Well, this was a book that hit me in the feels so hard. I wasn't really sure going into a baseball book by John Grisham, and y'all this was fantastic.Well, this was a book that hit me in the feels so hard. I wasn't really sure going into a baseball book by John Grisham, and y'all this was fantastic. Yes, it's baseball, but at it's core, it's really about the relationship between a father and a son. It was a quick read, but there was so much emotion packed into this one. And some baseball, too. It had me so captivated....more
Memoirs are always odd to review given it's literally someone's life. I can guess Harry knew writing this would open up his life in so many ways, and Memoirs are always odd to review given it's literally someone's life. I can guess Harry knew writing this would open up his life in so many ways, and he did it anyway. Even though I knew some of the story, I was captivated. He wrote with rawness and honesty and in his own words, and I appreciate the window into his world he shared....more
This story revolves around a group of classmates who are connected by a tragic crash where they were the survivors. They meet up annually on the tenthThis story revolves around a group of classmates who are connected by a tragic crash where they were the survivors. They meet up annually on the tenth anniversary of that terrible night. As you can probably guess given the authors, there are some secrets in the group, and there are some shady happenings around their reunion. This was a book I read in one sitting on a plane ride home, and I found it to be a slow burn. While I liked the premise and the flashbacks for each character, I also wanted more depth in each of the stories. I also love a jaw-dropping twist, and when the twists came to fruition, they just weren't quite there. Thanks to the publisher for the early look at this upcoming release....more
Well, this was just a delight. I adore this series, and they never fail to get into my feels. This story is told from the perspective of Ruby the elepWell, this was just a delight. I adore this series, and they never fail to get into my feels. This story is told from the perspective of Ruby the elephant. I loved that it talks about her life as an elephant before she found her way to Ivan and Bob. These stories are incredible for learning about different animals and also for bringing out the character of those in these stories. This was a quick read, and when I needed some smiles in my life, this just hit the spot. Thanks to NetGalley for the early look at this May 2023 release....more
I'll say it - Finance can be an overwhelming topic for me. I want to understand it more, and sometimes, er, most of the time, I just don't. This book I'll say it - Finance can be an overwhelming topic for me. I want to understand it more, and sometimes, er, most of the time, I just don't. This book makes the topic so accessible even for someone like me! What I really liked is that this isn't just about money, but it's about looking at money in the context of your life. It isn't just about amassing wealth, rather it leads with figuring out what you want and need and how to make informed decisions around to get there. Throughout, it also offers options. What works for one person might not work for someone else, and I appreciated there wasn't just one prescribed path. Overall, this was a really strong reflection of what financial health and care is within the scope of your life and passions. It's a hard sell for me to dig a finance book, but this one achieved that! Thanks to NetGalley and St. Martins Press for the early look at this January 2023 release....more
There are times that books come into your life at the exact right time, and they tell you just what you you need to hear in that moment This is the seThere are times that books come into your life at the exact right time, and they tell you just what you you need to hear in that moment This is the second time this has happened with a Lysa TerKeurst book (the first being It Wasn't Supposed To Be This Way), and her words are just so, so wonderful and needed and real. This book focuses on setting healthy boundaries in your life and also understanding that boundaries are also an okay thing to have. We can think we need to say yes to everything and make everything work, but the reality is, we don't. This was such a powerful faith-based reflection, and I've found I'm sharing the lessons I learned, repeating these words to myself, and just trying to set the boundaries I need/can have....more
I love a Jodi Picoult read - She's truly a genre all her own - She takes on social issues, but does it with strong characters, twisty plots, and compeI love a Jodi Picoult read - She's truly a genre all her own - She takes on social issues, but does it with strong characters, twisty plots, and compelling storylines. This one was one I couldn't put down. There's a twist halfway through that was so powerful, and the way she and her co-author took on the topics from there were so incredible. It can be a foregone conclusion to say I'm going to love a Jodi, AND she can still surprise me with how well-told her stories and explorations of an issue are....more
I love a story that's nothing like one I've read before, and this was definitely one of those. The story focuses on Alice. After her friend Gabby's brI love a story that's nothing like one I've read before, and this was definitely one of those. The story focuses on Alice. After her friend Gabby's breakup, she writes a story to make her feel better. Then, in circumstances that are connected to this tale in real life, Gabby finds love. Alice writes another story, and it happens again and again and again. . . She is then commissioned to work with a reclusive woman, and this brings about all the questions and mystery. This one was so fascinating. I only wished there were more about the stories Alice was writing. I was so drawn into them, and I liked the twists and turns of these sub-stories within the greater story about Alice. All in all, this was a wonderful book to kick off my year of reading. Thanks to NetGalley for the early look at this February 2023 release!...more
William Landy's first book Defending Jacob is one I still think about from time to time. The way he was able to create such a compelling story of a faWilliam Landy's first book Defending Jacob is one I still think about from time to time. The way he was able to create such a compelling story of a family torn apart by an accusation. And then, there were literally all the twists up until the very last pages. This book has the same vibe, and it's another one that will get you talking and thinking, then talking and thinking more - If you need a book club read, I'd add this one to your list to consider for 2023 for this very reason.
