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  • Sunrise on the Reaping – Book Review – Author Natalina Reis

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    Sunrise on the Reaping (The Hunger Games, #0.5)Sunrise on the Reaping by Suzanne Collins
    My rating: 5 of 5 stars

    I went into this book with a bit of trepidation. The Hunger Games series is still one of my favorites ever and I didn’t want to be disappointed. Collins writes such impactful stories, I admit I was a little scared this book would let me down. The prequel, “The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes”, was not my favorite. The writing was excellent, the story still strong with well-developed characters and a great lookback at President Snow’s background. But it WAS about Snow and I couldn’t make myself like it too much, lol.

    However I did love this prequel. It was hard to read with well-placed moments of levity and heart wrenching ones. Toward the end I actually had to close the book at a moment when I realized what was about to happen… not many books make me do that.

    Well written, wonderful characters, awesome social commentary.
    Highly recommend it.

    View all my reviews

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  • First Kiss Friday with Enchanted by the Lyon! – Sherry Ewing

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    Hello, my lovelies, and welcome to my First Kiss Friday blog! I’m always excited to share with you my latest releases and this one was a long time to wait. Today I have an excerpt from my next Lyon’s Den novel, Enchanted by the Lyon that releases on October 1st. We finally have Cassandra Vaughn as the heroine after she made certain her lady friends were all settled. I hope you enjoy this first kiss scene and happy reading!

    Excerpt:

    She had no time to think when Lucius took hold of her hand bringing her fingertips to his lips. After a quick kiss, he tucked her now quaking limb into his elbow and began escorting through the crowded room. Her feet flew in an attempt to keep up with his longer stride until he noticed she was all but running to keep up with his pace. He slowed, pulled her through an arched

    doorway, through a narrow hallway meant for the servants, and into the first empty room he came to. Peering inside, he swiftly pulled her forward before closing the door behind them. There wasn’t much to this room. A small couch, a table, and several boxes sacked against the wall told her this was used as a storeroom. She was completely alone with this man, and she had to admit she didn’t mind one bit!

    “My lord—”

    He took both of her cheeks into the palms of his hands. “Lucius,” he urged softly. “Say my name, Cassandra.”

    He pulled her into his embrace and Cassandra swore her heart all but beat right out of her chest in excitement. Still holding onto her face with one hand, he rubbed one thumb across her cheek as he silently implored her to say his given name.

    Cassandra finally gave in to his demand. “Lucius…” His name lingered on her lips, making her slide her tongue across the seam. It was almost like she could taste his kiss upon her mouth and she stood on the tips of her toes reaching for what she knew he offered.

    His head dipped downward until his mouth was but inches from her own. And still, he only continued to stare into her face. Green eyes to green eyes and she was certain hers shone with all the longing she felt for this man.

    Cassandra at last realized that he was waiting for her to continue this moment that was being shared between them. She could easily step back. Nothing held her from doing so since Lucius only lightly held her now. He would not take what she didn’t offer willingly, and she had to commend him for making sure she consented to their first kiss. She needed to remember she wanted a marriage and he might only want her as his next mistress. The reasonable part of her head told her not to give in to temptation that would surely be like a drug. Once tasted, there would be no going back.

    But to hell with reason! Instead of listening to the small voice screaming inside her head, she stepped closer before she wound her arms around his neck and pressed her body intimately into his muscular one. It was probably a huge mistake on her part when she heard a sound come from him that proved to her that Lucius had barely been holding on to whatever self-control existed within him. But when she went to place a small chaste peck on those sensuous lips, her world suddenly spun out of control.

    His arms swept around her as he pulled her close and his mouth took possession of her own. There was nothing gentle about this kiss and it certainly wasn’t anything like the quick one she had just given him. No. This kiss was filled with a passion Cassandra didn’t even know could exist as all the longing for Lucius Ford came bubbling up and overflowing from the depths of her soul.

    A low moan of pleasure left her as she followed this man’s lead while he kissed her senseless. How many times had she dreamed of his kisses? How many nights had she laid awake wishing she could be in his arms? He certainly didn’t disappoint the fantasies she had held dear inside her head. Her heart was beating so fast she swore everyone at the Lyon’s Den would be able to hear what this man was doing to her. And still, he continued to kiss her as though he was starving, and she was the only person who could satisfy his hunger.


    Enchanted by the Lyon: Lyon’s Den Connected World
    By Sherry Ewing
    Releases October 1, 2025
    Preorder for $0.99

    She’s fallen in love and wants marriage, something he’s unwilling to give.

    Lucius Ford, Earl of Blackthorn is content in his bachelor lifestyle, though the only lady to catch his attention this Season is looking for marriage. This lady of the Wicked Widow’s Club intrigues him.

    Mrs. Cassandra Vaughn was widowed at a young age. After years of hardship, she seeks more than a superficial relationship. But the man who has enchanted her only wants her in his bed.

    Who will change whose mind is still in question when Lucius loses a bet at the Lyon’s Den. To pay his debt, he must right a wrong done to none other than Cassandra Vaughn. Amidst societal expectations and personal histories, their lives entangle, challenging their beliefs about love and relationships.

    When past enemies endanger her life, Lucius will risk everything to protect her.

