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Kristy H (1252 KP) rated Where the Crawdads Sing in Books
Aug 12, 2021
A haunting story of survival
Kya Clark is very young when her mother leaves, abandoning her to their marshland home and her violent father. His presence is in her life is scattered, at best, and Kya mostly raises herself, learning about the land, the wildlife, and the swamp on her own. She forms attachment to few, but meets two very different young men from town whom she feels drawn to. In 1969, one of those men is found dead and Kya--always a source of gossip among the locals--is the prime suspect.
I'm not sure there's much I can add to the many reviews of this popular book. I read it as part of my new reading project--choosing books off my shelves based on their Goodreads rankings. This is my third book of the project, forcing me out of my comfort zone and to try books in genres I don't usually read! I'm glad I finally read it-- it's a very mesmerizing tale, and Kya's improbable life on the marsh quickly drew me in.
This is part a character-driven and coming of age story combined with a mystery and courtroom drama. It covers a lot of Kya's life, but focuses on her growing up in the marsh. There's a lot that seems hard to believe--especially that no one does anything to help this parent-less child, growing up alone in the marsh. The book covers a lot of heady topics, including racism, sexual assault, and more. Its description of nature and the marsh are beautiful. At the heart of the story is Kya, and it's impossible not to root for our heroine. She's tough and smart, and the way she loves her marsh is simply beautiful.
Overall, rating on pure enjoyment, I really liked this book. If I don't delve too deep into pondering about the inner workings of the plot, this was a great read--mesmerizing, haunting, and lovely. 4+ stars.
I'm not sure there's much I can add to the many reviews of this popular book. I read it as part of my new reading project--choosing books off my shelves based on their Goodreads rankings. This is my third book of the project, forcing me out of my comfort zone and to try books in genres I don't usually read! I'm glad I finally read it-- it's a very mesmerizing tale, and Kya's improbable life on the marsh quickly drew me in.
This is part a character-driven and coming of age story combined with a mystery and courtroom drama. It covers a lot of Kya's life, but focuses on her growing up in the marsh. There's a lot that seems hard to believe--especially that no one does anything to help this parent-less child, growing up alone in the marsh. The book covers a lot of heady topics, including racism, sexual assault, and more. Its description of nature and the marsh are beautiful. At the heart of the story is Kya, and it's impossible not to root for our heroine. She's tough and smart, and the way she loves her marsh is simply beautiful.
Overall, rating on pure enjoyment, I really liked this book. If I don't delve too deep into pondering about the inner workings of the plot, this was a great read--mesmerizing, haunting, and lovely. 4+ stars.
Merissa (12914 KP) rated Fever (Songbird #1) in Books
Apr 11, 2023
This is the story of Ella, a character who loves Jazz but has absolutely no backbone to speak of. She is a people pleaser as she is afraid of them leaving her. Now, normally, a character like Ella would have me screaming at my Kindle to "grow a spine!" However, something about Ella drew me in. Perhaps it was the occasional glimpses of who she could be, given the right circumstances and encouragement.
Cole starts off as a bit of a player but soon falls for his 'shower girl'. The two of them not knowing who they were but in constant contact was amusing. Cole changes his mind from being a player to having an unknown girl be 'the one' for him but that is the only thing that is rushed. It progresses slowly and naturally between Cole and Ella.
David, I felt sorry for. He's really not the right guy for Ella but he was there when she needed him so he's not really the bad guy of the show either. He doesn't see Ella or consider her wants but then she doesn't open her mouth either so it's not all his fault.
This was a very well-written contemporary romance between two college students as they learn who they are, what they want and how to go about getting it. I loved the ending with Ella (no spoilers) - I thought it absolutely perfect and was so happy to see it happen.
If you have read any other of Melissa Pearl's books, then you already know you are in for a treat. If you haven't - and you like new adult contemporary romance - then I can recommend you start with this one.
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book; the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
September 11, 2016
Cole starts off as a bit of a player but soon falls for his 'shower girl'. The two of them not knowing who they were but in constant contact was amusing. Cole changes his mind from being a player to having an unknown girl be 'the one' for him but that is the only thing that is rushed. It progresses slowly and naturally between Cole and Ella.
