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Micky Barnard (542 KP) rated Beautiful Broken Things in Books
Feb 20, 2019
The fragility of teen friendships
This was a contemporary YA about friendships, there was no romance and it didn't need it. This friendship triangle was a subtle but delicate dance of power imbalance and loyalty. The pacing was steady as the story ebbed and flowed through drama (real not unnecessary) and steadier times.
Caddy was the protagonist and Rosie was her best friend but the story very much revolved around Suzanne, a 16 year old teen, abused and with significant psychological effects. I never understood the lack of police involvement in her past, but I was able to read past that issue. It was a powerful story, wings were spread, influences bad and good happened and the apple cart was well and truly knocked over.
This story built to a crescendo and for the last 10%, I felt like I'd been hit with a mallet. It was powerful reading and my heart had a few fissures that needed mending. I am so glad I am reading this at a time when there's a book two out, even though it has stood alone for a few years.
Sara Barnard writes from the young person's perspective so well. Her characters' feelings towards their parents and their parents' reactions are very real. I remain impressed.
Caddy was the protagonist and Rosie was her best friend but the story very much revolved around Suzanne, a 16 year old teen, abused and with significant psychological effects. I never understood the lack of police involvement in her past, but I was able to read past that issue. It was a powerful story, wings were spread, influences bad and good happened and the apple cart was well and truly knocked over.
This story built to a crescendo and for the last 10%, I felt like I'd been hit with a mallet. It was powerful reading and my heart had a few fissures that needed mending. I am so glad I am reading this at a time when there's a book two out, even though it has stood alone for a few years.
Sara Barnard writes from the young person's perspective so well. Her characters' feelings towards their parents and their parents' reactions are very real. I remain impressed.
Bong Mines Entertainment (15 KP) rated Don't Go by Xenia Manasseh in Music
Jun 18, 2019
Xenia Manasseh is an up-and-coming singer-songwriter with Kenyan roots. Not too long ago, she released a bittersweet R&B tune, entitled, “Don’t Go”, produced by Ayo n Keyz.
“Staring at your picture hanging on the wall thinking of our last encounter. Wasn’t ready for the fall. Wondering when you’ll get here, I wanna talk it out. If you’ll just be patient with me, we can work it out.” – lyrics
‘Don’t Go’ tells an interesting tale of a single young woman who regrets telling her ex-beau to depart from their problematic relationship.
But after some time alone, she realizes that he’s the only guy who truly gets her. Therefore, she wants him back and doesn’t want him to leave anymore.
Later, she admits that she can’t remember what was said that put them in a bad place, but apologizes for the part she played in their looming breakup.
Even though her heart is in the right place, she fears that it might be too late to rekindle the flames of their dying romance.
‘Don’t Go’ contains a relatable storyline, pleasing vocals, and lush instrumentation flavored with contemporary R&B and neo-soul elements.
https://www.bongminesentertainment.com/xenia-manasseh-dont-go/
“Staring at your picture hanging on the wall thinking of our last encounter. Wasn’t ready for the fall. Wondering when you’ll get here, I wanna talk it out. If you’ll just be patient with me, we can work it out.” – lyrics
‘Don’t Go’ tells an interesting tale of a single young woman who regrets telling her ex-beau to depart from their problematic relationship.
But after some time alone, she realizes that he’s the only guy who truly gets her. Therefore, she wants him back and doesn’t want him to leave anymore.
Later, she admits that she can’t remember what was said that put them in a bad place, but apologizes for the part she played in their looming breakup.
Even though her heart is in the right place, she fears that it might be too late to rekindle the flames of their dying romance.
‘Don’t Go’ contains a relatable storyline, pleasing vocals, and lush instrumentation flavored with contemporary R&B and neo-soul elements.
https://www.bongminesentertainment.com/xenia-manasseh-dont-go/
Merissa (11805 KP) rated Open Mind (Kink Chronicles #1) in Books
Feb 5, 2020
bdsm, contemporary, grrc, m-m, read, romance
OPEN MIND is the first book in the Kink Chronicles and we meet Jamie and Ronan. Jamie is 28 and has been a travelling nurse for the past couple of years but is now ready to settle down. Ronan has settled down but is in need of a new nurse for his specialised practice!
This story is an interesting mix of being sweet and full of kink! Different kinds of kink so if kink is your thing, there is probably at least one scene in here you will like. As for Jamie and Ronan, I kind of thought they were the perfect pair - once Ronan pulled his head out of his backside! Not every relationship is destined to be monogamous and so long as everyone agrees to that BEFORE anything happens, I'm okay with it.
