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The Importance of Being Roxie by Cori Cooper

❤️‿➹⁀✵‿➹⁀❤️ BOOK SPOTLIGHT SHOWCASE ❤️‿➹⁀✵‿➹⁀❤️
The Importance of Being Roxie by Cori Cooper
Hosted by Itsy Bitsy Book Bits
Genre – YA
On the first day of her senior year of high school, Roxie Lewis has a startling revelation. High school is almost over and she’s wasted her time. Instead of designing clothes and watching old movies with her friends, Roxie should have done things. Big things. Important things. Memorable things. Like her sister Pyper. Pyper made a difference in high school, she will never be forgotten. Unless Roxie makes some major changes, like, yesterday, she’ll graduate unknown, unsung and unpopular.
So Roxie makes those changes, practically overnight, and discovers the path to popularity is smoother than she thinks, but the cost is higher than she bargained for. Will Roxie trade the person she is for the person she thinks she’s supposed to be? Or will she realize how important it is to just be herself?

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Click here to view the Book Trailer for The Importance of Being Roxie by Cori Cooper

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By day, Cori Cooper is the mild-mannered (sort of) Wife to her high school love, the Mother of four punny, movie-quoting, awesome-sauce kiddos who are adults and teens now, (yeah, that happened fast), and the Writer of stories that (hopefully) leave readers with a warm and slightly squishy feeling. (That’s not weird at all).

 

And by night… Cori Cooper is sleeping because that’s her fifth favorite thing to do.

 

Writing and publishing books is a long-time dream come true. Sometimes she has to pinch herself (also not at all weird) that she’s actually doing the thing she imagined when she was six years old. It’s surreal, and yet, stinking amazing.

 

So when she’s not hanging out with her fabulous family, or writing stories, Cori loves reading or listening to books that make her want to be a better person. She has a fetish for watching cheesy Hallmark movies with her girls – the cheesier the better. She’s passionate about baking anything that has copious amounts of butter, and quite frequently, she can be found rearranging furniture, organizing closets, and changing the color of paint on interior walls.

 

You can connect with Cori on Instagram, Facebook, Bookbub, Goodreads and her website – Coristories.com

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From Ash & Darkness by J.L. Sullivan

After banishing the evil djinn, Bax’s life has returned to normal – almost. His guilt-fueled nightmares won’t relent until he musters the courage to return Ifrit’s artifact and finally lay the demon to rest. But nothing in the djinn-verse is ever easy.
Someone has summoned Ifrit back into the world, placing Bax at the center of the swirling dark wishes the djinn is fulfilling for his new master.
As Ifrit’s attacks grow deadlier, Bax and his friends must uncover the identity of Ifrit’s new master and convince them to banish the evil spirit. But with no high-powered lunar eclipse for another one hundred and fifty years, banishment might be impossible.

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L. Sullivan writes young adult novels inspired by gritty urban environments and the fantastical tales that percolate within abandoned buildings and desolate alleys. He began his writing journey in high school with a local newspaper before venturing into creating writing in college where he found himself lost in contemporary stories with magic summering just underneath the surface. His debut novel, From Brick & Darkness, a dark reimagining of an ancient myth, won multiple awards following its spring 2022 release, with a sequel coming in 2025. He currently lives in St. Louis with his wife, two daughters, and a dog named Princess Penelope Picklesworth.

 

He loves to connect with readers on social media or by email at contact@jlsullivan.net.

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From Brick & Darkness by J.L. Sullivan

Bax always fantasized something remarkable would happen in his life. So when a decrepit man with glowing purple eyes offers him a ring intended for his estranged father, Bax accepts.

The ring speaks to Bax in a dream, tempting him with a vision of a powerful djinn. Desperate to make his fantasies a reality, Bax unleashes a creature called Ifrit, but soon learns this djinn isn’t what the ring led him to believe. Feeding off the depths of his subconscious, the sinister demon fulfills what he thinks Bax wants by manipulating, threatening, and murdering. With everyone he loves in danger and a trail of crimes pointing back at him, Bax must scramble to solve the puzzle that will banish Ifrit forever.

