Wednesday, October 1, 2025

A Budget for Bingo by Tori Filas

 

A Budget for Bingo (Penny Power)A Budget for Bingo by Tori Filas
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Fizzy and her family are interested in getting a new family pet. In order to do so, Fizzy's mom tells them that they need to come up with a budget to find out if they can afford a pet in their family. It's through this process that the kids learn all about making a budget and then how they can best apply the budget to fit their needs.

This is a great book for kids and adults alike! It would be a great book for a family to read and discuss together.

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The Melody of Money: Singing, Saving, and Smiles by Tori Filas

 

The Melody of Money: Singing, Saving, and Smiles (Penny Power)The Melody of Money: Singing, Saving, and Smiles by Tori Filas
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is a great book for kids of all ages, but especially for those who are starting to become a bit more independent. Fizzy wants to go see her favorite person in concert but she doesn't quite have the money to go. With some help from her mom, she finds a way to come up with the funds to be able to attend the concert and learns some valuable lessons in the process.

There are great lessons in this story about money management and the value of working for things you want. There is some financial math, as well as a vocabulary page for different terms.

Overall, an excellent book that I highly recommend!

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Saturday, September 27, 2025

Ride a Dark Trail (A Bounty of Shadows Book 1) by Winter Austin

 

Ride a Dark Trail (A Bounty of Shadows Book 1)Ride a Dark Trail by Winter Austin
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is a new series and one to be excited about, especially after reading this first book!

Dot is a former Army helicopter pilot who's trying to calm down on her family's ranch. Rest is for the weary and soon Dot and her recovery specialist friend T.J. are out on the hunt for a kidnapper. Along the way, they face many scary situations, some very dangerous that put them in harms way.

This is a page turner and will have you anxiously awaiting book 2 like I am!

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Monday, September 22, 2025

Knight Shadow: A female detective mystery (Jorja Knight Mystery #8) by Alice Bienia

 

Knight Shadow: A female detective mystery (Jorja Knight Mystery Series Book 8)Knight Shadow: A female detective mystery by Alice Bienia
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This was a hard book to put down and that didn't happen much. Jorja is really growing as a PI and finds ways to solve these crimes fairly quickly. She has a new partner that is an IT whiz and likes to show those skills off. This time, Jorja has to go old school to school the "know it all" partner of hers and prove that somethings are not as outdated as they seem.

This was a great read in this series. I'm still missing a few previous books that I am going to try to get caught up on soon!

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Knight Blind (A Jorja Knight Mystery #1) by Alice Bienia

 

Knight Blind (Jorja Knight #1)Knight Blind by Alice Bienia
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is a new series but I jumped ahead and have read some of these out of order. I'm glad that I've done this as I can see the author's progression in her writing style now. This wasn't my most favorite book of the series, but rarely is the first book most times.

Jorja is trying to get her life figured out from her past endeavors while trying to start up a new PI business. You know, girl power stuff! She gets hired out and her first big case is almost more than she can handle! She's out to find people and ends up being a target herself.

This was a good first novel and I do encourage readers to come back for more as the series does get more exciting!

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Tuesday, September 16, 2025

Blackmailed (The Brown's of Butcher Hill #2) by Holly Bush

 

Blackmailed (The Browns of Butcher's Hill, #2)Blackmailed by Holly Bush
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Holly Bush has a way of pulling you into the story and you find yourself reading an entire book in one setting! This is the second book in the series, and I strongly recommend you read these in order to get the proper backstory.

This is a very loyal, passionate, crime-fighting family who once again finds themselves in the midst of a mystery. Sarah finds a dead man at the back of the dress shop where she is employed. Virginia can't seem to get Phillip off her mind. Together, the three of them work to solve a mystery of death, but also of love, family, and the ties that bind.

I can't leave this review without commenting on the beautiful cover of this novel!! I love the yellow dress and the scene that is displayed! It's one thing that drew me to this book and this series.

