M.L. Sparrow's Blog, page 2
May 11, 2020
Brooklyn
Brooklyn, Colm Toibin 
Blurb:Eilis Lacey has come of age in small-town Ireland in the hard years following World War Two. When an Irish priest from Brooklyn offers to sponsor Eilis in America -- to live and work in a Brooklyn neighborhood "just like Ireland" -- she decides she must go, leaving her fragile mother and her charismatic sister behind. Eilis finds work in a department store on Fulton Street, and when she least expects it, finds love. Tony, who loves the Dodgers and his big Italian family, slowly wins her over with patient charm. But just as Eilis begins to fall in love with Tony, devastating news from Ireland threatens the promise of her future.My ReviewThis book is really hard to review. Part one, I loved. After that, not so much... But I'll start with what I liked. This book does a really good job of portraying what it is like to strike out alone. I've lived abroad and reading about Eilis' homesickness, uncertainty and the feeling of being untethered from everything she knew really struck a cord with me, because I knew exactly how she felt and I though the author was amazing for being able to capture the feeling so well. This book would have been wonderful, if only it had stuck to it's primary focus - a young Irish girl finding herself and her independence after moving to America. However, it was ruined by the romance.I don't like love triangles, so at the end I'd really had enough with this book, however, even before that when she met Tony, the romance just felt so forced. And then there was the worst sex scene I have ever read. It actually made me uncomfortable. And even worse, after this awful sex that is painful for her and which she tries to stop, Eilis, who before hand wasn't sure if she loves Tony, is suddenly saying how deeply she feels for him. I'm sorry, but I have never read anything like that, which was so blatantly written by a man. It put me off the book entirely. All in all, if I'd stopped reading at part one, I'd probably have given this book 5 stars, but carrying on to the end took it all the way down to a 2. :-(
Blurb:Eilis Lacey has come of age in small-town Ireland in the hard years following World War Two. When an Irish priest from Brooklyn offers to sponsor Eilis in America -- to live and work in a Brooklyn neighborhood "just like Ireland" -- she decides she must go, leaving her fragile mother and her charismatic sister behind. Eilis finds work in a department store on Fulton Street, and when she least expects it, finds love. Tony, who loves the Dodgers and his big Italian family, slowly wins her over with patient charm. But just as Eilis begins to fall in love with Tony, devastating news from Ireland threatens the promise of her future.My ReviewThis book is really hard to review. Part one, I loved. After that, not so much... But I'll start with what I liked. This book does a really good job of portraying what it is like to strike out alone. I've lived abroad and reading about Eilis' homesickness, uncertainty and the feeling of being untethered from everything she knew really struck a cord with me, because I knew exactly how she felt and I though the author was amazing for being able to capture the feeling so well. This book would have been wonderful, if only it had stuck to it's primary focus - a young Irish girl finding herself and her independence after moving to America. However, it was ruined by the romance.I don't like love triangles, so at the end I'd really had enough with this book, however, even before that when she met Tony, the romance just felt so forced. And then there was the worst sex scene I have ever read. It actually made me uncomfortable. And even worse, after this awful sex that is painful for her and which she tries to stop, Eilis, who before hand wasn't sure if she loves Tony, is suddenly saying how deeply she feels for him. I'm sorry, but I have never read anything like that, which was so blatantly written by a man. It put me off the book entirely. All in all, if I'd stopped reading at part one, I'd probably have given this book 5 stars, but carrying on to the end took it all the way down to a 2. :-(
January 21, 2020
Lethal Balance
Lethal Balance, (Sons of the Survivalist, Book 2), by Cherise Sinclair 
Blurb:His name means hunter. Once the best assassin in black ops, Cazador is now the best at saving lives. His path has changed from seeking bloody vengeance to running a health clinic in Rescue, Alaska.He will never again risk loving someone he can’t protect. His mother and sister were murdered in front of him, his fiancée slaughtered in a war zone. Despite his popularity with women, he’s determined to remain unattached. His heart can bear no more loss.Unfortunately, the universe isn’t listening. First, his brother hires JJ, a fiery-haired, tough cop who lives on the edge of danger and has the biggest heart of anyone he knows. And then, his disreputable past returns in the shape of an adorable, foul-mouthed nine-year-old daughter. Now he has two loved ones to protect. An impossible task, because…Life is dangerous. Especially in Alaska.My Review As always, another awesome Cherise Sinclair book. I'll admit, I loved the first book but wasn't really pulled in by Caz's characters so I wasn't sure what to expect from this book, however, I ended up falling totally in love with Caz! And JJ was so awesome too, I absolutely love kick-ass heroines and Cherise Sinclair always writes the best! As for Regan, wonderful kid and I loved how she was written; in so many books the kids are written as all sunshine and sparkles, as if they're absolutely perfect. As a former nanny, I know that is never true - even the best behaved children have their moments! I enjoyed the story, though it had less action than the first book and I felt it slowed down in places, however, I'm very eager to see what this series has for us next... 
