WHAT'S THE BUZZ?: The Earl's Unlikely Bride by Ella Matthews - REVIEW!

❤️ COMING NEXT WEEK, a big title for Historical Romance fans from an author whose work I've featured right here before! It's the first release in author Ella Matthews new DASHWORTH BROTHERS series, and OOH, it's so GOOD! 🔥 

Ready or not, fair readers, here comes your sneak peek...

THE EARL'S UNLIKELY BRIDE

 (The Dashworth Brothers, Book 1)

by

Ella Matthews 

9571142006527

About the book...

One summer to make her his…

After four failed seasons, Emily Hawkins is tired of following the rules. Aside from crossing swords with her lifelong enemy, Freddie Dashworth, she is an exemplary member of Society. But after all this time, she’s yet to find a husband and life with her over-bearing mother is becoming intolerable.

Freddie returns to his childhood home to help look after his orphaned niece. His neighbour, Emily, has been his nemesis for years. The infuriating miss is the only woman immune to his charms and there’s nothing he enjoys more than her disapproving glares. It’s a shame he can’t stop thinking about her, because she clearly despises him.

One minor indiscretion later and everything in Emily’s ordered world changes. The one person on her side appears to be Freddie but can she trust her former antagonist? And what will happen to her when she does?

💕 💕 💕 💕 💕 💕 💕 

A great pick for Historical Romance fans and a wonderful release from this talented author.

I ADORED both Freddie and Emily, through and through! They both had challenges (she, an overbearing mother that never saw her...he, an aunt that deserved solitude, as well as an unspoken one he struggled with on his own), but they came together (in a SPECTACULAR way!) to become the family they each always needed, the couple they didn't expect (because others saw it, just... not... them), and a beautiful example of love trumping all. Their connection felt genuine, their love fantastic, their time with the little girl was priceless (she's precious!), and the moments these two shared, whether snarking at one another or clashing in a more physical sense 😉, are not to be forgotten.

❤️ Can't wait for readers to get their hands on this one next week because trust me you won't want to miss it! I can't wait for the next one and am clearing a spot on my TBR to await its arrival! 🙌

💕 💕 💕 💕 💕 💕 💕 💕 

About the author...

Ella Matthews lives and works in beautiful South Wales. When not thinking about handsome heroes she can be found walking along their coast with her husband and their two children (probably still thinking about heroes but at least pretending to be interested in everyone else).

SITE

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Much thanks to author Ella Matthews for pointing be in the direction of the NetGalley eARC for request. (THANKS!) Let it be known, the eARC was received for review, but the opinions expressed are entirely my own. This title releases NEXT WEEK, so mark your calendar, or preorder your copy today!

Until next time, remember, if it looks good... READ IT!

WHAT'S THE BUZZ: Free Bird by Christine Mott, Illustrated by Ofra Layla Isler - REVIEW!

Today's WHAT'S THE BUZZ title is set to celebrate its BOOK BIRTHDAY this TUESDAY via Lantern Publishing & Media, and shares a work of edutainment as we take in a Storybook release that's based on a true story!  It's always fun to learn new things, and this particular format makes that experience open to an even wiser audience.  So, without further adieu, let's take a closer look between the epages of today's featured title...

Free Bird: Flaco the Owl’s Dreams Take Flight

by

Christine Mott

Illustrations by

Ofra Layla Isler

Lantern Publishing & Media

Release Date: May 6, 2025

About the book...

Flaco, a brave and determined owl, dreams of breaking free from his cage at the zoo and soaring through the sky. One day, he seizes the opportunity to escape and finally experience the freedom he has always longed for. Follow Flaco as he navigates the bustling streets of New York City, learns to fly, and makes new friends along the way.

Through Flaco’s eyes, children will learn the importance of following their dreams and showing compassion for wild animals. This heartwarming tale is beautifully illustrated and will leave a lasting impression on readers of all ages. Join Flaco on his incredible adventure and be inspired to reach for the stars!

This book comes with a bonus educational section in the back for all the curious readers. Discover amazing facts about owls that will make early learning fun and help connect the story to the real world.

50% of author’s book royalties will be donated to the Wild Bird Fund, a 501(c)(3) non-profit that rehabilitates sick, injured and orphaned wildlife and releases them back to the wilds of New York City.

AMAZON

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This is a story about dreaming big and going for those dreams.

