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Chatroom With A View by Glenn Maynard – Review by Felicia Bates

Chatroom With A ViewChatroom With A View by Glenn Maynard
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I had never read anything by this author before I picked up Chatroom with a View so I wasn’t sure what I was getting myself into but the synopsis really drew me in. As a fan of psychological thrillers, this book really piqued and kept my interest. Chatroom with a view was a dark rollercoaster ride with a strong storyline. The characters had depth and the feelings you have toward them shifts throughout the book. I felt like this was one of those novels that has you second guessing your thoughts and feelings and while entertaining, the book really did play into my emotions. I would definitely recommend this book and will be looking into more books by this author.

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True Colors (Landry’s True Colors Series Book One) by Krysten Lindsay Hager – Review by Felicia Bates

True Colors (Landry's True Colors #1)True Colors by Krysten Lindsay Hager
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

I was looking for a lighter read to get out of a bit of a reading slump and True Colors caught my attention. The writing and real life scenarios took me right back to middle school with cliques and struggles and oh, so much drama.. I can imagine this would be an incredibly relatable story for the younger audience and for that I would definitely recommend this book. The book was incredibly realistic with characters that felt like they could be in my own life, or could have been me many years ago. I would be curious to read more from this author in the future as well.

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Arrrgh! Me Hate To Wait! by Mary Bleckwehl – Review by Felicia Bates

Arrrgh! Me HATE To Wait!Arrrgh! Me HATE To Wait! by Mary Evanson Bleckwehl
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

My six year old daughter and I read this book together and she seemed to enjoy it. She really found the illustrations to be fun and silly. I am used to children’s books that rhyme and flow off the tip of your tongue and don’t speak like a pirate very often… so the jargon was a little tough for me but tons of fun.
Overall, this was a good children’s story with a solid message. My daughter and I look forward to reading this author again!

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Hot For Me (The Balefire Series Book 4) by Tam DeRudder Jackson – Review by Felicia Bates

Hot For Me (Balefire, #4)Hot For Me by Tam DeRudder Jackson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Hot For Me is the fourth book in the Balefire series but the first book I’ve ever read by the author. This book was an excellent stand alone romance but as always, I have to wonder how much I would have enjoyed the book seeing any tie ins from previous installments if I read the series in order. I don’t read a lot of rock star romances but something about this book gave me a familiar feeling I really enjoyed. I caught myself thinking about some of my favorite bands and their lives on tour. The chemistry in this book was palpable whether it be between Adam and Cristy or bandmates and the fans. I feel like the whole storyline had a great energy that kept me invested from start to finish. I was SUPER excited to see the playlist at the end of the book was comprised of bands I love and included my favorite Papa Roach song of all time. Somehow this only just solidified my feelings about the book as a whole. I’ll definitely be circling back to the previous books in the series and reading more from this author.

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Bees in Loretta’s Bonnet (Loretta’s Insects) by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Felicia Bates

Bees in Loretta's Bonnet (Loretta's Insects #2)Bees in Loretta’s Bonnet by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

My kids and I ( 6 and 8 years old) really enjoy reading books by Lois Wickstrom. Bees in Loretta’s Bonnet was a great addition to our kindle collection. I always enjoy learning from this author in the form of a fun storyline. Tonight’s theme was obviously bees. While it was great for our home library, I think it would be a good addition to any elementary school class as well. I really enjoyed the illustrations too but my FAVORITE part is the activity included after the story itself.

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My Pearl Heart by J.N. Sheats – Review by Felicia Bates

My Pearl HeartMy Pearl Heart by J.N. Sheats
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I was drawn to My Pearl Heart because I loved the cover art. Once I read the first page, I knew I made the right choice. I have mentioned in reviews before that I tend to load my Kindle with books and read them “blind” not remembering or rereading the synopsis… this was one of those books. My Pearl Heart has great characters, ones you love and ones you love to hate (looking at you, Cadence). While I liked that this was a short book, there were times I wish it were longer. I wouldn’t say the storyline was rushed, I just would have loved more time with James and Jasmine. Especially James! Overall, great story from an author I look forward to reading more from.

