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Kristy H (1252 KP) rated Everything, Everything in Books
Feb 1, 2018
Madeline Whittier (Maddy) has SCID, an immunity disorder (think "bubble boy") that confines her to her home. Even stepping outside could kill her. Therefore, she lives alone with her Mom, limited to contact with her and her nurse, Carla. For most of her seventeen years, Maddy has been fine with this, until Olly and his family move next door. Suddenly, Maddy finds herself questioning everything about her life.
For me, this was a lovely and touching book. I fell head over heels for Maddy and Olly and their angsty, teen love. The book is fun, with the writing interspersed with Maddy's drawings and sketches (done by Yoon's husband). A scene with a bundt cake is priceless (trust me). Maddy's voice is fresh and it's interesting to "see" the world through her eyes -- as someone who hasn't been outside since she was a baby. The supporting characters are spare, due to Maddy's limited life, but I loved her nurse, Carla, and Olly. Maddy's mom is a formidable character, as well.
The book takes on a lot - Maddy's illness, domestic violence, teen love, mental illness - I think a lesser author could have easily stumbled. It's not perfect, of course, but I still found myself swept up in Maddy's life and story. It's beautiful, touching, and fun. Definitely a worthy read - one of my favorites that I read this year.
For me, this was a lovely and touching book. I fell head over heels for Maddy and Olly and their angsty, teen love. The book is fun, with the writing interspersed with Maddy's drawings and sketches (done by Yoon's husband). A scene with a bundt cake is priceless (trust me). Maddy's voice is fresh and it's interesting to "see" the world through her eyes -- as someone who hasn't been outside since she was a baby. The supporting characters are spare, due to Maddy's limited life, but I loved her nurse, Carla, and Olly. Maddy's mom is a formidable character, as well.
The book takes on a lot - Maddy's illness, domestic violence, teen love, mental illness - I think a lesser author could have easily stumbled. It's not perfect, of course, but I still found myself swept up in Maddy's life and story. It's beautiful, touching, and fun. Definitely a worthy read - one of my favorites that I read this year.
Mark @ Carstairs Considers (2484 KP) rated Crime and Poetry (Magical Bookshop, #1) in Books
Mar 9, 2018
When Violet Waverly arrives in Cascade Springs, New York, she finds that her grandmother isn’t sick like she’d been told. Instead, her grandmother needs to tell her some family secrets involving the old bookstore that she runs. Violet isn’t interested in learning about them, however, and plans to leave the next morning. Only in the morning, her grandmother’s beau is found strangled. With her grandmother a suspect, Violet must stick around to figure out what happened, and she will get some help from a very unlikely source.
I normally try to avoid magic in my mysteries, but this concept sounded like so much fun I had to give it a try. I’m glad I did since I enjoyed the story very much. Magic does play a part, but only a small part, in solving the mystery. Most of the book is still spent following Violet around as she attempts to figure out what is happening. The characters are strong, and I can see them feeling like old friends soon. A couple of sub-plots felt predictable and slow things down a tad at times, but that’s a minor issue overall.
NOTE: I was sent a copy of this book in hopes I would review it.
Read my full review at <a href="http://carstairsconsiders.blogspot.com/2016/06/book-review-crime-and-poetry-by-amanda.html">Carstairs Considers</a>.
I normally try to avoid magic in my mysteries, but this concept sounded like so much fun I had to give it a try. I’m glad I did since I enjoyed the story very much. Magic does play a part, but only a small part, in solving the mystery. Most of the book is still spent following Violet around as she attempts to figure out what is happening. The characters are strong, and I can see them feeling like old friends soon. A couple of sub-plots felt predictable and slow things down a tad at times, but that’s a minor issue overall.
NOTE: I was sent a copy of this book in hopes I would review it.
Read my full review at <a href="http://carstairsconsiders.blogspot.com/2016/06/book-review-crime-and-poetry-by-amanda.html">Carstairs Considers</a>.
Kristin (149 KP) rated Rock & Roll, Sex, and Fools ...The Slow Fade to Black of Mr. Joe Kool Jack in Books
Dec 7, 2018
Disclaimer: I received an e-copy in exchange for an honest review.
There's a reason why Joe's name is "Joe Kool": He's the coolest cat around. So cool, in fact, that it simply can't be spelled correctly; his nickname has to stand out as much as he does. Therefore, we have Joe Kool, and the world is a much better place for it. Why, without him, we wouldn't have many of the great artists we know and love, not to mention certain recreational activities and popular phrases of yesterday and today. What would our lives have been like if Joe had just stayed at home, never leaving home in search and bigger and better pastures? I'll tell you: they would've been horrible, boring, monotonous, and just not any fun at all!
This story was excellent, and I found myself talking about it with family, friends, and even one poor stranger who will probably never take the Metro alone again. There were times that I laughed myself almost to tears, and those were quite plentiful. I would definitely recommend this book to anyone who wants to add some comic relief to their lives, and of course, to anyone who wants to know the REAL story behind rock and roll. You think you know, but you have no idea ;)
5 stars
There's a reason why Joe's name is "Joe Kool": He's the coolest cat around. So cool, in fact, that it simply can't be spelled correctly; his nickname has to stand out as much as he does. Therefore, we have Joe Kool, and the world is a much better place for it. Why, without him, we wouldn't have many of the great artists we know and love, not to mention certain recreational activities and popular phrases of yesterday and today. What would our lives have been like if Joe had just stayed at home, never leaving home in search and bigger and better pastures? I'll tell you: they would've been horrible, boring, monotonous, and just not any fun at all!