This was an enjoyable book that moved along at a fair pace. I enjoyed the characters and look forward to reading more in this series.
* 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!
OPEN MIND is the first book in the Kink Chronicles and we meet Jamie and Ronan. Jamie is 28 and has been a travelling nurse for the past couple of years but is now ready to settle down. Ronan has settled down but is in need of a new nurse for his specialised practice!
This story is an interesting mix of being sweet and full of kink! Different kinds of kink so if kink is your thing, there is probably at least one scene in here you will like. As for Jamie and Ronan, I kind of thought they were the perfect pair - once Ronan pulled his head out of his backside! Not every relationship is destined to be monogamous and so long as everyone agrees to that BEFORE anything happens, I'm okay with it.
This was an enjoyable book that moved along at a fair pace. I enjoyed the characters and look forward to reading more in this series.
* 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 (11805 KP) rated My Heart & Soul (Lyrics of Love #11) in Books
Oct 2, 2020
My Heart & Soul is the eleventh book in the Lyrics of Love series and was previously published as Rather Be by Melissa Pearl. In this story, you meet Charlie and Nixon - two high school sweethearts who let life (and parents) get in the way.
Charlie is the free-spirited one, the one who wants to travel the world. Nixon is the steady one, the one whose parents want him to become a lawyer. At first glance, it appears these two have nothing in common but the music they both like so much. Can there be more to their story than just music though?
Their story is as much hopeful as heartbreaking and there are plenty of times when I just wanted them both to spit out just how they felt about each other. It happened, trust me, but all in good time. It was great seeing previous characters in this and catching up on their stories too, whilst the focus remains firmly on Chix.
A great, sweet, contemporary romance that I enjoyed and have no hesitation in recommending.
* 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!
Charlie is the free-spirited one, the one who wants to travel the world. Nixon is the steady one, the one whose parents want him to become a lawyer. At first glance, it appears these two have nothing in common but the music they both like so much. Can there be more to their story than just music though?
Their story is as much hopeful as heartbreaking and there are plenty of times when I just wanted them both to spit out just how they felt about each other. It happened, trust me, but all in good time. It was great seeing previous characters in this and catching up on their stories too, whilst the focus remains firmly on Chix.
A great, sweet, contemporary romance that I enjoyed and have no hesitation in recommending.
* 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 (11805 KP) rated Hell Bound in Books
Apr 12, 2023
This is a standalone romantic suspense story that starts off slowly before picking up and maintaining speed.
It tells the tale of Riley, a woman with secrets, who is an FBI officer working on a case that is hitting very close to home. Although she would usually have been taken off the case for being too close, due to who she is (one of the secrets) and what is happening, her supervisor has given her the go-ahead to continue working the case.
I enjoyed reading this book although I personally prefer Lifting The Veil which I have only recently read. I found Sam to be slightly too cocky at the start and his "I know best" attitude. However, once things settled down, I started to like him more.
The story is well executed and thought out. You may or may not guess who the 'bad guy' is but even if you do guess, it doesn't take away any of the enjoyment you get from a well-written story.
Recommended for fans of Contemporary Romance with a pinch of Suspense added.
I received this book from Reading Alley in return for a fair and honest review.
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
September 6, 2016
It tells the tale of Riley, a woman with secrets, who is an FBI officer working on a case that is hitting very close to home. Although she would usually have been taken off the case for being too close, due to who she is (one of the secrets) and what is happening, her supervisor has given her the go-ahead to continue working the case.
I enjoyed reading this book although I personally prefer Lifting The Veil which I have only recently read. I found Sam to be slightly too cocky at the start and his "I know best" attitude. However, once things settled down, I started to like him more.
The story is well executed and thought out. You may or may not guess who the 'bad guy' is but even if you do guess, it doesn't take away any of the enjoyment you get from a well-written story.
Recommended for fans of Contemporary Romance with a pinch of Suspense added.
I received this book from Reading Alley in return for a fair and honest review.
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
September 6, 2016
Merissa (11805 KP) created a post
Nov 5, 2021
Hazel (1853 KP) rated The Paris Secret in Books
Dec 17, 2018
<i>I received this book for free through Goodreads First Reads.
The Paris Secret</i> is Karen Swan’s latest contemporary novel of light mystery, surprises and a hint of romance. A rich family man in France has recently learnt of an abandoned apartment belonging to his long-deceased father. What was even more astonishing was the discovery that the place is stacked top to bottom with famous artwork. Flora Sykes, a British Fine Art Agent, is hired to tell the family more about their newfound possessions.
