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Detective Dylan and the Thief of Camp Leaf (A Youth Sleuths Chapter Book Series) by MJ Murray – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

Detective Dylan and the Thief of Camp Leaf (A Youth Sleuths Chapter Book Series 3)Detective Dylan and the Thief of Camp Leaf by M.J. Murray
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Detective Dylan and the Thief of Camp Leaf is Book Three in the Youth Sleuths Chapter Book Series. It is a children’s chapter book full of mystery, adventure, crime, family, friendship, and fun. The story centers around a young boy by the name of Dylan who does not go anywhere without his junior detective kit, that he keeps on an old tool belt around his waist. Along with him on the adventures is his younger sister Emily, who helps him solve each new mystery and his trusty sidekick, his dog Theodore. Dylan, Emily, and Theodore are trying to solve the mystery of the missing Camp Leaf trophy that has been replaced by a moss-covered rock. Determined to solve the mystery, the trio follow the trail of clues to discover there is a long list of potential suspects. This is a great little chapter book for children ages 5 to 9 years of age that are just maybe learning how to read chapter books for the first time. It has a few illustrations mixed in to help bring the story to life. A great book that will teach children about problem solving, vocabulary, and comprehension skills.

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Spook Squad by Allan Evans – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

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

Spook Squad is the third book in the series that follows the adventures of young Abbey. Although this is the third book in the series the author has made it easy enough to pick up this book and not feel lost by providing details and a bit of a backstory on each character. It is a young adult paranormal story full of mystery, intrigue, suspense, danger, action, paranormal elements, ghosts, slime, and humor. The story centers around 14-year-old Abby who can see and talk to ghosts, which can be both a blessing and a curse. Most of the time Abbey can use her ability to help others but currently she has attracted some unwanted attention in the form of a domineering federal agent who insists on Abbey helping her. Abbey has a truly amazing support system with her friends who help her on her various adventures. The friendship between Abbey, Kelly and Lexi is truly admirable as they help each other out through both thick and thin. The author has done a great job of creating an intriguing storyline that flows nicely. The characters are well developed, interesting, and a bit quirky. I enjoyed this book so much that I fully intend to go back and read the first two books ‘Abnormally Abbey’ and “Class Clown”. This is a great addition to any library for both young and old alike.

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Down By The River by Tricia Gardella – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

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

Down By The River is a cute and entertaining little story that teaches children about nature and wildlife. The story follows the twists and turns of the river as it flows and follows the adventures it takes along the way. Children will learn about fish, birds, butterflies, otters, and different landscapes that shape our ecosystem. This delightful story is told in rhymes which makes it engaging for children of all ages. The bright and colorful illustrations help make the story pop off the page and really bring the story to life. A great addition to any children’s library.

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To be a Fae Rogue (Realm Chronicles Series) by Tricia Copeland – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

To be a Fae Rogue (Realm Chronicles Book 4)To be a Fae Rogue by Tricia Copeland
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

To be a Fae Rogue is Book Four in the Realm Chronicles Series. If you have not yet read the rest of the series, I highly recommend that you do as the previous books will introduce you to the characters, give you their back stories and provide information that leads up to this latest installment. It is a fantasy book full of danger, action, drama, tension, mystery, hope, love, friendship, and family. Everyone believes that Titania is dead which allows her the opportunity to pursue things that she was unable to do in the past. To protect the Fae realm and those she loves Titania feels that it is best to remain hidden. However, evil does not rest, and she must fight to protect those she cares about. Titania is an interesting character that puts the needs of others before herself and is willing to make great sacrifices to protect those that she cares for.
The author is done an amazing job of creating the magical and intriguing Fae world. A great story about the battle of good versus evil that was hard to put down.

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Sarge: Going Deep by Stuart Ledwith – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/210075791-sarge” style=”float: left; padding-right: 20px”>Sarge: Going DeepSarge: Going Deep by PhD Ledwith
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Sarge: Going Deep Is an action-packed sci-fi adventure that continues the adventures of our main character Sarge, who we were first introduced to in previous books ‘Sarge’ and ‘Mission 3047’. This story tells us more about Commander T.J. Madison, AKA Sarge, and delves into his personal life and past struggles. Through it all, he has managed to persevere and overcome difficult challenges to become a Navy Seal. In his newest adventure he is joined by some of the characters we met in previous books as well as some new characters. The author has put his heart and soul into this unique story that is full of quirky and interesting characters, strong female protagonists, drama, action, suspense, mystery, intrigue, top secret missions, covert ops, UFOs, and alien encounters. This is a captivating read that will draw you in and keep you hooked until the end.

