The Sassy Bookworm
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Recipe Road Trip: Cooking Your Way Across the USA by Nanette Lavin is a delightful book that takes kids on a culinary journey through America, all from the comfort of their own kitchen. It explores the geography, history, and regional charm of the United States while helping children prepare different dishes.
One of the highlights of this book is how it intertwines food and humor. With witty jokes sprinkled throughout, it guarantees laughter from both kids and adults alike. Additionally, the inclusion of colorful illustrations not only adds visual appeal but also serves to highlight state products and inventions.
A standout feature of Recipe Road Trip is its educational aspect. Kids can engage with the map of the United States to see where each recipe originates from in comparison to their own location. This provides an opportunity for them to learn about US geography while enjoying the cooking experience.
With over one hundred recipes included, this book offers a wide variety of dishes that utilize simple ingredients and provide easy-to-follow instructions. Youngsters will find it easy to navigate through each recipe as they embark on their culinary adventure.
In conclusion, Recipe Road Trip: Cooking Your Way Across the USA is a fun-filled book that combines colorful illustrations, delicious-sounding recipes, and cheesy jokes to create an engaging experience for children. It serves as an excellent introduction to cooking while simultaneously teaching them about different foods found across the country. Perfect for families looking for an informative and enjoyable activity!
ARC Via NetGalley
⭐⭐⭐.5
A Cruel Light by Cyndi MacMillan is an intriguing mix of art, murder, and buried secrets that will captivate readers...
Hidden away for decades, a cryptic mural resurfaces during the renovation of an old parsonage, revealing deadly clues related to a brutal crime that shook the town to its core. Annora Garde, a conservator hired by the local police, is tasked with cleaning the painting and unearthing its hidden secrets.
Inspector Scott ‘Mac' MacGowan believes that the mural holds the key to solving the cold case, but someone is desperate to keep the past buried. As Annora and Mac work together to piece together the puzzle and provide closure for the victim's family, they find themselves haunted by both the toxic mold obscuring vital clues and by their own tragic losses. As they get closer to revealing the killer's identity, danger lurks around every corner.
The book's premise is highly original, centered around an art conservator using her skills to aid in catching a murderer. The cover of A Cruel Light is also visually stunning. However, there are areas where improvement is needed. The plot feels somewhat scattered and could benefit from better organization. Additionally, while there is a romantic subplot, it lacks depth and fails to leave a lasting impression. Furthermore, more development could be given to the characters to make them more engaging.
Despite these drawbacks, I found A Cruel Light to be an entertaining read overall. Its unique concept and suspenseful storyline kept me engaged throughout.
ARC Via NetGalley
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Native American Spiritualism: An Exploration of Indigenous Beliefs and Cultures by L. M. Arroyo is a highly insightful and captivating book that delves into the spiritual practices, legends, and traditions of various Indigenous tribes across North America. It offers a comprehensive insight into the origins and practices of Indigenous American spirituality, encompassing a wide range of spells, rituals, folklore, and myths.
As part of the Mystic Traditions series, Native American Spiritualism celebrates the unique and beautiful culture of Native Americans. The utmost care and respect have been taken in presenting the subject matter with accuracy and reverence. This ensures accessibility to a diverse audience while also fostering support for these rich practices and traditions for years to come.
The book is beautifully illustrated with stunning imagery that enhances the reading experience. It is a must-read for practitioners who wish to explore the origins of their craft and delve deeper into their practices.
In my opinion, this book is incredibly insightful and provides a wealth of knowledge about First Nations' stories, history, and culture. The layout is well-organized, making it easy to navigate and comprehend. I particularly enjoyed the visual presentation of off-white pages and the inclusion of graphics throughout the book. Additionally, the thought-inducing exercises provided are truly engaging for readers.
Overall, Native American Spiritualism: An Exploration of Indigenous Beliefs and Cultures by L. M. Arroyo is an exceptional resource that not only educates but also sparks curiosity about Native American spirituality.
ARC Via NetGalley
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Eating with the Tudors is an extensive collection of authentic Tudor recipes that showcases the influence of religion, reformation, and politics on the dining tables of sixteenth-century England. Brigitte Webster skillfully weaves together a narrative that chronicles the changing world during Henry VII's reign through Elizabeth I's rule.
