Blagica Jankuloska
Pamela's Book: Expecting More
This book serves as a complementary piece to the Netflix movie, presenting Pamela's story in her own words. Surprisingly concise, it is evident that it is not ghostwritten, as it embraces a non-linear narrative. While it doesn't delve extensively into her relationships, apart from Tommy Lee, Pamela's emphasis on not wanting to be defined by the men in her life is a crucial aspect of her story. Interestingly, she discusses Julian Assange more than her husbands.
It may not be considered the most captivating read in the world, given its simplicity and occasionally uneven pacing with interspersed poetry. However, the book does exude a sense of authenticity and honesty.
Nevertheless, don't expect to find detailed accounts of Kid Rock, Scott Baio, or steamy encounters at the Playboy Mansion. Pamela is not their biographer, and that's actually quite cool. It's understandable that people may feel bored since they anticipate sensational stories about others, but Pamela isn't obligated to provide that. We should respect her choices regarding what she chooses to share.
So, while I didn't adore this book because I desired more, I came to realize that unfortunately, everyone simply expects more from her.
Refreshing
What a breath of fresh air this charming romance novel turned out to be! I adored the unique and unexpected qualities of the characters—a podcaster who happens to be a former tuba player, and a NASA employee—truly a pairing like no other!
Margo and Declan carried the baggage of being high school rivals, or so Margo believed. When their paths cross again at their best friends' wedding, they are given a golden opportunity to reconnect. However, Margo has always been wary of forming attachments, let alone rekindling old ones. With a two-week paid vacation in her hands, Margo embarks on a journey of self-discovery, with Declan's support, and quite possibly discovers much more than she anticipated.
I adored every single aspect of this book. Margo, Declan, and even Jo were wonderfully fleshed out characters that I truly enjoyed getting to know. And who can resist a well-crafted romance?
I extend my heartfelt gratitude to St. Martin's Griffin, Kristyn Miller, and NetGalley for providing me with the opportunity to read this advanced reader copy. This is undoubtedly a book I will treasure! In fact, I've already added Given Our History, slated for release in 2024, to my must-read list. It seems I have found a new go-to for my romance reads.
Rebecca de Winter's “Best Friends” is an electrifying psychological thriller that plumbs the depths of friendship, love, and the most enigmatic aspects of human behavior. Through the diverging paths of Alice and Evie, once inseparable companions who have now drifted apart, the novel illuminates the intricacies of their relationship.
Alice appears to possess the ideal existence—an idyllic suburban life, an exquisite home, a dashing husband, and well-mannered children. Conversely, Evie grapples with the challenges in her marriage and endures a sense of isolation in the bustling city of Boston. When fate unexpectedly reunites the two women after a prolonged silence, Evie finds herself unable to resist comparing her own life to Alice's seemingly flawless one.
Yet, beneath the surface, Evie is privy to a secret that casts doubt on Alice's entitlement to her perfect life. She guards a profound knowledge, aware of buried truths, and entertains the notion of exacting revenge upon her former best friend. As the narrative unfurls, readers embark on a heart-pounding odyssey brimming with unexpected twists and turns. The protagonist grapples with the complexity of her emotions and her relentless yearning for retribution.
“Best Friends” immerses readers in a breathless and captivating tale, leaving them teetering on the edge of their seats. It skillfully delves into the dynamics of friendship, the weight of concealed secrets, and the repercussions of past choices—guaranteed to ensnare enthusiasts of psychological thrillers. Brace yourself to be engulfed in a saga replete with intrigue, betrayal, and the shadowy recesses of human nature as the gripping narrative unfolds its thrilling embrace.
Twisty Murder Mystery Unveiled
Meet Daisy Darker, the protagonist and narrator of this extraordinary tale, who unveils her poignant truth from the very first line, confessing to be “born with a broken heart.” With this intriguing opening, the book embarks on a journey into the realms of the unusual, captivating readers with each progressive chapter.
The Darker family, without a doubt, epitomizes dysfunction. Every Halloween, Daisy, her two sisters, and their divorced parents gather at Sea Glass—an isolated mansion, inaccessible during high tides—to celebrate their grandmother's birthday. This year, as “Nana” turns eighty, she chooses to reveal her will. However, the joyous occasion takes a sinister turn when Nana is discovered murdered, a cryptic poem etched in chalk nearby. As the tide engulfs Sea Glass, trapping its inhabitants within, the Darker family finds themselves cut off from the mainland.
