Murder In The Ranks.

 

 

★★★★

 Thank you to publisher, Crooked Lane Books for providing me with copy via Netgalley, in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own. 

 

 4.5 ★

 

Algiers, North Africa, 1943.
After her abusive German husband left her for dead and took their daughter with him behind enemy lines, Dottie Lincoln learned that it’s better to be a trained soldier rather than a victim. As a newly minted squad leader in the Women’s Army Auxiliary Corps, she spends her days moving men and materials to the front and her nights attending mandatory dances to boost the morale of the men. Despite the grueling nature of her job, she has found a sanctuary amongst the women in the Army. When Ruth, a member of her squad, is murdered, she’s devastated and determined to get to the bottom of the murder. 

Dottie’s company is the first group of American women assigned to a combat theater and with Ruth’s death the entire operation is being questioned. Determined to do everything she can to help win the war, bring justice to her friend, and hopefully reunite with her daughter, Dottie must rise to the occasion before the killer strikes again. But when her past comes back to haunt her, Dottie must prove she’s not a German spy and put a stop to a deadly conspiracy that threatens the entire American war effort. 

 

🌼

 
There is a lot to say about this book. Murder In The Ranks contains two of my favorite genres: historical fiction and mystery. This is not a book you'll want to put down; each page draws you deeper into the plot. I am sure that if I did not have to study, I would finish it faster. I was captivated into Dottie's story within the first few pages; I thought it started slowly, but once Ruth was discovered dead, there wasn't a dull moment after that. Murder In The Ranks was one of those stories that had me guessing until almost the end of the book, and just when I thought I figured out what occurred, there was another twist that made me reevaluate all of my assumptions. You can't help but love and root for Dottie throughout the book. Even though others seemed unconcerned about Ruth's death, I admired how she persevered until she discovered the truth. Like Dottie, I wanted to know the truth about Ruth's murder and the motive for it. 

I had never heard of the Women's Army Auxiliary Corps until reading this book. I learned a lot just from reading this book. I basically discovered how different it was back then, how women were perceived and managed. The men clearly did not believe that the women belonged there. That got me angry; they may not have done as much as the guys, but they still did a lot. I thought that section of the story was incredibly realistic. I enjoyed the author's comment at the end of the book, which provided more background information on the Women's Auxiliary Corps. I was so engrossed in it that I did my own research after finishing the book. This was the kind of historical fiction that I adore. 

The cover itself drew my attention first. The book's cover alone gives it a mysterious aspect, which piqued my interest, so I read the blurb right away. I'm very glad I got the opportunity to read this book. When you're not reading the book, you're thinking about it and wondering how it'll end. I like the character development throughout the book, particularly Dottie's. I definitely suggest this book to everyone who enjoys historical fiction and mysteries. I can't wait to read the remainder of the author's works.

Bright Lights, Big Christmas.

 

★★★★

 

When fall rolls around, it’s time for Kerry Tolliver to leave her family’s Christmas tree farm in the mountains of North Carolina for the wilds of New York City to help her gruff older brother & his dog, Queenie, sell the trees at the family stand on a corner in Greenwich Village. Sharing a tiny vintage camper and experiencing Manhattan for the first time, Kerry’s ready to try to carve out a new corner for herself. 

In the weeks leading into Christmas, Kerry quickly becomes close with the charming neighbors who live near their stand. When an elderly neighbor goes missing, Kerry will need to combine her country know-how with her newly acquired New York knowledge to protect the new friends she’s come to think of as family,and complicating everything is Patrick, a single dad raising his adorable, dragon-loving son Austin on this quirky block. Kerry and Patrick’s chemistry is undeniable, but what chance does this holiday romance really have? 

 

 🌼

 
A cute holiday story. 

Every year, before Christmas, I try to read a few holiday books. However, I am particular about the types of stories I read. I had read a book by Mary Kay Andrews this year and enjoyed it, so I decided to check out Bright Lights, Big Christmas. I read the story's synopsis and was immediately drawn in; I loved the notion that it takes place on the Christmas Tree Farm. This year, my family went to a tree farm to get a Christmas tree, and I was curious to read about it. Bright Lights, Big Christmas reminded me a lot of Hallmark movie, and that is just what I was looking for holiday story. I liked how most of the characters came together and tried to support one another when necessary. I particularly enjoyed the relationship between Kerry, Patrick, and his son Austin. Though I liked the bond between the three of them, I felt Kerry and Patrick's romance was rushed. They barely knew each other, and the next thing I know, they're in love. I think it should be a bit more developed. 

I felt that the most of this story was realistic, based on how everyone acted. Another wonderful feature of the story was the friendship between Kerry, Austin, and Heinz. When the three of them began working on the story together, I wondered what would happen to it, and if it would ever be published. When Heinz vanished, I was as worried about him as everyone else, hoping that he was okay and nothing awful had happened to him. Bright Lights, Big Christmas is a lighthearted holiday story that isn't overly overdone. This is the second Mary Kay Andrews story I've fell in love with, and I'm excited to read more of her books. If you're looking for a light Christmas read and like Hallmark movies, I recommend this book!

