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Undeniable (Central Florida Stories Book 2) by Victoria Saccenti – Review by La Toya Lewis

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Undeniable (Central Florida Stories, #2)Undeniable by Victoria Saccenti
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Undeniable is book 2 in the Central Florida Stories series. Kurt and Arely are two people that met years ago but nothing came of it. They are now reunited by a danger that Arely is facing. This is action-packed, steamy, and filled with twists. You can read this book as a stand-alone. The characters and story are just as well-written as in the first book. I really enjoyed following Kurt and Arely on these adventures. They are a lovely couple that benefits each other. Another must-read story.

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Deception (Central Florida Stories Book 1) by Victoria Saccenti – Review by La Toya Lewis

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Deception (Central Florida Stories, #1)Deception by Victoria Saccenti
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Deception is a story about a Marine named Joe seeking revenge against Hunter because he thinks she caused his friend’s death. As they get to know each other, they realize there is more to each other than meets the eye. This book is a page-turner for sure. It takes a while to warm up to the main characters but I really enjoyed them once I did. There is an excellent rapport between Hunter and Joe. I also really enjoyed the supporting characters. A very enjoyable story for sure.

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Blood & Vengeance (The Casket Girls Book 2) by A.D. Brazeau – Review by La Toya Lewis

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Blood & Vengeance (The Casket Girls #2)Blood & Vengeance by A.D. Brazeau
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Blood & Vengence is the second book in The Casket Girls series. This installment finds Desiree and Theron hunting the rest of the vampires in New Orleans when she meets a vampire named Jaxon that wants to learn from Theron how to survive without killing. In the process, he falls for Desiree and must find a way to protect her from his past. At first, I was disappointed that this book would not follow Greer and Theron. Although I liked the other girls, I really wasn’t keen on reading about them as the main characters. However, I ended up really enjoying the sibling dynamic between Theron and Desiree. I would have to see more Greer but hopefully, we will see more of her at a later date. This book is as well-written and adventurous as the first. I liked the addition of Jaxon. I liked the dynamic between him and Desiree. This book made me feel all the emotions. I immensely enjoyed reading this book.

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The Second Alpha Heir by C.L. Ledford – Review by La Toya Lewis

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The Second Alpha HeirThe Second Alpha Heir by C.L. Ledford
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I love a story where I can root for the underdog and The Second Alpha Heir is that type of story. Nolan was scrawny and bullied by everyone. He was never meant to be the alpha but fate has other plans. Nolan trains to fulfill the role his brother left behind. We get to see the ups and downs of Nolan on his journey. He really is a protagonist worth rooting for. His book has an interesting plot and a nice slow-burn romance. It also has a very creatively built world. I really enjoyed this story.

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Isabella Bride of Ohio: American Mail Order Bride by Debra Parmley – Review by La Toya Lewis

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Isabella, Bride of Ohio (American Mail-Order Brides Series)Isabella, Bride of Ohio by Debra Parmley
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Isabella Bride of Ohio is the 17th book in the American Mail-Order Bride book series. Poor Isabella is having the worst time in her life. Her parents die from illness and the factory she works in burns down. Living in a time where women have few choices she decides to become a mail-order bride. She starts to correspond with Donald and wonders if this is her happy ending. However, there is danger waiting for her on her way to meet her new fiance. Luckily, she is saved by a Pinkerton agent named Tom. This book is a clean romance and a fun read. I found myself getting into the plot quickly. The characters are well-written as is the plot. Easy to read with romance and twists. I am very excited to read the other books in the series.

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Levi (The Brothers of Creekside Ranch Book 1) by Edith Mackenzie-Review by La Toya Lewis

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LeviLevi by Edith Mackenzie
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I love a nice clean romance and this book does not disappoint. Levi is an ex-Navy Seal that agrees to help protect Bella while she waits to testify against her Mafia ex-boyfriend’s trial. I liked the dynamic between the two and liked that Bella was her own woman. I also loved the relationship between Levi and his brothers. I want to read the other stories because I adored all of the Delaney brothers. I also loved how protective they are of their little sister, whom Bella is a “nanny” for. This was a great read and I look forward to the other books.

