The Dangerous One (Osborn Brothers #1) by Lori Foster

The Dangerous One by Lori Foster
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I could not put this new book in a series down; Foster introduces the reader to Hunter Osborn & Jodi Bentley but we also are re-acquainted with the MCKENZIE family from another great Foster series,
McKenzies of Ridge Trail! Their first meeting sizzles and the mystery, chemistry, and yearning between the two "neighbors" was palpable! I loved Hunter's dog, while Jodi is a take no prisoners strong woman, she is a goner for this rescued basset hound. Pick this book up now, readers will love this new hot romance!

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Caleb's Crossing by Geraldine Brooks

Caleb's Crossing by Geraldine Brooks
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Just as I loved all of Geraldine Brooks' books, I never got to read this while being a high school/YA librarian and this novel of Bethia (her father is a minister to the Native American tribe of the Wampanoag) and Caleb, who meet and form a lifelong friendship that is secret until Caleb becomes a member of their family after his family dies. I was gripped by Bethia, her restricted life as a woman, pioneer and Puritan, her thirst for knowledge, and her special friendship with Caleb. So awful were the conditions and privations Caleb and other natives suffered (horrible assumptions, calling them savages & comparing them to animals). Thoroughly researched with authentic characters, the many settings were historically accurate with the beauty of the island and acrid smells of big cities. Highly recommended!

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The Most Dazzling Girl in Berlin by Kip Rose

The Most Dazzling Girl in Berlin by Kip Wilson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Just as I loved Kip Wilson's first book, White Rose, so also did I enjoy Hilde's journey from orphan to friend with Rosa and the family at the queer club where they waitress and sing to earn money as the Hitler regime closes in. This novel in verse was gripping and thoroughly researched (see Notes at the end) with Hilde becoming more and more strengthened by her circumstances and friendships with those at the club. Loved the cover, too. Highly recommended!

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The In-Between: A Memoir in Verse by Katie Van Heidrich

The In-Between: A Memoir in Verse by Katie Van Heidrich
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Based on the author's life, this novel in verse details Katie and her siblings constant, surprise moves from place to place by her mother (who has some issues) and how it affects Katie at home, school, and with her visits to her Dad (now remarried to an Asian woman). I was so saddened by Katie's voice- her embarrassment, confusion, longing, and many unanswered questions. But this book also provides hope and determination by Katie and will resonate with middle grade & YA readers! Highly recommended!

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Tiny T. Rex and the Impossible Hug by Jonathan Stutzman

Tiny T. Rex and the Impossible Hug by Jonathan Stutzman
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

My grandson loves dinosaurs and this book is one of his favorites! How a Tiny T. Rex figures out how to hug his sad best friend is the BEST! We will be reading the other books in this series too!

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When Sea Becomes Sky by Gillian McDunn

When Sea Becomes Sky by Gillian McDunn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I loved McDunn's book about the special bond between a brother and sister. Bex and Davey love exploring the salt marsh every summer; when they find a hand of a sculpture sticking out of the water mystery abounds as this duo deal with the drought, the purchase of their beloved marsh, and how each strengthens the other. I loved each and every word in this middle grade stunner. Characters were real, the setting--gorgeous even though there is a drought and the plot so strong, magical, beautiful and sad. A must read for all!

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The Soul of an Octopus: A Surprising Exploration Into the Wonder of Consciousness by Sy Mongtomery

The Soul of an Octopus: A Surprising Exploration Into the Wonder of Consciousness by Sy Montgomery
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I loved every word & photo in this awesome nonfiction book about the octopuses Sy studied, loved, researched!

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