It's all well and fine to have a dream, but if you don't chase it, if you don't take a chance to make it come true...then it may as well be a figment of your imagination.  The dreamer here is Flaco the Owl and the dream is to soar the big blue skies.  Sounds like a natural match for a bird, BUT Flaco has been in captivity as far back as he can remember, so he's never had the pleasure.  Oh, but the view from his enclosure keeps him hoping, keeps him DREAMING that one day it might be his reality.  When an unexpected visitor pays him a visit, the opportunity arises for him to make his dreams reality...so, he takes his chance, and never looks back!

It was wonderful to see Flaco reach for the skies!  It speaks to persevering, seizing the moment, and reaching for your dreams.  It reminds us that ANYTHING is possible, if we believe, and take the chances that present themselves.  There may be obstacles along the way, but if we keep trying, and allow ourselves the grace to grow, the sky is truly the limit!  A great story for readers of all ages with a story to tell, and lessons to share that will carry right off the page.

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About the author...

Christine Mott is an attorney and animal advocate with over fifteen years of experience leading legal and policy efforts to protect animals. She advises alternative protein companies, animal sanctuaries, and other animal protection and sustainability-focused organizations. Christine is a former chair of the Animal Law Committee of the NYC Bar Association and has served on the boards of various animal advocacy organizations. Christine received her JD from NYU Law and her BA from Smith College. Christine’s work has been featured in the New York Times and various media. A native New Yorker, Christine currently lives in California with her family.

SITE

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About the illustrator...

Ofra Layla Isler is the founder of Art in Rescue, which honors the work of animal rescue through her hand drawn art. Inspired by the beautiful animals who are given second chances to live a life in peace, she brings her passion for art and animal rights together through Art in Rescue. Ofra has worked with various animal advocacy and conservation organizations. She lives in California with two rescue kitties. Ofra received her M.B.A. from Reichman University and her B.A.Sc. from California State University, Chico. 

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Special thanks to Kelsey at Book Publicity Services for the chance to bring this feature to you, as well as the eARC for review. (THANKS!) For more information on this title, the author, the illustrator, or the publisher, feel free to click through the links provided above. This title is set to release May 6th, 2025 via Lantern Publishing & Media, so mark your calendar, or preorder your copy today!

Until next time, remember...if it looks good, READ IT!

WHAT'S THE BUZZ?: Loon Cove Summer by Donna Galanti - REVIEW!

Today's WHAT'S THE BUZZ title is set to celebrate its BOOK BIRTHDAY this TUESDAY via Wild Trail Press and stars a Contemporary Middle Grade novel that will have you all tied up at the heart.  What's that mean?  Great question!  I'll be happy to explain, but first...the introductions!  Ladies and gents, get ready for a summer trip you won't soon forget as we set out for adventure with...

Loon Cove Summer

by

Donna Galanti

Hardcover: 9781736316276

Paperback: 9781736316269

eBook: 9781736316283

Wild Trail Press

RELEASE DATE:  May 6, 2025

About the book...

Thirteen-year-old Sarah Richardson is determined that her life will finally get unstuck this summer. She just knows it. Her to-do list? Brave the lake again. Save the loons. Stop missing Mom. Her one bright spot: volunteering at the local wild bird rehabilitation center. The summer looks even brighter when Sarah meets Theo, the boy staying at her family’s Maine lakeside campground who cares about protecting the loons just like she does. But when Sarah’s family may have to move, she adds a new to-do item: save their home. And when she suspects Dad is dating Theo’s aunt, the naturalist helping research environmental dangers to the loons, Sarah is caught in a new world of grief. With the looming reality of losing her dad, her home, and the loons, Sarah must make a big statement to take control of her life. Capturing inspiration from her late mother’s Appalachian Trail hiking journal, she boldly plans a solo wild adventure. But as her challenges mount, she wonders if her courage will earn her the voice she seeks—or if she’s made a reckless choice that just might claim her life.

Amazon |  B&N  |  Bookshop

Goodreads

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This book.  This book.  This beautiful, heartbreaking book.  When I say that I almost had to stop about 1/3 of the way through, I'm not stating that lightly.  

It's not just a story about summertime...although it is that as well.  Sarah and her bestie are a part this summer, but they are trying to share their experiences through "to-do" lists of epic proportions.  Will they achieve their goals?  Somewhat...but again, that's not the whole story.  It's not just a story about conservation, and saving the beloved loons...although a big part of it is.  We learn about their habits, what dangers exist for them, and how we can help.  We see how one voice CAN make a difference, and inaction is the only true enemy of positive change....but again, not the whole story. It's not just a story about growing up, experiencing all the firsts, and changes that life can bring...although it is this as well.  Spending the summer apart from her best friend, helping to save not one but two loons, a first crush, and maybe even a first kiss...and yet, this still isn't the whole story.  

