn Theater Book 1)

     Alicia comes awake in a strange house with no memory of who she is or her past. Her captive is a tall, sexy, man who seems to know her well and keeps calling her 'Alicia'. He insists he isn't keeping her captive, that he is a friend and is only trying to keep her safe. As her memories come back in small, disjointed segments, could 'Nick' be the threat she keeps dreaming of? 

    I received a copy of this eBook from the author in exchange for an honest review. This is an exciting thriller that makes you wonder at some points if it is paranormal or natural. The author does an amazing job of casting just enough in shadow for you to wonder what is real and what is imagined. 

    I loved this book and the characters within. We get a healthy dose of romance and betrayal with our thriller, which is always fun. It is great to see the differences and similarities between Alicia's personality during her memory loss and what we know of her from before. Then there is Nick, who even when you don't trust him or are mad at him, you can't help but root for. 

    While this book is part of a series about Rabourn Theater this book has very little to do with the theater itself. Alicia is an actress there, and her cousin runs the place. This isn't a bad thing. As I said, this book is amazing and I truly enjoyed it. 

    This book is available on Amazon for $2.99 by clicking here. 

Book Review: Keystone by Sadie Mason (The Made Book 1)

     Oriana knows the Others are coming. They have been outside her window every night and she knows she can't fall asleep or they could get her. Others are dangerous, but usually only if you enter into a deal with one. In her case, she didn't. When she wakes up in a tunnel surrounded by bodies she knows she has to get out and make her way home. Her family has to have noticed she is gone by now. When she gets out and goes to the police she can tell them everything about the abduction, but nothing about who she is or where she lives. Now her only option is to trust an Other to try regaining her memories and her life. There is more at stake than just abduction, this time, though. 

    I received a copy of this eBook from the author in exchange for an honest review. This is kind of a Young Adult Fantasy as it has the fantasy aspect of Others. Others can be fae, demons, dwarves, or most anything else. The main character in the book, Oriana is technically an adult, but only just. There is a romance aspect to the story, but it is very PG. 

    From the start of the book to the very last page you are looking forward to what is going to happen next. Does Oriana get taken? Does she escape? Does she remember her past? Does she trust the Other she has to go to? Will she go back to her family? The author does an amazing job of keeping you on the edge of your seat and engaged in the story. I enjoyed every second of it, even if it did end on a bit of a cliffhanger. 

    The characters are amazing in this book. Everyone had an important role to play and you didn't see certain aspects until the author wanted you to. I don't want to say too much here about the characters and give one fun aspect away for the readers. 

    This book is available on Kindle Unlimited or buy it on Amazon for $2.99 by clicking here. 

Book Review: The Fourth Charm by Robert Howell (Dransmit Children Mysteries Book 2)

     After their adventures following the death of their grandmother the Dransmit cousins now need to focus on their education and prepare for the things to come. However, when witches' familiars begin to disappear, it is suggested to the council that they be allowed to solve this mystery. With an impressive track record they are given access, but only if they do everything possible to stay safe during their investigation. Could three new witches be better problem solvers than the entire witch council? 

    I received a copy of this eBook from the author in exchange for an honest review. Book 2 picks up shortly after book 1 ended. We see how the children's education of all things witchy is progressing as well as how they are dealing with the things that happened. Then, when they are informed of witches familiars going missing they decide the help the council and those affected by looking into the mystery. Along the way we receive a prophecy stating that the children must harness the fourth charm in order to complete their mission. The only problem is the fourth charm has not been mentioned in any of the books in the Dransmit house. 

    In this book, instead of staying in the present, the author jumps back in time at certain points to tell the story of an event that happened in detail versus just someone talking about what took place. I think it provided us a better insight without taking away from the ongoing story. We seen the characters grow beyond what took place in book one. The book was completely enjoyable, but do keep in mind this is a middle grade mystery. There are very innocent budding romance aspects, children, and mild threats. Although the risk to the characters lives were very real I just mean that the descriptions were not gory at any point. 

