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Rocketship Made of Stars (I am an Alien) by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Tanya Wall, September 2023

Rocketship Made of Stars: Naming Constellations (I am an Alien)Rocketship Made of Stars: Naming Constellations by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

A great children’s book that introduces them to what constellations are. I enjoyed the illustrations and the visit of the little alien to a school on Earth. It was interesting how he had different names for his constellations, based on what he/they thought they looked like as opposed to what we named them. The end of the book has a list and pictures of the constellations.

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A Forever Kind of Thing by Carrie Thomas and Melinda Harris – Review by Jennifer Gordon

A Forever Kind of ThingA Forever Kind of Thing by Carrie Thomas
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

An enjoyable and engaging YA contemporary romance which kept me happily turning the pages. The heroine of the story Mina had grown up on “the proverbial wrong side of the tracks,” and sadly had few friends and was bullied at school. She spent her childhood thinking of creative ways to escape Palmer, Georgia where she lived, until the first day of fifth grade when a new boy, Wes appeared and gave her a reason to stay. Unfortunately, Wes then left two years later, just disappeared without a word, leaving the thirteen year old Mina with a broken heart. Then Mina’s life changes and she’s gone from a Palmer trailer park to an Atlanta mansion and from wearing secondhand clothes to straight off the runway fashions. The other big change is that those that bullied her now want to be her best friend, and Mina now reigns supreme at her new prestigious high school. However, she’s still counting down the days until graduation and then a new boy arrives at her school, Wes. He just walks back into Mina’s life, threatening her new life in the process and her heart once again. This is a heartwarming teenage romance and a coming of age novel, and the storyline had me hooked. Both the characters and setting come to life through the descriptive narrative, and it has a likeable and relatable character in Mina, who I felt engaged with throughout the story.

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Dead Sound (Things Unseen Book 1) by Anise Eden – Review by Charlene Gonzalez

Dead Sound (Things Unseen, #1)Dead Sound by Anise Eden
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This book had me guessing all the way around. Love the characters that Anise Eden builds in her stories. Her form of writing leaves you speechless and on your toes. When she brings in Neve as the victim in her own job as a therapist she needs to overcome that fear with the help of Doctor O’Brien.

Anise Eden brings the viewpoint of how the world can be and how people see the world as dark and evil lurking around. When she puts a Doctor and therapist in this world the viewpoint of history that lies beneath each patient especially when one of their patients went into a coma in a bizarre way they have to see what lies in his history back home.

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Russian and Royally Complicated (The Crowned Hearts Series Book 2) by Gwyn McNamee and Christy Anderson – Review by Barbara Bohls

Russian and Royally ComplicatedRussian and Royally Complicated by Gwyn McNamee
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is the second book in this series. I would highly recommend reading these books in order as they will make more sense. I want to spill all the beans about this book but I don’t want to give away spoilers. The enemies to lovers forced proximity genre that this book has, gives a fresh take on it that makes it feel like you’re reading that troupe for the first time. Just like with the first book these authors writing together is seamless. It really feels like one author wrote the whole book. Not only do you have enemies to lovers, you also have secrets that are boiling to come out and tons of steam. The main characters have growth not only for themselves but there is growth together. I love a story where you can see the growth from all avenues. This book is written very, very well and will keep you turning pages to see what happens next, whether that is the amazing steam that seems to just come off the pages or the secrets that you know are coming. There is an air of secrecy in this book that leads the reader to know that she big things are going to be revealed in this book. I highly recommend this book and the first one to anyone who is looking for an escape from reality for a bit. You will find yourself caught up in what is going on that you won’t want to deal with anything other than turning the next page.
Reviewed by: @bbohls

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Dead Keen (Things Unseen Book 2) by Anise Eden – Review by Charlene Gonzalez

Dead Keen (Things Unseen #2)Dead Keen by Anise Eden
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I am the biggest fan of thrillers and mystery. When I first saw this book I was like it won’t be that good but I was wrong. The author Anise Eden, did an amazing in building a world of mystery and thrill that kept me reading both the 1st book and the 2nd book.

