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Oscar and Emmy Visit the Vet (Oscar and Emmy Series) by Terri Sabol – Review by Crystal Brehant

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Oscar and Emmy Visit the Vet: A book to explain how visiting the vet with your pets can be fun!Oscar and Emmy Visit the Vet: A book to explain how visiting the vet with your pets can be fun! by Terri Sabol
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

My 7 year old son and I love reading the Oscar and Emmy series. We have read quite a few of them now. There are always some great lessons included in the cute story. This story is packed full of great information about cats and how to take care of them. It also has some great information about what vets do to help cats stay healthy. I love how at the end of each book, there is useful guides about cats and what to do with them.

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Oscar and Emmy Visit Grandma (Oscar and Emmy Series) by Terri Sabol – Review by Crystal Brehant

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Oscar and Emmy Visit GrandmaOscar and Emmy Visit Grandma by Terri Sabol
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Oscar and Emmy go on an adventure to Grandma’s house when Abby and Charlie go on vacation with their parents. I read this with my 7 year old and he liked learning about how cats can be nervous and unsure in new surroundings just like people can. We see what Oscar, Emmy and Grandma get up to while their family is gone. We also see something serious happen. What are grandma and the kitties wearing when the family comes back to pick up the kitties? Read to find out!

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No One Could See the Flea by Tricia Gardella – Review by Crystal Brehant

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

This is a cute story about kids who misunderstand something. I read this with my 7 year old and we both enjoyed it. A boy sees his dog scratch himself and instantly think his pup has fleas. Despite not being able to see any fleas, he still thinks he has one. He tries everything he can think of to get rid of the fleas. As friends come along, they also try to help. Did the pup really have fleas? Find out if any of these crazy ways the kids come up with helps the dog stop scratching.

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Word Play by Tricia Gardella – Review by Crystal Brehant

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Word PlayWord Play by Tricia Gardella
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is such a cute story. I read it with my 7yo son who liked it too. He remembered being eager to learn to read as well. He couldn’t wait to read and was impatient just like Joe! He actually even looked similar to Joe except for the glasses. Even though my son is a fantastic reader now, he still gets impatient about learning things. He related to this boy throughout the whole story. Joe is a lot like other curious minded kids. We thought the illustrations were bright and beautiful too.

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The Queen’s Dance (Heart & Hand Series Book 2) by Nicole E. Kelleher – Review by Crystal Brehant

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The Queen's Dance: A Sizzling Slow Burn Fantasy Romance (Heart & Hand Series Book 2)The Queen’s Dance: A Sizzling Slow Burn Fantasy Romance by Nicole E. Kelleher
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is the second book in the series. This author really knows how to world build. Sometimes when an author weaves a story that is so unique, you kind of get lost as to what is going on. That is not true here. Nicole E Kelleher is a fantastic story teller and is amazing at getting you invested with the details of her story and her world. I loved the romance, the banter and the twists. There’s nothing like a good paranormal book in my opinion and this fits that totally!

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Lost Hollow: A Small Town Science Fiction Romance (Alienville Series Book 1) by Donna S. Frelick – Review by Crystal Brehant

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Lost Hollow : A Small Town Science Fiction Romance (Alienville Book 1) (Alienville Series)Lost Hollow : A Small Town Science Fiction Romance (Alienville Book 1) by Donna S. Frelick
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This story was packed full of so much! It was a rollercoaster for sure. There was action, mystery, drama, feuds, and so much more. I swear the best stories come from small towns. I believe this is the first story I have read by this author. I will definitely be reading more by her. I also cannot wait for the sequels to this series. There were plenty of twists, turns and shocking revelations to keep you on the edge of your seat for the entire book.

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Glass Houses by Sinister Styx – Review by Crystal Brehant

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Glass HousesGlass Houses by Sinister Styx
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This was a super short story. I read, no devoured it all in one sitting. That’s not to say that it was lacking. This author knows how to pack a lot into a small amount. It did however, leave me wanting more. I likely would have said that if it were 500 pages long. Sinister Styx has a way of telling a story that always leaves you begging for more. Read the trigger warnings, as this can definitely be a triggering story. If you aren’t bothered by those triggers, I highly recommend reading it. There is so much emotion captured in such a short novel. A great read for sure.

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Wheel of Evil (Hani’s Daughter Mysteries) by N.L. Holmes – Review by Crystal Brehant

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Wheel of Evil (Hani's Daughter Mysteries Book 3)Wheel of Evil by N.L. Holmes
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I am amazed that these books keep getting better and better. It’s rare that that happens in a series. That’s the mark of an excellent writer. It makes me want to find any and all other books by them and just absorb them all. This is the third in the series, and I highly suggest reading them all.
I absolutely love the characters in this story. I really loved getting to know Neferet and her family even more in this adventure. This is another mystery with twists and turns that will keep you on the edge of your seat. What a wild ride from start to end. Holmes has a way of building a story with excellent details and a story that just flows.

