Night Sweats and Hockey Nets (Hot Flash Hookups Series) by Sylvie Stewart and Marika Ray – Review by Megan Kimley

Night Sweats and Hockey Nets (Hot Flash Hookups #3)Night Sweats and Hockey Nets by Marika Ray
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Stewart and Ray have done it again! Every time I read the next book in the Hot Flash Hookups series, I swear it’s my favorite! Chloe and Niko’s story is absolutely heartwarming, funny, and cozy. But don’t let that fool you…the spice is *chef’s kiss*! I love Stewart and Ray’s writing style (it always amazes me when two authors co-write) and their character and plot development are out of this world! I couldn’t put this book down and I stayed up way too late (many a night) reading. If you are looking for a hockey romance with forbidden romance, single dad meets curvy, independent girl, grumpy/sunshine tropes with the perfect HEA (and a whole lotta spice) then this is the book for you! And don’t worry about this being the third book in the series…you can read this as a standalone! But just know…you are going to want to go back and read the other two the minute you finish this one!

Reviewed by @meggs1717
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Quarterback Keeper: A College Sports Romance (Fall Lake Ballers, Book 1) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Michelle Mulvey

Quarterback Keeper: A College Sports Romance (Fall Lake Ballers Book 1)Quarterback Keeper: A College Sports Romance by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This book is book 1 in a new series that’s sure to be a hit. I’ve loved everything I’ve read by this author and am quick to read anything new released.
This book was great from the very beginning.
Kylian and Gia were great from the beginning. She clearly was a victim of some sort of abuse. She’s on the run and very jumpy. Kylian finds her hiding on his boat and figures he can come up with a plan to satisfy both of them. A fake relationship. There’s nothing he wouldn’t do for his dying mother. She wants to see him settle down before her time is up. Gia needs a place to stay. Will they be able to put on an act and fool who they need to? Kylian is set to be called up to the NFL but then he will be pictured places and Gia’s face will be plastered online and TV. She’s trying to stay hidden so her ex cannot find her. Nothing good can happen with her being photographed. This book was great. The other characters were great ( most of them ) cannot wait to see what else this amazing author has in store for us.

reviews by @xchellex

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Mommy, Am I Indian Today? by Sheeba Varghese – Review by Jenni Bishop

Mommy, Am I Indian Today?Mommy, Am I Indian Today? by Sheeba Varghese
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This charmingly illustrated story stemmed from one innocent question: “Mommy, Am I Indian, Today?” It is a story of embracing your heritage and knowing who you are every day but that traditional clothes the Kurtas is only worn for special occasions and in this case for a wedding. Sheeba has created an inspiring tale of diversity, culture, and ethnicity. It’s a story of family, heritage, and celebrating not only who you are, but also others around you. Although it is a children’s book, it holds important lessons for adults as well.

My grandsons loved this story; afterwards, they shared about the differences within their groups of friends. I am happy to say that I raised my kids right, and they have passed down the same philosophies to their children, and I’m sure to my great grandbabies.

Reviewed by @jennadb

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Heaven Only Knows (A Silver Buckle Romance Series Book 3) by Laurie Lewis – Review by Julie Johnson

HEAVEN ONLY KNOWS (A Silver Buckle Brides Romance Book 3)HEAVEN ONLY KNOWS by Laurie Lewis
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Another great read in this series! Each book is a stand-alone but it would be beneficial to read these in order to learn the family dynamics between these seven very handsome Brockbank brothers.

This book is primarily set in New Orleans so you will get to experience some of the history through the eyes of our cast. I absolutely love Agata’s name. I’ve never heard that before but I love the name and her story will tug at your heart. Barrett is loveable as well!

I recommend this and look forward to the next book in this series!

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A Tale of Two Crushes by Cori Cooper – Review by Jessie Hopkins

Right from the start, this was one of the cutest and easiest to read books I’ve picked up in awhile.
I was instantly right there in the parking lot with Holland, feeling her emotions and starting at a new school. I loved the mention and description of all the emotions, almost giving them their own personas.
Asher and Chandler are their own beast. The rivalry between them runs deep and has the whole school picking sides, as Holland quickly finds out.
I love Holland’s group of friends Asher invited her into. I was excited to see what Dara would dress up as next and loved how fierce and determined Tenley was.
Absolutely loved this book. Definitely worth the binge read.