David, I felt sorry for. He's really not the right guy for Ella but he was there when she needed him so he's not really the bad guy of the show either. He doesn't see Ella or consider her wants but then she doesn't open her mouth either so it's not all his fault.
This was a very well-written contemporary romance between two college students as they learn who they are, what they want and how to go about getting it. I loved the ending with Ella (no spoilers) - I thought it absolutely perfect and was so happy to see it happen.
If you have read any other of Melissa Pearl's books, then you already know you are in for a treat. If you haven't - and you like new adult contemporary romance - then I can recommend you start with this one.
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book; the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
September 11, 2016
Merissa (12914 KP) rated Smith's Corner: Faith & Fox (The Heartwood Series #4) in Books
Dec 3, 2021 (Updated Jul 9, 2023)
SMITH'S CORNER: FAITH & FOX is the fourth book in the Heartwood series. Fox has been the strong, silent one throughout the story so far, but now we find out why, and how it has affected him. We also learn more about Faith and what she had to deal with. Let's just say, it hasn't been easy for either of them.
Kingsley, I knew was going to turn up. After all, he did in Ash and Alora's story so there's no way he wasn't going to show here. But then, we find out just how much of a sadistic jerk he is, and I really REALLY disliked him. And it was so true what Faith experienced. You can train and train, but when confronted by someone like that, sometimes you do freeze. That's where extra training comes in, to try and stop that reaction from happening.
The romance between Faith and Fox is hot and sweet. She has her concerns, to be fair, none of which have anything to do with Fox. And I loved how she could read him, giving him a voice when he didn't have one.
The thing I love about these books is the heartache you get. Because you know that it will be followed by all the love and romance you could ask for. Now, in true Jayne Paton style, although I thought it was Faith and Fox I wanted, she's moved me along, and now my heart is aching for Storm and Stone, and Hunter and Holden. So much pain!!!! I can't wait.
This is a brilliant series that now has an extra jewel in its crown. Definitely recommended by me.
** 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!
Dec 3, 2021
Kingsley, I knew was going to turn up. After all, he did in Ash and Alora's story so there's no way he wasn't going to show here. But then, we find out just how much of a sadistic jerk he is, and I really REALLY disliked him. And it was so true what Faith experienced. You can train and train, but when confronted by someone like that, sometimes you do freeze. That's where extra training comes in, to try and stop that reaction from happening.
The romance between Faith and Fox is hot and sweet. She has her concerns, to be fair, none of which have anything to do with Fox. And I loved how she could read him, giving him a voice when he didn't have one.
The thing I love about these books is the heartache you get. Because you know that it will be followed by all the love and romance you could ask for. Now, in true Jayne Paton style, although I thought it was Faith and Fox I wanted, she's moved me along, and now my heart is aching for Storm and Stone, and Hunter and Holden. So much pain!!!! I can't wait.
This is a brilliant series that now has an extra jewel in its crown. Definitely recommended by me.
** 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!
Dec 3, 2021
Merissa (12914 KP) rated The Complete Love Mark Box Set by Linda Kage in Books
Jul 7, 2022
This is a review for The COMPLETE Love Mark Boxset, which features stories about Erick and Ianna, Urban and Vienne, Nicolette and Farrow, Indigo and Quilla, Olivander and Unity, and Dori and Xavier. You also get Allera and Brentley's story thrown in for good measure.
This boxset/world shines a whole new light on the insta-love/lust trope as those from High Cliff have a tattoo near one of their eyes that tells them when they have found their true love. When that happens, all reason and rational behaviour go out of the window, leaving only burning lust. Along the way, we get the stories from the couples and the overall story arc that links them all together.
I enjoyed all the stories, some more so than others but the one character I absolutely loathe is Nicolette. I coped with her in Urban and Vienne's story as she was only a teenager. I had to force myself to finish her book, although I loved Farrow, and despised her in Dori's story. And she's not in it for long! Just long enough to remind me why I disliked her so much.
