Book Review: First Lie Wins by Ashley Elston

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First Lie Wins by Ashley Elston is about a woman named Evie Porter that has everything a woman could want. But the catch is ... Evie Porter doesn't exist. Her identity and location comes first ... Evie Porter. The mark comes second ... Ryan Sumner. Lastly, the job. Evie only knows her boss by Mr. Smith, but after she failed miserably with her last job, Evie can't screw up the Ryan Sumner job if she wants to go leave this live behind and reclaim her true identity. WOW . . . Ashley Elston weaved a fantastic story that had me on the edge of my seat the entire time I was reading First Lie Wins . It's so engaging that I couldn't wait to find out how it all was going to end. There were twists and turns galore that had me guessing the whole time. The author did wrap up the story line but ended in a way that there could be a sequel. I truly hope there's a sequel because I want more of this tale!! One of the things I enjoyed the most about First Lie Wins is that
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Book Review: Leeva at Last by Sara Pennypacker, Illustrated by Matthew Cordell

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Book Review Leeva at Last by Sara Pennypacker, Illustrated by Matthew Cordell
Leeva at Last written by Sara Pennypacker and illustrated by Matthew Cordell is a children's fiction book that was published on March 7, 2023 by HarperCollins Children's Books.  This story about a girl named Leeva Spayce Thornblossom who is the daughter of the mayor and the town treasurer.  Her parents are obsessed with fame and fortune and have little to do with Leeva.  With the help of the town librarian, Leeva goes on a quest to find out what people are for.

Thank you to NetGalley, HarperCollins Children's Books, and Balzer + Bray for the Advanced Readers Copy (ARC) of Leeva at Last.  I was delighted to be approved to receive this book in exchange for my honest review.

This middle grade book was an interesting read, and I wasn't really sure how I felt about it at first.  It seems like it has similar situations to the book Matilda by Roald Dahl . . . I haven't read Matilda or seen the movie, so I am basing this on the synopsis and movie trailers I've seen.  Leeva at Last is a hindrance to her parents and is basically their servant, doesn't attend school, and isn't allowed to leave the yard with the exception of retrieving the newspaper.  Knowing that this book focuses on child neglect from a child's perspective and makes it seem okay, I think it's a book that parents should read as well so they can discuss this very serious topic with their kid.  Other topics in this children's novel include obsessive compulsive disorder and stage fright.

With that being said, I do like the fact that Leeva ends up choosing her family and figuring out that what her biological parents are doing is not okay.  Additionally, she helps her friends conquer their obstacles despite her abhorrent upbringing, which is a great lesson for kids . . . you can overcome your circumstances.

All in all, Leeva at Last written by Sara Pennypacker and illustrated by Matthew Cordell was an intriguing read with many life lessons.  Four out of five stars.

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