Posts Tagged ‘children’s book’

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I am thrilled to be hosting a spot on the WILD ASSES OF THE MOJAVE DESERT & GOBBLEDY by Lis Anna-Langston Blog Tour hosted by Rockstar
Book Tours
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Check out my stop on the tour and make sure to enter the giveaway!

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Title: WILD ASSES OF THE MOJAVE DESERT

by Author: Lis Anna-Langston

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Pub. Date: October 20, 2023

Publisher: Mapleton Press

Formats: Paperback, eBook

Pages: 302

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Find it: Goodreads, https://books2read.com/WILD-ASSES-OF-THE-MOJAVE-DESERT

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A modern girl caught in the chaos of
the modern world, Skye takes a drastic turn when she escapes a toxic
relationship. Driving across country she seeks solace at her sister’s house in
the low desert reuniting with her best friend Dylan, whose discovery of a
mysterious rock sparks a belief in its magical properties. With the help of a
psychic, her sister, her ex, a phantom dog and a little Ho’oponopono Skye
weathers the unexpected twists and turns during the course of a summer that
changes her life forever.

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…a journey away from the familiar and
into the desert of discovery…As relationship quandaries, marriage
possibilities, and good and harmful emotional connections emerge against the
backdrop of the desert environment, readers receive a multifaceted story that
connects via both emotional and landscape twists of perspective.

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“Wild Asses of the Mojave Desert is a
novel that pulls at heart and mind alike. Through Skye’s journey and process of
letting go everything she’s held tightly throughout her life, readers receive a
compelling saga…”-D. Donovan, Sr. Reviewer, Midwest Book Review

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MY REVIEW

I’m going to start my review with the ending. I finished reading it and immediately thought, what did I just read? The answer was a book filled with mystery and every kind of character you could imagine. And that’s a big seller for me. I love character driven stories and here you have some young adults trying to look at the big picture. Answer those big questions. Why are we here? What does it all mean?

Skye returned home with a broken heart and mice living in her car. Hoping for the comfort of familiar surroundings and friends. She discovers things didn’t stand still while she was gone. People changed. The small town she remembered changed. And something in the desert will change her too. And my perspective on what I was reading changed. I thought the story was going one way. It went another. My focus deepened. The story changed again. My focus deepened again. And I could not stop reading until I got the big picture. I got the meaning. I got the answers.

And those characters I mentioned. Every kind you could imagine. How about a dead chinchilla living in a freezer. Or a ghost dog. The pink meteorite and the desert felt like characters too.

After reading the synopsis I had a feeling I would enjoy this voyage. Halfway through reading the book I knew for sure. And by the end, I loved it.

5 STARS

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GOBBLEDY

by Author: Lis Anna-Langston

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Pub. Date: October 20, 2023

Publisher: Mapleton Press

Formats: Paperback, eBook

Pages: 233

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Find it:Goodreads, https://books2read.com/GOBBLEDY-LANGSTON

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Read for FREE with a Kindle Unlimited Membership!

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Ever since eleven-year-old Dexter
Duckworth and his brother, Dougal, lost their mom, everything has been
different. But “different” takes on a whole new meaning when, one day just
before Christmas (or Kissmas, as they call it), Dexter finds a golden rock in
the forest that hatches into an adorable alien. Gobbledy is smarter than he
seems and is lost on planet Earth. Before long, Gobbledy takes Dexter, Dougal,
and their best friend Fi on an adventure of friendship, family, and loss—one
that requires them all to stay out of trouble, protect Gobbledy from a shadowy
group called the Planetary Society, and prepare for their school’s Winter
Extravaganza Play, where Dexter has to be a dreaded Gingerbread Man.

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Gobbledy is a fun-filled holiday story that adds up to two
brothers, three friends, unlimited jars of peanut butter, a ketchup factory,
and one little alien far, far from home.

“Hugely entertaining as well as
emotionally moving.” ~ Kirkus Reviews

“This charming alien-in-the-attic story boasts engaging characters, witty
storytelling, and a furry little beast that will eat anything, all wrapped up
in a warm holiday package.” ~ Booklife

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MY REVIEW

Gobbledy was much more than I bargained for. In such a fun, lovable way. Haven’t you looked to the stars at night and wondered what or who else might be out there? For two young brothers, the answer is out of this world. It comes with lots of toes, a long tail and tall, fluffy ears.

Dexter and his friend, Fi, discover a mysterious rock that hatches a cute alien they name Gobbledy. Needing help to protect their secret, they bring Dexter’s younger brother, Dougal, into the fold. And thus begins the adventure of all adventures.

While the story is about dealing with the loss of a loved one, there are many fun situations which, combined, brings a richness to the tale. The alien eats everything. I mean everything. Hence it’s name. Dexter, Dougal and Fi will make you laugh so hard. That deep bellied laugh that makes you bend over to catch your breath. The lengths they go through to hide Gobbledy are hilarious. And the clueless father. He doesn’t play a big part in the story, but he sure adds to the hilarity.

When I reached the end I felt a lightness of heart. And I was wearing a big silly grin.

