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Love Tools (Bluestone Series Book 1) by Isobel Reed – Review by Shannen Kern

Love Tools (Bluestone Series, #1)Love Tools by Isobel Reed
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Yes! I love the story of Lily and Jake! This is a quick love story that I lost myself in for the afternoon. There are plenty of emotions, but the main theme is romance with a western, ranch vibe. The author does an amazing job weaving the funniest quips throughout the story, and I was laughing out loud at some points. I love anything to do with cowboys so this was right up my alley. If you’re looking for a feel-good, contemporary western romance, pick this one up! You won’t be disappointed.

Reviewed by @shannlynn

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Savage Truth (Hidden Valley Elite Book 2) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Lyndsey Fairley

Savage Truth: A Dark High School Bully Romance (Hidden Valley Elite Book 2)Savage Truth: A Dark High School Bully Romance by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I have really enjoyed getting to know a little more on Cole and Riley and the suspenseful conclusion (at least for now I hope) .
I highly suggest reading the first 2 books before this, the prequel and book 1, as it’s all needed to understand the dynamic and what’s going on in this story.

This like the previous brought the drama, the chemistry and the unexpected. I will not be giving many details as it’s best to read for yourself and I will not be responsible for giving even a tiny spoiler even by accident.

I cannot wait to read about the rest of this bunch (I hope they all get a story) as I would love to see things from others perspective but also how their stories go.

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Hero Complex (Bluestone Series Book 3) by Isobel Reed – Review by Shannen Kern

Hero Complex (Bluestone Series, #3)Hero Complex by Isobel Reed
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I loved the third installment of the Bluestone series! Ace and Ivy have an amazing chemistry from the beginning, and I love to see the way things progress. The author did a great job drawing these characters towards each other and creating their own little world. I enjoy the dual point of view, but it did feel like sometimes the view switched too quickly which drew me out of the story for a moment. Once I got into the groove though, it was a cute and fun read for the day. I recommend picking up this series, especially if you enjoy contemporary romance with a western theme!

Reviewed by @shannlynn

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Hope and Lies (The Abredea Series Book 1) by C.H. Lyn – Review by Candida Hopper

Hope and LiesHope and Lies by C.H. Lyn
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I found this book to be unique and interesting. This author is new to me and I found the writing to be very detailed and descriptive. I was taken on an adventure in this dystopian world and the author pulled into the story and kept me reading. There is quite a bit going on in this story with many different characters and going back and forth in the timeline but don’t let that deter you because it isn’t hard to follow. There is great character growth and action, family, friends and so much more in this book. This isn’t my usual genre but I’m glad I decided to pick it up and read it because I thoroughly enjoyed this story. I have some favorite characters and when you read this you will find which ones are yours. I look forward to reading what the next book will have in store for us. I felt this was a very good read.

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Cecily in the City (The Cecily Taylor Series Book 3) by Krysten Lindsay Hager – Review by Rosanna Ingram

Cecily in the CityCecily in the City by Krysten Lindsay Hager
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This YA book is full of all the emotions…angst, fear, love, loss, and finding yourself…you know, normal teenage stuff!
Cecily wants to make a name for herself, and a modeling opportunity in New York is the perfect way to get her foot in the door. With the support of her family, friends and her pop-star boyfriend, Andrew, she believes she can do it. However, when she finally gets to New York, and gets the opportunity to act, she finds her support system dwindling and learns that there are people out there who just want to see her fail. However, Cecily’s determination is admirable and is definitely worth reading!
I found this book tugging at my emotional heartstrings…and I was here for it! As the mother of teenagers, I wanted to see Cecily thrive and find out who she can be. The author did an amazing job at tackling real-life issues (even on a more grandiose scale with the characters being “famous”)…but the underlying themes are relevant. I enjoyed reading this book!

