Charmed: A Thousand Deaths by Erica Schultz, Maria Sanapo (Illustrator) is a 2017 Dynamite Entertainment publication.
A comic based on Charmed- I coulCharmed: A Thousand Deaths by Erica Schultz, Maria Sanapo (Illustrator) is a 2017 Dynamite Entertainment publication.
A comic based on Charmed- I couldn’t resist. I used to watch this with my daughter after school when it aired on TNT. Even after she moved on to other things, my husband and I couldn’t stop watching it. LOL!
This franchise that has stayed popular long after the original series went off the air. I knew there were books based on the show, but only recently discovered the comics.
This artwork is awesome, very bright and brilliant colors, and looks great on my Kindle. The style and atmosphere of the 90s is captured nicely,reminding me of how much fun this show was.
However, the storyline is very weak. It’s a very quick read, of course, and you will have to catch the next installment to continue the storyline, and because I was a little frustrated with this first installment, I immediately borrowed the next chapter to see if things improved. Although, this first chapter is quite unstable, it looks like the next installment is much improved. I will read a few more to see if it worth continuing with it or not.
Not the best start but giving the series the benefit of the doubt- for now. Plot- 2 stars Graphic Art -4 stars ...more
The Instant pot is THE hot kitchen tool right now. I don't have an official Instant Pot. I have a standard pressure cooker. However, for the record, tThe Instant pot is THE hot kitchen tool right now. I don't have an official Instant Pot. I have a standard pressure cooker. However, for the record, these recipes can be made in both, but you may want to check with the model you own for specifications. I avoid rice dishes in my Pressure Cooker, but everything else is a go.
That said, this Indian cookbook is a compilation of recipes specifically for the Instant Pot. However, there is also plenty of helpful information included for anyone just starting out with Indian cooking or are new to cooking with an Instant Pot.
A wide array of dishes, spices, and sauces are featured, including snacks, casseroles, legumes and beans, soups, vegetables, desserts and drinks. The directions are easy to follow, estimating prep. time and the amount yielded. There is also an index to help one locate specific recipes quickly. The photos are colorful and will leave your mouth watering! For me, the section on bean and legumes was especially of interest because of how quickly the instant pot cooks them, and the new and tasty ways I found to enjoy them. The vegetarian dishes are plentiful as well, and the egg dishes look very intriguing. I hope to try a few of them soon!
Overall, this is an informative cookbook for those who have an instant pot or plan to purchase one. My husband is a huge fan of pressure cookers and Instant pots, and because we are learning to cook Indian foods, this is a cookbook I am sure we will reference often. However, I think this cookbook would come in handy even if you are a little wary of instant pots. I don’t think it would be too hard to adapt these recipes to cook in more traditional ways.
Never Go Back by Kinuko Nakayama (Illustrator), Anne Weale is a 2018 Harlequin/ SB Creative publication.
Nine years ago, Olivia, only nineteen, and heNever Go Back by Kinuko Nakayama (Illustrator), Anne Weale is a 2018 Harlequin/ SB Creative publication.
Nine years ago, Olivia, only nineteen, and her grandfather were forced to leave the mansion where she had grown up after the owner passed away.
Now, as an interior designer, she has been commissioned to renovate the mansion, a lucrative project to be sure. But if she accepts the offer, she will also face Ludwig, the man who inherited the mansion, and forced her out, and in her mind, is responsible for her grandfather’s death. However, the job is simply too good to pass up, not just for the money, but for the opportunity for revenge. Ludwig didn’t seem to remember Olivia, or the dramatic scene she displayed nine years ago, or does he? The more time Olivia spends with Ludwig, the harder it is to remember her vendetta against him. Will Olivia exact her revenge or will succumb to Ludwig’s charms instead?
Out of curiosity, I looked up the original version of this book, written by Anne Weale and published by Harlequin back in 1995. The Goodreads reviews for that book are not good. However, this updated version is okay, although a bit too hurried.
It is a little rushed and the chemistry between Olivia and Ludwig, which should have featured some interesting fireworks, fizzles instead of sizzles and the story overall is a bit bland. But I did like the Olivia’s transformation, and the little twist that put things into a new perspective. Ludwig (that name!!), is a real charmer, and despite being suspicious of him, I grew to like him as much as Olivia did.
Naturally, the artwork is the centerpiece of these reprised stories and although I’ve never been disappointed in the graphics from SB Creative Manga Comics, the work here is a grade above what I’ve encountered previously.
Overall, the story is okay- I give it 3 stars, but the artwork is exceptional and gets a 4.5.
Sense & Sensibility – Manga Classics- by Jane Austen and Stacy King- is a 2016 UDON entertainment publication.
