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Walk Off (Ground Rule Book 1) by Bree Kraemer – Review by Jennifer Ramos

Walk OffWalk Off by Bree Kraemer
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

As soon as I read about this book, I was immediately drawn to it. As a single mother, you make many sacrifices whether it involves your family, children, other loved ones, career, you name it. But life without your child leaves one vacant. In the beginning, the reader gets to see the true nature of Celia as she prepares for one of her friend’s weddings and manages the bridesmaid’s duties and handles her daughter as well. Unexpectedly she bumps into someone at the wedding, her ex, Kyle, who she broke his heart as he left to play baseball. At the time, Celia managed to keep quiet that when she left Kyle, she ended up being pregnant. As Kyle sees for the first time in a long time, all his feelings come bursting through. Although he has tried moving on, he hasn’t been successful and doing so. Now Celia is faced with telling the truth and seeing how things end up. The chemistry between these characters are vividly depicted by the author and you can feel their connection. This read was very engulfing and I cannot wait to read more!

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The Master of Demise by Nadija Mujagic – Review by Bobbi Wagner

The Master of DemiseThe Master of Demise by Nadija Mujagic
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I enjoyed reading this suspenseful story. A story that has twists and turns that you won’t see coming. A story where you are pulled into a dark, dangerous world full of revenge and obsession. A well written story where the author used details to pull you into the story. A fast paced story that is engaging and hard to put down. Mitch is a great character that adds so much to the story. He finds himself accused of a student killing themselves. As his life falls apart so does the past come to the present. This is a great thriller. I highly recommend this book.

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Review by @bjwagner

Fetching Dreams by Mary Bleckwehl – Review by Candice Estes

Fetching DreamsFetching Dreams by Mary Evanson Bleckwehl
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Neyah is a young girl living in Africa, which means that she misses school a lot due to having to walk many miles a day to fetch water for her family to use for food, bathing, washing, crops and livestock. When her school starts a pen pal project with a group of middle school students in Minnesota, Neyah gets to know an American teenager named Abby. Abby is surprised by how different things are, such as a lack of running water, or that Neyah is the one that has to miss school and not her four brothers. Throughout the book, we see many problems that Neyah faces in her daily life, such as diseases caused by lack of clean water, her dad’s lack of willingness to change how things have always been done, the dangers of her climb to and from the different water sources in her area of Africa, bandits, and the possibility that her father will sell her as a second wife for cattle. Neyah at first thinks that Abby’s life is “perfect”, but quickly we learn that Abby has issues of her own. Her parents are struggling after issues of their own, and then Abby ends up with a brain tumor. The girls start working together to get access to water in Neyah’s village, by raising money and awareness of the situation that Neyah lives every day. This is a great book for reminding people that everyone has their issues, we are not that much different than other people our age in other places around the world. This is a great book for adults and teenagers, alike.

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A Teacher’s Heart by Melissa Lavi – Review by Bobbi Wagner

A Teacher's HeartA Teacher’s Heart by Melissa Lavi
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is my first book by this author. I enjoyed her take on no matter what the person looks like they all have big hearts. I enjoyed these illustrations that will keep any child engaged. This would be a great story for any child that is just meeting their teacher. It is a fun story with fun characters that make teachers look not so scarry. It pulls them into the story and is easy for them to read. I enjoyed this children’s book and so will your children. I highly recommend this book.

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Review by @bjwagner

Sacrifice Bunt (Ground Rule Book 2) by Bree Kraemer – Review by Lorralei Hoerner

Sacrifice Bunt (Ground Rule Book 2)Sacrifice Bunt by Bree Kraemer
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 5 Stars

Sacrifice Bunt is book 2 of the Ground Rule Series and I simply loved the story of Noah and Zara.
This sports romance full of friendships, enemies to lovers, sugar, spice and everything nice that I love and devour. I highly recommend reading this series in order as the characters from the beginning are woven into this book as well….