My favourite quotes from 'Lethal Balance':'Mako might have prepared his boys to be soldiers, but humans didn't adjust well to killing.' 'Why do they pick on little kids? That's like cheating.'
Blurb:His name means hunter. Once the best assassin in black ops, Cazador is now the best at saving lives. His path has changed from seeking bloody vengeance to running a health clinic in Rescue, Alaska.He will never again risk loving someone he can’t protect. His mother and sister were murdered in front of him, his fiancée slaughtered in a war zone. Despite his popularity with women, he’s determined to remain unattached. His heart can bear no more loss.Unfortunately, the universe isn’t listening. First, his brother hires JJ, a fiery-haired, tough cop who lives on the edge of danger and has the biggest heart of anyone he knows. And then, his disreputable past returns in the shape of an adorable, foul-mouthed nine-year-old daughter. Now he has two loved ones to protect. An impossible task, because…Life is dangerous. Especially in Alaska.My Review As always, another awesome Cherise Sinclair book. I'll admit, I loved the first book but wasn't really pulled in by Caz's characters so I wasn't sure what to expect from this book, however, I ended up falling totally in love with Caz! And JJ was so awesome too, I absolutely love kick-ass heroines and Cherise Sinclair always writes the best! As for Regan, wonderful kid and I loved how she was written; in so many books the kids are written as all sunshine and sparkles, as if they're absolutely perfect. As a former nanny, I know that is never true - even the best behaved children have their moments! I enjoyed the story, though it had less action than the first book and I felt it slowed down in places, however, I'm very eager to see what this series has for us next... My favourite quotes from 'Lethal Balance':'Mako might have prepared his boys to be soldiers, but humans didn't adjust well to killing.' 'Why do they pick on little kids? That's like cheating.'
September 17, 2019
YOU
You, by Caroline Kepnes 
Blurb:When a beautiful aspiring writer strides into the East Village bookstore where Joe Goldberg works, he does what anyone would do: he Googles the name on her credit card. There is only one Guinevere Beck in New York City. She has a public Facebook account and Tweets incessantly, telling Joe everything he needs to know: she is simply Beck to her friends, she went to Brown University, she lives on Bank Street, and she’ll be at a bar in Brooklyn tonight—the perfect place for a “chance” meeting. As Joe invisibly and obsessively takes control of Beck’s life, he orchestrates a series of events to ensure Beck finds herself in his waiting arms. Moving from stalker to boyfriend, Joe transforms himself into Beck’s perfect man, all while quietly removing the obstacles that stand in their way—even if it means murder.My ReviewI'll admit, I watched the Netflix adaptation of this book first, so when I decided to read the book I was a little worried it wouldn't live up to expectations. However, although there are small differences to the storyline, the show is pretty faithful to the book and I ended up loving them both. The thing that totally fascinates me about this book is that the author manages to get you to like Joe - at least for the first half of the book. He's a stalker, he's a murderer and we know this, it's no secret, however, his observations are so often true and you agree with him. It also helped that all the other characters in this book, with the exception of Ethan, are pretty unlikeable. Beck especially is a character I hated; she was so selfish and she treated everybody awfully, including Joe - of course, this doesn't mean she deserves to get stalked... This book was uncomfortable to read in parts, but I'd definitely recommend it! Being from the point of view of the stalker, it's quite unique and it's also very well written. It draws you in right from the beginning and doesn't let go until the end. 
My favourite quotes from 'YOU':'You envy her. How come she doesn't have the weight of ambition? You pity her. How come she has no ambition?''I didn't go to college, Beck, so I don't waste my adulthood trying to recapture my time in college.' 'The only thing crueler than a cage so small that a bird cannot fly is a cage so large that a bird thinks it can fly.''That's how privileged people think: Lie unless you know you can get away with lying.' 'I remember my dad saying nothing and I remember his silences more vividly than I remember the things he said.' 'In any case, it's an indictment of our society, this outpouring of curiosity for this liar's whereabouts. Whoever distributes love in this world is doing a bad job.' 'The world failed him and didn't prepare him for adulthood.''You grow through love. You don't postpone love until you stop growing.''It's not your fault that you were born on an island. Of course you identify as an island.' '... people have to be careful or they wind up with lives they didn't want.''... all parents do better with happy parents than married parents.'
