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It’s Cool To Be Kind by Shermaine Perry-Knights – Review by Jamie Truex

It's Cool To Be Kind: A Children's Book on Kindness and FriendshipIt’s Cool To Be Kind: A Children’s Book on Kindness and Friendship by Shermaine Perry-Knights
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

What a nice story about being kind! I like how they are excited to be kind. It’s supposed to be for 7-9 year old but my 6 year old granddaughter enjoyed it and I’m sure it would be good for even a preschool child. I liked the activity prompts at the end. Easy to do in a classroom or at home. I definitely recommend this book to read to your child.

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Gadrella by Tricia Gardella – Review by Jamie Truex

GadrellaGadrella by Tricia Gardella
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is a very cute book with a great message for kids. Gadrella is a witch, bored with the same old clothes, same old traditions. So she decides to change it up! But are her friends willing to accept her change? Perfect Halloween book for young children.

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Spook Squad by Allan Evans – Review by Jamie Truex

Spook SquadSpook Squad by Allan Evans
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Another great book from Allan Evans! Spooky Squad is a young adult paranormal story than continues with the life of 14 year old Abbey who can communicate with ghosts. You absolutely can read this book on its own but I would recommend that you read them in order as this is the third book and you learn so much about Abbey and her gift in the first two books. She has a small group of friends that know about her abilities and are there to support her and help in her adventures with the paranormal. I would highly recommend this book whether for your young adult reader, or for anyone who enjoys young adult paranormal stories.

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The Crown of Stones Trilogy Box Set (The Crown of Stones Series) by C. L. Schneider – Review by Jamie Truex

The Crown of Stones Complete TrilogyThe Crown of Stones Complete Trilogy by C.L. Schneider
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I was a little intimidated by the number of pages, but it was very easy to get lost in these books. The world building was great. There was enough detail for me to picture where we were, without giving me too much. Each of the characters were developed and relatable. Ian Troy is easily my favorite character.
The first book in the trilogy, Magic Price, we meet Ian and get a bit of the back story on him and the Shinree people, who are addicted to Magic, making them slaves. Ian tries to resist the addiction but someone wants to use him for themselves. Book one is full of adventure, magic, twists and turns. You’ll love it!
Magic Scars is the second in the trilogy. The author did a wonderful job flowing from the first book. Ian has been drugged, used and in prison for two years. He starts remembering what he has done and has to learn to forgive himself in order to move on and help others. I think this book was a little more heavy emotionally than the first book. But that pulled me into this series even deeper.
Magic Borne is the third book of the trilogy. Once again, an easy transition from the previous book. The adventure and suspense continue! This time the person he must defeat, is his father. Can you imagine? I think this is a wonderful set perfect for readers who love mature adventure, magic, and war. There are some sex scenes. Overall, I really enjoyed this trilogy and would recommend.

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Detective Dylan and the Thief of Camp Leaf (A Youth Sleuths Chapter Book Series) by MJ Murray – Review by Jamie Truex

Detective Dylan and the Thief of Camp Leaf (A Youth Sleuths Chapter Book Series 3)Detective Dylan and the Thief of Camp Leaf by M.J. Murray
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Very cute kids mystery book. I remember reading all sorts of kids mysteries as a child and this would have been one of my favorites. The characters are relatable and the mystery is believable. I would recommend this for a child.

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To be a Fae Rogue (Realm Chronicles Series) by Tricia Copeland – Review by Jamie Truex

To be a Fae Rogue (Realm Chronicles Book 4)To be a Fae Rogue by Tricia Copeland
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I am a huge fan of this author and this series. I fell in love with book one and was super excited to get my hands on this one, book four. I do recommend starting at the beginning because this author does such a great job world building and character building that you don’t want to miss out on any this beautiful story! Anxiously awaiting book 5!

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Miss Georgiana Darcy’s Quest For Love ~ A Pride And Prejudice Variation Novelette (Love Through The Ages Series) by TL Clark – Review by Jamie Truex

Miss Georgiana Darcy’s Quest For Love: A Pride And Prejudice Variation Novelette (Love Through The Ages; stand-alone historical books by TL Clark)Miss Georgiana Darcy’s Quest For Love: A Pride And Prejudice Variation Novelette by T.L. Clark
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This wasn’t what I normally read but I’m always up for switching things up every once in a while. I was pleasantly pleased. It’s been a very long time since I’ve read Pride and Prejudice, but this was a very nice spin off. It’s a very quick and easy read and seems perfect for an afternoon in the sun!