Masquerade (Choosing Family Series) by Jennifer Raines – Review by Christina Sanders

Masquerade (Choosing Family Book 1)Masquerade by Jennifer Raines
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This book shows the layers to people, like prejudging others before you get to know them.

This story is about 2 sets of twins and them swapping being one another for a reason (you’ll have to read to learn more). It’s very detailed and realistic to how these people perceive one another and then they learn more about why that person comes off that way and how they actually are.

Love the 2 main characters and their whole journey throughout. Researcher/writer and a lawyer working together and learning about one another along the way. Both main characters had been betrayed by past lovers and this story shows their struggle to learn to trust and let someone in. And loved that it included a sneak peek into the second book which the main character will be one of the characters from this book (I always love that in a series). Great read and loved how the story all played out.

Reviewed by @christinasandersmua
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Betrayal (Choosing Family Series) by Jennifer Raines – Review by Christina Sanders

Betrayal (Choosing Family Book 3)Betrayal by Jennifer Raines
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Love seeing series that tell the stories of characters from the first book of the series that weren’t the main character then but are now. This book has one of the girls from the sets of twins (2 guy and 2 girls) from the first book telling her story of having something she wants to accomplish and finding out a way to make that happen. I love that it shares details of what’s current with the characters of the first book of the series as well. I absolutely loved the whole story and how it all played out from learning how each character had been betrayed by people they knew and how they learned to confront and move past it, and did they learn to trust and love another at the end? You’ll have to read this book to find out and get all the details of the whole story. I really liked Book 1 Masquerade but i absolutely loved Book 3 Betrayal (now I’ll just have to read Book 2 as well).

Reviewed by @christinasandersmua
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Mommy, Am I Indian Today? by Sheeba Varghese – Review by Santana Hicks

Mommy, Am I Indian Today?Mommy, Am I Indian Today? by Sheeba Varghese
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is a cute, quick read about a child who is learning about their culture. The family is going to a wedding so they put on their “fancy clothes”. Since the family only wears their Kurtas for special occasions, the child asks their mother if they are Indian today. The mother then goes into details about the family heritage and how they are Indian everyday.

I thought this book was a fun way to introduce Indian fashion culture in terms that and pictures that would make children understand easier. The illustrations were also very nice and detailed.

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It’s Cool To Be Kind by Shermaine Perry-Knights – Review by Kerry Baker

It's Cool To Be Kind: A Children's Book on Kindness and FriendshipIt’s Cool To Be Kind: A Children’s Book on Kindness and Friendship by Shermaine Perry-Knights
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This book is a heartwarming story about how easy it is to always be kind. The book introduces us to three characters and we get to see them discover what it means to be kind and how it can really be done anywhere, at any time.
It was nice to see slightly older children in this book to your usual books for kids. My daughter in particular was highly invested in the characters and had plenty of questions. This is a lovely story that reinforces the kindness message in a way that resonates well with day to day life. I would definitely encourage kids to read this book.

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Ink and Intrigue at Ivy Tree Inn (Ariadne Winter Mystery Series) by Ellen Butler – Review by Kerry Baker

Ink and Intrigue at Ivy Tree InnInk and Intrigue at Ivy Tree Inn by Ellen Butler

This book is another great story by and author that really knows how to get your attention! This is a murder mystery story set in the 1950’s. I loved this as it felt so different to any other murder mystery book I have read recently. Ariadne was the perfect character to match the story too. Her personality really made me connect with the book and I was behind her the whole way.
The story is well written and an overall interesting read. The author knew just when to push the story on and when to hold back for the investment. I enjoyed this book from the moment I started reading and would recommend it to any fan and the genre

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War Bunny: Book 1 of the War Bunny Chronicles by Christopher St. John – reviewed by Vicki Shelton

War Bunny: Book 1 of the War Bunny ChroniclesWar Bunny: Book 1 of the War Bunny Chronicles by Christopher St. John
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Someone recommended this book to me. I did not know if I would like it. What a strong cast of fantastic characters. There is a great, easy to follow story line. I CANNOT wait to dive into book two! I was MARVELOUSLY SURPISED!!!!

