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Uncaged Review – Cruel is My Court by L.A. McGinnis

By
Cyrene Olson
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0

Cruel is My Court
L.A. McGinnis
Fantasy Romance

They were right to call me a thief.

I stole the king’s magic and made his power mine.

The day I claimed the magic, I was cursed by an ancient prophecy, binding me to four others—a beastly gambler, an honorable slave, the Shadow King’s deadly general and a mysterious aristocrat.

Every time I use my new power, we’re tangled more tightly togethe. Now our survival hinges on us outwitting the cunning Old Gods who brought us together in the first place. They say our curse is unbreakable, that we’re doomed to become monsters like them, but I don’t believe their lies.

All I know is, we’re the only ones standing between our world and the dark magic prophesied to destroy it. There is nothing I won’t do to save my males.

And they’ll burn this world to the ground to protect me.

I say, let the biggest monsters win.

Uncaged Review: This book is so intricately detailed and so engrossing, it’s hard to set it down. This title is aptly named, and there is enough blood and warfare for everyone and then some. Anaria and her men will be tested beyond their limits, and how they manage to get through this book is a testament to the strong bond that they share. Anaria risks everything to save the men she loves, not once, but three times. With the Oracle still demanding her to do her bidding, Anaria is fighting all the way through. There are some nice down time moments, but they are few and far between in this book. This is not a light read, this is a story that you may have to put down and come back to, just to take a break. But it’s a fantastic series and the second book doesn’t disappoint.

I don’t know how the author has detailed this out, she must have binders full of notes, but there is so many subplots running and I’m looking forward how it all comes together. This is a reverse harem book with both MF and MMF scenes, so if that is something you don’t like, it can be easily skipped over in my opinion as these scenes don’t take over the story. I’ll definitely be moving on with the series. Reviewed by Cyrene

5 Stars

Uncaged Review – A Very Fairy Funeral by A.N. Sage

By
Cyrene Olson
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0

A Very Fairy Funeral
A.N. Sage
Cozy Mystery

An introverted fairy, a secret society of undertakers, and a talking cat—what a deadly combination!

In the Mistbrook Manor Funeral Home, Lyra Moore prefers the company of the dead to the living. As a fairy in hiding and the town’s funeral director, she’s perfected the art of staying out of the spotlight—until an unclaimed body appears on her doorstep under mysterious circumstances. No one knows who the victim is or how he died, but Lyra is determined to leave the case to the authorities. She does not need any more strangers knocking on her door, at least not breathing ones.

Unfortunately, life outside Fairy has other plans. When Lyra returns home to find an odd man lurking in her living room, he claims to be a detective, yet Lyra can see right through his lies. Even without her fairy magic!

Reluctant to leave well enough alone, Lyra stumbles on a secret society of undertakers with a unique calling: solving crimes.

With her own magic to conceal, and a bratty talking cat—who happens to be a changeling stuck in feline form thanks to an administrative slip-up and a foolish feud—Lyra finds herself entangled in the mystery with no way out.

But can she crack the case while keeping her magical secret? Or will the truth refuse to stay buried?

Uncaged Review: What could be more fun than an amateur group of undertakers forming a secret society to solve a small town’s mysteries? In this first book of the series, Lyra is a fairy, hiding as a mortician in a small town, a very introverted fairy, hiding her magic and trying to stay away from people, and even when she does have to go into town, her anxiety almost cripples her. But when she stumbles upon a group of people at a mausoleum and finds out that her latest person in her morgue may not have died of natural causes, she resigns herself to help.

With a truly fascinating cast of supporting characters who seem to endear themselves to Lyra, they go off trying to find out what really happened to the man in her morgue. All the time, trying to keep her magic under wraps so the psycho dark prince of fairy won’t come looking for her. This was a fun book to read, and this group is better than the police and use all there resources to dig for clues. This is fun and light hearted, and there is some danger, but it’s hard to resist a talking, sarcastic cat and a group of very unique individuals. Reviewed by Cyrene

4 Stars

Uncaged Review – An Evening to Remember by Tamara Gill

By
Cyrene Olson
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0

An Evening to Remember
Tamara Gill
Historical Romance

When hearts collide, can love overcome the secrets of the past?

