Pam

I want to thank St. Martin's Press and NetGalley for the opportunity to read an advanced copy of You Make It Feel Like Christmas. All opinions presented here are my own.

4.5 rounded to 5

You Make It Feel Like Christmas is more than just a hockey romance. Sure, Nick is a hockey player, and he falls for Maisie. But there are discussions of mental health, self-worth, self-care, and family dynamics. All of which are great discussions to have in any book.

Another great thing about this book is that the intimate scenes aren't detailed. There are times you know what Nick and Maisie are doing, but Sullivan doesn't go into details. Instead, she focuses on the emotional side of the moment. You find yourself in the character's mind, watching them fall more deeply in love with the other. Even the scenes in the bathroom are clean, and no, that's not a pun!

While You Make It Feel Like Christmas is a companion to Can't Help Falling in Love, you do not need to read the first to enjoy the second. The only way they are related is that there are a few characters that overlap. Maisie was a side character in Can't Help Falling in Love, and now she's the main. And in all actuality, Maisie has popped up in at least one other of Sullivan's books. Trust me, I will be tracking that one down and probably loving it as much as I've loved all of her other books.

Overall, You Make It Feel Like Christmas will leave you cheering for true love and the magic of Christmas. If you enjoy reading books that feature great chemistry between characters, you will likely enjoy this book. Sullivan has a way of making you fall in love with her settings and her characters.

I want to thank Berkley and NetGalley for the opportunity to read an advanced copy of Honey and Heat. All opinions presented here are my own.

Honey and Heat is a companion novel to Sunshine and Spice. But have no fear, you can read this as a standalone. That said, I look forward to reading Sunshine and Spice, as well as any other book Palit releases.

Honey and Heat showcases a woman who knows her worth and is willing to fight for it. It also showcases a man who loves love and will do anything to support those he cares about. If only the two had communicated better, several issues could have been resolved much sooner. That said, if that had happened, the book would have been at least 100 pages shorter. That said, most of Cynthia's issues revolve around her relationship with her parents, rather than Rohit.

There is no wasting time in the book getting to the open-door sex scenes. I believe it was in Chapter 2 or 3. Obviously, with the mention of a one-night stand, you know there's not going to be much of a delay in those scenes. However, you will have to wait a while for more, as Cynthia and Rohit need to focus on their relationship.

Overall, I enjoyed reading Honey and Heat and look forward to reading more from Palit. Who do I think will enjoy reading it? Do you enjoy reading about workplace romances? What about books with strong family connections? Or, ones with sassy leads who learn more about themselves as the book goes on? If you answered yes to any of these questions, then you should consider reading Honey and Heat.

4.75 rounded up to 5

OMG! I love these ladies, and part of me wants to be them when I grow up. Is that funny to say, when they're only 10 years older than me?

I want to thank The Globe Pequot Publishing Group Inc., Lyons Press, and NetGalley for the opportunity to read an advanced copy of Madden & Summerall: How They Revolutionized NFL Broadcasting. All opinions presented here are my own.

As a kid growing up in the 1980s and 1990s, Madden and Summerall were the voices of my fall. From September through January, every Sunday, my TV was tuned to football. And more often than not, I heard these two men talking about my favorite sport for three hours.

While I loved learning more about Madden and Summerall, their backgrounds made them into the men we all knew and loved; the book was a bit clunky at times. When the author quoted people interviewed for the book, he consistently used the phrase, “when contacted for this book.” Maybe use that phrase at the beginning of the book, or not at all. But it definitely didn't need to be used repeatedly.

Overall, I enjoyed my time with Madden & Summerall. While reading it, I laughed, cried, and definitely smiled! Who do I think would enjoy this book? People like me, who grew up in the 80s and 90s, watched football every week.

Another fun read! While I understand Miss Marple is involved in the story, I did find myself wondering why it's labeled as a Miss Marple mystery.

I want to thank Minotaur Books, St. Martin's Press, and NetGalley for the opportunity to read an advanced copy of The Mysterious Case of the Missing Crime Writer. All opinions presented here are my own.

4.5 rounded up to 5

CW/TW: death, domestic violence, stalking

Ragnar Jónasson is credited with being the force behind Agatha Christie's books being translated into Icelandic. As such, he finds his way into this book as a brief mention. It was an Easter egg of sorts that made me smile when I read it.

There are three mysteries discussed in this 320-page book. What happened to the mystery writer? How is it connected to events in the past? What happened to Helgi's predecessor? At the end of the book, two of those questions are answered. The way the information is presented at first is a tad confusing; I found myself wondering what one event had to do with the other. But I decided to trust the process. And it worked out in my favor to do so.

There is a subplot that continues from the first book in the series, revolving around domestic violence. It's interesting to see how Jónasson approaches the subject. Without trying to give too much away, I will tell you that Helgi is the victim.

This is the third book I've read by Ragnar Jónasson, and it won't be the last. Who do I think would enjoy reading The Mysterious Case of the Missing Crime Writer? As his works are often compared to those of Agatha Christie, I believe anyone who has enjoyed reading her books will also enjoy this one. However, I would recommend starting with Death at the Sanatorium, as it is the first in this series. And there may be some spoilers if you read this one first.