O’Brien being the doctor tries to help his brother from a mysterious illness, with the help of his girlfriend Neve the therapist they come close to stopping something that can destroy people. But they uncover something far worse and it might cost their lives.
When Neve uses a unique skill to uncover O’Brien’s sister-in-law’s sleepwalking problem they find out the lies and the plan to murder. Neve and O’Brien got themselves in a pit of trouble that can hurt a lot of people including his brother.

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When We Fell Again by Julie Archer – Review by Rayne East

When We Fell Again by Julie Archer My rating: 4 of 5 stars Rockstar, second chance romance This book was full of angst. It’s the first book I have read […]

Cruel Hate (Hidden Valley Elite Book 5) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Brandy Rymer

Cruel Hate (Hidden Valley Elite #5)Cruel Hate by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I absolutely love reading Vaughn’s Hidden Valley Elite series, it is my favorite series I’ve read in a long time! The real-life situations that these characters get themselves into, and the way that they handle them just is phenomenal. This is the continuation of Phoenix and Aspen’s tale of an unexpected pregnancy resulting from a one-night together. It is so endearing to watch how their strong personalities continue to clash against each other, as they are both rather self-centered characters, each feeling that their situation is beyond what they can control or handle. Yet if they would both develop open communication, they would realize how much they need to depend on each other. This book was so hard to put down, it kept me reading all day today, I just couldn’t put it down from the second I opened it. I am so anxious to see what the outcome will be in the next book from the horrendous cliffhanger that we are left with! My heart aches to read the finale of Phoenix and Aspen’s tale. If you’ve read any of the books in this series, make sure that you go in order, because each book builds upon the next, and you do not want to miss out on anything! I highly recommend this book to anyone who is interested and loves reading enemy-to-lovers romances.
@Brandy Rymer
09/2023

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Rogue Wolf (Protector Wolf Shifter Series Book 3) by Lilliana Rose – Review by Sarah King

Rogue Wolf (Protector Wolf Shifter Series Book 3)Rogue Wolf by Lilliana Rose
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is the third installment in this series. The story continues to develop, giving more detail into both the relationship of Kodiak and Tamaska as well as the overall storyline as well. I can’t wait to see what’s next and would recommend reading the series in order while waiting for the next installment.

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When We Fell Again by Julie Archer – Review by Angela Hayes

When We Fell Again: An angsty, second chance rockstar romanceWhen We Fell Again: An angsty, second chance rockstar romance by Julie Archer
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

 

4 Stars

 

When We Fall Again by Julie Archer is a very angsty and emotional rockstar romance with second chances, chemistry, baggage, issues, drama, and much more. This is the first book that I have read by Ms. Archer, so I really didn’t know what to expect going into this story. But, let me tell you, she certainly has a knack for building angsty tension, as well as injecting plenty of emotion into her writing.
Jordan and Lex have a complicated history between them, and now these two exes are thrown together again on a band tour. He’s the magnetic frontman for the band, and she’s the tour manager. But with their complicated past, self-destructive demons, and sizzling chemistry- these two have quite the journey ahead of them. What happens makes for a captivating read that strummed my emotions along the way.
Looking forward to more from Ms. Archer.
Happy Reading…

Thank you, Julie Archer!

 

Reviewed by @angelahayes

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The Mother’s Threat by Susan Specht Oram – Review by Angela Hayes

The Mother's ThreatThe Mother’s Threat by Susan Specht Oram
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

 

3 Stars

 

The Mother’s Threat is a tense standalone by Susan Specht Oram. This story weaves a tale of complex family dynamics, drama, tension, challenges, emotion, and more.
Violet Cleveland has a lot riding on the outcome of an important security contract that gets more challenging as the hours go by. She certainly never expected that her own mother would pose a threat to her safety and the success of her mission – and we get a front-row seat as it all goes down. When the tension mounts and agendas are revealed, the stakes get much higher.
Happy Reading…

Thank you, Susan Specht Oram!