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Tuesday, September 9, 2025

Montana Delta Rodeo Cowboy: Bodyguard Protector by Debra Parmley

 

Montana Delta Rodeo Cowboy: Bodyguard ProtectorMontana Delta Rodeo Cowboy: Bodyguard Protector by Debra Parmley
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Another great read by Debra Parmley!

Emma Pearl (I love her name) is on the run from the Mexican cartels in Montana. She ends up changing her name (I still love her) and finds herself in need of a bodyguard. She finds herself in some precarious situations and with the help of Nathan and Destry, finds some solace.

I loved this story from beginning to end. There were a few slow spots but sometimes it's needed to allow for breathing. I love that there is a male nurse featured in this story. They don't get enough credit!

Great read!

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Friday, September 5, 2025

The Super Students: First Day of School by Ariane Erickson

 

The Super Students: First Day of SchoolThe Super Students: First Day of School by Ariane Erickson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

It's been a busy day for the super students of Midtown School for Young Heroes! They first said goodbye to their parents, met their teacher Mr. Stan, and then things got a little crazy! Every student had a part to play in the capturing of the beloved class pet, but not without some excitement.

This is a very colorful book with nice graphics. Kids will love the story and adults will too!

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Wednesday, September 3, 2025

The Moon Gift: A Moon Festival Tale by Anders Roseberg

 

The Moon Gift: A Moon Festival TaleThe Moon Gift: A Moon Festival Tale by Anders Roseberg
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is such a touching retelling of an ancient Chinese folklore about four friends. Fox, Rabbit, Monkey, and Otter are all challenged to show compassion to someone in order to earn The Moon Gift. Each animal sets out to solve a challenge that they were each presented. Once they bring their "offerings" to the situation, a winner is chosen.

There are so many lessons that can be made from this book. There is teaching about the stages of the moon in the beginning and also at the end of the book. There can be applications made about differences and similarities among people and how different people face challenges in different ways. There is a moral story here as well. That's just a few of the great things about this book.

I found myself getting teary eyed on this one. Sensitive littles may find themselves having some emotions that they may not have expected reading this book. It's a good time to share with them about how feelings are okay to show too.

Add this one to your library!

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Monday, September 1, 2025

A Powerful Season (Unfinished Business: Stories of Bold Women) by Kathryn Dodson

 

A Powerful SeasonA Powerful Season by Kathryn Dodson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I have enjoyed reading books by this author and I did enjoy this one as well. However, it's not my favorite of them all. I felt like this story was a bit pushy at times, both in regards to the way Lacy spoke to her adult children, as well as her newfound stance on life. I did applaud her for her gumption to try new things as she approaches retirement and not just dwindle off into the sunset.

A good read for a quiet afternoon!

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Friday, August 29, 2025

The Know It Owl and the Beluga (The Know It Owl Series) by Terri Sabol

 

The Know It Owl and the Beluga (The Know It Owl Series)The Know It Owl and the Beluga by Terri Sabol
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is another fun read in The Know It Owl series. This time around, Owl is hanging out with tall telling beluga whale. Owl has to correct just about everything he says to the point that Owl knows Whale better than he does himself! Whale will present a "fact" that Owl quickly debunks for the truth.

Kids will love learning more about the beluga whale in this book. While it is fictional, there are some facts included. There is also a drawing activity, a "seek and find" activity and more. Kids will love the "snot fact" too!

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Thursday, August 28, 2025

Rock Paper Scissors by Alice Feeney

 

Rock Paper ScissorsRock Paper Scissors by Alice Feeney
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is my first read by this author and now I want to read everything she writes! This story kept me intrigued from the first word to the last and then some.

Adam suffers facial blindness and he and Amelia won a trip to Scotland. It's not just any trip though! Over the course of the last ten years, letters that Amelia has written to Adam every year on their anniversary are now allowed to be read by Adam. There are secrets shared and revealed with each one, along with their traditional wedding gifts.