Write My Name Across The Sky.

 

 

★★★★★

 CONTAINS SPOILERS  

Life’s beautiful for seventysomething influencer Gloria Rose, in her Upper West Side loft with rooftop garden and scores of Instagram followers—until she gets word that her old flame has been arrested for art theft and forgery. Knowing her own involvement in his misdeeds decades earlier, Gloria realizes she could be the next arrest and must flee. But first, she needs to make sure her nieces are protected from any fallout. 

The sisters, though in their thirties, are still constantly at odds with each other. Willow, struggling to live up to their mother’s fame as a singer-songwriter, is recovering from a failed album and yet another heartbreak, while Sam is desperate to revive her floundering video game company. 

When circumstances out of their control bring the three women back together, they will each have to reckon with and reconcile their interwoven traumas, past loves, and the looming consequences that could either destroy their futures or bring them closer than ever. 

 

 🌼

 
A heartwarming story about family, friendship, and relationships. 

This is my second book by Barbara O'Neal, but it's been a few years. I decided to listen to an audiobook for this one, and I am so glad I did. The narrators were fantastic; I felt they brought the story to life. I enjoyed the fact that this book had numerous narrators; it made the plot so much more engaging, and each of the narrators had such vivid emotions for each of the characters that it was impossible not to become invested in the story and the characters. I felt the most connection to Gloria and Willow out of all the characters in the novel. I was curious to know what would happen to Gloria; would she be in trouble for what happened so many years ago? Will she ever see Isaak again? I liked how her story alternated between the present and the past, detailing how she and Isaak met. I can't image how it must feel to not see the man you love for as long as Gloria hasn't. I was captivated by Gloria's story and wanted to find out how it will end. 

I adored Willow. She reminded me a lot of myself, with her want to care for everyone around her. I thought she should stand up for herself, especially around Sam, and not let her be treated like a punching bag all the time. Family members should not treat each other like that. I believe that was one of the reasons why I couldn't connect with Sam. I despised the way she treated everyone around her, particularly Willow. I felt sad for Sam at times, but I struggled to like her. Willow took care of Sam when she was sick, but she still mistreated her. I despised her attitude, especially when others attempted to help her. Willow did not deserve it, and I knew she would soon have had enough. As the story progressed, I hoped that the sisters' relationship would improve and Sam would begin to treat Willow better, because if she didn't, she would lose her. 

I could not get enough of this book. Just when I thought I'd hit my limit, something new happened, and I kept listening. This story will keep you on the edge of your seat from start to finish. I'm excited to read the rest of the author's book and see what adventures she takes us on.

Not In My Book.

 

 

★★★★★

Thank you to publisher, Alcove Press for providing me with copy via Netgalley, in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own. 

Rosie, an idealistic and passionate Peruvian-American who has grown up without strong ties to her culture, leaves her Tennessee hometown to pursue her dream of making it in New York as a writer. But her plan is derailed when she ends up in class with her arch-nemesis and ex-crush, Aiden Huntington—an obnoxious, surly, and gorgeous literary fiction writer who doesn’t have much patience for the romance genre, or for Rosie. 

Rosie and Aiden regularly go to verbal battle in workshop until their professor reaches her breaking point. She allows them to stay in her class on one condition: they must co-write a novel that blends their genres. 

The reluctant writing duo can’t help but put pieces of themselves into their accidentally steamy novel, and as they slowly get to know each other, they try to put their differences aside. Meanwhile, their manuscript-in-progress provides an outlet for them to confess their feelings—and explore their attraction toward each other. 

When Rosie and Aiden find themselves competing against each other for a potentially career-changing opportunity, the flames of old rivalry reignite, and their once-in-a-lifetime love story is once again at risk of being shelved—unless they can find a way to end the book on their own 

 

 🌼

 
Heartwarming. 

I thought this book was amazing. I could write about everything I loved about this book, but it would take all day. I cherished the characters and the storyline. Hearing that this book was about writing made me realize that I had to read it. I adore books about books. Romance is something I love. A part of me wishes I could go back and read the book again. I have no doubt that I will read this book again. As I read Not In My Book, I felt I was right there with Rosie and Aiden because of how well their emotions were expressed and how vividly I could understand them. A lot was going on, and because the descriptions were so detailed, I could visualize it all; I was drawn into the story. Not In My Book is a story you will continue discussing with your friends long after you turn the last page. 

I've read many romances and a few book-related books throughout the years. However, I have never read a book with such a powerful influence on me. I still can't get the book off my head. It had inspired me to get back to writing. I loved Rosie's strength, even though I knew she didn't believe it. She was always determined to achieve her goals, and I admired how she never gave up on her writing despite her obstacles. Aiden, I wasn't convinced he'd be the character I wanted. I despised the way he treated her, and it appeared that he was the harshest on her of anyone. I believed there was a reason for it, but that did not mean I had to enjoy it. As the story progressed, so did my impression of Aidan. I was interested in how their collaborative writing might help them bond. 