Lady Matilda has faced the London marriage mart for three Seasons, and with each passing year, her resolve to remain independent grows stronger. She’s determined never to lose herself in a marriage that would stifle her adventurous spirit—until she meets Lord Christopher Wright, at a country wedding.

Christopher ignites a passion Matilda never expected, but he’s hiding a secret: a long-ago betrothal made in haste, one that threatens to destroy their blossoming love. As his past comes to light, Matilda’s fears of losing herself as a wife seem all too real.

Will Christopher break free from the promise of his youth and win Matilda’s heart, or will the weight of deception be too much for her to forgive?

Uncaged Review: So, Lady Matilda Lane-Fox is at her dear friend Charlotte’s house party when suddenly Charlotte’s brother, the Marquess Charteris, Lord Christopher Wright, shows up. Matilda can’t deny her instant attraction to Christopher and steals a kiss from him. Matilda doesn’t think anything will come from it, especially when she finds out that Christopher enjoys kissing her too. Well, one kiss leads to several more, but the house party is about to get interesting because Lady Delphine also has a very strong attachment to Christopher. Pretty soon, Matilda and Christopher are spending a lot of time together. The only problem is that Christopher doesn’t want to marry anyone because he might already be betrothed. What is Matilda to do, and can she convince Christopher to take a chance at love, or will he deny the growing attraction and let Matilda leave him?

When I heard about this historical I wanted to instantly read it because I am just a sucker for best friend brother romances. Sure, it’s familiar and almost formulaic, but I just enjoy them so much! Also, how could this book even be a novella? It sure didn’t feel or read like one. The story felt complete and even with some minor confusion about the characters, because I didn’t read the other two books in the series, this story was still a very quick page turner and a lovely read that I liked it! I do plan on reading the others just so I can understand the relationships between all the characters, but it isn’t necessary to read this in order because it can still stand alone. I couldn’t help but fall for Christopher even though at times I didn’t trust him because he had so many secrets, but Matilda was an amazing heroine that I just adored her! I do look forward to more and Ms. Tamara Gill has definitely turned me into a faithful reader of her stories! Reviewed by Roslynn Ernst

4.5 Stars

Uncaged Review – The Villian’s Vixen by Tabetha Waite

By
Cyrene Olson
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0

The Villain’s Vixen
Tabetha Waite
Historical Romance

Dominic Eastland, the Duke of Cuthbert, is a known wastrel in polite society, but he harbors an even greater secret. In London’s seedy underworld he’s known as “Avalon,” the leader of a cutthroat gang. However, he’s recently decided it’s time for someone else to rule in his stead. He owes respectability to his line and his brother who died young and never had the chance to inherit the title, so it’s time to put his past transgressions aside and attempt to become an honorable man by doing his duty and taking a wife.
But then he sees her and suddenly he doesn’t want to be that good anymore.

Miss Alexandra Givenwald has lived a life of simplicity under her father’s roof where she was generally ignored. When she gets the chance to go to London under the pretense of finding a husband, she has other ideas in mind. Her aunt would be thrilled if she married well, and has picked a suitable gentleman, but Lexie cares not for the strictures of a union. She wants to experience passion and explore what freedoms life has to offer.

From the moment she sees him, she knows he can fulfill her deepest desires.
The attraction between Dominic and Lexie is instant, and although she is continuously warned away from him by the man himself, she is drawn toward him that much deeper. As true villains are revealed, they must embark on a perilous journey that will risk more than just the danger posed to their hearts.

Uncaged Review: While at a ball, Lady Alexandra “Lexie” Givenwald, who is chaperoned by her aunt, is reminded to avoid a notorious rake and bounder. Lexie innocently asks why should she avoid him? The man in question happened to be Dominic Eastland, the Duke of Cuthbert, who did notice Lexie in the crowded ballroom and also saw that she looked at him most intently too. Dominic is intrigued and, against Lexie’s aunt’s disapproval, introduces himself to her anyway. Lexie is charmed by Dominic despite his mysterious nature. When Lexie finds out that Dominic also has a secret identity and is leader of a gang in the East End. Dominic’s dukedom is held in question because his secret could be exposed. His two worlds are at risk of being mixed up because of Lexie, who has turned his world upside down and could put his life in danger. Love might be the only thing that could save them or end up killing them both.

