Blagica Jankuloska

Giving Me the Feels
First, I want to make a confession. I picked this up for two reasons I love all the Stylo Fantome books that I have gotten my hands on so far and I love all shades of the color purple and this cover is stunning. That being said let's move on and let me tell you how much I love the story. My, oh my, this book is just as sexy and seductive on the dance floor as it is between the sheets. Stylo Fantome has given us something completely new and different in the utterly unpredictable Slow Dancing. I know some people might shy away from a story like this one because of it's unique dynamic but I loved how it made me think and be more insightful about all the different types of love that is out there. The term Pansexual is defined as not limited in sexual choice with regard to biological sex, gender, or gender identity. It is a term I am very loosely familiar with but the concept added so much more dimension to Woods at least in my opinion. Logan Cassidy was such a sweet yet broken character that I felt as though Woods complemented her beautifully as a person and as a dance partner. I love the color references to how Woods loves and I love that this was not your cookie cuter romance. I laughed I cried I was invested and that is all you could want from a story like this. She may like blue and he may like red, but their fabulous purple together became more my favorite color, and it made ME think outside the box. Their slow, seductive dance to love had me questioning everything I thought I knew about sexual preferences and love. It opened my eyes and made me fall madly in love with this passionate couple and unique characters I saw things in a new light. Beneath it all, I learned that “slow dancing” – in every form – is not only a wake-up call, but also seductive foreplay in winning over the heart and body. It was just supposed to be sex for fun between sexy dancer Woods Donahue and ex- dancer-turned-pop star sensation Logan Cassidy on her concert tour. Wasn't it? Can there even be love between an instant gratification guy who's sexually attracted to anyone and an insecure woman who feels she's not enough because of a broken past. If you are scared to love or feel you are unworthy to be loved I encourage you to read this. It's a beautiful dance crafted with words made to make you fall in love with loving someone for who they are and it's stunning.

My Best Friends Good Taste

While I love a good mystery, this is not something I would have found on my own. My best friend just bought a kindle oasis so she has been reading lots more. This is one of the ones she was reading and since I trust her judgement, I figured this would be one to try since she was loving on it so much. Good choice for us both I loved it as well.

This book is told between the alternating viewpoints of the two lead characters. Elle is troubled teen, close to flunking out her senior year of high school. She has a terrible home life, living in a filth-infested apartment with a drunk foster parent who gambles away her assistance checks. Elle's father, a man with a history of domestic abuse, is in prison for a crime he says he didn't commit.

Charlotte has a beautiful home in a gated community. Her workaholic husband is often absent, and her own dark past has left her wary of others. During a horrible storm, Elle knocks on Charlotte's door for shelter. She knows all about Charlotte's past, convinced that it contributed to ruining her life. Once Charlotte allows Elle into her house and her life, the reader is treated to both sides of the coin, and no one is who they seem. I loved that this book had a spooky feeling all the way through and I devoured it all in a matter of a two day period.

Charlotte and Elle dance around each other, never fully trusting, while maintaining all the earmarks of a growing friendship. Soon Elle is left questing everything she thought she knew. In addition, she finds herself in an unexpected situation that leaves her vulnerable, her future uncertain. Again, Charlotte is there to help, solicitous, while still maintaining an underlying edge of distrust.

Occasionally, the behaviors of both characters require a stretch of the imagination, but the plot is twisty and engaging. There are HUGE surprises in store at the end. My only issue is that I feel like the end felt a bit rushed. However, this is definitely worth the time and energy to read.

The Three Musketeers


I don't think I have finished a thriller like this in one sitting. Harriet Walker weaves a tale of three women whose lives are bound by grief, insecurities, and fear of what's to come. If you combine that with the baggage, we carry from our past then you will get a sense of what these women went through. Margot is ready to start her maternity leave and she hires her temporary replacement with someone she thinks is not a threat in any way. Furthermore, she likes her replacement, Maggie...quite a bit. They met on a trip and Margot feels that Maggie will fill her position well.

Maggie on the other hand is a free lance writer who gives the reader the impression that she is living pay check to paycheck and that this maternity leave job is her best chance at living her best life. Even though this was supposed to be a year long job that Maggie does not want to give up. Part of this book that was intriguing for me as a reader was that Maggie and Margot both felt like to me, they both wanted what the other one had. After reading this I have to say that the grass may not always be greener on the other side.

Now, I did mention three women so let me talk about the last piece of this friendly equation Winnie. Winnie is Margot's oldest friend. They have known each-other for a long time and Margot and Winnie were inseparable until the death of Winnie's new born son Jack. It fractures there friendship to the point that I felt that it was repairable.

Honestly this is one of the best thrillers I have read in the last few days. I have already recommended it to my best friend and a few others and can not wait to see what comes next from Ms. Walker. Honestly, I was on pins and needles regarding the safety of Margot and her baby especially things took a dark turn and I was unsure what was going to happen. Thank you Netgalley and all parties involved for my arc of this book it was a joy to read and review.