Noah and Zara meet a few years prior on a chance encounter that to Zara, what not her most shining moment…but Noah does save Zara, but then disappears. Years later, Zara and Noah meet again, and even though they never forgot about each other……Zara is standoffish, hurt and puzzled on why Noah disappeared….Zara is also not into relationships and is totally focused on her job, in which she worked so hard to achieve. Noah tries to swoon Zara, knowing she was the girl for him…but plays it out to see if he can get the girl he always wanted.

Zara gives Noah one night together, but will it be enough? Will Zara eventually break down her harden walls around her heart to give Noah a chance?

I truly loved this book and I am already looking forward to reading book 3! I am definitely going to circle back on other books as well from this author…..Highly Recommended!!

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Ladies of the Links (Ladies of the Links Book 2) by Haley Rhoades – Review by Shelly Kittell

Ladies of the Links #2Ladies of the Links #2 by Haley Rhoades
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This one was enjoyable. I loved reading Christy and Ryan’s story. High school sweethearts that meet up again, who doesn’t love those romance stories. Those characters were just perfect for each other. I loved reading as their relationship developed. The storyline flowed smooth. An entertaining and quick story that I was able to devour in a weekend. A definite must read for second chance romance lovers.This one was enjoyable. I loved reading Christy and Ryan’s story. High school sweethearts that meet up again, who doesn’t love those romance stories. Those characters were just perfect for each other. I loved reading as their relationship developed. The storyline flowed smooth. An entertaining and quick story that I was able to devour in a weekend. A definite must read for second chance romance lovers.

Fetching Dreams by Mary Bleckwehl – Review by Shelly Kittell

Fetching DreamsFetching Dreams by Mary Evanson Bleckwehl
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This was a book that grips your heartstrings with the story of two girls living two different lives with two separate challenges but they are both so strong and brave. Neyah has a very tough life and yet she perseveres and continues to write of her adventures to Abby. We get an idea of what is going on. There are moments of joy and moments of heart break. For Abby, life is different. She may have more but she is facing her own battle. We learn about her adventures in her letters to Neyah. I felt like I was on the emotional roller coaster with this book. It was a good thing because this story reminds you that you are alive and blessed. The author does a very good job of making this story feel realistic. The writing and the characters just keep you wanting to find out what’s coming next. This story is a definite tearjerker so I’d keep tissues handy. It’s one of the best YA stories I’ve read this year.

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The Master of Demise by Nadija Mujagic – Review by Shelly Kittell

The Master of DemiseThe Master of Demise by Nadija Mujagic
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This has to be the best psychological thriller I’ve read this year. I couldn’t put it down once I started. Was the main character the criminal or the victim? It was really hard to tell (and I’m not telling you which he was). You have to read this. It’s a story that will play games with your mind as well as his. There are twists, some you see coming and some you don’t. I found there were characters that you could love and hate. Some things weren’t as they seemed. This book is like a total mind test to test you. After finishing, I wondered if somebody was using my mind as a test (just kidding). It’s that kind of thriller. The suspense will get you. Amazing book! I love this author. She writes fantastic books that will get you to the core. An absolute must read. 5+ book.

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Sacrifice Bunt (Ground Rule Book 2) by Bree Kraemer – Review by Shelly Kittell

Sacrifice Bunt (Ground Rule Book 2)Sacrifice Bunt by Bree Kraemer
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Zara and Noah’s story is a slow burn romance. Their story is unique as to how they met. I found it entertaining and a quick read. The chemistry is there. Once that spark is reunited**BANG! I did love how the author put mental health and self-care into the story. I thought that was a nice touch. The supporting characters were great. The interactions between Heath and Noah were…Legendary!!! There is quite a bit of steam for the romance lovers. Quick and entertaining read. Perfect for a weekend book.
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My Goodbye Girl by Anna Gomez – Review by Shelly Kittell

My Goodbye GirlMy Goodbye Girl by Anna Gomez
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

