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You Are Not Here by Michael Albanese – Review by

You Are Not Here: Stories and Inspirations for Those Who Have Not Yet ArrivedYou Are Not Here: Stories and Inspirations for Those Who Have Not Yet Arrived by Michael Albanese
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I think we can all relate to not feeling like we are where we should be in one aspect or another, and this book is all about that. One of the things that I loved about it, is how the author tells us right up front that there is nothing new in this book, this is just his telling of advice and tips that have been told countless times over the years.
I really enjoyed reading this, and found it helping me to feel less anxious about how my life is turning out. I hope others read this, and find some peace knowing that it’s ok that they “haven’t arrived” yet.
I’ll definitely be looking up more by this author, his wit and insight into every day life puts a refreshing spin on old advice.

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The Man Who Dealt in Death (The Colton Fen Series) by Marlena Frank – Review by Ella Gleason

The Man Who Dealt in DeathThe Man Who Dealt in Death by Marlena Frank
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The Man who dealt in death by Marlena Frank. This is the first book in the Colten Fen series. This book is a roller coaster and that’s an under statement. There are two very prominent main characters Colton and Rennick. We are introduced to the duo when Colton and Rennick are out on an assignment together. The pair are sent out to investigate a disappearance. This story is action packed and has a lot of amazing detailed fight scenes. We are also introduced to Mary who is a strong willed, independent woman, who can very much hold her own. Mary begins in on the investigation as well and is a great addition to the story. I would absolutely recommend this book again and again. Beautiful details and cohesive ideas.

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You Are Not Here by Michael Albanese – Review by Jenni Bishop

You Are Not Here: Stories and Inspirations for Those Who Have Not Yet ArrivedYou Are Not Here: Stories and Inspirations for Those Who Have Not Yet Arrived by Michael Albanese
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

3.5 stars
Michael shares in part his journey in life through many avenues such as quotes, poetry, musings, hopes, dreams, reflections, tips and so much more. He offers it all up so that others may resonate, pursue and find their own journey.
It is a guide for you to embrace your own personal reflection and growth in life if you so choose. Only you know where you are in your life, where you want to be and if you have arrived and Michael is offering some tools to help you there.
“You are exactly where you are supposed to be” is the mantra I would tell my friend every day when she would get mad sitting in peak hour traffic and surprisingly, she adapted that to her whole life.
It is a personal journey that is never a straightforward road and what works for one may be different for another but there is definitely something for everyone within these pages.

Reviewed by @jennadb

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Tasha and the Biologist (A Better Man, Book 2) by Amy Q. Barker – Review by Jenni Bishop

Tasha and the Biologist: A Heartwarming Small Town Birding Romance (A Better Man Book 2)Tasha and the Biologist: A Heartwarming Small Town Birding Romance by Amy Q. Barker
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

4.5 stars

Tasha and the Biologist is the second book and another lovely tale in this heartfelt women’s fiction romance series A Better Man. Even though it is part of a series it could be read as a standalone.
Amy writes characters that are flawed, raw, realistic, and relatable. Tasha and Caleb were so easy to like and connect to. Neither are looking for love but they knew they had a connection from the very start, but both are still dealing with pain from their previous relationships and that may keep them apart.
Amy sets this slow burn romantic tale in a small town with a beautiful Wildlife Preserve which is easily imagined and the perfect place for bird enthusiasts and setting for falling in love.
There is vulnerability, courage, strength and beauty in this heartwarming tale.
Is love worth falling for no matter the timing? You will have to read this book to find out.