I loved Rosie and Aiden's character growth; they were both well-written. I have always enjoyed reading enemies-to-lovers stories, and this was one of the best I've read. I like how we got a sneak peek at Rosie and Aiden's story and saw how their characters matured. Katie Holt's debut novel, Not In My Book , was engaging! I am excited to see what she has in store for us next.

The Christmas Tree Farm(Dream Harbor,#3)

 

★★★★

 4.5 ★

 

Kira North hates Christmas. Which is unfortunate since she just bought a Christmas tree farm in a town that’s too cute for its own good. 

Bennett Ellis is on vacation in Dream Harbor taking a break from his life in California. And most importantly, taking a break from his latest run of disastrous dates. 

After a run in with Kira in her fields, Ben has no intention of offering to help the grumpy owner set up her tree farm, despite the fact she’s clearly got no idea what she’s doing. 

Kira knows she should stop being so stubborn, but her farm is not all cute and cozy like people always show on social media, it’s borderline dangerous with no heating, and she’d rather no one saw it.
But somehow fate finds Ben at Kira’s farm once more, and as Kira watches him swing an ax at the first tree, she finds herself appreciating his strength and questionning why she refused help in the first place.

 

 

 🌼

 
A heartwarming small-town romance that you won't be able to get enough of! 

It's official: I love the Dream Harbor series. I enjoyed the last book but loved Kira and Bennett's story even more. This book could have been made into a Hallmark movie. Bennett captivated me from the time he first walked on Kira's tree farm, and I wanted to help her simply because that's the type of guy he is. It reminds me a lot of myself; I've always enjoyed helping others since childhood. Kira, I wasn't sure about her character at first, mainly because of how she acted; she was harsh to Bennett despite not needing to be. Plus, whenever he tried to help her, she pushed him away as if trying to prove she could do it alone. I suspected Kira had a reason for pushing him away. 

I loved Bennett and Kira's relationship because it progressed. Bennett was the reason for Kira's transformation, and I noticed she was entirely different around him. My favorite sequences were those between the two of them. Given that Benett was visiting his sister in Dream Harbor, a part of me hoped he would remain for Kira and that she would invite him to stay. Bennett and Kira needed each other, and they helped each other without realizing it. I believe most of the Dream Harbor realized how they felt for each other before they did. I was rooting for them, particularly Kira, to figure it out. 

Christmas Tree Farm was the first Christmas book I had read this year. Now that I have read the book, I'm craving for more. I did feel that Christmas Tree Farm didn’t have as much mystery as the previous books. I enjoyed this book so much that I pre-order the next book in the series. I can’t wait to read Iris and Archer’s story in Strawberry Patch Pancake House . I would recommend this book to any romance fans out there.

Black Sun (Star Touched:Vampire Bride, #1)

 

 

★★★★

4.5 ★

Amber Benson has no idea what to do for the rest of her life, let alone what major to pick for college. So when she inherits an apartment in Manhattan from a grandmother she never knew, she moves there faster than a New York minute. 

Her plan to find herself is soon derailed—on the subway, where she’s attacked by demons.
Even crazier? She defends herself with something she never knew existed: magic. 

But it's not her newfound ability that saves her. It’s the intervention of a mesmerizing warrior with otherworldly grace… who then proceeds to kidnap her to a supernatural kingdom hidden in the heart of the city. 

Because Amber’s savior—Damien Fairmont—is a king. A vampire king.
And he’s just declared to his entire kingdom that Amber’s destined to be his bride, whether she wants to be or not. 

But trying to escape her so-called destiny as Damien’s queen isn’t Amber’s only problem. Because dark forces are rising in Manhattan. And now that they’ve gotten a taste of her powerful magic, she’s not just a target for Damien’s affections, but also for the sinister shadows that lurk in the underworld of the city.

 

 🌼

 
Be prepared for a thrilling ride! 

Intriguing characters and an action-packed storyline. These are only some of the many aspects of this book that I adore. While pursuing my associate's degree, I read Vampire Academy , which sparked my interest in vampire books. Over the years, I have read several vampire novels, but what I enjoy most about Black Sun is that it is unlike other vampire stories. The entire story kept me on the edge of my seat, and by the time I finished, I was eager to read the second book in the series because of how the first one ended. You can't help but wonder what will happen to Amber next and how that will affect her relationship with Damien because of how the first book ended. 

Apart from Morgan and Damien, Amber was my favorite character in the novel. Her fierceness is something I adore. I’m curious to see if Amber would develop feelings for Damien; that doesn’t mean she would want to be his bride. I like Damien; at least, most of the time, I do. However, I wouldn’t say I liked how he forced that bond on her and tricked her. If it were me, I would have trouble trusting him after that. He didn't show it initially, but I could see how much he cared for Amber as the story continued. I can't wait to see what will happen to Amber and Damien next. There isn't yet a distinctive bond; now, I think Damien cares about Amber more than she does about him. I’m curious to see if those feelings might change. 

