The Promised Plan by Sharon Hughson – Review by Elizabeth Sanchez

The Promised PlanThe Promised Plan by Sharon Hughson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The Promised Plan was a little hard for me to read, because the main character has cancer- and my grandmother died of cancer. It brought back some hard memories of those times, so perhaps trigger warning to those who have been through it. Its not graphic, just was reminiscent for me. The book focuses around a woman with cancer, and it has torn her (adult) daughters apart. She plans a trip of a lifetime, as a girls trip with 3 generations. Unfortunately she passes away before the trip takes place. Everyone wants to fulfill their promise to take the trip, in honor of their mother/grandmother. But, all are unsure if the trip will achieve the goal of bringing everyone back together, or if it will be miserable as everyone fights. All in all, I loved the story and am glad to have read it. Read for yourself to see how the trip goes.

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Reviewed by @way2gosmartguy

Brutal Days (Hidden Valley Elite Book 3) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Elizabeth Sanchez

Brutal Days: A High School Bully Romance (Hidden Valley Elite Book 3)Brutal Days: A High School Bully Romance by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Brutal Days is the 3rd book in the Hidden Valley Elite series. It is a bit of a shift from the previous books, as this begins the story of Damon and Skylar. It is way more heated and less dramatic than Cole and Riley books. There are some graphic scenes, and the characters are teens- so that’s a little weird. But overall I enjoyed the story. I guessed how it was going to end, expecting it the whole time- just didn’t know when. I can’t wait to see how Skylar fixes the cluster/mess she created. It was nice to see another side of Damon. He isn’t as tough as he appears and unexpectedly has his shell broken. I hate that these books are all cliff hangers though lol. Impatiently awaiting the next installment.

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Sleeping Love by Natalina Reis – Review by Michelle Marlow

Sleeping LoveSleeping Love by Natalina Reis
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Once again we have a MM Romantasy by this author. A wonderful Sleeping Beauty retelling. And goodness do I love retellings. We have our leading man Ayo. He is banished from his kingdom. Along with being banished he has his magic taken. I love the plotline and world building even though it is a standalone. It’s truly an eccentric fun read.

Review by @michellerenee6590

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Cecily in the City (The Cecily Taylor Series Book 3) by Krysten Lindsay Hager – Review by Carla Clemmons

Cecily in the CityCecily in the City by Krysten Lindsay Hager
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I always enjoy this author’s books! This one was a great young adult read following Cecily on her journey to stardom. She has a good head on her shoulders and her parents are so supportive. Even her friends are supportive and want the best for her. I like that you get to read the text conversations that she has with her friends. I really felt where Andrew was coming from with Dex and it definitely made me curious where things were going to lead. Cecily is young though and everything is new for her at this stage in her life. I really love how she holds onto her values and stays honest. I did not realize this was book 3 until after I finished it! I will say that I was able to understand the storyline pretty well and will definitely be going back to read book 1 and 2 in the series!

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The Wandering Isles: A Crown of Stones Novella (Soulbound Journeys Book 1) by C. L. Schneider – Review by Crystal Brehant

The Wandering Isles (The Crown of Stones)The Wandering Isles by C.L. Schneider
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I thoroughly enjoyed the trilogy so when I saw there was a novella, I became super excited. This can be read as a stand alone book. However, I do suggest reading the trilogy first. This author is an absolutely fantastic writer. The characters, the story, the setting, all very detailed and captivating. Another fantastic read. I hope to read more from this author.

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What Do the Plants Say? (Alex, the Inventor) by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Alison Risher

What Do the Plants Say? (Alex, the Inventor)What Do the Plants Say? by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Along with beautiful artwork by the illustrator, the author grows readers a story of communication. Plants communicate with us. But do we know what they are saying? A determined protagonist wants answers. She learns what the plants are saying, then she resolves a way to communicate with the plants. An adventure awaits!

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Secrets of the Sorcery War (Ruarnon Trilogy Book 2) by Elise Carlson – Review by Alison Risher

Secrets of the Sorcery War (Ruarnon Trilogy #2)Secrets of the Sorcery War by Elise Carlson
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

The second installment of this trilogy was a good continuation of the storyline. The author gives a nod to popular culture by having a nonbinary main character. The sorcery battle scenes were well-depicted. The author includes diplomacy throughout the story. One of my favorite parts of the book was the artwork between sections of the book- sometimes a weapon, at other times a stack of books. I think the author is saying that a civilization needs both education and weaponry.

