Simply the best. Heartbreaking, heartwarming and just unforgettable.
Meredith Maggs is homebound. She has not left her home in 1214 days. She has a daSimply the best. Heartbreaking, heartwarming and just unforgettable.
Meredith Maggs is homebound. She has not left her home in 1214 days. She has a daily routine and sticks to it. She works out, reads, does jigsaw puzzles, bakes, works from home, talks to a support group online and shops online as well. Every day is the same, day in, day out. Meredith has a cat, Fred who she loves dearly, and she also works with a therapist via Zoom and has a best friend, Sadie, who has been there for her throughout. Some time ago, Meredith had a falling out with her mother and sister Fee, and she is now alone.
One day, however, there's a knock on Meredith's door and it changes everything. It's a man from the Holding Hand's charity agency named Tom McDermott. He's there to provide support to those in need, to be a friend. And that is exactly what he becomes. Every week he comes round to chat, for tea, to do jigsaws. Then there's Celeste, a woman from the online support group, who she becomes friends with. Slowly, Meredith's circle grows and we see her make strides to open up and move on.
Throughout this incredibly heartfelt, vulnerable read, I shed tears, smiled often, and laughed quite a bit. Meredith, Alone is a sweet, sad, and funny novel about the atrocities of life, trauma, recovery, family, and friendship.
This was a buddy read with Kaceey. We both loved this novel and talked so much about the character, her experiences, and her triumphs. So glad we read this together Kaceey!
Thanks to Grand Central Publishing for the arc via NetGalley....more
“Under the Magnolias” will capture your heart and run away with it.
Austin Foster is a teenage girl who is forced to grow up way too fast when her mother passes away and she is left to raise her younger siblings.
Dysfunction runs amok in this familial drama with Austin’s father being at the heart of it.
Tension swirls and heartache rises as Austin desperately tries to save her siblings from realizing the cards they’ve been dealt.
Beautiful, Powerful, and Impactful, this novel drew me in wholly and completely. A coming-of-age novel about hard work, strength, and perseverance that brought tears to my eyes.
This was my first novel by T.I. Lowe. I was blown away by the beautiful, gorgeous, lyrical writing and the heart and soul of each character portrayed in this novel.
“Under the Magnolias” will most certainly be on my Goodreads-Best-of-List for 2021 and is now the runner-up for my favorite book of 2021 right behind “We Begin At The End.”
I received an arc of Under the Magnolias from NetGalley and Tyndale House. For those of you who have Hoopla and are interested, I happened to notice that both the e-book and the audiobook are now available to borrow.
The House in the Cerulean Sea is MY Feel Good Book of the Year!
This is also the best Audiobook Narration I have EVER encountered. Daniel Henning, your narration entranced me!
Oh, how I loved this incredibly, heartfelt, bewitching, and entertaining story. If you are desperately in need of a book to capture your heart and your imagination, look no further!
Linus Baker is a Case Worker at the Department in Charge of Magical Youth. Each day is spent doing his best to care for the children at government-sanctioned orphanages, which he is solely responsible for. It’s a daunting task, though Linus is the most caring, conscientious Case Worker the Department has ever had. Once his demeanor and work ethic are noticed by Extremely Upper Management, he is given a top-secret assignment. To travel to an orphanage at Marsyas Island and report back about the very unusual children who reside there. It’s his job to get to know the children and figure out if they are dangerous, and what should happen to the orphanage.
As soon as Linus steps foot in “The House of the Cerulean Sea” he notices how different it is and instantly feels at peace. Thereafter, the island and its inhabitants, including the children, Zoe, the Island Sprite, and their caretaker, Arthur Parnassus, change him. The children are unlike any you have ever met. There’s Talia, the Gnome; Phee, the Sprite; Theodore, the Wyvern; Chauncey, an Unidentifiable Green blob with tentacles; Sal, a Were-Pomeranian; and Lucy (aka Lucifer) known as the Antichrist.
Extraordinarily gifted in their own ways and in need of education and structure, in the end, Talia, Phee, Theodore, Chauncey, Sal, and Lucy simply wanted and needed to be loved and taken care of. Luckily for them, they receive all of the above at “The House in the Cerulean Sea.”
Amazing, charming, funny, endearing, and sweet, these children grabbed hold of my heart and did not let go. Thankfully, they had the same effect on Linus Baker. Lucy, Sal, and Talia: I Heart You! Tears fell many a time listening to this truly captivating, fantastical, and lyrical book!
A novel about acceptance, family, love, prejudice, racism - this novel is extremely prevalent for our current climate, and yet, it also showed, what acceptance, approval, attention, friendship, love, and family can do.
An extraordinary, heartfelt novel that filled me with love, hope, and understanding and left me smiling with happy tears, streaming down my face.
Yet another Favorite Novel of the year, which will appear on my Goodreads Best-of-List for 2021.
Thank you to T.J. Klune for writing such an incredible novel and for capturing my heart in the process.
Mad Props to Daniel Henning for his brilliant narration - your ability to create a myriad of completely distinct, different “voices'' and change your inflection, and intonation, required skill that leaves me in bewildered awe. Fingers crossed that you win the Audie Award for this! It is wholly deserved.
Published on Goodreads, Twitter, and Instagram....more
I am verklempt. Having now read The Winners twice in the last few months, I am overcome.