Button Up for a fun Ride
I have to say that sometimes when requesting books on Netgalley I pick a book based on two things one being “oh the cover looks interesting” and “Oh an author that I keep seeing pop up on my Goodreads suggestion” This was both. Kate White is someone I have never read but I am so glad that I did because I enjoyed this very much. That being said let me tell you a little bit about the story. Imagine showing up to work in an office you haven't been to for five years. Then discovering you've ‘missing' for two whole days and you have no memories of the time. Otherwise healthy, who can you trust? Ally Linden finds herself in the office of a former coworker and lover who is extremely surprised to see her - she has no purse or phone and appears disheveled. Then she passes out.

Waking up in the hospital, pieces of her life come back, but not anything from the past two days. She knows she needs help to rebuild her memories, but who can she trust? Her best friend, her husband, her therapist, her brother AND the ex-boyfriend all have differing perspectives on the two days and she even hires a private investigator. Desperate for answers, Ally tries to track where she spent the missing days, but every detail she unearths points to an explanation that's increasingly ominous, and it's clear someone wants to prevent her from learning where those forty-eight hours went. Along the way, she remembers something from her past that she's afraid has implications in a cold case murder, but what set off the memories? The key to her missing memories could bring relief—or unlock her worst nightmares. All and all this was a great read the last thirty percent goes so fast and the resolution to the story is very satisfying. Kate White is a new author to me but I will for sure be picking up anything new that I come across. Thank you Netgalley and all parties involved for my arc of this book. I apologize that my review was late that is more a timing issue then a book issue because this is a great read.

Book Three Please.

The moment I finished A Curse So Dark and Lonely, I knew I needed A Heart So Fierce and Broken right then and there. And I was a bit skeptical about the new introduction of a point-of-view character because I had hopes for a certain guardsman and princess to be the end game. But by the end of this book, I realized that I loved it even more than the first one! I was actually excited because the release date was January 7th of 2020 and that is the Macedonian Christmas and I bought it sadly it took me way too long to read it.


A Heart So Fierce and Broken introduces Lia Mara, daughter of the queen of the bordering lands, a nation determined to take on Emberfall even if it means war. On her own, I really loved her character and my only real hang-up was that I spent how many pages in the first book getting to know Harper so when I first heard Grey would be a main Point of view in the sequel, I thought it would be him and Harper.
I'm glad it wasn't.

Lia Mara has been the cast-off her entire life but she finally gets to shine. I loved watching this intelligent young woman leave her family's shadow and really hold her own. And Grey was amazing as always, his internal conflict between duty and what he thinks is right was balanced just so, not overwhelming the story with unnecessary monologues and such.

But while I loved Grey and Lia Mara, even more than Harper and Rhen, bringing them to the forefront seemed to take away from the first couple. Rhen, while I wasn't a huge fan of him, was tolerable in A Curse So Dark and Lonely, but in this sequel he was cruel. His actions didn't match up to the character we spent hundreds of pages getting to know in the last book and I didn't understand why he changed. And Harper, who I thought was a fantastic heroine, all but drifted off the page. I felt like their characters were sacrificed for the sake of Grey and Lia Mara which makes me wonder where things are going in the next book.

Speaking of the story, as much as I wanted this sequel (mostly because of Grey), I didn't understand where the story could go after ACSDAL (which, if you cut a single moment at the end, could have worked pretty well as a standalone). But Kemmerer found a story and I wasn't 100% sold on it the whole time. It felt like two conflicts going in the beginning and I sat around waiting for something to happen on either front. This book almost feels like a “response” to the first one's “call” (action/reaction, cause and effect) rather than a continuation, if that makes sense. I definitely wouldn't recommend reading A Heart So Fierce and Broken without reading A Curse So Dark and Lonely. The backstory established in the first book is too important in the sequel. But this book very much felt like a reaction rather than its own story.

ALL THAT SAID, yes, I actually enjoyed this book even more than A Curse So Dark and Lonely. Which seems impossible based on everything I just said but it's the characters. Lia Mara had my attention from the first page and only continued to keep me reading, and I was already a fan of Grey from the last book so not much work was needed there. Despite not feeling like much really happened in this 400+ page book, it was the little things that added up and I am definitely interested to see how these two books come together in the third installment!

High Hopes

I finished this yesterday and right now the title says it all. I had such High Hopes. I am a bit unsure exactly why I couldn't fall in love with this one. Plot is very complicated and it was a stretch for me to believe so much happened to this girl leading up to the actual plot and conclusion of the book. Also felt like the first 70% of the book is the set-up and only the last 30% was a page-turner for me. I did like that 30%. Not so sure I will read the next in the series. Don't think I can read through such an elaborate set-up again for such a short-lived reward. That all said, the ending was real; it was an actual ending and not a cliff-hanger...good for Rice on that point. The writing was technically good.... just seems like nothing much happened except lots of detailed rehash of memories and character introductions for the first 70%. I wanted to love this I really did it just fell short for me.

Poetically Beautiful


Sometimes you just need a change of pace. That is what Milk and honey was for me.

Divided into four chapters–the hurting, the loving, the breaking, the healing– MILK AND HONEY (2015) is a provocative collection of poems meant to empower females. This work may be considered feminist but it is worth every minute you invest in it.