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The Places We Call Home by Kim Ann – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

The Places We Call Home: A picture book to remind us that home is where all love begins.The Places We Call Home: A picture book to remind us that home is where all love begins. by Kim Ann
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The Places We Call Home is a children’s picture book designed for kids between the ages of newborn to six years of age. It is a cute little book that talks about all the different places that people live. Some people may live in a big home, while other people may live in a small home. Some people may live in the woods, while some people may live in a great big busy city. Some people may live with their families while other people may live alone. Regardless of where we live, home is where the love is. It is where we feel safe and loved. This is a great book that teaches children about different living environments, diversity, community, and belonging. The story is told in rhymes, which makes it fun and entertaining for children of all ages. The bright and colorful illustrations really helped bring the story to life.

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Midnight Falls by John Evans – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

Midnight FallsMidnight Falls by John (ronin) Evans
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Midnight Falls is a gripping psychological horror thriller that is full of tension, mystery, intrigue, suspense, danger, and werewolves. It is the first book that I have read by this author, but it certainly will not be the last. I was pulled into the story from the first few pages and the suspense kept me hooked until the end. The story is set in the small town of Midnight Falls and centers around the MC of Josh, who has recently returned to his sleepy little hometown. Instead of finding peace and tranquility he quickly realizes that he cannot trust anyone, that some have deep seated grudges against him, and that something sinister lurks in the shadows. Josh is a relatable character who is battling between his own feelings of inadequacy, feeling like a failure, and confronting his personal inner demons as well as the very real evil that lurks in the shadows. Looking forward to reading more by this talented author!

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Porter and Midge: Paws and Pastries A Kid’s Guide to Homemade Dog Treats (Porter and Midge Children’s Book Series) by Jennie Chen and Giselle Nevada – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

Porter and Midge: Paws and Pastries: A Kid's Guide to Homemade Dog Treats (Porter and Midge Children’s Book Series)Porter and Midge: Paws and Pastries: A Kid’s Guide to Homemade Dog Treats by Giselle Nevada
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Porter and Midge: Paws and Pastries: A Kid’s Guide to Homemade Dog Treats is Book Five in the Porter and Midge series. This is another great addition to the series that is both informative and easy to read. It teaches children about the responsibility of pet ownership and how to properly raise and care for their dogs. It is full of rhymes which makes it fun while children can also learn from it. The illustrations are bright and colorful which really make the story pop and bring it to life. This book includes healthy recipes for your dog that children will love to help you make for their pet.

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An Ember of Hope (War of Destiny Series) by Theresa Van Spankeren – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

An Ember of Hope: War of DestinyAn Ember of Hope: War of Destiny by Theresa Van Spankeren
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

An Ember of Hope is Book Six in the War of Destiny Series. This book builds on previous books in the series, so I highly recommend reading previous books prior to reading this one. It is a paranormal fantasy full of action, danger, mystery, betrayal, tension, drama, conflict, high stakes, violence, suspense, vampires, and paranormal elements. The main character, Matthew is still reeling from the loss of the death of his soulmate, so he retreats to the mountains to live by himself. He continues to try to hide his powers and that he is a vampire, but it becomes increasingly more difficult to do so because Valentino is attempting to take control of more cities. Matthew becomes a protector and needs to use his powers to protect those he cares about. This was a wonderfully written story with complex, multi layered characters who continue to grow through their struggles and trauma. Along their journey to self-discovery, they learn about trust and friendship. As a warning, there are triggers in this book as it contains flashbacks of imprisonment and torture.