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Lap Baby by Amy Q. Barker – Review by Crystal Brehant

Lap Baby: Emotional Women's FictionLap Baby: Emotional Women’s Fiction by Amy Q. Barker
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

A completely unique story that captured me from the beginning. I liked how we had three different sides to the same event. Diving into the emotions of each of these women was interesting and captivating. The characters are relatable and this story is touching. It was fast paced and hard to put down.

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Sleeping Love by Natalina Reis – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

Sleeping LoveSleeping Love by Natalina Reis
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Sleeping Love is a MM fantasy romance story that tells the story of the friendship turned love between Ayo and Yi. Ayo met Yi when orphaned at a young age and the two became best friends. As Ayo got older, he started to learn about his magical powers. When Yi’s father, the king feels that Ayo’s magic becomes a threat to him he strips him of his magic and banishes him to a desolate land. When a curse falls over the kingdom it turns out that Yi is the only one who may be able to break the curse. Ayo is able to wake Yi with a kiss and rekindle their romance, but danger lurks around each corner which puts their relationship at risk.

This book was a bit of an interesting twist on the classic Sleeping Beauty story that drew me in and compelled me to read to the end. The scenes were superbly written, detailed, and make you feel as though you are there at that time and place. The characters of Yi and Ayo were interesting, and it was refreshing to see that the two had forged a friendship and gotten to know one another before it turned to romance. I could not help but root for them to be together and overcome the obstacles that kept insisting on getting in their way. A great story with drama, action, suspense, magic, forbidden romance, curses, friendship, a prince, an evil king, and friends becoming lovers.

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Hope and Lies (The Abredea Series Book 1) by C.H. Lyn – Review by Aranza

Hope and LiesHope and Lies by C.H. Lyn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Hope and Lies: The Abredea Series Book One by C.H. Lyn

4.5 out of 5 Stars

Definitely a great book for anyone who likes dystopian worlds. This book will take you out on a journey with multiple storylines. I was fascinated by the details of this world. I am excited to see what’s next in this series. C.H. Lyn did a great job with this book.

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People Safari by Feather Chelle – Review by Anna Hirsch

People SafariPeople Safari by Feather Chelle
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

People Safari by Feather Chelle
4 Stars

The greatest thing about this book is that the story is told through the eyes of animals. It is interesting to read how they might see and comprehend our world. It’s an imaginative story that will take children on an adventure. A family of deer decide to go on a tour of the city with their tour guide, a raccoon. It was hilarious how the raccoon described some of our every day things such as clothes, pets and automobiles. The deer learn that as exciting the city is, it is also a dangerous place as well. This is a story the kids are sure to enjoy!

Review by @Anna Hirsch
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The Guardian of Whispers (The Reeds of West Hills Book 1) by B. E. Padgett – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

The Guardian of Whispers (The Reeds of West Hills #1)The Guardian of Whispers by B.E. Padgett
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The Guardian of Whispers is Book One in The Reeds of West Hills Series. This author was new to me, and I picked up a copy of the book, not realizing that it is a kid’s fantasy book aimed at children between the ages of nine to twelve years of age. It was actually the cover and title that intrigued me and compelled me to obtain a copy and I am so glad that I did. Now that I have read and enjoyed it, I feel that it can be enjoyed by both young and old alike.

The story focuses on twin boys who discover around the age of ten-years-old that have powers that as special as they are, also come with side effects. Jonathan has the power of prophecy which gives him horrendous nightmares. Franklin has the power of telepathy which causes him to hear constant whispering in his head. The children must learn to hone and control their special powers which requires them being sent away to a special school that is located thousands of miles from home. At West Hills School for the Perceptually Gifted they try to adjust to being away from their family while making new friends and honing their powers. When a powerful artifact is stolen from the school the fingers are pointed at Jon and it is up to the twins and their new friends to prove their innocence.

I loved this book and was captivated from the first few pages. The author’s writing style is engaging, and this book is fun, imaginative, and entertaining. The storyline was compelling, the characters were unique, quirky, and lovable, and the setting was vividly written which immerses you into the story. The special powers that the characters had were fascinating and I found myself wishing that I had some of those abilities. This book had action, mystery, drama, suspense, and of course magical powers. I cannot wait for the next book in this series.