Blurb:When a beautiful aspiring writer strides into the East Village bookstore where Joe Goldberg works, he does what anyone would do: he Googles the name on her credit card. There is only one Guinevere Beck in New York City. She has a public Facebook account and Tweets incessantly, telling Joe everything he needs to know: she is simply Beck to her friends, she went to Brown University, she lives on Bank Street, and she’ll be at a bar in Brooklyn tonight—the perfect place for a “chance” meeting. As Joe invisibly and obsessively takes control of Beck’s life, he orchestrates a series of events to ensure Beck finds herself in his waiting arms. Moving from stalker to boyfriend, Joe transforms himself into Beck’s perfect man, all while quietly removing the obstacles that stand in their way—even if it means murder.My ReviewI'll admit, I watched the Netflix adaptation of this book first, so when I decided to read the book I was a little worried it wouldn't live up to expectations. However, although there are small differences to the storyline, the show is pretty faithful to the book and I ended up loving them both. The thing that totally fascinates me about this book is that the author manages to get you to like Joe - at least for the first half of the book. He's a stalker, he's a murderer and we know this, it's no secret, however, his observations are so often true and you agree with him. It also helped that all the other characters in this book, with the exception of Ethan, are pretty unlikeable. Beck especially is a character I hated; she was so selfish and she treated everybody awfully, including Joe - of course, this doesn't mean she deserves to get stalked... This book was uncomfortable to read in parts, but I'd definitely recommend it! Being from the point of view of the stalker, it's quite unique and it's also very well written. It draws you in right from the beginning and doesn't let go until the end. My favourite quotes from 'YOU':'You envy her. How come she doesn't have the weight of ambition? You pity her. How come she has no ambition?''I didn't go to college, Beck, so I don't waste my adulthood trying to recapture my time in college.' 'The only thing crueler than a cage so small that a bird cannot fly is a cage so large that a bird thinks it can fly.''That's how privileged people think: Lie unless you know you can get away with lying.' 'I remember my dad saying nothing and I remember his silences more vividly than I remember the things he said.' 'In any case, it's an indictment of our society, this outpouring of curiosity for this liar's whereabouts. Whoever distributes love in this world is doing a bad job.' 'The world failed him and didn't prepare him for adulthood.''You grow through love. You don't postpone love until you stop growing.''It's not your fault that you were born on an island. Of course you identify as an island.' '... people have to be careful or they wind up with lives they didn't want.''... all parents do better with happy parents than married parents.'
September 9, 2019
The Age of Innocence
The Age of Innocence, by Edith Wharton 
Blurb:Widely regarded as one of Edith Wharton's greatest achievements, The Age of Innocence is not only subtly satirical, but also a sometimes dark and disturbing comedy of manners in its exploration of the 'eternal triangle' of love. Set against the backdrop of upper-class New York society during the 1870s, the author's combination of powerful prose combined with a thoroughly researched and meticulous evocation of the manners and style of the period, has delighted readers since the novel's first publication in 1920. In 1921 The Age of Innocence achieved a double distinction--it won the Pulitzer Prize and it was the first time this prestigious award had been won by a woman author.My ReviewThis book came very highly recommended by a friend and I have to say, at first I really couldn't get into it; like many classics it's very wordy and takes about ten pages to say what could have been said in one! It's also dealing with social issues that aren't an issue for most people nowadays - all the rules and social conventions were interesting to read about and gave me a greater sense of the era but could get a bit tedious after a while. However, in the end I did get into it and ended up quite enjoying it. I liked the characters (kinda anyway) and the feminist ideas that were presented were very ahead of the time. The social commentary, as well as being very interesting, was amusing at times and I can definitely see why she won the Pulitzer Prize... 
My favourite quotes from 'The Age of Innocence': '...Americans want to get away from amusement even more quickly than they want to get to it.''What could he and she really know of each other, since it was his duty, as a 'decent' fellow, to conceal his past from her, and hers, as a marriageable girl, to have no past to conceal?' '... why his bride should not have been allowed the same freedom of experience as himself.' 'No doubt she simply echoes what was said to her; but she was nearing her twenty-second birthday, and he wondered at what age 'nice' women began to speak for themselves. "Never, if we won't let them, I suppose," he mused,' '...to be saved at all costs from further wounding herself in her mad plunges against fate.' 'She spoke with the cold-blooded complacency of the aged throwing earth into the grave of young hopes.' 'There was no use in trying to emancipate a wife who had not the dimmest notion that she was not free;'
Blurb:Widely regarded as one of Edith Wharton's greatest achievements, The Age of Innocence is not only subtly satirical, but also a sometimes dark and disturbing comedy of manners in its exploration of the 'eternal triangle' of love. Set against the backdrop of upper-class New York society during the 1870s, the author's combination of powerful prose combined with a thoroughly researched and meticulous evocation of the manners and style of the period, has delighted readers since the novel's first publication in 1920. In 1921 The Age of Innocence achieved a double distinction--it won the Pulitzer Prize and it was the first time this prestigious award had been won by a woman author.My ReviewThis book came very highly recommended by a friend and I have to say, at first I really couldn't get into it; like many classics it's very wordy and takes about ten pages to say what could have been said in one! It's also dealing with social issues that aren't an issue for most people nowadays - all the rules and social conventions were interesting to read about and gave me a greater sense of the era but could get a bit tedious after a while. However, in the end I did get into it and ended up quite enjoying it. I liked the characters (kinda anyway) and the feminist ideas that were presented were very ahead of the time. The social commentary, as well as being very interesting, was amusing at times and I can definitely see why she won the Pulitzer Prize... My favourite quotes from 'The Age of Innocence': '...Americans want to get away from amusement even more quickly than they want to get to it.''What could he and she really know of each other, since it was his duty, as a 'decent' fellow, to conceal his past from her, and hers, as a marriageable girl, to have no past to conceal?' '... why his bride should not have been allowed the same freedom of experience as himself.' 