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

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

There’s a reason that I’ve read numerous books by this author and keep coming back! They know exactly how to hook you and hold your attention from the very beginning to the last page. This is the second installment in the Fall River series, but you can read it as a standalone if you prefer. This story expertly weaves themes of love, loss, and the struggle between past and present. Joy and Charlie seem to be pretty opposite. I actually loved that the grumpy character was female for once while the sunshine was our male lead. The author skillfully develops both characters, allowing readers to empathize with their struggles. The dialogue crackles with wit an authenticity, letting you feel the chemistry that simmers beneath their conflicts. This is a heartfelt romance with high emotional stakes and plenty of sincerity. I highly recommend picking this up and getting lost for the weekend!

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The Keeper (Fall River Series) by G. K. Brady – Review by Shannen Kern

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The Keeper (Fall River, #1)The Keeper by G.K. Brady
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I’ve read multiple books by this author and for good reason. They have a brilliant way of crafting a story that pulls you in and refuses to let go. This is the first book in The Fall River series that is full of romance, drama, and adventure. I found myself rooting for both Hailey and Noah as soon as they were introduced. The chemistry between them sizzles and leaps off the pages. The story flows seamlessly, and it is more than your typical contemporary romance. Don’t let the page count put you off either because it sucks you in making it feel like a much shorter book. Pick this up if you’re looking to start a series with some spicy romance that will keep you on your toes!

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Reunion (The Hellgate Chronicles) by Jocelyn Lindsay – Review by Shannen Kern

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Reunion (The Hellgate Chronicles, #1)Reunion by Jocelyn Lindsay
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I’m thrilled that my first experience with this author was such a pleasant surprise! This marks the beginning of The Hell Gate Chronicles, featuring Meg as our formidable protagonist with an unbeatable spirit. I instantly connected with her unique, unconventional nature. As a fan of the supernatural, I found the blend of intense action and captivating elements in this story completely addictive!

One aspect that really stood out to me was Meg’s age—she’s over 40, which is a refreshing change in a genre often dominated by younger characters. The narrative flows seamlessly, with events unfolding naturally. Character development is a highlight, adding depth to the plot and making it easy to invest in each character. I highly recommend this book and can’t wait for the next installment!

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The Holey Land by Laura Koerber – Review by Shannen Kern

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The Holey LandThe Holey Land by Laura Koerber
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I’ve picked up books by this author before, so I knew when I picked it up that I was in for a wonderful read. Despite its brevity, this is a story rich in discovery and insight as the author blurs the line between fantasy and reality. We journey with Molly as she seeks a retreat from the mundane but isn’t quite sure why. What unfolds is a tapestry of magical realism where spirits, art, and the desert landscape intertwine to explore themes of love, grief, and personal discovery.

This book invites readers to ponder how the past influences our present, and how sometimes stepping away from our familiar lives can lead to profound realizations. The author masterfully crafts a narrative filled with whimsy and depth. I don’t want to give too much away because I would be robbing you of a phenomenal read! It’s a delightful escape that is perfect for readers looking for a gentle yet thought-provoking experience. This novella encapsulates the beauty of taking time for oneself and embracing the unknown. I highly recommend picking this up as a mini vacation for the soul. You don’t want to miss it!

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Whisper (The Entian Curse) by Kay Ross – Review by Shannen Kern

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Whisper (The Entian Curse, #1)Whisper by Kay Ross
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This was my first venture into this author’s work, but the cover art grabbed my attention right away. As soon as I read the synopsis, I knew I had to dive in. I was taken aback by how much I loved this book. It has been one of the top reads for the entire year! This is a captivating fantasy novel that explores profound themes of existence, choice, and the morality of power through the lens of a sentient curse. The story begins with Whisper’s harrowing first experience, causing a death that haunts it throughout the narrative. The complexity of Whisper’s character is compelling and the relationships it builds with its allies are touching, revealing its desire to protect those it comes to cherish.