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Gadrella by Tricia Gardella – reviewed by Vicki Shelton

GadrellaGadrella by Tricia Gardella
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I love this book! What a fabulous way to teach a child that it is okay to be different. Tricia Gardella has a wonderful imagination. Bar Fabian did a fantastic job illustrating this fine book! I cannot wait to read it to my grandchildren!

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Finally Friends: Donut the Dog & Peanut the Squirrel Learn Social Skills (Donut & Peanut Collection) by Debbie Sullivan – Review by Carrie Cross

Finally Friends: Donut the Dog & Peanut the Squirrel Learn Social SkillsFinally Friends: Donut the Dog & Peanut the Squirrel Learn Social Skills by Debbie Sullivan
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Debbie Sullivan’s Finally Friends is a heartwarming children’s story that explores the importance of social skills and friendship. The book follows Donut Dog and Peanut the Squirrel as they navigate their differences and learn to become friends.

Sullivan’s engaging storytelling and vibrant illustrations make this book a delightful read for young children. The characters are relatable and easy to root for, and the story’s message about kindness, understanding, and cooperation is both relevant and valuable.

Finally Friends is a wonderful resource for parents and educators looking to teach children about social skills. It’s a fun and engaging way to help young readers understand the importance of being a good friend and treating others with respect.

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A Pig and a Poke by Tricia Gardella – Review by Carrie Cross

A Pig and A PokeA Pig and A Poke by Tricia Gardella
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Tricia Gardella’s A Pig and a Poke is a delightful children’s story that follows Angela, a determined young girl, as she competes in a town-wide contest to win a pig. With a touch of humor and heart, Gardella weaves a tale of friendship, perseverance, and overcoming adversity.

The book’s charming illustrations perfectly complement the story, bringing the characters and setting to life. Young readers will be captivated by the lively town fair atmosphere and the mischievous antics of the elusive pig. Gardella’s writing is both engaging and accessible, making this book a perfect choice for bedtime reading or classroom storytelling.

While the story is simple, it carries important messages about friendship, determination, and the power of believing in oneself. A Pig and a Poke is a heartwarming and enjoyable read that will leave young readers feeling inspired and entertained.

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Spook Squad by Allan Evans – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

Spook SquadSpook Squad by Allan Evans
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Spook Squad is the third book in the series that follows the adventures of young Abbey. Although this is the third book in the series the author has made it easy enough to pick up this book and not feel lost by providing details and a bit of a backstory on each character. It is a young adult paranormal story full of mystery, intrigue, suspense, danger, action, paranormal elements, ghosts, slime, and humor. The story centers around 14-year-old Abby who can see and talk to ghosts, which can be both a blessing and a curse. Most of the time Abbey can use her ability to help others but currently she has attracted some unwanted attention in the form of a domineering federal agent who insists on Abbey helping her. Abbey has a truly amazing support system with her friends who help her on her various adventures. The friendship between Abbey, Kelly and Lexi is truly admirable as they help each other out through both thick and thin. The author has done a great job of creating an intriguing storyline that flows nicely. The characters are well developed, interesting, and a bit quirky. I enjoyed this book so much that I fully intend to go back and read the first two books ‘Abnormally Abbey’ and “Class Clown”. This is a great addition to any library for both young and old alike.

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Mommy, Am I Indian Today? by Sheeba Varghese Reviewed by Phylis Carpenter October 2024

Mommy, Am I Indian Today?Mommy, Am I Indian Today? by Sheeba Varghese
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

A cute little story about a young child who had to get dressed up in a special outfit for every special occasion. As he is getting dressed up to match his brother’s outfit, he asks his Mommy, Am I Indian today?
She goes on to explain to him their ancestory and answers his questions.

Loved the pictures and can’t wait to read it to my grand daughter.