First and foremost, I am and always have been astounded by I am verklempt. Having now read The Winners twice in the last few months, I am overcome.
First and foremost, I am and always have been astounded by how incredibly well Fredrick Backman understands people, family, friendships, relationships, human emotions, human nature, tragedy, and loss and can fictionalize life through his characters so brilliantly. How he innately understands human nature so intimately and can make me feel it through every fiber of my being such that I am left crying hysterically like a puddle on the floor.
What he shows and describes so well are the realities of marriage. The good and bad, the immense love and the intense anger. How all of it is wrapped up together and sometimes you can’t tell one from the other.
The deep and abiding love for family and friends and how heartbreaking and heartwarming both can be at the same time.
The choices we make, and the decisions that are made for us, some of which are little, some big, all of which have ramifications. Some of which are huge, and entirely unknown until they are too late.
The trials and tribulations we all go through. Some of which we have to go through alone and some of which you can’t survive without those to get you through.
How sometimes you will protect those you love above all else, no matter the consequence.
How sometimes you have to realize that though you might have differences, they don’t have to drive you apart.
How sometimes, spending time with your friends and family is all there is and sometimes, laughing, joking, smiling and playing hockey is all that matters. What else is there besides friendship, two towns, two nets, two teams, everyone gets a stick? Bang, bang, bang, bang, bang.
The characters I love most in this novel (and the entire trilogy) are the ones that make me feel every single one of these emotions (and more).
They broke my heart and yet I love them desperately.
To Benji, Bobo, Ana, Ann Katrin, Ramona, Teemu, Sune, Alicia, Peter, Kira, Maya, Leo, Zackell, Hannah, Johnny & Tess:
I Stand Tall, If You Stand Tall.
To Benji Ovich - I love you with my whole heart and more.
**
So glad I got to re-read this with you Kaceey. Glad you loved this series too.
***
Oh, My Heart. Do I still have one? I’m not exactly sure. It has been wrenched out of my chest more than once reading the Beartown trilogy by Fredrik Backman and it happened once again reading The Winners, the last book in this series. To know this story is over is devastating. The only consolation I have is knowing that I can go back and re-read these books over and over again and re-visit the characters whenever I want. The Winners is a brilliant end to this series and I loved every minute.
Admittedly, while reading this novel, laughter, tears, and hysterical crying ensued.
Though I read this book as soon as I got my hands on a copy, putting my thoughts down “on paper” has taken quite some time.
I love so much about the characters and the storyline, that it’s hard to get it all out, and frankly, I don’t want to give anything away.
So what can I say? This is a story about two towns, two nets, two teams, everyone gets a stick, us against you. Bang, bang, bang, bang, bang.
But you know that already, and there’s more, of course.
There’s dysfunction, family, friendship, love, loss, tragedy, human nature, the human spirit, grave mistakes, apologies, fists flying, and tears, lots of tears. Many wept by me.
* So with that out of the way, let me talk about what I love most. Hands down, it’s the characters.
First, last and always:
Benji Ovich: I love you. I just freaking love you and think of you every single day (and yes, I know that you are a fictional character). I love the fact that you have the biggest heart on the planet. That you, Benji, love with every fiber of your being, often to your detriment. That you are the most loyal of friends, and that you love your sisters desperately and would do anything for them. That you love Beartown, its residents, and Ramona so very much. Your struggles have torn me apart, and yet you, you persevere. Just like Beartown.
Bobo: What an amazing son and brother you are! Ann-Katrin raised you so well and would be very proud. Your ability to make people laugh is one of your best traits. As soon as you pose a question to your friends, I admit to smiling, then laughing out loud, and then immediately crying like a fool. There is just something so special about you, your ability to make light of dark times and your ability to make people laugh. You’re the best friend and son anyone could ask for!
Ana: Oh Ana. You do beat all girl! You’re wild, you say the darndest things, and sometimes, frankly, you do the darndest things, but your heart - it has always been in the right place.
Ramona: My oh my. I adore your snark, your wisdom, and your loyalty for everything you hold dear. Your love for Holger, Peter, Teemu, the Bearskin Pub, and of course Hockey (who could forget Hockey?) brought tears to my eyes more than once.
Teemu: Your love and loyalty for those you keep close, including Ramona, Vidar, the Pack, and Beartown were crystal clear. While I didn’t always approve of your tactics, I truly appreciate you and how much you love those around you.
Sune: Oh how lucky Peter, Alicia, and Beartown have been. You're a gift.
Alicia: Small, but mighty, I love your perseverance and your heart. Bang, bang, bang, bang, bang.
* I love all of you and so many other characters more than I can begin to exclaim (in case it wasn’t obvious), and will miss you all very much.
While I loved The Winners, and am truly amazed at what Fredrik Backman accomplished, I wish it wasn’t over. These characters are near and dear to my heart and always will be.
To Fredrik Backman, thank you for writing these incredible novels and sharing so much of yourself with us.
Huge thanks to Ariele Friedman at Atria for the e-arc via NetGalley. Thanks also to Goodreads for the galley....more
Nary a moment goes by that “Jane” does not plan for her captor’s death
Upon being the victim of human trafficking, we learn why.
“Jane” whose real name is Thanh Dao has been held captive by Lenn for seven (7) long years. Originally from Vietnam, she now resides in a farmhouse somewhere in England. Held against her will.
