You simply do not disappoint. Your books have a perfect track record with me so far, and Yours Truly is another heartfelt feather inDear Abby Jimenez,
You simply do not disappoint. Your books have a perfect track record with me so far, and Yours Truly is another heartfelt feather in your literary cap.
As someone who suffers from an anxiety disorder, I appreciated the realistic and compassionate way in which mental health is presented. Jacob is such a sweet soul, and my heart broke each time he was judged unfairly. Whenever he faced uncomfortable situations, I felt like I was right there with him.
Briana’s impending divorce and her brother’s recently diagnosed health crisis have left her devastated. Honestly, she could benefit from some professional counseling, but I adored her optimism and extraverted energy.
Jacob is so sensitive and respectful towards Briana’s needs. He earned major points with me each time he bravely placed himself in an uncomfortable situation on her behalf. I also loved how intuitive Briana is towards Jacob’s emotions. They are well-matched and their chemistry is on point.
It’s such a shame that letter writing has become a thing of the past. The letters Jacob and Briana exchange are sweet, poignant, and quirky. They made me tear up and laugh so much, and I looked forward to reading each one. I was honored to be included in the precious keepsakes of their budding friendship.
Abby, we need to have a little chat. I do enjoy when romantic relationships are given time to slowly build and simmer, but did it really need to take so long for Jacob and Briana to become more than friends? Their road to love is paved with many misunderstandings, fear, and lack of communication. The waiting just about killed me, Abby! The payoff is great, though.
Their well-meaning but meddlesome family members are a huge source of entertainment. I can’t forget Lieutenant Dan, Jacob’s dog. I loved him to pieces. Each emotional, tender, and funny moment was a sheer delight to read. Until your next great book.
Yours truly, ~Angela (A grateful reader)
Recommended for fans of: Fake dating Friends to lovers Doctors Mental Health
*I received an early copy. This does not affect the content of my review.*
It is hard to believe that Lessons in Chemistry is Bonnie Garmus’s debut novel. This thoughtful, emotional, and clever story is easily one of the bestIt is hard to believe that Lessons in Chemistry is Bonnie Garmus’s debut novel. This thoughtful, emotional, and clever story is easily one of the best books I’ve read this year.
Elizabeth Zott is an unapologetic, uncompromising, brilliant chemist. It’s the 1960s, when the concept of women pursuing—let alone excelling in—STEM careers was absurd. I adored Elizabeth and enjoyed following her journey from dedicated scientist to cooking show sensation. The way she faces sexism and tackles obstacles with her head held high, fearless determination in every step, and pencil shoved firmly into her messy bun is inspiring.
Observations about chemical compounds and scientific findings are woven into every chapter, and I can see how that may be too much for some readers or make the story drag. But I was enraptured—not by the science but by the way Elizabeth’s mind works and by her passion. Her unique parenting style, frank opinions, as well as her messages of female empowerment make her unintentionally funny and refreshing. I listened to the audiobook, and Miranda Raison’s soothing voice and sincere delivery make Elizabeth’s peculiarities seem especially endearing. I’m not sure I would have enjoyed the book as much if I were reading it instead of listening to it.
The story is well supported by an eclectic cast of memorable characters, including Elizabeth’s partner who is an influential chemist, her supportive neighbor, her sweet but ineffective producer, and her wonderfully precocious daughter. And I can’t forget about her dog, Six-Thirty! He is just extraordinary and a pivotal character in his own right.
Lessons in Chemistry is inventive, insightful, amusing, and absolutely marvelous. The book has been picked up by Apple TV+ to be adapted into a series. This story and its remarkable characters should translate well on screen.
Recommended for fans of: Science Single mom stories Dogs Rowing
Ten Trends to Seduce Your Bestfriend knocked my socks off with its unique and highly entertaining take on fake dating and enemies turned lovers scenarTen Trends to Seduce Your Bestfriend knocked my socks off with its unique and highly entertaining take on fake dating and enemies turned lovers scenarios.
