Right in Front of You: Volume Two: Lilly and Gage (Morris Valley Gang Book 2) by Brooke May

 

Right in Front of You: Volume Two: Lilly & Gage by Brooke May
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Some of my favorite romance reads are enemies to lovers types. Lilly and Gage are the perfect example of this. Light and Dark. Happiness and Sadness. Their lives become intertwined again when Lilly moves back to Morris Valley. Gage is not the same person as he was the last time he saw Lilly and this time he's determined to not let her get away. Does Lilly feel the same way though?

A great read that leaves you ready for the next story by this author.

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So Stinkin' Hot by Mary Evanson Bleckwehl

 

So Stinkin' Hot by Mary Evanson Bleckwehl
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The wild animals living on the safari are very hot, so they decide to take a trip to Chicago. Once there, they realize that things are very different and they can't wait to go back home.

Cool point (no pun intended): you can learn to draw Zippy at the end of the story.

Not so cool point: I found the characters to be a bit whiny. Kids can be whiny though.

Overall, cute book for kids but likely adults will find it a bit annoying.

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A Just Man (Choosing Family #5) by Jennifer Raines

 

A Just Man by Jennifer Raines
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This *might* be my favorite book in this series so far!! It's hard to pick a favorite when the stories and the characters are so well written.

This is a book in a series but I've read most of them out of order and do not feel like I've missed anything by doing so. Feel free to read them in whatever order you choose....just be sure to read them!!

Kelly hates small country towns and for good reason. She's been assigned a placement in Tullamore, a country town. Her life couldn't possibly get any worse, or so she thinks. Enter Mitch, a former cop turned deputy principal...THE deputy principal of the school Kelly has been assigned to. Not only do they work together, they live together and this isn't good for either one of them.

Lots of mystery in this one to keep you turning the pages!! Another very well done story!

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Quinn, By Design (Choosing Family Book 2) by Jennifer Raines

 

Quinn, by design by Jennifer Raines
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Let's chat about this adorable cover before we discuss the book. Isn't the cover just lovely? That, along with the author's name, drew me to this book. I'm a fan of Jennifer Raines, having read several of her books now. This one is just as enjoyable as the others!

This is a story about Niall and Lucy. Niall is a carpenter who is making beautiful furniture for all the world to see. Lucy has been taking care of her grandfather Cam, who was an antiques dealer, until his recent passing. When Niall and Lucy meet there were fireworks, but not the pretty kind. These two must learn to trust and communicate to overcome their issues.

Another great read by this author!!

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Matador: A Jessica Watts Southwest Suspense Novel by Kathryn Dodson

 

Matador: A Jessica Watts Southwest Suspense Novel by Kathryn Dodson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Another great story with Jessica!! She's the detective you'd want on your case if your family member was involved, unless you were on the wrong side of the story! Jessica has a way of getting those family secrets out and helping her to solve the burning mystery of the day.

This is an enjoyable series and each book can be read as a standalone. You're missing out if you don't go back and read previous books though!!

I'm looking forward to what's next with Jessica!

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Hani's Daughter Mysteries Books 2-4 by N.L. Holmes

 

Web of Evil by N.L. Holmes
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is book two in the series and while this can be read as a standalone, there will be better understanding to read these books in order.

The author is well versed in Egyptian history and uses this knowledge to weave another story about Neferet, Bener-ib, and Mut-tuy. This time a dead body washes up and it's up to Neferet and her team to determine who this is and what has happened. The team is determined but there are some who will do anything to stop them in their tracks. These women appear to have no fear when it comes to solving mysteries!

I love that the author includes maps so you can see where these stories are based out of as well as a glossary of terms that may be unfamiliar.

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  Wheel of Evil by N.L. Holmes
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Neferet and her band of women are at it again in this third book of the series. This time, they find themselves investigating a murder that is wrapped up inside of a Ponzi scheme. There are lots of interesting twists and turns as this story progresses.

Again, great research by the author on this time period as well as Egyptian heritage/history.

