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TravelersWife4Life (31 KP) rated You and Me (Faith to Love, #7) in Books
Feb 23, 2021
You and Me by Cleopatra Margot is just that, a story about you and me. It is the everyday moments, the big life decisions, the family drama, and finding love for the first time. I enjoyed Cleopatra Margot’s writing style as it was down to earth and read like you were part of the family. From the decisions that Sam was faced with, the mysteries surrounding Braeden’s family, to some surprising revelations in Sam’s own family; Cleopatra Margot spun a heartwarmingly real and engaging story that kept me hooked from the very first chapter.
I enjoyed getting to know Sam and felt for her and the decisions that she had to make. Her character was very relatable, strong, and gentle all wrapped up in one complete package. Braeden fits his description to a T, Tall, Dark, and Yummy (first time I have heard it put like that, but it fits his character's sense of humor). He had quite a few obstacles to overcome and I loved how he treated Sam through everything, a true gentleman. With the additional side characters, I thought this book was very well rounded and I loved the layers added by the secondary characters.
“But despite the slight chill air this late in August held, there was a warmth inside her.”
The plot was filled with a good bit of mystery mixed with finding your place in the world and a friends to lovers’ type theme. One of my favorite things about this book was the characters continually pointed out that God must be the center of your life before anything else can really grow. I enjoyed this book, and I am going to be going back and reading the previous books in the series so I can read the other family member's stories. Readers who enjoy family centered books (like Susan May Warren or Dee Henderson’s books) will enjoy this one.
*I volunteered to read this book in return for my honest feedback. The thoughts and opinions expressed within are my own.
I enjoyed getting to know Sam and felt for her and the decisions that she had to make. Her character was very relatable, strong, and gentle all wrapped up in one complete package. Braeden fits his description to a T, Tall, Dark, and Yummy (first time I have heard it put like that, but it fits his character's sense of humor). He had quite a few obstacles to overcome and I loved how he treated Sam through everything, a true gentleman. With the additional side characters, I thought this book was very well rounded and I loved the layers added by the secondary characters.
“But despite the slight chill air this late in August held, there was a warmth inside her.”
The plot was filled with a good bit of mystery mixed with finding your place in the world and a friends to lovers’ type theme. One of my favorite things about this book was the characters continually pointed out that God must be the center of your life before anything else can really grow. I enjoyed this book, and I am going to be going back and reading the previous books in the series so I can read the other family member's stories. Readers who enjoy family centered books (like Susan May Warren or Dee Henderson’s books) will enjoy this one.
*I volunteered to read this book in return for my honest feedback. The thoughts and opinions expressed within are my own.
Kristy H (1252 KP) rated The Postscript Murders in Books
Mar 4, 2021
Witty mystery with lots of bookish references
When the elderly Peggy Smith passes away, her carer, Natalka, is convinced the death was suspicious. While helping clean out Peggy's flat, she finds a variety of books--all crime novels--dedicated to Peggy. Then a gunman breaks into Peggy's flat to steal only a book. DS Harbinder Kaur is not convinced at first about Peggy's death, but she cannot deny everything that begins to happen after Peggy's death. After another death occurs, DS Kaur is convinced writers are being targeted.
This is such a fun book. Not only is it an engaging mystery, it's truly a wonderfully bookish book for people who love reading, especially mysteries. This is Griffiths' second book featuring Harbinder Kaur, the Best Gay Sikh Detective in West Sussex--the "first out of a field of one," as she puts it. It's wonderful to have a crime series with a lesbian lead, especially one as intelligent and witty as Harbinder. She notices everything and offers some humorous insights into her life living with her parents and working with her rodent-like partner, Neil.
POSTSCRIPT is written in truly Elly Griffiths fashion. It's incredibly easy to read and everyone just embodies their characters so effortlessly. The supporting cast here is excellent: a former monk; Peggy's elderly neighbor; Natalka; and a host of folks spread across the writing community. The wonderful inside jokes and asides about writing, publishing, and books are so much fun.
Overall, I quite enjoyed this book. The mystery of what happened to Peggy and the subsequent sequence of events is interesting while the story and characters are witty and diverse. Elly Griffiths remains my go-to author. I highly recommend you read both Harbinder books, but this one does stand-alone.
