Review: Only a Monster by Vanessa Len

Only a Monster by Vanessa Len
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I received this free eARC novel from Edelweiss.  This is my honest review. 

I'm so mad at how much I loved this book.  I'm mad cause now I have to wait for the rest of the series to be released!!!  I am a binge reader, so this wait for book 2 and 3 is going to end me, I just know it!

I'm honestly surprised (in a good way) at how much I enjoyed this series.  I've been reading A LOT of YA fantasy books as of late to get through my older ARCs, and haven't loved them quite as much as I love this one.  I think because it's so unique from anything else I've read.  To read the book through a villain, a monsters, eyes but have that character not be as monstery as you would imagine.  To see the hero, but see them as the villain.  

It really makes you step back a second and think, how can one judge who is a villain and a hero?  Because depending on your viewpoint, your standing, it makes a huge difference.  Sure, the monsters that Joan hasn't met yet COULD be evil.  But what we saw Nick to do people he doesn't know?  To people Joan loves?  That seemed pretty darn evil to me.  Though if we had read this book through Nick's point of view, I'm sure we would have felt the complete opposite.  It's really fascinating to think about. 

Joan.  I love her, honestly.  She's literally a fish out of water.  She's been thrust into this world after watching her family disappear and she has questions.  We, the reader, have questions.  But to see her perspective, as essentially a human viewpoint, she is very quick with the change and learns very fast.  Though she definitely makes mistakes and asks questions to the wrong person at the wrong time.  

Aaron.  Can I say that I adore him?  I really do, even though I'm not sure I'm supposed to.  The way he slunked off at the beginning was a bit unsettling, which makes me wonder what will happen in the upcoming novel.  But the way he's personality changed the longer he was with Joan was amazing and I'm sad that will be gone. 

Nick is just....Ugh.  I have feelings.  I like him, but then again I don't.  And I think that's how I'm probably supposed to feel, but his whole origin story is just sad and makes me feel like I should like him more.  Maybe it's because we didn't get a lot of great interaction with him in the novel.  I honestly don't know what Team I'm on yet. 

The only thing I wish was a bit different was the explanation of the monster world.  Especially the monster family.  I know they all have gifts, and that it was explained, but I still feel very distant from what family does what and how and what they benefit from it, etc.  So maybe when book 2 comes out, I'll reread this one and try to get a better understanding of that first before diving into what I think will be an amazing book 2!

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Review: Caraval by Stephanie Garber

Caraval by Stephanie Garber
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

I received this free eARC novel from Edelweiss. This is my honest review. 

This was an interesting storyline. Something i can say I've never read before. Because it was full of secrets and lies and mysteries, our was a bit hard to keep up with the story to figure out what was real or false.

I really dislike Tella. She's pretty selfish and bratty. Scarlett had been trying her whole life to protect Tella and she does this? It's very backstabbing to me. To make Scarlett go through that emotional turmoil and then act like it was nothing when the truth was revealed? I think I would leave her in the past and never speak to her again. That would destroy my trust and possibly my love for her to be honest. 

I know this is a pretty popular series do I am glad I finally read it to see what everyone was hyped up about. I'm not that hyped up, but I did appreciate the uniqueness of this story. I'll be continuing on since I have the rest so we'll see if I find the sequels are any better or not. 

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Review: Bright Raven Skies by Kristina Pérez

Bright Raven Skies by Kristina Pérez
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

I received this free eARC novel from Edelweiss. This is my honest review. 

I'm glad I finished this series because I would have been left wondering what happened. And i did enjoy it. I just could have enjoyed it in 2 books probably. 

I am 100% a fan of Marc. He may be an unrelated character in the scene of things, especially in Branwen's revolving world, but I seriously think he and Branwen would have been amazing together. Even with Marc loving another. But they are so similar to each other so I'm not surprised. 

In my mind Branwen and Tristan eventually find each other years later. I need a happily every after so that's where my mind is happy with. 

This is definitely different from what I normally read. I'm glad i read it and experienced this storyline. But I don't think it will be something I pick up again in my future. 

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Review: Wild Savage Stars by Kristina Pérez

Wild Savage Stars by Kristina Pérez
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I received this free eARC novel from NetGalley. This is my honest review. 

This book was better. I think because Branwen stand up for herself and not let everyone run all over her. Though her viewpoints on life have definitely taken a turn. 

I'm very curious to see how this all gets revealed. There is obviously someone in the inside sabotaging this city. I have a few ideas but nothing solid or concrete yet. 

I still very much hate Essy. She needs to grow up and learn that life isn't always fair. What would she have done without Branwen's love all of these years? I would have left that spoiled brat a long time ago, not being able to deal with that. 

Tristan is annoying. I can't help it. I don't like him. I much prefer Marc or Ruan. Those two I love. Tristan? He can leave for all I care. 

So I'm committed now. I'm reading book 3 to see how this all ends. I just hope I don't end up regretting this decision lol.

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Review: Sweet Black Waves by Kristina Pérez

Sweet Black Waves by Kristina Pérez
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

I received this free eARC novel from NetGalley. This is my honest review. 

I read this book a bit slower than I have been reading lately and that's because this story is a bit slow. I enjoyed the beginning and the end but that middle was a bit rough to get through. And honestly I was going to quit this series after this book because of that middle but that had me stunned so now I will read the 2nd book to see how things progress from that out of nowhere turn of events! 

Essie pisses me off. I can't say it any other way. I know she is young. I know she is strong willed. But she is a spoiled brat who is constantly whining about her life. I also think she is bi-polar honestly. 

And Branwen. She's like a doormat. She's letting everyone just treat her however they want to in the moment and somehow that doesn't bother her? She bending over backwards to babysit her cousin and no one seems to see the sacrifices she is making. It's really quite annoying. 