What a captivating historical that definitely isn’t your run-of-the-mill love story! Why do I say that? It’s all because of the mystery, the double agent aspect and romance all rolled into one. So, of course, that really made this novel kind of standout. Is this a bad thing? For me, I don’t think so, and it makes the tale uniquely different. The story is filled with colorful characters who are written very vividly and even with this being London it is pretty scary, so I wouldn’t want to visit. I would have liked to learn more about Dominic’s previous life and past. Also, how did no one know who he truly was, especially the Blue Boys? So maybe they aren’t educated which even with the lack of education, someone would have noticed that the Avalon looks very familiar, but how did they not figure out that Dominic was a Duke and were really surprised by that fact? Yet I still liked Dominic’s double agent status and Lexie was also a great heroine. I would even like Amos to get a story too. I do, however, look forward to more of Ms. Tabetha Waite’s stories, though she has definitely reeled me with her books about love, suspense and a compelling group of characters!
Reviewed by Roslynn Ernst

4 Stars

Uncaged Review – Hard as a Rock Cowboy by Lexi Post

By
Cyrene Olson
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0

Hard as a Rock Cowboy
Lexi Post
Contemporary Western

She’s the only thing standing in the way of the life he’s always wanted…

Brody Dunn is anxious to start his training as a wildlife manager and begin his new career away from Rocky Road Ranch. His father has agreed to release him from his promise to work on the ranch if he can convince the neighbors to sell their land.

When he discovers that the granddaughter of the elderly couple who owned the land has inherited it, and better yet, has lived in the city her entire life never knowing the land existed, he’s sure it will be easy getting her to sell.

Hannah Kingsley is shocked yet thrilled to discover she owns land in Four Peaks. Though it’s nothing but desert and an old casita, it’s all hers. Besides, it even comes with a knowledgeable and handsome neighbor! What could be better?

It doesn’t take long for her to realize Brody wants her to sell right away, yet the more she learns about her property, the town, and him, the more she knows this is the place for her. And just maybe, Brody’s the man for her as well. But can she get him to see what’s right in front of his nose, or will his one-track mind be his downfall?

Uncaged Review: In this second book of the series, we focus on Brody and all Brody wants is to become a wildlife manager and doesn’t want to be a ranch hand any longer. To get released from his promise to stay on the ranch, he’ll need to convince the neighbors to sell their 1100 acres, but the original owners are passed away and he’ll have to convince the granddaughter, Hannah to sell. Being a city slicker, he doesn’t think it will be too hard to convince her how hard life is in the desert with only a small casita to live in on the property, and in poor shape on top of it all. But he didn’t count on Hannah’s enthusiasm for everything, including fixing the small casita and the ranch life, or finding himself falling for her.

There is a lot going on here, the Rocky Road Ranch is transforming into the dude ranch and as Brody thinks to show Hannah around and show her that it’s a rough life, he begins to have more feelings than he’s even aware of. The way the author describes the landscape, the reader can picture in their minds as they read along. I like that the supporting cast from book one are back, and even the third brother, Jackson has returned from being in the army. Hannah and Brody will have a mountain to climb to get to their HEA, but this book shows that the desert and ranch life can be just as intoxicating as any city.
Reviewed by Cyrene

5 Stars

Uncaged Review – Eternal Love and Blood by Jade Christy

By
Cyrene Olson
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0

Eternal Love and Blood
Jade Christy
Vampire Suspense

Bound by Blood, Destined by Fate

Rachel Tarak sought solitude, not destiny. Hidden away in a remote farmhouse, she craves peace—until a dangerously alluring stranger collapses at her door.

Gabriel, with his piercing eyes and enigmatic warnings, is a man cloaked in shadows and secrets. Against her better judgment, Rachel takes him in, unwittingly opening the door to a world far darker—and far more magical—than she ever imagined. And sensual passions she never dreamed possible.

