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saheffernan (157 KP) rated The First Mistake in Books
May 22, 2019
The publisher has sent me this ARC in exchange for an honest review
Betrayed by a husband, ever learned something about a loved one who's gone and felt betrayed? How about a best friend, brother in law, co-worker? This book has it all. We learn about Alice and Beth two best friends in current day. Then we go back and learn about their lives in the 9 or so years before they meet and how intertwined we can be with someone and not even know. We learn how deceptive even those who are closest to us can be if they feel like they've been wronged or cheated by us.
I feel like in the end the last 100 pages or so this book redeemed itself. In saying that the book was enjoyable to read but I felt like the last 100 pages is where the action and the story was really coming together was. If you like suspense this book is definitely worth the read I have to say I kept trying to fit all the pieces together and just couldn't get it quite right.
Betrayed by a husband, ever learned something about a loved one who's gone and felt betrayed? How about a best friend, brother in law, co-worker? This book has it all. We learn about Alice and Beth two best friends in current day. Then we go back and learn about their lives in the 9 or so years before they meet and how intertwined we can be with someone and not even know. We learn how deceptive even those who are closest to us can be if they feel like they've been wronged or cheated by us.
I feel like in the end the last 100 pages or so this book redeemed itself. In saying that the book was enjoyable to read but I felt like the last 100 pages is where the action and the story was really coming together was. If you like suspense this book is definitely worth the read I have to say I kept trying to fit all the pieces together and just couldn't get it quite right.
Mark @ Carstairs Considers (2200 KP) rated For Cheddar or Worse (A Cheese Shop Mystery #7) in Books
Mar 9, 2018
Providence is hosting its first annual Cheese Festival, and several people involved in making and selling cheese are coming together to share ideas on the process. Newlyweds Charlotte and Jordan are excited to be a part of it – until Lara Berry shows up. Lara’s public persona hides a truly nasty person underneath, and she is murdered after telling the rest of the group exactly what she thinks of them. Can Charlotte figure out who actually killed Lara?
This book had some of the most intense scenes in the series, although I did feel the plot got a little sidetracked a couple of times. Still, it built up to a logical and exciting climax. Unfortunately, this is the last book in the series, but the author has done a good job of wrapping things up for those of us who are fans. That’s wonderful since these characters have always been strong, and they continue to be strong here.
NOTE: I was sent a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
Read my full review at <a href="http://carstairsconsiders.blogspot.com/2016/02/book-review-for-cheddar-or-worse-by.html">Carstairs Considers</a>.
This book had some of the most intense scenes in the series, although I did feel the plot got a little sidetracked a couple of times. Still, it built up to a logical and exciting climax. Unfortunately, this is the last book in the series, but the author has done a good job of wrapping things up for those of us who are fans. That’s wonderful since these characters have always been strong, and they continue to be strong here.
NOTE: I was sent a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
Read my full review at <a href="http://carstairsconsiders.blogspot.com/2016/02/book-review-for-cheddar-or-worse-by.html">Carstairs Considers</a>.
Mark @ Carstairs Considers (2200 KP) rated Ripe for Murder (Cypress Cove Mystery, #2) in Books
Mar 9, 2018
Penny and Antonia have been invited up to Napa County to look at a wine train. The owner is thinking about creating one and wants to use some of their land for the track. The trip on the train turns deadly when one of the investor’s wives is murdered, and the only logical suspect is Antonia’s daughter. Penny might not like Chantal, but she knows Chantal isn’t a killer. Can she prove it?
While I enjoyed the first in this series, I liked this one even better. The book does a great job of setting up the new characters, and once we got to know them, we were off and running with a mystery. The plot was fantastic, and I had missed the clues until they were pointed out at the end. The returning characters are strong, and I enjoyed spending time with them again as well. Pour yourself a glass of wine, pick up this book, and enjoy.