Tristan is a middle ground character. I like him, but he's overshadowed with my feelings about the two girls. I love how dedication and determination when it comes to Branwen. I'll be interested to see how eventing unfolds with those two.

So yes, I'm going to try book 2. But only because of that ending. Hopefully things will pick up enough to keep my interest until the end of the trilogy. 

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Review: The Betrothed by Kiera Cass

The Betrothed by Kiera Cass
My rating: 2 of 5 stars

I received this free eARC from Edelweiss.  This is my honest review. 

I tried, I really did, but this started off slow and then with the storyline going the way that it was, I knew I wasn't going to be able to stick with it and love it.  I am a huge,  huge fan of The Selection, so I was really hoping that I would love this too, but I just can't.  

For Hollis to spend so much time wanting to become the queen, only for her eyes to stray to the first new person in her town and have that connection.  I know the King isn't going to take it well and I just can't deal with the "I should be with him but I like the other guy" scenario that is playing around in my head. 

I'm very glad I got the chance to read this eARC, I just wish I loved it more. 

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Review: Mysteries of Thorn Manor by Margaret Rogerson

Mysteries of Thorn Manor by Margaret Rogerson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I received this free eARC novel from Edelweiss. This is my honest review. 

I stand by what I said in my review of book 1, I adore this series. And I especially adore Silas. He stole the show for me and every little time he's on the page I'm always grinning like a fool with his dry sarcasm. And he made me tear up a few times in this short story too.

Seeing Nathaniel and Elisabeth focus on each other and their relationship was sweet and hilarious. They are two people stumbling through something they've never gone through before, but it was so adorable to witness. 

I'm so glad I decided to dive into Margaret Rogerson's novels and that I stuck through all of books that I had on my kindle. And somehow I kept the best for last! I will definitely be thinking of this series for awhile to come, I know that! 

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Review: Sorcery of Thorns by Margaret Rogerson

Sorcery of Thorns by Margaret Rogerson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I received this free eARC novel from Edelweiss. This is my honest review. 

After reading all of Margaret Rogerson's novels, I can safely say this one is my all time favorite. I'm sure it's because Elisabeth was surrounded by books and libraries, but also just how determined she was to make someone listen and believe her. All those years being surrounded by books and their influenced really created an amazing woman. Is like to think me reading books all my life did the same to me at all ;)

I love the role Silas had in this book. And how Elisabeth never failed to include him. He tried to be this big bad person, but you could tell the connection he had. 

Nathaniel really, REALLY, tried to avoid his feelings toward Elisabeth, but really, why would you want to avoid this amazing woman? But seeing him try and fail was very entertaining. 

I'm excited to see what the novella has in store next and I'm so glad I've finally caught up on all of Margaret Rogerson's novels! 

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Review: The Simple Wild by K.A. Tucker

The Simple Wild by K.A. Tucker
My rating: 2 of 5 stars

I received this free eARC novel from Edelweiss. This is my honest review.

I tried to read this but was unable to get through after the first 30% because Calla just really has a different lifestyle than me and I couldn't bear to sludge through it anymore.  

I'm sure her perspective on the outdoors and small town may get better by the end of the book, but since I saw that there were 1.5 more books about her story, I would say it was slow going on her acceptance. I can't handle it when someone complains that their clothes are HUNDREDS or THOUSANDS of dollars - I just don't care about that.  

So I tried, I really did, but I just couldn't do it anymore.

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Review: Of Kingdoms and Crowns by Cameo Renae

Of Kingdoms and Crowns by Cameo Renae
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I definitely one clicked bought this book so I could see how this all ended cause after 3 novels that I flew through there was no way I could leave it unfinished in my mind. 

Calla is a force to be reckoned with. It took her awhile to really tap into her power, but man once she did she didn't hold back and I loved every second of it. 

I'm sad that Brynna had the fate she did. I want sure how she would have fit into the new Calla's life but I didn't want the last remaining person from her life before to leave. That was a bit brutal I think. 

I also said I wanted an epilogue to this story showing us everyone's future and that didn't happen either, sadly. 

Oh well. I did enjoy this storyline and found that I literally flew through the books. 4 books in 2 days is crazy fast for me right now. They definitely held my attention and kept me wanting more until the end. 

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Review: Of Earth and Air by Cameo Renae

Of Earth and Air by Cameo Renae
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I received this free eARC novel from NetGalley. This is my honest review. 

Of course I'm now going to have to buy book 4 to see how this ends after being sucked into these characters world for 3 books. And that ending left me needing more. Not just about Calla and Trystan, but how everything ends up happening when they save the world. 

I'm very suspicious of Brynna and how their might be a connection still. And I'm very intrigued in JUST how powerful we are going to see Calla's power. 

Also we better get some good epilogues to see what everyone's futures look like lol. 

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Review: Of Fire and Water by Cameo Renae

Of Fire and Water by Cameo Renae
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I received this free eARC novel from NetGalley. This is my honest review. 

Another great story full of Calla's adventures. I love her connection with Thalia and how she is able to learn her gifts now. Calla is still that shy mortal but I predict in book 3 that timidness is going to fly right out of the window. 

I loved being in Kai's kingdom and I bet what I envisioned in my head isn't even the half of how beautiful it really is. 

I'm so over every male falling in love with Calla after being around her for a minute, but I guess that's how much power she has. Even if she had no idea about that power. 

I'm curious to see what crazy things are going to happen in book 3.

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Review: Of the Blood by Cameo Renae

Of the Blood by Cameo Renae
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I received this free eARC novel from NetGalley. This is my honest review. 