Gabriel is no ordinary man. Hunted by ancient forces, he’s a creature caught between light and darkness. And Rachel is the key to it all. As her dormant powers awaken, she is thrust into a deadly game of betrayal, sacrifice, and love.

Their connection is undeniable, their passion all-consuming, but destiny is a merciless master. Together, they must confront an ancient evil threatening to tear their worlds apart. With time running out and an impossible choice looming, Rachel and Gabriel’s love will be tested in ways neither could have foreseen.

When the lines between good and evil blur, can love truly conquer all—or will it demand the ultimate sacrifice?

Uncaged Review: Rachel Tarak enjoys painting and the solitary isolation of her Virginia farmhouse. When there is suddenly a knock at her door. Rachel wants to avoid answering it, but when she does, a handsome injured man is there at her doorstep. When Rachel brings him inside, there is something odd and very different about this man who calls himself Gabriel. Rachel also can’t help the attraction she has for him either. As Rachel spends more and more time with Gabriel, the desire they have for each other can’t be contained, and they become intimate. Rachel knows that Gabriel holds a lot of secrets but doesn’t care until Gabriel finally tells her that he’s a vampire. Rachel doesn’t believe it until there are beasts that are attempting to kill them both. Gabriel’s plan is to protect Rachel, but she also holds a secret that can not only save him but her world too as well.

I’ve always said that contemporary authors can’t write a convincing paranormal. Sure, they can write erotica and this book does have some very steamy, spicy stuff, but another vampiric lore that does not follow the other stories is hard to beat. So, my expectations of this book weren’t that high, but Ms. Jade Christy managed to pen a very fast-moving, enchanting tale that doesn’t play into all the myths of vampires but makes it her very own. When I got the book on my kindle I was a little peeved at all the spacing, but that can be fixed easily so that is not a reflection on the story or how it’s told. Rachel is your typical stubborn heroine, but as the story progresses she does get better and learns to listen. While Gabriel had so many secrets, I went from not trusting to tolerating him to liking him. Jumping into bed that quickly with him probably not, but the insta-low between Rachel and Gabriel, for some reason, works well here. I can’t wait to read more of Ms. Christy’s stories, whether they be contemporary or paranormal, I eagerly anticipate her next jaunt into the supernatural! Reviewed by Roslynn Ernst

4.5 Stars

Uncaged Review – Soul of a Villain by April Moran

By
Cyrene Olson
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0

Soul Of A Villain
April Moran
Mafia Romance

A SAVAGE WORLD NOVEL

Oliver Benedict Winter

My life revolves around death and darkness.

I’ve accepted that I’ll die alone one day and probably in great pain from an enemy ambush. But when I see her on the auction block, nothing else matters. I’m insanely consumed with her. She’s in danger, but how can I save her when I’ve sworn to be the instrument of her death?

I hunted her. I caught her. I’m keeping her.

I’m the villain, and this is my fairy tale.

Londyn Juliet Skye

Entering that auction might be the biggest mistake of my life.

Because things don’t go as planned. I become the prize in a hunt catering to rich, dangerous men. The man who catches me is dark and brutal, but his cruelty is tempered by possessiveness. His darkness tamed by benevolence. He makes me bleed and when he kisses the pain away, I just want more.

I hate him. Fear him. Crave him. He has me in a chokehold but I’m beginning to like being his.

He’s the villain I’m falling in love with.

TWs are listed inside the book.
Please read responsibly.

Uncaged Review: Oliver Benedict Winter is ruthless, cruel and heartless. No one messes with him because the wrath of a Winter is known to get you injured or, worse, killed. When Oliver goes to Diamond Lake Ranch for their auction, he goes for one singular purpose-to buy a woman, one who is sweet and untouched, a virgin. Of course, when Oliver gets there he meets Lyndon Juliette Skye, who, it turns out, there is more to her than meets the eye. Oliver finds out that Lyndon is many things. Yes, she has her virtue intact, but she is also a killer. Oliver plans to break Lyndon’s spirit in more ways than one, not just physically, emotionally, but sexually too as well, and teach her to face her carnal side. Pretty soon, Oliver is coming undone by the innocent Lyndon questioning his whole world, but men are also after her. If Oliver doesn’t find a way to protect Lyndon, it could also end up killing them both.

