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The Sacrifice (Dragonpets Book 1) by R.L.S Hoff – Review by Anna Hirsch

The Sacrifice (Dragonpets #1)The Sacrifice by R.L.S. Hoff
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

The Sacrifice (Dragonpets Book 1) by R.L.S Hoff
3 Stars

First off let me start by saying that I love dragons. I was very excited to pick up this book. It starts off with Rilla being left as a sacrifice for a dragon. Exciting! She expects to be eaten but the dragon is not what she expected. He was actually nice. The story took a weird turn with a tentative friendship forming. I found the story dragged a little with the banter between the two. The antagonist was present but not too involved in the story. Therefore there were mild disturbances but no real agonizing threat to add tension to the story. Towards the end, there was no exciting climax. For me, this was disappointing. I feel that if there was more character development and depth to the story, this could have been a five star review.

I liked the way Rilla grew throughout the book. She gained self confidence and became a little more independent. There were some concepts about dragons and magic that were interesting. All in all, it was enjoyable. I’ll be looking to see what happens next.

Review by @Anna Hirsch
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The Perfect Mrs. Claus by Barbara Matteson – Review by Jennifer Gordon

The Perfect Mrs. ClausThe Perfect Mrs. Claus by Barbara Matteson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I thoroughly enjoyed this festive romance which had me hooked from page one, and kept me happily turning the pages. Fifty-three year old Savannah Brady sees herself as far from perfect, if anything she’s just walking through life like a zombie and merely surviving, not living. She’s felt like this since the tragic death of her husband, followed by her son moving to Switzerland for a job leaving her alone for the first time in her life. Everything changes for Savannah when she wonders into her favourite place to spend her lunchtime, ‘Howardson’s Emporium’. She only went in to browse the Halloween sale aisles, but a chance conversation with one of the store’s employees leads to her being invited to become the Perfect Mrs. Claus. Being in a Christmas wonderland where holiday dreams come true, changes Savannah’s life in unimaginable ways and even leads to the possibility of a romance. I loved Savannah and felt really engaged with her, as she was such a likeable and relatable character and I was invested in her story. I liked the fact that the heroine was an older lady and that the romance was between an older couple, which is unusual in a romance. The wonderful Christmas wonderland setting was brought vividly to life by the descriptive narrative. This was an enjoyable and engaging festive read which left me in the Christmas spirit!

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Hot for Teacher by Felicia Carparelli – Review by Jennifer Gordon

Hot for Teacher - Shakespeare Made Us Fall in LoveHot for Teacher – Shakespeare Made Us Fall in Love by Felicia Carparelli
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This was an enjoyable and entertaining age gap romance with a twist on the student, teacher theme. The student is an ex-marine, widower and construction company owner Jim Sanders, and the teacher is Juliet West, an English professor, divorcee, and yoga and gardening hobbyist. Jim is just looking for some culture and Juliet is skeptical that love is real, let alone love at first sight, but then the two meet. I liked the fact that both of the main characters were older than the usual age in romance stories, and that Juliet was older than Jim. I liked both the characters and thought their chemistry came across in the narrative. The duel POV’s worked well in this story and ensured that the reader got to know both characters and their thoughts, which made me feel engaged with them.

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The Perfect Mrs. Claus by Barbara Matteson – Review by Kerry Baker

The Perfect Mrs. ClausThe Perfect Mrs. Claus by Barbara Matteson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

If you want to get into the Christmas spirit then this is definitely the book to read. Savannah is such a heart warming character. She is relatable in so many ways and you can’t help but root for her, want her to find her way. The connection between her and Matthew is lovely to see. Watching it develop over the course of the story is something that really made me happy.
This isn’t an author I am familiar with but I enjoyed getting to know her and her writing style. This book was the perfect kind of introduction and I am looking forward to discovering more of her work.