This was an interesting novel. It was very fast pace and definitely kept my interest. I think Calla is a bit confused on which boy she's interested in and she seems to be the one girl that every guy within 10 feet desperately wants, which is a little annoying. 

I liked Trystan from the beginning even though his introduction to his world was a bit abrupt and he was being way too mysterious. He definitely needs to work on his communication skills.

I think everything is a little too convenient throughout this journey for Calla. She just happens to know or can find someone who knows all the answers. I'm not saying its been easy on her, but she's been able to get answers about her past pretty easily and quickly I feel like.

I'm definitely intrigued enough to dive into book 2 and see what else is going to happen to Calla on her journey for answers. 

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Review: You Had Your Chance, Lee Burrows by Piper Rayne

You Had Your Chance, Lee Burrows by Piper Rayne
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I received this free eARC novel from Valentine PR. This is my honest review. 

I adore a good sports romance and being able to start a new series but connect a few familiar faces was great! Lee and Shayla had a rough past and to see them struggle after seeing each other for so long was actually kind of humorous to me. They really did try to fight off the attraction toward each other but with that kind of intensity, it's pretty impossible to do. 

Lee is a bit of a dreamer and kind of full of himself whereas Shayla is very practical and observant. Two complete opposites that shouldn't work but ends up being perfect for each other. I think Shayla will bring Lee down a leg or two from that VERY high pedalstool he put himself on.

I loved getting to know these characters, and especially the side characters! Chase has my FULL attention and I can't wait to see his story go down. 

I'm very glad I got the chance to read this novel and I am definitely looking forward to the next installment! 

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Review: Delay of Game by Maggie Rawdon

Delay of Game by Maggie Rawdon
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I received this free eARC novel from Wildfire Marketing Solutions. This is my honest review. 

This was a very fast and easy read - I'm shocked at how quickly I flew through it! Friends to lovers is a trope I find hard to get into because they are always fighting the attraction to each other, and when they do give in they always want to keep it a secret and make things awkward. Those things DID happen in this book, but the author wrote it in a way that wasn't as drawn out like I've read in the past. 

Both Liv and Liam have been fighting their attraction toward one another for awhile now, and I'm actually surprised that it was Liv who took the first step. But once Liam got in board, of boy did things get intense between those two. 

I loved seeing all of their friends get in the middle of their drama because that's just who they are and we love them for that. I'm really hoping for a specific couple pair in the next book cause I think it will be amazing! 

It was nice to see the background story of Liv and Liam and for then to talk about it and move past it. Getting another piece to the puzzle really helped explain why they were so close. 

I'm so glad I got the chance to read this book and can't wait to see what else is in store by this author! 

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Review: The Blood We Crave by Monty Jay

The Blood We Crave by Monty Jay
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I received this free eARC novel from Wildfire Marketing Solutions.  This is my honest review. 

Holy canolie.  This book has left me speechless.  I loved getting into Lyra and Thatcher's heads.  These two were hard to figure out in the previous novels, so to be able to dive right into their minds was the best thing ever.  They both are such deep people that to really understand their viewpoints on life and death was fascinating to me. 

Also, Lyra?  So determined and so cunning in her ways.  She's had one obsession for the past 13 years and never waivered.  She was pure and true to her obsession and you gotta admire that dedication, in my opinion.  I could never imagine being that true to something for that length of time, unless it's my dedication to getting books by certain authors haha. 

Thatcher is a fascinating character and I absolutely LOVED seeing him come undone more and more throughout this book.  We learn so much about him and to see him lose the control he's always had his whole life was amazing to watch. 

That ending was brutal, not going to lie.  I have my suspicions on what really happened, who was really there, but because Lyra was so focused, I think a lot of details were getting missed.  I cannot wait until part 2 will be here and I honestly think a reread of this book will be needed to get back into these two characters minds for what is about to happen after that devastating ending. 

I'm so so glad I stumbled upon Monty Jay awhile ago and this author is definitely an auto buy author for me as I've loved every work created from this amazing mind!  Next will be to get these books in print to add to my ever growing library haha. 

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Review: A Very Medoran Kaldoras: Part 2 by Lynette Noni

A Very Medoran Kaldoras: Part 2 by Lynette Noni
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I can't even contain my emotions right now.  I'm so happy that we saw Niyx again, I was crying and laughing cause that's what he does to me. I'm also ecstatic that we got his viewpoint but would also have loved to see Alex's true thoughts on seeing him. 

I'm really hoping we can get more about the journey he's about to embark on but don't know if I could handle Aven in the mix in there. 

I'm really going to miss this world now that I've officially completed my crazy binge on all of these novels. I have loved every second and I know a shower, calmer reread will be in my future. 

Thank you, Lynette Noni, for sharing this amazing story that was in your head! I will cherish it forever! 

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Review: A Very Medoran Kaldoras Part 1 by Lynette Noni

A Very Medoran Kaldoras by Lynette Noni
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Of course I loved this and of course I got the next part to see what shocked Alex! I didn't even know there was a part 2, much to my surprise. 

I loved seeing everyone get together for the holiday and just living a normal life for once. I'm so glad to see them happy and healing! 

Also Kaiden is adorable. I love it! 

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Review: Vardaesia by Lynette Noni

Vardaesia by Lynette Noni
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I am gutted that it's over. I DEVOURED this series. Ignored life because I was so IMMERSED with these characters and their world. I don't know how I'm going to move on from this. 

Alex is amazing. This girl, a mere human, saved an entire world plus more. She fight tooth and nails, defied all odds, and never, NEVER gave up. Even when she wanted to, she kept going Neenah she was determined to save this world or die trying. And there were way too many times she almost did. 