The world-building is rich and immersive, and the tenion escalates beautifully leading to a moral quandary that asks readers to ponder the cost of eradicating death: who must die for the sake of a greater good? The prose is lyrical and thoughtful, blending action with philosophical reflection, allowing readers to engage deeply with the characters’ motivations. The pacing is well-balanced, with moments of introspection interspersed with thrilling encounters, ensuring the narrative never loses momentum. The author fit plenty of humor in as well. This book truly has it all!

Ultimately, this is a poignant exploration of sacrifice and the nature of existence. It will have a significant impact on you and leave you to reflect long after the final pages. This novel is a must-read for anyone who enjoys complex characters and thought-provoking narratives in their fantasy literature. It’s a fresh take on the genre that lingers in the mind, challenging our understanding of life, death, and what it truly means to be human.

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Betrayal (Choosing Family Series) by Jennifer Raines – Review by Shannen Kern

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

I’ve read quite a few books by this author, so I was excited to see another installment of the Choosing Family series. This is a compelling exploration of love, ambition, and the complexities of trust. With a keen eye for character development and a knack for crafting tension-filled scenarios, the author draws readers into the lives of Anna and Hunter, two professionals navigating both their careers and an unexpected romance.

There is fiery chemistry between them and the dialogue crackles with tension. The push-pull dynamic between the characters is expertly handled, and I found myself rooting for both of them even when I may not have wanted to! The way the author intertwines romance with personal growth is astounding. There are plenty of heartwarming connections, but it is deftly balances with the looming shadow of betrayal. I couldn’t read fast enough as the anticipation increased with every twist and turn.

Overall, this is a heartfelt and engaging read that combines sizzling chemistry with poignant themes of trust and redemption. This brilliant author has once again proven her talent for creating characters that linger in your heart long after the last page is turned. If you’re looking for a romance that navigates the intricacies of love and ambition, this book is a must-read.

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Masquerade (Choosing Family Series) by Jennifer Raines – Review by Shannen Kern

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

Having read a few books by this author before, I immediately grabbed this one when I came across it. This is marvelous as the first book in the Choosing Family series. The author weaves a delightful tapestry of romance, identity, and the complexities of family. We get to know Liam and Kate who both have their own secrets and find themselves working together in a professional setting. The author expertly crafts a narrative that combines humor with heartfelt moments.

The chemistry between Kate and Liam ignites a spark that is both steamy and authentic. The tension and attraction are captured beautifully, crafting a romance that feels earned rather than forced. What stands out to me is the author’s ability to balance lighthearted moments with poignant reflections on love, loss, and the masks we wear. The playful tone is reminiscent of contemporary rom-coms, while the deeper emotional threads give the narrative a substantial foundation. The supporting characters add richness to the plot, each contributing to the main characters’ journeys in meaningful ways.

This is definitely a charming read that offers a delightful escape, filled with laughter, romance, and a touch of intrigue. For fans of contemporary romances and rom-coms, this will make a perfect addition to your reading list.

Reviewed by @shannlynn

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Sarge: Going Deep by Stuart Ledwith – Review by Shannen Kern

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

This was yet another thrilling installment in the series, showcasing the author’s knack for blending adventure, intrigue, and a touch of the extraterrestrial. They excel in crafting a narrative rich with layers, both in character development and plot complexity. Dr. Manginaro is a standout character, embodying intelligence and competence as she navigates a world filled with covert operations and military intrigue. The introduction of a new alien race adds depth and excitement to the story, propelling readers into a realm where suspense and unexpected twists reign supreme.

The author masterfully intertwines action with drama, keeping readers on the edge of their seats. The pace is brisk, ensuring that each chapter leaves you eager for more, while the relationships among characters, both familiar and new, add an emotional resonance to the adventure. What truly sets this book apart is the author’s ability to infuse his narrative with a sense of soul.

Overall, this is a captivating blend of adventure, mystery, and character-driven storytelling. The author has once again delivered a gripping tale that fans of science fiction and thrillers alike will find hard to put down. Prepare for a ride that will leave you eagerly anticipating the next chapter in this extraordinary series.

