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Amaleigha Loves a Good Story by Janice Pratt – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

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Amaleigha Loves a Good StoryAmaleigha Loves a Good Story by Janice Pratt
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Amaleigha is a little girl who loves to read books. She visits her school library often and reads as many stories as she can. One day while visiting her school library Amaleigha discovers that there seems to be a shortage of books written in different languages. There are no books available to read for those from different countries that have come to live in her community. Amaleigha comes up with a plan and with the help of her school and her community they set out to solve this problem.

Amaleigha is a smart little girl that is wise beyond her years. She is great at problem solving and comes up with solutions before putting a plan into motion. Amaleigha is a true inspiration for children of all ages. This book was beautifully written, and the illustrations were exquisite. A must read for all ages!

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Taming Beckett (The Playmakers Series Hockey Romances Book 1) by G.K. Brady – Review by Barbara Bohls

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Taming Beckett (The Playmakers, #1)Taming Beckett by G.K. Brady
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I didn’t know what to expect going into this book. I wasn’t sure if we were going to have an affair that led the main female character back to her family or if the bad boy hockey star was going to ruin a marriage and return to hockey. I know I am shortsighted when those were the only two outcomes I could think of. Let’s begin the journey that I took through this book without giving away anything (it can be done). So going in, I was already a little miffed with this book just because of the before mentioned outcomes that I could think of. I instantly fell in love with Beckett and Paige. They are both facing obstacles that would be tough for anyone to go through. I did not even fathom what was going to happen in this book and I am glad that I decided to give this book a chance. The love story that unfolds throughout the pages is amazing. There are parts of the book that made me wrinkle my nose because I didn’t care for what was happening but I persevered through the book and it has the most amazing ending I didn’t even think would be possible. I have to give this a 5 star rating because the author did an amazing job with touchy subject matter. It really made me realize that there is away more to the picture than just what can be seen in the black and white. They grey area that lives around what can and should be done is where this story thrives. This book made me feel as if I was part of the story. I even got snippy with anyone who tried to dare interrupt me while reading this. The author has shown me that I must give every book a chance even. if I think I know what is going to happen. Whether the ending was one that I predicted or something completely different, when you read this book you will enjoy the journey the characters take and the amount of growth they have. The book is really well written and kept me turning pages. There is some angst, some steam, love, heartache, and growth all throughout this book. You will not be disappointed with this read.

Reviewed by: @bbohls
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Degrees of Innocence: Dark Mafia Romance (Cruel Deceptions Book 1) By Via Mari – Review by Helen Dawkins

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Degrees of Innocence (Prestian Series, #1)Degrees of Innocence by Via Mari
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Wonderful book. This is the first book, out of four, in the “Prestian Series”. I wouldn’t technically consider this first book as a dark Mafia romance, there is no mention of Chase Prestian being Mafia or even a criminal until the VERY VERY end of the book. While it’s hinted he may have some shady business, it’s never, not once confirmed. It isn’t a very dark romance either in my opinion, the only thing I’d say that may categorize it as such is that Chase is overbearing and a tad controlling. It is still a great regular romance book though, which is why I still gave it 4 stars. Kate is the main female character and I absolutely love how headstrong she is but at the same time so very naive and gentle. The attraction and connection between the two main characters is definitely spicy and they can’t seem to keep each other at more than an arms length. I loved the background story line of them creating a brand new hospital for Chicago, it really makes the story more intriguing, so it is not just straight romance and smut. Cannot wait to read book two, and hopefully it is more detailed on the Mafia side of the story.

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Amaleigha and the Big Idea by Janice Pratt – Review by Barbara Bohls

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Amaleigha and the Big IdeaAmaleigha and the Big Idea by Janice Pratt
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is a super cute story. It can be enjoyed by both little kids and adults. It shows how with a little work big things can happen. I think this a lesson that everyone needs to be reminded of every now and then. The amazing illustrations in this book really help showcase the authors words. This book also touches on being seen as weird to others because the main character is wrapped up in what she loves. It shows that just because people don’t see things the same way doesn’t mean that everyone can’t enjoy them. Amaleigha wants to share her love for the outdoors with the world and her big thinking can help get that accomplished.
This is a super cute short read that has some valuable life lessons that everyone can relate to. I highly recommend reading this book to yourself and your kids.

Reviewed by: @bbohls
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Amaleigha and the Big Idea by Janice Pratt – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

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Amaleigha and the Big IdeaAmaleigha and the Big Idea by Janice Pratt
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Amaleigha is a five-year-old girl who loves to spend time in her backyard forest. She will sit for hours and watch how the animals play. One day while outdoors enjoying her time in nature Amaleigha comes up with a big idea on how she can share what she loves with others. She enlists the help of friends and family to make her idea become a reality.