 

Reviewed by @angelahayes

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Love & Stilettos by Evelyn Lindell – Review by Anastasia Dodson

Love & StilettosLove & Stilettos by Evelyn Lindell
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This book was interesting! Friends turned lovers is always a go to for me and this book was a good pallette cleanser between the darker books I’ve been reading recently. It was a little slow in parts but Mitch & Mia had an interesting story that I didn’t want to put down and liked this authors writing style. I am looking forward to more by this author in the future!
Happy Reading!

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The Mother’s Threat by Susan Specht Oram – Review by Lorralei Hoerner

The Mother's ThreatThe Mother’s Threat by Susan Specht Oram
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

5 Stars 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟

Another fantastic book from this author…I loved this story right from the start. Fast paced, suspense, intrigue, secrets, crime drama that had me at the edge of my seat of what will happen next…

Violet Cleveland is owner and head of a security business that she is proud to start up. When Violet is approached to be security for a big corporation and their big meeting will take place right in their small town, but this meeting is also bringing out people whom oppose to this meeting. Talks about protests coming..but the Violet’s surprise the ring leader is her own mother, Daisy. Violet wants to not only protect her client but the town as well and lets the mayor and chief of police in on what may happen only to get ignored multiple times. Daisy brings mayhem at every corner and Violet desperately tries to stay ahead that no one is hurt. Will Violet be able to protect her client like she promise or will Daisy and her followers protests turn an ugly corner?

This is a fantastic read and I highly recommend. The characters are fantastic and I loved how strong Violet was even when her own mother took advantage of her….and the relationship they had.
Can I just say I also loved the bar owners in this story as well…….made me smile…..

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Atonement (The McIntire County Series Book 1) by Winter Austin – Review by Brandy Vaughn

Atonement (The McIntire County Series: #1)Atonement by Winter Austin
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Atonement is book one in The McIntire County series. I was hooked from the start. Who doesn’t like a romantic thriller with a mystery to be solved? It was awesome to see a story where the PTSD of our veterans is part of the plot. I enjoyed the not-so-perfect characters with emotional issues and it helped move the plot along. Looking forward to read book two!

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Murder Creek by Jane Suen – Review by Erin DeRoma

Murder Creek (Eve Sawyer Mystery, #1)Murder Creek by Jane Suen
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

A must read for any book sleuth! Don’t start until you have the time and space to read in one sitting. I couldn’t put it down, I was too invested. A very quick engaging read, right from the start. I was truly transported right into this book, it seemed almost interactive. If you love solving mysteries and coming up with your own theories while reading, this is certainly for you!

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The Hand of God: From Oppenheimer to Hypersonics by Paul McCarthy – Review by Kristin Boutelle

The Hand of God: From Oppenheimer to Hypersonics - A Crash Course on Nuclear Weapons and Humankind's Most Dangerous GameThe Hand of God: From Oppenheimer to Hypersonics – A Crash Course on Nuclear Weapons and Humankind’s Most Dangerous Game by Paul McCarthy
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

After reading this book, I now understand more about nuclear weapons, the effects of nuclear weapons, and the political aspect of nuclear weapons than I did before. I love how the author explains to us readers who don’t know all the scientific terms into simpler terms that we can understand it. There are a lot of facts about the topic that I did not know. I like how the author incorporates all aspects of the nuclear weapons. All in all, it’s a very good read.

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Lucky Break (Trentbridge Tales Book #2) by Lee Wood – Review by Angela Hayes

Lucky Break (Trentbridge Tales #2)Lucky Break by Lee Wood
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

 

4 Stars

 

“A Picasso in a junk shop
A murdered art dealer
A growing suspect list
Time is running out
All they need is one Lucky Break…”

Lucky Break is the second book in the Trentbridge Tales series by Lee Wood. This is a gritty mystery with crime and investigation, tension, murder, the ‘art’ world, dark secrets, danger, drama, and plenty of intrigue.
I enjoyed meeting Detective James Sheldon in the first instalment of this series, so I was excited to see what he would be getting up to here. Mr. Wood didn’t disappoint, and along with an engrossing story, he has crafted a cast of well-developed complex characters who really helped to bring this whole story to life. This intriguing cast and interesting situations that Mr. Wood had created (in his book/series) would definitely make a great movie or television series.
Happy Reading…

Thank you, Lee Wood!