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Fate, Frankincense & Funerals by Naomi Valkyrie – Review by Jamie Truex

Fate, Frankincense & FuneralsFate, Frankincense & Funerals by Naomi Valkyrie
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Another great book by Naomi Valkyrie. My only complaint is I wanted more story, more explanation of why things were the way they were. I really enjoy the way this author writes. I really liked Acheron and was hoping to learn more about vulture shifters and their roles. Normally this author doesn’t write too steamy of love scenes, but I was glad she went a little more in that direction this time. As always, I highly recommend this book and any book from this author.

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Lapidius: Book 1 (A Nation Found Series) by Matthew Runals – Review by Jamie Truex

LapidiusLapidius by Matthew Runals
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This was a new author to me so I didn’t know what to expect, but I enjoy dystopian type stories so I gave it a shot. I’m glad I did. You can tell this author put a lot of effort into his writing and knowledge. It’s basically a children’s military school with a fantasy twist. I was drawn in from tbr beginning and will be watching for a second book! I recommend this book for really any age group.

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Dark is the Wood (Enchanted Tales with Dragon Scales Series) by Kristin Ward – Review by Jamie Truex

Dark is the Wood: A Young Adult Fantasy RomanceDark is the Wood: A Young Adult Fantasy Romance by Kristin Ward
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Dark is the Wood is the first book in the Enchanted Tales with Dragon Scales series by Kristin Ward. Gillian’s brother has caught the illness that has taken the lives of many. She heads into the Shadowlands to find a way to save him. Getting kidnapped was not what she had planned. The world building was really good, but I was a bit disappointed with the characters. I like a good enemies to lovers story, but there was more enemies than lovers in this book. There were several aspects that I think were rushed when they shouldn’t have been. Overall I do think this was a great idea, and a worthwhile read. I plan to pick up the next book and also check out what else Kristin Ward has to offer.

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The Veil (The Veil Realms Series Book One) by Karli Rush – Review by Jamie Truex

The VeilThe Veil by Karli Rush
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I enjoy dystopian books and I really liked the cover if this book. I wasn’t really sure what I was getting into but I thought The Veil was a new take on dystopian stories. It was really interesting in my opinion. I also really liked Selene’s character. The writing took me some time to get used to. I felt like there were a lot of “extra” words and a bit chaotic. However, I would still recommend this book. I think it’s worth it and am looking forward to finding out what comes next.

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Blood & Ravens (The Casket Girls Book 1) by A.D. Brazeau – Review by Jamie Truex

Blood & Ravens (The Casket Girls, #1)Blood & Ravens by A.D. Brazeau
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is book one in The Casket Girls series. I can’t wait to get into book two! This one had me turning page after page to find out what happened next. I really liked Greer’s character. Despite waking up and finding out she was kidnapped, just to be sold off as some strange man’s wife, she never gives up. I loved the paranormal and enemies to lovers aspect. This book really kept my attention. I highly recommend this book. You won’t regret it.

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The End Of Try Try Again by Kristen Carter, MS – Review by Jamie Truex

The End of Try Try Again: Overcome Your Weight Loss and Exercise Struggles for GoodThe End of Try Try Again: Overcome Your Weight Loss and Exercise Struggles for Good by Kristen Carter
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

I’ve read several books on weight loss so I figured I would give this short book a try as well. The title makes it sound like it has the answer. I know you can’t expect fast results or a miracle cure, but I found this book to just say the basics that we always hear. I did like the fact that it gives you questions to ask yourself and things to think about. I also like the idea of making small choices each day or week. I was hoping for some kind of more detailed plan though. I would not be able to make informed choices on what changes to introduce into my normal daily routine based on this book alone.

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A Vampire in Disguise (Creatures of the Midwest Series) by Ava Silvers – Review by Jamie Truex

A Vampire in Disguise (Creatures of the Midwest Book 1)A Vampire in Disguise by Ava Silvers
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is the first book I’ve read from Ava Silvers and I was rather impressed. Judging on the cover only, I thought it was going to be like a high school paranormal mystery. I’m glad it was different. I immediately connected with Hazel. I absolutely love her character. Also the town of Shadow Hollow is a place I’d love to visit! I would highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys cozy mysteries or paranormal books. I would say this book is for all ages too. Not just YA like I thought. I can not wait to jump into the next book!

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Unexpected Heroes by Naomi Valkyrie – Review by Jamie Truex

Unexpected HeroesUnexpected Heroes by Naomi Valkyrie
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I am a huge fan of this author so I knew I had to read Unexpected Heros. I was definitely pleased I did! I enjoyed the story being written in both povs. Naomi Valkyrie made me feel connected to the characters and had me hooked from the first chapter. It was a really good love story without the X rated, in your face love scenes. I would highly recommend this book as well as this author.

