Secrets at the Café: A Novel of Suspense about Family and Friendship by Susan Specht Oram – Review by Beverly Finnie

Secrets at the CafeSecrets at the Cafe by Susan Specht Oram
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I love this author! I also love that all the books in this series are intertwined in a way it works magically. Also all the books work extremely well as standalone novels, which is a nice change of pace vs other books that don’t. Secrets at the Cafe are no different.
It’s another drama that sucks you in and keeps you wanting more. Tell that to the main character Karina, she hightailed it home when her grandma was fighting for her life. Now with her gran gone she’s running herself ragged. Causing her to confuse people, needing to help all others around her gets her in trouble.
So when gran’s notes and knick nak’s started to disappear, Katrina was determined to find them at all costs. But as things start to unravel, is it now time for her to stop or push forward for the answers she seeks?
I know I’ve said this before but I’ll say it again. This is probably my favorite book to date. Each book seems to get better and better! An author worth digging into! A story definitely worth the read! Enjoy!

@placexba
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Wicked Games (Hidden Valley Elite Book 7) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Michelle Marlow

Wicked Games (Hidden Valley Elite #7)Wicked Games by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is the next installment in the Hidden Valley Elite Series.  Please check trigger and content warnings. Your mental health is important. This one follows Shane and Winter. And yes it ends in a cliffhanger. I am in love with this series and this one did not let me down! Their emotions and chemistry I just love it so much. And without spoiling too much you really need to start from the beginning to understand  everyone and everything.

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The Inquisitor (WaterFyre Rising Book 4) by Nadia Han – Review by Jessica Stone

The Inquisitor (WaterFyre Rising, #4)The Inquisitor by Nadia Han
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The Inquisitor (WaterFyre Rising Book 4) by Nadia Han – Review by Jessica Stone

So first off, this book is part of The WaterFyre Rising series, but can be read as a standalone, I didn’t realize until I was halfway through this book that I missed reading one of them super I’m super thankful that it can be read as a standalone. That being said I have read the first two books in this series and this book, just like thoes, did not disappoint.
The heat between Forrest and Keira is immediate, though there interactions take a bit of time to really combust, the chemistry is already there from a previous meetings, and being part of the same circle and it has not died down at all.

Forrest is a Doctor, thanks to growing up with his supportive grandma he’s grown his career into a successful life. Now he’s back in Texas for revenge, his father was killed brutally by a gang when he was a young child, he’s made it his life’s mission to avenge his family.

Keira is a fashion photographer, who’s just trying to make ends meet, after a accident at her moms work causes her to fall severely I’ll Keira’s taking every possible job she can, on top of her already busy schedule to pay for her moms medications and treatments. The last thing she has time for or interest in is a relationship or fling, so why she can’t seem to get Forrest off her mind.
In a chance meeting the both wind up in Texas at the same time and things just take off from there. Keira gets kidnapped and it’s up to Forrest to choose between his vengeance and saving the girl he can’t get off his mind.

Ok so their chemistry is off the charts, it actually makes me giddy little a little girl, I can barely stay in my seat. I love how straight forward Forrest is about wanting Keira right off the back. The she’s mine, touch her and die vibes are strong with him.
Keira has the best intentions with the worst execution, she’s got the biggest heart and with that big trusting heart sometimes comes pain, but that’s a chance worth taking I believe.

I’ve enjoyed this series so far, I can’t wait to see the next book and I’m interested to see more come from a certain situation that ties all the male protagonist from this series, I feel like every book gets a bit more exciting and I’m so excited to see everything come to a head and to read about the next couple. I would definitely recommend this series, but I would highly recommend reading the first 3 books just to get a little insight into all the characters and how they interconnect and their own personal stories.

The Inquisitor, WaterFyre Rising Series, Nadia Han, Review, Itsy Bitsy Book Bits, Romance, Suspense, November 2023, Jessica Stone

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Lottery of Secrets by Nadija Mujagic – Review by Ashley Sugar

Lottery of SecretsLottery of Secrets by Nadija Mujagic
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Loved the cover and I loved the book. There’s topics and descriptive scenarios that could be triggering to some, so check the trigger warnings. It’s very graphic. I enjoy psychological thrillers and I’m so glad this one didn’t disappoint.