The story focuses on a family torn apart by an unsolved case, as well as assumptions made about what happened. In the mid 70's Jane Larkin disappears. She is a beloved mother, and her three children are devastated by the loss. The prime suspect is the husband, but there is no evidence, and he goes on with his life, including remarrying. Years later, Jane's remains are finally discovered, the questions of what really happened all those years ago is awakened. The three siblings don't agree on what might have occurred creating even more complex dynamics as a trial ensues. This has twists and emotional dilemmas until the end, and it was such a well-done thriller. Thanks to Random House and NetGalley for the early look at this March 2023 release! ...more
Well, this was just a delightful read. It involved theatre, so I had a hunch I loved it. What I didn't know is how much I would love Shannon. Shannon Well, this was just a delightful read. It involved theatre, so I had a hunch I loved it. What I didn't know is how much I would love Shannon. Shannon is unexpectedly cast in a lead role in The Sound of Music. She's also been more of a "techie," but now she's in the literal spotlight. This is especially challenging with her OCD. However, she decides to take the opportunity she's been given. Shannon was a character I rooted so hard for and adored. The story also explores some other challenges Shannon is navigating with relationships. I always love a kid's read with authenticity and heart, and this was absolutely that. Thanks to NetGalley for the look at this April 2023 release!...more
This is a story of motherhood and choice that is incredibly relevant to today. This is part history and part mystery and the true story of how women wThis is a story of motherhood and choice that is incredibly relevant to today. This is part history and part mystery and the true story of how women were there for each other through a secret network. The story has a dual timeline (my fave) with the present being the mystery and the past being the history that is the reason behind the letter. It was a book that captivated me as I learned about challenges (that are relevant once more) and also wanted to know how the stories connected. Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the early look at this timely February 2023 release....more
Imagine The Great British Bakeoff as a thriller - That's what you have here, and y'all, it's a delight. This is a pageturner I read it one sitting becImagine The Great British Bakeoff as a thriller - That's what you have here, and y'all, it's a delight. This is a pageturner I read it one sitting because I was so drawn in. A new cast shows up famous chef Betsy Martin's estate for the latest season of Bake Week. And then things start happening - recipe sabotage, deaths, etc. You find out that many of those who have showed up have reasons for being there and wonder if their motivations might have pushed them to do something. This was a unique spin on a reality competition genre I love mixed with the thrills of a great mystery read. Thanks to the publisher for the early look at this March 2023 release. It's definitely one y'all are going to need in your life....more
Well, this was just an absolute delight of a read. I adore the stories Katherine Center writes, and this was one of my faves. When I read her stories,Well, this was just an absolute delight of a read. I adore the stories Katherine Center writes, and this was one of my faves. When I read her stories, I find I can't read them fast enough, and I'm also sad when they're over and wish it hadn't ended so quickly! What I love most is the unique premise she has her story. Relationships are at the center of what she writes, but the way they develop is so captivating. This story centers on Sadie, an artist who has face blindness after an operation. This is especially a problem because she draws faces and is nearing her big break. Sadie tries to navigate her blindness without telling anyone - This presents some challenges with family, friends, and new potential romance. This was just a book that had me drawn in with the emotions of Sadie's experience, and I was rooting for her so, so hard. Also, there is a reflection about romance novels at the end of this one by the author that is a must-read essay. Thanks to NetGalley for the early look at this July 2023 release. It's not too early to start counting the days until summer and this book's release y'all!...more