    Tropes you’ll love:

    ✔️ Widow Heroine

    ✔️ Rake / Bachelor Hero

    ✔️ Marriage vs. Affair Conflict

    ✔️ The Wicked Widow’s Club

    ✔️ The Lyon’s Den Connection

    ✔️ Debt of Honor

    ✔️ Protective Hero

    ✔️ Opposites in Desire

    ✔️ Second Chances at Love

    Read for FREE in Kindle Unlimited or purchase a copy at these buy links:

    Amazon US | Amazon AU Amazon BR Amazon CA | Amazon DE | Amazon ES | Amazon FR | Amazon IN | Amazon IT | Amazon JP Amazon MX Amazon NL Amazon UK

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  • Happy Release Day to Enchanted by the Lyon! – Sherry Ewing

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    You know this author is one happy lady when she can introduce a new book baby into the world! Thank you to all the wonderful readers who have purchased a copy of Enchanted by the Lyon that released today. You can blame me for your next book hangover you have the next morning! And thank you all for your continued support. It means the world to me!

    She’s fallen in love and wants marriage, something he’s unwilling to give.

    Lucius Ford, Earl of Blackthorn is content in his bachelor lifestyle, though the only lady to catch his attention this Season is looking for marriage. This lady of the Wicked Widow’s Club intrigues him.

    Mrs. Cassandra Vaughn was widowed at a young age. After years of hardship, she seeks more than a superficial relationship. But the man who has enchanted her only wants her in his bed.

    Who will change whose mind is still in question when Lucius loses a bet at the Lyon’s Den. To pay his debt, he must right a wrong done to none other than Cassandra Vaughn. Amidst societal expectations and personal histories, their lives entangle, challenging their beliefs about love and relationships.

    When past enemies endanger her life, Lucius will risk everything to protect her.

    Tropes you’ll love:

    ✔️ Widow Heroine

    ✔️ Rake / Bachelor Hero

    ✔️ Marriage vs. Affair Conflict

    ✔️ The Wicked Widow’s Club

    ✔️ The Lyon’s Den Connection

    ✔️ Debt of Honor

    ✔️ Protective Hero

    ✔️ Opposites in Desire

    ✔️ Second Chances at Love

    Read for FREE in Kindle Unlimited or purchase a copy here at these Amazon links:

    Buy Links:

    Amazon US | Amazon AU Amazon BR Amazon CA | Amazon DE | Amazon ES | Amazon FR | Amazon IN | Amazon IT | Amazon JP Amazon MX Amazon NL Amazon UK

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  • Teaching the other character a skill (Micro-Trope #9)

    Teaching the other character a skill (Micro-Trope #9)

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    Micro-trope - Teaching the other character a skill

    It’s time for another Micro-Trope category. This one features sapphic books in which one character teaches the other character a skill.

    It could be a practical skill such as cooking or fighting, a sport, or a craft such as pottery, woodworking, or knitting.

     

    15 sapphic books with the “teaching the other character a skill” micro-trope

    Below, you’ll find 15 sapphic books that include at least one scene in which one character teaches the other a skill.

     

    Just for Show by Jae

    What happens when a perfectionist, overachieving psychologist and an impulsive, out-of-work actress start a fake relationship?

    Claire Renshaw thought she had it all: a successful career as a couples therapist, a publishing contract for her self-help book, and a happy relationship. But her perfect world falls apart when her fiancée calls off their engagement. Because of that, even her book deal might be off the table. After all, readers don’t want relationship advice from someone who can’t even make her own relationship work.

    So Claire sets out to hire herself a fake fiancée.

    Lana Henderson, the actress who shows up to audition for the role, is not exactly Claire’s ideal woman. Her frankness and the messes she leaves everywhere drive Claire up the wall. At least she won’t fall in love with someone like Lana.

    But soon, Lana starts to win her over with her big heart, tickle fights, and—gasp!—carbs after six. The longer they pretend to be a love-struck couple, the less fake their kisses feel and the more the lines between reality and role begin to blur.

    Once the book contract is signed, will they walk away or is their relationship no longer just for show?

    Available at:

    Ylva Publishing

    Amazon

    Apple Books

    Audible

     

    Learning Curves by Rachel Lacey

    For Audrey Lind, working with clay still evokes memories of her favorite professor. The woman’s zeal for art history ignited Audrey’s own academic career—and her tweed blazers and British accent kindled her first female crush. After fate brings Audrey back to Northshire University to teach, she’s thrilled to be working alongside her former mentor, but the grumpy woman she encounters upon her return is nothing like the dynamo she remembers.

    Divorce and a stalling career have turned Dr. Michelle Thompson bitter and guarded. When Audrey swoops in to teach the Women in Art class Michelle’s been pitching for years, she longs to hate her. But her young rival is too kind, too enthusiastic, too irresistible. And her passion for life slowly reawakens Michelle’s own.

    Wary of age gaps and workplace politics, they suppress their smoldering attraction—until one wine-filled night at the pottery wheel puts their romantic truce to the test. Will they keep things on the tenure track or risk it all for love?

    Available at:

    Amazon

    Audible

     

    No Shelter But The Stars by Virginia Black

    Kyran Loyal is the last heir to the lost throne of a forgotten planet, the figurehead of a nomadic people fleeing the galactic tyranny of a brutal regime. Davia Sifane is the unrecognized daughter of an imperial despot. When happenstance pits them against each other in battle, neither expects the outcome: they are the only two people to survive. Marooned on a barren moon, their only hope of survival is to rely on each other, but what they learn will either kill them or change the galaxy forever.

    Available at:

    Bywater Books

    Amazon

    Apple Books

    Audible

     

    Just Marry Her by L.R. Martiny

    Missy Greenwood moves to St. Croix to take on her dream job as the assistant to famous television dog trainer Quincy Adams. She’s long harbored a crush on her hot boss as she watched her from the mainland. But now she’s face to face with her idol, and the young protégé is lost in lust.