This book provides fascinating insights into Tudor society through meticulously researched household account books, manuscripts, letters, wills, diaries, and works by Tudor physicians, herbalists, and chronologists. Readers will discover the Tudors' food obsession and explore the most popular ingredients of the time. The author also delves into both beloved classics, making a comeback in trendy restaurants and exotic foods that piqued Elizabethan curiosity but fell short of expectations.
Eating with the Tudors goes beyond recipes to explain the concept of a healthy balanced meal in Tudor England. It explores the significance of certain foods and their availability throughout the year, shedding light on how food played a role in establishing class, belonging, and status. With this book as a guide, readers are tempted to recreate iconic Tudor flavors and indulge in the diverse seasonal tastes that Tudor dishes offer. Whether impressing guests with a grand Tudor feast or preparing a New Year's culinary gift fit for royalty, this book provides all the inspiration needed.
As someone who adores books about food history and enjoys trying out new recipes, eating with the Tudors was a perfect fit for me. This well-structured book presents interesting historical information alongside easy-to-read and follow recipes from Tudor times. Divided into five sections - Spring, Summer, Fall Winter, and Banqueting Food - it offers a comprehensive exploration of Tudor cuisine. While my copy had black-and-white photos (possibly due to reviewing an ARC copy), I hope that the final version will feature colorful visuals.
Overall, I highly recommend this captivating book to anyone interested in Tudor history and culinary adventures.
ARC Via NetGalley
⭐⭐⭐⭐
“Stand as Tall as the Trees” by Patricia Gualinga and Laura Resau is an inspiring true story that highlights the efforts of an Amazonian activist and her collaboration with other Indigenous communities to protect and preserve their sacred lands and forests.
The protagonist, Patricia (Paty) Gualinga, was raised in her Kichwa village in the Ecuadorian Amazon. In her village, mystical beings known as Amazanga played a crucial role in safeguarding the forest. Paty left her home to pursue education but returned when she learned that companies claiming government-sanctioned land rights were destroying her people's ancestral territories in search of oil. Together with other Indigenous groups, the Kichwa community took legal action against the Ecuadorian government, seeking justice at the Court of Human Rights.
The book skillfully weaves together lyrical storytelling and beautiful illustrations, creating a captivating narrative. The soft watercolor-like illustrations add depth and charm to the story. The authors effectively convey a powerful message about the importance of nature conservation, perseverance, and standing up for one's community in a way that young children can understand.
“Stand as Tall as the Trees” is undeniably an inspiring story that resonates with readers of all ages.
ARC Via NetGalley
⭐⭐
So, I just finished reading Luminiferos: The Omen of Light by Yana Metro. Gotta say, the cover is absolutely stunning! Unfortunately, that's pretty much the only positive thing I can say about this one. It had so much potential, but man, did it miss the mark.
First off, the writing was kinda clunky. It just didn't flow smoothly and left me feeling a bit disconnected from the story. And the pace? Slooooow. I mean, seriously, it dragged on and on without much happening to hold my interest.But here's where things really fell apart for me - the plot (or lack thereof). I was left scratching my head wondering what exactly was going on. It felt like there wasn't much of a cohesive storyline driving the whole thing.
And as for the characters? Meh. They were flat and one-dimensional. I couldn't really connect with any of them or get invested in their journeys.All in all, Luminiferos: The Omen of Light ended up being a real miss for me. Such a shame considering how captivating that cover was. But hey, not every book can be a winner.
ARC Via NetGalley
⭐⭐⭐
“The Bequest” by Joanna Margaret is a gripping literary thriller that combines epistolary elements, Gothic suspense, and an atmospheric “dark academia” setting. The story follows Isabel Henley, who flees a disastrous affair in Boston and moves to Scotland to begin her PhD. However, upon arrival, she learns that her advisor has died, and another scholar is about to publish a book on her dissertation topic. As Isabel struggles to acclimate to her new home and find a new subject, she reconnects with Rose Brewster, a charismatic former classmate. When Rose suddenly goes missing, Isabel's life is thrown into chaos. A suicide note surfaces along with a coded message indicating that Rose is alive but in danger. To save both their lives, Isabel embarks on a journey from Genoa to Florence and Paris. Along the way, she uncovers secrets, that if she can put the pieces together in time, may solve a 400-year-old mystery.