'No doubt she simply echoes what was said to her; but she was nearing her twenty-second birthday, and he wondered at what age 'nice' women began to speak for themselves. "Never, if we won't let them, I suppose," he mused,' '...to be saved at all costs from further wounding herself in her mad plunges against fate.' 'She spoke with the cold-blooded complacency of the aged throwing earth into the grave of young hopes.' 'There was no use in trying to emancipate a wife who had not the dimmest notion that she was not free;'
August 30, 2019
Poems from the First World War
Poems from the First World War, selected by Gaby Morgan
Blurb:Poems from the First World War is a moving and powerful collection of poems written by soldiers, nurses, mothers, sweethearts and family and friends who experienced the war from different standpoints. It records the early excitement and patriotism, the bravery, friendship and loyalty of the soldiers, and heartbreak, disillusionment and regret as the war went on to damage a generation. It includes poems from Wilfred Owen, Rupert Brooke, Vera Brittain, Eleanor Farjeon, Edward Thomas, Laurence Binyon, John McCrae, Siegfried Sassoon and many more. The Imperial War Museum was founded in 1917 to collect and display material relating to the ‘Great War’, which was still being fought. Today IWM is unique in its coverage of conflicts, especially those involving Britain and the Commonwealth, from the First World War to the present. They seek to provide for, and to encourage, the study and understanding of the history of modern war and wartime experience. My ReviewI'll admit, I'm really fussy when it comes to poetry and this book had some that I really loved and some that I didn't at all. I have to say I was very impressed with the scope of emotions and viewpoints represented in this little collection. It shows the pride of serving your country, the fear and sadness of losing loved ones, the pain of war, disillusionment and, what I found especially interesting, the class divides.Some of the poets I'd heard of before, such as Wilfred Owen, Siegfried Sassoon, Rudyard Kipling and Vera Brittain, other I'd never heard of before but really enjoyed. My favourite poems were 'Many Sisters to Many Brothers', 'In Memoriam' and 'Elegy in a Country Churchyard'. Definitely a good collection to dip in and out of; so many of these poems are heart breaking in what they portray and the feelings they show. My favourite quotes from 'Poems from the First World War':'Press we to the field ungrieving,In our heart of hearts believing Victory crowns the just.''Whate'er was dear before is dearer now.''They shall grow not old, as we that are left grow old;Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn.At the going down of the sun and in the morning We will remember them.' 'The Victory is ours because you died...''God makes a man of flesh and boneWho yearns to live and not to die.''And the singers are the chapsWho are going to die perhaps.''We shall never shake the world together, you and I,For you gave your life away;And I think my heart was broken by the war,''Dawn breaks open like a wound that bleeds afresh' 'You are too young to fall asleep for ever; And when you sleep you remind me of the dead.' 'Those that I fight I do not hate,Those that I guard I do not love;' '... and War's a bloody game...'
Blurb:Poems from the First World War is a moving and powerful collection of poems written by soldiers, nurses, mothers, sweethearts and family and friends who experienced the war from different standpoints. It records the early excitement and patriotism, the bravery, friendship and loyalty of the soldiers, and heartbreak, disillusionment and regret as the war went on to damage a generation. It includes poems from Wilfred Owen, Rupert Brooke, Vera Brittain, Eleanor Farjeon, Edward Thomas, Laurence Binyon, John McCrae, Siegfried Sassoon and many more. The Imperial War Museum was founded in 1917 to collect and display material relating to the ‘Great War’, which was still being fought. Today IWM is unique in its coverage of conflicts, especially those involving Britain and the Commonwealth, from the First World War to the present. They seek to provide for, and to encourage, the study and understanding of the history of modern war and wartime experience. My ReviewI'll admit, I'm really fussy when it comes to poetry and this book had some that I really loved and some that I didn't at all. I have to say I was very impressed with the scope of emotions and viewpoints represented in this little collection. It shows the pride of serving your country, the fear and sadness of losing loved ones, the pain of war, disillusionment and, what I found especially interesting, the class divides.Some of the poets I'd heard of before, such as Wilfred Owen, Siegfried Sassoon, Rudyard Kipling and Vera Brittain, other I'd never heard of before but really enjoyed. My favourite poems were 'Many Sisters to Many Brothers', 'In Memoriam' and 'Elegy in a Country Churchyard'. Definitely a good collection to dip in and out of; so many of these poems are heart breaking in what they portray and the feelings they show. My favourite quotes from 'Poems from the First World War':'Press we to the field ungrieving,In our heart of hearts believing Victory crowns the just.''Whate'er was dear before is dearer now.''They shall grow not old, as we that are left grow old;Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn.At the going down of the sun and in the morning We will remember them.' 'The Victory is ours because you died...''God makes a man of flesh and boneWho yearns to live and not to die.''And the singers are the chapsWho are going to die perhaps.''We shall never shake the world together, you and I,For you gave your life away;And I think my heart was broken by the war,''Dawn breaks open like a wound that bleeds afresh' 'You are too young to fall asleep for ever; And when you sleep you remind me of the dead.' 'Those that I fight I do not hate,Those that I guard I do not love;' '... and War's a bloody game...'