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Gunner (Hollins & Haring Book 3) by T.J. Beach – Review by Kerry Baker

Gunner (Hollins & Haring #3)Gunner by T.J. Beach
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This book is definitely and interesting one to read. As the third book in the series it can be read as a standalone although I do think it would be best read in order. I enjoyed the story but definitely feel like I missed a few details and background information.
This book is a good thriller. It pulled me in and I wanted to read more to see what was going on. I enjoyed seeing the dynamic between all the characters. With the added complexity of COVID I think it created an intriguing story. Having experienced the pandemic so recently I think this really helped you to engage with what was happening. I thought this was a well written story and I am looking forward to reading the previous books in the series.

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The Veil by Wanda Luthman – Review by Tausha Treadway

The VeilThe Veil by Wanda Luthman
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The Veil by Wanda Luthman. I will admit I was hesitant to read this story because I’m very into my faith but it was such a unusual, good telling of a bible story I’m so glad I read it. Its a quick read that centers around the tearing of the veil in the bible that no one witnessed. In this story it begins with Samuel who is turning 13 and they are celebrating with a Bar Mitzvah. After he turns 13 he goes and studies under the Priest and while doing so they both witness the tearing of the veil. This read will inspire you, amaze you and cause you to not put this book down until its finished. I loved the fact that at the end of the book there is a prayer where you can accept Jesus Christ as your Savior. Very different read and I’m so glad I took the time to read it.

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A Crossbow Christmas by Ann Swann – Review by Dawn Mitchell

A Crossbow ChristmasA Crossbow Christmas by Ann Swann
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is my first book from this author. I was very intrigued to read this book because it is very relatable to me. Carina’s journal entry an family loss in such a short period of time plus her family situation drew me right in. I did have a hard time keeping interest with how slow the story continued but it did pick up towards the end. Overall it was a good story.

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Defiant Princess (Mafia Elite Series Prequel) by Amy McKinley – Review by Lorralei Hoerner

Defiant Princess (Mafia Elite Prequel)Defiant Princess by Amy McKinley
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

5 Stars!!! 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟

I love this series with all of my heart and soul and this prequel was fabulous!!!! I would highly recommend reading the Mafia Elite Series in order that you get to know each and every character from the 5 families..then this prequel will take you to the “before”. As I was roped in I love that the strong and mighty women are the stars of this book.

This story takes place in the eyes of Sofia, Liliana, Emiliana and Marissa..and winter break from college is coming and the women want to have a good time with a bit of freedom but what I finally get is also what happens that one fateful date to Marissa…..can I say I need more!!

I love how this author ties in her story and includes every character and the full circle of the
5 families…I am definitely not ready to say goodbye to this series….I am hopeful for more!!

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Malayeka (Heartstrings Book 3) by Brooke May – Review by Jenni Bishop

Malayeka (Heartstrings Book 3)Malayeka by Brooke May
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Malayeka is the third book in the wonderful The Heartstrings Series. I loved the first two books in this romantic comedy series. With different Cupids throughout the world, you would think that things go smoothly. Wrong! Unfortunately, not everything goes right even though they have the best intensions and an overly positive outlook on all things. This clean romantic tale is Malayeka’s story.

It’s easy to get lost in the story and you can’t help but fall in love with this quirky cupid. Laughing out loud as she tries to right her wrongs and waring families wielding shotguns.

Mala caused a major disaster two centuries ago with life lasting effects. Now she must try to set it right and this is where the adventure begins.

Can Mala finally fix and put to rest her error and find her redemption?

Make sure you grab a copy and settle in for an entertaining afternoon read.

Reviewed by @jennadb

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Malayeka (A Heartstrings Book) by Brooke May- Reviewed Stephanie Dulac

Malayeka (Heartstrings Book 3)Malayeka by Brooke May
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Malayeka is book three in the Heartstrings series. Although i have not read the other two books in this series i was still able to follow along and read. This is a wonderful Rom Com book. I honestly love the way this Author writes it keeps you sucked into the story and i found myself laughing out loud to some parts of this book. The Charaters in this story were fun to follow and relatable. I would highly recommend this read and hope you love Mala, Billie and Leo as much as i did. I look forward to reading more books by this Author and Thank you for the Heartstrings series i really enjoyed it.