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The Guardian of Whispers (The Reeds of West Hills Book 1) by B. E. Padgett – Review by Kerry Baker

The Guardian of Whispers (The Reeds of West Hills #1)The Guardian of Whispers by B.E. Padgett
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is an entertaining story right from the start. The twins were brilliant characters. I loved their dynamic and the connections they built with the the other characters. They were engaging and easy to connect with.
The story itself was well written and fast paced. It was an exciting story that would appeal to all ages. I also really liked the cover of the book. It has a light hearted feel, which is unusual for this genre Book. This is a great story that is thoroughly enjoyable.

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People Safari by Feather Chelle-Review by Victoria McQuigg

People SafariPeople Safari by Feather Chelle
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

People Safari by Feather Chelle is an adorable Children’s Book with a fun twist. This cleverly written story is about a Safari. But not like the ones we are use to. The story takes us on a Safari through the eyes of animals who are studying Humans in their natural habitat. Ranger Marco takes Buck, Doe, and Fawn through a Human City. Along the way they try to understand why the Humans behave the way they do. Such as why they wear clothes and why children are eaten by buses everyday and then spit out later. It is cute, funny, and a cool way to help kids understand seeing the world through someone else’s eyes. If you have kids this is a great story that will have you both laughing and keep everyone entertained.

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Fee, Fi, Fo, Grow! (Science Folktales) by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Lorralei Hoerner

Fee, Fi, Fo, Grow!: The Real Magic of the Beans (Science Folktales)Fee, Fi, Fo, Grow!: The Real Magic of the Beans by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

🌟🌟🌟🌟 4 Stars

This story is engaging and I loved the spin on this retelling of a classic children’s story.

Jacqueline and her mother are trying to find ways to provide food on their table. As Jacqueline navigates with her cow, Bessie, to the market to bargain…..an old man stops Jacqueline to try and barter for some magic beans. What happens to Jacqueline once the beans are in her possession?

This is a fun, cute story and I always enjoys Lois Wickstrom’s books.

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People Safari by Feather Chelle – Review by Lorralei Hoerner

People SafariPeople Safari by Feather Chelle
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

🌟🌟🌟🌟

This is a fun book to read for all ages and the illustrations are engaging and full of color.

Ranger Marco the Raccoon takes a family of deer and teaches the family, especially Fawn, what “people” are like. Fawn and her parents, Doe and Buck, get an inside scoop of where people live, walking and transportation and such…

I love the learning aspect of this book and the journey you are taking while reading this book. The story is great and lots of fun.

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People Safari by Feather Chelle – Review by Kristin Boutelle

PROOF: People SafariPROOF: People Safari by Feather Chelle
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

When we hear the word safari, we always think of animals and their habitats that we’re observing. However, this particular book is doing the opposite. The animals are the main characters, and they are observing the human habitat. The characters are very well thought out. The story flows really easily and is easy to comprehend. The illustrations are very well done and colorful.

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Punk (Popov Boys Book 6) by Leslie Georgeson – Review by Lisa Helmick

Punk (Popov Boys #6)Punk by Leslie Georgeson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Another wonderful book in this series! I enjoyed the secrets, the unknown and the storyline. We really are able to dig deep into the thoughts and lives of this couple. Not everything is as it seems as we learn the “whys” of a few things and the “hows” of others. I really liked that Miranda is a strong businesswoman that started her own company. That showed her gumption of sticking even when things get tough. Efrem is the hollywood sexy guy and has a determination to redeem his past and cross boundaries with his new boss.

Overall it is a good story. We see characters from the past stories as they become involved with Efrem or just cameos. Either way its always nice to see them. The story seemed overlong at times with all the introspection of their own feelings over and over but it did give no doubt to what each was thinking. I did like the title especially when the definition(s) popped up!

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People Safari by Feather Chelle – Review by Dawn Daughenbaugh

People SafariPeople Safari by Feather Chelle
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

5 Stars
People Safari by Feather Chelle

People Safari is a cute children’s book that is told through the eyes of animals and how they see the world. It’s intended for readers ages 5-10 but I anyone can enjoy it. The illustrations are great and make the story come to life. My five year old son loved it so much we’ve read it several times already. Ranger Marco (racoon) takes the other animals on a safari tour to town where they see all kinds of strange things( humans, cars) follow along as we learn how animals see our world through their eyes. We loved this fun story and definitely recommend reading. We can’t wait to read more from this Author.