Isolated and running out of time, the surviving family members bear witness to a series of murders, each occurring at the stroke of an hour, accompanied by a new version of the chilling chalk poem. The use of these poems becomes one of the most captivating elements of the book, sending shivers down the readers' spines.
This is a tale of sheer peculiarity, yet utterly mesmerizing. The characters, including an unexpected arrival by boat—an old friend—harbor deep-seated animosity towards one another and carry hidden secrets, making for an enticing mix. Reminiscent of Agatha Christie's “And Then There Were None,” we are treated to a cascade of perplexing murders, with tension and suspicion escalating among the surviving family members after each death. The narrative gracefully shifts between the present and the past, with eerie clues left in the form of VHS tapes, prompting glimpses into historical events.
Typically, adept at unraveling the identity of the killer, I found myself caught off guard by the dizzying twists and turns that unfolded in the final pages of this novel. Upon reaching the end, I felt compelled to reevaluate everything I had read, revisiting earlier passages to fully appreciate the cunning intricacies of the plot.
Happy Publication Day!
Stunning
Oh, my goodness! What an incredibly fast-paced and thrilling opening! “Fear The Silence” by Robert Bryndza is a masterfully crafted book that hooks you right from the first page. The level of research and attention to detail is outstanding, making me feel completely immersed in the story and confident in the author's hands. From the moment I picked it up, I was electrified, unable to put it down until the very end.
The story revolves around Maggie Kendall, a leading trauma surgeon, and her husband Will, who has transitioned from a forensic pathologist to a property developer. They seem to be a professional couple living an idyllic life in their terraced house in Bermondsey. However, the tranquility is shattered when Maggie arrives at work and is confronted with a young man suffering from a gunshot wound and stabbing. As if that isn't distressing enough, another patient is brought in with a gunshot wound to the head—none other than her own husband. Devastated by the police's claim that it was suicide, Maggie refuses to believe it for a second.
As Maggie delves deeper into the mystery, things become increasingly chilling when she arrives at Tisina. She finds herself faced with life-threatening accidents and uncanny coincidences, making it clear that she is being followed or manipulated by an unknown force. The pace remains relentless, matched by the menacing atmosphere that pervades the house and the surrounding island. According to Will's letter, a key holds the answers to her future. However, when a friend arrives on a blue catamaran, a glimmer of hope emerges. Could this person be her savior? As far as I was concerned, she needed to escape from that island as quickly as possible.
With nowhere to turn and desperate for answers, Maggie finds herself caught in the midst of the most devastating storm of her life. The book expertly captures the creeping suspense of a locked-room mystery, where the house itself becomes a character amidst the swirling mists and storms. Many characters initially appear menacing but may later reveal unexpected benevolence, keeping readers on their toes. The ending is incredibly satisfying, flawlessly tying up all the loose ends. Even after finishing the book, I found myself continually contemplating the characters and the intricacies of the plot.
The breakneck speed of the narrative leaves no time to catch your breath, resulting in a thrilling and immersive reading experience. I was completely absorbed, devouring the book in a single afternoon.
I extend my heartfelt thanks to Raven Street Publishing, Robert Bryndza, and Netgalley for granting me the privilege of reading this ARC. Now, I eagerly await “Lethal Vengeance,” where I can once again make friends with Erika Foster. In anticipation, I may even reread book 7 to fully immerse myself in the world of these captivating characters.
I had high hopes for this book, genuinely I did. Being an avid reader this year, I wanted to join the chorus of praise surrounding it, but unfortunately, I can't. I approached the book with an open mind, without any strong preconceptions about Harry and his family drama. My intention was to delve into the real story behind the numerous magazine covers and headlines that I had ignored. It was like embarking on a journey, anticipating a delightful sip of “English Tea.”
However, right from the first chapter, the writing put me off. The author painted a picture of a season caught between winter and spring, where bare trees, soft air, gray skies, and blooming tulips created a beautiful yet melancholic atmosphere. It was an intriguing mix of positives and negatives.