@stephaniedulac25
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Defiant Princess A Mafia Elite Prequel by Amy McKinley-Review by Amanda Kimble

Defiant Princess (Mafia Elite Prequel)Defiant Princess by Amy McKinley
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

5/5 Stars

Defiant Princess: A Mafia Elite Series Prequel by Amy McKinley

This isn’t the first book I’ve read by the author. I’ve read every single book in the Mafia Elite Series. Defiant Princess is the very first book in the series. I loved this book and can’t wait for more.

Liliana is the daughter of the five families. When she finds out that her friend is engaged to someone they can’t trust she gets a sick feeling in her stomach. Can she and her other friends save Marissa? The quote I chose for Liliana is: “That might change. At least you have friendship to use as a base.”

Emiliana is doing a little better after everything, but she doesn’t feel right about any of this. Her and her friends want to save Marissa but they don’t know how. It doesn’t help that she’s got a brother who won’t leave her alone. The quote I chose for Emiliana is: “I don’t know. Maybe she feels left out? They go out together to parties and clubs all the time.”

Sofia knows Emiliana needs space but she doesn’t need her brother always around. She is also worried about Marissa and can’t seem to figure out what to do. The quote I chose for Sofia is: “Em needs space. She’s doing well, and the helicopter-brother routine isn’t helping her.”

Marissa is engaged to someone she doesn’t want to be. She wants to finish school and can’t. Things aren’t going to go well at all. The quote I chose for Marissa is: “Am I still dreaming? Are those croissants? Just out of the oven?”

Highly recommended for Mafia Romance Suspense lovers.

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Devlin by Angela K. Parker – Review by Allison Davis

DevlinDevlin by Angela K. Parker
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Hot and steamy enemies to lovers office romance! Devlin and Eve both have their career in their #1 spot on their priority lists, that is until they start having a difficult time keeping their distance from each other. They have plenty of struggles throughout, working together, trouble communicating…plenty of twists and turns! If you’re looking for a quick, steamy office romance this is the book for you. I am looking forward to what else this author writes!

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Defiant Princess (Mafia Elite Series Prequel) by Amy McKinley – Review by Allison Davis

Defiant Princess (Mafia Elite Prequel)Defiant Princess by Amy McKinley
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I was so excited when I saw that we were getting another book in the Mafia Elite Series. Defiant Princess is a prequel to the series but can be read as a standalone. Amy McKinley brought back all the characters we know and love! She tells the story of the daughters of the five families their senior year of college. They have been enjoying the freedom of being away from home but all know once their senior year is over it back home to be married of or controlled by their families. A wonderfully story of where it all begins full of twists and turns along the way!

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And Then She Fell by Dreena Collins – Review by Dessalynn Acosta

And Then She FellAnd Then She Fell by Dreena Collins
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Such a great, sad, realistic tale of a mother’s grief, after the shocking death of her only daughter. As Catherine navigates the world without Susie, she reminisces and vigorously keeps her daughter memory alive! Buttt did Susie fall? Was she pushed? Great read!

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Dream-Shifter by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Tanya Wall, November 2022

Dream-ShifterDream-Shifter by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This was a middle grades chapter book. I enjoyed it!
Gwendolyn, the main character is a dreamshifter. While in her journalism, she is assigned to interview a funeral director. After she meets Marjorie a fire erupts in her home and Gwendolyn finds herself waking up as an elk. Now Gwendolyn is having to live life with her family as an elk. She has to learn to adapt to her new form (those growing antlers!) and finds that everyone accepts her as an elk.

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A Crossbow Christmas by Ann Swann-Review by Amanda Kimble

A Crossbow ChristmasA Crossbow Christmas by Ann Swann
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

5/5 Stars

A Crossbow Christmas by Ann Swann

This isn’t the first book I’ve read by the author. A Crossbow Christmas is a fun little read. It seems to hit home for the Covid pandemic. It talks about the loss of family members and friends.