Although Flora comes from a wealthy family, the opulence of the Vermeil family is overwhelming. Despite the initial welcoming, Flora is disconcerted by the behaviour of their rotten daughter, Natascha, and terse yet handsome son, Xavier. Feeling like she is already unwanted, things get worse after her research exposes a devastating secret about the family’s history. Fearing she is to blame for the Vermeil’s downfall, Flora tries to focus on her work, but her confusing feelings towards Xavier are driving her to distraction.
For art lovers, <i>The Paris Secret</i> will hold great appeal. A vast amount of research has gone into the novel to be able to include such detail about famous painters, artwork, auctions and much more. While the story primarily focuses on said topic, there is also the added touch of romance developing in the latter stages as well as a continuous theme of brotherly sisterly bonds.
A real-life scenario in which a Paris apartment was discovered after being shut up since the Second World War inspired Karen Swan to write this enthralling story. Using this as the bare bones, Swan tried to imagine what the discovery would have been like for the family, how it would alter their futures, and most importantly what it would change about the knowledge of their history. What emerges is a gripping book that emphasizes the importance of family, prejudices and the continued effects of past war.
In a way,<i> The Paris Secret</i> can be viewed as a piece of Chick Lit – it is about a twenty something woman who has never been in love. On the other hand, is there enough romance for it to sit comfortable under this heading? Perhaps not, but that helps to improve the overall storyline. The inevitable romance scenes do not detract from the Art History plot, thankfully limiting the amount of pages some readers may find uncomfortable.
In all honesty you will need to have a little interest, or enough knowledge of the fine art world to get the most out of this book. Although a leisurely read, <i>The Paris Secret</i> contains many highbrow topics and less of the unpretentious lovey-dovey stuff. Flora is an easy character to like and the narrative flows exceptionally well. Karen Swan is a worthy author to keep in mind when browsing for something to read.
The Paris Secret</i> is Karen Swan’s latest contemporary novel of light mystery, surprises and a hint of romance. A rich family man in France has recently learnt of an abandoned apartment belonging to his long-deceased father. What was even more astonishing was the discovery that the place is stacked top to bottom with famous artwork. Flora Sykes, a British Fine Art Agent, is hired to tell the family more about their newfound possessions.
Although Flora comes from a wealthy family, the opulence of the Vermeil family is overwhelming. Despite the initial welcoming, Flora is disconcerted by the behaviour of their rotten daughter, Natascha, and terse yet handsome son, Xavier. Feeling like she is already unwanted, things get worse after her research exposes a devastating secret about the family’s history. Fearing she is to blame for the Vermeil’s downfall, Flora tries to focus on her work, but her confusing feelings towards Xavier are driving her to distraction.
For art lovers, <i>The Paris Secret</i> will hold great appeal. A vast amount of research has gone into the novel to be able to include such detail about famous painters, artwork, auctions and much more. While the story primarily focuses on said topic, there is also the added touch of romance developing in the latter stages as well as a continuous theme of brotherly sisterly bonds.
A real-life scenario in which a Paris apartment was discovered after being shut up since the Second World War inspired Karen Swan to write this enthralling story. Using this as the bare bones, Swan tried to imagine what the discovery would have been like for the family, how it would alter their futures, and most importantly what it would change about the knowledge of their history. What emerges is a gripping book that emphasizes the importance of family, prejudices and the continued effects of past war.
In a way,<i> The Paris Secret</i> can be viewed as a piece of Chick Lit – it is about a twenty something woman who has never been in love. On the other hand, is there enough romance for it to sit comfortable under this heading? Perhaps not, but that helps to improve the overall storyline. The inevitable romance scenes do not detract from the Art History plot, thankfully limiting the amount of pages some readers may find uncomfortable.
In all honesty you will need to have a little interest, or enough knowledge of the fine art world to get the most out of this book. Although a leisurely read, <i>The Paris Secret</i> contains many highbrow topics and less of the unpretentious lovey-dovey stuff. Flora is an easy character to like and the narrative flows exceptionally well. Karen Swan is a worthy author to keep in mind when browsing for something to read.
Hazel (1853 KP) rated Curiosity Quills: Chronology in Books
Dec 14, 2018
<i>This eBook was provided by one of the authors in exchange for an honest review
Chronology </i>is a large anthology of stories published at the beginning of 2015 by Curiosity Quills Press. Twenty-Four of Curiosity Quill’s greatest authors feature in this lengthy book providing stacks of entertainment for a wide audience. The stories vary in length and genre, however the most common themes are steampunk and the paranormal.