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The Crown of Stones: Magic-Scars Audiobook (The Crown of Stones Book 2) by C. L. Schneider – Review by Lorralei Hoerner

5 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

This story was fantastic!! Magic, mayhem, drama and darkness… this fast paced story has it all. I very highly recommend listening to Book 1 as this is Book 2 in the series and picks up a couple of years later where Ian Troy wakes after being imprisoned for 2 years….

Drugged and beaten… Ian is tortured and comes around unbeknownst to him…a prisoner after
2 years….not remembering what happened. Of course King Draken is at his full rule and cruel and dark as ever. Ian Troy is rescued and trying to put the pieces back together especially trying to find the truth still in the Crown of Stones….

If you love a gripping fantasy story I very highly recommend this audiobook. I cannot wait until I listen to book 3 in the series.

Luna the Howling Husky Finds Her Howl by Samantha Shannon – Review by Lorralei Hoerner

Luna the Howling Husky Finds Her HowlLuna the Howling Husky Finds Her Howl by Samantha Shannon
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

5 Stars 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟

What a wonderful story and such beautiful eye catching illustrations. This story can be enjoyed from the young and also the young at heart like me. I know my great nieces and nephew love this story as much as I do…..and we all can learn a great message from Luna the Howling Husky. Perseverance, kindness and friendship…this story of Luna is one of the best.

When Luna cannot howl like her brothers and sisters, Luna feels like an outsider. A chance encounter with Nemo the cat, Luna makes a new friend and they have so much in common. The bond of friendship between Luna and Nemo builds with kindness. Will Luna be able to be brave and find her “howl”?

This is a truly a heartwarming and fantastic story. I highly recommend this to anyone…

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Luna the Howling Husky Finds Her Howl by Samantha Shannon – Review by Jenni Bishop

Luna the Howling Husky Finds Her HowlLuna the Howling Husky Finds Her Howl by Samantha Shannon
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Luna the Howling Husky Finds Her Howl is another cute tale by Samantha Shannon. This is a wonderful children’s book that I am going to share with my grandsons, I know they will fall in love with Luna’s story as they loved her in Jake the Growling Dog.
I enjoy reading with my grandsons, and especially the closer we get to Christmas as I am looking for presents for them so when this book came about, I jumped at a chance to grab it.
The cover and illustrations are beautifully done and really bring the story to life.
Finding your voice, making friendships and being kind to others are wonderful messages that not only young can learn about but adults as well. This book is 30 pages of fun and interaction and most definitely worth the read.
It is aimed at children aged 6-10 but even those younger would love the story.
A great story not to be missed.

Reviewed by @jennadb

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The Cannibal Caper (Sparky of Bunker Hill Mystery Series) by Rosalind Barden – Review by Jenni Bishop

The Cannibal Caper: A Sparky of Bunker Hill MysteryThe Cannibal Caper: A Sparky of Bunker Hill Mystery by Rosalind Barden
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The mayhem is about to surround our amateur detective Sparky once again. She is back in the next adventure in a Sparky of Bunker Hill Mystery, The Cannibal Caper.
As with the first book The Cold Kid Case the book is aimed at a younger audience aged between 11- 18 years of age, but even at my age I enjoyed the story. Make sure to read them in order so you don’t miss out on this fun and crazy tale and spunky group of friends.
There are quirky and eclectic characters and lots of action as Sparky and try to solve the mystery of the missing jewels and mad Cannibal on the loose. The danger is real in this fast-paced tale where Sparky and old friends reside.
Let the fun begin in this humour filled cozy mystery set in the historical 1930’s.
Find out what happens in this story full of mayhem and madness by grabbing a copy today.
A perfect gift for the holiday season.
I can’t wait for Monkey Island Murder: A Sparky of Bunker Hill Mystery.