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Hi Little Brother, I Love You by Deniese Dennis Reviewed by Phylis Carpenter

Hi Little Brother, I Love You: A Sweet Gift Keepsake Book Welcoming a New Baby Brother to the Family.Hi Little Brother, I Love You: A Sweet Gift Keepsake Book Welcoming a New Baby Brother to the Family. by Deniese Dennis
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I have a grandbaby who is about 5 months old and she has a little brother. As I was reading this book I could imagine him saying all these things to his little sister. I will be visiting with them in the next month or so and I will share this book with both of them.

It is important that we teach them that the little brother won’t take their place but what an important part they can be in teaching the little one things. A cute book for little ones or your grands.

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Gadrella by Tricia Gardella

Gadrella was a witch and she looked like a witch. But Gadrella wanted changes. She was tired of the same black costumes, black cats and riding a broom. Gadrella decided to make the changes on her own. First, she started with transportation. She wanted something different than a broom. She’d always wanted a bike! Next, she decided to make her own clothes. Oh, how colorful she looked! Then she moved on to the potions. She didn’t want to use eye of newt or frog toes anymore, so she used different ingredients.

Gadrella showed up at the next Halloween gathering on her new bike wearing her colorful dragon costume and with her new potion. The other witches feared her thinking she was a monster. She decided to share her new ‘potion’ with the others. They were a little reluctant to try it, but when they did, they all loved her chocolate chip cookies and agreed that her potions smelled so much better than theirs.

Gadrella told the other witches they could be anything they wanted to be. When they realized this, they were all so excited and shared their dreams with the others. It seems the other witches wanted changes also but didn’t know how to share their thoughts with others. I’m sure the next Halloween gathering will be so colorful and smell so good!

I enjoyed reading about Gadrella and her courage to make changes when others didn’t think it was allowed. She wanted to express herself and wasn’t afraid to do that. The illustrations were so colorful and helped tell the story so well.

Detective Dylan and the Thief of Camp Lake (A Youth Sleuths Chapter Book Series) by MJ Murray Reviewed by Phylis Carpenter October 2024

Detective Dylan and the Thief of Camp Leaf (A Youth Sleuths Chapter Book Series 3)Detective Dylan and the Thief of Camp Leaf by M.J. Murray
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Dylan and his sister Emily were at Camp Leaf waiting for the annual event to start. Every year they come and play the different games that the camp sets up so they can win prizes and the trophy. Now they are lifting the cover to see what this year’s trophy looks like to find that it has disappeared.

Now Detective Dylan and his Assistant Emily will be checking out clues and solving the mystery of who took the trophy. Until the mystery is solved and the trophy is returned the games will not begin.

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A Safe Place (Philly Heat Series) by Becky Flade – Reviewed by Phylis Carpenter October 2024

A Safe Place (Philly Heat series, #6)A Safe Place by Becky Flade
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Kat and Nathaniel went to live with their grandmother after their parents died in a car accident. Now Kat finds her grandmother has died peacefully in her sleep and her brother Nathaniel is off in the military. The next morning Social Services removes Kat from her grandmother”s house. Since she is only 15 and her brother Nathaniel is her guardian and he still can’t be reached she has to go into custody of the courts.

She is placed with a family that has a 16 year old son and Kat runs away. She doesn’t feel comfortable or safe there. So she run away and lives on the street where she witnesses a murder.

Check out this book, I think you will enjoy it. I know that I did. I have not read this author before but I will be reading more of her books in the future.

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Luca Magoo, Don’t Eat The Glue (Luca Magoo Series) by Megan Delgado – Review by Alyssa McLean

Luca Magoo, Don't Eat The Glue: A back-to-school tale that encourages positive classroom behavior and creative expression.Luca Magoo, Don’t Eat The Glue: A back-to-school tale that encourages positive classroom behavior and creative expression. by Megan Delgado
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Luca Magoo, Don’t Eat The Glue is such a fun and silly read! Luca is super into his art class but gets distracted by the glue and wonders what would happen if he ate it. This leads to some hilarious moments! The rhyming makes the story really catchy, and the colorful illustrations are so fun to look at. It’s a great way for kids to learn about self-control and making good choices without feeling like a lesson. Perfect for a funny read with kids who love art and goofing around!

