People Safari by Feather Chelle – Review by Kristin Boutelle

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

When we hear the word safari, we always think of animals and their habitats that we’re observing. However, this particular book is doing the opposite. The animals are the main characters, and they are observing the human habitat. The characters are very well thought out. The story flows really easily and is easy to comprehend. The illustrations are very well done and colorful.

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Punk (Popov Boys Book 6) by Leslie Georgeson – Review by Lisa Helmick

Punk (Popov Boys #6)Punk by Leslie Georgeson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Another wonderful book in this series! I enjoyed the secrets, the unknown and the storyline. We really are able to dig deep into the thoughts and lives of this couple. Not everything is as it seems as we learn the “whys” of a few things and the “hows” of others. I really liked that Miranda is a strong businesswoman that started her own company. That showed her gumption of sticking even when things get tough. Efrem is the hollywood sexy guy and has a determination to redeem his past and cross boundaries with his new boss.

Overall it is a good story. We see characters from the past stories as they become involved with Efrem or just cameos. Either way its always nice to see them. The story seemed overlong at times with all the introspection of their own feelings over and over but it did give no doubt to what each was thinking. I did like the title especially when the definition(s) popped up!

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People Safari by Feather Chelle – Review by Dawn Daughenbaugh

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

5 Stars
People Safari by Feather Chelle

People Safari is a cute children’s book that is told through the eyes of animals and how they see the world. It’s intended for readers ages 5-10 but I anyone can enjoy it. The illustrations are great and make the story come to life. My five year old son loved it so much we’ve read it several times already. Ranger Marco (racoon) takes the other animals on a safari tour to town where they see all kinds of strange things( humans, cars) follow along as we learn how animals see our world through their eyes. We loved this fun story and definitely recommend reading. We can’t wait to read more from this Author.

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Sleeping Love by Natalina Reis – Review by Kerry Carr

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

This is a beautiful MM friends to lovers romance. It is also a twist on the story of Sleeping beauty where the spell is only broken my true loves kiss. The author does an amazing job of creating the world and it is full of magic, danger, and longing love. This story has characters that you want to succeed in the form of Ayo and then characters you can stand such as the king.

Ayo had grown up beside the Prince but once his magic start to show the king banished him to an island and took away his magic. Now Ayo is forced to live along and struggle to survive, he is also banned from seeing his friend Prince Yi. That is until a curse is placed over the kingdom and the only person who can save Prince Yi is Ayo.
But that is just the beginning. Once Yi is awoken from the curse the pair move forward looking to get Ayo’s powers back. Together they must overcome enemies old and new while fighting for each other. Bit as secrets and past actions start to come alight will the pair be able to hold on to their new found love or will the past destroy their only chance of happiness
I really enjoyed this story. I felt every struggle and fight that Ayo has had to endure from losing his parents, to being stripped of his magic and exiled away from the one person he loves. I do love how strong and determined his is to fight for his love no matter the consequences or the obstacles in front of them.

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Fee, Fi, Fo, Grow! (Science Folktales) by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Tausha Treadway

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

Fee, Fi, Fo, Grow! (Science Folktales) by Lois Wickstrom. This author has become one of my very favorite children’s authors. Her stories are filled with lessons, fun and neat tips. They make amazing gifts and this one is no exception. This is a retelling of Jack and the Beanstalk. Jacqueline sells her beloved cow Bessie to help her family and keep them from starving in trade for seeds, The beanstalk grows and grows with a giant couple living at the top now she has to figure out how to feed 2 families. The giant says he won’t eat her if she brings them food. Such a cute retelling and has many lessons inside the story. Teaches kids about growing food and that there is always a light at the end of the tunnel.

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Obedience (Ties That Bind Book 1) by Liza Snow – Review by Trista Priest

ObedienceObedience by Liza Snow
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

I was so excited to read this after reading the synopsis, I love Cirque du Soleil, and reading a book with that plot was an immediate yes for me. I was drawn in quickly, but around 50% felt the book begin to drag out without any real details.

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The Guardian of Whispers (The Reeds of West Hills Book 1) by B. E. Padgett – Review by Nakyshia Leger

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

Mystery, adventure, suspense. This fun read will pull you in quickly. Frank and Jon are twin brothers that have to navigate their discovery of magical powers. As the story goes on, you are drawn in more and more and root for them until the last page. The supporting characters and descriptive text bring the story to life in front of your eyes! Definitely a great for those young readers who are into magic and lore or older readers who want a fun shorter read!