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A Safe Place (Philly Heat Series) by Becky Flade – Review by Shannen Kern

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A Safe Place (Philly Heat series, #6)A Safe Place by Becky Flade
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is the sixth installment of the Philly Heat series, and it is just as incredible as the previous five! You can read this as a standalone, so don’t turn away just because you see #6 in the title. After you finish reading it, you’ll find yourself going back to read the rest of the series anyways because it is fantastic! The author has a unique writing style that engages you from the very beginning and before you know it, you’ve devoured the entire book in one sitting. I enjoyed the fast pace as it made it easy to finish this book in one day. The character development really stood out to me as each one was relatable and felt more like catching up with a friend instead of just reading a story. There is plenty of tension to keep you on the edge of your seat. I found myself reading faster and faster as I turned each page because I needed to find out what was going to happen. There were even a few twists that I didn’t see coming and took me completely by surprise. If you are looking for a captivating romantic suspense novel, this one will definitely keep your attention. I can’t wait to see what else this author has in store for us!

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War Bunny (War Bunny Chronicles) by Christopher St. John – Review by Shannen Kern

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War Bunny: Book 1 of the War Bunny ChroniclesWar Bunny: Book 1 of the War Bunny Chronicles by Christopher St. John
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is the first book in the War Bunny Chronicles as well as the first book I have read by this author. The cover pulled me in with its beautiful artwork and vivid colors. Once I read the synopsis, I knew I couldn’t ignore it. I dove right in as soon as I could and immediately got lost in the post-apocalyptic world the author expertly crafted. I absolutely loved the fact that there is a map at the beginning as it helps me learn the lay of the land without getting bogged down trying to remember details. One of the biggest wins of this work is the character development. This is a fast-paced story that unfolds at a natural pace which makes the timing feel perfect. The different underlying themes of this book took me by surprise, from societal structure to politics. If you’re a fan of YA fantasy books, this is one that is sure to keep you entertained! I can’t wait to see what else this author has in store for us. I’m on my way to pick up the next book in the War Bunny Chronicles!

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Hi Little Brother, I Love You by Deniese Dennis – Review by Shannen Kern

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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

This was my first book I had picked up by this author, and it was such a sweet and heartwarming read! My kiddos are a little older than the target audience, but we still enjoyed reading it together. This delightfully heartfelt exploration of sibling bonds is crafted with care for families welcoming a new addition. It’s a cute picture book that perfectly captures the mix of excitement and adjustment that comes with becoming a big brother! The narrative is simple yet effective, allowing younger readers to relate to the feeling of pride and joy that accompany their new responsibilities. The big brother’s gentle guidance paints a lovely picture of nurturing and companionship. The gorgeous illustrations beautifully capture the warmth and affection shared between the brothers. This is a tender and engaging story that will resonate with families navigating the transition of welcoming a new baby!

Reviewed by @shannlynn

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

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

This is the third book in the Hot Flash Hookups series, and it is steamy! It’s a delightful blend of romance, humor, and emotional depth that captures the complexities of love and responsibility. From the very first kiss in a crowded bar, the tension between our main characters is palpable. Chloe and Nikolai have electric chemistry! The author excels at portraying the complexities of their budding relationship. The narrative is infused with witty banter and heartfelt moments that resonate, making it hard not to root for both of them. Overall, this is a charming, heartfelt romance that tackles themes of redemption, love, and the challenges of parenthood with grace and humor. It’s a story that will resonate with anyone who has ever found themselves torn between what they want and what they think they should do. If you’re looking for a captivating read that combines steamy romance with relatable life challenges, this book is definitely worth picking up!

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Unexpected Revival (Revived Series) by E.L. Roux – Review by Shannen Kern

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

I read a book by this author earlier this year, so when I came upon this one, I picked it up immediately. They deliver a compelling narrative that blends high-stakes adventure with rich character development. Shannon is our main character who came out of a cryogenic stasis, finds herself grappling with her forgotten past and looming threat of planetary annihilation. The tension between her and D’lane grows immensely and leaps off the pages. Both characters go through their own evolution, but Shannon’s is my favorite. She goes from a confused and vulnerable figure to a determined protagonist willing to confront her past. The plot twists are well-timed, keeping me on the edge of my seats as alliances shift and the threat of annihilation looms ever closer.

