Susan
I just finished Carina Taylor's new Clean out of Luck and can't stop smiling. This book had all the humor, banter, and originality that are the hallmarks of Carina Taylor's style. This is the first book in the Serendipity Series I have read and, if your like me, you may not know about this magic apartment building and its way of bringing love to its residents in the most unusual ways. And for Wade and Scarlet, this comes by way of a magic wish granting mop. Every chapter left me with something new to smile about. A complete standalone in an loosely interconnected series, this is a great introduction to the residents of Serendipity.
I just finished Carina Taylor's new Clean out of Luck and can't stop smiling. This book had all the humor, banter, and originality that are the hallmarks of Carina Taylor's style. This is the first book in the Serendipity Series I have read and, if your like me, you may not know about this magic apartment building and its way of bringing love to its residents in the most unusual ways. And for Wade and Scarlet, this comes by way of a magic wish granting mop. Every chapter left me with something new to smile about. A complete standalone in an loosely interconnected series, this is a great introduction to the residents of Serendipity.
This is the perfect read when you feel that you alone and when life just feels like it is asking too much of you. For those when you feel like you are not seen or understood, John Kenney has written a book will remind you, this is Modern Life. I loved that the writing was vivid, the characters and the struggle at the heat of the book was real and so present that I often felt like I was watching a movie that had all the hallmarks of a great dark comedy. Filled with all the psychological awareness and sharp biting wit that makes a great satirical work, I See You've Called in Dead truly fits this moment in time. If you like a story always walks the razors edge between dark and light but still crave a true and unexpected laugh out loud moment., then this is a book you will enjoy. This is what made this such a strong book for me, Kenny's dark comic timing. Wonderfully absurd, insightfully comic, and delightfully incisive, this is a slow burn of a book that, like a great campfire needs time to establish itself before it can shines light into the night.
As I was reading I found myself thinking how this stands in the tradition of William Saroyan's The Human Comedy and Herman Melville's "Bartleby, The Scrivner" and how there is an eternal struggle to live and experience Life in the face of trying to live that life.
Thank you to NetGalley and Zibby Publishing for the arc that I read
This is the perfect read when you feel that you alone and when life just feels like it is asking too much of you. For those when you feel like you are not seen or understood, John Kenney has written a book will remind you, this is Modern Life. I loved that the writing was vivid, the characters and the struggle at the heat of the book was real and so present that I often felt like I was watching a movie that had all the hallmarks of a great dark comedy. Filled with all the psychological awareness and sharp biting wit that makes a great satirical work, I See You've Called in Dead truly fits this moment in time. If you like a story always walks the razors edge between dark and light but still crave a true and unexpected laugh out loud moment., then this is a book you will enjoy. This is what made this such a strong book for me, Kenny's dark comic timing. Wonderfully absurd, insightfully comic, and delightfully incisive, this is a slow burn of a book that, like a great campfire needs time to establish itself before it can shines light into the night.
As I was reading I found myself thinking how this stands in the tradition of William Saroyan's The Human Comedy and Herman Melville's "Bartleby, The Scrivner" and how there is an eternal struggle to live and experience Life in the face of trying to live that life.
Thank you to NetGalley and Zibby Publishing for the arc that I read
The Axeman's Carnival
This book is one of the best Bookish Surprises I have ever I received and, without a doubt, one of the most original books I have ever read. This book, and Tama, has lived in mind on so many levels since the first page! I mean how many books can you say are narrated by a magpie from the time it is hatched. Tama is a total scene stealer and he is everything that creates a wonderfully vivid and mythic character that is like the Trickster god Loki has taken form to live in New Zealand.
If that reminds you of the awe and wonder that you felt when you were younger reading Peter Rabbit or Charlotte's Web, then you know right where you I am coming from. However, just as all these stories have a deeper darker edge that you only saw in retrospect after growing up, then you are homing in on how I still feel after finish The Axeman's Carnival a while age.
This book is filled with emotion. There is such sadness and longing for family by every character in this book that you feel as if you are walking beside each of them in turn and, I am no sure hiw Chidgey did but but every farm yard animals is a living and breathing character, despite not being able to speak like Tama. This book will have you rooting for rain fall and grow them grass to eat. And, as much as there is a character here that I didn't want to feel for - no spoilers - Chidgey's story presents each one in a way that will break your heart in so many different ways because of their human-ness. But always at the heart of the story is Tama with his spoken words that draw you back and make you smile and laugh despite yourself and the circumstances that the characters find themselves in.
Tama's voice is one that cannot be replicated and one that will transport you to the New Zealand Highlands.
This book is one of the best Bookish Surprises I have ever I received and, without a doubt, one of the most original books I have ever read. This book, and Tama, has lived in mind on so many levels since the first page! I mean how many books can you say are narrated by a magpie from the time it is hatched. Tama is a total scene stealer and he is everything that creates a wonderfully vivid and mythic character that is like the Trickster god Loki has taken form to live in New Zealand.
If that reminds you of the awe and wonder that you felt when you were younger reading Peter Rabbit or Charlotte's Web, then you know right where you I am coming from. However, just as all these stories have a deeper darker edge that you only saw in retrospect after growing up, then you are homing in on how I still feel after finish The Axeman's Carnival a while age.
This book is filled with emotion. There is such sadness and longing for family by every character in this book that you feel as if you are walking beside each of them in turn and, I am no sure hiw Chidgey did but but every farm yard animals is a living and breathing character, despite not being able to speak like Tama. This book will have you rooting for rain fall and grow them grass to eat. And, as much as there is a character here that I didn't want to feel for - no spoilers - Chidgey's story presents each one in a way that will break your heart in so many different ways because of their human-ness. But always at the heart of the story is Tama with his spoken words that draw you back and make you smile and laugh despite yourself and the circumstances that the characters find themselves in.