Winnie and Byron. *sigh* Halfway through the book, I closed my Kindle and shouted out loud, “I love these characters!” #truestory The fact that they are so different appealed to me. Winnie is a poor middle school science teacher who uses social media to inspire girls to pursue STEM careers. She’s a vivacious people person whom everyone loves, but the one person she dislikes is Byron. Byron is a brilliant and famous bestselling author and a self-professed grumpy recluse who dislikes almost everyone—apparently, even Winnie. When Winnie discovers she needs to increase her number of online followers to land an important job, Byron surprisingly offers to help. He will pose as Winnie’s best friend—thereby cashing in on his celebrity status—while participating in ten TikTok #bestfriend challenges with her. In return, she will help him “people” by accompanying him to some public events.
There are too many wonderful things about Winnie to name them all, but her wit, intelligence, and compassion are at the top of the list. I’m 90% introverted, so I was in awe of Winnie’s charisma and ease with people. I also admired how passionate she is about her work. Her best friend, Amelia, is a gem, but I need her to step aside so I can be Winnie's best friend.
Behind Byron’s disapproving glares is an extremely perceptive, thoughtful, and misunderstood man. I adored him! Seeing Byron throw himself wholeheartedly into the silly challenges was a treat. I didn’t expect him to be so funny, kind, and unguarded around Winnie. He loves who he is—flaws and all—and could not care less about what others think about him. I was fascinated by the way his mind works.
The majority of the book is told from Winnie’s point of view. There are a few chapters told from Byron’s perspective, but I wanted more. As Winnie says, “His thought sauce was delicious.” I could roll around in it all day. This unpredictable book is sweet and romantic—Byron is mayor of Swoonworthy Town—and has the perfect amount of yearning to compliment the humor. I almost suffered death by slow burn with this one, though. The thought-provoking topics discussed, including mental health and social media, really enhance the storyline.
Penny Reid exceeded my expectations with her stellar writing. The combination of sublime characters, a fun and original plot, and unexpected tenderness create an extremely satisfying reading experience.
Recommended for fans of: Social media STEM Slow burn romances Grumpy/Sunshine couples Scones
*I received an early copy to voluntarily read and review.*
Could this book be more delightful? And funny! It left me with nothing but good vibes and a massive smile.
Things We Never Got Over has a whole lot goiCould this book be more delightful? And funny! It left me with nothing but good vibes and a massive smile.
Things We Never Got Over has a whole lot going on plot-wise, and I have to hand it to the author for not letting the reader get lost in all the various threads she weaves. You’ve got a runaway bride caring for a tween niece she never knew existed, an evil twin, a sexy but grumpy neighbor that she loves to hate, a rivalry between brothers, and a mystery—all set in a small town filled with kooky townspeople.
Everyone instantly loves Naomi, the good twin and people pleaser. She is perpetually optimistic, even in the bleakest circumstances. I adored her and envied her extroverted nature. I especially liked how her influence transforms her abandoned niece, Waylay.
I expected Knox to be an alpha grouch, but I didn’t expect him to make me swoon so hard. The man doesn’t even realize he has all the right moves to steal a lady’s heart. Not to mention his moves in the bedroom. Knox and Naomi are just so dang hot together and their banter is top notch!
I’d gladly live in the fictional small town of Knockemout, Virginia. It’s got a hip but charming vibe and a diverse population. There are so many laugh-out-loud side characters in this book, and they are each unique. I loved them all. Heck, I even fell for Knox’s basset hound.
Things We Never Got Over is over 500 pages long, which would have had me running in the opposite direction had I known beforehand, but I was so invested in the characters and wrapped up in the humor and the evolution of the story that reading each chapter was pure joy. Every romance reader looks forward to the HEA, and this story has a great one. I could not have asked for anything more.
This is the first book I’ve read by Lucy Score, but if her other books are even half as entertaining as this one, I’ll be reading more.
Recommended for fans of: Small town romance Enemies to lovers Coffee Bars
It is impossible to describe how deeply Reminders of Him touched me. It’s been days since I finished the book, and I’m still thinking about it. I knowIt is impossible to describe how deeply Reminders of Him touched me. It’s been days since I finished the book, and I’m still thinking about it. I know that the story will continue to linger with me for quite some time. I’ve come to expect nothing less from Colleen Hoover.
I could not read this book fast enough, and yet even in the moments when tears threatened and my heart ached, I wanted to slow down and savor every sentence, to sit with all my feelings. It’s the complexity of my emotions—which were frequently conflicted—that pulled me in, while the characters and unique plot kept me 100% absorbed.
There are people who find peace in forgiveness, and then there are others who look at forgiveness as a betrayal.