This was beautifully written and will stick with you for awhile!

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Wednesday, August 27, 2025

The Know It Owl and the Axolotl by Terri Sabol

 

The Know It Owl and the Axolotl (The Know It Owl Series)The Know It Owl and the Axolotl by Terri Sabol
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The Know It Owl is a pretty smart bird. In this story, he knows all about axolotls and isn't afraid to share it! This book, while a work of fiction, does have some interesting facts about axolotls. There are also a couple of Spanish words and a method of measuring in the book using colored pencils. These features allow for further teaching beyond the words of the page.

I love this series and look forward to reading more!

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Wednesday, August 20, 2025

Mouse Visits Acadia National Park (Mouse Traveler Series) by Tricia Gardella

 

Mouse Visits Acadia National Park (Mouse Traveler)Mouse Visits Acadia National Park by Tricia Gardella
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

In this story, Mouse goes to visit Acadia National Park. When he initially gets there, he doesn't have much hope that he'll find other mice. Eventually he runs into Frank and his family. Together they tour different parts of the park and learn about the different species of mice. There are also a few other new friends made along the way.

This book has very colorful and fun illustrations. The story in one that kids will enjoy and they can learn about some of the features of this National Park too!

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Monday, August 18, 2025

Shadowed Intentions: A Shadow Defense Security Thriller Book 6 by Mavery Ellscott

 

Shadowed Intentions: A Shadow Defense Security Thriller Book 6Shadowed Intentions: A Shadow Defense Security Thriller Book 6 by Mavery Ellscott
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I absolutely love this series!! There is so much mystery, intrigue, and thrilling adventures throughout. I recommend reading these books in order, even though each book is technically a stand-alone. There are characters who pop in and out that you'll want to know more about.

This story is no different than the others in terms of mystery, suspense, and adventure. Talia and Olivia are the focused characters in this story. A creep that's been after Olivia for years has resurfaced and Talia needs to keep her safe. Talia was on a much needed vacation with Kenjiro until they received this word and now they are rushing Olivia to a safehouse.

There is drama, mystery, intrigue, romance, and some light humor to keep you on your toes. I highly recommend this read!

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Wednesday, August 13, 2025

Back to Us: A Small Town Romantic Comedy (Shore Secrets Book 3) by Christi Barth

 

Back To Us: A Small Town Romantic Comedy (Shore Secrets Book 3)Back To Us: A Small Town Romantic Comedy by Christi Barth
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This story will have you laughing one minute and tearing up the next. I found myself wanting to strangle both Ward and Piper at various points for their actions but ultimately forgave them in the end. I was not aware that book was part of a series and this is the first one I've read in the series. Now I need to go back and catch up on what I've missed! A great read that is a bit of a rollercoaster ride but will have you smiling in the end.

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Thursday, August 7, 2025

Girl Trap (Madeline Dawkins Mystery Series #3) by Cynthia Hamilton

 

Girl TrapGirl Trap by Cynthia Hamilton
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This book has just enough twists and turns and an occasional bit of romance to keep you entertained. Mike and Madeline are tasked with finding a missing heiress and two sisters. Just when they think they are on the right track, things change and they have to reboot. Madeline is also still trying to recover from her divorce and the attack that she suffered at the hands of her ex-husband.

A great page-turning mystery that will leave you wanting more!

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Monday, August 4, 2025

Kidnapped (Browns of Butcher's Hill #1) by Holly Bush

 

Kidnapped (Browns of Butcher's Hill, #1)Kidnapped by Holly Bush
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is a great story about Phillip and Virginia, two unlikely people to even associate with each other. When a lady's body is found close to their area, they both, on their own accords, start to investigate. They didn't know how much they'd rely on each other to deal with the threats around every corner!

Such a great start to this series! I look forward to reading more!

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Friday, August 1, 2025

Marked to Be Mine (The Erased #1) by India Kells

 

Marked to Be Mine (The Erased #1)Marked to Be Mine by India Kells
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is the first book in a new series and, wow, if this is the just the first book, I can't wait for more! This story reminded me of the Jason Bourne movie series, which I absolutely loved.