NOTE: I was sent a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
Read my full review at <a href="http://carstairsconsiders.blogspot.com/2016/03/book-review-ripe-for-murder-by-carlene.html">Carstairs Considers</a>.
While I enjoyed the first in this series, I liked this one even better. The book does a great job of setting up the new characters, and once we got to know them, we were off and running with a mystery. The plot was fantastic, and I had missed the clues until they were pointed out at the end. The returning characters are strong, and I enjoyed spending time with them again as well. Pour yourself a glass of wine, pick up this book, and enjoy.
NOTE: I was sent a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
Read my full review at <a href="http://carstairsconsiders.blogspot.com/2016/03/book-review-ripe-for-murder-by-carlene.html">Carstairs Considers</a>.
With the covered bridge festival under way, Charlotte has talked Francine and her husband into a photo shoot to help knock an item off Charlotte’s bucket list. However, when they are almost done, they hear gunshots and see a man run out of a field, slide down under the bridge, and collapse. The man turns out to be Francine’s cousin, and she begins poking around to find out what happened. Can she figure it out?
I loved the first book in this series and I was anxious to revisit the characters. It’s nice to have a group of 60-something women who are still full of life and pursuing their dreams. The murder, while good, does take an interesting twist near the end, and I’m very curious to see just how this factors in to later books in the series. If you are looking for a fun, light cozy that isn’t in the normal mold, this book is definitely for you.
NOTE: I received an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review.
Read my full review at <a href="http://carstairsconsiders.blogspot.com/2016/07/book-review-murder-under-covered-bridge.html">Carstairs Considers</a>.
I loved the first book in this series and I was anxious to revisit the characters. It’s nice to have a group of 60-something women who are still full of life and pursuing their dreams. The murder, while good, does take an interesting twist near the end, and I’m very curious to see just how this factors in to later books in the series. If you are looking for a fun, light cozy that isn’t in the normal mold, this book is definitely for you.
NOTE: I received an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review.
Read my full review at <a href="http://carstairsconsiders.blogspot.com/2016/07/book-review-murder-under-covered-bridge.html">Carstairs Considers</a>.
Nicole Hadley (380 KP) rated Queso!: Regional Recipes for the World's Favorite Chile-Cheese Dip in Books
Jun 14, 2018
QUESO!: Regional Recipes for the World's Favorite Chile-Cheese Dip by Lisa Fain a cookbook dedicated queso. This book has a wide variety of different versions of one of our favorite game-time dips. Most do rely on processed cheese, but several use natural cheeses.
The book explains the modern origin of Chile Con Queso, and tracks the history and regional differences of the dish. The recipes provided range from early appearances in magazines and Woman's clubs cooking publications, to restaurant versions that popularized the dish, and ending with modern vegan varieties.
It is a fun cookbook. Queso is incredibly comforting, delicious, and easy to make. Each recipe is presented with an explanation of the geographical origin of the version, and / or some tips on how to incorporate it into a meal. The recipes are straightforward, and easy to follow. The delicious entrees included prove that Queso is not merely a side or dip. I did not know that I needed a book completely about Chile Con Queso until I read this book.
I received this ARC from Ten Speed Press via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
The book explains the modern origin of Chile Con Queso, and tracks the history and regional differences of the dish. The recipes provided range from early appearances in magazines and Woman's clubs cooking publications, to restaurant versions that popularized the dish, and ending with modern vegan varieties.
It is a fun cookbook. Queso is incredibly comforting, delicious, and easy to make. Each recipe is presented with an explanation of the geographical origin of the version, and / or some tips on how to incorporate it into a meal. The recipes are straightforward, and easy to follow. The delicious entrees included prove that Queso is not merely a side or dip. I did not know that I needed a book completely about Chile Con Queso until I read this book.
I received this ARC from Ten Speed Press via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Nicole Hadley (380 KP) rated Presidents of the United States (A TIME for Kids Book) in Books
Jun 18, 2018
TIME for Kids: Presidents of the United States by The Editors of TIME for Kids is a book that contains a lot of information perfect for middle school aged children.