5 STARS

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About Lis Anna-Langston:

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Lis
Anna-Langston was raised along the winding current of the Mississippi River on
a steady diet of dog-eared books. She attended a Creative and Performing Arts
School from middle school until graduation and went on to study Literature at
Webster University. Her novels have won the Parents’ Choice Gold, Moonbeam Book
Award, Independent Press Award, Benjamin Franklin Book Award and NYC Big Book
Awards. A three-time Pushcart award nominee and Finalist in the Brighthorse
Book Prize, William Faulkner Fiction Contest, George Garrett Fiction Prize and
Thomas Wolfe Fiction Award, her work has been published in The Literary Review,
Emerson Review, The Merrimack Review, Emrys Journal, The MacGuffin, Sand Hill
Review and dozens of other literary journals.

Hailed as
“an author with a genuine flair for originality” by Midwest Book Review and “a
loveable, engaging, original voice…” by Publishers Weekly, you can find her in
the wilds of South Carolina plucking stories out of thin air.
Sign up for Lis’s newsletter!

Website | Twitter | Instagram | Goodreads | Amazon | BookBub

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Giveaway contest ribbon promo label prize. Vector giveaway banner badge design template

1 winner will win their choice of a finished copy of WILD ASSES OF THE MOJAVE DESERT or
GOBBLEDY, US Only.

Ends December 19th, midnight EST.

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a Rafflecopter giveaway

Tour Schedule:

Week One:

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12/4/2023

#BRVL Book Review Virginia Lee Blog

Blog Spotlight/IG Spotlight

12/4/2023

Writer of Wrongs

Excerpt

12/5/2023

@darkfantasyreviews

Excerpt/IG Spotlight

12/5/2023

@anitralovesbooksanddogs

IG Spotlight

12/6/2023

GryffindorBookishnerd

IG Review

12/6/2023

mythicmelancholy

IG Review

12/7/2023

@evergirl200

IG Review

12/7/2023

The Momma Spot

Review

12/8/2023

Country Mamas With Kids

Review/IG Post

12/8/2023

Confessions of the Perfect Mom

Review/IG Post

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Week Two:

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12/11/2023

@enjoyingbooksagain

IG Review

12/11/2023

FUONLYKNEW

Review

12/12/2023

A Blue Box Full of Books

IG Review/LFL Drop Pic/TikTok Post

12/12/2023

One More Exclamation

Review/IG Post

12/13/2023

paws.read.repeat

Review/IG Review/LFL Drop Pic

12/13/2023

@froggyreadteach

IG Review

12/14/2023

Locks, Hooks and Books

Review

12/14/2023

@pineshorelittlefreelibrary

IG Review/LFL Drop Pic

12/15/2023

@enthuse_reader

IG Review/TikTok Post

12/15/2023

@pagesforpaige

IG Review

 

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Thanks so much for visiting fuonlyknew and Good Luck!

For a list of my reviews go HERE.

For a list of free eBooks updated daily go HERE

To see all of my giveaways go HERE.

 

 

 

Book Details:

TWIN POWER by Ben and Kiyanda Young
Category:  Children’s Fiction (Ages 3-7),  30-38 pages
Genre:  Children’s Book
Publisher:  Twizzler Bees Entertainment
Release date:   June, 2021
Content Rating:  G. This children’s book is for everyone.

Book Description:

Sebastian and Simone are not just brother and sister. They are twins! They show little readers some cool things they can accomplish because of their Twin Power.

Join them in their adventures to see how Twin Power and working together make being twins super fun … and convenient.

The stories and adventures that the twins experience will show all children how to use teamwork to accomplish tasks. Through a series of activities included at the back of each book, little readers will practice memorization, counting, and matching while having fun coloring.

Twin Power Books are products of Twizzler Bees Entertainment LLC. Sign up for our newsletter and find more fun and educational activities at www.twinpowerbooks.com and feel free to reach out with questions or comments at info@twinpowerbooks.com.

Buy the Book
Amazon
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MY REVIEW

Twin Power says it all. It’s about teamwork. Working together. Two heads are better than one, right? Simone and Sebastian are fraternal twins. They were born together but look different. Their personalities are different too. Their wants and differents are different. But, being twins, they are never alone. They always have each other.

I loved the illustrations. The twins’ individualities show in so many fun, imaginative ways. How they play, support and comfort each other and discover the power of being twins.

While this story is focused on twins and how working together can be better than working alone, it can also be applied to siblings that aren’t twins.

At the end of the book is a reading comprehension page with questions to ask after finishing the book. And there are some fun pages to color too.  Another wonderful way to make this story a fun read and an interactive learning experience at the same time.

5 STARS

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Book Two in the Twin Power Series:

 

 

Book Details:

 TWIN POWER: THE BEST SNOW DAY EVER by Ben and Kiyanda Young
Category:  Children’s Fiction (Ages 3-7),  30-38 pages
Genre:  Children’s Book
Publisher:  Twizzler Bees Entertainment
Release date:   October, 2021
Content Rating:  G. This children’s book is for everyone.


Book Description:

Sebastian and Simone are not just brother and sister. They are twins!

They show little readers some cool things they can accomplish because of their Twin Power.

Join them in their adventure, The Best Snow Day Ever as they learn to use their Twin Power to have winter fun with some neighborhood children. From a snowball battle to making a snowman, working together makes being twins super fun … and convenient.

The Best Snow Day Ever is the second in a series of Twin Power Books starring fraternal twins named Simone and Sebastian. The twins learn how to work together and teach little readers about what it means to be a twin and a best friend.

The stories and adventures that the twins experience will show all children how to use teamwork to accomplish tasks.

Through a series of activities included at the back of each book, little readers will practice memorization, counting, and writing while having fun coloring.

