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The Crones
Dusty Hotte has questions.
Simple ones like, now that she’s agreed to run the family farm, how does one do that? How many years do hot flashes last? Why are her elderly aunts facing off in the kitchen armed with tongs and a cast-iron skillet?
She’s also got other questions that are far more complex.
Why do her magical mistakes from the past keep haunting her? Why does half the town blame her for all that’s been going wrong lately?
And how can she be accused of murder when she’s got a rock-solid alibi?
Dusty needs to prove her innocence, which will also help silence the witch haters in Blackwood Grove. But first she’ll have to decide what she’s willing to give up to make that happen.
Simple ones like, now that she’s agreed to run the family farm, how does one do that? How many years do hot flashes last? Why are her elderly aunts facing off in the kitchen armed with tongs and a cast-iron skillet?
She’s also got other questions that are far more complex.
Why do her magical mistakes from the past keep haunting her? Why does half the town blame her for all that’s been going wrong lately?
And how can she be accused of murder when she’s got a rock-solid alibi?
Dusty needs to prove her innocence, which will also help silence the witch haters in Blackwood Grove. But first she’ll have to decide what she’s willing to give up to make that happen.
270 pages, Paperback
Published November 22, 2024
6 people want to read
About the author
Shawn McGuire
79 books820 followersMystery and fantasy author Shawn McGuire loves creating characters and places her fans want to return to again and again. She started writing after seeing the first Star Wars movie (that's episode IV) as a kid. She couldn't wait for the next installment to come out so wrote her own. Sadly, those notebooks are long lost, but her desire to tell a tale is as strong now as it was then. She lives in Wisconsin near the beautiful Mississippi River and when not writing or reading, she might be baking, crafting, going for a long walk, or nibbling really dark chocolate. You can learn more about her work on her website www.Shawn-McGuire.com
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Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
January 11, 2025
I can’t wait for the next book and am so jealous over the house!!
November 22, 2024
*I received a free ARC of this book, with thanks to the author. The decision to review and my opinions are my own.*
This is the second book in the Blackwood Grove Mystery series, and I would recommend reading The Caretaker first, as it sets up a lot of character backstory which is only briefly touched upon here but really helps to set the scene and introduce everyone.
There is a standalone murder mystery in this story, but also (which Whispering Pines fans will be used to by now!) a longer-running mystery relating to a feeling of ‘wrongness’ in a once-welcoming community. In this case, a community specifically intended as a safe haven for witches – male and female – which now seems to be turning against them.
Not only does the feeling of insecurity around previously established rights feel very pertinent in the modern socio-political climate, but main character Dusty’s position in particular is heartbreaking, as she seems to be isolated and misunderstood on so many levels and yet still tries to keep it together for the sake of those around her.
And, of course, digs into solving local murders on the side!
I was absolutely hooked on this book from the first pages and couldn’t stop reading to find out a) the identity of the murderer, b) who is targeting Dusty and her loved ones and why, and c) whether Dusty will ever manage to resolve her inner struggles over her grey magic and what happened all those years ago, and whether she can ever clear her name with the wider community if she does. Only one of those issues is resolved by the end of this story, but they all progress nicely and left me eager to get stuck into Book 3 as soon as it appears.
If you enjoy your cosy mysteries mixed with some spellcraft and lots of cottagecore/farmcore vibes, then this is definitely the series for you!
Review by Steph Warren of Bookshine and Readbows blog
https://bookshineandreadbows.wordpres...
This is the second book in the Blackwood Grove Mystery series, and I would recommend reading The Caretaker first, as it sets up a lot of character backstory which is only briefly touched upon here but really helps to set the scene and introduce everyone.
There is a standalone murder mystery in this story, but also (which Whispering Pines fans will be used to by now!) a longer-running mystery relating to a feeling of ‘wrongness’ in a once-welcoming community. In this case, a community specifically intended as a safe haven for witches – male and female – which now seems to be turning against them.
Not only does the feeling of insecurity around previously established rights feel very pertinent in the modern socio-political climate, but main character Dusty’s position in particular is heartbreaking, as she seems to be isolated and misunderstood on so many levels and yet still tries to keep it together for the sake of those around her.
And, of course, digs into solving local murders on the side!