Thanh Dao and her sister Kim-Ly originally traveled to England with the promise of employment. Kim-Ly, she is told, is working at a Nail Salon in Manchester and so “Jane” stays, to keep her sister safe.
After years in captivity, Jane finds herself in a bind. She is pregnant and keeping her child safe is, of course, of the utmost importance. Lenn has taken everything away from her, but he will not take her baby.
Dark, harrowing, powerful, taut, and terrifying, “The Last Thing to Burn” by Will Dean is an incredible character-driven suspense novel that is all-consuming.
As soon as I started reading this dastardly tale, that flame inside of me ignited and I was all in. Pulse-pounding in desperation, I quickly flipped each page, anxious to find out what would happen next. Horrified, petrified, and hopeful all at the same time.
A thrilling, captivating, character-driven novel that delves into extremely difficult subjects, “The Last Thing to Burn” knocked my socks off and I think it will do the same for you as well. This is yet another brilliant read that will most certainly appear on my Goodreads best-of-list for 2021.
Another buddy read with Kaceey that gave us much to discuss.
Thank you to Maudee Genao at Atria Books for the galley and NetGalley for the e-arc.
Published on Goodreads, Twitter, and Insta....more
In a quiet picturesque community on Long Island, new residents from Brooklyn move in. As soon as they arrive, it’s immediately clear to the current residents of ‘Maple Street’ that the Wilde’s simply don’t fit in. Gertie is a former Pageant Queen and her husband Arlo, is a has-been Rock Star and a former junkie. Sadly, their kids, Julia and Larry aren’t exactly ‘Maple Street’ material either.
The neighborhood is ruled by Rhea Schroeder, a master manipulator, who is adored by everyone and just happens to be the Wilde’s next-door neighbor. At first, Rhea appears to be their friend, little does Gertie know, however, that Rhea is not who she seems. Shortly thereafter, she turns on her new friends. Unfortunately for the Wildes, Rhea is a very persuasive woman and she convinces everyone in the neighborhood to turn against them as well.
While this is happening, an unfortunate incident occurs in the community. A sinkhole opens up and it swallows one of its residents. Once that happens, things go from bad to worse.
Thereafter the Wildes are brutalized and victimized by everyone in the neighborhood all because of Rhea Schroeder, one woman who wields all of the power.
A tale that takes place in the future and for which a reporter interviews the residents of Maple Street after the fact. Upon being interviewed, the residents questioned what was true and what was not.
Trying to sum up how I felt after reading “Good Neighbors” by Sarah Langan is virtually impossible. Frankly, at first, I was stunned and I had no words. I read this with my book buddy Kaceey and we found it to be wholly original. Wild and crazy, it had some quite interesting, and funny passages. Then this novel started to take a darker turn, which was unexpected, and then it became something else entirely. Something wholly astounding, devastating, and heartbreaking. To say that it broke me doesn’t quite cover it.
Even though this book wrecked me, I must say that this is one of the most brilliant books I have ever read. In my opinion, this entire novel represents a much bigger picture. An allegory if you will. I won’t spoil it for those of you who haven’t read it but what I will say is that it took me an entire day to come to that conclusion and when it struck me, I was dumbfounded.
If this book is not on your TBR, it should be. It is an incredible story and it is a MUST READ.
Sarah Langan, I applaud you for this brilliant novel and cannot wait to see what you come up with next. This is my first 5-star read of 2021 and it is also the first book that will appear on my Goodreads best-of list for 2021 as well.
As I mentioned, this was a buddy read with Kaceey - I’m so glad we shared this read together, I’m not sure I could have read this one alone.
A huge thank you to NetGalley and Atria Books and Sarah Langan for the arc.
Published on Goodreads and Twitter on 1.17.21. Excerpt posted on Insta....more
Opal Pruitt is Seventeen, soon to be Eighteen in the Summer of 1936. On the cusp of adulthood, Opal has never kept company or been the victim of violence, but she’s about to experience both.
Living in a neighborhood called “Colored Town” in Parsons, Georgia, racism, and segregation run rampant. No one is safe from the KKK, not even kind, hard-working, well-respected families who keep to themselves.
Opal and her Granny keep house for Miss Peggy, who treats them like family or close to. The work makes Opal and her granny proud and provides a stable income to boot. For Opal, having the love and support of her granny and the rest of her family is almost enough. The only other thing she wants is to marry a good honest man. Though her granny isn’t quite ready for Opal to do so, she begins keeping company with a young man from Colored Town who has big dreams and a huge heart.
When tragedy strikes, everything is torn asunder. Families, friendships, and relationships are destroyed.
Teardrops fell.
Truth is, big, fat tears, rolled steadily down this girl’s cheeks.
What can I say? My love for “When Stars Rain Down” by Angela Jackson-Brown knows no bounds. The writing, the characters, and the storyline gripped me from the first sentence and didn’t let go till the last. My heart still aches for the characters in this novel and I think it will for a while.
The writing here is lovely, lyrical, and poetic. “When Stars Rain Down” broke my heart and yet, I loved it desperately. It will most assuredly appear on my Goodreads best-of-list for 2021. For me, the character development is the backbone of this story as I adored the characters of Granny and Opal. Though this novel contains a difficult subject matter, it is brilliantly done and I highly recommend this powerhouse of a novel to lovers of character-driven literary fiction and historical fiction.