In his own words, Harry portrayed himself as remarkably brave, a quality that typically merits acknowledgment from others. He emphasized his readiness to take action while others hesitated, claiming that he never required a second request to complete a task. It was a bold self-assessment. He even hinted at the possibility of donating organs to his brother if the need arose, a suggestion that might concern his mother. He complained about his brother having a larger room in the castle, better furniture, and how Meghan had to purchase a couch on her credit card from IKEA. These instances raised doubts about his claims of financial disadvantage. The extensive and repetitive pages dedicated to his bravery and exceptional helicopter flying skills felt self-indulgent, as if he had a separate book in mind solely for that topic. Undeniably, this section of the book became tiresome. Consequently, my opinion of Harry as a person did not become favorable after reading this book. Meghan, on the other hand, came across as lovely, but unfortunately, the book did not provide much insight into her character. Ultimately, Harry appeared to be a troubled individual, and I genuinely hope he finds peace in California.
Another Enjoyable Thriller
I thoroughly relished “The Family Upstairs” and bestowed upon it a 5-star review. Considering its tremendous success both artistically and commercially, it was inevitable that there would be a temptation to create a sequel at some point. However, history has demonstrated that releasing a sequel to a novel originally intended as a standalone isn't always a prudent decision. With this in mind, I approached “The Family Remains” hoping for the best but bracing myself for the worst. The outcome, however, fell somewhere in between.
Firstly, let's address whether “The Family Remains” can be enjoyed by someone who isn't already acquainted with the first book. Lisa Jewell does exhibit some consideration for her readers by offering brief background information on key characters at the beginning of the book. Additionally, she utilizes one of the early chapters, narrated from Henry's perspective, to provide background details from the first book. Nevertheless, I believe this serves better as a refresher for those who have actually read the initial installment rather than fully acquainting new readers with the story.
The novel itself delivers much of what you would anticipate from Lisa Jewell: fluent and engaging writing that captivates readers with her trademark page-turning style. The character development is, as always, commendable, with well-crafted protagonists, although not always likable. The pace remains steady throughout, and the plot has been carefully constructed, avoiding glaring plot holes or stretching believability too far beyond the bounds of dramatic fiction. However, despite these strengths, “The Family Remains” lacks the same level of originality, intrigue, and menace found in “The Family Upstairs,” resulting in a less impactful experience compared to its predecessor.
If you enjoyed “The Family Upstairs,” it's likely that you will also derive enjoyment from this sequel, albeit perhaps not to the same extent. Conversely, if you didn't appreciate the first book, it's highly unlikely that you'll find much enjoyment in this one either. If you haven't read “The Family Upstairs” yet, I recommend doing so before delving into “The Family Remains” to ensure maximum satisfaction from the latter.
Unique
Angeline's presence will seep into your mind and soul as you turn the pages of this captivating novel. It starts with a slow burn but quickly gains momentum, keeping you engrossed until the powerful ending engulfs you and then gently retreats. The characters are meticulously crafted, and their backgrounds are brilliantly constructed, captivating your attention, and refusing to let go.
The author's vivid details and descriptions transport you to a small island in the Pacific Northwest, where the air carries a tangy salt scent and the community relies on one another for everything.
Sister Angeline has spent the past seven years at the cloistered convent of the Daughters of Mercy in Chicago. However, when the Archdiocese of Chicago faces financial difficulties, the nuns are forced to find new places to go. Angeline is sent to the Light of the Sea convent on a tiny island, a stark contrast to the bustling noise of Chicago and the life she knew. The nuns on the island have a more laid-back approach, championing marches for good and conducting their own Sunday services. As Angeline slowly adapts to her new surroundings, she discovers a deep love for these remarkable women and the land that embraces them. This newfound connection grounds her and allows her to confront the haunting memories of losing her family at the age of sixteen, a burden that has weighed heavily on her every single day for the past seven years. Meanwhile, a storm begins to churn the waters around the island, culminating in a breathtaking conclusion that will leave tears welling in your eyes as miracles unfold before your very eyes.
This book is a truly unique reading experience, unlike anything I have encountered before. It possesses a power, evocativeness, and mastery of writing that gradually draws you in, compelling you to empathize with and alleviate the pain of every character you encounter. I extend my gratitude to NetGalley for providing me with a copy of this extraordinary book.
Friends Forever
This book is a must-read for avid thriller fans who enjoy being swept away in a fast-paced story. Although I'm a bit late to the reviewing party, I thoroughly enjoyed it and would highly recommend it to fans of Lisa Jewel's work.