I was absolutely hooked on this book from the first pages and couldn’t stop reading to find out a) the identity of the murderer, b) who is targeting Dusty and her loved ones and why, and c) whether Dusty will ever manage to resolve her inner struggles over her grey magic and what happened all those years ago, and whether she can ever clear her name with the wider community if she does. Only one of those issues is resolved by the end of this story, but they all progress nicely and left me eager to get stuck into Book 3 as soon as it appears.
If you enjoy your cosy mysteries mixed with some spellcraft and lots of cottagecore/farmcore vibes, then this is definitely the series for you!
Review by Steph Warren of Bookshine and Readbows blog
https://bookshineandreadbows.wordpres...
November 24, 2024
Threatening danger in the dark
After a series of unfortunate events, Dusty Hotte has returned to her hometown Blackwood Grove, together with her granddaughter Cricket. She has accepted her new role as caretaker of her elderly aunts, she’s even solved a murder in her own family’s diner. All should be fine. But frighteningly enough, it is not.
Enemies of the past are very obviously not able (or willing) to forgive her the Grey Witch spell that saved the lives of several kids and severely injured some others – and that made her leave her family as a young woman. When she uses her unusual powers again to keep someone else from being hurt, rumours, lies and slander reach an entirely new level. And even worse: not only Dusty seems to be in danger now, the threats go against each and every witch living in Blackwood Grove – and beyond. Then all of a sudden, one of her loudest accusers is found dead in the river…
„The Crones“ is gripping, clever, sometimes funny and sometimes dramatic or even spooky. Dusty faces a difficult choice: should she embrace her own dangerous abilities or leave again, never to look back? Being a Grey Witch takes a huge toll (which she can clearly see while looking at her own mother). But it is also a chance to help – and perhaps this is one of the hidden mysteries within the many mysteries and cliffhangers of this wonderfully spun tale. I love Dusty and I love this new series – can’t wait for the next book and the new surprises it is going to unravel.
After a series of unfortunate events, Dusty Hotte has returned to her hometown Blackwood Grove, together with her granddaughter Cricket. She has accepted her new role as caretaker of her elderly aunts, she’s even solved a murder in her own family’s diner. All should be fine. But frighteningly enough, it is not.
Enemies of the past are very obviously not able (or willing) to forgive her the Grey Witch spell that saved the lives of several kids and severely injured some others – and that made her leave her family as a young woman. When she uses her unusual powers again to keep someone else from being hurt, rumours, lies and slander reach an entirely new level. And even worse: not only Dusty seems to be in danger now, the threats go against each and every witch living in Blackwood Grove – and beyond. Then all of a sudden, one of her loudest accusers is found dead in the river…
„The Crones“ is gripping, clever, sometimes funny and sometimes dramatic or even spooky. Dusty faces a difficult choice: should she embrace her own dangerous abilities or leave again, never to look back? Being a Grey Witch takes a huge toll (which she can clearly see while looking at her own mother). But it is also a chance to help – and perhaps this is one of the hidden mysteries within the many mysteries and cliffhangers of this wonderfully spun tale. I love Dusty and I love this new series – can’t wait for the next book and the new surprises it is going to unravel.
November 23, 2024
The Crones
I received the ARC of The Crones, and it is good to be back in Blackwood Grove and find out how Dusty and Cricket are doing. We see how Carly and Dusty handle their aunts who have retired. They are trying to find things for them to do so they are not bored and that they don’t interfere with something they shouldn’t. Plus, you will find out how Nina, Emma and Dusty’s mom is doing and on how Dusty is handling being a Gray witch and Carly is still worried that Dusty won’t stay in Blackwood Grove.
There is a murder thrown into the mix, that makes it hard to for the witches to stay out of all the town mess. Plus, everyone wants to bring up the boat wreck from 30 years past and how they all believe that Dusty tried to kill them all. Plus, they are seeing other safe towns for witches are having problems with the ordinaries. You will see how well Cricket is growing and how she is doing. Dusty is still trying to help her son get out of prison and to find Josie. Dusty and Carly are looking into the murder to clear Dusty’s name.
You will hear about Harriet Wong and her remodel houseboat and her plans.
There are new characters in the story that are very interesting, meet people who are witches, that we didn’t know about. Plus, you will learn about Gray witch, mixing spells and a lot more. I don’t want to give up too much, I want you to enjoy the book as much as I did, plus now I can’t wait for the new book to come out.