To be perfectly honest, I would not recommend reading this as a boxset but as more individual stories. So long as you can remember the overall story arc you should be okay, but there is a lot of repetition about just what the love mark means, how it makes you behave, plus other things, that become obvious when you read them back-to-back.
This was a new-to-me author and I am intrigued enough to look for other books by her. I have no hesitation in recommending this series but with the caveat already mentioned.
** 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!
This boxset/world shines a whole new light on the insta-love/lust trope as those from High Cliff have a tattoo near one of their eyes that tells them when they have found their true love. When that happens, all reason and rational behaviour go out of the window, leaving only burning lust. Along the way, we get the stories from the couples and the overall story arc that links them all together.
I enjoyed all the stories, some more so than others but the one character I absolutely loathe is Nicolette. I coped with her in Urban and Vienne's story as she was only a teenager. I had to force myself to finish her book, although I loved Farrow, and despised her in Dori's story. And she's not in it for long! Just long enough to remind me why I disliked her so much.
To be perfectly honest, I would not recommend reading this as a boxset but as more individual stories. So long as you can remember the overall story arc you should be okay, but there is a lot of repetition about just what the love mark means, how it makes you behave, plus other things, that become obvious when you read them back-to-back.
This was a new-to-me author and I am intrigued enough to look for other books by her. I have no hesitation in recommending this series but with the caveat already mentioned.
** 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!
Merissa (12914 KP) rated The Darkness Within (Etherya's Earth #3) in Books
Mar 14, 2022 (Updated Jul 3, 2023)
THE DARKNESS WITHIN continues the Etherya's Earth series and it is Darkrip and Arderin's turn. Now, if you've read the other books, which you really should have, you will know that sparks fly whenever these two are near. Is it really loathing or something else?
I honestly don't know where to start with this book. So many things. First of all, we see Miranda nearing the end of her pregnancy and feeling like a blue whale (her words, not mine). Nolan makes his move with Sadie - and I really need more from these two!!! Latimus and Lila show up, with adorable Jack. And we finally meet Evie.
But this story is also about Arderin and Darkrip. I would say more about Arderin, being as it's written mainly from her perspective. She is stubborn, feisty, and a virgin - something she finds intolerable. When a trip to the human world causes problems for them, things look dire for our two main characters. Of course, they don't die, that would be ridiculous as the book was only half over! They do behave in ways they didn't think they would though, and Darkrip is left wondering how Arderin can even look at him, whilst she is amazed by his strength of will.
Arderin knows what she wants and will do what she can to get it. She refuses to take no for an answer, and Darkrip really doesn't argue much at all, considering he wants exactly the same as she does.
As I've said, there are other stories interwoven with theirs, and I loved every word. This is a series not to be missed, and I highly recommend this book so long as you read it in order to get the full benefit. Another brilliant read.
** 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!
Mar 7, 2022
I honestly don't know where to start with this book. So many things. First of all, we see Miranda nearing the end of her pregnancy and feeling like a blue whale (her words, not mine). Nolan makes his move with Sadie - and I really need more from these two!!! Latimus and Lila show up, with adorable Jack. And we finally meet Evie.
But this story is also about Arderin and Darkrip. I would say more about Arderin, being as it's written mainly from her perspective. She is stubborn, feisty, and a virgin - something she finds intolerable. When a trip to the human world causes problems for them, things look dire for our two main characters. Of course, they don't die, that would be ridiculous as the book was only half over! They do behave in ways they didn't think they would though, and Darkrip is left wondering how Arderin can even look at him, whilst she is amazed by his strength of will.
Arderin knows what she wants and will do what she can to get it. She refuses to take no for an answer, and Darkrip really doesn't argue much at all, considering he wants exactly the same as she does.
As I've said, there are other stories interwoven with theirs, and I loved every word. This is a series not to be missed, and I highly recommend this book so long as you read it in order to get the full benefit. Another brilliant read.