Kenna is a genuinely good person who made a terrible mistake one night that would change the trajectory of her life forever. Despite the five years she served in prison, Kenna has not forgiven herself, and she does not expect forgiveness from others. Now that she’s out, though, the only thing she wants is to see her four-year-old daughter, Diem, who is in the care of the Landrys. They will do everything in their power to keep Kenna away from her.
The thing I love about this story is that there aren’t any villains. Although I desperately wanted Kenna to be reunited with her daughter, I understood the Landrys’ perspective. Even Kenna appreciates their feelings. She is willing to sacrifice absolutely everything—including her own happiness—for the well-being of her daughter.
Kenna is fond of writing letters about her experiences, and what she has gone through is devastating. With each letter she writes, my compassion and love for her grew. Shout out to Ledger, who has devoted his life to Diem. He is caught between his love for the little girl, loyalty to the Landrys, and empathy for Kenna. The evolution of his connection with Kenna is realistic and moving.
This is a story about love, forgiveness, and redemption. If you don’t care for tear-jerkers, it may not be the book for you. As for me, even though I was an emotional mess, I wouldn’t hesitate to pick it up and read it all over again. Welcome to my “favorites” bookshelf, Reminders of Him.
Recommended for fans of: Tear jerkers Little girls Letter writing Bars
Abby Jimenez has rapidly become an auto-buy author for me. It’s hard to believe she wrote her debut novel just three years ago. I’ve enjoyed every sinAbby Jimenez has rapidly become an auto-buy author for me. It’s hard to believe she wrote her debut novel just three years ago. I’ve enjoyed every single one of her books, and Part of Your World is one of my favorites.
What makes it so special? Daniel. Hands down. He is such an amazing soul. Men like Daniel who are deeply in touch with their emotions are rare in books, and the fact that he is unashamed of his vulnerability is a beautiful thing. Even knowing his relationship with Alexis has an expiration date, he risks his heart while asking little in return. On paper, Daniel doesn’t have much to offer Alexis. He is a poor part-time carpenter/manager of his family’s B&B in a small town, and he is also nearly ten years younger than her.
They say money doesn’t buy happiness, and Alexis is proof of that. She is an affluent big city ER doctor, but her self-confidence is shaken due to toxic relationships with her parents and her ex. I appreciated the growth of her character. She doesn’t fully recognize how privileged her life is at the beginning of the story. However, the more time Alexis spends with Daniel in his small town, the more her perspective changes and the stronger she becomes. There's a nice tension between how easily Alexis fits into Daniel’s world and the overwhelming expectations she faces in her world.
Parts of the story are emotional and enlightening, but there are just as many moments that had me smiling or laughing out loud. Daniel’s best friends cracked me up, and I fell in love with the supportive residents of Wakan. Everyone needs a hilarious ride-or-die bestie like Alexis’s friend, Bri.
Part of Your World more than lived up to my expectations. I listened to the audiobook, and Julia Whelan and Zachary Webber slay the heck out of the narration.
Recommended for fans of: Small town romances Age gap romances Sensitive heroes who can cook Ring lights
I’m still trying to wrap my brain around what I just read, but what I do know is that The Life That Mattered knocked my socks off. Spoiler-free Review
I’m still trying to wrap my brain around what I just read, but what I do know is that The Life That Mattered knocked my socks off. With painstaking execution, this entirely unique, consuming, passionate, and thought-provoking novel puts Jewel E. Ann’s literary sorcery on full display. Nice to see you again, Book Hangover.
There is a lot to unpack in the synopsis. Olympic skier, fashion designer, chemist, bath shop owner, what sounds like a foursome, love story, tragedy, thriller... Say what? If I’m honest, it had me confused and a bit hesitant to read the book. If other readers are similarly conflicted, here’s all you really need to know: Two main characters fall in love. They are best friends with another couple. The four of them aren’t swingers. Some crazy sh*t happens and it will leave you reeling.
Ronin and Evelyn are two people who fall deeply in love very quickly. I abhor instant love in fiction as a general rule, but their connection feels not only authentic but inevitable. Their meet cute is so endearing, and the fierce love they share is evident throughout the entire book.