August 27, 2019
The Twins: Men of Violence
The Twins: Men of Violence, by Kate Kray 
Blurb:Nobody knew the twins like Kate Kray. Married to Ron, she was granted unique access into the shadowy world they inhabited, and was entrusted with some of the darkest secrets they possessed—secrets that could never be revealed until they were both dead. Now with the help of thoughts and anecdotes from the people who knew the twins best, Kate has documented once and for all the life of the world's most famous gangsters, and filled in the gaps with the facts that could not be revealed until now. Gangsters, actors, East End faces—everyone who is anyone in the Firm is here, thanks to Kate's unique access and influence. And in this remarkable book, the Krays' chief torturer, the man who was with them on the night they were arrested, has broken his silence for the very first time.My ReviewSo, I'm kinda going through a phase at the moment where I want to know more about gangsters and the underworld - the Peaky Blinders TV drama started it off! Of course, I'd heard of the Krays, but didn't actually know much about them, so I decided to do a bit of reading... I have to say, I probably didn't pick the best book to kick off my research. Since it was written my Ronnie Kray's wife, I knew it would be very one sided, but despite her saying that she didn't want to dismiss the wrongs they did, I found it all very romanticised. And I have to say, having testaments to what good men the Krays were from criminals like Charles Bronson didn't actually make me inclined to believe it... Personally, I felt this book raised more questions than anything else. Despite what the blurb says, that she knew the Krays more than anyone, it felt like everything she had to say were just quotes from what other people had said. Then, when she raised something that interested me, like her and Ron's relationship - how them me and problems they had - it was passed over.Still, it was interesting to see that point of view and I'm now off to read more in the hopes of getting a well rounded view of things.
Blurb:Nobody knew the twins like Kate Kray. Married to Ron, she was granted unique access into the shadowy world they inhabited, and was entrusted with some of the darkest secrets they possessed—secrets that could never be revealed until they were both dead. Now with the help of thoughts and anecdotes from the people who knew the twins best, Kate has documented once and for all the life of the world's most famous gangsters, and filled in the gaps with the facts that could not be revealed until now. Gangsters, actors, East End faces—everyone who is anyone in the Firm is here, thanks to Kate's unique access and influence. And in this remarkable book, the Krays' chief torturer, the man who was with them on the night they were arrested, has broken his silence for the very first time.My ReviewSo, I'm kinda going through a phase at the moment where I want to know more about gangsters and the underworld - the Peaky Blinders TV drama started it off! Of course, I'd heard of the Krays, but didn't actually know much about them, so I decided to do a bit of reading... I have to say, I probably didn't pick the best book to kick off my research. Since it was written my Ronnie Kray's wife, I knew it would be very one sided, but despite her saying that she didn't want to dismiss the wrongs they did, I found it all very romanticised. And I have to say, having testaments to what good men the Krays were from criminals like Charles Bronson didn't actually make me inclined to believe it... Personally, I felt this book raised more questions than anything else. Despite what the blurb says, that she knew the Krays more than anyone, it felt like everything she had to say were just quotes from what other people had said. Then, when she raised something that interested me, like her and Ron's relationship - how them me and problems they had - it was passed over.Still, it was interesting to see that point of view and I'm now off to read more in the hopes of getting a well rounded view of things.
History Is All You Left Me
History Is All You Left Me, by Adam Silvera 
Blurb: When Griffin's first love and ex-boyfriend, Theo, dies in a drowning accident, his universe implodes. Even though Theo had moved to California for college and started seeing Jackson, Griffin never doubted Theo would come back to him when the time was right. But now, the future he's been imagining for himself has gone far off course. To make things worse, the only person who truly understands his heartache is Jackson. But no matter how much they open up to each other, Griffin's downward spiral continues. He's losing himself in his obsessive compulsions and destructive choices, and the secrets he's been keeping are tearing him apart. If Griffin is ever to rebuild his future, he must first confront his history, every last heartbreaking piece in the puzzle of his life.My ReviewUnfortunately, I have to say I didn't particularly enjoy this book; for me it was too slow going and I never really connected with Griffin's character. It was definitely poignant at times and brought a tear to the eye, making you think about the value of life and the connections we make, but I just never really got into it. Really, it only grabbed my attention when it was revealed about Griffin and Wade, for me that's when the story got interesting, yet it was right near the end... I'm sure I'll read more by this author, since I have enjoyed his work in the past, but this one just wasn't for me. My favourite quotes from 'History Is All You Left Me':'Seeing those hands holding each other when I have to imagine yours in mine pisses me off.' 'I'm lucky to have parents who know when to go to war with me and when to leave me alone in the battlefield.' 'Is it weird to envy him for that, for witnessing something I would never want to see with my own eyes? I have all this history with you, Theo, but he has pieces of your puzzle that would destroy me if I ever had to put them together, and yet I still want them.' 'I don't understand why he would be talking to God for comfort when he could be talking to you.' 'I'm counting on us getting back together when our lives fit better.' 'I'm loyal to the end, but that's the heart of my problem and may soon be Jackson's too: when exactly is the end?' 'If I can fly here for you, where will I go for me?' '... silence is sometimes better than someone speaking before they're ready.' 'You are always going to be my first favourite human. No one can steal that from you. But now I have to get it together and allow room for more favourite people, to trust that Wade and Jackson are worthy of their own crowns.'
