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My Murder Year by Kate Larkindale – Review by Amanda Haller-Doris

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My Murder YearMy Murder Year by Kate Larkindale
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I thought this was a wonderful YA novel, full of teen angst, drama, murder, mystery, love and complicated family dynamics. I thought the author did a great job of really capturing Stas as a teenager and her interactions felt authentic and realistic. This was a well written story with that really draws you into the mystery and how things will be able to get better for Stas. This story kept me guessing until the reveal and definitely was a page turner. I felt that the author did a great job of showing Stas’s development as a character and showing her growth while still allowing her to make mistakes. I completely recommend this book for anyone who loves YA novels with mysteries, twists, and heart.

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Slay It With a Diamond (Diamond District Mystery Book 3) by Rob Bates – Review by Julie Johnson

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Slay It With a Diamond (Diamond District Mystery Book 3)Slay It With a Diamond by Rob Bates
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Max Rosen does not believe in curses so when he’s offered a “cursed” diamond, he goes through with the transaction to acquire a rare black diamond. Max’s daughter, Mimi, is an amateur sleuth who starts investigating the lore behind the diamond. She comes across several different versions of the story that she is able to filter out.

This was a good book that held my attention throughout. The characters are well-developed and the story is easy to follow. There is mystery and intrigue, along with a small bit of romance, although that’s almost as complicated as the mystery.

This book is a part of a series but can be read as a standalone. There are mentions to previous cases involving Mimi but I don’t feel that missing the backstory affected this one.

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Beautiful Dangerous (Philly Heat series, #4) by Becky Flade Review by Victoria McQuigg

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Beautiful Dangerous (Philly Heat series, #4)Beautiful Dangerous by Becky Flade
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Beautiful Dangerous is the fourth installment of the Philly Heat Series by Becky Flade. These books can be read as stand alone. This captivating Thriller-Romance follows Public Defender Hannah Patel and Detective Doyle Murphy. This book as well as the other 3 in this series are a beautifully written symphony of suspense, mystery, and sizzling romance. The characters are real, raw, and relatable. Hannah has a stalker that is getting out of hand. When she turns to Detective Murphy for help. But as the two start to get closer they push her stalker to new heights. You will not be able to put this book down until the gripping conclusion. 4 out of 5 stars!

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The Calamities of Camden Callahan (A Revenant Novel) by Brittany Tucker – Review by April McCoy

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The Calamities of Camden Callahan (A Revenant Novel)The Calamities of Camden Callahan by Brittany Tucker
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

My son and I read this book together and we both enjoyed it thoroughly! Pirates, powers, and a thrilling adventure had us hooked right to the end! My son was especially happy with the book however even I got some great enjoyment out of it and seeing him really anxious to know what happened next! Great read!

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Beautiful Dangerous (Philly Heat Series Book 4) by Becky Flade – Review by April McCoy

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Beautiful Dangerous (Philly Heat series, #4)Beautiful Dangerous by Becky Flade
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I adore this author. Hannah and Dectecrive Doyle were a match. I enjoyed watching the blossom so much and the thrills were the perfect touch to this romance thriller. This series has shaped up to be some of my favorite books of 2023 and this one has to be the top. Well written and easy to read with the perfect amount of omg factor. Adored!

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Wild Lavender (Heart & Hand Series Book 1) by Nicole E. Kelleher – Review by Michelle Troyer

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Wild Lavender (Heart & Hand, #1)Wild Lavender by Nicole E. Kelleher
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

A book with romance, sex and a happy ending. Enjoyed it a lot. Looking forward to the next book in this series.

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Beyond Friendship (The Irresistible Series Book 3) by Marlyn Love – Review by Megan Pesek

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Beyond Friendship (The Irresistible Series #3)Beyond Friendship by Marlyn Love
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Brian owns Six-Pack, the hottest nightclub, and is the perfect bachelor. He is Mr. One Night and won’t even entertain anything more with someone. Brian is about to act on his impulses when he sees Amanda for the first time. Until he finds out she’s his best friend’s younger sister that is. Amanda is a successful entrepreneur and knows Brian is off-limits, even if she feels their chemistry and longs for more than friendship.
Can Brian set his fears aside before he destroys every chance for happiness?
Beyond Friendship is emotional and pull on your heartstrings for so many reasons. Marlyn Love does a great job making the reader feel so many emptions and getting drawn in to the relationship between Brian and Amanda.