While “The Bequest” has many flaws like messy writing style, painful dialogue between characters, and lack of character development for anyone involved; it still managed to captivate me with its intriguing plotline. It proves that, even though executed poorly at times, a book can still be engrossing. On the positive side, the author impressively captured atmospheric settings and delved deep into historical aspects with thorough research.
Overall, “The Bequest” offers readers a mixed bag of thrilling suspense combined with vividly depicted settings and well-researched history.
ARC Via NetGalley
The Orinoco Uranium by Stephen O. Sears is a story set in WWII South America, inspired by true events and backed by extensive research and the author's personal knowledge of Venezuelan history and geology.
The narrative revolves around a geophysical survey party that stumbles upon smuggled uranium on a ship stranded along the Orinoco River bank after a violent storm. The ship was en route from Nazi Germany to Argentina, carrying stolen radioactive metal from a Berlin laboratory. The mastermind behind this theft is a renegade German physicist seeking refuge in South America.
The story follows American geologist Jerry MacDonald and his wife, Maria, who reside in the scenic lakeside community of Maracaibo, a city teeming with intrigue and espionage during this period of neutrality in Venezuela. While searching for new oil fields, Jerry leads the survey party deep into the South American wilderness, specifically to the Orinoco River delta. Upon discovering the uranium, Jerry informs the American government about the remarkable find when he returns to Maracaibo. However, this revelation triggers intense competition between German and American forces as they strive to seize control of the valuable cargo, ultimately leading to a violent encounter in the South Atlantic Ocean.
Now, turning to my thoughts on the book, let's start with its captivating cover design - it's truly beautiful and eye-catching. However, I personally did not thoroughly enjoy this book due to issues I encountered with the writing style. There was some kind of mismatch between myself as a reader and the writing itself. Additionally, I found the pace of the story to be rather slow at times. Nevertheless, one aspect that stood out was how skillfully the author depicted the setting. The book was filled with rich details that created an atmospheric backdrop for the events taking place.
ARC Via NetGalley
⭐⭐⭐.5
The Last Carolina Girl by Meagan Church is a novel that follows the life of fourteen-year-old Leah Payne in her coastal Carolina town. Leah's simple and free life, spent with her lumberjack father and exploring the wilds where the forest meets the shore, is disrupted when a tragic accident takes her father's life. She is then forced into a family with a dark secret, separating her from her home and making her work for a wealthy household. When Leah becomes embroiled in an act of violence and prejudice, she must fight for her future in a world that doesn't always appreciate the spirit of a Carolina girl. The story is set in 1935 against the backdrop of a recently formed state eugenics board.
The Last Carolina Girl has an appealing cover that caught my attention. I was initially drawn to the setting and time period, which I found intriguing. The inclusion of the eugenics movement as a plot thread added depth to the story. I particularly enjoyed Leah's character and found her compelling.
However, I felt that the overall pace of the book was choppy. I would have liked more depth in both the plot and characters. Additionally, I found the ending abrupt and felt it needed a few more chapters to bring about a satisfying conclusion. Despite these shortcomings, The Last Carolina Girl offers powerful themes of strength, forgotten history, autonomy, and finding one's true home.
ARC Via NetGalley
⭐⭐⭐⭐
So, here's the deal. Violet Mooney's coworker, who happens to be a fellow witch, gives her some good news. Their crystals shop, The Full Moon, got chosen as a vendor for the Spring Equinox Fair in Connecticut. This is a big deal for Violet since she's been trying to learn her magical craft while avoiding any kind of trouble. Which ain't easy when her family is caught up in a power struggle within the magical realm. It's got everyone on edge and now Violet's on a mission.
While she tries to figure things out, she focuses on the Fair. And guess what? The Fair is being organized by one of her personal heroes, Horatio Hale! He's all about ethical crystal mining and that's pretty cool. But turns out not everyone feels the same way because shockingly enough, when Violet attends a meeting, she finds Horatio dead with an axe stuck in his chest! Crazy stuff, right? Now Violet has to dig deep and use more than just a crystal ball if she wants to uncover the truth behind all the chaos happening in both the mortal and magical worlds. She'll need every power she's honed so far—and even discover some new ones—to save herself.