Blurb: When Griffin's first love and ex-boyfriend, Theo, dies in a drowning accident, his universe implodes. Even though Theo had moved to California for college and started seeing Jackson, Griffin never doubted Theo would come back to him when the time was right. But now, the future he's been imagining for himself has gone far off course. To make things worse, the only person who truly understands his heartache is Jackson. But no matter how much they open up to each other, Griffin's downward spiral continues. He's losing himself in his obsessive compulsions and destructive choices, and the secrets he's been keeping are tearing him apart. If Griffin is ever to rebuild his future, he must first confront his history, every last heartbreaking piece in the puzzle of his life.My ReviewUnfortunately, I have to say I didn't particularly enjoy this book; for me it was too slow going and I never really connected with Griffin's character. It was definitely poignant at times and brought a tear to the eye, making you think about the value of life and the connections we make, but I just never really got into it. Really, it only grabbed my attention when it was revealed about Griffin and Wade, for me that's when the story got interesting, yet it was right near the end... I'm sure I'll read more by this author, since I have enjoyed his work in the past, but this one just wasn't for me. My favourite quotes from 'History Is All You Left Me':'Seeing those hands holding each other when I have to imagine yours in mine pisses me off.' 'I'm lucky to have parents who know when to go to war with me and when to leave me alone in the battlefield.' 'Is it weird to envy him for that, for witnessing something I would never want to see with my own eyes? I have all this history with you, Theo, but he has pieces of your puzzle that would destroy me if I ever had to put them together, and yet I still want them.' 'I don't understand why he would be talking to God for comfort when he could be talking to you.' 'I'm counting on us getting back together when our lives fit better.' 'I'm loyal to the end, but that's the heart of my problem and may soon be Jackson's too: when exactly is the end?' 'If I can fly here for you, where will I go for me?' '... silence is sometimes better than someone speaking before they're ready.' 'You are always going to be my first favourite human. No one can steal that from you. But now I have to get it together and allow room for more favourite people, to trust that Wade and Jackson are worthy of their own crowns.'
I Will Not Beg
I Will Not Beg, (Mountain Masters & Dark Haven Series, Book 9), by Cherise Sinclair
Blurb:She signed away her freedom... Starved for affection, young Piper Delaney surrenders her life to a Master. But there is no love—only abuse. She’s told she can’t leave; she signed the slave contract. Years later, beaten and starving, she hears an English Dom say the contract’s illegal. Unenforceable. And she runs. She reclaims her life and rises above the nightmare that was her past. But her enslavement left scars. She longs for love, but the only men who truly attract her also terrify her--Dominants. Hoping to conquer her fears, she visits Dark Haven, but the sounds of the club are too much. When a submissive panics, Sir Ethan steps in. The powerful English Dom recognizes the shivering submissive in his lap. Years before, he’d corrected her Master’s deceit about a contract. She’s come a long way since then. Cynical at being pursued for his wealth, he finds Piper’s honesty compelling. She’s intelligent, brave…and she needs him. What Dom could resist? He’s the Dom she’d dreamed about—perceptive, firm, and utterly self-confident. His voice pulls her from panic attacks. His arms enclose her in safety. He treats her like a person, not something to mistreat. As he helps Piper overcome her fears, she starts to fall in love. Then her past finds her and destroys…everything.My ReviewI love Cherise Sinclair's books, she really is the best author of erotic BDSM books. She always writes such amazing characters, her stories are varied and never 'samey' and she always manages to get the dominance level perfect, never crossing over into possessiveness that feels like abuse, which is why I no longer read much in this genre, though it's one of my favourites, because so many authors don't get that aspect right...This book probably makes it onto my list of favourites from this author. I've been waiting for Ethan's story for a while - he's very intriguing! - and I definitely wasn't disappointed. I liked that our heroine, Piper, wasn't someone we'd seen before and her recovery after the previous abuse she endured was perfectly handled and felt realistic. Though I honestly didn't expect anything less from Cherise Sinclair! As always the writing was good and the sex has HOT! I can't wait for more in this series! My favourite quotes from 'I Will Not Beg':'... she focused on the small unevenness on the bridge of his nose. He wasn't perfect. The man wasn't a god. Remember that.' 'I'll never punish you for not being able to read my mind.' '... how could anyone live with Ethan and choose someone else?' 'Pushing right now would be counterproductive. She needed to know a Dom would respect her limits; however, he wasn't going to give up either.''I'm not property. She was submissive, yes. She loved serving her Dom - a Dom she had the right to choose. But she wasn't property.'