The story starts with a shocking event that sets the tone for the rest of the novel. Clare, who uses an alias, enrolls in a university in Edinburgh hoping to make new friends and start afresh. However, it's not as easy as she thought, and the people who want to befriend her are not the type she's interested in. That is, until she meets Tabitha, a charismatic girl, and her wealthy, carefree group of friends. They invite Clare to join their clique, but she soon realizes their motives are not entirely pure and are linked to her past.
As the story progresses, the author, Heather Darwent, skillfully keeps readers guessing with every revelation and event. Although Clare is initially quiet and seems to blend into her new group of friends, she's far from passive and has no idea what plans they're making behind her back. Every few pages present a new event that throws the previous ones into question, and while there is foreshadowing throughout the book, it's difficult to predict how the story will end. Darwent's writing is subtle, dropping hints and creating a cast of complex, unlikely-but-believable characters.
Overall, this book is a wild ride that's worth reading, even if it doesn't hold up under close scrutiny. I'm a new fan of Darwent's writing and would like to thank NetGalley and all those involved in granting me an advanced copy of this book.
If you're a fan of Robert Byndza's Erika Foster series, then you'll surely love Kate Marshall as well. Even if you haven't read either series yet, but enjoy a well-written detective story set in picturesque surroundings, this book is sure to delight you.
Kate used to be a police detective but is now running a holiday business and private detective agency with her former co-worker and friend, Tristan. Kate is a recovering alcoholic who has had a complicated past, including having a child with a serial killer. Despite her difficult history, she is a fascinating character that readers can't help but root for and be intrigued by.
Kate and Tristan are gradually building their business and earning a positive reputation. One day, they are approached by a grandmother who seeks their help in finding her missing grandson, who vanished years ago during a family camping trip. Kate and Tristan are tasked with following clues and a trail that had long gone cold.
As they investigate, Tristan is surprised to discover that someone he knows is connected to the case, and Kate is overcoming a health scare that has shaken her confidence. While searching for answers about the missing boy, Kate uncovers ties to another murder. Is the murder of someone assigned to protect children linked to her missing child? Was there something sinister going on within the family, and will the secret of the missing boy remain hidden?
As Kate and Tristan follow a twisting trail of clues, they realize that their investigation will have a significant impact on many lives. Although it becomes apparent early on what has happened, reaching the final revelation is still a satisfying experience, and the realistic outcome has consequences that aren't always happy.
What sets this book apart is its well-crafted characters. Bryndza is not afraid to show how vulnerable Kate is, and her sobriety is an ongoing process rather than a quick fix. The conflict between Tristan and his sister reflects the dynamics of real families.
Thank you to NetGalley and all involved in the decision of my receiving an advanced copy of this book. I am a huge fan and will read any book by this author arc or not hands down 5 stars every time.
Overall, this is an excellent detective procedural for readers who enjoy the genre. While it's not necessary to read the previous books in the series, doing so will enhance your understanding of the characters and their journey. Fans of Erika Foster and Kate Marshall will undoubtedly be excited about the next installment.
Thank you to NetGalley and all involved in the decision of my receiving an advanced copy of this book. I am a huge fan and will read any book by this author arc or not hands down 5 stars every time
Although I had previously read the first book in this series, I opted to start with the third installment and now plan to go back and read the second as well. The author skillfully delves into the thoughts of both major and minor characters, making even the most fleeting appearances feel fully developed. However, the sheer number of characters can make it overwhelming to keep track of all the information presented.
Although the series is named after Detective Nolan, she shares the lead role with Sam, a wounded veteran whom Margaret befriended in a previous book. The portrayal of Hollywood elites is scathing, depicting them as snobbish, cunning, and treacherous, while some can be endearing, and others deadly. The working-class law enforcement types, especially Margaret's partner Detective Crawford, are much easier to relate to.
The story begins with a murder and quickly escalates as more bodies pile up. The detectives investigate, uncovering a tangled web of suspects that grows more complex with each revelation. While the initial character building can make the beginning feel slow, once Margaret begins to solve the crime, the story becomes engaging. Keeping track of all the suspects may require taking notes.