Like many of her critics, I question the literary or poetic merit of Kaur's craft: the traditional elements of poetry as we have been taught to recognize them (alliteration, rhyme, rhythm, simile, metaphor, personification etc.) aren't evident in many of her poems. Her line breaks are at times dubious. At their basic level, some of her poems seem to be renditions of familiar advice or platitudes. In a few cases, some of the poems seem repetitive. And yet, I can admit that her words are impactful, for the seemingly simple way she expresses her ideas resonate on a universal way. I have been writing poetry since I can remember it has always been a way of painting with words for me. This paints pain and healing so beautifully that you can finish this book in one sitting and take things away from it to take with you for a long time. I needed a break and this was a great one

Gripping


I have a few Lisa Jewell under my belt now and I am happy to say that this is just as good as everything else I have picked up. I love a good thriller that has twists and turns and this sure delivers both twists and turns.

“Then She Was Gone” is a novel about a fifteen-year-old girl named Ellie Mack who disappears in 2005.

Much of the book takes place in 2015 and is narrated by Laurel Mack, the missing girl's mother. Ellie was Laurel's youngest daughter. Ellie's remains have finally been discovered, so maybe the family can now have some closure. Not that the family unit is still intact. Laurel was so filled with grief over the last ten years that she had nothing left of herself for her husband or her other children. Now Laurel is divorced and is estranged from her older daughter and son.

The book alternates between 2015, back to 2005, when the story is told from Ellie's point of view. The reader learns what happened to this fifteen-year girl. And, eventually, Laurel learns the truth also.

This is the fifth book I have read by Lisa Jewell, and I'm giving it five stars like I did the others. But, unlike the others, I'm not recommending it for everybody. Something awful happens in this book. Those who don't like reading disturbing things should move on to something else. Not that it's all that graphic. It's just so heartbreaking and hard to get out of your head.

Why do I like this author so much? Because, once I start one of her books, it's hard to put down. Sometimes books, even good books, feel a bit like “homework” to me. But not Lisa Jewell's books. She makes me want to know more about the characters and about what I will discover next. There's a lot of nuance in her characters. Also, I think the fact that Lisa Jewell is British it's part of the charm. I love the settings, the strange brand names, the unfamiliar expressions, and words not commonly used in the U.S. I love the amount of detail, not too much and not too little.
Lisa Jewell's writing style reminds me a little of Liane Moriorty, although this book has some of the darkness of Gillian Flynn and is as disturbing as a Karin Slaughter book.

Intoxicating

Muscle Memory by Author Stylo Fantôme is a standalone novel. I have found that this author brings me out of my reading slump very quickly yet another book that I finished in one day. Thank you for writing such a page-turner and such a great second chance at love story.

“We're two parts of a whole, always making up for the other one. We couldn't survive without each other.”

Oh my gosh! I ALWAYS anticipate new novels from this author. This is like a double-edged sword for a reader. The anticipation level at an all-time high, I took a deep breath and tried to dispel the nerve-racking pre-read jitters. After reading the first chapter I had to ask myself the question, “Why?” Why was I so concerned that I may not feel a connection? Why was I scared that I wouldn't get that tingle one feels when they're hooked to words and can't pull their eyes from the page? Because let me tell you, I took a complete heart-dive into this novel from the first pages and never looked back. What a feeling! A one day read of the best kind! If you haven't read any of Stylo Fantome's books then you are missing out.

“My brain forgot,” he said. “And my heart wasn't sure. But my soul ... how could I ever forget it belongs to you?”

I craved this novel! Just like one cannot simply have one potato chip and feel appeased, one chapter was not enough. I needed more and more. Constantly in awe of what was developing in the story, apprehension became my close friend and a box of tissues my bedmate.

“I wasn't alone. She was always there. Always looking for me. Caring about me. I was never alone.”

I loved how the author switched from past to present, giving us a trail of bread crumbs and personality traits to follow. This played-up Jon's character in a fascinating way. How he saw himself and life then and now. How he viewed intimacy. How he indulged in having fun. I cannot express to you how much I adored Delaney. This woman! She was fearless, long-suffering, brave, compassionate, and kind.

“I don't know her, but she's in my blood and in my bones and in my body. I wake up reaching for her, but can't remember her ever being there. I turn around to look for her, then realize she was never with me. She's my ghost, she haunts me. I don't remember her, but I know her.”

Here's the thing, I knew that even with all of the emotional turmoil in Jon's life, a twist was coming...because it's a Stylo Fantôme book, and that is a staple. Seriously, just after this thought, the bottom fell out. No. Freaking. Way! And then I lost all composure and kept falling and falling and falling


“You were the best time of my whole life. Thank you for that.”

I cannot say this journey was easy, but the end rivaled any high that an adrenaline junkie could experience. Take the ride for yourself.

Tracy Crosswhite for the Win.

I have to say Robert Dugoni feels like a new friend to me. I say that loosely of course because after reading all six of the books that come before this one I feel like I know him or at least his writing style. In this 7th installment to author Robert Dugoni's Tracy Crosswhite series, Tracy & Dan return to their hometown of Cedar Grove, but this time, it's as a family, with baby Daniella in tow. I love that they have a strong family unit that added so much to the story for me. Especially since so much of Tracy's life and career have been shaped by the murder of her younger sister. I can tell you that the books stand up well as a standalone but if you haven't at least read book one I would stop here and go do that. One this book gives a few spoilers about past books and two it will give you a better understanding of the story.