Maeve (LOVE her name!) is an investigative journalist who doesn't take just any answer. She wants the truth and she will do what it takes to find it. When she runs into Reaper, she doesn't back down from him, nor does she let up on him. He's soulless, lost, and needing to remember.

I love this story of survival, hope, adventure, action, and so much more. There were a few parts that dragged in the middle but overall, this was a great read and I look forward to more!

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Wednesday, July 30, 2025

An Accidental Flatmate (Choosing Family Series #5) by Jennifer Raines

 

An Accidental Flatmate (Choosing Family Book 5)An Accidental Flatmate by Jennifer Raines
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This has been such a fun series to read! It's not necessary to read them in order, as each book is a standalone and features a different couple. It is fun to see the cameo appearances of past characters pop in and out from time to time though.

Beatriz (Bea) is desperately needing a promotion in order to help her family out. When that promotion doesn't happen and things turn for the worse, she finds herself living in her best friend's abandoned flat for the time being.

Casildo (Cas) doesn't have time for anything unnecessary in his life...including a romantic relationship. He's driven and ambitious with a strong focus on building his company. He finds himself in the same flat as Bea one day. It's a two bedroom flat so everything should work out, right?

Well, two bedrooms is one too many fairly soon and together, Bea and Cas start solving issues together instead of fighting against each other. There is a lot of humor in this story, along with some great lines, romance, and reconciliation.

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Saturday, July 26, 2025

The Perfect Girl for Kai by Cori Cooper

 

The Perfect Girl for KaiThe Perfect Girl for Kai by Cori Cooper
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

It's a bit refreshing to read a young adult story from a young man's perspective on dating. Kai's just weeks away from his junior prom and he doesn't have a date. Shelby is trying to help him, but then again, maybe she's not. She just had a recent breakup that seems to be affecting her judgment. Who is the perfect girl for Kai? He knows but isn't sure how to let her know!

This was a fun read that has humor that young adults will understand more than this adult did. There is quite a bit of slang that I was unfamiliar with (until I looked it up). The romance is very light and clean. Overall, a great read!

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Mouse Visits Joshua Tree National Park by Tricia Gardella

 

Mouse Visits Joshua Tree National Park (Mouse Traveler)Mouse Visits Joshua Tree National Park by Tricia Gardella
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Mouse loves to travel and this time he's going to the Joshua Tree National Park. He's tried twice before to get to the moon but decides this time he should try to keep it more local.

A super cute book that kids will love! It's a great introduction to the world of traveling and gives some insight on this popular destination!

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Thursday, July 24, 2025

Tiny Invaders: The Crash by Eric James Walbrecht

 

Tiny Invaders: The CrashTiny Invaders: The Crash by Eric James Walbrecht
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This book has an "age limit" of 7-18 years on it but really, it's appropriate and fun for anyone 7+ years of age!! A UFO has landed on Earth and some very interesting and quirky invaders are here to show earthlings how things are done. This book is hilarious! The illustrations are vivid and very well done too!

A great read for all ages!

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Monday, July 21, 2025

Amigurumi Critters: 25 Imaginative Crochet Designs for All Skill Levels by Amy Ting

 

Amigurumi Critters: 25 Imaginative Crochet Designs for All Skill LevelsAmigurumi Critters: 25 Imaginative Crochet Designs for All Skill Levels by Amy Ting
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is a super fun book full of directions on how to create adorable crocheted critters. The instructions are very well written and easy to read/see. There are also a host of illustrations on how to create various stitches and how projects should be looking as they progress. As a seasoned crocheter, I highly recommend this book for beginners to more advanced crocheters.

In full disclosure, I have not made anything from this book yet but I do plan to make them all. I did look at the directions however, and can tell you'll have a quality piece if directions are followed as written.