Overall, this was an engaging and thought-provoking read that blends sci-fi romance, adventure, and a touch of mystery. Fans of sci-fi will find themselves eagerly turning the pages, ready to uncover the secrets of the past and fate of the galaxy. I’m excited to see what else this author has in store for us!

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Railway to Murder (A Buck Greene, Railroad Special Agent, Mystery) by Danny J. Bradbury – Review by Shannen Kern

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Railway to MurderRailway to Murder by Danny J. Bradbury
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This was my second encounter this author, and I was pleasantly surprised by their venture into a slightly different genre. The shift was absolutely refreshing and I found myself more engaged than ever. One of the standout features of the book is its pacing. The shorter chapters create a rhythmic flow that makes it easy to get lost in the story. I found myself eagerly turning the pages, eager to see what Buck, our main character, would encounter next. Buck’s journey is captivating as he stumbles upon a series of intriguing mysteries that unfold with just the right amount of suspense and intrigue.

The author’s writing style elevates the reading experience. It feels more immersive rather than just a leisurely pastime. I was drawn into the world they’ve crafted almost as if I was living the adventure alongside Buck. If you’re a fan of Westerns infused with mystery and adventure, you’ll certainly enjoy this book. I highly recommend it to anyone looking to dive into a thrilling read!

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Love and Fate (A Braebeach Rockstar Romance) by Loriana Cappello – Review by Shannen Kern

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

I was very excited to see this author had published another book in the Braebeach Rockstar Romance series, so I immediately picked this up and dove right in. This is a compelling exploration of second chances, heartache, and the complexities of love. We get to follow Tommy, a former rock star who returns to his hometown, and Angie, the woman he once let slip away. What results is a heartfelt journey of redemption and rekindled romance.

This story expertly balances the emotional turmoil of both characters. The chemistry between them is palpable, making their slow-burn romance all the more rewarding. The author deftly builds tension and depth, allowing readers to witness the growth of both characters as they navigate their intertwined lives. While this can be read as a standalone, it will certainly whet your appetite for more from this series. The mature content is handled thoughtfully, adding depth to the relationship without overshadowing the emotional core of the story. If you’re a fan of slow-burn romances, this book is a must-read for you!

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Strings Attached: A Braebeach Rock Romance by Loriana Cappello – Review by Shannen Kern

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Strings AttachedStrings Attached by Loriana Cappello
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is a new-to-me author, but something about the synopsis pulled me in. As soon as I began reading, I felt transported back to school with kid crushes. The author beautifully crafts a tale of second chances, simmering tension, and the struggle between love and ambition. The narrative explores the complexities of young love, balancing the heat of rekindled romance with the stark realities of pursuing dreams. Call and Ash are both relatable and well-developed characters that are wrestling with their aspirations. I was immediately invested in both of their journeys!

The chemistry between Ash and Calla is palpable, brought to life through vivid descriptions and poignant moments that tugged at my heartstring. The mature, steamy themes woven throughout added depth, and I really appreciated that the author doesn’t rely on the spice to carry the plot. The marvelous backdrop of small-town life colliding with the allure of rock-and-roll adds an exciting layer to the narrative.

Overall, this is an absolutely captivating read for fans of contemporary romance, delivering a blend of passion, nostalgia, and the bittersweet nature of choices. Whether you’re drawn in by the promise of a steamy romance or the thrill of chasing drills, this book resonates on multiple levels. I am eager to see what this author has in store for us next!

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The Trouble With Possibilities by Nancie Abuhaidar – Review by Shannen Kern

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

I hadn’t read any books by this author before, so I was unsure of what to expect. The cover drew me in, and the synopsis piqued my interest, prompting me to give it a try. To my surprise, it turned out to be much more emotional than I anticipated. I found myself relating to the main character, Del, in numerous ways. As a fan of second-chance stories, this book felt like the perfect fit.