Amaleigha is smart, determined and a real go-getter. She might be only five years old, but she has some big ideas that she needs to share with her community. This book is intended for young children, but I feel that it conveys a strong message about the importance of following your dreams, at any age. It also shows what great things can be accomplished when people work together to make them a reality. The illustrations are beautiful, and each scene is so descriptive that the reader cannot help but become fully immersed into the story. A must read for children of all ages!

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Practically Pagan – An Alternative Guide to Magical Living by Maria DeBlassie – Review by Brittany Angel

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Practically Pagan - An Alternative Guide to Magical LivingPractically Pagan – An Alternative Guide to Magical Living by Maria DeBlassie
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I went into this book thinking it would have some more alternative pagan practices and how that application applies to your day to day life. Only this reads much more like a self help book for those stuck in a rut and looking for a way out with a magical aspect. It is written very well and has a lot of information on what needs to be unlearned in your journey to make room for more fulfilling things. Would be great for anyone looking to make changes in their lives and to connect with the divine feminine.

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Painter of the Damned (Painted Souls Book 2) by Rob Samborn – Review by Tori Mitton

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<a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/61959944-painter-of-the-damned” style=”float: left; padding-right: 20px”><img border=”0″ alt=”Painter of the Damned (Painted Souls, #2)” src=”https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1660439568l/61959944._SX98_.jpg” /></a><a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/61959944-painter-of-the-damned”>Painter of the Damned</a> by <a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/21829341.Rob_Samborn”>Rob Samborn</a><br/>
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Oh goodness this book is so good! It’s the 2nd book in the series.<br />Nick and his wife Julia are trying to get home from Venice from their nightmare vacation. Nick is determined to get back to normal but his old soulmate is still stuck in Venice. Will Nick and Julia be able to get out and go back to normal? I loved the first book, this second one is soo good. I love how visually pleasing it is, the descriptions make you feel like you are right there watching everything happen.
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Degrees of Innocence: Dark Mafia Romance (Cruel Deceptions Book 1) By Via Mari – Review by Brittany Angel

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Degrees of Innocence (Prestian Series, #1)Degrees of Innocence by Via Mari
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Degrees of Innocence is the first novel in the Cruel Deceptions series. While at a resort preparing for a week-long training and development session for a new medical center, Katarina meets a mysterious stranger named Chase under interesting circumstances. She soon learns that he isn’t entirely who he says he is thus starting a whirlwind of drama and pure lust. This feels very 50 Shades of Grey adjacent as Chase is very much Elijah from the vampire diaries and Christian Grey morphed into one man. While Katarina is a sweet, innocent, career driven woman.This was a quick, entertaining read that can absolutely be read in one sitting plus there are several books in this series ready to be devoured.

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Beast (Popov Bratva Book 5) by Leslie Georgeson – Review by Barbara Bohls

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Beast (Popov Bratva #5)Beast by Leslie Georgeson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This book is a very easy to read book. It went quickly for me because I couldn’t put it down. The characters grasped me by the heart strings in the very beginning. This book has its share of drama and edge of the seat suspense. The characters have trauma and growth. This book hits on everything that I enjoy in a book. It gives the characters a voice, almost as if they are speaking to the author in person. The details in the book are in a class above most. Being able to actually visualize the events in the books AND feel the emotions that the characters have makes this book one that can’t be put down. You will feel yourself giving off the emotions of the characters to anyone who dares to try to talk to you while reading it. Tears to raging anger and everything in-between is the emotional roller coaster you will go on. I highly suggest this book to anyone who is wanting to escape from their own reality for a little while. Must read!!!

Reviewed by: @bbohls
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Painter of the Damned (Painted Souls Book 2) by Rob Samborn – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

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Painter of the Damned (Painted Souls, #2)Painter of the Damned by Rob Samborn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Painter of the Damned is Book Two in the Painted Souls Series and picks up where book one left off. Nick and Julia are determined to end their nightmare vacation and return home. They have managed to escape Venice and have almost made it to the American consulate when Interpol captures them and swiftly returns them to Venice. Nick is detained and brought forth on charges, but Julia is allowed to go free.

Determined to rescue her husband, Julia enlists the help of Carlo, the young artist that her and Nick met in Venice during their vacation. However, Julia does not know that Carlo is the order’s new painter, and he now controls those damned to spend eternity in Tintoretto’s Renaissance painting, Paradise.