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Truth or Kill (Twisted Legends Collection Book 1) by A.C. Kramer – Review by La Toya Lewis

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Truth or Kill (Twisted Legends Collection, #2)Truth or Kill by A.C. Kramer
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Truth or Kill is a dark romance/suspense book that is utterly captivating. The book is a page-turner! Sydney is a smart and competent main character and Kage is the kind of dark love interest that is perfect for this story. I loved how Sydney handled herself. She has to stay on her toes to survive because these snobby, rich kids are out for her. There is a lot of push and pull between Kage and Sydney. They had a good dynamic. This book has murder, intrigue, and romance; definitely worth picking up.

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The Lie That Binds by Amy Argent – Review by La Toya Lewis

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The Lie That BindsThe Lie That Binds by Amy Argent
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Nathan is a high school student that has to lie just to have an everyday life; then he meets Holly. The Lie That Binds is a realistic portrayal of high school life/students. This is a fantastic read. These are such well-written characters. You really connect to the characters and get pulled into the plot. My heart really went out to Nathan. A definite page-turner. Do yourself a favor and read this book!

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One in A Billion (Pierce Brothers Book 3) by Belinda Williams – Review by La Toya Lewis

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One In A Billion (Pierce Brothers, #3)One In A Billion by Belinda Williams
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Belinda Williams does it again! One In a Billion is the fun, sweet third book in the Pierce Brothers series. Seth is the private, billionaire Pierce brother and Victoria is an ambitious journalist that does what it takes to land the interview with Seth. This was another hit. Once again enjoyable characters and plot. I very much enjoyed the chemistry between Seth and Victoria. A very fun and romantic book.

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Spoilsport (Pierce Brothers Book 2) by Belinda Williams – Review by La Toya Lewis

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Spoilsport (Pierce Brothers, #2)Spoilsport by Belinda Williams
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Spoilsport is another fun, light-hearted romance by Belinda Williams. I really enjoyed this enemies-to-lovers type of romance. Chelsea’s best friend Nadia and Tom’s brother Luke are the protagonists in this one. Nadia is tough, confident, and wary of love. Luke is a serious divorced father and falls hard for her. This book is the second book in the Pierce Brothers series but you can probably read it as a stand-alone. Although Nadia can be abrasive, Luke is sweet. They are a fun pair. It is wonderful to watch them attempt to navigate their relationship. This book is a definite must-read.

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Mr. Nice Guy (Pierce Brothers Book 1) by Belinda Williams – Review by La Toya Lewis

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Mr. Nice Guy (Pierce Brothers, #1)Mr. Nice Guy by Belinda Williams
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Mr. Nice Guy is the first book in the Pierce Brothers series and it is a cun and cute book. Tom and Chelsea are roommates. He is also her big brother’s friend. Because Chelsea has a habit of dating jerks, Tom decides to show her what it’s like to be with a nice guy so that she knows what to look for. It seems like they get more than they bargained for. I liked Tom and Chelsea’s relationship a lot. I love how they looked out for each other. Tom was lovely and earnest. This was a very romantic and easy read.

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PREMEDITATED: A Trust Betrayed, Lives Sabotaged, A Love Undaunted (Agents of Justice Book 2) by Susanna Haymond – Review by La Toya Lewis

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PremeditatedPremeditated by Susanna Haymond
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This was a wonderful read! This story about two DEA agents trying to bring down a drug lord is fast-paced and action-packed. You don’t have to wait for the action to begin; the book starts off with a bang. The book is a page-turner. The dynamics between the characters are well-written. The book has great Christian themes and is very inspirational. I think people from all walks would enjoy this book. Clean and exciting!

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The Happily Ever After Bookstore by Bernadette Marie – Review by La Toya Lewis

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The Happily Ever After BookstoreThe Happily Ever After Bookstore by Bernadette Marie
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I absolutely love books that involve bookstores and this is one of the best that I have read. Although the book contains three separate stories; they are all connected. I loved the themes of friendship and thriving in spite of setbacks. The stories are well-written and entertaining. The book is heart-warming and fun. The Happily Ever After Bookstore was truly a delight to read.