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J.L. Sullivan writes young adult novels inspired by gritty urban environments and the fantastical tales that percolate within abandoned buildings and desolate alleys. He began his writing journey in high school with a local newspaper before venturing into creating writing in college where he found himself lost in contemporary stories with magic summering just underneath the surface. His debut novel, From Brick & Darkness, a dark reimagining of an ancient myth, won multiple awards following its spring 2022 release, with a sequel coming in 2025. He currently lives in St. Louis with his wife, two daughters, and a dog named Princess Penelope Picklesworth.

 

He loves to connect with readers on social media or by email at contact@jlsullivan.net.

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When Stars Collide in the City (Stars in the City Series) by Krysten Lindsay Hager

♥♥☆ BOOK SPOTLIGHT SHOWCASE ☆♥♥
When Stars Collide in the City (Stars in the City Series) by Krysten Lindsay Hager
Hosted by Itsy Bitsy Book Bits
Genre – YA Contemporary Romance
Page Count – 290
Cover Designer – Cora Graphics
From the outside, Olivia Macomb looks like she leads a charmed life. She’s an up-and-coming influencer who is an heir to the Macomb family fortune, and about to start a lifestyle brand with her childhood sweetheart, Jeff. Then her world gets blown apart by her longtime boyfriend leaving her the morning of their website launch. Not only has he left, but the business she created is all in his name and she’s been left with nothing to show for all her hard work. Now she has to pick up the pieces and find out who she is on her own.
Enter Walker Vinton, the indie pop star who used to date Olivia’s close friend, Paige. When their school throws a big event, Paige asks Walker to be Olivia’s date to give to the gossip bloggers something else to talk about other than Olivia’s broken dreams.
Walker ends up coming to Olivia’s rescue in more ways than one at the party, and a twist of events leads to the two embarking on a fake relationship. Walker and Olivia wind up becoming best friends and she realizes he’s the boyfriend of her dreams.
He helps her build both her brand and her self-esteem back up. Walker even helps her start a new business. However, the lines begin to blur as Olivia’s feelings for Walker are very real. The two share intimate conversations and dreams, but what’s real and what’s fake in this starry world?

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Krysten Lindsay Hager writes about friendship, self-esteem, fitting in, frenemies, crushes, fame, first loves, and values. Her work includes YA contemporary, middle grade fiction, and adult and young adult rom-coms. She is the author of True Colors, Best Friends…Forever?, Next Door to a Star,  Landry in Like, and Competing with the Star (The Star Series: Book 2), Dating the It Guy, Can Dreams Come True, and In Over Her Head: Lights, Camera, Anxiety.

Her debut novel, True Colors, won the Readers Favorite award for best preteen book and the Dayton Book Expo Bestseller Award for children/teens. Competing with the Star is a Readers’ Favorite Book Award Finalist. Best Friends…Forever? is a 2019 Readers’ Favorite Silver Medal Winner in the Children – Preteen genre. Landry in Like is a Literary Classics Gold Medal recipient and a 2020 Readers’ Favorite Bronze Medal Winner. She received her BA in English and master’s degree in liberal studies from the University of Michigan-Flint.

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A Game of Malice (Malicious Games Series) by Gledé Browne Kabongo

Welcome to Branson Academy, where secrets can kill, trust is a dangerous game, and the deadliest lessons aren’t taught in the classroom.

When tech prodigy Mackenzie Fleming disappears, her best friend Lucas Rambally is determined to find her. But the deeper he digs, the darker it gets. Blackmail, death threats, secret societies, corporate espionage… This is way bigger than a missing person case.

As his search intensifies, Lucas uncovers a web of dark secrets that could bring Branson Academy to its knees. Then Branson insider and chess master Ivy Ishihara starts dropping sinister chess metaphors. And they’re not just clever wordplay—they’re dire warnings. Lucas has stumbled into a game he was never meant to play, and one wrong move could prove fatal.

The clock is ticking, and to find out what really happened to Mackenzie, Lucas must answer one simple question: Is his friend running for her life, or is her disappearance a mind-blowing con that conceals something far more shocking than anyone could have imagined?

Click here to experience a Chapter Reading of A Game of Malice (Malicious Games Series) by Gledé Browne Kabongo

Gledé Browne Kabongo is a multiple award-winning author of eight psychological thrillers that keep readers at the edge of their seats from the first page to the last.