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Sleeping Love by Natalina Reis – Review by Kerry Carr

Sleeping LoveSleeping Love by Natalina Reis
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is a beautiful MM friends to lovers romance. It is also a twist on the story of Sleeping beauty where the spell is only broken my true loves kiss. The author does an amazing job of creating the world and it is full of magic, danger, and longing love. This story has characters that you want to succeed in the form of Ayo and then characters you can stand such as the king.

Ayo had grown up beside the Prince but once his magic start to show the king banished him to an island and took away his magic. Now Ayo is forced to live along and struggle to survive, he is also banned from seeing his friend Prince Yi. That is until a curse is placed over the kingdom and the only person who can save Prince Yi is Ayo.
But that is just the beginning. Once Yi is awoken from the curse the pair move forward looking to get Ayo’s powers back. Together they must overcome enemies old and new while fighting for each other. Bit as secrets and past actions start to come alight will the pair be able to hold on to their new found love or will the past destroy their only chance of happiness
I really enjoyed this story. I felt every struggle and fight that Ayo has had to endure from losing his parents, to being stripped of his magic and exiled away from the one person he loves. I do love how strong and determined his is to fight for his love no matter the consequences or the obstacles in front of them.

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Fee, Fi, Fo, Grow! (Science Folktales) by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Tausha Treadway

Fee, Fi, Fo, Grow!: The Real Magic of the Beans (Science Folktales)Fee, Fi, Fo, Grow!: The Real Magic of the Beans by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Fee, Fi, Fo, Grow! (Science Folktales) by Lois Wickstrom. This author has become one of my very favorite children’s authors. Her stories are filled with lessons, fun and neat tips. They make amazing gifts and this one is no exception. This is a retelling of Jack and the Beanstalk. Jacqueline sells her beloved cow Bessie to help her family and keep them from starving in trade for seeds, The beanstalk grows and grows with a giant couple living at the top now she has to figure out how to feed 2 families. The giant says he won’t eat her if she brings them food. Such a cute retelling and has many lessons inside the story. Teaches kids about growing food and that there is always a light at the end of the tunnel.

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The Guardian of Whispers (The Reeds of West Hills Book 1) by B. E. Padgett – Review by Nakyshia Leger

The Guardian of Whispers (The Reeds of West Hills #1)The Guardian of Whispers by B.E. Padgett
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Mystery, adventure, suspense. This fun read will pull you in quickly. Frank and Jon are twin brothers that have to navigate their discovery of magical powers. As the story goes on, you are drawn in more and more and root for them until the last page. The supporting characters and descriptive text bring the story to life in front of your eyes! Definitely a great for those young readers who are into magic and lore or older readers who want a fun shorter read!

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Brutal Days (Hidden Valley Elite Book 3) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Tausha Treadway

Brutal Days: A High School Bully Romance (Hidden Valley Elite Book 3)Brutal Days: A High School Bully Romance by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Brutal Days (Hidden Valley Elite Book 3) by Isla Vaughn. This is the 3rd book in the bully romance series and they have all been so good. I think they are geared toward young adults but even an old lady like me enjoys them. This is Skylar’s (Sky) story and how her best friend Gia has the hots for the popular football star, Damon. Damon is a bad boy and Sky can’t let her friend get mixed up with a jerk like him. He is conceited and stuck on himself and not nice only problem is secretly Sky thinks he’s hot too. Even though Damon is a jerk he can have any girl he wants and the problem with that is he want’s Sky. Sky can’t hurt her best friend she would do anything for her and never purposely hurt her but the attraction is strong. This story if filled with love, hate, lies, betrayal and friendship. Everything high school is about! Be prepared when you start this book you won’t want to put it down.

