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The Silent Forest (The House on the Hill Book 2) by David Kummer – Review by Crystal Brehant

The Silent Forest (The House on the Hill, #2)The Silent Forest by David Duane Kummer
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is the second book in the series. I recommend reading the first if you haven’t. Not only would you be able to understand this story better, but it’s a great book. This book is even better though! The author keeps you on the edge of your seat the entire time. I also felt the need to pull my feet up so no one could get them. haha This is a story I will not likely forget for a long time. (And my memory is equal to that of Dory!)

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The Big Book of Booper Snoots by Suzanna Lynn – Review by Crystal Brehant

The Big Book of Booper SnootsThe Big Book of Booper Snoots by Suzanna Lynn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

An adorable book of animals A to Z. There are a lot of these types of books out there. This one is completely different. There is a focus on their cute little noses. Kids can guess which animal will be next by their booper snoots! I love that it’s filled with fun facts about animals that are educational too. Plus a weird interesting fact about each one! I think this will become a favorite in many households.

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Italian American (Jack & Mariella Book 2) by Luigina Vecchione – Review by Crystal Brehant

Italian American: Jack & Mariella’s journey continues…Italian American: Jack & Mariella’s journey continues… by Luigina Vecchione
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is the second book in the series. However, you can read this one as a stand alone story. I recommend reading the first though. You will not miss details, but you will miss an incredible book.
The first book was filled with so much emotion. This one doesn’t differ. While the feelings and the reason for them are vastly different, you will still find yourself on an emotional rollercoaster. You really find yourself feeling so much for Mariella and how she is treated by pretty much everyone when she moves with her husband. I would go from feeling indignant, to happy, from sad, to downright angry. I really just wanted to hug her and to also, throw the book across the room.

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Greetings From Asbury Park (Jack & Mariella Book 1) by Luigina Vecchione – Review by Crystal Brehant

Greetings from Asbury Park: A World War Two love storyGreetings from Asbury Park: A World War Two love story by Luigina Vecchione
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

What a story! There is so much emotion in this story – love, pain, courage, and so much more. The author is a brilliant writer who draws you into the story as if you are there experiencing it first hand. This story felt real as I was reading it. It is based on a true story, but that doesn’t automatically make it feel real. The author’s writing is what makes it so. I could not put this book down! This is not just a love story, but more than that, it is a story of family, life and all that comes with it. All while taking place during the second world war.

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Dinopotamus Goes to School (Dinopotamus Series) by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Crystal Brehant

Dinopotamus Goes to SchoolDinopotamus Goes to School by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I want to first mention that I love the art in this book! I think this is the first time I have seen the author do the art herself and it’s fun! The story and illustrations are adorable. Dinopotamus wants to be just like the other kids. He is a little different though. He has to find a different way to do some of the things the kids do. My seven year old son and I both enjoyed this book.

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Just Ducky (Weird Shifters Series) by C.A. King – Review by Crystal Brehant

Just Ducky (Weird Shifters)Just Ducky by C.A. King
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I love the writing style and imagination of this author. The cover and title immediately pulled me in. When I learned it was a supernatural story, I was even more excited to read. I have read many MANY supernatural stories but this is like no other that I have read before. The characters are well written and interesting. A duck shifter? The first for me for sure.
Ducky is someone that I feel many can relate to in a way. Obviously not in the supernatural element, but in the way that she has been bullied and mistreated her whole life. She is an outcast and a loner. She doesn’t fit in with the others. She is in love with the Lord but believes he would never be interested in her. The Lord is back to prevent war and rumor is he is looking for a bride. Ducky believes it could never be her but she wants to take a peek anyway.
This was a fun read and I am looking forward to future books in the series.

