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Zibs for Sale (I am an Alien) by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Cindy Mayberry

Zibs for Sale: a retelling of Beauty and the Beast (I am an Alien)Zibs for Sale: a retelling of Beauty and the Beast by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Shirl and Eee-ahh are on another adventure. So much fun to see where these friends go. Today it is Eee-ahh’s favorite bakery. Zips are Eee-ahhm favorite snack, but will it be Shirl’s? Science is so important and the younger the better. This story is fun and will keep those little minds active. The author has once again brought science and fun to the readers. She has also introduced a new character to the mix. Having done that opens up more conversation as well as educating us on our differences. Way to keep your readers reading and our children interested. No spoilers here as there is so much to discover while reading this open ended book. I hope you enjoy it too.

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Cruel Love (Hidden Valley Elite Book 6) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Cindy Mayberry

Cruel Love (Hidden Valley Elite #6)Cruel Love by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Before I start my review.You must stop and start with Cruel Start. It is very important to start at the beginning of the Phoenix and Aspens story. All because of an accident these two strong people have their whole lives changed. Memory loss, pregnancy and college. The ending will surprise your heart, that’s for sure. I love this story! The author leaves nothing out. I could not read fast enough. The very beginning gets your heart pumping and racing. This fast paced story keeps you entertained and your emotional rollercoaster at high speed. I could not put it down. Who needs sleep when you’re reading this story? Waiting for the next installment will be a challenge, but I can wait.

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Ignite My Heart (North Fork Series Book 2) by Alicia Street – Review by Cindy Mayberry

Ignite My Heart (North Fork Series Book 2)Ignite My Heart by Alicia Street
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Morgan is a divorced father with a nine year old daughter. He runs a protective service that trains bodyguards. His bodyguards are out protecting others. When his ex shows up with her entourage to visit, his
hackles go up and he becomes very protective. But will that be enough? Blake is a school teacher. But without a job. She must take all she can get. Becoming a nanny for Morgan’s daughter will only be temporary, or is it? This is another new author for me. My list seems to be growing. But this is one story I am so happy I took a chance on. It has it all, action, twists and turns as well as romance. The characters are perfect for their parts. I must say Ciara is a smart 9 year old. She is sure to let everybody in this story know it, including her mother. The story is well written and with plenty of angst. I love this series, I hope you will too. Now it is time to look for more from this author.

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Vixen: (Devil’s Handmaidens MC: Timber-Ghost, Montana Chapter) by D.M. Earl – Review by Cindy Mayberry

Vixen: (Devil's Handmaidens MC: Timber-Ghost, Montana Chapter)Vixen: by D.M. Earl
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Have you ever started a book and found you forgot everything around you?That is exactly how this book went. Vixen is so much stronger than she even realizes. As she is trying to get her life back, more from her past is brought forward. While she is scared, her friend is in need of help from her and the Devil’s Handmaidens. Is she strong enough to do this? How much of her past is going to continue to haunt her dreams? Having said that, I give no spoilers. This author is amazing! Her series is a must read. It is fast paced and you find yourself on an emotional rollercoaster. I will advise you to read this series in order. As you don’t want to miss anything. The characters are all strong, independent and a group of women that have found a family of sisters who have each other’s back. The events are so realistic and you can’t do anything to help them. Okay you can! By reading this series! I hope you enjoy Vixen’s story as much as I did and do. I am looking forward to reading book 5.

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Mr. Wimp (The Human Mating Site Book 1) by B.L. Wilde – Review by Cindy Mayberry

Mr Wimp (The Human Mating Site #1)Mr Wimp by B.L. Wilde
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

What a great start to a series that I know I will enjoy. This is book 1 a novella to get you started and there will be much more to come. Bella’s marriage is over after 12 years. After getting over the heartbreak she soon discovers what she was missing. I was so pleased she did not carry on with The Woe Is Me pity party. Instead she called her true friends and they were able to help her work through this. Can Bella move past this? Will she get back herself and move on? Mr. Wimp is forever gone and Hello Mr. Right. I love that Bella is independent and doesn’t not need a man to carry her. She can do just fine, after all she has some great friends. The story does not stop there. The author made this a fun story to read. It was quick and a true page turner. It did not drag on and on about the failing marriage. The women are strong and independent and can move on. Not to say it was easy, but it happened just the same. I am looking forward to book 2 as I know the series will just get more interesting as the stories continue.