After reading book one, the Prisoner of Paradise, I knew that I needed to read book two. Book one followed both Nick and Julia, but mainly focused on Nick as he was determined to free his soulmate from the Renaissance painting, Paradise. In this book there are multiple point of views, but the story mainly follows Julia as she fights to save Nick from Interpol and the charges brought forth against him. Julia is strong, smart, determined, and will do anything to save him so they can return home and leave this nightmare behind them.

There is non-stop action and suspense throughout and you can feel the sense of danger that lurks around every corner. The author does an exquisite job of describing each scene in detail so vivid that you can visualize it and feel as though you are there with the characters. A heart-pounding, edge of your seat thrill ride that you must read!

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Shadow Patterns of Melt by J. R. P. Fogg – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

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Shadow Patterns of Melt - Book OneShadow Patterns of Melt – Book One by J.R.P. Fogg
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Nialla and Bishr want to enjoy life to the fullest on their own ship. Ideally, they would like to jump wormholes from system to system. However, in doing so they make a startling discovery that risks the future independence of humankind in space.

This book is a bit more of a serious read and I personally found it a bit hard to really get into. The characters are unique and interesting, and well described. The scenes are vivid, and it is well written. This would be a good book for any avid sci-fi reader.

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The Rom Com Movie Club (The Rom Com Movie Club Book 1) by Bernadette Marie – Review by tori mitton

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<a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/62832401-the-rom-com-movie-club—book-one” style=”float: left; padding-right: 20px”><img border=”0″ alt=”The Rom Com Movie Club – Book One” src=”https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1664570719l/62832401._SX98_.jpg” /></a><a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/62832401-the-rom-com-movie-club—book-one”>The Rom Com Movie Club – Book One</a> by <a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/4046931.Bernadette_Marie”>Bernadette Marie</a><br/>
My rating: <a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/5122229440″>5 of 5 stars</a><br /><br />
Lisa had never had a sleepover so her and her friends do what they call “the monthly romcom movie club” where they all get together and watch a romcom. Tina is getting married and is one of Lisa’s best friends, she is the first one to arrive for movie club. Tina is telling Lisa about wedding stuff and says that her brother in law is now moving in with everyone at Tina’s mother in law’s house. Tina shows a picture of her brother in law to Lisa, of course she’s swooning over him. While Lisa is swooning over a picture of this guy, Mindy and and Ruby show up for movie club.<br />Aaron is Tina’s fiancé, and Ryan is Aaron’s brother. They are hanging out in the garage at their parents house thinking of what to do for the bachelor party. Aaron doesn’t want to do any of the typical things. He suggests axe throwing, or golf cart racing, something fun. Aaron ends up showing a picture of the girls to Ryan, and He is stuck looking at Lisa. That’s when mom walks in with a box of cookies and tells the guys they need to deliver it over to movie club. While the ladies are in face masks watching the movie, all of a sudden the doorbell rings. But Lisa made home made pizzas, Ruby asks if Lisa hired a stripper and they all laugh. Lisa looks out the peep hole. It’s Ryan and Aaron with the box of cookies Tina forgot. Mindy and Tina run down the hall to the bathroom to wash off their face masks. Ruby doesn’t care, she opens the door for the guys while her and Lisa are still in their face masks. Aaron asks Lisa to show Ryan her apartment. She gives him the tour of her small apartment and tells him that she’s a YouTube blogger for her job. Lisa is a good blogger and got an award for it. Ryan asks Lisa to show him what she does for work. So he sets a date for Sunday for her to cook for him and she can blog it. After the guys crash movie night Aaron tells Ryan it’s time to go so the girls can enjoy their night. Lisa thinks nothing of the date, nothing has been long term for her, except her girlfriends. She worked at a coffee shop near campus when Mindy, Ruby, and Tina were attending school. They pulled her into their friend group and kept her around. They traveled places they had seen in their romcom movie nights to go try different places to eat. Romcom night was over, the ladies tidied up Lisa’s apartment before leaving. Lisa wakes up the next day with a wine hang over, and someone is knocking on her door, on a Sunday? Ryan he shows up with two coffees and a bag in his hands. Lisa invites him into her apartment. Ryan couldn’t wait a week to Lisa. They both chat for twenty minutes then Ryan leaves. Lisa was good at meeting people, she had been doing it all her life when she was bounced from one foster family to another.<br />Lisa picks up her phone to go through food options and decides to text Ryan to see if he is allergic to any foods, and they end up bantering back and forth and then Ryan calls. He asks Lisa to a baseball game on Tuesday! She says yes and tells him to be there at noon and she will have lunch ready before the game.
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Dream-Shifter by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

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Dream-ShifterDream-Shifter by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Gwendolyn is not your typical 12-year-old girl. At night when she goes to sleep, she can shift into the shape of any animal that she dreams of. Usually when she wakes up, she is human again. Up until the day there is a fire in her home and a fire alarm wakes her up in the middle of the night. Now Gwendolyn is an elk and is unable to shift back to human form. She is anxious to shift back to human form because she has Journalism camp that she wants to attend. Oh, and there is the problem that it is elk hunting season.

