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Blair's Shadow
Not yet published
Expected 14 Feb 26Perfect for fans of emotional romance, heated tension, and romantic suspense.
An emotional, heated, and dangerously intimate second installment of Blair & James’ story, where romance tangles with suspense and love is tested in ways neither of them anticipated.
Blair thought she had finally found her happiness. A love she could trust. A future she could see. A man who held her heart without question.
But secrets always come at a cost.
When Nate resurfaces with truths disguised as threats, Blair is dragged back into a past she believed she had escaped. What she tried to bury returns sharper and more dangerous than ever, threatening to destroy everything she has built.
James would walk through fire for her, but even he cannot protect her from the truths she has kept hidden. As trust fractures and loyalty is tested, their undeniable chemistry collides with secrets powerful enough to tear them apart. Desire burns hot. Fear cuts deep. And the shadows close in around them both.
Their love is explosive. Their passion undeniable. But love is not just something you feel. It is something you choose, again and again, even when the past refuses to let go.
An emotional, heated, and dangerously intimate second installment of Blair & James’ story, where romance tangles with suspense and love is tested in ways neither of them anticipated.
Blair thought she had finally found her happiness. A love she could trust. A future she could see. A man who held her heart without question.
But secrets always come at a cost.
When Nate resurfaces with truths disguised as threats, Blair is dragged back into a past she believed she had escaped. What she tried to bury returns sharper and more dangerous than ever, threatening to destroy everything she has built.
James would walk through fire for her, but even he cannot protect her from the truths she has kept hidden. As trust fractures and loyalty is tested, their undeniable chemistry collides with secrets powerful enough to tear them apart. Desire burns hot. Fear cuts deep. And the shadows close in around them both.
Their love is explosive. Their passion undeniable. But love is not just something you feel. It is something you choose, again and again, even when the past refuses to let go.
ebook
Expected publication February 14, 2026
4 people are currently reading
10 people want to read
About the author
Anita Best
3 books18 followersAnita Best is an indie romance author who writes deeply emotional stories filled with tenderness, tension, and transformative love. Her books blend heart-aching intimacy with steady heroes, brave heroines, and the kind of slow-burn devotion readers want to live inside forever.
Outside of writing, Anita is a proud wife, devoted mum of two, and full-time dreamer—splitting her days between family life, running her event space, and creating the next world her readers can escape into.
Connect with Anita on Instagram/TikTok at @mzzbesttbest for updates, exclusive teasers, and a front-row seat to her author journey.
Outside of writing, Anita is a proud wife, devoted mum of two, and full-time dreamer—splitting her days between family life, running her event space, and creating the next world her readers can escape into.
Connect with Anita on Instagram/TikTok at @mzzbesttbest for updates, exclusive teasers, and a front-row seat to her author journey.
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Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews
December 24, 2025
Thank you to the author for the e-ARC.
Now I need to take a deep breath because Blair and James’ love story is nothing but easy. Yes, you might have the urge to scream and shout, “Just talk!” but sometimes “it is not just talking.” The author portrayed our MCs as two messy people battling with their past—two people who have felt let down by the person they love and trust the most!
For Blair, she had it worst: Nate dragged and pulled her down. And like people always say, a bad partner will pull you down and strip you of all your confidence—and Nate went above and beyond! The bastard 😒. Blair couldn’t “just talk,” not because she can’t, but because she was so afraid this good thing she had with James would be torn down. And I felt that! Sometimes we hide, we shut down, we let things that are not supposed to be run their course—not because we don’t know the right things to do, but because we are just scared!
I love Blair and James, not because they are perfect (far from it), but because they chose to choose each other when the going got tough! And that doesn’t mean there won’t be fights or times they get angry. It just means that, even through it all, they had each other, and what they had was worth keeping!!
Overall: RUN, don’t walk, to read this book. The portrayal of keeping relationships in all their human messiness.
Now I need to take a deep breath because Blair and James’ love story is nothing but easy. Yes, you might have the urge to scream and shout, “Just talk!” but sometimes “it is not just talking.” The author portrayed our MCs as two messy people battling with their past—two people who have felt let down by the person they love and trust the most!