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Brutal Days (Hidden Valley Elite Book 3) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Tausha Treadway

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 (Hidden Valley Elite Book 3) by Isla Vaughn. This is the 3rd book in the bully romance series and they have all been so good. I think they are geared toward young adults but even an old lady like me enjoys them. This is Skylar’s (Sky) story and how her best friend Gia has the hots for the popular football star, Damon. Damon is a bad boy and Sky can’t let her friend get mixed up with a jerk like him. He is conceited and stuck on himself and not nice only problem is secretly Sky thinks he’s hot too. Even though Damon is a jerk he can have any girl he wants and the problem with that is he want’s Sky. Sky can’t hurt her best friend she would do anything for her and never purposely hurt her but the attraction is strong. This story if filled with love, hate, lies, betrayal and friendship. Everything high school is about! Be prepared when you start this book you won’t want to put it down.

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The Guardian of Whispers (The Reeds of West Hills Book 1) by B. E. Padgett – Review by Stephanie Robb

The Guardian of Whispers (The Reeds of West Hills #1)The Guardian of Whispers by B.E. Padgett
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This book is the first in a series and I would say it’s aimed at children/middle grade. It’s an alternative fantasy/magical school setting. It was a fun story, very easy to read, and light-hearted.

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

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

I loved this imaginative and colourful story aimed at children. I loved the fantasy element of the story and the wonderful illustrations. It’s lovely to see Alex’s perseverance to learn something new and be better at it.

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The Boys of Alpha Block by Nancy Nau Sullivan – Review by Rayne East

The Boys of Alpha BlockThe Boys of Alpha Block by Nancy Nau Sullivan
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Actions and Consequences
An emotional tale drenched in suspense and lightened by hope. This is the first book I have read by this author and it was a great read. There is a rawness about the story, with the heart wrenching and confronting treatment of the boys but also shows the brotherhood that forms. I really connected with the characters and was vested in their plight. Highly recommend.

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Obedience (Ties That Bind Book 1) by Liza Snow – Review by Amber Howard

ObedienceObedience by Liza Snow
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Just finished this book and had to rush over to write this review while it’s fresh in my mind. First off this is not something I usually read about (Genre). I also don’t like clowns so I was a little scared to read it lol. Luckily they were only mentioned briefly. However, this book was way better than I expected. It was hot and dangerous! The steam was on level 10. I don’t know a whole lot about Shibari but I definitely learned a lot from this book. Apart from the rope play, the drama and action was also very good. The French Mafia? Uncle Peter? The ex-wife? And let’s talk about the cliff hanger we were left on. One of the best I’ve read ever. I immediately put the release date of book 2 in my Calendar. Liza you did such a wonderful job with this book!

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Sleeping Love by Natalina Reis – Review by Stephanie Robb

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

A wonderful fairytale retelling, filled with love, magic, fantasy and friendship. This queer take on Sleeping Beauty as a prince and commoner fall in love will really warm your heart. The author has a great storytelling ability with fantastic world building and character development.

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

Secrets of the Sorcery War (Ruarnon Trilogy #2)Secrets of the Sorcery War by Elise Carlson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is the second book in this YA fantasy series. I really enjoyed the continuation in this universe. It’s very well written, the author does a great job with the character and story development which really draws you into the story.

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Fee, Fi, Fo, Grow! (Science Folktales) by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Stephanie Robb

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

I really enjoyed this retelling of Jack and the Beanstalk with a new introduction to science twist. It is a great story for big kids and small kids alike. Each page engages the reader with beautiful illustrations and easy-to-read short sentences.

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People Safari by Feather Chelle – Review by Stephanie Robb

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

This is a fun and alternative take on a wildlife safari. A family of deer is taken on a human safari with their raccoon tour guide to observe humans in their natural habitat and observe their unusual ways. This story is aimed at younger readers with a fun unusual twist and lovely illustrations.