It's about a little girl and her father and her granddad...learning to live again.  It's about going about your day and carrying on, even when you have a broken heart.  It's about finding your rhythm again, and moving forward, while carrying the heaviest of hearts within you.  It's about a subject that hits WAY too close to home, even though it's been 14 months for me, and only 6 months for our leading lady.  When I say that I felt for Sarah, I mean I really FELT for Sarah.  I understood her grief, her actions, her lack of actions, and the struggles she tried to valiantly battle through on her own in the hopes of not upsetting the family unit and further than it had already been.  For Sarah, circumstances were different, and the struggles that already existed kept growing until it started to reach a breaking point...but lucky for her, that breaking point is what starts their healing process all over again.  She learns that as time marches forward, we still carry the memory of those that are gone with us.  The lessons shared help guide us.  The love and the laughter, the smiles and the tears, they all build us up as much as they can make us fall...but feeling those emotions, and remembering those times are precious just the same.

A great read for Middle Grade fans of all ages with many a life lesson to share.  The author does a wonderful job of getting the emotions into the story, while taking us on a summer trip we won't soon forget.

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About the author...

Donna Galanti is the author of two middle-grade series of books, Unicorn Island and Joshua and the Lightning Road. She has lived in fun locations including England, her family-owned campground in New Hampshire, and in Hawaii where she served as a U.S. Navy photographer. Donna is an avid outdoor adventurer and nature lover. She volunteers for the Old-Growth Forest Network and the National Audubon Society. When Donna’s not wandering the woods seeking magic and wonder, you can usually find her biking or kayaking. For more information on her books, school visits, and events, visit her at: www.donnagalanti.com.

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🗓  *** MARK YOUR CALENDAR ***  🗓

$50 Barnes & Noble Gift Card Giveaway

ENTER 5/6/25 – 5/13/25

!!  ENTER HERE  !!

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Special thanks to author Donna Galenti for the eARC access for review. (THANKS!) For more information on this title, the author, or the publisher, feel free to click through the links provided above. This title is set to release May 6, 2025, so mark your calendar or preorder your copy today!

Until next time, remember...if it looks good, READ IT!

WHAT'S THE BUZZ?: The Ballerina of Auschwitz (Young Adult Edition of The Choice) By Edith Eva Eger - REVIEW!

Today's WHAT'S THE BUZZ title comes to us via Simon and Schuster Children's Publishing and features a Young Adult Nonfiction title that brings us the beauty and strength that can be found in even the darkest of times. Be prepared to step behind the eyes of today's author to a time and place we wish never happened for lessons that we should never forget. Ladies and gents, today's book of choice...

The Ballerina of Auschwitz

Young Adult Edition of The Choice

By

Edith Eva Eger

9781665952552

Atheneum Books for Young Readers

Release Date: October 1st, 2024

About the book...

Edie is a talented dancer and a skilled gymnast with hopes of making the Olympic team. Between her rigorous training and her struggle to find her place in a family where she’s the daughter “with brains but no looks,” Edie’s too busy to dwell on the state of the world. But life in Hungary in 1943 is dangerous for a Jewish girl.

Just as Edie falls in love for the first time, Europe collapses into war, and Edie’s family is forced onto a train bound for the Auschwitz concentration camp. Even in those darkest of moments, Edie’s beloved, Eric, kindles hope. “I’ll never forget your eyes,” he tells her through the slats of the cattle car. Auschwitz is horrifying beyond belief, yet through starvation and unthinkable terrors, dreams of Eric sustain Edie. Against all odds, Edie and her sister Magda survive, thanks to their sisterhood and sheer grit.

Edie returns home filled with grief and guilt. Survival feels more like a burden than a gift—until Edie recognizes that she has a choice. She can’t change the past, but she can choose how to live and even to love again.

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As a reader that falls into Historical Fiction more often than not, taking in a nonfiction title from time to time would seem the natural progression. Some call to me, while others don't, but this was one I found myself reaching for. 

While an adult counterpart exists, this Young Adult version of her original memoir plays to the intended audience. That is to say while they both convey her story, this version focuses more so on her personal journey, her feelings before, during, and after the events that unfold, and how she was able to find the strength to pull through another day when everything was crumbling around her. It reminds us that there is beauty even in the darkest of times, light to be found in the pitch black of night, courage to be found in the seemingly frailest of minds, and love to be fought for when our hearts are the only thing still free. I think teen readers will find a kinship in her struggles, even if they aren't in the same circumstances, because despite the terror that surrounds, she was still growing up, and discovering her self, her place in the world, and the difference she could make. 