I received the ARC of The Crones, and it is good to be back in Blackwood Grove and find out how Dusty and Cricket are doing. We see how Carly and Dusty handle their aunts who have retired. They are trying to find things for them to do so they are not bored and that they don’t interfere with something they shouldn’t. Plus, you will find out how Nina, Emma and Dusty’s mom is doing and on how Dusty is handling being a Gray witch and Carly is still worried that Dusty won’t stay in Blackwood Grove.
There is a murder thrown into the mix, that makes it hard to for the witches to stay out of all the town mess. Plus, everyone wants to bring up the boat wreck from 30 years past and how they all believe that Dusty tried to kill them all. Plus, they are seeing other safe towns for witches are having problems with the ordinaries. You will see how well Cricket is growing and how she is doing. Dusty is still trying to help her son get out of prison and to find Josie. Dusty and Carly are looking into the murder to clear Dusty’s name.
You will hear about Harriet Wong and her remodel houseboat and her plans.
There are new characters in the story that are very interesting, meet people who are witches, that we didn’t know about. Plus, you will learn about Gray witch, mixing spells and a lot more. I don’t want to give up too much, I want you to enjoy the book as much as I did, plus now I can’t wait for the new book to come out.
December 7, 2024
More substance and mystery…
To my surprise, book 2 of this new series was an improvement over the first. I read it, giving Shawn McGuire the benefit of the doubt having enjoyed her earlier series of Whispering Pines. I liked it better because it had more content besides the mixing of potions, although it is an integral part of the story. Perhaps it felt more familiar and easier to get into reading, especially since the format allowed it to flow and not get hung up in any one event.
There is quite a bit going on, as the author and others have already described. However, the lingering thread of a missing daughter-in-law for whom Dusty’s son is in jail for presumably having murdered is still left unresolved while Dusty and her cousin, Carly, hone their detective skills to prove that another “accidental” death was intentional. There is danger lurking in Blackwood Grove.
Dusty certainly has her challenges and questions her return home after 30 years despite her concern for her grand-daughters safety. I liked the fact that there was improvement in this area and Dusty begins to get settled in and more comfortable with her natural interests and abilities, as well as her relationship with her mother. I just may like the next book even more if Cricket’s parents can come home, too…I am glad that I had the opportunity to read and provide an honest and voluntary review.
To my surprise, book 2 of this new series was an improvement over the first. I read it, giving Shawn McGuire the benefit of the doubt having enjoyed her earlier series of Whispering Pines. I liked it better because it had more content besides the mixing of potions, although it is an integral part of the story. Perhaps it felt more familiar and easier to get into reading, especially since the format allowed it to flow and not get hung up in any one event.
There is quite a bit going on, as the author and others have already described. However, the lingering thread of a missing daughter-in-law for whom Dusty’s son is in jail for presumably having murdered is still left unresolved while Dusty and her cousin, Carly, hone their detective skills to prove that another “accidental” death was intentional. There is danger lurking in Blackwood Grove.
Dusty certainly has her challenges and questions her return home after 30 years despite her concern for her grand-daughters safety. I liked the fact that there was improvement in this area and Dusty begins to get settled in and more comfortable with her natural interests and abilities, as well as her relationship with her mother. I just may like the next book even more if Cricket’s parents can come home, too…I am glad that I had the opportunity to read and provide an honest and voluntary review.
November 22, 2024
Great second book in this new series by Shawn McGuire. Dusty has only been back in town three weeks, when some people starting harassing her about the boat incident (book one) that happened 30+ years ago when she was a teenager. This story is about returning to her roots and finding not everyone is welcoming her back. Reconnecting with her mother, aunts and cousins. Again not as easy as she hoped. Dusty is caring for her granddaughter Cricket, who is adorable. Some of the people in town are witches and have different powers. Some are "ordinary" and sometimes the two clash. When a murder takes place, some are quick to blame Dusty and want her arrested. Dusty calls on her family and powers (that she doesn't know that much about) to help clear her and find the murderer. Also, from book one, her son Micah is in jail and Dusty needs to find Rosie his girlfriend and Cricket's mother to clear him. Lots going on in this book that will keep you interested. You will be ready for book three at the end.