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Married Blind (King of Screen Book 2) by Morgana Bevan – Review by Felicia Bates

Married Blind (Kings of Screen, #2)Married Blind by Morgana Bevan
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Married Blind is the first book I’ve ever read by Morgana Bevan and one of the few Hollywood themed romances I’ve ever read. Neither the author or the theme of the book disappointed.
Something as simple as Finn describing his ideal woman as a fiery redhead vs your stereotypical “hot blond” was enough to pique my interest in the storyline overall. I enjoyed that the book showed both Abi and Finn’s perspectives and the banter was fantastic. After reading this I realized it was part of a stand alone series and I look forward to reading more. Morgana Bevan is definitely an author I look forward to reading more this year.

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Handle With Care (Chase Care Book 1) by R.L. Dunn – Review by Felicia Bates

Handle With Care (Chase Care Book 1)Handle With Care by R.L. Dunn
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

I’ve read a couple other books by this author but as a nurse that loves military and medical themes, I couldn’t pass up this book. It’s the first in a series that follows the main characters Hunter and Selma. It’s longer than a lot of books I read but overall, it kept my attention from start to finish. There were parts that reminded me of a military/medical show I used to watch a couple years ago while still feeling unique and not a “rip off” of something else. There were a couple times I found myself frustrated with the characters, specifically Selma but overall, they were likable. I do like that this is part of a series and I will read more from the author.

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Falling Home (Buckeye Falls Book 1) by Libby Kay – Review by Felicia Bates

Falling HomeFalling Home by Libby Kay
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Falling Home was the first book I’ve read by Libby Kay. Fortunately for me, it is part of the Buckeye Falls series, I truly look forward to reading more from this author. I loved the story of Max and Ginny and the fact that while the story is centered on whether they’ll find their way back to love, it is also a story about family. Having recently lost my mother, I have a great respect for the father/daughter love portrayed in this book. I found the plot to be cozy and light and truly a nice read. It was a great story to kick off my new year!

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Love Tools (Bluestone Series Book 1) by Isobel Reed – Review by Felicia Bates

Love Tools (Bluestone Series, #1)Love Tools by Isobel Reed
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I am not always big fan of romances but when I do indulge, I love a small town story. This book checked off all the boxes with it’s witty banter and fast paced storyline. I really like the friendly foundation that the two main characters laid down. There was more to this story than cute, romantic tropes including an element of family complexities. In addition to really enjoying both the main female and male characters, I enjoyed the supporting characters as well. No one came off we flat or dull, everyone had fun personalities that felt as though you could know them personally. I would definitely recommend Love Tools and look forward to reading more from Isobel Reed.

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If I Had a Magic Wand by Melissa Lavi – Review by Felicia Bates

If I had a Magic WandIf I had a Magic Wand by Melissa Lavi
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

If I Had a Magic Wand by Melissa Lavi is a 5 star children’s book. My mother bought my children a book a couple years ago titled something like, If I Could Keep You Little and this book, while different, had a similar comforting feel to it. My mother recently passed so I cherish this book’s similarities a lot. If I Had a Magic wand really illustrates what any parent, or adult in general, wants for a child in their life… love, happiness, kindness, the list goes on. The illustrations in this book are as beautiful as the well wishes too. A great addition to any bedtime story shelf!

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Amaleigha and the Big Idea by Janice Pratt – Review by Felicia Bates

Amaleigha and the Big IdeaAmaleigha and the Big Idea by Janice Pratt
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

My six year old and I recently read Amaleigha and the Big Idea for bedtime and she really enjoyed the story. She was anxious to see what the “big idea” was. As a grown adult reading the story, I loved the family relationships and the support, pride and enthusiasm shown throughout. This was a great children’s book with a good message to readers and fun illustrations. I’ll keep an eye out for more from this author!

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The Dwarves’ Dilemma (Science Folktales) by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Felicia Bates

Dwarves' Dilemma, TheDwarves’ Dilemma, The by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I read the Dwarve’s Dilemma with my 6 year old daughter and we both loved it. It was a great, unique take on what it is like to be fair to one another. I often enjoy reading this author to my children, especially the stories that have an element for science to them. I love a children’s book that teaches important life lessons as wel. This book has that as well as fun characters and really cool illustrations. Another fun book to add to our bedtime story rotation!

