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Vixen: (Devil’s Handmaidens MC: Timber-Ghost, Montana Chapter) by D.M. Earl – Review by Rebeca Elliott Figueiras

Vixen: (Devil's Handmaidens MC: Timber-Ghost, Montana Chapter)Vixen: by D.M. Earl
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is the fourth book in the Devil’s Handmaiden’s MC series and this time the focus is on Vixen and Ironside. Whilst this can be read as a standalone, I highly recommend reading the previous books first for more background information on the club and characters.
The characters are well-written, each with unique but similar backgrounds. The author did a good job in showing how this affects Vixen, her traumatic past coming to the forefront unexpectedly. She’s a very strong and caring woman, willing to face her own hell for a friend.
I felt like I could step into the world created by the author and live the adventures right alongside the characters. I enjoyed how Vixen and Ironside’s story played out, the chemistry was there from the start, as well as the character development each of them experienced. Separately the felt believable and likeable, together they seemed unstoppable.
I can’t wait to get my hands on the next book in the series!

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Heart’s Rescue (Fallen Hearts) by Meredith Hart – Review by Juls Dick

Heart's Rescue (Hearts Below, #1)Heart’s Rescue by Meredith Hart
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Heart’s Rescue by Meredith Hart is part of the Hearts Below series. This is the first book I have read by this author, and I found it really enjoyable. Rowan’s life is changed forever when he discovers his brother lying dismembered in the woods, after being attacked by a monster from the land above. Rowan must take on his brother’s role as protector of the town. One night on sentry duty, Rowan discovers another monster, Arryn. Arryn is on a mission from the land above to find her missing prince. The pair start out on an adventure to find him together but discover they have more in common than they first thought. This is a good book for those who like fantasy romance and enemies-to-lovers storylines. I will be reading more books in this series.

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LIES-TRUTH-LOVE by Marina Hanna – Review by Katie Matthews

Lies - Truth - LoveLies – Truth – Love by Marina Hanna
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

What an introduction to this author! I have no idea why I have not found one of her books to read before. As soon as I started reading, I was completely captivated by Ethan and Olivia’s story. There was so much going on in their story and it is definitely not smooth sailing for them. There’s a few misunderstandings, some miscommunication but ultimately some extremely intense chemistry between these two characters. The author’s writing was brilliant, easy to read yet complex at the same time.
This really was a wonderful story, definitely up there in my top reads of 2023! I am very excited to read more from this author in the future.

@katiem
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What We Never Say (Bold Journeys Book 2) by Paulette Stout – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

What We Never Say: Bold Journeys Book TwoWhat We Never Say: Bold Journeys Book Two by Paulette Stout
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

What We Never Say is the second book in the Bold Journeys series. This book picks up where book one left off so if you have not read the first book, I highly recommend that you do, or you may not understand the characters and their backstory. This story centers around Rebecca and Kyle who have now moved in together. Rebecca has a blog that is gaining in popularity and is asked by a major magazine to write a story. When Kyle finds out he is rightfully upset because he used to model for the magazine and was sexually assaulted by the magazine editor. It is a dark part of his past that was so traumatic for him that he tried to bury it and forget it. However, he is now forced to confront his past and come forward with what happened. When he tells Rebecca she is less than understanding and chooses to go forward with writing the article because it will be good for her career. Will Rebecca and Kyle be able to overcome this part of his past and move forward?

The author did a realistic job of approaching the difficult and sensitive topic of sexual assault on men. This is a topic that garners a lot of attention and support for women who have been sexually assaulted but there is little to no discussion about sexual assault on men. Due to embarrassment men keep this to themselves and do not seek help for fear of not being believed or being ridiculed. Rebecca’s reaction and lack of support towards Kyle’s dark past is one of the reasons men do not come forward. After reading the first book I knew that Rebecca was coming from a place of low self-esteem and was just discovering herself. She was coming into her own, trying to find her place in the world, and take control of her own life. At the same time Rebecca’s lack of empathy and support towards Kyle’s painful past should have been a deal breaker for their relationship. Kyle should have walked away but it was easy to see that he, too, had self esteem issues. It was a very complicated situation for both Rebecca and Kyle as they tried to navigate through Kyle’s traumatic experience. This book had love, hope, angst, despair, secrets, lies, betrayal, and sensitive subject matter.