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Helpful Hudson by Dannielle Pickford – Review by Angela Hayes

Helpful HudsonHelpful Hudson by Dannielle Pickford
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

 

4.5 Stars

Helpful Hudson by Dannielle Pickford is a delightful read- an illustrated children’s storybook with cute, colourful, and interesting pictures to accompany the sweet story.
Hudson is quite a helpful little fellow- but through the course of the story he learns the importance of self-care because sometimes we are so busy taking care of or helping others that we forget to take care of or help ourselves. This cute story teaches great life lessons with lovely, engaging pictures that help convey the messages contained here. Children are introduced to some social and emotional skills- tools that can empower them and help them throughout their life’s journey.
This book is aimed at 3 – 7 year-old children.
Happy Reading…

Thank you, Danielle Pickford!

 

Reviewed by @angelahayes

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The Boys of Alpha Block by Nancy Nau Sullivan – Review by Angela Hayes

The Boys of Alpha BlockThe Boys of Alpha Block by Nancy Nau Sullivan
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

 

4 Stars

 

“It’s time to break out.”

The Boys of Alpha Block is the first book that I have read by Nancy Nau Sullivan, but if this is anything to go by, it certainly won’t be the last.
This is a suspenseful women’s fiction story that is set in a juvenile detention centre where a group of neglected and abused boys plan their escape. The story really tugged at my heartstrings, as I really felt for what the boys had experienced and what they were (still) going through.
The story is quite suspenseful and had me flipping the pages, avidly reading well into the early hours, just so I could find out how everything played out. It also contains sensitive subjects that may be triggers for some readers. This isn’t a ‘light and fluffy’ read. What the boys have been through, and experience while in detention was heart-wrenching. Neglect. Manipulation. Abuse. Assault. Humiliation. Violence. Yes, there were some gritty, raw, and emotional moments. But there was also connection, bonds, friendship, hope, and strength of character-adding light to the story, which helped to balance those dark elements.
Well worth the read.

Thank you, Nancy Nau Sullivan!

 

Reviewed by @angelahayes

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Editor Kill Fee (The Taylor Browning Cozy Mysteries Book #3) by G.G. Collins – Review by Angela Hayes

Editor Kill Fee (Taylor Browning Cozy Mysteries #3)Editor Kill Fee by G.G. Collins
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

 

4 Stars

 

Editor Kill Fee is the third instalment in the Taylor Browning Cozy Mystery series by G.G. Collins. Even though this is the third book in the series, it can be read as a standalone, which is what I did, as each book holds its own self-contained mystery. But, having said that, this book piqued my curiosity as to what may have happened previously, and what mysteries Taylor has had to unravel in the prior two book… so I will definitely be going back to investigate them in the coming week.
This mystery brings plenty of intrigue and drama as Taylor sets out to find the missing president of the Santa Fe Wine and Crime book club, who has disappeared on her way to a meeting and is thought to have maybe taken a wrong turn onto a deadly stretch of road. But things take an unexpected turn and Taylor finds herself in a dangerous undercover investigation with challenges, threats, and a tense race against time- while getting an inside perspective into the volatile chili culture. Add a couple of feline companions, publishing company drama, tension, and suspense- and we have an engrossing little mystery.
Looking forward to investigating the rest of this series.
Happy Reading…

Thank you, G.G. Collins!

 

Reviewed by @angelahayes

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Hero Complex (Bluestone Series Book 3) by Isobel Reed – Review by Beverly Finnie

Hero Complex (Bluestone Series, #3)Hero Complex by Isobel Reed
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Hero Complex reads extremely well as a standalone novel even though it’s part of a series. I enjoyed it. The main characters reminded me of myself at times. When pride and stubbornness sometimes get in the way. These characters were written in a way you feel for them. Broken souls for different reasons, never realized there was someone out there who could mend and complete them. However you know how these books go, there’s never not one that has some kind of drama that affects the characters and relationships. This time the drama was different from what I usually read.
Ace and Ivy are two halves to a whole. Unfortunately neither one of them is confident that they are enough for the other. But what happens when Ace makes an announcement?
How does Ivy feel about that?
I enjoy the books in this series. I can only hope there may be more.

@placexba
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The Wandering Isles: A Crown of Stones Novella (Soulbound Journeys Book 1) by C. L. Schneider – Review by Audrie Harrington

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

I was excited to hear that there was another book in the series following Ian and Jarryd! This one starts off with them on a ship sailing to find the Wandering Isles. It starts raining red and they are met by people made from mist wanting to trade. Ian is transported to the island and a fight against an enemy he thinks is dead and Jarryd is transported back to his cell. They have to fight against all their fears: past, present, and future, but the imagery is so real and lifelike that Ian and Jarryd have to remind themselves what is real and what is not. I was sucked into the novella in the first chapter and couldn’t put it down. I love the trilogy and this one is set after the last book. I felt like I got to know Ian and Jarryd even better in this book and can’t wait to see what the author does next!