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

Evil Sushi (Evil Sushi #1)Evil Sushi by C.A. King
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I kept going back and forth on whether or not to read this book. Why did I consider it? I have enjoyed other books by this author. The name and cover intrigued me. I love sushi. Why did I almost pass it up? The synopsis. It honestly didn’t sound like something I would enjoy. I ended up choosing to read it in the end because it sounded weird. I figured at the very least, if I didn’t care for the story, I thought I would be entertained. I also knew that I liked the author’s style of writing.
So did I actually like it? Well, I gave it 5 stars. This book was weird. It was unexpected. It was enjoyable. The story was well written and it was fast paced. The only complaint is that I didn’t really feel like we got to know the characters well enough. There was a bit of a lack of connection to the story because of that. At the end of the day, I would actually be interested in reading the next book in the series. It was an enjoyable read.

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Under the Bandage by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Crystal Brehant

Under the BandageUnder the Bandage by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

What happens when you scrape your knee? Find out in this story! I read this with my 7 year old son. I love how things are explained in a way that makes sense to kids. My son is homeschooled and this year for science we were working on the human body. This was a great addition to what we have been learning. It’s not only a fun story, but very informative. That is usually how Lois Wickstrom’s books go. You have fun, but you also learn. (And it’s not boring!)

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Troy: A Crown of Stones Origin Story by C. L. Schneider – Review by Crystal Brehant

Troy (The Crown of Stones)Troy by C.L. Schneider
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This story sets up the trilogy nicely if you haven’t already read it. If you have, it has added a nice bonus read to the series. After having read the series, I must admit I was very happy to see a prelude! Any addition to this series is great. You could potentially read this as a stand alone, but I don’t recommend it. Simply because the series is so good.
As you can tell by the title, this book is about Troy and his back story. How he became the man he is within the series. Another well written book with great world building.

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Meal Time at the Zoo: PB&J Café by James Williamson – Review by Crystal Brehant

Mealtime at the Zoo: PB&J CaféMealtime at the Zoo: PB&J Café by James Williamson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I read this book with my seven year old son. We both enjoyed it very much. The illustrations are adorable, bright and colorful. The story is cute, rhythmic and funny. My son giggled through out the entire book. We thought it was cool to see how different animals might eat a peanut butter and jelly sandwich.

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Kris & The Cowboys (The Adventures of Kris) by Art Blegen – Review by Crystal Brehant

Kris & The Cowboys: The Adventures of KrisKris & The Cowboys: The Adventures of Kris by Art Blegen
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Another adventure with Kris? Yes please! These beginner chapter books are a lot of fun for my 7yo son and I to read together. They are always well written, and detailed in a way that’s easy for kids to follow along and to get lost in. This is a series, however, each book can stand alone and you won’t feel like you’re missing anything.
This story follows Kris as she is dropped off at her Uncle’s ranch. She learns all about ranch life – riding a horse, working on the ranch, etc. Until it’s time for the cattle drive. Her uncle does not think she is ready for something that can be dangerous. Will that stop Kris? Of course not! She finds her own way and goes on an epic cattle drive adventure! There is so much that happens, it is sure to keep any kid (or kid at heart) entertained.

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Can I Keep Her? (Kingdom of Mir Series) by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Crystal Brehant

Can I Keep Her?Can I Keep Her? by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is the second in the Kingdom of Mir series. My 7yo son and I are loving this series. We like this one more than the first. It has a baby dragon! As in the first, Wynnie seems to be the smartest in the kingdom, and the most caring. But can she train a wild baby dragon and keep it from burning down the whole kingdom? The pictures are absolutely adorable in this story.

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

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

The time has come. The last book in the Life Is Hell series by Naomi Valkyrie. I’m going to go cry in a ball in the corner.
Okay, back. If you couldn’t tell, I absolutely love this series. The series is well written, with each book being better than the previous. I think my favorite is still the first book though. Just because you get that intro into this magical and supernatural world. The first look into the small, mysterious town of Juniper Lake. I highly suggest reading all five of the books and read them in order. They all have their own stories, but the characters and stories intertwine in the best way.
This story features Hadassah, which if I remember correctly, is our first angel. She is a little uptight around all of the other supernatural characters since she is “good” and they are well… not. She is a fallen angel though, after helping her brother save a demon. She was punished by being sent to Earth to await her fate. Now, she must try to be on her best behavior in a town full of people who aren’t afraid to bend the rules. By doing that, she makes her brother pretty upset since these people are like his family. Someone goes missing, someone who drives her crazy. Should she help get her back and risk not getting back into Heaven? Or should she forget about her to make sure she gets back to Heaven, while forever disappointing her brother? Read to find out!