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Heart’s Rescue (Fallen Hearts) by Meredith Hart – Review by Amanda Gonzalez

Heart's Rescue (Fallen Hearts)Heart’s Rescue by Meredith Hart
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Told from the dual POV of the two main characters, this book is the first of the Fallen Hearts series. When Lady Arryn’s unofficial betrothed disappears to the Lands Below, she decides to go find and rescue her beloved despite the dangers of the other realm. Meanwhile, Rowan – a sentry in the Lands Below – struggles to protect his neighbors with his strange magic. The story starts off a little slow, but everything starts falling into perspective as the adventure takes off. This is my first time reading a book written by this author so I wasn’t sure what to expect when I picked up this book, but I’m glad I did! I love diving into a new fantasy where the stakes are high and the world is complex!

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The Mother’s Threat by Susan Specht Oram – Review by April McCoy

The Mother's ThreatThe Mother’s Threat by Susan Specht Oram
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

What a supercharged read. The Rollercoaster this book had me on was a wild ride. I love the author and can always lose myself in one of her novels. As always the emotions and suspense were High and had me flipping pages to see the outcome! Another novel and not one complaint from me!

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As Though You Were Mine by J. Marie Rundquist – Review by Laura Jones

https://www.amazon.com/review/R1NCU0QXK5Z8KB/ref=pe_1098610_137716200_cm_rv_eml_rv0_rv

https://www.bookbub.com/reviews/2143849805

https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/5864015789

Shadow’s Fall (Shadowstalker Series Book 3) by Natalie Johanson – Review by Laura Jones

https://www.amazon.com/review/R1Q2CYT8E5UROX/ref=pe_1098610_137716200_cm_rv_eml_rv0_rv?language=en_US

https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/5863971954

https://www.bookbub.com/reviews/4129430002

Lucky Break (Trentbridge Tales Book 2) by Lee Wood – Review by Kerry Carr

Lucky Break (Trentbridge Tales #2)Lucky Break by Lee Wood
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is the second book in the Trentbridge Tales series. Even though each book is a standalone once you read one you will definately want to read more. I love this author’s work, the writing and character building is great but what I really love is the fact it is set in areas I recognised and grew up in. There isn’t many references to the town of Market Drayton which is where I grew up, so when I read this in the story I was more in love than before.
This story is a dark gritty read which is full of secrets, lies and danger. The twists and turns kept me guessing all the way through and I couldn’t put it down.
When Peter discovers a genuine masterpiece in a junk shop he finally gets his big break, the big break he has been waiting his whole life for. Life should be good now right? As he continues he finds more and more profitable finds which has his competitors questioning how he is doing it.
When a murder occurs it falls to Detective James Sheldon to sort all the pieces of the puzzle and work out just what went wrong and who the murderer actually is. But with a suspect list growing bigger and bigger and the secrets and dark pasts being revealed by everyone he questions James will need more than Luck to solve this case.
This is an edge of your seat read that I loved and couldn’t put down. I was completely captivated by this story and the author writes in a way that flows well so it feel like a fast paced read.

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Heart’s Rescue (Fallen Hearts) by Meredith Hart – Review by Emily H

Heart's Rescue (Hearts Below, #1)Heart’s Rescue by Meredith Hart
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Lady Arryn Damoira of the Kingdom of the Summer is devasted when her brother is hurt. She knows she is supposed to fill a role of duty but finds herself working with Rowan, a sentry who knows he is no match for Arryn but wants her all the same. Danger lurks as they journey together to find the prince she is supposed to in theory be betrothed to. What happens when feelings get involved though and they cannot deny the chemistry between them?