Tama's voice is one that cannot be replicated and one that will transport you to the New Zealand Highlands.
This is a real and achingly powerful book that will linger in you mind long after you close the book. Not only is this a beautifully written book, but it has been exquisitely translated from the original French by Hildegarde Serle. This book was a powerhouse of emotions that struck very close to home as a caregiver to my aging parents who has spend many hours in care homes and hospitals around the aged. The presence of the narrator throughout this book drew me into her story and showed, with such awareness of the value of life and the power of compassion and empathy, that life is to experienced in Life and In Storytelling. Told in a dual aspect style, Justine is trying to find her way through life as a 21 year old orphan who lives with her family and works in a care facility where she meets Helene, a 100 year old resident, and begins to follow the story of the older woman during the war. With the eye of a writer and her blue notebook to capture the stories she hears, Justine captures and shares with the reader Helene's story. This is a story told with all the bleakness and devastation of the war on the lives, bodies, and emotions of French, but it also shows the glimpses of love and hope and moments of joy that were found there as well.
To be honest, this book has left me thinking about the power of connection between us all and the need we have share our stories before they, like Helene, just fade away before our eyes almost without notice until we stop, ponder, seek out connection. With our individual story threads held fast in our own hands they are tenuous, precious, and isolated from support; however, once we bring those threads together and begin to plait and weave them together do those fragile threads become part of a collective, powerful and age defying story told via tapestry of our shared humanity. To remind us of what us good, rejoice in what is gifted. Mourn what is lost. And guide to reflect that all this IS what is to be human.
Haunting. Powerful. Compelling. Beautiful. Human. These are qualities of Perrin's story and Serle's translation that make this a book that will linger in my mind for a long time
Thank you Eeuropa Editions for an amazing international read that is a permanently on my shelves.
This is a real and achingly powerful book that will linger in you mind long after you close the book. Not only is this a beautifully written book, but it has been exquisitely translated from the original French by Hildegarde Serle. This book was a powerhouse of emotions that struck very close to home as a caregiver to my aging parents who has spend many hours in care homes and hospitals around the aged. The presence of the narrator throughout this book drew me into her story and showed, with such awareness of the value of life and the power of compassion and empathy, that life is to experienced in Life and In Storytelling. Told in a dual aspect style, Justine is trying to find her way through life as a 21 year old orphan who lives with her family and works in a care facility where she meets Helene, a 100 year old resident, and begins to follow the story of the older woman during the war. With the eye of a writer and her blue notebook to capture the stories she hears, Justine captures and shares with the reader Helene's story. This is a story told with all the bleakness and devastation of the war on the lives, bodies, and emotions of French, but it also shows the glimpses of love and hope and moments of joy that were found there as well.
To be honest, this book has left me thinking about the power of connection between us all and the need we have share our stories before they, like Helene, just fade away before our eyes almost without notice until we stop, ponder, seek out connection. With our individual story threads held fast in our own hands they are tenuous, precious, and isolated from support; however, once we bring those threads together and begin to plait and weave them together do those fragile threads become part of a collective, powerful and age defying story told via tapestry of our shared humanity. To remind us of what us good, rejoice in what is gifted. Mourn what is lost. And guide to reflect that all this IS what is to be human.
Haunting. Powerful. Compelling. Beautiful. Human. These are qualities of Perrin's story and Serle's translation that make this a book that will linger in my mind for a long time
Thank you Eeuropa Editions for an amazing international read that is a permanently on my shelves.
This book reached out to me despite the generational and cultural gap that exists between me & Huda. This is a book that will help so many be seen. Huda's relationship with her family, religion, culture, & even herself is all part of the insightful and, for me, educational blend that turns a simple growing up story into a humorous learning tale that bridges so may divides. Huda is the imperfect, typical, & totally identifiable teen whose whole life at first is all about her and achieving the hallmarks of growing up, but when her parents throw a curveball into this world by sharing that they are divorcing, everything is suddenly in question as Huda needs to figure out what is happening and make sense of how she is responding to those changes. Now, along with all typical teen angst, she is questioning and feeling the added pressure of what will my life look like when ___
This is a perfect gift for anyone at any age, showing how we are all similar in our feelings and experiences even if we express them differently. A wonderful conversation starter to highlight an appreciation for others & one that highlights teen Mental Health & Wellness!
This book reached out to me despite the generational and cultural gap that exists between me & Huda. This is a book that will help so many be seen. Huda's relationship with her family, religion, culture, & even herself is all part of the insightful and, for me, educational blend that turns a simple growing up story into a humorous learning tale that bridges so may divides. Huda is the imperfect, typical, & totally identifiable teen whose whole life at first is all about her and achieving the hallmarks of growing up, but when her parents throw a curveball into this world by sharing that they are divorcing, everything is suddenly in question as Huda needs to figure out what is happening and make sense of how she is responding to those changes. Now, along with all typical teen angst, she is questioning and feeling the added pressure of what will my life look like when ___
This is a perfect gift for anyone at any age, showing how we are all similar in our feelings and experiences even if we express them differently. A wonderful conversation starter to highlight an appreciation for others & one that highlights teen Mental Health & Wellness!
This is a real book about real women living real lives in the face of everything that life throws at them. Carolyn, Ava, and Jasmine are three of the most unexpected friends that Fate finds a way of connecting when they each need the others support. I love that what brings these women together is not just a need to have someone be their advocate or offer them a path to success, but that they are there to listen to each other and become a true sister and found family accepting each other without any expectations.