 The Melody of Evil by N.L. Holmes
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I think this is my favorite of this series so far! Another great riveting read about Neferet and her band of women who are ready to solve another mystery. This one involves a murdered musician and time is of the essence to solve this puzzle. The twists and turns will catch you off guard and keep you guessing!



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Crossfire (Extreme Measures #2) by Lynette Eason

 

Crossfire by Lynette Eason
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This read will keep your attention! Just when you think things will calm down a bit, more drama ensues.

Julianna, an FBI Special Agent, is an excellent hostage negotiator and most are surprised to learn that's the career path she's chosen. She's so good at it, she's never lost a hostage.

Clay is a high school resource officer after leaving the military. Clay happens to work at the same school that Julianna's younger sister Dottie attends.

Things heat up a bit when, during a career day, Julianna and Clay have to work to save students from a crazed fanatic who is looking to make amends for an incident that happened several years ago. It just so happens that this specific day is the anniversary of that incident. The people involved turn out to be a bit surprising to Julianna and she has to face some things from her past to get through this event.

If I were ever in need of a hostage negotiator, I'd want someone like Julianna. She has a way with people that speaks to their conscience and allows for a successful situation.

There is a bit of a romance between Julianna and Clay but nothing vulgar or unbecoming at all. There are also spiritual elements within this book, mostly the changes in Clay's heart.

This is a great book and I am looking forward to the next book in this series. I did listen to the audio version of this and enjoyed the narrator's clear and concise voice. This book can be read as a standalone.

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If Shapes Could Talk: a story of gratitude for families of all shapes and sizes by Rella B.

 

If Shapes Could Talk: A story of gratitude for families of all shapes and sizes by Rella B.
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Another cute, rhyming story about shapes. Each character in the book is a different shape and color. The story is told in rhyme and is about being thankful for family. Very sweet story and a great way to teach shapes and colors while enjoying a meaningful story.

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If Shapes Could Eat: A fun rhyming story encouraging a healthy relationship with food and trying new things by Rella B.

 

If Shapes Could Eat: A fun rhyming story encouraging a healthy relationship with food and trying new things. by Rella B.
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is a super cute book that is full of vibrant illustrations. This story rhymes and is about food and differences that people have in taste, as well as things they need to avoid due to allergies. There are different shapes and colors to use as a teaching tool too!



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Jumping to Conclusions: A picture book teaching children not to judge (Buddy the Blue Corgi Book 4) by Suzanna Lynn

 

Jumping to Conclusions: A picture book teaching children not to judge by Suzanna Lynn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Buddy the Blue Corgi is with his family when dad brings a box in the house. Inside the box is a new kitten named Loki. Buddy is terrified of Loki because he's so much bigger than he is. It takes awhile before Buddy and Loki warm up to each other but in the meantime, they learn it's not a good idea to judge someone before getting to know them.

This book is great for teaching younger children how to respond to new situations and people. There is a corresponding Bible verse to the story at the end of the book. I love how the author incorporates this Biblical perspective in her series.

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Resolved (Fateful Justice #7) by Sara Vinduska

 

Resolved by Sara Vinduska
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

FBI Field Agent Ward Calhoun is tired of losing all the best men, and this last loss to his company has really taken a toll on him. Ward is spiraling out of control, feeling like he's at fault. They have got to get this bad guy off the streets before anymore innocent life is lost.

FBI Agent Alicia Davis is assigned to the special case unit and doesn't ever anticipate seeing Ward again...until they are working on the same team. A long ago one night stand had them both desiring more but knowing that it wasn't feasible in their line of work.

Can they work together to get a killer off the streets? At what cost?

I enjoyed this book for the storyline itself. I did find the excessive strong language to be a huge deterrent to me fully enjoying this read.

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Love You Better: A Second Chance Stand Alone in the Oakville World by Kallyn Jones

 

Love You Better: A Second Chance Stand Alone in the Oakville World by Kallyn Jones
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is a stand alone novel that can be read without having read any previous books in the series. If you like a second chance romance with older characters, this just might be the book for you! There is great character development in Blake and Cyndi and their story is a bit typical. Follow along with the drama, humor, and passion as their relationship develops.