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Sure as Hell (Life is Hell Series Book 4) by Naomi Valkyrie – Review by Crystal Brehant

Sure As Hell (Life is Hell #4)Sure As Hell by Naomi Valkyrie
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Book four in the Life Is Hell series. I am very disappointed… that this series is almost over! I love this series so much. What’s not to love? Magic, Supernatural beings, danger, love and it all takes place in an unassuming small town.
I recommend reading in order as the characters and stories intertwine with each other in the small town of Juniper Lake. Each story is unique though and you definitely won’t get bored!
Sure as Hell is the story of Jaru and Lark. Jaru is an imp demon and Lark is Jaru’s best friend. Trouble comes about, and puts Lark in danger. Jaru wants to push Lark away, to keep him safe. Lark has other plans and tells Jaru his feelings for him. Can Jaru accept Lark’s love and keep him safe? You must read to find out!

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Breaking Apart (Finnerty and Liccione Mystery Series) by Wanda Venters, MD and Mary Rae, MD – Review by Crystal Brehant

Breaking Apart (A Finnerty and Liccione Mystery, #2)Breaking Apart by Wanda J. Venters
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Book number two in this series and we have another murder mystery for Dr Liccione and Dr Finnerty. This time, a young veteran dies by suicide and his wife believes something else is up. The doctors must figure out if there really is something evil at play or if there are rampant suicides happening. They once again, get involved in something people don’t want them involved in and it becomes dangerous. This was another hit for me. I love how descriptive the authors are. I hope they continue this series.

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Break Bone Fever (Finnerty and Liccione Mystery Series) by Wanda Venters, MD and Mary Rae, MD – Review by Crystal Brehant

Break Bone Fever (A Finnerty and Liccione Mystery, #1)Break Bone Fever by Mary Rae
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is book number one in the medical mystery series. I thought it was very well written and interesting. In this story, two Doctors must figure out how their doctor friend was murdered. Their friend, Dr Gen, was investigating an illness that started from mosquitos. It turns out, she was into something that people didn’t want her to be in. Her friends, must be careful as they try to figure out who did it. I love that this was written by real life doctors. The details and descriptions are top notch.

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Kris & The Missing Prince (The Adventures of Kris) by Art Blegen – Review by Crystal Brehant

Kris & The Missing Prince: The Adventures Of KrisKris & The Missing Prince: The Adventures Of Kris by Art Blegen
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Kris is the daughter of a single dad. He calls her his princess but she doesn’t want to be called a princess. She wants to be seen as a strong and daring knight. Her dad goes away on business and she is sent to her grandmother’s farm while he is away. While there, she of course has an adventure! She finds herself transported into a magical world where the prince has been taken. Being the brave and heroic knight that she is, she must save him! She meets many friends along the way and learns that sometimes, even brave knights need a team of friends to help.

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The Winemakers Box Set (The Winemakers Series) by Giovanna Siniscalchi – Review by Crystal Brehant

The Winemakers - Box set: A Series of Sun-Kissed Historical RomancesThe Winemakers – Box set: A Series of Sun-Kissed Historical Romances by Giovanna Siniscalchi
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