A beautifully shared story of a life lived through loss and triumph, Dr. Edith Eva Eger weaves a tale that you can't turn away from with lessons you won't want to forget. 

💐 🩰 💐 🩰 💐 🩰 💐

About the author...

Picture credit: Jordan Engle

Edith Eger is an eminent psychologist and one of the few remaining Holocaust survivors old enough to remember life in the camps. A colleague of Viktor Frankl, Dr. Edith Eger has worked with veterans, military personnel, and victims of physical and mental trauma. She lives in La Jolla, California, and is the author of the bestselling and award-winning books The Choice and The Gift. Edie and her daughter, Marianne Engle—a renowned psychologist and food writer who helped develop the recipes in The Gift—encourage you to try the delicious dishes in the book and share your thoughts at LoveEdieandMarianne@Gmail.com.

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Special thanks to Lindsey at Simon & Schuster Children's Publishing for the chance to share this title with you and for the copy for review! (THANKS!) For more information on this title, the author, or the publisher, feel free to click through the links provided above. This title celebrates its BOOK BIRTHDAY tomorrow, October 1st, 2024, so mark your calendar or pre order your copy today!

Until next time, remember...if it looks good, READ IT!

WHAT'S THE BUZZ?: A Bite Above the Rest by Christine Virnig - REVIEW!

Today's WHAT'S THE BUZZ is a Middle Grade Fiction title coming to you TOMORROW via Aladdin/Simon & Schuster Children's Publishing and features a FANGtastic story that's just vaiting for you to sink your teeth into. 🧛 Sound like your cup of tea? Better be careful what you drink and from whom in this town, but prepare yourself as we dive between the pages of today's book of choice...

A Bite Above the Rest

by

Christine Virnig

9781665946575

Aladdin

Release Date:  August 6th, 2024

About the book...

When Caleb’s mom decides they are moving to her childhood home in Wisconsin, Caleb is not thrilled. Moving schools, states, and time zones would be bad enough, but Mom’s hometown is Samhain, a small and ridiculously kitschy place where every day is Halloween.

Caleb is not a fan of Halloween when it only happens once a year, so Halloween-obsessed Samhain is really not the place for him. How is he supposed to cope with kids wearing costumes to school every single day? And how about the fact that the mayor is so committed to the bit that City Hall is only open from sundown to sunup to accommodate his so-called vampirism? Sure enough, Caleb becomes an outcast at school for refusing to play along with the spooky tradition like the other sixth graders. Luckily, he manages to find a friend in fellow misfit Tai, and just in time, because things are getting weird in Samhain…or make that weirder.

But there’s no way the mayor is an actual vampire, and their teacher absolutely cannot really be a werewolf—right? Caleb discovers Samhain is so much stranger than he ever could have imagined. As one of the only people who realizes what’s happening, can he save a town that doesn’t want saving?

🧛   👻   👾   👸   🤠

This is a book that really gets under your skin.  It makes you really wonder about that seemingly innocent little old lady down the street that likes to garden and prefers pointy hats.  It makes you second guess that acquaintance that seems to have an affinity for nights versus days, and burns rather easily.  It makes you think about those friends or coworkers that don't get sick often, but just happen to about once a month...around the full moon.  This is a book that YOU DON'T WANT TO MISS!

Starting over is never easy, especially when prompted by a tragedy, but when you land in an unusual town where it's Halloween every day?  Yeah, that's something else.  I mean, you actually have to wear a costume every day...both children AND adults...because if you don't, THEN you're the odd one out!  Sound like fun?  Oh, I'm sure it could be...but then there are the oddities.  The strange teacher that disappears once a month around the full moon, the neighbor that knows more about you than they should considering you're never talked with her before, and even the city government officials keeping VERY odd office hours (as in only when the sun is down!).  Doesn't seem like a big deal, right?  I suppose everyone needs to have a place to call home, and Caleb and Tai have a great connection to be besties for life...but what about those that go against the grain?  What about those that don't agree with covering things up, letting missing person cases slide under the rug, and creepy SSS-ilencing business of anyone that asks the wrong questions?  Yeah, that's definitely making my moral compass swing towards no, so I don't blame these two for questioning things, and digging for answers. The only real problem is...what will happen if they discover what they think to be true to be ACTUALLY true?  And who can they trust so they don't become the next people to disappear?  *dun dun dunnn*

While it's release is perfectly timed for the start of the SPOOKY reading season, and the story definitely has all the fine attributes we look for when reaching for that seasonal read (come on, a town that is ALL about Halloween, all the time?!  With townspeople that make you second guess if it's a costume for them or every day life?), it also has A LOT of heart.  We have loss of a family member (trigger warning for those that need it...though it's not in detail, it is definitely an underlying vein in the story touched on several times.), new beginnings, finding friends and being one, the power of promises, and learning how to follow the truth while being your true self.  I loved the friendship Tai and Caleb built seemingly in a heartbeat.  I liked Caleb's devil-may-care approach to the costume "rule", and I'm sorry, but his were totally punny!  I enjoyed getting to know the town and the townspeople...well, MOST of them...and while the ending felt just right, I LOVE how it definitely left things open just in case the author wants to pay a visit to Samhain again (please, please, PLEASE!).