Since she was first introduced in the last series, I have liked Morgan, and now I adore her. I'm delighted we saw more of her in the upcoming books, as I had hoped. Ruby's story in the Wolf Born series was enjoyable, but I'm already captivated by this series. This one doesn't feel as hurried and seems to have more action. I can’t wait to see what happens with Amber, Damien, and everyone else in the next book.

Rising Moon(Star Touched :Wolf Born, #4)

 

 

★★★

3.5 ★ 

A spell shattered, a heart torn, and an ancient key that could change the very fabric of life and death. 

 
Ruby, along with the two men fighting for her heart and the friend who betrayed her, have successfully ventured to the fae realm and retrieved the Key of Hades—the ancient artifact that can resurrect the dead. 

Now she has to make a deliver the key to a coven of dark witches, or go back on her oath with them and have the human world—including her parents—forget about her existence forever.
If she turns on the witches, she has no one. Sure, her fated mate Connor claims he wants to help her. But how can she trust him after he rejected her and kicked her out of the pack? Then there’s Tristan, the vampire who’s been by her side since she hit rock bottom. She thought she was falling in love with him, but all of that changes when she learns the depth of his deception. 

In this high-stakes game, Ruby can only trust one person—herself. Which would be a lot easer if she could gain control of her wolf and master her volatile magic. 

Luckily, there might be someone who can help her. 

The moon goddess who star touched her—who it turns out is entangled in Ruby’s fate far more than she ever suspected. 

 

 🌼

 
Intriguing. 

It is no secret that I am a big Michelle Madow fan. I've been reading her books since I discovered them in 2012. She has a talent of capturing readers from the beginning and leaving you wanting the next book in the series. It's been a few months since I've read Cursed Moon , and I'm wondering what happens next for Ruby and her friends. I was mostly curious to see what would happen with her and Tristan, following that revelation about him in the last book, and whether she would forgive him. A part of me hoped she'd see past it. I know it doesn't look good for Tristan, but I know he adores her. Despite everything that had occurred, he was there for her. 

I worried about Ruby and wondered if she'd be able to carry out the plan. I understand why she pretended with Tristan to achieve her goal, but I didn't like her plan. I didn't believe it was fair to Tristan; he seemed to genuinely care about Ruby, based on their interaction. I like this book, but not in the same manner that I liked the other novels in the series. I liked Connor and could see he cared for Ruby, but I didn't feel the same connection between the two of them as I did with Tristan and Ruby. At least that was the sense I had. 

I'm wondering about the rest of the characters and wonder if they'll appear in the Black Sun. Morgan was my favorite witch, and I hope she appears in the future books. I also felt that there were some rushed sections in the book, such as the ending, and the trials were a little confused for me. Despite having read the first three books, I felt like there were significant gaps in the story. I loved reading this book, and there were a few times where I struggled to put it down. I was curious to know how Ruby's story would finish; nevertheless, it was not what I expected.
I’m excited to check out Amber and Damien’s story in Black Sun next. If you love fantasy, I would highly recommend checking this series out.

Home And Away.

 

 

★★★★★

Thank you to publisher, Kensington Publishing for providing me with copy via Netgalley, in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.

  RELEASE DATE: 12/24/2024

 

 

Harper Fleming is done with being passed over. As a journalist for a Chicago newspaper, she’s been refused a shot at the sportswriter position she longs for. And her on again/off again relationship is going nowhere. Leaving both behind, she heads to Nashville, Tennessee, where she plans to interview her grandfather, Bernard Fleming, for a book about her great-grandfather Kelton Fleming’s time in the Negro Baseball Leagues

When Bernard admits to experiencing health issues within days of her arrival, Harper assumes the responsibility of caring for her widowed grandfather. However, when she mentions his father playing baseball in the Negro Leagues, Bernard gives her a trove of letters, journals, and clippings encompassing Kelton’s career. But some stories are too personal to print without dishonoring the memory of her great-grandmother. Instead, with Bernard’s approval, Harper begins weaving them into a novel, telling her great-grandfather’s story through the eyes of the fictional Moses Gilliam. 

 Chapters flow effortlessly as Harper breathes life into each memory. Particularly intense are Kelton’s recollections of the Green Book, an annual guidebook that helped African Americans navigate the segregated South. Negro League teams relied on it as they traveled between games, hurrying out of unwelcoming towns before sundown to avoid the Klan. As Harper delves into Kelton’s past, a piece of her own resurfaces in the form of Cheney, the childhood friend of her two brothers. And though Harper came to Nashville to honor her great-grandfather’s life, she’s finding inspiration to defy others’ expectations, and take her own in a bold new direction . . .

 🌼

 

 Last year, I read Take The Long Way Home by Rochelle Alers and fell in love with the writing, the characters, and the plot. When I discovered the author was working on a new novel, I couldn't help but be curious about the story. The title, Home And Away , caught my eye first; I think that just the cover itself will have you picking up the book and reading the summary. When I discovered that the book was about baseball, I knew I wanted to read it because it is one of my favorite sports to watch, and I have read a few books on it. However, I never read a novel like Home and Away , which gave a new perspective about baseball during the 1930s. It gave me a view of how much different it was back then, and what some of the players had to endure back then. 