Sense & Sensibility is Jane AusSense & Sensibility – Manga Classics- by Jane Austen and Stacy King- is a 2016 UDON entertainment publication.
Sense & Sensibility is Jane Austen’s first novel, written anonymously. The tale primarily evolves around two sisters, Marianne and Elinor Dagwood, one of which is dreamy eyed, insisting on holding out for a man with charisma, while Elinor takes a more sensible approach.
Although the sisters meet and fall in love with men matching their personas, both will experience disappointment and heartbreak. Will they ever find true love?
When I first began familiarizing myself with Manga, I discovered many classic novels have been converted into the Manga format. At first, I was a bit skeptical, however, once I tried a couple of these Manga Classics, I realized what a great idea this was. The authors and artists are highly respectful to the original, while breathing new life into these timeless classics.
For those who are fans of the classics, this is a great way to revisit them. The artwork is always fantastic, and it is fun to see these characters visualized in such a way. If you have never read these classic stories, the Manga version is a gentle, and entertaining way to introduce oneself with the beloved stories that have endured for so long.
The story itself is a classic romance, full of high drama, twists and angst. Good sense wins out in the end, as does true love.
This delightful story is condensed down a bit in this format, but the author did a terrific job with what couldn’t have been an easy task. Overall, this is a great way to touch base with your favorite classics in less time, while enjoying the amazing visuals that accompany the story.
The Open Portal by Michael Scott Clifton is a 2019 Book Lift Off publication.
An intriguing start for this new fantasy series-
Mona is an orphaned teeThe Open Portal by Michael Scott Clifton is a 2019 Book Lift Off publication.
An intriguing start for this new fantasy series-
Mona is an orphaned teenager with a special needs brother. She is bullied incessantly by the ‘mean girls’ at school and has a very negative self -image. When she is nearly at the breaking point, her guardian angel, Thaddeus Finkle, offers her an alternative.
Believing she will be given the opportunity to make a real difference in her life, she agrees to switch places with another person, leaving Texas in the rearview mirror to live on ‘Meredith’, becoming Alexandria, the daughter of a Duke.
However, she will soon realize she is trapped behind an impenetrable barrier, put in place by an evil sorceress.
Meanwhile, Tal, who is the heir to the Meredith Empire, has been sent to a secluded garrison to cool his heels, in hopes of taming his impulsiveness. However, he stumbles across a group of raiders, whose leader may know of a way to pass through the veil.
Alexandria and Tal will eventually cross paths, setting the stage for an ongoing epic fantasy saga-
One thing is for sure- Michael Scott Clifton has a HUGE imagination! I truly enjoyed the first book I read by this author, so it didn’t take much to convince me to give this new series a try. However, to be completely honest, high fantasy is not my usual fare. Therefore, I may not be the best judge, as I am not as familiar with the genre.
For me, this first book in the series, probably by necessity, spends a lot of time on world building. All the main characters are introduced, and the reader gets a fair idea of their temperament and if we feel empathy for them or not. The scenery and landscapes are vividly described and there are even a few illustrations sprinkled throughout the book.
The story is an ambitious one, however, with three different scenarios and three different sets of cast members to keep up with. I must be totally honest here and admit that at times I felt the foundation was a little shaky. It takes a long while to see any progress on the convergence of these threads, and of course, by the time I’m finally beginning to get everything straight in my mind, the book comes to a ‘to be continued’ conclusion. ARRGGH!
However, I realize this is standard operating procedure within the fantasy realm, and I knew going in this first chapter in the series would set the stage for the real epic dramas to come.
It also crossed my mind a few times, while reading this book, that this one just might appeal to readers who enjoy YA Fantasy. I’m no expert on what passes for YA these days, but I’m told that if the main character is a teenager or young adult, then that qualifies, even if the book is more geared towards an adult reading audience. So, I’m just going to toss that out there.
There are a few poignant moral lessons involved in the story, too, giving it a touch of emotional depth amid the intrigue and adventure.
Overall, this first installment has piqued my curiosity. I am very interested in seeing how all of this is going to play out, and of course, I’m already attached to Mona/Alexandria and will have to see if the ‘guardian angel’ has her best interest at heart.
I wholeheartedly recommend this one to fans of high fantasy. I think you will want to get in on the ground floor of this new series, which shows a great deal of potential.
Spices and Seasons: Simple, Sustainable Indian Flavors by Rinku Bhattacharya is a 2014 Hippocrene Books publication.
Recently, my husband and I have bSpices and Seasons: Simple, Sustainable Indian Flavors by Rinku Bhattacharya is a 2014 Hippocrene Books publication.
Recently, my husband and I have been trying out more Indian recipes and are quickly becoming addicted to them.