Gwendolyn asks for help from a magician, but he seems to be unable to shift her back. The magician does give her access to his magical library in case there is a book that can help her. Of course, the book she needs has a magical spell on it and she cannot get anywhere near it. Will Gwendolyn shift back to human form before Journalism camp begins? Will she be able to keep safe as an elk from the hunters?

A very cute story geared towards 8–12-year-olds. This book contains magic, drama, and adventure with some twists and turns along the way. Gwendolyn is a remarkable young girl who is smart, funny, and brave despite the odds she is faced with. She knows want she wants and will not be deterred by obstacles that get in her way. A beautiful story about self-discovery and the importance of not giving up.

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Snow in Love by Libby Kay – Review by Barbara Bohls

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Snow in LoveSnow in Love by Libby Kay
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is a great holiday read. It is a fast paced story that keeps you turning the pages. This is exactly what everyone needs during the holiday season. This book is just the right length to feel like you can actually read the whole thing during the holiday season. With always being on the go and places to be, this book would be a great companion on road trips to visit families or to just snuggle on the couch for a few hours. The characters have substantial growth through this quick read. There are obstacles that they have to overcome. It has the classic bad boy that everyone loves and gets our blood pumping right away. The holiday traditions helps melt him enough to be able to fall for the girl of his dreams. I can’t stress enough how amazing this short book is. It is a must read for the holiday season.
Reviewed by: @bbohls

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The Rom Com Movie Club (The Rom Com Movie Club Book 1) by Bernadette Marie – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

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The Rom Com Movie Club - Book OneThe Rom Com Movie Club – Book One by Bernadette Marie
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Ruby, Lisa, Tina, and Mindy have gathered once a month since college for Rom Com movie nights. Their informal club is an opportunity to get together to unwind, share some laughs and de-stress from their everyday lives. On Rom Com Movie Club nights, the four girls use face masks, paint their nails, drink wine, and watch their favorite romantic comedies. Of course, they all want their happily ever after but for most of them it seems to be an unattainable dream.

Then Tina becomes engaged to be married and a chance encounter has Lisa falling head over heels for the brother of her best friend, Tina’s fiancée. Tina does not take it well and feels Lisa is going to ruin her wedding. Lisa is devastated and the friendships she has with the girls feels as though it is in jeopardy. Lisa feels as though these girls are her family so it takes an emotional toll on her to think she may lose them. Now Lisa feels that she must give up her happily ever after or risk losing her best friend.

This was a cute book about friendship and love. The girls had an unbreakable bond until romance was involved and then their friendship was put to the test. A misunderstanding between friends almost came between Tina and Lisa and came close to breaking up the friendship between the four girls. Thankfully, Mindy and Ruby were not willing to let something so trivial come between them. I loved all the characters and the bond they had. I loved the banter the girls had between them and could not help but laugh out loud when there was some name calling involved between them. Knowing it was all meant in a loving and fun way they laughed as well. I enjoyed the character of Ryan and how he fell in love with Lisa, seeing past the wet nails and face mask to see her true beauty.

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Dream-Shifter by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Jaimie Salmon-Colburn

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Dream-ShifterDream-Shifter by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I have never heard of a dream shifter before. I really loved the idea of it and how the author put it into a book that not only I loved, but I think my ten year old will as well. Gwendolyn is a 12-year dream-shifter. She shifts into the animals that she dreams about. Fun right?! Well each night she prepares for the dreams and normally enjoys them. There is one catch to being a dream shifter though. If you wake up normally on your own you shift back to human. BUT if you get woken up suddenly (like from a fire alarm) you stay shifted! Crazy right?! Lets just say that her parents were shocked the first time it happened. Unfortunately, she learns that if you don’t shift back within a few months you get stuck in the form that you last shifted to!! So, she’s leaping around as an Elk and having fun, when she’s bolted awake from the fire alarm. They forgot to turn off the space heater that they used to make smores indoors. Not only is Gwendolyn stuck as an elk now, but their home burned down. To top off her already horrible night, she learns that it’s almost elk season! Which means she has to find a place to hide! Where do you hide an elk?? She’s stuck as an elk with no knowledge on how to turn back and now she must keep away from hunters! Thankfully she can speak English and she still thinks mostly like a girl. But how do you explain this to people? And who would believe her?! Getting the help from a magician that she’s a little scared of is her last resort, but she must. He gives her access to his magical library which she finds out that her grandmother’s written books are part of! Maybe she can find some answers finally!! He does end up having a book that might help, but for some reason she can’t get near it. Oh odd!! Will Gwendolyn spend the rest of her life as an Elk? Will she get hunted and killed during the season?! Hiding out at the magician’s house, putting on magic shows for kids to pay for room and board is just the start to this fun and interesting book!! I got sucked in and I hope my daughter will as well. I’m excided to share it with her. If you have never heard of a dream-shifter (like me) you are in for a treat!!

