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War Bunny (War Bunny Chronicles) by Christopher St. John – Review by Amanda Gonzalez

War Bunny: Book 1 of the War Bunny ChroniclesWar Bunny: Book 1 of the War Bunny Chronicles by Christopher St. John
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I was hooked from the beginning. The premise of fighting the ‘predator vs prey’ idea is transformed with this story of a bunny who decides to fight back. Unfortunately for her, societal norms dictate that prey is all that they are so Anastasia is cast out from her home. I think what makes this book more unique is the post-apocalyptic aspect to the story and the anthropomorphic quality to the animals as the main characters. The story itself is fast-paced and packed with thrills and adventure.

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Productivity is Power: 5 Liberating Practices for College Students by Hillary Rettig – Review by Amanda Gonzalez

Productivity is Power: Five Liberating Practices for College StudentsProductivity is Power: Five Liberating Practices for College Students by Hillary Rettig
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

As advertised, this book gives five strategies to help college students become more productive. In this day and age where we are bombarded with distractions, this book was a lifesaver for me! We all struggle to stay on track when we first enter college and are hit with deadlines. This book provides students with relatable anecdotes as well as the five strategies that I feel really make the book relatable. This was a relatively quick read that was much easier to follow than most self-help books I’ve read.

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Where’s Gramma? by Tricia Gardella – Review by Amanda Gonzalez

Where's Gramma?Where’s Gramma? by Tricia Gardella
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This was such a cute book that would be great for a quick story-time! The book was fun and simple to understand with clear illustrations that follow the storyline. There is a rhyming scheme that is sure to captivate children and allow parents and/or guardians the opportunity to further educate along the way. In general, the story itself is sure to capture the imagination of children. I would recommend getting the physical copy of the book because the illustrations are large and would be captivating in print.

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No One Could See the Flea by Tricia Gardella – review by Amanda Gonzalez

No One Could See the FleaNo One Could See the Flea by Tricia Gardella
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This story follows a boy and his dog, specifically when the problem of a flea is introduced into the mix. Everything becomes more complicated when one remedy doesn’t work and friends come to help. I appreciate how the author went about telling an enjoyable story while also teaching about not jumping to conclusions. The colors and illustrations are fun and not overdone, stimulating the imagination while also reflecting the story. The story was short and easy to read as well as informative, perfect for kids!

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The Veil (The Veil Realms Series Book One) by Karli Rush – Review by Amanda Gonzalez

The VeilThe Veil by Karli Rush
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This book is a great introduction to a new world! We start off with a brief glimpse of Selene’s life with all the promise of a thriving business and a new life-to-be with her fiancée. We get a little foreshadowing of what’s to come in the opening scene, just a little hint, that stuck with me as I launched into this book. Everything goes from sunshine and roses to chaos and immense change. I love how the author dives deep into this new world while giving the reader wonderful characters throughout. Get ready for a new series, filled with action, monsters, and fantastic adventures!

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The Chaos Clock: Tales of Cosmic Aether edited by Danielle Ackley-McPhail – Review by Amanda Gonzalez

The Chaos Clock: Tales of Cosmic AetherThe Chaos Clock: Tales of Cosmic Aether by Danielle Ackley-McPhail
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I normally prefer stories that are much longer and filled with more information, but this anthology was concise and allowed the reader to feel satisfied. Some anthologies are disjointed and you can easily get confused by the change from one story to the other, but this anthology is refreshingly cohesive and transitions beautifully. Though I’ve never read any Lovecraft or Wells, this anthology definitely reflects references I’ve heard before with great twists! These stories will give you full-body shivers, have the hairs on the back of your neck standing up, and make you question time. I love the horror and chaos of these pieces and thoroughly enjoyed the thrills each offered!

