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Seraphina (Heartstrings Series) by Brooke May – Review by Mary Espinoza

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SeraphinaSeraphina by Brooke May
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is the fourth book in the series and if you’re like me and didn’t read the previous books…you will be able to understand without the backstories. This is the first one that I have read in this series, and I found it to be such a cute, fast read and I am looking forward to reading the rest of the series. I was really pulled into the idea of Cupid’s helpers and the whole scheme of romance idea that Cupid brings. This story has a good blend of characters that are quick witted, quick tempered, and have truly unique personalities. This book was a really fast read for me as I couldn’t put it down because I needed to know what was going to happen next. I suggest this book if you are looking to be able to sink into your couch, get away from reality for a while, pick this book up and give it a try! I don’t think you will be one bit disappointed!

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Mary Espinoza, December 2023

Hope For A New World (Gaia’s Voice Series) by Renee W Peek – Review by Mary Espinoza

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Hope For a New World (The Hope Series Book 1)Hope For a New World by Renee W. Peek
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Hope For a New World is the first book in The Hope Series (Gaia Series) by Renee W. Peek. This is the first book that I have read by Renee Peek, so I wasn’t sure what to expect from one of her stories, but the cover pulled me in, and I figured that I would see what it was about.
What I discovered is an original story with quite a bit going on, there are multiple characters, and multiple point of views going on also, which makes the story seem interesting. This is a Sci-fi fantasy, with a bit of a ‘message’ about the environment, and the part we play in it all. So, the setting of the story is over a hundred years into the future, and it depicts the changes that we have brought about to the environment.
I appreciated the story and messages it contained, but I did find it difficult to fully connect with some of the characters, because I felt like there was quite a bit going on with each of the characters. I hope that Renee continues to make books in the series which explain each point of view.
The only way to find out if your thoughts of this book, is to pick up a copy for yourself and read the book…I don’t think you will be disappointed!

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Mary Espinoza, December 2023

Children of the Wild (Children of the Wild Series) by Krysta Tawlks – Review by Kerry Carr

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Children of the WildChildren of the Wild by Krysta Tawlks
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This was the first book I have read by this author but I found it a very enchanting read. This is a YA fantasy adventure. It is fast paced and really interesting. It is a story of family, magical beings, adventure and a young boy discovering who he is and what his destiny is.
The main character Elbert is a sweet young boy who always thought he was a normal kid. That is until he starts sprouting feathers and feels a burning sensation that takes over his body.
What is happening to him? As he starts to learn more about his magical abilities he needs to learn how to control his magic all the while his mind is being opened up to other magical creatures and beings and are only heard of in stories.

There are some emotional points in the story as we are with him as he tries to work through feelings of grief while still protecting his remaining siblings.
This is a moving magical tale of a young man choosing his path while working through emotions and pain that could cloud his judgement.
Which path will he choose? And will his choices put the rest of his siblings in danger from creatures he has only just found out existed.

This was a magical read. I was presently surprised by this author’s work and I can’t wait to read more.

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Orenda (The Latitude Series) by T.S. Simons – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

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Orenda (The Latitude)Orenda by T.S. Simons
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Orenda is Book Two in The Latitude Series. It is a dystopian romance with action, suspense, drama, intrigue, tension, family, friendship, loyalty, and betrayal. The book centers around the characters of Gio and Caitlin who have become ambassadors for the ACC in Canada. Their efforts to promote peace and harmony are short lived as an old enemy resurfaces and puts all their work into danger. I loved the writing style and the focus on the First Nations Iroquois belief that all people and natural objects possess a mystical energy. The concept is fascinating and thought provoking. The characters take us on an emotional rollercoaster as we learn about their hopes and dreams, their struggles, and their challenges along the way. The scenes were vividly written and fully immerse you into the story along with the characters.

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Lost and Found (Logan McKenna Mystery Book 9) by Valerie Davisson – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

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Lost and Found: A Logan McKenna Mystery Book 9 (Logan McKenna Series)Lost and Found: A Logan McKenna Mystery Book 9 by Valerie Davisson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Lost and Found is Book Nine in the Logan McKenna Mystery Series. It is a crime thriller with action, suspense, mystery, intrigue, murder, danger, lies, and drama. Logan is on another adventure that takes her into the world of commercial crabbing. When a dead body turns up Logan sets out to find out what happened. As she delves into the murder she discovers a tangled web of secrets, lies and deceit that slowly turns deadly. I love the character of Logan because she is smart, feisty, determined, and courageous. When the stakes get high, she delves in deeper and does not give up. The book takes some twists and turns that make it impossible to put down. Another great book in this series that kept me reading until the end to find out what happened next.