Unquestionably, Ronin is wonderful man who is devoted to Evelyn, but he’s hiding something. I had my heart in my throat waiting to uncover the complete truth and how it might affect them. Their best friends, Lila and Graham, have a complicated relationship. Their dynamic fascinated me and kept me guessing.
The character development is exceptional. Evelyn is my favorite. I was immediately drawn to her imperfections and easy nature. Her love for her family, friends, and just life in general is contagious. Her joy was my joy; her heartache was my heartache.
The Life That Mattered is the first book in the Life Duet, and it has a cliffhanger that tested my sanity. I love puzzles, though, and this book leaves many pieces to put together. I finished the last sentence and then went back and re-read the prologue and a few other passages at least a half dozen times. I have absolutely no idea where this story is heading, but I can’t wait to get my hands on The Life You Stole to find out.
Recommended for fans of: Romantic suspense Love at first sight Skiing Hot buns (the kind you eat)
*I received an early copy of this book to voluntarily read.*
After the longest dry spell, I finally found the perfect book for me at just the right time. I swear the planets aligned and angels sang. I could not After the longest dry spell, I finally found the perfect book for me at just the right time. I swear the planets aligned and angels sang. I could not sleep until I finished The Simple Wild, and when I reached the end at 4:30 am I had the goofiest smile on my face.
This book checked all the boxes for a 5-star read for me and had me deep in my feels. I found myself laughing out loud and clutching my Kleenex. The story boasts a variety of vibrant main characters. They are strong, flawed, and loving in their own ways. I was drawn to each and every one, as well as the unique townspeople.
Calla is one heck of a heroine. I admired how introspective she is and her willingness to acknowledge her areas of growth and open her mind. Calla’s ability to change her outlook without compromising her fundamental personality makes her appealing and realistic. Calla’s relationship with her estranged father is both heartbreaking and heartwarming.
Bush pilot Jonah and city gal Calla are like oil and water, and I loved their snarky exchanges. He is unbelievably rude and downright mean to her, which made uncovering the reasons behind his behavior more rewarding. Their animosity made their romance all the sweeter. I also enjoyed seeing the remote Alaskan lifestyle and countryside through Calla’s eyes.
I needed a story to jumpstart my joy in reading, and this funny and emotional book did the trick. The Simple Wild ends on a satisfying note and I was content to imagine what comes next. However, I was surprised and delighted to find out there is a follow-up book. I can’t wait to dive into Wild at Heart. Fingers crossed that it doesn’t disappoint.
Recommended for fans of: Flying Enemies to lovers Estranged families Instagram Lattes Racoons
Autoboyography is a compulsively readable Young Adult triumph. Maybe I’m just old and jaded, but I tend to shy away from most Young Adult fiction becaAutoboyography is a compulsively readable Young Adult triumph. Maybe I’m just old and jaded, but I tend to shy away from most Young Adult fiction because teen drama frequently seems inconsequential or manufactured to me. This story, however, addresses contemporary concerns that feel genuine in every way.
A bisexual half-Jewish high school student moves to a Mormon town. It almost sounds like the beginning of a joke but for Tanner, being forced back into the closet is an unfortunate reality. He could easily be a bitter, self-destructive character, but he adapts while maintaining his naturally friendly nature.
A model student and son of a bishop, Sebastian is the small town’s golden boy. He is generous with his time, devout in his faith, and always eager to do the right thing. He willingly carries the weight of his parents’ high expectations, but my heart continually ached for him. Whereas Tanner proudly came to terms with his sexual orientation long ago, Sebastian grapples to define his sexual identity. The struggle is equally painful for them both.
Tanner’s progressive parents are a joy. They shower him with acceptance, but also exhibit concern. I’m pretty sure I developed a soft spot in my heart for Tanner’s mom from the moment she enters the scene with her inspirational bumper stickers and gay pride pajamas. Tanner’s dad is a huge teddy bear, and he offers a nonjudgmental ear and sound advice. I also enjoyed the complexity of Tanner’s relationship with his best friend Autumn.
I appreciated the way the story explores the tenants of the Mormon faith in an open and honest way, and it debunks many preconceptions. It doesn’t demonize those who believe homosexuality is a sin; however, it doesn’t sugarcoat their opinions and behavior, either.
Tanner and Sebastian’s tender journey hit me with all the feels. I didn’t expect it to be so profoundly moving. I am infinitely glad this book exists in a world where so many LGBTQ teens feel confused, scared, alone, or ostracized. Maybe this fictional story will bring them real comfort.