A great pick for Middle Grade Fiction fans of all ages, and a SPOOKTACULAR way to welcome the Halloween season that's fast approaching.  You never know, you may even get a costume idea or two of your own!

🧛   👻   👾   👸   🤠

About the author...

Christine Virnig is a fan of books, candy, spooky stories, poop jokes, and coffee…in no particular order. As a former physician, Christine now spends her days writing books, reading books, and working at a library where she is surrounded by books. Christine lives in southern Wisconsin with her husband, two daughters, a ridiculous number of dust bunnies, and one incredibly lazy cat. You can visit her on the web at ChristineVirnig.com

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Special thanks to Alex at Simon & Schuster Children's Publishing for the chance to share this title with you and for the copy for review! (THANKS!) For more information on this title, the author, or the publisher, feel free to click through the links provided above. This title celebrates its BOOK BIRTHDAY August 6th, 2024, so mark your calendar or pre order your copy today!

Until next time, remember...if it looks good, READ IT!

WHAT'S THE BUZZ?: A DOUBLE REVIEW featuring Author Rachel Lynn Solomon!

Today's WHAT'S THE BUZZ features a DUO of titles from author Rachel Lynn Solomon. It's a Young Adult set that screams Coming-of-Age trope as it tackles life and love in high school days and beyond! That's right. We don't simply end things when the tassel is switched to the other side of the hat. Summer happens, and then...the sequel is released. *first pump* So, grab your cap and gown, or maybe the sweatshirt you confiscated from your significant other that may have belonged to them, but most assuredly is now yours, as we take a look between the pages of your next must reads...

Today Tonight Tomorrow

9781534440258

Here, we meet Rowan and Neil in the hallowed battle ground that is also known as high school.  Yes, I said battle ground because these two have been at each other academically for the last four years.  Competitive much?  OH yeah, and they drive each other crazy along the way, but it's definitely a case of the lady (or gent) doth protest too much because while they think they've merely been sparring all this time, friends and those that surround are catching a glimpse of feelings they may not have even admitted to themselves.  Well, so maybe one of them has, and the other has been ignoring them since the first week they met, but that's beside the point...at least for now.  The end of school scavenger hunt and sniper-ish game is a bout to prove how the line between enemy and something far more endearing is very easily blurred.  There are moments of self discovery, situations that aid in them having those AH-HA instances, and a HEA waiting for them that is uniquely their own.  You'll catch all the feels as things seriously heat up, and really get behind the dreams they are reaching for all while supporting each other in ways even they never realized.  It's all drawn to a conclusion both satisfying and tantalizing as the future awaits them beyond the days of summer.

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Past Present Future

9781665901956

Release Date: June 4th, 2024

About the book...

When longtime rivals Rowan Roth and Neil McNair confessed their feelings on the last day of senior year, they knew they’d only have a couple months together before they left for college. Now summer is over, and they’re determined to make their relationship work as they begin school in different places.

In Boston, Rowan is eager to be among other aspiring novelists, learning from a creative writing professor she adores. She’s just not sure why she suddenly can’t seem to find her voice.

In New York, Neil embraces the chaos of the city, clicking with a new friend group more easily than he anticipated. But when his past refuses to leave him alone, he doesn’t know how to handle his rapidly changing mental health—or how to talk about it with the girl he loves.

Over a year of late-night phone calls, weekend visits, and East Coast adventures, Rowan and Neil fall for each other again and again as they grapple with the uncertainty of their new lives. They’ve spent so many years at odds with each other—now that they’re finally on the same team, what does the future hold for them?

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Summer is over and college has begun.  What looked like a dream on the horizon is actually shaping up to be...part dream, part torture, part big fat unknown.  Funny how the best laid plans can fall by the wayside.  People change as they grow, and dreams can be altered as well, but that doesn't mean we have to say goodbye to everything we hold dear.  It's about learning what we need to hold close, letting go of what we don't, and making room for new experiences, likes, desires, and realizations.  Rowan and Neil have some tough times ahead, both on their own and with each other, but if they put faith in their connection, if they trust in the love they share, there is no obstacle they can't handle, no challenge they can't face, no change in circumstances or desires that they can't handle.  I know, I know, it sounds detrimental to our golden couple, but trust me, it's well worth the read.  Everything they go through will make that potential for a HEA that much sweeter, that much more satisfying if reached...and really, while I won't spoil the surprise, when have either of them cracked from the pressure?