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Cam Creates a Hero (Courage Tales Series) by Dagmara Sitek – Review by Alyssa McLean

Cam Creates a HeroCam Creates a Hero by Dagmara Sitek
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Cam Creates a Hero is such a heartwarming book! The story follows Cam, a foster kid, who builds a robot to protect children in need after seeing a sad news story. The illustrations are bright and colorful, bringing the story to life. It’s a perfect read for kids who need a little resilience boost and hope. I definitely recommend this one, it has a great message!

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Ink and Intrigue at Ivy Tree Inn (Ariadne Winter Mystery Series Book #1) by Ellen Butler – Review by Angela Hayes

Ink and Intrigue at Ivy Tree InnInk and Intrigue at Ivy Tree Inn by Ellen Butler
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

 

4 stars

 

Ink and Intrigue at Ivy Tree Inn is the first book in the new Ariadne Winter Murder Mystery series by Ellen Butler. I was so excited when I saw Ms. Butler had a new series coming out and couldn’t wait for this book to hit my Kindle. I have read all of Ms. Butler’s books (so far)- and her Karina Cardinal Mystery series is a definite favourite, so I was very intrigued to see what this new mystery series would bring.
It is a little different from the Karina Cardinal series, as this is an historical cozy mystery series- set in 1958. It also gave me Agatha Christie vibes. Again, as with the KCM series, Ms. Butler has cleverly constructed her story, imbuing it with plenty of intrigue and tension, but also setting the scene in keeping with the times. Everything from the cultural/societal norms of the times, language, fashion, transportation, and ‘daily life’, as well as the clever mystery and intriguing developments, are all given Ms. Butler’s meticulous attention to detail- resulting in a rich and immersive reading experience.
Ariadne Winter dreams of being a hard-nose investigative reporter, but being a young woman means that she isn’t taken seriously and is dismissed and overlooked for her male counterparts. So she ends up taking a job with a ladies magazine in the hopes that it will open the door to more ‘interesting’ positions. Opportunity presents itself when she is given a new assignment…. an exclusive interview with a Hollywood movie star who is about to marry a European prince (think Grace Kelly and Prince Ranier type situation). Ariadne recognizes that this is a huge opportunity and sets off to spend the week at the Ivy Tree Inn, to be on hand with the actress, to get all the facts to compile her story. But right from the beginning, Ariadne begins to notice that there is something strange going on at the inn, and things only get more puzzling the longer she’s there. Before the week has even ended, she has a murder to contend with. But getting to the bottom of things might just put her in the crosshairs of the murderer. What happens here makes for a wonderfully intriguing read…
I can’t wait to see what Ariadne gets up to next. Bring on Book #2!
Happy Reading…

Thank you, Ellen Butler!

 

Reviewed by @angelahayes

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Whisper (The Entian Curse Book #1) by Kay Ross – Review by Angela Hayes

Whisper (The Entian Curse, #1)Whisper by Kay Ross
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

 

3 – 3.5 Stars

 

Whisper is the first book in The Entian Curse series by Kay Ross. I was drawn to this book by the fascinating cover, and then got hooked the moment I read the blurb. This is definitely a very original premise…. Ms. Ross had me at ‘sentient curse’…. but the story proved to be even more creative than I had even imagined, in a good way.
This story is brimming with imagination and creativity- pulling me into an interesting fantasy full of adventure, drama, emotion, sorcerers, magic, and complex characters, who continued to develop and grow over the course of the story.
Whisper is a sentient curse- who interacts with the world through inhabiting ‘hosts’…. But Whisper is so much more than a ‘simple’ curse- and as the story evolved, I couldn’t help but become fully invested in ‘it’ and all the developments.
Happy Reading…

Thank you, Kay Ross!

 

Reviewed by @angelahayes

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Love and Fate (A Braebeach Rockstar Romance) by Loriana Cappello – Review by Heidi Sturgess

Love and Fate (Braebeach Rockstar #2)Love and Fate by Loriana Cappello
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I missed the first book so I started this then stopped and read the first book and then re started this and man what a treat that was !