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Lela’s Choice by Jennifer Raines – Review by Francis O’Sullivan

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Lela's ChoiceLela’s Choice by Jennifer Raines
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Lela’s Choice is a standalone romance that follows Lela as she travels from Australia to Malta to look for her missing niece. She’s keen to work independently from her father, but her father has arranged for Hamish to help in her hunt.

This is the second book I’ve read by this author, and I enjoyed it a lot! The author approaches interesting and complicated issues and situations in her books, adding depth to the romance. In Lela’s Choice, we have the challenges of locating a missing person in an unfamiliar country, as well as Lela’s relationship with her father and how that impacts on her connection with Hamish.

The setting in Malta is well-researched and described, so it’s like travelling there by book! It’s fun exploring Malta along with Lela and Hamish.

I’d recommend this to fans of romance with a bit of mystery thrown in, who like books set in interesting destinations. It gets five stars from me!

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Orenda (The Latitude Series) by T.S. Simons – Review by Heidi Schoolman

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Orenda (The Latitude)Orenda by T.S. Simons
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This book is the sequel to The 45th Parallel and is 298 pages in length. Caitlin and Gio head to Canada to become Ambassadors. The purpose – to bring two communities together in hopes for growth. She proves to be a great leader. Until a past enemy arises. Before everything is destroyed, she must call upon her Orenda.

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The Magic Man Audiobook (The Olympic Peninsula Book 3) by Cat Treadgold – Review by Sunday Barnaby

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The Magic Man is the third book in the Olympic Peninsula series written and narrated by Cat Treadgold.

 

This book follows David and Maddie through their wild ride of discovering if they will become a couple. This is my favorite book so far in this series. I’m really looking forward to book four. You can definitely read/listen to this book as a standalone but all of the characters are reoccurring and I love seeing how they evolve as the story goes on. It is refreshing that the author does her owe narrating in this series. She knows exactly what was intended in this audio and it shows in her work as a narrator. This is a great listen. I highly recommend this book, series and author/narrator. Excellent Job Cat!

Review by @sunbarn

A King So Savage (The Savage Duet) by April Moran – Review by Shannon Fowler

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A King So Savage (The Savage Duet #1)A King So Savage by April Moran
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

How could she explain an attraction that shouldn’t exist? ~ Ava

This whole entire book has me feeling this way. Kingston is mean, deranged, broken and well, savage. He is the type of character that sees something he wants, and he takes it. There is no price limit, everything and everyone can be bought. Kingston has the funds, the means, and the ability to acquire anything and everything he wants. He wants Ava. So, he takes her. He uses her sleazy brother’s debt as the reason for taking her but throughout this story there is a deeper feeling, a deep fascination that Kingston has with Ava.
Ava is all that is good. Is she perfect? Not really but she is close. She is a little naive in the world around her. But I like to think she lives in her own little world, trying to make a good life for herself while not causing harm to others. She is not skilled or even very knowledgeable about the world that her brother and Kingston live in. Crime, greed, violence, death. While she has known of Kingston most of her life, she doesn’t know him, until now. Which brings her much confusion. He has basically kidnapped her from her mundane safe life. And brings out feelings she didn’t know she had.

This author touches on some subjects that may cause questions within the reader. Anger, fear, repulsion, concern, lust, interest, confusion to name a few. This story is violent, sexy in a rough way, and being a romantic at heart I can see the underlying hope for a happily ever after. Even if the HEA means these two characters are far away from each other. This story is the first part of the duet so there is not a HEA …not even a happily ever after for now…

Already starting the 2nd part of this duet because the writing is so addicting.

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Dangerous Rhythm, The Echo Series, C.R. Alam, Review, Itsy Bitsy Book Bits, Contemporary Romance

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Dangerous Rhythm (The Echo Series, #4)Dangerous Rhythm by C.R. Alam
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is the 4th installment of the echo series and it did not disappoint! It features Lina and Curtis; Curtis witnesses a crime and is then hunted by a mob boss. Lina, who worked for Curtis 2 years previous, is back in Curtis’s inner circle and is set on trying to protect him.
They flee the danger, going from country to country, trying to stay safe and alert but at the same time trying to figure out if they can be together. Do they dodge the danger? Do they end up together? Read to find out!
Loved it! This author does not disappoint, lots of twists and turns, couldn’t put it down! Highly recommend it!