What a really sweet romance. Simon and Tessa are so different. He’s a lab nerd and she’s a bestselling author. Yet, in the airport they come together and a “relationship” sparks. I found the story to be a nice slow-burn as these two total opposites somehow lit that Bunsen burner into a romance. I found the characters to well written. They were relatable. It made the story easy to read because you felt like you were reading about best friends. It could be me, I have friends that are that weird, lol. I loved how the story flowed even with it being a sporadic travel story. It’s a different type of romance that I recommend. I hope to read more from this author.
Reasons I enjoyed this book:What a really sweet romance. Simon and Tessa are so different. He’s a lab nerd and she’s a bestselling author. Yet, in the airport they come together and a “relationship” sparks. I found the story to be a nice slow-burn as these two total opposites somehow lit that Bunsen burner into a romance. I found the characters to well written. They were relatable. It made the story easy to read because you felt like you were reading about best friends. It could be me, I have friends that are that weird, lol. I loved how the story flowed even with it being a sporadic travel story. It’s a different type of romance that I recommend. I hope to read more from this author.
Reasons I enjoyed this book:

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House of Arsceneaux (Servants of Morrigan: Immortal Creatures) by Caterina Novelliere – Review by Shelly Kittell

House of ArsceneauxHouse of Arsceneaux by Caterina Novelliere
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Intensely romantic!! This paranormal romance is the tale of two souls trying to find each other again. A sweet story mixed in with the vampires of Louisiana. I loved how the author wrote with the flair of Louisiana. You could read it, taste it in the descriptions of the food and the restaurants. Going back and forth to tell the story of these two souls shared so much. The interaction between Cait and Ev was flirty and humorous. I enjoyed at times watching that develop. As I read, the suspense developed. I noticed secrets pop up. Some were not who they said they were. Cait walked into the unknown. This is quite an entertaining read for paranormal romance fans.

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A Way Out (Rock Star Book 2) by Tami Lund – Review by Shelly Kittell

A Way Out (Rock Star Book 2)A Way Out by Tami Lund
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

What a beautiful story of second-chances. Maria has spent her life doing what everyone else wanted her to do. After getting a divorce from her husband, she gets a taste of what makes her happy. Oz is a rocker friend of her sister and her fiancée. These two have some serious sparks. Can they overcome baggage and issues to make it work? Watching them work through and grow as a couple is delightful and to watch the two bands grow is fun. This was my first taste of this series and I’m hooked. I fell in love with the characters. Best part was seeing Maria get the courage and strength to stand up for herself and what was right for her. I love romances with strong female protagonist. Great story and a quick read. This is a must have!What a beautiful story of second-chances. Maria has spent her life doing what everyone else wanted her to do. After getting a divorce from her husband, she gets a taste of what makes her happy. Oz is a rocker friend of her sister and her fiancée. These two have some serious sparks. Can they overcome baggage and issues to make it work? Watching them work through and grow as a couple is delightful and to watch the two bands grow is fun. This was my first taste of this series and I’m hooked. I fell in love with the characters. Best part was seeing Maria get the courage and strength to stand up for herself and what was right for her. I love romances with strong female protagonist. Great story and a quick read. This is a must have!

A Toast for Laurent (Vine Valley Book 1) by Theresa Paolo – Review by Shelly Kittell

A Toast for Laurent (Vine Valley, #1): A Small Town Fake Relationship RomanceA Toast for Laurent (Vine Valley, #1): A Small Town Fake Relationship Romance by Theresa Paolo
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

A really cute second chance romance. A couple 20 years ago, Phoebe broke Laurent’s heart. She smashed that sucker. Now she’s back to take him up on their silly pack to get married. Now it’s time for a fake romance. Oh, these two still have chemistry and it’s fun to watch them move past all that has happened. The characters are well-written and entertaining. The plot is a hair predictable but I am a sucker for romances in the vineyards. The family would try the patience of a saint and I think Laurent needs the break. It’s a fun, quick and entertaining read that any romance lover would enjoy. I hope to see more about the family in future books. This is a new author to me. I look forward to more from her.A really cute second chance romance. A couple 20 years ago, Phoebe broke Laurent’s heart. She smashed that sucker. Now she’s back to take him up on their silly pack to get married. Now it’s time for a fake romance. Oh, these two still have chemistry and it’s fun to watch them move past all that has happened. The characters are well-written and entertaining. The plot is a hair predictable but I am a sucker for romances in the vineyards. The family would try the patience of a saint and I think Laurent needs the break. It’s a fun, quick and entertaining read that any romance lover would enjoy. I hope to see more about the family in future books. This is a new author to me. I look forward to more from her.