 

Reviewed by @jennadb

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Hi Little Brother, I Love You by Deniese Dennis – Review by Michelle Mulvey

Hi Little Brother, I Love You: A Sweet Gift Keepsake Book Welcoming a New Baby Brother to the Family.Hi Little Brother, I Love You: A Sweet Gift Keepsake Book Welcoming a New Baby Brother to the Family. by Deniese Dennis
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Hi Little Brother, I Love You is really sweet book about a boy welcoming a new baby brother. This book reminds me of how the girl I care for was towards her baby sister when she was born and a toddler. The older sibling loves their new baby sibling and helps out with feeding and everything else. They love to teach their new baby everything they know from sounds animals make to ABC’s to even riding bikes. Very sweet read

Review by @xchellex

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The South Seas Shenanigans: A Sparky of Bunker Hill Mystery (Sparky of Bunker Hill Mystery Series) by Rosalind Barden – Review by Jennifer Gordon

The South Seas Shenanigans: A Sparky of Bunker Hill Mystery (Sparky #4)The South Seas Shenanigans: A Sparky of Bunker Hill Mystery by Rosalind Barden
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Having read and enjoyed the previous books in this series of historical cozy mysteries, I was looking forward to this latest instalment. I was excited to be back with the extremely likeable eleven year old amateur sleuth Sparky. Once again the Depression era of the 1930’s was brought vividly to life through the descriptive narrative, and added historical details. Our heroine Sparky has stowed away on an ocean liner and is out at sea. When she is discovered she becomes involved in a dangerous case of mistaken identity. Meanwhile, the other passengers appear to be ex-silent movie actors heading off to revive their careers in a mysterious film project. Sparky is missing both her guardian Tootsie and even her ex-boss Bookie, and wonders if she will ever see them again. Sparky must investigate when a passenger tumbles overboard under strange circumstances, and the other passengers become suspicious of her. This humorous mystery adventure once again kept me hooked throughout. I love Sparky as the main character and hope she will be back with a new adventure soon!

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The Fixer (Fall River Series) by G. K. Brady – Review by

The Fixer (Fall River, #2)The Fixer by G.K. Brady
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is the second in the series but can be read as a standalone. The story is well written and the characters relatable and able to pull you out of the real world and help forget you aren’t part of the story world.
You’ve got big city girl meets small town boy, and all the stubbornness you would expect from the pairing. There’s plenty of bickering, plenty of laughs, and lots of steaminess.
When I read a book, one of the things that I love is when I can forget I’m reading and can so clearly see the story playing out. This book 100% delivered that.
I would recommend this story and author to anyone, I really don’t think you will be disappointed.

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Night Sweats and Hockey Nets (Hot Flash Hookups Series) by Sylvie Stewart and Marika Ray – Review by Heather Harmon

Night Sweats and Hockey Nets (Hot Flash Hookups #3)Night Sweats and Hockey Nets by Marika Ray
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I am new to these authors, but they drew me in; I wanted to keep reading to discover what was next. The authors did a great job with character development. I enjoyed learning about Chloe. I also appreciated that one of the characters shared my daughter’s name, but it was just spelled differently. They do a great job with the build-up between Chloe and Nikolai. It was refreshing that the authors incorporated real-life issues that can happen in detail; I will be reading more from them! I don’t want to give too much away because this is a must-read, so if you’re into romance and tension between characters and are ok reading about real-life situations such as divorce and the death of a spouse, this is the read for you.

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The Trouble With Possibilities by Nancie Abuhaidar – Review by Jenni Bishop

The Trouble with PossibilitiesThe Trouble with Possibilities by Nancie Abuhaidar
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

3.5 stars
“The Trouble with Possibilities” is Nancie’s first book, and I love the story behind how it came to be. This romantic women’s fiction tale is filled with emotions, second chances, and rom com humour as we follow one woman’s journey. I appreciated that our main character is older and deals with real, raw issues. While it was initially hard to relate to Del, I found myself warming up to her as the story progressed.

Del thought life wasn’t supposed to be so difficult, but now it’s time for her to start over, follow her dreams, and discover who she is after everything she’s been through. If only she could overcome her feelings of regret, shame, pain, and guilt. Surprisingly, she finds the best medicine in an unexpected place. They say that beautiful things can happen when we least expect them.

Experience Africa through the rich narrative of the author and follow Del’s new journey in life by reading this moving tale.

