Hello, and Happy Tuesday! I’ve got two wonderful books to share today, both of which kept me flipping pages. One is a twisty slow-build suspense novel, the other a snappy, breezy romance novella with a villain you’ll love to hate. You can’t go wrong with either!
MEANS TO DECEIVE
BY ALEX CRAIGIE
This is an intricately plotted mystery/suspense book that builds from simmer to a slow boil. Gwen Meredith moves home to care for her elderly grandmother who suffers from dementia. Gwen has always viewed their relationship as strained, mostly due to a tragedy in Gwen’s past for which she harbors crushing guilt. The reader sees bits and pieces of that tragedy unfold a little at a time as Gwen periodically recalls the event, allowing layers to become exposed as though she is peeling a metaphorical onion. It is this past event, an episode that has shaped her life, that factors so brilliantly into the plot, particularly the ending.
Complicating matters, Gwen has crossed paths with two men who hold a grudge against her, each for different and alarming reasons. Her home life is disrupted when she becomes a target for harassment. The attacks grow in frequency and become frighteningly malicious. While the police are involved the culprit is never pinned down. Fortunately, Gwen has the benefit of an attentive older brother who moves in temporarily, and a new neighbor with whom she begins a tentative relationship. Gwen is a strong character, constantly standing up for herself to the chagrin of both brother and suitor, yet at the same time the past has burdened her with inner fragility she doesn’t allow to show.
Characters are realistically portrayed, reflecting all the ups and downs, doubts, and sacrifices that play out between them. Gwen’s relationship with her grandmother is thorny but a delight to read. I couldn’t help developing a soft spot in my heart for Granny. I also appreciated how Gwen’s relationship with Ben developed over time with plenty of hiccups along the way.
Red herrings and curve balls lead to a lot of second-guessing when it comes to the culprit. Although I did finger that person correctly (after waffling more than once) the motive left me dumbfounded. The ending was brilliant and wholly satisfying. A polished, well-written tale for fans of intelligent mysteries and slow-build suspense.
BETWEEN THE VINES
Keystone Couples #3
BY STACI TROILO
Elena is a wedding planner who doesn’t believe in love thanks to the jerks who have been sniffing around her door since high school. Aaron is her cousin Rick’s longtime friend, a cop who’s recently been dumped by his fiancée, Heather.
Heather is now engaged to Jarod, a one-time friend of Rick, until he tried to take advantage of Elena. Sound like a romantic merry-go-round? Oh, just wait until the complications/fun begins!
From the start, the underlying attraction between Elena and Aaron is clear, but several obstacles stand in their way—foremost, Heather, who decides she was hasty in leaving Aaron once she sees him take down a robbery suspect. This woman is the pinnacle of self-centered and shallow. Troilo writes her in such a way that the moment she appears in a scene, you cringe. Heather is a character you love to hate.
But all Troilo’s characters are well developed. Elena is a walking bundle of doubt buried under a core of outer strength. Aaron seesaws between exasperation and attentiveness. Poor guy has his work cut out for him, but bring out the pom-poms because you’ll be cheering for him and Elena from their very first spark of chemistry.
This is a fun novella with snappy dialogue, perfectly paced scenes, and breezy writing. It leaves you with a warm feeling and a happily-ever-after smile. All three Keystone Couples stories are superb, but I think this clever gem might just be my favorite.
AMAZON LINK
I read your review of Staci’s book and enjoyed what sounds like a fun read. My wife toyed with becoming a wedding planner as she likes to organize events.
I had to bypass your review of Means to Deceive because that one is coming up soon for me in the next couple of weeks. One of my quirks is I don’t like to be influenced by others’ comments when I’m about to read a book.
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Pete, I’m the same way with books and reviews. I’m sure you’re going to enjoy Means to Deceive.
Staci’s book was wonderful. I was never a wedding planner but I used to plan and coordinate an annual corporate dinner function for over 150 people, and that always felt a bit like putting together a wedding reception! 🙂
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Thanks, Pete! You’ve made an old girl very happy!
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These are fantastic reviews, Mae. I have both books waiting on my Kindle. I’m looking forward to reading them. Thanks for sharing!