The beauty in this one isn't in the finding, but the understanding, the ability to relate to the characters and what they're going through.  The situations are realistic, the feelings intense, and the hard moments...seriously tough... but it doesn't make them any less valid.  They both have things to work through in this chapter of their lives, and while they've always been up to a challenge on their own, sometimes a problem shared is in fact a problem halved, allowing them to grow stronger together as they find those solutions.  I was rooting for them the whole time, and delighted with the final outcome, as I think you will be too.  A great pick for Young Adult readers that will pull you in and never let go.

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About the author...

Photograph by Sabreen Lakhani

Rachel Lynn Solomon is the New York Times bestselling author of Today Tonight Tomorrow, The Ex Talk, and other romantic comedies for teens and adults. Originally from Seattle, she’s currently navigating expat life in Amsterdam, where she’s on a mission to try as many Dutch sweets as possible. Learn more at RachelSolomonBooks.com.

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Special thanks to Lindsey at Simon & Schuster Children's Publishing for the chance to share these titles with you and for the copies for review! (THANKS!) For more information on this set, the author, or the publisher, feel free to click through the links provided above. The second title celebrates its BOOK BIRTHDAY June 4th, 2024, so mark your calendar or pre order your copy today!

Until next time, remember...if it looks good, READ IT!

WHAT'S THE BUZZ?: Not If You Break Up with Me First by G.F. Miller - REVIEW!

Today's WHAT'S THE BUZZ title is a Tween Fiction title coming to you JUNE 4TH via Simon & Schuster Children's Publishing and features a look at fresh young romance as it should be...or is it? Sound like your cup of tea? Well then, ladies and gents, prepare yourself as we dive between the pages of today's book of choice...

Not If You Break Up with Me First

by

G.F. Miller

9781665950015

Aladdin

About the book...

Two friends who have unhappily found themselves accidentally dating try to drive the other one to call things off in this witty and heartfelt middle school romance.

Childhood friends Eve and Andrew are destined to be together—everyone says so, especially their friends and classmates who are all suddenly crush-obsessed. So when Eve and Andrew’s first eighth grade school dance rolls around and Eve, feeling the pressure, awkwardly asks Andrew to go with her, everyone assumes they are Officially Dating and Practically in Love. Overwhelmed, Eve and Andrew just…go with it.

And it’s weird. Neither of them wants this dating thing to mess up their friendship, and they don’t really see each other that way. But they also don’t want to be the one to call things off, the one to make things super awkward. So they both—separately—pledge to be the worst boyfriend or girlfriend ever, leaving it to the other person to break up with them. It would be genius…if the other person weren’t doing the exact same thing.

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Boy meets girl.

Boy is friends with girl.

Boy and girl MUST be dating, madly in love, and eventually one day down the line a ways headed to the chapel where they're gonna get....

WHOA WHOA WHOA WHOA WHOA.

Who is in charge of this story anyway?

The friends surrounding them, or the boy and girl themselves?

Now THAT'S something worth writing about.

This is a story of how the world (in this case, middle school kids, and parents) can take a look at something and call it what they want to see instead of what it might actually be without input from the parties involved, only influence.  Yeah...and the thing is, they are BOTH too kind hearted and taking steps into the unknown to say ANYTHING to ANYONE to put the brakes on this runaway train of gossip, speculation, and assumptions that seem to be molding them into the perfect couple.  COULD they be that?  Sure, if given the chance to figure it out for themselves, but forcing them into a mold that they aren't ready to fit can create all sorts of havoc and the fact that neither wants to hurt the other in this crazy process speaks volumes for the kindness of their hearts.

A great read for the younger end of the Middle Grade readers just finding their footing in the world of romance, and, let's face it, eighth grade as a whole!  It's a new world for certain, but never lose site of who you are, or where you're ready to be.  

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About the author...

Shannon Ly for Shannon Ly Photography

G. F. Miller absolutely insists on a happy ending. Everything else is negotiable. She is living her Happily Ever After with the love of her life, three kids, two puppies, and some chickens. She cries at random times. She makes faces at herself in the mirror. She believes in the Oxford comma. And she’s always here for a dance party.