This is a real book about real women living real lives in the face of everything that life throws at them. Carolyn, Ava, and Jasmine are three of the most unexpected friends that Fate finds a way of connecting when they each need the others support. I love that what brings these women together is not just a need to have someone be their advocate or offer them a path to success, but that they are there to listen to each other and become a true sister and found family accepting each other without any expectations.
This was a book that will get inside you. The author has clearly taken the time to carefully develop all her characters and infuse them with motivation that makes you feel their longing, fear, excitement, and apprehension that makes these character human. For me, that's one of the key reasons I read fiction, to get me out of my head and into someone elses, to experience someone's life that I wouldn't otherwise have access to, and make me wonder as I read how all will work out knowing that it just might not. If you enjoy women's fiction and what I call Life Stories where, you don't know how the story will shake out until just before its over you have a great choice here!
This was a book that will get inside you. The author has clearly taken the time to carefully develop all her characters and infuse them with motivation that makes you feel their longing, fear, excitement, and apprehension that makes these character human. For me, that's one of the key reasons I read fiction, to get me out of my head and into someone elses, to experience someone's life that I wouldn't otherwise have access to, and make me wonder as I read how all will work out knowing that it just might not. If you enjoy women's fiction and what I call Life Stories where, you don't know how the story will shake out until just before its over you have a great choice here!
This book has enthralled me since about page ten and constantly left wondering how the story would play out for not just one couple in this book...but all of them. Told with one of the most powerful third person omniscient narrators I have read in a long time, the narrator takes on a voice and role that became a fully developed character in my mind. I literally mean every character spoke to me with their own voice. With character motivations as real as the lives they each led, this is not a book for the faint of heart. This book holds up a mirror to life today and reflects it back to you in a way that shows life with all its fears & insecurities, bitter & sweet moments, as well as joys & sorrows. It is a life that leaves you with wrinkles, scabs, and scars but leaves you knowing that with love and friendship you will always shine in the end.
This book has enthralled me since about page ten and constantly left wondering how the story would play out for not just one couple in this book...but all of them. Told with one of the most powerful third person omniscient narrators I have read in a long time, the narrator takes on a voice and role that became a fully developed character in my mind. I literally mean every character spoke to me with their own voice. With character motivations as real as the lives they each led, this is not a book for the faint of heart. This book holds up a mirror to life today and reflects it back to you in a way that shows life with all its fears & insecurities, bitter & sweet moments, as well as joys & sorrows. It is a life that leaves you with wrinkles, scabs, and scars but leaves you knowing that with love and friendship you will always shine in the end.
This was just the fun and joyous breath of fresh air I needed right now. Georgia and Eli's second chance romance reminded me of all the reasons love is worth fighting for and how special and precious that connection can be! Love is something that will always find its way back to you, and this book will have you look over at your person and go, "Yea, it is worth fighting to keep this feeling.
This was just the fun and joyous breath of fresh air I needed right now. Georgia and Eli's second chance romance reminded me of all the reasons love is worth fighting for and how special and precious that connection can be! Love is something that will always find its way back to you, and this book will have you look over at your person and go, "Yea, it is worth fighting to keep this feeling.
What a wonderful step back in time to a place I inhabited as a young woman. Caprice owned these pages and with a voice and writing style that truly spoke to my inner teen and she drew me into her world in all its emotional chaos and family dynamics and held me close. I feel as if I have made a new friend and shared her world experiences, however there is a wonderful quality to youth that allows the young to stand tall in the face of adversity and grow stronger still because of it. Caprice reminds me of a seed from a giant redwood, her full strength would not be realized and the power of her spiritual breath would not be seen if not for the fire that allowed her sprout and claim her place.
As a an older reader, I was impressed with Youngdahl's writing and her ability to share Caprice's story in a way that make me feel as if I was teen again. But I am not the target audience, no matter how much I saw myself reflected here. Stepping back and thinking to what I longed to read as a teen and reflecting on what I hear teens commenting on around me, I can see this story being one that truly reflects the reality that this generation isexperiencing. This book would be a great summer read for anyone, but I truly feel this is a book teens need in this moment when resiliency, love, compassion, and endurance are the mixed up hallmarks of their generation. Caprice's story is one that will allow many to process the confusing mix of feelings that is life in the 21st Century.
What a wonderful step back in time to a place I inhabited as a young woman. Caprice owned these pages and with a voice and writing style that truly spoke to my inner teen and she drew me into her world in all its emotional chaos and family dynamics and held me close. I feel as if I have made a new friend and shared her world experiences, however there is a wonderful quality to youth that allows the young to stand tall in the face of adversity and grow stronger still because of it. Caprice reminds me of a seed from a giant redwood, her full strength would not be realized and the power of her spiritual breath would not be seen if not for the fire that allowed her sprout and claim her place.
As a an older reader, I was impressed with Youngdahl's writing and her ability to share Caprice's story in a way that make me feel as if I was teen again. But I am not the target audience, no matter how much I saw myself reflected here. Stepping back and thinking to what I longed to read as a teen and reflecting on what I hear teens commenting on around me, I can see this story being one that truly reflects the reality that this generation isexperiencing. This book would be a great summer read for anyone, but I truly feel this is a book teens need in this moment when resiliency, love, compassion, and endurance are the mixed up hallmarks of their generation. Caprice's story is one that will allow many to process the confusing mix of feelings that is life in the 21st Century.
If you are looking for a book that fits this author's stated vibe : "This series is my love letter to every reader who said they wanted to move to a fictional town." Than have I found the book you have been looking for to spend the upcoming weekend in...and yea I do mean lost in what I am hoping is the new Lucy Score Series of Story Lake, Pennsylvania.
