The Bookshop Sisterhood.

 

★★★★

Thank you to publisher, Harlequin Trade Publishing/MIRA for providing me with copy via Netgalley, in exchange for an honest review.

After years of hard work, four best friends—Celeste, Yasmeen, Toni and Leslie—are finally on the verge of opening the bookstore of their dreams. A place where their community can find solace with an intriguing new read, a comforting beverage and book-loving friends. 

But before they can cut the ribbon, their worlds are upended.
Toni receives devastating news just months before her wedding, while Celeste’s struggling marriage threatens to collapse completely. Leslie learns a shocking secret about her family, and a lotto ticket changes Yasmeen’s life—but not for the better. 

As the bookstore’s grand opening fast approaches, the four women must lean on each other now more than ever to navigate their grief and uncertainty. And together, they’ll learn that sometimes, even life’s most unexpected plot twists can lead to beautiful new beginnings. 

 🌼

 

 A heartwarming story about friendships. 

Friendships and books are two of my favorite things. It was one of the reasons that drew my attention to this story. As a book lover, how could you not be interested in reading a book about four best friends who want to open their own bookstore? I expected an easy read about friends who bonded over their love of books. It did start off like way. I didn't expect the level of drama that each of the friends experienced throughout the novel. I prefer reading books with drama because there is always something unexpected that keeps you turning the pages to see what happens next. I don't mind drama; but I felt that this novel had a little too much drama. More than half of the novel was loaded with drama. None of the friends appeared to get a break; as soon as they got over one issue, another one occurred, making it difficult to keep up at times. Despite this, I enjoyed reading each of the friends' experiences and their bond, and I kept turning the pages to see how it would end for them, if the friends would ever open their bookstore. 

I enjoyed reading various perspectives; it helped me get to know each of the friends better. Celeste, Yasmeen, Toni, and Leslie seemed like friends to me after only a few pages of reading the novel. Despite their busy schedules, they were always there for each other when they needed it. However, there were times when I felt their connection was toxic based on their acts, and I worried if one of them would finally have had enough, bringing an end to their friendship. I enjoyed how each of the feelings were portrayed; it made me feel as if I was experiencing everything they were. The character growth was fantastic for each of the characters; at the end of the novel, they appeared to be completely different people. Part of me didn't want to turn the last page because it meant saying goodbye to them. I was curious to see what would happen to them afterward. 

I felt that the end was rushed. It did not seem reasonable to me. Even though they all had so much going on, they were tough and persevered; I admired how powerful they were presented. Throughout the novel, I felt myself rooting for them, hoping things would improve for them. I got the impression that if they had each other, they would get through it together. If you love books about books, friendship with drama, I would check this book out!

The Book Club Hotel.

 

 

★★★★

 4.5 ★

 

 

With its historic charm and picture-perfect library, the Maple Sugar Inn is considered the winter destination. As the holidays approach, the inn is fully booked with guests looking for their dream vacation. But widowed far too young, and exhausted from juggling the hotel with being a dedicated single mom, Hattie Coleman dreams only of making it through the festive season. 

But when Erica, Claudia and Anna—lifelong friends who seem to have it all—check in for a girlfriends’ book club holiday, it changes everything. Their close friendship and shared love of books have carried them through life's ups and downs. But Hattie can see they're also packing some major emotional baggage, and nothing prepares her for how deeply her own story is about to become entwined in theirs. In the span of a week over the most enchanting time of the year, can these four women come together to improve each other’s lives and make this the start of a whole new chapter? 

🌼 

 
This book triggered a wide range of emotions. I can't even begin to describe how I'm feeling right now. All I know is that I can't get this book off my mind. I was seeking for another festive book to read for the holidays, as December is a month when I read holiday novels. I'm delighted I decided to read The Book Club Hotel , which ended up being one of my favorite Christmas reads this year. I liked how it focused on friendship, family, and hope rather than just romance, as many holiday books do. Novels about friendships are one of my favorite novels to read, possibly because they remind me of a couple of my best friends, but they usually leave me with a pleasant feeling, especially when they are about strong friendships. I enjoy reading about Anna, Erica, and Claudia's friendship with one another, as well as their bond with Hattie. 

Through the years, I read multiple books about different friendships. However, there was something about Erica, Claudia and Anna’s friendship that I couldn’t get enough of their stories, and there was part of me that didn’t want for their stories to come to end. I enjoyed reading the book from the perspectives of Anna, Erica, Claudia, and Hattie, and by the midst of it, I felt like they had all become my friends. I wanted to give them all a big hug. I admired how they were always there for one another and seemed to know exactly what to say. They helped Hattie when she got into trouble, even though they barely knew her. Each of them reminded me of a handful of my closest friends, which made me miss them because they don't live nearby. That bond will last for a lifetime. 

The Book Club Hotel was so genuine, and the emotions were conveyed so vividly, that I could sense each character's emotions. The title was what drew my interest. I'm in a virtual Book Club, so the title drew my attention right away. The cover has a warm, mysterious, and festive vibe to it. I feel the cover alone could capture any book lover's interest. Maple Sugar Inn sounded amazing and made me wish it was a real place where I could organize my own book club. It's the ideal gateway away from any troubles. I did think that there were few slow parts and there were parts that felt a bit too rushed. In in general, I was unable to put this book down. I'm thankful it was a holiday, so I had more time to read the book. This was my first boob by Sarah Morgan, and I'm excited to see what other adventures she takes us on!

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.