Thank you to Netgalley, Thomas Nelson, and Angela Jackson-Brown for the arc.
When it comes to literary fiction, if I’m being frank, the dirtier it is, the better it is. By that I mean, I like it complicated, messy and at times, really difficult, because in my opinion, that is real life.
Lucky for me, “Long Bright River” by Liz Moore certainly fit that bill and then some.
Long Bright River is a novel about dysfunction, layered on top of even more dysfunction - just how I like it.
Sisters, Mickey and Kacey couldn’t be more different. Growing up on the outskirts of Philly where drugs run rampant, both sisters took very different paths. Mickey became a cop, Kacey became an addict, and then some. Kacey’s life is not pretty, though she never purported it to be. What it is, is ugly, hard and wholly prevalent. Mickey took a different path, and is now a single mother, working a demanding job, always worried that Kacey won’t last another day.
While patrolling Kensington, where Mickey resides, bodies of female victims start piling up. Someone is on the hunt and Mickey appears to be the only one to spot a pattern. Unfortunately, Mickey also realizes that her sister Kacey has been missing from the streets for over a month.
All Mickey knows is that Kacey’s situation could be perilous. Intense desperation, utter despair, and a driving need to find her sister, lead Mickey on a hazardous goose chase.
A gritty, character-driven novel that leaves it all out on the table.
A buddy read/listen with Kaceey that was sitting in our queues for way too long. So glad we finally got to it. For me, this was a top read for 2020!
Thank you to Edelweiss, Penguin Publishing Group - Riverhead Books for the arc. Thank you to my local library for loaning me a copy of the audiobook.
Laughing through the tears! Hilarious, Snarky, Sexy, Sarcastic and Sweet!
This m/m Rom-Com has it all: Witty banter, hilarity and seriously sweet situLaughing through the tears! Hilarious, Snarky, Sexy, Sarcastic and Sweet!
This m/m Rom-Com has it all: Witty banter, hilarity and seriously sweet situations that capture the heart.
Bravo Alexis Hall! “Boyfriend Material” made me laugh so hard I cried and admit to snorting hysterically.
This brilliantly plotted romantic comedy completely drew me in with its flawed characters and an ingenious storyline. The characters of Luc and Oliver kept me intrigued throughout and always kept me wishing, hoping, laughing and smiling.
I went into this blindly and suggest that everyone do the same as the payoff here is huge. This is only my second m/m rom-com (the first being “Red, White and Royal Blue” by Casey McQuiston, which I also loved).
“Boyfriend Material” is the best Rom-Com I’ve encountered this year and that’s saying something considering that I read quite a few of them.
Listening to this novel now, during difficult times, put a smile on my face, made me laugh uncontrollably and made my abs hurt throughout and that my friends made me one extremely happy girl. “Boyfriend Material” will most certainly be on my best of list for 2020. If you’re like me and you haven’t read that many m/m rom-coms, I hope you’ll give this one the chance it deserves simply because it’s worth it.
A huge thank you to Dreamscape Media, LLC and Libro.fm, Joe Jameson (the stellar narrator) and Alexis Hall for the alc.
Published on Goodreads on 7.26.20. Excerpt to be published on Insta....more
Sometimes, if you’re lucky, you might just happen to read a book at the exact perfect moment. It’s a book that brings you comfor5 Heartwarming Stars!
Sometimes, if you’re lucky, you might just happen to read a book at the exact perfect moment. It’s a book that brings you comfort and peace and makes you feel completely content. A book you just want to curl up with. (My cat, in fact, did exactly that!)
For me, that book was “My Kind of People” by Lisa Duffy. As soon as I started reading it, a calmness enveloped me, almost like the warmth of a cozy blanket on a cold snowy day.
“My Kind of People” centers around a community: family, friends and neighbors, who live on Ichabod Island in New England. People whose lives who’ve been torn apart by tragedy and secrets.
First, there’s Sky, whose life is in shambles after her parents are killed tragically. Though life has dealt Sky the worst possible cards in the deck, somehow, Sky is able to believe. Then there’s Leo, Sky’s Legal Guardian. Kind, intuitive, sweet Leo who simply wants to make everything ok, for Sky and for his husband Xavier. If only it were that easy. Maggie, Leo and Sky’s next door neighbor, has recently had a few struggles of her own. Marital troubles - which Maggie’s best friend Agnes seems happy to fixate on. Tsk, tsk. Then we have Joe, neighbor to both Leo and Maggie, who has troubles of his own, though he is always there for everyone in their time of need.
“My Kind of People” is a character driven novel which includes a stellar cast. Each character is multifaceted and full of heart and incredible depth. I loved the characters of Sky, Leo, Maggie, Joe and Frankie (Sky’s best friend) and felt completely engulfed in the storyline from the get go. I could say that it’s because I grew up in New England and could imagine myself in the picturesque town, though in truth it’s entirely due to Lisa Duffy’s writing style and her brilliant characterizations.
Even before I started this book I had a feeling. I mean, how could I not? The title itself made me think the book would be pretty darn special. “My Kind of People” - what’s not to like? When I meet someone, I can tell almost immediately, if they are “My Kind of People” so I was pretty sure this was my kind of book! That said, last year when I had read Lisa Duffy’s “This is Home” and I felt much the same way. That book made it on to my Goodreads Best of List for 2019 and this book struck a chord with me early on and from that point, I knew that this book was just as special and would appear on this year’s Best of List. For those of you who wonder if you should read this, the answer is a resounding yes! It will fill your heart with peace and love and give you that warmth that you so desperately need.