This book had it all & oh so much more! This is a new series about a trio of brothers who are helping to save their small town and family construction business who just might find love along the way if the stop getting in their own way. There's the grumpy one, the one secretive one, and then one that is just a flirt. There are pet racoons, bald eagles, and a pig who each take turns stealing scenes when the family dogs are not already doing so. There's a town busybody who will leave you laughing and the twin pest that has their ow secret adgenda. There are nieces and nephews, a teen town mayor, a persnikity town council woman, nosey town reporters, a roving acapella group, all of that inside the town that -- if you don't run over the town welcome sign -- you will eventually fit in with.
If you laugh when you hear titles like Diane Keaton's Baby Boom, Chevy Chase's Funny Farm, and even Cary Grant's Mr. Blandings Builds His Dream House, then this book will be a welcome fit for you. But now add to that not one or two but three super hot contractors, a romance novelist writing her way out of the worst case of ex husband induced writer's block, one of the best adorable best friends ever, and town in need to a come back and you have the rest of an award winning recipe for a runaway best seller.
This 5 🌟 3🌶 book is filled from page one to finish with screwball comedy gold, banter that you will re-read just because its so good, MMC narration that has you laughing and wincing at the same time, and an FMC that you will just shout You Go Girl sometimes out loud to an empty room because YES, this book is that good that sometimes you forget these are people on a page and not ones you know in real life.
This is my first Lucy Score novel and it will not be my last!
If you are looking for a book that fits this author's stated vibe : "This series is my love letter to every reader who said they wanted to move to a fictional town." Than have I found the book you have been looking for to spend the upcoming weekend in...and yea I do mean lost in what I am hoping is the new Lucy Score Series of Story Lake, Pennsylvania.
This book had it all & oh so much more! This is a new series about a trio of brothers who are helping to save their small town and family construction business who just might find love along the way if the stop getting in their own way. There's the grumpy one, the one secretive one, and then one that is just a flirt. There are pet racoons, bald eagles, and a pig who each take turns stealing scenes when the family dogs are not already doing so. There's a town busybody who will leave you laughing and the twin pest that has their ow secret adgenda. There are nieces and nephews, a teen town mayor, a persnikity town council woman, nosey town reporters, a roving acapella group, all of that inside the town that -- if you don't run over the town welcome sign -- you will eventually fit in with.
If you laugh when you hear titles like Diane Keaton's Baby Boom, Chevy Chase's Funny Farm, and even Cary Grant's Mr. Blandings Builds His Dream House, then this book will be a welcome fit for you. But now add to that not one or two but three super hot contractors, a romance novelist writing her way out of the worst case of ex husband induced writer's block, one of the best adorable best friends ever, and town in need to a come back and you have the rest of an award winning recipe for a runaway best seller.
This 5 🌟 3🌶 book is filled from page one to finish with screwball comedy gold, banter that you will re-read just because its so good, MMC narration that has you laughing and wincing at the same time, and an FMC that you will just shout You Go Girl sometimes out loud to an empty room because YES, this book is that good that sometimes you forget these are people on a page and not ones you know in real life.
This is my first Lucy Score novel and it will not be my last!
I enjoyed this view into a retirement community and seeing the dynamics at play as this group of retirees continue to lead their lives. The characterizations and dialogue keep me reading page after page and I loved the subtle humor at play between all these individuals. But this book is not just about the daily lives, loves, and adventures of Birdy and her core group, there is a mystery that haunts her as well..what happened to her 'friend' Allison who took her own life over 50 years ago. Was her death what she was told, or is here is a killer lurking in the shadows that needs to be discovered and a murder that must be answered for?
This book has a slow start, but this was necessary for this book to truly reach me as a reader and allowed me to fall into this book and understand the characters. Everything needs to be established, questions, relationships, and even the readers own uncertainties to ensure that this book draws the reader in and, in my case, captivated me. Once I was about a third of the way into the book I couldn't put this mystery down.
I enjoyed this view into a retirement community and seeing the dynamics at play as this group of retirees continue to lead their lives. The characterizations and dialogue keep me reading page after page and I loved the subtle humor at play between all these individuals. But this book is not just about the daily lives, loves, and adventures of Birdy and her core group, there is a mystery that haunts her as well..what happened to her 'friend' Allison who took her own life over 50 years ago. Was her death what she was told, or is here is a killer lurking in the shadows that needs to be discovered and a murder that must be answered for?
This book has a slow start, but this was necessary for this book to truly reach me as a reader and allowed me to fall into this book and understand the characters. Everything needs to be established, questions, relationships, and even the readers own uncertainties to ensure that this book draws the reader in and, in my case, captivated me. Once I was about a third of the way into the book I couldn't put this mystery down.
This was one of my most expected releases of 2025 and after a year of fan fic writing in my head I can say that Charlotte Mallory has completely exceeded my expectations for this conclusion to her duology. Jane and Soren's story was simply amazing. So many twists and turns that only Mallory could include that kept me on the edge of my seat. I know my reviews are usually longer, but I'm still recovering from this book of curses, waring gods, hidden powers and powerful lovers who will fight anything to be together...even each other. I have to process what I can share so I don't spoil your experience of reading this book. I mean..just check out that quote from Soren and let me know he is not The Most Epic Book Boyfriend EVER!
This was one of my most expected releases of 2025 and after a year of fan fic writing in my head I can say that Charlotte Mallory has completely exceeded my expectations for this conclusion to her duology. Jane and Soren's story was simply amazing. So many twists and turns that only Mallory could include that kept me on the edge of my seat. I know my reviews are usually longer, but I'm still recovering from this book of curses, waring gods, hidden powers and powerful lovers who will fight anything to be together...even each other. I have to process what I can share so I don't spoil your experience of reading this book. I mean..just check out that quote from Soren and let me know he is not The Most Epic Book Boyfriend EVER!