    We did not lose the supernatural aspects seen in book one, although instead of the dragon we had a djinn. No complaints on my end about this story. 

    This book is available on Kindle Unlimited or purchase it on Amazon for $2.99 by clicking here. 

Books by this author:

Third Times the Charm (Dransmit Children Mysteries Book 1)

Book Review: Connor's Gambit by Z Gottlieb

     Brad had the perfect life. He was married to his best friend, Shiny, and he and his brother in law, Connor, ran a business together. He and Shiny had their own home where they were raising their son. Everything was great, but when he sees a spaceship during a fishing trip he soon learns that his wife and in laws are hiding a lot about their past. This secret will lead to a new adventure among the stars where Brad may be able to unlock his full potential, or he may show that Earth isn't yet ready to join those among the stars. Between being thrust into a war between two factions and his new unsteadiness in the spaceship Brad would rather just be back home with his family. But first, he has to keep Earth safe. 

    I received a copy of this eBook from the author in exchange for an honest review. This book follows Brad as he learns of aliens, that his family are aliens, and of the threat they are now facing. With this new threat he decides to travel with his family to the stars where he begins learning to be a pilot and more about the warring factions. Brad's new outlook into an old war provides helpful insights while sometimes getting he and his companions into trouble. Not only this, but Brad must contend with his fear of another species he encounters and must work closely with. 

    From the beginning the story is packed with action. There are fights and simulations constantly, which makes for a great read. The characters work well together and are well rounded. You get both the bad and the good side of people as you go through the story and watch the characters grow. I really enjoyed how playing videogames contributed to the learning experience for individuals. 

    All in all it was a fun book and I completely enjoyed it. This book is available on Amazon for .99 by clicking here. 

Book Review: A Bleak Remedy by DS LaLonde

     After the successful capture of a live vampire in South America a team of scientists are intent to learn just how to use this genetic makeup to cure diseases, preferably without turning people into vampires in the process.  Still, nothing is without risk, and this institution takes some of these risks both knowingly and unknowingly to make a healthier tomorrow. Will any human results have adverse side affects, such as an insatiable thirst for human blood? 

    I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review. In this book we jump perspectives from the vampires in question to those who work in the facility. We are able to see the gradual changes in the humans with the added DNA as well as how others are dealing with everything. While the reader is never kept in the dark as to who is doing what you don't miss the mystery of who did it, because you're curious where the story will end up. 

    I enjoyed this book, although I will admit to skimming on some one the science parts since it didn't hold my interest. I really liked the fact that we get to see from multiple points of view so we aren't just learning about things happening around one person. It worked well for the storyline, allowing the reader to be more invested in the story. There is a lot of blood and some gory scenes in the book, but you won't hear a complaint from me about that. I will say that the book took a while for me to get invested in. When the characters were just learning about the vampire and being careful it was slow and didn't hold a lot of interesting points for me. Once human testing began was where it became a great read. 

    There is also the fact of the original vampires in the story. Unlike a lot of the other working theories of vampires that abound this was just a bat-like creature that was born from regular humans. They have great healing abilities and, of course, drink blood. The humans affected by their DNA are closer to the vampires we are used to, in varying degrees of violence. 

    This book is available on Kindle Unlimited or buy it on Amazon for $4.99 by clicking here. 

Book Review: Arianna and the Spirit of the Storm by Robbie Ballew and Stephen Landry (Temple of the Storm Book 1)

     The kingdom has been plagued by a curse as long as Arianna has been alive. In fact, it started when she was born, although it wasn't her fault. The night she was born was also the last day it rained. Since then there has been a drought that her father has been intent on fixing. He just needs to find the spirits of the storm in order to break the curse. But, when her father is murdered Arianna takes it upon herself to continue his journey and save her world with the help of her best friend and some unlikely friends upon the way. 