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Forever to Fall (Buckeye Falls Book 5) by Libby Kay – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

Forever to Fall (Buckeye Falls, #5)Forever to Fall by Libby Kay
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Forever to fall is Book 5 in the Buckeye Falls Series. Mallory and Beckett have not seen each other in fifteen years. They were once childhood sweethearts who shared one unforgettable day playing make-believe where they kissed under the apple tree. Then time and distance separated them and each think that the other has forgotten about that moment so many years ago. When Mallory and Beckett are named as Best Man and Maid of Honor for Malory’s brother, Evan, the two spend time together and it reignites the spark between them. Fearing Evan will be unsupportive of their relationship, they choose to keep the relationship a secret which proves to be harder and harder to hide. This was a cute small town second chance romance between childhood sweethearts Mallory and Beckett complete with hope, dreams, love, laughter, and witty banter. I loved the backdrop of small-town Buckeye Falls with its small-town charm and cast of quirky characters. This was another great installment to this amazing series.

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Andrew’s Armor by Jill Monaco – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

Andrew's ArmorAndrew’s Armor by Jill Monaco
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Andrews Armor is a children’s book designed for children between the ages of 4 to 13 years. It is a story of a little boy named Andrew who has a toy chest filled with toys. Each toy takes him on a new adventure and transports him to new wonderful worlds. When Andrew discovers a suit of armor in his toy chest, he puts it on, and it makes him feel courageous and strong. One day he is having a bad day, and he does not feel brave or strong. That is when the notes start to appear on his mirror each day with a new bible quote. As Andrew reads each one of the new notes, he is reminded that strength comes from within, and from God. This was a heartwarming story about forgiveness, kindness, finding strength from God, and that serving others is where true courage, strength, and bravery come from. The illustrations are bright and colorful and really helped bring the story to life. I love how at the end of thew book Andrew has grown up and is now passing on the armor and valuable lessons to his own child. The quotes from the Bible are beautiful and included at the end of the book is an activity guide as well as scriptures suggestions to make sticky notes for your child.

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Notebook Mysteries ~ Art of Deception (Notebook Mysteries Series) by Kimberly Mullins – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

Notebook Mysteries ~ Art of DeceptionNotebook Mysteries ~ Art of Deception by Kimberly Mullins
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Notebook Mysteries: Art of Deception is Book Seven in the Notebook Mysteries Series. It is an historical crime book full of danger, drama, action, adventure, mystery, hidden agendas, intrigue, hidden deception, stolen jewels, and crime. Although this book is part of a series it can easily be read as a standalone. I do, however, recommend reading all the books in this series because it is an amazing series with interesting characters and intriguing storylines. As with all books in the series, this one pulled me right into the story and had me hooked until the end. Our MC, Emma is off on another adventure that involves her ex and his pregnant girlfriend. Emma and her boyfriend Jeremy join forces to hunt down a killer and find a treasure. A great story full of twists and turns and another great addition to this amazing series!

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“Absurd,” Said Bird : A Fun Children’s Adventure About a Mouse Who Dreams of Travel (Mouse Traveler) by Tricia Gardella – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

“ABSURD,” SAID BIRD.: A mouse plans a trip to the moon. by Tricia Gardella
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Absurd, Said Bird: A Fun Children’s Adventure About a Mouse Who Dreams of Travel is the First Book in the Traveler Series. The author has taken her years of experience on a ranch as inspiration to write this entertaining story about ranch life and ranch animals. This delightful little story is about a Mouse who wants to build a plane so he can travel to the moon because he thinks that it is made of cheese. He convinces his barnyard friends to help him and tells them that he will bring them all back some cheese from the moon. The only friend who does not want to go along with Mouse’s plan is Bird, who thinks that Mouse’s plan is absurd. The ensuing story is a delightful little adventure about friends who band together to help a mutual friend. This book will surely delight readers of all ages with its cute story, colorful illustrations, and delightful characters. Looking forward to Book Two in this series!