Thank you so much to Lisa Duffy for filling that Void.
Thank you to Maudee Genao at Atria Books for the Galley, NetGalley for the e-arc.
Happy Publication Day!
Published on Goodreads, Amazon and NetGalley on 5.12.20. Excerpt to be published on Insta....more
“The Searcher”: A novel you feel in deep recesses of your bones, kind of like changes in the weather.
“The Searcher” is a character driven novel, firs“The Searcher”: A novel you feel in deep recesses of your bones, kind of like changes in the weather.
“The Searcher” is a character driven novel, first and foremost. The characters are brilliantly plotted, and written to absolute perfection. They are rich, dynamic, difficult and stubborn. Having undergone life’s trials and tribulations, they are strong, resilient and unrelenting. Some are good, kind and hard working, others not so much. In this novel, the characters are what drew me into the story immediately.
This novel is a slow burn wherein the story builds and builds. Then there are the gorgeous descriptions of the vivid landscape, the weather (yes, the weather), home remodeling, and of course, the characters, always the characters. Let’s not forget the element of suspense and the unofficial investigation that ensues involving two unforgettable characters and the relationship that evolves between them.
Cal Hooper is a former Detective with the Chicago PD who moves to Ardnakelty, a small town in West Ireland to start over. His plans from here on out are to fix up his new home, fish, hunt, rest and relax.
When thirteen year old Trey begins terrorizing his homestead, Cal realizes that Trey has an ulterior motive. Several months ago, Trey’s older brother Brendan went missing and no one in the village has done anything about it. Now that Cal has arrived in town, Trey wants Cal's help in finding out what happened.
Cal is driven, hard working, funny, kind, intuitive and smart. Trey is assertive, attentive, inquisitive, scared, sweet, poverty-stricken and wise. More than anything, Trey wants to find his brother and he knows that Cal is his best bet. At first, Cal agrees to investigate, simply because Trey won’t let up and then it becomes clear that there may in fact be something to Trey’s story. The camaraderie that develops between the two is sheer brilliance. Cal becomes a friend, and perhaps a father figure to Trey and it is the relationship between them that makes this novel wholly special.
The investigation into what happened to Trey’s brother, while a huge part of this story, took second place for me. The armchair detective in me realized at the outset what happened to Brendan and who was responsible, though it in no way took away from my enjoyment of this book. I loved the characterizations, the development of all of the characters’ relationships and the investigation that took place. I felt every ounce of this story and I savored it.
In short, I adored “The Searcher” for exactly what it was: a character driven plot which included a suspenseful storyline.
Tana French is a prolific author and remains one of my favorites. I love her writing style and I am a huge fan of her characters. Someday, I would love to see her return to the Dublin Murder series and the characters of a) Rob Ryan (I need to see what has happened to his character after all of this time!) and b) Stephen Moran (who I still have a huge crush on (even though I’m twice his age)).
For those of you who love brilliantly plotted character driven suspense novels, read Tana French, I promise you will be rewarded.
Making a deal with the devil (aka “The Darkness”) seems impossible and yet that is exactly what Adeline Larue does.
The year is 1714. The place is France. From the moment the deal is struck, Adeline Larue’s life is changed forever.
For Addie. Never again, will she. Never again will Addie Larue be remembered. Never again will Addie Larue own anything. Never again will Addie Larue have a home.
She does however learn to survive and even thrive. Days and nights are replayed with Addie deftly changing the outcome.
Of course ‘The Darkness’ reappears intermittently wanting repayment. Haunting Addie, yet, she does not relent.
Three hundred years later in the year 2014, it happens. Someone she meets remembers her.
In this moment, astounded and astonished, Addie’s life begins anew.
A novel that takes us all through Europe (including Berlin, Paris, Florence) to New Orleans, New York, and Chicago, detailing the rich history of the times “The Invisible Life of Addie Larue” is a masterpiece.
Dark, atmospheric, evocative, beautiful.
A character-driven novel with heart - it completely stole mine. Addie is a woman who is desperate to make an impact, to find love and fulfillment, and to belong. In the end, I think that’s something we all want, with Addie however, that desperation is affecting, poignant, and wholly powerful.
Upon being remembered, there is amazement, warmth, and utter joy. If you’re like me, it is felt deep in the recesses of your soul, all because of the man who remembers her. Swept up in the friendship, the romance, the sheer happiness of it.
“The Invisible Life of Addie Larue” by V.E. Schwab is a wonderful mix of fiction, historical fiction, magical realism, and romance all intertwined in the most fantastical of ways. It will most definitely appear on my Goodreads best-of list for 2020.
It is unlike any novel I have ever read and it one I will never forget. Addie Larue, I assure you, I will remember you.
Let’s hear it for the Best Bromance Book of the Bunch: “Crazy Stupid Bromance!”
This novel is filled with hysterical laughter, friendship, love and loLet’s hear it for the Best Bromance Book of the Bunch: “Crazy Stupid Bromance!”
This novel is filled with hysterical laughter, friendship, love and lots of swoonworthy moments sure to make you smile. What makes “Crazy Stupid Bromance” better than its predecessors “The Bromance Book Club” and “Undercover Bromance” is that it feels like real life and is a book you can totally immerse yourself in.
