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Cover art for the novel Back Where We Belong by Jo Bartlett

“Back Where We Belong” by Jo Bartlett

4 out of 5 stars.Jo Bartlett has a way of writing that is relaxing but filled with profound emotions and ideas. “Back Where We Belong” is no exception. Something that is different about this novel versus the others I’ve read by her is that while romance is a theme, the story is much more about, sisterly bonds, betrayal and forgiveness. The characters were reliable to an extent. As an older sister, I understand the betrayal that Bex felt after what her sister did. But, I can’t imagine holding onto the anger like she does and what it cost her. I did have a general feeling of the direction the story was going to take and eventually end up but the details along the way were different than what I expected. The emotions each sister was experiencing was much more of the focus than the possible romantic one. But, it was also frustrating at times because I wanted things to move forward more quickly. But the way it’s written is likely more realistic. All in all, I enjoyed this one just like I’ve enjoyed all of her novels.

Cover for the picture book titled "All of Us: First Conversations About Disability"

“All of Us: A First Conversation About Disability” by Dr. Megan Pamela Ruth Madison

“All of Us: A First Conversation About Disability” was written by Dr. Megan Pamela Ruth Madison and Jessica Ralli and illustrated by Jonathan Eden. This is a brand new book – it was published on July 1, 2025. I ordered the board book version, but it is also available in hardcover, Kindle, and Audible formats. The book is marketed as being geared for ages 2-4 years old but I personally think it’s better for a slightly older audience. I think this because of the length and the writing and words introduced. But, maybe I’m just out of the loop on child development. I’m not sure. This is the main reason I gave the book 4.5 stars. But, aside from that concern I thought it was great! The content is appropriate for kids (and adults!) with and without disabilities. Readers are introduced to the concepts of disability identity, disability justice, self-advocacy and ableism. The illustrations are wonderful. In addition to varying disabilities, I noticed there is also a lot of racial and ethnic diversity. The book highlights varying types of disabilities and assistive technology. For example, there are people who use a wheelchair, a scooter, walker, crutches, prosthetics, Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) devices and more. Additional types of disabilities represented are Autism, Deafness, and Down Syndrome. Finally, at the end of the book are a few pages featuring definitions or summaries about the concepts discussed in the book. They can help guide additional discussions beyond the questions posed throughout the book.

“Together Again at Cornish Country Hospital” by jo bartlett

4 out 5 stars. “Together Again at the Cornish Country Hospital” by Jo Bartlett is all about second chances. Whether it’s a second chance at love, improving one’s life by accepting that they might need help, and honoring the ever changing experience that is life. It’s also about loving yourself despite what others might say and think about you. I really like this series and this is a great addition. 

“Worst in Show” by Anna E. Collins

3.5 out of 5 stars. “Worst in Show” by Anna E. Collins is a rivals to lovers / slow burn story with the added bonus of lots of doggy hijinks. While it did take a bit for me to get into the story I was eventually drawn in. I enjoyed seeing how the relationship between Cora and Leo evolved. I could relate to qualities of both characters. I also liked the quirky group of dogs that play a big role in moving the story forward. In terms of the actual writing, in general I thought it was fine. There were a few instances of spice that I wasn’t expecting and was a little off-putting. I felt like it would go from a PG rating to PG-13 type rating without any warning. The spice wasn’t even that intense; I just didn’t expect it. Overall, I think this would be a good read for dog loving readers who want a story of rivals turned lovers.

Cover art for the novel "The Christmas Cookie Wars"

“The Christmas Cookie Wars” by Eliza Evans

5 out of 5 stars. I really liked “The Christmas Cookie Wars” by Eliza Evans. It is a story that touches on grief, acceptance, second chances and the ever moving forward thing called life. A sweet, low spice romance set in a small town during the Christmas season that will make you want to indulge in cookies and all sorts of holiday traditions.