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October 20, 2025

Erin’s Journal – 6th-Grade Big Project

𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: Erin’s Journal – 6th-Grade Big Project 📚
𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: Nathalie Iseli-Chan ✍️
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“Erin’s Journal – 6th-Grade Big Project: One girl and One project to change the adoption narrative” by Nathalie Iseli-Chan is a truly unique and heartwarming read. The story follows eleven-year-old Erin as she begins sixth grade. Erin was adopted when she was nearly one year old.

When people ask Erin why she was adopted, she feels such questions are intrusive and inappropriate. She doesn’t like others being nosy about her adoption and can’t understand why people treat it as something unusual.

This book offers readers a touching glimpse into the feelings and experiences of an adopted child, highlighting how personal questions can make them uncomfortable. I thoroughly enjoyed every part of this story. The author has done a remarkable job portraying Erin’s emotions, and the book’s cover design and title fit the story beautifully.

𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 5/5

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October 20, 2025

First Light, Last Light

𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: First Light, Last Light 📚
𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: Glen Sorestad ✍️
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“First Light, Last Light” is a poetry collection by Glen Sorestad that beautifully captures reflections on family, memories of youth and friendship, road trips, morning phone calls, and the often bittersweet experience of aging.

The poem “Stay in Touch” evokes the tenderness of parting words we offer to friends or family embarking on a journey. It reminds us of the deep desire to keep our loved ones close, even as we accept their departure.

In “Language Borders,” Sorestad explores those moments when words fail us—when silence feels safer than saying something that might wound or be impossible to take back. The poem is a thoughtful reflection on restraint and empathy in communication.

I thoroughly enjoyed reading this collection. Each poem touched on themes that felt both personal and universal, making it easy to connect with the poet’s experiences. I know I’ll return to this book again, and I look forward to discovering more of Glen Sorestad’s work.

𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 5/5

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October 16, 2025

Grythwood Chronicles

𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: Grythwood Chronicles 📚
𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: Jeff Campos ✍️
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Jeffrey A. Campos has created a world that feels powerful and alive in Grythwood Chronicles. His storytelling has depth, imagination, and emotion, giving every chapter a sense of mystery and purpose. The balance between fantasy and real feelings makes it special.

The world he builds is full of detail and meaning. Every place, creature, and event has a story behind it. You can tell the author has poured years of creativity into shaping this universe.

What I enjoyed most is how each character has their own struggle and growth. Some moments are exciting, others are touching, and together they make the story complete.

If you love classic fantasy tales with strong world building and emotional depth, this book will easily become one of your favorites.

𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 5/5

October 15, 2025

The Orphanage on Cheswick Court: The Hollowbloods

𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: The Orphanage on Cheswick Court: The Hollowbloods 📚
𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: Haule Voss ✍️
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“The Orphanage on Cheswick Court: The Hollowbloods” marks the beginning of the Robe of Astra series by Haule Voss. The story follows Thaddeus, a boy raised, protected, and trained by a pack of wolves until his awakening. When the she-wolf Ankita tells him it’s time to meet his new guardian, Thaddeus sets out on a new journey. Guided by a wise owl named Ozzy, he learns about his parents’ sacrifice and the destiny they envisioned for him.

Hidden along the cobblestone path of Cheswick Court lies Enchanted Haven—a refuge for children born with magic. There, Thaddeus will begin his training to become a wizard and must prepare to face Orion, who is also in search of the legendary robe.

This is a captivating story that kept me hooked from start to finish. The cover design is appealing, and the title perfectly fits the narrative. Haule Voss’s writing style is engaging, and the world-building is beautifully crafted. Once I began reading, I was completely immersed in the story. Haule Voss has done an excellent job, and I’m eager to read more of her work in the future.

𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 5/5

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October 13, 2025

Maiya’s Mad Monkeys

𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: Maiya’s Mad Monkeys 📚
𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: Harry Binnendyk ✍️
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Maiya’s Mad Monkeys, written by Harry Binnendyk and illustrated by Barbara Rodriguez, is a delightful children’s book. The story follows Maiya and her family as they settle into a village near the jungle forest.

In this village, mischievous monkeys constantly raided the villagers’ carts and orchards, stealing their food. To solve the problem, Maiya built a pen for the monkeys, where they grew lazy and content since food was provided to them. The villagers, too, were relieved, as life finally became peaceful. But when Maiya could no longer afford to feed the monkeys, a big question arose—what would happen next?

Will the monkeys and villagers learn to live in harmony? This engaging tale not only entertains but also teaches children the importance of cooperation and teamwork. It shows that when people work together, they can overcome challenges and find lasting solutions.

𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 5/5

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October 12, 2025

Coach Habanos

𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: Coach Habanos 📚
𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: Edo Cruz ✍️
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“Coach Habanos” by Edo Cruz is another compelling read. The story follows Sandro Cruz, a man who feels like a failure at forty-two. After losing his job at a rum factory due to restructuring, Sandro turns to street selling to make ends meet.