Carina has had her fair share of hurt. She lost her mom, then her sister died in an accident, and her father passed away due to Covid and strokes. When she and her husband get Covid they are hit rough. Then she is told that she needs to get away without her husband. The quote I chose for Carina is: “Well, I expected you to say I need a rest, or a vacation, but a good long trip? I don’t think Alfred can take off right now.”

Highly recommended for Romance lovers.

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A Crossbow Christmas by Ann Swann – Review by Tanya Wall, November 2022

A Crossbow ChristmasA Crossbow Christmas by Ann Swann
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

This was a timely book, as I am watching the snow fall outside and am ready to put up my Christmas decorations! Reading A Crossbow Christmas reminded me of a Hallmark movie. All the feels with all the characters. Having just come off of having Covid, Carina is ready to celebrate the holidays with all the people she loves. But after having lost her parents and sisters all within a few years, she is also ready for a vacation. Max offers up his cabin to her. She met Max in a grief support group, so they share much in common. This holiday story is a story of emotion, connection and learning to care for ourselves and others.

 

I Love You Today (Trading Heartbeats Trilogy Book 2) by Julie Navickas – Review by Diane Sennett

I Love You Today (The Trading Heartbeats Trilogy Book 2)I Love You Today by Julie Navickas
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I Love you Today is the second book in the Trading Heartbeats Trilogy, and again – I. Loved. It! Julie Navickas has written this book as beautifully as the first.
Austin is trying to move on without Mavis and works to fulfill his dream to be partner in the law firm, he’s been working for. Casey has lost her roommate and best friend, now that Mavis is engaged to Josh. Austin and Casey begin a friendship, that is witty and flirty. When the opportunity for Austin to get the law firm established in Chicago, Casey has a room for him to stay.
Will their budding friendship blossom into more? They have plenty of ups and downs and I was right there with them! This book kept me guessing until the end, and I can’t wait for the next in the trilogy!

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Better Gnomes & Gardens (Mysty Haven Mystery Book 1) by Casey Cardel – Review by Tanya Wall, November 2022

Better Gnomes & Gardens (Mysty Haven Mystery)Better Gnomes & Gardens by Casey Cardel
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

To be honest, I was drawn to this little story by the cover of the book. I have a heart for gnomes. Bob moves to a new town and gets his first job – writing stories for the local newspaper. What he doesn’t expect is that his first story (a bigfoot sighting) was not what his boss really wanted. Bob finds himself out of work. But what happens next is about to change his world! A guy at the diner asks Bob if he will track down the culprit who has stolen a gnome. Once he starts being a detective, he finds out more about this charming little town then was evident. This was a very quick, fun read.

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Rainbow’s Red Book of Poetry by Lily Lawson – Review by Tanya Wall, November 2022

Rainbow's Red Book of PoetryRainbow’s Red Book of Poetry by Lily Lawson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

There were many poems in this book that spoke to me. Awakening – “We woke up this morning. We have much to be grateful for.” and Hold On – ” “Keep holding on.” This is a short book of poetry and while poetry isn’t on my list of things to read in general – I’m glad I picked this one up. I like Ms. Lawson’s style of writing, her topics and her ability to make the words in the poems connect with the reader.

Operation Blackbird (A Cold War Spy Novel #2) by Ellen Butler-Review by Amanda Kimble

Operation BlackbirdOperation Blackbird by Ellen Butler
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

5/5 Stars

Operation Blackbird: A Cold War Spy Novel #2 by Ellen Butler

This isn’t the first book I’ve read by the author. Operation Blackbird is the second book in the Cold War Series. Lily and Charlie are also in the book. It can be read as a standalone.

Jacob is back and he has bad news. He doesn’t want to hurt his friend but he doesn’t have a choice. When she lashes out on him it makes him question things. The quote I chose for Jacob is:“I can assure you, I asked that question often during the war. Why that corporal or this lieutenant? Why not me?”

