Texas Winds by Dana Wayne – Review by Maria Colón

Texas WindsTexas Winds by Dana Wayne
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Anyone who lives in Texas knows about the Texas Winds.

Those Texas Winds can flutter as softly as a butterfly’s wings or batter whatever is in its path like a tornado or hurricane.

Texas Winds also signal change…which is exactly what Lexie wanted and what Jake didn’t know he needed.

The circumstances and later obstacles presenting themselves before Lexie and Jake blew the fields from calm to chaos.

The author presents exquisite visuals as well. The imagery is amazing.

I won’t tell you how it ends…read on to find out yourself.

It’s a 4⭐️ contemporary romance.

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Stars in the City (Stars in the City Series) by Krysten Lindsay Hager – Review by Jules Herbert

Stars in the CityStars in the City by Krysten Lindsay Hager
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is a great YA Romance with relatable characters even though their daily life is very different to that of most of the books readers. It shows young actors trying to navigate work, life and love while also showing the pitfalls of being famous and how things truly aren’t always as they seem. I look forward to reading more of this series. I really want to see what is in store for some of the other characters.

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Finders Keepers, Cowboy (Match Made in Montana Series) by Rachelle Paige Campbell Review by Jules Herbert

Finders Keepers, Cowboy (Match Made in Montana #1)Finders Keepers, Cowboy by Rachelle Paige Campbell
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

I must admit that it took me a little while to get into this book because the animosity, I think that is the word I am looking for, that Ryan had towards Meg confused me a bit. Of course the further I got into the book and the more I learned about both characters the more I settled into the possibility for a relationship between them and found myself hoping for exactly that! However Hank, I definitely had a soft spot for straight away. This author is a very talented writer and presents her readers with a great wholesome romance that should be read and enjoyed especially if you love cowboys and western/small town themes.

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The Winemakers Box Set (The Winemakers Series) by Giovanna Siniscalchi – Review by Katie Matthews

The Winemakers - Box set: A Series of Sun-Kissed Historical RomancesThe Winemakers – Box set: A Series of Sun-Kissed Historical Romances by Giovanna Siniscalchi
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The Winemakers Box Set
5 stars

This wonderful box set contains 3 fantastic historical romance reads. They are all fantastic reads and I would recommend this box set to all historical romance lovers!

Book 1 – The True Purpose of Vines

What a wonderful read. I absolutely love historical romance but this was such a different read for me, I’m used to Regency London reads and I really loved that this one was so different. The setting for the story made it such a unique and new read for me. Griffin and Julia were lovely characters to read about, their romance a slow burn one but a true joy to read about. The author wrote about their relationship so beautifully, that added to the wonderful descriptions of the setting for the story this book really was a pleasure to read. I would absolutely recommend this story to other readers and also other lovers of historical romance – you will not be disappointed and I am really looking forward to reading more from this author in the future.

Book 2 – The Taste of Light

After reading book 1 in this series I was really looking forward to this one and I wasn’t disappointed. Again the author transported back in time to 1872 Portugal. I love historical romance reads but for me this series has been so great to read because of the setting – I usually read about London and very rarely anywhere else. The author paints an amazing historical picture with her wonderful words and I loved every minute of what I read. I was looking forward to finding out more about Pedro and I loved his POV chapters, I really felt as though I got to know him and yes I did end up falling in love with him! Anne was a sweet character, she may have been young and a little naive but there was just something about her and I loved her and Pedro together!
Overall a great second book in this series and one that I would highly recommend!

Book 3 – The Truth about Myths

Another fantastic read from this author – I absolutely adored this book. from start to finish I was completely captivated by the story and everything that was going on. The authors writing is mesmerising to read at times, full of detail and vivid descriptions of what is happening, I LOVE historical romance but they are usually set in London so I love that I’m reading about a different setting for these books and I love s good enemies to lovers romance so this book ticked everything for me!

The characters Isabel and Henrique were so wonderful to read about they had so much passion and chemistry between them. I loved reading their story. Another huge point for this book is the dual POV which meant we really got to see and understand both of the characters but for me in particular Henrique.