I wasn't sure what to expect with this one as it was a co-worker who simply told me I had to read it! I knew zero things about the podcast, and while I wasn't sure what to expect with this one as it was a co-worker who simply told me I had to read it! I knew zero things about the podcast, and while I really like some John Green, others I haven't so much been about. So, how did I feel about this one? I loved it. I think it was very self-aware writing, in addition to being incredible and captivating observations of so many different things in life. Some of these were funny, others were sad, and it was just a wonderful essay collection of reviews and reflections. I also plan on reading this one again as there were some good quotable moments and things that made me think I want to revisit!...more
When I first read this one around 15 years ago, I remember not loving and adoring it like I do other Jodi's. I've always wanted to go back and re-readWhen I first read this one around 15 years ago, I remember not loving and adoring it like I do other Jodi's. I've always wanted to go back and re-read to see if my opinion might change, and I finally had the chance to do that on a trip this week. The story focuses primarily on a father/daughter relationship. When there is a traumatic event involving Trixie (the daughter), everything is thrown into disarray. In addition, there are some subplots with even more character drama and such. This one just goes a lot of different directions, especially in the last 1/4 of the book, and it almost just has too many things. All these years later, this one hits the same as it did back when, but I'm glad I gave it another go to know that for a fact....more
Hannah, Thomas and Scarlett are college friends who find thrills in playing the Daring Game. They thrive on making each dare more sensational than theHannah, Thomas and Scarlett are college friends who find thrills in playing the Daring Game. They thrive on making each dare more sensational than the last. Within the dares, the dynamics of the trio are also at play. Then, one dare goes a little to far. The trio is separated, and the game stops. Then, years later, the game is back. Hannah receives a message from Thomas. Someone knows their game and wants to start them up again. However, they're not sure who it is, but this human seems to know a whole lot about them. This one was great at bringing the thrills and suspects of who might be behind the game as the story went. I also always love an overlay of the past and present storyline, and this one utilized that device well. Thanks to NetGalley for the early look at this May 2023 release! ...more
This YA novel told in verse focuses on Nic. Nic is struggling in her senior year as everyone knows she cheated on her boyfriend, and other kids have tThis YA novel told in verse focuses on Nic. Nic is struggling in her senior year as everyone knows she cheated on her boyfriend, and other kids have taken to letting her know how they feel about it. Trying to figure out her place in things, she decides to get in the good graces of her classmates by writing their college admission essays for a fee. In doing this, she gets to know the stories of her classmates, but also realizes she doesn't really know her own. She's navigating grief and loss and general feels in a variety of ways. There were some really wonderful reflections about high school and relationships via Nic and ones about her finding her place that I especially related to. Also, the essays she wrote were really great - Certainly some concerns about the integrity of writing for others that need to be acknowledged though....more
If I would have been born later, One Direction would have totally been my jam. This was a fascinating look into their world, especially their connectiIf I would have been born later, One Direction would have totally been my jam. This was a fascinating look into their world, especially their connections to the internet. As an *NSYNC fan (my boy band of choice), there were Yahoo! Groups and message boards, but 1D fans just had so many more resources available to connect and grow their fandom. I loved reading about all of the different theories and types of fans, and just all the things. It was a fascinating and thorough explanation, and I was absolutely captivated. If there's a boy band deep dive, I'm here for it, and this was a quality addition to the media out there about them.