Miriam is getting ready to lose her job. She is also friends with Lily. So when Jacob shows up things go bad. She didn’t want to lose Hugh. She lashed out at her oldest friend. The quote I chose for Miriam is: “Did the company send you to retrieve me? Is this an abduction? Are we heading to a safe house where I’ll be drilled for hours?”

Highly recommended for Historical Thriller lovers.

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Hot for Teacher by Felicia Carparelli – Review by Karyn Taylor

Hot for Teacher - Shakespeare Made Us Fall in LoveHot for Teacher – Shakespeare Made Us Fall in Love by Felicia Carparelli
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

This is a teacher/student romance that’s a bit different from others that I’ve read. Juliet is a 55 year old teacher, and Jim (Jimmy, James – it changes so often) is her 43 year old ex-marine, literature student.
I have mixed feelings about this book. I loved that the author wrote about an older couple in my age bracket rather than the usual 20 and 30 somethings we usually get. What I didn’t like is the way that Jim is portrayed as being very unintelligent. This didn’t sit well with me. Also, for someone who is so uneducated, he certainly seems to be able to quote Shakespeare at the drop of a hat after only 1 lesson. It just seemed rather unrealistic.
As much as I liked the 2 main characters, I found their relationship quite unbelievable too. I struggled with how Jim was professing undying love so quickly after meeting Juliet. Maybe I’m just a cynical old woman but it just felt rather unbelievable.
It’s not all doom and gloom. I did like the characters and there’s some good humour and banter between them which I enjoyed reading.

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A Crossbow Christmas by Ann Swann – Review by Michaela Massie

A Crossbow ChristmasA Crossbow Christmas by Ann Swann
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Losing family is never easy, and our poor Carina has had an absolute whirlwind this past year. While having to learn how to deal with her grief, Carina plans a big Christmas; It’s too bad that nobody else in her family is able to make it.
This is a beautiful book set after the Pandemic, where Covid has taken Carina’s life and turned it upside-down. Carina lost both her parents and her sister, while almost losing herself in the span of a year. This is the story of Carina working through her grief and learning to live in a life after loss and the Pandemic.

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A Crossbow Christmas by Ann Swann – Review by Jennifer Gordon

A Crossbow ChristmasA Crossbow Christmas by Ann Swann
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This was a heartwarming and engaging read with a festive feel to it, which had me gripped from start to finish. The storyline is an emotional and relatable one, set following the pandemic, and Carina having survived Covid is looking forward to a big family Christmas. Sadly as well as spending a month in the hospital herself, with Covid, she also lost people to the disease. A bereaved and recovering Carina just wants all her family together at Christmas, but no one seems to care, her grown up children are scattered around the country and her husband is working out of town. Seeking some support she turns to a grief group, and a young man offers her his family cabin in the mountains of Colorado for the festive period.
Not being very adventurous Carina is nervous of doing this on her own, she’s not used to doing something so extravagant for herself as she’s usually everyone else’s caregiver. However, with the thought of a guaranteed white Christmas, Carina writes about it in her journal, as a way of trying to convince herself that she can do it alone. I loved Carina and she was so likeable and relatable that I really felt for her, and her post Covid wish for a family Christmas. Being set post pandemic made the storyline very relatable for everyone. An emotional read but with real Christmas spirit, and I definitely recommend reading it.

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A Crossbow Christmas by Ann Swann – Review by Karen Pearman

A Crossbow ChristmasA Crossbow Christmas by Ann Swann
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

With the holiday season coming up, this was a wonderful story to get me into the festive spirit. This was another new author for me so I was not sure what to expect, but this would make a wonderful TV movie. I could feel some existing feelings as this was written about the holiday season coming out of the pandemic and I remember last year getting to spend the holidays with my family. While it was fun and entertaining there was also the family drama to go along with it. This story pulled at my heartstrings in so many ways. From feeling lonely, sad, and pensive she decides to write down her thoughts and feelings to help her through the grieving and changes of how her world has changed while she was not around them. I will say that the cabin she was writing in would be a dream come true. I would love to have the opportunity to spend the holidays there. Great read. I highly recommend it.