Triple Trouble at Amberwood (The Amberwood Hall Ballet School Series) by Eleanor Dixon – Review by Barbara Bohls

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Triple Trouble at Amberwood: Book Four in your favourite middle-grade haunted ballet school... (Amberwood Hall Ballet School 4)Triple Trouble at Amberwood: Book Four in your favourite middle-grade haunted ballet school… by Eleanor Dixon
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is the 4th book of the series and can be read as a stand alone book. However, if you want more details on what is going on; I highly suggest reading them in order. It will help fill in the gaps of background that you will be wanting in the beginning of this book. This book is a spirited tale that is geared for 8-13 year olds but I feel like if the reader likes a hauntingly tale that isn’t super scary this would work for them as well. I enjoyed the book and felt it was an easy read. So, if your child isn’t to terribly into reading but you are trying to encourage them to do so, this book/series might be a good start for you. It has an easy to follow plot. It has relatable characters or characteristics. The characters sure do know how to get into some mischievous situations. This is what makes the book fun. Does the show go on, will they figure out what needs to be done, or will the ghosts do what they set out to do. These thoughts are what will keep any reader turning the pages. I highly enjoyed this book and would recommend it to anyone who has a dancer in their life that loves a little mystery.
Reviewed by: @bbohls

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I Am A Bold Asian Boy (Asian Family Series) by Yobe Qiu – Review by Dawn Daughenbaugh

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I Am a Bold Asian Boy: A Positive Affirmation Book for Asian Boys (Asian Family Series)I Am a Bold Asian Boy: A Positive Affirmation Book for Asian Boys by Yobe Qiu
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

4 Stars
I Am A Bold Asian Boy (Asian Family Series) by Yobe Qiu

I Am A Bold Asian Boy is an Inspirational children’s book that my son and I truly enjoyed reading. This is a positive story about culture and being who you are. Being strong, proud, and knowing it’s ok to be different. My son loved the illustrations and told a story along with me. We highly recommend reading this book at any age and we look forward to reading more from this Author.

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Children of the Wild (Children of the Wild Series) by Krysta Tawlks – Review by Brandy Vaughn

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Children of the WildChildren of the Wild by Krysta Tawlks
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This story about a farm boy and his metamorphosis into something magical is an interesting historical fantasy read. We see a the dynamics of a family trying to overcome the grief of losing a young child yet trying to continue being there for each other.
The family dynamics of trying to overcome the loss of a young child while trying to help each other through grief. The characters and settings are written well so the reader can be in the story.

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Unexpected by Laylah Abrams – Review by Whisper Hymer

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UnexpectedUnexpected by Laylah Abrams
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Unexpected by Laylah Abrams is a sweet star-crossed romance. It follows Nick (aspiring artist, student, and waiter) and Claire (rich, famous ex-model) as they learn what love is. Nick and Claire each have their reasons for staying and for secrets but when the tabloids get involved -who can say what is true? Or even guess what love is? I found this book to be an interesting twist on the common rich/poor coupling. It definitely deserves a read for anyone that like modern-day fairytale romance.

Reviewed by @WhisperHymer

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A Christmas Amish Courtship (Amish Courtship Series) by Jennifer Spredemann – Review by Whisper Hymer

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A Christmas Amish Courtship (Amish Courtship #3)A Christmas Amish Courtship by Jennifer Spredemann
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

A Christmas Amish Courtship by Jennifer Spredemann is a quick-reading, sweet romance story. It’s the third book in her Amish Courtship series but read perfect as a stand-alone book. It follows Andy and Anne as they discover love. These two lonely souls open up to possibilities although both have had their hearts broken. There is some word choices and cultural references used to help embody the Amish way of life. Definitely a lovely book to read next to a Christmas tree and candle!

 

Reviewed by @WhisperHymer

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Dangerous Rhythm (The Echo Series Book 4) by C.R. Alam – Review by Robin Rankin

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Dangerous Rhythm (The Echo Series, #4)Dangerous Rhythm by C.R. Alam
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Dangerous Rhythm: A Reverse Protector Romance (The Echo Series Book 4)

This book has no casual build up the excitement starts at the beginning of chapter one and doesn’t end until the book does.

Curtis and Lina were just perfect for one another and glad they finally figured it out. I wish their story could have been a little less dangerous but then again I really wouldn’t have changed anything.

There were so many intense moments, but there were also some funny ones, there is one in particular that I’m still chuckling about.

I have had the pleasure of reading all of this series and I’m so glad I stumbled across Ms. Alam. Looking forward to the next book.