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Obedience (Ties That Bind Book 1) by Liza Snow – Review by Amber Howard

ObedienceObedience by Liza Snow
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Just finished this book and had to rush over to write this review while it’s fresh in my mind. First off this is not something I usually read about (Genre). I also don’t like clowns so I was a little scared to read it lol. Luckily they were only mentioned briefly. However, this book was way better than I expected. It was hot and dangerous! The steam was on level 10. I don’t know a whole lot about Shibari but I definitely learned a lot from this book. Apart from the rope play, the drama and action was also very good. The French Mafia? Uncle Peter? The ex-wife? And let’s talk about the cliff hanger we were left on. One of the best I’ve read ever. I immediately put the release date of book 2 in my Calendar. Liza you did such a wonderful job with this book!

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Helpful Hudson by Dannielle Pickford – Review by Angela Hayes

Helpful HudsonHelpful Hudson by Dannielle Pickford
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

 

4.5 Stars

Helpful Hudson by Dannielle Pickford is a delightful read- an illustrated children’s storybook with cute, colourful, and interesting pictures to accompany the sweet story.
Hudson is quite a helpful little fellow- but through the course of the story he learns the importance of self-care because sometimes we are so busy taking care of or helping others that we forget to take care of or help ourselves. This cute story teaches great life lessons with lovely, engaging pictures that help convey the messages contained here. Children are introduced to some social and emotional skills- tools that can empower them and help them throughout their life’s journey.
This book is aimed at 3 – 7 year-old children.
Happy Reading…

Thank you, Danielle Pickford!

 

Reviewed by @angelahayes

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The Boys of Alpha Block by Nancy Nau Sullivan – Review by Angela Hayes

The Boys of Alpha BlockThe Boys of Alpha Block by Nancy Nau Sullivan
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

 

4 Stars

 

“It’s time to break out.”

The Boys of Alpha Block is the first book that I have read by Nancy Nau Sullivan, but if this is anything to go by, it certainly won’t be the last.
This is a suspenseful women’s fiction story that is set in a juvenile detention centre where a group of neglected and abused boys plan their escape. The story really tugged at my heartstrings, as I really felt for what the boys had experienced and what they were (still) going through.
The story is quite suspenseful and had me flipping the pages, avidly reading well into the early hours, just so I could find out how everything played out. It also contains sensitive subjects that may be triggers for some readers. This isn’t a ‘light and fluffy’ read. What the boys have been through, and experience while in detention was heart-wrenching. Neglect. Manipulation. Abuse. Assault. Humiliation. Violence. Yes, there were some gritty, raw, and emotional moments. But there was also connection, bonds, friendship, hope, and strength of character-adding light to the story, which helped to balance those dark elements.
Well worth the read.

Thank you, Nancy Nau Sullivan!

 

Reviewed by @angelahayes

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Editor Kill Fee (The Taylor Browning Cozy Mysteries Book #3) by G.G. Collins – Review by Angela Hayes

Editor Kill Fee (Taylor Browning Cozy Mysteries #3)Editor Kill Fee by G.G. Collins
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

 

4 Stars

 

Editor Kill Fee is the third instalment in the Taylor Browning Cozy Mystery series by G.G. Collins. Even though this is the third book in the series, it can be read as a standalone, which is what I did, as each book holds its own self-contained mystery. But, having said that, this book piqued my curiosity as to what may have happened previously, and what mysteries Taylor has had to unravel in the prior two book… so I will definitely be going back to investigate them in the coming week.
This mystery brings plenty of intrigue and drama as Taylor sets out to find the missing president of the Santa Fe Wine and Crime book club, who has disappeared on her way to a meeting and is thought to have maybe taken a wrong turn onto a deadly stretch of road. But things take an unexpected turn and Taylor finds herself in a dangerous undercover investigation with challenges, threats, and a tense race against time- while getting an inside perspective into the volatile chili culture. Add a couple of feline companions, publishing company drama, tension, and suspense- and we have an engrossing little mystery.
Looking forward to investigating the rest of this series.
Happy Reading…

Thank you, G.G. Collins!