 

Buy the Book
Amazon
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Stop back on December 13th for my review!
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Meet the Authors:

Ben and Kiyanda Young are the proud parents of an amazing set of fraternal twins, Zara and Owen. As parents, they promote individuality among their children while encouraging their twins to support and rely on one another. The special bond between Zara and Owen is what inspired the Youngs to write Twin Power, the first in a series of award-winning books highlighting the unique relationship that twins share. In addition to being Zara and Owen’s parents, Ben is a gastroenterologist and Kiyanda is a surgeon, both with medical practices in Virginia.

connect with the authors: website X ~ instagram 

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The Twin Power Series by Ben and Kiyanda Young Book Tour Giveaway

 

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Thanks so much for visiting fuonlyknew and Good Luck!

For a list of my reviews go HERE.

For a list of free eBooks updated daily go HERE

To see all of my giveaways go HERE.

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Book Details:

And the Trees Talked Back

by Frederick J. Burns

Category:  Children’s Fiction (ages 3 to 7), 48 pages
Genre:  Children’s Book
Publisher:  Frederick J. Burns
Release date:   Nov 4, 2023
Content Rating:  G.  Suitable for everyone.

Book Description:

Meet Amanda, an extraordinary child with a unique gift — she can talk to trees.

Living in a quaint village with a mystical forest, Amanda’s life takes an enchanting turn when she seeks out her inquisitive cat, Daisy. As the sun sets and the moonlight casts its glow, the duo embark on a thrilling night-time adventure.

As Amanda encounters ancient trees, she uncovers a world she never knew existed, where wisdom and acceptance coexist with fear and hatred. Amidst the rustling leaves and haunting shadows, she confronts the duality of nature, discovering the true meaning of good and evil. Her bonds with nature deepen and she learns to navigate the world where choices shape destinies.

And The Trees Talked Back is a heartwarming tale of wonder, friendship, and self-discover that will captivate readers of all ages.

Buy the Book:
Amazon ~ B&N
add to Goodreads
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MY REVIEW

The first thing I want to mention is the illustrations in this wonderful story. They are incredible. I especially like that while they are mostly in soft gray, black and white, there are soft hints of other colors such as the red cardinal perched in a tree, the pale pink of Amanda’s sweater, and her calico cat, Daisy’s, light orange spots.

Longmeadow is no ordinary town and Amanda is no ordinary girl. She sees faces in the trees. All kinds of faces. When her beloved cat slips outside into the night and she goes in search of her, she’s surprised that she can talk to the trees, and they talk back.

“I never knew a tree could talk.”

” That’s funny,” replied the tree. “I never knew a human could listen.”

As Amanda continues talking to the trees, she’s told to keep their secret or human’s will cut them down. Kill them. It won’t matter that they provide the air to breathe. Fear would make them destroy the trees. I now know what the lack of color in the illustrations means to me. There’s good and evil. Black and white. And maybe something magical in between.

I truly enjoyed this wonderful adventure and often found myself grinning. The conversations between Amanda and the trees were often silly and fun. They were also a little sad and sometimes scary. There’s one big old tree that’s really mean and it hates humans. Especially Amanda who he calls Humanda.

Frederick Burns is a talented artist and a true story teller and this book will charm readers, young or young at heart.

5 STARS

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Meet Author Frederick J. Burns:

Burns, always an artist on the inside, breaks through his trial attorney exterior at age 63, to write and illustrate his first children’s book, AND THE TREES TALKED BACK. Three years in the making, Burns strives to convey a world where commonalities are more important than differences, where empathy is more important than distain and where making friends is more important than creating enemies. With no formal art training, Burns enjoys working in and learning new mediums and styles. His art has won awards in juried competitions, been displayed on billboards, in government offices, the D’Amour Museum of Fine Art, and now graces the cover of Dave Brinnel’s second CD, ALONE. His detailed illustrations of trees using pen and ink with washes of watercolor have been compared to the fantastical illustrations of Arthur Rackham and Maurice Sendak. Burns lives in the Pioneer Valley of Western Massachusetts with his wife, Heather and two dogs, where he is developing ideas for his next book.

connect with author: website ~ instagram ~ goodreads
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AND THE TREES TALKED BACK by Frederick J. Burns Book Tour Giveaway

 

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Thanks so much for visiting fuonlyknew and Good Luck!

For a list of my reviews go HERE.

For a list of free eBooks updated daily go HERE

To see all of my giveaways go HERE.

 

 

Book Details:

Nursery Rhymes for Kinder Times®, Vol. 1 by Pam Gittleman
Category:  Children’s Fiction (ages 2 to 5), 46 pages
Genre:  Children’s Picture Book
Publisher:  Mascot Kids, an imprint of Amplify Publishing Group
Release date:   Oct 3, 2023
Content Rating:  G.  Suitable for everyone.

Book Description:

What happens when Three KIND Mice put their heads (and bodies!) together to get some cheese on top of the counter? Will Humpty Dumpty be left in pieces when his friends notice that he’s fallen off the wall? And who will get bags of wool–and toys and books–from Baa Baa BRIGHT Sheep? Read all about the beloved characters from traditional nursery rhymes in this endearing collection of eight updated rhymes that nurture kindness, empathy and gratitude!

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MY REVIEW

What a wonderful idea. Eight traditional nursery rhymes. Ones I remember well. New and updated with cute emojis to use when answering questions posed for each rhyme.