​Her novels, characterized by their strong emotional core, high-stakes, danger, and jaw-dropping twists include: A Game of Malice, Our Wicked Lies, Fool Me Twice, Conspiracy of Silence, and the Fearless series.

Readers have described Gledé’s work as “unbelievably addictive,” “brilliant,” “captivating,” “unputdownable,” “spellbinding,” “deliciously duplicitous,” and “haunting and complex.”

​Gledé has spoken at multiple industry events including the Boston Book Festival, Sisters in Crime (SinC) New England Crime Bake, and the Women in Publishing Summit. When she’s not torturing her characters, she’s hosting webinars and workshops on the craft of writing fiction and working as a Content Marketing Manager for a high-tech start-up. Gledé lives outside Boston with her husband and children. You can reach her at glede@gledekabongo.com or her author website.

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Mortals and Angels (The End of Eternity Series) by Bethany Summers


MORTALS AND ANGELS
Book One of the End of Eternity Series
END TIMES? THE END OF THE WORLD? THE END OF US?
BUT THAT’S ALL JUST A MYTH, RIGHT?… RIGHT?…
ANGELS?… SERIOUSLY?… IS THIS A JOKE?
Like Buffy and Bella, (but without the vampires), seventeen-year-old Mary Donahoe, has a secret. She’s more clued in than most of earth’s inhabitants about the true nature of reality. She can answer with confidence eternal questions such as, does life go on after physical death? Yep! What about angels and demons? Yep! What about the eternal battle between good and evil? Yep! Ongoing.
From Mary’s point of view all the above are just the usual straddling of time and eternity she’s dealt with her entire life. Recently though, Mary’s noticed there was significantly more action on the eternal side of things. According to the rumors she was hearing lately, humankind was about to be in some serious shit. Something about how the sand in earth’s hourglass was down to its last granule. Apparently, the arbiters of the universe (or Archangels, as they are known in this little world), have run out of patience with humankind’s gleeful descent into evil, evidenced by earth’s wars, violence against the vulnerable, oppressive governments, destruction of the planet, weapons of mass destruction, etc. etc. You get the idea. Evidently, all the spirits racing towards earth lately are gathering to see the show, in anticipation of the spectacular nature of divine vengeance about to be wreaked upon us unsuspecting humans. Even in the angelic realms, both the fallen and unfallen variety, bets are being placed on the outcome.
Mary doesn’t have the bandwidth right now for intergalactic mysteries. She’s already time-challenged and stressed over the whole college admissions deal. Between parental admonitions about keeping her grades up, acing the SATs, adding to her extracurriculars, not to mention the day-to-day challenges of being a teenager in these trying times, there’s nothing left over to unravel the fate of humankind.
You see, Mary hasn’t figured out yet that her dirty little family secret has a price attached to it. Since the beginning of time, generation after generation, the gift has passed unbroken from mother to daughter. And the price of that gift is about to come due.
Oh, and all those disembodied visitors speeding towards earth from across the galaxies? They’re coming to see Mary.
Because she’s the one.

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Click here to view the Book Trailer for Mortals and Angels (The End of Eternity Series) by Bethany Summers

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Bethany Summers is the pen name for Lynn Wood whose books you’ll find in the suspense and thriller, romance, and historical romance genres, usually with a magical or supernatural thread woven through the tapestry of the stories. Mortals and Angels, the first book in The End of Eternity Series, written under Bethany Summers, is Lynn’s first novel in the fantasy/young adult fantasy genre and explores deeper her fascination with timeless questions of mortality versus eternity, good versus evil, humanity’s place in the mosaic of creation, and humanity’s relationship to the angelic realm. When she’s not reading or writing, Lynn spends her time with family and friends, traveling around the country and the world, and whenever she can, at the beach, under an umbrella…reading a book, of course.