Representing a local merchant, Dan becomes entrenched in a legal battle with the City, while Tracy—who is on maternity leave—tries to adjust to her new role as a stay-at-home mom. But when past meets present, linking a cold murder case to a new investigation into two suspicious deaths, Tracy is pulled back into the fold, causing tension between her and Dan as she struggles to find a balance between motherhood and career.

“A Cold Trail” showcases Tracy's softer side while still offering up a very compelling mystery. As with each book in this series, Robert Dugoni weaves an intricate web of secrets, suspense, and intrigue. But unlike the previous books, “A Cold Trail” has a heavier emphasis on the personal, showcasing Tracy and Dan's relationship and their newly formed family. I like a few readers who find that I forget how much I enjoy this series and Tracy as a character until I get an alert saying a NEW book is available. Thank you to Netgalley and all parties involved for my arc of this book my delay with this review is no reflection on the author and more on the circumstances of life. I was able to finish this in one sitting in one day that is how well written it is.

Solid Writing but not Five Stars

This isn't my favorite of King's work. As always, King delivers solid writing that keeps the reader interested, if not totally on edge, throughout the four novellas. The works are more thought-provoking than horrifying, which is actually a bit more nerve-wracking. Some of the images might tend to creep into the reader's mind hours, days, or weeks after reading the book. Are the ideas really so far-fetched? How many people have ever put an item into a loved one's coffin to be buried with that person? Does this item have a profound link to the dead? And have you ever considered the effect your thoughts have once you release them into the world? What is the cosmos, after all?

Yes, this is a book of deep thoughts and deeper meaning. It kind of creates a bit of an earworm, with ideas going on and on and on... I heard King say he isn't just a horror writer and after reading this I can agree 100% that there is more to this writer. I am a fan through and through and am here for the good the bad and the horrific.

New Author Turned New Friend!

I have friends who take part in all walks of life. Personally, I think that makes them uniquely beautiful. The recommendation to read this book came from one of those beautiful people so thank you to him.  This is my first read of anything by this author and I have to say I am forever sold. I have bought book two already and need to know what will happen between Jacob and Lyssa like yesterday. Warning if Paranormal Romance or BDSM is not your thing please stop here. But if this is totally your Jam enjoy the ride like I did. “ decadent” is the main word I'd use to describe this book. It's meant to be read slowly and savored rather than gobbled up in a frenzy. I occasionally got a bit impatient with the pacing in the beginning, but once I accepted it, the book unfolded beautifully, with a rich, complex story to tell. Like a great red wine that blooms on your tongue.  I loved the dynamic of Jacob Green and Lady Lyssa. Lady Lyssa is a powerful Vampire, Jacob Green is a human who belongs to her, body and soul. Their road is not smooth by any means, and many times I thought Jacob would walk away but I am so glad he did not. As the story unfolds Jacob is put in numerous uncomfortable situations and his mind is battling with his heart I love the devotion he shows by staying by his Mistresses side through it all not only being the best servant but being a devoted soulmate. I will be continuing the series not only because the characters are intriguing but because this author has built a world that I want to be a part of.

Final Ride in an Awesome Rollercoaster
I love Stylo's manner of story telling and always feel like I have watched a movie rather than read a book when I finish. Sometimes with third person point of view books it can feel like the book is talking at you rather than to you but Stylo manages to tell the story in a way that the point of view is not a factor. I have read the majority of her books and have enjoyed every minute spent she is an absolute wordsmith. If you haven't read book one I would suggest starting there. Even though the books can be read as stand-alone novels.  I love this series; with each book it just gets better and I really don't want it to end. We've met Tori in the previous books yet we never really got to know her so I was glad to read her story and to get to better understand her character. Tori is the steadfast friend of everyone that has seen them all through their ups and downs but now she is left on the outskirts of coupledom. She deserves her own happily ever after, however her choice of partners makes that seem unlikely. She is a feisty firecracker who I could identify with.Landon is a douche and a proud one at that, he is the sofa dwelling twin of Liam, Tori's boss who she has an unrequited crush on.  Landon should however come with a warning label. While he is a doctor and should be any woman's dream, he lost the right to practice medicine in the USA due to his poor choices. When I first started reading Neighborhood Watch I wished He would stay away from Tori as I felt like she deserved better. You will go through a love hate relationship with Landon I promise I know I did.  When Tori's plan to make a play for Liam backfire she finds herself in Landons sights. And when he makes a proposal for them both to get away from their issues with a holiday in Bali on him Tori throws caution to wind. However, London's issues are too big to just run away from and soon escalate causing them both big problems and Tori soon realizes nothing is ever really free and the price might be their freedom.

This is a much darker story than the rest of the series and takes us on an emotional rollercoaster like no other. You will want to shake these two and the next minute hug them. Tori and Landon shouldn't work but their hidden vulnerabilities make them want to work and you will be fighting along with them. This is the couple that shouldn't work yet works so beautifully.  While I enjoyed the entire series this has to be my favorite because it's dark, raw, and something you can really sink your teeth in. While I am sad that this is the last ride for these characters. I am excited to see what is next for Stylo Fantome.