For Blair, she had it worst: Nate dragged and pulled her down. And like people always say, a bad partner will pull you down and strip you of all your confidence—and Nate went above and beyond! The bastard 😒. Blair couldn’t “just talk,” not because she can’t, but because she was so afraid this good thing she had with James would be torn down. And I felt that! Sometimes we hide, we shut down, we let things that are not supposed to be run their course—not because we don’t know the right things to do, but because we are just scared!
I love Blair and James, not because they are perfect (far from it), but because they chose to choose each other when the going got tough! And that doesn’t mean there won’t be fights or times they get angry. It just means that, even through it all, they had each other, and what they had was worth keeping!!
Overall: RUN, don’t walk, to read this book. The portrayal of keeping relationships in all their human messiness.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 15, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.7 rounded to 5
Thank you for this ARC.
Blair’s Shadow is a beautifully emotional slow burn romance that focuses on healing, trust, and quiet vulnerability. Blair is a deeply relatable heroine, and James is steady, patient, and grounding in all the right ways.
Although this is book two in the series and a continuation of their love story, it stands strongly on its own. I could read it independently without feeling lost. It is genuinely impressive that this is only the author’s second published book. The pacing allows the relationship to develop naturally, making the emotional moments feel earned. This story stayed with me long after I finished and will resonate with readers who love character driven romance.
Thank you for this ARC.
Blair’s Shadow is a beautifully emotional slow burn romance that focuses on healing, trust, and quiet vulnerability. Blair is a deeply relatable heroine, and James is steady, patient, and grounding in all the right ways.
Although this is book two in the series and a continuation of their love story, it stands strongly on its own. I could read it independently without feeling lost. It is genuinely impressive that this is only the author’s second published book. The pacing allows the relationship to develop naturally, making the emotional moments feel earned. This story stayed with me long after I finished and will resonate with readers who love character driven romance.
December 15, 2025
This was such a tender, thoughtful read. Blair’s Shadow explores love shaped by past wounds with care and realism. The writing is introspective without being heavy, the suspense and reveals, made it all worth it. A heartfelt, smutty, and emotionally satisfying story that fans of mature romance will truly appreciate, I did enjoy it.
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January 2, 2026“Love isn’t just about showing up when things are good. It’s about staying even when the truth is hard. And I want that kind of love. With her.
Love built on secrets or silence doesn’t survive anything. Honesty and trust are everything. And I wouldn’t trade that for anything.”
——
An arc review of Blair’s shadow by Anita Best
This is the love story of Blair and James who found each other after an individual heartbreak. What they had together is so special and sweet until the shadows of Blair’s past come into their lives.
I love how intentional James was and how Tracy was such a good friend to Blair.
I do not like how Blair kept a secret that almost ended her relationship with James.
This book talks about themes such as love, friendship, betrayal, manipulation and emotional blackmail.
If you’re looking for your next romance book to read, I’d recommend this.
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review.
Love built on secrets or silence doesn’t survive anything. Honesty and trust are everything. And I wouldn’t trade that for anything.”
——
An arc review of Blair’s shadow by Anita Best
This is the love story of Blair and James who found each other after an individual heartbreak. What they had together is so special and sweet until the shadows of Blair’s past come into their lives.
I love how intentional James was and how Tracy was such a good friend to Blair.
I do not like how Blair kept a secret that almost ended her relationship with James.
This book talks about themes such as love, friendship, betrayal, manipulation and emotional blackmail.
If you’re looking for your next romance book to read, I’d recommend this.
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review.
December 23, 2025
Just finished reading Blair’s Shadow and I’m still reeling from the magic of this amazing experience.
This book picks up from where Blair’s Whispers ended. Blair is now a fiancée, trying to navigate her life — balancing her very demanding job, healing, her relationship and perhaps, life in general.
And James?? Ouuu, I love how this man always shows up for her. He’s present, kind and patient. Blair and James relationship was so solid and real, it wasn’t only just the butterflies, it was the underlying support, understanding and compromise, their relationship was not perfect but it was rooted in effort and trust.