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Puzzleman by Christopher Alan Broadstone – Review by Jamie Truex

Puzzleman: A NovelPuzzleman: A Novel by Christopher Alan Broadstone
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I was intrigued by the title and cover. I wasn’t exactly sure what I was getting into but I do like horror so I figured I’d give it a try. I wouldn’t necessarily classify this as horror but definitely a thriller. I haven’t read a book in a long time that has made me think wtf as much as I did reading this one! It was very interesting how each of the characters were connected in one way or another and the nightmare they were living through. This book is not for the faint of heart, but if you love books that make you question your sanity, give this one a chance. It will be awhile before I get some images out of my head.

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The Alien & the Crime Boss by Naomi Valkyrie – Review by Jamie Truex

The Alien & the Crime BossThe Alien & the Crime Boss by Naomi Valkyrie
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I normally am not into SciFi stories but I picked it up because it’s from Naomi Valkyrie! I will read everything she has written or will write! Her style makes it so easy to be sucked in from page one and get so attached to the characters, no matter how short or long the book is. This book was no different. Leilphun has escaped authorities on his planet and come to Earth. He is found unconscious by Kasper, a mafia boss trying to take over two major families. Can he use Leilphun to help accomplish his goals, or will a budding romance hinder those goals? I would recommend you reading this short story even if you’re not typically into SciFi or crime boss stories.

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Red (Modern-Day Fairy Tale Book 2) by MK Harkins – Review by Jamie Truex

Red (Modern-Day Fairy Tale, #2)Red by M.K. Harkins
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Red is the first book I’ve read by MK Harkins. I did not read the first book, so you can definitely read this as a stand alone and not be lost. I now want to go back and read the first, as well as any other book I can get by this author! The characters and world building were spot on. I was intrigued by the cover and the overview, but completely entranced the entire book! My emotions were on the same rollercoaster as the characters! I loved them all but my favorites were Merilee and Zuriel! I hope there is more to come with them. If you enjoy modern twists on fairy tales, run and grab this book!

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

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

The Silent Forest is the second book in The House on the Hill series. I do recommend reading the first book first but you can jump in with this book. Personally I think this book was even better than the first. I was glued to this story and had to stay up for just one more chapter! Again the author writes in multiple POVs which sometimes I don’t like but it really was perfect this time. I felt more connected to each character. I was glad to see this book answered some questions I had at the end of the first book, but left me with more questions! I can not wait to get my hands on the third book! If you like psychological thrillers that leave your heart racing, then go start this series today!

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The Ghastly Gumball by Naomi Valkyrie – Review by Jamie Truex

The Ghastly GumballThe Ghastly Gumball by Naomi Valkyrie
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Yet another wonderful book by Naomi Valkyrie! I was so hooked, I read the entire book while waiting to get my tires changed! All of her books so far have literally grabbed me from page one and did not let go. I love that you never fully know what you’re going to get when you pick up the book but are never disappointed. Magic, shifters, romance and a little trouble makes for a perfect story! I can’t decide if Clyde is my favorite character or if it’s Brix. I would love to learn more about her. I’d also love to learn more about Jinx. Like usual with Naomi Valkyrie, I highly recommend you reading this book. You won’t regret it!

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Wasabi (Evil Sushi Series) by C.A. King – Review by Jamie Truex

Wasabi (Evil Sushi Book 3)Wasabi by C.A. King
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is the third in the Evil Sushi series by C. A. King. I did have the pleasure of reading the first two and of course had to pick up the third as well. I’m definitely glad I did. It was a great addition to the series. It was also a quick read. You can easily finish it in one sitting. But do yourself a favor and read them in order. Then see what your favorite characters do this round. Very creative writing! I look forward to more evil foods from this author!

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The Book of Fears: A Collection of Short Stories by K. S. Gantt – Review by Jamie Truex

The Book of Fears: A Collection of Short StoriesThe Book of Fears: A Collection of Short Stories by K.S. Gantt
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

This book wasn’t exactly what I was expecting. Not necessarily in a bad way though. So there’s eight different stories, each with different characters and different fears. None of those fears bother me, so it wasn’t what I would consider a horror book. They clearly give trigger warnings, so anyone who may be triggered by one of those fears have fair warning to skip it. I found the stories to be very quick reads and almost not enough story to them. I would be interested in reading more if they were to write on more fears. Now, all that being said, I do think they were well written. I just needed more. I will give this author another go when I find something else from her.