I had such fun with the rhymes. I read them out loud and then I found myself singing them out loud. And the illustrations. So cute and colorful. Every single one. I own the hardcover edition and the pictures really stood out.

Whether used as a teaching tool or just a fun read along, your children will be smiling and asking you to read it with them again and again. I read it a few times myself.

5 STARS

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Meet the Author:

Pam has been an early childhood music educator for over twenty-five years with a passion for singing, rhyming, reading stories, and making music with preschoolers.

When Pam noticed that some children seemed unfamiliar with traditional nursery rhymes, and that parents and teachers were avoiding them because of their outdated, dark, and inappropriate nature, she set out to modernize them. Nursery Rhymes for Kinder Times® provides a memorable way to build language, musicality, and literacy through songs, stories and rhymes that nurture kindness, empathy, and gratitude. The inclusion of resources that support social and emotional learning (SEL) make it easy for parents and teachers to engage with the children they love.

The rhymes in the book can also be enjoyed as songs on the Nursery Rhymes for Kinder Times album recorded by Raffi and Lindsay Munroe, as well as in videos on the Nursery Rhymes for Kinder Times® Show on YouTube. (www.linktr.ee.com/forkindertimes)

Aside from making music with young children, Pam loves dogs and dark chocolate. She lives in New York with her husband, and loves when her children, grandchildren, and granddogs come to visit!

Pam collaborated with Dan and Catherine Markowitz for art and design of the book.

connect with author: website X/twitter ~ facebook ~ facebook instagram instagram ~ goodreads
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NURSERY RHYMES FOR KINDER TIMES Book Tour Giveaway

 

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Thanks so much for visiting fuonlyknew and Good Luck!

For a list of my reviews go HERE.

For a list of free eBooks updated daily go HERE

To see all of my giveaways go HERE.

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Book Details:

Book Title:  Santa’s Magical Reindeer: Becoming Pen Pals by Michele Monaco
Category:  Children’s Fiction (ages 3 to 7), 38 pages
Genre:  Children’s Book
Publisher:  Mascot Kids
Release date:   Nov 7, 2023
Content Rating:  G.  Suitable for everyone.

Book Description:

Right after Thanksgiving is the busiest time of year for Santa and his crew of eight famous reindeer! Every year, the Famous Eight sleigh team from the North Pole eagerly helps Santa by going on a quest to find kids who believe in Christmas magic. In Santa’s Magical Reindeer: Becoming Pen Pals, Prancer, Vixen, and Dasher go on an adventure in search of eager pen pals. On their journey, they find three rambunctious girls who eagerly exchange letters with them and become lifelong friends.

Buy the Book:
Mascot Books

Amazon B&N
add to Goodreads
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MY REVIEW

It’s the busiest time and the happiest time of the year. Santa and his eight reindeer are hard at work to be sure all the boys and girls have a wonderful Christmas. For three lucky young girls this year will be extra special. Prancer, Dasher and Vixen have chosen them to be their Pen Pals. What starts as a magical holiday adventure becomes one that lasts their whole lives.

What could be more fun than having one of Santa’s reindeer as your Pen Pal. I sure would have loved it when I was a young girl. What made this even more fun was reading the letters they exchanged. Kylie, Kenna and Rinnie were delightful young girls and their excitement was contagious. I got a feel for each girl’s personality and the same with each of the reindeer.

The illustrations are so colorful and there is a lot to see. Even the little details offer so much to the story.  As does the last pages which have questions you might want to ask your own special reindeer.

A wonderful, magical story that I highly recommend you add to your holiday reading list. I’m sure it will become a part of your Christmas tradition.

5 STARS

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Guest Post from Author Michele Monaco
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The inspiration for the story stems from my children Corryn, Kylie and McKenna. With my love of Christmas, I wanted to bring a whole different magical component to Christmas. I wanted my girls to be so enveloped in the magic of Christmas.  We lived in an area that had woods behind it and deer would be a common sighting on our lawn. I got the idea of these deer coming and watching my kids and reporting back to Santa. Before I knew it, it evolved into me playing the role of these reindeer and writing letters to my kids. My kids loved it and they were immersed in the idea and they were waiting in anticipation for their next letter so I encouraged them even before they could write to draw letters to their reindeer.  In a flash of an eye, my kids were writing letters back and forth to their reindeer

There are so many family traditions that I have integrated into my own family. One of them is going to cut down our own Christmas tree. This is quite an event that happens after Thanksgiving. Everyone must put on a Santa or elf hat.  It is the mandatory uniform for going out and seeking out a tree. We go out to a tree farm where you get a steaming cup of hot chocolate and we take a wagon ride out to where the Christmas trees are located and get our saws. Then the search begins, and when we find the perfect tree. Everyone takes part in using the saw to cut down this tree, and everyone helps carry the tree back to get wrapped up and loaded on the car!

I have two Christmas trees in my house one is the traditional tree that goes up in the living room and then I also have another tree that usually has a theme for the year one of my favorite trees was when I scoured photo albums Facebook Instagram to get pictures that included everyone in my family. I collected pictures from when people were small kids during their lifespan special moments. I decorated them with ribbon and hung them all over the Christmas tree so that when people came to my home they were immersed and fascinated by walking around the tree and seeing pictures of themselves and extended family and friends throughout their lives. It brought on memories, conversation, laughter, and tears. For me, this tree unified the meaning of Christmas.