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Frozen in Time by Kelly Swan Taylor

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Frozen in Time by Kelly Swan Taylor
Hosted by Itsy Bitsy Book Bits
Genre – YA Thriller
Page Count – 258
Cover Designer – Murphy Rae

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A YOUNG ADULT MYSTERY/THRILLER…
Sometimes you can’t escape your past.
Sixteen-year-old Summer Ellis is terrified of ice. But there’s a valid reason. Ten years ago, she lost her childhood best friend on frozen Winterberry Lake. Returning to the remote New Hampshire town, she stumbles upon another young victim claimed by the lake. It appears the past is repeating itself.
After her gruesome discovery, newcomer Summer is dubbed the town outcast. While she comes to terms with two tragic losses, she meets beguiling blue-eyed Tate, who quickly sweeps her off her feet. The problem? He is not just charming, but Winterberry High’s star ice hockey goalie. Which means only one thing: MORE ICE.
With a town full of suspects and tensions as thick as January ice, Summer’s detective mom reassures the residents that the killer will soon be brought to justice. But just as the lake drew Summer to its dark icy depths so many years ago, she now feels compelled to solve its next chilling mystery.
Like the memories of her childhood, Summer is FROZEN IN TIME.

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Author Interview with Kelly Swan Taylor

Growing up immersed in beloved “Teen” novels, Kelly Swan Taylor now crafts her own sweet stories that bridge the gap between middle grade (MG) and young adult (YA) fiction. From friendship adventures to chilling mysteries and thrillers, all with a sporty twist and a dash of romance, her contemporary novels ignite the imagination while championing the everyday hero.

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Kianola by Nathan Roth

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Kianola by Nathan Roth
Hosted by Itsy Bitsy Book Bits
Genre – YA Fantasy
Page Count – 626
The harsh realities of middle school meet the endless possibilities of an online fantasy realm. Nole, an awkward eighth-grade introvert, escapes into the mystical world of Enix, where he reinvents himself as a brave adventurer. While facing the daily struggles of adolescence – bullies, unrequited crushes, and self-doubt – Nole finds solace in a digital universe filled with mythical creatures, perilous quests, and the chance to be anything he dreams of. But will his newfound confidence in-game translate to real life? Kianola is a tale of friendship, self-discovery, and imagination, capturing the journey of growing up across two worlds.

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Click here to view the Book Trailer for Kianola by Nathan Roth

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Nathan Roth is a sometimes-bearded connoisseur of immaculate bants that lives on the internet. Although he greatly enjoys trashposting in online video games, it’s all just a cover for his legitimate love of writing fantasy. His first book started as a joke, like most things he does, but after the punchline faded, his commitment to storytelling stuck.

Roth fluctuates between ordering large quantities of hot dogs, avocados and bananas and forgetting to eat altogether. In his free time he can been found taking care of his plot-twistingly cute shaking-leaf of a dog, Rosa-Barksia, and seeking human touch via flesh-chess, aka Brazilian jiu-jitsu.

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Evergreen Academy (Society of Magical Botanists Series) by Heather Schneider

 

* ^ * 🌟 * ^ * BOOK SPOTLIGHT SHOWCASE * ^ * 🌟 * ^ *
Evergreen Academy (Society of Magical Botanists Series) by Heather Schneider
Hosted by Itsy Bitsy Book Bits
Genre – YA Fantasy
Page Count – 340
Cover Designer – Krafigs Designs

I’d always sensed something peculiar about the reclusive Evergreen Academy, tucked deep in the woods of my hometown. But I never could have imagined it was a college for magical botanists–and that I am one of them.

An invitation to the academy opens up a whole new world of wonder, yet my plant affinity powers remain elusive, and my scientific training is far behind that of my peers.

When I’m assigned a tutor, Callan Rhodes, a powerful descendant of the academy’s founders, I’m baffled by his willingness to help me.

Despite my challenges, I’m enchanted by the academy’s glass schoolhouse, its grounds which are overflowing with plants that defy the climate, and the quirky festivals held each equinox and solstice.

But disaster looms as the verdant shield that protects the academy from the prying eyes of nonmagical people begins to falter. Can Callan and the other founder’s descendants sustain the magic on their own, or will the clock finally start to tick on figuring out my powers?

Elements you’ll find in this story:

  •       Magical academy
  •       Plant magic
  •       Small town setting
  •       Cozy fantasy
  •       Light academia
  •       Science-based magic system
  •       Slow burn romance (no spice)
  •       First person POV
  •       An enchanting world
  •       And so much more

~ AMAZON ~

Heather Schneider lives in Las Vegas with her husband and their Chiweenie, Toby. 

When she’s not writing, you can find her reading, listening to podcasts, traveling, or spending time with family.