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Reviewed by @jaimie0459

The Final Bite by Naomi Valkyrie – Review by Jaimie Salmon-Colburn

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The Final BiteThe Final Bite by Naomi Valkyrie
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This book is a short story that I absolutely LOVED!! I REALLY, REALLY hope that the author decides to either continue it later on or add to it somehow. I would love to read more of this story!! So, every 10 years the Gods choose a paranormal being, who was unjustly killed, and they get a second chance at life. Nice right? Well, there are rules though!! First, you only have three days to find and choose a mate. Second, you can’t use any powers to influence said mate (love potions, mind control, etc etc). Third, you can only choose one person. If that person doesn’t work out for any reason, you go right back to purgatory. No Second Chances within this second chance. Your chance is just lost! And lastly, you have to tell your chosen mate about the challenge and said rules. Maybe not so easy after all! Quinlan is the chosen one this decade and boy oh boy does he have his work cut out for him! The gods have placed him in a hotel, in wolf territory, and in the middle of nowhere. These Gods must be out to get him! At least they gave him three changes of clothes and some cash, but funny thing is that they forgot underwear! What the heck?! Was that on purpose?? What are these silly Gods up to!!? Day one is passing quickly. By the time he catches some animals to eat (as he is a vampire) and looks around the SUPER small town he’s ready to get some sleep and work out a plan for this challenge. Scoping out the town at night might bring some more answers about the town and it’s residents. Will he be able to find a mate time? Three days in a small town with less people could be a big issue. Maybe he needs to take a day to travel somewhere else and up his chances? With not much money he won’t be able to get far. Should he let the alpha in the area know about his challenge? He doesn’t want to tick off the locals and have a wolf war on his hands too! Man oh man you are in for a treat with this one! Like I said it is a short story, but the author packs in some great stuff in those few pages. Give it a shot and see what Quinnlan ends up doing AND what he ends up dealing with.

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Reviewed by @jaimie0459

Borrowed Time by Lane Cohen – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

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Borrowed TimeBorrowed Time by Lane Cohen
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Borrowed time is a story about scientists inventing a time machine using an old movie prop so that they can time travel. The reader travels through various time periods with the characters and are introduced to new characters in different times. It is a truly fascinating read as the characters are faced with moral dilemmas that would inevitably occur when the possibility of changing future timelines is involved. Do they do what they want and change events to better their future and ensure their own happiness? Or is it better to leave events as they had occurred?

I found this book fascinating because I have always enjoyed the concept of time travel. I could not help but wonder what I would do if I could travel back in time. As someone fascinated with tracing my family tree, I personally would love to travel back in time and meet some of my ancestors so I could learn more about them. But how would that effect my future? The author did a great job of writing historical details and conveying the emotions and thoughts of each character through their individual stories. An interesting read!

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The Final Bite by Naomi Valkyrie – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

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The Final BiteThe Final Bite by Naomi Valkyrie
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Quinnlan Trinity has been chosen from the paranormal world to get a second chance at life. Every ten years the gods choose someone who has been unjustly killed and give them a second chance. Except the gods seem a bit twisted as there are strings attached to this second chance. Not only does Quinnlan only have three days to find a mate but the gods have dropped him in an abandoned motel in the middle of nowhere. How is he supposed to find a mate in a place in the middle of nowhere?

Then Quinnlan finds a man bleeding out after an encounter with a group of wolf shifters. To save the man’s life he must feed him his own blood but in doing so this would bond him forever as his mate. He would also have to tell the man once he recovered that they are now bonded together forever, and Quinnlan has no idea what the man’s reaction will be. In either scenario he risks being doomed back to the afterlife.

Another intriguing and entertaining story by this author. Although the story was short, it packed a punch. The characters were interesting, and the scenes were well developed. I loved that the character of Quinnlan had so many facets to his personality. He was strong, courageous, kind, and witty. The added bits of humor throughout added a nice element to the other serious aspects of the storyline. A great read!