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The End Of Try Try Again by Kristen Carter, MS – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

The End of Try Try Again: Overcome Your Weight Loss and Exercise Struggles for GoodThe End of Try Try Again: Overcome Your Weight Loss and Exercise Struggles for Good by Kristen Carter
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The End of Try Try Again: Overcome Your Weight Loss and Exercise Struggles for Good is a self-help book designed to help you overcome your battle of the bulge once and for all. The author has been working in the fitness and nutrition industry for over 30 years and has taken the time to write about what tools it takes to help us lead healthier lives. With so many fitness fads and diets out there it can become overwhelming to anyone who is struggling to lose weight or find something that will work for their own personal needs. Personally, I know it’s been an ongoing struggle for me as far back as I can remember to find something that works to keep the weight off. The convenience of processed foods and fast foods combined with a busy lifestyle has made it increasingly more difficult to get healthy and has added to more weight gain. As I got older, the weight became harder to lose, and I feel more defeated. I know that when I want to lose weight, I expect the pounds to come off overnight, which obviously is obviously unrealistic. There is no magic pill that will help the pounds instantly melt off. This book helped me to understand that the combination of numerous factors around me impact my thinking. It is about more than just exercising, more than choosing the correct foods to eat, and about more than sheer willpower. This book gives the tools to explain why it is so much more than that and offers a step-by-step process which enables you to take the steps necessary to improve your over all well being. This was a very insightful read with a lot of tips and pointers that really got me thinking about a new way to approach my health and wellness journey.

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Murder the Tey Way (Golden Age of Mystery Book Club) by Marilyn Levinson – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

Murder the Tey Way (Golden Age of Mystery Bookclub Book 2)Murder the Tey Way by Marilyn Levinson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Murder the Tey Way is Book Two in the Golden Age of Mystery Book Club Series. It is a cozy whodunit mystery full of action, adventure, mystery, intrigue, drama, suspense, tension, and secrets. The story centers around the FMC of Lexie Driscoll who is in the middle of a Golden Age of Mystery Book Club meeting when her sister, Gayle, suddenly arrives. Gayle is on edge, nervous, and appears to be running from something or someone. When a body is discovered in her backyard, and her sister has suddenly vanished, Lexie gets pulled into the middle of a murder mystery that she must solve. As she tries to unravel clues a rash of break-ins occur in the neighborhood and more deaths occur. Along the way Lexie discovers that everyone around her may not be as they seem and that everyone has secrets. A fascinating whodunit with an eclectic cast of characters and a multi-layered storyline full of twists and turns.

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The Monkey Island Murder: A Sparky of Bunker Hill Mystery (Sparky of Bunker Hill Mystery Series) by Rosalind Barden – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

The Monkey Island Murder: A Sparky of Bunker Hill MysteryThe Monkey Island Murder: A Sparky of Bunker Hill Mystery by Rosalind Barden
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The Monkey Island Murder is Book 3 in the Sparky of Bunker Hill Mystery series. It is a cozy historical mystery set in the early 1930’s and centers around a rambunctious, street smart, young 11-year-old girl named Sparky. She loves to solve mysteries and on her newest adventure she finds herself caught in the middle of a mystery that involves her “boss” Bookie. He has been implicated in a murder and Sparky must really put her detective skills to work to solve this case. The ensuing adventure is full of mayhem, mystery, intrigue, witty banter, and quirky characters. The author does a fantastic job of pulling the reader into the 1930’s through her vivid descriptions and attention to detail to that period.

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Unexpected Heroes by Naomi Valkyrie – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

Unexpected HeroesUnexpected Heroes by Naomi Valkyrie
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I first read the story Unexpected Heroes when it was part of a collection of short stories entitled Saved by the Everyday Hero written by thirteen different authors. One of my favorite stories in that collection was by one of my favorite authors, Naomi Valkyrie. Her story entitled Unexpected Heroes is a M/M Romance that centers around the characters of Elijah and Jude. Elijah moves in next door to Jude with his infant son. When Jude sees Elijah struggling late one night to soothe his baby and get him to sleep, he offers to help. From there a friendship grows as Jude helps Elijah unpack, runs errands for him, and helps with the baby. Both men have troubled pasts that each has been struggling to overcome in their own ways. Through their friendship they learn to trust, to love again, and they work together to overcome challenges that come their way. The friendship between them grows and blossoms into more over time and the two find their soulmate in one another.