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Special thanks to Lindsey at Simon & Schuster Children's Publishing for the chance to share this title with you and for the ecopy for review! (THANKS!) For more information on this title, the author, or the publisher, feel free to click through the links provided above. This title celebrates its BOOK BIRTHDAY June 4th, 2024, so mark your calendar or pre order your copy today!

Until next time, remember...if it looks good, READ IT!

WHAT'S THE BUZZ?: Finally Fitz by Marisa Kanter - REVIEW!

Today's WHAT'S THE BUZZ title is a Teen Fiction title coming to you THIS TUESDAY via Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers and features a coming-of-age story with all the feels, all the confusion, and all the drama you can handle!  Sound like your cup of tea?  Well then, ladies and gents, prepare yourself as we dive between the pages of today's book of choice...

Finally Fitz

by

Marisa Kanter

9781665926072

Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers

Release Date: April 23rd, 2024

About the book...

Ava “Fitz” Fitzgerald has worked hard to create the picture-perfect life she’s always wanted. She spent her junior year transforming her passion for sustainable fashion and upcycling into a viral online platform, maintaining a 4.0 GPA, and spending every free second with her soon-to-graduate girlfriend, Danica. And this summer she plans to take it all to the next level by attending a prestigious summer fashion program in New York City and convincing Dani that they can survive a year of long distance.

But when Dani dumps her before classes even start, accusing Fitz of being more invested in growing her online persona than deepening their relationship, she’s left not only heartbroken, but also creatively blocked.

Fitz will do anything to win Dani back, even if that means taking a break from the platform that she’s worked so hard to build. But just as she decides to go all-in on a hiatus, a chance encounter reunites her with Levi Berkowitz, her childhood best friend that she hasn’t seen since elementary school. Levi is struggling with heartbreak of his own, and this cosmic coincidence sparks a new use for her social media savvy. Fitz offers to help Levi craft a fake relationship online to make his person jealous…if in return he can pretend to be her boyfriend in front of Dani to make her jealous. If all goes according to plan, by the end of the summer they’ll both be reunited with their perfect partners and get to rekindle their friendship in the process.

Sometimes even the most carefully designed plans can come apart at the seams, though. And when real history leads to not-so-fake feelings, Fitz will have to decide if she’s finally willing to let go of what she thought was picture-perfect and choose what might actually be right for her.

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The Big Apple.

New York City.

If you can make it here, you can make it anywhere...

...but what if when you get there...

...the apple is "sour" and things don't go your way...

...or at least the way you planned them...

Such is the sitch for our gal Levi.  She's an upcycling prodigy in the making with a big insta following to boot.  This summer was to be the trip of a lifetime, combining her fashion future with the girl of her dreams, and showing them both that what they have could last beyond the hallowed halls of high school.  Only...the program is proving harder than Levi anticipated with the feedback becoming more fallout, and the moments she meant to capture to make memories are turning into some she might want to forget when Dani decides she's been more photographer than other half.  What's a girl to do?  Immerse herself in a fake relationship with her long lost (well, out of communication at least) bestie that just so happens to be in the big city (cue the meet-cute moment!), and someone that still has a piece of her heart as well.  Oh the drama...but that's life, and when all is said and done, Levi will indeed be finally Fitz.

This is a story about life, friendships, relationships, and growing up.  It's about finding yourself, your TRUE self, and learning to love it even more than you thought you could.  It's about discovering the path you forged for yourself may not be the one best for you...and that's okay!  Our teenage years are a time of change (heck, so is adulthood for that matter!), and rolling with the punches is easier said then done.  All we can do is take one day at a time, and try not to over plan things so we can actually let life happen...sorta like the characters here.  It's a great story with a varied cast of characters allowing readers to find themselves reflected somewhere in the narrative, while chasing that happily-ever-after.

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About the author...

Photograph by Sam Cheung

Marisa Kanter is a young adult author, amateur baker, and reality television enthusiast. She is the author of What I Like About You, As If on Cue, and Finally Fitz. Born and raised in the suburbs of Boston, her obsession with books led her to New York City, where she worked in the publishing industry to help books find their perfect readers. She currently lives in Los Angeles, writing love stories by day and crocheting her wardrobe by night. Follow her at MarisaKanter.com

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Special thanks to Thad and Alex at Simon & Schuster Children's Publishing for the chance to share this title with you and for the copy for review! (THANKS!) For more information on this title, the author, or the publisher, feel free to click through the links provided above. This title celebrates its BOOK BIRTHDAY April 23rd, 2024, so mark your calendar or pre order your copy today!

Until next time, remember...if it looks good, READ IT!