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A High Price to Pay (The Madeline Dawkins Series) by Cynthia Hamilton

 

A High Price to Pay (Madeline Dawkins, #2)A High Price to Pay by Cynthia Hamilton
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Madeline's life just got a little more interesting. It wasn't enough that she's still in the beginning stages of establishing her PI company with Mike, but she's still doing event planning as well. While on her event planning job, she was approached and asked to find some missing jewels. That's a tricky balance because she may be investigating the same lady who is paying her to plan her extravagant birthday weekend!!

If that wasn't enough, one of the men who abducted Madeline three years ago is released from prison. She's just finding out about it and then gets the call that his body has been found in the lake. Is Madeline next?

This was a great read full of mystery, suspense, twists, and turns. I really enjoyed this one!

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Saturday, July 19, 2025

Love's Every Whisper (Eagle Harbor #2) by Naomi Rawlings

 

Love's Every Whisper  (Eagle Harbor #2)Love's Every Whisper by Naomi Rawlings
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Elijah has been in love with Victoria for over 15 years. His background as a fisherman's son doesn't give him the clout that he needs to marry, let alone court, the daughter of a shipping baron. As Victoria struggles to find her way in life, and hopefully marry one day, Elijah is out rescuing men left and right from the waters of Lake Superior. Another man comes into the picture, one that Victoria is much more suited for socially. The question is, can Elijah save her from her own personal drowning?

This is a great story with many enjoyable elements. There is a forbidden love, someone trying to swoop in, action, danger, reconciling, sweet romance, and so much more. The narrator of this audiobook did a great job conveying the different emotions of each character throughout the story. This is the second book in a series and can be read as a standalone but it's fun to see previous characters popping in to say "Hi!".

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Friday, July 18, 2025

Mister Movie Star (Beyond the Olympic Peninsula Series) by Cat Treadgold

 

Mister Movie Star (Beyond the Olympic Peninsula)Mister Movie Star by Cat Treadgold
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Rose is a city girl, a chef, and relatively quiet and reserved. She's been jaded pretty badly in the past and isn't looking for more hurt.

George is an actor with a crazy ex-wife/co-star. Life's been fairly good to him and the women are plentiful. In an effort to attract more roles, George finds himself needing to make some lifestyle changes.

George hires Rose to be his personal chef but there's heat in more than just the kitchen. The slow burn romance between these two could make or break George's career, especially where his ex is concerned.

This is a fun series to read. It seems that each story gets better. It's not necessary to read each story but it's helpful to have background on secondary characters that make appearances.

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Tuesday, July 15, 2025

Gone Country by Hunter Snow

 

Gone CountryGone Country by Hunter Snow
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This book was a walk down the 1990's for me!! It's a contemporary novel set in present time but the "country meet rock n roll" was a throwback to this girl. I love how the roles are reversed from what I thought they would be too!

Jamie is into rock n roll, while Clayton is a country crooner. They find themselves collaborating on a song and maybe a few other things in the process. Can one win the other over to their way of music? Can they come to an agreement on how it should be? Is there a consensus on how music should be?

A great enemies-to-lovers read that ends on a happy note!

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Thursday, July 10, 2025

New to Newport by Emi Hilton

 

New to NewportNew to Newport by Emi Hilton
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is the sweet story of Hannah and Caleb. Hannah is busy studying for her Physician's Assistant exam and trying to repair an estranged relationship with her dad. She meets Caleb when he rear ends her car. They end up working together and start to develop a relationship.

As with most relationships, there are ebbs and flows with some drama sprinkled in. This was an enjoyable summer read!

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Wednesday, July 9, 2025

What Bird Heard: A Kids Book About Following Your Dreams for Ages 4-8 by Tricia Gardella

 

What Bird Heard: A Kids Book About Following Your Dreams for Ages 4-8 (Mouse Traveler)What Bird Heard: A Kids Book About Following Your Dreams for Ages 4-8 by Tricia Gardella
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

My favorite thing about this book is the illustrations. They are vivid and very well done!!