I love what happen to Aven. He deserves far worse, but this might be more miserable than death and I hope he suffers for eternity. The person he became was repulsive and I don't know how he could justify all of his actions. So, yes, I hope he goes literally crazy and can only dream of his "perfect" world. 

Lynette Noni created such a beautiful story, characters, and world. I honestly wasnt expecting to love this as much as I did. I'm also kinda glad that I decided to dive in once this series was completed cause I would have suffered having to wait for the next book in the series to see what happens. I'm not good at patiently waiting.

Now I'm probably going to have to dive into her other books because I have a feeling I will fall in love with those too.

I am so so so glad I decided to finally start this series. I can already tell you, I will be rereading this series very soon as I already miss all of these characters already, and I only finished about 10 minutes ago. 

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Review: We Three Heroes by Lynette Noni

We Three Heroes by Lynette Noni
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The emotions that I just went through during these 3 novels was intense. D.C.s story was the"lighter" of the stories and each one just more heavy hitters and gutwrenching to be honest. Jordan's story to recover was so emotional. 

But Bear's? I barely recovered from book 4 and then to read through all of that in his story? Literally sobbing my eyes out. 

I'm not going to recover from this series. All of these characters and their stories are going to be with me always. 

I'm so glad, as much as I wanted to dive into book 5, that I took the time to read these stories now because I needed these 3 stories to really get to know D.C, Jordan and Bear.

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Review: Graevale by Lynette Noni

Graevale by Lynette Noni
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I received this free eARC novel from NetGalley. This is my honest review. 

Gah, this book made me cry. This ending was gutwrenching and I feel so many emotions right now. I cant remember the last time I was this immersed in a story where I feel everything the characters are feeling. 

Alex is such an amazing character. An amazing woman. She had gone through so much. So. Much. And yet she is pushing herself harder every day. She is determined to win. Seeing her so defeated at the end of this book was so devastating and really got me emotional. 

I was gutted because I have been in this world for the past 4 days straight. Did i think everyone was going to make it out alive? Of course not but that's not going to stop me from crying my eyes out when it happens. 

I 1,000% will be recommending this series to everyone I know because I need other people to go through these intense emotions with me! 

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Review: Draekora by Lynette Noni

Draekora by Lynette Noni
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I received this free eARC novel from NetGalley. This is my honest review. 

I feel like a broken record saying how much I've fallen in love with this series, but I'm still over here with stars in my eyes after another amazing, fantastic novel in this storyline. I don't know the last time I was this amazed by a book that I've read and to be able to read a book a day so far while working is pretty fantastic. I wish I could read all 5 in one day though. 

Alex is amazing. Spectacular. And such a badass. She is a mortal doing things no other being in any universe has done. The amount of love and determination and faith she has is indescribable. 

Also? I saw reviews gushing about Niyx and I couldn't understand it. I now understand it and I'm all about the gushing. I'm not sure how this will all work out with who Alex may end up with, but I gotta say, I'm here for whatever this fantastic author is about to unleash. I'm trusting Lynette Noni with my emotional heart cause I'm truly invested in this series and these characters. When I'm done I just know I'm going to have the biggest book hangover. 

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Review: Raelia by Lynette Noni

Raelia by Lynette Noni
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I received this free eARC novel from NetGalley. This is my honest review. 

I cannot contain my absolute love for this series and these characters! I get absorbed into this storyline and seriously dont want to return to real life because these characters are my people. 

I have a huge spoiler statement I need to say, and since this book had been out since like 2016 I think I'm good. So if you don't want a huge spoiler, please don't read further...

I FREAKING KNEW JORDAN WAS CLAIMED!!!!! LIKE HOW COULD THEY NOT SEE IT!?!?! THE SECOND HE CAME BACK FROM HIS PARENTS, RED FLAGS!!!!! I was so angry about that and how they just kept brushing it aside. THAT WAS NOT JORDAN!!!! Ugh, I was screaming at them all through that scene and anything after that cause it was so obvious to me!

Also, my Harry Potter vibes was still strong in this book. So. Strong. And I literally laughed out loud when there was a HP reference in here!!! 

I loved the little moments with Kaiden but I need things to move faster with these two. It's such a slow burn I can't handle the insane tension between these two. PLEASE let something happen in book 3?! Also i want to know all of Kaiden's secrets. That boy has so many.

I'm diving into the next book, but seriously, read this series. I'm loving every word of it!

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Review: Akarnae by Lynette Noni

Akarnae by Lynette Noni
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I received this free eARC novel from Edelweiss. This is my honest review. 

I have been sorting on this series for so long and I'm KICKING MYSELF FOR IT!!!!! I absolutely loved this book, basically binge read it and started and finished in the same day. I can't get enough of it. Even though I'm mad for waiting so long, I'm not mad that I waited until I had all 5 books in my possession to be able to jump right into the next story! 

I get Harry Potter and Narnia vibes so badly worth this storyline and I am here for it 100%. I love the environment, the setting, the school, the world. Like all of it. I wouldn't be surprised if I end up buying these books for my physical library by the end of my series binge, but I'll refrain to make sure I love all of them. 

Alex is so brave and curious. She's also determined and so strong willed. I love how she fights everyday to get through all of these weird classes and then studies so hard to figure everything out. Her instant friendship with Bear and Jordan is fantastic and I'm so glad she has those two by her side. I'm loving the friendship blooming with Dix now too. And dear heavens PLEASE tell me more progresses with Kaiden? Like i cannot handle the tension between those two. 

This book sucked me in from the first page and honestly did not loosen its grip until I finished. I'm so glad I had a break in books and decided to jump into this book because I am 1,000% hooked now! 