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Finding Starlight (Quimby Grove Book 1) by Shannon Nikole – Review by La Toya Lewis

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Finding Starlight (Quimby Grove #1)Finding Starlight by Shannon Nikole
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is a lovely romance story. Ellawyn is a woman running from her former life with her abusive ex-boyfriend. She starts a new life in Quimby Grove and spends her days in a quaint bookstore cafe. She forms a beautiful friendship with the owner and develops a relationship with his grandson Beckett. This book was beautifully written and very sweet. I really enjoyed the progression of the relationship between Ellie and Beckett. I also adored the friendship between her and Benji. This book has enough drama to keep you interested but there is still a lot of romance. Romance in a small town is where it’s at. A wonderful read!

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The Cross of Ciaran by Andrea Matthews – Review by La Toya Lewis

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The Cross of CiaranThe Cross of Ciaran by Andrea Matthews
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The Cross of Ciaran is such an original, intriguing story of a New York archeologist that’s trying to find out what happened to a missing fifth-century Celt. Ciaran is said missing Celt that wakes up in modern-day times trying to figure out what is happening and why he woke up in a strange time and place. Fate brings these two together as Caitlin tries to solve this mystery. I greatly enjoyed this book. It starts with a bang and you learn so much about the customs, religions and other things as the world of this book is built and the story moves forward. I enjoyed the plot and could not wait to see what was going to happen next. The story is well researched and it keeps you on the edge of your seat.

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The Cave of Rúin Ársa (The Cross of Ciaran Book 3) by Andrea Matthews – Review by La Toya Lewis

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The Cave of Ruin ArsaThe Cave of Ruin Arsa by Andrea Matthews
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The Cave of Ruin Arsa is romantic and captivating. This book is the brilliant third installment of the Cross of Ciaran series. We see the stressors of Ciaran’s fears affect his relationship with Caitlan. I absolutely love them as a couple. They clearly love each other and it is fun to read about them. This is another wonderfully written plot as well as a page-turner. I love the historical aspect of this series which this book continues. The Cave of Ruin Arsa is a definite five-star read!

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The Book of Carraig (The Cross of Ciaran Book 2) by Andrea Matthews – Review by La Toya Lewis

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The Book of Carraig (The Cross of Ciaran #2)The Book of Carraig by Andrea Matthews
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is the second book in The Cross of Ciaran series. This book is quite the page-turner. Faced-paced and keeps you on your toes and guessing. I really enjoy the relationship between Caitlin and Ciaran. I love, love, love the historical references and the journey back to Ireland. This author does such a good job of intertwining fiction and history. The build-up of the relationship between Ciaran and Caitlin is well-written as is the plot. This is a must-read continuation of the series.

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The Mastermind (WaterFyre Rising Book 1) by Nadia Han – Review by La Toya Lewis

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The Mastermind (WaterFyre Rising, #1)The Mastermind by Nadia Han
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This was a fun and intriguing story. The Mastermind by Nadia Han contains plenty of action and romance to keep you on the edge of your seat. There are steamy parts but it is in good balance with the rest of the story and does not overtake the book. I love Audri’s quirky and fun personality. It provides a good balance to Remi’s darkness and brooding. These are very well-written and multi-dimensional characters. They are both awesome in their own ways and complement each other beautifully. I’d love to see a continuation of their story. The plot is also well-written and although there is quite a bit going on, it does not get confusing. I loved all the relationships between each of the characters, good and bad. This was a very exciting read!

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Dark Sparrow Box Set: The Complete 6-Book Series (A Dark Sparrow Novel) by India Kells – Review by La Toya Lewis

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Dark Sparrow Box Set: The Complete 6-Book SeriesDark Sparrow Box Set: The Complete 6-Book Series by India Kells
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

India Kells’s Dark Sparrow Box Set: The Complete 6-Book Series (A Dark Sparrow Novel) is a steamy and action-packed ride! I greatly enjoyed reading about the Bastard Brothers and their lady loves. Each book is well written with well-written, complex characters that make you want to cheer and scream. I absolutely adored the way the brothers all reluctantly come together. The fellas are awesome and the Dark Sparrows even more so. I love the way that they realize they are stronger together. If you love action with a healthy dose of sizzle, this is a great series for you. I look forward to reading more from this author.