Another tradition is that we start off  Christmas Eve morning with a large cup of hot chocolate and we pile into the car with snuggly blankets and we drive through Valley Forge Park where there are a lot of deer in the open lands and people walking on the open trails. My girls and I play Christmas music and we wish the reindeer good luck as they prepare for Christmas. Next year’s book will reveal why we wish the reindeer good luck!

Merry Christmas!

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Meet Author Michele Monaco:

Michele Monaco has a great love for the Christmas season. She embraces the Christmas spirit all year round by remembering to look at life through the eyes of a child. As a mother of three beautiful and exuberant daughters, she believes in the magic that the holiday brings. Michele lives in Collegeville, Pennsylvania, and enjoys traveling, reading, running, and enjoying the outdoors.

connect with author: website facebook ~ instagram 

 

 
 
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Santa’s Magical Reindeer: Becoming Pen Pals Book Tour Giveaway

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Thanks so much for visiting fuonlyknew and Good Luck!

For a list of my reviews go HERE.

For a list of free eBooks updated daily go HERE

To see all of my giveaways go HERE.

 

 

 

Book Details:

  The Dolphin Dentist: No Sharks Allowed by Cheryl DaVeiga
Category:  Children’s Fiction (Ages 3-7),  44 pages
Genre:  Children’s Picture Book
Publisher:  Waterhole Productions LLC
Release date:   November, 2023
Content Rating:  G. This children’s book is for everyone.

Book Description:

COMING SOON! A “Fin-tastic” adventure Like No Other!

Fearless Flossy, a mighty great white shark, has a secret—she’s terrified of going to the dentist.  Dr. Dribble, the big-hearted dolphin dentist, has a jaw-dropping fear of his own, and a strict “No Sharks Allowed” policy.  When Fearless Flossy makes an unannounced visit to Dr. Dribble’s office, it’s the start of an underwater adventure like no other!  This ‘fin-tastic’ story is must-read for kids and parents alike. Young readers will be immersed in a tale of courage, compassion, and conquering fear, while giggling and cheering for these unlikely friends along the way.

Dive in with a big Biff Bam Booza smile.

Buy the Book
Biff Bam Booza
Amazon
add to 
goodreads
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MY REVIEW

I found myself checking all the boxes when reading this adventure.

Fun, witty characters that charm me. There’s Fearless Flossy Fin. A young Great White shark that’s scared to go to the dentist.  She’s not living up to her title of Queen Of The Sea.

Mama Fin, who’ll not here another word about it. It’s off to the dentist.

 Dr. Dribble the dolphin. Known as The Gentle Dentist Of The Sea who will not treat sharks. No way.

And his assistant, an Octopus named Ms. Oops, who shames Dr Dribble into examining Flossy’s BIG teeth.

And there are so many quirky, silly descriptions that made me giggle. Yes, giggle.

Mama Fin finding Dr. Dribble on the fin-ternet.

And Flossy’s jaggedy, snaggedy, zig-zaggedy bad teeth. It’s so fun to say out loud.

And all those extras. So many adorable creatures. A fun waiting room at Dr. Dribble’s office. And some of his dental tools, such as the Barracuda Drill. Yes, it’s a barracuda.

Must not forget the illustrations. They are so colorful and the characters are so fun and cleverly drawn. I loved them all!

I thought this was a super fun way to ease a child’s fear of the dentist. If Fearless Flossy can do it, so can they.

5 STARS

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Meet the Author:

Cheryl DaVeiga is an award-winning children’s book author and singer/songwriter residing in New Jersey. After a career in business, Cheryl’s passion for music caught up with her, and she began writing and recording children’s songs as her alter ego, CADi Grace. She then moved on to adult songs, including an ASCAP award-winning veteran’s anthem, the featured song for the State of Alabama Bicentennial Celebration, the theme song to the philanthropic Where Angels Play Foundation, and a NJ Arts’ pick for top NJ summer songs. She’s also written songs for artists on critically acclaimed albums.

You can find her books and animated sing-along song videos on her website for kids and kid-lovers– BiffBamBooza.com.

Biff Bam Booza books have received numerous awards and acclaim, including Mom’s Choice Gold, Purple Dragonfly, Eric Hoffer, and Literary Titan book awards, a Readers’ Favorite 5-star rating, and a Kirkus Review Magazine feature.

Cheryl lives in Tucson, Arizona, and spends summers in her native New Jersey.

connect with the authors:  website ~ facebook ~ instagram ~ twitter ~ bookbub ~ goodreads


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THE DOLPHIN DENTIST: NO SHARKS ALLOWED Book Tour Giveaway

 

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Thanks so much for visiting fuonlyknew and Good Luck!

For a list of my reviews go HERE.

For a list of free eBooks updated daily go HERE

To see all of my giveaways go HERE.

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I am thrilled to be hosting a spot on the POPPY THROUGH THE PAINTINGS by Julie Lucht & Dan McGeehan Blog Tour hosted by Rockstar Book Tours.

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Check out my Review and make sure to enter the giveaway!

 

POPPY THROUGH THE PAINTINGS

Author: Julie Lucht & Dan McGeehan (Illustrator)

 

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Pub. Date: April 18, 2023

Publisher: Brown Books Pub Group

Formats: Hardcover

Pages: 32

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Find it: GoodreadsAmazon, B&N, BAM, Bookshop, Powells, Blackwells  

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Today is the big day!