Reviewed by @jennadb

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Quick Affirmations for Children (Quick Affirmations Series) by Kim Ann & Yobe Qiu – Review by Jenni Bishop

Quick Affirmations for Children: A to Z of Easy Motivations for Creating Better days - Positive Affirmations for Happy ChildrenQuick Affirmations for Children: A to Z of Easy Motivations for Creating Better days – Positive Affirmations for Happy Children by Kim Ann
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Quick Affirmations for Children: A to Z of Easy Motivations for Creating Better days is a picture book that is empowering emotions and feelings for young ones from 0 – 6 years of age. The story encompasses many different cultural characters which I love.
The wonderful narrative and vibrant and colourful illustrations by Nejla Shojaie help bring the story alive.
I am a big believer in affirmations and write and share them with children and adults alike to encourage positive thinking and this is a great way for children to learn. It is never too early to start.
This interactive book is a great way to foster and encourage a child to a brighter, stronger, happier and positive mentality.
This learning tool should be a staple in any household.
Grab a copy of Quick Affirmations for Children and get started. You won’t be disappointed.

Reviewed by @jennadb

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Be True with Me (Be with Me Series) by CA Miconi – Review by Jenni Bishop

Be True with Me: A small town steamy, second chance, interracial romance (Be with Me Series, Book Three)Be True with Me: A small town steamy, second chance, interracial romance by CA Miconi
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

4.5 stars
Be True with Me is the third book in the Be with Me series by CA Miconi. I have not read anything that I have not liked by CA and this one may be my favourite so far.
It is a wonderful small town second chance interracial romance with lots of feels, a bit of drama, a little humour, and sugar and spice. It was easy to lose myself in the story, that I was engrossed in from beginning to end. I read the story in one sitting for some much needed me time.
I loved the characters who captured my heart and loved that we met with old friends from previous books. Make sure to read the other books first as the characters cross over but it could be read as a standalone.

Lauren knows what it is like to have nothing, and she vows she will do everything to help and make this Christmas the best Christmas for these two in need can have. But can 10 years erase the heartache that feels so fresh when you come face to face with the one who betrayed you? Can she open her heart to let trust in?
Jake is dedicated to making dreams come true this Christmas, but can 10 years erase the guilt and pain when coming face to face to the one who thought you betrayed them? Can he help her overcome her fears?
I look forward to what comes next.

Reviewed by @jennadb

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Secrets at the Café: A Novel of Suspense about Family and Friendship by Susan Specht Oram – Review by Kimberly Filer

Secrets at the CafeSecrets at the Cafe by Susan Specht Oram
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

A promise to keep the cafe running, a missing journal, a secret sibling that she never knew existed. Lies that she grew up believe as truth. Karina, has just had her world turned upside down with the death of her Grandmother, the one who raised her after her parents died in a car accident when she was young. Only that’s not cut and dry as Karina has believed her whole life. With the death of her grandmother, she promises to keep the cafe running her grandmothers dying wish. Karina leaves behind her job, her dreams and her life to move back to where she grew up and take over the cafe. Her grandmother on her death bed told Karina to read her journal and everything will make sense, only the journal has gone missing. In this mystery Karina must find out who took the journal to unlock all the secrets of Karina’s past. A can’t put down mystery that’s so relatable you can picture yourself sitting in the cafe drinking coffee and eating scones with the characters.

Luna the Howling Husky Finds Her Howl by Samantha Shannon – Review by Kerry Baker

Luna the Howling Husky Finds Her Howl: A Children's Picture Book about Finding Your Voice, Friendship, & KindnessLuna the Howling Husky Finds Her Howl: A Children’s Picture Book about Finding Your Voice, Friendship, & Kindness by Samantha Shannon
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I picked up this book expecting it to be a great book to share with the kids. I didn’t expect it would be one I connected with so much as a parent. Since my daughter has started school, the idea of ‘differences’ is a topic that has become prevalent in our house and this book really seemed to touch on that more. Seeing Luna and her struggles was so touching and emotional. I think this is the first children’s book that I had enjoyed the most.
The illustrations in the book were beautiful and really caught my kids attention. They loved they story and learning more about Luna. She is the kind of character that they enjoy reading about. This is a fantastic story and is easily one of the best children’s stories we have read this year.

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Woman Unbroken by Alexandra Fleder – Review by Kerry Baker

Woman UnbrokenWoman Unbroken by Alexandra Fleder
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This book is a well written and surprisingly emotional story and I found myself connecting with Devorah much more than I expected to. There is so much going on through this story, but it is all emotional and angst ridden that it has a completely different feel than what I thought it would.
This is the first book that I have read by this author and what an introduction it was. The way the book is written really drew me in to the story. I wanted to see how Devorah would develop and what was in store for her. There was also a bit of an edge to the book that added an extra element which made is even better. This is a great book that is very much worth the read.