WHAT'S THE BUZZ?: A Lady on the Edge of Ruin by Lotte R. James - REVIEW!

Regency Romance fan?  FABULOUS...because today's WHAT'S THE BUZZ title is perfectly suited to you!  We're got the latest release by author Lotte R. James COMING SOON via Harlequin Books, and it stars an interesting duo with an equally interesting storyline.  Don't believe me?  How about if I told you I didn't really like our main female lead for a good portion of the story?  Or what if I said the male lead seemed a little too perfect?  Ah, now I have your attention!  Let me burst one of your thought bubbles though, in the end...I LOVED the book, but as with most people harboring a secretive nature, it took a bit to get to know it.  Ladies and gents, prepare yourself as we dive between the epages of today's book of choice...

A Lady on the Edge of Ruin

by

Lotte R. James

Harlequin

Release Date:  11/23/23 UK

11/28/23 US

About the book...

A passion that could destroy her reputation...

...but save her heart!

Since the traumatic events of her first Season, Lady Mary Spencer’s been wary of Society. Tired of feeling angry and bitter, at a seemingly innocuous garden party, she lets her guard down with Luca Guaro. The charming Italian rogue also abhors the ton’s dictates and becomes a much-needed light in Mary’s life. A liaison with Luca would be scandalous, so why is she so tempted to head to the brink of ruin...

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Lady Mary Spencer is QUITE the character.

She has a carefully crafted reputation that the ton can not ignore, wields the information (aka secrets) she gathers like so much armor against the world, and is equally adept at turning it into weapons as needed.  That's not to say she's heartless, merely that she's locked hers away under lock and key.  It's not until a good portion of the story has transpired that we discover the reason for her actions.  Grant it, there are hints along the way, but nothing, in this case, was better for enlightenment of her true character than full disclosure.  Frankly, I don't blame her for all she did, but she was missing out on all that could be as she built a fortress for herself that seemed unable to be penetrated.  I was heartbroken when it seemed all that was within reach was being pulled away again, and in utter despair when the one at the heart of the betrayal was revealed, but in awe of her family and the plan concocted on her behalf.  Ah, catch that earlier statement did you?  Seemingly....let us examine our male lead, Luca Guaro.

The title often makes the man, and yet Luca was just fine without one.

He kept fine company, provided for his mother and sister, lived a life filled with balls, excursions, and decadence...but he was what the ton would call a fancy man.  In our times, I believe an escort would be a close definition, though there were relations with some of the women, but I digress.  His latest "keeper" may have started that way, but turned into more of a deep friendship, a companionship, if you will, allowing his heart to remain free, and his desires to fall where they may.  Where did they fall?  Why, upon Lady Spencer, of course!  She's so appealing from what I wrote above, is she not?  NO, she was a beauty, yet could be ruthless, but he saw deeper, below the masks she wore, and keenly wanted to know her in her heart of hearts.  Remember my mention of "too perfect"?  Yes, there's the bit that caught me unawares.  He's gorgeous, kind, willing to both take a chance and give one in return, and...really the only flaw I could find was he seemed to give up on Mary a might too easily when his inner dialogue seemed to know better, though that was a situation that was remedied in full color splendor.  

By book's end, I was in Mary's corner fully with fingers crossed and baited breath that all would turn out as hoped.  It was definitely a till the last page type of ending, but it was so much better for it. We come to know her fully, the same can be said for Luca, and the more that comes to light, the more a union between the two can easily be seen as the best finale for the tale (but I won't confirm anything, you have to read it!). Though a standalone title, I also enjoyed the mentions and meetings of the other novels that came before it; it was like meeting old friends, and walking memory lane hand in hand.  One small stutter for me, the use of italics and ellipsis, or rather their over use.  I'm not an editor, and it could purely be author's choice here, but they definitely seemed to be favorited to a degree...a touch Shatner-like...and while it niggled my brain, it didn't ruin the story.

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About the author...

Lotte James trained as an actor and theatre director, but spent most of her life working day jobs crunching numbers whilst dreaming up stories of love and adventure. She’s thrilled to finally be writing those stories, and when she's not scribbling on tiny pieces of paper, she can usually be found wandering the countryside for inspiration, or nestling with coffee and a book.

SITE  |  X  |   INSTAGRAM

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Special thanks to author Lotte R. James for the chance to share this title with you and for the ecopy for review! (THANKS!) For more information on this title, or the author, feel free to click through the links provided above. This title celebrates its BOOK BIRTHDAY in the UK November 23rd, 2023, and in the US November 28th, 2023, so mark your calendar or pre order your copy today!

Until next time, remember...if it looks good, READ IT!