    Quincy’ new assistant landed on her set just in time. Quincy’s ex is trying to weasel her way back into her life and the press is hounding her about her non-existent dating scene. Her solution: ask Missy to enter into a fake marriage that will get everyone off her back.

    It all seems simple enough, but Missy wants more than a marriage of convenience with her boss. And when the honeymoon gets super steamy, she wonders if can she manage to train Quincy’s hardened heart.

    Available at:

    Amazon

     

    Holy Water and Whiskey Scars by Ali Spooner

    Faith Wilson and Logan Bronson have family secrets to protect and a legacy to uphold to support their small rural Appalachian community. Their commitment to each other is strong, and their desire to aid the struggling families however they can, lead them both down an exciting but dangerous path. Will their love continue to grow and be the glue that binds the community together, or will they flee the withering community?

    Available at:
    Amazon

     

    Sour Grapes by Eliza Lentzski

    At this stage in her life, June St. Clare never imagined she’d be starting all over again—a new job, a new city, a new love? Looking for a fresh start after tragedy, June finds herself the unexpected owner of Lark Estates—a micro winery in the heart of Napa Valley. There, June is determined to learn the business and do her best, even if she’s convinced that her assistant winemaker, the beautiful but elusive Lucia Santiago, wants to see her fail.

    Lucia Santiago grew up on vineyards, almost like a grapevine herself, working her way up from cellar rat to assistant winemaker. When the property where she works is suddenly sold to a woman with no prior experience, she can’t help but feel resentful of the winery’s lovely but inexperienced new owner. It’s too bad June’s helplessness is almost endearing, stirring up emotions Lucia didn’t quite expect.

    Available at:

    Amazon

    Audible

     

    Sister Matthew and Sister Rose: Novices in Love by Carol Anne Douglas

    Maureen Collins, recently named Sister Matthew in the novitiate at St. Euphrosnye’s convent in Western Maryland in 1962, doubts the existence of God. She entered the convent for several reasons: she thinks being surrounded by believers might help her believe; she knows she’s attracted to women and wants to avoid pressure to date men and marry; and she feels guilty about something that happened when she was in high school.

    She quickly falls in love with Rose Clancy, now Sister Rose, another novice who also is attracted to women. Rose is more religious, but she reciprocates Sister Matthew’s feelings. She grew up with an alcoholic mother and found a refuge among the nuns who taught her.

    As the two move through postulancy and the novitiate, they encounter many challenges from the strict rules to memories of their respective pasts. The memory of an old murder intrudes in the present.

    Available at:

    Amazon

    Apple Books

     

    Out at the Plate: The Dot Wilkinson Story by Lynn Ames

    “Dot Wilkinson was the greatest female catcher ever to play softball. A bold, pioneering athlete, she refused to let others define her and instead defined herself. Her story is an inspiration to people everywhere.” —Billie Jean King, Sports Icon and Champion for Equality

    It’s not simply that Dot Wilkinson was one of the most decorated women’s softball players, bowlers, and athletes of all time and one of the original players from the three-time-world-champion PBSW Phoenix Ramblers softball team (1933–1965). Nor was it the length of her time here on Earth—over a century—although any of these things by themselves would be impressive.

    The magic of Dot’s story is in the details. It’s the tale of a childhood spent in poverty, an indomitable, unbreakable spirit, a determination to be the very best to play whatever sport she undertook, the independence to live her personal life on her own terms, and her tremendous success at all of it.

    Over more than a decade of countless conversations and interviews, Dot shared all of it with her dear friend, author Lynn Ames. Dot held nothing back. Out at the Plate, told through the lens of Dot and Lynn’s friendship, is the story of a forgotten era in women’s history and sports, and one extraordinary woman’s place at the center of it all.

    Available at:

    Amazon

    Apple Books

    Audible

     

    Hot Honey Love by Nan Campbell

    Chef Stef’s passion for her profession is being severely tested. After a disastrous appearance on a cooking competition show, she has become a meme. The entire Internet now knows her as the Kitchen Bawler. Her ascent through the fine dining kitchens of New York City has been thoroughly derailed, but she has a plan to get her career back on track. She’ll make cooking videos on YouTube to foil the algorithm and overhaul her search engine results. One problem: she knows nothing about creating video content.

    Enter Mallory Radowski. She’s a talented filmmaker currently earning a living as a wedding videographer, with complicated reasons of her own for her reluctance to help Stef. Mallory lives with anxiety, and is the pickiest eater imaginable. Food—Stef’s love language—is untranslatable to her. How can she make Stef’s food look delicious if she won’t eat any of it?

    Stef has to trust that Mallory’s videos can get her cooking food she’s proud of again, but it’s out of the frying pan and into the fire when she starts to fall for her.

    Available at:

    Bold Strokes Books

    Amazon

    Apple Books

    Audible

     

    Moon Over Cape Cod Bay by Renn Loraine

    Marion has been discovered in a locked room, covered in blood, next to the lifeless body of her father – a man she hated. She knows she’s in trouble. She knows what it looks like. And what’s worse, no one believes her when she tells them she saw his killer.

    Intent on protecting her young niece from a threat she knows still exists, Marion hires a woman to watch over her – the attractive and engaging Sena. But things get complicated when Sena awakens something in Marion that she has long suppressed.

    Marion knows that the investigators are targeting her, and she’s running out of time. Because they’re going to find her guilty of murder – unless she can find the killer who walks through walls.

