The Sassy Bookworm

Book Review: A Town with Half the Lights On by Page Getz 📚

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

I just finished A Town with Half the Lights On by Page Getz, and honestly, I’m still wrapped up in the warmth of this charming little story. The book takes you to Goodnight, Kansas—a tiny town where more wind chimes hang around than residents, and where people don’t exactly arrive when life is smooth sailing. It’s a place full of heart, quirks, and a fair share of challenges. 🌬️🏡💫

The story follows Sid Solvang, a chef who, along with his family, moves from Brooklyn to this sleepy town after inheriting a rundown Victorian house. While Sid is trying to find work and figure out a way back to the city, his daughter dives into mysterious messages left by her grandfather—clues that might just save both their family and the town itself. Things get even more interesting when Sid impulsively buys the May Day Diner, a local icon facing demolition. Alongside a cast of lovable characters—from a rebellious girl named Disco to a gaggle of mischievous alpacas—the Solvang's navigate the complexities of Goodnight’s tight-knit community, its struggles with greed and exploitation, and the meaning of home. 🍳🏘️🕵️‍♀️🐾

One of the coolest things about this novel is how it’s told through diary entries, emails, school notes, and an anonymous town paper. This format adds so much personality and keeps the story fresh and engaging throughout. 📖✉️📝📰

Now, I have to say—first impressions matter, and this book’s cover drew me right in. It’s absolutely delightful and perfectly matched the cozy, charming vibe of the story inside. Epistolary novels can be hit or miss for me, but this one definitely hit the mark. The setting was wonderfully quaint, the humor felt genuine and lighthearted, and the characters were so quirky and endearing that I found myself invested in their lives from start to finish. 🎨✨😂💖

If you’re looking for a feel-good read that’s like wrapping yourself in a cozy blanket on a chilly day, A Town with Half the Lights On is definitely worth your time. I loved every minute of it—and I think you will too if you give it a chance! 📚☕🧣

⚠️This review was written based on personal opinions and experiences with the book. Individual preferences may vary⚠️

Book Review: Haunting and Homicide by Ava Burke 📚

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4/5 stars)

I recently finished Haunting and Homicide by Ava Burke, and it was a thoroughly enjoyable read that I’m eager to see continue in future installments. The story follows Tallulah “Lou” Thatcher, who has this fascinating ability to see ghosts. Living in New Orleans, a city steeped in history and supernatural lore, Lou turns her gift into a popular ghost tour business in the Garden District. 👻🌿

Things take a dark turn when Adam Brandt, a rival tour guide who’s accused Lou of faking her ghostly encounters, ends up murdered. Here’s the twist: Lou is the only one who can actually see Adam’s ghost after his death. Naturally, with their well-known rivalry and no other suspects in sight, Lou quickly becomes the prime suspect—especially after detective Dylan Finch (who happens to be Lou’s longtime crush) points out that the murder weapon is a ceremonial dagger from Lou’s own shop. This sets Lou off on a determined quest to clear her name by digging into Adam’s personal and professional life to find the real killer. 🕵️‍♀️🔪👀

What really stood out to me was how well the mystery was crafted—plotted smartly and paced perfectly to keep me hooked without feeling rushed. The New Orleans setting was wonderfully atmospheric and added so much charm and depth to the story. Plus, the characters felt authentic and engaging, making it easy to root for Lou throughout her adventure. 🌆📖❤️

And can we just talk about that cover? It’s absolutely delightful and visually sets the tone for the spooky yet cozy vibe of the book. Overall, Haunting and Homicide was a strong start to what I hope becomes a beloved series. If you’re into cozy mysteries with a paranormal twist (think Amanda Flower or Ellen Byron fans), this one’s definitely worth picking up. 🎨👀✨

⚠️This review was written based on personal opinions and experiences with the book. Individual preferences may vary⚠️