These are three historical romance stories based in Portugal. I enjoyed reading about Portugal and these characters set in the 1800’s.
The first story follows Julia who is trying to keep her vineyard going after her husband passes away. In this era, winemaking is really only done by men. She must face many obstacles, including a very large one, to prove she can do it as a woman. She meets Griffin, who she instantly connects with. He is there to check on his own vineyard, but ends up helping Julia in several different ways.
The second story I was hesitant to like, simply because Pedro was not a likeable character in the first story. However, this follows his life, his background and why he is the way he is. It is Pedro’s redemption story. He ends up meeting Anne, who he finds out is the sister of a man he hates. Despite this, they are drawn together and you see a lot about hate and revenge as well as romance in this story.
The third story deals with different characters and a whole different story. I enjoyed the first two stories more than the third, but still liked it. Isabel is a princess who is sent to deal with political issues in Spain. She is given an escort, much to her dismay. He drives her absolutely insane, and are nothing alike. Yet, there is something brewing beneath the surface.

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Loris Opens Up His Heart (Courage Tales Series) by Dagmara Sitek – Review by Crystal Brehant

Loris Opens Up His HeartLoris Opens Up His Heart by Dagmara Sitek

There are not a lot of books that deal with the tough subject of foster care. This is a great one with beautiful illustrations for children! Loris has been through a lot in his short life. He has completely shut down because of it. He moves in with a foster family and just refuses to participate in anything. Find out how he opens up in this beautiful and heartwarming story. There is a lot of emotions dealt with in this book. From anger, to frustration, pain and loneliness. You will see courage and standing up to a bully.

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Finding Cheer (Magical Emerald Hollow Series) by Heather Schneider – Review by Crystal Brehant

Finding Cheer (Magical Emerald Hollow #2)Finding Cheer by Heather Schneider
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I will start off by saying this is the second in the series. If you haven’t read the first, I recommend it. When I saw this book was out, I was not hesitant for even a moment before grabbing it. To me, this is the perfect Lifetime/Hallmark type of romance story, albeit much better. Sofia gets her turn and her story brought more to life. She meets Isaiah, who seems to be mysterious. Their conversations at first are fun and witty. They aren’t immediate friends. It’s more of an enemy to lovers story. This is a magical, holiday story. A perfect read for a cozy night.

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Unicorn, Don’t Do That! by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Crystal Brehant

Unicorn, Don't Do That!: It's okay if a Unicorn poops on your doorstepUnicorn, Don’t Do That!: It’s okay if a Unicorn poops on your doorstep by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This was a cute and funny story. I read this with my 7yo who laughed throughout the whole thing. Safe to say, he enjoyed it. Sometimes the best gift, is one that wasn’t planned. My son and I have read so many of Lois Wickstrom’s books. I believe this one is one of his favorites. Who doesn’t love unicorns, rainbows and poop? I would love to have a unicorn who poops rainbows on my doorstep.

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Marshmallow Rabbit by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Crystal Brehant

Marshmallow RabbitMarshmallow Rabbit by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I was not expecting how this book would turn out. I guess that’s the point of the story really. Things you plan for have a way of surprising you. There were surprises in store for both of the main characters. I read this with my 7yo son who enjoyed it. The illustrations are colorful and fun. We always enjoy Lois Wickstrom books.

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Amese of Animalis (The Borosa Legacy Book 1) by MJ Murray – Review by Crystal Brehant

Amese of Animalis (Borosa Legacy, #1)Amese of Animalis by M.J. Murray
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I read this with my 7yo and we both enjoyed it. What’s not to love? Magic, adventure, mishaps, and strength of character. There were a lot of life lessons in this story, but they weren’t overwhelming or boring. This was a great coming of age story where courage is tested. Amese is a fantastic character. We can’t wait for more in the series.

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Stop that Lion (Kingdom of Mir Series) by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Crystal Brehant

Stop That Lion: A Tale of Friendship Love and Peace (Kingdom of Mir)Stop That Lion: A Tale of Friendship Love and Peace by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The illustrations of this book were whimsical and colorful. The story teaches how sometimes the best advice can come from the least expected place. It also teaches how sometimes, taking chances can be worth it in the long run. It shows how bravery and friendship is often better than fighting or causing problems. I read this with my 7yo son and he enjoyed it.