Here we have Alexis Carlisle, owner of the ToeBeans cafe whose life has taken quite the turn since we last saw her in “Undercover Bromance” and gorgeous, geeky Noah who Alexis met as a result of that time in her life. The best of friends, these two exchange witty banter every single day.
When that spark finally ignites, all bets are off!
The chemistry between these two is OFF the FREAKING CHARTS much to the dismay of Alexis’ cat Beefcake who loves torturing Noah (which admittedly made the cat lover in me laugh quite wickedly!). Way to go Beefcake!!
Then there is The Bromance Book Club! Baaawaaahh!!! Thank you for making my day guys! Cue the Laughter and the Tears which literally STREAMED down my Face! You guys Frakking Rock!
What more can I say?! This Bromance book will make even doubters hope and believe. For this is what it’s all about in my opinion: A friendship that turns into romance.
An absolutely fabulous buddy read with Ms. Kaceey! Thank you for sharing in the laughter Kaceey.
A huge thank you to Elisha at Berkley Publishing Group and Lyssa Kay Adams for making me laugh and smile at a time when I need to look towards the light.
It has been eleven years since Jack McEvoy has been seen ‘round these parts. As a reporter, he has a knack for getting himself into trouble. This timeIt has been eleven years since Jack McEvoy has been seen ‘round these parts. As a reporter, he has a knack for getting himself into trouble. This time is no different.
Now he’s working for “Fair Warning,” a non-profit consumer protection news website for a man named Myron Levin. Myron is kind and fair and always goes to bat for his team and the story. Jack hasn’t changed a bit, he still loves his job more than anything and can’t help but sink his teeth in once he finds a story he believes in.
When a woman named Tina Portrero is murdered who Jack had a one night stand with a year prior, Jack, of course, investigates. Turns out the story casts a much wider net than murder. Technology. Cyberstalking. DNA Testing. Genetics. Profiling.
Tina’s death was not the first - each encountering the same manner of death, each having had DNA testing before their deaths.
In this instance, Jack can’t go it alone. Enter Rachel Walling. Yes, that Rachel Walling. Former FBI Agent and Ex-Girlfriend of Jack McEvoy. Talk about complications! Having them back together again was chicken soup for this girl’s soul!
“Fair Warning” by Michael Connelly is masterfully written. It is a thrilling, high stakes novel that will keep you completely engaged throughout. This is the 3rd Jack McEvoy novel by Michael Connelly, The Poet and The Scarecrow, being the other two. Although it has been a few years since I last read The Scarecrow I quickly fell right back into the world of Jack McEvoy and felt right at home. I hope I don’t have to wait too long for another novel (even though I love my Harry Bosch and miss him a lot!).
Thank you to my local bookstore for my copy of this novel.
“Happiness for Beginners” is the Best Katherine Center Novel Ever! (If you haven’t read this one yet, trust me - you must 5 Fanfreakingtastic Stars!!!
“Happiness for Beginners” is the Best Katherine Center Novel Ever! (If you haven’t read this one yet, trust me - you must get your hands on it!).
“Happiness” has absolutely everything you could ever possibly want in a novel. Heart, soul, emotion (lots and lots of emotion, cue the tears) witty banter (cue the hysterical laughter!) phenomenal writing and characters you can’t help but love.
The characters I’m referring to? They will steal your heart, just like they stole mine.
Thirty-two year old Helen Carpenter has been divorced for a year. You’d think she’d be over it by now, if only it were that easy. Hoping to find a way, and find herself in the process, Helen enrolls in a Wilderness Survival Course.
Jake is best friends with Helen’s younger brother Duncan. For as long as he could remember he’s had a crush on one woman. That woman is Helen. The fact that he’s ten years younger has never bothered him in the least. Needing to prove something to himself, Jake, too has enrolled in the same survival course as Helen.
Let the sparks (laughter and tears) fly! Oh how I love these two characters together! Hello friendship, chemistry, romance, and witty banter! Yes please and thank you!
What more can I tell you? What ensues here is nothing short of magical. A woman who discovers that she can harness her own power, find the strength she needs to survive anything and realize that everyday, she can find something to be grateful for. (The list is endless).
Be Still My Heart.
“Happiness for Beginners” gave me a lot to think about and cherish. Having read all of Katherine Center’s novels (including her latest novel “What You Wish For” - featuring Duncan - Helen’s younger brother), I can now say that this is my favorite Katherine Center novel (and that’s saying something considering that I loved “Things You Save in a Fire” and “How to Walk Away”). There is just something about this storyline, the incredible message and the amazing characters, (whose romance I loved to pieces) that just got me.
If this novel wasn’t on your radar before, I hope it will be now, as this is a MUST-READ. It will make you smile and laugh and will give you reasons to feel thankful, even during the darkest of times.
This was an incredible buddy read with Kaceey. Thank you for sharing this with me Kaceey! I love that we both love Katherine Center’s novels so much!
Posted on Goodreads on 4.5.20. Excerpt posted on Insta....more
Growing up, “Little Women” by Louisa May Alcott, was one of my favorite novels. I always imagined that5 Brilliant Stars.
My Feel Good Book of the Year!
Growing up, “Little Women” by Louisa May Alcott, was one of my favorite novels. I always imagined that I was Jo. Bookish, stubborn, smart, fiery Jo. Oh How I loved her!