Adventurous and passionate Poppy
can’t wait to go to the art museum with her fourth-grade class. All the
different masterpieces are just waiting to be seen. But when Poppy leans a bit
too close to a painting, to her surprise she falls inside! With the help of
some unlikely friends, she must travel from one painting to another in a
colorful quest to get back home.

From famous pieces like American
Gothic
Water LiliesNighthawks, and many
more, Poppy Through the Paintings is a fun and imaginative way
to explore art with kids that will make them want to dive headfirst into
art-just like Poppy!

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MY REVIEW

Poppy is so excited. Her fourth grade class is going to the museum and she gets to see lots of paintings by famous artists. There are so many. She really loves one by Van Gogh and leans in to get a closer look. Oh my! She falls into the painting and now she leaps from one to the next, meeting the people in each painting and hoping one will point the way back out.

Author Julie Lucht created a delightful young girl in her character, Poppy. Fearless and curious.  And the illustrations by Dan McGeehan were beautiful. So colorful and wonderous.  The story was a grand adventure. Sure to delight young readers and perhaps instill some curiosity in them when they go to a museum. I wonder what they might imagine when they lean in for a closer look. Maybe an adventure as grand as Poppy’s.

5 STARS

 

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About Author Julie Lucht:

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Julie Lucht holds a
BA in Journalism. Her childhood was filled with trips to the library and museum
with her mother. These trips, along with her two incredible daughters, were the
inspiration for the strong, independent, and curious Poppy. Julie wishes she
could travel through the paintings like Poppy. Currently, Julie lives in Texas
with her wonderful husband, and loves reading, her family, and her dogs. Poppy
Through the Paintings
 is her first children’s book.
Website 

 

 

 

 

 

About Dan McGeehan:
Dan McGeehan is an illustrator, actor, director, and playwright.
His whimsical, colorful illustrations have appeared in a wide range of
magazines, textbooks, and children’s books for over forty years. A resident of
Chicago, Dan has traveled to many cities, and he always visits their art
museums. Though unlike Poppy, he has not journeyed through any of their
paintings . . . yet.

 

 

 

 

 

Giveaway contest ribbon promo label prize. Vector giveaway banner badge design template

 

1 winner will receive a finished copy of POPPY THROUGH THE PAINTINGS, US Only.

Ends December 5th, midnight EST.

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a Rafflecopter giveaway

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Tour Schedule:

Week One:

11/1/2023

 #BRVL Book
Review Virginia Lee Blog

Blog Spotlight/IG Post

11/2/2023

Two Chicks on Books

Excerpt or Guest Post/IG Post

11/3/2023

Girls in White Dresses

Review

Week Two:

11/6/2023

Jazzy Book Reviews

Review/IG Post

11/7/2023

@anitralovesbooksanddogs

IG Review

11/8/2023

Kim’s Book Reviews and Writing Aha’s

Review/IG Post

11/9/2023

Country Mamas With Kids

Review/IG Post

11/10/2023

@pineshorelittlefreelibrary

Review/IG Post

Week Three:

11/13/2023

Locks, Hooks and Books

Review

11/14/2023

@evergirl200

Review/IG Post

11/15/2023

@get.outside.and.read

Review/IG Post

11/16/2023

@just_another_mother_with_books

IG Review

11/17/2023

paws.read.repeat

Review

Week Four:

11/20/2023

GryffindorBookishNerd

IG Review

11/21/2023

A Blue Box Full of Books

IG Review/LFL Drop Pic/TikTok Post

11/22/2023

mythicmelancholy

IG Review

11/23/2023

FUONLYKNEW

Review

11/24/2023

@froggyreadteach

IG Review

Week Five:

11/27/2023

@dharashahauthor

IG Review/TikTok Post

11/28/2023

One More Exclamation

Review/IG Post/LFL Drop Pic

11/29/2023

Callisto’s calling

IG Review/LFL Drop Pic

11/30/2023

@enthuse_reader

IG Review/TikTok Post

 

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Thanks so much for visiting fuonlyknew and Good Luck!

For a list of my reviews go HERE.

For a list of free eBooks updated daily go HERE

To see all of my giveaways go HERE.

Santa’s Early Christmas

by Lily Lawson

Illustrated by Gustyawan

 

 

Synopsis

Last year Santa was hungry and thirsty by the time he delivered all the presents. But when he came home there was no food and drink left! This year Santa decides things are going to be different.

Purchase Link

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MY REVIEW

What a fun take on Santa and the night before Christmas. Last year, when he returned from delivering presents, all the yummy food and drinks were already gobbled up. This year he’s determined not to miss out, so….. he tries something different.

I remember when I was a little girl. I made sure Santa had his cookies and milk waiting by the Christmas tree. I was always giddy with excitement when I came out of my room on Christmas morning and I spied the cookies were gone and the glass of milk was empty. When I had a son of my own, he made me include oatmeal for the hard working reindeer.

This adorable story, with vibrant, colorful pages, brought back some fond memories. I hope you get a chance to read it and share it with your young ones.

4 STARS

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About Author Lily Lawson: 

Lily Lawson is a poet and fiction writer living in the UK.

She has poetry, short stories, and creative non-fiction

published in anthologies and online

in addition to her poetry books.