Males and females alike can enjoy the stories featured in <i>Chronology</i>, although not all the tales will appeal to personal tastes. Although the majority contains scientific or supernatural elements, there are other themes combined with them, for example romance and history. On the other hand you can be sure to expect werewolves, mermaids, demons, ghosts and the undead.
It is difficult to review the whole book in general, as there were some stories I liked and others that did not hold my attention. This, I expect, will be the case for many, if not all, readers. One story, or novella – it was rather lengthy – that I particularly enjoyed was <i>Wind-Up Hearts</i> by Stan Swanson. Containing numerous themes – steampunk, romance, history and contemporary/future setting – I was captivated by the two key characters and their predicament. Due to having mechanical hearts, Henry and Emily have lived for well over 100 years, watched the world change around them, yet stayed friends regardless. Yet Henry yearns for something more.
The good thing about an anthology of different authors’ works is that, while you cannot love everything, you are bound to find something you enjoy. It is great for busy people or those that cannot commit to a lengthy novel; one can dip in and out, picking and choosing which story to read. Although the authors may not be widely known, it is worth giving the anthology a chance. You may find a new author whose writing is perfect for you.
Chronology </i>is a large anthology of stories published at the beginning of 2015 by Curiosity Quills Press. Twenty-Four of Curiosity Quill’s greatest authors feature in this lengthy book providing stacks of entertainment for a wide audience. The stories vary in length and genre, however the most common themes are steampunk and the paranormal.
Males and females alike can enjoy the stories featured in <i>Chronology</i>, although not all the tales will appeal to personal tastes. Although the majority contains scientific or supernatural elements, there are other themes combined with them, for example romance and history. On the other hand you can be sure to expect werewolves, mermaids, demons, ghosts and the undead.
It is difficult to review the whole book in general, as there were some stories I liked and others that did not hold my attention. This, I expect, will be the case for many, if not all, readers. One story, or novella – it was rather lengthy – that I particularly enjoyed was <i>Wind-Up Hearts</i> by Stan Swanson. Containing numerous themes – steampunk, romance, history and contemporary/future setting – I was captivated by the two key characters and their predicament. Due to having mechanical hearts, Henry and Emily have lived for well over 100 years, watched the world change around them, yet stayed friends regardless. Yet Henry yearns for something more.
The good thing about an anthology of different authors’ works is that, while you cannot love everything, you are bound to find something you enjoy. It is great for busy people or those that cannot commit to a lengthy novel; one can dip in and out, picking and choosing which story to read. Although the authors may not be widely known, it is worth giving the anthology a chance. You may find a new author whose writing is perfect for you.
Sophia (Bookwyrming Thoughts) (530 KP) rated The Color Project in Books
Jan 23, 2020
<b><i>I received this book for free from Author in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.</i></b>
<b>Five Reasons Why You Should Drop Everything on July 18 and Read <i>The Color Project</i></b>
Lately I've been in a reviewing funk/slump, so I am back again with another list of reasons why you should totally drop everything, and I mean <i>everything</i> (except for homework and other real-life priorities despite the fact you'd rather read all day) on July 18 (WHEN THE BOOK COMES OUT!) and read Sierra Abrams's debut novel.
<b>The Use of Apps</b> - I think this is a <i>really</i> minor detail, but I almost never see books that actually uses smartphone apps, and Abrams incorporates the use of at least one app I think almost everyone uses on a daily basis if not more.
<b>Gorgeous Writing</b> - I currently don't have the copy with me by side as I'm writing this review, but Abrams has some <i>amazing</i> descriptors in her novel (most of which having to do with stars and constellations, which I adore). Have I mentioned the chapters are based on songs?!
<b>Family and Friendship</b> - Aside from the obvious romance, family and friendship plays an important role in <i>The Color Project</i>, and I <i>loved</i> how Abrams incorporated those two elements together seamlessly with romance.
<b>So Much Emotional Feels</b> - If anyone knows me well enough, I am <i>not</i> an emotional person when it comes to the books I read and the movies/TV shows I see. <i>The Color Project</i> brings out my emotional side, and I had so many tears as I got closer to the end of the novel. (Granted, I might have been watching far too many <i>Boys Over Flowers</i> episodes and reading about three other contemporary novels at the same time, but <i>I never cryyy</i>.)
<b>Cute Characters</b> - I am <i>alll</i> for adorable characters. <i>Imperfect Chemistry</i> is valid proof of that, along with many others I've been reading lately (from <i>I Believe in a Thing Called Love</i> to <i>When Dimple Met Rishi</i>). Bee and Levi are so adorable, I just want to pick them up from <i>The Color Project</i> and adopt them.