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

What Do the Plants Say? (Alex, the Inventor)What Do the Plants Say? by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Alex hears the plants talking to her. She’s very intrigued by this and wants to learn more of what they are saying to her. She tries a variety of methods to distinguish between the different “pops” and learns that they want to have a party. What’s the best way to have a party? With helium of course!

This was a fun book but not my favorite by this author. She writes a lot of books with a science them, and while this one was still science focused, it had more of a mythical approach to it as well. I was not fond of the “talking to plants and thinking they speak to you” aspect. I do know that there is some research out there about talking to plants but I’m not super convinced of this having a true effect. I think for kids, it’s best to keep it simple. I still recommend this book though!

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

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

Don’t let the “novella” label fool you! The Wandering Isles is the length of a regular book. But, for The Crown of Stones Series, this book is considerably shorter than the others. Although reading the rest of the series can enhance the reading of this book, it is not necessary to its understanding. C. L. Schneider brings the same wonderful, realistic, flawed characters and amazing world building that is in the other books. I felt so many emotions in this book; confusion, fear, helplessness. I felt like The Wandering Isles added more of a psychological element to the fantasy world, and I absolutely loved it! What’s more terrifying than the thoughts and fears of your own mind? How do you escape that which is inside you? C. L. Schneider; wonderful job on this book!

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Punk (Popov Boys Book 6) by Leslie Georgeson – Review by Candida Hopper

Punk (Popov Boys #6)Punk by Leslie Georgeson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I thoroughly enjoyed reading this and this series as a whole. The author did a wonderful job pulling me into the story and keeping me entertained. This book can be read as a standalone but it is my opinion that you read all the books prior to this because you don’t want to miss out on great reading. I loved Miranda and Efrem, they had instant chemistry and their story evolved from there. There are other characters in this story that you will get to know as well. I don’t want to give anything away so I’m just going to say that this is a must read. I highly recommend this book.

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Truly Unfortunate (Welcome to Knollville Book 1) by C.A. King – Review by Brandy Rymer

Truly Unfortunate (Welcome To Knollville #1)Truly Unfortunate by C.A. King
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I read this story within a couple of hours, I could not put it down the second I started reading about Truly and all of the unfortunate incidents that continually followed her throughout her life. C. A. King has written a magnificent story that kept me guessing throughout the entire book, trying to put all the pieces together along with the detectives, Jeff and Miranda, who were trying to connect the 2 accidents that seemed a little too coincidental. I loved that as we go through the story, we understand the characters as we go from Truly’s past 9-year-old self to the present time, and get to put the story together like picking up the bread crumbs. You don’t want to miss even one piece or else you may not be able to follow along the path you are being led. This tale will cause you to go through so many emotions, from fear to anger, to distrust, and disbelief, not knowing what is real and what is a part of a young girl’s imagination. This is a must-read that will have you on the edge of your seat hoping that Charma really does come through for Truly.
@Brandy Rymer
05/2023

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Ways to Improve Bailey by Cori Cooper – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

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

Ways to Improve Bailey is a slow burn, wholesome, and clean romance story with some elements of humor and witty banter. It is clever, original, and has an intriguing storyline that will have you reading until the end. There are many moments when you might find yourself giggling out loud as well. The characters are quirky, brilliantly written, and lovable.
Bailey is a typical teenager who is tired of hearing how her brother thinks that she needs to improve herself. Being as sassy and smart as she is, she feels that she has no imperfections that need to be worked on. Her brother, on the other hand, has a list of the improvements that he feels that she needs. Then her brother has the nerve to set her up with the weird guy Tanner from the yogurt shop and that might be the final straw. But, as luck, or fate, would have it, the more time she spends with Tanner, the more that Bailey starts to like him. Now, she must decide if her brother has actually been right, and she does need some improvements after all.

I loved this unique and wholesome Rom Com and found the story interesting. I loved the family element and how the siblings interacted with one another. I adored Bailey’s feisty attitude and how she was okay with who she was and did not feel she needed to change. It was amusing that her brother had an entire list of what he felt her imperfections were. A cute and entertaining read.