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A Teacher’s Heart by Melissa Lavi – Review by Shelly Kittell

httA Teacher's HeartA Teacher’s Heart by Melissa Lavi
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

What a special tribute to teachers! I found this to be a sweetly written book about how teachers care about children and want to do their best to teach them. Considering today’s education, this book is coming at just the right time. The sentiment is meaningful. The pictures are beautifully and tastefully drawn. It’s a good book that many may enjoy.

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Walk Off (Ground Rule Book 1) by Bree Kraemer – Review by Shadel Ayerbe

Walk OffWalk Off by Bree Kraemer
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Walk off by Bree Kraemer is a great second chance romance that leaves you wanting more.

Kyle and Celia have a common history. Lies, passion, half-truths, and hurt abound in this past. Kyle’s heart was broken when Celia dumped him eight years ago, but she also broke her own, in all honesty. Although they both moved on, they discovered that they still had a special place in their hearts for one another. They reignite their emotions for one another when they run into one another at the wedding of a mutual acquaintance. Kyle is a gracious person. But eight years ago, Celia made that decision for him.

Every page was exciting and I couldn’t wait to see what would happen. The story really brings passion into your life. I couldn’t put the book down.

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Walk Off (Ground Rule Book 1) by Bree Kraemer – Review by Dawn Daughenbaugh

Walk OffWalk Off by Bree Kraemer
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

5 Stars
Walk Off (Ground Rule Book 1) by Bree Kraemer

Walk Off is the first book in the Ground Rule Series and is a Sports / Second Chance Romance that I had a hard time putting down. I’ve read several books by this author and her style of writing is creative and pulls you in with ease. Her characters are well developed and relatable and they make the story come to life. This is a fast paced second chance romance that will take you on quite the emotional rollercoaster ride. The chemistry between these two is incredible even after the years apart. I highly recommend reading this book to find out what happens next. Im looking forward to reading the next book in this series.

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Lap Baby by Amy Q. Barker – Review by M Policicchio

Lap Baby: Emotional Women's FictionLap Baby: Emotional Women’s Fiction by Amy Q. Barker
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This tale of three women facing life after a tragedy is wonderful and horrible. Each having to find their way in the world after, each having to figure out how to live life after. What does that even mean?

Julie, the flight attendant, has to find purpose in her life after fighting a fight to change the rules that no one wants to change. She also has to manage to live after following protocol, but that doesn’t take away the guilt.

Paige, the toddler, has to figure out who she is while living under the shadow of the tragedy. The physical remnants of the accident will always remind her but will they also keep her from moving forward?

Marie, the mom, has to determine who she is after losing part of herself in the accident. Filling her life with kids’ activities, chores, errands, and stuff doesn’t fill the hole, but is she missing out on what is really important? Marie needs to focus on the life she has in front of her, her husband and three kids, not what is missing.

Wonderful storytelling that weaves the connections and tears in these women’s lives.

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Trapping the Butterfly (Butterflies Fly Free Series Book 1) by Debra Parmley – Review by Beverly Finnie

Trapping the ButterflyTrapping the Butterfly by Debra Parmley
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This book was alright. I definitely enjoyed reading books by this author in the past, and Trapping the Butterfly wasn’t one of my favorites. I would rate it a solid 3.75 out of 5. But I didn’t hate it. It’s an interesting story idea. I like period romances, 1920s. I’ve always enjoyed mob ties, the Chicago outfit of Italian Mob in the 1920s. An innocent girl getting caught up in something over her head craving freedom. Those 3 pieces put together make an intriguing story. I just didn’t love how it ended up. Bethany craves freedom and her inheritance is about to turn 18. Making her an adult, right? Well yeah but one that lacks any life experience since she’s been sheltered. In comes Paul – a cop. Mr. Rivalde the man her uncle & aunt want her to marry. Finally Rocco, one of Capone’s men. What will she do? Who does she want? Her navigation through the web she’s been caught in due to her need for freedom, is what plays out. I do really enjoy this author. Just because it wasn’t my favorite book by her, what I laid out will intrigue anyone who loves this genre. Give it a chance. It just might be the diamond in the rough you’re looking for.