What stood out to me is how the author transcends the typical second-chance romance trope. Their writing style is captivating, creating a seamless flow that kept me engaged throughout. The characters are richly developed and relatable, making it feel like I was reconnecting with friends from the pages. The narrative captures Del’s fierce desire to reinvent herself. The chemistry between her and Ben crackles and creates a very tense setting. The author’s exploration of themes such as grief, resilience, and the complexity of human connection is both insightful and engaging. While this book is undeniably raw and heart-wrenching, it also shines with uplifting moments. If you’re in the mood for a fantastic rom com that delves into deeper emotions, I highly recommend giving this one a read!

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The Discovery of Magic (The Intrigue of Magic Series) by L. J. Evias – Review by Shannen Kern

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

This was the first book I had picked up by this author, and it was a magically pleasant surprise! It’s an exhilarating dive into a world brimming with enchantment and intrigue. My favorite character throughout the story is Alice, an archer with a fierce desire for autonomy. The pacing of the narrative is commendable! It’s fast-paced yet allows for moments of reflection that deepen Alice’s character. It picks up as Alice and her friends cross into an ancient realm full of magic and danger. The author excels at world-building, painting vivid imagery that pulls you into the experience. Every character is well-developed, each with their own motivations and secrets that add depth to the narrative. The author’s knack for expertly crafting relatable dialogue and moments of levity balances the darker elements of the plot.

This is a marvelously promising start to The Intrigue of Magic series! It captivates with its blend of relatable characters, powerful enchantments, and relentless action. Fans of YA Fantasy will undoubtedly find themselves swept away in Alice’s adventure and eagerly awaiting the next installment. If you’re ready for a journey filled with mystery and magic, this book is a must-read!

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Sanctuary by Bree M. Lewandowski – Review by Shannen Kern

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SanctuarySanctuary by Bree M. Lewandowski
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

With this being the first book I had picked up by this author, I wasn’t exactly certain what I was getting myself into. The cover grabbed my attention, and the synopsis piqued my interest. It took me some time to find my reading groove, but once I did there was no stopping! The author weaves a mesmerizing tale of ambition, destiny, and love set against a richly imagined fantasy backdrop. Petra is a phenomenal character as our determined heroine and feels compelled to go on quest. It ends up being not only about revenge, but a journey of self-discovery and courage. Once we were introduced to Rand, I was incredibly intrigued and the tension between him and Petra is unmatched. The characters are well-developed, the plot is gripping, and the emotional depth is palpable. If you’re looking for a tale of magical realism intertwined with romance and a bit of spice, you’ll enjoy this book. I highly recommend for fans of fantasy and romance alike!

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Mommy, Am I Indian Today? by Sheeba Varghese – Review by Shannen Kern

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

This was my first experience with this author’s work, and it was nothing short of amazing! The storyline is simple yet captivating and informative. While it is gearing toward younger readers, I still found myself thoroughly engaged with the turn of every page. The illustrations are absolutely stunning and vibrant, beautifully enhancing the narrative. This book will definitely have a permanent place on our shelves. Both of my kiddos, ages 8 and 12, loved every bit of this book, and it also sparked some good conversations between us. I highly recommend getting this book and sharing it with young readers in your life. I can’t wait to explore more of this author’s work!

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

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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 hadn’t read anything by this author before, but I’m always looking for new books to read with my kiddos so we gave it a shot. I’m beyond happy that I picked it up because it is fabulous! The illustrations are fun, vivid, and eye-catching. They helped hold my youngest kiddos attention really well as he tends to wander. We get to learn about Donut, who has been sad since her best friend moved away. She notices a neighbor squirrel, Peanut, and wonders if they can be friends. Every time she tries to start a conversation, the squirrel doesn’t give her a chance and just runs away. Bobo the Bluebird comes by to give Donut some sage advice and it is so good that it might be enough to turn everything around! This book sparked some beautiful conversations around behavior and how perception changes from person to person. I truly loved the information about Social Emotion Learning in the back of the book because it is very helpful. This is a cute and educational addition to your library!