    I received a copy of this eBook from the author in exchange for an honest review. I know I have said it a lot recently, but I am so sorry I am so behind on reviews. I am working on it, and again, I am sorry for how long the authors have been waiting on their reviews. 

    This is a YA fantasy adventure book that I completely enjoyed. While I don't remember Arianna's exact age, she is late teens to early adulthood. She and her best friend team up to leave their village and break a curse that has been going on her entire life. During their journey she finds out more about her father than she ever before knew. While he was one person with her there was so much more to him that she never got to experience, except through his friends and journals. 

    While a quest to find 3 artifacts housing the spirits is difficult enough, Arianna and her friends must also contend with some knights that wish to do away with her, as the drought is a very lucrative business for the mine owners. Who they can trust is constantly being called into questions, and the voice of her powers is rarely helpful. 

    There is non-stop action within these pages, with just a dash of romance. Don't forget the elves, dwarves, and fauns that make up the characters within. If you think you know who the romance aspect includes before you start the book based on what you know from this review, I think you will be happily surprised. 

    All in all it was a good book that ended on a point where you can easily end the series if you would like, or you could continue reading to see how Arianna adjusts to what happened in book one. 

    This book is available on Amazon for FREE by clicking here. 

Book Review: The Manic Mission by C.J. Simone (Children of the Mob Book 1)

     Gabe Giodarno has to make up for all the bad things his father has done. He isn't perfect...Hell, he isn't even close. In fact, he is basically the fuck up of the family. Still, he is intent on making a difference. His music is his passion, Savannah is his love, and the girls? Well, they need him and if he won't help them, who will? But, his own penchant for screwing everything up has him losing the girl he has loved his entire life, getting into someone who is completely dark and punishes him. Still, he deserves it for everything he has done. With tighter restrictions and his father moving them out of town, Gabe is still intent on doing whatever it takes to save these girls....even if it means sacrificing his own freedom. 

    I received a copy of this eBook from the author in exchange for an honest review. I am very behind in reviews and I can't even tell you with any accuracy when I finished this book. Still, I am generally very good about remembering the important parts of the books I read. 

    I enjoyed most of this book, although it is VERY dark. There is a child prostitution ring, rape of both sexes, and abuse. Just a heads up before you go any farther with the review. In addition to those not so wonderful points above Gabe is bipolar and has a lot of depression issues. Given everything that has happened in his life, it does not surprise me. Still, if you try to avoid books with those things in them, this is your warning. 

    Despite everything Gabe genuinely does try his best to be a good person. No matter how much he hates himself he self destructs versus taking it out on those around him. For the most part. To get the full picture of everything that is going on in his life the author changes perspectives between him, his siblings, his ex girlfriend, and the young girl next door who has a crush on him. Each of these people give us more details on what is going on without the sometimes clouded mind of a person who has seen too much. 

    The book is well written and you hope the best for most of the characters throughout. Although, I can't say I wanted the best for Gabe's father at the end, but I will leave you to draw your own opinions on that one. That being said, although the book is good, I don't think I'll be looking for any more in this series in the future. 

    This book is available on Kindle Unlimited or buy it on Amazon for $4.99 by clicking here. 

Book Review: Ghost of You by Kelly Moran (Phantoms Book 3)

     It is no secret that Sammy pretty much hates the team psychologist, Cain. However, the producers believe the audience is picking up on this tension and are forcing them to work closely together. Either they will figure out the tension between them or they will work it out in bed. Either way is a win-win from a viewing standpoint. While working on their "friendship" the team accepts a case in Sammy's hometown, bringing up painful memories and something that may kill them. 

    I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review. I have enjoyed every book in this series and that I have read from this author up till this point. There is tension between the characters, which is explained, and you never feel like one or the other are being ridiculous. I may be a bit biased towards Sammy, but she had her reasons and it was worked through. 