Although I am still a novice, I do understand how very important the right spices are in Indian foods. However, beyond curry and turmeric, I wasn't all that familiar with the other mainstay spices and seasonings I might need or enjoy. So, this looked like a cookbook that would be informative and helpful to me.
However, I couldn’t have anticipated how wonderful this cookbook turned out to be!! Living in a small town in Texas, finding the spices and ingredients listed in many cookbooks is often a frustrating challenge. But, in this case I was pleasantly surprised by how many of the spices used in these delectable dishes, I already had in my pantry or were easy to locate locally.
The cookbook uses the standard organizational format, broken down in segments featuring appetizers, soups, breads, etc. However, she also divides the book into seasonal sections, which is also a very nice touch. Naturally, with the popularity of instant pots and the convenience of slow cooking, there are recipes added using these popular cooking aides, as well as other tools and equipment one might need or find useful, which is very helpful as well. Gluten free recipes are also included for those with special dietary needs.
The recipes are quite easy, and if you have a garden, many of the ingredients used might very well be right there in your own backyard. If not, they are most likely available in a farm market in your area.
The recipes are easy to follow, with colorful photos that had my mouth watering. I also enjoyed the author’s personal comments and family history, which made me feel as though she is a very down to earth person, who is very knowledgeable about these cultural dishes and the history behind many of them.
I have always found growing radishes and okra in my area to be very easy, but I always end up with an over abundance of them. Finding a creative use for them is not always easy. But I found a super easy way to spice up my radishes and okra, much to my delight!!
I am looking forward to trying out more recipes featured in this cookbook and will certainly return to it often.
Overall, if you are interested in learning how to make Indian food at home, or trying out new recipes that are very flavorful, healthy, and easy to make, you will find this cookbook very useful!!...more
One Summer in Little Penhaven by Angela Britnell is a 2019 Choc Lit publication.
A very satisfying story!
Samantha is passed over for a partnership inOne Summer in Little Penhaven by Angela Britnell is a 2019 Choc Lit publication.
A very satisfying story!
Samantha is passed over for a partnership in her law firm. Burnt out and beyond angry, she makes an impulsive, on the spot decision. She turns in her resignation, hops on a train to Cornwall, where she eventually lands in Little Penhaven. Upon her arrival, she meets Caden Day, a man with a bad reputation.
But, the more she gets to know him, the more she is convinced he’s a good guy carrying a very heavy burden and a lot of sadness in his heart. To complicate matters, Caden is stunned to discover his brother, Jory has gotten married to a young woman named, Fliss, who seems accustomed to a comfortable lifestyle. Jory needs Caden's support in more ways than one - however, Caden often remains surly and bitter.
Meanwhile, Samantha needs to figure out what she wants to do with her life, especially with her parents breathing down her neck. But, with each passing day, Samantha falls deeper in love with Penhaven and with Caden Day.
Going out on a limb here, I would say that at one time or another we’ve all been tempted to up and leave our jobs and make a fresh start. Of course, in real life, it’s not that simple, and it seldom works out the way it does in books.
But still, it was fun to live vicariously through Sam. She took a gamble and it paid off in all the ways that count.
I also grew to care for Jory and Fliss, although at first, I was a little worried about Jory’s maturity level. Fliss rises to the occasion, proving her mettle, which won my respect.
However, despite Samantha’s landing the starring role in this drama, it was Caden’s story that really packs a punch.
At the end of the day I was very pleased with how things worked out. Each of the characters worked on personal growth, faced their fears, regrets, and disappointments and learned to forgive, accept, and move forward.
The moral of the story is that there are always two sides to a story. Beware of judging someone without all the facts!! The prominent theme of having faith in someone and believing in them, even when everyone else has presumed the worst, is a positive lesson for all of us!
Faith, Friendship, Forgiveness, Hope- and of course True Love- what else could you ask for?
A Fire Story by Brian Fies is a 2019 Harry N. Abrams publication.
This graphic novel depicts Brian Fies’ personal experiences when he lost his home duA Fire Story by Brian Fies is a 2019 Harry N. Abrams publication.
This graphic novel depicts Brian Fies’ personal experiences when he lost his home during the 2017 Northern California wildfires.
His Webcomic and subsequent graphic novel has been a cathartic journey as he chronicles the various emotions he and his family felt, in the process of moving forward after such an incredibly difficult loss. He also adds others personal stories into the novel, adding even more poignancy to the devastation. The sense of community is also prevalent as people rose to the occasion to help their families, friends, and neighbors.
Brian’s sense of displacement, his broken- heartedness, and shock, leaps from the pages as does his temerity and the admission that while the process is slow and hard, and the days ahead were long and arduous, he and his family are determined to move forward and rebuild their lives.