I received an advanced copy and voluntarily provided this review.
I received an advanced copy and voluntarily provided this review.
November 25, 2024
Another great book by Shawn McGuire. I love series because you get to dive right into the story, already knowing a lot of background, instead of reading 20-30% of the book before the story really gets started. Reading Shawn's series are like visiting an old friend again.
In the Blackwood Grove's second book, Dusty starts to settle into her life again, seeming to feel more at home even though the town people still seem to blame her for everything. There seems to be more haters and even some possible threats against all the witches. Another death and again, Dusty is blamed. With all fingers pointing at her about recent events and those from her past, Dusty finds an unexpected person sticking up for her. This surprise seems to give Dusty a chance to move towards forgiving herself but also brings up more questions about the events that lead to her leaving town.
If you enjoyed the first book, the second will not disappoint and will leave you wanting more. I highly recommend this series from one of my favorite authors.
In the Blackwood Grove's second book, Dusty starts to settle into her life again, seeming to feel more at home even though the town people still seem to blame her for everything. There seems to be more haters and even some possible threats against all the witches. Another death and again, Dusty is blamed. With all fingers pointing at her about recent events and those from her past, Dusty finds an unexpected person sticking up for her. This surprise seems to give Dusty a chance to move towards forgiving herself but also brings up more questions about the events that lead to her leaving town.
If you enjoyed the first book, the second will not disappoint and will leave you wanting more. I highly recommend this series from one of my favorite authors.
November 25, 2024
In this the second book in the series, we are back with the witches of Blackwood Grove.
Dusty and her family are trying to come to terms with the new arrangements in the house and businesses.
Dusty is enjoying getting to know her family after being away so long, but the townspeople are not as welcoming.
Some townspeople are raking up the old scandal of the boat accident. They still blame Dusty and hostility increases when the body of the main antagonist is found floating in the river.
Dusty is tempted to just leave town again, but her aunts need her and there is still the threat to Cricket.
Instead, she joins with her cousin Carly, to investigate the death and try to find her missing daughter in law.
It took me a while to remember from the previous book, all the witches and their individual talents. There are a lot of them. I especially liked the ghosts and their interaction with each other. It was funny imagining two ghosts trying to high five each other. I hope they have a bigger role in the next book.
This is a nice cozy read to curl up with in front of the fire.
This is a standalone, but reading book 1 would be beneficial as it introduces all the characters.
Dusty and her family are trying to come to terms with the new arrangements in the house and businesses.
Dusty is enjoying getting to know her family after being away so long, but the townspeople are not as welcoming.
Some townspeople are raking up the old scandal of the boat accident. They still blame Dusty and hostility increases when the body of the main antagonist is found floating in the river.
Dusty is tempted to just leave town again, but her aunts need her and there is still the threat to Cricket.
Instead, she joins with her cousin Carly, to investigate the death and try to find her missing daughter in law.
It took me a while to remember from the previous book, all the witches and their individual talents. There are a lot of them. I especially liked the ghosts and their interaction with each other. It was funny imagining two ghosts trying to high five each other. I hope they have a bigger role in the next book.
This is a nice cozy read to curl up with in front of the fire.
This is a standalone, but reading book 1 would be beneficial as it introduces all the characters.
November 22, 2024
Grey witch, Dusty Hotte, is living in what is supposed to be a 'safe town' for witches, where they are allowed to use their magic. Yet something dark and threatening is transpiring in town and Dusty seems to be the target.
Trying to raise her granddaughter, Cricket, on the magical family farm, growing herbs for kitchen and potion use, Dusty is beset with self-doubts about her magic. Working through the growing animosity with the towns 'Ordies', the non-magical residents, is an added challenge to her own doubts.
The Crones was an absorbing and enjoyable read. Dusty is an easily relatable character and I enjoyed her thought processes and interaction with the books other characters. The various herbal plants and their uses mentioned were a bonus incentive to explore more thoroughly. I look forward to reading more of this series.
Trying to raise her granddaughter, Cricket, on the magical family farm, growing herbs for kitchen and potion use, Dusty is beset with self-doubts about her magic. Working through the growing animosity with the towns 'Ordies', the non-magical residents, is an added challenge to her own doubts.