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Salt Love by Marika Ray – Review by Amanda Gonzalez

Salt Love: A Summer Romantic ComedySalt Love: A Summer Romantic Comedy by Marika Ray
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Kenna gets the shock of her life after discovering her husband is not only cheating on her but that this person is a colleague. Soon after, she comes to find out that her aunt has passed away and left Kenna with her estate if she stays for a year. When she meets her surly neighbor, Dec, things start to look up for Kenna. This book was a lot of fun to read and makes me want to reread it on a beach somewhere. I love the way the story is told from duel perspectives and really dives deep into the characters. This was the first book I’ve read by this author, and it’s definitely going to be labeled as one of my top favorites!

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A Cold Day in Hell (Life is Hell Series Book 5) by Naomi Valkyrie – Review by Amanda Gonzalez

A Cold Day in Hell (Life is Hell #5)A Cold Day in Hell by Naomi Valkyrie
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Hadassah is a fallen angel who’s awaiting sentencing on earth for the crime of helping her brother save a demon. The relationship between her brother’s new family and her is strained, to say the least, so Haddie tries to build some kind of kinship with Jezebel, a friend of her brother’s and someone Haddie believes will reject Haddie. This plan backfires as Haddie is drawn into finding a kidnapped Jezebel. This book is the fifth installment in a series, though each is about stories of different couples in the same universe. Full of supernatural fantasy, mystery, drama, and romance, it really does feel like this book has it all!

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Under Jackson Bridge by Susan Specht Oram – Review by Amanda Gonzalez

Under Jackson Bridge: A thriller (Beyond the Bridge Book 1)Under Jackson Bridge: A thriller by Susan Specht Oram
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Irena is a single mom who’s just trying to make a good life for herself and her daughter while also juggling a business and love life. Her situation is complicated by the debt of child support owed to her by her ex-husband. And then a trip with friends takes a turn for the worst and Irena is left with some difficult questions, and even harder truths. I love Susan Specht Oram’s works, which are always packed with mystery, adventure, and lots of thrills! This new book is told through multiple point of views and follows the unique style of storytelling that leaves you speechless and wanting to read more!

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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 Amanda Gonzalez

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

A fated meeting between a far and human changes their lives forever. An accidental run-in between the two leaves an impression that neither can shake. There’s instant attraction, undeniable chemistry, and yet…this can’t be – not only because humans aren’t supposed to be able to see through fae glamor, but the union itself is forbidden. Beyond being your typical paranormal romance, this book – the first in what promises to be an intriguing series – has elements of adventure, mystery, and action. I’m floored that this book was written by so many people! The writing is great and united, you’d never be able to tell that more than one person wrote it. I can’t wait to see what’s next!

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Mistaken Identity (London Detective Agency Series) by Stephanie R. Caffrey – Review by Amanda Gonzalez

Mistaken Identity (London Detective Agency Book 1)Mistaken Identity by Stephanie R. Caffrey
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

On her way to Greece, Evelyn runs into a woman who looks a lot like her – down to the bag she carries. Unfortunately, before either can think too much about the coincidental meeting, their dropped bags are collected and they part ways – but it’s not long before Evelyn realizes she’s just taken possession of the wrong bag. In a rush, Evelyn decides to take the bag to the airport lost and found on her way to her terminal, hoping her own bag can be retrieved and sent to her while she travels. This is when Evelyn is practically abducted and comes face-to-face with a private investigator – who seems to be searching for her doppelganger. And this is where the adventure begins. Full of fast-paced, well-written mystery and chemistry, this book is a must-read that will leave you wanting more!

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Planting Seeds: Growing Mindful Children Through Yoga by Janice Pratt and Lenora Degen – Review by Amanda Gonazlez

Planting Seeds: Growing Mindful Children Through Yoga (Yoga for Kids: Lesson Plans for the Teacher Book 1)Planting Seeds: Growing Mindful Children Through Yoga by Janice Pratt
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Diving into this book, I wasn’t sure what to expect. Of course, as it says in the title, this is a guide to yoga and meditation for children, but I got a deeper meaning from the reading/guide. There’s an underlying teaching of mindfulness towards the world, guiding the reader (presumably a guardian) to expand a child’s view of the word and be more understanding of others in their community – rather than solely focusing on internal mindfulness. That aside, there’s an active component to the guide that would make this a fun experiment and activity for young children. I would recommend this guide for teachers or daycares, as well as for families if they would like to use this resource to help children become more mindful while also proving fun activities for them to actively participate in.