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Review: Ink by Elizabeth Hunter

Ink by Elizabeth Hunter
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This was such an impulse buy for me on Amazon, but the synopsis sucked me in and I just had to know how this story played out.  And I'm so glad I did buy it because it was a great storyline!  Emmie is a spitfire which is pretty typical for a book worm.  I love that she is getting that badass tattoo and I so wish there was a fan art or something so we could really see what it looks like on her finished. 

Ox is...interesting.  I don't know what I was expecting for the tattoo artist, but he didn't quite fit the bill for me.  There were moments I liked him, and his dedication to his family was admirable, but the way he treated Emmie at times really annoyed the crap out of me.  Cell phones were invented for a reason and I don't care what is going on, a simple text or phone call to explain the situation is not that hard if you really, truly love someone and want them to not worry. 

I love Daisy and Tayla and Spider - those characters are Da. Bomb. and they are so dedicated to helping Emmie in any way possible. 

I'm glad I decided to dive into this book - I love the idea of a bookstore and tattoo shop together, though I don't have any tattoos.  Those different genres mixing together really shows integrity and creativity that not many people can think of.  Emmie is my soul sister who I wish I could be, haha!

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Review: King's Vow by Ella Kade

King's Vow by Ella Kade
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I received this free eARC novel from the author and Wildfire Marketing Solutions. This is my honest review. 

This was my first book by Ella Kade and I thought it was very unique and different. I love that Arely is the strong, dominant, in charge woman and that Sebastian is 100% okay with that. Not too many times you find a major girl boss making demands and a guy who is absolutely down for that. 

Their introduction was interesting and so unexpected for me. I love how close they get as well. 

I thought the ending was a bit abrupt in regards to Arely and Sebastians story, but I'm intrigued to see how the overall plot will get solved throughout the next siblings storyline. 

I'm glad I got the chance to read this story and I look forward to other books by this author! 

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Review: My Sweetest Escape by Chelsea M. Cameron

My Sweetest Escape by Chelsea M. Cameron
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I received this free eARC novel from NetGalley.  This is my honest review. 

This has been waiting for me to read it for like 10 years!!  I don't know how it got lost in the shuffle, but since I used to have 1400 books on my kindle, it probably wasn't hard.  

I really enjoyed Jos and Dusty's story.  These two really tried to fight their attraction for one another for practically the whole book, which was a bit amusing, but also annoying to be honest.  They kept secrets about their past from each other, which was also a bit frustrating.  And then when they started bringing up their pasts, they both sort of freaked out before everything was out in the open.  They are definitely rough around the edges, but I'm hoping that now that they know everything, things can only go up from here. 

Renee was seriously so overbearing and controlling, if I were Jos, I would have seriously ran away and started over.  I could not handle a person like that in my life and acting like a second mother - only worse.  Way worse.  I know she was doing what she could to help, but that was way way too much for me to handle. 

I love Hannah.  I would love to see if she ever got her own book, but if she ended up with who I think she did, I'm not sure it would be a story I'd be interested in.  But I love her personality, her view on life, and her no nonsense attitude.  She went through something horrendous and yet she is still living her life to the fullest and I just love that about her!

I'm glad I finally got around to reading this novel and I will have to play catch up to read more by this author!

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Review: A Greene Family Christmas by Piper Rayne

A Greene Family Christmas by Piper Rayne
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I received this free eARC novel from the author and Valentine PR. This is my honest review. 

I absolutely adore the Greene family!! Being able to revisit them through this special Christmas moment put a permanent smile on my face. I loved seeing not only the Greenes we fell in love with, but also their kids! I can't believe some are in college during this story 0_0

I also loved that not all of the kids adore their parents like I do. Just because they are THE Greenes doesn't mean they aren't also just normal people and 13 year olds definitely get tired of their parents, so it just made it feel that much more realistic for me. 

I loved each chapter that follows a different Greene and to get a glimpse into their lives so many years later. It honestly made me want to reread all of their stories all over again! 

I'm very excited for Rylans story to come out after seeing a glimpse of his life. I can tell these two will not make the journey ready, that's for sure! 

I so loved this book and I'm glad I dived right in when I got my novel! 

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Review: The Girl the Sea Gave Back by Adrienne Young

The Girl the Sea Gave Back by Adrienne Young
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I received this free eARC novel from NetGalley. This is my honest review. 

In book one, I really wanted Fiske's point of view, so I was excited to get a dual point of view in this one. And i did enjoy getting two perspectives, but sometimes I got a bit lost with all of the tribes and names and faiths. But i kept with it and had a general idea of what was being discussed. 

I really wanted more time with Tova and Halvard together. Like, I really wanted to see them interact more. That ending was a rip off and low key annoyed the heck out of me. I want to know what their future looks like, does Tova's tribe stay. This is one of the few times I really wish I didn't get to the ending cause I'm not happy about it at all. 

I loved seeing Halvard as an adult and going through his own battles inside him. He was such a sweet boy in book one so to see him at this stage of his life was fantastic. 

So, yeah. I liked it. But the ending really got to me. I need the ending rewritten, or a epilogue, or something. 

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Review: Sky in the Deep by Adrienne Young

Sky in the Deep by Adrienne Young
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I received this free eARC novel from NetGalley.  This is my honest review. 

So, I was a little skeptical going into this book since I didn't enjoy Fable as much as I thought I would.  But I decided to try it because the synopsis sucked me in and I'm so glad I did because I absolutely loved it.  I devoured this book in practically one sitting - I would have if I didn't have to work the next day.  I love Eelyn and her pure determination and devotion to her people.  When she was forced into another tribe, her faith never waivered for her people and she was bound and determined to get back to them and her ways. 