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Dream-Shifter by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Felicia Bates


Dream-ShifterDream-Shifter by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I’ve read a few Lois Wickstrom books with my youngest child and we always love them. Dream Shifter was the first full length novel I’ve read by this author vs the usual younger children stories with illustrations. Dream Shifter was just as imaginative and enjoyable as the books I’ve read before it though! I enjoyed the creative storyline and the characters were fantastic. I actually read this book myself but I feel that my 8 year old would have loved it. I really look forward to reading more from such a creative author.

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Pardon Me, Please by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Felicia Bates

Pardon Me, PleasePardon Me, Please by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Pardon Me, Please was a great book to read with my daughter (6 yr) as we approach the Thanksgiving holiday. She enjoyed the book and has had me read it more than once to her since. It’s so important as a parent (or at least this parent) to have a well written story that doesn’t take forever to read at bedtime. Pardon Me was fun and to the point with creative tricks to try to get that pardon.

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And Then She Fell by Dreena Collins – Review by Felicia Bates

And Then She FellAnd Then She Fell by Dreena Collins
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

And Then She Fell was a five star read that had me on the edge of my seat with my wheels turning from the first page. I liked the narration from mother to daughter, though deceased. As well as the flashbacks keeping the intrigue and helping you try to piece the tragedy together. I really felt like this book was incredibly well written and each chapter that passed made it harder to our the book down. I can not recommend this book enough and I’m anxious to read more from this author.

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A Christmas to Remember by 5 Prince Publishing – Review by Felicia Bates

A Christmas to Remember: An Anthology from 5 Prince PublishingA Christmas to Remember: An Anthology from 5 Prince Publishing by Bernadette Marie
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

A Christmas to Remember is an anthology I just couldn’t resist. All of the stories were fun and heartwarming in their own way and I don’t think there was a single one I didn’t like!

Mistletoe Memories kicked off the anthology on the right foot. It reminded me of one of my favorite Hallmark movies with two rival bakers. It had a little bit of everything, including that warm holiday happily ever after.

Rocky Mountain Christmas was easy to was with a familiar feel to it. Amity was a character that I grew to like.

Copper Penny Christmas- I loved the perspective this story was told from. This was a cute story on how things don’t
always go to plan but they often turn out better than expected. The story was easy to read with sweet characters, I honestly loved it.

Merry Mix-Ups was a fun, funny holiday read based on misunderstandings. Some of them, pretty humorous. The
characters were the type you could see yourself becoming friends with and the dual storytelling made this a great read from both perspectives. This read like the kind of holiday movie I love to watch. Very fun!

Falling for Christmas- My favorite part about this installment is that the chapters had titles. I didn’t just fall for that feature though, I loved the small town feel and holiday movie vibes it gave. I enjoyed Natalie and her willpower! Overall, another great edition to this holiday collection.

Christmas Pizzo- I really enjoyed this story, focused on family and what you’re “meant” to do. I really liked Sal as a character and again, the duel storytelling was helpfully to see both sides to the relationship.

The Mrs. Clause was an adorable story with a looming question about love vs money. The story was fun and easy to read with super sweet characters and a clever plot. It was a great story to wrap up the anthology and I’m officially in the holiday romance spirit!

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Misfortune of Song (Druid’s Brooch Series Book 5) by Christy Nicholas – Review by Felicia Bates

Misfortune of Song: An Irish Historical Fantasy Family Saga (The Druid's Brooch)Misfortune of Song: An Irish Historical Fantasy Family Saga by Christy Nicholas
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Misfortune of Song
(The Druid’s Brooch series, Book 5)
4 out of 5 stars

The Druid’s Brooch series does not fall under the category of genres I read very often but with books so well written, I’ve gladly made an exception.
Misfortune of Song is the fifth book in the series by Christy Nicholas but it can easily be read by itself; in fact I’ve been reading this series out of order.
Once again Christy Nicholas has captured me with her storytelling, in depth characters and fantastic imagery. The storyline had a bit of everything to keep me engaged and my emotions on edge.
I believe in my last review I stated that the book I had just read was my favorite in the series, I’d have to go back on my word and say Misfortune of Song has stolen that spot. Let this be an example of the kind of series this is, once you think you couldn’t love the books anymore, you read the next installment. Misfortune of Song has introduced me to a whole new world and much welcomed break from reality, if only for a short period. I will be recommending this author/series to anyone I know that’s looking for a fantastic read all around.