4.5 rounded up to 5

I need the next book NOW! I have to know what happens next.

I want to thank Berkley and NetGalley for the opportunity to read an advanced copy of Mrs. Christie at the Mystery Guild Library. All opinions presented here are my own.

I will tell you right now that the main reason I wanted to read this book is that it includes Agatha Christie as a character. Books that feature historical figures often pique my interest, as I want to see how the author portrays them. Since I love reading Agatha Christie's books, I also enjoy reading books that feature her.

My biggest issue with the book was in the first third or so, when Tory was stumbling over what to call Mrs. Christie when talking about her to other characters. It kept pulling me out of the book. Yes, I understand her shock and awe at meeting her idol. But her constant stumbling was hard to read. Once she stopped doing that, the book flowed a lot more.

There are several quotes throughout the book from Christie's books, both as chapter headers and in the dialogue. I didn't find them to be spoilers, even though I haven't read all of the books mentioned. And those from the books I have read made me smile.

While I had my suspicions about who the murderer was, it was still a surprise when it was explained. I'm also not 100% sure I believe the murders could have happened in the way described.

Overall, I enjoyed reading Mrs. Christie at the Mystery Guild Library. If you enjoy reading Agatha Christie books, I think you will enjoy reading Mrs. Christie at the Mystery Guild Library. I think any mystery reader will enjoy it as well.

Another fun read from Jasmine Guillory. This time we're with Alexis' sister, Olivia and Max.

4.5 stars rounded up to 5

As usual, Jimenez makes difficult situations accessible. I loved the fact that Daniel allowed himself to feel his emotions, and show them.

I want to thank Trafalgar Square Publishing, Orenda Books, and NetGalley for the opportunity to read an advanced copy of SON. All opinions presented here are my own.

4.75 rounded up to 5

I wanted to read SON because I've been drawn to books set in Scandinavia for a while. Little did I know this book was going to shake my world! I was hooked from the first page. There were times I had to set the book aside to process what I had just read, because some of the descriptions were a bit darker than I had anticipated.

The book starts with Kari and the disappearance of her son on his birthday seven years prior. Then we are brought to the present day, with the girls at the summer home setting up for a Halloween party and the events after that. The action in the story ebbs and flows, but it never truly relaxes all the way just enough to let you catch your breath.

One of the main discussions throughout the book is about memories. Are our memories of the events as they happened, or have they been corrupted over time?

My biggest pet peeve with the book is the frequent switches in point of view. When readers are with Kari, the story is told in first person. The chapters often begin with a description of what Kari is seeing or doing, and “I” is usually one of the first words in the sentence. When we are with any of the other characters, the story is told in third person. While I appreciate the changes, there are very few chapter headers to indicate who we are seeing the story with. Thankfully, much like the chapters with Kari, the character's name is mentioned early in the chapter. But this can still be confusing when there are multiple characters at the start of the chapter.

While I had my suspicions about who the murderer was, I was still surprised when I found out. The list of suspects may not be long, but it seems many characters had a motive for murder.

Overall, I enjoyed reading SON and look forward to reading more by this duo. Who do I think would enjoy this book? Maybe people who enjoy reading books set in Scandinavia, or reading atmospheric books. Definitely, people who enjoy reading thrillers.

Intense story of a Metis creature.

Picked this up for a road trip audiobook to share ith my husband while driving WTH? There's minimal plot, it feels more like a steam of consciousness at points.

The narrator is the Cleaner. Other than her, there's only 3 other characters on a regular basis. And she's got a God complex. She knows better than everyone, just ask her, she'll tell you that she's the most important person in the office. And most of the other people are morally gray AF!

I want to thank Doubleday Canada and NetGalley for the opportunity to read an advanced copy of The Re-Write. All opinions presented here are my own.

The Re-Write is a romcom that isn't quite a romcom. Sure, there's some romance and some funny scenes. But is that enough to make this a romcom? I'm not quite sure.

Temi is in her mid-20s, trying to find her way in life and fighting for her dream to be a published author. Wale is in his mid-20s, trying to find his way in life and fighting everyone's perception of him. They dated, had a public breakup, and then he appeared on a reality TV show focused on romance. She wrote a book about their relationship to vent her feelings about everything. They reconnect after the show, when she's hired to write his memoir. She realizes she didn't know the real him, and tries to stop her book from coming to light.

Does that sound like a romcom to you? I thought it sounded like a good read. Unfortunately, it didn't quite deliver. Temi came across at times as an entitled, self-absorbed brat. Wale was so focused on what others thought of him that he didn't show people who he is. If you're so worried about people's perceptions of you, why wouldn't you let those closest to you in first?

I stumbled over the names a few times, but that is a me problem. Once I figured out the proper pronunciation, I had no issues. There were a few phrases or descriptions that were decidedly British. They also caught me unaware, but I was able to move past them without being slowed down. I will say, reading that someone was wearing a vest under a sweatshirt was a bit confusing for a minute. Then I remembered that a vest in this situation isn't a normal vest you would find with a suit. It's referencing an undershirt.