    Available at:

    Amazon

     

    The Relationship Mechanic by Karmen Lee

    Jessica Jae-un Miller came to Peach Blossom, Georgia, for a visit, not a breakdown. But when her rental car dies on the outskirts of town, mechanic Lavenia ‘Vini’ Williams provides a tow — and a very welcome jump start to Jessica’s heart. It’s been a minute since Jessica’s last fling — her relationship specialty — and Vini checks all the right boxes. If only the sexy car whisperer seemed interested…

    Vini knows herself and what she wants. She loves her job, her family, her hometown — but she’d love to fall in love. Jessica stirs up all the right feelings, but the city girl has no intention of staying in Peach Blossom. Why sign up for a broken heart?

    But the temptation is real as Vini goes out of her way to drive a carless Jessica around town. The pair can’t seem to keep their distance — or their hands to themselves. With only six weeks to figure out where their red-hot chemistry might lead, Vini and Jessica will have to decide if home can be where the heart is when the heart only knows how to run.

    Available at:

    Amazon

    Apple Books

    Audible

     

    The Lily and the Crown by Roslyn Sinclair

    Ariana “Ari” Geiker lives an isolated life on an imperial space station commanded by her father. The skilled, young botanist rarely leaves her living quarters, where she maintains an elaborate garden. When an imperious older woman is captured from a pirate ship and given to her as a slave, Ariana’s perfectly ordered life is thrown into chaos. Her nameless slave is watchful, intelligent, dangerous, and sexy, and seems to know an awful lot about tactics, star charts, and the dread, marauding pirate queen, Mir. What happens when the slave also reveals an expertise in seduction to her innocent mistress?

    Available at:

    Ylva Publishing

    Amazon

    Apple Books

    Audible

     

    Straight Girls Don’t Cry by S.E. Chandler

    Canny, well, she goes by her last name because Rose never fit her anyway, is getting by week to week–and sometimes, table to table–after dropping out of art school. So what if she’s talented. Life isn’t supposed to work out for the daughter of an addict and get-rich-quick (get-broke-quicker) schemer.

    Still Canny believes in humanity and helps out an overwhelmed mom of three, Ella, struggling to enjoy a meal out with a useless husband, Callahan. Ella offers Canny a nanny job, but she has reservations–and no idea what a nanny does. Of course, she falls in love with the Three Amigos, and can’t believe her luck with Ella’s generous offer.

    She soon finds herself falling for Ella too. Useless Husband’s philandering pushes them together…but then drives them apart. Will her lost chances and found family go the distance or end in agony ever after?

    Available at:

    Amazon

    Audible

     

    Witchbound: Book One by Sable Cross

    A forbidden book…

    A forbidden spell…

    A forbidden love…

    Strawberry has always struggled for recognition, among her magical superiors, hindered by her unconventional talents and her family’s disgraced legacy. Seeking the opportunity to prove herself, she takes an ancient and prohibited tome written in mysterious runes, and strikes a dangerous bargain with the formidable Eris Divine, the seductive and coldly regal vampire queen who rules the city’s supernatural underworld.

    As Strawberry delves deeper into her magical studies under the irresistibly aloof Eris, forbidden passion blossoms, and an undeniable spark ignites between the optimistic witch and the immortal queen.

    Eager to gain Eris’s approval, Strawberry performs a forbidden spell so powerful it almost kills her, and binds the unsuspecting vampire queen to the witch priestess.

    Overcome with guilt, Strawberry struggles with the knowledge and subsequent result of the binding spell. And with the supernatural factions on the brink of war, how will she confess to the already overworked Eris what she’s done?

    How does she face the woman she loves more than life with a secret and a betrayal so devastating?

    And how will the supernatural factions react when they learn of Strawberry’s reckless disregard for the most powerful of all magic?

    Available at:

    Amazon

     

    Rand by Silvia Shaw

    Three hundred ago, Rand’s most powerful talisman, a medallion called the “Circle of Sheda”, was taken through the portal into Earth and lost. When Dr. Savannah Cole is on an archeology dig in Algeria, she takes shelter from a violent sandstorm and discovers the mysterious artifact under a Berber ruin. She soon learns unknown forces are at play, powerful secret forces beyond her control.

    Compelled to wear the medallion, she is swept through the portal into Rand. There, she must forge a new life and embrace her role as the wielder of ancient magic. Never before has someone from the “other world” been chosen to bear the medallion, someone not a warrior. It’s a puzzle Savannah must solve before it’s too late. Why has she been chosen? As she battles demonic creatures and dark sorcery, she fights to take her place as the rightful bearer in the long line of warrior women. But, the question remains; what is coming that the lost medallion must resurface after so many years?

    Available at:

    Amazon

    Audible

     

    Leave a comment

    What book will you be reading for the “teaching the other character a skill” micro-trope category? Let us know in the comments!

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  • Enchanted by the Lyon! – Sherry Ewing

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    I’m so thrilled to be able to share this gorgeous cover with you and to let you know that Enchanted by the Lyon is now available for preorder (or read for FREE in Kindle Unlimited). Read on to learn more about my story in the Lyon’s Den Connected World!

    Enchanted by the Lyon: Lyon’s Den Connected World
    By Sherry Ewing

    She’s fallen in love and wants marriage, something he’s unwilling to give.

    Lucius Ford, Earl of Blackthorn is content in his bachelor lifestyle, though the only lady to catch his attention this Season is looking for marriage. This lady of the Wicked Widow’s Club intrigues him.