Reviewed by @jennadb

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Sarge: Going Deep by Stuart Ledwith – Review by Jennifer Gordon

Sarge: Going DeepSarge: Going Deep by PhD Ledwith
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Another unique story featuring Sarge, this time in the lead role. Having been introduced to Sarge in previous books by this original author, I was keen to delve deeper into his backstory. As expected Sarge, who was a Navy Seal has an intriguing story, and we get to know his character better. It was nice to ‘catch up’ with other past characters and to meet new ones. I particularly liked the likeable independent and capable Dr. Liv Manginaro, aka Agent Scully. She was hired by the ‘Celestial Guardians’ to lead a rescue mission. This sci-fi adventure kept me hooked throughout and I felt immersed in the story. The world of spaceships and new alien races that the author created was brought vividly to life.

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Hi Little Brother, I Love You by Deniese Dennis – Review by Heather Harmon

Hi Little Brother, I Love You: A Sweet Gift Keepsake Book Welcoming a New Baby Brother to the Family.Hi Little Brother, I Love You: A Sweet Gift Keepsake Book Welcoming a New Baby Brother to the Family. by Deniese Dennis
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

What a cute book for a big brother to read to his younger sibling! I enjoyed the different scenarios the author used for Big Brother to help his Little Brother. The illustrations were well done, too. All around, it is a delightful book to give a big brother!

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Unexpected Revival (Revived Series) by E.L. Roux – Review by Jenni Bishop

Unexpected Revival (Revived Book 1)Unexpected Revival by E.L. Roux
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

3 – 3.5 stars
I’ve only read a couple of E. L. Roux’s books, but I like that we get a variety of genres. I really enjoyed “Unrequited Love,” the first book in the Magic and Heartache series, so I decided to explore more of this author’s work. That’s how I came across “Unexpected Revival,” the first book in the Revival series. It’s a sci-fi tale that spans new worlds, enemies, and aliens. This book captured my attention from the beginning and held it throughout.

Shannon finds her world turned upside down when she discovers she died over a millennium ago. This is not her world; her world was destroyed, so there’s that. She doesn’t know who she can trust or anything else about the place, so she has her work cut out for her. Well, that is if they survive.

I won’t give away any spoilers; you’ll just have to read it to discover what happens.

Reviewed by @jennadb

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Love and Fate (A Braebeach Rockstar Romance) by Loriana Cappello – Review by Kerry Baker

Love and Fate (Braebeach Rockstar #2)Love and Fate by Loriana Cappello
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I will admit, I picked this book up not knowing a huge amount about it, going only off the book cover and description. I fully expected to get your typical rockstar romance so was completely floored by the first part of this book. The events, and the emotions surrounding them, were so well portrayed. You couldn’t help but be drawn in by the characters and everything they were experiencing.
I thought the story was really well written. The impact the opening the opening of the book had really stays with you and dictates how the rest of the story unfolds. I knew I was going to like this book, I just didn’t expect to like it as much as I did. This is a brilliant story that I would highly recommend.

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The Fixer (Fall River Series) by G. K. Brady – Review by Tracy Greenhalgh

The Fixer (Fall River, #2)The Fixer by G.K. Brady
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The second book in the Fall River series, we follow younger brother Charlie Hunnicutt as he battles with the daughter of Hellene (departed owner of the crystal shop). Joy wants nothing more than to demolish the shop and see the town of Fall river and the memories of her mum and their dysfunctional relationship in the rear view mirror of her rented car. There is a lot of family stress between Joy and her sister, and Joy struggles with aspects of her coping strategies. There is again chemistry in abundance.
Another great book where the characters continue to grow, The storyline is engaging and continues to link back to the first book’s characters, although it could be read as a stand alone it is a really good continuation.
I really cannot wait to read what happens to the Hunnicutts and maybe a few more of the residents of the town.