Alrighty then, let me spill the tea about this book. If you remember my previous review about the second book in this series, you'll know I couldn't stand Violet and that seriously impacted my rating. But guess what? In this installment, Violet was a thousand times less annoying! Yay for progress! As a result, I ended up really enjoying this one. The writing was great and kept me engaged from start to finish. The pacing was on point and the world-building was top-notch. Plus, the characters were super likable too. I can't wait for the next book in this series!!
ARC Via NetGalley
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
I just finished reading A House with Good Bones by T. Kingfisher and let me tell you, I'm wondering why I haven't read anything by this author before!! This book was seriously amazing from start to finish. The writing was top-notch and had me laughing out loud. The pacing was spot on, keeping me hooked the whole time. And can we talk about the plot? It was funny, engaging, original, and had just the right amount of creepiness.
But let's not forget about the characters! They were so likable and well-developed that I couldn't help but get invested in their lives. Seriously, this book has to be one of the most entertaining reads I've come across this year.
By the way, if you're curious about the story, it follows Sam Montgomery as she visits her mom in North Carolina. But things aren't quite right when she gets there. The house has lost its cozy charm and her mom is on edge all the time. As Sam digs deeper into what's going on, she discovers a jar of teeth hidden under some stunning rose bushes in the backyard and vultures circling above. And that's when things really start to get interesting.
Trust me, you don't want to miss out on this gem of a book!
ARC Via NetGalley
⭐⭐⭐
Four Charming Spells by Lynn Cahoon is a book that takes readers on a supernatural journey in the quaint town of Magic Springs, Idaho. Mia Malone, a budding caterer and cooking school owner, finds her life taking an unexpected turn when she becomes involved with Time for a Cuppa, a charming new tea shop. This connection leads her to Mahogany Medford, the tea shop owner and member of the local coven, who insists on delving into a perplexing mystery that seems unsolvable without some special assistance.
While still grieving over her mother's recent death and suspecting foul play, Mia is urged by Mahogany to uncover the truth. However, as she digs deeper into the investigation at her establishment, Mia realizes that old secrets may resurface to haunt her. Armed with Gran's protective stone and supported by a close-knit circle of confidants, Mia must unravel the identity of Ms. Medford's killer while facing another deadly surprise.
The cover design of this book is eye-catching and enticing. However, I found Four Charming Spells to be just average in terms of my overall enjoyment. Although I thoroughly enjoyed reading the first book in this series, I felt let down by this installment. As someone who didn't have the opportunity to read books two through this one due to being passed over by the publisher, I felt confused throughout significant portions of this story. Unlike its predecessor, this book seemed to lack the charm that initially drew me in. Additionally, I found myself unimpressed with both the mystery aspect and the explanation behind it.
Overall, Four Charming Spells has its merits but fell short of my expectations. It may appeal more to readers who have followed the entire series closely rather than those approaching it as a standalone cozy mystery novel.
ATC Via NetGalley
⭐⭐⭐
A Bitter Remedy by Alis Hawkins is set in Jesus College, Oxford, in 1881. The story begins with the death of a young undergraduate in his lodgings, prompting a shocking discovery during the subsequent medical examination. Basil Rice, a fellow at Jesus College who harbors a secret, is compelled to intervene when the deceased student's guardian accuses the college of responsibility and threatens scandal. In doing so, Basil becomes entangled in the tragic life of Sidney Parker.
The mystery captivates Rhiannon ‘Non' Vaughan, a young Welsh polymath newly admitted to university lectures. Despite her fervent desire to contribute and prove herself, Non encounters resistance from both the college principal and influential women associated with Oxford's recently established female halls. Undeterred, Non's relentless determination and sharp intellect lead her to forge an unlikely partnership with Basil – two outsiders in the university setting. Together, they assume responsibility for investigating Parker's mysterious demise.
As Non and Basil delve deeper into their investigation, they encounter corporate misconduct and unscrupulous medical practitioners that challenge their preconceived notions about the idyllic facades of Oxford's renowned spires.
