Pam
I want to thank Tyndale Fiction and NetGalley for the opportunity to read an advanced copy of First Love, Second Draft. However, all opinions expressed here are solely mine.
The concept of First Love, Second Draft is intriguing and sounds like a great read. First loves, who parted ways after 20 years together, yet are still in love? Sounds like a bumpy road ahead if they're going to get together. But it also sounds like it could be a fun ride. Sadly, it didn't work out that way for me.
Gracie and Noah parted ways under uncomfortable circumstances. Gracie felt he wasn't supporting her and wasn't there when she needed him the most. After finishing the book, I ask her, “When did you support him and be there when he needed you?” She held on to her resentment towards Noah for over five years, and continued to push him away after he arrived to help her during her recovery.
The dialogue between Gracie and Noah, especially in the book's first half, was unbearable. I understand Gracie didn't trust her heart with him around, but the way she spoke to him felt more like a bratty child than a 40-something woman. Once they started talking and, more importantly, listening to each other, the book became much better, so much so that I read it in a couple of hours.
Another thing that took me out of the story was the added romance between Matt and Rachel. I understand we should see a parallel between them and the main characters, but it broke up the flow of the main story. And were the accidents needed?
Do you enjoy reading sports romance? What if it contains a second chance romance? Even better if it's a clean romance, meaning there's nothing sexual in the book? Then you may enjoy reading First Love, Second Draft.
4.5 rounded to 5
While this is a romance, it's also about a woman trying to figure out who she is besides an ex-wife, a sister, a mother, and a journalist. I can relate to this, and I appreciate that Anna isn't a 20-something trying to figure things out. Seeing an older protagonist (she's 38) struggling is nice. While I'm a few years older, I, too, am struggling to figure out who I am besides wife, mother, and daughter.
4.5 round up to 5
I want to thank Berkley and NetGalley for the opportunity to read an advanced copy of One Death at a Time. However, all opinions expressed here are solely mine.
CW/TW: substance abuse, death, suicide
I was initially drawn to the book because I've loved every other book by Abbi Waxman. One Death at a Time is unlike those books, but that's not bad. Waxman's other books focus on friendship and relationships, with several being between women. While there are friendships between women in One Death at a Time, the focus of this story is a mystery.
The cast of characters feels large. But as most played off the stereotypes in Hollywood, it's easy to keep them separate. That said, keeping Julia and Mason separate in the first few chapters is a bit confusing. There is a lot of rapid-fire dialogue, full of snark and sass, especially between them. There's also a bit of confusion early on because Mason is often referred to by her last name (which is Mason), but occasionally by her first name (Natasha). The confusion comes from Waxman not establishing Mason's name for several pages.
Overall, One Death at a Time is unlike any other Abbi Waxman book, but that doesn't mean anything. If possible, it's just as good, if not better than The Bookish Life of Nina Hill.
Do you like reading books with realistic characters? What about mysteries where the main investigator is the main suspect? Or books with a diverse cast of characters? If you're saying yes to any of these, you should read One Death at a Time.
I want to thank Simon & Schuster Canada and NetGalley for the opportunity to read an advanced copy of Finding Flora. However, all opinions expressed here are solely mine.
4.5 rounded up to 5
Finding Flora is a well-written historical fiction set in the early 1900s in the Canadian Prairie, a time and place often ignored. Florence did her research when writing about Flora and her neighbors. I didn't realize until halfway through the book that it is set in a real town with a few real people. Upon learning this, I quickly read up on a few details. I love it when historical fiction books contain real people, no matter who they may be.
Homesteading was not easy for anyone, but especially not for women who wanted the independence that being landowners would bring. Finding Flora discusses those hardships. The ladies in the book had their share of struggles between nature and those around them who didn't think they belonged. Together, they worked and survived the negatives around them. Along the way, the five women who had been strangers became close friends and cheered for each other throughout their journey.
The synopsis leads you to believe that Flora's husband plays a significant role in several events. In total, he's only around for about 30 pages. There are a few mentions of him along the way, but not many.
The book's ending is satisfying, but also feels a bit contrived. Everyone gets what they deserve. I don't want to go into more detail, because I don't want to spoil anything.
Do you enjoy reading books featuring strong women? What about books set at the turn of the 20th century? Or reading well-researched historical fiction? Then you should read Finding Flora by Elinor Florence.