Until the past comes knocking ( Nate )…… hmmmmm, I was so angry at frustrated and Blair’s silence about the whole situation even made it worse. The way Blair was holding back from James, i really wanted her to open up and trust him fully like he always did with her. But honestly, I got to understand Blair’s hesitation. For someone like Blair who has been broken before, it was kind of hard for her to fully trust again or lean on someone.
I loved how through everything that happened, Blair and James still showed up for each other even with the chaos of everything and that made this story so special and breathtaking. And the chemistry between them didn’t fizzle at all, their romance was steamy hot, the sex scenes were fire🔥 there were no wasted chapters at all.
This book tackles themes of betrayal, trauma, friendship, trust and healing. Anita Best writing is mature and fluid. The pacing of this book was good, the plot was plotting, the emotional depth was real and everything was so beautifully done.
The friendship between Tracy and Blair remains one of the highlights for me. Their connection and love of each other was so beautiful to read. Tracy’s presence added a warm touch to this story.
This book isn’t just a sequel, it’s a story that stays deep within you even after you close the book. This book is really addictive, well written with the right amount of everything🤏
I highly recommend you read this book😍 A solid 5⭐️ read for me. Kudos to the author for such a great masterpiece.
This book picks up from where Blair’s Whispers ended. Blair is now a fiancée, trying to navigate her life — balancing her very demanding job, healing, her relationship and perhaps, life in general.
And James?? Ouuu, I love how this man always shows up for her. He’s present, kind and patient. Blair and James relationship was so solid and real, it wasn’t only just the butterflies, it was the underlying support, understanding and compromise, their relationship was not perfect but it was rooted in effort and trust.
Until the past comes knocking ( Nate )…… hmmmmm, I was so angry at frustrated and Blair’s silence about the whole situation even made it worse. The way Blair was holding back from James, i really wanted her to open up and trust him fully like he always did with her. But honestly, I got to understand Blair’s hesitation. For someone like Blair who has been broken before, it was kind of hard for her to fully trust again or lean on someone.
I loved how through everything that happened, Blair and James still showed up for each other even with the chaos of everything and that made this story so special and breathtaking. And the chemistry between them didn’t fizzle at all, their romance was steamy hot, the sex scenes were fire🔥 there were no wasted chapters at all.
This book tackles themes of betrayal, trauma, friendship, trust and healing. Anita Best writing is mature and fluid. The pacing of this book was good, the plot was plotting, the emotional depth was real and everything was so beautifully done.
The friendship between Tracy and Blair remains one of the highlights for me. Their connection and love of each other was so beautiful to read. Tracy’s presence added a warm touch to this story.
This book isn’t just a sequel, it’s a story that stays deep within you even after you close the book. This book is really addictive, well written with the right amount of everything🤏
I highly recommend you read this book😍 A solid 5⭐️ read for me. Kudos to the author for such a great masterpiece.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I had the pleasure of reading the ARC of this book, thanks to the author, and honestly? This book pulled me in from start to finish.
The story follows Blair, whose past comes crashing back into her present in the most unsettling way. Just when she has finally found peace, love, and a future she’s excited about with James, her creepy ex decides to resurface, sending cryptic messages and refusing to stay where he belongs: in the past. As her wedding approaches, everything starts to feel unstable, and Blair is forced to confront fears she thought she’d buried.
Blair is constantly torn between fear and uncertainty, struggling with whether opening up to James will change everything. She worries about trust, abandonment, and whether her past will ruin the future she has worked so hard to build. The tension from her ex’s presence adds a scary edge to the story, and honestly, Nate should have stayed gone because his intentions were clearly not good.
One thing I loved was how Blair and James handled conflict, after the initial anger, they chose communication and were able to sit down, talk things through, and resolve the issue without dragging it any further.
I truly enjoyed this book and would absolutely recommend it. If you love romance with a touch of suspense and emotional depth, this one is definitely worth picking up.
The story follows Blair, whose past comes crashing back into her present in the most unsettling way. Just when she has finally found peace, love, and a future she’s excited about with James, her creepy ex decides to resurface, sending cryptic messages and refusing to stay where he belongs: in the past. As her wedding approaches, everything starts to feel unstable, and Blair is forced to confront fears she thought she’d buried.