This was a cute story but felt a little disjointed. There seemed to be a flow, then it would derail a bit, then come back. Kids may not pick up on it as easily as an adult. The story is still good though. There is even a cliffhanger at the end that will bring kids back to this author and her stories.



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Friday, July 4, 2025

Thrice Bound: A Romantic Paranormal Suspense by Nicole E. Kelleher

 

Thrice Bound: A Romantic Paranormal SuspenseThrice Bound: A Romantic Paranormal Suspense by Nicole E. Kelleher
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Another great read by this author. I love the twists and turns throughout this story of Natalia. You just never know what's going to happen next. The pages turned quickly and the story ended well.

A great read for anyone who enjoy paranormal with a side of mystery, suspense, spicy romance, and more!

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Thursday, July 3, 2025

The Murmuring Mirror (Amberwood Hall Ballet School Book 5) by Eleanor Dixon

 

The Murmuring Mirror (Amberwood Hall Ballet School Book 5)The Murmuring Mirror by Eleanor Dixon
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I have really enjoyed this series! The author has a wonderful way of weaving together a beautiful story full of mystery, intrigue, a scattering of romance, and a little bit of paranormal activity.

Lauren and her friends are competing for the one and only scholarship available for summer school in New York. There is a mirror that is very intriguing and seems to be trying to send a message. Lauren finds herself dancing as if her life depended on it...and maybe it does.

This is a young adult novel that will capture the attention of any dancer who enjoys a great mystery!

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Monday, June 30, 2025

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

 

Florida Girls (Queenpin Chronicles, #1)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 (Queenpin Chronicles, #3)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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Saturday, June 28, 2025

The Duke's Dream by Giovanna Sinischalchi

 

The Duke's DreamThe 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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Friday, June 27, 2025

The Odd Dog by Leia Barrett

 

The Odd DogThe 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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Wednesday, June 25, 2025

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

 

When Grifters Come CallingWhen 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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Thursday, June 19, 2025

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

 

The River Queen (River Romances #1)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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Monday, June 16, 2025

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 (I Love You Sibling Series)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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Sunday, June 15, 2025

The Know It Owl by Terri Sabol

 

The Know It Owl (The Know It Owl Series, origin story)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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Friday, June 13, 2025

The Know It Owl and the Otter by Terri Sabol

 

The Know It Owl and the Otter (The Know It Owl Series)The Know It Owl and the Otter by Terri Sabol
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This series would make a great gift to a new mom or grandparents. Kids and adults alike will love the wittiness of the Owl as he corrects misconceptions about various animals. This story features the Otter and things that people may have thought about them.

A very sweet, cute, witty book full of vivid illustrations sure to keep all engaged!

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The Know It Owl and the Kangaroo by Terri Sabol

 

The Know It Owl and the Kangaroo (The Know It Owl Series)The Know It Owl and the Kangaroo by Terri Sabol
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is a fun series about an owl who knows it all and makes sure to correct those around him when they are wrong. In this story, Owl is focused on the facts of the kangaroo and through a set of witty sayings, let's others know the facts about kangaroos.

A super cute fun read that kids and adults alike will enjoy!

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Thursday, June 12, 2025

The Know It Owl and the Giraffe by Terri Sabol

 

The Know It Owl and the Giraffe (The Know It Owl Series)The Know It Owl and the Giraffe by Terri Sabol
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

What a super cute and fun book about giraffes! I learned a few new things that I did not know about these beautiful creatures. The Know It Owl makes learning fun in this book with his quick facts and a bit of humor too.

Great read for kids of all ages!

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Wednesday, June 11, 2025

Hot in the Pot by Lois Wickstrom

 

Hot in the PotHot in the Pot by Lois Wickstrom
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Lois Wickstrom has done it again! I love this story about Squilla Balloo and her little experiment gone wrong. The name Squilla makes me smile every time I say it too! Squilla has an enemy and she thinks she knows how to change that but when things don't go as planned, the outcome changes too!