 

My Fathers Daughter,

A Taste of What’s to Come,

and Rainbow’s Red Book of Poetry

 

and her kids’ books

Santa’s Early Christmas,

The Palm Tree Swingers Island Band

and If I Were Invisible…

 

You can find out more about Lily

and read more of her work on her blog.

 

Subscribers to Life with Lily are the first to hear all her writing news.

You can sign up here.

 

Social Media Links: Twitter / Instagram / Goodreads / BookBub / AllAuthor

 

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Thanks so much for visiting fuonlyknew!

For a list of my reviews go HERE.

For a list of free eBooks updated daily go HERE

To see all of my giveaways go HERE.

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I am so excited that STARR OF THE SHOW by Leigh Reagan Alley & Mark Nathan Hurry is available now and that I
get to share the news!

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If you haven’t yet heard about this wonderful book, be sure to check out all the details below.

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This blitz also includes a giveaway for a $10 Amazon Gift Card courtesy of Rockstar Book Tours. So if
you’d like a chance to win, check out the giveaway info below.

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STARR OF THE SHOW: Shiny Friends Super Squad #1

Author: Leigh Reagan Alley & Mark Nathan Hurry (Illustrator)

 

 

Pub. Date: October 1, 2023

Publisher: Piggy Bank Press

Formats:  Paperback, eBook

Pages: 141

Find it: GoodreadsAmazon 

 

Starr and Sunny are best friends with a super-unbreakable
bond––at least until Starr tells a little lie that spirals into a great big
mess! Will the lie cost Starr her best friend, her passing science grade, and
her spot onstage at Fifth Grade Family Night? Or will friendship and the power
of forgiveness show a whole new squad how to shine?

Starr of the Show is a heartwarming tale about
two friends, with a gentle message about forgiveness and letting go. Leigh
Reagan Alley tells a sweet story filled with preteen drama, humor, and witty
dialogue that entertains you from beginning to end. The characters are
compelling and feel like real elementary school kids. Even the fight between
Starr and Sunny is adorable, and their friendship is the story’s heartbeat.
Kids will find it easy to relate to either of them. The illustrations by Mark
Nathan Hurry add a nice touch to bring the characters to life. This is the kind
of book kids should read before aging up for Harry Potter. I loved every moment
of it and will gladly recommend it for preteens.” –Pikasho Deka for
Readers’ Favorite

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About Leigh & Mark:

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For Leigh
Reagan Alley
, the 4th-great-granddaughter of Maine folk hero Tall Barney
Beal, tall tales are part of her family’s DNA! Raised in a Downeast lobstering
village where storytelling tradition is alive and well, and trained to be a
writer and educator in Maine universities that she still serves today, Leigh
teaches children’s and young adult literature in the University of Maine System
where she is an Assistant Professor of Education. Her lobstering husband and
their two lobstering children are her three favorite people to share stories
with.  

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Mark Nathan Hurry studied
art and design at Newcastle College, earning himself a diploma before going to
university where he received his bachelor’s degree in illustration. Mark is a
collector of children’s literature and has made picture books specially for his
daughter who has sensory processing disorder. Residing in Newcastle upon Tyne,
England, with his three beautiful girls, his wife, cat, and dog, it is life
with them that inspires his work.

Grab some freebies!

Join the Squad!

Website | Facebook | Instagram | Goodreads | Amazon

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Giveaway contest ribbon promo label prize. Vector giveaway banner badge design template

 

1 winner will receive a $10 Amazon Gift Card courtesy of Rockstar Book Tours, International.

Ends October 13th, midnight EST.