My heart truly broke for Brian and the other families and people who shared their stories. Brian did a terrific job conveying his emotions and the way he and others around him dealt with the pain and what steps they had to take in order to move on with their lives.
From a personal standpoint, I have never experienced such a devastating loss. However, while in high school, two good friends of mine lost their homes to fire. It is so hard to comprehend, unless you experience something like that in an up close and personal way, how truly devastating it is to lose every single thing you own. It’s not just the obvious loss of things and stuff, it’s the sentimental loss, and the feeling of disassociation. Rebuilding, even if you have good insurance, even with the promise of a fresh start, just doesn’t offer all that much comfort when all you want to do is go home.
This is a very emotional and powerful story which started as a Webcomic, which is also included in this book. Because this is a graphic novel, and the visuals are of utmost importance within this format, I must admit I wasn’t bowled over by the artwork. The style may have been a statement, in part due to the gravity of the subject matter. The artwork is in black and white and maybe a little too simplistic, but again, but it does capture the essence of the situation, which is what counts at the end of the day. The timeline is also a bit choppy, but not hard to follow and is really a minor complaint. There are also real photos included driving home the reality of damage done by the raging fires.
I recommend this book to everyone, even if graphic novels aren't really your thing. Once the impact hits you, you will most likely feel compelled to count your blessings and will feel grateful for having a roof over your head, a toothbrush, a change of clothes, your personal papers, and a hundred other small things we all take for granted every day.
I was also inspired by Brian’s story, his bravery in sharing his raw emotions with us, and despite his depressing circumstances, his fortitude, his sense of humor, and compassion for others who shared in his loss.
The Body in Question by Jill Ciment is a 2019 Pantheon Books publication.
An unvarnished but addictive legal drama!
The jury has been selected for a seThe Body in Question by Jill Ciment is a 2019 Pantheon Books publication.
An unvarnished but addictive legal drama!
The jury has been selected for a sensational criminal trial where a teenage girl is accused of murdering her younger brother. The story follows the shocking developments of the trial, but the primary focus is on the jury, which has been sequestered. The spotlight zeroes in on juror C- 2, a 52- year old photographer, and F-17 – a 41- year old anatomy professor who forge a complicated relationship while being cooped up in an Econo-Lodge. In fact, they are so distracted by their secret dalliance they may not be paying close enough attention to the courtroom testimony.
But when the jury finally begins to deliberate, they are stunned to discover their relationship has yet another repercussion, as it becomes clear the jury is divided. Will their affair effect the outcome of the trial?
A new spin, and maybe even a mini-trend, on the standard legal thriller, is to put the jury front and center. We see the trial through their eyes only. It’s a lurid, and strange case and I had a sinking feeling about it almost from the get-go. However, just like C-2 and F-17, my attention was often diverted from the nuances of the trial, by the drama going on with the jury members.
C-2 is coping with her much older husband’s many health maladies, while worrying the other jurors will catch on that she and F-17 are hitting the sheets. F-17 is taking the relationship seriously, while C-2 considers it a brief fling, one that she intends to end once the trial is over.
Meanwhile, the other jurors, who curiously enough are not given a number, but are instead referenced by descriptive nicknames, brings even more suspense to the drama, as some of them could cause trouble for the lovers. How will they respond when their suspicions about C-2 and F-17 are confirmed?
This is an interesting setup. I could see our scandal obsessed media turning a horrific crime into a circus. It also exposes the flawed court system, forcing a jury to reach a decision without pertinent information, which most assuredly would have had an impact on their final verdict. The public, of course, knows more than the jury, which turns the jury members into pariahs.
But what makes this book so interesting, is the author’s bare bones prose. She presumes her readers are smart, she gives them the credit they deserve by getting straight to the point. We don’t need everything explained in minute detail. However, the drawback of this approach is that the story is colorless. There are no emotional pulls or appeals one way or another.
Still, the result is affecting, as we see how being a part of this trial impacted the lives of the jury, often cruelly and unfairly. The lawyers, the judge, the media, all come under scrutiny, but not in a heavy- handed way. It is up to the reader to make up their own minds about the moral ethics of the jury members, and if they deserve redemption, at the end of the day.
The story gives one plenty to ruminate over about jury ethics, with the legal system. It’s a compulsive read, and because the writing is so spare, it moves at a very brisk pace. I easily read it in one sitting.
As a fan of legal dramas, this book was an easy sell for me. I appreciated the unique approach and the food for thought. Despite the lack of any deep character analysis, I still found myself thinking about the accused, and the jurors, and the complexities of justice or the lack thereof....more
The Trial of Lizzie Borden by Cara Robertson is a 2019 Simon & Schuster publication.