4.5 rounded up to 5
When I first learned of And So I Roar, I wanted to read it. I knew I had to read it when I discovered it continues Adunni's story. I read The Girl with the Louding Voice in 2021 and loved so much about it. Knowing what I knew of the first book, I knew the second would not be easy. Both books discuss challenging topics and are brutally honest in their approach. Both books will bring out your emotions–sadness, sorrow, anger, hopefulness, joy. They are all there, trust me.
Adunni continues to be the voice we all need to hear. She is full of wisdom beyond her 14 years. Throughout her challenges in And So I Roar, she shares many wise nuggets that made this 49-year-old stop and think. Can we please get a copy of Adunni's Little Wisdoms printed? Please!
The story centers on Adunni's home village and the hardships they've dealt with since she left. There has been little to no rain or too much of it, leaving the fields barren and insufficient food. The village leaders blame the girls and women's sins and decide they must atone for their sins to bring back the rain.
Adunni learns there's more to having a “louding voice.” She must show others they are enough and have a say in their lives. She learns she must roar to be heard, and roar she does.
While And So I Roar is a continuation of The Girl with the Louding Voice, you don't need to read the first book to grasp the impact of Adunni's voice. I recommend you try the audiobook first, as Adunni speaks broken English (not her first language), which may be a stumbling block for some people. The narrator, Adjoa Andoh, does a fantastic job of keeping characters separate when you change the POV.
Are you looking for a book featuring strong female characters? Do you enjoy reading books with a found family? What about ones that feature forgiveness and understanding even parents aren't perfect? Then you should read And So I Roar by Abi Daré.
3.75 stars rounded up to 4
As someone who has always struggled with body image and continues to do so, I love the number of romances focusing on body positivity. The Accidental Pinup features Cassie Harris, a plus-sized photographer who strives to highlight people at their best. Her best friend, Dana, is also a plus-sized woman who is comfortable in her skin. Dana works to make others feel just as comfortable in their skin.
With the wardrobe Cassie wears in most of the book, you would think the book would be a lot steamier than it is. In general, the intimate scenes fade to gray. What does that mean? Simply put, there's kissing, there's making out, but most of the intimate moments aren't described, the context clues are there for readers. But that's not to say there aren't spicy scenes on the page, because there are. Hence, the fade to gray comment.
The Accidental Pinup follows the typical romance formula: A boy meets a girl, and they find each other attractive. They get to know each other and fall in love. Then, something happens to make them separate. One makes a grand gesture, and all is forgiven.
Readers know early on what will cause the happy couple to separate in The Accidental Pinup. I found myself waiting for that to happen. I had to see how it would happen and what the reactions would be. Sadly, I had to wait longer than I thought I would. And the resolution felt a little too quick, and a tad forced.
Overall, The Accidental Pinup is a fun read. It's perfect for readers looking for a romance featuring a plus-sized main character.
The Siren is the perfect beach read. Of course, it helps that it's set in June in a tropical location. If reading at the beach isn't your thing, that's ok. You can read it whenever you want to visit the Caribbean without leaving home.
The story is told through multiple POVs. You know who's POV you have at the start of the chapter because each is labeled with the character's name. Newspaper clippings and social media posts are sprinkled between chapters to help you understand how those impact the characters.
Each woman has an axe to grind with Cole. Stella's is easy to see as you know they are ex's before the book starts. But it takes some time to discover Taylor's and Felicity's reasons. Taylor feels let down by the entertainment industry as a whole, and her role on The Siren (the name of the movie they are filming) is her last chance to save her career.
The pacing of the story leaves you wanting more. It's hard to put the book down; you have to know what will happen next. While the characters may be a bit over the top, looking at you, Cole, it is easy to see them as real people.
Some of the events may feel a bit over the top, but it's easy to chalk it up to Hollywood being Hollywood. Does that make any sense?
Are you looking for a book you won't be able to put down? One filled with drama, a touch of mystery, and a sprinkle of romance? What if I said there's some revenge as well? Interested in something with all of that? Then you should check out The Siren by Katherine St. John.
I want to thank St. Martin's Press and NetGalley for the opportunity to read an advanced copy of The Queens of Crime. However, all opinions expressed here are solely mine.