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Web of Evil (Hani’s Daughter Mysteries) by N.L. Holmes – Review by Crystal Brehant

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Web of Evil (Hani's Daughter Mysteries #2)Web of Evil by N.L. Holmes
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is the second book in the series. I am reading them in order. I always recommend reading any series in order. I do not feel like you are really missing anything important reading out of order. I do think it helps with the smaller details though.
I liked this story even more than the first. I am usually pretty good at guessing mysteries, but this one kept me changing who I thought did it throughout the whole thing. There are so many likely choices when a character is so disliked. It was s surprise twist, and there’s nothing better than twists in mysteries! I could not wait for the third!

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Flowers of Evil (Hani’s Daughter Mysteries Book 1) by N.L. Holmes – Review by Crystal Brehant

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Flowers of Evil (Hani's Daughter Mysteries #1)Flowers of Evil by N.L. Holmes
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I love a good mystery and this fits the bill. This story takes place in ancient Egypt. I don’t think I have read a story in that place or time period before. I really enjoyed reading about the time and learning about the characters. The details in the story kept me hooked from the beginning. Stories where women fight to prove their worth are always favorites of mine. Even in this day and age, women often have to prove themselves. It’s sad to think in some ways, not much has changed in that way. It makes a great storyline though. Female empowerment is a beautiful thing.
I really liked how the author included a map, glossary, historical notes, and character list at the beginning. It really helps to refer back to it as you read. Ancient Egypt has always fascinated me, but there is a lot I do not remember from school days. This author writes her story as if she were actually from the time. I appreciate that very much.

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Unexpected Heroes by Naomi Valkyrie – Review by Crystal Brehant

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Unexpected HeroesUnexpected Heroes by Naomi Valkyrie
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Naomi Valkyrie never fails to write a story that keeps you hooked from the first page. I have read quite a few by her and I have loved every single one. She has quickly become one of my favorite authors. I like stories that are told from multiple characters point of view. You get to know each character more. You get to know how they each think instead of just one side.
This is a second chance love story. Both characters feel quite defeated after a loss. Both feel the need to start fresh. But can they move on from their past to find love again? When their past comes calling, will they get past it?

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Raccoon Reunion by Terri Sabol – Review by Crystal Brehant

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Raccoon ReunionRaccoon Reunion by Terri Sabol
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Rocky’s family gets an invitation to a family reunion. He is really nervous and doesn’t want to go. He has never met his family in the country. He has never even been to the country! When his family gets there, he feels out of place. There’s no way he can remember who everyone is! What are all these new games? Can Rocky find a way to fit in with his family? Read to find out!

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Dinopotamus Solves a Mystery (Dinopotamus Series) by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Crystal Brehant

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Dinopotamus Solves a MysteryDinopotamus Solves a Mystery by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Another cute story by Lois Wickstrom. She really knows her stuff when it comes to writing books for kids of any age! I love her illustrations in the Dinopotamus series. It is really adorable. Dinopotamus can see something the human children cannot see. What is it? How does it happen? How can he make it happen again to benefit the kids? You must read to find out!

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Orange Forest Rabbit by Lois Wickstrom and Lucrecia Darling – Review by Crystal Brehant

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The Orange Forest Rabbit MysteriesThe Orange Forest Rabbit Mysteries by Lois June Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is a whimsical story of three mysteries. Lois Wickstrom never fails to write a story that captures the attention of her readers. Whether with a little kids story, or a story for older kids, they are always fun to read. Even “kids at heart” will likely enjoy this book. It has mystery and adventure. It is broken down into three parts which will make it easier for reluctant readers or readers who struggle. It doesn’t take away from the stories at all. It makes for a quick and entertaining read.

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“Absurd,” Said Bird : A Fun Children’s Adventure About a Mouse Who Dreams of Travel (Mouse Traveler) by Tricia Gardella – Review by Crystal Brehant

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“ABSURD,” SAID BIRD.: A mouse plans a trip to the moon. by Tricia Gardella
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is a cute story about a determined little mouse. It has bright, colorful pictures. All of the barn animals are clearly mouse’s friends. One doubts his plans though. We see that despite bird doubting his plan, bird still helps mouse with his dream. This is a great lesson. We also see mouse not give up and what it means to help your friends. Great little story.