The first bit of the book was tough and I very nearly put it down but I’ve got a serious case of FOMO so I pushed through ( the life of a bookworm 🤷‍♀️🙈🥰📚)

Tommy and Angie were an item before he and his band hit the big time and I felt quite bad for her and then he still asks her not to weigh him down with guilt ?! What a chop !

Chapter 1 picks up 5 years later ….Angie is now married and Tommy has to reign in his thoughts at Calla and Ash’s wedding …..he let her get away …

Time and life moves on and Tommy is now a single dad to a real cutie named Ozzie but with a messy divorce looming over him and the band in a mess life isn’t fun at the moment .

Angie isn’t having it easy either and Tommy is a friend when she needs it most , I really kept my fingers crossed that they’d find their way to each other 🥰

All I can say is be prepared to time hop , keep your Kleenex on hand and make sure you have an ample supply of comfort food and drinks 🫣😉

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Mommy, Am I Indian Today? by Sheeba Varghese

🔶 .•°*°•.🔶 BOOK SPOTLIGHT SHOWCASE 🔶 .•°*°•.🔶
Mommy, Am I Indian Today? by Sheeba Varghese
Hosted by Itsy Bitsy Book Bits
Genre – Kids, India
Page Count – 20
Cover Designer – Tori Tilahun


Mommy, Am I Indian, Today? is a heartwarming and thought-provoking children’s book inspired by the question, “Mommy, am I Indian today?” This question, posed by the author’s young son while dressed in traditional ethnic attire, sparked a meaningful exploration of cultural identity and heritage.
Through this beautifully illustrated story, readers embark on a journey with a family that navigates their multicultural identity in America, discovering that being Indian is not just about clothing but about embracing a rich cultural legacy every day.
· Cultural Legacy: Explores the significance of understanding and embracing one’s heritage beyond traditional attire, offering a deeper look at what it means to be Indian.
· Multicultural Identity: Highlights the experience of being born in America while honoring and celebrating one’s cultural roots, making it relatable for children and families from diverse backgrounds.
· Family Journey: Shares the author’s family’s personal migration story, providing a context for the broader immigrant experience and the integration of multiple cultural identities.
· Illustrative Beauty: Features stunning, vibrant illustrations that bring the story to life and engage young readers with visual representations of cultural attire and traditions.
· Educational Themes: Encourages discussions about cultural diversity, inclusion, and identity in an accessible way for both children and adults.
· Celebration of Heritage: Promotes a positive view of cultural heritage and the importance of passing down traditions and values to future generations.
This book is an essential read for educators and parents who wish to introduce children to the concepts of cultural heritage and identity with sensitivity and joy.
Mommy, Am I Indian Today? serves as a valuable tool for fostering discussions about multiculturalism, honoring one’s ancestors, and celebrating diverse backgrounds.

~ AMAZON ~

In the vibrant Bay Area of San Francisco, Sheeba Varghese resides with her husband, Santosh, where they indulge in fine dining, embark on exciting adventures around the world, and cheer passionately for their beloved team, the Warriors. As the CEO & Founder of Defining Moments 365 LLC, she leads a coaching consultancy dedicated to leadership training and coaching. A defining moment in her life sparked a profound desire to create children’s books, fueled by her love for simplicity and her experiences raising her own children, now adults. Through her stories, she seeks to impart valuable lessons and spread joy to the younger generation of readers.

Author Interview with Sheeba Varghese

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You Are Not Here by Michael Albanese

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You Are Not Here by Michael Albanese
Hosted by Itsy Bitsy Book Bits
Genre – Inspirational, Non-Fiction
Page Count – 196
Cover Designer – J.J. Richards
Are you where you thought you’d be at this stage of your life? No? Then this book is for you. “You Are Not Here” explores the timeless concept that life’s journey is its own reward. This collection of stories, reflections, and inspirations, partly autobiographical and inspired by the beloved poem Ithaka, is for those who have not yet arrived. It is an invitation to discover the beauty in the struggle, find hope in the quest, and embrace growth as you move forward on your own life’s journey. Written by Michael Albanese and beautifully illustrated by JJ Richards, this book is a love letter to dreamers. It offers an approachable and encouraging reminder that, wherever you are on this adventure called life, you are exactly where you are supposed to be.