I received a copy of this book from Netgalley and Houghton Mifflin Harcourt in return for an unbiased review. The U.S. version releases 03/02/2021.
This is such a fun book. Not only is it an engaging mystery, it's truly a wonderfully bookish book for people who love reading, especially mysteries. This is Griffiths' second book featuring Harbinder Kaur, the Best Gay Sikh Detective in West Sussex--the "first out of a field of one," as she puts it. It's wonderful to have a crime series with a lesbian lead, especially one as intelligent and witty as Harbinder. She notices everything and offers some humorous insights into her life living with her parents and working with her rodent-like partner, Neil.
POSTSCRIPT is written in truly Elly Griffiths fashion. It's incredibly easy to read and everyone just embodies their characters so effortlessly. The supporting cast here is excellent: a former monk; Peggy's elderly neighbor; Natalka; and a host of folks spread across the writing community. The wonderful inside jokes and asides about writing, publishing, and books are so much fun.
Overall, I quite enjoyed this book. The mystery of what happened to Peggy and the subsequent sequence of events is interesting while the story and characters are witty and diverse. Elly Griffiths remains my go-to author. I highly recommend you read both Harbinder books, but this one does stand-alone.
I received a copy of this book from Netgalley and Houghton Mifflin Harcourt in return for an unbiased review. The U.S. version releases 03/02/2021.
Merissa (13730 KP) rated Apollo's Raven (Curse of Clansmen and Kings #1) in Books
Jun 3, 2022 (Updated Jun 13, 2023)
APOLLO'S RAVEN is the first book in the Curse of Clansmen and Kings series and prepare yourself! You are about to enter a book full of twisted tales and layers of intrigue. I mean, come on! Curses, Romans, and Celts - what more could I ask for?
This is a long book, giving you ample time to lose yourself in Ancient Britannia, where Catrin sees Romans come to land through her raven's eyes. This event sets off a chain that will see her fall in love and come into her powers and many other things. Marcellus is there at his father's command, basically seeing if the timing for an invasion is good or not.
There is an instant connection between the two that could just be the infatuation between two young teens. However, as the story goes, it is true love and they are bound together forever. This, I found a little hard to believe as they know nothing about each other past their attraction, and constantly doubt each other, believing them to be betraying them, etc. I hope their relationship develops and matures as the books progress as both of them acted childishly at times.
I enjoyed the story but found some parts a bit difficult to digest. For instance, there was a whole lot more to druids than just being sorcerers or priests but none of that is mentioned. I was confused by the term 'druid powers' as that could encompass a whole manner of things.
Bear in mind it is the first book, so there are lots of things left unanswered. I am hopeful for more information in the following books. This was an enjoyable story and I look forward to reading more in this series.
** same worded review will appear elsewhere **
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book, and the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Jun 2, 2022
This is a long book, giving you ample time to lose yourself in Ancient Britannia, where Catrin sees Romans come to land through her raven's eyes. This event sets off a chain that will see her fall in love and come into her powers and many other things. Marcellus is there at his father's command, basically seeing if the timing for an invasion is good or not.
There is an instant connection between the two that could just be the infatuation between two young teens. However, as the story goes, it is true love and they are bound together forever. This, I found a little hard to believe as they know nothing about each other past their attraction, and constantly doubt each other, believing them to be betraying them, etc. I hope their relationship develops and matures as the books progress as both of them acted childishly at times.
I enjoyed the story but found some parts a bit difficult to digest. For instance, there was a whole lot more to druids than just being sorcerers or priests but none of that is mentioned. I was confused by the term 'druid powers' as that could encompass a whole manner of things.
Bear in mind it is the first book, so there are lots of things left unanswered. I am hopeful for more information in the following books. This was an enjoyable story and I look forward to reading more in this series.
** same worded review will appear elsewhere **
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book, and the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Jun 2, 2022
Deborah (162 KP) rated Jane Austen and Food in Books
Dec 21, 2018
Over the years there have been a glut of 'Jane Austen and.....' books. She just far enough away for us to need some explanation of some of the things that her contemporary readers wouldn't have thought twice about and this is one of the things that this book does very well. Confused about service a la Francaise or a la Russe? Think the French Bread at Northanger is like a modern French Stick or not sure why Mrs Grant's Turkey wouldn't keep until Sunday? - this book will certainly help you there!