This was quite the adventure. Had a lot of twists and turns and filled with a fantasy realm that was easy to envision. I enjoyed this quite a bit, had a good mixture of romance added in. I would pick up the next book in the series.

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LIES-TRUTH-LOVE by Marina Hanna – Review by Candice Estes

Lies - Truth - LoveLies – Truth – Love by Marina Hanna
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Olivia has had a rough time with love. Her ex-fiance used her to get through school, and then dumped her for a coworker. After this experience, she has decided that dating just isn’t worth the effort. That is, until she gets the invitation to her cousins destination wedding. When her roommate and best friend, Lucy, suggests that she try going on a few blind dates to try and find at least a date for the wedding, Olivia reluctantly agrees. During one of the dates at a local tea shop just down the street from her flower shop, Olivia is rescued from a particularly terrible date by a good looking gentleman who is sitting at the table behind hers. Ethan and Olivia start talking, and Ethan suggests being Olivia’s plus one, even though they had just met. The pair decide that it is in their best interest to get to know each other first, and start talking and meeting up for dates. Ethan decides to withhold a very important bit of information, and when Olivia finds out, everything changes. This book is a guaranteed happily-ever-after, and a great read.

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Mr. Barsins’ Toy Emporium by Lois Wickstrom Review by Gabrielle

Mr. Barsins' Toy EmporiumMr. Barsins’ Toy Emporium by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

This is an interesting read that will grab the imagination of young readers. The four young children have an adventure that they will always remember. The toy store and Mr. Barsin is a world full of magic and wonder. Each of the children have unique stories and they must come together on this journey. Just like in this author’s other books there are lessons to be learned. The children must find a way to work together and help each other to defeat Mr. Barsin. It was nice to see the children grow and find there way. Magic and friendship shine throughout this story giving young readers an exciting ride.

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Chasing Cheer (Emerald Hollow Book 1) by Heather Schneider – Review by Beverly Finnie

Chasing CheerChasing Cheer by Heather Schneider
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Chasing Cheer was a cute holiday romance. Reminiscent of the holiday Hallmark movies, which is funny being that’s a common reference. I’m it’s intentional. The author wrote a cute story which led to beautiful character growth and self discovery.
Holly is in her prime to lead, just one problem she’s not grasping the cheer aspect of her job. Holly is the new “It girl” of the North Pole, now that Santa and Mrs. Claus have moved on. She grasps and embraces her job with so much love and support, she just doesn’t understand cheer. She knows what it does, just not how to collect it efficiently. That is until an adventure lands her in Emerald Hollow face to face with the man about town Ash.
What does this town have that’s so different?
How can she unlock that?
Ash is constantly running ragged, but he does it for his love, his home town. Till one day he meets a woman who has him tongue tied, that can only be described as Christmas personified. Still running around making sure everything is perfect. The young woman now occupies his brain in a way he doesn’t quite understand. Pulled to her by an unknown force.
Will he concede to that force?
Who is this woman?
All that and so much many more questions come about while reading this story. Why would I choose it? Simple holiday romances are a guilty pleasure, especially if they turn into a Hallmark movie in my mind. This was one of those times.

@placexba
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Chasing Cheer (Emerald Hollow Book #1) by Heather Schneider – Review by Angela Hayes

Chasing CheerChasing Cheer by Heather Schneider
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

 

4.5 Stars

 

Chasing Cheer is a fun holiday romance by Heather Schneider. I really enjoyed this captivating story which is full of all the charming ingredients we love to find in a Christmas romance. Sprinkled with Cheer, magic, chemistry, mystery, and just enough drama to keep things interesting- this story played out wonderfully. So much so, that it would make a great movie too.
Holly Claus has a job to do, collecting the cheer required to power the North Pole. But she stumbles on something puzzling in the little town of Emerald Hollow- and soon Christmas itself may be at risk. Holly will need to get to the bottom of it all, before things go awry. What happens makes for a very enjoyable read.
If you love holiday romance, magic, charm, humour, and a sweet clean romance—then this is definitely the book for you.
Happy Reading…

Thank you, Heather Schneider!