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Quick Affirmations for Children (Quick Affirmations Series) by Kim Ann & Yobe Qiu – Review by Sharon Funkhouser

Quick Affirmations for Children: A to Z of Easy Motivations for Creating Better days - Positive Affirmations for Happy ChildrenQuick Affirmations for Children: A to Z of Easy Motivations for Creating Better days – Positive Affirmations for Happy Children by Kim Ann
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is a super cute book that I love for my kiddos. The illustrations are engaging and colorful, but not overwhelming and, as said in the title, the affirmations are quick. Short little mantras for little people to remind them they are special, important, kind… all of the wonderful things that young children are! I read this for myself to make sure it was something I wanted to invest in, and not only do I want a copy for my own kids, this is definitely something I’ll be sending my nieces and nephews to keep at their bedsides to wake up and read a positive message each day!

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Dumpster Dying (A Hazardous Hoarding Mystery Book 1) by Michelle Bennington – Review by Jennifer Crain

Dumpster Dying: A Hazardous Hoarding Mystery (A Hazardous Hoarding Mystery Book 1)Dumpster Dying: A Hazardous Hoarding Mystery by Michelle Bennington
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

“Dumpster Dying” by Michelle Bennington is a quirky and fun mystery novel that follows the misadventures of Birdie Harper, a self-proclaimed treasure hunter and hoarder. The story takes an unexpected turn when Birdie stumbles upon the dead body of a young woman she had grown fond of.

The character of Birdie is well-developed and instantly likable. Her obsession with collecting forgotten items adds depth to her personality and adds an interesting layer to the plot. Additionally, the inclusion of her deceased husband, Walter, as a spirit who accompanies her on her investigation adds a unique and humorous twist.

The author does a commendable job of creating a suspenseful and compelling mystery. The pacing is appropriate, with enough twists and turns to keep readers engaged throughout. As Birdie dives deeper into her investigation, her determination to find the murderer is portrayed convincingly, and the suspense builds up effectively.

However, there are some aspects of the book that could use improvement. The resolution of the mystery feels a bit rushed, and certain plot points are not fully explored or developed. While it may have its flaws, the book is still worth picking up for fans of cozy mysteries and those looking for a light-hearted and fun read.

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The Cannibal Caper (Sparky of Bunker Hill Mystery Series) by Rosalind Barden – Review by Jennifer Crain

The Cannibal Caper: A Sparky of Bunker Hill MysteryThe Cannibal Caper: A Sparky of Bunker Hill Mystery by Rosalind Barden
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

“Cannibal Caper” by Rosalind Barden takes readers on a thrilling adventure set in the seedy streets of 1930s Los Angeles. The story revolves around Sparky, an eleven-year-old former street punk turned amateur detective, who finds herself entangled in a peculiar case involving a cannibal with sophisticated taste. I also learned some words popular in the ’30s, such as oubliette.

Barden artfully captures the essence of the era, painting a vivid picture of the gritty and atmospheric downtown Los Angeles. The setting serves as a captivating backdrop for the unfolding mystery, adding depth and authenticity to the narrative. The attention to detail in describing the time period enhances the overall reading experience, immersing the audience fully into the story. I also appreciated the nods to the first book, such as reference to the dog/goat costume that Sparky wore.

Sparky is a charismatic and determined protagonist, who proves that age and societal expectations are no barriers to solving a peculiar case. Despite her young age, her wits and street-smarts make her a believable and engaging character. I did like the comic parts thrown in, such as when Goblin makes her a treat. Through her eyes, readers are taken on a thrilling journey filled with twists and turns, as she attempts to crack the case of the cannibal on the loose. Sparky’s growth throughout the book is evident, as she discovers her true potential and confronts her own vulnerabilities.

The plot itself is fast-paced, keeping readers hooked from start to finish. The concept of a cannibal with gourmet tastes adds an intriguing and unique element to the story, providing a fresh take on the classic detective genre. Barden’s writing style is accessible yet descriptive, creating a perfect balance between action and suspense, and I thought this novel was more polished and smooth compared to the first one.