[b:The Suspect 39699779 The Suspect (Kate Waters, #3) Fiona Barton https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1541352170l/39699779.SY75.jpg 61335353] Gap Year from HellThis is my third book by this author and I have to say as much as I enjoy a good thriller, I found this one to be a bit predictable really good read but it didn't have me guessing like I would have liked. The story unfolds when two eighteen-year-old girls go missing in Thailand, their families are thrust into the international spotlight: desperate, bereft, and frantic with worry. What were the girls up to before they disappeared? Are they safe what really happened? Journalist Kate Waters always does everything she can to be first to the story, first with the exclusive, first to discover the truth—and this time is no exception. But she can't help but think of her own son, whom she hasn't seen in two years, since he left home to go travelling. As the case of the missing girls unfolds, they will all find that even this far away, danger can lie closer to home than you might think I have enjoyed other books by this author, including the recurring appearance of Kate Waters, the journalist. She feels like an old friend, and her first-person narrative personalizes her perspective even more. But how does the addition of Kate's own son, Jake, add to the intensity of the story? I liked the short chapters and the switching between parents, detectives, and journalists...giving us an emotional layer we might otherwise lose in the mix.While the detectives, parents, and journalists are revealing their stories, we see flash backs of the girls in Thailand, and with each page, we see that danger has been lurking from the beginning. Will I continue to read books by this author yes? I do however hope that the next one leaves more to the imagination.

[b:The Institute 43798285 The Institute Stephen King https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1549241208l/43798285.SY75.jpg 68147322] Still One of My GreatsI have to tell you I am the biggest Stephen King fan but if you read my reviews regularly you know that right. King writes so well about the innocence of kids. He also writes at his best when the subject is pure evil. Think about what “IT” is all about. When you take pure evil and innocent kids and you slap them together and you have the magic of The Institute. The book starts in a simple little town where a cop passing through takes a job as a night knocker. There's a kid, a really smart kid, who's 12 years old and getting ready to attend MIT because he's, you know, special. That's the setting. From there it gets chilling. Even without ghosts, or vampires or outer space boogie men.The child, Luke, is taken in the middle of the night. His folks are murdered. He wakes up at The Institute in Maine in a room that's just like his - almost. There are other kids there and he gets the skinny from a young girl in the hallway, seemingly smoking a cigarette. She tells him that they “do stuff” to the kids, injections-flickering lights-dunking, but at least they're in the Front Half. You don't want to go to the Back Half. No, that's like the roach motel. Kids go in and don't ever come out.To say this is a character study of the people throughout history who have told themselves that the horrible, hideous, atrocious things they do are for a “higher good”. This book is King at his best. It's tense and I found myself ill at ease throughout the 500 plus pages. But it's good. A good story, good writing, and yeah, sure, it's relevant in the America of today and about our choices. This is going to be one of those books that I rotate through at least once a year. Five stars all the way.

[b:What We Do in the Night 50045334 What We Do in the Night (Day to Night, #1) Stylo Fantome https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1560640490l/50045334.SX50_SY75.jpg 69828879]Pretty Woman 2020 StyleI always go back to books that are my happy place when I don't know what to read. Stylo Fantome you are so my happy place. I loved this book so much that I don't really have words for it. Valentine O'Dell was your definition of hard-working beautiful girl that does anything she can to make ends meet for her and her grandma. Ari Sharapov is your typical Alpha Male and I am here for it! He is wealthy, cold and determined. He works at a job that he doesn't particularly like to be worthy of taking over his father's law firm - a father he doesn't especially like either. When he meets Valentine, something clicks and he knows he's found the one to fit his needs. However, as time goes on, what appeared cut and dried suddenly begins to blur, and he questions what he's willing to give up to have her. This is one of those books that gets you right in the feels. I was taken with St Valentines personality her family dynamic and her personality that shines in the night. Ari was the Asshat you couldn't hate but you wanted to and in true fashion we are left with our hearts on the floor needing more. I see that people have compared this to the Kane Trilogy and the only thing that would make this like that is if there was another book, Otherwise I think that this book or duet of books has it's own kind of dark sexy magic. Now if you haven't read any of the Kane books please do yourself a favor and read those books. I loved how they were the Ying and Yang of each other's personality. Valentine is sugar and spice at the club and then this down to earth girl with Ari while Ari is this take charge personality but yet doesn't always come across as being comfortable in his own life. I loved this it was one part dark and one part sweet and it left you needing to read book two instantly.

