Lake of Flowers (The Lord Hani Mysteries, book 5) by N.L. Holmes – Review by stephanie nicole

Lake of Flowers (Lord Hani #5)Lake of Flowers by N.L. Holmes
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This fifth installment to this series really blew me out of the water. Full of adventure, mystery, suspense and more, I just simply couldn’t put it down. Once again our main character has a mystery to solve, but can he solve it without putting anyone he loves at risk? Working on thefts from the royal household and an attempt on the king’s life will Hani be able to solve it all? You’ll have to read this fantastic fifth installment to find our for yourself.

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The North Wind Descends (The Lord Hani Mysteries Book 4) by N.L. Holmes – Review by stephanie nicole

The North Wind Descends (The Lord Hani Mysteries #4)The North Wind Descends by N.L. Holmes
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is book four in this series and having read the previous three I was anxiously awaiting this one to hit my kindle. Trust me I was not disappointed. While these can be read as stand alones, im not sure how any one could pick which one to read, since their all so great. Full of royal court politics, murder, and more i couldn’t put this one down. Once again Hani finds himself with a murderer to find, but can he find him before he gets away? You’ll have to read it for yourself to find out.

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Jake the Growling Dog Shares His Trail (Jake the Growling Dog Book 3) by Samantha Shannon – Review by Brittany Porter

Jake the Growling Dog Shares His TrailJake the Growling Dog Shares His Trail by Samantha Shannon
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I initially chose this book because our family loves anything dog related. After reading the description about how this book touches upon tough childhood topics, like feelings and diversity, I knew this one was a keeper. Jake is such a fun and relatable character for young children. We enjoyed joining him and his friends on this adventure and are looking forward to what other shenanigans they will be getting into in future books. The bonus material at the end of the book was an unexpected bonus that could really help many parents talk to their children about their worries in a safe and healthy way. Check this series out!

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Scepter of Flint (The Lord Hani Mysteries Book 3) by N.L. Holmes – Review by stephanie nicole

Scepter of Flint (Lord Hani #3)Scepter of Flint by N.L. Holmes
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is the third installment to the series, and trust me when I say that this one did not disappoint. Full of mystery, suspense, a tomb robbing and more this mystery will have you on the edge of your seat. While I have read the previous two, each one can be read as a standalone. However they are all so terrific that I personally recommend picking up the whole series. Hani and his supporting characters are perfect together and I can’t wait to see what they get into next.

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The Crocodile Makes No Sound (The Lord Hani Mysteries Book 2) by N.L. Holmes – Review by stephanie nicole

The Crocodile Makes No Sound (Lord Hani Mysteries #2)The Crocodile Makes No Sound by N.L. Holmes
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This book was a great second installment to this series. Once again full of murder, mystery, suspense and more, this book really has it all. The main character is just as realistic, and well written as the first installment to this book. But personally between all the characters, and the immense amount of details I can’t wait to see what this author comes up with next.

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Devil’s Breath by Lang Johnson – Review by Jessica Stone

Devil's BreathDevil’s Breath by Lang Johnson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Devil’s Breath by Lang Johnson – Review by Jessica Stone

Devils breath is a book about Sera Dwari, brilliant chemist and assassin who has created a new drug called Devil’s Breath using her degree in chemistry. She’s cold and ruthless and will stop at nothing to make her criminal father proud and full-fill his wishes. That is until she meets her unknowing benefactor Cassius. Cassius Batista is a ruggedly Hansom billionaire from a small town in Wyoming, all he wants to do is live his life out in the world doing the things he enjoys, hiking, rock climbing, anything for some adrenaline. Unfortunately Sera has been hired by someone close to Cassius to kill him but as time goes on and she gets to know her next mark more and more, she’s starting to doubt she can kill him, or stop herself from falling in love with him…

Absolutely Terrific book! Brilliant writing! Positively in love with the character building from this author. The cold collected facade presented by Sera to everyone that covers up the sad girl underneath, who just wants to make her father proud and pay him back for the life he gave up for her.

On the flip side there’s Cassius who’s all out there from the get go, a honest up front guy with A plus qualities. But Cassius is not just some pretty, rich man, he’s smart and cautious, and that caution is telling him that there’s more going on then what Sera showing him and everyone else.

Lies, deception, love, family, betrayal, this book has it all to suck you in and keep you waiting and wondering what’s going to happen on the next page. A slow burn that builds up to a crescendo, shattering hearts and family’s.

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Bird in a Snare (The Lord Hani Mysteries Book 1) by N.L. Holmes – Review by stephanie nicole

Bird in a Snare (The Lord Hani Mysteries #1)Bird in a Snare by N.L. Holmes
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This was a very interesting start to a new series. The main character was very well written, very realistic, and very likable. This book was full of twists, politics, family and more. When I first read the synopsis of this book I knew right away that I wanted to read it. I love Egypt and this book really gave me a great insight to that culture. So if you love ancient Egypt and your looking for a good mystery then make sure to pick this one up today.

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Jake the Growling Dog Shares His Trail (Jake the Growling Dog Book 3) by Samantha Shannon – Review by Elizabeth Sanchez

Jake the Growling Dog Shares His TrailJake the Growling Dog Shares His Trail by Samantha Shannon
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Jake the Growling Dog Shares his Trail is the 3rd book in an adorable series. It follows Jake in different situations, that help children relate to difficult social situations. This book can be used for many different topics. It can be used to explain diversity or disabilities and showing kindness to those that are different than us. It can help explain to little kids to turn to their friends for help, and to share their feelings. That it’s okay to feel scared, and how overcome that feeling and face your fears. Not to judge others too quickly or harsh, and give people a chance to be your friend.
The story is light hearted and a fun rhyming book, without feeling forced. I love the last 2 lines of the story! “Be a friend to those you meet, who might be different from you. You’ll find many things in common with new friends, pure and true!”
Props to the illustrator, the colors are very bright and make the image pop. My son loved looking for the butterfly and dragonfly on each page. I love that there is teaching tools after the story, that a parent or teacher could use as a lesson plan or assist in some tough conversations. Highly recommend this story to lower grade elementary school teachers or counselors.

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Reviewed by @way2gosmartguy

PREMEDITATED: A Trust Betrayed, Lives Sabotaged, A Love Undaunted (Agents of Justice Book 2) by Susanna Haymond – Review by Dahnielle Hibbert

PremeditatedPremeditated by Susanna Haymond
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I love suspenseful, twisted, mysterious stories. I actually loved this one even more because of the Christian aspect. Some mystery novelists tend to add spicy scenes to their book that in my humble opinion detract from the story. I have not read book one but intend to go back and read them in order. This book has everything you want in a mystery novel including an ending that will shock your socks off!!

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Finding Starlight: A Small Town, Romantic Suspense (The Quimby Grove Series Book 1) by Shannon Nikole – REVIEW BY SCARLET RICHARD

Finding Starlight (Quimby Grove #1)Finding Starlight by Shannon Nikole
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

my favorite books are small town romance books. this book was a great read. cant wait for the next one.

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REVIEWED BY @momwhoreads0215

Finding Starlight (Quimby Grove Book 1) by Shannon Nikole – Review by Kayla Kearney

Finding Starlight (Quimby Grove #1)Finding Starlight by Shannon Nikole
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The moment I started the book, it was like I was reading a book by Nicholas Sparks taking place in Stars Hollow, the town in Gilmore Girls for those not aware. It did not take long for me to fall in love with the main characters, similar to many characters I’ve read about in other books but with the authors own original twist on things.

As with most romantic suspense novels, it did not take me long at all to finish this book. The author did an amazing job at painting the chemistry between Ellawyn and Beckett, and it didn’t take me long to begin rooting for more to happen between them. That and the additional suspense of Ellawyn’s past life catching up with her made my heart race through the entire book, and the ending certainly didn’t disappoint. Can’t wait to read the next book in the series!

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Pilot Who Knows the Water (The Lord Hani Mysteries Book 6) by N.L. Holmes – Review by Jenni Bishop

Pilot Who Knows the Waters (Lord Hani, #6)Pilot Who Knows the Waters by N.L. Holmes
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Pilot Who Knows the Waters is the sixth book in the Lord Hani historical cosy mystery series. I have followed this series from the beginning and enjoy NL’s passion of the history of that time which is set in Ancient Egypt. The historical information coupled with the vivid imagery and descriptions and striking details in which the story is told enhances the journey. I suggest you start at the beginning of the series and work your way up to this one. There is lots to learn about Lord Hani and the other characters that bring the story to life.

Lord Hani is once again thrown into the unknown when he is given the task of secretly obtaining a Hittite bridegroom for the Queen Meryet-amen. Unfortunately, there are those that think that the rightful person should be the one and will stop at nothing to see that happen. War is imminent.

This is an enjoyable read where murder and mystery coupled with ancient Egypt history. If you love a good murder mystery, then this book and series is for you.

Reviewed by @jennadb

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The Mastermind (WaterFyre Rising Book 1) by Nadia Han – Review by Allison Davis

The Mastermind (WaterFyre Rising, #1)The Mastermind by Nadia Han
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Nadia did an awesome job for her debut book. Remington Starke, aka Remi is a successful business man, typical alpha male. Audri Wu is his best friends sister. She is a successful woman herself. Both Remi and Audri house their own demons and secrets. They have known each other since they were children because Remi and her brother have been best friends for as long as they can remember. Remi ends up being Audri’s boss, forcing them to come face to face again. Remi has always has feeling for Audri but she is off limits, best friends sister and all. The more time they end up spending together they just cant stay away from each other. The plot to the story was fantastic and I cant wait to see what this author does next!

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PREMEDITATED: A Trust Betrayed, Lives Sabotaged, A Love Undaunted (Agents of Justice Book 2) by Susanna Haymond – Review by Amanda Glaspie

PremeditatedPremeditated by Susanna Haymond
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

A great wholesome book with a great twist. The start of the book had me slightly confused where each group of characters were connected but it all made sense. This was a wonderful mix of heartfelt romance, suspense, and excitement. This was a fun quick read that you will have trouble putting down.

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Human Hearts (Draco Sang Trilogy Book 3) by Mary Beesley – Review by Mercedes Jones

Human Hearts (Draco Sang #3)Human Hearts by Mary Beesley
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The Draco Sang are mostly animals, but humans are their slaves and will stop at nothing to snuff out the normal humans or those who are traitors. This book is portrayed through different views from the characters. We start with Nogard who is a dragon that just wants to sleep. Then there is Jade, she has so many feelings about the battle that she must be a part of. She is part of the Draco Sang but has secrets that she must hide. Suza is fights for the humans. All she wants is for them to have their freedom. Ferth, a Draco Sang who now fights for the humans as well. He is the son of war chief and is now considered a traitor. He has many people that he intends to save. Will he be able to save them all?
This book was good. The way the story is told through each chapter being a different characters point of view is a great way to see what is going on during both sides of the battle. Be sure to read the first two books of this series!

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The Happily Ever After Bookstore by Bernadette Marie – Review by Audrie Harrington

The Happily Ever After BookstoreThe Happily Ever After Bookstore by Bernadette Marie
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I love reading books about books and bookstores! The bookstore sounds so cute and Leona is a fun character who always knows the exact book for each patron. She even wraps the books like a present because if you are buying it for yourself it is still a gift! Leona mixes up the books for Charlie and Sadie when they are checking out at the same time. Charlie was buying a book for his grandmother about an old movie star and Sadie was looking for a holiday romance. They end up finding each other the next day and go visit grandma who has dementia. She ends up loving the holiday romance and even remembers Charlie and uses his name when he comes the next day to exchange the books. Sadie and Charlie spend the day together and are instantly connected. Fiona is an author who is still trying to get over her divorce and moves into town. Her ex, a musician, is also there by coincidence and the bookstore brings them together to talk for the first time in many years. There are so many fun stories in this book, I enjoyed it a lot!

Reviewed by @bibliophilenerd

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LOVE BY DESIGN (THE MERAKI SERIES BOOK 2) BY EFFIE KAMMENOU – REVIEW BY CARLIE DEL GALLO

Love by Design (The Meraki series, #2)Love by Design by Effie Kammenou
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

WOW this book was so great! I was waiting with great anticipation to start the second book in this series, and I was not disappointed! The way that the author writes these series have me reading through my breaks at work and not wanting to put it down. I love a good wholesome romance novels and it’s even better when it’s a series! If you are looking for a great series to read that you cannot wait to put down, then this is the book for you! I cannot wait until the third book!

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No Pistol Tastes the Same (PTSD Disaster Book 1) by Jacob Paul Patchen – Review by Allyson Ware

No Pistol Tastes the SameNo Pistol Tastes the Same by Jacob Paul Patchen
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

From the very beginning, you know that this book is going to get down into the nitty gritty of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). In today’s society, most people know what PTSD is, but very few understand or can comprehend it. We know the definition, the diagnosis, and some of the symptoms that come with PTSD. However, not everyone experiences it and those that do never respond or experience it in the same way as another. I think this novel does a great job of telling a detailed story about how PTSD can play a role in someone’s every day life.

This book takes on a slow pace but does not fail to keep your attention. The way author tells the story of JP and his family is undeniably fascinating and heartwarming. This family is what America would consider the average home. Being able to see behind closed doors, specifically into JP’s mind, is enthralling.

I could talk all day about this book. If you are a psychology lover such as myself, you will want to devour every page of this novel. If you enjoy war fiction, pick it up. If you want a fast paced book, you might want to save this one for a rainy day.

Review by @aware

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The Happily Ever After Bookstore by Bernadette Marie – Review by La Toya Lewis

The Happily Ever After BookstoreThe Happily Ever After Bookstore by Bernadette Marie
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I absolutely love books that involve bookstores and this is one of the best that I have read. Although the book contains three separate stories; they are all connected. I loved the themes of friendship and thriving in spite of setbacks. The stories are well-written and entertaining. The book is heart-warming and fun. The Happily Ever After Bookstore was truly a delight to read.

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Jake the Growling Dog (Jake the Growling Dog Book 1) by Samantha Shannon – Review by Julie Johnson

Jake the Growling DogJake the Growling Dog by Samantha Shannon
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Jake is a misunderstood dog. He growls all the time so everyone thinks that he’s angry or mean. He’s not though! He’s just thankful for all that he has!

This is a super cute, very short read that focuses on thankfulness. It includes some ways that readers can be thankful and show that to others. It also contains an activity to help children remain thankful.

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Finding Starlight (Quimby Grove Book 1) by Shannon Nikole – Review by La Toya Lewis

Finding Starlight (Quimby Grove #1)Finding Starlight by Shannon Nikole
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is a lovely romance story. Ellawyn is a woman running from her former life with her abusive ex-boyfriend. She starts a new life in Quimby Grove and spends her days in a quaint bookstore cafe. She forms a beautiful friendship with the owner and develops a relationship with his grandson Beckett. This book was beautifully written and very sweet. I really enjoyed the progression of the relationship between Ellie and Beckett. I also adored the friendship between her and Benji. This book has enough drama to keep you interested but there is still a lot of romance. Romance in a small town is where it’s at. A wonderful read!

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Queen of Hearts (Heels, Rhymes & Nursery Crimes Vol. 21) By Natalina Reis – Review by Amanda Gonzalez

Queen of Hearts (Heels, Rhymes & Nursery Crimes, #21)Queen of Hearts by Natalina Reis
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

One of my favorite villainesses, I’ve always found the idea of the Queen of Hearts interesting, but I loved seeing the author transform the character in this way! A woman who’s familiar with the deceit of men, Mimi has risen above and beyond the usual call of revenge. Wonderfully dark and well-written, the plot thickens with this delightfully twisted tale of the Queen of Hearts. Even though the story was short and fast-paced, I feel like it was full of life and had plenty of mystery and intrigue. I’ve never read any of the other books from this series, but I’ll definitely be looking into them after reading this one, as well as more books from the author!

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Oliver, A Story about Adoption by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Anna Hirsch

Oliver: A Story about AdoptionOliver: A Story about Adoption by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Oliver, A Story about Adoption by Lois Wickstrom
4 Stars

I think this is a great book to teach children how to deal with their feelings. It is hard for children to express how they feel maybe even harder for children who are adopted. It is normal fir them to imagine how their life may have been with their birth parents. The language is simple enough for young children to understand. The book normalizes the feelings that children who are adopted struggle with. I think this is a great read for children who are in this situation.

Review by @Anna Hirsch
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Pursuit into Darkness (War of Destiny Book 2) by Theresa Van Spankeren – Review by Santana Hicks

Pursuit into Darkness (War of Destiny, #2)Pursuit into Darkness by Theresa Van Spankeren
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I started reading this book with high expectations since I absolutely loved the first one of the series. Let me just say that the author did not disappoint!

You once again follow Julia except this time it is 70 years later than in the first book. The Ka-tet is as strong as it should be with their powers ever growing when Valentino decides to show up and take them all down. Samuel and Julia fear they have not had enough time to get strong enough to defeat Valentino so they decide to flee. That did not work so now the Ka-tet has to fight a very strong Valentino with little faith.

I honestly love this author’s writing. It is so dark and unpredictable. The book has a lot of action as well as twists and turns to keep you intrigued from start to finish. There is some romance and some heartbreak. What’s not to love? I highly recommend this series. Do read the first one before attempting this one though as it will be hard to follow without knowing the backstory.

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Finding Starlight (Quimby Grove Book 1) by Shannon Nikole – Review by Ashley Lape

Finding Starlight (Quimby Grove #1)Finding Starlight by Shannon Nikole
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I can’t believe this is a debut book for this author!! The characters, the writing, and the details had me hooked from page one. I want to go find my own Quimby Grove, Starlight, and even Beckett. The small-town charm of Quimby Grove made me feel like I was in the middle of a Hallmark movie with a twist of mystery. This book was amazing!!
Ellawyn is running away from her former life in Maine, everything she grew up with. But she must do this to protect herself. Settling in the small town of Quimby Grove, Ellawyn finds herself drawn to Starlight bookstore and even the owner Benji. Keeping to herself, Ellawyn spends all day at the bookstore just trying to keep herself safe. Benji calls upon his grandson for help when things take a turn for the worse.
Benji is the only family Beckett has so when Benji needed him it was a no-brainer to head back to Quimby to help take care of him and the bookstore. What Beckett never had in mind was meeting Ellawyn. It was hard at first since she was not quick to open up but Beckett was there for the long haul to take care of Benji so he was patient.
This book definitely has a dark turn of events but it will have you on the edge of your seat, laughing, biting your nails in suspense, and even crying!! Can’t wait to see what came next for this talented author.

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Reviewed by @alape

Human Hearts (Draco Sang Trilogy Book 3) by Mary Beesley – Review by Kerry Baker

Human Hearts (Draco Sang #3)Human Hearts by Mary Beesley
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is a brilliant conclusion to this series and easily my favourite book of them all. And while I didn’t want to see the series end this was definitely the perfect way to do so. I was pulled straight back into the story right from Page 1. The story is so well written and ready to imagine that could it really does feel like you are there.
I would highly recommend this entire series to anyone and I am already looking forward to reading it again.

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Devil’s Breath by Lang Johnson – Review by Kerry Baker

Devil's BreathDevil’s Breath by Lang Johnson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I was a little unsure what to expect going in to this book – the description didn’t particularly grab me but the reviews were all good. I am so glad I gave it a go. This was a refreshingly unique read. It isn’t often you get a female lead as strong and fiesty as Sera. It was so easy get pulled in by her. It felt like the whole story centred around her.
The story was well written. It was exciting and engaging. I found myself swept up by what was happening and the chemistry between the characters. This is a great book that I thoroughly enjoyed.

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Pilot Who Knows the Water (The Lord Hani Mysteries Book 6) by N.L. Holmes – Review by Bobbi Wagner

Pilot Who Knows the Waters (Lord Hani, #6)Pilot Who Knows the Waters by N.L. Holmes
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I enjoyed reading this book. This is not my first book by this author but it is one of my favorites yet. This is the sixth and final book of the series. I highly suggest reading the previous books to help your enhancement of this series and the characters. This is a well written story that has characters that took me on an adventure full of action. I enjoyed being pulled into the story from the beginning. I found this to be a fast paced, engaging story where the characters brought the story to life which had me coming back for more. There is great growth of the plot and characters throughout the story. This is a series you don’t want to miss. I can’t wait to see what is next for this author. Her writing skills bring so much to her stories that they are hard to put down. I highly recommend this book and this author.

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Review by @bjwagner

Oliver, A Story of Adoption by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Bethany Rucker

Oliver: A Story about AdoptionOliver: A Story about Adoption by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Poor Oliver got into trouble and was sent to his room by his adopted dad. While there he imagines what it would be like to live with his birth parents. He dreams about what they could be doing for a living. What cool things could he be doing with them? But once he is over the anger of being sent to his room, he realizes with the help of his parents that all children fantasize about living a different life.

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The Mermaid and the Ice Cube Necklace (Mermaid Science) by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Bethany Rucker

Mermaid and the Ice Cube NecklaceMermaid and the Ice Cube Necklace by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is another cute kid’s book. The science featured in this book includes the forms of matter. As a teacher, I love books like these for my students. These are great for teaching younger kids science in a new way. This is not the first Science Mermaid book I have read, and I have loved each and every one of them so far!

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