Recommended for fans of: LGBTQ issues Young Adult stories Small towns High school
From beginning to end, Long Way Down is pure perfection. It is the last book in the Calloway Sisters series, and as Daisy and Ryke’s romance continuesFrom beginning to end, Long Way Down is pure perfection. It is the last book in the Calloway Sisters series, and as Daisy and Ryke’s romance continues, Krista and Becca Ritchie repeatedly hit you with all the feels. This story is packed with warmth and heartache; drama and suspense; humor and joy. It’s a close call, but Daisy and Ryke are still my favorite couple. Their journey completely captivated me.
The extended epilogue is so sweet and satisfying that my face hurt from smiling so much. I had to read it twice. It’s that good. I highly recommend this amazing series!
Reading Order The Addicted and Calloway Sisters series are intertwined. Here is the recommended reading order if reading them together:
1. Addicted to You (Addicted) 2. Ricochet (Addicted) 3. Addicted for Now (Addicted) 4. Kiss the Sky (Calloway Sisters) 5. Hothouse Flower (Calloway Sisters) 6. Thrive (Addicted) 7. Addicted After All (Addicted) 8. Fuel the Fire (Calloway Sisters) 9. Long Way Down (Calloway Sisters)
Fuel the Fire reinforces what I already knew: Rose and Connor Cobalt are a formidable, badass couple. I’m devouring these two series!
This story has itFuel the Fire reinforces what I already knew: Rose and Connor Cobalt are a formidable, badass couple. I’m devouring these two series!
This story has it all—tabloid scandals, scheming nemeses, sexy times, silliness, and tons of feels. As relationships continue to grow and change between Rose, Connor, Lily, Lo, Daisy, and Ryke, I felt more and more like a member of their close-knit group.
Rose and Connor show off more of their intellectual banter that I’ve always enjoyed, and they are as strong as ever. However, the story also shows them at their most vulnerable, and it made me love them even more. The tough-as-nails ice queen and the narcissistic genius share a deep and enduring love that may not be conventional, but is no less heartwarming. #RCCThisIsLove
Suggested reading order:
1. Addicted to You (Addicted) 2. Ricochet (Addicted) 3. Addicted for Now (Addicted) 4. Kiss the Sky (Calloway Sisters) 5. Hothouse Flower (Calloway Sisters) 6. Thrive (Addicted) 7. Addicted After All (Addicted) 8. Fuel the Fire (Calloway Sisters) 9. Long Way Down (Calloway Sisters)
Hothouse Flower is my favorite book so far in the Addicted and Calloway Sisters series. I’m so glad I decided to read the two series tAudiobook Review
Hothouse Flower is my favorite book so far in the Addicted and Calloway Sisters series. I’m so glad I decided to read the two series together and in the suggested order. The characters are so deeply intertwined and the timeline is crucial to getting a complete picture.
Ryke and Daisy are the fun couple. Ryke is an adventurous rock climber and Daisy is a thrill seeking super model. The two have grown extremely close, and whether or not they are more than just friends has been the object of much speculation and controversy. With Ryke being seven years older than Daisy and her being under age, the possibility of a sexual relationship was out of the question and something Ryke never really contemplated. Now, though, Daisy is 18. I love the sexual tension between them and the forbidden romance aspect. Most of all, I admire their friendship and Ryke’s protection of Daisy.
The dynamics between the six friends and family members are constantly changing and fascinating. Yep, I’m addicted. This story is deeply emotional, exhilarating, sexy, taut, and fun. I’m #TeamRaisy all the way!
Jessica Almasy narrates Daisy with a higher pitched little girl quality. It took a while to grow on me, but I came to appreciate the youthfulness she brings to Daisy. The smoky undertones of her voice and her heartfelt delivery highlight Daisy’s playfulness, insecurities, and sex appeal. Stephen Dexter gives a dramatic performance, but I wish he provided more of a distinction between the different characters’ voices. The one that stands out the most is Connor. His depiction of Connor brings to mind an effeminate wimp, which seems off. After reading Kiss the Sky, I see Connor as dominant, calm, and arrogant—not prissy. Still, I recommend the audio, and the story itself is impeccable.