Also, JC, Lance, Chris and/or Joey, if you're reading this, we're ready for the reunion tour. You don't need Justin to make it happen....more
A romance built around reality television is 100% my jam. Sloane is excited to spend the summer with her best Liam. He's assisting his dad with the prA romance built around reality television is 100% my jam. Sloane is excited to spend the summer with her best Liam. He's assisting his dad with the production of a new teen dating show. At the last minute, they need an additional contestant, so Sloane is asked to step in. While unexpected, she's excited because the show features Aspen Woods, a gorgeous actor. And Aspen seems to really like her. I dug the love triangle vibes in this one, and Liam and Sloane were characters I was rooting for throughout. It also had some good twists along the way to build the story. If you need a light-hearted romance that just makes you smile, this is that delight of a read. Thanks to NetGalley for the early look at this April 2023 release....more
Y'all, I love a novel in verse. I'm continually impressed at how many feels these pack. This was a beautiful middle grade story in verse. It focuses oY'all, I love a novel in verse. I'm continually impressed at how many feels these pack. This was a beautiful middle grade story in verse. It focuses on Iveliz who is navigating her mental health in the aftermath of tragedy and just trying to figure out middle school in general. This was an incredibly raw raw and honest look at how one girl is trying to figure it all out. Her voice is so powerful, and it was just the most beautiful exploration of her struggle and truth. While written for middle schoolers, I can assure you that the feels transcend all ages....more
I'm not familiar with the shows Jennette has been on, but had seen all the buzz about this memoir and wanted to check it out. Y'all, this was an increI'm not familiar with the shows Jennette has been on, but had seen all the buzz about this memoir and wanted to check it out. Y'all, this was an incredibly raw and real memoir. The story primarily focused on the struggles of Jennette's life. This included a very messy relationship with her mom, an eating disorder, addiction, and unhealthy relationships. Throughout this one, Jennette doesn't hold back. She tells all parts of her story even the really, really hard parts. She also talks about where she is now, so the book isn't just about all the tough stuff she's navigated, but how she reclaimed her story and got to choose what she does and who she is now. Whether you know Jennette or not, this is a memoir worth reading....more
Two best friends in high school start a podcast to explore a teenage girl's unsolved murder from 1999. Along the way, they revisit the story, and as yTwo best friends in high school start a podcast to explore a teenage girl's unsolved murder from 1999. Along the way, they revisit the story, and as you can imagine, there are still secrets aplenty throughout town. This is a YA read, and it definitely has that vibe. What I mean is that I as an adult who takes in true crime in various mediums wanted even more thrills, AND I could also see I wasn't the target audience for this one. For the target crowd, I think it has some good suspense to keep them reading! Thanks to NetGalley for the early look at this March 2023 release!...more
A colleague recommended this, and the timing was perfect as I was hearing about microlearning in a lot of space. This was a really good, quick overvieA colleague recommended this, and the timing was perfect as I was hearing about microlearning in a lot of space. This was a really good, quick overview of what microlearning is and isn't. It does a good job of providing definitions and foundations, while also providing examples and applications. It really helped me get a grasp on the concept, so I could easily teach and explain it to others. It was a quick read and one I anticipate I'll reference often....more
Y'all, this one was a ride. Selma Blair has been in many of the "defining" movies of my generation's pop culture experience. That said, I knew little Y'all, this one was a ride. Selma Blair has been in many of the "defining" movies of my generation's pop culture experience. That said, I knew little about her life, and this definitely taught me a lot more. This is an exploration that begins with a really tough childhood, and she doesn't hold back in sharing the complexities. More than focusing on who/where she is now, this really focuses on what got her to that point. She shares it all, including family dynamics and relationships along the way. This really is a journey, and I'm grateful she was willing to go there to share her story. ...more
This was the first selection for my online book's club year. It was a look inside what the journey to find the author's birth parents was like. It wasThis was the first selection for my online book's club year. It was a look inside what the journey to find the author's birth parents was like. It was especially revealing of how the "system" works (and doesn't) to find answers. The story also focused on the emotions of this experience, including the author, her twin sister, adoptive parents, and birth parents. I found I learned a lot and appreciated the window into one woman's journey....more
Well, y'all, this one was just a delight. It was a quick read - I literally read it as I sat outside this afternoon. The premise is completely outlandWell, y'all, this one was just a delight. It was a quick read - I literally read it as I sat outside this afternoon. The premise is completely outlandish, and that's what makes it so wonderful. Meddy is in the wedding planning business with her aunts. As she prepares for one of her biggest jobs, she goes on a blind dates, and it's terrible. So terrible the guy ends up dead. She can't let this get in the way of the job, so she and her aunts decide to conceal the body. Antics and hilarity ensue as you can imagine along with some really great twists. Oh, and then there's the part where Nathan, who is "the one who got away" for Meddy, shows up to add some potential romance to the story - except there's still that part where she's concealing a murder. I didn't realize how much I needed something so light and fun until I devoured this one....more
I first read this one way back in 2006. I think I've read it at least once since, but it's been so long that I actually forgot what happened in the enI first read this one way back in 2006. I think I've read it at least once since, but it's been so long that I actually forgot what happened in the end. That said, this one is still an emotional ride with so, so, so many feels. This was my gateway Jodi, and all these years later she still gets me with the journeys she leads her characters on to explore complex emotions and moral and ethical dilemmas....more
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