While I found A Bitter Remedy to be an enjoyable read overall, it had its shortcomings. The book's cover perfectly complements its compelling storyline – an observation worth mentioning. I particularly appreciated the author's meticulous research on Oxford as it added depth and atmosphere to the narrative. However, I must admit that I found some parts of the book to be excessively slow-paced and repetitive. Additionally, Non's character proved rather grating on my nerves; she came across as annoying throughout the story. Therefore, this novel is a mixed bag for me – with its strengths lying in its well-crafted setting but hindered by pacing issues and a bothersome protagonist.
ARC Via NetGalley
Intrigue in Istanbul by Erica Ruth Neubauer is a thrilling historical mystery set in Istanbul in 1926. The story follows Jane and Mr. Redvers as they follow the footsteps of Jane's archaeologist father, who has mysteriously disappeared while on a mission to find the lost heart of Sultan Suleiman the Magnificent. As they unravel clues and face danger along the way, Jane realizes she is being pursued by unknown individuals who will stop at nothing to prevent her from solving the mystery.
What starts as a straightforward investigation quickly becomes an international game of cat and mouse, with Jane encountering suspicious characters everywhere from Turkey to Hungary. Even her trusted friends may not be what they seem. With very few leads, Jane's search for her father uncovers ancient secrets and reveals an unidentified enemy who poses a significant threat.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book. Firstly, I must mention that the cover is stunning and immediately captures your attention. This was my first experience with Erica Ruth Neubauer's writing and the first book I have read in this series, but it worked well as a standalone novel. The writing style was superb, holding my interest throughout. The setting of 1920s Istanbul was vividly depicted and added depth to the story. The pacing was excellent, keeping me engaged from start to finish. The plot was gripping and full of twists that kept me guessing until the end.
The characters were likable and well-developed, making it easy to root for them as they faced various challenges. I particularly enjoyed Jane's determination and resourcefulness in her quest to find her father. Mr. Redvers provided wholehearted support as a sidekick character.
Overall, Intrigue in Istanbul is an intriguing historical mystery that will keep readers captivated from beginning to end. I am looking forward to diving into the next book in this series and exploring more of Erica Ruth Neubauer's work.
ARC Via NetGalley
⭐⭐⭐⭐
The book “The World's Most Atrocious Animals” by Philip Bunting is a delightful and informative guide to some of the scariest creatures on Earth. From the enormous murder hornets of east and southeast Asia to the poisonous blue-ringed octopus, Africa's hungry but deadly hippos, and shocking electric eels, this book introduces readers to a wide range of truly scary animals.
What sets this book apart is its clever use of an antagonist voice, expressed through cheeky annotations, which highlights the most frightening aspects of each creature's characteristics. This adds a fun and engaging twist to the narrative. In contrast, the narrator's voice provides factual information about each animal's seemingly scary traits.
“The World's Most Atrocious Animals” belongs to the Quirky Creatures series, which aims to discover and explain why certain creatures in the natural world are so strange. This series covers everything from the ridiculous to the truly terrifying. Other books in this series include “The World's Most Ridiculous Animals” and “The World's Most Pointless Animals.”
Overall, I found this book to be absolutely adorable in every way. From its eye-catching cover to its cheeky annotations, it was perfection throughout. Packed with interesting facts and accompanied by colorful and fun illustrations, it will undoubtedly be a colossal hit with young readers.
ARC Via NetGalley
⭐⭐⭐.5
The Wheel of the Year by Rebecca Beattie is an enchanting celebration of nature's cycles, offering readers a chance to nurture themselves through the turning seasons. As a Wiccan priestess and nature lover, Beattie takes us on a magical journey around the Wheel of the Year, exploring eight restorative moments in nature's cycle.
Rooted in an appreciation of the rhythms of the seasons, this book provides readers with opportunities to pause and find stillness amidst the chaos of modern life. With each chapter dedicated to a specific point in the wheel, from solstices and equinoxes to midpoints in-between, Beattie invites us to connect with the rejuvenating power of nature. Through rituals, folklore, and traditions associated with each seasonal festival, readers can celebrate and experience the ebb and flow of the natural world.