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A Crossbow Christmas by Ann Swann – Review by Brittany Angel

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A Crossbow ChristmasA Crossbow Christmas by Ann Swann
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

A Crossbow Christmas was my first foray into the ‘Hallmark Christmas Books’ and I must say, it was wonderful. This should be a Hallmark movie 1000%. I found myself sympathizing with Carina and feeling her pain. I loved her connections with others throughout the book and especially adored the way the author wrapped everything up. I was definitely moved to tears in the best way!

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Defiant Princess (Mafia Elite Series Prequel) by Amy McKinley – Review by Helen Dawkins

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Defiant Princess (Mafia Elite Prequel)Defiant Princess by Amy McKinley
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I absolutely LOVED this prequel 🖤 I definitely recommend for everyone to read this book even if you have already started or finished the series! Even though I knew a few details of what had happened their senior year from already reading the Mafia Elite Series, it was amazing to read exactly how everything unfolded. I highly recommend to start with this prequel if you haven’t started the series yet. Amy McKinley captured all of the Mafia princesses personalities perfectly in the short amount of pages. It gave you an excellent picture of who they were at their core and what was anticipated to come in their futures. Seeing their senior year in detail was a great addition and gave me much more love for the Mafia princesses.

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The Perfect Mrs. Claus by Barbara Matteson – Review by tori mitton

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<a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/61620363-the-perfect-mrs-claus” style=”float: left; padding-right: 20px”><img border=”0″ alt=”The Perfect Mrs. Claus” src=”https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1658266244l/61620363._SX98_.jpg” /></a><a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/61620363-the-perfect-mrs-claus”>The Perfect Mrs. Claus</a> by <a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/22569619.Barbara_Matteson”>Barbara Matteson</a><br/>
My rating: <a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/5110442838″>5 of 5 stars</a><br /><br />
Matthew and Summer had dated on and off all through out college. They split ways to be married to their jobs. Matthew ends up on Summer’s side of the country for work, well he ends up at Summer’s hotel and they re connect. After dating for a while Matthew and Summer get married. Everything in their marriage was perfect, some years later they end up having a daughter Athena. Matthew and Summer are still working like crazy and one night Matthew comes home from work and Summer asks for a divorce. Matthew doesn’t want to fight with Summer about anything because she loves to fight. Summer ends up taking Athena to Europe. Athena is in a prestigious riding school, Summer is managing a fancy hotel. Matthew is still in the states working at the Howardson’s. A family owned business that’s been passed down. Matthew sees the “perfect” woman he wants to play Mrs Claus for the store so he asks her to coffee for the job proposal. Savannah accepts Matthew’s job offer to play Mrs Claus for the store. They transform the store from Halloween decor to The Enchanted Land of Claus.<br />Matthew and Savannah grow closer playing the part of Mr and Mrs Claus for the enchanted land. Savannah had been saving up for her big trip to the blue spruce inn. During this time savannah meets a sweet little girl name Sylvene, and her mom Jolene. Sylvene wants nothing but for her mom to be happy. So Mrs Claus not only pulls 1 Christmas wish but 2! Savannah cooks up a full thanksgiving meal and delivers it to Sylvene and her mom for thanksgiving. Sylvene writes a Christmas wish letter for Santa, her only wish is for her mother to be happy, that’s it. Savannah calls the inn, gets everything switched over to Jolene’s name so her and Sylvene can enjoy a little Christmas break.<br />From love, to family loss, to finding true love again and conquering it all. This book was so good. Had me in tears in a few parts. Definitely a must read
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Defiant Princess (Mafia Elite Series Prequel) by Amy McKinley – Review by Barbara Bohls

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Defiant Princess (Mafia Elite Prequel)Defiant Princess by Amy McKinley
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is the book is the starting of the Mafia Elite Series and everything I didn’t know I was missing. It is a book that you won’t be able to put down. It shows the longing of wanting what the main females in the series can not have. It shows the softer side of all of them before everything happens. The innocent and not so innocent lives that they lead with hopes of something better than what has always been done.
This books gives, so many aspects that I didn’t know I needed that make the whole series come together. Without giving away important details just know that when you read this book if you haven’t read the whole series yet, this is the best one to start with because you will have so much more knowledge to move forward in the series. If you have already read the series you will love being able to connect even more to the characters in this series. It will give you so much more background and really let you feel what they are feeling.
This book had me hooked from the beginning and left me wanting even more. I feel greedy wanting more but this series is one of the best I have read in a long time. You will not be disappointed and will love the story lines of each female character. It is a squick read and a major page turner. You will definitely fall in love with the characters in this book if you aren’t already in love with them.
Review by: @bbohls