As soon as I heard about “Meg and Jo” the contemporary retelling by Virginia Kantra, I knew that I had to read it. “Meg and Jo” is the story of the eldest March siblings, though Beth and Amy also appear. The story takes place in both North Carolina and New York City, in the 21st Century. Though it takes place now, it still has the feel of “Little Women.” Somehow, Virginia Kantra was able to capture the heart of the characters in “Little Women” perfectly. This story made my heart all warm and gooey. (Yes, I actually said that (outloud), lol). In my opinion, this story feels fresh, and new, while also making me feel nostalgic for what was. In short, “Meg and Jo” is sublime.
Jo is an indie food blogger, and a prep cook living in New York City, working for Chef Eric, while Meg is a married, stay at home mom living in North Carolina with her husband John. Meg and Jo talk every single day and are as close as can be, (which I just adored). Jo is impetuous, hot tempered and totally wicked at times, (so true to character, she is!) which often gets her into trouble. Having fallen for her boss, Chef Eric, Jo finds herself in all kinds of trouble. What else is new?! Meg, too, has her struggles. Between her marriage, and taking care of her family, Meg has more than a few crosses to bear and lessons to learn.
In the end, what makes this book so special for me, is the March family unit. How close and strong they are, and how they always come together when times are tough. They are like a whirlwind, there is literally no stopping these folks!
For those of you who loved “Little Women,” and/or are simply looking for a heartwarming read, I highly recommend that you pick up “Meg and Jo.” Just thinking about this book brings a smile to my face and that is a feat in and of itself.
Thank you to Mimi Chan and Goodreads and Virginia Kantra for the galley to read and review.
Re-Read, Why? You got it because it's almost November 9.. and this is Oh So Good!
**
5 You Got Me Stars!
COHO is a Goddess! Yes I said it. This novel hasRe-Read, Why? You got it because it's almost November 9.. and this is Oh So Good!
**
5 You Got Me Stars!
COHO is a Goddess! Yes I said it. This novel has made it onto my Goodreads Best of List for 2020 (and is the second book in January 2020 to do so. How about them apples?!)
Wowza! Can I just say it here and now? Fallon and Ben’s story blew me away. Like it freaking Blew ME Away! First, you think you know the premise.. and you think you know what’s going to happen and you have absolutely NO idea! None.
Fallon and Ben meet randomly on November 9th when Ben pretends to be Fallon’s boyfriend. While eating lunch by himself, Ben overhears Fallon’s father lambasting her while they are having lunch together. Ever the night and shining armor, Ben comes to her rescue by pretending to be Fallon’s boyfriend. Thereafter, the two have lunch together after her father angrily rushes off. Fallon and Ben then hang out for the rest of day and evening, as a few hours later, Fallon will be moving to New York City. The two both feel it, “chemistry” and both know, “THIS” is it. Then, they make a vow, to meet once a year for five (5) years on the same day, November 9th.
Ben, an aspiring novelist agrees to write their story, which he will complete, in five years to the day.
Cue ALL THE FEELS.
Neither have any contact throughout the year, and just have to hope, the other shows up each year and that they both feel the same way.
Does “November 9” have a Happy Ending? Is there such a thing?
Fallon, whose life has been anything but and for whom “November 9” has had horrible memories, finally has something to look forward to on that fateful day. Ben’s life is not exactly an open book - if only he can learn to confide in Fallon. The caveat to all of this is that life of course, isn’t always fair, as both Ben and Fallon know all too well.
“November 9” by Colleen Hoover is a novel that I was wholly unprepared for. I loved the characters of Fallon and Ben. Sweet, unassuming and totally endearing. I thought I knew what was going to happen and then, WHEN IT HAPPENED, when THAT moment happened (those of you who’ve read this TOTALLY know what I’m talking about) I almost fell apart. CoHo continues to surprise and delight and this both delighted me to no end and made me sob uncontrollably.
I highly recommend this to everyone.. but especially to my book buddy Kaceey (please listen to this one soon Kaceey!).
Thank you to my local library for lending me the audiobook.
My First 5 Star Read of the 2020! Oh What a Brilliant Read! Thank you to my Goodreads Friend Angela, for putting this on5 Fabulous & Wondrous Stars!
My First 5 Star Read of the 2020! Oh What a Brilliant Read! Thank you to my Goodreads Friend Angela, for putting this on her Best of Goodreads list for 2019 and reminding me that I needed to read it!
Cussy Mary Carter is an employee of the Pack Horse Librarian Project, delivering books to the people of Kentucky by horse. She is also the last female of the Blue People ancestry, in Troublesome Creek, Kentucky.
Everyone calls her Bluet, for the color of her skin.
Let me just say that Cussy Mary stole my heart. She is endearing, sassy and oh so smart. Never given a fair shake, treated kindly or knowing what it’s like to have a friend, somehow, Cussy Mary wakes up every day and is basically a happy person. She is extremely kind, gracious and selfless and goes out of her way to give to others, when frankly she and her Pa have very little. If only everyone could be as wonderful and forgiving as Cussy Mary.
Even after being subjected to medical experiments because of her race, Cussy Mary takes it in stride, which I don’t think anyone else would ever do.