As unsolved murders go, this is THE case that puzzles me theThe Trial of Lizzie Borden by Cara Robertson is a 2019 Simon & Schuster publication.
As unsolved murders go, this is THE case that puzzles me the most. For many it’s Jack the Ripper, whose violent killing spree has been poured over and analyzed six ways from Sunday. But, in the late 1800s, a gentle spinster lady goes on trial for the horrible double homicide of her step-mother and father.
This is a crime that took place in broad daylight, the murders occurring over an hour apart, with Lizzie and the family’s maid, Bridget, being the only two people in the house at the time. Neither of them, saw or heard anything…
The trial was sensational. National newspapers followed the events closely, editorialized and analyzed and theorized, as the testimony and evidence presented shocked the country. Through it all, Lizzie remained stoic, self-possessed, almost serene.
Most everyone has heard something of the Legend of Lizzie Borden. There have been some terrific books written about the crime, some re-imaginings, both in books and movies, all of which offer some compelling theories. It still amazes me that after all these years, the mystery still haunts us.
As this book states, on more than one occasion, it is a classic ‘locked room’ mystery. Perhaps the most famous one of all. Every time I read a book about this case, I find myself searching for an obvious clue, that one damning piece of evidence that would help me make up my mind about Lizzie's case. I've waffled back and forth since I was a teenager, and first watched ‘The Legend of Lizzie Borden’ , a made for television movie starring Elizabeth Montgomery. But at the end of the day, I’m still just as stumped, unable to make up my mind one way or another.
This book, though centered around the trial, does go over the facts as we know them, leading up to the murder and explains why Lizzie became the primary suspect. Once we get to the trial, the author takes the standard courtroom proceedings and adds in the journalistic elements of the trial, especially the viewpoint of female journalists. It was very interesting to see what the newspapers printed as the trial progressed.
I enjoyed the sketches and photographs of the lawyers and witnesses and the inflections of those who testified. I love a good courtroom drama, always have done, but a trial taking place in this time frame, before flashy theatrics were commonplace, pitted the opposing council against one another in a show of one-upmanship that was absolutely riveting. Not that there weren’t a few theatrics- pulling out the skulls of the deceased without warning was drama at its finest.
The inside information about the jurors was also very interesting. It was, of course, an all-male jury since women could not serve on juries until the 1950s in the state of Massachusetts. (!!!)
The one thing this book did do for me was give me a fresher perspective on the case. Times were so different back then. Women’s issues were highly misunderstood, and they were thought to be prone to hysterics, especially if Lizzie was menstruating, which, might have been a great defense for Lizzie -insanity. She must have been mad at the time, if she did indeed commit the crimes she was accused of, because, madness was the only explanation they could wrap their heads around. Women of Lizzie’s class and station simply could not commit such a heinous crime, otherwise.
This book has an interesting journey to publication, which also made it a unique read. But, more importantly, for me, is that this book succeeded where others before it failed. I now have little doubt about Lizzie’s guilt or innocence. The facts speak for themselves, and the way this book is formatted, without going off down rabbit holes or pontificating on this or that, helped me see things that were in plain sight all along.
Lizzie’s life after the trial was quiet as she was mostly shunned by locals. But she did lead a colorful life despite that and left behind a dark legacy in her wake. I wonder what Lizzie would make of all the attention her life has garnered, all the debate, the movies, books, TV shows and documentaries outlining her case, none of them able to prove beyond a shadow of a doubt that Lizzie Borden is guilty, nor can they exonerate her.
Without some bombshell revelation- perhaps a peak at that one file which remains untouchable- we will never really know for sure. However, this book leaves little doubt, although the author does not speculate one way or another, or give her opinion, allowing the reader to interpret the facts for themselves and draw their own conclusion, which is really how a true crime book should read.
The one downfall is the book’s ‘no-frills’ approach. Readers will probably struggle to keep awake, especially since we’ve all become so accustomed to reading true crime in novel form. Yet, for me, that no-frills approach is what made the book so chilling. The trial portions of the book were quite enlightening. Yet, even I couldn’t just sit and read this one cover to cover without taking breaks, because, yes, it is very dry reading at times. Still, I think the book is one of the most comprehensive and revealing of any I’ve read on the subject to date.
Gillespie County Fair by Marc Hess is a 2019 Greenleaf Group Press publication.
I was super excited about my invitation to read this book. As everyoneGillespie County Fair by Marc Hess is a 2019 Greenleaf Group Press publication.
I was super excited about my invitation to read this book. As everyone knows by now, I live in Texas and like to support local authors if I can. I was also intrigued by the setting, which is in one of my favorite places to visit- Fredericksburg, Texas!! So, I was really looking forward to reading this one.