** 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!
Mar 7, 2022
Debbiereadsbook (1444 KP) rated The Red Dragon of Oxford (Wings over Albion #1) in Books
Jan 26, 2024
Cute and Sweet and fairly low on the angst scale.
Independent reviewer for Archaeolibrarian, I was gifted my copy of this book.
Mark is in Oxford to get his doctorate. He never expected to find an injured DRAGON on his walk. But the dragon was real, he spoke to Mark. Then, it was gone and Mark couldn't find it. The library provides him with the solitude to do his research. It helps, though, that the librarian, Rufus, is so hawt. But Rufus has a secret, one that might destroy everything.
I have read a couple of Fielding's books, and I think this was my favourite. She writes very easy to read books, and sometimes, that's just what you need.
I enjoyed this, greatly. Lots of descriptions of Oxford, and the university. Having never been, I did like them.
I liked how the relationship between Mark and Rufus developed and once they went in, they went ALL in! Steamy in places and emotional in others. Mark is dealing with his feelings about not being intelligent enough to be in Oxford and Rufus about his being a red dragon. Cos in this world, red dragons are not good.
But then WHITE dragons appear and Rufus' red dragon has a skill he didn't see coming.
I didn't fully get the point of the white dragons appearing, and the problems they were causing til that was all explained. There is also the issue of the cyber attacks on the Mortimer finances that Nate, Rufus' brother, is off dealing with.
It's cute and sweet and fairly low on the angst scale. But steamy and smexy in places!
An easy read that landed in my queue right when I needed it. I'd like to read more of this series as they come out, cos Nate needs a story, given his current job chasing the cyber attacks.
4 good solid stars
*same worded review will appear elsewhere
Mark is in Oxford to get his doctorate. He never expected to find an injured DRAGON on his walk. But the dragon was real, he spoke to Mark. Then, it was gone and Mark couldn't find it. The library provides him with the solitude to do his research. It helps, though, that the librarian, Rufus, is so hawt. But Rufus has a secret, one that might destroy everything.
I have read a couple of Fielding's books, and I think this was my favourite. She writes very easy to read books, and sometimes, that's just what you need.
I enjoyed this, greatly. Lots of descriptions of Oxford, and the university. Having never been, I did like them.
I liked how the relationship between Mark and Rufus developed and once they went in, they went ALL in! Steamy in places and emotional in others. Mark is dealing with his feelings about not being intelligent enough to be in Oxford and Rufus about his being a red dragon. Cos in this world, red dragons are not good.
But then WHITE dragons appear and Rufus' red dragon has a skill he didn't see coming.
I didn't fully get the point of the white dragons appearing, and the problems they were causing til that was all explained. There is also the issue of the cyber attacks on the Mortimer finances that Nate, Rufus' brother, is off dealing with.
It's cute and sweet and fairly low on the angst scale. But steamy and smexy in places!
An easy read that landed in my queue right when I needed it. I'd like to read more of this series as they come out, cos Nate needs a story, given his current job chasing the cyber attacks.
4 good solid stars
*same worded review will appear elsewhere
Suswatibasu (1703 KP) rated Men Explain Things to Me: And Other Essays in Books
Oct 20, 2017 (Updated Oct 20, 2017)
Some interesting points but doesn't connect together
Having read many of Rebecca Solnit's works, this is not one of the better ones. While there are some thoughtful ideas, the essays are disjointed from one another, so it seems to be lumped together.
That being said, some of the essays have some important points. This includes marriage equality between same sexes, ensuring inequality from a patriarchal standpoint can be dismantled.
And there is a small amount of intersectionality, discussing the rape of Native American and Indian women as part of a pandemic of violence against women rather than isolated incidents. And while this was written several years before and some of it no longer applies (Dominic Strauss-Kahn) it is still valid as the issues still continue.
The less said about slutwalk, the better.
I would say this is a good introduction to feminism for those who are seeking to understand parts, but I would recommend books with a little more substance than this.
That being said, some of the essays have some important points. This includes marriage equality between same sexes, ensuring inequality from a patriarchal standpoint can be dismantled.