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This Time Around Audiobook by Jane Suen – Review by Cindy Mayberry

Everybody needs a second Chance, even Katie and Chase. This is their story. Katie’s hard working and enjoys her job. But with her friend getting married, she journeyed home. It was great to see her mom and sister, even though it was a short visit she planned to make the best of it. Chase lost his brother in an accident, and was left with raising his nephew. His whole world was his love for his nephew, and was raising him to be the best he could be. After being set up for the wedding of their friend, they both found themselves forced to be together. Were they really hating it? Can Chase and Katie work through the hurt they both suffered? I admire this author! This story is all about her second Chance romance and is fun and enjoyable to listen too.  Her books are always filled with unforgettable sweet romance. This is just the beginning of her newest series and I am looking forward to seeing what comes next.

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A Death on Fools Lane (An Eve Sawyer Mystery) by Jane Suen – Review by Cindy Mayberry

A Death on Fools Lane (Eve Sawyer Mystery #4)A Death on Fools Lane by Jane Suen
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

What happens when you start your vacation with a body hanging in the tree? Well that is what Eve and her friends were faced with. Being who Eve is, she set forth to find out what happened. So was it murder or suicide? I share no spoilers! I love reading this series. Yes it could be a standalone, but this series has so much to offer. The characters are incredibly strong and independent. This mystery had me on the edge from the very start. While it seems short, it was very much complete. That is how this author is. She leaves nothing out, this story is fast paced and well written. I’m looking forward to reading the next book by this author.

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Rocketship Made of Stars (I am an Alien) by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Cindy Mayberry

Rocketship Made of Stars: Naming Constellations (I am an Alien)Rocketship Made of Stars: Naming Constellations by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is such an informative children’s story. A story with learning and fun, for both adults and children. Eee-ahh goes to school to learn, but the teacher wants to know where she lives. Therefore the lesson begins for all, including you the reader. I absolutely love this story. As well as the author. Her imagination opens so many doors for children. Creating so many projects and activities for all who read her book. The story is short enough to keep the children’s interest, and includes so much more. I hope you and your little ones enjoy it as much as my grandchildren do.
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The Mother’s Threat by Susan Specht Oram – Review by Cindy Mayberry

The Mother's ThreatThe Mother’s Threat by Susan Specht Oram
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I must say I did not see this coming. Violet Cleveland has a security business, one she is very happy to run. After all she has been through, you would think things couldn’t get any harder. Wrong! When your own family attacks, what is a person to do? The betrayal is so hard to imagine, as well as believable. Violet and her crew are pushed to the limit in this story. This author has once again brought forth strong independent characters. Added an unexpected host and kept me flipping the pages of this story. Forget sleep, forget snacking, forget the chocolates. If you are like me you will dive in and be stuck reading as this story has many events that will shock you. I. Really enjoyed reading this story. I hope you do too. No Spoilers!

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Oscar and Emmy Lose a Friend (Oscar And Emmy Series) by Terri Sabol – Review by Cindy Mayberry

Oscar and Emmy Lose a Friend: A story about pet loss and saying goodbye to a furry friend. Ages 5-11 and kindergarten through grade 5.Oscar and Emmy Lose a Friend: A story about pet loss and saying goodbye to a furry friend. Ages 5-11 and kindergarten through grade 5. by Terri Sabol
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I love informative children’s stories! This has everything a parent could ask for, when it comes to explaining pet loss to a child. The way the author walked through the steps that follow a sick pet were spot on. Oscar and Emmy asked many questions along the way, which opened up conversation between the Parents, Veterinarians and Children. The pictures told the story as well. Which made for the perfect story for fur baby loss. What a great introduction to The Rainbow Bridge. This book is a must have for all children’s book shelves.

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Cruel Hate (Hidden Valley Elite Book 5) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Cindy Mayberry

Cruel Hate (Hidden Valley Elite #5)Cruel Hate by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Before I say anything about this story, let’s start with reading this in the order this series is meant to be read. This is one of the most highly explosive stories I have read in a long time. This is Phoenix and Aspen’s story. Let me tell you these two are the strongest and most dedicated people I know. Nothing comes easy for them. School, families, friends and doing what is right, all comes with a price. So let me ask, can this couple get through this? Will they withstand all of the obstacles laid out for them? Will their love be stronger than what they have both seen in their own family? The story has so many twists and turns. It is a fast paced page turner for sure. I will give you NO Spoilers as you need to read this book to believe the strength Phoenix and Aspen have. This author has always been on my favorite list, this one puts her at the top. As here I sit waiting for the next book in this series. I love this series and look forward to reading the next installment.