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House Valdis Origins: Xenobia (House Valdis Series) by Naomi Valkyrie – Review by Amanda Gonzalez

House Valdis Origins: Xenobia (House Valdis, #0.5)House Valdis Origins: Xenobia by Naomi Valkyrie
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

In a society where being invisible is your best asset, Xenobia excels and thrives under her tendencies to blend. That is, until she meets Urd, and the two become fast friends. Suddenly, survival becomes a two-person necessity and Xenobia can’t just look out for herself. Unfortunately, Urd captures the attention of a rather sadistic Master and Xenobia overhears the plans he has for her. Xenobia knows the struggle is futile, but how can you abandon someone you care for? A storm brews on the horizon, and Xenobia knows things will never be same. This was an emotional and powerful prequel that left me wanting to dive deeper into the rest of the story!

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Curse of the Forbidden Island by C.A. King – Review by Amanda Gonzalez

Curse of Forbidden IslandCurse of Forbidden Island by C.A. King
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Hard-working Selene is a gambling addict who works hard but has a hard time keeping a job due to the vibe she gives off. Down on her luck, having just lost her most recent job and home, Selene gets a crazy streak of luck. A job where you get room and board on a tropical island and unlimited use of the amenities? What’s the catch? There’s a mask rule and rumors of a curse. I wasn’t sure what to expect at first, but I quickly fell into the book and Selene’s situation and could not put the short book down! I am hoping this book becomes the start of a new series!

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Deja Brew All Over Again: A Runaway Bride Romance (Love on Tap Series) by Sylvie Stewart – Review by Amanda Gonzalez

Deja Brew All Over Again: A Runaway Bride RomanceDeja Brew All Over Again: A Runaway Bride Romance by Sylvie Stewart
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Rough-around-the-edges male lead? Check. Runaway bride? Check. Throw in a few issues and the forced close-proximity and you have the perfect elements to a great story. This book was a lot of fun to read with lots of humor and banter to keep the reader thoroughly entertained. I deeply enjoyed the chemistry between Maisy and Miller, their relationship and interactions felt so natural. The main characters aside, I also fell in love with the side characters and their depth. Now I feel like I need to read the other two books since this one was so good.

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The Marcy Series Box Set: Books 1-3 by Linda J. Burson – Review by Amanda Gonzalez

The Marcy Series Box Set: Books 1-3The Marcy Series Box Set: Books 1-3 by Linda Burson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Marcy is a successful business owner who seems to have it all – until she starts having nightmares and develops uncharacteristic anger issues. With her sudden turn in behavior, her closest friends and boyfriend become concerned, though Marcy brushes off her own reactions to others and certain situations. It’s not until she is confronted with her own actions and the threatened loss of her boyfriend, Brad, that Marcy realizes she has a problem and needs help. However, Marcy is soon confronted by another victim of rage, Liam, and the course of her recovery and life seems to become shaky. This was an interesting series to read, I enjoyed the love triangle and psychological tidbits thrown in that kept me engaged and reading from page one to the last.

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The Befallen (The Unsung and the Wolf Duology) By Cambria Williams – Review by Amanda Gonzalez

The BefallenThe Befallen by Cambria Williams
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Sloane, the female main character, lived a simple life as an apprentice to her father’s leatherworking in a small village. When Market Day comes around, Sloane gets the opportunity to sell their wares alone, despite the trip being long – especially with her disability – and finds success in her small adventure. Soon after, while on her way back home, she discovers something horrible has happened…the curse of the Befallen has claimed the lives of those she once knew. On the other side of the coin, we learn about Tolvar, the male main character, and his life as a disgraced knight and the struggles of his own life. The paths of our two main characters cross and become intertwined as they try to solve and remedy the problem that is the Befallen. I thoroughly enjoyed this book! The Befallen is a dark fantasy with such a complex world and plot that it’s sure to hold your attention within the first few chapters and throughout the book.