Blair is constantly torn between fear and uncertainty, struggling with whether opening up to James will change everything. She worries about trust, abandonment, and whether her past will ruin the future she has worked so hard to build. The tension from her ex’s presence adds a scary edge to the story, and honestly, Nate should have stayed gone because his intentions were clearly not good.
One thing I loved was how Blair and James handled conflict, after the initial anger, they chose communication and were able to sit down, talk things through, and resolve the issue without dragging it any further.
I truly enjoyed this book and would absolutely recommend it. If you love romance with a touch of suspense and emotional depth, this one is definitely worth picking up.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 17, 2026
Going into this book, I didn’t quite know what to expect, but I closed it with a lot to think about.
I started to really think about communication — and how the past, secrets, and unspoken truths can slowly creep into relationships. Not just romantic relationships, but friendships, family dynamics, and even platonic connections.
When we start keeping things from the people we care about, secrets begin to pile up. And while we might think we’re doing it to protect them, it doesn’t always come across that way. Often, the other person receives it as a lack of trust. Sometimes, it’s actually better to be upfront — to communicate clearly — than to assume silence is kindness.
I also liked that the book didn’t just highlight miscommunication, but also showed what healthy resolution can look like. Seeing two people willing to talk things through and arrive at a place of understanding was refreshing.
At the core, it also reminded me of something simple but important: say what you need to say. Don’t let your partner, friend, or loved one fill in the gaps with assumptions. Clarity matters. When there’s clarity, secrets can’t survive. When there’s honesty, it becomes harder for misunderstandings — or even third parties — to create division.
So while the writing style wasn’t entirely for me, the message was well received. And that, for me, is the real takeaway.
I started to really think about communication — and how the past, secrets, and unspoken truths can slowly creep into relationships. Not just romantic relationships, but friendships, family dynamics, and even platonic connections.
When we start keeping things from the people we care about, secrets begin to pile up. And while we might think we’re doing it to protect them, it doesn’t always come across that way. Often, the other person receives it as a lack of trust. Sometimes, it’s actually better to be upfront — to communicate clearly — than to assume silence is kindness.
I also liked that the book didn’t just highlight miscommunication, but also showed what healthy resolution can look like. Seeing two people willing to talk things through and arrive at a place of understanding was refreshing.
At the core, it also reminded me of something simple but important: say what you need to say. Don’t let your partner, friend, or loved one fill in the gaps with assumptions. Clarity matters. When there’s clarity, secrets can’t survive. When there’s honesty, it becomes harder for misunderstandings — or even third parties — to create division.
So while the writing style wasn’t entirely for me, the message was well received. And that, for me, is the real takeaway.
December 21, 2025
Blair’s Shadow is one book that will stay with me forever, A love that can withstand all obstacles thrown its way. Reading this book and discovering the love between James and Blair made me realise that the past should not define the present. The ability to heal, forgive ,forget old wounds and close the door leading to the past to create a better world for the future was beautiful woven into existence, with each characters that has a role to play and a story to tell that will keep you standing on your toes till the very end . This book was written in such a way that tells its very own story from the first page, pulling out various emotions and lessons to learn and implement in our daily lives.
It was a beautiful read and I will rate this book 5⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️because I was more than wowed while reading, the raw emotions, the tension and suspense felt before scrolling to the next page to discover the hidden world of this germ
Anita Best outdid herself with this book.So dear readers,grab a copy of this book and get yourself a strong Man like James that will provide a powerful and safe kind of love, make sure not to miss out on this wonderful written story.
Review of advance copy received from Indie Reviewers
Thank you to the author for this ARC.
Blair’s Shadow is a powerful exploration of what happens when love is tested not by lack of feeling, but by the weight of unspoken truths.
This story goes beyond romance. It delves into trust, emotional vulnerability, and the quiet damage secrets can cause even in the safest relationships. Blair and James share a love that feels deeply intentional, but the past does not stay buried forever. When it resurfaces, it forces both of them to confront not only each other, but themselves.
What stood out most was the emotional realism. The characters feel human in their mistakes, their fear, and their need for reassurance. James’s steadiness contrasts beautifully with Blair’s internal conflict, and their connection feels earned rather than idealized. The tension builds slowly, making every moment of closeness feel meaningful.