Simply put: This book blew me away!
I was surprised at the power and sweetness of this darkly romantic fantasy. I have been reading some darker stories lately and there is a line where the trend toward violence and open door scenes seems to get in the way of the story. It feels more like I’m on the verge of the horror genre. With that said, I know the addition of “sweet” to this review may seem like an odd descriptor, and if you look at the cover you know the dark should be the defining characteristic. But, that razor thin line where you can’t quite tell if you are reading the reality of Jane and Soren, Jane’s wishes, or Soren’s manipulation is what is so thrilling in this book. And this is reflected in the balance between the sensual and almost sweet side of romance and the physical.
This is a pair that many would argue will create a wall between them and the reader. I mean Soren is a Zenith - read mercenary ‘warlord’ with the power and personality of a mafia don - who basically kidnaps and then manipulates Jane into going with him to protect her best friend, Kathleen, and the refugees from her burned out village. His mission: deliver Jane back to the Zenith Council to discover who she is and what she knows…about what? Even Soren has no clue, but Jane’s capture fits his own agenda. Soren is the consummate Alphahole, but there is something that he sees in Jane that sparks his curiosity and that sets him down the path to discover her secrets on his own. Jane herself is not anyone’s maiden in distress. She may go into a situation wondering if she is coming out in one piece, but she knows that neither will you… and that’s the important thing to her. When we meet Jane in Chapter One she is in the heart of a Tavern Brawl and is breaking noses and delivering the best snarky banter with a tongue as sharp, and wit as bright, as a newly honed knife. She is as wild and dangerous as Soren and gives every bit as good as she gets. Escape attempts…check. Enthrallment…check. Physical attacks…check. Sass, snark, and banter…check, check, and check plus. Oh, and did you want a tragic past? Not one BUT TWO SUPER CHECKS!
However, in addition to the two main characters, The Secrets of Jane also brings the author’s keen eye for detail and character development to everyone in the book. Kathleen, Jane’s best friend is so vivid in my mind that I can see and hear her anytime her name is mentioned. Bones and Anya, Soren’s seconds in command, I can actually see them as well, one playing with their necklace while the other sits as a broody guard over Jane -- but I’ll not tell you who is who for that is part of the fun of this book. And Phantom, Soren’s horse, he’s pawing the ground and nickering for your attention too. The Noirs, the other Zeniths, the pirates, the tavern keep, all are living, breathing and fully voiced characters too.
So, why read this book even if you're not into Romantasy? This book has court-intrigue, mythology, a band-of-brothers & sisters feel, witches, pirates, fighting pits, missing parents and families, secret agendas, and magic. Not enough, well this also has the author’s wonderful ability to invert all your expectations and call into question all your assumptions. She leaves you with hints and traces of an idea and a trail of clues that will leave you untangling statements and trying to read into people's actions as you try to solve mysteries within mysteries, as well as plots and plans. All of this together will draw you deeper into this impressive and original story and catch feelings for all the living characters. And the ending, gahhhh… the ending will leave you holding your breath because … you … just … want … to … know … more.
I would sign up for this series if it was ten books, and I'd follow Soren and Jane across the Black Sea to find out Jane’s Secrets because I don’t want to leave this world
Simply put: This book blew me away!
I was surprised at the power and sweetness of this darkly romantic fantasy. I have been reading some darker stories lately and there is a line where the trend toward violence and open door scenes seems to get in the way of the story. It feels more like I’m on the verge of the horror genre. With that said, I know the addition of “sweet” to this review may seem like an odd descriptor, and if you look at the cover you know the dark should be the defining characteristic. But, that razor thin line where you can’t quite tell if you are reading the reality of Jane and Soren, Jane’s wishes, or Soren’s manipulation is what is so thrilling in this book. And this is reflected in the balance between the sensual and almost sweet side of romance and the physical.
This is a pair that many would argue will create a wall between them and the reader. I mean Soren is a Zenith - read mercenary ‘warlord’ with the power and personality of a mafia don - who basically kidnaps and then manipulates Jane into going with him to protect her best friend, Kathleen, and the refugees from her burned out village. His mission: deliver Jane back to the Zenith Council to discover who she is and what she knows…about what? Even Soren has no clue, but Jane’s capture fits his own agenda. Soren is the consummate Alphahole, but there is something that he sees in Jane that sparks his curiosity and that sets him down the path to discover her secrets on his own. Jane herself is not anyone’s maiden in distress. She may go into a situation wondering if she is coming out in one piece, but she knows that neither will you… and that’s the important thing to her. When we meet Jane in Chapter One she is in the heart of a Tavern Brawl and is breaking noses and delivering the best snarky banter with a tongue as sharp, and wit as bright, as a newly honed knife. She is as wild and dangerous as Soren and gives every bit as good as she gets. Escape attempts…check. Enthrallment…check. Physical attacks…check. Sass, snark, and banter…check, check, and check plus. Oh, and did you want a tragic past? Not one BUT TWO SUPER CHECKS!
However, in addition to the two main characters, The Secrets of Jane also brings the author’s keen eye for detail and character development to everyone in the book. Kathleen, Jane’s best friend is so vivid in my mind that I can see and hear her anytime her name is mentioned. Bones and Anya, Soren’s seconds in command, I can actually see them as well, one playing with their necklace while the other sits as a broody guard over Jane -- but I’ll not tell you who is who for that is part of the fun of this book. And Phantom, Soren’s horse, he’s pawing the ground and nickering for your attention too. The Noirs, the other Zeniths, the pirates, the tavern keep, all are living, breathing and fully voiced characters too.