Home And Away told two storylines in one. I enjoyed reading Harper's and Moses' stories of being a baseball player in the 1930s.I loved reading both Harper’s story and Moses during the 1930’s as a baseball player. I enjoyed reading both of perspectives in this story, however I was more intrigued to Moses' story and found it difficult to put it down while reading it since I wanted to see what was going to happen. I loved how the two stories intertwined and how Harper could share her family's story without revealing everything at once. I admired how committed she was in her writing and the characters she created, which reminded me of myself when I get a chance to write. 

The story completely captivated me; if I didn't have work or school to do, I could read for hours. I felt the same emotions that Harper and Moses did. I felt like I was part of Harper and Moses' journey. I thought the story's ending was a little rushed, but overall, I liked everything about it and couldn't get enough. I have feeling that I will be re-reading this story again in the future. This is the second book I've read by Rochelle Alers , and I'm already in love with her writing. She has a way of grabbing readers’ attention from the first page. I am excited to see what she has in store for us next.

Listen For The Lie.

 

 

★★★★★

What if you thought you murdered your best friend? And if everyone else thought so too? And what if the truth doesn't matter? 

 
Lucy and Savvy were the golden girls of their small Texas town: pretty, smart, and enviable. Lucy married a dream guy with a big ring and an even bigger new home. Savvy was the social butterfly loved by all and, if you believe the rumors, especially popular with the men in town. But after Lucy is found wandering the streets, covered in her best friend Savvy’s blood, everyone thinks she is a murderer. 

It’s been years since that horrible night, a night Lucy can’t remember anything about, and she has since moved to LA and started a new life. But now the phenomenally huge hit true crime podcast Listen for the Lie and its too-good looking host, Ben Owens, have decided to investigate Savvy’s murder for the show’s second season. Lucy is forced to return to the place she vowed never to set foot in again to solve her friend’s murder, even if she is the one who did it. 

The truth is out there, if we just listen. 

 

 🌼

 
Intriguing. You will be unable to stop talking about this story. 

I have heard a lot about this book. My only excuse for not reading is that my TBR list is never-ending. I was only a few chapters into the book when I saw why everyone was raving about it; it's everything I enjoy about murder mystery novels. My eyes got drawn to the pages, and I was captivated by Lucy's story and the podcast. Last night, I read till 1 a.m. because I couldn't get enough of the story and the characters. The characters, particularly Lucy, made it difficult not to become engaged and involved in their stories. From the very beginning, you'll question if Lucy is the killer and if she's lying about not remembering what happened years ago. I was wary and suspected that Lucy was lying about something, but I tried not to pass judgment on her like the others did. 

After being suspicious of Lucy for roughly half the book, I found it more difficult to accept that she would murder her best friend. There was someone who wasn't telling the truth and knew more than they were offering. The first person that I was suspicious of was Lucy’s ex-husband, Matt. If Savvy didn't like her best friend's husband, she saw something there that no one else did, and the way he responded with Ben when a podcast episode was broadcast, it was evident that he had anger issues and there was something he didn't want people to know. His anger, I could see him killing Savvy when he got angry, but of course, I couldn’t figure out what his motive would be for killing her. Honestly, I don’t even know what Lucy saw in him. 

I liked the style of switching between Lucy and the podcast, which was fast-paced and had me reading pages to see what would be revealed next. I enjoyed reading the podcast transcripts; each one gave new information, leaving you wondering who was telling the truth. I looked forward to Lucy's interview and wondered what she would tell the audience. There was never a dull time for me while reading the book; each chapter kept me on the edge of my seat, eager to discover the identity of the ' real' criminal. If you enjoy suspense with twists and turns, check out Listen For The Lie!

The Cliffs

 

★★★

3.5 ★ 

On a secluded bluff overlooking the ocean sits a Victorian house, lavender with gingerbread trim, a home that contains a century’s worth of secrets. By the time Jane Flanagan discovers the house as a teenager, it has long been abandoned. The place is an irresistible mystery to Jane. There are still clothes in the closets, marbles rolling across the floors, and dishes in the cupboards, even though no one has set foot there in decades. The house becomes a hideaway for Jane, a place to escape her volatile mother. 

Twenty years later, now a Harvard archivist, she returns home to Maine following a terrible mistake that threatens both her career and her marriage. Jane is horrified to find the Victorian is now barely recognizable. The new owner, Genevieve, a summer person from Beacon Hill, has gutted it, transforming the house into a glossy white monstrosity straight out of a shelter magazine. Strangely, Genevieve is convinced that the house is haunted—perhaps the product of something troubling Genevieve herself has done. She hires Jane to research the history of the place and the women who lived there. The story Jane uncovers—of lovers lost at sea, romantic longing, shattering loss, artistic awakening, historical artifacts stolen and sold, and the long shadow of colonialism—is even older than Maine itself. 