Of course, it goes a little deeper than that. Only on occasion are we given reference to very specific foodstuffs, so when we do, you can bet there is some greater significance to it. There is also the significance of female characters as 'housekeeper' and what this says about them. Mrs Jennings may at times be a comic character and have lower social origins, but sh is a good housekeeper, in contrast to Mrs Price, who really doesn't know what she is about.
I read this on Kindle and there could have been a little more in terms of proof reading. The book itself ends at about 80% in due to index, bibliography and an extract from another book - I mention it as it came sooner than I expected.
Of course, it goes a little deeper than that. Only on occasion are we given reference to very specific foodstuffs, so when we do, you can bet there is some greater significance to it. There is also the significance of female characters as 'housekeeper' and what this says about them. Mrs Jennings may at times be a comic character and have lower social origins, but sh is a good housekeeper, in contrast to Mrs Price, who really doesn't know what she is about.
I read this on Kindle and there could have been a little more in terms of proof reading. The book itself ends at about 80% in due to index, bibliography and an extract from another book - I mention it as it came sooner than I expected.
Stuff You Should Know About Stuff: How to Properly Behave in Certain Situations
Tripp Crosby and Tyler Stanton
Book
Do you know how to properly conduct yourself in a public restroom? What about while in the midst of...
We are All Completely Beside Ourselves
6.7
Rate It
Book
Rosemary's young, just at college, and she's decided not to tell anyone a thing about her family. So...
Fiction Contemporary
Merissa (13730 KP) rated Journey Man (Knights of Black Swan #9) in Books
Jun 2, 2023
Rosie and Glen's story started years ago, when Glen was the first word that Rosie spoke. He was her babysitter, friend, and later, lover. However that all changed when Rose gave him an ultimatum - her or the Knights. When Glen tried to explain about how he felt about the Knights, Rosie disappeared. Five years have passed since then, and a lot has happened to both of them. Rosie has to recover from heartache, whilst Glen has become bitter about Rosie, mostly due to the fact that he has suffered more stress and anguish than anyone should.
I thoroughly enjoyed the direction that Victoria Danann took their story. It was heartbreaking to see how Glen was suffering. Even when he is surly, I still think he is brilliant. But here's the thing - I just don't feel the same about Rosie. I've tried, I honestly have. There is something about her that just doesn't do it for me.
With a wonderful storyline and an excellent supporting cast, with cameo appearances from some of my favourite characters, this is a fantastic addition to the series and I can't wait to see where it goes next.
* I received this book from the author in return for a fair and honest review. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Apr 7, 2016
I thoroughly enjoyed the direction that Victoria Danann took their story. It was heartbreaking to see how Glen was suffering. Even when he is surly, I still think he is brilliant. But here's the thing - I just don't feel the same about Rosie. I've tried, I honestly have. There is something about her that just doesn't do it for me.
With a wonderful storyline and an excellent supporting cast, with cameo appearances from some of my favourite characters, this is a fantastic addition to the series and I can't wait to see where it goes next.
* I received this book from the author in return for a fair and honest review. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Apr 7, 2016
Caffeinated Fae (464 KP) rated The Bride Test in Books
May 7, 2019
Funny & Quirky
This is easily a 5-star book. I first found Helen Hoang through the Bookish First website, and I fell in love with the “The Kiss Quotient.” It was unique and honestly one of my favorite romances that I have read. When I first heard about The Bride Test, I couldn’t wait to get my hands on it. I didn’t even read the blurb. I just knew that Helen Hoang was a new one-click author for me. Needless to say, when I got the opportunity via NetGalley to read The Bride Test I jumped at the chance.
The Bride Test brings some lovable characters from The Kiss Quotient and puts them into a new perspective. This book features Khai Diep, a character we briefly met in her last novel. Khai is such a well-written character, and I just loved Esme as well. Both Esme & Khai are well developed, and the chemistry was exciting and fun. What I love about Helen’s books is that they feature characters with autism, but it doesn’t define them. She puts so much thought and love into her books that it’s hard to read a book after it.