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Fantastic, Jill. Happy reading!
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Thanks so much, Jill. I hope you enjoy both!
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That’s music to my ears, Jill! Thanks!
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Two great reviews. Congrats to Staci and Alex. Thanks for sharing your thoughts, Mae 💕🙂
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These were two great books, Harmony. Always a pleasure to share!
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Many thanks, Harmony!
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Thanks, Harmony. x
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Great reviews, Mae. I loved Between the Vines. Have also heard good things about Alex’s book. Sounds like one I’d enjoy.
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Between the Vines was so entertaining. I’ve really enjoyed all the Keystone Couple novellas. Alex’s book is a slow build mystery with many layers. I really enjoyed it!
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I really appreciate that, Joan. Thank you.
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Thanks, Joan!
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Bought a copy of your book today, Trish. I look forward to reading it.
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Fab reviews Mae!
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Thanks, Fraggle! 🙂
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I agree, Fraggle – they’re wonderful, top of the range reviews!
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I just finished Between the Vines, so sweet! I haven’t read Means to Deceive. It sounds good. Great reviews, Mae!
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Thanks, Priscilla. Between the Vines was an excellent addition to Staci’s series, and Mean to Deceive is a fantastic slow build mystery. I enjoyed them both!
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Thanks so much, Priscilla!
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Thanks, Priscilla. I love Mae’s review.
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Wonderful reviews. Thanks for sharing them.
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My pleasure. Thanks for visiting, Craig!
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Thanks, Craig – they are, aren’t they!
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I’ve got Staci’s waiting on my Kindle, and Alex’s book sounds like an engaging mystery that keeps you guessing. Great reviews, Mae – congrats to the authors!
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I know you’ll enjoy Staci’s novella, Teri. It’ spot on!
And Alex delivered a great story. It definitely kept me guessing! 🙂
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I hope you enjoy it, Teri. Thanks.
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Thanks, Teri. This review is one of those boosts that can keep you going for a good, long time!
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Two super authors and terrific reviews, Mae. Thanks for sharing.
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Thanks John, Both authors did a superb job!
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😊
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Thanks, John!
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It takes one to know one, John. Thanks!
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😁Love that. Thanks, Staci.
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Sounds like a couple of great reads.
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They were both great, Sharon. Thanks for checking them out! 🙂
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Thanks, Sharon. Mae’s done me proud!
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Excellent reviews for both books, Mae. I’m adding them to my TBR. ❤️
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Thanks so much. Wishing you happy reading!
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Fantastic, Mischenko. Enjoy! 🙂
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That is so very good to hear – many thanks!!
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I just reviewed one of Alex Craigie’s books – will add this one to the good old TBR, MC. I’m trying to finish The Lincoln Highway for a book club meeting and another book for Rosie. And edit my latest. Lots to do! But I so liked the first of Alex’s books that I will read this one!
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Wow, you’ve got a lot going on, Noelle. Would you believe I just started editing my latest, too? Talk about timing, LOL.
I remember your review of Alex’s other book. I know you’re going to enjoy this one. Oh, the TBR trauma! 😁
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Can’t wait for your next book! I’m in an anthology coming out in October called Rock, Roll and Murder.
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I can’t thank you enough for this, Noelle! Your review for Someone Close to Home was brilliant and I’m genuinely grateful for you taking the time to do this – especially when I know how much you have on your plate at the moment.
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I always look forward to your reviews, Mae. Thank you for sharing. I just completed Staci’s novella and loved it. When I return home, I’ll write my 5-Star review. And I’m looking forward to reading Alex’s book. It sounds terrific!
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Aww. Thank you, Gwen. I’m so glad you enjoyed it.
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I’m glad you enjoy my reviews, Gwen, and I’m so glad you enjoyed Between the Vines, too. Staci told such a fun tale! I know you’ll enjoy Alex’s as well. Happy reading!
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Thanks, Gwen – Mae’s written a brilliant review for it.
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I’m currently reading Means to Deceive Mae, and absolutely loving it. Great review, and thanks for not giving away any answers. I honestly don’t know who the guilty (guiltiest?) party is, and have changed my mind several times. But I do know Trish’s writing is excellent, and I’m totally drawn into the mystery of it all.