@placexba
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Breathless Love (The Bennetts of Langston Falls Book 3) by KG Fletcher – Review by Vanessa Watts

Breathless Love (The Bennetts of Langston Falls, #3)Breathless Love by K.G. Fletcher
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This book had me feeling all the things. From the aww they are so sweet to that was not very smart it reminds me of everyday life and that in and of itself is the tell of a great story. The ability to connect it to the experiences that we face daily is a talent that not everyone possesses.

Hank is a small-time country musician but when his band breaks up, he is forced to choose whether to continue to pursue a solo music career or relinquish his dreams to work on the family farm. Stuck in limbo and not knowing what to do he decides to go to a Travis Miller concert, the one person that is his idol in the country music world. This leads down a path that could change his life forever and just so happens to come wrapped up in beautiful Ella Mae. The attraction flies immediately and they both know that heading down the rabbit hole could be dangerous especially once Hank finds out just who Ella Mae is. Unable to resist his charms Ella Mae convinces Hank to join them on the road for the last of their tour stops. However, Travis does not like all the time and extra attention that Ella Mae is now giving to Hank. Can they overcome Travis’ objections to begin a relationship? Will Hank get his country music career off the ground or is he destined to become caretaker of the family farm?

I really enjoyed this book, especially the banter and interactions between Hank and Ella Mae. It kind of takes me back to the dating phase of my life. This book is a great beach read, and it will have you crying, laughing, and wanting to yell at the characters sometimes.

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Huff… Puff… Grind! (Science Folktales) by Lois Wickstrom – Review by Shannen Kern

Huff...Puff...Grind! The 3 Little Pigs Get Smart: a science folktale (Science Folktales)Huff…Puff…Grind! The 3 Little Pigs Get Smart: a science folktale by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

What another fun retelling of a classic children’s story! We love bringing home Lois Wickstrom’s books because we all know we are for a super great read as well as some good conversations afterward. The illustrations are just beautiful and help set the feel of each scene as we move through some smart piggies! Both of my kiddos loved it as they are really interested in anything STEM related, so I feel like this book was perfectly timed for this family! The story flows amazingly as always, and the author once again shows how well putting your mind to a tough situation (especially together) turns out if you don’t give up. I highly recommend picking this up and enjoying it with the little ones in your life. I bet you all have a wonderful adventure!

Reviewed by @shannlynn

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Lap Baby by Amy Q. Barker – Review by Shannen Kern

Lap Baby: Emotional Women's FictionLap Baby: Emotional Women’s Fiction by Amy Q. Barker
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I picked this book up because the cover was gorgeous, and the name intrigued me. After reading the synopsis I knew I would love this book, and I was right. This was such an emotional rollercoaster and took turns that I wasn’t expecting at all. I definitely sat on the edge of my seat throughout this entire book. My heart broke, I cried, I yelled, and I smiled along as each person told their perspective of that tragic day. I don’t want to give any important details away, so I will just say that you should definitely give this one a chance. You won’t regret letting it touch your heart and give you a new way to look at events in your life. I highly recommend this book!

Reviewed by @shannlynn

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Trapping the Butterfly (Butterflies Fly Free Series Book 1) by Debra Parmley – Review by Shannen Kern

Trapping the ButterflyTrapping the Butterfly by Debra Parmley
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I have enjoyed all of the books I’ve read by Debra Parmley, and this one is no different! I was quickly pulled into the 1920s alongside Bethany who is trying to find her way in a world that has always been dictated for her. As she turns 18, she begins to learn of the opportunities and endless possibilities in her life. The author did such an amazing job truly setting the scenes of this era, and the story flowed so seamlessly. I can’t wait to get my hands on the next book in this series to continue the adventure!