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Ghost Talker (Madame Chalamet Ghost Mysteries Book 1) by Byrd Nash – Review by Helen Dawkins

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Ghost Talker (Madame Chalamet Ghost Mysteries #1)Ghost Talker by Byrd Nash
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I loved this ghost story. It kept your attention throughout the whole book. I loved the sub plot about Mysir de Duke Archambeau’s dead wife, I cannot wait to read more of their story in book two. Madam Elinor Chalamet is a well-known ghost talker (medium), she frequently assists on criminal investigations to figure out who someone may be, how they died, and who killed them. The book is set in a country named Sarnesse, in a time period where a lady was allowed education but still upheld to a certain standard. The case that Madam Chalamet is brought in to assist with, is the death of the Giles Monet, and has the crowns attention. Because it is such a high-profile case, Madam Chalamet is brought to Mysir de Duke’s house to be on house arrest and restricted from speaking to anyone about the case. I love the connection between Madam Chalamet and Mysir de Archambeau, while it is not an immediate attraction, I love the way they interact with each other, both strong personalities battling out to win dominance. The ending was amazing, coming to a close of the criminal investigation, but leaving you still with some questions about all of the characters, more specially, if Madam Chalamet will investigate the Duke’s wife’s death.

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Ghost Talker (Madame Chalamet Ghost Mysteries Book 1) by Byrd Nash – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

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Ghost Talker (Madame Chalamet Ghost Mysteries #1)Ghost Talker by Byrd Nash
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Elinor Chalamet is a medium, more commonly referred to as a Ghost Talker, that has been using her skills to try to uncover the truth behind who her father’s killer could be. When a body is discovered in the river Madame Chalamet is brought in and asked if she could talk to the dead body. To find out who this person is, she asks the dead body who they are, who they were last with and if he can describe the last hour of his life.

In doing so Madame Chalamet suddenly finds herself wrapped up in some royal matters that involve the Duke de Archambeau. The Duke de Archambeau thinks Madame Chalamet has heard too much and until royal matters are concluded Madame Chalamet is to be a “guest” at his lavish home.

I loved the authors very vivid descriptions of the clothing the characters wore, as well as the furniture and homes of that era. I felt as though I was there, and I could see myself standing in the room looking around at the beautiful furnishings that surrounded me. The characters were unique while also being relatable. Madame Chalamet is a unique character whom I quickly felt drawn to. I loved that she could talk to ghosts because that is fascinating, but she is also strong, smart, witty, and feisty. Duke de Archambeau was a hard one to figure out as he came across initially as being snobbish and uptight, but then there were times he seemed so endearing and sweet, albeit briefly. There appeared to be some sort of chemistry between Madame Chalamet and Duke de Archambeau, but it was so subtle it was hard to tell. I am anxious to read book two and see if and how things progress between the two of them.

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A Christmas to Remember by 5 Prince Publishing – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

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A Christmas to Remember: An Anthology from 5 Prince PublishingA Christmas to Remember: An Anthology from 5 Prince Publishing by Bernadette Marie
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is a beautiful Collection of Christmas stories written by various authors that are perfect for the holiday season. Each author has a different writing style, but the overall theme of Christmas spirit is strong throughout. Every story is unique with well developed, relatable and lovable characters and well written scenes. The characters in each story are facing their own challenges that they are struggling to overcome but no matter what happens they persevere. With love, romance, Christmas cheer and happy endings these stories will leave you feeling warm and fuzzy all over. A must read to put you in the mood for the true spirit of the Christmas season.

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Weep, Woman, Weep: A Gothic Fairytale about Ancestral Hauntings by Maria DeBlassie – Review by Carlie Del Gallo

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Weep, Woman, WeepWeep, Woman, Weep by Maria DeBlassie
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is not the first book that I read by this author and will not be the last! The first thing that drew me into this story was the cover art, it was immaculate! The writing and the story line is then what kept me entertained! The story was one that was super unique and was one that I had not encountered before. It gave me lots of information that I had not previously known about Mexican culture. This book was super informative and was super entertaining. I cannot wait to read more amazing books by this amazing author! This book needs to be read by everyone so that they can enjoy the wonderful story just like I did.

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Weep, Woman, Weep: A Gothic Fairytale about Ancestral Hauntings by Maria DeBlassie – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

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Weep, Woman, WeepWeep, Woman, Weep by Maria DeBlassie

Mercy is a young girl living in Sueno, New Mexico that is doing her best to break free from the generational traumas that have befallen the women there. La Llorana is always looking for the next generation of young girls to baptize and fill with so many tears and so much sorrow that it overwhelms them. Each generation of girls does their best to avoid the banks of the river and the Weeping Woman, but few can escape the curse as she drags them into her watery depths.