Recommended for fans of: Forbidden romance Extreme sports Bad boys
Suggested reading order: 1. Addicted to You (Addicted) 2. Ricochet (Addicted) 3. Addicted for Now (Addicted) 4. Kiss the Sky (Calloway Sisters) 5. Hothouse Flower (Calloway Sisters) 6. Thrive (Addicted) 7. Addicted After All (Addicted) 8. Fuel the Fire (Calloway Sisters) 9. Long Way Down (Calloway Sisters)
I don’t even know how to write this review. Because Verity? Well, that is some Grade A phenomenal whatthefuckery right there.
In a drastic departure frI don’t even know how to write this review. Because Verity? Well, that is some Grade A phenomenal whatthefuckery right there.
In a drastic departure from her signature moving romances, Colleen Hoover weaves a tale of suspense that entwines the lives of injured bestselling author Verity, her husband Jeremy, and fledgling author Lowen. The dark tone is set from the very first page, and I was instantly hooked.
Hoover uses figurative language to help create an atmosphere in the Vermont mansion that is heavy with trepidation. Having the three characters living under the same roof results in constant palpable tension that is simultaneously addictive and nerve-wracking. Even though there are many disturbing elements, I could not stop reading.
The plot and motivations of each person are so multi-faceted that I found myself second (and triple) guessing every assumption and suspicion. I honestly didn’t know whom to trust. This book needs to come with some complimentary Xanax. On a scale from 1 to 10, the creepy factor averaged about a 10 throughout.
Verity is an extraordinarily unique and well-written thriller.
Recommended for fans of: Mysteries Thrillers Dark and twisty reads
Heartbreak Warfare deserves to wear its title like a badge of honor. The book is a military romance unlike any I have read before. It is unflinchinglyHeartbreak Warfare deserves to wear its title like a badge of honor. The book is a military romance unlike any I have read before. It is unflinchingly raw, poignantly real, astoundingly passionate, and compulsively readable.
Fair warning: If you can’t handle angst or love triangles, step away now. Personally, I have to be in the right mood, and this story is one emotional adrenaline rush that I welcomed. I read the book straight through and held my breath the entire time. Actually, that’s a lie. Maybe I had to take a quick breather a couple times, but then I dove right back in.
Katy is a fresh-faced Army nurse who underestimates her own strength and bravery. Briggs lives to serve his country and is fueled by facing enemy fire. They are stationed in the same unit in Iraq, and charismatic Briggs instantly rubs Katy the wrong way. They have an intriguing dynamic that grows more intense when crap hits the fan. Waiting at home for Katy is her husband, Gavin, and their young son.
I loved the complexity of the relationships and the way in which duty, trust, and love are equally important to all the characters. I also appreciated the multiple perspectives the story provides. From the military battlefield in Iraq to the emotional war raged at home, the balance between selfishness versus selflessness is an issue that is repeated. The content is graphically violent at times, but necessarily so. Much to my respect, returning to life after deployment is explored in an honest and unyielding way without being romanticized.
Heather Orgeron and Kate Stewart are a formidable writing team. Their styles mesh seamlessly, and the story is told with such fluidity that it is hard to believe this is the work of two different authors. They have created characters that are vivid and unwaveringly compelling.
Heartbreak Warfare ruthlessly clutched my cynical and battered heart in its hands from the very first chapter, and yet I regret nothing. My soul felt settled in the end. I know a book is good when it challenges me to re-evaluate my perceptions after “The End”. This story will linger with me for some time. Hello book hanger.
Recommended for fans of: Military romance Love triangles Chap Stick
*I received an early version of this book to voluntarily read. This does not affect my opinion.*
A Place Without You laid claim to my heart—pure and simple. In return, it generously gave me all the feels in which I am still happily reveling.
The uA Place Without You laid claim to my heart—pure and simple. In return, it generously gave me all the feels in which I am still happily reveling.
The unforgettable characters are painted with strikingly bold colors. People around Henna can’t help but get swept up in her vortex of eccentric charm. Her infectious free spirit can’t be contained inside her 19-year-old body. I point out her age partly because I’m not comfortable with forbidden student-teacher romances involving minors, so that isn’t an issue here. Henna’s age also speaks to her mindset. She is more worldly than most 19-year-olds, but there are parts of Henna that are immature, and she has escapist tendencies that allow her to avoid painful emotions. I love that she recognizes these traits and that the reader is allowed to watch her struggle with her areas of growth.