So, why read this book even if you're not into Romantasy? This book has court-intrigue, mythology, a band-of-brothers & sisters feel, witches, pirates, fighting pits, missing parents and families, secret agendas, and magic. Not enough, well this also has the author’s wonderful ability to invert all your expectations and call into question all your assumptions. She leaves you with hints and traces of an idea and a trail of clues that will leave you untangling statements and trying to read into people's actions as you try to solve mysteries within mysteries, as well as plots and plans. All of this together will draw you deeper into this impressive and original story and catch feelings for all the living characters. And the ending, gahhhh… the ending will leave you holding your breath because … you … just … want … to … know … more.
I would sign up for this series if it was ten books, and I'd follow Soren and Jane across the Black Sea to find out Jane’s Secrets because I don’t want to leave this world
Written with a powerful voice and telling the story of characters that stand as real people with humor, passion, drive this is a great beginning to a career I will be watching. Gwen's story had me holding my breath to see what destiny, fate, and the author have in story for her. A princess who ascends to her father's throne unexpectedly, she must face all the normal challenges for a young monarch but add to that she is underestimated by so many who seek to unseat her from her shaky throne. Yet, it is her secret childhood love of The High Captain, Tyreal that presents her with that one consistent voice of support and the spark that ignites a passion that will leave you nodding, smiling, and sighing. Although living lives appropriate to their stations, this pair has always shared a bond that will be tested and teased as they journey to the Misty Mountains to discover an ancient secret. While Gwen must learn to be a queen, Tyreal also has a destiny...though he may discover more than he desires...because first he must acknowledge what it is he truly wants.
Written with a powerful voice and telling the story of characters that stand as real people with humor, passion, drive this is a great beginning to a career I will be watching. Gwen's story had me holding my breath to see what destiny, fate, and the author have in story for her. A princess who ascends to her father's throne unexpectedly, she must face all the normal challenges for a young monarch but add to that she is underestimated by so many who seek to unseat her from her shaky throne. Yet, it is her secret childhood love of The High Captain, Tyreal that presents her with that one consistent voice of support and the spark that ignites a passion that will leave you nodding, smiling, and sighing. Although living lives appropriate to their stations, this pair has always shared a bond that will be tested and teased as they journey to the Misty Mountains to discover an ancient secret. While Gwen must learn to be a queen, Tyreal also has a destiny...though he may discover more than he desires...because first he must acknowledge what it is he truly wants.
I have been reading a lot New Adult and upper Young Adult fiction recently that had Korean characters as their lead and which focused on the Korean American coming of age as a child of immigrants. I know that these authors have shared so many aspects of growing up with the push and pull of language, culture, family history, familial and generational trauma but these were focused on the under 21 experiences of the main characters. But these opened a door that I want to see more though and my adult self was craving something written for an adult audience that would delve into the complexities of identity that only a memoir could present. And in Joan Sung's book I found that author and voice I had been looking for.
This book is told with such understanding, humor, and insight that only the word authentic can capture everything that I was able to find in this book. The presentation and discussion of sensitive topics like child- parental conflict, self understanding, ethnic food, the stereotypes facing Asian American Women, code switching with language use, and the impact of being Asian American during the COVID-19 era was real and raw leaving me rethinking what I though I knew and thankful for having my eyes opened to aspects of my world I have not have seen without Sung as my guide.
Written in a beautifully fluid and nuanced style, Joan Sung's Kinda Korean pulled me in on the first page with the writing and held me through her balance of humor, insight, honesty, and mature understanding by reflection of her life. In this collection of short essays that present her life and experiences was welcomed into her life with the joys and heartbreaks, hopes and despair that truly reflected a well examined life. At the same time I liked that the book allowed me to step in and out of it where I needed to go while at the same time seeing hiw each chapter connected to the larger narrative of the authors life. This design offered me breaks and pauses to contemplate Sung's life and experiences and process what I had just read. This a memoir I will not soon forget and one that truly is the reflection of life in all its bittersweet moments.
I have been reading a lot New Adult and upper Young Adult fiction recently that had Korean characters as their lead and which focused on the Korean American coming of age as a child of immigrants. I know that these authors have shared so many aspects of growing up with the push and pull of language, culture, family history, familial and generational trauma but these were focused on the under 21 experiences of the main characters. But these opened a door that I want to see more though and my adult self was craving something written for an adult audience that would delve into the complexities of identity that only a memoir could present. And in Joan Sung's book I found that author and voice I had been looking for.
This book is told with such understanding, humor, and insight that only the word authentic can capture everything that I was able to find in this book. The presentation and discussion of sensitive topics like child- parental conflict, self understanding, ethnic food, the stereotypes facing Asian American Women, code switching with language use, and the impact of being Asian American during the COVID-19 era was real and raw leaving me rethinking what I though I knew and thankful for having my eyes opened to aspects of my world I have not have seen without Sung as my guide.
Written in a beautifully fluid and nuanced style, Joan Sung's Kinda Korean pulled me in on the first page with the writing and held me through her balance of humor, insight, honesty, and mature understanding by reflection of her life. In this collection of short essays that present her life and experiences was welcomed into her life with the joys and heartbreaks, hopes and despair that truly reflected a well examined life. At the same time I liked that the book allowed me to step in and out of it where I needed to go while at the same time seeing hiw each chapter connected to the larger narrative of the authors life. This design offered me breaks and pauses to contemplate Sung's life and experiences and process what I had just read. This a memoir I will not soon forget and one that truly is the reflection of life in all its bittersweet moments.