[b:The Brilliant Death 34198648 The Brilliant Death (The Brilliant Death, #1) Amy Rose Capetta https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1525971154l/34198648.SY75.jpg 55239196]Gender BenderThe story was interesting, the characters were engaging, and the writing was lovely. It is difficult to describe, but there is a sort of poetic feel to the author's prose that is savory and warm. The social themes of this story were respectfully handled and treated with kindness, love, and understanding. There is a lot going on in this book - murder, intrigue, plotting, magic, love, and betrayal. All of these can add up to a drab boring cliched tropey story, but here they all worked in sync. Teodora is a strega, she has magic - but she doesn't know much about it. She knows she can transform people into objects, but doesn't know how it works or how to do anything else. She meets a mysterious stranger, Cielo, who can change their gender at will, and longs to know more. When it becomes necessary for her to become a man - not just dress like one, but BE one - she asks Cielo to teach her. Learning how to use her magic is one of the integral plot points, because as she continues on her journey, she is constantly having to adjust how she uses it. The story builds well and the characters are so beautifully descriptive that it makes it a joy to read because you as the reader want to know how the story will unfold. The magic that is central to this book is a very special kind of magic, it's shape-shifting, and that's important to the most wonderful, surprising, and probably groundbreaking part of this novel: Teo (and Cielo) learns to change from a girl to a boy, and back (as a strega), and the conversation about how she/he feels in that body at different times. The power to change the body, and how Teo learns to harness magic is a fascinating part of this book, and Capetta approaches it with a delicateness, and at the same time, boldness, which makes the ‘gender-bending' so unique and so wonderful to read. I don't want to give away too much more of the story but I will say being someone who doesn't often read fantasy this one impressed me and I will be reading book two just to see how beautifully the story continues. That being said this is a sold four stars for me and that is high praise considering this is a new author for me.

[b:A Curse So Dark and Lonely 43204703 A Curse So Dark and Lonely (Cursebreakers, #1) Brigid Kemmerer https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1574179523l/43204703.SY75.jpg 50519947]Rereading a Favoriteupdated from my 2020 review“A Curse So Dark and Lonely” by Brigid Kemmerer is a book that captured my heart in 2020, and three years later, it still holds a special place among my favorites. There's something magical about reading a book that feels like it was written just for you, and this story did exactly that.In the past couple of years, life has been treating me well, and this newfound happiness has amplified my enjoyment of reading. “A Curse So Dark and Lonely” is a series that I can't help but share with everyone because it left an indelible mark on my literary journey. It was my introduction to Brigid Kemmerer's work, and since that first read, I've eagerly devoured the entire series.What makes this book truly exceptional is the way it seamlessly melds fantasy and the modern world. The cursed Prince Rhen, who transforms into a beast every winter, is a character who has spent centuries seeking true love to break his curse. The enchantress Lilith grants him one last chance to find love, making this season his final opportunity. Enter Harper, my absolute favorite character in the fantasy genre.Harper hails from our contemporary world and has faced considerable hardships, including her mother's battle with cancer and her absent father. What's remarkable about Harper is her resilience in the face of adversity, including her diagnosis of Cerebral Palsy. She refuses to be defined by her condition and, in order to make ends meet, her brother Jake works for some rather unsavory individuals to settle their father's debts. It's during one of these risky moments that Harper unwittingly crosses over into the fantasy realm, snatched away by Grey.And so begins a timeless tale of transformation and growth. Harper's initial displeasure at finding herself in this unfamiliar world doesn't sit well with Rhen, who quickly realizes she isn't the typical damsel he expected. Their interactions are complicated, to say the least. However, as expected, over time, they both undergo significant changes. Harper's escape attempts inadvertently lead to her helping others, and this marks the beginning of a remarkable journey.Without revealing too much of the plot, I must say that Rhen and Harper are the most captivating Beast and Belle duo. The story is brimming with so many elements that you could easily lose yourself in it for an entire day. What struck me most about Harper is that she isn't the archetypal heroine. It's rare to encounter a fantasy heroine with medical issues, and as someone with Cerebral Palsy myself, I found her character to be authentic and relatable. The author's research shines through in Harper's struggles, making her a more well-rounded and inspiring character.I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude to Brigid Kemmerer for delivering the fantasy genre in a way that left me insatiable for more. I eagerly anticipate diving into the rest of the series as soon as life allows. If you're seeking an enchanting journey of love, adventure, and self-discovery, then “A Curse So Dark and Lonely” is the perfect choice. Click the link below and embark on this extraordinary adventure yourself. You won't be disappointed.

[b:Hideaway 29082755 Hideaway (Devil's Night, #2) Penelope Douglas https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1495731109l/29082755.SX50.jpg 49314977]Hardcore Horsemen Fan Oh my, what a delicious ride Hideaway is. An epic dark romance, filled with surprises and suspense. This much anticipated next chapter to the consuming Devil's Night series was so worth the wait. Diving more into Kai's world, and the mystery of Banks, will have you up till late hours of the night, devouring this story, and for me, loving these books and this group of characters even more. Kai Mori never thought the threats from the past were buried, not with Damon still out there. He fears more than the others, that he will be back and that the Horseman and their closest friends need to watch out and be prepared for the darkness that is coming their way. If you have not read book one stop here and go read Corrupt Right NOW! When Kai tries to make a deal with the devil himself, Damon's father Gabriel, he never expected to run into Banks, the girl he could not get out of his mind from six years ago. Banks has also watched Kai from a far for years now, always wanting what she knew she could never have with him. Banks finds herself confused, pulled in two different directions. Her loyalty to Damon, which is all she knows. Finding him and keeping him safe is what she needs to do. But then there is Kai, who she tries to keep at a distant, and not give into temptation whenever he is near. He could ruin everything she is been working for. Kai is a bit of a mystery, a good guy, who does not see that about himself. Kai feels he must hide a lot of who he is, the darker parts, his needs and thoughts, things to dark, he feels, for some to handle if they saw the real him. Banks seems to be his beautiful compliment in a partner there is enough of dark and light to make a beautiful Ying-Yang.I enjoyed the first book and this follow-up kept me on my toes. Getting to know Kai and be introduced to Banks was a great addition to the storyline. Their history was bittersweet, and their eventual reunion and getting to finish what they started, was super-HOT!! Penelope Douglas's writing is addicting. Hideaway was intense, a perfect blend of scary, sexy, and it left me craving so much more in this wild world of the Horsemen. I am slowly becoming a Penelope Douglas super fan and I love every minute of it. I loved being able to get almost a behind the curtain look at Damon and Banks and their dynamic and I loved how the story progresses beautifully to a point making the reader beg for book three.