Wow! What a very dark tale that is totally addictive! The contemporary love story definitely isn’t for the faint of heart and if you don’t like bullies, BDSM, enemy to lovers, and twisted fairy tales, stay far away from this one. If you can get past all of that, then by all means indulge. One thing though about Oliver: he was a minor character in the Savage Duet. So maybe the savage duet needs to be a series and make this part of it. Oliver isn’t the handsome prince who you could easily fall in love with. He’s savage, brutal and torments Lyndon. That you can’t decide whether to like him or hope something bad happens to him. Luckily, love does change him, so he becomes tolerable and, even can I say it, somewhat likable, but he claims that he isn’t a savior and, yes, he is not that at all! Yet there is something totally redeemable about him. While Lyndon is the sunshine, rainbows and truly a bright light. Despite everything she is put through and her circumstances, she is easy to love. Do I long for more? Well, Ms. April Moran has written an intriguing novel and, yes, I do want more of her corrupt love stories and look forward to the next! Reviewed by Roslynn Ernst

4.5 Stars

Uncaged Review – Sanctum by Luna Kayne

By
Cyrene Olson
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0

Sanctum
Luna Kayne
Paranormal Romance

An angel destined to fall.
A demon determined to rise.
A mortal fated to unite the realms.

When Lily stumbled into the Underworld as a child, she awakened a prophecy that had been waiting for her since the dawn of time.

Now, twenty years later, she unknowingly alerts the realms of her existence, and Hell isn’t the only thing coming for her.

LILY
If you’d told me yesterday that I was chosen to battle the Celestial Lands and the Underworld alongside an archangel and an archdemon who hate each other, I would have said you were crazy.

That was yesterday.

Today, I am the key to saving both worlds. A war is coming, and the fate of a god rests in my hands.

Uncaged Review: Twenty years ago, the prince of demons, Asmodeus, lived in the Underworld. Asmodeus thinks no one can come there, but a young girl named Lily who is wearing cute pajamas with lambs all over them suddenly appears. In the present day, waitress Lily all grown up works in a hole in the wall diner with her best friend and roommate Finley. When Finley invites Lily to a campsite, suddenly all hell breaks loose. The people there at the campsite are attacked while Lily and Finley fight to escape. Asmodeus shows up. Lily doesn’t understand how he even appeared but then learns that she brought him to the mortal realm. Without realizing her power, Michael the archangel also shows up to stop the threat. Lily must figure out who killed her parents while also trying to stop the all-out war between demons versus angels without falling for both Asmodeus and Michael. Good and evil will battle for a mortal girl who will change destiny and fate through her love for them both.

This romantic fantasy was just an utter surprise and a total joy to read! Demons, mortals and angels are wittily combined is written quite masterfully! The idea of a love triangle will make a lot of people shy away, but this love triad just really works. Making you question the love between Asmodeus/Lily and Michael/Lily is both tragic but leaves me in hopeful anticipation! In fact, all the characters are just amazingly complex, and the vivid world building is delightfully done! It is really hard to decide who to go, for team Asmodeus or team Michael, because both are just marvelous! Asmodeus might be all demon and plays on his baser primal instincts, which I loved his demon side. While angelic Michael just stunned me! I’ve always pictured Michael as being a virgin and would not have desire or lust for a female, but it’s enjoyable to read that he is knocked off that holy pedestal by a human. Lily has a tough choice and most of the time I wanted all three to live together. The open ending begs the question of who will finally get to claim Lily and what will happen to the rest of the group too. I eagerly look forward to the next in the series, but while I wait, I will just read this again and again. I have to congratulate Ms. Luna Kaye on a fantastic book that everyone will love! Reviewed by Roslynn Ernst

5 Stars

Uncaged Review – The Strongest Heart by Regan Walker

By
Cyrene Olson
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0

The Strongest Heart
Regan Walker
Historical Scottish

In the late 14th century, the Kingdom of the Isles was under assault from the ambitious Albany Stewarts, who were taking advantage of Scotland’s empty throne to increase their power. Jealous of the Macdonald lordship to the west, the ruthless Robert Stewart, Duke of Albany, thwarted Donald of Islay, Lord of the Isles, at every turn.