 

Reviewed by @angelahayes

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The Mother’s Threat by Susan Specht Oram – Review by Paula R Sayers

The Mother's ThreatThe Mother’s Threat by Susan Specht Oram
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Violet’s new company has been tasked with protecting a company in town with protestors heading their way. One big problem arises…Violet’s mother, Daisy, is one of the lead protesters. Enjoyable book that made me think about bye mother/daughter relationship.

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Cruel Hate (Hidden Valley Elite Book 5) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Dawn Daughenbaugh

Cruel Hate (Hidden Valley Elite #5)Cruel Hate by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

5 Star’s
Cruel Hate (Hidden Valley Elite Book 5) by Isla Vaughn

Cruel Hate is the fifth book in the Hidden Valley Elite Series and is a Enemies to Lover’s Romance New Adult Romance that will have you turning the pages till the end. This is packed with drama, suspense, family drama, tension, enemies-to-lovers and plenty of angst. I highly recommend reading the prequel Cruel Start before diving into this book as this one picks up where the prequel left us. Each book in this series keeps getting better and hotter than the last one. This is Phoenix and Aspens Duet and holy smokes! These two had a one-night stand that brings a shocking surprise that neither one was truly prepared for. So, a plan is formed to keep both their parents off their backs. But will this fake relationship turn into more than that? These two don’t have a easy time but can they navigate through it all together or will it end in a disaster? I highly recommend reading this book. I can’t wait to read the next book to find out how it all ends. I look forward to reading many more books by this author.

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When We Fell Again by Julie Archer – Review by Jenni Bishop

When We Fell Again: An angsty, second chance rockstar romanceWhen We Fell Again: An angsty, second chance rockstar romance by Julie Archer
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

When We Fell Again is a second chance rockstar romance tale by Julie Archer. I have not read anything by Julie before and was intrigued to see what she brings to the table.
It is a well written angsty story where the characters are well-developed and definitely full of flaws. It is a short tale of drugs sex and rock n roll undeniable chemistry. There is lots of drama, misunderstandings, jealousy and insecurities, tension and chemistry.
When We Fell Again is a good story with lots of ups and downs. There is a motley crew (pardon the pun) of supporting characters who make things very interesting. Julie takes us on a journey of rocky love and into the not so glamorous world of music and the pitfalls that many find in that area.
At times I wanted to knock some people in the head and others I wanted to give a big hug to.
Jordan could once again have it all. Everything he has ever wanted but his past returns to threaten it all to lead to a dark path.
Alexis has been offered a gig of a lifetime but that means seeing him again. Will she be able to save him this time or will his past be too much once again?
When it comes to love the heart wants what the heart wants.

Reviewed by @jennadb

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Lucky Break (Trentbridge Tales Book 2) by Lee Wood – Review by Jennifer Crain

Lucky Break (Trentbridge Tales #2)Lucky Break by Lee Wood
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

My first thoughts were this was a “must read” because I really enjoyed the first book of the Trentbridge series. I enjoyed how the new storyline and characters were introduced before reintroducing the main characters from the previous books, for example, James Sheldon. It hooked me right away to see where this story was heading. Like the initial book, this one was full of action, a plausible story line, and a resolution that was thought out (as opposed to “just ending” the book, which a lot of books within a series tend to do, in my opinion).

Right away, the cover art drew me in- I really enjoyed the juxtaposition between the stylized eye (symbolizing the lucky break?) and the realistic city scene, portraying the newly introduced character Peter Winston-Moore.

Throughout this sequel, I appreciated how the character development of recurring characters, such as James, remain the same. At the same time, some of the new characters have some far-fetched schemes, but made for a great story!