The plot kept me fascinated, and it was completely unique to me. I loved the cultural aspects present in this book, and I liked how it all played out. This is hands down my favorite book so far. It’s funny, it’s quirky, and it’s a book I never wanted to end.
The Bride Test brings some lovable characters from The Kiss Quotient and puts them into a new perspective. This book features Khai Diep, a character we briefly met in her last novel. Khai is such a well-written character, and I just loved Esme as well. Both Esme & Khai are well developed, and the chemistry was exciting and fun. What I love about Helen’s books is that they feature characters with autism, but it doesn’t define them. She puts so much thought and love into her books that it’s hard to read a book after it.
The plot kept me fascinated, and it was completely unique to me. I loved the cultural aspects present in this book, and I liked how it all played out. This is hands down my favorite book so far. It’s funny, it’s quirky, and it’s a book I never wanted to end.
Merissa (13730 KP) rated Melting For You (Neighborhood Shindig #1) in Books
Jun 19, 2019
Melting For You (Neighborhood Shindig #1) by A.M. Arthur
Melting For You is the first book in the Neighborhood Shindig series. This is decidedly lower angst than previous books by Ms. Arthur I have read, and we meet Joel and Isaiah. Joel has had the dirty done to him by his (ex) partner, in both his personal and professional lives. Isaiah has returned home to look after his dad after he had a heart attack, and also, hopefully, to build a better relationship with him.
The relationship between Joel and Isaiah starts off fast, but then slows down some, as they spend time together doing things, not just each other. I loved how the two of them worked together, and bounced ideas around. One major plus for me were the excellent descriptions of the Neighborhood Shindig itself. I could see it clearly in my mind, and my mouth was certainly watering with the descriptions given.
If I had anything bad to say about the book, it would be the ending felt a bit rushed to me. I only had six minutes reading time left, and neither Joel nor Isaiah had spoken to the other about staying. Apart from that, I thoroughly enjoyed it, and look forward to returning to the Shindig. Definitely recommended.
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book, and the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
The relationship between Joel and Isaiah starts off fast, but then slows down some, as they spend time together doing things, not just each other. I loved how the two of them worked together, and bounced ideas around. One major plus for me were the excellent descriptions of the Neighborhood Shindig itself. I could see it clearly in my mind, and my mouth was certainly watering with the descriptions given.
If I had anything bad to say about the book, it would be the ending felt a bit rushed to me. I only had six minutes reading time left, and neither Joel nor Isaiah had spoken to the other about staying. Apart from that, I thoroughly enjoyed it, and look forward to returning to the Shindig. Definitely recommended.
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book, and the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Mark @ Carstairs Considers (2474 KP) rated My Fair Latte in Books
Mar 4, 2020
Body on Opening Night
Halley Greer has just inherited an Art Deco movie palace in the touristy town of Utopia Springs, Arkansas. She’s decided to turn it into a classic movie theater that features coffee and wine as part of the snack bar options. After weeks or hard work restoring it, she is ready to feature My Fair Lady on opening night. However, during intermission, one of the patrons is found dead in his seat. The police think Halley is a good suspect even though she is new to town. Can she clear her name?
I really enjoyed this series debut. The characters are fantastic. We are making friends along with Halley, and they are a varied lot. I felt we got to know them, and I look forward to spending time with them in future books. The plot was a little slow to get started, but once it did, I was hooked on that as well. I thought I had a couple of things figured out, but I was still surprised by some twists. The suspects are just as strong as the series regulars, and kept me guessing until Halley figured it out. While I’m not much of a coffee or wine drinker, I was drooling over some of the food talked about in the book. The book gives some hints about things to be explored in future books, and I’m already looking forward to my next visit with these characters.
I really enjoyed this series debut. The characters are fantastic. We are making friends along with Halley, and they are a varied lot. I felt we got to know them, and I look forward to spending time with them in future books. The plot was a little slow to get started, but once it did, I was hooked on that as well. I thought I had a couple of things figured out, but I was still surprised by some twists. The suspects are just as strong as the series regulars, and kept me guessing until Halley figured it out. While I’m not much of a coffee or wine drinker, I was drooling over some of the food talked about in the book. The book gives some hints about things to be explored in future books, and I’m already looking forward to my next visit with these characters.