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I Am An Outer Space Alien (I am an Alien) by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Cindy Mayberry

I Am An Outer Space Alien (I am an Alien)I Am An Outer Space Alien by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Shirl shortened because she did not like the letter Y. Feels she is an alien. While other children like to play outside, she liked being inside playing on her radio. In doing so she invited an Alien to visit her, in hopes she belonged to Shirl planet. This story is so cute and fun to read. The children learn how to become better listeners and to accept change. The author continues to impress me with her children’s books. They are fun and interactive. While always having a lesson to be learned in a fun manner. The pictures are brightly colored and will keep your little ones interested. I am looking forward to seeing where this Alien book will go next.

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Xenia Navarro and the Magic Ants by Lois Wickstrom and Milagros Darling – Review by Cindy Mayberry

Xenia Navarro and the Magic AntsXenia Navarro and the Magic Ants by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This author never ceases to amaze me. This story is also an open ended story of science. But more than that it has other life experiences due to Xenia mother being undocumented. Even though Xenia’s father, a US citizen, had been killed before marrying Xenia’s mother. With the threat of being sent back to Mexico hanging over them, Xenia and her brother knew to lay low. The school science fair in her sights, Xenia discovers ants and takes to learning more about them. While this story was entertaining it was also sad in some parts. However the author did an amazing job explaining both Ants and deportation. This is a must read for all over 7 years of age.

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The Guardsman (The Olympic Peninsula Series Book 2) Audiobook by Cat Treadgold – Review by Cindy Mayberry

This is Liam and Teresa’s story. Once again this author took me by surprise. The audio story puts your mind into the audience. This story holds all the suspense and romance you could ask for. Teresa is a strong independent woman and Liam has seen and been through enough trauma. While both are tied together by family and blood, their banter is fun to follow. Can Liam and Teresa fight their true hearts and stay away from each other? Will their siblings help to keep them apart? Having been to Port Townsend, this story fits perfectly, even if there were some fabrications.  I still love this story. This could be a standalone, but I feel you should read this series in order, as book one has some information that will keep you on track with this story. Yes I will be waiting to see where this author takes the next in this intriguing series.

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The Reluctant Suitor (The Studs of Clear Creek County) by Stacy-Deanne – Review by Cindy Mayberry

The Reluctant Suitor: BWWM Historical Western (The Studs of Clear Creek County)The Reluctant Suitor: BWWM Historical Western by Stacy-Deanne
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Well this story took me by surprise. I normally do not read Historical stories. But this one caught my eye and thought I would give it a try. I am so happy I did. It was such a well written story that kept me turning the pages until the end. I love that Billie Jean is such a strong independent woman with the courage to fight for her people, family and friends alike. Then there is Fisher Locke who wants to show his parents what he is made of. Two strong attractive people who know what they are feeling is wrong. Two independent people who are fighting for what is right. Who is right, Billie or Fisher? What will happen next for them? Read this story to find out what happens. While this story could be a standalone,I felt it is in my best interest to read the series. This author writes fast paced, page turners with plenty of history. Great Story!!!!!

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Firewall by Jessica Mehring – Review by Cindy Mayberry

FirewallFirewall by Jessica Mehring
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Imagine working hard and earning the IT security job you now have. Then being a woman you have to work much harder. Now you have a CTO and CEO who thinks you’re a joke. That is where Veronica Clark finds herself one unforgettable day. She has had a bad day and it will only get worse. Then there is Cara’s brother Angus, who has worked hard to make fire chief. Checking in on Veronica has just added more problems to their lives. They are in the fight of their lives. Can they survive? Will they find romance? This is an outstanding romance with plenty of suspense. Another new author for me and I am pleased I gave this book a chance. It is fast paced as well as engaging. I could not put it down. I feel the strong characters are perfectly matched in this romance. Great story!!! This is one worth reading. Hope you enjoy it as much as I have. Looking forward to reading more from this author.

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Softest Touch by Adina D. Grey – Review by Cindy Mayberry

Softest TouchSoftest Touch by Adina D. Grey
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is a quick romance story. You know the kind, meet, hate each other, and well read this story and see how it ends. That is about how it goes for Derek and Melinda. The banter is well written, which makes this story so good. I enjoyed this author’s story, it was clear and easy to follow. The characters fit their parts well. I love everything about this story, except it ended too soon. Although with a few hours of nothing, reading this story will fill that time at the doctors or on the soccer field. This is a new to me author, but you can be sure I will be wanting more. I look forward to seeing who this author brings in her next book.