I am really looking forward to reading more from this author again in the future and 100% recommend this book and series!

@katiem
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England: Cultured, Classic, and Charming: A Guide to Hidden England (The Hidden Gems Series) by Christy Nicholas – Review by Kerry Carr

England: Cultured, Classic, and Charming: A Guide to Hidden England (The Hidden Gems Series)England: Cultured, Classic, and Charming: A Guide to Hidden England by Christy Nicholas
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This was a really informative book to read. Even though I have lived in England all my life there was even things in this book that I wasn’t aware of. The author does an incredible job of researching everything to do with England and I loved all the historical facts and myths. The author does a great job of showing people hidden gems and not just the normal tourist attractions.
For someone who is planning a visit to England this would be an amazing book to have if you want to visit and soak up some of the amazing places and heritage.

It was a interesting and informative read with an author who has taken the time to really research and produce something that is a good read for people visiting and also people who have lived here all their life

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Hell Hath No Fury (Life is Hell Series) by Naomi Valkyrie – Review by Amber Howard

Hell Hath No Fury (Life is Hell #2)Hell Hath No Fury by Naomi Valkyrie
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I like this series. I just wish each book was longer. It sucks you don’t need from the first page and never lacks action and entertainment. It actually reads quickly. I really like Millicent. It was great getting to know her more. Hopefully we learn more about Oren and Teival next.

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Loris Opens Up His Heart (Courage Tales Series) by Dagmara Sitek – Review by Krista Moulthrop

Loris Opens Up His HeartLoris Opens Up His Heart by Dagmara Sitek
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This was such a great story about how some kids in foster care struggle with their trauma and are afraid to open up. Loris is hesitant to open his heart and tell his story. He doesn’t want to get comfortable in another temporary place. But his new siblings do not give up on him and show him that he is brave and amazing.

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Porter and Midge: Paws and Responsibilities: A Kid’s Guide to Welcoming a New Dog (Porter and Midge Children’s Book Series) by Jennie Chen and Giselle Nevada – Review by Hannah Porter

Porter and Midge: Paws and Responsibilities: A Kid's Guide to Welcoming a New Dog (Porter and Midge Children’s Book Series)Porter and Midge: Paws and Responsibilities: A Kid’s Guide to Welcoming a New Dog by Giselle Nevada
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Having read a couple of books from these talented authors. I couldn’t wait til bedtime to read this book with the little ones. They enjoyed reading it and started asking more questions about our dog. I love that it explains to them that there’s more to having dogs than just loving them even though that’s an important factor. This book explains how and why having and caring for a dog as a pet is a big responsibility. One that you have to be ready for and learn everything you can to help you prepare for getting one and caring for it. As always I really enjoyed reading works from this authors, and I look forward to reading more🥰

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Fay’s Kindness Parade (The Adventures of Cray Series) by G Pa Rhymes – Review by Emily H

Fay's Kindness Parade (The Adventures of Cray)Fay’s Kindness Parade by G Pa Rhymes
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Turtle Fay and Cray are heading out for the winter and along the way they find friends in trouble. They help as their journey progresses and all the effort they are putting in has a magnificent effect.

Beautiful illustrations that show the path that Fay and Cray are taking. A wonderful story that shows children the effects of simple kindness. Another great one in this story.

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Touched: Elemental Passions Book One by Skye Turner, Sloane Nicole, April D. Berry, C.J. Pinard, Danielle Jamie, Darlene Tallman, Julie Morgan, Livell James, Machelle Hanleigh, and Melissa MacKinnon – Review by Michelle Mulvey

Touched (Elemental Passions #1)Touched by Skye Turner
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The book is book one of a new series. A few authors are writing together. I honestly saw the author and had to read it not realizing what it was about. I’m not a fan of paranormal books so it took me quite a while to finish. That being said, I thought the book was well written. Callum is a detective on his way to make a huge bust. When someone walks into him. That someone is Aeris. She’s a fairy or a fae which visits earth. Up until now, no one has been able to see her but, Callum can. However, they zinged…He is her Kindred…her mate. Together they encounter all different things. This book has sylph, fae, trolls, rougarou…you name it. Anything magical or mythical with spells.
I thought the book was pretty good.