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Seraphina (Heartstrings Series) by Brooke May – Review by Amanda Gonzalez

Seraphina (Heartstrings Book 4)Seraphina by Brooke May
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

When you think of Cupid, what comes to mind automatically is love. This is the fourth book of the Heartstrings series following the case of Cupid Seraphina who is trying to help hockey star Seth find love…for the third time. Will the stars finally align for Seth or will this be another love-connection fail? I really enjoyed how this book gives depth to the characters while also giving the reader insight into the inner workings of Cupids and their own relationships! The story’s pacing was great and concise while also allowing the reader to fall into the plot and connect to the characters. You can easily read this as a standalone novel.

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

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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Finding Your Heart by Nadia Han – Review by Amanda Gonzalez

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 is a beautiful journal! I love the prompts and affirmations, as well as the illustrations. I like how everything varies from page to page and gets you to reflect and engage. The journal is very interactive and is sure to keep you focused on the prompt. I haven’t used a lot of self-help journals, but I’m glad to have this one on hand!

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Hot Flashes and Hockey Slashes (Hot Flash Hookups Book 1) by Marika Ray & Sylvie Stewart – Review by Amanda Gonzalez

Hot Flashes and Hockey SlashesHot Flashes and Hockey Slashes by Marika Ray
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Olivia hasn’t given much thought to her ex’s love life since the divorce, remaining cordial at family events, and overall moving on with her own life. What could be worse than discovering your ex is not only seeing someone but getting married? Maybe being invited and coerced into attending said wedding. Roman, an older professional hockey player has been on the outskirts of his estranged daughter’s life for a while but wants to get closer to his only child. In a twist of fate – or more specifically the meddling of well-meaning children – Olivia and Roman’s worlds collide. I loved this book! The dynamics between the characters felt real, closer to reality than any fiction work I’ve read all year. The pace was fast throughout, but I felt more grounded while reading the book and easily lost track of time because I was so engrossed in the plot. I’m definitely going to be looking for book two of the series!

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Wolfbane (Wolfbane Series Book 1) by Celia Hart – Review by Amanda Gonzalez

Wolfbane (Wolfbane #1)Wolfbane by Celia Hart
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Jasmine lives in a world where werewolves have an unspoken rule in their beliefs: the Goddess grants you a mate, wait for them. This rule is something she’s followed and believes in…even when she’s tempted by her best friend’s boyfriend. Then along comes the future Alpha, Blake, and her outlook and control is really tested. I don’t want to spoil the book, but just know that this is a must-read for avid paranormal/shifter-romance lovers! This was a whole new take on werewolves and their culture! I was enthralled by how different the idea of mates was in this book and really enjoyed the added aspect of religion that played a role in their beliefs. Many of us paranormal readers are familiar with werewolves and fated mates, but this book shows a different side that I don’t think many of us considered. Wow! I’ll be looking for book two!

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Saint Con by Seelie Kay – Review by Amanda Gonzalez

Saint ConSaint Con by Seelie Kay
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Jessica Knight literally bumps into Connor O’Brien (aka Saint Con), once priest turned lawyer. After a night of conversation and chemistry, Jessica warms up to the idea of starting something with Con…only to be stood up on their first date. Then it turns out Con is missing, and the plot thickens! The chemistry between the main characters added levity to the story and had me easily picturing the story throughout. Though the story was short, the pacing of the story and the way it was written makes the plot really come to life!

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Almost and Forever by Angela K. Parker – Review by Amanda Gonzalez

Almost and ForeverAlmost and Forever by Angela K. Parker
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This was a bitter-sweet story. The novel is written in such a way that the read is immediately drawn in and can’t stop reading until the last word. I love that the author doesn’t shy away from tragedy and the relationships feel so real. I appreciate the two POVs of the main characters, knowing their take on events and seeing the complexity of the situation through their eyes. Though the book itself isn’t that long, the pacing felt natural, though the relationship between the main characters does evolve rather quickly when you think back on it. Regardless, I love their romance and the feeling of healing and resolution I got from their story!