The Crones was an absorbing and enjoyable read. Dusty is an easily relatable character and I enjoyed her thought processes and interaction with the books other characters. The various herbal plants and their uses mentioned were a bonus incentive to explore more thoroughly. I look forward to reading more of this series.
November 22, 2024
The second book in Shawn McGuire's series is a captivating blend of mystery, family dynamics, and self-discovery. Dusty’s return to her hometown isn’t the warm welcome she hoped for—old prejudices resurface, and tensions between witches and ordies simmer. Caring for her adorable granddaughter Cricket, reconnecting with her family, and facing a murder investigation make for a complex, emotional journey.
Shawn skillfully weaves themes of overcoming the past, embracing your true self, and finding strength in family. The aunts’ antics bring humor, while the small-town setting reflects deeper societal issues. With engaging characters, a well-plotted mystery, and plenty of heart, this book leaves you eager for the next installment.
Shawn skillfully weaves themes of overcoming the past, embracing your true self, and finding strength in family. The aunts’ antics bring humor, while the small-town setting reflects deeper societal issues. With engaging characters, a well-plotted mystery, and plenty of heart, this book leaves you eager for the next installment.
November 22, 2024
A very hard to put down book, I love all the Witches of Blackwood Grove. This book explains a lot more about their powers, their pasts, ups and downs and what they wish to do. Dusty is finally coming into more of her powers and how to use them with the help of her mother and her cousin Carly, so many characters in this story and all contribute to help each other. Hopeful the endeavor to find Josie pans out so that Dusty's son can be released? The now known powers of the "little bug" comes to surface as she gets into trouble for using them at school by accident. I believe Shawn has hit the ball out of the park once again and I for one cannot wait to see the outcome in the next book or books? Get comfy and start to read!
November 25, 2024
All of a sudden, life seems to be falling apart! It is time to take charge and do something about it!! Moving back home after 30+ years away, with a little granddaughter in tow may seem like a nice way to be safe, comforted and surrounded by family, but being a grey witch, living in a 'safe town' may not be as easy as it seemed. Dusty finds that her powers are not going to be kept dormant, her dreams have not diminished and she is needed to discover what is happening under the surface of this 'safe town' of Blackwood Grove. I couldn't put this book down, it reminded me that, I too, have dreams yet to be lived. I'm already eagerly awaiting more about Blackwood Grove, Dusty, her cousin Carly and little Cricket, her granddaughter who is also showing signs of budding witchcraft.
November 23, 2024
This is Book 2 in the Blackwood Grove Mysteries series. It was so fun visiting the residents again. Although part of a series, this book can be read as a stand-alone since the author is very adept at introducing the characters and necessary information from the prior book.
The storyline was unique, with just the right touch of mysteries, including murder, spells, and revealed secrets, both past and present. The characters and magical parts of the story are quite charming. Even if the idea of witches and spells doesn’t initially appeal to you, this book is one that will keep you intrigued and interested.
I am definitely looking forward to the next book in this series!
The storyline was unique, with just the right touch of mysteries, including murder, spells, and revealed secrets, both past and present. The characters and magical parts of the story are quite charming. Even if the idea of witches and spells doesn’t initially appeal to you, this book is one that will keep you intrigued and interested.
I am definitely looking forward to the next book in this series!
November 26, 2024
This series keeps getting better and better! I am totally immersed in the reading and want to find out more about this quirky town and family! There is a mystery to be solved in this book, which does get resolved as well as a few other mysteries that are a part of the overall story arc and are slowly being revealed. If you have not read the first book in the series, I highly recommend you do that before reading this one as it refers and builds upon several things from the previous book, and I think it would be quite confusing for a reader if you haven't read the first one. Overall, this is another solid story with great characters and world building! Definitely recommend!!!
November 22, 2024
This new series by Shawn is very captivating. Book 1 grabbed my attention and book 2 has me completely hooked. I need to know what is happening in Dusty's little town.
I wasn't able to put it down. Her details make you feel that you are in the book and in the story. I love the characters and the way she lets their personalities come out and grow. It's like learning about new friends. I can't wait for part 3 of this series (and any other books that come out in the future). Thanks for giving me another place to escape to, Shawn!