His life takes a turn when he meets Dantes, a man once mentored by retired Mexican entrepreneur Roberto Mendoza. Bound by a promise to repay Roberto’s kindness, Dantes sees in Sandro a chance to fulfill that commitment—and perhaps find a future business partner. Dantes told Sandro that his ex-girlfriend always focused on his flaws rather than his strengths. Will Sandro succeed in turning his life around? You’ll have to read the book to find out.

If you’re looking to learn how to turn passion into profit, this book is a must-read. Edo Cruz offers practical guidance on building systems that create meaningful impact in others’ lives. The proven business framework shared in the book truly resonated with me and left a lasting positive impression. It’s an insightful read that I thoroughly enjoyed.

𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 5/5

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October 12, 2025

Rivera, the Cohiba Man

𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: Rivera, the Cohiba Man 📚
𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: Edo Cruz ✍️
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Rivera, the Cohiba Man by Edo Cruz is a captivating and deeply engaging read. The story centers on Rivera, who fell in love with Rosa when they were just thirteen. Together, they moved to San Agustín, driven by the belief that Cuban soil could yield the most flavorful mangoes in the world. Their journey wasn’t easy—especially during the years when Rivera became consumed by his obsession with crafting the perfect cigar.

Rivera’s connection to tobacco began at the age of eleven under the guidance of his first mentor, El Chino. By sixteen, he had moved from the fields to the factory—a transition that proved to be a profound cultural shock. Through years of discipline and dedication, Rivera developed his own philosophy of cigar rolling. Eventually, he joined the La Corona factory, resolute in his ambition to become the finest twister in Cuba.

What makes this book truly remarkable is its portrayal of a man whose artistry stems from passion and perseverance—whose hands tell stories as eloquently as his heart. Edo Cruz’s writing is elegant yet powerful, drawing readers in with every page. The story is immersive and beautifully written. I thoroughly enjoyed every part of it—Cruz has crafted an exceptional piece of literature.

𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 5/5

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October 12, 2025

Smoking the Pleasure

𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: Smoking the Pleasure 📚
𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: Edo Cruz ✍️
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Smoking the Pleasure by Edo Cruz takes readers on a journey with a true smoke adventurer who reveals how to choose the perfect cigar, light it without singeing your eyebrows, and impress others with your cigar knowledge.

In this book, the author shares the secrets, tricks, and tips gathered throughout his smoky adventures. Readers will discover Cuba’s deep and multifaceted connection with habanos and learn the art of making a flawless cigar cut. I especially wish I had known earlier the golden rules for lighting a cigar.

Cruz encourages readers to embrace life with a bit more pleasure and a bit less seriousness. The insights and experiences he shares make this book a thoroughly enjoyable read. I particularly appreciated the engaging anecdotes woven throughout his narrative.

𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 5/5

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October 12, 2025

After Fifty: A Cigar

𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: After Fifty: A Cigar 📚
𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: Edo Cruz ✍️
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After Fifty: A Cigar by Edo Cruz is a captivating read. The story centers on Dantes Cruz, a fifty-four-year-old man who has been smoking since he was twenty. While living in France, he learned to appreciate the finer things in life — the best cigars and the finest rum. Although he left Cuba long ago, Cuba never truly left him.

Even his French wife, Isabelle, cannot fully grasp his deep connection with cigars. Dantes simply wishes to be remembered as a man who knew how to choose a good cigar.

The book brims with raw wisdom and life changing revelations. Its thought-provoking insights make it both meaningful and memorable.

Edo Cruz beautifully draws readers into the rich world of Cuban tobacco, offering glimpses into its culture and craftsmanship. I came away with a deeper appreciation for the cigar stories. Pick up this book without hesitation — it will make you ponder your choices, the life you lead, and how you want to be remembered.

𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 5/5

Book is available on Amazon

October 12, 2025

Montecristo: The Legend

𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: Montecristo: The Legend 📚
𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: Edo Cruz ✍️
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Montecristo: The Legend by Edo Cruz is a truly distinctive read. The story opens in Paris, where Dantes Cruz and his friend Sandro share a bond built over fifteen years. Their friendship began in Geneva during the most prestigious Habanos auction of 2010. One day, they receive a mysterious invitation to a secret tasting event in Portland. Along with the invitation comes a small flask bearing the emblem of the Menéndez family—the original founders of Montecristo.

The event coincides with the equinox, marking the anniversary of the Montecristo brand’s founding. Sandro observes that whoever orchestrated this knows not only their shared love for Habanos and rum but also the intimate details of their past adventures. The Legend is more than just a habano—it is a key that unlocks long-forgotten doors. To discover where this mystery leads, you’ll have to read the book yourself.

It’s an engaging and well-paced story, and I particularly enjoyed the author’s world-building. The cover image is appealing, and the title fits perfectly. The book is concise enough to be read in a single sitting. I’m impressed by Edo Cruz’s thoughtful choice of title and theme. Readers who enjoy stories steeped in the world of cigars will find this one especially rewarding.

𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 5/5

Buy Book on Amazon