[b:Love Me, Love Me Not 39838225 Love Me, Love Me Not Katherine Debona https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1523643526l/39838225.SY75.jpg 61600530] Friend or “Frenemy”?This was one of those books I wish I had gotten around to reading much sooner. If you know me then you know I love a good thriller and this one is different and worth the time. Jane and Elle are best friends who both want the best for each other. Now all grown up, their relationship remains one of the most important parts of their lives. But when Elle takes the man that Jane feels is her soulmate, this shatters their relationship in ways that can never be repaired. But as always, Elle manages to convince Jane to forgive them and Jane becomes even more deeply entangled in Elle's life in a shocking way. But Elle, who has always had an easy life, has no idea how Jane really feels and Jane has plans to take back what is hers. This book made me ask myself how many times throughout my life have I loved a BFF, but could feel the uneasy vibe of envy trying to claw it's way out or vice versa did my friends feel that way with me? This book makes you very introspective about life and friendship but it's one of those books that you can't put down or really explain to much about in a review without giving too much away. So, I can say two things if you love thrillers and you have time on your hands to give this a try it is definitely worth the time and the energy.

[b:Verity 41957126 Verity Colleen Hoover https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1537519686l/41957126.SY75.jpg 64581304]Twisty from Chapter One to the LastI am having a very hard time with where to even begin with this review. Firstly, I want to say that it has nothing to do with the fact that this book isn't good because it was an amazing read from start to finish. I finished the entire book in about two days. If you know anything about Colleen Hoover then you know she loves to draw you in with a wonderful if not tear-filled romance that keeps you on the edge of your seat. While this was definitely a nail biter there was nothing romantic about it. This is dark and gritty and amazing all on its own. I had no clue what this book was about when I started it. I rarely read a book's synopsis, but I never read them for Hoover's books. Judging by the cover, I assumed it was going to be a darker story, I just didn't have a clue of what I was getting into. The definition of verity is a true principle or belief, especially one of fundamental importance. Colleen Hoover takes this word, uses it as the name for one of her characters, and ties up any preconceived notions you might have about “true principles or beliefs” into a thousand knots. You do not know, as one-character asks, which truth is manipulated.Verity comes down to this line: “I can't explain the mind of a writer.” There are two writers in this book; in fact, there are two narrators. Which one tells the truth? Which one adheres to the “fundamental importance” of truth? I feel as though if I give you too much of the plot then you won't pick it up and read it yourself and that would just be wrong. I will say that the dynamic of all the parties involved is masterfully woven into a quick read. What I didn't expect is the end. You will never see it coming. I appreciate a book that makes me need to turn on all my lights just to finish it. I need someone else to read this book so I can have someone to discuss this with. So, go pick it up and tell me how much you loved it or hated.

[b:Fishnet 43822609 Fishnet Kirstin Innes https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1565526331l/43822609.SY75.jpg 42955079]Dark and GrittyI was given an arc of this book on NetGalley a while back and I am not sure what happen and I never got around to downloading it. So when it came out on my Goodreads I figured it was a sign that maybe I had to read it. I am so glad I did this was such an interesting yet dark read. I don't know what I expected but this was really good. It's been six years since Fiona Leonard's younger sister Rona arrived at her flat with her new baby daughter and then left leaving her child behind. No-one has seen or heard from her since and Fiona has been left bringing up her niece on her own as if she is her own child. When the company she works for is involved in the demolition of an area of Edinburgh where prostitutes work from, they start to kick up a fuss and protest outside her work. Having just discovered that her sister was working as a prostitute before she went missing, Fiona sets out on a course to befriend the girls and hopefully locate her sister.Fishnet is an eye-opening book set in the world of prostitution surrounded by a story of love and devotion of one woman's determination to find her little sister. The book is split into six sections as well as the opening and ending chapters labelled ‘Past' and ‘Future'. The main section is called ‘Present'. What I found intriguing was that the first chapter is written in second person which is something that is very unique. I enjoyed the structure of each section. Whether it be City or Village or Back and Forth. I loved how it made you pay attention and gave light to a subject that is not often written about or at least written about well. Between the regular sections and chapters, you also get blog posts and more of an insight into the life of a working girl and their clients. I know that this is not an easy subject for some and that some of the scenes in this book is graphic but I enjoyed the way it was written and it not feeling like the topic was just brushed over. Fiona is a broken girl. She is playing mommy to a little girl and not getting any help from her parents who don't want to talk about there daughter. This was a much easier read then I expected and the research that is done shows because it was beautifully written.