 

Reviewed by @angelahayes

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Hero Complex (Bluestone Series Book 3) by Isobel Reed – Review by Beverly Finnie

Hero Complex (Bluestone Series, #3)Hero Complex by Isobel Reed
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Hero Complex reads extremely well as a standalone novel even though it’s part of a series. I enjoyed it. The main characters reminded me of myself at times. When pride and stubbornness sometimes get in the way. These characters were written in a way you feel for them. Broken souls for different reasons, never realized there was someone out there who could mend and complete them. However you know how these books go, there’s never not one that has some kind of drama that affects the characters and relationships. This time the drama was different from what I usually read.
Ace and Ivy are two halves to a whole. Unfortunately neither one of them is confident that they are enough for the other. But what happens when Ace makes an announcement?
How does Ivy feel about that?
I enjoy the books in this series. I can only hope there may be more.

@placexba
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The Wandering Isles: A Crown of Stones Novella (Soulbound Journeys Book 1) by C. L. Schneider – Review by Audrie Harrington

The Wandering Isles (The Crown of Stones)The Wandering Isles by C.L. Schneider
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I was excited to hear that there was another book in the series following Ian and Jarryd! This one starts off with them on a ship sailing to find the Wandering Isles. It starts raining red and they are met by people made from mist wanting to trade. Ian is transported to the island and a fight against an enemy he thinks is dead and Jarryd is transported back to his cell. They have to fight against all their fears: past, present, and future, but the imagery is so real and lifelike that Ian and Jarryd have to remind themselves what is real and what is not. I was sucked into the novella in the first chapter and couldn’t put it down. I love the trilogy and this one is set after the last book. I felt like I got to know Ian and Jarryd even better in this book and can’t wait to see what the author does next!

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What Do the Plants Say? (Alex, the Inventor) by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Julie Johnson

What Do the Plants Say? (Alex, the Inventor)What Do the Plants Say? by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Alex hears the plants talking to her. She’s very intrigued by this and wants to learn more of what they are saying to her. She tries a variety of methods to distinguish between the different “pops” and learns that they want to have a party. What’s the best way to have a party? With helium of course!

This was a fun book but not my favorite by this author. She writes a lot of books with a science them, and while this one was still science focused, it had more of a mythical approach to it as well. I was not fond of the “talking to plants and thinking they speak to you” aspect. I do know that there is some research out there about talking to plants but I’m not super convinced of this having a true effect. I think for kids, it’s best to keep it simple. I still recommend this book though!

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The Wandering Isles: A Crown of Stones Novella (Soulbound Journeys Book 1) by C. L. Schneider – Review by Mandy Ott

The Wandering Isles (The Crown of Stones)The Wandering Isles by C.L. Schneider
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Don’t let the “novella” label fool you! The Wandering Isles is the length of a regular book. But, for The Crown of Stones Series, this book is considerably shorter than the others. Although reading the rest of the series can enhance the reading of this book, it is not necessary to its understanding. C. L. Schneider brings the same wonderful, realistic, flawed characters and amazing world building that is in the other books. I felt so many emotions in this book; confusion, fear, helplessness. I felt like The Wandering Isles added more of a psychological element to the fantasy world, and I absolutely loved it! What’s more terrifying than the thoughts and fears of your own mind? How do you escape that which is inside you? C. L. Schneider; wonderful job on this book!

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Punk (Popov Boys Book 6) by Leslie Georgeson – Review by Candida Hopper

Punk (Popov Boys #6)Punk by Leslie Georgeson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I thoroughly enjoyed reading this and this series as a whole. The author did a wonderful job pulling me into the story and keeping me entertained. This book can be read as a standalone but it is my opinion that you read all the books prior to this because you don’t want to miss out on great reading. I loved Miranda and Efrem, they had instant chemistry and their story evolved from there. There are other characters in this story that you will get to know as well. I don’t want to give anything away so I’m just going to say that this is a must read. I highly recommend this book.