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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 Crystal Brehant

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

It was definitely odd to me that 10 authors wrote one book. I have never heard anything like it before. I wasn’t sure how it would work. I was pleasantly surprised that it not only worked, but was a great read. It was cohesive as if only one person wrote it. I don’t want that to scare anyone away.
As far as the story, I really enjoyed it. I am a huge fan off all things mythical and paranormal. This book was right up my alley. There was so much in this book – suspense, action, adventure, etc. It was never too much and flowed really nicely. It did have a little bit of a slow start for me, but the rest of the book more than made up for it. There are the supernatural creatures I’ve heard about plenty of times ( and LOVE) and then new ones I have never heard of. I loved learning about them. This is the first book in the series and I am glad. I can’t wait to read more.

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Hell in a Handbasket (Life is Hell Series Book 3) by Naomi Valkyrie – Review by Crystal Brehant

Hell in a Handbasket (Life is Hell #3)Hell in a Handbasket by Naomi Valkyrie
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I love love LOVE this series. Each book is one that I cannot put down. This is book three of five in the series and I cannot wait to read the other two. These will definitely be books that I read over and over. There have been other books by this author that I have enjoyed as well. With each book I’ve read, she has moved closer and closer to the top of my favorite author list. I would say top 10 for sure, maybe top 5. And I read a lot of books.
We were introduced to Teivel in the very first book. But now, we see more of his story. I love that each book is a different character, but still, all of the characters tie together in a way. It’s one world, but with a fresh take from a different characters POV. The world building and character building is top notch. If you like paranormal reads, this is for you.

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Finders Keepers, Cowboy (Match Made in Montana Series) by Rachelle Paige Campbell – Review by Crystal Brehant

Finders Keepers, Cowboy (Match Made in Montana #1)Finders Keepers, Cowboy by Rachelle Paige Campbell
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is a classic enemies to friends romance. That’s not to say it’s the same as every other one. I love the cranky, tough cowboy Ryan who just needs to let some light into is life. Meg can be that light if he lets her. His grandpa Hank sees that they are a match. He will not let Ryan continue to be rude to her. Meg sees Ryan’s grandpa like her own. Her relationship with his grandpa is what just may bring these two together. At least if Hank has anything to do with it.

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Queen of the Fairies by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Crystal Brehant

Queen of the FairiesQueen of the Fairies by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

What a cute story about writing a book about fairies! Of course you have to write about the bad fairies, other wise they might get up to some trouble! My 7yo son and I have read many of this author’s books, and there hasn’t been a single one that we gave less than 5 stars to. I’m sure my son would give more stars if he could. We loved the surprise twist at the end. We had to go back immediately and read it again with a new look on the whole story!

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Kris & The Pirates (The Adventures of Kris) by Art Blegen – Review by Crystal Brehant

Kris & The Pirates: The Adventures of KrisKris & The Pirates: The Adventures of Kris by Art Blegen
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This story is a cute adventure and an easy read for young kids. I read this with my 7yo son who enjoyed it. It was fast paced and kept him entertaining the whole time. Meeting all of the different animals had to be my sons favorite parts, especially the turtle laying eggs. I love how it is a story about a child getting lost in a book.

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Porter and Midge: Paws and Responsibilities: A Kid’s Guide to Welcoming a New Dog (Porter and Midge Children’s Book Series) by Jennie Chen and Giselle Nevada – Review by Crystal Brehant

Porter and Midge: Paws and Responsibilities: A Kid's Guide to Welcoming a New Dog (Porter and Midge Children’s Book Series)Porter and Midge: Paws and Responsibilities: A Kid’s Guide to Welcoming a New Dog by Giselle Nevada
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is a great story to read to kids who want a dog. Kids can follow CJ and Lora as they learn about what it takes to take care of a dog. Owning a dog is not easy. These two kids do everything they can to show that they can be responsible pet parents. Kids can get really good ideas from this book about how to show they too, are ready to own a dog.

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