And I have all three of Staci’s Keystone Novellas awaiting me. I was planning to binge read them, but I’m thinking maybe I’ll sneak them in between longer books, instead, one at a time, and that way I can get going on the series sooner. Looking forward to reading them all!
Thanks for the reviews!! 😀 ❤
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That’s so sweet of you, Marcia. I hope you enjoy them.
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I am absolutely certain I will, and am really looking forward to reading them. (And hoping to make a dent in some long overdue reviews over the months ahead, too!) 😀
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So glad to hear you’re enjoying Means to Deceive, Marcia. Alex/Trish delivers quite the tale. I flip-flopped on the villain, too.
You’ve got lots of good reading to look forward to with Staci’s Keystone Couples series. All three books are charmers! 🙂💕
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Bless you for that, Marcia! I know how little time you have for reading at the moment. (Shouldn’t you be writing!!) ❤
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She should be. I happen to know her editor is excited to work on her next project. 😉
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I love your reviews, Mae. You tell me everything I need to kow about the book. I have Staci’s on my Kindle, working its way up. Now I can’t wait!
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Thank you, Jacqui. I hope you enjoy it when you get to it!
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I’m so glad to hear you enjoy my reviews, Jacqui. And that’s fantastic about Staci’s book. You’re in for a treat! 🙂
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Mae’s reviews are excellent because they highlight the important things without giving away any spoilers!
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Oh, Mae. As usual, you flatter me. I’m over the moon with your review. It totally made my day. Thank you so much!
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Great writing, characters to love and hate (boo-hiss Heather!), plus a fun plot are well-deserving of a fantastic review. Thanks for keeping me entertained and flipping pages—again! 🙂
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I loved Staci’s book, too. All three were fun. Great reviews, as always.
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Thanks so much, Judi. I’m so glad you enjoyed the series.
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Thanks, Judi. And I’m so glad to hear you enjoyed all three of Staci’s books, too. It’s such a fun, breezy series!
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Both of these sound fascinating, but Means to Deceive has really captured my interest. Thanks for sharing, Mae!
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Hi, Peachy. Thanks for checking out the reviews. I’m glad they appeal to you and that Means to Deceive has snared your interest. It’s a slow build, well-developed suspense/mystery!
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Thanks, Peachy! Mae’s done a brilliant job of reeling you in!
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You’re welcome, and congratulations on the book! Mae is such a wonderful writer and reviewer, I agree.
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Thanks, Peachy. (And I agree; Alex/Trish’s book captured my interest, too!)
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Thanks, Staci!
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I wholeheartedly agree with your review of “Between Two Vines,” Mae. And Alex’s book sounds fascinating. Thank you for sharing!
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HI, Jan. Looks like Staci’s latest Keystone Couples books has many fans. Thanks for adding your recommendation as well. And I’m glad you enjoyed the review for Alex’s books. It’s a slick mystery for sure!
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Thanks, Jan!
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Thanks so much, Jan. I’m delighted to hear you enjoyed the novella!
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HI Mae, thanks for sharing these great reviews. Both are books I want to read.
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Fantastic to hear, Robbie. I’m sure you’re going to enjoy both stories!
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Thanks, Robbie. I’m reading Behind Closed Doors at the moment – powerful and moving!
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That is lovely to know, Trish 💕
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I really appreciate that, Robbie. Thank you.
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Thank you so much for this review, Mae. I’m truly delighted with it and am so happy I expect you can see my grin from wherever you are! I read the first of Staci’s Keystone Couples, have Pour it On waiting for me and then I need to get Between the Vines. Thanks again! ❤
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Alex (Trish), I’m always delighted to share reviews of excellent books that kept me entertained. Both you and Staci really hit it out of the ballpark with your books. I know Staci will love hearing you have Pour it On already waiting and are looking forward to Between the Vines. Thanks for the wonderful read with Means to Deceive. You are an exceptional writer and have a new fan! 🙂
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I might just stick this on the fridge to keep the happiness bubbling! Coming from a writer whose work I love, this recommendation really counts. ❤
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Mae’s right, Trish. I’m delighted to hear you liked the first-in-series enough to continue on. Happy reading! I hope you enjoy the work.