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Crossroads of Love (Hicks Creek #1) by Kris Abbott

 

Crossroads of Love by Kris Abbott
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is a pretty well written debut novel about second chance love. Not everyone has a desire to return to their hometown because skeletons really do hide in closets, but Gavin doesn't have a huge choice in the matter. Things get a little messy when he runs into Lena and some family drama ensues. When the crossroads of life are in calling your name, what path do you choose? Which path should Lena choose? Gavin? Should they choose one together?

If you were given a second chance at love, would you take it? Who would you spend your time with?

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The Bootlegger's Wife: A Sweet Historical Roaring Twenties Novel (Moonshine Madness Book #1) by Denise Devine

 

The Bootlegger's Wife: A Sweet Historical Roaring Twenties Novel by Denise Devine
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This book is set in the 1920's in Minnesota. Char's nine year marriage to Gus is falling apart right in front of her face. She finds herself needing to separate from Gus and is able to hide from him right in front of authorities trying to help him find her.

Just when you think you know what will happen next, a new curve is thrown into this fast-paced, exciting story! The author makes it clear which characters you should cheer for and which ones you should loathe along the way. The descriptions of the time period are fairly accurate and make you feel as though you are in the room with all the excitement going on.

I look forward to more books in this series!

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Love's Unfading Light (Eagle Harbor Series #1) by Naomi Rawlings

 

Love's Unfading Light by Naomi Rawlings
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is a beautifully written story about Tressa, a bakery owner, her 10 year old son, and Mac. Tressa's a recent widow who's quickly learning that her former husband was quite the scoundrel. He's wracked up a pretty healthy stack of debt and everyone is calling on Tressa to make amends for his misdeeds. As she struggles with all this, money that she had saved up to pay her rent on her bakery is stolen, further putting her in the crosshairs of the money-hungry men of Eagle Harbor, Michigan.

Mac enters the picture and sees that Tressa is really in need of some help. She is done with men and does not want or need any help that Mac provides but he keeps offering anyway. It's when she's being threatened further that she finally relents and allows him to step in for assistance.

I listened to this audiobook and found the narrator very easy to listen to. I am looking forward to the next book in this series!

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Lethal Blues: A Jarvis Mann Hardboiled Detective Mystery by R. Weir

 

Lethal Blues: A Jarvis Mann Hardboiled Detective Mystery by R. Weir
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Prepare to read this one in one setting if at all possible. It's a great story that is hard to put down!

Jarvis Mann has retired but when his friend Dennis needs another set of eyes and an extra pair of hands to solve the mysterious murders of local townspeople. This story has all the current day elements of crime from drugs to gangs and then some.

It will grab you from the first page and won't let go until the end. This author is becoming a new favorite of mine! I enjoy his writing style and storytelling!

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The Last One at the Wedding by Jason Rekulak

 

The Last One at the Wedding by Jason Rekulak
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is a new-to-me author and I've heard so much about this book that I had to borrow it to listen to while driving.

Frank and his daughter Maggie have been estranged for some time. Maggie is getting married and decides she wants her dad to walk her down the aisle. Frank is ecstatic and can't wait to meet the man of Maggie's dreams, along with his family.

The whole set up is rather disturbing to Frank. The secrecy of the family, the massive security details, and the elusive woman at the window. Who is this family that Maggie is marrying into? She doesn't even seem to really like her fiance, Aiden, which adds to the mystery.

Overall, an enjoyable read!

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The Marriage Agreement: A Fake Marriage, Age Gap Romance (The Agreement #1) by A. Akinosho

 

The Marriage Agreement: A Fake Marriage, Age Gap Romance by A. Akinosho
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This was a great read with an interesting and entertaining story line. Ayodele just wants to finish school before being deported. She has someone who will agree to marry her to keep her here but he's not "the one" for her. He'd never be faithful and Ayodele is looking for that. Luke has always had his eye on Ayodele but his brother is an obstacle in his way...or is he?

An arrangement is struck and Luke and Ayodele appear to be a happily married couple when it's really just a sham. Sometimes things work out a little differently than planned though!

I don't know why I love books like this so much but I really did enjoy this one. I'm looking forward to more from this author.