4.5 stars rounded to 5
The Queens of Crime caught my attention and interest because of one of the main characters, Agatha Christie. I am a huge fan of her books, and I love seeing her pop up in books as a character. I have heard of the other four women in the book but have never read any of their works. After reading The Queens of Crime, I also look forward to reading their works.
The story is told through a single POV, that of Dorothy Sayers. However, she is with the other Queens throughout the book. I fear it would have been confusing if the book had been told through multiple POVs.
The mystery was well constructed, and offered several twists and turns along the way. While I had my suspicions of the culprit, it wasn't until the end that they were confirmed. There was enough evidence that pointed in other directions to ensure you weren't 100% certain who was behind the mystery.
While The Queens of Crime is the first book I've read by Marie Benedict, it will not be the last. I have one of her other books languishing on my TBR, and I feel I will pick it up sooner rather than later.
Who do I think will enjoy reading The Queens of Crime? Everyone! The book is set in the Golden Mystery era and features five strong women trying to find justice for a woman society deemed a “surplus.” There's drama, tension, and travel. What's not to like?
I want to thank St. Martin's Press and NetGalley for the opportunity to read an advanced copy of Get Lost with You. However, all opinions expressed here are solely mine.
3.75 rounded up to 4
While Get Lost with You is part of a series, you don't need to read the first book to understand the story. This book focuses on Levi and Jillian's story, whereas the previous book focuses on Beckett and Presley. Beckett is one of Jillian's older brothers and, as such, plays an essential part in her story along with the rest of her family.
Get Lost with You, set in the familiar and cozy small town of Smile, is a heartwarming second-chance romance. The town, nestled on an island off the coast of Mackinaw City, Michigan, provides the perfect backdrop for Jillian and Levi's story. Jillian, who harbored a teenage crush on Levi, attempted a meet-cute the night before he left town for school. Little did she know, Levi also had feelings for her but considered her off-limits as the little sister of his two best friends. As they both returned home as adults, they found it increasingly difficult to deny their feelings.
At times, I found the plot's predictability in Get Lost with You to be a bit of a letdown. While I understand that romances often follow a formula and are expected to have happy endings, the lack of tension in the story left me wanting more. However, this predictability may be a welcome aspect for readers who appreciate a familiar and comforting narrative.
Overall, Get Lost with You is an enjoyable read. While it didn't wow me, I enjoyed reading it and suggest others try it.
I want to thank Simon & Schuster Canada and NetGalley for the opportunity to read an advanced copy of The Day I Left You. However, all opinions expressed here are solely mine.
The Day I Left You is told in dual timelines- early 1980s and 2018. Initially, it may seem a little jarring, but each timeline is told through a different character's POV and switches from first person to third person. As you read the book, you understand the switches between first and third-person POVs. The parts of the story from the 1980s are all told in first person, from Greta's view. The parts of the story from 2018 are told in the third person, mainly from Henry's view but later in the book, as well as Greta's. Each chapter is labeled with a year and person, so you know who's POV and when you get the story.
There are so many emotions written in the book and trust me, you will feel them all. I found myself drawn to the book over and over again. It was difficult to put it down and to do the things I needed to do.
According to the author's notes at the end of the book, several events in the book are based on actual facts. But Bishop admits that she may have changed some of the details to fit in the story.
My heart hurts for Greta and Henry. No one ever thinks they'll be put in a difficult situation and have to make difficult decisions, especially after having made so many difficult ones already.
Overall, The Day I Left You is a story of love, loss, and holding onto memories and dreams. You don't have to be a historical fiction fan to appreciate Henry and Greta's story. Nor do you have to be a fan of romance. There is enough drama to hold everyone's attention until the very end.
I want to thank Simon & Schuster Canada and NetGalley for the opportunity to read an advanced copy of Punished. However, all opinions expressed here are solely mine.
Punished is a look at an Indigenous culture that many people outside of Europe may not even know about. I knew that there are Indigenous groups around the world, but I never thought about Northern Europe as being one of the places they exist. Punished is a look at the Sámi experience with government-run schools. These schools were designed to force the kids to integrate more into “white” society.
The story is told through five POVs and their experiences in two decades. We spent time with Jon-Ante, Else-Maj, Nilsa, Marge, and Anne-Risten while they were at the school in the 1950s. We also spent time with them in the 1980s and saw how their time at the school influenced who they became as adults. Sometimes, the chapters would stay in the 1950s but change POV. Other times, we would stay with the same POV but change from the 1950s to the 1980s.