This book was the perfect winter read, not only did it have the most amazing characters but it made me snuggle into my comfy blanket and remember why fictional men are so memorable. And to be honest, there is nothing as much fun to watch as a rich steamy banter holds emotions at bay waiting for that moment when their passion will ignite and explode on the page. This book has that toe curling steam filled romance between NFL star quarterback Jake Skyler and Girlfriend For Hire/ Escort Rakell. Both are trying to move forward from their pasts and public images when they trip across each other. It was a delight to watch both characters be who they always were and leave their images behind. The vulnerability and passion they share makes their Secret Romance and Hidden Identities such a compelling story of growth and acceptance that I literally read this book in two sittings. And, even through their story ends with a cliffhanger in their developing relationship, I was thrilled to see that this is a finished series!
This book was the perfect winter read, not only did it have the most amazing characters but it made me snuggle into my comfy blanket and remember why fictional men are so memorable. And to be honest, there is nothing as much fun to watch as a rich steamy banter holds emotions at bay waiting for that moment when their passion will ignite and explode on the page. This book has that toe curling steam filled romance between NFL star quarterback Jake Skyler and Girlfriend For Hire/ Escort Rakell. Both are trying to move forward from their pasts and public images when they trip across each other. It was a delight to watch both characters be who they always were and leave their images behind. The vulnerability and passion they share makes their Secret Romance and Hidden Identities such a compelling story of growth and acceptance that I literally read this book in two sittings. And, even through their story ends with a cliffhanger in their developing relationship, I was thrilled to see that this is a finished series!
Book Four in The Austin Heat Series The One Who Is Mine was a book that, like the other three in this series, will leave you reeling, talking to the book, and fanning yourself from the passion that @author.amarinylix writes on the page. I love that this is really a series that each book draws me deeper into the romance between Jake and Rakell as well as drawing in Jake's teammates and Rakell's friends. There is a wonderful collection of family and friends that offer advice, provide context, live their lives, and envelope you in their community. In this book Jake and Rakell's relationship is still developing but new successes at the Super Bowl and in Hollywood are uncover new fears and desires as well as presenting dangers as Texas and Hollywood separate tour lovers. I loved that Dwayne and Melissa are taking more of a prominent role and the series begins to broaden its focus on the rest of the team.
I can't wait to see where the next book will go! But I know it will be filled with emotion, passion, and banter...what more can I ask for 😂
Book Four in The Austin Heat Series The One Who Is Mine was a book that, like the other three in this series, will leave you reeling, talking to the book, and fanning yourself from the passion that @author.amarinylix writes on the page. I love that this is really a series that each book draws me deeper into the romance between Jake and Rakell as well as drawing in Jake's teammates and Rakell's friends. There is a wonderful collection of family and friends that offer advice, provide context, live their lives, and envelope you in their community. In this book Jake and Rakell's relationship is still developing but new successes at the Super Bowl and in Hollywood are uncover new fears and desires as well as presenting dangers as Texas and Hollywood separate tour lovers. I loved that Dwayne and Melissa are taking more of a prominent role and the series begins to broaden its focus on the rest of the team.
I can't wait to see where the next book will go! But I know it will be filled with emotion, passion, and banter...what more can I ask for 😂
This book is the best 90s rom com - the only thing missing is Hugh Grant. I was laughing as Declan and Chrissy were introduced at a Hockey Game half time entertainment as they worked in duck costumes to win a cruise, I knew Declan had my heart and Chrissy's by the end of chapter one, so when she turns down his proposal I just stared blankly at the page because it didn't make sense. It felt out of character, but as they spend time on the cruise that neither will not go on, and meet new friends on the LARP style activities you will wish you could be written into the story. Add to this Chrissy ex-husband crashes their cruise in an attempt to win Chrissy back and show how his money and polish outshine Declan's sweet and golden heart. Filled with all the best banter, wit, and well paced plotting this story will leave you laughing and cheering!
This book is the best 90s rom com - the only thing missing is Hugh Grant. I was laughing as Declan and Chrissy were introduced at a Hockey Game half time entertainment as they worked in duck costumes to win a cruise, I knew Declan had my heart and Chrissy's by the end of chapter one, so when she turns down his proposal I just stared blankly at the page because it didn't make sense. It felt out of character, but as they spend time on the cruise that neither will not go on, and meet new friends on the LARP style activities you will wish you could be written into the story. Add to this Chrissy ex-husband crashes their cruise in an attempt to win Chrissy back and show how his money and polish outshine Declan's sweet and golden heart. Filled with all the best banter, wit, and well paced plotting this story will leave you laughing and cheering!
Looking for something deeper and original to add a new dimension to your next Tarot Reading that will open up the scope of your reading beyond yourself? Are you intrigued by how you can reframe your reading to something larger than yourself? Did you ever even think that the Tarot deck could be used in this way or are you like I was, left thinking of the Tarot deck as way of plumbing the depths of just your own ones psyche and motivations. If this is sow thing hat intrigues you, as it did me, than check out this highly original and unique Social Justice based guide to the Tarot for the 21st Century.
Beautifully written, insightful, and inspiring Lane Smith has written a book that will leave you thinking and mediating on the Big Questions that we must face in our time.
Looking for something deeper and original to add a new dimension to your next Tarot Reading that will open up the scope of your reading beyond yourself? Are you intrigued by how you can reframe your reading to something larger than yourself? Did you ever even think that the Tarot deck could be used in this way or are you like I was, left thinking of the Tarot deck as way of plumbing the depths of just your own ones psyche and motivations. If this is sow thing hat intrigues you, as it did me, than check out this highly original and unique Social Justice based guide to the Tarot for the 21st Century.
Beautifully written, insightful, and inspiring Lane Smith has written a book that will leave you thinking and mediating on the Big Questions that we must face in our time.