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Spook Squad by Allan Evans – Review by Stephen Rymer

Spook SquadSpook Squad by Allan Evans
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

IMPORTANT BEFORE READING THIS BOOK! You should read the first 2 books before reading Abnormally Abbey and Class Clown.
Spook Squad by Allan Evans is a good horror book about magic and High school students. There is weird stuff that is happening in this school, and it all revolves around the main character 14-year-old Abbey. I like how this book was written in the view of Abbey and how this book dips into the horror aspect. Abbey is a great written character and is written exactly like a high school student. So, if you are into horror and suspense pls grab some food such as popcorn and a nice drink and enjoy this book.
Stephen Rymer
10/2024

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War Bunny (War Bunny Chronicles) by Christopher St. John – Review by Sarah King

War Bunny: Book 1 of the War Bunny ChroniclesWar Bunny: Book 1 of the War Bunny Chronicles by Christopher St. John
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This book was an interesting read. I had not previously read anything by St. John, but I am happy I gave the book a chance. While i did find the book ‘s a little slow to start, I truly enjoyed it. The story and characters are well developed. I would recommend this book to others.

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The Discovery of Magic (The Intrigue of Magic Series) by L. J. Evias – Review by Kerry Baker

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

This book is a great YA fantasy story that has a brilliant cast of characters. The friend group that is pulled through into a different world are a perfect mix of different personalities. They all have such unique experiences when they get there but it makes for a really interesting read.
The world building starts off slow, but it definitely doesn’t finish that way. You soon find yourself pulled into the story and wanting to discover even more about it. As the first book in a new series, this is a really great start and I am looking forward to seeing what else the series has to offer.

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War Bunny (War Bunny Chronicles) by Christopher St. John – Review by Anantha Rusum

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 book took me by surprise, I was expecting a fast-paced adventure, but it ended up to be a very thought provoking read. The story is indeed about rabbits, one young rabbit, Anastasia, who defies the norms, questioning why rabbits should be prey animals. She gets ousted from her warren, faces a predator, fights back bravely. Then she finds herself in a position she never vied for, a leader who can revolutionize her clan. As I kept reading, there were layers of depth added to the storyline and the characters. I was so glued to it until the end. I would like to read more from this series.

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Productivity is Power: 5 Liberating Practices for College Students by Hillary Rettig – Review by Hannah Porter

Productivity is Power: Five Liberating Practices for College StudentsProductivity is Power: Five Liberating Practices for College Students by Hillary Rettig
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I have read another Productivity of Power book and it has helped me alot so I thought I would give this one a try also. The ones that helped me the most in this book were Developing a Nonperfectionist Inner, The Perils of Overgiving, and “Unproductive” Versus “Quasi Productive” Procrastination, and Other Distractions. I’m looking forward to putting what I learned here to great use. In this the author emphasizes mindfulness and self-care, by advocating for mental well-being, she underscores that productivity isn’t just about getting more done—it’s about maintaining a healthy balance. She also emphasizes the importance of time management and provides tools to do so. With these practices it aims to empower students to take control of their time and energy, enhancing both academic performance and overall well-being.The book is well-structured, blending practical advice with psychological insights. I will definitely be recommending this to people I know.

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Productivity is Power: 5 Liberating Practices for College Students by Hillary Rettig – Review by Jennifer Gordon

Productivity is Power: Five Liberating Practices for College StudentsProductivity is Power: Five Liberating Practices for College Students by Hillary Rettig
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

An enjoyable, easy to read and informative self help book for college students wanting to increase their productivity. This book acknowledges the extreme pressures there are on college students, along with the intense competition and distractions such as social media. This book aims to “address the unique needs and productivity challenges that college students have”. The book offers unique and effective solutions for students to not only survive at college but thrive and succeed!

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Spook Squad by Allan Evans – Review by Jamie Truex

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

Another great book from Allan Evans! Spooky Squad is a young adult paranormal story than continues with the life of 14 year old Abbey who can communicate with ghosts. You absolutely can read this book on its own but I would recommend that you read them in order as this is the third book and you learn so much about Abbey and her gift in the first two books. She has a small group of friends that know about her abilities and are there to support her and help in her adventures with the paranormal. I would highly recommend this book whether for your young adult reader, or for anyone who enjoys young adult paranormal stories.