    Mrs. Cassandra Vaughn was widowed at a young age. After years of hardship, she seeks more than a superficial relationship. But the man who has enchanted her only wants her in his bed.

    Who will change whose mind is still in question when Lucius loses a bet at the Lyon’s Den. To pay his debt, he must right a wrong done to none other than Cassandra Vaughn. Amidst societal expectations and personal histories, their lives entangle, challenging their beliefs about love and relationships.When past enemies endanger her life, Lucius will risk everything to protect her.

    Tropes you’ll love:

    ✔️ Widow Heroine
    ✔️ Rake / Bachelor Hero
    ✔️ Marriage vs. Affair Conflict
    ✔️ The Wicked Widow’s Club
    ✔️ The Lyon’s Den Connection
    ✔️ Debt of Honor
    ✔️ Protective Hero
    ✔️ Opposites in Desire
    ✔️ Second Chances at Love

    Buy Links or Read for FREE in Kindle Unlimited:

    Amazon US | Amazon AU |  Amazon BR |  Amazon CA |  Amazon DE |  Amazon ES |  Amazon IN | Amazon IT |  Amazon JP |  Amazon MX |  Amazon NL |  Amazon UK

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  • The Grimoire Grammar School Parent Teacher Association- Review – Author Natalina Reis

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    The Grimoire Grammar School Parent Teacher AssociationThe Grimoire Grammar School Parent Teacher Association by Caitlin Rozakis
    My rating: 5 of 5 stars

    I was at Barnes & Noble shopping for another book (or two. Or three) and I saw this one. I was immediately attracted to the cover and title (it’s a paperback with an amazing cover and spray-painted edges). Then I read the back blurb and couldn’t resist. I bought it.

    I had just started reading another book (an overly hyped cozy fantasy) and listening to another one a friend recommended, so I started reading this book when I had a moment or two (I call this my waiting-rooms book), but as I got more and more disappointed with the hyped-up book and more and more in love with this one, it became my main read. I finished it in record time.

    This is such a fun read. A rather sarcastic view of what it’s like to be a parent of a school age child who doesn’t quite fit in with the other kids. Rozakis totally demolishes all the preconceived ideas readers may have about magic and magical creatures by setting them in situations very familiar to anyone who has a child in today’s schools. Except with magic.

    There are hilarious moments, heartbreaking ones, and others that will make the reader (specially female readers) go, “I totally get that” or “I know how that feels”.

    I highly recommend this book to anyone who likes to make fun of life in general as an armor against–well, everything that is wrong in the world.

    I liked it so much, I immediately bought her other book and began reading it. I have high hopes…

    View all my reviews

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  • The Ragpicker King – Book Review – Author Natalina Reis

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    The Ragpicker King (The Chronicles of Castellane, #2)The Ragpicker King by Cassandra Clare
    My rating: 5 of 5 stars

    I have to admit that I am upset. I was convinced this was a duology, so when I got toward the end of the book and things were looking pretty unresolved, I googled it. It’s a trilogy!!!!!

    This series is so good. Definitely a departure from what we were used to from Cassandra Clare, but just as brilliant in a more mature way.

    The world building is fantastic with all its parallels with reality and all the lore that goes with it. The characters have been developed in true Clare’s fashion, tridimensional and complex and the relationships between several of her characters are believable and often heart wrenching.

    There were a few totally unexpected plot twists at the end and I am now left with the awful knowledge that it will be a long while until I can read the conclusion to this fabulous story.

    Highly, highly recommend it.

    View all my reviews

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  • The Love Haters – Book Review – Author Natalina Reis

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    The Love HatersThe Love Haters by Katherine Center
    My rating: 4 of 5 stars

    Another great book by Katherine Center.

    The humor mixes with the seriousness of the themes perfectly. I loved the characters (including the side characters like The Gals, clueless Cole, and Beanie) and who wouldn’t love an overly friendly and rumbustious Great Dane?

    I devoured the book (audio) and I only have one complaint which is the same I had with Center’s last book I read: she has the tendency to overextend the ending.

    She has a great ending–or what I think should be the ending–and then she goes on with more stuff that however interesting is kind of superfluous to the plot or enjoyment of the story. Just my opinion and the only reason I am giving the book four stars instead of five.

    Really enjoyed it and can’t wait for more books by Center.

    View all my reviews

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  • Wearing the other character’s clothes (Sapphic Book Bingo 2025)

    Wearing the other character’s clothes (Sapphic Book Bingo 2025)

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    Wearing the other character’s clothes

    It’s time for another Micro-Trope category of the Sapphic Book Bingo! This week, we’re covering one of the most swoon-worthy micro-tropes out there: one character wearing the other character’s clothes.

    For this category, read a sapphic book where one main character wears something that belongs to the other. There’s something incredibly intimate about slipping into the clothes of someone you’re falling for! It could be a sweatshirt that still smells like her, a too-big T-shirt borrowed after a sleepover, or a jacket draped over shivering shoulders.

     

    15 sapphic books in which we see one character wearing the other character’s clothes

    Below, you’ll find 15 sapphic books in which we see one character wearing the other character’s clothes.

     

    Damage Control by Jae

    An actress practically since birth, Grace Durand has finally made it in Hollywood. When a photo of her in a seeming compromising situation with another woman is plastered all over the tabloids, she fears for her career as a lead in romantic movies.

    Desperate for a publicist who’ll convince America that she’s straight, Grace hires Lauren Pearce, one of Hollywood’s leading PR agents, not knowing that she’s a lesbian.