Unfortunately, I don’t do well with large casts of characters, and this book was overflowing with them. I felt lost for a long time, but eventually, I began to catch on, and make the connections between the characters, who are related in some form or other.
The annual Gillespie County Fair is the catalyst, the big event that will bring all the key characters together. The buildup is like watching a troubling storm cloud slowly building, becoming more ominous as the story continues. It’s a bit like a cold front meeting warm air, as the past and the town’s original German settlement, battles against the upscale tourist attraction that is quickly taking over.
While this was a story I struggled with and forced myself to finish, if I’m being honest, there were some absorbing moments when a few family secrets were revealed. The Fair, however, is not a big part of the story, sadly. If I can find some non-fiction material about the fair, I think that would be an interesting topic since it is the oldest county fair in Texas.
That leaves me on the fence about how to rate this book. It wasn’t really what I was expecting, I had a hard time staying interested and keeping up with all the characters, was disappointed that the Fair didn’t get much of mention, but I did enjoy some of the family drama. The juxtaposition between the past traditions of the town and unstoppable changes taking place is poignant and bittersweet. The last time I was there I could still sense the authentic German heritage, but yes, the shops, OktoberFest, and other events, make this a charming place to visit and spend the day sampling German beer and food, or touring wineries, and visiting the various shops and museums.
I think the author did a good job of exploring this topic, so although I’m still feeling a bit conflicted, I’m going to go with 3 stars....more
A Soldier’s Return by RaeAnne Thayne is a 2019 Harlequin Special Edition publication.
A tender, sweet medical romance-
After her divorce from her selfiA Soldier’s Return by RaeAnne Thayne is a 2019 Harlequin Special Edition publication.
A tender, sweet medical romance-
After her divorce from her selfish, immature, ‘surfer dude' husband, Melissa Fielding, returns home to Cannon Beach, with her young daughter. She now works in the medical profession, living in the Brambleberry House- a very special residence.
While walking her neighbor’s dog, she has a run in with her old classmate and her boss’s son, Eli Sanderson. With old Doc Sanderson out of commission for a while, Eli will be taking over for his father, which means that for all intents and purposes Eli is Melissa’s boss- even if it is only temporary.
That doesn’t stop Melissa from feeling flustered around Eli. He’s not the nerdy guy she knew in high school anymore. He’s a soldier, fighting off the nightmares of war casualties, feeling like it is his duty to continue to serve in the Army.
For Eli, meeting the girl he had a crush on in high school has reignited his feeling for Melissa. But he knows his stay is temporary and he is no place for a relationship.
How will the pair manage to work together every day and ignore their attraction to each other?
Full disclosure- I added this book to my TBR list without reading the synopsis first. I have always enjoyed this author’s books, so I figured this one was probably a safe bet.
The book is published by Harlequin Special Edition, not Harlequin Medical - two entirely different imprints- so I was pleasantly surprised by the strong medical elements in the story. I’m also a sucker for military guys, so in many ways this book was a perfect fit for me.
The story also has a very mild paranormal element, which I found intriguing. However, it was too vague and I'm wondering if I missed out on some key information by not reading the previous books in the series, which was a bit of a drawback for me.
But, to be clear, this book can most definitely be read as a stand-alone. That said, I hope to eventually read all the books in the series, not only to see how the other residents of Brambleberry House get their HEA, but to discover all the other mysteries of the house, as well.
Overall, this is a very nice contemporary romance, made better for me due to the medical drama, and military themes.
An emotional second chance love story, cute kids and dogs turned out to be a pretty solid combination, as well!
3.5 rounded up.
I won a digital copy of this book- so a big thanks to Harlequin and to Goodreads for hosting the giveaway....more
Switched at Birth by Christine Rimmer is a 2019 Harlequin Special Edition publication.
A light and lovely love story!
When Madison, a popular, well rSwitched at Birth by Christine Rimmer is a 2019 Harlequin Special Edition publication.
A light and lovely love story!
When Madison, a popular, well recognized movie star, discovers she was switched at birth, she needs time to process and adjust. She moves to Valentine Bay to be near the Bravos, but she keeps her distance from them, trying to screw up the courage to meet them face to face.
Meanwhile, Madison takes every precaution to keep her identity a secret. She also lusts after her buff neighbor, Sten Larson. She even devises clever ways get him to come over to her place. But, as nice and protective as Sten is, he keeps Madison at arm’s length, knowing that under the circumstances they couldn’t possibly have a future together.
I’ve been tapping my feet impatiently waiting for Madison’s story. I was curious to see how she would respond to the information about her birth family. This part of the story was handled beautifully, as most anyone would have felt intimidated by the Bravo’s and meeting a family you never knew you had. Sten’s gentle encouragement helps Madison make those first tentative steps towards her new family, which she definitely needed.