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Fee, Fi, Fo, Grow! (Science Folktales) by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Rachel Moss

Fee, Fi, Fo, Grow!: The Real Magic of the BeansFee, Fi, Fo, Grow!: The Real Magic of the Beans by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This was a good little story. I’m not sure how educational it really was, but it was an entertaining story with cute pictures. I loved the illustrations and can’t wait to read it to my daughter one day, if she is interested in stuff like this. This author usually doesn’t disappoint with her children’s books and this was no exception.

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People Safari by Feather Chelle – Review by Crystal Brehant

People SafariPeople Safari by Feather Chelle
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is a cute story with a clever new look. We see people through the eyes of animals. This was an entertaining story that my son enjoyed. We thought the illustrations were beautiful. We also liked the humor throughout.

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Ways to Improve Bailey by Cori Cooper – Review by Jennifer Gordon

Ways to Improve BaileyWays to Improve Bailey by Cori Cooper
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

An enjoyable and entertaining heartwarming romance which kept me happily turning the pages. Likeable and relatable main character Bailey is fed up with her brother, and his ridiculous list of ways she needs to improve! The stupid list is also the reason why she’s on a date with Tanner, the weirdest guy at the Froyo shop. However, both Tanner and the date are very different to how Bailey expected them to be. As the couple spend more time together, they get to know each other better, and soon Bailey is forced to face all her imperfections that she’s been ignoring for years. She then has to decide if she’s got what it takes to, “get over herself”, and if so will she do it? I loved the relationship between Bailey and Tanner and although they had obvious chemistry, I enjoyed how their romance developed throughout the story.

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Fee, Fi, Fo, Grow! (Science Folktales) by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Anna Hirsch

Fee, Fi, Fo, Grow! The Real Magic of the Beans (Science Folktales)Fee, Fi, Fo, Grow! The Real Magic of the Beans by Lois J Wickstrom
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Fee, Fi, Fo, Grow! (Science Folktales) by Lois Wickstrom
4 Stars

I’ve always liked retellings of fairy. This book is a take on Jack and the Beanstalk. Jacqueline and her mother need money for food and they don’t want to eat their cow. Jacqueline takes Bessie to the market to sell. On her way there , she meets a man who gives her magical beans in exchange for the cow. Her mother is not happy with the exchange and throws the beans out the window. The next day the beanstalk has grown tall into the sky. What happens next is an adventure and learning experience for Jacqueline. Read the book to find out what happens. The story itself and the illustrations will keep the children entertained.

Review by @Anna Hirsch
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Fireflies (The Physical Collection) by A.R. Hadley – Review by Angela Plate, May 2023

Fireflies (The Physical Collection)Fireflies by A.R. Hadley
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Definitely not to my taste. However, this book was well written and unique. Its a part of a series but a standalone as well which is what I like. I’m looking forward to seeing what this author offers in the future.

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Obedience (Ties That Bind Book 1) by Liza Snow – Review by Jennifer Gordon

ObedienceObedience by Liza Snow
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is a dark student, teacher romantic suspense which had me gripped from start to finish and kept me captivated throughout. When new student Cassandra arrives at his circus, acrobat and silk aerialist Chandler Moreau is tempted to traverse the line between darkness and desire. Cassandra has always been enraptured by Chandler, a man who defies gravity and wanted to belong to his world, and to perform with him. However, Chandler is no ordinary mentor and along with teaching her, he also ignites her deepest and most sinful desires, until the dangerous man becomes Cassandra’s only salvation.
For Chandler, Cassandra Blackstone was his protege, but also the woman he wanted. She tempted him and became a sanctuary for his darkest and wildest desires, but he never intended to fall in love with her. He was supposed to protect her from both himself and the demons in his past, but despite his grandfather’s warnings he wanted her in his life. Cassandra and Chandler share a history which entwines them, like the silks they spent their lives mastering do. The secrets from the past threaten to destroy their future. The wonderfully detailed and descriptive narrative really brought the circus setting vividly to life, and made me feel immersed in the world of the two silk aerialists. The main characters had me engaged from the beginning, and their chemistry sizzled off the page whilst their slow burn romance kept me hooked.