Bodhi is Henna’s opposite. She tends to be irresponsible while he is extremely cautious. He is patience and goodness personified. Henna constantly pushes him outside of his comfort zone, and he is at his sexiest when he surrenders and lets loose. They are electric together.
Some of my favorite parts of the book are those that take place at Coachella. The atmosphere is almost tangible—fun, romantic, and exciting. I felt like I was someplace magical where lifelong connections can be made in a matter of hours.
The supporting characters are highly developed and integral to the story. I was incredibly moved by the ferocity of Bodhi’s love for his father, a remarkable man in is own right. I wish I could be a mom that’s half as cool as Juni. Yes, she is Henna’s mom, but she is also her very best friend and a constant source of nonjudgmental support.
If you’ve read any of Jewel E. Ann’s books it would not surprise you to know that she dishes out humor and passion in one hand and punches you in the gut with the other. Consider this my public service announcement to have some tissues on hand. Hang on and enjoy this powerful romance.
Recommended for fans of: Music lovers French fries with ketchup Forbidden romance Wanderlust Classic VW vans
I’m ashamed it took me so long to read this book. An unarmed black man being shot by a white police officer is somethinAll the stars!!
Audiobook Review
I’m ashamed it took me so long to read this book. An unarmed black man being shot by a white police officer is something that has become frighteningly common. The subsequent news stories always create a storm of emotions in me, and none of them are pleasant. I needed time to brace myself for what I anticipated would be an uncomfortable book to read. Rather than depressing, I found THE HATE U GIVE to be a profound and uplifting story—one that transcends the Young Adult genre.
Although the message behind the Black Lives Matter movement is the basis of the book, its center is 16-year-old Starr. There’s a lot going on, and all the events are relayed through her eyes. I identified with Starr’s struggle to straddle her two worlds: the ghetto where she lives and the white prep school she attends. In trying to blend both sides of her life, she feels inauthentic, guilty, and exhausted. After being the only eyewitness to her friend’s murder at the hands of a white police offer, Starr questions whether or not to speak out. She also begins to examine the deteriorating social climate and what motivates our actions.
Angie Thomas creates a vivid picture of Starr’s neighborhood and its marginalized residents. Although some streets are littered with gang violence and drugs, there is a great deal of love to be found in her family and among members of the community. I adored Starr’s parents and the strong bond she has with them and her brothers. The story explores issues of racism, stereotypes, poverty, and abuse. Despite having such heavy topics, I was surprised by how often the colorful cast of characters had me doubled over in laughter.
The Hate U Give is a simply phenomenal must-read for everyone.
About the Audiobook I listened to a previous audiobook narrated by Bahni Turpin, and I seriously underestimated her ability to do justice to this book. There are so many characters on the canvas of this story, and she painstakingly paints each one with a unique stroke. I could clearly visualize each person. Bahni Turpin doesn’t just narrate the book; she turns in a stirring performance. Five stars for her as well.
Recommended for fans of: Tackling social issues Sneakers Corner stores Tupac Shakur
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I just finished Managed and I swear I want to start over and read it again. It exceeded my expectations on every level. With a clever story, witty diaI just finished Managed and I swear I want to start over and read it again. It exceeded my expectations on every level. With a clever story, witty dialog, and winsome characters, I had a perma-smile on my face the entire time I was reading. I have the stretch marks on my cheeks as proof.
This is a fresh perspective on the rock star romance trope. You do have your typical wildly popular rock band; however, the focus is on their uptight manager instead of the band members.
Oh how I loved Gabriel “Sunshine” “Scottie” Scott from his first steely glare. The Brit radiates power, and his intimidating aura is quite effective in scaring away strangers, business associates, and friends alike. Little does he know that a certain bubbly airplane seatmate is immune to his frosty attitude. Sophie “Chatty Girl” Darling is Gabriel’s opposite: carefree and extremely sociable. It’s a match made in fictional romance heaven.
Delayed gratification, folks. Look it up. It’s a beautiful thing, and this book is a case study in it. Kristen Callihan masterfully constructs an unlikely friendship between Sophie and Gabriel, then takes that bond and builds layer upon layer of intense attraction between them, which they both try to suppress. The anticipation just about killed me, but it hurt so good.