    Lauren has dealt with PR nightmares for years, so doing damage control for one more rich, spoiled client shouldn’t be a problem—or so she thinks. But the more time she spends with Grace, the more she realizes how different she is from her television persona.

    Getting involved with her client is not in her game plan, especially since it would confirm the rumors and ruin Grace’s career, but the attraction between them is growing as they run the gauntlet of the paparazzi together.

    Available at:

    Ylva Publishing

    Amazon

    Apple Books

    Audible

     

    Flowers and Gemstones by Alaina Erdell

    Hannah knows how to grow her family’s jewelry design company into one of the most successful on the West Coast. But share her emotions? Not so much. She needs to break up with her girlfriend, Bren, but tragedy strikes before she gathers the courage.

    It’s been years, but Vanessa hasn’t recovered from her ex, Bren, dumping her. She’s owned her flower shop for over twenty-five years and should be confidently anticipating her fiftieth birthday, but she still battles her mother’s criticism.

    When Vanessa mysteriously shows up at Bren’s funeral, questions, and a few eyebrows, are raised. Was Bren who Hannah and Vanessa thought she was? Did they really know her at all? As the secrets and lies mount, the shocking truth reveals why their relationships failed. But will learning from the past give them the skills to build a future with one another?

    Available at:

    Bold Strokes Books

    Amazon

    Apple Books

     

    Baking Ice Cubes, A Legal Thriller by Alexi Venice

    Former college basketball star Hank Hart is no stranger to making a three-pointer with only seconds left in the game. Now an experienced lawyer, Hank honors a request by renowned Attorney Monica Spade to take over the trial of a case at the eleventh hour.

    While working in the charming town of Apple Grove, Hank discovers corporate sabotage, clandestine relationships, and suspicious motives lurking behind a seemingly straightforward medical procedure. She also finds herself trying to keep secret a flirtatious exchange with a powerful woman whose charisma is off the charts. Hank is usually the one blowing up secrets about witnesses, not trying desperately to hide her own. Facing formidable and dangerous opponents, Hank needs to finesse an incriminating bombshell out of a cunning killer to pull off a miraculous upset.

    Can Hank deliver justice and secure a victory for her clients as she risks her life to expose the lies and people behind them? While doing so, can she win the heart of the charismatic woman?

    Available at:

    Amazon

     

    Midnight Magic by Cameron Darrow

    A second-class citizen with a shattered heart, Vimika is ready to start her life over. But as a freelance wizard in Atvalia, that’s easier said than done. So when she’s offered a job that could afford her that new life several times over, what choice does she have but to take it? Yes, it involves tracking down something that is either impossible or highly illegal, but money solves everyone else’s problems, why not hers?

    Because no deception is more powerful than self-deception.

    Now cut off from her magic in the middle of a job she should never have taken, Vimika must confront herself in more ways than one. Trapped alone with a wizard out of time, she’ll have to fight not only the illusions keeping them imprisoned but the ones guarding her heart. Failure might trap them both forever, while success could grant them a freedom neither has ever known. Or get them killed.

    At least she’d never have to wake up with a hangover again.

    Available at:

    Amazon

     

    No Good Reason by Cari Hunter

    “I can’t do this. I can’t do any of this without her.”

    Detective Sanne Jensen (not blonde, not tall, definitely not Scandinavian) and Dr. Meg Fielding (scruffy, scatterbrained, prone to swearing at patients) are lifelong best friends, sharing the same deprived background and occasionally the same bed.When a violent kidnapping stuns the Peak District village of Rowlee, both women become involved in the case.

    As Sanne and her colleagues in East Derbyshire Special Ops search for the culprit, and Meg fights to keep his victim alive, a shocking discovery turns the investigation on its head. With the clock ticking, Sanne and Meg find themselves pushed closer by a crime that threatens to tear everything apart.

    Available at:

    Bold Strokes Books

    Amazon

    Apple Books

    Audible

     

    A Lake of Feathers and Moonbeams by Dax Murray

    Strange things can be said of the forest that spans the border of two kingdoms long at war. An evil sorcerer has made it his dominion, or an elegant enchantress has claimed it as her domain and grants wishes to those who chance upon her, or maybe the forest is guarded by an ancient and wrathful spirit. But Katya calls the forest home, living a life of magic and charms with her partner Ivan.

    But a threat looms over their forest, some darkness and danger that Ivan swears to protect her from. Katya finds herself caught up in a web of grudges and deception spanning generations, but most dangerous of all is the beautiful princess who stumbled into their woods. A princess who sets Katya’s heart fluttering with both desire and fear.

    As forces rally to rescue the princess or go to war, Katya must take measure of her own powers and decide what she is willing to sacrifice. Will she retreat to the safety of what’s familiar or give up everything she knows to spread her wings and fly?

    Available at:

    Amazon

    Apple Books

    Audible

     

    Take Her On by Emily Wright

    Between pining for her straight best friend, trying to revitalise her football team after another year of defeat, and dealing with her own family problems, she’s already overwhelmed.

    When her arch rival, Jamie Mellor, joins the football squad, it threatens to push her over the edge. Not only is it the last chance to prove her worth as captain, Maya must now find a way to play alongside this annoying loud mouth without losing her mind every five minutes.

    Jamie is in desperate need of a fresh start after all the drama at her last university. She wants to keep her head down, focus on football, and listen to her eighties music. Yet it’s immediately clear Maya is going to make life difficult for her—both on and off the pitch. Luckily, Jamie finds riling up her new team captain seriously entertaining.