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Better Gnomes & Gardens (Mysty Haven Mystery Book 1) by Casey Cardel – Review by Felicia Bates

Better Gnomes & Gardens (Mysty Haven Mystery)Better Gnomes & Gardens by Casey Cardel
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I was originally attracted to this book by the witty title and adorable cover art. I ended up enjoying the characters and the storyline along the way. Initially, it took me a bit to get into the book but once I did, I didn’t want to put it down. I loved the subtle mystery surrounding Bob, the little town and whether he would fit in or not. I grew to love the characters, especially Aubri and I found myself wanting to get to know their back story more. I liked that at times I was suspicious of just about every character and that what I feared might happen actually didn’t. I am happy to see that the book left us expecting more because I am definitely open to experiencing more of this paranormal town.

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Glass Houses by Sinister Styx – Review by Felicia Bates

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

Glass Houses took mere minutes to devour but it left a long lasting impression. I was blown away by this short story and am having trouble articulating my thoughts and feelings without any spoilers. Providing you’ve read and taken the trigger warning accompanying this story into serious consideration, I would highly recommend this fast paced read. This is an author I would love to read again and would be curious to see what kind of impression a full length story would leave.

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Lucas the Spy Cat (Jake the Growling Dog) by Samantha Shannon – Review by Felicia Bates

Lucas the Spy CatLucas the Spy Cat by Samantha Shannon
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This was a great children’s book that I loved reading to my daughter as much as she loved hearing it. I can’t go without saying that the illustrations were amazing and initially a huge part of why I chose the book. That aside, the story was written really well and flowed nicely.I always love a children’s book that rhymes. I enjoyed the pages after the story with word searches and a focus on creativity. Plus, as a cat lover I loved seeing pictures of Lucas and Nemo.

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Ghost Talker (Madame Chalamet Ghost Mysteries Book 1) by Byrd Nash – Review by Felicia Bates

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

Having read Byrd Nash in the past, I consider this a “trusted” author and I was looking forward to what this series would have in store for me. I am a believer in some paranormal things and was looking forward to reading this. The story did not disappoint at all. The main character was enjoyable and often times, humorous. I don’t often read historical books but I did enjoy the setting and atmosphere of this book as a whole. This is a quick read with the promise of 5 more installments. I look forward to reading more.

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The Second View (The View from Here Trilogy Book 2) by Leon Stevens – Review by Felicia Bates

The Second View (Book 2 of The View trilogy)The Second View by Leon Stevens
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I am so happy to learn that Leon Stevens has turned this into a trilogy. I am not a fan of sci fi but the world building in this book and the first before it is amazing. The imagery and attention to detail is fantastic. This is a fast, well paced read that leaves you wanting more in all the right ways. I am excited to see what the third installment has in store for readers.

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Mafia Elite Series Box Set Volume 2 by Amy McKinley – Review by Felicia Bates

Mafia Elite Box Set: Volume TwoMafia Elite Box Set: Volume Two by Amy McKinley
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I am always so excited when I discover a book I haven’t read by this author and I don’t think there is a book I’ve ever disliked. I tend to read stand alone series out of order by mistake so the idea of this boxed set was truly appealing. Each book in the Mafia Elite collection is better than the last
and I really loved Collateral Damage.

Ruthless Heir
I have really grown to be a big fan of this author, or so I thought. It wasn’t until recently that I stumbled across this series. I was happy to learn that even though I picked up several books in, it was easy to follow along the storyline. It read well as a stand-alone. I would be curious to read more from this series and learn more backstory from supporting characters. I felt like the writing is really strong with a fast storyline. Of all things, Summer was my favorite part of this book. She is a strong, likable character. I would definitely recommend this book to others and I look forward to
starting this series from the beginning.

Collateral Damage
I was really looking forward to reading this book and as of right now, I would call it my favorite in the series. I was really looking forward to read more about Trey, I feel like he is such a multidimensional character with all he’s been through and I have a soft spot for him. I feel like the medical/surgeon aspect has not been done in many (or at least any I’ve read) Mafia novels. As a nurse myself, I’m always drawn to plots or characters involving the medical field. As much as I loved Trey, I feel that Hailey is just as strong and relatable as a character. The book (or series) is a must read. Never short of excitement, strong characters and a stronger plot. I’d strongly recommend this novel.