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Quick Affirmations for Children (Quick Affirmations Series) by Kim Ann & Yobe Qiu – Review by Jennifer Crain

Quick Affirmations for Children: A to Z of Easy Motivations for Creating Better days - Positive Affirmations for Happy ChildrenQuick Affirmations for Children: A to Z of Easy Motivations for Creating Better days – Positive Affirmations for Happy Children by Kim Ann
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

As an educator, I love how diverse (both human and animals) and fun the illustrations are for each alphabet letter. I also enjoyed how the affirmations are bolded, making it easy to realize they are important, as well as listing multiple affirmations for each letter.

The affirmations cover a range of positive themes, including self-love, confidence, gratitude, and resilience. By incorporating these affirmations into their daily lives, children are encouraged to develop a positive mindset and embrace their unique qualities and strengths. The affirmations within the book provide children with effective tools to overcome challenges, enhance their self-belief, and cultivate a sense of inner happiness.

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Murky Murder (A Maid Ivy Cozy Mystery Book) by Hazel Smith – Review by Jennifer Crain

Murky Murder (A Maid Ivy Cozy Mystery, #4)Murky Murder by Hazel Smith
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I have not read the first three of the series, but really enjoyed this book as a standalone novel.

Murky Murder by Hazel Smith is an enthralling mystery novel that will keep readers on the edge of their seats until the very last page. Set in the atmospheric backdrop of a hotel, this book takes readers on a thrilling adventure filled with suspense, intrigue, and endless twists and turns. My favorite part was “hearing” Ivy’s thoughts with the author’s clever use of italics.

The story revolves around two main characters, Ivy and Mr. Humphrey, whose lives intertwine in unexpected ways. Ivy, a witty and intelligent young girl, finds herself in the midst of a perplexing murder case when a guest at the hotel is found dead under mysterious circumstances. Determined to unravel the truth, Ivy takes it upon herself to play detective and embarks on a thrilling quest to uncover the culprit.

One of the most compelling aspects of Murky Murder is the atmospheric setting of the hotel. Hazel Smith brilliantly brings it to life, with vivid descriptions that make readers feel as though they are guests themselves. The author’s attention to detail and carefully crafted scenes heighten the suspense and eerie feeling surrounding the murder, making it a perfect backdrop for the unfolding mystery.

The character I resonated most with was Kat, this line says it all- “Thanks for rescuing me from my eternal quest for knowledge with actual sustenance”- I share her love of learning. I also really enjoyed the funny lines about London’s Gherkin!

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Luna the Howling Husky Finds Her Howl by Samantha Shannon – Review by Jennifer Crain

Luna the Howling Husky Finds Her HowlLuna the Howling Husky Finds Her Howl by Samantha Shannon
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Luna the Howling Husky, written by Samantha Shannon, is a heartwarming children’s book with a lovable canine protagonist, who has a problem other husky dogs do not have and hence can’t be adopted.

The author’s writing style is engaging and easily understandable for young readers, with simple yet descriptive language that effectively paints a picture of Luna’s struggles.

Furthermore, the illustrations in Luna the Howling Husky are both colorful and charming, bringing the story to life visually. The images complement the text in a way that enhances children’s imagination and immerses them deeper into Luna’s world as Luna discovers a new unexpected friend. Read the book to find out if Luna manages to howl!

Kindness activities and puzzles are also included in the book for children to do.

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Quick Affirmations for Children (Quick Affirmations Series) by Kim Ann & Yobe Qiu – Review by Julie Johnson

Quick Affirmations for Children: A to Z of Easy Motivations for Creating Better days - Positive Affirmations for Happy ChildrenQuick Affirmations for Children: A to Z of Easy Motivations for Creating Better days – Positive Affirmations for Happy Children by Kim Ann
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Sometimes we need to be reminded of positive things to say or think about ourselves or others. While this is a children’s book, I thoroughly enjoyed it as an adult.

This book would make a great teaching tool, not only to add more positivity into a child’s life, but also to teach them the alphabet, colors, different ethnicities, etc. There were several golden nuggets in this short read.