 

Reviewed by @shannlynn

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Walk Off (Ground Rule Book 1) by Bree Kraemer – Review by Michelle Austin

Walk OffWalk Off by Bree Kraemer
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This was a good 4 star read. I really enjoyed the storyline and the characters, Celia and Kyle. The author does a great job of pulling you in with her writing. My emotions were all over the place and I couldn’t wait to see how things played out. All of the characters added a great element to the story. And the secrets, what will happen when they are finally revealed? Will they get a HEA? Overall I really enjoyed this read and I look forward to reading more from this author and series. 1-click and get started today.

Reviewed by @mab54615
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Ghosts of Alda (The Obscured Throne Trilogy Book 2) by Russell Archey – Review by Santana Hicks

Ghosts of AldaGhosts of Alda by Russell Archey
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I loved the first book ‘Ashes of Aldyr’ in the Obscured Throne trilogy so I was really excited to read this book. The author has a very vivid writing style and I am all for it. You get transported into an apocalyptic world filled with evil beings. It feels like you are in there yourself. With each different character’s story, I felt my heart beat harder than usual with fear and hope.

A mage, tricked into a wild goose chase of a rescue mission, a dwarf haunted by his dead wife, strange horned creatures and a forbidden village and much more!

Some stories are dark with an unhappy ending, some are more hopeful. I really enjoyed reading what was going to happen next. The only hope is magic users of the fifth sect. Far and few between can the world be saved?

I cannot wait to read the final book of the trilogy!

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Walk Off (Ground Rule Book 1) by Bree Kraemer – Review by Kristan Anderson

Walk OffWalk Off by Bree Kraemer
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Walk Off by Bree Kraemer is book one in the Ground Rules series. Celia and Kyle dated years ago and spent nearly a decade trying to get over the other. That never happened. After meeting again, Celia decided she should probably come clean to Kyle about some major secrets she kept and lies she told. Will he forgive her? Can they happily ever after. I found this story to be cute albeit predictable. It was an easy, fast read and an overall good story. There were times where I felt like their characters were annoying but that could go many ways (meaning she makes them relatable or that the character was just whiny). I am definitely interested in the rest of this series!

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Lap Baby by Amy Q. Barker – Review by Jennifer Ramos

Lap Baby: Emotional Women's FictionLap Baby: Emotional Women’s Fiction by Amy Q. Barker
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

What a moving story! I tend to be fascinated with perspective stories and how developmentally how the events affect their mindset as well as alter their decisions and thought process there after. This story does those aspects justice as the stories of three surviving women of a plane crash, have intertwined their lives. A flight attendant during the tragedy, Julie was given orders on that day and the guilt she carries from her decision on doing so. A mother with her lap baby, Marie, has been plagued with making the right decision and affecting the outcome of her family life. Then lastly one of the surviving lap babies, Paige has been coming to terms with her life even since those day’s events and bringing her own life together. Amazing read!

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Lap Baby by Amy Q. Barker – Review by Hannah Porter

Lap Baby: Emotional Women's FictionLap Baby: Emotional Women’s Fiction by Amy Q. Barker
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Lap baby by was just as the title says, super emotional. I am a first time reader of author Amy Q. Barker. After reading the synopsis I knew the book was going to be an emotional ride but It was way more than I expected. It was making me tear just like grey’s anatomy does 😭. It was sooo good the author really knows how to jerk your chain, and pull you in wanting more. I really enjoyed getting to see all the different povs on how they were living after the crash and how it affected them. I really really  really recommend reading this story and I know it will be a reread for me. 

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Trapping the Butterfly (Butterflies Fly Free Series Book 1) by Debra Parmley – Review by Ashley Hasting

Trapping The Butterfly (Book One in the Butterflies Fly Free Series)Trapping The Butterfly by Debra Parmley
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This book is located in Hot Springs and includes Al Capones Gang, detectives, and Bethany. Bethany lives with her Uncle James and Aunt Margaret who are strict with her and control every oart of her life for her inheritance. Her aunt is strict and very old fashioned. Hot Springs is where she tries to take the chance to be who she wants to be. Bethany ends up with two men who want her. Detective Tollick is one of them and he loves butterflies. He sees Bethany as one. Will be set free or trapped as a Butterfly? Take a chance and read this book!