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The Negotiator (O'Malley #1) by Dee Henderson

 

The Negotiator by Dee Henderson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is an enjoyable read about the O'Malley family, which is a conglomerate of different people from different backgrounds who are looking to belong after being abandoned by their family of origin. Kate O'Malley is a hostage negotiator who is trying to figure out who blew up an airplane just days after she receives black roses. Is she being targeted?
Enter Dave Richmond who is a specialist with the FBI assigned to the case. He meets Kate and starts to develop feelings for her. They are working together so a relationship isn't in their best interest but he just can't stay away when it's possible that she's being targeted.
I enjoyed listening to this book and I look forward to reading more in this series.

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In the Dragon's Fiery Lair by Lois Wickstrom

 

In the Dragon's Fiery Lair by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is a book for a little bit older crowd than Ms. Wickstrom usually writes for but can definitely be enjoyed if read to younger kiddos. It is the story of Amy, who, on her twelfth birthday, receives the gift of Magyck. After an unfortunate event with her mother, Amy learns to control her magyck by an unconventional source.
As with most of this author's books, there is a lot of adventure and learning along the way. I was thrown off by the spelling of "magyck" but don't want that to deter someone from enjoying this fun-filled adventure filled with mystery and intrigue. This is geared towards a middle grade reader and would be great for those who enjoy fantasy!

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Please Put the Seat Down...and the Lid Too by Allan Mansoor

 

Please Put the Seat Down . . . and the Lid Too by Allan Mansoor
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

4.5 stars

Kids of all ages, including this one, will enjoy this rather amusing book about toilet etiquette. The illustrations are very well done (and tasteful, family friendly) and are vibrantly colored. There are fun facts on each page related to the story at hand. This would be a great book to use when potty training or when you have to remind someone to be neater in the bathroom.

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Shadowed Alliances: A Shadow Defense Security Thriller Book 5 by Mavery Ellscott

 

Shadowed Alliances: A Shadowed Defense Security Thriller Book 5 by Mavery Ellscott
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I have been eagerly awaiting this newest addition to this series!! This is one of my all-time favorite book series!

Javier is the focus of this story with his Shadow Defense Security team mentioned from time to time in the background. It's not essential that you read the previous books before this one but it might clear up who some of the players are as the series does build on itself. Javier is an ex-Navy Seal who is trying to help Emery take down a murderer and to save Emery's life.

This book is full of action, some romance, and twists and turns that you may not see coming. There were a few moments where things weren't really clear as to what was happening and I have some lingering questions about certain events that took place that weren't cleared up. Hopefully they'll be addressed in future books. Also, I felt that this one ended somewhat abruptly, maybe because I was waiting on clarification on aforementioned events.

I'm excited about the next book to come and look forward to reading more from this author.

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Where Do Dragons Go on Vacation by Kim Ann

 

Where Do Dragons Go on Vacation? by Kim Ann
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

It's a valid question....where DO dragons go on vacation? This is such a fun, cute read and youngsters will love the story told in rhyme. My favorite part of this book though is all the vibrantly colored illustrations!! The colors pop off the page and make the story so much more enjoyable! Grab your favorite little and read them this story today and go on an adventure with dragons going on vacation!

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Darby's Cafe by Cori Cooper

 

Darby's Cafe by Cori Cooper
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I'm a fan of Cori Cooper so of course I had to grab this one up! I love the story of Darby and how she's working so hard to try again with her restaurant. Along the way, Darby learns so much about herself and the drive she has to get things done. It was fun watching her evolve as a character and reading her story. Yes, there is a romance side to it, but I really enjoyed watching Darby "grow up" as the story progressed.

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A Game of Malice by Glede Browne Kabongo

 

A Game of Malice by Glede Browne Kabongo
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

When I picked this book up, I did not realize it was a young adult book. That doesn't bother me though because I enjoy reading in that genre. This book is full of suspense, mystery, plot changes...everything needed to keep you in your seat and reading. It starts out a bit slow but I think the foundation that was laid was necessary in fully enjoying this book. I still have some unanswered questions that are puzzling but hopefully all will be revealed in future reads. The chapters are short, which I loved and it had me turning the pages as quickly as I could.