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Productivity is Power: 5 Liberating Practices for College Students by Hillary Rettig – Review by Nina Maes

Powerful! I love how you can get a different point of view on procrastination and other areas that will be effective. Also, this has different tools that you can use to overcome your obstacles. Definitely will be keep this on my desk for reference and examples to go back to. Recommend this very helpful for every college student, advisor, mentor, high schooler.Productivity is Power: Five Liberating Practices for College StudentsProductivity is Power: Five Liberating Practices for College Students by Hillary Rettig
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Powerful! I love how you can get a different point of view on procrastination and other areas that will be effective. Also, this has different tools that you can use to overcome your obstacles. Definitely will be keep this on my desk for reference and examples to go back to. Recommend this very helpful for every college student, advisor, mentor, high schooler.

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War Bunny: Book 1 of the War Bunny Chronicles by Christopher St. John – Review by Roxsanne Lesieur.

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

Anastasia is a young rabbit who lives in a post apocalyptic world where humans have been wiped out and the animals rule, she lives with her family in a warren which is safe from harm, that is until she goes out of the protected area and is chased by a fox, this nearly sends her into a fugue state, but she fights off the sensation and makes it back to her burrow. Unfortunately for Anastasia, it isn’t her only unconforming behaviour, there are other aspects where she falls short, at least in others eyes, especially when she questions the rules and why they live the way they do, and so she is exiled from her uncomfortable life and becomes one of the Unwarrened.

Being as young as she is, this leaves her extremely vulnerable to the Blessed and their vicious ways, but she does what she can to survive, the first of which is to dig a new burrow, but she has to do it in such a way so as not to attract attention to herself. When she has settled in, she begins to find others who have been cast out and exiled for being weak, sick, abandoned or just lost and she takes them in and builds a safe place for them.

As Anastasia continues to create this safe space, it isn’t without its challenges, especially when she rebels against those who would prey upon her and instead question everything she believed, but will she be able to keep herself and the rest of the warren safe, or will the danger surrounding her lead her to her demise? This is a coming of age tale with a dystopian twist which will keep you hooked as this new world develops.

Reviewed by @roxsannel

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War Bunny (War Bunny Chronicles) by Christopher St. John – Review by Felicia Belcher

War Bunny: Book 1 of the War Bunny ChroniclesWar Bunny: Book 1 of the War Bunny Chronicles by Christopher St. John
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This was definitely a different read. Bunnies sick of being at the bottom of the food chain and fighting back, “A Bugs Life” vibe. Raccoons namer after medicine made me cackle!

Anastasia is cast out of her Warren due to an injury, but also because of her OCD. She inadvertently creates a safe haven for the other injured bunnies from other Warren’s who would suffer a fate from the “Blessed Ones” without a home for protection.

Review by @Fbelcher93

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War Bunny (War Bunny Chronicles) by Christopher St. John – Review by Jessica Godwin

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

Set in a world where humans longer exist and animals are either predator or prey and the prey are expected to accept their fate. Anastasia, a rabbit, starts questioning everything she was taught about accepting her fate as prey, and then is cast out from her warren and family for doing so. She then runs into some foxes and trying protect herself, starts to dig a hole to hide in. While doing so she accidentally injures one of them and word gets around about the rabbit that fights back. She starts her own warren and soon others start to arrive asking for shelter. Soon a community of misfits and outcasts come together and decide that they are tired of being prey and are fighting back.

This was an interesting read. I enjoyed the characters very much and found myself rooting for them especially when it came to them fighting back against the predators. I liked that this is told from multiple points of view so you get to know each character a little bit more. I had never read a book where the story was told from the animals point of view but I really enjoyed this book and can’t wait to read the other books in the series.

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

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!

Reviewed by @shannlynn

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War Bunny (War Bunny Chronicles) by Christopher St. John – Review by Finn Cunningham

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

War Bunny by Christopher St. John is book one of The War Bunny Chronicles. A wonderfully unique, and truly enthralling read that genuinely makes you sit down and think. I was absolutely absorbed in this book, and had trouble putting it down, or not discussing it with my husband! He practically read this with me, I HAD to talk about it. I haven’t read anything from this author before, but he’s a must read from now on.