The book begins with the history of how the presidency began. It then explains the three branches of government and why we have political parties. Then it devotes one to two pages to each one of our 45 Presidents. For each President, there is a section on their basics: birth date and place of birth, date of death, family, years of presidency, political party and vice-president. It gives a brief biography of their time as President and key dates during their presidency. The picture of each President is tastefully done.
The end of the book gives a glimpse into the White House and a couple pages on the famous First Ladies. For your history and political-loving children, this is a great book to keep on hand. It would also be a great reference for all those school projects on Presidents.
I received the advanced reader's copy from Time Inc. Books and Liberty Street Books via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
The book begins with the history of how the presidency began. It then explains the three branches of government and why we have political parties. Then it devotes one to two pages to each one of our 45 Presidents. For each President, there is a section on their basics: birth date and place of birth, date of death, family, years of presidency, political party and vice-president. It gives a brief biography of their time as President and key dates during their presidency. The picture of each President is tastefully done.
The end of the book gives a glimpse into the White House and a couple pages on the famous First Ladies. For your history and political-loving children, this is a great book to keep on hand. It would also be a great reference for all those school projects on Presidents.
I received the advanced reader's copy from Time Inc. Books and Liberty Street Books via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Merissa (12051 KP) rated Shattered Secrets (Book of Red #1) in Books
Dec 17, 2018
I received an ARC from the author in exchange for a fair and honest review.
Everything about you has been kept a secret for 17 years. Then one after another the secrets come crashing down around your ears and demand to recognised. What would you do and how would you react? This is what Abby has to ask herself as she deals with being kidnapped after a date gone wrong.
There is enough confusion, twists, turns, trust issues as well as what might be a slightly dodgy advice giving book to make this book absolutely absorbing. Who should Abby trust and who should she keep at a distance. I can't tell you that because I was second guessing all the way through and something would happen to change my mind again and again.
This book is brilliantly written, with a well thought out plot line and a pace to match. The characters will interest and intrigue and keep you turning the pages. Definitely recommended for all Paranormal / Fantasy readers out there and it is YA so there is nothing there that shouldn't be.
http://archaeolibrarianologist.blogspot.de/2014/03/shattered-secrets-book-of-red-1-by.html
Everything about you has been kept a secret for 17 years. Then one after another the secrets come crashing down around your ears and demand to recognised. What would you do and how would you react? This is what Abby has to ask herself as she deals with being kidnapped after a date gone wrong.
There is enough confusion, twists, turns, trust issues as well as what might be a slightly dodgy advice giving book to make this book absolutely absorbing. Who should Abby trust and who should she keep at a distance. I can't tell you that because I was second guessing all the way through and something would happen to change my mind again and again.
This book is brilliantly written, with a well thought out plot line and a pace to match. The characters will interest and intrigue and keep you turning the pages. Definitely recommended for all Paranormal / Fantasy readers out there and it is YA so there is nothing there that shouldn't be.
http://archaeolibrarianologist.blogspot.de/2014/03/shattered-secrets-book-of-red-1-by.html
Christine A. (965 KP) rated The Doll Factory in Books
Feb 7, 2020
I was provided with a complimentary copy of this book so I could give an honest review.
The Doll Factory is the debut novel of Elizabeth Macneal. It is not a children's book. Before reading it, some reviewers thought it could be because of the cover. Afterward, they realized they were mistaken.
It is a historical fiction novel set in 1850 London. It revolves around Iris, a doll maker, who dreams of a better life. Iris knows her life drastically changes when she meets Louis Frost, a painter, who agrees to teach her to paint in exchange for sitting as his model. What she does not know is it also drastically changes with a brief exchange with Silas, a strange collector who is entranced and quickly becomes obsessed with Iris.