I also loved how she bid her time at the Riki campsite, but she was never too far from a weapon to protect herself.  And then when she saved Halvard?  My all-time favorite part of this book.  That's what really cemented herself into the Riki tribe and I love her determination to save that boy. 

Fiske is amazing too.  You can tell he's put into a lot of strained situations because of Iri, but I think deep down he was always fascinated with Eelyn.  I almost wish this wasn't YA cause I would have loved more details of the spice between them.  And I would have loved to get some point of views of Fiske as well, because that man is of very few words!

I am definitely going to be adding this book to my physical library since I loved it so much and I'm so glad I decided to read Adrienne Young's debut novel!  Maybe one day I'll try to revisit the Fable series again, but I know for sure I will be thinking of this story for days to come!

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Review: Praise by Sara Cate

Praise by Sara Cate
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I found this in my purchases on amazon and dived in to see what it was all about. And there were so many things happening I was blown away.

I loved seeing Charlie understand herself and her wants. And to do so in a safe space that Emerson provided was amazing. But i loved her initiation of everything and her curious mind throughout the entire novel. That's how you know it's what Charlie really wanted, no matter what narrow minded people claimed what was really happening because they can't understand. 

Emerson really, really, tried to avoid temptation, but Charlie made that very difficult. He gave a good effort though! I loved seeing his relationship with Beau grow, albeit slowly.

Also? Sophie is awesome. That is all. 

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Review: Dark Kingdom by Jagger Cole

Dark Kingdom by Jagger Cole
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I received this free eARC novel from the author.  This is my honest review. 

I am, and forever will, be an avid fan of Jagger Cole's books and will binge read through them even though I have other things to do haha.  I adored Adrian and Celeste's story.  They had a lot going against them, and they didn't think to ask more questions, which caused many years of estrangement and anger, but once everything was revealed, the chemistry that exploded between these two was crazy intense - standard Jagger Cole style!

I love how determined Celeste is to make everything right, even though she knows someone is out there to take everything from her.  And her determination to get help, much to Adrian's dismay, was brilliant and amazing. 

Adrian is so stubborn and let his anger control his actions when he first sees Celeste again.  Thankfully he got over that bump, but it was fun seeing him lose his cool whenever she was trying to avoid him after he wouldn't help her. 

There were many twists and turns throughout this book that kept the reader guessing over and over how things will end, which kept me up reading late into the night and peeking a little too much when I was at work that it made the story fly by in like a day for me!  

I enjoyed this story so much and can't wait to add it to my collection!

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Review: Fable by Adrienne Young

Fable by Adrienne Young
My rating: 2 of 5 stars

I received this free eARC novel from NetGalley. This is my honest review. 

I've had this book for awhile, not gonna lie. I like to come through series and then other books happened, so it's been longer than I wanted it to be. 

But also during that time, so many readers have raved about this book. I guess my expectation grew so I was a bit let down by this book. I found it moved a bit slow for my taste. A lot of the chapters could have been skipped, I think. And I'm a dialog girl, I need conversation to keep my attention and this book was very heavy in the narration rather than conversation. 

So I'm conflicted if I continue the series or not. I have all of the books and spin off books, but if they are anything like this one, I won't be able to struggle through and finish them... 

Fable was a great character - honestly they so were. I was rooting Fable to beat the odds and get to the end of her mission. And when anything new popped up, I knew she'd find a way to get through it. But the long journey to get there just dragged for me. 

I'm glad I got the chance to read this book. 

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Review: Limitless by Lynn Rush

Limitless by Lynn Rush
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

I received this free eARC novel from NetGalley. This is my honest review. 

This was a heavy book. I want expecting such deep topics, and with it diving right into it at the beginning, I wasnt sure how detailed it was going to get. But I'm glad I stuck through it because I got to see Hunter and Lina battle through their issues and become the whole, happy people they were able to find because they found each other. 

I can't imagine living through either of their lives. Both are equally horrifying and more than anyone should have to survive from. But the second they met, their lives were destined to get extraordinarily better. 

Seeing both Lina and Hunter grow stronger, braver, more determined was amazing. It shows that if you have the right people in your life, anything can be defeated. 

I'm glad I got the chance to read this story and see these brave characters overcome their real pasts.

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Review: Chasing Sophia by Vikki Jay

Chasing Sophia by Vikki Jay
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I received this free eARC novel from the author. This is my honest review. 

Oh Sophia and Ash. Seeing how they met each other was fantastic and I loved every minute of it. I don't think Ash has had to work that hard in his life to get the attention of the woman he fell for, so it was entertaining to see him chase her. 

And Sophia may have her qualms against the rich, but I think that's a bit harsh to everyone who has money based on one person. Now, if she's dealt with multiple people like that, it world be justified. 

I loved this short story so much and can't edit too at it too my physical collection, aka shrine, to Vikki Jay's masterpieces!

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Review: The Dark King by R.G. Angel

The Dark King by R.G. Angel
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I have become an instant fan of R.G. Angel and decided to slowly work through her back log of books when I have time. I enjoyed this story and loved seeing Carter do a 360, though with short stories I always want more. I don't think Carter groveled enough for my liking with Nazalie. Definitely needed more groveling. 

But i did really enjoy this story and these characters. I'm very intrigued by Luca and what went on with him. Very glad I discovered this author! 

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Review: Crime and Periodicals by Nora Everly

Crime and Periodicals by Nora Everly
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

As a librarian, I love reading romances with librarians or in a library. So i was so excited to dive into this story with Sabrina and Wyatt. Even though this is a standalone, I feel like there was a lot to catch up on the town and townspeople, but I tried to not focus on that and just enjoy these two wonderful characters. 