It was an absolute delight to read Bee's and Levi's story in <i>The Color Project,</i> and is perfect for those looking for a contemporary novel that has gorgeous writing and bring so much emotion.
<a href="https://bookwyrmingthoughts.com/blog-tour-color-project-by-sierra-abrams/"; target="_blank">This review was originally posted on Bookwyrming Thoughts</a>
<b>Five Reasons Why You Should Drop Everything on July 18 and Read <i>The Color Project</i></b>
Lately I've been in a reviewing funk/slump, so I am back again with another list of reasons why you should totally drop everything, and I mean <i>everything</i> (except for homework and other real-life priorities despite the fact you'd rather read all day) on July 18 (WHEN THE BOOK COMES OUT!) and read Sierra Abrams's debut novel.
<b>The Use of Apps</b> - I think this is a <i>really</i> minor detail, but I almost never see books that actually uses smartphone apps, and Abrams incorporates the use of at least one app I think almost everyone uses on a daily basis if not more.
<b>Gorgeous Writing</b> - I currently don't have the copy with me by side as I'm writing this review, but Abrams has some <i>amazing</i> descriptors in her novel (most of which having to do with stars and constellations, which I adore). Have I mentioned the chapters are based on songs?!
<b>Family and Friendship</b> - Aside from the obvious romance, family and friendship plays an important role in <i>The Color Project</i>, and I <i>loved</i> how Abrams incorporated those two elements together seamlessly with romance.
<b>So Much Emotional Feels</b> - If anyone knows me well enough, I am <i>not</i> an emotional person when it comes to the books I read and the movies/TV shows I see. <i>The Color Project</i> brings out my emotional side, and I had so many tears as I got closer to the end of the novel. (Granted, I might have been watching far too many <i>Boys Over Flowers</i> episodes and reading about three other contemporary novels at the same time, but <i>I never cryyy</i>.)
<b>Cute Characters</b> - I am <i>alll</i> for adorable characters. <i>Imperfect Chemistry</i> is valid proof of that, along with many others I've been reading lately (from <i>I Believe in a Thing Called Love</i> to <i>When Dimple Met Rishi</i>). Bee and Levi are so adorable, I just want to pick them up from <i>The Color Project</i> and adopt them.
It was an absolute delight to read Bee's and Levi's story in <i>The Color Project,</i> and is perfect for those looking for a contemporary novel that has gorgeous writing and bring so much emotion.
<a href="https://bookwyrmingthoughts.com/blog-tour-color-project-by-sierra-abrams/"; target="_blank">This review was originally posted on Bookwyrming Thoughts</a>
ArecRain (8 KP) rated Cursed (Beholder, #1) in Books
Jan 18, 2018
I received a complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review.
This is not my normal read as lately I have been hitting the erotica/contemporary romance hard. However, it had to do with necromancy and that is something I simply cannot pass up. Necromancy is something I am highly interested not only because it is rarely written about (compared to vampires, shifters, etc.), but also because rarely is the hero/heroine ever the necromancer. Usually the necromancer is the villain/antagonist.
This story was refreshing, like a breath of fresh air from what I have been reading. Elea is such a powerful character, both in magic and personality. I could definitely get behind her and her ideals. The authors created world was also fascinating. I felt she not only created a marvelous world but also did a good job at explaining it. Sometimes in fantasy novels, I get lost concerning the authors created mythology, but I wasnt with this novel.
It definitely has a young adult feel to it though. Regardless, I loved it and cant wait to read more. If you are a fan of strong heroines with interesting magic, and a fascinating world beyond imagination, then you may enjoy this novel. Not to mention the young love that spurs main characters. I am all for young, dewy eyed love
This is not my normal read as lately I have been hitting the erotica/contemporary romance hard. However, it had to do with necromancy and that is something I simply cannot pass up. Necromancy is something I am highly interested not only because it is rarely written about (compared to vampires, shifters, etc.), but also because rarely is the hero/heroine ever the necromancer. Usually the necromancer is the villain/antagonist.
This story was refreshing, like a breath of fresh air from what I have been reading. Elea is such a powerful character, both in magic and personality. I could definitely get behind her and her ideals. The authors created world was also fascinating. I felt she not only created a marvelous world but also did a good job at explaining it. Sometimes in fantasy novels, I get lost concerning the authors created mythology, but I wasnt with this novel.
It definitely has a young adult feel to it though. Regardless, I loved it and cant wait to read more. If you are a fan of strong heroines with interesting magic, and a fascinating world beyond imagination, then you may enjoy this novel. Not to mention the young love that spurs main characters. I am all for young, dewy eyed love