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Killer Smile by Allan Evans – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

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Killer SmileKiller Smile by Allan Evans
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Killer Smile is a psychological crime thriller full of mystery, intrigue, action, suspense, murder, danger, and a high-stakes game of cat and mouse. Since Detective Cade Dawkins involvement in taking down the serial killer in Killer Blonde he has become the target of a group of ruthless individuals intent on challenging him with his darkest case yet. A group on the Dark Web like to discuss who their next victims will be and challenge each other. Detective Dawkins is now forced to hunt not one, but several serial killers as they attempt to outsmart him. Danger lurks around every corner as he fights for his own life and to save the lives of those around him. A fast-paced, intense, edge-of-your-seat thrill ride that will keep you riveted until the final pages.

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Killer Smile by Allan Evans – Review by Melissa Saxton

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Killer SmileKiller Smile by Allan Evans
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Wow! This author doesn’t disappoint. This is book 2 in the series but you don’t need book one to follow along in book 2.
Cade is a plain clothes detective. He has several contacts in the community as police officers tend to do. One night he’s pulled into what can only be described as a underground lab and asked to sign a NDA. It’s then he discovers on the dark web that serial killer are not Lone wolf’s as he previously presumed but rather they disturbingly have a whole community and “market” if you will to hire each other. What’s worse? Cades a target on the list!

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Killer Blonde by Allan Evans – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

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Killer BlondeKiller Blonde by Allan Evans

Killer Blonde is a crime thriller full of action, suspense, danger, murder, mystery, and intrigue. The story centers around a serial killer and the detective intent on stopping from him. There is a psychopath on the loose killing blondes that all look very similar in appearance to one another. Cade Dawkins is the detective that discovers the recent car accidents he has been investigating are cover-ups for a string of murders. It is up to him to find the killer and put a stop to him before anymore lives are lost. The ensuing game of cat and mouse between the serial killer and Detective Dawkins is tense, action packed and full of twists and turns. This book is fast paced and will keep you reading until the end to find out who the serial killer is.

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The Moon That Fell from Heaven (Empire at Twilight) by N.L. Holmes – Review by Alison Risher

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The Moon That Fell from HeavenThe Moon That Fell from Heaven by N.L. Holmes
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This book is full of historical details. I was captivated by the history enmeshed within the story. Poetry from an ancient civilization is featured. In a diplomatic mission gone awry, a poet inadvertently finds himself cast as a hero, if only for a small moment in time. As a woman, I enjoyed reading the author’s details concerning women’s rights at the time of this ancient, historic civilization.

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Lies That Bind (Logan McKenna Series Book 6) by Valerie Davisson – Review by Alison Risher

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Lies That Bind (A Logan McKenna Mystery Book 6)Lies That Bind by Valerie Davisson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This book explores the theme of man versus man, and the devastation that family secrets can leave in their path. From the time of Prohibition, two separate families began lying. Some of the lies were innocuous. Generations later, their descendants are still dealing with the consequences, whether they know it or not. Our reluctant heroine becomes involved with the web of lies through happenstance. The main character also bonds with her newfound half-sister.

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Wondogfilled (Boys Unboxed) by Dr. Kimberlie Harris – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

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Wondogfilled: Look, a Dog! The story for children who love dogs between the ages of 0-8. A perfect addition to home and classroom libraries. (Boys Unboxed)Wondogfilled: Look, a Dog! The story for children who love dogs between the ages of 0-8. A perfect addition to home and classroom libraries. by Dr. Kimberlie Harris
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Wondogfilled: Look, A Dog! Is a children’s picture book designed for children between the ages of newborn to eight years old. The story centers around the wonderful dog filled world of a young boy named Kingston who loves dogs. Whenever Kingston and his mom go for a walk, she points out different types of dogs to him and explains what kind of dog they are. When she starts pointing out other types of animals and explaining what they are, Kingston still tries to say they are dogs. Kingston’s mom tries to teach him that animals like cats and squirrels are different, but he still believes it is just another type of dog. This was a wonderfully written book full of bright, colorful illustrations that would delight any child.

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Lies That Bind (Logan McKenna Series Book 6) by Valerie Davisson – Review by Nina Maes

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Incredible story! You can read this series either standalone or in order, either way they are great. Love how relatable the characters are, and the story grabs you and keeps you interested to the very end. I would recommend to anyone who loves a good mystery, crime and adventure. This author will not disappoint you.Lies That Bind (A Logan McKenna Mystery Book 6)Lies That Bind by Valerie Davisson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Incredible story! You can read this series either standalone or in order, either way they are great. Love how relatable the characters are, and the story grabs you and keeps you interested to the very end. I would recommend to anyone who loves a good mystery, crime and adventure. This author will not disappoint you.