The story is a slow burn and took a while for me to really get into it. It was because of this, the story felt longer than 336 pages. Macneal's description of Silas's increasing obsession with Iris is creepy, dark, and extremely believable. What made it creepier is that Iris does not even remember meeting Silas. Yet, he believes Iris is as infatuated with him as he is with her. This theme has been done before but the 1850 London setting helps make the obsession even darker.
This 200-word review was published on Philomathinphila.com on 2/6/2020.
The Doll Factory is the debut novel of Elizabeth Macneal. It is not a children's book. Before reading it, some reviewers thought it could be because of the cover. Afterward, they realized they were mistaken.
It is a historical fiction novel set in 1850 London. It revolves around Iris, a doll maker, who dreams of a better life. Iris knows her life drastically changes when she meets Louis Frost, a painter, who agrees to teach her to paint in exchange for sitting as his model. What she does not know is it also drastically changes with a brief exchange with Silas, a strange collector who is entranced and quickly becomes obsessed with Iris.
The story is a slow burn and took a while for me to really get into it. It was because of this, the story felt longer than 336 pages. Macneal's description of Silas's increasing obsession with Iris is creepy, dark, and extremely believable. What made it creepier is that Iris does not even remember meeting Silas. Yet, he believes Iris is as infatuated with him as he is with her. This theme has been done before but the 1850 London setting helps make the obsession even darker.
This 200-word review was published on Philomathinphila.com on 2/6/2020.
Whatchareadin (174 KP) rated Hiding Places in Books
May 10, 2018
Kate and her family live at the Harrison Lodge, a hotel that has been in her family for generations. Together with her two older sister, Olivia and Alyssa; her mother Janet; her grandparents, Donna and Daniel; and her great grandmother, Pearl, Kate helps where she can around the lodge, but she spends most of her time in different hiding places listening in on her family and guests. When Kate discovers someone who is in need of her help, she doesn't hesitate to provide her assistance which helps to bring back the original purpose of the lodge. But when this stranger brings trouble to the only home Kate has ever known, will the hiding places be enough to keep them all safe.
I received a copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. This is the first book I have read by Erin Healy and I'm excited to read more by her. This book kept me on the edge of my seat. I enjoyed that there was a child as the main character. Not because of the situation that they were involved in, but it showed strength and commitment to a character you may not always associate these traits with.
This is another book that was hard to put down. I got upset when I fell asleep or had other things I had to get done that would tear me away from the book. I would recommend this book to anyone who is looking for a book that will hold your attention throughout its entirety.
I received a copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. This is the first book I have read by Erin Healy and I'm excited to read more by her. This book kept me on the edge of my seat. I enjoyed that there was a child as the main character. Not because of the situation that they were involved in, but it showed strength and commitment to a character you may not always associate these traits with.
This is another book that was hard to put down. I got upset when I fell asleep or had other things I had to get done that would tear me away from the book. I would recommend this book to anyone who is looking for a book that will hold your attention throughout its entirety.
Book Divas (227 KP) rated Toma (The Dark Shadows #2) in Books
Dec 12, 2017
I received an eARC in exchange for an honest review. I made no guarantee of a favorable review and the opinions expressed here are unbiased and my own.
I loved this book just as much as I loved the first one. Toma is exactly as I envisioned him to be and so much more. Thanks to the author's creative writing style you are able to feel every single emotion that Anika and Toma experience. I even found myself calling Toma not so many nice names because though he is trying to do the right thing at times he also is being a jerk. Be forewarned that once you start reading this book you won't want to put it down and I say this because I stayed up late to finish.
I cannot wait to read the next installment.
I loved this book just as much as I loved the first one. Toma is exactly as I envisioned him to be and so much more. Thanks to the author's creative writing style you are able to feel every single emotion that Anika and Toma experience. I even found myself calling Toma not so many nice names because though he is trying to do the right thing at times he also is being a jerk. Be forewarned that once you start reading this book you won't want to put it down and I say this because I stayed up late to finish.
I cannot wait to read the next installment.