This book is the third in a series featuring Detective Margaret Nolan of the Los Angeles Police Department. The opening chapter is gripping, featuring murder, investigation, and personal lives of the characters. While the secondary characters are well-developed, readers may find it easier to follow if they have read the previous books. The intricate plot includes several subplots that build momentum toward a somewhat predictable conclusion.
The author skillfully balances the shocking and emotional aspects of the story with the personal lives of the characters, providing a behind-the-scenes look at the lives of actors, police officers, talent agents, veterans, and musicians. Themes include death, murder, friendship, family, privilege, and much more.
Overall, this complex police procedural features compelling characters and subplots that keep the pages turning. Although it can be read as a standalone novel, I recommend reading the series in order for a better understanding of the characters and their development. I received a complimentary digital ARC of this book from St. Martin's Press - Minotaur Books and P.J. Tracy via NetGalley, and all opinions expressed in this review are my own.
Dare to be Brave!
In Becoming, we got a chance to learn Michelle Obama's backstory and the life of times of a First Lady during her husband Barack's presidency. But in The Light, We Carry, Michelle takes us one step further into her personal journey through the years since the COVID-19 pandemic began and shares with the reader the contents of her toolkit. What you won't be fixing is the leaking sink what you will find a fix for is your soul. I had a very hard time during the first year of the pandemic and after reading this it was nice to know that I am not alone. Given how much time has passed I have learned my only limit is me. That is very freeing to realize.
The book has a hybrid genre, seeming to be both a self-help guide and a memoir. Michelle shares her experiences and emotions during various crucial times, such as after the presidential election following Obama's term and at the start of the pandemic, along with delightful stories from her childhood and moments spent with her insightful and marvelous mother. Additionally, the author offers essential techniques that helped her alleviate her own anxiety.
Despite Michelle's unwavering strength, intelligence, and composure, the vulnerabilities she exposes in her book may surprise you. Nevertheless, Michelle's gift as a public speaker and an individual is her ability to offer reassurance and hope while acknowledging the significant challenges that still exist. Her personal techniques involve pursuing new hobbies like knitting, forming genuine friendships with her trusted Kitchen Table companions, and finding fulfillment in being a mother and a wife. She also credits her mother for instilling in her the qualities of confidence, resilience, and grace in the face of adversity and hatred.
Self-help books can occasionally appear as though they merely rehash existing advice. Yet, I firmly believe that the most effective counsel is often recycled because it has proven successful. The Light We Carry by Michelle Obama, however, accomplishes something exceptional by emphasizing that, despite living in a world that may lack stability or certainty, we are the ones who provide that sense of security. Our innate humanity, compassion, optimism, and especially our light, serves as the foundation of our lives. Michelle's writing expertly reinforces this point.This has truly lifted my spirits and given me hope that positive change is possible if people want to try and change. Do not ever let anyone dim your light.
Truly so much fun!
Dear Reader,
This is the first review I have done in a long time that comes with a massive disclaimer. I don't do graphic novels or D.C and usually feel out of place but I loved this. I'm a huge fan of audiobooks, I listen to them all the time – more than music and never podcast unless it is true crime. I was a little hesitant to start this Audible original. The music, sound effects and multiple players added to the enjoyment of this production. Many talented voice actors and all delivering Gaiman's splendidly surreal art. I have to say that having someone you enjoy spending time with read a book with you makes things so much more enjoyable. We have read the second installment, but I can't wait to tell you about that tomorrow. I have had my eyes opened to fantasy and I have enjoyed every minute immensely.
This is still an exceptional work that most listeners of this genre will appreciate. I know that this is the book that sparked my joy for this genre.
Quick Read
I have I have been on a sort of autobiography and memoir kick lately. And this was a great progression from the last book I finished which was a thriller. Sometimes you just have to take a break from the spooky and enjoy the journey into someone's life. while I wish the author was still alive, it is refreshing to read a book that is so completely open and honest. The authors timely death last year left a void and a hole in her family, friends and fans alike. She had a difficult life and in my opinion was never really able to be truly herself. She was raised in a dysfunctional abusive household she grew up religious and the Bible was the only book on the bookshelves allowed. That would be a sad existence for anyone who knew she was different from the very beginning.