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House of Blood and Whispers by Natalina Reis – Review by

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House of Blood and WhispersHouse of Blood and Whispers by Natalina Reis
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is the first book that I have read by this author, and I am OBSESSED!! I was immediately drawn in by the cover art and then was captivated by the writing. I could not put this book down. I was on pins and needles the whole time I was reading this book. I cannot wait to read more from this author!! It was amazing and I could not get enough of this story!!

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Woman Unbroken by Alexandra Fleder – Review by Felicia Bates

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Woman UnbrokenWoman Unbroken by Alexandra Fleder
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I chose Woman Unbroken for the cover art. Don’t get me wrong, the synopsis was absolutely intriguing as well. This was one of those novels that draws you in instantly with vivid storytelling and really captivating characters. It was not far into the book before I was really rooting for our main character and cared about her as if she were someone I knew personally. This was a book with a lot of depth and emotion, one that definitely took me for a ride. I look forward to reading more from this author.

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Faking the Fall (Buckeye Falls Book 4) by Libby Kay – Review by Kirsten Berkebile

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This  the fourth book in this series and it did not disappoint!! I couldn’t put it down and when I had to I couldn’t wait to pick it back up once I got home from work. This story is all about Alice and James. They are both artists but one creates paintings while the other one writes. Alice is wanting to get her parents and the town off her back about her settling down whereas she isn’t really wanting to settle down quite yet. James (the famous painter) moved to Buckeye Falls, Ohio to get away from the hustle and bustle of New York and try to find a new muse to help him with his painters block. From the moment they meet, you just know that there is love there, but do they realize it is really the question. I promise you that this book will make you laugh, cry and be all in your feels as you read all about James and Alice.

Faking the Fall (Buckeye Falls #4)Faking the Fall by Libby Kay
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This the fourth book in this series and it did not disappoint!! I couldn’t put it down and when I had to I couldn’t wait to pick it back up once I got home from work. This story is all about Alice and James. They are both artists but one creates paintings while the other one writes. Alice is wanting to get her parents and the town off her back about her settling down whereas she isn’t really wanting to settle down quite yet. James (the famous painter) moved to Buckeye Falls, Ohio to get away from the hustle and bustle of New York and try to find a new muse to help him with his painters block. From the moment they meet, you just know that there is love there, but do they realize it is really the question. I promise you that this book will make you laugh, cry and be all in your feels as you read all about James and Alice.

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Falling Home (Buckeye Falls Book 1) by Libby Kay – Review by Kirsten Berkebile

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This is the first book in this series!  This story is about Max Sanchez and his ex-wife Ginny. So make sure that you read this one first, otherwise you will be a little confused like I was. I absolutely loved this book!!!! Max is a chef who met Ginny while in school. He moved back to Buckeye Falls, Ohio once his parents decided to retire and move to Florida. Ginny is a marketing genius for a company in New York (which is where she moved to, she fled Buckeye Falls and Max). The question is now, do they still love each other and it is really worth the risk with a possible heartbreak again? I had wondered this through out the story. It seemed like they… I really don’t want to spoil the book. Please remember to read this one first and then book 2.

Falling HomeFalling Home by Libby Kay

This is the first book in this series! This story is about Max Sanchez and his ex-wife Ginny. So make sure that you read this one first, otherwise you will be a little confused like I was. I absolutely loved this book!!!! Max is a chef who met Ginny while in school. He moved back to Buckeye Falls, Ohio once his parents decided to retire and move to Florida. Ginny is a marketing genius for a company in New York (which is where she moved to, she fled Buckeye Falls and Max). The question is now, do they still love each other and it is really worth the risk with a possible heartbreak again? I had wondered this through out the story. It seemed like they… I really don’t want to spoil the book. Please remember to read this one first and then book 2.

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No Amends by Angela Lam – Review by Tonya Merritt

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No AmendsNo Amends by Angela Lam
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I was definitely not expecting this book to go the way it does. It will pull you in and you’ll follow this triangle of a love story. The twists are very much coiled. It is a great suspense story with Tang and Dee.