Blurb:She signed away her freedom... Starved for affection, young Piper Delaney surrenders her life to a Master. But there is no love—only abuse. She’s told she can’t leave; she signed the slave contract. Years later, beaten and starving, she hears an English Dom say the contract’s illegal. Unenforceable. And she runs. She reclaims her life and rises above the nightmare that was her past. But her enslavement left scars. She longs for love, but the only men who truly attract her also terrify her--Dominants. Hoping to conquer her fears, she visits Dark Haven, but the sounds of the club are too much. When a submissive panics, Sir Ethan steps in. The powerful English Dom recognizes the shivering submissive in his lap. Years before, he’d corrected her Master’s deceit about a contract. She’s come a long way since then. Cynical at being pursued for his wealth, he finds Piper’s honesty compelling. She’s intelligent, brave…and she needs him. What Dom could resist? He’s the Dom she’d dreamed about—perceptive, firm, and utterly self-confident. His voice pulls her from panic attacks. His arms enclose her in safety. He treats her like a person, not something to mistreat. As he helps Piper overcome her fears, she starts to fall in love. Then her past finds her and destroys…everything.My ReviewI love Cherise Sinclair's books, she really is the best author of erotic BDSM books. She always writes such amazing characters, her stories are varied and never 'samey' and she always manages to get the dominance level perfect, never crossing over into possessiveness that feels like abuse, which is why I no longer read much in this genre, though it's one of my favourites, because so many authors don't get that aspect right...This book probably makes it onto my list of favourites from this author. I've been waiting for Ethan's story for a while - he's very intriguing! - and I definitely wasn't disappointed. I liked that our heroine, Piper, wasn't someone we'd seen before and her recovery after the previous abuse she endured was perfectly handled and felt realistic. Though I honestly didn't expect anything less from Cherise Sinclair! As always the writing was good and the sex has HOT! I can't wait for more in this series! My favourite quotes from 'I Will Not Beg':'... she focused on the small unevenness on the bridge of his nose. He wasn't perfect. The man wasn't a god. Remember that.' 'I'll never punish you for not being able to read my mind.' '... how could anyone live with Ethan and choose someone else?' 'Pushing right now would be counterproductive. She needed to know a Dom would respect her limits; however, he wasn't going to give up either.''I'm not property. She was submissive, yes. She loved serving her Dom - a Dom she had the right to choose. But she wasn't property.'
The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo
The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo, by Taylor Jenkins Reid 
Blurb:Aging and reclusive Hollywood movie icon Evelyn Hugo is finally ready to tell the truth about her glamorous and scandalous life. But when she chooses unknown magazine reporter Monique Grant for the job, no one is more astounded than Monique herself. Why her? Why now? Monique is not exactly on top of the world. Her husband has left her, and her professional life is going nowhere. Regardless of why Evelyn has selected her to write her biography, Monique is determined to use this opportunity to jumpstart her career. Summoned to Evelyn’s luxurious apartment, Monique listens in fascination as the actress tells her story. From making her way to Los Angeles in the 1950s to her decision to leave show business in the ‘80s, and, of course, the seven husbands along the way, Evelyn unspools a tale of ruthless ambition, unexpected friendship, and a great forbidden love. Monique begins to feel a very real connection to the legendary star, but as Evelyn’s story near its conclusion, it becomes clear that her life intersects with Monique’s own in tragic and irreversible ways.My ReviewI kept seeing this book on Bookstagram and finally decided to give it a go and I have to say I was not disappointed! I found it a little slow to begin with, but once it got into Evelyn's life and I began to like and respect her the story flew by. I didn't always agree with her decisions, but it's impossible not to respect such a strong heroine who isn't afraid to go after what she wants. It was fascinating to watch her going through all the phases of her life and see how she grew. I especially loved her relationship with Harry; it was so sweet and pure. They were utterly dedicated to each other, despite it not being romantic. The big romance, though, between Evelyn and Celia, was a real rollercoaster; reading their story I experienced pretty much every emotion you can think of and I was alternately rooting for them to finally get a HEA and furious at the world for how they treated (and often still do) same sex couples. As for the twist at the end as to why Evelyn chose Monique to write her story, I have to say I guessed that as soon as it happened, but still, it was clever and I liked it. The writing itself was good and it definitely drew you into the story and, once I started, I just couldn't stop reading. I'd definitely recommend this book and will be reading more by this author!