Super cute book that kids will love! It will help teach them a lesson in kindness too!

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Tuesday, June 10, 2025

One Wrong Turn at a Time: How We Navigated Fifty States, Forty-Five Years & One Marriage by Jan Heidrich-Rice

 

One Wrong Turn at a Time: How We Navigated Fifty States, Forty-Five Years & One MarriageOne Wrong Turn at a Time: How We Navigated Fifty States, Forty-Five Years & One Marriage by Jan Heidrich-Rice
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

What a fun and witty book to read about the adventures of Honey and Rice as they take road trips and navigate through marriage. I wasn't sure I'd love this one as much as I did but I'm glad that I gave this one a chance. This story will take you on adventures that you might have been on yourself. You'll laugh and maybe even tear up.

A great summertime read!

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Monday, June 9, 2025

The Case of the Missing ID (The Not-So-Lost Series) by Shermaine Perry-Knights

 

The Case of the Missing ID (The Not-So-Lost Series)The Case of the Missing ID by Shermaine Perry-Knights
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This story, set in Italy, is great for kids ages 7-11. Grace is so excited because she is finally getting her first official military ID. That excitement falters when she loses it but with the help of her friends, the mystery of the missing ID will be quickly solved.

This is a great story that provides information on Italy and what life on a military base can be like.

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Wednesday, June 4, 2025

Perfectly Polished (Keeney Builds #2) by Lynne Hancock Pearson

 

Perfectly Polished (Keeney Builds, #2)Perfectly Polished by Lynne Hancock Pearson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Another great read by this author. This series can be read as standalones but to get a better grasp of the nuances of the town of Keeney and her inhabitants.

Fiona is recently divorced and now defying her mother's wishes to move back home. Tomas is an ex-con who just so happens to show up in Fiona's board room.

A love of building affordable housing will bring these two together but can trust be built back for Fiona to open her heart once again?

I'm looking forward to the next book as there is a new relationship budding in this one!

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Monday, June 2, 2025

The Order of Obsidian (The Reeds of West Hills Series) by B.E. Padgett

 

The Order of Obsidian (The Reeds of West Hills)The Order of Obsidian by B.E. Padgett
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I absolutely love this series and this book has me eager for the next book right now!

It's another year of classes at the West Hills School for the Perceptually Gifted and twins Jon and Frank Reed are clinging to any hope that they can find. Jon's visions are becoming more powerful and Frank has a new power that he's having to learn to control.

It's hard to put this one down to take care of "real life issues" when Jon and Frank are in such peril!

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Friday, May 30, 2025

Silent Creek by Jean M. Grant

 

Silent CreekSilent Creek by Jean M. Grant
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I love being introduced to a new author and then the joy of wanting to continue to get to know them and their writing! This book was not a disappointment at all!

The story of Josie and Everett is told through the lens of multiple points of view and contains a little bit of everything. There is mystery, suspense, intrigue, and some romance as well. The story will have you guessing for a bit and is quite enjoyable.

Please take the time to read this book. It's hard to say much without giving things away!

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Wednesday, May 28, 2025

#Hot and Handy (Keeney Builds #1) by Lynne Hancock Pearson

 

#HotAndHandy (Keeney Builds, #1)#HotAndHandy by Lynne Hancock Pearson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This was a great read by a new-to-me author. Everyone loves a good handyman, except for the neighbor lady. Hilary has been handed a life changing cancer diagnosis and her husband decides he isn't going to tolerate all the changes in her life. That provokes Hilary to start a new life in a new town. Vincent has recently been sprung from jail and he's looking for odd jobs to keep food on the table. Hilary isn't fond of his ways but together, they form a bond that can be life changing.

This has moments of deep emotional feelings and then there are moments of levity to balance it all out. There is a bit of spice but not overwhelming. I'm looking forward to more books in this series.

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