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Woman Unbroken by Alexandra Fleder – Review by Jennifer Gordon

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Woman UnbrokenWoman Unbroken by Alexandra Fleder
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This was a wonderfully written novel with an emotional, empowering and inspirational storyline which had me hooked from start to finish. Former teen actress and model Devorah Fields had a chaotic upbringing with her father being a former Hollywood heavyweight turned con artist who is now in prison, and her English born actress mother, who has returned to England. Devorah is now in hiding from her estranged and abusive husband at her family’s old house in the Malibu hills. However, with every creak of her childhood home she fears that her husband has found her. Devorah has been left feeling scared, lost and lonely with only her precious cat Fergie for company, as she tries to come to terms with her past. She is determined to revive the talented young woman that she was, but first she has to come to the realisation that she had abandoned herself. This took me on an emotional rollercoaster whilst reading this as the narrative really made me feel totally immersed in the story. The setting and the characters came vividly to life through the descriptive narrative, and I felt particularly engaged with Devorah and felt what she was feeling. The story does deal with some sensitive issues involving domestic abuse, but does so with sensitivity and honesty. Overall the message that comes from the story is one of inspiration and woman’s empowerment.

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Slay It With a Diamond (Diamond District Mystery Book 3) by Rob Bates – Review by Jennifer Gordon

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Slay It With a Diamond (Diamond District Mystery Book 3)Slay It With a Diamond by Rob Bates
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

An enjoyable and engaging cozy mystery which kept me hooked throughout. Having not realised it was part of a series I happily read it as a standalone story, however as I enjoyed this story I will be reading the previous books in the series. Max Rosen is a diamond dealer in New York and when he’s offered a ‘cursed’ diamond he buys it as he does not believe in curses. That is until the wife of the famous jeweller who sold him the ‘cursed’ gem ends up dead. Max’s daughter Mimi, a journalist and amateur sleuth decides to investigate along with her policeman boyfriend. The couple are soon drawn into the jewellers powerful family’s rather dark history, which includes bitter family feuds and long buried scandals. Mimi ends up at the family’s opulent mansion where she is rather surprised to find evidence that not only is the curse real but that it might kill her next. This was a fast paced story with an intriguing storyline and quirky characters which kept me happily turning the pages. It was a fun and at times humorous read, and the mystery element kept me guessing as the plot was full of twists and turns. An entertaining read.

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No Amends by Angela Lam – Review by Jennifer Gordon

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No AmendsNo Amends by Angela Lam
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This was a gripping read which kept me hooked until the very last page. This was a real page turner of a psychological thriller, with a dark F/F romance and plenty of mystery and suspense. The mystery element comes from not knowing who the stranger is who was in the fatal car accident at Hangman’s Bend. Meanwhile, writer Tang Young is suffering with writer’s block and also feels guilty for something she can’t tell anyone, even her girlfriend Layla. Tang and Layla’s relationship is going through a difficult spell, when Tang begins a forbidden romance with Dee. However, Dee is not being very honest with Tang and isn’t exactly who she says she is. Once the stranger is identified other truths are revealed, no spoilers, I recommend reading this book!

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Wondogfilled (Boys Unboxed) by Dr. Kimberlie Harris – Review by Ayla Phipps

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Wondogfilled: Look, a Dog! The story for children who love dogs between the ages of 0-8. A perfect addition to home and classroom libraries. (Boys Unboxed)Wondogfilled: Look, a Dog! The story for children who love dogs between the ages of 0-8. A perfect addition to home and classroom libraries. by Dr. Kimberlie Harris
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Beautifully illustrated. Kingston and his mom go for walks and see all the dogs. Mom points out the new ones when they are out until one day, she starts to say new words, like cat. Thinking she is playing a game he looks and sees the similarities with the animal to dogs. His mommy does this several times with different animals, in books, his cousins’ pet, and others while on a walk but he always sees the similarities and thinks they are just a different type of dog. Dog, little feet, bushy tail, little nose, round belly. Cute book for younger kids my six-year-old liked the pictures and seeing his favorite animal, elephant.

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Zibs for Sale (I am an Alien) by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Ayla Phipps

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

Another adventure with Eee-ahh and Shirl. This one started with them picking up a radio signal, a song for the Zib Spiral and their treats. While Eee-ahh tastes with her eyes, Shirl is human and tastes with her tongue. Will she think the Zibs are as delicious as Eee-ahh claims they are? They are very beautiful but that’s to the eyes. After a rocky encounter Shirl is given a big payment before they return to Earth.

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Faking the Fall (Buckeye Falls Book 4) by Libby Kay – Review by Candice Estes

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Faking the Fall (Buckeye Falls #4)Faking the Fall by Libby Kay
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is the 4th book in this series, though it can be read as a stand-alone. This book is another great addition to the series, and makes me wish I lived in Buckeye Falls. In this book, we follow Alice Snyder as she tries to decide what the future holds for her now that she is done with her multiple college degrees, and is back home trying to get over the end of a relationship. What Alice doesn’t expect is to come across James Gibson, a talented and highly sought after artist from New York City who moves to Buckeye Falls with the hopes of recuperating from his failed marriage, and finding the spark to continue his artwork. When Alice and James meet and the town of Buckeye Falls starts spreading rumors that they are dating, Alice convinces James to go along with it, to give her space and time to breathe and figure out her future. If you are in the mood for a guaranteed happily-ever-after, with good world building and many great main and supporting characters, I would definitely recommend this book and this whole series.