Moreover, The Wheel of the Year encourages readers to embark on a personal journey alongside these external changes. By charting their own moments of transition, reflection, and healing, individuals can deepen their connection with their true inner selves. This book offers wisdom and wonder as it guides readers towards living in harmony with nature.
One notable aspect of The Wheel of the Year is its stunning cover. It instantly captivates attention and sets the tone for what lies within. Furthermore, Beattie's expertise shines through her writing - it is evident that she possesses a deep knowledge and understanding of her subject matter. The well-organized layout allows for easy navigation through each section of the wheel.
While this book is packed with activities and rituals to keep readers engaged, one downside is that my copy (an ARC) did not contain any illustrations. As someone who typically enjoys visual aspects in books like these, I missed having that additional layer.
In conclusion, The Wheel of the Year is a captivating exploration into nature's cycles that will leave readers feeling connected to both the external world and their inner selves. Beattie's expertise, combined with the well-structured layout, makes this book an enjoyable read. Although lacking illustrations in my copy was disappointing, the content itself more than makes up for it.
ARC Via NetGalley
⭐⭐⭐⭐
The Book of Druidry by Kristoffer Hughes is a comprehensive exploration of Druidry, its origins, development, and relevance in modern times. The author, renowned for his expertise, delves into the various aspects of Druidic practice, including its ethics, environmental considerations, and historical roots. Rather than simply discussing theory, Hughes offers practical ways to embody the teachings of Druidry.
In this book, readers will discover what it means to communicate with trees, awaken their wild nature, honor ancestors, and engage with deities. Through prayer, meditation, and ritual, one can expand their awareness and establish connections with the unseen world and elemental forces. Drawing from powerful Celtic wisdom, The Book of Druidry guides readers in connecting with Awen - the blessed breath of inspiration.
I found it to be an intriguing and in-depth exploration of Druidic practice. The passion and expertise of the author are evident throughout. However, it is worth noting that this book is quite substantial and may be best approached in small doses. Beyond its content, I appreciate the captivating cover design of this book, and it has been a valuable addition to my ever-expanding spiritual library.
ARC Via NetGalley
⭐⭐⭐⭐
The enchantment of Iceland mesmerizes those who visit the seemingly barren island in the North Atlantic. Mystical symbols, elusive supernatural beings, and the haunting spirits of ancient priests all have a role in the island's magic. However, the flora often goes unnoticed. Concealed amidst misty mountains and flourishing in the heat of geothermal streams, Iceland's plants possess powerful magic.
In his book “Icelandic Plant Magic: Folk Herbalism of the North,” Albert Bjorn skillfully combines traditional and modern Icelandic magical practices. With a balanced approach, he incorporates both the living traditions and ancient wisdom of the island, allowing the plant spirits and practitioners to be heard. The book provides readers with guidance on utilizing Icelandic plants and staves in effective and potent spells, including invisibility, protection against different creatures, attracting love or success in games, and much more.
This was an immensely interesting book, especially for someone not overly familiar with Iceland. I found a wealth of captivating information within its pages, particularly about the language and terminology used in Icelandic plant magic. Moreover, there was a plethora of herbal knowledge shared throughout. My only disappointment was that I wished the graphics had been more eye-catching and that there had been a greater quantity of them. Nonetheless, overall, this book proved to be a valuable addition to my growing collection of folk magic books.
ARC Via NetGalley
⭐⭐⭐⭐
“Welcome to the Wonder House” by Rebecca Kai Dotlich and Georgia Heard showcases a collection of mesmerizing poems that ingeniously portrays an allegorical house, captivating readers with its thought-provoking exploration of the eternal question of “why?”. This extraordinary book serves as a powerful reminder that awe and fascination can be discovered in every nook and cranny, within ourselves and in the vast expanse of our surroundings. Get ready to embark on an exhilarating journey through wonder!
The Wonder House features various rooms, each dedicated to different themes such as nature, quietness, and mystery. Through poems and objects, the authors cover a wide range of STEAM topics, including geology, paleontology, physics, astronomy, creative writing, and drawing. This diverse compilation aims to inspire curiosity among young readers.
Written by award-winning poets Rebecca Kai Dotlich and Georgia Heard, this enchanting book not only sparks wonder but also provides guidance on how to cultivate it within oneself. The authors' poetic prowess shines through the pages of this captivating read.