I we'll say that if she hadn't had a chance performance in a school play to have the doors open for her to get some freedom and identity I think her life would have been much more different. Her awards and accolades were beautiful add well deserved it's just a shame she couldn't live the life that she wanted. I remember her being with Ellen back in the day and wishing that she could truly be who she wanted not just for her but for both of them.
As an avid reader, I always try to read a book with an open mind. This was part sad part inspirational and a triumph for her. I would recommend this to anyone who loves to learn about other people's lives and has an open mind that doesn't judge even their books.
Overall, I would give this four stars and it the only reason it isn't five is because I wish it was a little longer. I love that this story broke the chains that were around her life and lifestyle.
Feels Like Coming Home
I have read many books by Robert Bryndza and I can say that it always feels like a homecoming. I need to start by praising his Girl in the Ice series because it is one I think everyone should read. However, I must admit, the more I read from the Kate Marshall series, the more I am enjoying it. Book three now and it is fair to say we have seen our protagonist go on one hell of a journey so far. After the loss of her best friend and neighbor, Kate has thrown herself into her private investigation business full time - well with the small distraction of a bunch of holiday caravans to manage on the side. It's not been the big earner she may have liked but her latest case, a request to look into the disappearance of a young journalist many years before, looks set to be a really busy one, something she can finally sink her teeth into. Now as readers, we know far more of what is happening than Kate and her partner in crime solving, Tristan, but. whilst we may know the what, we most certainly have no clue as to the who or the why.
What I love about Robert Bryndza's writing is his ability to create an overwhelming sense of mystery from the start, something he does spectacularly in this book. It keeps you on your toes and keeps you turning pages way past your bedtime. Even though I did not have all the pieces I knew that something big and important to the plot was coming. The who done it aspect was fun, as was the character development and the chapters written from the aggressors point of view.
Did I have an inkling part way through the book as to who the bad guy might be? Honestly ... yes, but that for me was half the fun, powering through to the end to see if I was right. It didn't impact on my enjoyment of the book in the slightest, it drew me in more.
Pace in the book is spot on, with the flow of the narrative ebbing and flowing much as the investigation does.This was another top class, mystery laden read that had me powering through the pages. With brilliant characterisation, tension oozing from the pages and writing which really evokes emotion and the stark contrasts of the setting, it's definitely recommended. Fans of the series and of the author's writing will eat it up.
Have you ever started a show then forgotten to come back to it? That was me for the show How To Get Away with Murder. I devoured seasons one and two then life got in the way. Even though Viola Davis stuck with me, so when I heard she was writing a book I was intrigued and thrilled that I had to read it.
This book is all about Viola and her upbringing and tells us how she got to be the beautiful woman we have grown to love. She talks about when she was younger her father used to sleep around on her mother and how that affected them. She talks about how they had to deal with racism at an early age as well. She talks about her sisters and brother as well, how she got into acting. How she had to be the backbone to her family at one point in time.
We all talk about prayer, but we really need to be talking about the Viola Davis Prayer and how she landed her husband. Their love story is so good. I do not want to give too much away but I will say this book is a beautiful roller coaster.This book made me at times sad. I felt bad for her upbringing and how their living situation was not always the best. It showed me that we all have our own set of challenges and road bumps to overcome and that life is worth living regardless of the struggles in front of us. Ms Davis is a beautiful and brave human who inspires others to be their authentic self. If you have the time to read at all in the near future I suggest that you move this up your TBR list right now.
Very Late to the Party
Firstly I would like to send my deepest apologies to everyone who was involved in my being selected to read this book. Also thank them for selecting me to read this arc. My awful delay has nothing to do with the author and his craft. It all has to do with life getting away from me which is no one's issue but mine. In fact The Recruit by Alan Drew is a fantastic crime story featuring well-developed characters and multiple crimes weaved together in a shocking, but not the far-fetched way. Based in a Southern California town in the 80s, the book addresses themes that exist today. Which makes it very relatable to the reader The story of outsiders coming into a new community and the insiders threatened by their differences and the change is one familiar to all.
Drew brings you into the minds of all the characters telling the story from the perspectives of the medical examiner, the detective and police looking into unsolved cases, the Vietnamese immigrants new to America, and the young boys being led into white supremacy groups as he unveils and weaves together a wave of crime that unfortunately is too real. What I enjoyed most is the pacing. When I realized I had it on my kindle still and hadn't started it I was able to read it in one sitting which is in great part to great writing. Again my sincerest apologies 4 starts all the way.