This is a character-driven romance for readers who appreciate emotional depth, honest conversations, and love stories that acknowledge how messy healing can be. Blair’s Shadow is tender, intense, and lingering in the best way.
Highly recommended for readers who enjoy emotionally layered romance with heart and substance.
Blair’s Shadow is a powerful exploration of what happens when love is tested not by lack of feeling, but by the weight of unspoken truths.
This story goes beyond romance. It delves into trust, emotional vulnerability, and the quiet damage secrets can cause even in the safest relationships. Blair and James share a love that feels deeply intentional, but the past does not stay buried forever. When it resurfaces, it forces both of them to confront not only each other, but themselves.
What stood out most was the emotional realism. The characters feel human in their mistakes, their fear, and their need for reassurance. James’s steadiness contrasts beautifully with Blair’s internal conflict, and their connection feels earned rather than idealized. The tension builds slowly, making every moment of closeness feel meaningful.
This is a character-driven romance for readers who appreciate emotional depth, honest conversations, and love stories that acknowledge how messy healing can be. Blair’s Shadow is tender, intense, and lingering in the best way.
Highly recommended for readers who enjoy emotionally layered romance with heart and substance.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This novel captures the tension of loving deeply while carrying a past that refuses to stay contained. Blair’s inner world is written with striking vulnerability, and the way her fear shapes her choices feels painfully real. James is patient, grounded, and emotionally present, which makes the moments of distance between them feel even heavier.
What makes this story compelling is its restraint. The conflict is not explosive for the sake of drama. It is intimate. Conversations are loaded. Silences matter. Every look, every pause, every withheld truth carries weight. When the cracks begin to show, they feel earned and unavoidable.
This is a romance for readers who value emotional authenticity over spectacle. It is about choosing love while learning how to be fully seen, and understanding that healing does not mean forgetting what hurt you.
A deeply affecting, character-first romance that stays with you long after the final page. I highly recommend.
What makes this story compelling is its restraint. The conflict is not explosive for the sake of drama. It is intimate. Conversations are loaded. Silences matter. Every look, every pause, every withheld truth carries weight. When the cracks begin to show, they feel earned and unavoidable.
This is a romance for readers who value emotional authenticity over spectacle. It is about choosing love while learning how to be fully seen, and understanding that healing does not mean forgetting what hurt you.
A deeply affecting, character-first romance that stays with you long after the final page. I highly recommend.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Blair’s Shadow is the kind of sequel that deepens everything you thought you already understood.
The emotional stakes are higher, the tension sharper, and the connection between Blair and James feels more vulnerable and real than ever. This story leans into quiet moments just as powerfully as the intense ones, letting emotion build slowly and intentionally.
What stood out most to me was how layered the characters felt. Their love is strong, but it is tested in ways that feel authentic and earned. Nothing feels rushed. Every interaction carries weight, and the emotional pull lingers long after you turn the last page.
This book is perfect for readers who love emotional romance, heated tension, and stories where love is challenged but never shallow. A beautifully written continuation that left me eager for more.
The emotional stakes are higher, the tension sharper, and the connection between Blair and James feels more vulnerable and real than ever. This story leans into quiet moments just as powerfully as the intense ones, letting emotion build slowly and intentionally.
What stood out most to me was how layered the characters felt. Their love is strong, but it is tested in ways that feel authentic and earned. Nothing feels rushed. Every interaction carries weight, and the emotional pull lingers long after you turn the last page.
This book is perfect for readers who love emotional romance, heated tension, and stories where love is challenged but never shallow. A beautifully written continuation that left me eager for more.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book had everything it needed to have. It was well written, immersive, emotional, and yes… deliciously steamy. The kind of story that pulls you in quietly and then refuses to let you go. I read it in two days, and I’m not exaggerating when I say I was sneaking pages in places I absolutely had no business reading. That’s how gripping it was.
No spoilers here, but if you loved the first book, this one deepens everything. The tension, the pacing, the characters, the chemistry. It all lands. I genuinely could not put it down, and I’m already wishing I could read it again for the first time.
I cannot wait for this to be out in the world so everyone else can experience it. You’re not ready. Trust me.