Everything about this couple appealed to me, from their constant witty bickering to their mutual nurturing. Sophie is extremely intuitive. She reads prickly Gabriel in a way that nobody else can. Their relationship is pure fun from beginning to end.
When I read the blurb, I had visions of Gabriel’s “proposal” being of a sexual nature. I won’t spoil anything, but I will say it’s not at all what I was expecting. I love being surprised.
I’m giving a virtual big bear hug to each man in the band and every person on their management team. Their loyalty and camaraderie are amazing. Managed is the second standalone in the VIP series about the band, and my favorite book so far. It is the whole package: funny, charming, touching, and steamy. It needs to come with a book hangover warning.
Recommended for fans of: Rock stars Tour buses Socially constipated heroes
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Mariana Zapata slays it again with an utterly entertaining enemies-to-lovers story set within the world of professional figure skatingAudiobook Review
Mariana Zapata slays it again with an utterly entertaining enemies-to-lovers story set within the world of professional figure skating. I listened to the audiobook of From Lukov with Love which is 15 hours long (524 pages), and I can honestly say that I didn’t want it to end.
Jasmine Santos! I was taken aback by her potty mouth and abrasiveness initially. It didn’t take long, though, for me to recognize that those traits are woven into the DNA of her character and—oddly enough—are a huge part of her appeal. She might have a bad reputation, but I could not have loved her more. Having spent more than two decades pursuing a career as a figure skater with little success to show for it, she refuses to give up. I admired her determination in the face of overwhelming obstacles. She’s tough as nails, independent, and confident.
Jasmine’s archenemy is decorated pairs figure skater Ivan Lukov. He seems to be everything Jasmine is not: a physically perfect specimen, wealthy, accomplished, and adored by all. Everyone except Jasmine, that is. She is massively stubborn. Couple that with Lukov’s unyielding nature, and these two are a match made in hell. They dish out endless servings of smack talk, and I ate it all up. Their insults and interactions are so funny I was cackling out loud like a crazy person.
The audiobook is produced in a very unique way. The story is told strictly from Jasmine’s perspective, so I wondered how two narrators would be incorporated. I have been impressed with Callie Dalton’s work in the past, and it didn’t surprise me that her narrative perfectly conveys Jasmine’s sarcasm, wit, and passion. Whenever there is dialog, Ivan’s lines are seamlessly delivered by Teddy Hamilton. He successfully exudes strength, humor, and combativeness.
I was completely absorbed by all aspects of this character-driven story: Jasmine and Ivan’s on-ice partnership and off-ice animosity; the slowly evolving nature of their relationship; Jasmine’s training routine and willpower; and her large family dynamics. The book is chock full of heart, and if it’s true that laughter is the best medicine, this is a dose I would gladly take again and again.
The Kiss Quotient is Helen Hoang’s debut novel, and she slays the heck out of it. I was hoping for a nice feel-good romantic comedy, but I feel like IThe Kiss Quotient is Helen Hoang’s debut novel, and she slays the heck out of it. I was hoping for a nice feel-good romantic comedy, but I feel like I won the lottery. This book is complete perfection—every single sentence.
I adored everything about Stella: the analytical way her mind works and all her little idiosyncrasies; her determination; her openness; and kind, gentle heart. I know virtually nothing about Asperger’s, so it amazed me to discover just how exhausting it is for Stella to try to appear normal in day-to-day social situations.
It would have been easy and cliché to portray Michael as a sleazy professional escort. I’m so glad the author didn’t go down that path. Instead, he is rather vulnerable and somewhat jaded, but completely devoted to his family. He is genuinely thoughtful and charming.
Being with Michael is surprisingly effortless for Stella. In spite of Stella’s awkwardness, Michael is completely taken with her quirky personality and candidness. Their student-teacher sessions are funny, warm, and wickedly sexy. The pacing of the plot is just right to make their growing attraction believable and allow time to explore how Stella copes with Asperger’s.
A wonderful cast of intriguing supporting characters adds even more dimension to this tender, multi-faceted story. I especially enjoyed Michael’s colorful large family.
Prepare yourself to swoon, laugh, and cheer over this spectacular romance. Be sure to read the author’s note at the end. It’s lovely.
Angela (Reading Frenzy Book Blog)
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