Though this novel focused on a few extremely difficult subjects such as discrimination and prejudice, I am astounded at what the author, Kim Michelle Richardson was able to accomplish. This story, all of the characters, the history that was included in this novel, was all intertwined in such a way that completely stole my heart. I fell in love with Cussy Mary and am so glad that I read this novel. It will most definitely be on my Goodreads Best of List for 2020!
If you know me, you know that I hardly ever research the topics broached in the novels that I read, but this novel intrigued me and immediately took me to google. As it turns out, the Blue Fugates or Blue People of Kentucky, settled in Hazard Kentucky in the 1800’s, eventually settling in Troublesome Creek in the 20th Century. Hematologist Madison Cawein III did in fact use Methylene Blue to treat some Blue Fugate family members and it did reduce their coloring. He published his research in the Archives of Family Medicine in 1964. There is currently one last living descendant of the Blue Fugates or Blue People of Kentucky: Benjamin Stacy, born in 1975 (he’s only a year younger than me!). The Pack Horse Librarian Project took place in the Appalachian Mountains between 1935 and 1943, serving 100,000 people and 155 schools among 30 libraries. Librarians were called, “Book Women,” “Book Ladies,” and “Packsaddle Librarians.”
If you are looking for a brilliant character study with a fabulous story to boot, based on real characters, I implore you to read this brilliant piece of fiction.
A huge thank you again to my friend Angela for putting this on her Best of List for 2019. I absolutely LOVED it.
Thank you also to my local library for lending me a copy and to Kim Michelle Richardson for writing an astounding novel!
*Updated 11/8/20* Buddy Listen with Kaceey! I'm so grateful that I got to share my love for this book with my book buddy and am so glad that Kaceey lo*Updated 11/8/20* Buddy Listen with Kaceey! I'm so grateful that I got to share my love for this book with my book buddy and am so glad that Kaceey loved this book as much as I did.
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5 Powerful Stars
“Anxious People” is a thought provoking, heart-wrenching, comical novel that leaves you in wonderment. It’s Fredrik Backman at his best. At its heart, this book deals with human connection and the impact people have on each other. It showcases Mr. Backman’s talent in an entirely new way and it is another reminder as to why he is one of my favorite authors.
Fredrik Backman is an author who has an innate ability to capture the human spirit, get under his characters’ skins and relay his characters thoughts and feelings in a way that makes us feel as if we know them, as if we are friends with them and at times, as if we are them.
“Anxious People” is different from Backman’s other novels, there are no quirky curmudgeons like Ove or Britt-Marie and there are no Benji’s. This story features a Bank Robber, a Hostage Situation, a Real Estate Agent and an entire cast of other extremely complicated characters. This is a character driven novel and it delves into the trials and tribulations of each individual whose lives are affected by the situation that they are in. I had no idea what I was in for when I dived in - what I will say is that each and every character will steal your heart. It’s that thing called human connection.
Within just a few minutes of reading this, tears pricked my eyes and I knew from that moment on that this book was special. It is wild and crazy and unlike anything you’ve ever read. At times you will be exasperated and yet you will keep reading. One minute you will be laughing and the next you will be in tears. For me, it happened and happened often.
Once again, Fredrik Backman does something special here and I’m so very grateful for it.
“Anxious People” is a must read and will most certainly be on my Goodreads Best of List for 2020. This novel reminded me that everything I do can potentially impact others and therefore, I must think before I act. It also reminded me how important human connection is and how grateful I am for the relationships I have built with all of you. Though times are difficult right now, I am thankful that we have each other. I wish you all good health, peace and safety. Namaste.
A huge thank you to Ms. Ariele Friedman at Atria Books and NetGalley for the arc. Thank you also to Fredrik Backman for continuing to write such incredible words. You inspire me.
Do you believe in Magic? In the possibility of getting back the life you lost?
For Lydia Bird, that possibility becomes 5 Lovely Lyrical Magical Stars
Do you believe in Magic? In the possibility of getting back the life you lost?
For Lydia Bird, that possibility becomes a reality when her best friend and fiancé Freddie Hunter passes away in a car crash and she discovers a magical way to “be” with him again.
Best Friends, the love of each other's lives, and hopeless romantics. Lydia and Freddie had it all, until one day, that love was taken away from them, leaving Lydia’s life in shambles. Her mother, her sister and Jonah Jones (her other best friend), are left to pick up the pieces. Lydia doesn’t know how she’ll survive, until “it” happens. Until she discovers a lovely and captivating way to “be” with Freddie. What happens when her “real” life calls to her? The place where she has begun to find her true self, to let go and begin again.
Torn in two, Lydia must make a choice.
In “The Two Lives of Lydia Bird” I found myself completely taken in, hypnotized and mesmerized, by Lydia, the idea of magic and true love. Tears fell and I no ability to stop them. I fell for Lydia, Freddie, Jonah, Elle, Ryan and all of Lydia’s coworkers. This novel cast a spell over me and then some. It is lovely, lyrical, heartwarming and heart-wrenching and I loved it with all of my heart. I loved “One Day in December” - Josie Silver’s debut, and was eagerly awaiting her follow up and this does not disappoint.
This was a delightful buddy read with Kaceey, (of course)! Thanks for sharing in this magical read with me Kaceey!
A Huge thank you goes out to Colleen Nuccio at Random Publishing House - Ballantine, NetGalley and Josie Silver for the arc.
Published on Goodreads and NetGalley on 12.25.19....more
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