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Brutal Days (Hidden Valley Elite Book 3) by Isla Vaughn – Review by Brandy Rymer

Brutal Days (Hidden Valley Elite #3)Brutal Days by Isla Vaughn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Isla Vaughn scored a touchdown with the 3rd book in the Hidden Valley Elite series! I loved Damon’s mysterious character from the first two books in this series and was so excited for him to be one of the main characters in his tale of enemies to lovers story. Skylar is the perfect fiesty female to stand up against Damon’s broody, “I can have whoever I want” attitude. I love the change that you see through the unique ability of Isla Vaughn to develop her character, and then slowly lead you along the path that she wants you to take to recognize the growth in some and the decline of maturity in others. This is truly one of my favorite Hidden Valley Elite books in the series so far, Isla Vaughn continues to grow as a writer as she spins these tales of the Elite’s romantic lives. I love that she does not leave us wondering about our prior characters but doesn’t allow them to be the key players as their story continues in the shadows, where we may peek in on them from time to time but maintain our focus on our stars of the story. If you have not read the prior books in this series I highly recommend you look them up and get reading! This book took me less than a day to get through, it was so enticing I couldn’t put it down! I am so excited for Book #4 to come out soon, the wait is excruciating, being left on a serious cliffhanger right at the last minute, I am dying to know what’s next for Damon and Skylar, will they get their happily ever after, or will Skylar sacrifice everything for her BFF? Is her Daddy finally getting out of prison and if so will he be making a visit to check in on his wife and his little girl who’s all grown up?
Brandy Rymer
06/2023

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Talks Like Thunder (Red With Native Blood Book 1) by Randal Nerhus & Marjorie Carter – Review by Ayla Phipps

Talks Like Thunder: Red With Native Blood: Novella OneTalks Like Thunder: Red With Native Blood: Novella One by Randal Nerhus
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Inspirational. This is the first book I have read by this author and while I don’t usually read historical fiction books everything about this book drew me in to give it a read. Primarily told from Desert Flower/ Talks Like Thunder’s perspective we get a few glimpses from her Grandfather Gray Fox.
1871, Desert Flower is only seven years old, her father has long passed and now so has her mother. While he tribe, the White Mountain Apache’s care for her, lack of food and illnesses from the white-eyes (blue coats) has wiped out several leaving her the only child that survived the stomach rot. Enter her grandfather Gray Fox and several of his Chiricahua warriors. Having heard of her mother’s passing he has come to reclaim his granddaughter and take her to his tribe, the Three Hills Chiricahua Apache’s. Very quickly her spirit is strong while she doesn’t want to leave her friends and the family of her tribe, she overhears the fear of starvation if she stays. Riding a horse for the first time she is scared, leaving her people, surrounded by strangers, and going to a place she has never seen or heard of. As part of her assimilation into her grandfather’s tribe she is given a new name, Talks Like Thunder. Finally, she understands and feels her grandfather’s affection for her and in time he calls her daughter as a term of endearment. Mastering many weapons, she is invited to the Warrior’s Society, and she is determined to prove she belongs or at least not go down without a fight. Once she officially becomes a woman, she truly feels that this is her dream tribe, and she belongs.
Can Thunder fulfill her goal of becoming a warrior? Will she get the husband of her dreams Golden Eagle (Sparrow)? With the invaders all around will her tribe be able to survive the battles to come. Learning about our history is only one side of it. This book, while fictionalized, is built upon historical events, and the sadness fills my soul for the loss of so many. The details, world building for the period and growth of the characters leaves you wanting more. Thunder is the female protagonist we all need. She is strong and fierce, and she is a woman that wants a husband and family. Her determination to protect her people and those she loves gives her strength every step of the way. I can’t wait to read more of this series, Falling Star, novella two and see more of this side of history that’s often forgotten.

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