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Fee, Fi, Fo, Grow! (Science Folktales) by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Rebeca Elliott Figueiras

Fee, Fi, Fo, Grow! The Real Magic of the Beans (Science Folktales)Fee, Fi, Fo, Grow! The Real Magic of the Beans by Lois J Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This isn’t the first book I’ve read by this author, and won’t be the last! This was a lovely retelling of a classic story with a twist. I like the science that the author incorporates into children’s stories, it encourages fun learning in children. It engages kids in a way that’s easy to learn and makes it enjoyable for them. I wish there were more books like this when I was a kid.

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Cecily in the City (Te Cecily Taylor Series Book 3) by Krysten Lindsay Hager – Review by Michaela Massie

Cecily in the CityCecily in the City by Krysten Lindsay Hager
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Cecily’s dreams are coming true as she gets a major role in a daytime soap opera and moves to the big city, which just so happens to be the city her popstar boyfriend lives in! Things are looking up! More opportunities come her way, and she takes them to help gt her name out, not knowing the rumors that would begin speading. She finds herself questioning her dicisions and even wondering if moving to the big city was the right decision for her or if she should have stayed put.
This is the 3rd book in the deligtful Cecily Taylor series, annd I highly suggest takign the time to real all three books! They are fun and interesting, and kept me turning page after page until I found myself finished with the book!!

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Bound by the Hinterlands by Bree M. Lewandowski – Review by Rebeca Elliott Figueiras

Bound by the HinterlandsBound by the Hinterlands by Bree M. Lewandowski
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I was initially drawn to this book because of the blurb – I found it intriguing and different from the other romances I’ve read recently.

The author paints a vivid picture of the amazing world they have created and I felt like I could step right into the landscape alongside the characters. Both the plot and characters are well-written, developed and gripping. I couldn’t wait to find out what was past the darkness and how the characters would face the dangers in front of them.

The characters were amazing – some really riled me up and others stole my heart. I loved getting emotionally invested in these characters for example Cressida – I really felt for her and everything she faced.

I really enjoyed the writing style used in this book, and I’ll be looking out for more by this author in future.

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Fireflies (The Physical Collection) by A.R. Hadley – Review by Michaela Massie

Fireflies (The Physical Collection)Fireflies by A.R. Hadley
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Mike Stamos and Dane Clark are in love and happy in their little Florida home, enjoying their relationship and their lives with each other. But what happens when Dane tells Mike that he wants to add a woman to the mix? This is a great story showing examples off how relationships can be both beautiful and complicated as Dane and Mike work through trying to add more peolple to their relationship while keeping themselves both happy and comfortable. I highly suggest taking some time to read this beautiful little slice of life. I promise it’s worth every moment, and has something in it for everyone.

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Bound by the Hinterlands by Bree M. Lewandowski – Review by Jennifer Gordon

Bound by the HinterlandsBound by the Hinterlands by Bree M. Lewandowski
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

An enjoyable and entertaining fantasy romance which had me hooked from page one. Cressida’s controlling and abusive father has arranged a marriage between her and Baron Caravahl Alzeid. She must travel to the Hinterlands, the land of the outcasts, to accept her fate. She’s surprised by the handsome Caravahl, and although her new husband infuriates her, she can’t help but feel the chemistry between them. Cressida falls in love with the land and it’s people but since she arrived things have been strange, with unexpected guests causing panic, a darkness to the forest which never wanes, and lurking threats. There’s a sinister mystery which is shrouded in secrecy and silence, but soon everything spirals out of control, putting Cressida in danger, and in darkness. To save her Caravahl must risk his life and his kingdom, but maybe also his heart. The storyline flows well and the descriptive narrative brought both the wonderful characters and the setting vividly to life. I felt immersed in the story and engaged with the characters.

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Hope and Liess (The Abreddea Series Book 1) by C.G. Lyn – Review by Michaela Massie

Hope and LiesHope and Lies by C.H. Lyn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

A dystopian world full of strife. Pangaea maintains its “order” through an outdated caste system, which has led may to rebel. This intricate story moves between the past and the current times, simultaneously telling us multiple stories. One of a woman from the highest ranking caste who’s whole life is changed when she is caught by rebels, another of a young 20 year old girl who for some reason ends up in a different caste from her friends and family, and finally an empath named Chogan. This mesmerizingly woven tapestry is an absolute must read. I’ve told all my friends to read it and I’m telling you as well. It is a chunky book, but it is absolutely worth every moment!