Wonder Pet Radar.
If you know me then you know three things are true. I love coffee I love books and I love anything penned by Stephen King. That being said, this is a slow start. But the slow was interesting enough, because so much of it revolved around Radar, who is the best girl, and the people who love her, that I didn't mind the slow. And then there was a point, about halfway, where I stopped to consider the beginning and how slow it was and how much lead up and space it took and I had to concede that most of it was necessary. Was all of it? Maybe not. But the parts that weren't, I think I've ignored.
Also, as a fun time, this book isn't set in Maine. It's set somewhere in Illinois near Chicago. Which was a pleasant surprise. And also, Cujo got a shoutout. Which made my head hurt in the logistics of the meta. Its definitely unlike any Stephen King story I've encountered; different than any fairy tale ever told; and is absolutely and uniquely brilliant!! I don't even know what to say about the plot development, the characters, the setting, or anything else about it without revealing more than a review should say!! But if you love a great story about a boy and his dying dog —except its not that; its not really his dog, at least at first, but ... well, and it doesn't die ... ( can't say why without revealing the magic that is Stephen King.
So imagine a bit of every fairytale you know as a child just slightly twisted with a bit of quotes that don't really but make sense and you have the joy of a story about a boy and his dog that's not really his dog and a cast of magical people who give you a heartwarming sense of dysfunctional family and you have this 5 star read in a nutshell.
So Much Fun
Participating in a 10-day readathon has truly rekindled my passion for reading, filling every free moment with literary adventures. For the prompt featuring deities, I chose "Neon Gods" by Katee Robert. The author has crafted such an engaging narrative that I devoured the book in just two days. Interestingly, Goodreads reminded me that I had read this book in 2022, but I had no recollection of it. This time, however, the story is sure to linger with me.
"Neon Gods" offers a delightful and unique take on the classic Hades and Persephone myth. Persephone, desperate to escape a marriage arranged by her mother to Zeus, finds her only refuge in the Lower City ruled by the enigmatic Hades. Both characters are driven by their desire to foil Zeus – Persephone dreams of freedom from Olympus, while Hades seeks vengeance for his parents.
I have always been fascinated by the dynamic between Hades and Persephone, and this book provided an intriguing twist on their relationship. Robert stays true to their archetypal dark and sunny personas but adds depth by revealing their true, complementary natures beneath the surface.
The modern retelling of the myth was refreshing, though I did miss the more traditional mythological elements and a touch more magic. While I wasn't completely engrossed to the point of being unable to put the book down, I also didn't have to push myself to finish it. The chapters from Hades' perspective were particularly enjoyable.
Overall, "Neon Gods" maintained a good pace and kept the plot moving. It was an enjoyable read, and I look forward to continuing the series to see how the story develops.
The story starts out suspenseful. A naval vessel gets a distress call from Virginie. Once they reach the boat they see that Jake is injured badly and Virginie confesses, ”It's all my fault. I killed them.” From there, Bamford goes back and fills in all of the details up to the point. The entire story flowed well and was a solid 4 stars for me I look forward to reading future works from this author.
I know it's odd to start with all the good things of books but I want to make it apparent that this book is really good. I think Bamford did a brilliant job of painting what it would be like to sail across the ocean. She was able to use her personal experience of sailing several years and bring that knowledge to life in this book which was a nice touch. I found her writing to be beautiful and loved the vivid depictions of the island Amarante. This gave me such Gilligan Island with a twist vibe it was fantastic. All the characters are creepy yet enjoyable and I will be reading more from this author.
Beautiful Karma!
This is the first book I read by Julie Clark and I was not disappointed. I have had The Last flight on my kindle for at least a year. After reading this I will for sure be moving it up on my reading list.. It's a little bit different than a typical thriller which is a nice change.
We have two main characters Kat, a journalist, and Meg, or Melodie, or Maggie... she has more than a few aliases. Each is a strong woman in her own right and they both have a goal and I would not even try to stop them. Sometimes Karma is needed and beautiful.