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Faking the Fall (Buckeye Falls Book 4) by Libby Kay – Review by Candice Estes

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Faking the Fall (Buckeye Falls #4)Faking the Fall by Libby Kay
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is the 4th book in this series, though it can be read as a stand-alone. This book is another great addition to the series, and makes me wish I lived in Buckeye Falls. In this book, we follow Alice Snyder as she tries to decide what the future holds for her now that she is done with her multiple college degrees, and is back home trying to get over the end of a relationship. What Alice doesn’t expect is to come across James Gibson, a talented and highly sought after artist from New York City who moves to Buckeye Falls with the hopes of recuperating from his failed marriage, and finding the spark to continue his artwork. When Alice and James meet and the town of Buckeye Falls starts spreading rumors that they are dating, Alice convinces James to go along with it, to give her space and time to breathe and figure out her future. If you are in the mood for a guaranteed happily-ever-after, with good world building and many great main and supporting characters, I would definitely recommend this book and this whole series.

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Beyond Friendship (The Irresistible Series Book 3) by Marlyn Love – Review by Juls Dick

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Beyond Friendship (The Irresistible Series #3)Beyond Friendship by Marlyn Love
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Beyond Friendship is the third book in the Irresistible series by Marlyn Love. This book follows the story of Brian, an eternal bachelor with a fondness of beautiful women and Amanda, the sister of Brian’s best friend. When the two cross paths there is an instant spark, which only seems to grow, despite Brians protestations about how the two would never work out. When the pair finally discuss their feelings, it seems like it is all going well until a series of events unfold which scares Brian into thinking that this isn’t the right path. I don’t want to give away any spoilers, but I really liked this book, I found Amanda to be really likable, she is a strong woman and I really liked that. Brian needed a bit of a push in the right direction but ultimately was a good guy. I would recommend this book if you like the friends to lovers genre.

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The Moon That Fell from Heaven (Empire at Twilight) by N.L. Holmes – Review by La Toya Lewis

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The Moon That Fell from HeavenThe Moon That Fell from Heaven by N.L. Holmes
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The Moon That Fell from Heaven by N. L. Holmes is a historical fiction story about Ehli-nikkalu, the eldest daughter of the Hittite emperor. She is married to one of her father’s vassals in a political alliance. When Ehli-nikkalu discovers some dangerous information she does her best to try to get it to her father. Along the way, she adopts her scribe’s children who were left orphaned when he tried to deliver Ehi-nikkalu’s message. This story was a good read. It has so much information as well as plenty of twists to keep you engaged. I felt so much sympathy for Ehli-nikkalu. Times were so hard for women who could not bear children, especially queens. In her new adopted family, she finds the love that she’s been craving and you just hope everything works out for her. The story does take a bit of time to get going but it is well worth the read.

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Zibs for Sale (I am an Alien) by Lois Wickstrom – Review by La Toya Lewis

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Zibs for Sale: a retelling of Beauty and the Beast (I am an Alien)Zibs for Sale: a retelling of Beauty and the Beast by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Zibs for Sale (I am an Alien) is a retelling of the classic Beauty and the Beast. In this story follow Shirl and her alien friend Eee-ahh. Shirl and Eee-ahh go on an adventure to his home planet to taste Zibs, the best treat in the universe according to Zee-ahh. When Shirl accidentally steals one she has to make amends. This is a good story. It is a STEM book that helps children learn varied lessons. The book shows kids how to face challenges, problem-solve, and make the right decisions. The illustrations are fun too.

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Woman Unbroken by Alexandra Fleder – Review by Bobbi Wagner

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Woman UnbrokenWoman Unbroken by Alexandra Fleder
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is my first book by this author which I enjoyed reading. I enjoyed this author’s writing skills that brought her characters to life. They are full of emotion and kept me coming back for more. This is a well written book about Devorah who was a model/actress and is currently in hiding from her husband. What will happen when her past comes to the present? All she wants is to be the person she used to be. Will she find herself again? I enjoyed her character and what she brought to the story. She is a strong character that took me on an emotional roller coaster ride throughout the story. This is a fast paced, engaging story that is hard to put down. This is one story you don’t want to miss. I really enjoyed reading this book and I highly recommend it.

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Review by @bjwagner