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Dangerous Rhythm (The Echo Series Book 4) by C.R. Alam – Review by April Smith

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Dangerous Rhythm (The Echo Series, #4)Dangerous Rhythm by C.R. Alam
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is the 4th read of the Echo Series. I chose to read this book as a standalone because I haven’t read any of the previous books in the series. I loved the story line and the characters are easy to connect with. The book packed with suspense and adventure and adding a dice of romance in the mix. I enjoyed this read and I’m anxious to go back to book one and start from the beginning.

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Auctioned Surrender (Sinful Duets Book 2) by Via Mari – Review by Crystal Jimmo

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Auctioned Surrender (Sinful Duets #2)Auctioned Surrender by Via Mari
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This book was such a great book. It has 2 books about 2 different couples and their story. You meet Damien and Bryanna in book one and Dereck and Layla in book 2. Each book has their ups and downs and heart wrenching moments. Both females and their counterparts have this spark that is off the charts. Both females are strong and fearless and don’t take no for an answer. They will go to the ends of the Earth for the people they love. The boys make great protectors and when they realize they have fallen for the girls it’s like a giant lightbulb moment for them. The writing is simply amazing, and the world is beautifully set up. There is action, romance and spice for everyone. Via is a wonderful storyteller and I absolutely loved reading this book!

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Sweet Dreams by Claire (Capture the Light Series) by Nanette Littlestone – Review by Manda Kelly

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Sweet Dreams by Claire (Capture the Light, #2)Sweet Dreams by Claire by Nanette Littlestone
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This was my first read by this author, and I truly wasn’t disappointed. I loved the characters, and the sweet story. The way they fell in love was slow, sweet and real. I love that the story took place in Ireland. I can’t wait to read more by this author. Her ability to make you feel like you are in the story with them was amazing.

Review By
Manda Kelly

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Knight In Peril (A Jorja Knight Private Investigator Mystery) by Alice Bienia – Review by Francis O’Sullivan

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Knight In Peril (A Jorja Knight Private Investigator Mystery #6)Knight In Peril by Alice Bienia
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Knight in Peril is the 6th book in the Jorja Knight Private Investigator Mystery series. I wouldn’t say this series necessarily needs to be read in order, the books work fine as standalones, but Knight in Peril will have more impact if you are already familiar with Gab from earlier books!

This story builds on anxieties around women travelling alone, as Jorja arrives in Istanbul to find her friend Gab is not there to meet her as planned. She then has to combine her skills as a PI with police forces in Istanbul and back home in Canada to try to find Gab, whilst also keeping herself safe alone in an unfamiliar country.

I love that in amongst the mystery plot we are treated to descriptions of Turkish food, landmarks and culture. It really feels like a holiday in a book! (albeit a dangerous and stressful one…).

I’d recommend this series to fans of suspenseful mysteries. It gets five stars from me!

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Lost Property (The Tom Grant Series Book 6) by Samantha Adair – Review by Julie Johnson

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Lost Property: A Tom Grant Novel (The Tom Grant Series Book 6)Lost Property: A Tom Grant Novel by Samantha Adair
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Tom Grant is no stranger in the world of crime. In this story, Operation SweetPea shows up on James’s doorstep and forces Tom to come out of retirement. Very relevant topic of human trafficking is covered in this book and you won’t want to put it down. The writing is done is such a way that things twist and turn before a resolution takes place.

This book can be read as a stand alone but I do recommend reading previous books. I need to go back and fill in some gaps that will help make certain details much more cohesive.

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Detective Dylan and the Case of the Missing Mail (A Youth Sleuths Chapter Book Series) by MJ Murray – Review by Sharon Funkhouser

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Detective Dylan and the Case of the Missing Mail: A Youth Sleuths Chapter Book SeriesDetective Dylan and the Case of the Missing Mail: A Youth Sleuths Chapter Book Series by MJ Murray
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Detective Dylan was a super cute, fairly easy read for a young child. I have two kids the ages as the siblings (Dylan and his younger sister, Emily) and enjoyed them solving the mystery together! There was definitely some sibling bickering in the beginning, which I feel like most children will relate to, and Theodore, the dog, as the sidekick was perfect!
Some of the things I really loved about this book was a few themes about not giving up and looking at all of the clues. They really did a great job “solving the case” and this is definitely a book I’ll have my kids read! I see many potential Detective Dylan books in the future!