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Tally and the Angel, The Sands of Time (Tally and the Angel Series) by Eleanor Dixon – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

Tally and the Angel, The Sands of Time: Thrilling Middle Grade fantasy adventure where Greek Myths come alive!Tally and the Angel, The Sands of Time: Thrilling Middle Grade fantasy adventure where Greek Myths come alive! by Eleanor Dixon
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Tally and the Angel: The Sands of Time is Book Four in the Tally and the Angel Series. This fun series is intended for middle school kids between the ages of 11 to 13 years of age. In their newest adventure Tally and her sidekick angel, Jophiel, are in the Greek Islands. Now that Tally is a bit older, she is starting to notice boys and one boy named Theo has caught her attention. Things are not as they seem on the surface and although Tally has always followed her angel’s advice and heeded his warnings this time those warnings may fall on deaf ears. The ensuing adventure is full of mystery, danger, drama, action, with Greek Mythology mixed in. A great read for all ages with engaging characters and a wonderfully written story.

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Secrets, Lies and Betrayals (Protect and Honor Series) by Lynn Wood – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

Secrets, Lies and Betrayals (Protect and Honor Series #1)Secrets, Lies and Betrayals by Lynn Wood
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Secrets, Lies, and Betrayals is Book one in the Protect and Honor series. It is a romantic suspense full of danger, drama, action, secrets, lies, loss, mystery, trauma, betrayal, and political conspiracies. It is told from different points of view, which enables the reader to better understand each character. The story centers around the character of Michaela, or Lea, as she is now known. She has experienced a life of trauma and tragedy that started at a young age and has forced her to keep her identity a secret. It has caused Michaela to live a life where she is constantly in hiding and trying to survive against an unknown enemy for as long as she can remember. Now someone close to her has revealed her identity and she must flee because her life is in danger. An intense, fast paced and action-packed read that will keep you reading until the final page. I look forward to the second book in the series.

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Amy’s Betrayal (Gemstone Massacre Series) by Julia Goldhirsh – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

Amy's Betrayal: An LGBTQIA+ Arthurian, Urban Fantasy (Gemstone Massacre Book 2)Amy’s Betrayal: An LGBTQIA+ Arthurian, Urban Fantasy by Julia Goldhirsh
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Amy’s Betrayal is Book 2 in the Gemstone Massacre Series. It is a fantasy mythology with danger, drama, action, magic, shifters, paranormal elements, friendship, violence, and good versus evil. This book picks up events and characters that were introduced in the first book, so I highly recommend you read it first. This story continues with the adventure of Amy and Opal. Amy has realized that she and Opal have more in common than she realized. She wants to stop Opal from destroying everything in their realm and decides to fight her. Will she have what it takes to stop her and be able to do so at all costs? The author does a great job of pulling you into the story with vivid scene descriptions and imaginative storytelling. The cast of characters is eclectic, including characters that are LGBTQTIA inclusive. Looking forward to more by this author.

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Irresistible Bond (Central Florida Stories Book 5) by Victoria Saccenti – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

Irresistible Bond: Central Florida StoriesIrresistible Bond: Central Florida Stories by Victoria Saccenti
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Irresistible Bond is Book 5 in the Central Florida series. Although it can be read as a standalone, I do recommend that you read previous books in the series because there are overlapping characters and because the series is an amazing series. It is a romantic suspense full of drama, action, suspense, intrigue, danger, love, and passion. The story centers around the characters of Storm, Marcus, and Barrington, who grew up together and were inseparable. Their families do not feel that Storm is good enough and that she is beneath them, so she leaves to pursue a career as a DEA Agent. When she becomes hurt on the job, Marcus and Barrington vow to help her heal both emotionally and physically. Even though the trio have been separated by both time and distance, their friendship not only picks up where it left off but quickly develops into more.
The author has a writing style that will pull you into the book and fully immerse you into the lives of the characters. The characters are engaging, strong, and have a loving relationship between them like no other. The chemistry between them is amazing and they have a bond that nobody can break. This book is a gripping, intense, and fast-paced story of love and loss, second chances, friendship, trauma and healing, and hope. Warning contains adult material and elicit D/s/D dynamics.