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Sleeping Love by Natalina Reis – Review by Kerry Baker

Sleeping LoveSleeping Love by Natalina Reis
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is an interesting take on a well known fairy tale and it is one I have really enjoyed. I thought the story was well thought out and interesting. It caught my attention straight away. I lived thr characters in this.book. I felt their connection and was drawn to their journey.
This is an author that I have become very familiar with and I really love how all of her books are different. This one is nothing like any of her others but it is just as good. This is a great story that i would highly recommend.

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Ways to Improve Bailey by Cori Cooper – Review by Krystal Gregory

Ways to Improve BaileyWays to Improve Bailey by Cori Cooper
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Ways to Improve Bailey by Cori Cooper
4 out of 5 Stars
Ways to Improve Bailey by Cori Cooper is a super fun and absolutely adorable romance. Bailey, driven to near insanity by her brother and his crazy ever growing list of “Ways to Improve”, does something rash and finds herself on a date with Tanner, aka the weird dude from the froyo shop. Bailey is apprehensive at first, but finds herself slowly falling for Tanner. Falling for the things he does for her. The first of which is really listen to her. Tanner on the other hand, is both a mix of complex love and the unsettling ability to just do right. Lovers of all things YA, Romance, sweet and just down right tug at your heart strings, will adore this book.

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Seen by Lori Nelson – Review by Kerry Baker

SeenSeen by Lori Nelson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This.is a great sci-fi Book that is well written and unique. When I First read the description of this book I found it a little confusing. But I had heard good things about the story so decided to give it a try and I am glad I did. The booknwas exciting and fast paced from the moment you start reading. The characters were engaging and really added to the overall story.
This is the first book that I have read by this author but it won’t be the last. I thoroughly enjoyed it right from the start.

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Euphoric Wonderland: An Eclectic Collection of Psychedelic Poetry to Stimulate the Senses and Open the Mind by Ryan M. Becker – Review by Breanne Christian

Euphoric Wonderland: An Eclectic Collection of Psychedelic Poetry to Stimulate the Senses and Open the MindEuphoric Wonderland: An Eclectic Collection of Psychedelic Poetry to Stimulate the Senses and Open the Mind by Ryan M. Becker
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I am typically picky of my poetry, which makes me less likely to pick it up. After looking at this book’s name and cover, I knew I had to give it a chance, and I’m glad I did. Picking up this book is like going on a melodic adventure while tripping on some feel goods. If you are looking for a fun and quick read, give Euphoric Wonderland a chance. It had me hooked from the beginning and I did not put it down until I was done.

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Breathless Love (The Bennetts of Langston Falls Book 3) by KG Fletcher – Review by Maisie Dickinson

Breathless Love (The Bennetts of Langston Falls, #3)Breathless Love by K.G. Fletcher
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Breathless Love is the third instalment of K. G. Fletcher’s The Bennett’s of Langston Falls series, and follows Hank, a wannabe country music star, who meets Ella Mae, songwriter and sister of a country music legend that Hank just so happens to be a huge fan of. Ella Mae invites Hank on tour to show him what a rockstar lifestyle is really like, and they get to know each other deeper than either of them imagined, and they have more in common than either of them would have thought. It’s hugely inspirational with a big focus on opportunities, dreams, and the importance of family, featuring strong characters with consistent personality traits, particularly Hank with his chivalry and Ella Mae with her independence. My favourite character was Ella Mae, as she is strong, independent, understanding, and caring. My least favourite character was Travis because he unfortunately turned out to be toxic, manipulative, and selfish. I recommend this book because it’s inspirational, especially for a reader with big dreams. I do think that the ending stretched on for a bit and it probably wasn’t all needed or at least not at that time, but it was a good ending and I really enjoyed the book. “A dream won’t chase you back, son. It’s up to you to chase this dream with everything you have.”

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People Safari by Feather Chelle – Review by Roxsanne Lesieur.

PROOF: People SafariPROOF: People Safari by Feather Chelle
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

A family of deer are being guided by a racoon on a safari looking at human behaviour, but they have to be careful that they aren’t seen, or the safari will come to a swift end.

As the family look at human behaviour and try to explain it from an animals point of view, their capers are fun filled and interesting, while also being funny with the descriptions of human life from a different perspective.

This is a book all ages will enjoy, while also asking important questions about nature, both human and animal and is a good jumping point into talking more about the differences and similarities which exist there.

Reviewed by @roxsannel

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