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Ink and Intrigue at Ivy Tree Inn (Ariadne Winter Mystery Series) by Ellen Butler – Review by Bobbi Wagner

Ink and Intrigue at Ivy Tree InnInk and Intrigue at Ivy Tree Inn by Ellen Butler
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is an author that I have enjoyed reading from the first book I picked up by her. I enjoy how she brings her creative characters to life which keeps me engaged throughout. This is a well written story about Ariadne and her determination to be an investigative reporter. What happens when the opportunity appears for her? Will she lose more than just her job if she doesn’t figure out this mystery? I enjoyed this character and what she added to the story. She pulled me into her world from the start and I found myself routing for her to solve this mystery. I enjoyed watching her growth as well as the other characters throughout. This is an easy, fast paced, entertaining story to read and one you don’t want to miss. I highly recommend this book and this author.

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Review by @bjwagner

The Discovery of Magic (The Intrigue of Magic Series) by L. J. Evias – Review by Rose McCaskey

The Discovery of Magic (The Intrigue of Magic, #1)The Discovery of Magic by L. J. Evias
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Great story. Very descriptive with interesting characters. The world building was fantastic. There was a lot of character growth. The interactions between the characters were good and described their thoughts and feelings really well. Great book for fantasy lovers who don’t want or like the graphic smutty stuff. I am looking forward to more books in the series.

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The Fixer (Fall River Series) by G. K. Brady – Review by Trish Ann

The Fixer (Fall River, #2)The Fixer by G.K. Brady
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This was an entertaining, quick read. I love a good slow-burn romance and this was that. I enjoyed the discourse of the build towards the relationship. Sometimes, fluffy romances grow dull. This was not dull in that respect. I really liked the setting of Fall River and the small town feel.

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The Fixer (Fall River Series) by G.K. Brady – Review by Micalah Weatherholtz

The Fixer (Fall River, #2)The Fixer by G.K. Brady
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The Fixer was book two in The Fall River Series, and it was about Charlie, book one’s MMC’s brother, and Joy, who inherits an old house, and wants to find someone to tear it down. Charlie, and the Hunnicutts, care very deeply about the history and attention their town gets, so he finds himself wanting to restore the house instead. I enjoy G. K. Brady’s novels, the dynamics between the characters, and the heart that goes into all of her novels. I look forward to reading more of this series.

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Finally Friends: Donut the Dog & Peanut the Squirrel Learn Social Skills (Donut & Peanut Collection) by Debbie Sullivan – Review by Carrie Reed

Finally Friends: Donut the Dog & Peanut the Squirrel Learn Social SkillsFinally Friends: Donut the Dog & Peanut the Squirrel Learn Social Skills by Debbie Sullivan
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I loved the art in this book, Donut and Peanut are so sweet. Poor Donut just wants to make friends and Peanut is terrified. Talking through the misunderstanding together makes them both happy. I like the end with the description of social emotional learning and where you can see it throughout the story. I can’t wait to see what Donut and Peanut get up to.

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Mommy, Am I Indian Today? by Sheeba Varghese – Review by Carrie Reed

Mommy, Am I Indian Today?Mommy, Am I Indian Today? by Sheeba Varghese
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Beautiful book. I love the Indian culture, and this book is a good tool to teach other Indian children that they are not just Indian when they put on their cultural garments but everyday. And that they should be proud of where they come from and what their families have accomplished. The art work is also very lovely, kind of water color like, the colors are beautiful.

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Masquerade (Choosing Family Series) by Jennifer Raines – Review by Amber Howard

Masquerade (Choosing Family # 1)Masquerade by Jennifer Raines
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This was a cute fun story. Kate and Liam. There is a lot going on. Tons of secrets and both characters are hiding and protecting themselves. Which makes the relationship even more complicated. There really isn’t a dull moment in this story at all. This book was steamy, good hearted and a great rom com.

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Betrayal (Choosing Family Series) by Jennifer Raines – Review by Amber Howard

Betrayal (Choosing Family Book 3)Betrayal by Jennifer Raines
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

So excited that Anna has her chance at love. Hunter and her perfect for each other but they dont realize it. Both want the same thing but are so protective and secretive they stand in their own way of love and happiness. Although it takes them a while to figure it out the story keeps you locked in. I really enjoyed this series.