 

Reviewed by @angelahayes

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Chasing Cheer (Emerald Hollow Book 1) by Heather Schneider – Review by Audrie Harrington

Chasing CheerChasing Cheer by Heather Schneider
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I love Christmas and this book is getting me into the holiday season even though it is only September! Holly, known as Ms. Claus in the North Pole, is the main character. She took over at the North Pole when her parents passed on and she is struggling to get her Cheer quota for the North Post to shine its light brighter. She finds a flier for a Fall Festival in Oregon and decides to check it out. Her Cheer spikes and she wants to know why. She meets some fun locals, Ash and Sophia, and promises to come back for the Christmas faire. There is something about Emerald Hollow and something about Ash that is helping her fill up her Cheer and she decides to try and learn as much as she can while she is in town. Ash runs the Emerald House and also is working with the town to make it a place that people want to come and stay. His mom left when he was young and he has been trying to make the town an amazing place to live and stay since he came back to town. Holly helps decorate, she loves the almost perfect hot chocolate, and she makes friends with humans. This was such a fun concept and I loved it!

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Ignite My Heart (North Fork Series Book 2) by Alicia Street – Review by Michelle Austin

Ignite My Heart (North Fork Series Book 2)Ignite My Heart by Alicia Street
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This was a great 5 star read. I really liked this story line and was looking forward to reading this book. Morgan and Blake were great. This was a quick read and I read it in one sitting. Morgan is a single dad needing a nanny. As it turned out Blake was in need of a job, thanks to her brother she met Blake and agreed to help him temporarily. Of course sparks flew between them, would she be able to keep things professional? We get drama, love, steamy moments and so much more. All of the secondary characters added a great element to the story. The author pulled me right into the story with her writing and I look forward to reading more from the series and author. This is part of a series but can be read as a stand alone. 1-click and get started today.

Reviewed by @mab54615
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The Crown of Stones: Magic-Price Audiobook (The Crown of Stones Book 1) by C. L. Schneider – Review by Ashley McMillon

I loved reading this incredibly different story! It is always exciting to read a book and it’s new and different…and the execution is different! It’s amazing to compare this to music. I love music but there’s so many ways to make music that is great to a genre of people! Loved listening to the fun voice sounds as well. Looking forward to what comes next from the author!

Chasing Cheer (Emerald Hollow Book 1) by Heather Schneider – Review by Amanda Haller-Doris

Chasing CheerChasing Cheer by Heather Schneider
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This was an absolutely adorable RomCom that I couldn’t put down until the final page. It definitely gave me Christmas Hallmark movie vibes and was just such a sweet tale. Holly was a great main character and her chemistry with Ash really just made is a very enjoyable tale. I loved that it gave us the daughter of Santa Claus who had her own story to live. The author did a great job of setting the scene in Emerald Hollow, a town I hope to see again soon! After reading this book, I definitely wanted to start getting out my Christmas decorations and baking cookies while sipping hot chocolate. This is definitely a fun and magical feel good story at any time of the year!

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Mr. Barsins’ Toy Emporium by Lois Wickstrom – Review By Anantha Rusum

Mr. Barsins' Toy EmporiumMr. Barsins’ Toy Emporium by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I picked up this book thinking it is another picture book, but this one is for a slightly older audience, but enjoyable nevertheless.
Four friends are drawn to a toy emporium for different reasons, they are all seeking something which they do not. The toy emporium holds the answers to their longings, imaginary friends, adventures, mystery, drama and danger lurking in the corner.
It is a very creative story where the friends in the toy shop influence the real kids to do something good or evil.
It was quite a cool tale, except that I felt the flow was not smooth at times. There were abrupt changes in the narrative.
But overall I enjoyed it.