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Twisted Bond by Danielle Jacks – Review by Santana Hicks

Twisted BondTwisted Bond by Danielle Jacks
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Rose is part of the Wolfbane coven. Years ago their magic was stolen by the Dutchmen. In order to get it back, they come up with a plan. Rose goes in under the guise of possibly becoming the princess to Prince Titan of the Dutchmen coven, and while there try to find the moonstone that they need to restore their legacy.

Titan needs a bride and an heir before he can take on the role of King. He needs someone strong to help him maintain the magic he needs to keep up with his kingdom. So when his mother brings in a group of women to choose from, he is instantly intrigued by Rose. She isn’t like the other women. She seems to be not what she appears. Like she is hiding something and this excites Titan. Not at all what he should want for a bride.

Their chemistry is undeniable, everytime they are close the sparks fly. Will this affect Rose’s mission? Can she do it before the full moon? Can Titan find the perfect queen to rule with him?

I started off hating Titan. He was a selfish, uncaring man who liked to use people so when the element of will they/won’t they started I was hoping Rose would steer clear of him. As time went on, you got glimpses of warmth within the prince making me like him a bit more. The romance between the two of them was dark and toxic. It honestly gave me Stockholm syndrome vibes. If you like dark, steamy enemies to lovers trope with an element of the supernatural, then this book is for you!

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Ways to Improve Bailey by Cori Cooper – Review by Amanda Haller-Doris

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

I absolutely adored this story! It was a very clean and sweet YA Rom Com, that is full of heart and laughter. I loved all of the characters; the author did a great job of creating multidimensional characters. I especially loved her older brother Dayton, he comes off as the annoying older brother, picking on his little sister, but as the story unfolds, we see how much he really does love his little sister and wants what is best for her. Tanner was such an amazing character, seeing his character development and his patience with Bailey was the cutest thing. Bailey was a great female heroine, she was spunky and sassy, but when it mattered, she was kind and caring. Seeing her and Tanner work through so many different situations was absolutely delightful! I loved the background of the Froyo store, definitely made me think about my froyo toppings! This was a wonderful story and I can’t wait to read more from the author.

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The Promised Plan by Sharon Hughson – Review by Ashley Mertz

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

The Promised Plan by Sharon Hughson is available now in eBook and Physical Book
⭐️⭐️⭐⭐⭐ Book Review

I am a “judge a book by its cover” kinda gal. This beautiful cover is truly what drew me into reading this novel. This was my first time reading a novel by Sharon Hughson and I am so glad that I picked this one. The characters are lovable and relatable. The realistic story line and events these characters endure are heartfelt. There were many times I sympathized with each character on many different levels. I really wished the sisters could have reconciled their differences before Ruth’s passing but that’s the nature of the beast. Sometimes we humans just have to learn the hard way. Sometimes something unwanted has to happen for us to realize what we are missing out on. Overall, I truly enjoyed The Promised Plan and I will not hesitate to recommend this quick, easy read to a friend.

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The Boys of Alpha Block by Nancy Nau Sullivan – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

The Boys of Alpha BlockThe Boys of Alpha Block by Nancy Nau Sullivan
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The Boys of Alpha Block is a heart-wrenching tale about a group of teenage boys who plan to try to escape Alpha Correctional Center, a juvenile detention center. The boys have been subjected to humiliation, degradation, and abuse at the hands of the correctional officers working within the correctional center. They feel that life on the outside would be better and as a group try to devise a plan to escape.

This was a beautifully written and fast paced story, but I will admit that it was hard for me to read at times because of the horrid abuse and neglect that was taking place within the correctional center. The author did a fantastic job of inciting raw emotions through detailed writing and vivid scene descriptions. The characters are ones that you can love, hate, or feel indifferent about. The boys needed a second chance, which could have been possible with the right guidance. Instead, those that could have helped them either mistreated or abused them or turned a blind eye. The correctional officers were deplorable, and it is hard to imagine that someone in a position of authority could treat another person so inhumanely. Those such as the teachers and counsellors that were there to guide and help were ultimately just as guilty for allowing the abuse and mistreatment of the boys to continue. A riveting read that was a rollercoaster ride of emotions for me.

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