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Mommy, Am I Indian Today? by Sheeba Varghese – Review by Angela Hayes

Mommy, Am I Indian Today?Mommy, Am I Indian Today? by Sheeba Varghese
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

3.5 Stars

 

Mommy, Am I An Indian Today? is a sweet children’s storybook inspired by the author’s own son asking her that very question. The story is accompanied by cute, bright, colourful, and engaging illustrations that really made the story ‘pop’.
We follow as our characters explore cultural/multi-cultural identity and heritage, embrace and celebrate cultural roots and traditions- and discusses the importance of honouring one’s ancestors. There is a bit of an educational component to the story too.
I love reading stories that celebrate diverse backgrounds, while showing/teaching us about different cultures along the way.
Happy Reading…

 

Reviewed by @angelahayes

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Quarterback Keeper: A College Sports Romance (Fall Lake Ballers Book #1) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Angela Hayes

Quarterback Keeper: A College Sports Romance (Fall Lake Ballers Book 1)Quarterback Keeper: A College Sports Romance by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

 

4 – 4.5 Stars

 

Quarterback Keeper: A College Sports Romance is the first book in the Fall Lake Ballers series by Isla Vaughn. This is a sports romance (football) with some romantic suspense elements, secrets, lies, a fake relationship, chemistry, passion, steam, betrayal, obstacles, threats, action, emotion, humour, second chances, damsel in distress vibes- and plenty of sweet, romantic, and tender touches that helped to balance all the emotion, drama, and angst.
Ms. Vaughn never disappoints, and even though I am not a huge sports romance enthusiast, she made me love the genre.
Kylian might seem like he has a perfect life- with a powerful family, money, successful football career, and luxurious home- but you know what they say about appearances. Kylian is buckling under the pressures of responsibility and expectation- as well as dealing with the anticipatory grief that came with his mother’s terminal diagnosis.
When Gia enters his life unexpectedly, he sees the opportunity to make his mother happy, and so he makes Gia an offer she can’t refuse. Let the fake dating begin. But with secrets, lies, combustible chemistry, developing feelings, family, and career all on a collision course- you know things are about to get more than a little interesting…
A fantastic start to this new series! I can’t wait to dive into Book #2.
Happy Reading…

Thank you, Isla Vaughn!

 

Reviewed by @angelahayes

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You Are Not Here: Stories and Inspirations for Those Who Have Not Yet Arrived by Michael Albanese – Review by Angela Hayes

You Are Not Here: Stories and Inspirations for Those Who Have Not Yet ArrivedYou Are Not Here: Stories and Inspirations for Those Who Have Not Yet Arrived by Michael Albanese
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

 

3 – 3.5 Stars

 

You Are Not Here: Stories and Inspirations For those Who Have Not Yet Arrived by Michael Albanese is a motivational book made up of many short stories, poetry, musings, anecdotes, reflections, observations, and messages to encourage the reader. The human condition means that we are always striving to find where we belong, striving for more, and to ‘be’ more- and when we don’t achieve ‘more’ we look at it as some sort of failure. Here, Mr. Albanese help to give us a different perspective. To perhaps see things from a different angle, and to affirm that you/me/we are not alone in this.
A very though-provoking read.

Thank you, Michael Albanese!

 

Reviewed by @angelahayes

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Spook Squad (Ghost Girl Series Book #3) by Allan Evans – Review by Angela Hayes

Spook SquadSpook Squad by Allan Evans
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

 

4 Stars

 