Enthralling, richly imagined, filled with psychic mediums and charlatans, spirits and past lives, mothers, marriage, and the legacy of alcoholism, this is a deeply moving novel about the land we inhabit, the women who came before us, and the ways in which none of us will ever truly leave this earth.

 

 🌼

 
This book was unexpected and unique. Though I'm always interested, I never know what to expect from authors I haven't read. I read a lot of historical and literary fiction; I can't get enough of it. I enjoyed the story but wasn't expecting so much history from this book. Most of this book's historical elements were enjoyable to me. But in some sections, there was so much information that I felt like I was reading a history textbook. There were a few aspects that could have been shortened. I liked that this book was different from fictional and historical fiction. While reading this book, I gained knowledge. Because of how its story develops and how much material it contains, The Cliffs is not a novel that can be read quickly. I typically paused after reading a few chapters to take in the information. Although The Cliffs is a work of fiction, the way it was organized sometimes gave the impression that it was also educational. 

Jane, the book's primary character, takes some time to warm up to her. I was not sure about her until the middle of the novel. I wondered if her coming back, if there was more to the story than what she was sharing. Of course, I was curious about her employment, what had happened, if there was anything she had done, or if there was more to the story. The part of that storyline dragged on a bit too long. I should figure out what had happened, considering her history. I enjoyed the bond between her and her best friend, Allison; it reminded me a lot of myself and my best friend. Although the story was told from the perspectives of several female characters, I preferred Jane's perspective the most and thought the shift between them was a little unclear. The story was more engaging because it was told from a variety of viewpoints. 

I picked up this book because it was part of Reese’s Book Club , and I had enjoyed most of her books, and I couldn’t help but be curious about the story. I enjoyed the story, but I felt it should not have been so long, and some parts did not hold my attention as well as others. If you enjoy history and want to learn more, I recommend this book.

The Cinnamon Bun Bookstore(Dream Harbor,#2)

 

 

★★★★

When a secret message turns up hidden in a book in the Cinnamon Bun Bookstore, Hazel can't understand it. As more secret codes appear between the pages, she decides to follow the trail of clues… she just need someone to help her out. 

Gorgeous and outgoing fisherman, Noah, is always up for an adventure. And a scavenger hunt sounds like a lot of fun. Even better that the cute bookseller he's been crushing on for months is the one who wants his help! 

Hazel didn’t go looking for romance, but as the treasure hunt leads her and Noah around Dream Harbor, their undeniable chemistry might be just as hot as the fresh-out-of-the-oven cinnamon buns the bookstore sells…

 🌼

 
I finished Pumpkin Spice Café for my book club a month ago. It wasn't what I expected, but I did enjoy it. I was curious about The Cinnamon Bun Bookstore and excited to read Hazel’s story. Since the first book's introduction, I have liked Hazel and am interested in learning more about her backstory. I heard that some liked The Cinnamon Bun Bookstore over the Pumpkin Spice Café, and I wanted to know why. The story exceeded my expectations, and I enjoyed it more than the previous book; it felt more fast-paced, so I had to put it down to study. Noah and Hazel seemed to have a stronger relationship than Jeanie and Logan. I wanted them to end up together; I didn't want their relationship to be a fling. I cheered for the couple, hoping they would discover their feelings for one another. 

I enjoyed the mystery aspect in Cinnamon Bun Bookstore and the hidden meanings in the romance novels. I liked that she approached Noah for help figuring out who was behind it. I wondered whether he agreed to help her figure it out because he was behind it all, trying to grab her attention. I felt he wanted a relationship with Hazel, not what they had, but he was concerned she didn't share his feelings. There was a lot of attraction between them, and this novel had more heated scenes. This book also had a more realistic mystery. Like Hazel, I was eager to find who was behind the mysterious notes. 

I wasn't sure about the end. The way it happened didn't seem realistic to me. I enjoyed Cinnamon Bun Store ; it could be practically a Hallmark movie if not for the passionate scenes. I'm reading The Christmas Tree Farm for my book club next month, and I can't wait to read Kira's story. I recommend reading this novel, especially if you enjoy romance and mystery.

Heir(Heir Duology,#1)

 

 

★★★★

An orphan.
An outcast.
A prince. 

And a killer who will bring an empire to its knees.

 
Growing up in the Kegari slums, AIZ has seen her share of suffering. An old tragedy fuels her need for vengeance, but it is love of her people that propels her. Until one hotheaded mistake lands her in an inescapable prison, where the embers of her wrath ignite. 

Banished from her people for an unforgivable crime, SIRSHA is a down-on-her-luck tracker who uses magic to trace her marks. Destitute, she agrees to hunt down a killer who has murdered children across the Martial Empire. All she has to do is carry out the job and get paid. But when a chance encounter leads to an unexpected attraction, Sirsha learns her mission might cost her far more than she's willing to give up. 