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Spook Squad by Allan Evans – Review by Megan Kimley

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

I loved this spooky YA thriller. This is the third installment in the series, but I didn’t know that and it read perfectly fine as a standalone. I’m sure that reading the other two first would fill in some minor gaps but I don’t believe it to be necessary. I love Abbey as a character and her friends are awesome! I loved to see her development over the course of the book and her snarky inner thoughts (that sometimes got said out loud) were amazing. The whole concept of Abbey not only as a character but also as a plot line was done amazingly well. This is the perfect read for spooky season; especially if you are looking for something with a little spook but not a lot of fright.
Reviewed by @meggs1717

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War Bunny (War Bunny Chronicles) by Christopher St. John – Review by Jennifer Ramos

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

I read the book preview to this one and I thought I had to give it a try. It’s such a crazy concept in thinking what if humans no longer existed and nature took its course. In this post-apocalyptic story, this is exactly what transpires and animals take over. I am a big animal lover so I needed to see how this story plays out in such a situation! This story centers on the character of Anatasia, a bunny, who understands that in a world where she is viewed as a prey overcomes that concept. She questions what has been and what could be. After being kicked out of her home by her mother, she experiences a plethora of human-like emotions within new surroundings. It is great to see a human resemblance within animal situations. This is such a great read for those who love animals, dystopian feel, humor, action packed and great character. development.

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War Bunny (War Bunny Chronicles) by Christopher St. John – Review by Samantha Dunavin

War Bunny: Book 1 of the War Bunny ChroniclesWar Bunny: Book 1 of the War Bunny Chronicles by Christopher St. John
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

From the beginning, this story grips you in the claws of heart pounding adventure. Our main character, Anastasia, narrowly escapes a Blessed One (predators who are entitled to their prey, grown accustomed to an easy hunt). As she navigates through her Warren, she discovers her passion and will to live are not accepted among her peers. When she is cast aside by her own mother, left to fend for herself, all hope seems to be lost. However, our adventure doesn’t end there. Anastasia, still filling her hunger to live, creates her own Warren with many like her who have been cast aside by those they love.
I never expected myself to be so drawn in by a group of rabbits, but I found myself rooting for these bunnies more than I rooted for the human characters of many of my favorite stories. Definitely recommend, quite an interesting read!

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War Bunny (War Bunny Chronicles) by Christopher St. John – Review by Crystal Brehant

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

A world with no humans and animals rule and it is predator vs. prey. One bunny questions why they must be prey. When she questions the elders, she’s ousted and left vulnerable. This is a great story for kids and teens about standing up for yourself and having courage. It’s a unique twist on a post-apocalyptic world. I think this is perfect for older kids and young teens.

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The Discovery of Magic (The Intrigue of Magic Series) L. J. Evias – Review by Joanne Ellis

The Discovery of Magic (The Intrigue of Magic, #1)The Discovery of Magic by L. J. Evias

The Discovery of Magic by L. J. Evias is a thrilling, fast-paced introduction to The Intrigue of Magic series, blending elements of epic fantasy with a modern young adult sensibility. The novel follows Alice Harper, a strong-willed seventeen-year-old with a gift for archery, as she is thrust into a world of magic, mystery, and dangerous political intrigue. Readers looking for a story full of adventure, magical realms, and a courageous protagonist will find much to enjoy in this captivating first installment.

The story begins with Alice struggling with a familiar coming-of-age dilemma—feeling powerless in the face of her parents’ decisions about her future. Determined to chart her own course, Alice’s focus on winning a scholarship sets her up as a relatable and ambitious character. However, her life takes an unexpected turn when she and her friends are transported through a portal to an ancient and dangerous world. This sudden transition is handled with energy and immediacy, pulling the reader into the heart of the action as Alice is separated from her friends and forced to navigate a foreign, magical realm on her own.

Evias excels at world-building, quickly immersing readers in a vibrant and unpredictable setting filled with ancient magic, mysterious mages, and shifting political alliances. The realm Alice finds herself in is full of intrigue, and the novel does an excellent job of balancing magical elements with the darker, more treacherous realities of royal courts. As Alice is introduced to charming but suspicious mages and royal figures, the tension mounts, and the stakes grow higher, creating a constant undercurrent of danger. The political intrigue keeps the plot engaging, as Alice must learn to navigate shifting allegiances and question whom she can trust.