Spook Squad is the third book in the Ghost Girl series by Allan Evans. It is another wonderfully spooky YA paranormal story- perfect for ‘spooky season’. With drama, danger, ghosts, mystery, investigation, suspense, secrets, creepiness, tension, friendship, agendas, and high stakes, Mr. Evans ensured that his story held my attention and kept me flipping the pages to find out how it all plays out in the end.
Abbey isn’t your average teenager- she has an ability to talk to ghosts. But it also comes with some major pitfalls, which we witness as this story begins. Abbey is approached by an FBI Agent who needs her ‘special talents’ to help in track down some powerful artefacts before they fall into the wrong hands. With the help of her friends, they set off in search of the relics only to discover that danger follows closely behind. It seems that Abey and co aren’t the only ones on the hunt….
Even though this is the third instalment of the Ghost Girl series, it could be read as a standalone if you wanted. But, having said that, I highly recommend reading the first two books to find out more about Abbey and what ‘adventures’ she has had. As I think knowing what has happened previously will help you better appreciate this story, and series as a whole.
Get set for an exciting, spooky read.
Happy Reading!

Thank you, Allan Evans!

 

Reviewed by @angelahayes

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Betrayal (Choosing Family Series Book #3) by Jennifer Raines – Review by Angela Hayes

Betrayal (Choosing Family Book 3)Betrayal by Jennifer Raines
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

 

4 Stars

 

Betrayal is the third book in the Choosing Family series by Jennifer Raines. It is an enemies to lovers contemporary romance with betrayal, family dynamics/drama, angst, secrets, chemistry, friendship, spice, and some emotion.
Anna Turner (whom we met in Book #1 as she is Kate’s twin sister) has worked really hard on a project to provide much-needed daycare services for her company (employer), only to have it fall apart at the last minute by a hostile takeover.
Hunter Thompson’s father is set to take over the building, but Hunter beats him to the punch. No love lost there. But circumstances arise where these two will need to work together to see the project though. What happens when their simmering chemistry begins to bubble over? And what happens when secrets are revealed? Will their blossoming relationship survive the fallout? No spoilers from me- so you really should read all the intriguing developments for yourself.
The series consists of:
-Masquerade (Book #1)
-Quinn, By Design (Book #2)
-Betrayal (Book #3)
Looking forward to seeing what Ms. Raines does next.
Happy Reading…

Thank you, Jennifer Raines!

 

 

Reviewed by @angelahayes

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Masquerade (Choosing Family Series Book #1) by Jennifer Raines – Review by Angela Hayes

Masquerade (Choosing Family # 1)Masquerade by Jennifer Raines
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

 

4 Stars

 

Masquerade is the first book in the Choosing Family series by Jennifer Raines. It is a fun contemporary romance/women’s fiction story with two sets of twins making for twice the trouble, secrets, chemistry, quirky characters, family, drama, angst, environmental messages, and finding love unexpectedly.
Liam has a lot riding on the success of his next ‘project’, so it’s crucial that nothing goes wrong….. except that he has an identical twin brother who is making things difficult with his high-profile media presence. Add in past failures, and family drama, and Liam might just have bitten off more than he can chew.
Kate has problems of her own to deal with. She takes a job as his research assistant as a ‘cover’ for her other ‘occupation’- as romance author. But her meddling twin may have coaxed her into an even more complicated situation. What happens when secrets are revealed? This is well worth the read to find out.
Happy Reading…

Thank you, Jennifer Raines!

 

Reviewed by @angelahayes

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Finally Friends: Donut the Dog & Peanut the Squirrel Learn Social Skills (Donut & Peanut Collection) by Debbie Sullivan – Review by Kelli Harper

Finally Friends: Donut the Dog & Peanut the Squirrel Learn Social SkillsFinally Friends: Donut the Dog & Peanut the Squirrel Learn Social Skills by Debbie Sullivan
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Wonderful illustrations and a great story about how to make new friends. Making them comfortable even though there are differences and overcoming those differences.

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It’s Cool To Be Kind by Shermaine Perry-Knights – Review by Dawn Daughenbaugh

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

5 Stars
It’s Cool To Be Kind by Shermaine Perry-Knights

It’s Cool To Be Kind is a cute children’s book that children ages 7-9 can enjoy but honestly children of any age can it. One thing I loved about this book was the lessons it teaches children. This story teaches them about being kind. You can be Kind in many different ways and this book teaches children about that. My son loved this book. I highly recommend reading it and we look forward to reading more from this Author.

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