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Rainbow’s Red Book of Poetry by Lily Lawson – Review by Kerry Carr

Rainbow's Red Poetry BookRainbow’s Red Poetry Book by Lily Lawson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I really enjoyed this collection of poetry. There is something to accompany you no matter what your mood. The author has a way of writing that leaves you feeling understood and loved. It’s like getting a big hug when you need it or someone to dance the night away with you.

This book is full of poetry ranging from love to anger but I felt connected to each poem that I read.
I don’t normally spend time reading poetry but I really enjoy this authors work and the clever way the author was able to draw me in. I will definately be looking for more to read from this author

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The Final Bite by Naomi Valkyrie- review by Stephanie Driskill

The Final BiteThe Final Bite by Naomi Valkyrie
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Quinnlann Trinity, a vampire who was unjustly killed is brought back to life and given a second chance at life from the gods. Every ten years, a being is chosen to undergo this chance for a new life however, Quinnlan must find a mate in three days, and it doesn’t help that he has been dropped off in the middle of nowhere. Dumped in an abandoned motel far from anything remotely resembling civilization, how the heck is he to find a mate? Quinnlan only has two days left when he finds a guy bleeding because of a pack of wolf shifters, another paranormal set of beings. Does Quinnlan save him by giving him his blood and choosing him as a mate or does he leave him to die? By giving him the blood also means that Quinnlan has chosen him as a mate, but will he be accepted by this man or rejected? You must read the book to find out! It’s a great short story that was easy to read as the story progressed rapidly and naturally. The characters are relatable and easy to empathize with. Pick it up and go for a spin with the sexy Quinnlan and his mate!

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Defiant Princess (Mafia Elite Series Prequel) by Amy McKinley – Review by Kerry Carr

Defiant Princess (Mafia Elite Prequel)Defiant Princess by Amy McKinley
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Wow I have loved this series from the beginning. In this book we meet the Mafia Princesses. Each one is very strong and determined young women. Each of them want to live their own lives the way the way they want to.

These girls live in a world of danger and while they want to enjoy their last taste of freedom danger and the Mafia life is always there. I really feel for these girls, forced into a life they don’t want, forced to marry against their will and not being able to be with the one they loved makes for a very turbulent life. However for one of the girls it will turn into murder.

The story is fast paced and gripping. It’s a quick read but the author fills so much into the story.

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I Love You Today (Trading Heartbeats Trilogy Book 2) by Julie Navickas – Review by Michelle Troyer

I Love You Today (The Trading Heartbeats Trilogy Book 2)I Love You Today by Julie Navickas
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Austin fell in love with Mavis after having feelings for Casey, who he couldn’t be with due to his twin brother Josh. Josh and Casey were high school sweethearts before Casey left mysteriously after high school due to a secret she had. Casey knew if she confessed her secret that Josh wouldn’t go to college and she wanted him to go without feeling guilty. Austin runs into Casey years later and is able to bring everyone back together again, knowing that he has a secret as well. Mavis is Casey’s roommate and gets tangled up the the homecoming of everyone. I would highly recommend this book and the trilogy. It kept my attention through the whole book.

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The Perfect Mrs. Claus by Barbara Matteson – Review by Ashley Sugar

The Perfect Mrs. ClausThe Perfect Mrs. Claus by Barbara Matteson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Matthew is a divorced dad and savanna is a widow. The book is extremely cute and it’s getting me in the holiday spirit! So what a perfect time to read this book! First book I’ve read by this author and I really enjoyed it. They’ve both have gone through some hard times in life and savanna finally wants to start living! And she has such a good sense of humor! I love it! And Matthew is just as amazing! Great characters, great plot, great writing! Loved reading their journey! I will be checking out more books by Barbara!

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