The romance is very light, sensual, and sweet. The chemistry between Madison and Sten is palpable, slowly building as they spend time together. The romance between an ‘ordinary guy’, with a blue-collar occupation, and the glamorous movie star might seem destined to fail in the long term- but when there is a will, there’s a way, and true love always conquers all.
This is a truly romantic story, but part of what makes this story so special, is the beautiful HEA, which has a touching long-term love story quality to it. I closed the book with a dreamy sigh and a big smile on my face.
This book is yet another reminder of why I never want to miss one of Christine Rimmer’s wonderful stories....more
The Lemon Sisters by Jill Shalvis is a 2019 William Morrow Paperbacks publication.
“I’m great. I mean, I did just spent a full minute looking for my pThe Lemon Sisters by Jill Shalvis is a 2019 William Morrow Paperbacks publication.
“I’m great. I mean, I did just spent a full minute looking for my phone while using it as a flashlight, but everyone does that, right?
Brooke and Mindy- The Lemon Sisters of Wildstone- couldn’t be more different. Brooke is a free spirit who once had a challenging and exciting career, until a helicopter crash left her with PTSD.
She’s made a mess of things with her family and with Garrett, the guy she left behind, locking everyone out of her life as she copes with her sadness all alone.
Mindy, on the other hand, has it all together. She’s a baker, married to the perfect guy, with three adorable children. She’s organized in the extreme, and her life never got close to messy, not like Brooke.
But it’s Mindy, who shows up on Brooke’s doorstep is the process of an epic meltdown. Being a perfectionist evidently comes at a cost, and Mindy is paying her dues.
Although Brooke really doesn’t want to go back to Wildstone, and she really, really, really doesn’t want to face Garrett, the guy whose heart, she once broke, she knows it is time to suck it up, for her sister's sake. So, she agrees to switch places with Mindy, giving her sister a break from her kids, while her she tries to get her life back together.
I LOVED this story! Mindy’s situation will resonate with most parents, especially moms struggling with body image after having children. However, her situation is compounded by her husband’s long work hours, which means she’s been running the show solo. Her need to be in complete control has driven her a little bonkers and she’s mad at that perfect husband of hers, and now resentment has begun to settle in for the long haul.
Brooke’s story is very emotional, but her part of the story is also sprinkled with hilarity and of course some super steamy sexy time. But, don’t let your guard down, you will definitely need a box tissues before all is said and done.
But, while the sisters keep readers on their toes with their individual dramas, the story also examines the relationship they have with one another. They have a complex relationship, each one harboring regrets, wishing they knew how to repair the damage. The dynamics between sisters always fascinate me, so I especially enjoyed this thread of the story.
Shalvis, as always, injects a healthy dose of her trademark humor into the story, to offset the heaviness. I literally guffawed on a few occasions. This book has just the right balance between women’s fiction, contemporary romance, and family drama, with a jaw dropping conclusion that had me laughing and crying at the same time.
I don’t know how JS does it, but she is one of the most consistent authors out there, in my opinion. I’m always super excited to read her books and wait with eager anticipation for every new one that comes out. This one is exceptional, however, and while I don’t usually add the ‘recommended’ tag-line, in this case, I think the book will appeal to a broader audience. It's not just a romance, it’s a touching story about life, marriage, and family, as well. So, yes! I highly recommend it!!
Things My Son Needs to Know About the World by Fredrik Backman is a 2019 Atria publication.
I knew I loved this author for a reason!
Fredrik Backman stThings My Son Needs to Know About the World by Fredrik Backman is a 2019 Atria publication.
I knew I loved this author for a reason!
Fredrik Backman stole my heart with “A Man Called Ove” but he has been keeping it in safekeeping ever since.
This is Backman’s first non-fiction book, a series of essays about parenting that nearly anyone who has children, no matter what age they are now, or cared for them, can relate to. His musings are laugh out loud funny, chronicling the insanity an infant can spawn on two reasonably well- adjusted adults. The mistakes, the fears, the special moments between father and son, and the future hopes and dreams for his child are all beautifully captured in this book.
The snicker bar recipe won me over early in the book because Backman apparently feels the same way I do about a certain over rated actor. (Still chuckling and feeling so totally vindicated)
All gushing aside, though, there were times when I thought the author rambled, almost illogically, about things that didn’t seem to have much of a connection to parenthood. It only happened once or twice, but when it did, all I could do was shake my head and move on the next essay.
Other than that, I can’t tell you how much fun this book is. Not only that, it is so poignant and bittersweet, just like Backman’s fictional work.