I wasn't able to put it down. Her details make you feel that you are in the book and in the story. I love the characters and the way she lets their personalities come out and grow. It's like learning about new friends. I can't wait for part 3 of this series (and any other books that come out in the future). Thanks for giving me another place to escape to, Shawn!
November 27, 2024
Once again, Dusty Hott and her granddaughter are trying to fit in and feel comfortable living in Blackwood Grove while caring for her elderly family members. But her past keeps coming back to haunt her and cause the community not to trust her. And so, she is accused of murdering a townie. Dusty and her cousin have to go about investigating to prove her innocence. This has been an enjoyable read and I can’t wait for the next book to see if Dusty finds her son and his girlfriend. Shawn does a great job to make these characters feel like family. Thus making us look forward to the next book!
December 4, 2024
Dusty has returned to her family roots. But something is going on. Why are the townspeople giving the witches such a hard time? Especially Dusty when she tries to help others?
The townspeople continue to blame Dusty for the accident 30 years ago. Who is on the townspeople’s side and who is on the witches’ side? Can Dusty handle the jeers and sneers? All this going on while Dusty rediscovers her roots and rebuilds her relationship with her mother - if that is even possible.
Oooo….to have a self-cleaning house…and to go through menopause as a witch
The townspeople continue to blame Dusty for the accident 30 years ago. Who is on the townspeople’s side and who is on the witches’ side? Can Dusty handle the jeers and sneers? All this going on while Dusty rediscovers her roots and rebuilds her relationship with her mother - if that is even possible.
Oooo….to have a self-cleaning house…and to go through menopause as a witch
November 23, 2024
I am loving this series.
Wonderful characters, especially young Cricket. Intrigue a plenty to keep those pages turning. I find the Gray Witch concept fascinating.
Something is definitely off in Blackwood Grove. Someone is deliberately trying to cause trouble between the Witches and the Ords (ordinary folk). Who is it and why are they doing this?
I received a free Advance Reader Copy of The Crones through Bookfunnel and have chosen to leave a review.
Wonderful characters, especially young Cricket. Intrigue a plenty to keep those pages turning. I find the Gray Witch concept fascinating.
Something is definitely off in Blackwood Grove. Someone is deliberately trying to cause trouble between the Witches and the Ords (ordinary folk). Who is it and why are they doing this?
I received a free Advance Reader Copy of The Crones through Bookfunnel and have chosen to leave a review.
November 24, 2024
This is the second book in this series and is a delight to read.
I found this to be a fast read that I couldn't put down. Great characters and a well written story make this a wonderful read. There is a nice mix of mystery and family dynamics to keep you reading this book. This can be read as a standalone if you haven't read the first book in the series.
I found this to be a fast read that I couldn't put down. Great characters and a well written story make this a wonderful read. There is a nice mix of mystery and family dynamics to keep you reading this book. This can be read as a standalone if you haven't read the first book in the series.
November 25, 2024
Eagerly waiting for the next one already!! Loved the atmosphere, the characters and excellent storyline. The characters are different and interesting with lots of little side bits to keep you guessing. Food for the mystery lover in me who is intrigued by witches and magic. Was torn between reading quickly to find all answers and savoring it slowly. It was funny how the pages turned themselves!!
December 3, 2024
Shawn has done it again, leaving readers wondering what will happen next. Something strange is going on in Blackwood Grove, and that is saying something since it's a Safe Town for witches. Dusty and Carly on a mission to find out what is going on and to clear Dusty's name.
November 25, 2024
I love this Authors writing! The Crones is an inspiring story about coming back home and overcoming prejudices and accepting who you are and loving yourself. The "safe" town reflects the society we are all living in that seems safe but it only takes a few to threaten your tranquility and peace of mind. I adore the Aunts and their antics. Accepting the crone time in your life is a big accomplishment.
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December 8, 2024Shawn McGuire. I love that the story if of older women. They seem to be growing as they age. Love the story line. And the house!! Can I have one? Also, Damn Menopause
December 12, 2024
I feel like it abruptly ended. Need more!!
November 25, 2024
Absolutely loved this book which is the second in the series. It is well written with engaging characters. The mystery was well plotted but for me took second place to the family relationships and the tension between the witches and ordies.
I received an arc of this book and voluntarily provided a review.
I received an arc of this book and voluntarily provided a review.
Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews