4 R’s: Roped, Risked, Rescued, Romanced (4 R’s Series) by Julie Castle – Review by Kristin Boutelle

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4 R's: Roped, Rescued, Risked, Romanced4 R’s: Roped, Rescued, Risked, Romanced by Julie Castle
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

All of the books are good reads. Each one is a standalone novel, they are completely unrelated besides the fact that all of the male lead characters are very overprotective over their female characters. They are good to read to get away from reality. All of the books have the right amount of action and romance. It’s enough action to keep you intrigued and the right of romance so you can see the light at the end of the tunnel.

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Kris & The Missing Prince (The Adventures of Kris) by Art Blegen – Review by Krista Moulthrop

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Kris & The Missing Prince: The Adventures Of KrisKris & The Missing Prince: The Adventures Of Kris by Art Blegen
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

All Kris wants to be is a knight, not a princess. She is determined to prove that she can do anything a boy can do. Kris stays at her grandmother’s farm while her dad is away for work. While there she ends up meeting all sorts of characters and finds herself on a journey to rescue a nearby kingdoms prince. She and her group of newfound friends learn what it is like to work as a team and show kindness to everyone they come across. This was a cute story for kids who love to read and have great imaginations.

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Marshmallow Rabbit by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Ayla Phipps

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Marshmallow RabbitMarshmallow Rabbit by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Wow different take in some ways to another famous candy maker. Lois Wickstrom shows that even a master thief that loves candy can always outwit Mr. Bonbon to get her favorite candy. Annabelle loves candy and uses her frilly dresses and socks to steal little pieces until one day a trap ends in her favor. A fun read watching Mr. Bonbon try to outwit her and the old ladies along for the show of what she will do next.

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Come Home to Death by Marilyn Levinson – Review by Julie Johnson

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Come Home to DeathCome Home to Death by Marilyn Levinson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Most newlyweds enjoy spending as much time together as possible, but that’s not true for the Parkers. In nine months of marriage, Terry has spent a good bit of time away. He tells Erica it’s for work but when two unsavory looking individuals show up on her doorstep and start demanding money, she’s not so sure she knows who she married. Then when she goes “home” to her aunts, she finds out even more family secrets abound. Whatever has Erica found herself into?

This is my first read by this author but won’t be my last. This book is full of twists, turns, deceit, secrets, some romance, and more. I’m looking forward to my next read by this author.

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Unicorn, Don’t Do That! by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Ayla Phipps

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Unicorn, Don't Do That!: It's okay if a Unicorn poops on your doorstepUnicorn, Don’t Do That!: It’s okay if a Unicorn poops on your doorstep by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Such a fun and silly little read. Lois Wickstrom has become my husband and I’s favorite children’s book author. Her books are always beautifully illustrated and have a great little story. This one was more on the silly side considering the “don’t do that” situation that made me and the hubs giggle. I always read him the books first before reading them to our boys. But this one was a big hit with all. Giggles all around with conversation around not eating too many different things. As we know it can give you a tummy ache.

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Mood Swings and Hockey Flings (Hot Flash Hookups Series) by Sylvie Stewart and Marika Ray – Review by Jayme Raffauf

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Mood Swings and Hockey Flings (Hot Flash Hookups #2)Mood Swings and Hockey Flings by Marika Ray
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Book 2 did not disappoint and was just as fantastic as book 1 in this series. Ben and Kaitlyn make a great duo in this story. Once again the authors nailed the hockey and sports storyline and this time, with the added element of a female sports agent. Lots of hilarious moments but also a blend of many other emotions, too. I cannot wait for book 3. Another very successful romantic comedy book for Marika Ray and Sylvie Stewart.

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Will You (Pretend) Marry Me (Swan Cove Series) by Christi Barth – Review by Jayme Raffauf

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Will You Pretend Marry MeWill You Pretend Marry Me by Christi Barth
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is a great story. I loved the double identity for Kaia/Abigail. I especially enjoyed her wanting to just have a normal life as a music teacher. As a teacher myself, that was a cute element. I liked the character and role that Everett played and the way the two main characters developed throughout the story, especially when unexpected obstacles came up. True to the rom com story line, but a nice lighthearted read. Very enjoyable!

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Come Home to Death by Marilyn Levinson – Review by Kerry Baker

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Come Home to DeathCome Home to Death by Marilyn Levinson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This book is a great mystery story that had me hooked right from the start. I connected with the main character instantly and wanted to see how everything would play out for her. The book is really exciting to read and I thought the author really built up the tension so well. I couldn’t decide which way things would turn out but I enjoyed being taken on the journey.
The author has a great writing style for this kind of book. She easily created the mystery and the suspense that went along with it and made me want to know how things would end. This is my first experience of her writing but I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book and will definitely read more.

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Master Oradea (Masters of the Consulate Book 10) by Sylvia Black – Review by Desiree Ottinger

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Master Oradea (Masters of the Consulate #10)Master Oradea by Sylvia Black
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Master Oradea is tasked with bringing rogue vampires and shifters to justice that are hiding in his territory. The syndicate family in his area are hesitant to join in his pursuit until their sister Natalia is threatened. It is an instant love match that fate has brought into play at just the right time. Unfortunately, there is betrayal and distrust between the vampires and their witch mates. Can they survive to see forever together? Or will fate step in once again and help the rogues to stay one step ahead of Master Descallia and his consulate masters?

This is a quick read. There was an unexpected twist/betrayal that I was hoping would not happen, but at the last minute… ugh. It was a stab in the heart, for sure. At this point, I feel invested in this series, and I want to see it through to the end. While I want to know how it all ends, I am not quite ready to say goodbye to all of these characters. I feel like there is so much more that I need to know about them. All in all, a wonderful addition to the series.

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4 R’s: Roped, Risked, Rescued, Romanced (4 R’s Series) by Julie Castle – Review by Michelle Collier

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4 R's: Roped, Rescued, Risked, Romanced4 R’s: Roped, Rescued, Risked, Romanced by Julie Castle
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is a box set of 4 separate stories. Each story is full of interesting characters and intrigue focusing on one couple in each story. Sarah and Rafe, Samantha and Jake, Serena and Mark, and Candy and Greg. I loved how different each story was and how the stories kept me interested.

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Texas Winds by Dana Wayne – Review by Michelle Collier

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Texas WindsTexas Winds by Dana Wayne
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This story was awesome. Lexie and Jake’s story is so compelling. They were both lost in their own ways from their past relationship. There is drama and twists in this story that keep the pages turning. I could not put this one down.

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Mood Swings and Hockey Flings (Hot Flash Hookups Series) by Sylvie Stewart and Marika Ray – Review by Michelle Collier

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Mood Swings and Hockey Flings (Hot Flash Hookups #2)Mood Swings and Hockey Flings by Marika Ray
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is the second book in the Hot Flash Hookups Series. This book was just as good as the first one. A chance meeting in an airport bar finds Kaitlyn and Ben attracted and flirting with each other. Until she finds out he is on the team with her newest client. That is when the drama starts and the love hate relationship starts. This is a great enemies to lovers story. The characters are all so fantastic.

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Charlotte’s Control (The Control Series) by Maggie Sims – Review by Michelle Collier

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Charlotte's Control (The Control Series)Charlotte’s Control by Maggie Sims
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I absolutely love historical romances, especially regency. This was unlike any I have ever read. This is a reverse age gap. Charlotte is a strong and vibrant widow that like to be dominant in the bedroom. William is young and determined to get what he wants, which is Charlotte. The dynamic between these two is great and the chemistry is hot.

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Before You Say I Do by Marina Hanna – Review by Michelle Collier

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Before You Say I DoBefore You Say I Do by Marina Hanna
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Emma does not want a relationship after what her ex did to her. She is all about the one night stands. That is until Liam, a playboy who has no desire to get married after watching his parent’s relationship. The chemistry between Emma and Liam practically set my kindle on fire. I loved how these two characters developed and had to deal with their own issues if they were ever going to make it work.