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Romance under Aquarius (Stargazing Series Book 1) by Danielle Jacks – Review by La Toya Lewis

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Romance Under AquariusRomance Under Aquarius by Danielle Jacks
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Romance Under Aquarius is a story from the four-point of view of Maris and her best friend, fiance, and a stranger named Kasper. The first three are the occupants of the underwater kingdom of Atlantis and come together with Kasper to start an adventure to save Kasper’s brother. This adventure lands them in a lot of unlikely scenarios that they need to navigate their way out of. All of the characters are well-written and multi-dimensional. I instantly liked Maris and the lovable rogue, Kasper. I never came around to liking Ryn or Pasha. With the way the story starts, I just could not find it in my heart to feel anything positive towards either of them. This story is based on the qualities of the zodiac sign of Aquarius and every chapter displays those qualities beautifully. Romance Under Aquarius was a charming romance story. It wasn’t too intense but very fulfilling. The entire story kept me entertained and smiling.

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The True Garza (Red Cage Book 3) by S. Ann Cole – Review by La Toya Lewis

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The True Garza (Red Cage, #3)The True Garza by S. Ann Cole
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The True Garza was a very entertaining read. I enjoyed the chemistry between True and Lonny. I definitely enjoyed the parts with True more. I, unfortunately, found Lonny to be unlikeable and a hypocrite. I really can’t fathom why anyone would fall in love with her. That being said, I adored True and Lexi. I even liked Trent’s grumpy self. Some of True’s actions left me confused at first but it wasn’t difficult to catch on to why he did the things he did. The book is definitely steamy and fun. It was quite the page-turner.

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A Long Kiss Goodbye (Onyx & Mercury Book 2) by H.D. Thomson – Review by La Toya Lewis

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A Long Kiss GoodbyeA Long Kiss Goodbye by H.D. Thomson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This book was more than I expected. Expecting just a standard thriller, the story we got was even better. Luys and Avery are neighbors that barely know each other. It seems Luys is a grumpy neighbor who doesn’t want to be bothered. After Avery is attacked, Luys helps her and the story takes off. I found both characters very likable and I enjoyed watching their story unfold and rooting for them. They had wonderful chemistry together and I found myself wanting them to get together instantly. The book is well-paced and has excellent action-type sequences. The protagonist reacts to things just as you would expect them to. The book had a satisfying ending while also leaving room for more books. I greatly enjoyed this book.

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The Mermaid and the Ice Cube Necklace (Mermaid Science) by Lois Wickstrom – Review by La Toya Lewis

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Mermaid and the Ice Cube NecklaceMermaid and the Ice Cube Necklace by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Another great children’s book by Lois Wickstrom! This book is adorable. Maia and Fig are two friends having a picnic. As they are eating, they encounter a mermaid who wants their ice cubes to make a necklace. This book teaches children about science and the different forms of water in a cute and fun way. The book is easy to understand and the characters are adorable. They even manage to have a bit of action. I highly recommend this book for parents to teach their young ones a bit of science.

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Ancient Reflections: A Mythic Trilogy by Tamara Agha-Jaffar – Review by La Toya Lewis

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Ancient Reflections: A Mythic TrilogyAncient Reflections: A Mythic Trilogy by Tamara Agha-Jaffar
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I greatly enjoyed this retelling of Greek Mythology. This book is beautifully written and gives a feminine perspective of the events of these three stories. It really helps you to understand the possibility of why some of the events took place and what these women would have been thinking. The stories are touching and it is very easy to relate to the ladies in the stories. It was heart-breaking to put yourself in some of their shoes. I highly recommend this book to everyone that may want to consider what it would have been like for the ladies of mythology.