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Tally and the Angel, The Sands of Time (Tally and the Angel Series) by Eleanor Dixon – Review by Crystal Brehant

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Tally and the Angel, The Sands of Time: Thrilling Middle Grade fantasy adventure where Greek Myths come alive!Tally and the Angel, The Sands of Time: Thrilling Middle Grade fantasy adventure where Greek Myths come alive! by Eleanor Dixon
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is the fourth book in this series. It happened to be the first book I picked up. I love Greek Mythology and this book came across to read so I figure I would give it a shot. I do think that for the most part, there is enough retelling of the back story so that you are not lost while reading. You can understand what is going on. I do believe it would be better to have read the previous books in my opinion.
With that being said, I really enjoyed this book. It was a perfect middle grade story. I liked it enough to want to read the first three in the series. This time, reading with my 7 year old. I think he would really enjoy this series. If your child is a fan of Greek Mythology, I suggest getting it for them. From what I have read about the other books, they deal with other mythologies.
I love Tally, the main character. I think she was very well written. I love the adventure and drama included in this story. As well as the decisions that Tally has to make and how she handles them. While the story is based in mythology, the feelings are very real and I think kids will relate to them in a way.

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The Alien & the Crime Boss by Naomi Valkyrie – Review by Crystal Brehant

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The Alien & the Crime BossThe Alien & the Crime Boss by Naomi Valkyrie
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This was a very quick read. I always enjoy books by this author. Her stories are always very unique but not too much where you’re just confused by the randomness. It doesn’t matter if it is a short book or a longer one, you are always brought into the world you are reading about. Her talent for describing people and the world and her writing style makes it so easy to just get lost in the book each and every time.
This is another story where I was lost in the story and finished the book in one sitting. Her books often leave me exhausted the next night because I stayed up too late reading them. I just had to know more. I love the relationship building between the two main characters. It definitely left me wanting more.

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The Amanda Mini-Mysteries by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Crystal Brehant

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The Amanda Mini-MysteriesThe Amanda Mini-Mysteries by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

My 7yo son and I have read so many books by Lois Wickstrom. Almost all of her books include a moral or some education that will teach children something. The difference between her stories and others, kids may not even know they are learning. They are too busy having fun while reading a great story. This book is no different.
This is a set of mini mysteries that follow Amanda and her friend Elaine as they learn about the little things in life that kids often wonder about. This is a great book for all of those inquisitive kids out there. (My son is one of them) He says on a daily basis “hey mommy can I ask google a question on your phone?” I love gathering books like this for him to learn while reading instead of always asking Google. We enjoyed this book.

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The Puppy Adventures of Porter and Midge: Out and About (Porter and Midge Children’s Book Series) by Jennie Chen and Giselle Nevada – Review by Crystal Brehant

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The Puppy Adventures of Porter and Midge: Out and AboutThe Puppy Adventures of Porter and Midge: Out and About by Giselle Nevada
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The Porter and Midge books are always a great book to pick up to read with kids. They touch on important information about owning pets. This one is about learning that it is important to train puppies. Socializing dogs before you take them out and about is key to having a great adventure with your dog. This book talks about that in a way that is both fun and informative. I love that it includes extras at the end that can be very helpful to kids when they have their own dog to train.

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The Ghastly Gumball by Naomi Valkyrie – Review by Crystal Brehant

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The Ghastly GumballThe Ghastly Gumball by Naomi Valkyrie
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This was such a fun read! It was silly and so very funny! I laughed out loud so many times. I love Naomi’s writing and her stories. They are always such a joy to read. It doesn’t matter what her book is about, I am instantly pulled in and just want to consume the entire thing in one sitting.
I really don’t know what to say exactly about this story in particular. The characters are unique, hilarious, and just wacky. I highly suggest just picking this book for a very entertaining quick read!

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Ten Little Sea Turtles (A Counting Collection) by Kim Ann – Review by Crystal Brehant

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Ten Little Sea Turtles: Ocean and Marine Life Books for Children (Marine Life Counting Collection)Ten Little Sea Turtles: Ocean and Marine Life Books for Children by Kim Ann
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Another super cute counting story by Kim Ann. The illustrations are absolutely stunning! The fun rhymes will keep kids captivated. I love how their is educational info in the story. At the end, a couple of little games are included as well. Everything you could want in a counting book plus so much more.

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Opposite Day for Dinopotamus (Dinopotamus Series) by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Crystal Brehant

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Opposite Day for DinopotamusOpposite Day for Dinopotamus by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Another cute story with Dinopotamus. What kid doesn’t love a story about a dinosaur? I love the art work in here by Lois Wickstrom. She always has fantastic illustrators. In this book, she was the illustrator! Today is opposite day and the kids in class must figure out what is the opposite of what the teacher says to do.

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Flying at Recess by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Crystal Brehant

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Flying at RecessFlying at Recess by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Another adorable book from Lois Wickstrom. I have read so many books by her with my son. We always thoroughly enjoy them. This one is about a little girl who disappears and flies at recess time. Her best friends know shes is there, though they can’t see her. One day, she flies farther than usual. Will she make it back before recess ends? Read to find out!
I have to add, I love the reaction of the teacher. If you have kids, I highly recommend picking up a book or two, or 7 from Lois Wickstrom.