I really enjoyed the recurring theme in this book, of each of the characters, new and old, getting, in their viewpoint, “lucky breaks,” it really helped with keeping the pacing of this book fast and fresh. This time, the action centers around not a lottery winner, but art forgery and selling art, with great world building as the characters visit fairs, antique stores, and auction houses.

I read a lot of mystery novels, but not much crime novels, so I appreciated the novel’s ending surprising me to some degree. As with the first book, the chapters are on the shorter side, and the writing style is simple and refreshing, not overly flowerly or elegant, which I think depicts the world of art forgery to a tee. I can’t wait to read the next book in the series!

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The Mother’s Threat by Susan Specht Oram – Review by Jenni Bishop

The Mother's ThreatThe Mother’s Threat by Susan Specht Oram
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

3.5 stars
The Mother’s Threat is another psychological drama from Susan. It is a standalone book so there is no need to worry about missing out from a previous storyline.
This story is about a woman that is trying to build her life and her ever dramatic relationship with her unstable mother is complex to say the least. The twisty tale is driven by the rocky road mother/daughter relationship.
There were many times throughout that I wanted to do away with the vile woman who was supposed to love and care for her daughter. So, to say I had a hard time connecting with this woman was an understatement.
Susan also includes contentious themes within the driving of the story.
This emotionally charged tale is full of pain, frustration, heartbreak, betrayal and a lot more as one woman is ignored whilst trying to stop an all-out war.
If you like a story that is a fast-paced quick read thriller with lots of action, protests, threats and some intense moments this book may just be for you.

Reviewed by @jennadb

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The Mother’s Threat by Susan Specht Oram – Review by Jennifer Crain

The Mother's ThreatThe Mother’s Threat by Susan Specht Oram
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I picked up “The Mother’s Threat” because I have read other books from Susan Specht Oram and have enjoyed them. Like all of her books, the cover gives little away, which I appreciate, with simply a chain link fence, which makes me question- whom or what is being kept in? Or out?

We soon find out the main character, Violet, is a recurring character from the book Shore Lodge, whom has set up her own security service company she set up to try to right the wrongs done to her as well as fellow employees. All goes well until her mother comes to town as part of a huge environmental anti-government protest movement in the quaint town of Millersville. Throughout the book, I appreciated how both of the main characters learn to forgive and move on, as well as grow their mother/daughter relationship- to an extent. I thought the ending was highly predictable, but this book was still worth reading to discover how Violet solves her maternal issues.

The most memorable part of the book was the tension and atmosphere created by the author- I really felt like I was in the middle of a protest, at times. The vivid descriptions of the actions of the protestors, the police, and Violet’s company were highly realistic and fearful, as they were, what would happen next.

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Lucky Break (Trentbridge Tales Book 2) by Lee Wood – Review by Julie Johnson

Lucky Break (Trentbridge Tales #2)Lucky Break by Lee Wood
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is the second book in the Trentbridge Tales series. While this can be read as a standalone, I would recommend reading in order to get the backstory on the people involved.

This book is just as riveting as the first one, with twists and turns that no one would see coming. This book kept me engaged throughout and I was not expecting the culprit at the end. Lee Wood has a way of weaving a story together that will have you guessing and second guessing throughout. This is set “over the pond” so there is some terminology that I had to look up but it was not distracting to the overall read.

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The Mother’s Threat by Susan Specht Oram – Review by Julie Johnson

The Mother's ThreatThe Mother’s Threat by Susan Specht Oram
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This book will grab you and won’t let up until the words “the end” come up!

Violet is setting up her own security company after years of working for others. She’s amassed a team that has experience covering all the major facets of security. When a prominent business owner approaches her for her services, she’s thinking that this will be a very easy first job. The contracts are signed and everything suddenly changes.

Violet finds herself in the midst of a battle to save not only her client, but the town in which she lives. Rioters find their way to town and just about do them in. Violet and her team are on the case, even if other officials are not.

This book has strong political undertones dealing with corruption in some of the highest local offices. It was almost impossible to put this down as the story just grew more complex with each chapter.