    As with all the other books there is plenty of romantic action within the pages while not crossing the border into full smut. We have a sweet Cain, who tends to over-analyze and craves being accepted and a part of the group. Meanwhile, there is Sammy who is reserved and would rather spend time on her own versus with others outside of her crew. They are overly adorable together. 

    The book ends on a high note for Cain, Sammy, their careers, and even has a sweet tie in to Jackson and Ava from book one. I've said it before, but just in case you haven't seen my reviews of the other books while you CAN read this book as a stand-alone I don't suggest it. The characters from the other books are in this one and you don't need the spoilers. 

    This book is available on Amazon for $4.99 by clicking here. 

Books by this author: 

Bewitched (Fated Book 1)

Charmed (Fated Book 2)

A Ghost of a Promise (Phantoms Book 1)

Give Up the Ghost (Phantoms Book 2)

Book Review: Give up the Ghost by Kelly Moran (Phantoms Book 2)

     Kerry has seen it all in her time at Phantoms, but nothing prepares her for seeing her own doppelganger. While the new guy and her team believes this is a harbinger of either hers or someone close to hers demise she is still on the fence. Still, it is getting hard to focus as she realizes how attractive her long-time friend, Paul, really is. Can Kerry and the team solve the ghost problem in the abandoned town or will this be her last case? 

    I received a copy of this eBook from the author in exchange for an honest review. I know I am so behind on reviews and I am very sorry. It is a work in progress with everything else going on in my life and I promise to get to all the books that I need to. I am still reading, a lot, so there will be plenty of reviews to come. 

    If you have read any of my Kelly Moran reviews you know that I have become a bit obsessed with her books be it this series (which you will be getting the review for book 3 soon-ish) or in the Fated series (which we still do not have a book 3 for, unfortunately). This book is no different than my feelings on book one. I loved it from start to finish and will happily read anything else I can in this series or any other. 

    In this book we got to see the burgeoning relationship between Kerry (who I loved in book one) and her best friend, Paul. While we knew Paul's feelings in one Kerry remained clueless for a long time. Still, Paul is smart and sexy, which is one of my favorite combinations. I wanted to read their story after book one and was not disappointed to find their story in book two. 

    While you can read these books in any order I do suggest the intended order because otherwise there are spoilers for the other characters in previous books. Especially in book 3. You'll see. 

    This book is available on Amazon for $4.99 by clicking here. 

Books by this author: 

Bewitched (Fated Book 1)

Charmed (Fated Book 2)

A Ghost of a Promise (Phantoms Book 1)

Ghost of You (Phantoms Book 3)

Book Review: The Aule Straatagem Part 2: The Aurora by David Clegg (The Aule Straatagem Book 1)

     Acting Commander Michael Patterson has intercepted pirates, but now believes the Empire may be the true driving force behind these attacks. First, they must prove who is leaking to the pirates and from there they can track them back to base. Along the way they may just be able to save the slaves on board the pirates ship. Can they stop this force before they make a big enough dent for the Empire to strike back? 

    I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review. Just as in book one there are plenty of pirates and space travel to keep your interest, even if you are like me and genuinely didn't like star wars. There isn't a lot of star wars references, thankfully, in these pages. I will say, however, that this book cannot be read as a stand-alone and you will have to read book one first in order to know what is going on. 

    On the bright side, book two picks up right where book one leaves off. So, if you wanted to read the books back to back that is completely fine as there is no time jump between them. There is a lot of action packed into this story, along with a bit of a blossoming love interest. All in all it was an enjoyable read and I wish them luck in the coming war. 

    This book jumps perspective a lot as it progresses. We are able to see from the Commander as he adjusts to his new role, the info leak, the slaves, and multiple others which gives us a better picture of how the story plays out, instead of being kept in the dark. While this did mean we knew who the leak was before others we didn't know what the end result would be until the author wanted us to know. 

    This book is available on Amazon for $3.69 by clicking here. 

Books by this author: 

The Aule Straatagem: Slave Ship (The Aule Straatagem Book 1)