    As the championship draws near and feelings intensify, tensions rise and secrets threaten to unravel. The two rivals must overcome their differences and find a way to win together, but are the games strictly on the field? Or have Maya and Jamie finally met their match?

    Available at:

    Amazon

    Audible

     

    Embracing the Moon by Jeannie Levig

    Gwen Jamison has been attracted to her best friend Taylor for years but has kept her feelings masked as friendship. Left behind by her mother at age nine, then by her first love eight years later, she’s vowed never to trust her heart to anyone. It’s easier to have casual relationships than risk falling in love.

    Taylor Matthews has no interest in a relationship. The one and only time she lost herself in love it cost her four years of her life. Never again. In the three decades since, she’s turned her life around, built a successful career, established solid friendships, and had plenty of women, sex, and fun. No complications, no entanglements, no regrets—until Gwen.

    Just as Gwen and Taylor are exploring the new love they’ve found, the present and past collide, threatening the future they long to share.

    Available at:

    Bold Strokes Books

    Amazon

    Apple Books

     

    Deck the Palms by Kat Jackson

    For the first time in her life, Allison Bradley feels like she’s on the right path. She’s left the west coast and as the holidays approach, she’s settling into her new home in Clearwater Beach. A warm winter has never sounded so good, and she is absolutely not going to date anyone while she builds the next phase of her life.

    Dating is the last thing on Drew Kingsley’s mind. In fact, she’s sworn it off for good. She’d much rather focus on her business—something she can control—and her grandmother, the one person she trusts will love her unconditionally.

    Despite being thrown together by the meddling work of little old ladies, Allison and Drew do not want to like each other. But as the magic of the holidays surrounds them, even they will be forced to see that the walls they’ve built to protect themselves might be better taken down to let good love in.

    Available at:

    Bella Books

    Amazon

    Apple Books

     

    The Captain’s Claim by Katie Trapp

    Captain Hellebore rules with an iron fist. It is the key to her survival. When she finds an intruder aboard her ship, Hellebore is left with one choice. Throw Honey overboard or turn her over to the King’s guard. Only Hellebore never anticipated the wisp of a woman to be the mate she was convinced would never come.

    Determined to save her family from certain death, Honey Stark stows away on the only ship bound for Vulture Island. She finds more on board than she bargained for and must navigate a world and a bond she never knew existed.

    As Hellebore and Honey’s connection deepens, the reality of their situation intensifies. With love on the line and the world in her hands, Hellebore sets out to claim what is rightfully hers and to save Honey and her people from ultimate death.

    Available at:

    Amazon

     

    These Thin Lines by Milena McKay

    In the heart of Paris, Chiara Conti is a Queen trapped in an Ivory Tower of haute couture, fortune and lovelessness. Lonely and dejected, she’s longing for inspiration, for direction, for understanding.

    When Vi Courtenay falls at her feet, losing her shoe like a veritable Cinderella, events are set in motion that will unravel their carefully fashioned lives.

    With everything tainted, will the thin lines they rend ever be mended?

    Available at:

    Amazon

    Audible

     

    Unadulterated Something by MJ Duncan

    Emma Beauchamp and Campbell Jordan’s rivalry on the ice was legendary. Retirement should have closed that chapter of their lives, but when Campbell joins the faculty at Stonebridge—the prestigious Berkshires boarding school where Emma now teaches—it takes on a brand new life. There’s plenty of distrust and lingering animosity, but as circumstances force them to find a way to not only coexist, but work together, Emma and Campbell find that being on the same team isn’t as awful as they’d feared. Will their years spent battling it out for team and country be too much to overcome? Or will they finally acknowledge the truth behind the electric connection they share?

    Available at:

    Amazon

     

    Chrysalis and Requiem by Quinton Li

    At Adraredon Academy, fervent passion, contemporary companionship, and forbidden desires intertwine with tall gothic spires, ancient halls, and centuries of history. Veaer Rosell can’t imagine a better place to satiate her craving for beauty, knowledge, and art.

    Yet senior year shatters her illusion of tranquillity and civil intellect when she witnesses the headmaster’s daughter murder another student and is confronted by an unthinkable choice: avenging her fallen peer or taking this secret to the grave, one way or another.

    But fate laughs at Veaer’s expense when the headmaster’s daughter requests her aid. Driven by an all-consuming thirst for answers, Veaer becomes an untimely partner in solving a murder they both know the answer to, unaware of the intricacies that come with learning the bigger picture and playing with death.

    Available at:

    Amazon

     

    Don’t Cry for Me by Rachel Lacey

    Eve Marlow has her eyes on the prize: a third season of her popular business makeover show, Do Over. But when her ratings take an unexpected dive, Eve needs a blockbuster new client, or she can kiss season three goodbye. She has her work cut out for her, and that’s before she discovers a litter of newborn kittens in a trash can. Now she’s desperate to find someone to take them so she can concentrate on reviving her career.

    Josie Swanson had to put her kitten rescue on the back burner when she inherited her father’s bar two years ago. Since then, she’s invested all her time and energy into keeping it afloat, but despite her best efforts, Swanson’s is going under. When she gets a phone call from Eve Marlow, host of the television show Josie applied to earlier that year, the woman she’s convinced can save her bar, Josie hopes her luck has finally turned.

    Eve knows what she needs to succeed, and it isn’t Josie—or her bar. There’s no denying the chemistry sizzling between them, though. Josie’s personality is as vibrant as her turquoise-tipped hair. She stirs things in Eve that haven’t been stirred in a long time, but there’s a reason she keeps her heart under lock and key. Eve stands to lose a lot more than her TV show if she lets her guard down, no matter how tempted she is to see if Josie’s love would be worth the risk.