[b:The Mist|813214|The Mist|Stephen King|https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1331317781l/813214.SY75.jpg|59181]

Book Over Movie Yet Again

I find myself not sure what to say about this read. I like many readers on Amazon and Goodreads have watched the show and the movie and find that neither one pairs well with what I just finished. I love Stephen King so much I actually reread the book IT once a year around Halloween time. When you pick up this book, I know you are going to want to find out what is beyond The Mist and you get the spooky creepy factor well not sure if many will like that there is no clear description of the monster. What you do get which I love is how Mr. King reveals the monsters INSIDE the store as well as outside, and the psychology of fear and anger and the deadly combination of the two. The way the Mob mentality is depicted in this novella is very well done. The way King brings us right to the for front of fear and then piles on the death is pure perfection. Very well done. If you haven't read this it is worth the couple hours it will take you to finish it.

[b:Right Behind You 30076608 Right Behind You (Quincy & Rainie, #7) Lisa Gardner https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1466466331l/30076608.SY75.jpg 50117316]Past Meets PresentOkay so I have a confession it is 2am and I just finished this after reading The Mist. I bought this for book for someone for Christmas and after doing a deep clean of my shelves on Scribd. So I thought oh cool I can read this too, but I didn't realize that this was book seven until after I finished it. Needless to say, I will be going back to read book 1-6. The story is a good one and starts off with a bang. Eight years ago, Sharlah May Nash's older brother beat their drunken father to death with a baseball bat in order to save both of their lives. Now thirteen years old, Sharlah has finally moved on. About to be adopted by retired FBI profiler Pierce Quincy and his partner, Rainie Conner, Sharlah loves one thing best about her new family: They are all experts on monsters.Then the call comes in. A double murder at a local gas station, followed by reports of an armed suspect shooting his way through the wilds of Oregon. As Quincy and Rainie race to assist, they are forced to confront mounting evidence: The shooter may very well be Sharlah's older brother, Telly Ray Nash, and it appears his killing spree has only just begun.As the clock winds down on a massive hunt for Telly, Quincy and Rainie must answer two critical questions: Why after eight years has this young man started killing again? And what does this mean for Sharlah? Once upon a time, Sharlah's big brother saved her life. Now, she has two questions of her own: Is her brother a hero or a killer? And how much will it cost her new family before they learn the final, shattering truth? Because as Sharlah knows all too well, the biggest danger is the one standing right behind you.The way that Ms. Gardener writes with the multiple narrator's is stunning makes you feel like you are in the story. The characters felt real, with Quincy, a former FBI profiler, front and center in the search, and his wife Rainey, who was also involved, worked to keep Sharlah balanced as emotions ran high. Sheriff Shelly Atkins showed us that “small town sheriff” did not define her: she had skills, and her ability to stay calm in the face of the intense actions made her a great part of the team. The story kept me engaged throughout, although the numerous processes involved in tracking the killer became tedious after a while. But then I perked up as we began to realize that many things did not add up, and that now there were more questions than answers. As the clues led us to the final reveal, I was on the edge of my seat. Definitely 5 stars for me. The only thing I wish is that I had realized this was book 7 before I had started.

[b:Regretting You 44582454 Regretting You Colleen Hoover https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1559332442l/44582454.SY75.jpg 69199213]All the Feels and So Much More Insomnia at its best. I love when these two things happen together one, I cannot sleep and two one of my favorite authors has a new book. I had about 65% of this read by 4am on January 2, 2020 it is that breath taking. I do have a request if you are planning to read this and that is do not read the blurb at all. I do not want you to know a single thing before you open this book. I am not even sure how much the blurb gives away because I still have not read it. I just want you to dive headfirst into Regretting You exactly the way I did and let it swallow you up in the absorbing way only Colleen Hoover seems to be able to. I was so wrapped in it that I went to sleep thinking about this book, I woke up thinking about this book and now I am just shook by the experience. This is one of those epic books that will stay with you for days and it will be worth it. Like I have already said, I do not want to spoil the storyline itself. The way it comes together and unfolds, the shocking twists and turns in the story are simply BRILLIANT and if you know anything at all about it ahead of time, it might not be the punch in the gut the way it should be. I know you are thinking why would I be so obsessed you just have to find out for yourself. The way it is written though with the dual perspectives is genius. I will tell you that this is a story as much about love as it is about family. It is a wholly relatable story about the mother and daughter dynamic and it hit home for me HARD as a daughter. It really does illuminate the growing pains of parenting, the way so much can change while the need to protect and shelter never will. It was a kick right to the gut feeling Clara's resentment and anger toward her mother, such completely authentic reactions yet so brutally heartbreaking to witness. Regretting you is heartbreaking and beautiful at the same time. It will show you the resilience of the bond of mother and daughter and it will give you hope that people can make the best of even the worst of circumstances.