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The Anchor Knot (The Knot Series Book 2) by DonnaLee Overly – Review by Cindy Mayberry

The Anchor Knot:securing the knot of truth (Knot, #6The Anchor Knot:securing the knot of truth (Knot, #6 by DonnaLee Overly
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Well this is part of a series, and in my search for something new as well as a new author I missed the series part. But it all worked out well as this story can be a standalone. However I found there is so much more to this series. Gabby is strong and independent with many secrets. Her father wants her in the governor’s office and married to the next governor of Texas. Richard Wright is her boyfriend and while he is on the road to becoming said governor, there are a few things the citizens of Texas do not know. But that for you to discover as you read this story. In my opinion the story is well written and easy to follow. The characters are not only believable but loveable as well. I enjoyed this page turner and often found myself behind on things I needed to do, like sleep. So worth staying up all night. Many avenues are touched in this story, and you find yourself wanting more. More you will find in the books before this one. As for me I am headed back to the beginning where this series started.
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Shadowed Obsession (Shadow Defense Security Series Book 1) by Mavery Ellscott – Review by Cindy Mayberry

Shadowed Obsession: An Action-Packed Romantic Suspense Thriller (Shadow Defense Security Series Book 1)Shadowed Obsession: An Action-Packed Romantic Suspense Thriller by Mavery Ellscott
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Kiera O’Ryan does all things well. Works hard, and can do most things independently. Having said that, Kiera finds herself running from a stalker. When she turns to the police for help, they find nothing to back up her story. Cade Hartford, served his country, and afterwards joined a Private Military contractor. When his neighbor turns to him for help, his answer is yes. Now the real story begins. Can Cade help Kiera get away from her stalker? With romance also in the turn of events can they both fight the pull? This is the beginning of the series. Being a new to me author. But after reading this story, there will be many more intriguing stories to be read. I love her characters and the twists, turns and suspense kept me on the edge of my seat. The story is a stand alone and the beginning of what looks to be a great series. I am looking forward to reading more from this author. This series is off to a great start.

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Tequila Midnight (Southwest Suspense Novels Book 1) by Kathryn Dodson – Review by Cindy Mayberry

Tequila MidnightTequila Midnight by Kathryn Dodson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Jessica has to be pretty strong to have survived her childhood. Now as an adult she is still fighting her past secrets. She has got to get past her bad habits and get her mind on her job. Her help will not come from her drinking and overactive bad habits. Jessica is a strong detective, you get to watch her transformation as she puts on her detective hat and gets to work. This story is filled with twists and turns. The suspense is high octane and I could not put it down. The events are believable as well as scary.So much mystery is involved and you can’t help pulling on the side of Jessica. The author has once again intrigued my interest and I look forward to seeing where this series will go.

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Ten Little Starfish by Kim Ann – Review by Cindy Mayberry

Ten Little Starfish: A Counting BookTen Little Starfish: A Counting Book by Kim Ann
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

What a cute and entertaining story. Counting is not the only subject in this story. You get science, colors, as well as rhyming words. This story is easy to follow and it involves the children. Another great open ended story, to help grow our children’s minds. The author keeps her readers focused and opens up the little minds of children. I love that in a book as well as in the author. I am looking forward to reading more of these stories from this author. So are my grandchildren.

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Taz (Devil’s Handmaidens MC: Timber-Ghost, Montana Chapter Book 3) by D.M. Earl – Review by Cindy Mayberry

Taz: (Devil's Handmaidens MC: Timber-Ghost, Montana Chapter)Taz: by D.M. Earl
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Oh boy, will they ever learn? You don’t mess with mama bear. Taz may be cute and shy but if you mess with her family, you are as good as dead. Her son is her everything, Taz will stop at nothing to protect him or her family. That includes Devil’s Handmaidens MC. While the women are strong and independent, sometimes they may need to call on big brother. This is a must read series. I love this series! The author writes some amazing MC stories. This author left nothing out of her story.The rollercoaster of emotions will keep you turning the pages. This may be a romance story, but the twists and turns make it so much more. Heartbreak, romance, evil, and twisted suspenseful events all in one book. I loved it! I can hardly wait for the next installment.

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How to Catch Little Boys and Eat Them by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Cindy Mayberry

How to Catch Little Boys and Eat ThemHow to Catch Little Boys and Eat Them by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Here we go with another retelling of Jack and the trouble he can get into. Jack is not just lazy, he is greedy too. This has to be one of the cutest versions of this story. Jack continues to get himself in trouble. But can Jack escape the Giant once again? The author has written a story that I love, the grandkids did too. Great open discussion before and after reading this book. I have to say, I love this author as well as her twists on fairy tales from long ago. They are fresh and fun to read.