QUIL is the crown prince of the Empire and nephew of a venerated empress, but he’s loath to take the throne when his aunt steps down. As the son of a reviled emperor, he, better than anyone, understands that power corrupts. When a vicious new enemy threatens the survival of the Empire, Quil must ask himself if he can rise above his tragic lineage and be the heir his people need.
Beloved storyteller Sabaa Tahir interweaves the lives of three young people as they grapple with power, treachery, love, and the devastating consequences of unchecked greed, on a journey that may cost them their lives―and their hearts. Literally. 

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Magical. 

I have read the first book in An Ember In Ashes series, but it has been a long time since I read it. I recall liking the book and being intrigued by the universe; Heir was no different, and of course, I enjoyed that it took place in the same world. I couldn't put this book down for hours, even though I knew I should be sleeping. I was captivated by Aiz, Sirisha, and Quil, and I wanted to know where their adventures would take them. I enjoyed each of the characters' stories, but Sirsha was my favorite; something about her makes you love her. I adored her connection, Quil, and he may have believed he loved someone else, but I believe Sirsha was the one he had been waiting for all along. I can't wait to see what happens next between the two. After that ending, I wish for the next book in the series to be released soon. 

Sirsha is not someone you want to mess with, which is what I liked about her character: how tough she was. She was my favorite point-of-view character in this novel. In that finale, I had a feeling that some twist was coming, but even I didn't see it coming, and now I must wait to see what happens next, which I can't seem to get out of my mind. The connection between Quil and her made me believe that something would happen when they met. I had a feeling that they were both trying to deny it. I wondered if the two of them would last, and I found myself rooting for them. 

The only thing I regret is not starting this book earlier. For An Ember In Ashes , I wish I had read the entire series because if I had, I would have had a better understanding of the world. I now must read the novels again before the next installment of the series comes out. If I'm being completely honest, I'm not sure how to feel about Aiz. Because of how complicated her character may be, she is the most difficult to read of all the characters in the novel. You can never be sure what to anticipate from her. You can't help but be intrigued by her, though. I can't wait to see what she will do next. Any fantasy reader should read this book, especially if they have read An Ember in Ashes , a story you will talk about for days.

Home Is Where The Bodies Are.

 

★★★★

 After their mother passes, three estranged siblings reunite to sort out her estate. Beth, the oldest, never left home. She stayed with her mom, caring for her until the very end. Nicole, the middle child, has been kept at arm’s length due to her ongoing battle with a serious drug addiction. Michael, the youngest, lives out of state and hasn’t been back to their small Wisconsin town since their father ran out on them seven years before.

While going through their parent’s belongings, the siblings stumble upon a collection of home videos and decide to revisit those happier memories. However, the nostalgia is cut short when one of the VHS tapes reveals a night back in 1999 that none of them have any recollection of. On screen, their father appears covered in blood. What follows is a dead body and a pact between their parents to get rid of it, before the video abruptly ends. 

Beth, Nicole, and Michael must now decide whether to leave the past in the past or uncover the dark secret their mother took to her grave. 

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A story you will never forget. 

I can see why this author is so popular and talked about. How had I not read her book before? I'm still trying to process my emotions while reading the book. I noticed Home Is Where The Bodies Are in Barnes & Noble, and I enjoyed how the book looked like an actual VHS tape. I recall having these as a child. However, the blood on the tape gives it an intriguing aspect. That was one of the first things that hooked me into the book. Since I have never read a book by Jeneva Rose , I decided to check the book out at the library. I’m so glad that I decided to check this book out. The plot of Home Is Where The Bodies Are was not what I had anticipated; it took unexpected turns that would have you reading until the end. 

The title itself, Home Is Where The Bodies Are , will have you picking the book up. It took some time to get into it because the first few chapters moved slowly. Things became fascinating once Michael, Nicole, and Beth began watching the tapes. Like the siblings, I was taken aback when the first audio revealed their parents discussing the disposal of the body. I can't imagine discovering something like that about my parents. Like the siblings, I try to piece together the facts and determine whether they killed someone or whether there was more to the story. I enjoyed how the story alternated between the present and the time of the incident, which gave it a more suspenseful feel. 

Home Is Where The Bodies Are , where you will try to figure out what happened until almost the end. That’s one of my favorite things about this book; I love the stories that keep you on the edge of your seat and keep you guessing. I thought I had figured out what happened several times, but surprising turns threw my theories out the window. The ending was the most surprising of them all. If you love suspense and horror, I recommend Home Is Where The Bodies Are. Now I’m eager to check the rest of Jeneva Rose works.

Dinner For Vampires.

 

★★★★

4.5 ★

In the early 2000s, after years of hard work and determination to breakthrough as an actor, Bethany Joy Lenz was finally cast as one of the leads on the hit drama One Tree Hill. Her career was about to take off, but her personal life was slowly beginning to unravel. What none of the show’s millions of fans knew, hidden even from her costars, was her secret double life in a cult. 