A moving and unforgettable story of a young girl who fights to escape the curse of generations of women who are overtaken by pain and darkness. Mercy is strong, smart, and determined to find the light through the darkness against all odds. You cannot help but root for Mercy as she so valiantly tries to make her way in the world and overcome a curse that has taken the lives of so many women through the generations. A beautifully written story of rebirth through healing and magic.

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Dia’s Lure (Solstice Quartet Book 3) by Catherine Peace – Review by Jaimie Salmon-Colburn

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Dia's LureDia’s Lure by Catherine Peace
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I loved this set! I haven’t read many sifter books outside of the normal werewolves and such, so I was super excited about this set after reading the first book. I am so happy that I gave then a read! I defiantly recommend this set to anyone how loves shifter romance books. Día has been on the run for years. She is always watching her back, changing the way she looks, and always always running. She’s been on the run from hunters trying to keep her family safe, but her luck so far has just run out. She gets caught. But not by hunters! She stumbles onto a colony in hiding and they don’t trust outsiders. This bat shifter and witch colony has been through a lot and many of them are sick and dying. They can’t trust anyone and two strangers showing up on the same day worries them. Her fellow captive (the other stranger) just so happens to be an ex-lover who betrayed her years ago and brought the hunters to her family. Kano regrets so much in his life. Not being able to stop the slaughter of Día’s tribe and family being the biggest of all. He can’t believe his eyes when he drug into colony and he sees her alive. He’s been so focused on his journalism and putting the worst of the worst into the lime-light and behind bars. He can’t escape his own guilt and seeing Día brings it all rushing back. Again. When he gets taken by the bat colony he doesn’t know what he is in for. Día plans to run as soon as she can. She can’t be around him and she needs to find her group and make sure that they are okay. Milos, one of the bat shifters feels like something bad is coming. He can feel it in his gut. So when Día and Kano stumble onto the camp his gut stabs him with fear again. He just wants to protect his colony, find a cure to their sickness, and live! With their leader dying he must do something, anything to help their fast decreasing colony members. When someone from Kano’s past comes and threatens the colony the three of them must put their mistrust aside and fight together. Putting fears behind you can be tricky when fighting for your life. Will they come together and defeat their enemy? Or will history repeat itself. Will fear keep these three from saving everyone? Will Día kill Kano for his part in her family’s slaughter? Will Kano admit his mistakes from all those years ago and get Día to forgive him? Will she be able to? Man this book has so much going on! Those three are in for a lot!! You have to read this set!! If you love shifter books and magic and love you, will love this set!!

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Reviewed by @jaimie0459

Ember’s Secret (Solstice Quartet Book 1) by Catherine Peace – Review by Jaimie Salmon-Colburn

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Ember's Secret (Solstice Quartet #1)Ember’s Secret by Catherine Peace
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I was so surprised by this book! When I first started reading it I forgot that it was about shifters. I haven’t read many “shifter” books outside of the normal werewolves and such, so I LOVED seeing some other animals being brought into the genera. Ember has a big secret and with the Solstice coming up quickly she’s not sure if she can keep that secret much longer. She want to see more people in her café and in turn be reunited with her two sisters. Her café only sees people that are passing through and she hasn’t turned a good profit in years. Cooking for people she never sees twice is lonely and not at all what she wants out of her café. Food brings people together. She wants more out of her life and she wants more for her café. But can she risk it? Austin is the host of a popular Food TV show Back Road Eats. He’s tired of the same old easy dependable American grilling and BBQ. And being on the road more and more is wearing him out. A chef tv host who’s burnt out on food! While on the way to one last round of shows before heading home his RV breaks down in the middle of no where Wyoming. Dreading the extended stay while him and his camera and editing crew wait for a part for the RV, they learn of a Maori restaurant and his interest is piqued! Sick of BBQ, burgers, and all the normal Back Road Eats he’s been eating for the past few years he is ready to try something new. Once he meets Ember and tries her food he can’t leave without getting her to do his show! He can’t believe the flavors that she brings out in all her dishes. Everything he tries, he loves! But she’s terrified and family comes first. Her father forbids anything to do with the show and he is all she has left. Family first. Can Austin get Ember to do the show? Does Ember bring her whole world down around her and put what little family she has left in danger? Will she get them killed? Will she ever get her café full of people who fall in love with her food? It’s clear that Austin loves more than just her food too! What will come of that?! Dealing with his own father drama he doesn’t want to push to hard. Does he push her away? Or will they over come fears and trials and come together? You have to read to find out!!! You won’t be disappointed!!

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Reviewed by @jaimie0459