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Ways to Improve Bailey by Cori Cooper – Review by Amanda Haller-Doris

Ways to Improve BaileyWays to Improve Bailey by Cori Cooper
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I absolutely adored this story! It was a very clean and sweet YA Rom Com, that is full of heart and laughter. I loved all of the characters; the author did a great job of creating multidimensional characters. I especially loved her older brother Dayton, he comes off as the annoying older brother, picking on his little sister, but as the story unfolds, we see how much he really does love his little sister and wants what is best for her. Tanner was such an amazing character, seeing his character development and his patience with Bailey was the cutest thing. Bailey was a great female heroine, she was spunky and sassy, but when it mattered, she was kind and caring. Seeing her and Tanner work through so many different situations was absolutely delightful! I loved the background of the Froyo store, definitely made me think about my froyo toppings! This was a wonderful story and I can’t wait to read more from the author.

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The Promised Plan by Sharon Hughson – Review by Ashley Mertz

The Promised PlanThe Promised Plan by Sharon Hughson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The Promised Plan by Sharon Hughson is available now in eBook and Physical Book
⭐️⭐️⭐⭐⭐ Book Review

I am a “judge a book by its cover” kinda gal. This beautiful cover is truly what drew me into reading this novel. This was my first time reading a novel by Sharon Hughson and I am so glad that I picked this one. The characters are lovable and relatable. The realistic story line and events these characters endure are heartfelt. There were many times I sympathized with each character on many different levels. I really wished the sisters could have reconciled their differences before Ruth’s passing but that’s the nature of the beast. Sometimes we humans just have to learn the hard way. Sometimes something unwanted has to happen for us to realize what we are missing out on. Overall, I truly enjoyed The Promised Plan and I will not hesitate to recommend this quick, easy read to a friend.

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Sleeping Love by Natalina Reis – Review by Amelia Stansell

Sleeping LoveSleeping Love by Natalina Reis
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Yo is a prince and Ayo is an orphan. The two became best friends over time fell in love. Yi’s father doesn’t like Ayo because he know of his feelings for Yi. Ayo is accused of treason and stripped of his magic. Meanwhile, Yi and everyone else is put under a sleeping spell. Ayo is the only one that can save everyone. It is a retelling of Sleeping Beauty.

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The Wandering Isles: A Crown of Stones Novella (Soulbound Journeys Book 1) by C. L. Schneider – Review by Jennifer Reimer

The Wandering Isles (The Crown of Stones)The Wandering Isles by C.L. Schneider
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I did have the opportunity to read the crown of stones trilogy before this one. You could read this on its own without reading the trilogy the back story is detailed enough that you wouldn’t feel lost or confused but I think it was benefit reading the trilogy first for a better understanding, with that being said. This was an incredible book. It was a very action-packed fantasy, filled with adventure, magic, drama, worldbuilding, captivating, creative story and worlds. We see the two characters Jarrod and Ian tested in ways that make you wonder if they are going to either get out of it or figure it out. This book kept my ADHD attention till the very end, I couldn’t put it down till I found out what happened in the end and can’t wait to see when we will have more stories with Jarrod and Ian. Such an amazing read and very intriguing story.

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The Boys of Alpha Block by Nancy Nau Sullivan – Review by Kerry Carr

The Boys of Alpha BlockThe Boys of Alpha Block by Nancy Nau Sullivan
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This was an interesting read. It is about a group of boys in a juvenile detention centre who are fed up with the way they are being treated so they come up with a plan to escape. But what will the price be for their freedom and is it worth all the trouble they go through?
The author’s writing was interesting as they have first hand knowledge of this environment which really brings the story to life and really educates the reader on what actually happens in these places.
There is definately a divide between the educators who believe these boys can be rehabilitated and do everything in their power to facilitate and help them to do that and the other side of the deputies who believe they are all lost causes and can’t be changed. Reading the verbal and physical abuse they endure really bring home how some children leave these places and go on to reoffend again.

This story is really well written and the detail that goes into the planning of the boys escape and what happens during and after really make this a gripping read that I just couldn’t put down.

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