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Mr. Barsins’ Toy Emporium by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Amanda Gonzalez

Mr. Barsins' Toy EmporiumMr. Barsins’ Toy Emporium by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Four children visit Mr. Barsin’s Toy Emporium to find imaginary friends. The twist: Mr. Barsin doesn’t ask for money in return for the imaginary friends…but something else. The author does an amazing job at creating a fun world where imaginary friends are real. The story follows the four children, each with a unique situation and personality. Fast-paced and magical, this book is full of fun and adventure.

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Heart’s Rescue (Fallen Hearts) by Meredith Hart – Review by Amanda Gonzalez

Heart's Rescue (Fallen Hearts)Heart’s Rescue by Meredith Hart
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Told from the dual POV of the two main characters, this book is the first of the Fallen Hearts series. When Lady Arryn’s unofficial betrothed disappears to the Lands Below, she decides to go find and rescue her beloved despite the dangers of the other realm. Meanwhile, Rowan – a sentry in the Lands Below – struggles to protect his neighbors with his strange magic. The story starts off a little slow, but everything starts falling into perspective as the adventure takes off. This is my first time reading a book written by this author so I wasn’t sure what to expect when I picked up this book, but I’m glad I did! I love diving into a new fantasy where the stakes are high and the world is complex!

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

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

Russel’s been having a rough time lately, what with his grandpa moving in and taking his room, leaving Russel no choice but to stay in the basement, getting bullied, and possibly failing fifth grade. Though Russel has a dream to become a firefighter, he worries he won’t have enough courage. One day, when both Russel and his grandfather are out on their daily park outing, Rusell takes a ride on the carousel his grandfather always rides and finds himself transported into the past. This was a great and adventurous tale! The story was entertaining and easily kept the reader entertained throughout. Though this is a children’s book I was thoroughly engaged by both the events of the story and way the author seamlessly wove in the main elements of the book. This is a great story to read to kids that’s sure to captivate their imagination!

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Oscar and Emmy Gain a Friend by Terri Sabol – Review by Amanda Gonzalez

Oscar and Emmy Gain a Friend: A Story About Trap-Neuter-ReturnOscar and Emmy Gain a Friend: A Story About Trap-Neuter-Return by Terri Sabol
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I definitely enjoyed reading this story, despite it being a children’s book and only a few pages long, I learned a lot on the subject of trap-and-neuter. The story was effective and gave information in such a way that the reader is able to both follow the story and learn. The situation was explained well in simple terms that even children can understand and follow. The illustrations were cute and helped the reader understand what was going on throughout the story. Though it’s clear this story is part of a series of educational books on the subject of cats, it can be read as a standalone.

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When Magic Calls: A Collection of Modern Fairy Tales by Caitlin Berve – Review by Amanda Gonzalez

When Magic Calls: A Collection of Modern Fairy TalesWhen Magic Calls: A Collection of Modern Fairy Tales by Caitlin Berve
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I love the way the author tells these Fairy Tales! Each story is different from the last, but all are interesting and well-written. Some stories are darker than others, but I can’t say I have a favorite. I also love the unpredictable nature of the stories, though I recognized a few elements in the various stories, I felt each story was something new. I will definitely be looking into more of Caitlin Berve’s works in the future!

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The Secret Humankind (The Discoveries of Julia Xero Book 1) by Gloria Oliver – Review by Amanda Gonzalez

The Secret Humankind: An Urban Fantasy Thriller (The Discoveries of Julia Xero Book 1)The Secret Humankind: An Urban Fantasy Thriller by Gloria Oliver
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Julia Xero has a hard time in her job working in the restaurant business and desperately needs a change, so when she is called in for an interview and trial for a cleaning company she applied to, Julia jumps at the opportunity. After the gruesome trial and interview, Julia is hired and that’s when things get interesting. Her world is turned upside down and she learns that her job is not what it had seemed. I love how much fun ad suspenseful this book was! Urban fantasy is one of my favorite genres and I deeply enjoyed how this story played out! I can already tell this is going to be an interesting new series!

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