The illustrations are also extremely well done! The colors are vibrant, the pictures are relevant and engaging, as well as inclusive of different age groups and ethnicities.

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Woman Unbroken by Alexandra Fleder – Review by Chrissy Spulak

Woman UnbrokenWoman Unbroken by Alexandra Fleder
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is the first piece of work I have read by this author, and I hope it will not be the last! I found the character Devorah Fields to be interesting and relatable, and her story to be captivating and inspiring. I am always drawn to books with a strong female protagonist, and while Devorah might initially seem “unreachable” being an actress and model, I actually found it very easy to slip right into her world and feel the things she goes through. As a working mom and wife, I found her quest to rediscover herself to be endearing and on point. Reading Devorah’s story will inspire anyone to take a good look at their own life and ask “Is this really who I am?” I highly recommend this book to anyone who wants a good emotional story to get lost in.

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The Catford Catastrophe Zone by Petra Jacob – Review by Kerry Carr

The Catford Catastrophe ZoneThe Catford Catastrophe Zone by Petra Jacob
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This was an interesting dystopian sci-fi read. The author did an incredible job of turning our future into something completely unrecognisable but not so far out of the realm of being believable especially with the advances in technology we have happening all the time. Who’s to know for certain that humans wouldn’t be able to access apps and entertainment from a chip implanted into them. But with technology like that we also lead ourselves with the danger of being controlled by the same implants used to make our lives easier and better.

We are with Frankie in this book. Frankie desperately wants to become a superhero so she spends her life completing missions to earn her spot on that elite team. This is the mission that will guarantee her that spot. However she needs to take a trip into a world so far away from her protected world. She needs to go into the poverty zone to spy on a possible group of people who are looking to rebel. The problem is Frankie knows that when people go to the poverty zone they don’t return.
As much as she wants to refuse she can’t and so she finds herself in a dark place which is worse than anything she ever imagined. With dangerous creatures and plants the humans inhabiting the space become the least of Frankie’s worries. It is complete madness full of chaos as everyone struggles to survive.
Are the people she’s been sent to spy on really rebels trying to cause trouble or are they just normal people struggling to survive in the dark place they have found themselves?
Will Frankie ever return to her life? And will she finally get the position promised to her?
As she learns more about the people in the area, their stories and their secrets will she be able to survive against all the odds stacked against her.
This was a gripping read that I couldn’t put down. I will definately be looking for more from this author as this is the first book i have read and I really enjoyed it.

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Themes of Kismet by A. Akinosho – Review by Tausha Treadway

Themes OF Kismet: A Multicultural Meet Cute RomanceThemes OF Kismet: A Multicultural Meet Cute Romance by A Akinosho
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Themes of Kismet by A. Akinosho. This is such a good contemporary fiction love story. Its the story of Noah and Ebun and how true love will always find a way. Noah meets Ebun for the first time when he is 13 years old, in a book store, in the airport and he reads to her. Ebun was terribly upset and Noah calmed her down by reading to her. They had to part ways to go to their separate homes. Years late they meet again and Ebun feels like her life is falling apart. Her mom has passed and instead of living with her father he appoints a guardian for her. Late he passes and she is left with no one. Noah knows how to calm her and feel like she belongs but once again they have to separate. When they meet for a 3rd time they vow to not separate again. The more time they spend together the more they fall in love but have to travel to be with each other. Will the 3rd time be their fated chance to have love forever?

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Almost and Forever by Angela K. Parker – Review by Heather Hoke

Almost and Forever: An Emotional Second Chance at Love RomanceAlmost and Forever: An Emotional Second Chance at Love Romance by Angela K. Parker
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

What an emotional roller coaster. It had me in my feelings 90% of the book. The characters were well thought out and portrayed beautifully. I read this book in a day. I just couldn’t stop. I plan to read more by Angela, I really enjoy her writing style.