Sabrina has so much social anxiety, I honestly don't know how she works in a library. There are people there all the time and the way she freezes up around them must be so exhausting for her! But I loved that even though she froze up around Wyatt, he didn't let that sway him from his slow pursuit of Sabrina.

I also love how devoted Sabrina is to her family. She is the most selfless person ever, and her patience and kindness toward Harry was so sweet to see.

Wyatt is gosh darn adorable with how two daughters. He may be trying to figure things out, but his daughters will only know love from him because he oozes it out whenever they are around! 

I adored don't Sabrina open up more and more during this novel. She really grew into her confidence and I loved seeing that progression throughout this book! 

Really, really enjoyed this story! 

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Review: Last on the List by Amy Daws

Last on the List by Amy Daws
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

I love Cozy's attitude in life. I'm sad for the reason why she lives that way now, but I'm so envious of her lifestyle. I'm too ocd and schedule oriented to really appreciate loving life like that, but to love vicariously through her was amazing. 

I also love that she was exactly what Everly needed at that time and no one knew that when Cozy was hired. It was meant to be! 

Max is great. I love his adoration toward Everly. He had a ton on his plate, but no one would doubt his love for his daughter. His communication skills with Cozy could do a little work, but you could feel the sparks flying between the two of them. 

I'm glad I decided to randomly get this on Amazon and that I dived in! 

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Review: The High Mountain Court by A.K. Mulford

The High Mountain Court by A.K. Mulford
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

I'm getting this book from a special edition book box and decided to read it before getting it.  For the most part I enjoyed the story.  Remy is so much more than we are made to believe at the beginning of the story and her adventure to the end was really up and down.  The reader learns more about her with every chapter and a lot of pieces get put into place the more we find out. 

Remy and Hale are an interesting pairing, and they certainly keep each other on their toes around each other.  Both have mysteries they are keeping from each other which causes some doubt along the way.  Hale is very mysterious which puts everyone in a tizzy all of the time, but seeing him go from different personalities was quite a show. 

I loved Remy training with Bri.  I don't know why, but seeing her train to keep herself protected was fantastic to me. 

The ending was so bittersweet.  I couldn't imagine being reunited with someone, just to see them leave again.  Remy has sacrificed so much throughout her life that I just wanted her to have that piece back together. 

I'm definitely intrigued by the next book, but unsure when I'll be able to pick it up to continue this world.  I'm very excited to see the SE cover and I'm glad I decided to read this before getting it!

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Review: The Joy of Us by Kennedy Fox

The Joy of Us by Kennedy Fox
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I received this free eARC novel from the author. This is my honest review. 

I adored this book, and that's hard to do with Christmas novels cause I usually don't enjoy them that much. I am 100% like Fallon and am always called the Grinch or Scrooge haha. I don't know if I could have handle all the Christmas love that Levi oozes out as well as Fallon, but maybe he would make a believer out if me too.

I love when they were stranded in Levi's house during the storm. And I love how persistent Levi's was. He was bound and determined to get Fallon to love Christmas before she was done with her at article. 

Also seeing Fallon slowly fall in love with Dasher was the cutest thing. It's hard not to love a dog when they love you unconditionally.

I am so glad I got the chance to read this book. I definitely will not forget how adorable this story was and will probably want to come back and revisit it whenever I get into the rare Christmas mood!

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Review: The Fake Holidate by Amie Knight

The Fake Holidate by Amie Knight
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I received this free eARC novel from the author. This is my honest review. 

I discovered Amie Knight through an anthology, so when I was given the chance to read this book, I jumped on it because I loved her writing and story before. And I'm so glad I did because I loved this book! I normally don't love Christmas themed stories, but this novel I flew through and had no issues enjoying every aspect. 

Clover is hilarious and her choice of pet cracks me up. I love her stubborn steak with her sister, cause it's exactly what I would have done, but I love her forgiveness too.

Nick? Superman? Swoon. I would have loved to have gotten his viewpoint a few times but his quite brooding personality drew me in instantly. 

I love the environment of Clovers hometown and would love to visit a place like that! 

I'm so glad I got the chance to read this novel and I am definitely looking forward to more by this author! 

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Review: All We Are by J.H. Croix

All We Are by J.H. Croix
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I received this free eARC novel from the author and Wildfire Marketing Solutions. This is my honest review. 

Oh Thea. I've been waiting for her story since she practically set up her other two brothers with the loves of their lives, and I was not disappointed to see her reconnect with Joe. These two hit it off pretty fast, busy considering they have known each other their whole lives, I'm not surprised in the slightest. 

I love how real this book gets. It goes into a lot of heavy subjects that people deal with in a daily basis. And Thea and Joe don't always get it right the first time they talk about it, which is also refreshing. These things take time and seeing that happen over and over really made it realistic. 

I'm so glad I got the chance to read this novel, and this series! I really loved getting to know these siblings! 

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Review: Stolen Touches by Neva Altaj

Stolen Touches by Neva Altaj
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I received this free eARC novel from the author. This is my honest review. 

I loved Milene. She's fiesty and stubborn and determined. The way she and Salvatore met was fantastic and how she literally bossed him around, not giving a care who she was demanding things from. And her ability to adjust and adapt to everything that happened to her. Not that she had a choice, really, but she did so with a tenacious attitude. 

Salvatore. Man is he possessive and controlling and a bit unhinged. But I loved every second of this very unusual man feeling some real and true feelings that made him confused as all get out! And the reaction his mother had when she discovered his thoughts toward Milene? Priceless. 

The last line? Literally brought tears to my eyes. Seriously the best way to end this story! 

I am absolutely loving this series and I know this will be a reread in the future for sure so I can visit all these characters again! 