A man of keen intelligence, strategy and faith, educated at Oxford and a frequent guest of England’s kings, Lord Donald did not intend to allow a traitorous royal thug to rob him of his legacy. The Earldom of Ross was the buffer he needed to keep the Isles safe. Not unmindful of all that was at stake, he took as his bride Lady Mariota, heiress to the Earldom of Ross.

What he could not achieve through diplomacy or marriage, Donald was prepared to claim by right of the sword. In the greatest battle Scotland has ever seen, he would demonstrate the power of the Isles to become the Hero of Harlaw.

Uncaged Review: In Castle Tioram, Ranald has some horrifying news for his half-brother Donald “Donnie” MacDonald. Ranald tells Donald that he would like him to be clan chief for the Macdonald clan because he by right is the feudal heir. Donald isn’t for sure that he is the best choice. He is Oxford-educated and only twenty. Donald accepts the responsibility anyhow. Donald realizes he now needs a wife and decides to honor the childhood arrangement set up by his father and the Earl of Ross’s daughter Mariota Ross. Mariota sends her trusted knights to spy on Donald for her. When Donald finally gets to meet Mariota, he is quite pleased with the betrothal and they marry. Donald thinks everything is going well with most people trusting him to lead the clan, a beautiful wife and a growing family, isn’t all that perfect. Many want to be clan chieftain including his own family. Donald has no choice but fight his own family to prove himself or risk losing the support of the clan.

This is the third book in The Clan Donald Saga and what an exhilarating tale it is! These books are all wonderfully diverse, different and exciting! The story instantly transports you to medieval Scotland quite effortlessly! The three-dimensional characters just make you part of the story too. It’s amazing how Ms. Regan Walker writes these captivating novels, each varied and unique in their own way that makes the reading of them just utterly delightful! Donald was a magnificent hero and person! He was the unsung warrior. Many people don’t believe in him because of his youth, but he always proves everyone wrong. While Mariota the feisty-spirited heroine, is just his perfect counterpart. Sure, I did have an absolute girl crush on her, but she was just amazing! Even all the minor characters are extraordinarily distinct! Do I look forward to the next in the series? Yes, I do. Ms. Walker has definitely captured my attention, and I am ready for her next jaunt into history or wherever she wants to take us. I am down for the journey!
Reviewed by Roslynn Ernst

5 Stars

Uncaged Review – Gamble of Hearts by Virginia Barlow

By
Cyrene Olson
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0

Gamble of Hearts
Virginia Barlow
Historical Romance

When a powerful duke arrives to collect his winnings from her brother, Lady Amora Hargrove discovers she is one of them. Following her brother’s arrest, she becomes the duke’s ward and falls for him hard and fast. Problem is, the duke has a violent hatred for gamblers, and she possesses a natural ability. Something he can never discover, or she will lose him forever.
The Duke of Ravencroft exacts revenge for his nephew’s death and gains a ward. Irresistibly drawn to the villain’s sister, he must play and gamble with their hearts or lose everything.

Uncaged Review: A good historical will give us danger, intrigue, love and the ability to visualize the time period as we read along. This one does all of that, and more. Lady Amora finds out that her horrid brother set it up for her to be part of the payment for his gambling debt, and a Duke has come to collect, and Amora finds out how despicable her brother truly has been and how she’s been used and finds she’s the ward of the Duke until a proper marriage partner is found. But Amora falls for the Duke…

There are endearing moments and even though the two met under less than perfect circumstances, they are both characters you will cheer on to find their way. This is a steamy book, and there are some moments that will make you laugh and there are moments that will break your heart. But through it all, this is a story that I read in one day.
Reviewed by Cyrene

5 Stars

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