Review by @xchellex

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Sugar & Spice (Spicetopia Series) by Phoebe Alexander – Review by Shea Gilkerson 4/12/24

Sugar & Spice (Spicetopia #1)Sugar & Spice by Phoebe Alexander
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

From page 1 this book reaches out and grabs you. Cy is the heir of of Sweetopia family fortune, an amusement park. He has learned of a few employees trying to organize a strike against his family and goes undercover as a new employee to get to the root of the issue and protect his future. He absolutely does not expect to find the employees so likeable and fun to be around. Jolie is a single mom working 2 jobs trying to keep things moving forward for her young boys (one of them has CF and requires extra care) and is “The Queen” of the theme park – the Red Velvet Queen. She is tired of killing herself for jobs that take and take from their employees instead of looking out for them and starts to reach out amongst her fellow theme park employees.

Her life feels desperate, but things are starting to look up as she creates a following…and then a very handsome fellow employee begins visiting her in her dressing room. Jolie has spent so long taking care of her kids and having that be her focus that she feels she has let herself go. She feels too insecure about what she has to offer, is uncomfortable with what the people in her past have made her feel about her life – her stretchmarks, her child who requires special care, her age, her ability to parent on her own and make good choices, and so much more. But Cy makes her feel strong and sure and desirable. And she makes Cy recognize how many good things there are in life that have nothing to do with his family legacy.
When Jolie learns who Cy really is, will how he made her feel make a difference about his identity? Will Cy be able to fall in love with her and still have a successful family legacy?

This book was so dang good. The characters are so well written and the author knew exactly how to blend them together to improve them. Jolie has so many “every woman” insecurities but knows her strength and ability to persevere. Cy has such a wonderful growth curve in this story and makes an “every woman” feel like the ONLY woman. I really wanted to have this book last me a couple of days but I couldn’t put it down and couldn’t sleep until I finished it. Heat, chemistry, great world building and relatability to the characters, the fun woven into the storyline – even with the “villians”. I can’t wait to meet the rest of the Sweet family!

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Touched: Elemental Passions Book One by Skye Turner, Sloane Nicole, April D. Berry, C.J. Pinard, Danielle Jamie, Darlene Tallman, Julie Morgan, Livell James, Machelle Hanleigh, and Melissa MacKinnon – Review by Jamie Truex

Touched (Elemental Passions #1)Touched by Skye Turner
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is the first time I’ve read a book that has been written by more than two authors. This was written by 10! And they worked so well together! I love books about Fae so I knew this was going to be a good book. It kept me turning page after page until the end. I love Aeris. Her free spirited attitude is refreshing, even if she is a bit naive. She is supposed to avoid humans, but she is fascinated by them. She’s always sneaking off to view them. But she’s always hidden. Humans can’t see her, until one does! And he’s so cute! He gives her feelings in her stomach like the girls that she reads about get. But humans and fae can’t mix. It’s forbidden! Will she choose her land and her people, or the man that makes her feel? This is the first book in a series and I absolutely can not wait until the next book comes out. It’s going to the top of my TBR pile!

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Porter and Midge: Paws and Responsibilities: A Kid’s Guide to Welcoming a New Dog (Porter and Midge Childrwayn’s Book Series) by Jennie Chen and Giselle Nevada – Review by Tausha Treada

Porter and Midge: Paws and Responsibilities: A Kid's Guide to Welcoming a New Dog (Porter and Midge Children’s Book Series)Porter and Midge: Paws and Responsibilities: A Kid’s Guide to Welcoming a New Dog by Giselle Nevada
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Porter and Midge: Paws and Responsibilities: A Kid’s Guide to Welcoming a New Dog (Porter and Midge Children’s Book Series) by Jennie Chen and Giselle Nevada. I love this series and its so fun for kids aged 7-12. Its the story of Lora and CJ who are young children that really want a dog. Their parents tell them that if they learn all they can about the responsibilities of owing a dog and what exactly owing a dog entails. They read all the books they can get about dog’s and dog ownership and then they talk to dog owners. They learn all about grooming, going to the vet, vaccinations and training dogs so that they are responsible pet owners. They also learn about the different breeds of dogs and try to determine what breed would be best for their family. Will their parents think they have done enough to earn the right to get a dog? Read this fun book to find out!

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Queen of the Fairies by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Tausha Treadway

Queen of the FairiesQueen of the Fairies by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Queen of the Fairies by Lois Wickstrom. I love this author, she is one of my very favorite children’s authors. This story is about a little girl who wants to write a story about fairies. She realizes that when she writes about fairies if she writes about the good ones she will have to write about the bad ones as well. The good fairies make the world a better place and fun to live and the bad fairies play tricks and have fun. These stories are so fun and always have a lesson to learn that make these books a great gift for families and teachers. This book is good for ages 3-5 and my 5 year old nephew loved it!

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Fay’s Kindness Parade (The Adventures of Cray Series) by G Pa Rhymes – Review by Katie Matthews

Fay's Kindness Parade (The Adventures of Cray)Fay’s Kindness Parade by G Pa Rhymes
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Fays Kindness Parade is another wonderful book in this series. My little boy who is 4 absolutely loves this series. He loves the rhyming pattern in the stories, the characters (especially Cray) and the wonderful illustrations that accompany the story. I love the hidden meanings in these stories. This one shows Fay and Cray helping others along the way. It provides so many opportunities for whoever is reading this story with the children to stop and talk about how we should try and help people and maybe what they would do in those situations.
I look forward to reading more from this author in the future.

@katiem
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England: Cultured, Classic, and Charming: A Guide to Hidden England (The Hidden Gems Series) by Christy Nicholas – Review by Katie Matthews

England: Cultured, Classic, and Charming: A Guide to Hidden England (The Hidden Gems Series)England: Cultured, Classic, and Charming: A Guide to Hidden England by Christy Nicholas
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I’ve read many books by this author but this is the first of this kind I’ve read by her so I wanted to give it a go – also being British and living in England I was interested to see what she would include in her guide book.
It was a good read, of course I knew many of the things she wrote about however I may have learnt a couple of things. There were some great facts about English history and the stories behind some of the popular historical places to visit.
I can imagine even if you weren’t planning a journey to visit England this might be a good read just to find out more about the country and some of it history and places of interest.

@katiem
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Loris Opens Up His Heart (Courage Tales Series) by Dagmara Sitek – Review by Kerry Baker

Loris Opens Up His HeartLoris Opens Up His Heart by Dagmara Sitek
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This book is such a wonderful, emotional and heartwarming story. It is one that we all, as a family, loved reading together. They characters are brilliant and engaging and lovely to read about. This is also a book that I enjoyed personally reading, even though it is not aimed at me as an audience. It was so nice to see a book after a foster child and I think the author handled the sensitive topic which such ease.
This was an unexpectedly fantastic story and for once it is one that even I am looking forward to reading multiple times. I loved how it taught my kids something more than they usually get from these kind of books. We will definitely be looking into more books from this author.

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Hell Hath No Fury (Life is Hell Series) by Naomi Valkyrie – Review by LaliLovely

Hell Hath No Fury (Life is Hell #2)Hell Hath No Fury by Naomi Valkyrie
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

As with all of Naomi Valkyrie’s books , this was a fun little adventure . Quick enough to read in an afternoon , but there’s something about it that makes you want to stretch it out longer . I wish I had felt more chemistry between Millie & Sheridan , but I could still see how they like each other . Fantastic short story full of flirtation , cool characters , & twists & turns . Love this book !

Review by @lalilovely

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Perfect (Perfect Series) by Tricia Copeland – Review by Trish Ann

Perfect (Perfect, #1)Perfect by Tricia Copeland
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I really enjoy books by this author. This book was no exception. I enjoyed the falling in love perspective of the book. The characters were well developed and I felt that the overall plot was structured well. I look forward to reading the next book!

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Touched: Elemental Passions Book One by Skye Turner, Sloane Nicole, April D. Berry, C.J. Pinard, Danielle Jamie, Darlene Tallman, Julie Morgan, Livell James, Machelle Hanleigh, and Melissa MacKinnon – Review by Barbara Bohls

Touched (Elemental Passions #1)Touched by Skye Turner
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I really enjoyed this book. I love that there are multiple authors that came together to create a unique story line and book. It is really well put together and you really can’t tell which author wrote what part. I feel like that makes the writing of this book top notch. It is seamlessly done and the steam that is poured into the pages, really made the book feel like it came from one author. I can’t imagine the amount of time and communication it took in order for the book to flow like it does. AMAZING!!! Let’s talk about the steam, it isn’t in your face like it can be in some books but it is there to really help the story line. The storyline would continue without it and be completely fine but it just adds the right amount of spice to make you blush but not sweat. I really enjoyed it. The characters are really well thought out and have amazing growth throughout the book. The fact that this book has spice, magic, mystery, supernatural entities, and romance; means it really hits a lot of marks for people to pick it up. I highly suggest reading this book for an escape and to just thoroughly enjoy reading.
Reviewed by: @bbohls
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Touched: Elemental Passions Book One by Skye Turner, Sloane Nicole, April D. Berry, C.J. Pinard, Danielle Jamie, Darlene Tallman, Julie Morgan, Livell James, Machelle Hanleigh, and Melissa MacKinnon – Review by Darla Yocom

Touched (Elemental Passions #1)Touched by Skye Turner
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This book is an impressive collaboration of ten talented authors telling one single story that is full of mystery, romance, and the supernatural. I think the cover art is appealing and a bit sensual which should entice fantasy fiction lovers to pick it up.

This book is book one of five, so I look forward to reading the remaining books in this series.
The story introduces you to a hardworking and talented detective named Callum LeBlanc. Also, you are introduced to Aeris who is an inquisitive fae who enjoys observing the humans that she finds beyond her realm of Laric. Her older brother, Cyrus has warned her about venturing into the human world, but something seems to be pulling her to continue her little voyeuristic adventure, so she ignores the advice of her brother.

When Callum notices Aeris, he is intrigued and somehow he manages to see through the glamor she uses in the human world. Aeris does not understand how that is possible, as she should be completely hidden. She runs away, returning to her realm and immediately begins researching glamor. She soon learns that glamor does not work on other mythical creatures, including mortals with mythical blood. So against all advice previously given to her, she returns to the human world, looking for the detective. Upon speaking with Callum, she bravely discloses that she is Fae. He mentions that per his ancestors, he has Sylph blood but never knew what that meant.

Aeris fully understands that Fae-Human unions are forbidden but their intense connection is making this connection hard to ignore.

This unique collaboration brings a skillfully created tale of forbidden love and destiny to the readers while also building a fantastical world engulfed in beautiful elemental morsels of a fantasy vision.

If you enjoy fantasy fiction with romance, passion, suspense and forbidden love, you will be drawn in from the very first page of this story and enjoy the first installment in this adventure based world. I think you will relish exploring Callum and Aeris’ escapade.

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Porter and Midge: Paws and Responsibilities: A Kid’s Guide to Welcoming a New Dog (Porter and Midge Children’s Book Series) by Jennie Chen and Giselle Nevada – Review by Donya Pedigo

Porter and Midge: Paws and Responsibilities: A Kid's Guide to Welcoming a New Dog (Porter and Midge Children’s Book Series)Porter and Midge: Paws and Responsibilities: A Kid’s Guide to Welcoming a New Dog by Giselle Nevada
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I love this book and this whole series! This story, like the rest in the series, has a fun rhyming story line, beautifully rendered illustrations, and well-thought-out activities that both your child and yourself can do to learn about the responsibilities of getting a puppy or dog. This will be a great resource for any parent to give to their child who wants a new puppy or dog! It shows that it takes not days or weeks but months to learn about puppy care and that they need to form a care plan for their pet! So, if your child or anyone in your life wants a new puppy or dog, you should definitely pick this up, so they can form a care plan before they get their new furry friend.

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Charlotte’s Control (The Control Series) by Maggie Sims – Review by Heidi Schoolman

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

This story follows Charlotte, a widowed Countess, and William, an heir to the Earl of Harrington. Charlotte, now widowed, is caught in the middle of women looking for a husband and the older generations. William is attending Oxford and is in his last year. He is really drawn to Charlotte, but society says that is not how things are done. Women just do not become involved with younger men. This was a great read set back in time.

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Kris & The Pirates (The Adventures of Kris) by Art Blegen – Review by Carrie Reed

Kris & The Pirates: The Adventures of KrisKris & The Pirates: The Adventures of Kris by Art Blegen
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Wonderful book! I was so entranced in the story that I thought Kris was really a part of the ship’s crew. Kris meets Stevie the Sloth, Tammy the Turtle, Sammy the Snake and Michael the Monkey along her way through the jungle, trying to hide from the pirates while also figuring out a way to save her crew. It was fun to watch her problem solve and plan for the rescue and she was pretty cleaver in getting them free. I enjoyed reading the descriptions of the pirates she came in contact with as well as her never give up attitude. I look forward to more adventures with Kris.

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Texas Winds by Dana Wayne – Review by Daryian Lucas

Texas WindsTexas Winds by Dana Wayne
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This book is a heartfelt journey through the ups and downs of life in rural Texas. The characters are so real, you’ll feel like they’re friends, and the vivid descriptions of the landscape make you feel part of the setting. It’s a story of love, growth, and second chances, with just the right mix of drama and heartwarming moments. A perfect read for anyone who loves stories that feel like coming home.

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Porter and Midge: Paws and Responsibilities: A Kid’s Guide to Welcoming a New Dog (Porter and Midge Children’s Book Series) by Giselle Nevada and Jennie Chen – Review by Roxsanne Lesieur.

Porter and Midge: Paws and Responsibilities: A Kid's Guide to Welcoming a New Dog (Porter and Midge Children’s Book Series)Porter and Midge: Paws and Responsibilities: A Kid’s Guide to Welcoming a New Dog by Giselle Nevada
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Lora and CJ are to young children who would love to own a dog and they have asked their parents for one, however, they are told that first they must learn all about how to look after a dog and all of the responsibilities that come along with owning a pet, so the two go on a quest for knowledge.

Their research includes reading lots of books, talking to other dog owners and observing dogs, they learn all about grooming, vets visits, training and everything in between, they learn about how to look after a dogs health, wellbeing and all of the fun as well!

Will Lora and CJ get their wish of owning a dog and everything that goes along with it? This is a wonderful book with a lot of educational and inspirational meaning all set out in an easy to understand way which will benefit anyone, young or old who wants to own a pet in the future.

Reviewed by @roxsannel

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Touched: Elemental Passions Book One by Skye Turner, Sloane Nicole, April D. Berry, C.J. Pinard, Danielle Jamie, Darlene Tallman, Julie Morgan, Livell James, Machelle Hanleigh, and Melissa MacKinnon – Review by Allyson Ware

Touched (Elemental Passions #1)Touched by Skye Turner
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

When I read the summary of this novel, I expected something different. The characters were good. I believe they were well thought out and flowed well together.

I do, however, feel like the world building could have been better for a fantasy novel. There were many times I could not picture where the characters were or what they were doing.

I was also taken aback by all of the cursing. I understand that here in the United States, many people’s language consists primarily of foul language, but there are so many other adjectives that could have been utilized in my opinion.

Overall, I was left wanting more out of this book. Perhaps I am being too harsh after just reading a different fantasy novel, but this just was not what I was hoping for. And hopefully more details come in the second book in the series! It was a relatively short novel and I feel that a little bit more detail could have gone a long way.

Review by @aware
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Detective Dylan and the Hunt for Home Plate: A Youth Sleuths Chapter Books Series (A Youth Sleuths Chapter Book Series) by MJ Murray and Amanda Letcher – Review by Roxsanne Lesieur.

Detective Dylan and the Hunt for Home Plate (A Youth Sleuths Chapter Book Series, #2)Detective Dylan and the Hunt for Home Plate by M.J. Murray
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This book sees the return of Detective Dylan, his sister Emily and dog Theodore and this time, they are off to the local park to practice playing ball, it is a Saturday and a lot of the local kids go there to practice, however, when they get there, the coach can’t find the home plate and without this and the other plates, they can’t practice.

Fortunately, Dylan has brought his detective kit from the Youth Sleuths and so Dylan, Emily and Theodore head out into the park to investigate where the plate has gone and who had taken it, but as with all investigations, the answer is not as straightforward as it seems.

Will the trio be able to fund the plates and save the day, or will practice just have to be postponed until they are returned another day? This is a wonderful way to show the importance of communities, collaboration, fun and of course, investigating where you will follow along on the hunt and discover lots of other things along the way.

Reviewed by @roxsannel

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Touched: Elemental Passions Book One by Skye Turner, Sloane Nicole, April D. Berry, C.J. Pinard, Danielle Jamie, Darlene Tallman, Julie Morgan, Livell James, Machelle Hanleigh, and Melissa MacKinnon – Review by Charlene Pryke

Touched (Elemental Passions #1)Touched by Skye Turner
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Touched is the first book in this series and I cannot wait for book two! This is the story of Aeris – a naughty fae who leaves the safety of her home in Laric and explores earth and the human world. She finds her kindred Callum by accident when he can “see” her when no human should be able to. Callum turns out to be sylth and as a part of the story discovers his magical powers and helps to save Laric. The war has only just started so let’s see what book two holds?

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Sugar & Spice (Spicetopia Book 1) by Phoebe Alexander – Review by Roxsanne Lesieur.

Sugar & Spice (Spicetopia Book 1)Sugar & Spice by Phoebe Alexander
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Cy Sweet is the youngest son of the Sweet family, owners of the Sweetopia family friendly theme park, he is one of three and is a typical young man who lives his life without any worries about money, just where he can next go study architecture, the arts and anything else which takes his fancy, he is always thought of as the lazy one by his family, someone who doesn’t really contribute anything and now he is being told that he has to start pulling his weight. Jolie Cox is a woman with a family of her own, with two sons and lives with her mum and they are a very close family, she does everything she can to look after them, including working long hours at two jobs and making ends meet, her main job being at Sweetopia, playing their main character the Red Velvet Queen.

One day, the Sweets hold a family meeting where Cy is told that there is a rebellion forming within Sweetopia and that rumours of strikes and boycotts have come to the families attention, so Cy is told that he is going in undercover to try and work out who the ringleaders are, how they are being organised and where, so he dons a disguise and is sent into the bakery as a seasonal temp so that he can find out the information his family wants and he also has a strict time limit to find this all out. Meanwhile, Jolie is having to organise her work hours so that she can care for her son who is having to go into hospital again so that he can get his treatment for his Cystic Fibrosis, as well as looking after her other son between appointment in her second job and it is exhausting for her, not to mention the guilt she feels for having to ask her mum for help the whole time.

This is where Cy goes wandering in the employee corridors before his shift and it is also when he meets the Red Velvet Queen for the first time, he is stunned by her and cannot help but sneak into the throne room and pay her a visit and Jolie is immediately taken with him too, he seems to be her ideal type, so when he starts to meet her in her dressing room, she is open to a bit of fun and so is Cy, but neither can afford to become too attached. As the two become better acquainted, Cy is beginning to see things through a new lens and it has him shocked, but will he be able to root out the rebellious coworkers and figure out who the ringleader is and what will happen between himself and Jolie if what they have is built on secrets? This is a steamy romance where secrets and lies are currency and feelings grow in a bed of deceit, but what happens when the truth comes out is something you will have to read through this enticing book to find out.

Reviewed by @roxsannel

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