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Charming Chapter (Boomer Babes Book Club Romances) by Lori Haas – Review by Michelle Collier

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Charming Chapter : A Later-in-Life Just Kisses Romance (Boomer Babes Book Club Romances 1)Charming Chapter : A Later-in-Life Just Kisses Romance by Lori Haas
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I loved this story. Laura is older and dealing with life after losing her husband. The characters are wonderful and the way the author develops their growth throughout the book is great. The book club ladies are so fun to read. Hugh and Laura made me swoon a little. I definitely can’t wait for the next book in the series.

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Unicorn, Don’t Do That! by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

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Unicorn, Don't Do That!: It's okay if a Unicorn poops on your doorstepUnicorn, Don’t Do That!: It’s okay if a Unicorn poops on your doorstep by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Unicorn Don’t Do That is a children’s book told in rhymes about a half unicorn named Stega that gets invited to her friend Benny’s housewarming party. She is worried that she does not have a gift for him, so she fills a bowl full of berries. Stega gets hungry on the way to the party and eats the berries. Now she is feeling bad, but matters get worse when she gets close to Benny’s house and gets a tummy ache. A whimsical story full of bright, colorful illustrations that will certainly make both adults and children alike giggle out loud. The overall moral of the story is about friendship and acceptance.

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What Eyes Can’t See (Bold Journeys Series) by Paulette Stout – Review by Katy Winter

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What Eyes Can't See: A spicy contemporary fiction novel of love, social justice, and belonging (Bold Journeys)What Eyes Can’t See: A spicy contemporary fiction novel of love, social justice, and belonging by Paulette Stout
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

By far one of the best books I have ever read! The writing style, the story, her character development.
It was all so phenomenal!! I highly recommend this to everyone!
Seeing her self realization and her growth, alone this made an amazing story. Adding in the love story and happily ever after was gravy!
It was also a huge reminder how racism and other forms of discrimination are still so alive and present in America and Canada at least.
Just read ! I don’t think anyone would be disappointed !!

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Mood Swings and Hockey Flings (Hot Flash Hookups Series) by Sylvie Stewart and Marika Ray – Review by Katy Winter

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Mood Swings and Hockey Flings (Hot Flash Hookups #2)Mood Swings and Hockey Flings by Marika Ray
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Amazing!!! I couldn’t stop once I got into it. It was so “real” and represented a lot of today’s issues in relationships, our past experiences still haunting us! The character development along with relationship dynamics and growth were fun to read, and kept you reading intrigued to see how it plays out. Hoping she writes about other characters love stories now… especially Niko & Chloe… highly recommend this

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4 R’s: Roped, Risked, Rescued, Romanced (4 R’s Series) by Julie Castle – Review by Jenique Bornman

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4 R's: Roped, Rescued, Risked, Romanced4 R’s: Roped, Rescued, Risked, Romanced by Julie Castle
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

“Julie Castle’s ‘4 R’s Roped, Rescued, Risked, Romance Series’ is a captivating journey through love, redemption, and second chances. With each installment brimming with heartwarming reunions, sizzling chemistry, and gripping suspense, Castle skillfully weaves together the tales of Sarah and Rafe, Samantha and Jake, Serena and Mark, and Candy and Greg. From the rugged landscapes of Wyoming to the cozy cabins and bustling towns, the series immerses readers in a world where love conquers all, even against the backdrop of danger and deceit. With its blend of tropes including marriage pacts, runaway brides, and protective heroes, ‘4 R’s’ offers a perfect escape into the realms of romance and adventure. Castle’s storytelling prowess shines bright, making this series a must-read for fans of heartwarming romance with a hint of danger.”

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Finding Cheer (Magical Emerald Hollow Series) by Heather Schneider – Review by Rose McCaskey

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Finding Cheer (Magical Emerald Hollow #2)Finding Cheer by Heather Schneider
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Finding Cheer is the second book in the Magical Emerald Hollow series. It has a bit of magic, mystery, and romance. I started and read book 2 before I knew it was a sequel so I plan to go read book 1. I enjoyed it. It was cute and a fun read.

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Finding Cheer by Heather Schneider – Review by Kat Mellon

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Finding Cheer (Magical Emerald Hollow #2)Finding Cheer by Heather Schneider
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Finding Cheer: Paranormal Women’s Fiction Cozy Fantasy Novel (Magical Emerald Hollow Book 2) was a really cute book! I didnt’ realize when I started it that it’s a part 2, and I do wish I would have read them in order. Even though the author does a great job of explaining without bogging down the storyline, I do feel there were a few instances when the current story would have made more sense. Not enough to make the read less enjoyable though.

Almost love at first sight with a person who has a completely unheard (outside of the movies) type of full on amnesia and then finding out who both are individually and together. After coming together with the help of some Christmas magic (in the spring) true love is found and happy ever after achieved. Heavy on the romance, light on the steaminess. Would definitely recommend 🙂

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The Rake (Daughters of Dishonour Series) by Ava Bond – Review by Shelly Kittell

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The Rake (Daughters of Dishonour #1)The Rake by Ava Bond
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Though I normally don’t read this genre, I found this one quite enjoyable. There was a little of everything: steamy romance, murder mystery, etc. This story had me hooked right off the bat. These two characters felt so opposite that I had to read to see what happened. The writing was good. The characters had such unique personalities. Lots of drama and action make this a romance mystery that I would recommend.

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4 R’s: Roped, Risked, Rescued, Romanced (4 R’s Series) by Julie Castle – Review by Mary Espinoza

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4 R's: Roped, Rescued, Risked, Romanced4 R’s: Roped, Rescued, Risked, Romanced by Julie Castle
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

4R’s: Roped, Rescued, Risked, Romanced by Julie Castle is actually 4 stories in one book! Each story focuses on a different couple, we are introduced to Sarah and Rafe in the first story, in the next we find out about Samantha and Jake, the third story brings us Serena and Mark, then in the final story we learn about Candy and Greg. Each couple has their ups and downs, and each couple has to figure out how they are going to handle the situations that have come to light. I enjoyed each of the stories, they are all quick reads that keep you entertained. Thankfully Julie didn’t “copy and paste” each story, she put a lot of work into making each story unique. We are given strong females who aren’t going to take any crap, and the men in the stories have to learn that they can’t take charge the way that they are used to doing. I don’t think that you will be disappointed by picking up a copy of this book and reading it for yourself! Great job Julie on writing such an entertaining book!

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Mary Espinoza, April 2024

Come Home to Death by Marilyn Levinson – Review by Shelly Kittell

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Come Home to DeathCome Home to Death by Marilyn Levinson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This was an outstanding thriller. Erica found herself in a bind when she learns her husband isn’t who she thinks she is. Then a bunch of shady characters pop into the picture. Erica goes home to Marondale and learns that she can trust no one because she will be coming into a large inheritance for her 25th birthday. This has someone trying to kill her to keep their deception secret. Can Erica survive this? This book left me feeling like I should be looking over my shoulder and I don’t have any riches to protect. I absolutely loved the writing. It felt thrilling. You felt your pulse reacting to every emotion. You’ll have fun trying to figure out what’s going on. Yes, I’m a bit twisted because I enjoy reading psychological thrillers. In the end, everything might come together or might not. You will have to find out. Are you up to it?

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A Song of Salt and Secrets (Mythic Academy Collection) by Amanda Marin – Review by Shelly Kittell

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A Song of Salt and Secrets (Mythic Academy Collection)A Song of Salt and Secrets by Amanda Marin
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This was like a modern day fairy tale retelling of The Little Mermaid. AI enjoyed it. There was a little of everything that we love from the original…and more. The characters were delightful. I loved the writing of the story. It was easy to hold my interest. Right from the start, you can’t put it down. It’s a fun story that will fit the YA market.

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The School of Nine by Amanda Marin – Review by Shelly Kittell

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The School of Nine (The Mythic Academy Collection, #1)The School of Nine by Amanda Marin
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This was a really cool story. I loved how it was about Muses-in-training. There was a mystery to be solved. The urban and paranormal mixed into the writing quite nicely. I enjoyed the writing and the characters. I find that when you have characters who are deceitful, that tends to catch and keep my attention. It’s a wonderful short read with lots of drama and action. A quick, fast-paced read.

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Unicorn, Don’t Do That!: It’s okay if a Unicorn poops on your doorstep by Lois Wickstrom, Ada Konewki – Review by Roxsanne Lesieur.

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Unicorn, Don't Do That!: It's okay if a Unicorn poops on your doorstepUnicorn, Don’t Do That!: It’s okay if a Unicorn poops on your doorstep by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Stega is a half unicorn, she lives with her Mum and Dad and she has been invited to a housewarming party by her friend Ben, so on the way she decides to get him a present, so she gets a coconut and fills it with berries, but unfortunately, she is hungry, so she eats them all on the way to Benny’s.

When she arrives with the empty coconut bowl, she unfortunately feels her tummy rumbling and she cannot hold it! What will she do now and what will Benny think of her when she turns up without a present?

This is a funny tale with an unusual storyline which will give anyone who reads it a smile, no matter how old they are.

Reviewed by @roxsannel

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What Eyes Can’t See (Bold Journeys Series) by Paulette Stout – Review by Amber Howard

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What Eyes Can't See: A spicy contemporary fiction novel of love, social justice, and belonging (Bold Journeys)What Eyes Can’t See: A spicy contemporary fiction novel of love, social justice, and belonging by Paulette Stout
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I really enjoyed this book. As a black woman, I can relate to so much to the struggles of Barbara. Being looked over for promotions that I definitely earned and trying to present myself a certain way to fit in. I know a lot of people pretend that they don’t see the systematic racism in today’s society but it’s there. I also loved that the black character was from a wealthy family, and the love interest had a past. Often things are super stereotypical as if there is a specific blueprint for all black people. I think Sebastian is such a wonderful guy. Even with his wrap sheet. He turned his life around and wanted to make the world a different place.

I also enjoyed the writing style of the author. The imagery was spot on. Reactions and emotions to situations was authentic. This novel was also easy to read and get lost in. Definitely a great read!

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Will You (Pretend) Marry Me (Swan Cove Series) by Christi Barth – Review by Deborah Joseph

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Will You Pretend Marry MeWill You Pretend Marry Me by Christi Barth
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Will You Pretend Marry Me by Christi Barth is part of the Swan Cove trilogy but can be read as a stand-alone.

Enemies to lovers
Fake bf
Secret identities
Oh my!

Kaia is a big pop star. For 10 years she has worked hard to gain the success she has, and also thanks her fans for it too. But then she decides she wants a career change and is going back to her legal name, Abigail Dilwort, to become a teacher in a small town.

Everett Reynolds is the VP, and AP chemistry teacher, at the school Abigail contracts to work at. But just like Abigail, he has secrets as well and secretly works for the state, not wanting anyone to know.

While on hiatus from being a pop star, something happens that puts Kaia’s reputation at risk. To try and fix it she asks Everett to fake marry her.

Not going to lie… this book feels like an adult version of Hannah Montana. If you enjoyed the show then you will enjoy this book. There is more drama, of course, but there is humor, romance, and life lessons.

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Unicorn, Don’t Do That! by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Deborah Joseph

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Unicorn, Don't Do That!: It's okay if a Unicorn poops on your doorstepUnicorn, Don’t Do That!: It’s okay if a Unicorn poops on your doorstep by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The second book I have gotten for my kids by Lois Wickstrom and I LOVE it! Always the cutest stories and the illustrations on them are beautiful! My oldest (5yrs) loves unicorns so I had to get this one for her and it ended up being such a big hit with both of my girls. It is such an easy read and perfect for kids. This is definitely a silly book that will get your kiddos giggling.

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