While this book may hit home for newer parents in a more ‘in the moment’ way, even if your children are older, or like me, grown and carving out their own lives, this book will bring back a lot of memories. You may develop a lump in your throat or a swipe a tear from your eye, because Backman reminds all of us to take pleasure in all the small treasures of life, to focus on what is truly important, to admit our human frailties, and most importantly, to see the humor in it all.
If you love Backman – you don't want to miss this one!...more
The Night Tiger by Yangsze Choo is a 2019 Flatiron publication.
A big, bold story full of magic, romance, mystery and adventure!!
Set in Malaysia duriThe Night Tiger by Yangsze Choo is a 2019 Flatiron publication.
A big, bold story full of magic, romance, mystery and adventure!!
Set in Malaysia during the 1930’s, the story alternates between Ren, an eleven -year old Chinese houseboy and Ji Lin, a young woman who has been forced to give up her goal of working in the medical profession. Ren is on a mission to find his late master’s finger so he can return it to his grave. Failure to do so within 49 days will prevent his master from resting in peace. Meanwhile, Ji Lin, is working as a dressmaker, while also secretly moonlighting as a dance hall girl to pay off her mother’s Mahjong debts, before her hardened stepfather finds out.
When Ji Lin comes into possession of a severed finger, she implores her stepbrother, Shin, to help her return it to its rightful owner. Thus, Ji Lin and Ren’s lives will begin to converge. While the clock ticks away within the 49 -day time frame, a tiger is on the prowl wreaking havoc on the city of Malaysia.
There is a lot going on in this book and because it’s not exactly my usual fare, I was forced to take my time and slowly absorb all the details patiently, as the pieces of the puzzle begin to click into place. I found myself completely caught up in the story, in the folklore and magic realism, the family dramas and mystery. I was loath to put the book aside, but still wanted to draw it out and relish the tension and adventure.
Unfortunately, I did have a few issues with the book. One thing I noticed was some repetitiveness in the dialogue. It was especially noticeable when I was listening to portions of the book on audio.
The other problem I had was that while I placed a hold on both the e book and the audiobook at my library at the same time, the audio version became available first. However, I had to pause the audio until the e book became available because I found it very difficult to follow along. The author narrates the book, but the inflections and voice changes were not strong enough or distinct enough for me, and the switch in narratives often caught me off guard. Once I had a digital copy of the book, however, the story came to life and I was able to switch between reading and listening seamlessly.
I love historical fiction, but rarely reach for books with magical realism elements. I’m a little picky about that genre but do enjoy it from time to time. I do love folklore, though, so in this case, the two genres complement one another beautifully. Now, I’m wondering why I don’t read more of these types of books and am thinking maybe I should lower my defenses and try reading more of them. I will definitely check out Choo’s first novel and anything she writes in the future.
This book should appeal to a broad audience as it embodies several different popular genres and creates an insular world with its intense urgency and emotional content. While I did read some stellar reviews for this book, I couldn’t have imagined what kind of journey I was about to embark on, but it is a journey I will not soon forget.
The Shadow Writer by Eliza Maxwell is a 2019 Lake Union publication.
Graye Templeton wants to be a writer, but she also needs to live under the radar,The Shadow Writer by Eliza Maxwell is a 2019 Lake Union publication.
Graye Templeton wants to be a writer, but she also needs to live under the radar, while she distances herself from an unbelievably shocking childhood. However, it seems that luck is finally shining on Graye when she backs into a dream job working for Laura West, a star blogger who has catapulted authors from obscurity to bestsellers. Now, if Graye can only get Laura to realize she is not only a great assistant, but a promising author, as well.
Laura takes an instantaneous liking to the vulnerable and worshipful Graye Templeton. She is just the bright light she needs in her life after her insecure husband, David, a famous ‘one-hit wonder’ she single -handedly made famous, becomes embittered, drinking to excess, nearly teetering on the edge of a full -blown breakdown.
The two women forge a strong bond, while David does everything in his power to undermine the friendship. But, Graye desperately needs Laura’s reputation and expertise to realize all her hopes and dreams before her past comes home to roost.
This is a solid thriller centered around fixation and obsession. These themes are often overused staples in psychological thrillers and are hardly original. In fact, I was concerned, this book was about to take an all too familiar path, as well, one I’ve traveled down many times before. However, the story proved to be atmospheric, with a few interesting and surprising plot twists, which kept me interested and maybe a bit on edge.
I will warn readers, however, that the characters are not easy to like, but to me that is part of what made the novel so effective and why the conclusion worked so well. The plot is not always completely plausible, and that’s okay, but the depiction of human nature and the character’s self- absorption and manipulations were quite realistic, which is why this story is so disturbing.
Overall, this was a nice introduction to Eliza Maxwell for me. I have been curious about her books, so now I will have to check out more of her work in the future.
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