The book's aesthetic is truly beautiful. As someone who doesn't typically read a lot of poetry, I was drawn to its charm. The soft watercolor illustrations complement the overall vibe of the book perfectly. The poems themselves are written in short free verse form, which adds to their appeal. My favorite poem was from “Room of Science.”
In conclusion, Welcome to the Wonder House is a delightful book that combines poetry with exploration. Its elegant illustrations and thought-provoking verses make it a must-read for anyone seeking inspiration and wonder in their lives.
ARC Via NetGalley
⭐⭐⭐⭐
“The Echo of Old Books” by Barbara Davis is a captivating novel that explores the world of rare-book dealer Ashlyn Greer and her unique ability to feel the emotional imprints left by the previous owners of books. When Ashlyn stumbles upon two beautifully bound volumes with unpublished stories and conflicting narratives, her curiosity becomes an all-consuming obsession. Determined to uncover the truth behind these mysterious books, Ashlyn embarks on a journey that intertwines her own life with the tragic romance of Hemi and Belle.
The book is well written, with Davis skillfully immersing readers in the intoxicating atmosphere of old paper, ink, and leather. The pacing is excellent, keeping readers engaged from beginning to end. The dual timeline narrative is executed seamlessly, adding depth and intrigue to the story. The romantic elements are also well-developed and contribute to the overall emotional impact.
One impressive aspect of “The Echo of Old Books” is its meticulous research. The plot is intricately crafted, leading readers through a trail of broken promises and betrayals. As Ashlyn delves deeper into Hemi and Belle's love story, she uncovers secrets that bring closure not only to their tale but also to her own unfinished chapters.
The characters in this novel are complex and intriguing. Davis has taken great care in developing them, making them feel authentic and relatable. However, there was one minor issue I had with the backstory involving Ashlyn's ex's death–it felt unrealistic and farfetched considering his portrayed personality type.
Overall, “The Echo of Old Books” is a truly enjoyable read with its beautiful cover capturing attention from the start. The writing is compelling, blending mystery, romance, and historical elements seamlessly. Despite a small hiccup regarding believability in one aspect of the story, this novel proves itself as a solid addition to any book lover's collection.
ARC Via NetGalley
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
The Broken Places by Blaine Daigle is a horror novel that takes readers on a thrilling journey into the depths of the Yukon wilderness.
Ryne Burdette inherits his family's old hunting cabin and decides to go on a weekend hunting trip with his two best friends. However, there is something eerie about the woods, particularly as a winter storm approaches. The animals start behaving strangely and the natural laws of the wilderness seem to unravel. Whispers suggest that something is watching them.
As the storm intensifies and darkness envelops the woods, the trio must confront the dark secrets of the Burdette family lineage. The horrifying truth lies in shadowed places that have never been explored.
So I just finished reading The Broken Places by Blaine Daigle, and let me tell you, it was a wild ride! First things first, can we talk about that cover? It's absolutely perfect. I'm obsessed with it.
Now, here's the thing. This is Blaine Daigle's debut horror novel, and I seriously couldn't believe it. It was mind-blowing. The whole story just oozed this creepy atmosphere that had me on the edge of my seat. And let's not forget about the setting - remote, bleak, and totally unforgiving. It was like a character in itself; that's how well it was described.
The writing style was top-notch too. The pacing was spot-on, keeping me hooked from start to finish. And the characters? They were so intriguing and well-developed. I loved getting to know them throughout the book.
If I had one tiny nitpick, it would be that I wished there was a bit more exploration into the backstory of both the town and the Burdette family. But hey, considering this is Blaine Daigle's first novel, it was still pretty darn impressive.
I seriously can't wait to see what this author has in store for us next. Keep an eye out for this author because he has got some serious talent!
ARC Via NetGalley
⭐⭐⭐
“The Cuban Daughter” by Soraya M. Lane is a captivating novel that takes readers on a journey between Havana in 1950 and present-day Cuba/London. The story follows Esmeralda, the daughter of a wealthy Cuban family, who falls in love with Christopher, a young merchant from London. As their romance blossoms, they must keep it hidden to avoid the disapproval of Esmeralda's family.