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One Quarter Villain by Cori Cooper – Review by Jamie Truex

One Quarter VillainOne Quarter Villain by Cori Cooper
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

What an interesting book! Maddy is a 17 year old girl who always follows the rules. Always. All of them. Her grandmother gives her a DNA test for her 17th birthday. She’s less than excited about it. If she’s not adopted, why should she care where she came from? Her mom finally has to threaten making her stay home from a football game to get her to actually take the test. When they get the results back it says she’s one quarter villain! But she’s the good girl! When her best friend goes missing, she is thrown into a world of adventure she never expected. Can villains have a happy ending? Definitely grab this book and find out!! It’s not your typical fairy tale story and I loved it!

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Delicious Death (Madame Chalamet Ghost Mysteries Book 2) by Byrd Nash – Review by Jamie Truex

Delicious Death (Madame Chalamet Ghost Mysteries #2)Delicious Death by Byrd Nash
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Delicious Death is the second book of six in the Madame Chalamet Ghost Mysteries series by Byrd Nash. This has been said before, but Elinor is very much like a female Sherlock Holmes. I find myself enjoying Elinor and even the Duke a little more this time around. They are both really growing on me. I love how her character is so well written. I truly feel like I would get along with her in real life! I enjoyed seeing Elinor’s character showing a softer side where she just wants to relax and be a lady. I felt this was a very quick and easy read and you don’t have to read the books in order to keep up. But I am definitely excited to continue this journey into book three. I would absolutely recommend this book to anyone who enjoys historical romance mystery with some ghosts thrown in!

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Percy’s Brides (A Double Trouble Romance) by Ivy Hart – Review by Jamie Truex

Percy's Brides: A Double Trouble RomancePercy’s Brides: A Double Trouble Romance by Ivy Hart
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Percy’s Brides is the first book I’ve read by Ivy Hart. It’s a historical western romance. Not typically my cup of tea, but I found it a rather enjoyable read. Percy is the youngest of his family and he knows his brothers will get the family farm so he makes sure his future is set and owns a hardware store. His mother wants him to marry. He’s just interested in running his business. Unexpectedly, a woman, Clara, shows up believing she is to marry Percy. She’s a mail order bride! After spending a week with her, he starts warming up to the idea and thinking maybe this won’t be so bad. Then a second woman, Amelia, another mail order bride, shows up expecting to marry him as well! I would definitely recommend this book. It was a rather quick read.

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Just Ducky (Weird Shifters Series) by C.A. King – Review by Jamie Truex

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

Just Ducky is the first book in the Weird Shifters series by C.A. King. I have read a few books from this author so I knew right away I had to read this one as well! I love her writing style. The character building and world building are on point. This was such an original take on the normal paranormal books I’ve read before. Danger, adventure, romance, and some unique shifters, this book has it all. I had a very hard time putting it down! Looking forward to reading the next book.

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What Lies Buried by Leslie Kain – Review by Jamie Truex

What Lies BuriedWhat Lies Buried by Leslie Kain
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is the sequel to Secrets in the Mirror by Leslie Kain. We learn more about the after effects of a traumatizing childhood. Gavin has Complex PTSD and it obviously effects his family as an adult. It’s heartbreaking but Katie’s character is my favorite this time. You get to learn more about her and see what it’s like as the wife of someone suffering like Gavin. Anyone who has been in her position, will easily relate. It’s definitely going to be an emotional read but absolutely worth it.

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

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

This is the 5th book in the Life is Hell series by Naomi Valkyrie. We finally get to learn more about Jezebel and Hadassah, Malakhi’s angel sister. After helping her brother save a demon, she get exiled to Earth and has to put up with his new family. Trying not to upset her brother, she attempts to make friends. Thinking Jezebel is the least annoying, she settles for her. Only she gets more than she bargained for! Now they are on the run from Jezebel’s past together and Hadassah is starting to have feelings. I loved this whole series and probably this book the most. I really hope she writes yet another book about Juniper Lake and all our friends there. You can read this story alone, but I highly recommend you read them in order and learn to love each character as I have.

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Sure as Hell (Life is Hell Series Book 4) by Naomi Valkyrie – Review by Jamie Truex

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

This is the 4th book by Naomi Valkyrie the the Life is Hell Series. You can read this alone but there’s such a benifit from reading them in order. This time we get to learn more about Larkspur and Jaru. If you like imps, demons, adventure, and romance, this might be the book for you!

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A Song of Salt and Secrets (Mythic Academy Collection) by Amanda Marin – Review by Jamie Truex

A Song of Salt and Secrets (Mythic Academy Collection)A Song of Salt and Secrets by Amanda Marin
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

A young siren trying to control her song, accidentally almost kills a boy. But her and her friend rush to save him. Now she can’t stop thinking about him. This is the second book in the Mystic Academy series by Amanda Marin. You can read this on its own. No need to read in order. Very good story and perfect for a high-school girl.

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