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Taming of the Few (Guardians of the PHAE Book 1) by Rowan Dillon – Review by La Toya Lewis

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Taming of the FewTaming of the Few by Christy Nicholas
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Wow! That’s all I can say about this book: fantastic world-building, well-written plot, and great characters. While there are a lot of characters it is not difficult to keep track. The plot has a lot of relevance to our real world and it’s easy to see where the author drew references. I absolutely adored the Byrne family. They were a soothing balm for every character; especially little Fiona. I was amazed at how Ms. Dillon pulled off such an intricate yet easy-to-understand plot. I found myself to be very unwilling to put this book down. I can’t wait to read book 2 for a continuation of the cliffhanger that we were left on.

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Deadly Sommer (Nora Sommer Caribbean Suspense Book 1) by Nicholas Harvey-Review by La Toya Lewis

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Deadly Sommer (Nora Sommer #1)Deadly Sommer by Nicholas Harvey
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Deadly Sommer is a classic thriller at its best. This first book of the series is a definite action-packed, page-turner. We start off with 19-year-old constable Nora Sommer. She is trying to live her life one day at a time after enduring tragedy over the last few years. Unfortunately, her easy Sunday is disrupted by the kidnapping of a young college student. I thoroughly enjoyed getting to know Nora. Her inner dialogue is sarcastic and hilarious. Nora’s friends, partner, and superior are wonderful as well. This book kept me glued to my seat and had a pretty satisfying ending. I enjoyed the plot and while it’s not anything new, it is well written and entertaining.

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The Wolf’s Shadow (The Lycanthropy Files Book 1) by Cecilia Dominic – Review by La Toya Lewis

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The Wolf's Shadow (The Lycanthropy Files #1)The Wolf’s Shadow by Cecilia Dominic
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I greatly enjoyed this book! I really liked Joanie and had so much empathy for her plight. This poor thing was having the worst month ever! I thought the plot was well developed and it kept me interested with the twists and turns. I enjoyed seeing Joanie learn from her mistakes. I wish I could say the same for Lonna. I really felt like I could do without this character. I’m not sure the book would have been much different without her. I actually like the love interests and liked that Joanie had choices. I absolutely adored Joanie’s relationship with her grandfather and would have loved to see more of that present day. All in all, I highly recommend this book. It is a page-turner.

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The True Purpose of Vines (The Winemakers Book 1) by Giovanna Siniscalchi – Review by La Toya Lewis

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The True Purpose of VinesThe True Purpose of Vines by Giovanna Siniscalchi
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The True Purpose of Vines, is a wonderfully written historical romance. It follows Griffin Maxwell as he visits his property in Portugal where he is neighbors with the strong-willed, intelligent Julia Costa. An obvious mutual attraction between the two kicks off this enemies-to-lovers type romance trope. I love a good, grumpy character and Griffin does not disappoint. He has such a good heart and just wants to save his family. I love the chemistry between him and Julia; she is exactly the type of woman his mother says he needs. I also love seeing such a strong, competent woman and how she navigates a world full of men that think they know better. Julia has such a passion for wine-making. You feel her frustrations and longings to find someone with whom she can share that passion. This book was tasteful, informative, and enjoyable to read. The author put a lot of effort into being accurate and informative about the world of wine-tasting. I learned a great deal and I look forward to the next book in the series.

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Bake Believe (Bake Believe Series Book 1) by Cori Cooper – Review by La Toya Lewis

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Bake BelieveBake Believe by Cori Cooper
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Bake Believe by Cori Cooper is such a fun, original book. I sat down with my son and we devoured the first book in the Bake Believe series. Cat is your typical teen. All she wants is a simple, fun last day of summer. She was very relatable to my middle son, who is the same age. The magic infused into the story was so fun and whimsical. We both got a kick out of the recipes included in the story. This is a great book for all ages. With a fun plot and well-written characters, we both greatly enjoyed this book.

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Bake Off (Bake Believe Series Book 2) by Cori Cooper – Review by La Toya Lewis

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Bake OffBake Off by Cori Cooper
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

When Cameron learned that we were reading the second book in the series, he was very excited. Bake Off is a wonderful YA read that once again is enjoyable for all ages. Laughs, twists, and a bit of good old teenage angst are the perfect combination. It was great to delve further into Cat’s family and friend relationships. These books took me back to my distant teen years. My son and I once again got to share our time with the wonderful characters in this series.

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