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Gadrella by Tricia Gardella – Review by Shannen Kern

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GadrellaGadrella by Tricia Gardella
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This author became a quick favorite in our household, so I get excited any time I see a new book from them. We also absolutely adore Halloween which meant we jumped for joy when we saw this story! Gadrella loves being a witch, but she’s tired of everything staying the same. The black hats, black cats, and broom are all starting to be a little too boring. She decides that she is going to follow her instincts and wear what she loves even if it is out of the ordinary. The underlying messages throughout the story are beautiful, encouraging the reader to embrace what makes them different and trust themselves. Gadrella decides to show her friends these changes, but how will they react? I also loved the illustrations which added a spunky and fun layer to an already wonderful book. This would make a beautiful addition to any home, school, or classroom library!

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

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

This was my first venture into this author’s work, so I wasn’t sure what to expect. The cover looked intriguing, so I took a shot and picked it up. It was absolutely marvelous! It is the first book in the Colten Fen series, and it really started off incredibly strong. I enjoy everything paranormal which made this werewolf detective story perfect for me! It felt like the author kept closer to the werewolf lore as well which gained quite the brownie points. The story flows flawlessly as the characters develop at a very natural pace. The setting is richly crafted as the author skillfully merges the eerie allure of the supernatural with the rugged reality of 1893. The descriptions are vivid, pulling readers into the strange world where the mundane collides with the magical in unsettling ways. The trio consist of Mary, Colten, and Rennick who complement each other well with their witty bantering and entertaining bickering. I highly recommend this book for anyone looking to immerse themselves in a world that is both familiar and astonishingly new. I am eagerly awaiting the next installment!

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

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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

This is the second book I have read by this author and it was marvelously heartfelt! The characters are by far some of my most favorite that I’ve read this year. The strength of this story definitely lies in its character development. Tasha, a bird enthusiast and a nurse, finds herself drawn to Caleb, a biologist with a captivating knowledge of whooping cranes. She is deeply caring while he is charming and vulnerable. I was fully invested in both of these characters almost immediately as the author pulls at your heartstrings. The flow of the story is magnificent as everything unfolds naturally. If you are looking for a touching love story filled with charm and depth, this one should be your next purchase! It is sure to leave you with a renewed appreciate for the beautify of the natural world as well as the fragility of relationships. I can’t wait to see what else this author has in store for us!

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Luca Magoo, Don’t Eat The Glue (Luca Magoo Series) by Megan Delgado – Review by Shannen Kern

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Luca Magoo, Don't Eat The Glue: A back-to-school tale that encourages positive classroom behavior and creative expression.Luca Magoo, Don’t Eat The Glue: A back-to-school tale that encourages positive classroom behavior and creative expression. by Megan Delgado
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This was our first venture into this author’s work, and I couldn’t resist giving it a try. I am so glad I grabbed it because my kiddos and I had an absolute blast reading it! From the moment we opened the book, we found ourselves bopping along to the fantastic rhyming storyline. I’ve noticed that my youngest pays much better attention when there is rhyming involved. The illustrations added an extra layer of fun that tickled our funny bones. With each page, we find Luca Magoo exploring a new situation that involves an outcome of eating glue. I loved the rhythm and flow of the story, and it felt like the perfect length for both of my kids to enjoy. Overall, I think this would make a lovely addition to any home library, classroom, or daycare! I can’t wait to explore more from this author.

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A Pig and a Poke by Tricia Gardella – Review by Shannen Kern

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A Pig and A PokeA Pig and A Poke by Tricia Gardella
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This author has become quite the favorite in our household and for good reason! My kiddos get super excited when they see me with one of her books. This one was particularly fun because we grew up in a rural area with all kinds of farm animals. I also love that the author always includes life lessons in the midst of the fun stories. Angela is determined to win the pig wrestling contest, but there are a few things she’s unsure about. There’s a lot of people, it seems pretty hard, and there’s a bully here that picks on her at school. It’s a cute story with beautifully vivid illustrations that really add another layer of depth. The flow of the story is natural and a great pace for keeping younger kiddos attention. With a great theme of determination, I think this is a perfect read for kids of all ages!