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The Truth About Myths (The Winemakers Book 3) by Giovanna Siniscalchi – Review by Amanda Haller-Doris

The Truth About Myths (The Winemakers #3)The Truth About Myths by Giovanna Siniscalchi
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I thoroughly enjoyed this story; I thought the author did a great job of transporting us back in time to the 19th century, exploring the political scenes between Portugal and Spain. I absolutely adored Isabel our Portugal princess. I loved that she had values and standards and she held herself to a high standard, but wasn’t afraid to step in and help the less fortunate. I thought her temperament was a great match for Viscount Henrique and the verbal skirmishes really set the tone for the two of them. The vivid descriptions really make you feel like you are right there with the characters. If you love historical romance and want a story with twists, this is the book for you!

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When We Fell Again by Julie Archer – Review by Devon Pulliam

When We Fell Again: An angsty, second chance rockstar romanceWhen We Fell Again: An angsty, second chance rockstar romance by Julie Archer
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

First off this book has some trigger warnings: Drugs/Sexual Harassment/Violence

Okay this book was a bit heavy… not in a bad way though. The author touched on subjects that are real for people and she made it relatable. Alexis and Jordan have a past that has kept them apart for a handful of years. Both working in the music world, one being a tour manager and one being the musician.

When Alexis is forced to be their manager last minute. Not really knowing what has gone on in the band or in Jordan’s life the last few years. She walks in knowing their history and why this isn’t a good idea.

They are drawn to one another of course. Alexis ends up being the person that essentially saves Jordan… from himself. But can they manage to work on being a couple, can the relationship survive?

This book hits on some heavy topics but you can see this book playing out as a movie. The author did a WONDERFUL job at keeping these topics tied into the story. And showing how they impact lives.

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Chasing Cheer (Emerald Hollow Book 1) by Heather Schneider – Review by Jennifer Crain

Chasing CheerChasing Cheer by Heather Schneider
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I normally don’t read Christmas themed books (much more of a Halloween girl myself), but I couldn’t help but be enchanted by the pink and heartwarming cover. The story inside is sweet, not too spicy (my kind of romance), and keeps you hooked from beginning to end.

One of my favorite scenes in the book is when Holly is explaining how humans do things on Earth (in relation to Christmas, Santa, etc.)- made me laugh out loud! The chemistry and relationship building between Ash and Holly is spot on, with both ups and downs like reality. The plot is refreshing and fast paced, with the writing in a cheery (but not overally cheery) style, perfect for a “feel good” holiday read.

The book hooked me in from the first chapter, for author Heather Schneider describes scenery at atmosphere to feel as if you are there, whether Oregon or the North Pole. The ending wasn’t something I would write, but fits the story.

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@bookworm1909

LIES-TRUTH-LOVE By Marina Hanna Review by Heidi Woodring

Lies- Truth- Love is a wonderfully written book. The book has all the elements that readers want, from drama, love, chemistry, and humor. Olivia is very unlucky when it comes to dating, and on one horrible date, Ethan saves the day. They become friends and along the way become more then friends. The chemistry they have, you feel as you read the steamy scenes, the sass and banter, make you laugh. But the misunderstandings and lack of communication, brings the end to Ethan and Olivia! Can these two find a way to make this work?
Marina Hanna gave us a really good read with characters you love and a plot that is believable. I was able to finish the book in two sittings as I could NOT put it down and I needed to find out if Olivia and Ethan would find a way to be together! I highly recommend this book!

Chasing Cheer (Emerald Hollow Book 1) by Heather Schneider – Review by Felicia Bates

Chasing CheerChasing Cheer by Heather Schneider
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I am a huge fan of all things Christmas, romantic movies and books alike. There is something childlike and magical about Christmas cheer that I love holding onto even as a grown adult. I loved Chasing Cheer and felt like it embodied everything I want from a holiday romcom. A story that literally involves collecting cheer with great characters, fun storyline and smooth writing. I loved the glimmer of hope and magic throughout the storyline, especially as the story neared it’s end. I look forward to reading more from this author!