The multiple POVs can sometimes be confusing, but the characters are written so you can tell them apart. It helps that each chapter is labeled with the character's name and the time we are in. However, there is a side character with a name similar to one of the kids, which can be confusing. I found the timeline changes less confusing, as it was easy to tell when we were with the kids and when we were with the adults.
My biggest issue with the book was that some Sámi words were not translated into English. This could add to the point that these kids were often stripped of their language and culture. But it does add some stumbling blocks along the way. Thankfully, there were enough context clues to help you figure out what those words mean.
If you want to learn more about the past, especially how Indigenous peoples have been treated, Punished is a great read. Don't expect this to be a quick or easy read. Do expect it to leave a mark on your heart and mind.
I want to thank Minotaur and NetGalley for the opportunity to read an advanced copy of She Doesn't Have a Clue. However, all opinions expressed here are solely mine.
3.75 rounded up to 4
She Doesn't Have a Clue is a murder mystery set on a remote private island during a severe storm. It feels like Moke tried to squeeze as many tropes as she could in her mystery. Remote location? Yup, it's there. A severe storm? Obviously! Is someone sabotaging the electricity and water supply? Duh! A mystery or two on the island that has nothing to do with the central mystery? Yup, it's there too. However, I love how that mystery is explained.
She Doesn't Have a Clue is a romance set on a remote private island during a severe storm. It feels like Moke tried to squeeze as many tropes as she could in her romance. Second chance romance? Yeah, it's there. Missed connections? Check! Forced proximity? I'm not sure. Does a twin bed in the attic count when there are two adults? Okay, then, yes, it's there.
The Hempstead island in the San Juan Islands in the Pacific Northwest sounds like a perfect setting for this tale. It's several hours from the mainland, and a private ferry is the only way on and off the island. A dark and spooky forest on the island adds to the mysterious vibes.
At times, while reading the book, I wasn't sure if I was supposed to laugh, cry, be scared, or be annoyed. Or maybe all four at the same time? I think I understand what Moke was aiming for. But I don't think she succeeded. A rom-com and a cozy mystery are two things that are easy to mix. If She Doesn't Have a Clue had been a rom-com with a touch of mystery or a cozy mystery with a touch of romance, it would have worked out better. But Moke tried to have the book be a 50/50 split.
Overall, I found She Doesn't Have a Clue to be an okay read. I gave it 3.75 out of 5 stars. While I enjoyed it, it didn't wow me. Reading sometimes felt like a chore, not the escape I hoped for.
I want to thank Kensington and NetGalley for the opportunity to read an advanced copy of Eleanor and the Cold War. All opinions presented here are solely mine.
Eleanor and the Cold War appears to be the first book in a new historical mystery series. I was intrigued by the inclusion of Eleanor Roosevelt in a mystery novel. How she is presented in the book is how I would like to believe she was in real life. She was a strong woman who fought injustice in her own way. A bit feisty, Eleanor in this book reminded me of my grandmother, and that is a great thing.
Kay Thompson is a 25-year-old woman who has her future figured out. She wants to find the perfect husband, the polar opposite of the father who abandoned her and her mother. In her time with Eleanor, Kay learns that she wants more from life than to be a wife and mother. Kay wants to do more with her life.
You may recognize a few names in the book besides Eleanor Roosevelt, such as Bobby and Jack Kennedy. I enjoyed seeing them in the book, but it was surprising to realize they most likely moved in the same circles as Eleanor Roosevelt. Maybe I'm the only one who didn't realize that.
There are several possible suspects in Susie's murder. But who is the culprit? Can you figure it out before reaching the final few chapters? I can honestly say that I did not figure it out.
Do you enjoy reading historical fiction? What about starting a new series? Do you enjoy meeting characters who love watching movies? What about matching Hitchcock movies? If you've answered yes to any, especially all, you should read Eleanor and the Cold War!
3.75 rounded up to 4
The story is a good one. The discussion of trying to live your life true to you while still being part of a tight community that may have different thoughts and feelings is important.
But the main character lying to her grandmother through omission is wrong. Especially as the lie was one about her sexuality,and the fact she let it go on as long as she did. She had multiple times she could have told her grandmother the truth, but she didn't until it was convenient for her.