.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

~~~~~

Thanks so much for visiting fuonlyknew and Good Luck!

For a list of my reviews go HERE.

For a list of free eBooks updated daily go HERE

To see all of my giveaways go HERE.

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Join Lilly, Boris, and Jack’s adventures in the magical Mushroom Patch,

where friendship and fun collide!

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Mischief in the Mushroom Patch

The Mischief Series Book 1

by Amanda M. Thrasher

Genre: Children’s Fantasy Chapter Book

Where do fairies get their magical fairy dust?

After leaving the mushroom patch without permission, two mischievous fairies find themselves in more trouble than they can handle. Boris, with a broken ankle and a bent wing, is unable to walk or fly, and Lilly must devise a plan to escort him safely back to the mushroom patch.

As with all actions, there are consequences! Lilly and Boris have broken colony rules and wasted precious fairy dust. Sentenced to work in the dust factory, the two learn a valuable lesson about the production of fairy dust, but can they survive the foreman?

Amazon * Apple * B&N * Kobo * Bookbub * Goodreads

 

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Letter to my younger self

 

Dear Younger Self,

 

I know you often worry about your writing skills and how they will develop over time. I want to assure you that with each new book you write, your skills will improve and continually develop. It’s a natural progression that will allow you to find your rhythm, method, and voice. When you first started writing, you may have felt unsure and inexperienced. The words didn’t flow as effortlessly as you hoped, and you questioned whether you had what it takes to become an author. But let me tell you, those doubts are unfounded.

 

Writing is an art that requires practice and patience. Just like any other skill, it takes time to hone your craft. Each book you write will be a stepping stone towards improvement. You will learn from your mistakes, experiment with different techniques, and discover what works best for you. Don’t be discouraged by the initial struggles or setbacks you may encounter. They are all part of the learning process. Embrace them as opportunities for growth and keep pushing forward. Remember, even the most accomplished writers started from humble beginnings.

 

As you write more books, you will gradually find your rhythm. You will develop a writing routine that suits you best, whether early mornings or late nights, in a cozy café or a quiet corner of your home. This routine will help you establish discipline and allow your creativity to flow more freely. Finding your method is another exciting aspect of your writing journey. You will experiment with various approaches, such as outlining or writing by the seat of your pants. You will discover what planning techniques work for you and what kind of structure helps you stay focused. Embrace this experimentation and trust that you will find the method that brings out your best work.

 

Perhaps the most rewarding part of your writing journey will be finding your voice. It’s the unique way you express yourself through your words, the distinctive tone and style that make your writing yours. This voice will evolve with time and experience, becoming stronger and more refined. It will be an authentic reflection of who you are as a writer. So, my younger self, don’t worry. Embrace the journey of writing and trust in the process. Each new book you write will be an opportunity to improve your skills, find your rhythm, develop your method, and discover your voice. Enjoy the ride, and remember that the best is yet to come.

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A Fairy Match in the Mushroom Patch

The Mischief Series Book 2

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Lilly, Boris and Jack are back!

The three friends are together again in this newest addition to the Mischief Series.

A natural disaster has taken the elders by surprise, and the scientists are unprepared. Damage to the colony is inevitable! Can the Master Engineers devise a plan to save the colony before they lose their home?

The fairies’ Kick-a-Berry Match has been postponed as well, and the fairies must find new ways to entertain themselves until the pitch dries up. Along the way, they make a new friend named Pearle, and though she cannot walk, she can fly with ease.

Valuable lessons about friendship, teamwork and perseverance will be learned as the fairies embark on their newest adventure.

Amazon * Apple * B&N * Kobo * Bookbub * Goodreads

 

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Spider Web Scramble

The Mischief Series Book 3

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Every third year, on the fifth full moon, the Mushroom Patch holds a magical Spider Web Scramble.

Excitement buzzes through the forest as the fairies prepare to scramble the magical webs in order to complete the course. As a special treat, the elders disclose that the stars will be coming down to join in and play. A wish will be granted for the fairies who are pure of heart and manage to beat the clock, locating the star that has their name etched on it.

With the no-fly rule in place, teamwork is the only way Pearle can complete the course. But little do they know that possible danger is in their midst. Will the magical spider web scramble be postponed? Will the stars grant Lilly, Boris, and Jack their wishes? Find out in this delightful magical adventure.

This is the third installment in The Mischief Series.

Amazon * Apple * B&N * Kobo * Bookbub * Goodreads

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Stranger in the Mushroom Patch

The Mischief Series Book 4

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Lilly, Boris, and Jack Are Back! Get Ready for a Human Attack!

Who knew a slimy moss bomb war between friends would lead to an adventure of a lifetime! From strategizing with the elders for their playful battle to, of all things, escaping the clutches of a human!

It doesn’t take long to learn the fairies shockingly have more in common with the child than they ever could have imagined. Broderick, everyone’s favorite spider, provides the goodies, and Lilly supplies the fairy songs and games.

Filled with twists and turns, adventure, and fun, find out if the fairies and the elders can help the stranger reunite with her family. Or will there be a human attack?

Amazon * Apple * B&N * Kobo * Bookbub * Goodreads

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Frowns and Gowns

The Mischief Series Book 5

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Embark on a Magical Adventure with Lilly, Boris, and Jack!

Get ready to join Lilly, Boris, and Jack on an unforgettable journey filled with excitement, laughter, and a touch of mayhem. Brace yourself for a whirlwind of mishaps as these three fairies plan a magnificent magical ball, only to encounter an unforeseen disaster!

Experience the magic of friendship with Lilly, the quick-witted and resourceful fairy, Boris, the mischievous fairy with a heart of gold, and Jack, the troublemaker with a curious, adventurous spirit on their latest adventure.

Throughout, Lilly, Boris, and Jack teach the true meaning of friendship and teamwork. Together with their friends, they’ll overcome challenges, learn valuable lessons, and create memories that will last a lifetime. Don’t miss out on this enchanting tale!

**New Release!**

Amazon * Apple * B&N * Kobo * Bookbub * Goodreads

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Amanda M. Thrasher was born in England, moved to Texas, and resides there still. She’s an award-winning author of Young Adult, General Fiction, Middle Grade, Early Reader Chapter, and Picture Books. Amanda is a multiple Gold Recipient of The Mom’s Choice Awards® (MCA), earning the award in multiple categories, including Young Adult, General Fiction, and Early Reader Chapter Books. She is also a two-time Gold Medal winner of the Readers’ Favorite International Book awards, a New Apple Literary Award winner, and a North Texas Book Festival award winner. Visit Amanda’s website at: amandamthrahser.com.

Amanda founded and is the CEO of Progressive Rising Phoenix Press, an independent publishing company. She shares her writing and publishing experience with others through school visits, book signings, trade conferences, and workshops for aspiring writers of all ages.

Website * Facebook * Twitter * Instagram * Bookbub * Amazon * Goodreads

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Follow the tour HERE for special content and a giveaway!

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$50 Starbucks gift card and a set of the Mischief books! 

$20 Amazon giftcard – 1 winner each!

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a Rafflecopter giveaway

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~~~~~

Thanks so much for visiting fuonlyknew and Good Luck!

For a list of my reviews go HERE.

For a list of free eBooks updated daily go HERE

To see all of my giveaways go HERE.