    Available at:

    Amazon

    Audible

     

    Behind the Eyes by Sharon K Angelici

    Theirs was a love story for the ages: Rasabel, the captain of the guard living a life devoted to duty and honor. And Isolde, the woman of the territory hungry for more than society’s requirements of a lady.

    In a world of swords and arrows, love was indefensible against obsession, lust and a cruel curse. For years, they searched for an end to their torment. When the alarm bells of Acadia ring, Rasabel goes home, but she is unwelcome. Determined to seek revenge her path collides with Bylyn, a young thief on the run from the executioner’s axe. Their meeting entangles their lives forever. Can Rasabel and Isolde find hope in the hands of a girl who will do anything to keep her freedom?

    Available at:

    Amazon

    Audible

     

    Join us for the Pride Month Book Calendar

    Pride Month Book Calendar

    To celebrate Pride Month in June, I have joined forces with 100+ authors of sapphic fiction to bring you a fun event with daily free books, book giveaways, and books you can get at a discount. You can already sign up for the daily reminder emails and can enter a giveaway to win one of 24 book gift cards.

    Check out the Pride Month Book Calendar!

     

    Leave a comment

    What book will you be reading for the “wearing the other character’s clothes” category? Let us know in the comments!

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  • Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer – Donna Hatch

    Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer – Donna Hatch

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    An Excerpt by Donna Hatch, Regency Romance Author 

    Available on Amazon

    Mrs. Hancock beamed as Alicia reached her side, put an arm around Alicia, and brought her into their circle. “Miss Alicia Palmer, allow me to introduce Lord Amesbury.” 

    Even more devastating up close, Lord Amesbury turned to her. His piercing blue eyes threatened the strength in her knees. Though taller than most ladies, Alicia still had to look up to meet his gaze. No other color existed in those eyes; no green or gray, only deep, dark blue, like the fathomless depths of the ocean. 

    All the other men she had met lately, namely those her uncle insisted she consider for a husband, had taken careful note of her figure. But this gentleman only looked into her eyes. Very deeply. 

    Lord Amesbury inclined his head. “Miss Palmer.” His resonant, bass voice touched her very soul. 

    Alicia met his frank gaze and a sensation she did not quite understand stirred within her until breathing became a conscious effort. Mrs. Hancock discreetly coughed, and Alicia realized she’d been locked in eye contact with the Viscount much longer than appropriate. 

    Unable to pull her eyes away, Alicia sank into a curtsey. “My lord.” 

    No longer merely polite, his smile broadened, warmed, transforming an already handsome face into a perfectly stunning visage. Sensuality radiated off him, not in a manner that left her feeling threatened, but in a way that left her breathless for more. More of what, she did not know. But she wanted to find out. 

    “Miss Palmer,” Lord Amesbury said, “May I have the next dance?” 

    Alicia blinked. She looked back at Elizabeth who smiled encouragingly. Mrs. Hancock also smiled and nodded, but a touch of disappointment tainted her approval, reminding Alicia the dear lady had hoped her own daughter would attract the attention of the very eligible Lord Amesbury. That he’d singled out Alicia seemed a dream. 

    She squelched all hope that she might hold his interest. Surely only politeness motivated him to dance with the plainest girl first. He’d soon turn his attention to the beautiful ladies. 

    Finding her voice, Alicia replied, “I would be delighted, my lord.” 

    As the final notes of the current dance ended and the next began, Lord Amesbury offered his arm. She took it, an unfamiliar quiver beginning in her stomach. The art of dancing, she found as the set began, had not abandoned her as completely as her wits. The handsome viscount danced with athletic grace, his attention focused upon her. The warmth of his hand seeped through their kidskin gloves. He held her gently, firmly. 

    A playful glint touched his sapphire eyes. “I must warn you. Now that we’ve danced, my aunt will take it upon herself to ask you your opinion of me. She will most certainly interrogate me regarding you.” 

    She met those probing eyes and her mouth curved. “Oh? Has your aunt become your self-proclaimed matchmaker?” 

    A wry smile touched his lips. “Of course. I’m thirty and not yet married. She feels it her duty to ensure I produce an heir before I’m too old. Despite my efforts to delay that obligation, she persists.” 

    Alicia nodded, her smile deepening at his indelicate statement. “That is a dilemma.” 

    “Since you and I have only just met, it will be difficult to offer a fair assessment of your character. And if I say anything positive about you, she’ll plan the wedding.” His smile brightened, lighting up his stunning face. 

    Alicia missed her step. Even while dancing with the very handsome Duke of Suttenberg two Seasons ago, such a keen attraction for a man had never overcome her as it did tonight. Yet she was nearly twenty, for heaven’s sake, not a missish schoolgirl! 

    “Your aunt is a strong woman and a kind lady, my lord. I am sure you can reason with her.” 

    “I suppose she possesses a good heart deep, deep down inside, but be truthful; she’s sharp-tongued and outspoken.” 

    She laughed and then clapped her hand over her mouth. “My lord! She might hear you.” 

    He chuckled. “Fear not. We needle each other as frequently as possible. I say worse things to her face. I enjoy watching her squirm and plot a counter- attack.” 

    That reminded her of the playful banter she shared with her cousin Robert. “I don’t recall her ever mentioning you, my lord.” 

    His smile turned self-deprecating. “I’m one of those relations no one mentions.” 



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