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Breaking News by Wanda Venters and Mary Rae

 

Breaking News by Wanda Venters
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is book 3 in this series and I believe that they just keep getting better!! It is advisable to read these books in order to fully grasp the relationships within but you can still enjoy this one if it's your first read in the series.

This is a gripping medical mystery written by an actual medical doctor. The descriptions are pretty spot on, which is something I'd definitely expect. It's a complex, believable story filled with secrets, betrayal, crime, suspense, and some pretty interesting plot twists that will have you turning the pages as fast as you can. When Louise Finnerty and Marnie Liccione are on the case, you're sure to get some answers but probably not the ones you were expecting!

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Mortals and Angels: The Beginning of the End by Bethany Summers

 

Mortals and Angels: The Beginning of the End by Bethany Summers
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

I took a chance on this book because the cover looked interesting and I like to read some young adult fantasy style novels. I was not familiar with this author so I didn't have any specific things I was looking for in reading this novel. I will say that it's a bit difficult to get into. There is a lot of room for character development. It's my understanding that this is a debut book for this author so I don't want to be too harsh. Once the story starts to flow, it's actually pretty enjoyable. I do think that young adults will enjoy this story and I'm looking forward to giving this author another read when her next book drops.

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Iceland: Fjords, Fire, and Folklore: A Guide to Hidden Iceland-2025 Edition by Christy Nicholas

 

Iceland: Fjords, Fire, and Folklore: A Guide to Hidden Iceland - 2025 Edition by Christy Nicholas
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I doubt I'll ever get to travel to Iceland personally but after reading this book, it makes me want to go even more! I would have never guessed about some of the hidden intricacies of such a beautiful place and I'm sure many would say that while the pictures are great, they don't do it justice. There are many aspects of Iceland covered in this read, from the cultural aspects, places to see that are off the beaten path, foods to try, and more!

This is a great resource to have if you're planning a trip to Iceland or, like me, just armchair dreaming!

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Kianola by Nathan Roth

 

Kianola by Nathan Roth
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This book was written as a young adult read. I firmly believe that many adults will resonate with this story of Nole and his struggles as an introvert. Nole finds himself in Enix, a mystical world where he becomes a brave warrior and faces today's struggles with a renewed vision. Will it translate into the real world though?

Such a great read that I highly recommend!

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Frozen in Time by Kelly Swan Taylor

 

Frozen in Time by Kelly Swan Taylor
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This young adult read features my favorite sport of ice hockey! Summer is *terrified* of ice. She has been for about ten years when she lost her friend on Winterberry Lake. Now, the past is coming back to haunt her when she finds another body on the lake. She's a bit determined to find out what's happening and trying to recover from all the trauma. Then, Tate comes into her life. He's cute, he's sweet, and he's the goalie for the Winterberry Lake hockey team. Summer just can't escape the ice in her life!

This story has characters that are very believable and relatable. There is a sweet romance that forms between Summer and Tate that just make you want to gush. The way that Summer is treated by the community is harsh and heartbreaking! I love her diligence in healing and finding out who was causing the problems.

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Love is for the Birds by Diane Owens Prettyman

 

Love Is for the Birds by Diane Owens Prettyman
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

What first attracted me to this book was the beautiful cover! The story inside the cover is even more beautiful! There's been some not so pretty things happen (a hurricane that wipes out everything, loss of loved ones, loss of pets, etc) but when Jack goes to feed those doing hurricane clean up, things begin to look a little less bleak. He meets Teddy and is immediately drawn to her, which then stirs up some other feelings as well. However, the two of them are a force to be reckoned with and soon things are looking up for the better.

A great feel good story!

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A Requiem for the Dead (Benoit and Dayne Mystery Book 4) by Winter Austin

 

A Requiem For The Dead by Winter Austin
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is such a great series to read! There are two very strong women cops who will leave no stone unturned to solve their latest mystery. Things and people are never as they seem and considering that everyone is short staffed, time really isn't on their side.

Great thrilling read that picks up from Book 3. It is recommended to read these in order to understand the full context and see the characters develop.

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