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The Viper’s Bloodline Awakened (The Gods’ Scion Series) by Winnifred Tataw – Review by Shannen Kern

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The Viper's Bloodline Awakened: The Fifth Book in the Urban Fantasy series The Gods' ScionThe Viper’s Bloodline Awakened: The Fifth Book in the Urban Fantasy series The Gods’ Scion by Winnifred Tataw
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is the electrifying fifth installment of The Gods’ Scion series, and the author delivers a masterful tapestry of tension and intrigue that gripped me from the very first page. I have only read books 3-5 of this series which provided enough background for me to follow, but I highly recommend reading these books in order. Rodrick and Arcelia navigate a treacherous landscape of family secrets, relentless betrayal, and magical power plays. The dark family secrets add depth to the characters as well as complexities that resonate deeply throughout the narrative. Arcelia is a formidable force of her own! She is a magnificently well-developed character and one I’m not ashamed to admire. There are twists and turns as you journey through this story and some left me utterly speechless. This author’s ability to blend intricate character development with high-stakes fantasy is unmatched. I highly recommend this for anyone who loves a story where the sheer number of twists, secrets, and betrayals makes it impossible to predict what lies ahead.

Reviewed by @shannlynn

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London Detective Agency (London Detective Agency Series) by Stephanie R. Caffrey – Review by Shannen Kern

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London Detective Agency: The Complete SeriesLondon Detective Agency: The Complete Series by Stephanie R. Caffrey
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This series is absolutely incredible and I cannot recommend it highly enough .If you are looking for the perfect blend of romance and suspense in a fast-paced thrill ride, pick this up!

Book 1: Mistaken Identity – This was an absolutely phenomenal first book in the London Detective Agency series! The real world did not exist to me once I opened this book, and I didn’t return until I finished the last page. Typically, when I pick up romantic suspense books, they lean heavily on either the romance or suspense. This book somehow balanced both equally, and I loved it! Evelyn is traveling and her bag gets accidentally swapped by another lady named Megan. Patrick is a PI focusing intently on finding Megan…who looks an awful lot like Evelyn. The chemistry between Patrick and Evelyn is palpable and getting to see them react to each other was wonderful. The tension will keep you captivated throughout the entire story. I highly recommend picking this up if you are looking for a fast-paced, intriguing suspense-filled read!

Book 2: Be My Little Baby – This is the second book in the London Detective Agency series, and I enjoyed it even more than the first! While you could possibly read this book without reading the previous one first, I highly recommend picking them up in order. Not only are they just magnificent and complement each other, but getting the background of each character is important in the grand scheme of things. James and Tessa are incredible characters and have been very well developed. The chemistry between the two of them leaps off of the pages! I won’t give anything away, but I will absolutely recommend this book repeatedly. If you enjoy a fantastically crafted romantic suspense story, please do yourself a favor and pick this book up!

Reviewed by @shannlynn

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It’s Cool To Be Kind by Shermaine Perry-Knights – Review by Shannen Kern

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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

This was the first book I had picked up by this author, but the cover looked intriguing, so I picked it up. You can’t go wrong with a book on kindness, but this one exceeded my expectations! I truly loved that these kids were a bit older than most of the books that focus on being kind. It can feel like once you’re older, it’s not as cool to be kind which is far from the case. I also enjoy that another lesson hidden inside is that you get better at what you put your energy into. The flow of this story was incredible and kept the attention of both my 8-year-old and 12-year-old. It also sparked some great conversations in our home that I really appreciate. This would make a marvelous addition to your home, a school library, or even a daycare! I can’t wait to pick up other books by this author.

Reviewed by @shannlynn

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Down By The River by Tricia Gardella – Review by Shannen Kern

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Down By The RiverDown By The River by Tricia Gardella
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

My kiddos and I have read several books by this author and for good reason! They always craft such creative and engaging storytelling with each new adventure. This one in particular has become one of our favorites with the absolutely gorgeous illustrations that blew us away. The rhythm of all the rhyming words had us bopping along as we learned everything about the river. The author entertains us as they educate about the animals near the river and how people enjoy it for recreation as well as depend on it for various reasons. I can’t recommend this highly enough, it will make a great addition to your library!

Reviewed by @shannlynn

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