~ AMAZON ~

Click here to view the Book Trailer for You Are Not Here by Michael Albanese

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A native of New York City, Michael grew up in Marietta, Georgia.

He loves poetry, coffee, basketball, and all expressions of art.

Michael lives and dreams in Atlanta with his wife, actress Wynn Everett, and their two daughters (and two cats).

Author Interview with Michael Albanese

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Spook Squad by Allan Evans

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Spook Squad by Allan Evans
Hosted by Itsy Bitsy Book Bits
Genre – YA Paranormal
Page Count – 274
Cover Designer – Ashley Literski
14-year-old Abbey’s ability to talk to ghosts has saved both friends and strangers in need. But it’s also attracted the wrong sort of attention.
That attention arrives in the form of a domineering federal agent who insists that Abbey help her with something dangerous. She tells the story of a roguish fellow, Manfred Krug, who traveled the world as a fabled trader in the 1920s. As his diary details, Krug returned from Shanghai with artifacts holding the power to gather and focus otherworldly energy. The agent warns that if the relics fell into the wrong hands, it would be a disaster of biblical proportions.
Enlisting her ride-or-dies, Abbey, Kelly, and Lexi search some of the most haunted places in Minnesota. But someone else—someone dangerous—is after those same artifacts, and they’re right behind Abbey and her spook squad.

~ AMAZON ~


Click here to view the Book Trailer for Spook Squad by Allan Evans

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Author Allan Evans has been finding success of late. His debut novel, Abnormally Abbey, was published in 2020, and the follow-up, Class Clown, came out in 2022. Silent Night, a short story, was in the Haunted Yuletide anthology (2020) and a serial killer thriller, Killer Blonde (the first in this series), was published in 2021.

Son of famed jazz musician Doc Evans, Evans has written advertising and marketing for nearly two decades. A soccer coach, he can often be found on the field teaching kids about soccer and life. Evans lives in the Twin Cities.

Visit evanswriter.com to learn more.

Author Interview with Allan Evans

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Masquerade (Choosing Family Series) by Jennifer Raines – Review by Charlisa Wahtomy-Alba

Masquerade (Choosing Family Book 1)Masquerade by Jennifer Raines
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Liam Quinn and Kate Turner are both living double lives and both are part of a set of identical twins. Liam has an opportunity to make partner at his law firm but he must acquire a deal that requires confidentiality. That becomes hard when he discovers his estranged twins face is plastered on a lifesized billboard across the city. Making partner also requires him to return to practicing environmental law which brings haunting memories and heartbreak. Kate is a researcher but she moonlights as a romance author and she is about to be published. Her father is a well known playwright and despises the kind of novels she writes. Her ex-boyfriend made fun of her and then became her stalker. Her twin, well, she believes that Kate can be both well known yet anonymous and talks her into being on a billboard. These two get thrown together when Kate becomes Liam’s assistant. They come to spend a lot of time together and things start to heat up. Will they be able to put their pasts behind them and build a trusting, loving relationship?

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Betrayal (Choosing Family Series) by Jennifer Raines – Review by Charlisa Wahtomy-Alba

Betrayal (Choosing Family Book 3)Betrayal by Jennifer Raines
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Anna has promised reliable and affordable daycare to her co-workers. She found the ideal location and has negotiated an almost flawless lease for her employer, but someone is planning to disrupt the entire thing. Knowing his father’s plans, Hunter thwarts him by buying the building from under him. In the meantime he and Anna meet at a cocktail party where Anna reveals her childcare plan to him. He had already torn up the contract, which makes Anna mad, and it’s for good reason, but he surprises her with a new lease that has them working together. There is an attraction but Anna is not into one night stands and Hunter doesn’t want anything long term. They have undeniable chemistry and are working towards the same goals, even if they don’t see it at first. Will they be able to get along and realize they can be each other’s happily ever after?

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