And there is a small amount of intersectionality, discussing the rape of Native American and Indian women as part of a pandemic of violence against women rather than isolated incidents. And while this was written several years before and some of it no longer applies (Dominic Strauss-Kahn) it is still valid as the issues still continue.
The less said about slutwalk, the better.
I would say this is a good introduction to feminism for those who are seeking to understand parts, but I would recommend books with a little more substance than this.
Ross (3284 KP) rated Red Country in Books
Nov 29, 2017
This book is the third standalone set in the world of the First Law trilogy and sees farm girl Shy (with a dark secret history) and her 9-fingered step-father return from market to find their farm burned and Shy's siblings abducted.
They duly follow the trail of the kidnappers and end up embroiled in a journey through the "wild west" of this world with groups of travellers seeking their fortune and without exception ending destitute in grubby town Crease.
A number of familiar faces (or hands) return in this book, as well as a number of new characters. I didn't really like the western setting, being totally incongruous with the rest of the books set in the same world, and the mysticism implied near the end was not very well explored (a similar gripe about the first trilogy).
A good read, but really for completists, not to be read as a standalone book.
They duly follow the trail of the kidnappers and end up embroiled in a journey through the "wild west" of this world with groups of travellers seeking their fortune and without exception ending destitute in grubby town Crease.
A number of familiar faces (or hands) return in this book, as well as a number of new characters. I didn't really like the western setting, being totally incongruous with the rest of the books set in the same world, and the mysticism implied near the end was not very well explored (a similar gripe about the first trilogy).
A good read, but really for completists, not to be read as a standalone book.
Book Divas (227 KP) rated Always Remembered in Books
Dec 12, 2017
I received an ARC when I signed up and was selected to host the book tour. I made no guarantee of a favorable review and the opinions expressed are solely my own.
I loved this final installment of the Never Forgotten series. The book picks up where the last one left off. This beautiful and well detailed story will leave you in its grip as the surprises just keep coming and we find ourselves dealing with many emotional moments throughout this book.. The relationship between Meara and Kieran continues to deepen and Evan learns the truth about himself. Kelly Risser did an amazing job in creating and weaving this mystical series and you will not be disappointed with how this story ends. Please note that all three books in the series must be read in order. Make sure that you add this entire series to your MUST read list and I look forward to reading more by this very creative author.
I loved this final installment of the Never Forgotten series. The book picks up where the last one left off. This beautiful and well detailed story will leave you in its grip as the surprises just keep coming and we find ourselves dealing with many emotional moments throughout this book.. The relationship between Meara and Kieran continues to deepen and Evan learns the truth about himself. Kelly Risser did an amazing job in creating and weaving this mystical series and you will not be disappointed with how this story ends. Please note that all three books in the series must be read in order. Make sure that you add this entire series to your MUST read list and I look forward to reading more by this very creative author.
Chris Hooker (419 KP) rated After the End (After the End, #1) in Books
Jan 12, 2018
[After The End] by [Amy Plum] has a deceptive tile because it leads you to think it is an dystopian novel. Although I love those books this was a welcomed surprise. It turned into more of an action/adventure with a little coming of age thrown in for good measure.
[Plum] did an excellent job of developing a creative, fearless, intelligent character in Juneau. Although she is naive do to lack of exposure she know how to survive. Her loyalty to family even though they hurt her is endearing.
Miles, on the other hand, is a spoiled rotten brat who has had the easy life. He starts out for his own gain but what he really gains is a new insight about life and love.
This story has some supernatural aspects but over all is more of an exciting journey of discovery for two young people who have a lot to learn from each other.
[Plum] did an excellent job of developing a creative, fearless, intelligent character in Juneau. Although she is naive do to lack of exposure she know how to survive. Her loyalty to family even though they hurt her is endearing.
Miles, on the other hand, is a spoiled rotten brat who has had the easy life. He starts out for his own gain but what he really gains is a new insight about life and love.
This story has some supernatural aspects but over all is more of an exciting journey of discovery for two young people who have a lot to learn from each other.