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Wasabi (Evil Sushi Series) by C.A. King – Review by Crystal Brehant

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Wasabi (Evil Sushi Book 3)Wasabi by C.A. King
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The third and final book in the Evil Sushi series. I must say, I really enjoyed this series. I am so glad I decided to pick them up. I was hesitant at first. They sound insane. Well, they are… But in the best way. These books are quick, entertaining reads. I was kept hungry and ready to consume more and more. The ending to this series satiated that hunger. It finished up brilliantly but unexpectedly. I highly recommend this series! Also, any other book by this author. Her writing style is incredible.

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Sashimi (Evil Sushi Series) by C.A. King – Review by Crystal Brehant

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Sashimi (Evil Sushi #2)Sashimi by C.A. King
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The second book in the Evil Sushi series. These books are quick and interesting reads. They are VERY unique. I’m not sure you would be able to find another book series like this. For me, that is a great thing. There’s nothing like diving into a story where everything is new.
This book is even better than the first. I do think you should read them in order for the best results. The plot is full of twists and things I did not expect to happen. Scientists and the government are hard at work trying to eliminate what transpired in book one. I am excited to read the third.

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Oscar and Emmy’s First Christmas (Oscar and Emmy Series) by Terri Sabol – Review by Crystal Brehant

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Oscar and Emmy's First Christmas: An adorable Christmas story of two kittens enjoying the holidays. Christmas cat book.Oscar and Emmy’s First Christmas: An adorable Christmas story of two kittens enjoying the holidays. Christmas cat book. by Terri Sabol
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

My 7yo son and I have read quite a few of these books. We always enjoy them. The illustrations are always bright and colorful. This one is not any different. All of the other books I have read in this series include education about something within the story. As well as helpful tips or information at the end. This one is different. This story is just a beautiful, light hearted Christmas story about Oscar and Emmy’s first Christmas. We loved it just the same as the others.

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Oscar and Emmy Weather a Hurricane (Oscar and Emmy Series) by Terri Sabol – Review by Crystal Brehant

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Oscar and Emmy Weather a HurricaneOscar and Emmy Weather a Hurricane by Terri Sabol
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I love these Oscar and Emmy books. I have read a few of them with my 7yo son. He also always enjoys them. They are not only fun and entertaining, they are also full of life lessons and education. That doesn’t make them boring though. The author weaves essential information right into the story. Often, at the end, the author includes super helpful lists or information about what the story was about.
This one in particular deals with an extreme hurricane. It teaches kids (and possibly even parents) how to be prepared to handle a hurricane. Especially with tips for pets! This book includes a list at the end that you and kids can use to be prepared.

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Murder by Moonlight (Felines of Fairytale Forest) by K.L. Montgomery – Review by Crystal Brehant

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Murder by Moonlight (Felines of Fairytale Forest Book 1)Murder by Moonlight by K.L. Montgomery
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This was such a fun read! A theme park, cats, and a murder mystery! I love the characters in this story. It’s really interesting to see how the cats interact with the humans in the book to try to solve the murder. No one wants their park to be shut down. I love the fact that the cats seem to have different gangs in the park. It adds a lot of interest and fun to the story. I cannot wait to read more!

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Percy’s Brides (A Double Trouble Romance) by Ivy Hart – Review by Crystal Brehant

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Percy's Brides: A Double Trouble RomancePercy’s Brides: A Double Trouble Romance by Ivy Hart
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I enjoyed this book. Going in, I had completely misunderstood what the book was about as far as the two brides thing. I didn’t really realize it was a “mail order bride” type of a thing. It was definitely my first book with that plot line. I thoroughly enjoy reading new themes unlike others I have read, so this ended up being a huge plus for me. It can show how family butting in and pressuring you can be really tough. It can put you in circumstances you likely would not have been in without their “help”.
Percy writes multiple letters in order to find someone to settle down with. Two women end up showing up and he must choose one to spend his life with. They soon realize, sometimes there are more important things to worry about, like loss and community. It really changes how things are seen for all of them. Who does Percy choose in the end? Read to find out!

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The Husbands by Naomi Valkyrie – Review by Crystal Brehant

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The HusbandsThe Husbands by Naomi Valkyrie
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I love love LOVE this authors books! I love her style of writing and her imagination. I believe this is my first book by this author that is not paranormal. This is more of a romance filled with suspense and danger! This story shows how one little thing can alter multiple lives forever. Is it in a good way, or bad?
She absolutely nailed this category too. This story was unlike any that I have read before. I thoroughly enjoyed it. If you have not picked up a book by Naomi Valkyrie, what are you waiting for? I fly through her books every time, finding myself having a really hard time putting them down.

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