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Mr. Barsins’ Toy Emporium by Lois Wickstrom Review by Manda Kelly

Mr. Barsins' Toy EmporiumMr. Barsins’ Toy Emporium by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

What a cute and magical story. It kind of reminded me of being young and having an imaginary friend. With great and vivid story telling, wonderful world building, and so many awesome characters, you can’t not enjoy this story… I absolutely recommend this story for an older class, maybe 2nd grade and up. But younger kids would definitely like this story being read to them, also.

Review By Manda Kelly

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Heart’s Rescue (Fallen Hearts) by Meredith Hart – Review by Lisa Helmick

Heart's Rescue (Hearts Below, #1)Heart’s Rescue by Meredith Hart
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

I was very excited for this one after reading the synopsis and seeing that amazing cover. Sadly I did not love it. I liked the idea of the story and these worlds but it was way too vague. The information was just touched on and hinted at with little confirmation. The below and above worlds are a great idea but maybe expand on them a bit more. The characters were easily likable but again unknown and different powers that don’t get explained for a long time in the story. That being said, all the characters are very likable and real. They are really the best part in my opinion.

This is an okay story in my opinion. I am sad because I love fantasy books.

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Heart’s Rescue (Fallen Hearts) by Meredith Hart – Review by Dawn Daughenbaugh

Heart's Rescue (Hearts Below, #1)Heart’s Rescue by Meredith Hart
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

5 Stars
Heart’s Rescue (Fallen Hearts) by Meredith Hart

Heart’s Rescue is the first book in the Fallen Hearts Series and is a wonderfully written Fantasy Romance that took me by complete surprise. It’s a Enemies to Lover’s Romance that has the right amount of drama, magic, action, adventure and so much more. It took me a minute to get into it but man once I shifted my gears everything made much more sense that I couldn’t put it down. This is Rowan and Arryn’s story. Get ready to be taken on quite the adventure with these two as they come from two completely different worlds and the miscommunication might cause some misunderstandings and a bit of a bumpy start. But man I loved their growth and characters in general. Although I kinda thought Rowan was gonna have a jerky side. I highly recommend reading this book to find out what happens next. I promise it’ll be worth the time. Im already looking forward to reading more from this Author and this series.

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Heart’s Rescue (Fallen Hearts) by Meredith Hart – Review by Trish Ann

Heart's Rescue (Hearts Below, #1)Heart’s Rescue by Meredith Hart
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I enjoyed this book. I’ve been reading a lot of fantasy lately and this was a good addition to the list. I enjoyed the build between Rowan and Arryn. I thought the plot was good and would like to see what is next. I would read more by this author.

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Chasing Cheer (Emerald Hollow Book 1) by Heather Schneider – Review by Trish Ann

Chasing CheerChasing Cheer by Heather Schneider
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This was a super cute read! I really enjoyed the character and the story. I usually don’t start my holiday reads until October but I’m glad I made an exception! It had all the warm and cozy feels for the genre. Ash and Holly were a well matched couple and complimented each other well.

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Tears Into Gold by Cori Cooper – Review by Jennifer Gordon

Tears into GoldTears into Gold by Cori Cooper
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This was a wonderfully written novel with an intriguing storyline which kept me captivated throughout. The main character Branka is an orphaned scullery maid, who works for Lord and Lady Fitzgerald at their manor House. Branka is in love with a boy who she knows can never love her back, and so feeling like her life is hopeless she wishes for freedom. However, in Branka’s world GOLD is freedom and she soon discovers why people should be careful what they wish for. This story has a whimsical fairytale feel to it and seemed to be a mix of different fairytales. Branka is a likeable and relatable young girl, and I felt immersed in her world due to the detailed descriptive narrative which brought the fantasy world to life. An enjoyable and engaging read, and one which I recommend all ages reading.

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