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The Silent Woodsman (The Olympic Peninsula series Book 1) Audiobook by Cat Treadgold – Review by Cindy Mayberry MI

This has to be one of my favorite romances. It’s honest, it’s laid back and accidental love does happen, or can it? Joe is recovering from throat surgery. He can not say one single word. So he isolates himself in a small cabin off the grid. Somewhere his fans will not find him. He is happy and content. Ali is walking around in her twin brother’s secret places in hopes of finding clues as to where he really is. She has been told he had died in an accident. She can’t believe them. Getting lost in a rain shower, she stumbles her way on to a cabin. Thinking it abandoned she approaches the porch when the door opens. So that is all you get! This author writes with her heart on her sleeve. She is also the narrator of the book and you can tell she loves her story. It is fast paced and with all the events going on in these two very different characters, you just can’t tell how it will end. As for me it ended too soon. I have questions that I bet they will be in book 2.

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Goldilocks and the Six Simple Machines (Science Folktales) by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Cindy Mayberry

Goldilocks and the Six Simple Machines (Science Folktales #3)Goldilocks and the Six Simple Machines by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Well little Miss Goldilocks story has come a long way. In this story she has grown from breaking things to fixing things. Such a cute and fun story. I love how this author once again has impressed the readers with the new events. Her story is not only fast, but clear and easy for our children to follow. So much fun to read and get the children’s feedback. I wonder what will be next.

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A Match Made in Montana (The Millers of Marietta Book 2) by Elsa Winckler – Review by Cindy Mayberry

A Match Made in Montana (The Millers of Marietta, #2)A Match Made in Montana by Elsa Winckler
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Annie Miller and her siblings set out on a new adventure. Annie has found the perfect place for her B&B. Her next goal is to get her B&B up and running. Craig has come to Montana to see his cousin get married. So while on vacation he needs to find something to do. Two very different people, one bound to Marietta and one lives in Portland. This is a small town romance that had me within the first couple of pages. The story is romantic, funny and unexpected. The author may be new to me, but now she is not. I will be looking for more as this story captures my heart. Even if it did mess with my emotions. It was well worth the time and money spent on this book. This is a must read for those romantic readers.

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The Book of Hours (Coin/Hours Duology Book 2) Audiobook by Maria Elena Alonso-Sierra – Review by Cindy Mayberry

Gabriela Martinez, a well known author is in the fight of her life. People are willing to do anything to get their hands on her works. Including taking her life. But will their evil plan work, and at what cost? Gabriela is so much stronger than even she believes. This may be a new author for me, you can bet I will be looking for more from her. This story is so full of twists and turns. Once it gets going it is hard to stop. The events that take place are amazing as well as intense. Love this story, hope you do too.

 

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Shalom Israel by Melissa Lavi – Review by Cindy Mayberry

Shalom IsraelShalom Israel by Melissa Lavi
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

What an informative yet fun way to travel. I love this story! Some will never get the chance to travel and enjoy such an amazing country. This book is perfect. I enjoyed the pictures as well as the story. The information shared with the readers just adds to the events in the story. The author opens a whole new adventure with this book. Adults as well as children will all enjoy this story. I recommend this book be part of the curriculum in preschools as well. I for one have learned so much from this book. A must read and own book for all bookshelves. I hope you enjoy this story as much as my family did.

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Cruel Start (Hidden Valley Elite) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Cindy Mayberry

Cruel Start (Hidden Valley Elite #4.5)Cruel Start by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

As high School ends, Summer comes and goes, college begins. Stop! Summer starts as Aspen stands on the edge of the cliff, she knows her dive will wash her mind clean if only for the moment. She loves diving, and she is good at it. Phoenix loves women and he is good at it. His brain of thought is “one and done”. That is until the One is stuck in his mind and he can’t be done. This is just the beginning for Aspin and Phoenix. That is where this series leads you too. So make sure you read the series in order. You won’t want to miss how this couple collides. The author has done it this time. She has once again opened a series that leaves you begging for more, so much more. Her story is fast paced and leaves no stone unturned. While this is a New Adult Romance it does touch on sensitive subjects. It also ended in a cliffhanger, so be prepared to get comfortable as your reading gets rocked. Such a must read series, I look forward to starting the next book in this series. I want more of Aspin and Phoenix!

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The Messy Kids by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Cindy Mayberry

The Messy KidsThe Messy Kids by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Chester, just like every other kid, does not like or want to clean his room. Also like many children they have their imaginary friends. The mess makers, the one that hides things, the one that has yet to learn how to clean as they go. This story puts a fun twist on cleaning up. I have read many children’s stories from this author. She has taken a child job and made it fun. The story is to the point without leaving the child feeling bad or sad when it comes to cleaning up. She sets the mood and has a positive outcome. I love this story and it may have slipped on to my children’s story shelf.

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