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Review: Promised Love by Vikki Jay

Promised Love by Vikki Jay
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I received this free eARC novel from the author.  This is my honest review. 

Vikki Jay honestly creates the best small town romance novels.  I fall for every one of her characters and the small, homey town she creates with the nosy, but loving neighbors and family members. 

Lukas and Autumn had an interesting start to their relationship.  Arranged marriages in the 21st century shouldn't be a thing since we are all very capable of making our own decisions, but at least nothing was forced beyond a mutual understanding that the marriage would be over soon.  Though that's not exactly what happened, I think what did happen was better.  They got to know each other well throughout the years.  And they got to grow into themselves to help them understand what they really want in life. 

I think Lukas focusing so much on their age was a bit much, but then again, getting engaged to a 16 year old is a bit much, so it is a huge part of their story.  If they didn't meet until Autumn was 20, I don't think it would have been such a big deal. 

But seeing Autumn flourish and really stand up for herself?  The best part of this book.  She grew from her first meeting with Lukas, but she grew even more during this story when she was finally with Lukas in person.  And Lukas is a big part of that because he helped her grow her confidence, but also showed Autumn what she really wants in life. 

I'm so glad I got the chance to read this novel and I'm DEFINITELY looking forward to the next book cause those two characters?  Complete opposites and that will be a fantastic story to see unfold!!

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Review: All We Have by J. H. Croix

All We Have by J.H. Croix
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I received this free eARC novel from the author and Wildfire Marketing Solutions. This is my honest review. 

Oh Jane and Ian. These two are so stubborn they were letting things get in the way of their relationship from the beginning. I thought Jane focused way too much on their high school years instead of trying to get to know the 30ish year old Ian. People can DRASTICALLY change from high school to their 30s - I can be an example of that lol.

I love that they are opposites but the attraction between them is off the charts.

So glad I got the chance to read this story and I'm looking forward to the last sibling to find their happily ever after! 

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Review: Her Heartless Savior by R.G. Angel

Her Heartless Savior by R.G. Angel
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I received this free eARC novel from the author and Give Me Books Promotions.  This is my honest review. 

I have officially found a new author to love!  This is only my second book of R.G. Angel, but for both I have DEVOURED her books in almost one sitting and I just love them both so much.  I hope there isn't too much of a backlog for me to catch up on, but I'm going to have a blast reading her amazing writing!

Alessandro is such a stubborn man.  He is smart as a whip, grumpy, moody, but such a protector when he was around the ones he loved.  I loved how he was around Lily.  She showed him how much of an asset she was from the moment they met and over a year later she was still there, showing him that she is amazing at her job. 

Lily is such a fighter.  She went in fighting tooth and nail against Alessandro during their "interview" and then was tenacious every day after that.  Plus the fact she went through a pretty horrific moment in her life and was still fighting for every second shows how much of an amazing person she is. 

Also, Lily with Pietro?  The most adorable moments ever.  Plus how she pushes him, but not making a big deal out of it?  Like Pietro wanted to prove himself to her just because she is sweet Lily.  Amazing moments. 

I loved everything about this book and I'm so looking forward to more in this series, and just more in general by R.G. Angel!  I definitely recommend this book and think a lot of readers will dive into this story!

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Review: Kiss of the Damned: The Complete Series by Elena Lawson

Kiss of the Damned: The Complete Series by Elena Lawson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I received this free eARC novel from the author. This is my honest review 

I'm so glad I got to read this series as a book box set cause I flew through all 3 stories and would not have wanted to stop after each one! Paige is amazing and I love how much she grew from the first page to the last. She really is like a whole different person with the confidence and self awareness she gained thriving this series. 

Kincaid is fantastic. He also has terrific character growth and learned more about himself because of Paige. I honestly wished we had a few moments in his head because I would love to see his thoughts and feelings dieting many scenes! 

I'm so glad I got the chance to read this series and met these characters! 

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Review: Rise of the Damned by Elena Lawson

Rise of the Damned by Elena Lawson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I received this free eARC novel from the author. This is my honest review. 

Such a great series! I love that nothing was drawn out or taking up space, but instead every word was needed to keep the story going. 

Paige has grown so much since book 1 and I am so happy she's finally learning to live her own life. She still had many reasons to feel fear, but those moments will hopefully go away soon. 

I think the whole interaction with Lucifer felt a bit rushed and how Paige came to the realization that she did is a bit fuzzy, but overall I really enjoyed this story and I'm glad I got the chance to read it! 

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Review: Sins of the Damned by Elena Lawson

Sins of the Damned by Elena Lawson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I received this free eARC novel from the author. This is my honest review. 

This poor girl. Paige cannot get a break from terrible things happening to her! I just want her to be a normal girl who only stressed about watching her favorite TV shows. Instead everyone wants to torture her!

I love how possessive Kincaid is becoming with Paige, though he still has his limits on how powerful he can be. Plus I feel like Paige has control over him more than he would want to admit.

I'm still very intrigued to find out what Paige is capable of and I'm hoping it will explode in the last novel! 

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Review: Kiss of the Damned by Elena Lawson

Kiss of the Damned by Elena Lawson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I received this free eARC novel from the author. This is my honest review. 

This is a very unique story! I thought it was a little hard getting Irby l into it in the beginning because we are thrust into this world and I was confused as to what was going on, but the longer I stuck it out, the most intrigued I became! 

Paige has had a pretty terrible life so far and it still isn't looking great. Went from one imprisonment to another. At least this one she had more freedom and she is starting to really let her personality out.

Kincaid I'd very interesting and has me intrigued in every scene he's in. I'm very interested to know what will happen between these two. 

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