Alice herself is a compelling protagonist. Brave and bold, yet reckless and sometimes unsure, her character feels realistic and multifaceted. She is not a perfect hero, but her flaws make her more relatable as she grapples with the confusion and fear of being trapped in a strange world. Her determination to find and protect her friends, even when she isn’t sure whom to trust, drives the emotional heart of the novel. The book’s focus on her growth and inner struggle adds depth to the high-stakes adventure.

The supporting cast, especially the charming and potentially untrustworthy mages, adds intrigue and complexity to the story. Evias keeps readers guessing about their true motivations, creating suspense as Alice tries to discern friend from foe. This uncertainty, combined with the magical dangers surrounding her, keeps the reader hooked throughout.

One of the novel’s strengths is its pacing. From the moment Alice is pulled into this magical world, the action moves quickly, making it difficult to put the book down. The story transitions smoothly between scenes of heart-pounding action, moments of quiet character reflection, and escalating political tension, ensuring there’s never a dull moment. The combination of fast-paced action and the slow unraveling of the court’s secrets ensures that readers are fully engaged in Alice’s journey from start to finish.

However, some readers may wish for a bit more development in the magical system itself. While the world Evias creates is lush and imaginative, the rules and limits of the magic could have been explored in greater depth to enhance the stakes of the characters’ choices. That said, this is just the first book in the series, and it’s likely that future installments will delve deeper into the intricacies of the magical world.

Overall, The Discovery of Magic is an exciting and immersive fantasy adventure that will appeal to fans of young adult fantasy with strong heroines and intricate political plots. Alice Harper’s journey is both relatable and captivating, and the mysteries surrounding the magical realm promise even more intrigue in the books to come. If you enjoy tales of magic, courage, and courtly deception, this novel is a must-read and sets a strong foundation for the rest of the series.

The Discovery of Magic (The Intrigue of Magic Series) by L. J. Evias – Review by Alicia Furlan

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

The book starts out rather slow but don’t worry that will change. We first meet Alice and her friends and get a peek into their lives. Alice is trying to win an archery competition and scholarship. She hopes that her parents won’t want to make her move if she wins. An innocent afternoon at the park changes everything for them. The friends are transported through a portal to Parsa. What follows is a great adventure full of action, drama, danger, and magic. This book is a wonderful start to this series. Even though it starts slow the action and drama help to keep the story building throughout the book. Can’t wait to see where this series will take us next.

Reviewed by @aliciaknoke

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Spook Squad by Allan Evans – Review by Jenni Bishop

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

4 stars
Allan is a unique storyteller, especially when his characters are facing overwhelming challenges. *Spook Squad* is the third book in the Abbey series and follows 14-year-old Abbey, who possesses extraordinary gifts (or a curse), alongside her best friends Kelly and Lexi in this high-stakes adventure. I really enjoyed *Class Clown*, so it was a no-brainer to one-click this book. I highly recommend reading the first two books in the series to understand more of Abbey’s backstory, but they can also be enjoyed as standalones.

In this thrilling paranormal YA tale, you’ll find danger, drama, suspense, mystery, and humor. In a world where communicating with ghosts is the norm, searching for dangerous artifacts is the main challenge, and strong-armed federal agents keep the Spook Squad on their toes in an action-packed, fast-paced adventure that you won’t want to end.

The characters are well-developed, relatable, and a bit quirky. Allan’s narrative makes it easy for readers to visualize Abbey and her surroundings. You might think twice about reading this with the lights off—or maybe you won’t!

Abbey knows she is lucky to have her best friends by her side, as they support her even when spirits come knocking and chaos ensues. Will they find what they are searching for before the evil Manfred Krug catches up with them?

 

Reviewed by @jennadb

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A Tale of Two Crushes by Cori Cooper – Review by Whisper Hymer

A Tale of Two CrushesA Tale of Two Crushes by Cori Cooper
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

A Tale of Two Crushes by Cori Cooper follows Holland as she enters a new school and discovers not one but two hot guys in a matter of days. Coming from a smaller town, Holland is not used to running into guys that she hasnt known since kindergarten and are interested in her. Things get complicated as she navigates life in a new city, new friends, and brothers?! This book was filled with quirky characters and a relatable heroine. I found it to be a pleasant afternoon read that was perfect for a clean romance.

Reviewed by @WhisperHymer

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