Kat believes that Meg is a con artist and wants to expose her. While Meg definitely is not what she appears to be on the surface, her reasons go far beyond anything Kat could have imagined. Meg has returned because she has someone that she actually wants to expose. At a glance, it appears that the two women have become friends but you know what they say about keeping your friends close, but your enemies closer. Julie Clark's writing style sucked me in immediately. As the story develops, the reader discovers why Kat is so obsessed with Meg's story and that there is much more to Meg's story than Kat initially believed. Interesting storyline flashing back to some of Meg's previous cons and trying to guess how she will get back at corrupt politician, Ron Ashton. Who I didn't like as a character but I thought he was a beautifully written Villain. I adored this to the point of obsession. I can not wait to see what comes next.
Mommy Dearest
Have you ever gotten so excited by a book cover that you couldn't wait to read it?
This cover is chef's kiss! It is so freaking creepy I could barely contain myself! Add the fact that I have over 70 porcelain dolls in my bedroom, this book was a beautiful combination for everything I love.
This book follows two cousins who are separated when they are younger and through a DNA test website are brought back into each other's lives after over 20 years. What follows is some pretty creepy stuff.
This book gives you small glimpses into the cousin's past to show you basically why they are the way they are in the present. I felt the main character Maeve was so strong! I loved when she talked about why she didn't want to have children and embraced the fact that all women do not have to give birth to be valuable, or an asset to society. I think people are allowed to go on their own adventures. Maeve was only a child when she stood up to the “Mothers” who were basically in a cult-like entity where birthing more girls was their mission in life. So yea even with all her “issues” she kept that stuff together and knew what she wanted out of life. She is my favorite kind of protagonist. The way the story ended was nice and not what I was expecting. I really felt it was wrapped up with a creepy little bow at the end.
True Crime Time
I typically read at least one or two true crime like stories a year I am glad this was on my arc stack this year even though it was hard to get through. This was very well researched and presented. McGowan focuses on several cases, comparing and contrasting their similarities and differences. She shows how attitudes toward women and their value can have various effects on solving crimes. Bringing in the influence of religion and politics, McGowan explores possibilities and in the end explains that no one knows why and how so many people go missing. I found the topic to be scary and disconcerting. After reading this I was left with a sense of frustration. Dark things happen in so many parts of the world and I honestly understand that, what I have a hard time with is the fact that the way the police is portrayed while we watch TV comes across abusive and lazy. Which makes me wonder if things are getting better or worse.
As you can see this book is extremely tough to read and thought provoking, which makes it worth your time. I can't make this a 5 star read on the fact that it is a rough subject but I can say it was a solid 3 stars and worth your time
An Ending I Did not See Coming!
Cleveland's book begins with intrigue.
Beth Bradford is a well-respected CIA analyst in counterintelligence related to Iran. She's tracked an elusive target for over a decade, named, “The Neighbor”. Beth and her attorney- husband, Mike, live in a McLean, VA suburban cul de sac, with several neighbors, who also have ties to the CIA.
The Bradford's are empty-nesters. The last of their three children just left for college, so Beth is eager to immerse herself in her work, to find the unidentified target that she has pursued for so long. Then suddenly her life is turned upside down. She is pulled off the case, her husband wants a divorce it's all a hot mess. Which made for a great story.
Beth is reassigned to the Kent School, to teach and train newly-minted CIA hires. Beth feels blindsided and banished. She drives home in a daze. Beth moves to the rental home that she'd planned to share with Mike, after the sale of their beloved house. Reeling from all of the changes, she tries to digest the abrupt implosion of her life and career. Cleveland does an excellent job of conveying the unraveling of Beth, who is now solely-focused on uncovering the secrets of “The Neighbor”, despite not having the same access and resources that her prior position allowed
This was a quick read for me. I love a great thriller and the ending of who is actually “the Neighbor is something I did not see coming.
Just Awesome!
So I have an issue toward the end of the year I don't sleep well for a week or two so that I read all the books I had planned. These last two weeks have been so much fun! This was one of the books I actually wanted to purchase since my review is beyond late. I am so sorry but thank you for writing such an awesome book.I have never read anything like Cult Classic in that it's one of those storylines that feels like I should have seen it before, so it has this combination of eeriness and comfort that works really well but mostly it's just so damn funny.
If you've ever had friends or family that are just too invested in your love life, then you only know a fraction of what Lola (our main character, YES it has all the Lola jokes you might think of and then some! I know that this is way after publication day but Run don't walk to get this book READ & OWNED!