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Motherland (The Tom Grant Series Book 3) by Samantha Adair – Review by Julie Johnson

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Motherland (Tom Grant #3)Motherland by Samantha Adair
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

If you’re looking for a book that has twists and turns that you could never predict coming, this is your book. This is my first read by this author and while this can be read as a standalone, I’m going to have to go back and pick up the first two books in the series. There is so much action, adventure, backstabbing, espionage, and drama that you won’t want to put this book down.

Isabella made a promise to her dad and it’s one that could cost her her life. However, a promise is a promise and Isabella is going to return to her homeland. That return is dangerous because there is a huge bounty on her head and she’s not entirely sure who put it there. Tom isn’t going to let her go alone because he can’t bear to be without her. What price is he willing to pay and to what lengths is he willing to go on Isabella’s behalf?

Such a great read and I’m looking forward to reading more of this author’s work!

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Unclutter (Inner Voice Book 1) by Winnie D Pagora – Review by Shannen Kern

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Unclutter: A Survivor's Story (Inner Voice, #1)Unclutter: A Survivor’s Story by Winnie D. Pagora
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I wasn’t sure what to expect when I picked this book up, but something about it called out to me, so I gave it a go. This is definitely one of my favorite books of the year! This was a relatable story that hit very close to home which made it impossible to put down. You will sit at the edge of your seat with a rollercoaster of emotions and astonishing twists and turns as you read through this book. I feel like this is a must-read for everyone, but please pay attention to the trigger warning/content guidance to ensure that it is an appropriate fit for you. I genuinely appreciate the time and consideration that shows in this book as we dive into trauma and how it affects every single area of your life. The endless amount of strength and courage that it takes to go on a self-healing journey is immeasurable. I can’t recommend this enough and can’t wait to see what this author has in store for us next!

Reviewed by @shannlynn

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Carrie’s Flight (Grandma’s Closet) by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Shannen Kern

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Carrie's Flight (Grandma's Closet)Carrie’s Flight by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

My family and I always love it when we pick up a book from this author because we know we’re going to learn something. This book focuses on the beautiful starlings and the generational bond that Carrie shares with her grandmother. We especially enjoyed the education about starlings because their evening murmurations are a sight to see. I loved the illustrations as well as the way the font changed with certain words. My kids liked the way the words looked how they sounded which was really cool! I highly recommend sharing this book with the young ones in your life to show the magic of love and starlings.

Reviewed by @shannlynn

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Carrie’s Flight (Grandma’s Closet) by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Emily H

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Carrie's FlightCarrie’s Flight by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Carrie watches the starlings and shares her joy of their flight with her Grandma. Finding magical wings so she can take a flight herself, Carrie gets to experience the journey that the starlings have taken.

This was delightful. Carrie and her Grandmother are close and enjoy the fascinating starlings. I think this is a great story for children and a way to engage with nature.

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Unclutter (Inner Voice Book 1) by Winnie D Pagora – Review by Megan Pesek

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Unclutter: A Survivor's Story (Inner Voice, #1)Unclutter: A Survivor’s Story by Winnie D. Pagora
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Tina is a survivor through and through. She has faced more than anyone should ever have to, yet she is determined to not let her abusers win anymore. As Tina fights to reclaim herself she finds real friends, something she wasn’t sure she would ever have again.
Uncluttered is raw and emotional.
I needed a bit more at the end of the book to tie up loose ends, but it was still a good read.

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Carrie’s Flight (Grandma’s Closet) by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Heather Goodman

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Carrie's FlightCarrie’s Flight by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This author has done it again. She has such a way to draw you in and keep you captivated no matter what the subject is. This book has a great message of encouragement and hope. It’s also very lighthearted with a touch of seriousness.

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Unclutter (Inner Voice Book 1) by Winnie D Pagora – Review by Kay Stritesky

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Unclutter: A Survivor's Story (Inner Voice, #1)Unclutter: A Survivor’s Story by Winnie D. Pagora
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

While I personally learned a lot from Unclutter: A Survivor’s Story, I truly had a hard time getting into it and finding my hook. The story was clear and the trauma us heavy. The trigger warnings are valid. For me it was just missing something that I cannot put my finger on.

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Children of the Wild (Children of the Wild Series) by Krysta Tawlks – Review by Emily H

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Children of the WildChildren of the Wild by Krysta Tawlks
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Young Elbert has been having unusual occurrences happening to him. Elbert finds out that that the strange things happening to him are escalating and that he will need to make a choice, because he has a gift of magic and he can follow that path or reject it altogether. Which path will Elbert take?

I thought this was written in such a way that you could easily visualize what was happening. I enjoyed the story and was eager to figure out what was happening with Elbert. I think young adults will be thrilled with Children of the Wild.

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