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Wicked Games (Hidden Valley Elite Book 7) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Melissa Saxton

Wicked Games (Hidden Valley Elite #7)Wicked Games by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Though this can stand alone you don’t want to miss the prior books in this series to understand who Shane is before this book starts.
Shane starts the series where we left off facing manslaughter charges for punching a guy for Erica the girl he was providing body guard services for. Thankfully video evidence clears his name but not everyone is happy about that outcome.
Enter Winter, a girl from Shane’s past, a girl that absolutely tormented him when they were kids and Shane has a plan for payback. What he doesn’t anticipate is the explosive chemistry and he’s caught between wanting revenge and wanting Winter.
She doesn’t remember Shane but he will make sure she does.
As always at the cliffhanger I literally say outloud to the author bro why you gotta play me like that???
But I’d read everyone of them over again and again full well knowing I’ll be desperate to read the next story because these characters are finally coming full circle and I’m going to be devastated when the series is over.

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The Cannibal Caper (Sparky of Bunker Hill Mystery Series) by Rosalind Barden – Review by Shelly Kittell

The Cannibal Caper: A Sparky of Bunker Hill MysteryThe Cannibal Caper: A Sparky of Bunker Hill Mystery by Rosalind Barden
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Another entertaining installment in this series. I love reading these. Sparky is a humorous 11 year old that cracks me up as she tries to survive on the streets and not get caught while she’s trying to solve mysteries. A colorful cast of characters is involved in the story from Mugs to Chum-Chum and more. Oh, the giggles the story gives me. I so enjoyed this story.

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The Ocean in His Veins (The Ocean Series) by A.R. Hadley – Review by Shelly Kittell

The Ocean in His Veins (The Ocean Series)The Ocean in His Veins by A.R. Hadley
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This was a really thought inducing book. Do we really know what we want at an early age? I can remember thinking I knew what I wanted at 16. I was wrong, of course. We see Cal on his journey through life. He’s a surfer so the analogy of his looking for the perfect ocean fits as he goes from woman to woman looking for that perfect love. He is missing something in his life. I’m looking forward to reading the other book in this series because it also gives a look into his relationship with Annie. I recommend this one. It really is worth the time. One of the best fiction that I’ve read this year.

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The Christmas Escape by Belinda Williams – Review by Barbara Bohls

The Christmas EscapeThe Christmas Escape by Belinda Williams
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is an absolutely super cute quick read. It definitely got me into the holiday spirit. It has the, “What will go wrong, does go wrong”; mantra to it. You automatically feel drawn to Lizzie because the writer evokes compassion when writing about her. When she decides to buy her friends ticket to Australia, she could have never fathomed what was about to happen. This where I kept turning the pages in the book. I could not get enough of the setting and wonderful characters. This book will have your swooning and laughing at the same time. The way the author is able to grab your attention and keep it from page one to the end, speaks of how well written this book is. This books gave me Hallmark Christmas Movie vibes and I am here for it. If you want to have an escape or just want something to get you into the Christmas Spirit this is the book for you. I will probably reread this book a few times during the holiday season.
Reviewed by: @bbohls

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The Christmas Escape by Belinda Williams – Review by Sharon Funkhouser

The Christmas EscapeThe Christmas Escape by Belinda Williams
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This book was just adorable. A cute, quick read with the perfect romantic trope. I actually loved how Belinda started off the book with a Dear Reader note, it made the book feel more intimate and provided a better understanding of some of the UK language choices she used (I think I only googled like maybe two words while reading!).
Lizzie and Shona’s friendship feels ridiculously familiar, like they could be my own friends. I definitely wish I had a friend that would help me take a trip to Australia! When Lizzie meets Jaz and his associated friends/family, I couldn’t wait to see where the romance would go.
Super cute story, highly recommended for a cozy holiday read!

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Detective Dylan and the Case of the Missing Mail (A Youth Sleuths Chapter Book Series) by MJ Murray – Review by Carrie Reed

Detective Dylan and the Case of the Missing Mail: A Youth Sleuths Chapter Book SeriesDetective Dylan and the Case of the Missing Mail: A Youth Sleuths Chapter Book Series by MJ Murray
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Great kids book. This book sparks imagination, creativity and teamwork. Dylan wants to find out who stole Mrs. Lane’s mail and doesn’t really want his younger sister Emily tagging along. Surprising to him, Emily has a great idea, and one that helps Dylan solve the case. I love the images interspersed through the book to give the child reading a picture of what is happening, it really helped in my mind as well to picture the whole scenario.

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