An only child who often had to fend for herself and always wanted a place to belong, Lenz found the safe haven she’d been searching for in a Bible study group with other Hollywood creatives. However, the group soon morphed into something more sinister—a slowly woven web of manipulation, abuse, and fear under the guise of a church covenant called The Big House Family. Piece by piece, Lenz began to give away her autonomy, ultimately relocating to the Family’s Pacific Northwest compound, overseen by a domineering minister who would convince Lenz to marry one of his sons and steadily drained millions of her TV income without her knowledge. Family “minders” assigned to her on set, “Maoist struggle session”–inspired meetings in the basement of a filthy house, and regular counseling with “Leadership” were just part of the tactics used to keep her loyal. 

Only when she became a mother did Lenz find the courage to leave and spare her child from a similar fate. After nearly a decade (and with the unlikely help of a One Tree Hill superfan), she finally managed to escape the family’s grip and begin to heal from the deep trauma that forever altered her relationship with God and her understanding of faith. Written with powerful honesty and dark humor, Dinner for Vampires is an inspiring story about the importance of identity and understanding what you believe. 

 

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Haunting. 

I have read several celebrity memoirs throughout the years. I've never been as astonished while reading Dinner for Vampires. I have no words for what I read and what Bethany Joy Lenz endured in those years. Even before I started reading the book, I was surprised to learn that she had been in a cult, and I was curious to learn how she got there. Dinner For Vampires was a very emotional. Although I had never been a part of a cult, reading the memoir made me feel I had because she described what was happening. I felt her fear, sadness, and doubt. I can’t even begin to imagine what I would done if I were in her situation and endured it for as long as she had, but I understand why she had. She appeared happy on TV and during the interviews, and being in the cult was the last thing I expected. 

I'd been a big fan of One Tree Hill for years, and Haley was always one of my favorite characters, along with Joy's singing. I had no idea Paul Johansson was his closest friend out of the entire cast of the show, but I am glad he was able to support her. I never imagined Bethany wouldn't want to do One Tree Hill, but I'm pleased she did since I can't imagine anybody else playing Haley. I enjoyed reading about her acting career, and it was evident how enthusiastic she was about being an actress. I couldn’t believe that the people who called her ‘family’ didn’t even watch a single episode of her show. I was suspicious of most of them from the beginning; it’s the way that she described and what she shared I didn’t trust them. 

I despised the way they treated and dominated her. I don't think I've ever felt so angry as I did while reading those sections. The book was not always easy to read. I wondered about the title. Dinner For Vampires , but as I started reading the book, it fit exactly what Bethany went through, that her 'family' was vampires. I'm very grateful that I got an opportunity to read this book, and I'll acquire a physical copy in the future to reread it. Even if you have never seen One Tree Hill, I highly recommend this book.

Not In Love.

 

 

★★★★

CONTAINS SPOILERS 

Rue Siebert might not have it all, but she has enough: a few friends she can always count on, the financial stability she yearned for as a kid, and a successful career as a biotech engineer at Kline, one of the most promising start-ups in the field of food science. Her world is stable, pleasant, and hard-fought. Until a hostile takeover and its offensively attractive front man threatens to bring it all crumbling down.
Eli Killgore and his business partners want Kline, period. Eli has his own reasons for pushing this deal through - and he's a man who gets what he wants. With one burning exception: Rue. The woman he can't stop thinking about. The woman who's off-limits to him. 

Torn between loyalty and an undeniable attraction, Rue and Eli throw caution out the lab and the boardroom windows. Their affair is secret, no-strings-attached, and has a built-in deadline: the day one of their companies will prevail. But the heart is risky business - one that plays for keeps. 

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I've heard about Ali Hazelwood for a while. Now that I've read her book, I see why she has such good ratings. . Not In Love has me going through so many emotions. I was there beside Rue and Eli, experiencing everything they were. I felt they were in trouble from the moment they met, and I questioned if they could stay away from each other. When I saw the book in the library, I wondered about the title. Not In Love is an intriguing title for a romance book, especially with that cover. Not in Love is the type of romantic story I rarely read, but I fell in love with this one. At first, I wasn't sure about Rue and Eli's relationship, but it wasn't long before I started rooting for them. 

I knew Rue's feelings for Eli had shifted before she realized it. I had a hunch she was aware of them but was in denial. Rue didn't want to like Eli because of what was happening at her job and felt like she was betraying her friend. If she didn't like him, she would not break her set of rules. There was something about Eli that made her unable to resist him. I knew that if she kept it up, no matter how guilty she felt, her friend would find out what was happening, and I had a feeling it wouldn't go well for her. Not In Love was a hard book to put down; it kept me on the edge of my seat and wondering what would happen with Rue and Eli next, as well as her career. 

I was skeptical about Rue and Eli's relationship; it felt rushed and unrealistic. I thought Eli was overly fascinated with her. It didn't take long for me to see that what Eli felt wasn't obsession; it was love, though he didn't recognize it at first. Everything he did for Rue, including watching out for her and trying to protect her. If Eli hadn't acted that way, the impact on Rue might not have been as significant. In a way, they both attempted to protect each other. I believe that of all the characters in the book, Eli and Rue had the most character development; they both evolved substantially. I would highly recommend this book, especially to romance fans.