Blurb:Aging and reclusive Hollywood movie icon Evelyn Hugo is finally ready to tell the truth about her glamorous and scandalous life. But when she chooses unknown magazine reporter Monique Grant for the job, no one is more astounded than Monique herself. Why her? Why now? Monique is not exactly on top of the world. Her husband has left her, and her professional life is going nowhere. Regardless of why Evelyn has selected her to write her biography, Monique is determined to use this opportunity to jumpstart her career. Summoned to Evelyn’s luxurious apartment, Monique listens in fascination as the actress tells her story. From making her way to Los Angeles in the 1950s to her decision to leave show business in the ‘80s, and, of course, the seven husbands along the way, Evelyn unspools a tale of ruthless ambition, unexpected friendship, and a great forbidden love. Monique begins to feel a very real connection to the legendary star, but as Evelyn’s story near its conclusion, it becomes clear that her life intersects with Monique’s own in tragic and irreversible ways.My ReviewI kept seeing this book on Bookstagram and finally decided to give it a go and I have to say I was not disappointed! I found it a little slow to begin with, but once it got into Evelyn's life and I began to like and respect her the story flew by. I didn't always agree with her decisions, but it's impossible not to respect such a strong heroine who isn't afraid to go after what she wants. It was fascinating to watch her going through all the phases of her life and see how she grew. I especially loved her relationship with Harry; it was so sweet and pure. They were utterly dedicated to each other, despite it not being romantic. The big romance, though, between Evelyn and Celia, was a real rollercoaster; reading their story I experienced pretty much every emotion you can think of and I was alternately rooting for them to finally get a HEA and furious at the world for how they treated (and often still do) same sex couples. As for the twist at the end as to why Evelyn chose Monique to write her story, I have to say I guessed that as soon as it happened, but still, it was clever and I liked it. The writing itself was good and it definitely drew you into the story and, once I started, I just couldn't stop reading. I'd definitely recommend this book and will be reading more by this author!
June 12, 2019
Wolf Rain
Wolf Rain, (Psy-Changeling Trinity, book 3), by Nalini Singh 
Blurb:The end of Silence was supposed to create a better world for future generations. But trust is broken, and the alliance between Psy, Changeling, and human is thin. The problems that led to Silence are back in full force. Because Silence fixed nothing, just hid the problems. This time, the Psy have to find a real answer to their problems–if one exists. Or their race will soon go extinct in a cascade of violence. The answer begins with an empath who is attuned to monsters–and who is going to charm a wolf into loving her despite his own demons.My Review I don’t think there has ever been a Nalini Singh book that I didn’t love, especially when they feature the wolves. Alexei is a character I’ve always been intrigued by and this book did not disappoint; gotta love a growly, grumpy hero who’s really a marshmallow beneath it all. Memory was also a wonderful character and she was amazingly strong - all Nalini Singh’s heroines are, though in different ways, but Memory was just so courageous and kick-ass. I loved her! As always, I loved seeing all the characters from the other books and I loved how Nalini Singh weaves it all together, the perfect blend of romance, action, as well as the normal pack/family life and relationships.I’d always recommend any Nalini Singh book, so if you haven’t read any, please do; they’re AMAZING! My favourite quotes from ‘Wolf Rain’:'He'd also learned that, sometimes, when a woman got quiet, her anger was all the darker and deeper for it. It could fill her up, make her bigger, stronger.' ' "You called Arrows to help me?" It was like calling a school of carnivorous sharks to look out for a minnow.' ' "He and Hawke are friends." "Sascha darling, we need to talk about that terrible lie you keep spreading." ' ' "I made him break his own nose and that gives me great pleasure." '
Blurb:The end of Silence was supposed to create a better world for future generations. But trust is broken, and the alliance between Psy, Changeling, and human is thin. The problems that led to Silence are back in full force. Because Silence fixed nothing, just hid the problems. This time, the Psy have to find a real answer to their problems–if one exists. Or their race will soon go extinct in a cascade of violence. The answer begins with an empath who is attuned to monsters–and who is going to charm a wolf into loving her despite his own demons.My Review I don’t think there has ever been a Nalini Singh book that I didn’t love, especially when they feature the wolves. Alexei is a character I’ve always been intrigued by and this book did not disappoint; gotta love a growly, grumpy hero who’s really a marshmallow beneath it all. Memory was also a wonderful character and she was amazingly strong - all Nalini Singh’s heroines are, though in different ways, but Memory was just so courageous and kick-ass. I loved her! As always, I loved seeing all the characters from the other books and I loved how Nalini Singh weaves it all together, the perfect blend of romance, action, as well as the normal pack/family life and relationships.I’d always recommend any Nalini Singh book, so if you haven’t read any, please do; they’re AMAZING! My favourite quotes from ‘Wolf Rain’:'He'd also learned that, sometimes, when a woman got quiet, her anger was all the darker and deeper for it. It could fill her up, make her bigger, stronger.' ' "You called Arrows to help me?" It was like calling a school of carnivorous sharks to look out for a minnow.' ' "He and Hawke are friends." "Sascha darling, we need to talk about that terrible lie you keep spreading." ' ' "I made him break his own nose and that gives me great pleasure." '