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The Silent Forest (The House on the Hill Book 2) by David Kummer – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

The Silent Forest (The House on the Hill, #2)The Silent Forest by David Duane Kummer
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The Silent Forest is Book Two in The House on the Hill Series. It is psychological thriller with action, mystery, intrigue, suspense, secrets, lies, tension, and danger. This book picks up where the first book left off so if you have not yet read the first book, I highly recommend that you do because it introduces the characters and gives their backstory. Set in a small town the story follows a cast of eclectic characters who are trying to settle into a new normal after a series of tragedies. Kaia is trying to find answers to the mysterious disappearances and unsolved cases in town by following a trail of cryptic clues. As she does so she unravels some dark secrets that lead her into danger. The Woods family has taken in a lost boy who seems innocent but may be harboring some deep, dark secrets. The story is edgy, dark, twisted, and full of tension that builds up to a climatic ending setting the stage for the next book in the series.

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The Book of Fears: A Collection of Short Stories by K. S. Gantt – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

The Book of Fears: A Collection of Short StoriesThe Book of Fears: A Collection of Short Stories by K.S. Gantt
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The Book of Fears: A Collection of Short Stories is a collection of eight short stories about eight different people who have their own fear or phobia. It is full of tension, drama, action, mystery, intrigue and heart-pounding suspense. The author delves into fears and phobias such as the fear of death; the fear of butterflies; the fear of abandonment; the fear of cockroaches; the fear of Friday the 13th; the fear of being buried alive; the fear of snakes; and the fear of needles. Things that may seem irrational to outsiders, such as the intense fear of a butterfly, can cause intense and crippling fear in those that are terrified by the fluttering insects. The fear of abandonment can cause someone to go to terrifying lengths to ensure that those they love never abandon them. The fear of cockroaches may lead to an intense obsession with cleanliness to the point that it drives those that love them away or that may lead to irrational and frightening behavior. Please be advised that this collection may have triggers for some as it touches on topics such as domestic violence, abuse, miscarriage, and torture. A great read that has me looking forward to more stories by this author!

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Murder a la Christie (Golden Age of Mystery Book Club) by Marilyn Levinson – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

Murder a la Christie (Golden Age of Mystery Bookclub Book 1)Murder a la Christie by Marilyn Levinson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Murder a la Christie is Book One in A Golden Age of Mystery Book Club Series. It is a cozy mystery with drama, action, suspense, intrigue, quirky characters, secrets, and murder. Lexie is conducting the first meeting of the Golden Age of Mystery Book Club at her friend’s ritzy mansion when one member of the club tragically dies. Lexie is convinced this was murder and begins to investigate in true Agatha Christie style. As she begins to investigate more members of the club die and the list of suspects grow. This book is a true whodunnit that will keep you guessing and have you trying to solve the mystery before Lexie does. Looking forward to Book Two in this series!

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Productivity is Power II: For Creative, Business, and Other Professionals by Hillary Rettig – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

Productivity is Power 2: For Creative, Business, and Other ProfessionalsProductivity is Power 2: For Creative, Business, and Other Professionals by Hillary Rettig
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Productivity is Power 2 is a self help book full of tips, pointers, exercises, and strategies on how to lead a more productive and empowering life. The information contained throughout the book can be applied in your personal life, creative life, professional life, and business life. The author includes a wealth of information including, but not limited to, motivational techniques, dealing with deadlines, setting boundaries, creative prompts, time management, and safe and effective use of social media. This is a handy book that I will be keep on hand and use for those times that I cannot get myself out of the slump I have fallen into. Very inspiring and informative, thank you!

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Fire Meets Fire (Wretched Soulz MC #2) by Manda Mellett – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

Fire Meets Fire: Wretched Soulz MCFire Meets Fire: Wretched Soulz MC by Manda Mellett
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Fire Meets Fire is Book Two in the Wretched Soulz MC Series. It is an MC Romance with drama, suspense, action, intrigue, angst, danger, secrets, passion, and chemistry. The story centers around the characters of Chaz, the President of the MC’s club, and Helo, who has recently been released from the military on a medical discharge. Chaz prides himself on being tough and protecting the members of his club. When he discovers that someone is stealing from them, he vows to catch the person responsible. Chaz catches Helo in the act of stealing motorcycle parts and for some odd reason finds himself admiring how she stands up to him. Although he is determined to remain single, he finds himself attracted to her and when Chaz discovers that someone is after Helo, he cannot help but want to try to protect her. Helo is fierce, strong, independent and does not want saving. Another fantastic well written book with interesting characters by this talented author.