Overall, The Re-Write was an okay read. I was tempted to DNF it because the first 30% didn't grab my attention. But I pushed through and read the last 20% in one afternoon. I accept that I may not be the intended target of The Re-Write.

A lovely conclusion to the series. I learned more about the Civil Rights movement reading 3 graphic novels than I did growing up in the South in the 80s & 90s.

A great look into history from someone who was there. The story in volume 1 flips between 2009 and John Lewis's early years.

Book 2 picks up where book one left off.

It's always fun to see yourself and those you love represented in graphic novels.

I want to thank Kensington Cozies and NetGalley for the opportunity to read an advanced copy of Mayhem at a Halloween Wedding. All opinions presented here are my own.

Mayhem at a Halloween Wedding is the perfect addition to the Halloween Bookshop mysteries. It's a fantastic blend of cozy mystery and Halloween!

Elyan Hollow is a town that was used as the filming location for an iconic Halloween movie. The movie has such a huge fan base that people come from all over to see the filming sites. What's a town to do when that happens? They lean into it and celebrate what has made them famous. Several businesses in town have Halloween-themed names, and a month-long Halloween festival is held.

Elyan Hollow is a small town where everyone seems to know everyone else. Bailey lives in the house her mom grew up in and runs the bookshop that her grandfather first opened. Several of her friends are either people she attended school with or individuals who watched her grow up. It's that kind of small town!

The new additions to the cast are welcome. As is the developing relationship between Bailey and Rex. Some of the family drama from the first book has carried over to this book. And it leaves me wondering if there's a larger, overarching mystery at play.

If you are a fan of movies like Hocus Pocus and Halloweentown, you probably would love to visit the towns where they were filmed—a town much like Elyan Hollow. While waiting to take that trip, why not give Mayhem at a Halloween Wedding a read?

I want to thank St. Martin's Press, Minotaur Books, and NetGalley for the opportunity to read an advanced copy of Savvy Summers and the Sweet Potato Crimes. All opinions presented here are my own.

3.5 stars rounded to 4

I will admit, I was drawn to Savvy Summers and the Sweet Potato Crimes by both the cover and the title. Both are enough to pull you into the book. And at under 350 pages, it's easy to stick around and read.

One thing I like is when mysteries offer multiple suspects to choose from. And Savvy finds herself with a list close to ten when she starts her investigation. As the book progresses, she does narrow that list down, but also finds herself adding to it as she goes along. I had my suspicions about the culprit, and while I may have been correct, I was also wrong, especially regarding the motives.

My biggest issue with the book was the excessive use of slang. While I appreciate what many would call local flair, I found some of it a stumbling block as I didn't understand what they were trying to say. There were a few instances when they tried to explain it to a character, and it only further confused me. As someone who grew up in the South, I had no problems understanding Great-Aunt Essie's sayings, as several of those are commonly said.

Overall, Savvy Summers and the Sweet Potato Crimes was an okay read. Though I will admit, I'm not sure if I will continue with the series, if it's to become one.

3.75 rounded to 4

Overall, and interesting read. Though there were times it felt a bit heavy with the religious aspects of the holiday.

A fun read, with realistic characters. As such, the language used by some characters may be a bit shocking. Mallory mentions a few times what she found her ex doing with his mistress. There's also some swearing.

The spicy bits aren't super spicy.

I appreciate the author wanting to share the experience of self discovery. I am certain this will help many people to understand they are not alone.

I enjoyed reading this graphic novel. It's a fun read, one I enjoyed, and that's all that matters in my opinion.

I want to thank Kensington Cozies and NetGalley for the opportunity to read an advanced copy of Icing on the Murder. All opinions presented here are my own.

4.5 rounded to 5

I'm glad to see that I was wrong last year, thinking that book three, A Cup of Flour, A Pinch of Death, was the last in the series. Icing on the Murder is a fantastic addition to the Baker Street Mystery series. And I still want more of Maddy and the gang. Please, Ms. Burns, can we have more of the Baker Street Irregulars?

As I did last year, I still recommend reading the series in order. While there aren't too many spoilers in this book for earlier ones in the series, I still suggest you read them in order. The first book is Two Parts Sugar, One Part Murder.

Now, for the murder, I was making my list of suspects from the minute we were introduced to Serafina. I don't think I have ever cheered for someone's death as much as I did hers. She is probably one of the most despicable characters I have ever met. I think she's the most deplorable person anyone has ever met, as everyone in the book seems to wish she were dead. And that makes it hard to figure out who killed her.

While I understand Burns was setting the scene and adding tension, why did it take until after the 30% mark for the murder to happen? If anything, it made the rest of the book go quickly, because you had so many more suspects to consider, and less time to consider them.

Overall, I enjoyed Icing on the Murder as much as, if not more so, than the rest of the series. Do you enjoy reading books set in small towns? What about books that feature food, especially baked goods? Or nods to classic literary detectives? Then you should read Icing on the Murder! Or better yet, just read all of the Baker Street Mysteries! I, for one, look forward to returning to New Bison soon.