In the present day, Claudia is rebuilding her life by restoring neglected houses. When her mother asks for help in uncovering their family history, Claudia's curiosity leads her to Havana. Armed with only a family crest belonging to the Diaz dynasty, one of Cuba's wealthiest families, Claudia embarks on a trip filled with hope and anticipation. In Havana, she meets Mateo, a passionate chef. Together, dig deeper into the past, and uncover a heartbreaking story of sacrifice and loss endured by Claudia's ancestors.
Lane skillfully weaves together two timelines and multiple points of view in “The Cuban Daughter.” The writing is engaging and paced perfectly throughout the book. The author creates an intriguing setting that transports readers effortlessly between 1950s Havana and present-day London and Havana. The characters are likable and relatable, drawing readers into their individual journeys.
With just the right amount of romance, “The Cuban Daughter” delivers an enjoyable reading experience that keeps readers engaged from start to finish. The cover of the book adds to its appeal, and the overall story is quick, solid, and satisfying.
In summary, “The Cuban Daughter” by Soraya M. Lane is a beautifully written novel that effortlessly combines history, romance, and family secrets. For those seeking a captivating read that is both heartwarming and engaging, this book is highly recommended.
ARC Via NetGalley
⭐⭐⭐⭐
The Slumber Party by Shannon Hollinger is a heart-stopping thriller that revolves around four childhood friends who gather for a slumber party, only for their lives to be shattered when one of them dies and another becomes a killer. Years later, Liz, one of the survivors, receives a note that brings back the haunting memories of that fateful night. As she tries to unravel the truth behind the note and its sender, Liz realizes that there are dark secrets from their past that are about to resurface.
I just finished The Slumber Party by Shannon Hollinger and let me tell you, it was a total rollercoaster ride! First of all, can we talk about that awesome cover? It immediately caught my attention. But let's get into the nitty-gritty.
The writing in this book is seriously top-notch. It keeps you hooked from the start with its fast pace and non-stop action. And oh boy, the plot? It's absolutely bonkers with twists and turns that will leave you gasping for air.
The characters are so well-developed and there are plenty of them to keep you on your toes. You really get invested in their lives and secrets. I couldn't get enough of them!
Honestly, I was completely absorbed in this story. I couldn't put it down because I just had to know what would happen next. If you're into gripping thrillers with messed-up friendships, dark pasts, and secrets that'll blow your mind, then The Slumber Party is a must-read.
Trust me, you won't be disappointed!
ARC Via NetGalley
⭐⭐⭐
What the River Buries by Rocky Hirajeta is a captivating debut novel that takes readers on a suspenseful journey through the life of seventeen-year-old Natalie. Since her father's passing, Natalie has become a stranger to herself, withdrawing from her mother and struggling to maintain relationships with those around her. When she stumbles upon a horrifying crime scene one night in the off-limits Acres forest, her life takes an unexpected turn.
This author has done a commendable job of building suspense throughout the story. The initial encounter with the killer sets the stage for an intense and gripping plot that keeps readers hooked until the very end. The pacing is well-balanced, ensuring that there are enough thrilling moments to keep readers engaged without overwhelming them.
One aspect of this book that stands out is its atmospheric setting. Through vivid descriptions and rich details, Hirajeta brings the Acres forest to life, allowing readers to immerse themselves in its beauty and mystery. The author's ability to paint scenes with words adds depth and authenticity to the story.
However, while What the River Buries is a solid read overall, it has some noticeable flaws. The major issue lies in many of the characters' behaviors and reactions, which often come across as unbelievable or even laughable at times. Natalie's assertiveness and authority over adult men may seem unrealistic for a seventeen-year-old girl, leading to moments that strain credibility.
Despite these shortcomings, it is important to acknowledge that this is Hirajeta's first book. As such, it shows promise and potential for growth as an author. The writing style is strong and engaging, indicating that there is room for improvement as he progresses in his writing career.
Overall, What the River Buries offers an engaging plot filled with suspenseful moments. The atmospheric setting and well-paced narrative contribute to an enjoyable reading experience. While some character behaviors may feel unrealistic, especially given the protagonist's age, this debut novel showcases the author's talent and leaves readers curious about what he will produce in the future.
ARC Via NetGalley