A book to read and share that reminds you how specific a time era can be to your growing up, but how truly universal growing up is. This gifted book was a great read and a glimpse at a summer past.
This book was a real surprise for me. I thought it was going to b a cutesy rom.com I realizing the 90s in a movie montage mashup of now classic summer movies my own youth, granted I was a little older than Stacey and her friends, but this book was so much more than I thought. This was high school as I remember it, the world of simmering passions, high feelings, confusion, uncertainty, and all the insecurities and fears that a person can conceive. I saw a lot of myself in Stacey and her friends and also in their classmates and rivals. Literally this book will transport back and leave you reflecting on what you survived. Luckily for most of us, these sad and tragic events the Stacey must experience are ones that will only play out in fiction, however the power and nuance of Jaime Townzen's writing comes from.bringing us along for every feeling, thought, and conversation that just captivated me. This was a true bildungsroman that covered so much more than just growing up, but showcased how Stacey fights to become the woman she is in the process of becoming during this one summer in 1996.
This is a powerful female coming of age story that will make you nostalgic for the 90's and make you think how much of looking back at that era is so powerful because the distance and pop culture.
A book to read and share that reminds you how specific a time era can be to your growing up, but how truly universal growing up is. This gifted book was a great read and a glimpse at a summer past.
This book was a real surprise for me. I thought it was going to b a cutesy rom.com I realizing the 90s in a movie montage mashup of now classic summer movies my own youth, granted I was a little older than Stacey and her friends, but this book was so much more than I thought. This was high school as I remember it, the world of simmering passions, high feelings, confusion, uncertainty, and all the insecurities and fears that a person can conceive. I saw a lot of myself in Stacey and her friends and also in their classmates and rivals. Literally this book will transport back and leave you reflecting on what you survived. Luckily for most of us, these sad and tragic events the Stacey must experience are ones that will only play out in fiction, however the power and nuance of Jaime Townzen's writing comes from.bringing us along for every feeling, thought, and conversation that just captivated me. This was a true bildungsroman that covered so much more than just growing up, but showcased how Stacey fights to become the woman she is in the process of becoming during this one summer in 1996.
This is a powerful female coming of age story that will make you nostalgic for the 90's and make you think how much of looking back at that era is so powerful because the distance and pop culture.
With a wonderful tension built out of blending two great angsty yet comic tropes, this author blends Brothers Best Friend with the Second Chance Romance tropes in the best way! If you like banter and dialogue as much as I do then you have a great choice here for a wonderful weekend read. You'll feel that Melody and Zac are your own friends by the end of the first chapter and you will be rooting for them to get together and waiting to watch their passions explode on the page. Clean, funny, romantic, and wonderfully written I enjoyed every page and the glimpses into the lives of characters I have met before in other books by Wilde.
With a wonderful tension built out of blending two great angsty yet comic tropes, this author blends Brothers Best Friend with the Second Chance Romance tropes in the best way! If you like banter and dialogue as much as I do then you have a great choice here for a wonderful weekend read. You'll feel that Melody and Zac are your own friends by the end of the first chapter and you will be rooting for them to get together and waiting to watch their passions explode on the page. Clean, funny, romantic, and wonderfully written I enjoyed every page and the glimpses into the lives of characters I have met before in other books by Wilde.
This was a spectacular book that celebrated the bonds is sisters & the power of sisterly love to help us get through life & those moments when Love is forming and falling apart around use. It challenges us to think about question like How do we know we are in love? How do know what to recognize as Love? I saw so much of myself and my blood sister in this book as well as my chosen found sister. This a story that will leave you cheering, giggling, and shouting 'Yes, Girl' as you read!
This was a spectacular book that celebrated the bonds is sisters & the power of sisterly love to help us get through life & those moments when Love is forming and falling apart around use. It challenges us to think about question like How do we know we are in love? How do know what to recognize as Love? I saw so much of myself and my blood sister in this book as well as my chosen found sister. This a story that will leave you cheering, giggling, and shouting 'Yes, Girl' as you read!
This is truly a book for those looking to be seen and understood while learning to see and understand themselves.
This book highlights all the mixed up feelings and emotions that teens go through as they begin to separate from family, create new friendships, take off into unfamiliar waters, and generally begin to define themselves as individuals. This book claims that space and builds on it, so every reader feels like they are part of the crew of late teens they are reading about. This story of families, both blood and found, allows the reader to explore all of these feelings in a narrative that uses the darker side of YA Horror and Fantasy to its fullest extent. This was a refreshing, albeit slow read, that focused on the emotions, internal debates, and connections that Adra has with her both family and crew. She is a stand out character and one whose voice and action form the backbone of this banter filled and surprisingly raw and insightful book.
This book truly is written for the YA reader because the characters are true to who they each are and their ages. It is important to pay attention of the age listing and positions in the crew that each character is because this is vital to keeping their actions and the narrative in perspective
This is truly a book for those looking to be seen and understood while learning to see and understand themselves.
This book highlights all the mixed up feelings and emotions that teens go through as they begin to separate from family, create new friendships, take off into unfamiliar waters, and generally begin to define themselves as individuals. This book claims that space and builds on it, so every reader feels like they are part of the crew of late teens they are reading about. This story of families, both blood and found, allows the reader to explore all of these feelings in a narrative that uses the darker side of YA Horror and Fantasy to its fullest extent. This was a refreshing, albeit slow read, that focused on the emotions, internal debates, and connections that Adra has with her both family and crew. She is a stand out character and one whose voice and action form the backbone of this banter filled and surprisingly raw and insightful book.
This book truly is written for the YA reader because the characters are true to who they each are and their ages. It is important to pay attention of the age listing and positions in the crew that each character is because this is vital to keeping their actions and the narrative in perspective