Queenpin Chronicles Books 1 & 3 by L.L. Kirchner

 

Florida Girls by L.L. Kirchner
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I truly love historical fiction, especially in the area of World War II. Thelma is joining a group of traveling and competing swimsuit models in an attempt to get away from her criminal past. What she didn't bargain for is finding herself deep in mob activities.

This book showcases the strong stands that the women of the 40's took when the men started coming home from the war.

The author has done a great deal of research to ensure that the elements of this story are historically accurate. It has enhanced the story more and I look forward to reading more in this series.

View all my reviews Havana Girls by L.L. Kirchner
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I enjoyed this book much more than the first one in the series. I skipped over book 2 (VegasVegas Girls so I felt a little lost in some areas but I still found this story enjoyable.

This one does have a dual timeline, which I do struggle with in keeping up with the details. Sally is on a quest to find out what her mother was researching back in the 1940's. The mystery has her encountering people that she never expected and learning more about her mother's devotion to her career.

Again, well researched by the author and an enjoyable story.

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The Duke's Dream by Giovanna Sinischalchi

 

The Duke's Dream by Giovanna Siniscalchi
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

3.5 stars

I struggled a bit with this book. I have typically enjoyed Giovanna Siniscalchi's work but I'd have to say that this is probably my least favorite so far. There are elements to the story that I really enjoyed, especially the character of Helene. There were parts of the story that I became very bogged down in and felt that they could probably have been left out. This is also a little spicier that I tend to like when reading a novel.

I do appreciate the research and the backstory that was incorporated into the timeline of Helene and William. This author does take care in making sure that her stories are as historically accurate as possible.

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The Odd Dog by Leia Barrett

 

The Odd Dog by Leia Barrett
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The Odd Dog is finally adopted into a new family. They don't understand his love of climbing, swimming, and playing. It's not until a trip to the park that Odd Dog doesn't feel quite as odd anymore.

This is a pretty simple, basic book with a repeating focus. It's a great book for a budding reader to focus on common words. I wasn't overly impressed with the story itself but see value in this story as a teaching tool for reading and for encouraging kids not to give up too easily.

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When Grifters Come Calling (Madeline Dawkins #9) by Cynthia Hamilton

 

When Grifters Come Calling by Cynthia Hamilton
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is a fun series and book nine does not disappoint. One thing I love about this author is that these books can be read as standalones. She does a great job with character development in each story and making sure that there is enough background information covered.

In this book, Madeline is faced with a situation that she didn't ever want to go back to. Her ex-husband is also resurfacing adding another layer of difficulty.

The story is very engaging and hard to put down until the end. If this is the first one you've picked up to read in this series, you'll find this one so good that you'll go back and catch up on the others.


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The River Queen (River Romances #1) by Stephenia H. McGee

 

The River Queen by Stephenia H. McGee
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

First, let's talk about this beautiful cover!! I love Anola's dress in this picture!!

Anola is doing everything she can to keep the family business afloat....literally. The Mississippi Riverboat show has been dwindling in attendance but Anola is determined to keep it going one way or another.

Emmett is rescued by the The River Queen after pirates attacked him and took over his ship. He is enamored with Anola and her singing voice. He's concerned about her losing her family business and vows to help her save it.

A great read (or listen to in this case)! I am a lover of historical fiction and I felt as though I was on the river with these characters.

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Hi Little Sister, I Love You: A Sweet Gift Keepsake Book Welcoming a New Baby Sister to the Family by Deniese Dennis

 

Hi, Little Sister, I love You: A Sweet Gift Keepsake Book Welcoming a New Baby Sister to the Family by Deniese Dennis
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is a super sweet book geared for a young girl aged 1-4 who is being promoted to a big sister. The illustrations are very colorful and well done. This book is to reassure the new big sister that her little sister is a part of the family just like she is and that she will have a new playmate and friend. The book goes over a few suggestions for how she can be a big help in her little sister's life.

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The Know It Owl by Terri Sabol

 

The Know It Owl by Terri Sabol
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Owl is a wise and sometimes witty woodland creature who is setting out to educate other animals about themselves and their origins. In this story, we are introduced to Owl who is educating other owls about their history and some fun facts. He also sets out to dispel any myths that are commonly believed.

This is a great series! Parents and grandparents alike will enjoy reading these books to and with their young ones.

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