And I wish you much success with your release. I thought it sounded good before Mae reviewed it, but now I know for sure it’s a hit. Congratulations!
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Aww, that’s so sweet. Thanks, Trish. ❤️
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Thanks for sharing the reviews of these books Mae. I’ve read both these authors and admire their writing prowess. Looking forward to reading them.
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That’s fantastic to hear, Balroop. I know both Alex and Trish will appreciate hearing that. And as you said, they’e both excellent writers!
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That’s such a lovely thing to say, Balroop! It’s been a delight to be featured here with Staci.
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Thank you so much, Balroop. I’m humbled.
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I have Staci’s book and can’t wait til I have a chance to read it. Excellent reviews, Mae!
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Happy reading, Tessa. Staci tells a good tale. I know you’re sure to enjoy it!
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I really enjoyed the first in this series by Staci, Tessa. Mae’s review has reminded me that I have the second waiting on my Kindle.
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Thanks so much, Tessa. I hope you enjoy it!
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You do such a great job with these reviews. Your writing is a work of art even here. Just so nicely done. And Between the Vines?? Excellent title. 🙂
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Aww, thanks, Betsy. I really appreciate those thoughts.
I love the title Between the Vines, too. It’s a perfect fit for Staci’s book!
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🙂
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I love Mae’s work and I agree with you about the quality of her reviews. They must take time to do and highlight the books without giving away spoilers. I think Between the Vines is a neat title, too!
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Thank you, Betsy. I have to confess, I can’t take credit for this title. My daughter came up with it. (I was stumped.)
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Kudos to your daughter then!
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When I get stuck, she and/or my son usually come through in a big way for me. She nailed it on this one, I think. And I’ll definitely pass along the compliment. Thanks.
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Staci’s is waiting patiently on my Kindle and I think I need to pick up Alex’s- great reviews, Mae!
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Thanks, Jacquie. I hope you enjoy it!
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Thanks, Jacquie! So many books – so little time!
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Ha, ha! Isn’t that the truth! 🙂
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So true! 🙂
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Thanks, Jacquie. You have plenty of great reading ahead. Both books are wonderful!
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Terrific reviews Denise.. I have Means to Deceive waiting for me and one of Staci’s so I need to catch up.. congratulations to both Alex and Staci… xx
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I fear I’ll never catch up with all my reading. Thanks, Sally.
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You do so much to promote us – I hope you know how much it’s appreciated. ❤
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Thanks Alex… ♥♥
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Thanks for visiting to check out the reviews, Sally. Both books are wonderful reads. I know you’ll enjoy them when they surface on your TBR. Those pesky TBRs just spiral out of control, LOL!
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They are and very vocal lol… ♥
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Love your reviews, Mae. Congratulations to Alex and Staci!
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Thanks for checking out the reviews, Sue. Two superb authors and two superb books! 🙂
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Thanks, Sue. Reviews like Mae’s make such a difference.
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Thanks, Sue. Nice to see you here!
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Wonderful reviews to share, Mae! Both sound intriguing and definite inviting reads. Cheers to Alex and Staci! Thanks so much for sharing! 🙂
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Thanks for the comment, Natalie!
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Glad you enjoyed the reviews, Natalie. Both authors delivered highly entertaining reads!
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Great reviews, Mae. I also enjoyed Alex’s Means to Deceive. She writes wonderful slow burn mysteries/suspense stories. I’ve enjoyed them all. And congrats to Staci on another wonderful Keystone Couples novella. You got this one read quickly and it sounds great. I still have to read the second one, but I’ll get there. 🙂
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Diana, Means to Deceive was my first book by Alex, but I know it won’t be my last. She definitely knows how to spin a tale.
And I know you’re going to enjoy Staci’s novellas. They are such fun!
Thanks for visiting and commenting! 🙂
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Alex’s style is really consistent, so you can expect the same quality with each. And I know I’ll enjoy Staci’s book. I thought the first one was great. 🙂
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Both of those books sound good, the mystery and Staci’s. Thanks for helping with my TBR 😉
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Always my pleasure to build a TBR, Flossie 🙂
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