No spoilers here, but if you loved the first book, this one deepens everything. The tension, the pacing, the characters, the chemistry. It all lands. I genuinely could not put it down, and I’m already wishing I could read it again for the first time.
I cannot wait for this to be out in the world so everyone else can experience it. You’re not ready. Trust me.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book is an amazing read, I was so glued to the book and I must say the author is a great writer. I was so impressed with the writing style and how relatable the story was.
James is my favorite character in the book, Blair my sweetheart wow such a captivating story. Nathan and Sophie hmmm no words at all but what I know is that they would not be your favorite characters .
Anita Best did so great with the character build up.
In all it’s 100% good book and I recommend.
Thanks to the author for my ARC’a copy . Love uou long time ♥️♥️
James is my favorite character in the book, Blair my sweetheart wow such a captivating story. Nathan and Sophie hmmm no words at all but what I know is that they would not be your favorite characters .
Anita Best did so great with the character build up.
In all it’s 100% good book and I recommend.
Thanks to the author for my ARC’a copy . Love uou long time ♥️♥️
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thank you to the author for providing me with a free ebook for my honest review.
If I could rate a book higher than 5⭐️ I would. This is the kind of book for your heart. A complete romance checkbox. Every chapter was filled with enough suspense that I could not drop this book till I was done. It has the right pacing, and justified reader anger.
One of the things I took away from this is that you can never run away from your secrets, spill now or risk ruining everything you worked hard for.
If I could rate a book higher than 5⭐️ I would. This is the kind of book for your heart. A complete romance checkbox. Every chapter was filled with enough suspense that I could not drop this book till I was done. It has the right pacing, and justified reader anger.
One of the things I took away from this is that you can never run away from your secrets, spill now or risk ruining everything you worked hard for.
Review of advance copy received from Indie Reviewers
OMG! This book was perfect. It’s my new comfort read. The sweet part about this book is that it didn’t shy away from the important tropes of the book. The vulnerability display was perfectly written by the author in a way that was accommodating and made aware.
I loved the dual POV, I loved how I felt seen in the characters and lived with them like I was in the story and not a reader. It takes a genius to write this.
I can’t wait to read more from this author. Watch out for this one.
I loved the dual POV, I loved how I felt seen in the characters and lived with them like I was in the story and not a reader. It takes a genius to write this.
I can’t wait to read more from this author. Watch out for this one.
December 24, 2025
Thank you to the author for providing me with an eARC for my honest review.:
Oh James!! The man that you are, amazing, great awesome. This is an interesting read. There’s this pull about the book, it stays with you long after the chapters. I ended up going back to this story. It was so good that by the time I was done, I didn’t want it to end.
Thank you Anita Best, you did a great job
Oh James!! The man that you are, amazing, great awesome. This is an interesting read. There’s this pull about the book, it stays with you long after the chapters. I ended up going back to this story. It was so good that by the time I was done, I didn’t want it to end.
Thank you Anita Best, you did a great job
Review of advance copy received from Author
Oh my Goodness! This is such a beautiful read. It touched all the tropes in the book, i was so emotional reading it. There were times when i was upset reading it, not at the plot but at the secret. It was sooooooooooo good that i couldn't stop reading. The author did a very good job.
December 30, 2025
I received an ARC of Blair’s Shadow, and I wasn’t prepared for how emotional it would be. The relationship between Blair and James felt so genuine, and the tension and vulnerability throughout the story kept me turning the pages. This is a romance that lingers and makes you feel deeply.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Blair's Shadow is a beautifully written book, that blends tenderness, chemistry and quiet tension seamlessly. The characters feel real, the romance is emotionally rich , and the underlying sense of unease keeps you hooked.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book made me feel a lot more than I expected. Blair’s Shadow is emotional, intimate, and beautifully written, and the connection between Blair and James feels incredibly real.
Review of advance copy received from Author
A well written novel with real emotional depth. A must-read for romance readers, with gripping suspense, plenty of steam, and undeniable chemistry.
Review of advance copy received from Author
BLAIR'S SHADOW IS AVAILABLE FOR PRE-ORDER!
https://anitabestbooks.com/#preorder
https://anitabestbooks.com/#preorder
Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews