Swindler’s Revenge (The Karina Cardinal Mysteries Book 5) by Ellen Butler – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

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Swindler's RevengeSwindler’s Revenge by Ellen Butler
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Swindler’s Revenge is Book Five in the Karina Cardinal Mysteries Series. Karina’s newest adventure finds her single after her and her FBI boyfriend Mike broke up. Now he is in a heap of trouble after being accused of taking a large bribe and running away with 1.2 million dollars. On the run as a wanted fugitive only adds to making him look guilty. As his ex-girlfriend, Karina is also someone of interest to the FBI. Although Mike is her ex, Karina does not believe for a second that he is guilty of taking the bribe. It seems that someone dangerous is determined to frame Mike and Karina is equally determined to clear Mike’s name and get to the bottom of who is responsible. The situation becomes intense as Karina delves into the case with the help of some friends. This book had danger, drama, mystery, tension, action, suspense, witty banter, and a bit of romance. I love how feisty, determined, strong, and independent Karina is. Bring on Book Number Six!

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Wicked Ends: A Dark College Bully Romance (Hidden Valley Elite Series, Book 8 ) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Shannen Kern

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Wicked Ends (Hidden Valley Elite #8)Wicked Ends by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I am so sad to see this series end as it has been one of my very favorites for the entire year. It is a phenomenal end though and all good things must end, right? I do not always read series in order, but this is definitely one I would take note of and start from the beginning. There is too much that would be missed and would probably lead to a lot of confusion. This book focuses on Shane and Winter, and it picks up right where the previous book ended, which I love! We finally get resolution that had been built-up in Wicked Games though it is not just a smooth ride by any means. I also enjoyed the fact that we got to catch up with the other couples from different books in the series. I highly recommend this entire series with the only one bad note…you will definitely have a book/series hangover!

Reviewed by @shannlynn

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Pharoah’s Forgery (The Karina Cardinal Mysteries Book 4) by Ellen Butler – Review by

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Pharaoh's Forgery: Karina Goes on Vacation (The Karina Cardinal Mysteries Book 4)Pharaoh’s Forgery: Karina Goes on Vacation by Ellen Butler
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Pharoah’s Forgery is Book Four in the Karina Cardinal Mysteries Series. It is a cozy mystery following the adventures of Karina Cardinal. In her latest adventure she finds herself in Mexico where she is hoping to relax and soak up the sun. However, the mystery package she has been asked to bring by her neighbor. The seemingly innocent package turns out to be a magnet for all sorts of criminal elements which leads Karina into a world of danger. Karina and her friend Rodrigo find themselves facing certain death and it could mean the end for them both. This book had action, suspense, mystery, drama, danger, suspense, humor, crooks, killers, swindlers, and an ancient Egyptian death mask. The characters are unique, quirky, lovable, and feisty. Bring on Book Five!

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In Plain Sight (Logan McKenna Mystery Series Book 8) by Valerie Davisson – Review by Crystal Brehant

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In Plain Sight: A Logan McKenna Mystery Book 8In Plain Sight: A Logan McKenna Mystery Book 8 by Valerie Davisson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The 8th book in the Logan McKenna series. Of course, another hit. I feel like I really have come to know Logan as if she were a friend. The author’s writing makes you feel that way. I love how in each book, there is a completely different main topic. You learn about more than just Logan and what she is up to. I said it before, but I will be sad when this series ends.

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Master Sardinia (Masters of the Consulate Book 8) by Sylvia Black – Review by Shannen Kern

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Master SardiniaMaster Sardinia by Sylvia Black
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Each book from this author is a treat, and this one was no different. The entire Master of the Consulate series is marvelous but Master Sardinia has been my favorite thus far. As with each book, this follows the dark paranormal romance in a mafia-like vampire realm with plenty of drama, danger, steamy scenes, and surprises hidden throughout. While you can read this as a standalone, you should read from the beginning to get the full experience of each installment. I really enjoyed the suspense and bonds that are detailed with such expertise by this author. I cannot wait to see what the next book has in store for us!

Reviewed by @shannlynn

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Diamonds and Deception (The Karina Cardinal Mysteries Book 3) by Ellen Butler – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

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Diamonds & Deception (Karina Cardinal Mystery, #3)Diamonds & Deception by Ellen Butler
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Diamonds and Deception is Book Three in the Karina Cardinal Mysteries Series. It is a cozy mystery with action, adventure, danger, mystery, suspense, secrets, lies, and a diamond heist. Karina again finds herself in the middle of a mystery when her sister calls her asking for help. Their friend has been accused of stealing some diamonds and Karina and her sister are determined to clear her name. As the two sisters delve into the case, they come face to face with criminal elements that would have been better off left alone. The tension and suspense escalate as the secrets and lies are revealed. The storyline is intriguing and really draws you in because it has been so well written and clearly well researched. The character of Karina is smart, strong, feisty, and determined. I look forward to reading Book Four.

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Master Sardinia (Masters of the Consulate Book 8) by Sylvia Black – Review by Rebeca Elliott Figueiras

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Master SardiniaMaster Sardinia by Sylvia Black
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is the eighth book in the Masters of the Consulate series. Each book focuses on a different Master and their other half, but the underlying story continues throughout the series, so I would recommend reading them in order.
There is an element of enemies to lovers between Master Sardinia and Madria. The latter having a hatred of vampires when they meet. A common goal brings them together fighting again the rogues. There are obstacles in their way to each other and I enjoyed seeing how the pair navigated these.
The writing flows really well and the description narration paints a vivid picture of characters and scenery alike. The characters were well-written, complex and undergo development which I love in a story.
I again enjoyed the continuation of the underlying story, and the addition the couple bring to the collective team. I can’t get enough of this series and don’t think it will be possible to get bored of it. I look forward to more!

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Baking a Bicycle (Invisible Magic Wand Book 7) by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Crystal Brehant

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Baking a Bicycle: Invisible Magic Wand Book SevenBaking a Bicycle: Invisible Magic Wand Book Seven by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

My son and I always enjoy reading Lois Wickstrom books. This one was another book in the Invisible Wand series. It’s a fun magical series about a boy and his grandpa celebrating the boys Unbirthday. Caspian wants a bicycle. But, You don’t get normal gifts for an UNbirthday! What will they cook up this time?!

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Quick Affirmations for Children (Quick Affirmations Series) by Kim Ann & Yobe Qui – Review by Jessie Hopkins

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This is such a fun book. I loved the messages that it gives to children and my daughter enjoyed the illustrations. It sparked good conversation with her regarding why affirmations are important and how hearing herself say those things made her feel.
It is another way to make the alphabet fun and interactive.
Definitely recommend to anyone with children.

Master Sardinia: Dark Vampire Romance (Masters of the Consulate Book 8) by Sylvia Black – Review by Roxsanne Lesieur.

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Master SardiniaMaster Sardinia by Sylvia Black
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Master Sardinia is one of the Masters of the Consulate under Overmaster Descallia and he has just found out that the shifters and rogue vampires they have been chasing have bedded down in his territory and he is on the warpath. When he is notified that some are attempting a takeover of one of his exclusive clubs, he heads straight there with some of the other masters to take care of things, but what he doesn’t expect is to get an earful from the owner’s daughter.

Madria is a headstrong young woman with a head for numbers and a hatred of all thing’s vampire, especially given what has just happened in the club she is a part owner of; however, she is a firecracker and doesn’t mince her words when confronting the bloodsucker in charge of the whole mess. She makes her displeasure known, so Master Sardinia doesn’t have a choice but to try and teach her some manners, followed by taking her to the surviving shifters so that they can find out where they are all hiding.

The interrogation doesn’t go to plan when Madria is attacked and Master Sardinia has no choice but to turn her, especially when it is possible that she could be a deciding factor in this war with the traitors. Madria is beyond angry once she wakes up from the transition, however, her part becomes clear when she talks of the past and how it has influenced her present, however, when it is revealed that she sees a vision of the future, it is filled with blood, darkness and doom. While Master Sardinia is trying to figure out what the future holds while trying to calm the magnetic attraction between himself and Madria, it is clear that when the inevitable clash arrives, he will do what he can to protect her, but will it be enough to keep them both alive long enough to see where the future takes them, or will another of the filthy rogues try and take her away?

This is another dark vampire romance where lies, deceit and secrets create a slowly tightening noose around the Masters and their women as they fight for those under their protection in one of their most fierce battles yet, which will leave you hooked until you find out whether they win or not.

Reviewed by @roxsannel

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Grave Digger Academy III (Grave Digger Academy Series) by C.A. King – Review by Samantha Snow

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Grave Digger Academy IIIGrave Digger Academy III by C.A. King
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

🤩 Book 3 is here && O-M-G, SOOOOO glad I gave this series a chance! 🥰 I loved Book 1 annnd Book 2 and even more so Book 3!! Was sooo looking forward to this installment, and am ever so happy with what I read! I was invested and super excited when this book was out for me to finish the story I started …LOL The characters were nothing short of amazing, the plotline, story was superb ♥️ The author is now on my top fave list!! 😊

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Ghost Takes A Vacation (Genie and Adriana Darling Cozy Paranormal Ghost Mysteries Book 2) by Carmen Radtke – Review by Jennifer Crain

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Ghost Takes A VacationGhost Takes A Vacation by Carmen Radtke
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I recently read “Ghost Takes a Vacation” by Carmen Radtke, as a standalone (have not read #1), and I must say, it was a delightful and entertaining read. The story follows Genie Darling, who finds herself on an adventure in Italy when some of her late great-great-aunt’s belongings go up for auction.

The author does a fantastic job of creating a vivid and atmospheric setting in Tuscany. The descriptions of the scenery and the Italian culture made me feel like I was right there alongside Genie. The addition of the ghostly element adds a unique twist to the story, and it adds a touch of humor and charm.

The plot is well-paced, and there is never a dull moment. It kept me guessing until the very end, as Genie and her ghost sidekick try to uncover the truth behind the arson and the murder.

The characters are also well-developed and likable. Genie is a strong and determined protagonist, and her interactions with the ghost of her great-great-aunt are both humorous and endearing.

One aspect that I particularly enjoyed about this book is the witty dialogue and humorous banter between the characters. It had me chuckling throughout the story and added a light-hearted touch to the murder mystery.

Overall, “Ghost Takes a Vacation” is an enjoyable and engaging read. It combines elements of mystery, humor, and a touch of the supernatural, making it a perfect choice for anyone looking for a fun and entertaining cozy mystery. I highly recommend it to fans of paranormal mysteries and those who enjoy a lighthearted and atmospheric read.

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Slay It With A Diamond (Diamond District Mystery Book 3) by Rob Bates – Review by Amanda Gonzalez

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Slay It With a Diamond (Diamond District Mystery Book 3)Slay It With a Diamond by Rob Bates
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Book three of the Diamond District Mystery Series, this book focuses on the mystery of a supposedly cursed diamond. Mimi, the main character and sleuthing journalist, works with her diamond dealer father, and her fiancé cop to solve a murder left in the wake of the diamond. I started reading this series with this book, which can easily be read as a stand-alone, though I now have the first two books on my to-be-read list after reading this adventure. Though the beginning did start slower than I’d like typically, the approach did work for this book – especially seeing as this is the first of the series I’ve had the pleasure to read. I enjoyed the build-up of the story and the character interactions and dynamics the author showcased.

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The Christmas Carousel (The Brass Ring Series Book 2) by K. L. Small – Review by Donya Pedigo

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The Christmas Carousel (The Brass Ring Series, Book 2)The Christmas Carousel by K.L. Small
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This second installment reunites us with Russell aka Rusty as Christmas fast approaches and he tries to find the perfect gift to give to his grandfather since he was so kind to give him the magical brass ring that makes any carousel come to life allowing him to live numerous adventures. Unfortunately for Rusty everything takes money so he needs to earn some.

Hoping the various animals on Santa’s Christmas Carousel can help him find a gift he begins saving money to ride it. As he rides the carousel he encounters different animals stories and different aspects of Christmas that they have witnessed. Still trying to find a gift for his grandfather each animals story draws him one step further into learning the true meaning of Christmas. Is Christmas really in a store bought gift or is it in the hearts and faith of men, women, and children everywhere?

K. L. Small has outdone herself with this magical Christmas tale that will resonate with so many readers. This story is a definite favorite of mine and I can not wait til my grandchild gets older to read it to them.

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

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Secrets at the CafeSecrets at the Cafe by Susan Specht Oram
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Secrets at the Cafe” by Susan Specht Oram is an interesting mystery with an enthralling plot centered around a loved one’s missing journal. Karina, the main character, goes on an adventure to uncover the truth behind her grandmother’s missing journal. The reader can feel the heartache of grief as Karina struggles to come to terms with juggling the cafe her grandma owned and finding the journal. I have read several of this author’s novels and enjoy her writing!

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Murky Murder (A Maid Ivy Cozy Mystery Book) by Hazel Smith – Review by Kerry Baker

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

This is a fun murder mystery story with a unique heroine and setting. Maid Ivy is a great character, and perfect to head up this book. She is relatable and engaging – the type of character you can’t help but root for.
When I started this book, I didn’t realise it was the fourth in the series. However, it can easily be read as a standalone, although I will certainly be going back to read the rest. The story is well written, intriguing and a thoroughly enjoyable read. This is a fantastic book.

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The Magic Carousel (The Brass Ring Series Book 1) by K. L. Small – Review by Donya Pedigo

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The Magic Carousel (The Brass Ring #1)The Magic Carousel by K.L. Small
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is such a wonderful magical read that you don’t want to miss. This book has it all magic, historical knowledge, adventure, time travel, and a brave 10 year old learning to trust himself and believe in himself as he faces adversity.

Feeling almost neglected Russell is forced to move to the unfinished basement of his home, because his grandfather has come to live with them. He is already feeling bad and his grades are slipping when he has to deal with his former friend now bullying him on a daily basis. The last thing Russell wants to do is babysit his grandfather by walking him to the park carousel everyday, but his mother insists. When Russell tells his grandfather that he can’t take him to the park anymore his grandfather picks two carousel horses for them to ride and shares with Russell the magic of the brass ring!

K. L. Small has written an imaginative captivating book that will capture the hearts of readers everywhere, me included. Your imagination and spark will light up as you read this book causing you to dream and get excited! I can’t wait to see what’s instore next for our brave 10 year old and his adorable grandfather with his eccentric stories!

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Dangerous Rhythm (The Echo Series Book 4) by C.R. Alam – Review by Kerry Baker

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Dangerous Rhythm (The Echo Series, #4)Dangerous Rhythm by C.R. Alam
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This book is a truly exiting book to read. It isn’t your typical rockstar / bodyguard romance story, and not just because the heroine is the bodyguard. This one goes beyond the passion and chemistry to bring a brilliant story that keeps the pages turning. The whole series has been great so far and this book shows it will just keep getting better and better.
The characters fit so well with the story and their connection was instant. It was great to see that develop as the story went on. I loved this book and thought it was a great addition to the series. I cannot wait for more.

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Wicked Ends: A Dark College Bully Romance (Hidden Valley Elite Series, Book 8 ) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Jenni Bishop

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Wicked Ends (Hidden Valley Elite #8)Wicked Ends by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Isla does it again and again. This time it is with the delectably dark Wicked Ends. Wicked Ends is the explosive second book in this duet, but it is the eighth book in a series. Am I addicted. Yes I am!
This is one series that I have not been able to stay away from. I am sad to see the series end, but I have enjoyed the Hidden Valley Elite boys. I wonder if the wicked and darkness of these boys will carry over into a new series with them being older. Mmmmmmm food for thought Isla.
Shane may be one of the Elite but underneath it all he has a heart of gold. He is being pulled from pillar to post and it is that that could lead him further down the path of darkness.
Winter has had a life of darkness and one she thought she left behind. Together they could be toxic but apart they aren’t whole.
There is a lot of back and forth between these characters and some surprisingly shocking twisty turns that you don’t want to miss.
Revenge is a bittersweet thing!

Reviewed by @jennadb

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Bad at Being Good (An MM Brother’s Best Friend Romance) by A.L. Morrow – Review by Marie Collins

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Bad at Being GoodBad at Being Good by A.L. Morrow
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Milo and Benji are adorable. They’ve both been through so much, but they still push through. Against all odds, they can’t help but come back to each other. There were moments I was laughing out loud, and others where I was shaking my head and rolling my eyes. I’m glad I read this book.

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Unexpected by Laylah Abrams – Review by Jenni Bishop

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UnexpectedUnexpected by Laylah Abrams
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Unexpected by Laylah Abrams is a modern-day fairytale contemporary romance. Having not read anything by this author before and I was interested to see what she brought to the table. I was not disappointed.
This fun tale has a bit of everything that you need to make it an enjoyable read. With a little drama, a touch of angst, a smattering of longing, a bit of humour and everything in between this tale will draw you into the journey. There was some pouting, some heavy sighs and some laughter as I turned the pages. I had to know how it ended for these two star crossed lovers.
UNEXPECTED of two people who could not be more different and live in totally different worlds. The wonderful characters are well written and make you feel like you have a connection with them and all their troubles, wants and needs.
Claire has brains and beauty, but brains apparently don’t mean much when you are an heiress. All they see is wealth and pomp but not truly the girl underneath it all.
Like all artists Nick is in a funk but that is about to change when he crosses paths with a beautiful woman.
Can two people from different worlds find more than they ever thought? To find out you will have to give it a read.

Reviewed by @jennadb

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Master Sardinia (Masters of the Consulate Book 8) by Sylvia Black – Review by Kerry Carr

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Master SardiniaMaster Sardinia by Sylvia Black
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is the 8th book in the Masters of the Consulate series. These books have just gone from strength to strength. I love how each book focuses on one of the Vampire Masters and their journey towards finding their love as well as a story that runs through all the books of the battle between the Vampire masters and the Rogues who are out to destroy the peaceful way of life the Masters currently have.

This book starts off with the Masters heading to Sardinia and Master Sardinia’s territory to find the rogues. While they are on their mission they meet a psychic Madria. Madria already has a deep hatred for vampires after her ancestors were killed by them but when shifters attack and she ends up hurt she realises that as much as she hates them she can’t allow the rogues to carry on harming innocent people. And of course there is the fact that she has an insane attraction to Master Sardinia that makes things even more confusing.
They both know they need to work together if they stand any chance of defeating the rogues but when past secrets and histories are revealed will Sardinia be able to protect the one women he is falling for or will the truth push her further away from him.

This is an enemies to lovers paranormal romance. I have loved this series from the beginning. It contains elements I love such as strong possessive deadly vampires, shifters, witches, good vs evil, danger, secrets, lies and betrayal as well as attraction and passion so strong that neither person can deny it even when everything in their body wants them to.
This was another great addition and I can’t wait for more.

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Finding Your Heart by Nadia Han – Review by Heather Goodman

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Finding Your Heart: A Journal for Discovering Your HeartFinding Your Heart: A Journal for Discovering Your Heart by Nadia Han
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This book is a great journal to dig deeper into yourself and focus on the positive. It helps you in letting go of things you need to let go of and get rid of the negativity in your life. The authors very detailed pages really help you look at things in a new light. The artwork is breathtaking.

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Baking a Bicycle (Invisible Magic Wand Book 7) by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Tori Mitton

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<a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/123985221-baking-a-bicycle” style=”float: left; padding-right: 20px”><img border=”0″ alt=”Baking a Bicycle: Invisible Magic Wand Book Seven” src=”https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1680051476l/123985221._SX98_.jpg” /></a><a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/123985221-baking-a-bicycle”>Baking a Bicycle: Invisible Magic Wand Book Seven</a> by <a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/331633.Lois_Wickstrom”>Lois Wickstrom</a><br/>
My rating: <a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/6014320946″>5 of 5 stars</a><br /><br />
Caspian wanted a bicycle for his un irthday. Grandpa left an envelope of magic. Caspian finds the recipe for everything him and grandpa need to bake a bicycle. They bake each part one at a time and sprinkle magic dust on each part.<br />This was absolutely adorable, me and my kiddo love the unbirthday
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Bad at Being Good (An MM Brother’s Best Friend Romance) by A.L. Morrow – Review by Amelia Stansell

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Bad at Being GoodBad at Being Good by A.L. Morrow
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This was a really good book. Grief is big emotion in this book. It brought some of these characters together in a forbidden romance. Milo loves Benji, but for Benji Milo is off limits as promised to his best friend Kellen. When Kellen passes Benji and Milo find comfort in each other. Is it enough love and comfort to last?

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Wicked Ends: A Dark College Bully Romance (Hidden Valley Elite Series, Book 8 ) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Barbara Bohls

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Wicked Ends (Hidden Valley Elite #8)Wicked Ends by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

If I could give more than 5 stars, I would. This is an amazing ending to the duet and the entire series. It picks up right where Wicked Games ended. I would not start the series with this book. I think that is a given but I am just saying it. All of the books should be read in order in this series to really grasp onto the characters and their struggles. This book gave me some twists and turn from previous books that I didn’t see coming. It is what kept me on the edge of my seat reading this book. I loved seeing the other characters of the series in this book. I love the secrets that were revealed and it made me fall even more in love with this series. This book has the mystery, the steam, the amazing character development, closure, and suspense that make it a page turner. I couldn’t put the book down. I got mad at anyone who dare try to talk to me while I was reading. It is that good!!!! This series will be one that I will continue to reread, probably every year. I feel that with this book it almost makes you want to reread the whole series just to see if you can pick up on any hints throughout the other books that you missed the first time. This book is highly addictive and into it knowing you aren’t going to get much done but reading.
Reviewed by: @bbohls

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The Christmas Carousel (The Brass Ring Series Book 2) by K. L. Small – Review by Brandy Rymer

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The Christmas Carousel (The Brass Ring Series, Book 2)The Christmas Carousel by K.L. Small
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

What a wonderful continuation to The Brass Ring Series. I loved that this book picks up right around the time that we had left off in the first book of this series, not leaving us waiting any longer to hear more about Rusty and Grandpa. This book is such an amazing read, it has action, adventure, feel-good moments, and lessons to learn about the benefits of doing good deeds. I love the beautiful bond that is built within this series between a boy and his grandfather, and the joy that they get to share in their bonds over a mysterious brass ring. The tales that they both share from their experiences and the love that they develop are so magical all in themselves. I highly recommend this book series to anyone young or old, who enjoys a story that takes them to mythical times and places, where anything is possible, and choices made do not go unrewarded. The descriptions within the book are so detailed, that it’s easy to draw a picture within your mind as if you are the main character experiencing all of the magic around you. I love the illustrations as well; they are such a nice touch to bring the story to life. What a great book to read during this holiday season!
@Brandy Rymer
11/2023

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Raining Fish and Frogs by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Dr. Anya Schultz

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Raining Fish and FrogsRaining Fish and Frogs by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Raining Fish and Frogs is a story that introduces some aspects of science in a silly way. It starts with a person wanting fried trout for breakfast, and to get this he has to fish for his breakfast. Nothing was biting, but a freakish wind came along and sucked up all the water from the lake. The wind and “tornado” like thing got stronger and headed for the town. When the funnel couldn’t hold another thing, it started to rain, but it started to rain all the things is sucked up. Fish and frogs started falling from the sky, water even filled the lake once again. However, what would you know, a fish landed right in front of the person’s home and fried fish for breakfast was now possible. The science portion, at the end of the book, talks about how tornados work. This was a cute book that kids would find silly, and funny, but also informative. The illustrations were also really cute.

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I Am A Bold Asian Boy (Asian Family Series) by Yobe Qiu – Review by Dr. Anya Schultz

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I Am a Bold Asian Boy: A Positive Affirmation Book for Asian Boys (Asian Family Series)I Am a Bold Asian Boy: A Positive Affirmation Book for Asian Boys by Yobe Qiu
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This was an uplifting book that promoted positive affirmation in Asian boys (although the affirmation can be used for any culture). Throughout the book, an Asian boy talks about all the great things he is and can do. He talks about being bold, brave, big-hearted, etc. that would help any child bring joy and words of kindness to themselves. I loved how the book didn’t provide this boy with a problem at the beginning to overcome, the book goes straight into a self-love mentality which I am here for. If you have a son or boy who is feeling down on themselves, this could be a great read for encouragement, especially for Asian boys. The illustrations are cute too.

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Orenda (The Latitude Series) by T.S. Simons – Review by Jennifer Gordon

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Orenda (The Latitude Series Book 2)Orenda by T.S. Simons
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

An enjoyable and gripping dystopian romance which continues the ‘Latitude’ series of novels. Once again, I was back with Caitlin and her husband Gio who were now traveling to Canada, to take on new roles as ambassadors for the ACC. Caitlin is a natural leader and is respected by her people, she is bridging the gap between the communities and offering them new opportunities. However, as Caitlin and Gio build a life for their new family, an old enemy return’s which threatens their security. As loyalties are challenged and a betrayal leads to tragedy, Caitlin is forced to draw on her ‘Orenda’ before it threatens to destroy them both. “Orenda is a First Nations Iroquois belief that all natural objects and people possess a mystical energy”. This force allows Caitlin to effect change in the world and manifest transformations. As usual I was transported to the wonderfully detailed dystopian world which is brought vividly to life through the descriptive narrative. I was fully immersed in the storyline and engaged with the main characters, Caitlin and Gio. I personally think this series of books need to be read in order. I also recommend the series that goes before this one.

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