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Five Tries to Get It Right by Kathryn Dodson – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

Five Tries to Get It RightFive Tries to Get It Right by Kathryn Dodson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Five Tries to Get It Right is a women’s fiction story about love, loss, grief, hope, and the strength found in true friendship. Lydia and Kate have been friends since childhood and no matter how busy their lives have gotten, or what direction each of their lives went, they have always been able to pick up their friendship where it left off. Lydia is crushed when she learns that Kate has tried to commit suicide and vows to help her friend bounce back from the edge of darkness. Since the sudden loss of her husband, and her daughter away for school, Kate is all that Lydia has left. Kate is severely depressed since her divorce and the loss of her company and refuses Lydia’s help. Lydia decides that the best medicine can be found in traveling to the five places the two friends visited in their twenties and reliving the best moments from that time. This story was one of resilience, courage, strength, second chances, and rediscovering oneself. Kate and Lydia are wonderful characters that I found personable and relatable. I instantly felt a connection with Kate because of my own past battle with depression and feelings of hopeless. Reading about her journey took me on an emotional rollercoaster and pulled at my heartstrings. Lydia and Kate were lucky to have such a beautiful friendship and find strength in one another.

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Moonlight Drive by A.R. Hadley – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

Moonlight DriveMoonlight Drive by A.R. Hadley
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Moonlight Drive is a contemporary romance full of drama, angst, love, hate, secrets, rockstars, addiction, friendship, groupies, and second chance romance. The story is set in the ’80’s/90’s and centers around the characters of Dani Isabella and Nicki Quick who grew up together and were childhood sweethearts. The world now knows him as Nicki Quick, but Dani knows and remembers him as Nick Johnsen, the boy next door. Nicki swore that he would become a successful musician and would one day return to save Dani but instead he quickly got swept up in the world of sex, drugs, and rock n’ roll. Dani never wanted to be saved and instead wanted to pursue her own dreams and become successful in a boy’s world. What Dani has never told anyone is that she can sing and write songs. Dani/Daniela has joined Moonlight Drive’s 1985 Loved and Wired Tour disguised as a groupie in the hopes that her childhood sweetheart, Nick, will remember her. Unfortunately, Nicki does not recognize her and instead thinks of Daniela as just another groupie. As the two spend time together Nicki soon begins to realize that Daniela is different from the rest of the groupies and that she is a talented songwriter. This was an intense rollercoaster ride of emotions as two souls destined to be together become separated by time, distance, and addiction but are brought together again by love, hope, and music.

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Just Ducky (Weird Shifters Series) by C.A. King – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

Just Ducky (Weird Shifters)Just Ducky by C.A. King

Just Ducky is Book One in the Weird Shifters Series. It is a YA paranormal romance with action, adventure, danger, mystery, suspense, intrigue, shifters, and magic. The story centers around Ducky who has always felt like an outsider that never belonged. She longs to be with the shifter of her dreams, but he does not know who she is, so she watches from afar. Feeling as though she is unable to help in any way, Ducky watches helplessly from the sidelines until war is looming fate and it forces her to make a difficult decision. A brilliant and creative twist on shifters, romance, and fate with a fairytale feeling.

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Evil Sushi (Evil Sushi Series) by C.A. King – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

Evil Sushi (Evil Sushi #1)Evil Sushi by C.A. King
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Evil Sushi is Book One in the Evil Sushi Series. It is a paranormal suspense full of mystery, intrigue, action, adventure, greed, secrets, and good versus evil. This is yet another cleverly written book by this author that never ceases to amaze me with her unique and creative stories. When two fishermen make a discovery, it has the possibility of changing things for everyone. The question is whether that change will be for the better or worse. This newest tale takes the world of fishing and turns it upside down with its take on environmental pollution, corporate greed, pandemics, politics, and desperation. With detailed and vivid writing the author fully immerses the reader into the story and the numerous twists and turns will compel you to read until the end. Looking forward to book two!

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