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Royally Complicated (The Crowned Hearts Series Book 1) by Gwyn McNamee and Christy Anderson – Review by Amelia Stansell

Royally ComplicatedRoyally Complicated by Gwyn McNamee
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This book was fantastic. I highly recommend it. Bridget is on vacation and wonder me over into the secluded part of the beach. That is where she meets Fyn. She doesn’t know that he is actually a prince. Fyn is pulled in different directions, when it comes to Bridget and his family. Will their love be able to handle all the pressure?

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Cruel Hate (Hidden Valley Elite Book 5) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Michelle Troyer

Cruel Hate: A College Sports Romance (Hidden Valley Elite #5)Cruel Hate: A College Sports Romance by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Isla did it again. This is such a good series. This book is about Phoenix and Aspen. Phoenix wants to play NFL, but Aspen is pregnant. How will a baby fit in? The book ended on a cliffhanger. Can’t wait to read the next book to see what happens. I cannot get enough of Isla’s books. It’s an easy and quick read. I can never put never put the book down. Always exciting and suspense filled. I highly recommend Isla’s books. She does not disappoint!

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The Mother’s Threat by Susan Specht Oram – Review by Amanda Gonzalez

The Mother's ThreatThe Mother’s Threat by Susan Specht Oram
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Who can you trust if not family? This story takes place in a familiar small town on the West Coast where nothing much happens. New business owner Violet dreams of thriving in the private security world and even has her first job lined up…but soon finds her mother standing on the opposing side when a peaceful protest gets chaotic. The author always shows complex characters in her books and even more complex relationships between them. I love the fast pace of the book and the thrilling psychological aspect to the story! I’m looking forward to the next novel written by Susan Specht Oram!

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Rogue Wolf (Protector Wolf Shifter Series Book 3) by Lilliana Rose – Review by Samantha Snow

Rogue Wolf (Protector Wolf Shifter Series Book 3)Rogue Wolf by Lilliana Rose
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I Recommend you go read this book, especially if you love a good vampire, wolf series!! The beginning story just keeps getting better & better! This is the 3rd book in it’s series… Series are a MUST read for me LOL …I always want the amazing world the author creates to continue && that is what most certainly happens here. Can be read as a standalone BUT I very highly recommend reading them in order, to know more about the unfolding story! LOVED the characters & their continued story! Go READ IT NOW!!

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Oscar and Emmy Lose a Friend (Oscarand Emmy Series) by Terri Sabol – Review by Dawn Mitchell

Oscar and Emmy Lose a Friend: A story about pet loss and saying goodbye to a furry friend. Ages 5-11 and kindergarten through grade 5.Oscar and Emmy Lose a Friend: A story about pet loss and saying goodbye to a furry friend. Ages 5-11 and kindergarten through grade 5. by Terri Sabol
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This was the sweetest childrens book. It explains to kids what happens to animals or pets when they become sick and/or dying. The author does an outstanding job at explaining every step of the way an process for the family, children an vet. Down to the sweet, caring details. Also love the rainbow bridge explanation at the end!

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Master Campania (Masters of the Consulate Book 7) by Sylvia Black – Review by Deb Robinson

Master Campania: Dark Vampire Romance (Masters of the Consulate Book 7)Master Campania: Dark Vampire Romance by Sylvia Black
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Oh my oh my… with Isla dead, the Master’s are now fighting to end the rogues from causing any more havoc.

Master Campania is on the hunt for witches to find the rogues. He finds Willow and forces her to tell him the truth of everything she knows. She lies at first and he goes on a wild goose chase until he catches up to her again and captures her friends. This changes Willow’s tune quite quickly and she helps because she will never put her fellow witches in harm’s way, especially her friends.

Master Campania is not a fan of the witches and he doesn’t hide it. Can Willow change his mind? Can she change her own?

This is a tense and bloody book with battles on both sides. It will keep you reading until you come to the end. You will be waiting with tense eagerness for the next book. I can’t wait.

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