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I Loved You Yesterday (Trading Heartbeats Trilogy Book 1) by Julie Navickas – Review by Felicia Bates

I Loved You Yesterday: Book One in the Trading Heartbeats TrilogyI Loved You Yesterday: Book One in the Trading Heartbeats Trilogy by Julie Navickas
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I wasn’t sure what to expect with I Loved You Yesterday because I typically don’t enjoy second chance romance. Something about this book felt different and I’m glad I gave it a go. I have to admit, I really liked all of the characters in the novel with a soft spot for Austin. I felt that Mavis was a strong, likable character and I liked reading about her friendship with Casey as well. What stood out most to me was the internal dialogue sprinkled within the writing and the alternating perspectives. This is definitely a series/author I would love to read more from.

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A Love Restrained by Becky Flade – Review by Felicia Bates

A Love Restrained (Philly Heat series, #1)A Love Restrained by Becky Flade
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

A Love Restrained was written from a unique perspective that took a lot of getting used to. There were times where I found myself questioning who was speaking and keeping characters completely straight. That being said, that is literally my only criticism about this novel. I felt like the main characters were really likable, especially Kylee. The plot moved along quickly with some really great twists. I would recommend this book if you like your novels to have twists with a bit of spice and suspense. I look forward to reading more from Becky Flade!

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Moby Plays the Flute by Eeha Bhatt – Review by Felicia Bates

Moby Plays the FluteMoby Plays the Flute by Eeha Bhatt
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Moby Plays the Flute was a great story that helps teach the Importance in perseverance. I loved that while the story was short, it spanned a longer time frame and showed that while feeling defeated, Moby never gave up. I loved the artwork of this book and I am beyond impressed by this new to me author and illustrator. I’m certain my children are going to add this book to their regular book requests.

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River Witch by Cheryl Burman – Review by Felicia Bates

River WitchRiver Witch by Cheryl Burman
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I had seen someone post on social media about how people are so interested in wild plots that they’ll settle on subpar writing. I wish I remembered the person that stated that because I would hand her a copy of River Witch. The writing in this book was so rich with descriptive language and a strong vocabulary. I felt the imagery was vivid and honestly consider this book a literary work of art.
This author is fairly new to me, as is the idea of historical fantasy but as I said above the writing was so beautifully crafted I was sucked in immediately. The characters had depth and I loved that the story followed Hester through time. I am trying to keep my review vague and full of spoilers but this was the perfect reading material as I shift from my summer reading list and into thoughts of fall and “witchery.”

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Dinosaur Friends: 2 books in 1: A Present for the Volcano and Saving Conifer’s Eggs by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Felicia Bates

Dinosaur Friends: 2 books in 1: A Present for the Volcano and Saving Conifer's EggsDinosaur Friends: 2 books in 1: A Present for the Volcano and Saving Conifer’s Eggs by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

A Present for the Volcano
I thought this was a great children’s book. It was short and to the point with just enough repetition to help those that are just getting acquainted with reading. Even in just a few pages it showed being mindful and kind even with a big, angry, scary volcano!

Saving Conifer’s Eggs
Spike and Conifer are at it again in another short and to the point book about problem solving and friendship. I had a lot
of fun reading this short adventure with my 6 year old. Added bonus, we love the illustrations.

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The Girl Who Escaped by Mark Nolan – Review by Felicia Bates

The Girl Who EscapedThe Girl Who Escaped by Mark Nolan
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The Girl Who Escaped was the first Mark Nolan book I’ve read and I look forward to catching up on what else I’ve been missing. This was one of those thrillers that hit the ground running and really pulled you in from the first few pages. I am someone that reads a synopsis, forgets all about it and reads the book blind… so this felt even more twisty to me than it probably did some. It was fast paced and a great book to end out my summer. I often found myself holding my breath, especially during the very early chapters. For those of you with a soft spot for animals, there’s even a dog in the storyline…
Overall, great plot, great characters and a great read.

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