This story was excellent, and I found myself talking about it with family, friends, and even one poor stranger who will probably never take the Metro alone again. There were times that I laughed myself almost to tears, and those were quite plentiful. I would definitely recommend this book to anyone who wants to add some comic relief to their lives, and of course, to anyone who wants to know the REAL story behind rock and roll. You think you know, but you have no idea ;)
5 stars
ClareR (6067 KP) rated Spinning Silver in Books
Aug 13, 2018
Take my money now!!!
Advertised as a retelling of Rumpelstiltskin, this takes quite some imagination to get the reader to that particular fairy tale. I’m assuming that the Staryk King is along the lines of the Rumpelstiltskin character, except he isn’t some wizened dwarf. In fact, more than one of the characters carries some of Rumpelstiltskin’s traits.
Miryem, the Jewish Moneylenders daughter (who is actually far better at it than her father), has a reputation for turning silver in to gold, and this reaches the ears of the Staryk King, who demands that she change his silver in to gold. Which she does three times; the consequences of which aren’t quite what she expects.
Novik writes good female characters, without any doubt. Miryem, whotakes over her father’s moneylending business and saves her family; Irena, the daughter of a Duke, who marries the demon possessed Tsar; and Wanda, the daughter of a destitute, drunk farmer, who by luck comes to pay off her father’s debts by working for Miryem.
These women’s lives converge to create a bewitching story of real human concerns: poverty, helplessness, strength found when needed, and how important it is to pay your debts!
I do hope Novik writes more books like this. I’ll buy them!!
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for a chance to read and review this wonderful book.
Miryem, the Jewish Moneylenders daughter (who is actually far better at it than her father), has a reputation for turning silver in to gold, and this reaches the ears of the Staryk King, who demands that she change his silver in to gold. Which she does three times; the consequences of which aren’t quite what she expects.
Novik writes good female characters, without any doubt. Miryem, whotakes over her father’s moneylending business and saves her family; Irena, the daughter of a Duke, who marries the demon possessed Tsar; and Wanda, the daughter of a destitute, drunk farmer, who by luck comes to pay off her father’s debts by working for Miryem.
These women’s lives converge to create a bewitching story of real human concerns: poverty, helplessness, strength found when needed, and how important it is to pay your debts!
I do hope Novik writes more books like this. I’ll buy them!!
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for a chance to read and review this wonderful book.
Mark @ Carstairs Considers (2484 KP) rated Rooted in Deceit in Books
Sep 7, 2018
Tracking Another Deceitful Killer
Megan Sawyer is finding August to be extremely busy. While trying to keep the farm running during a drought, she is helping get things ready for the opening of the wood-fired pizza farm in her barn and her father and his wife, Sylvia, are in town for a visit. Then there's the new yoga retreat center opening nearby. As part of their opening celebration, they are hosting an art festival, and the headlining artist is Megan's old friend Thana. However, the celebration turns to tragedy when Thana is found murdered and Sylvia becomes a suspect. Her father didn't marry a killer, did he?
This series has had a strong storyline involving Megan and her complicated past with various family members, and that continues here by introducing us to her father. Additionally, there are developments in other ongoing storylines. I enjoyed getting the next chapter in Megan’s life. The characters are as strong as always, whether main characters, series regulars, or those introduced for this book. The subplots did distract from the main mystery at times, but there is still a solid mystery here. One element of the mystery needed to be included better, but overall it was a minor issue. We got great twists and red herrings on the way to a surprising ending. Fans of the series will be pleased with this new entry.
This series has had a strong storyline involving Megan and her complicated past with various family members, and that continues here by introducing us to her father. Additionally, there are developments in other ongoing storylines. I enjoyed getting the next chapter in Megan’s life. The characters are as strong as always, whether main characters, series regulars, or those introduced for this book. The subplots did distract from the main mystery at times, but there is still a solid mystery here. One element of the mystery needed to be included better, but overall it was a minor issue. We got great twists and red herrings on the way to a surprising ending. Fans of the series will be pleased with this new entry.
Christine A. (965 KP) rated The Curse of Oak Island: The Story of the World's Longest Treasure Hunt in Books
Nov 14, 2018
I was provided with a complimentary copy of this book so I could give an honest review.
My family and I have never missed an episode of the History Channel's series "The Curse of Oak Island". For 5 seasons, we have cheered along with and rooted for Rick, Marty, Craig, Dan, Dave, and the rest of the team of treasure hunters. We have favorite "characters" and discuss the show well after the episode has ended. We are looking forward to November 13, 2018, the season premiere date of season 6.
Each episode contains history, theories, and current attempts on the island. "The Curse of Oak Island: The Story of the WorldÕs Longest Treasure Hunt" by Randall Sullivan drilled deeper than the show has. Yes, pun intended. The show frequently repeats information but I found the book to be more direct and contains detailed information that spans the history of treasure hunting on Oak Island. It is an in-depth, well researched study that is able to answer questions and explain the details of what is mentioned in the show's narrative. It also answers questions you did not know you had. It is a wonderful companion for those who have watched the show or for those who want to start watching the upcoming season without watching the prior ones.
My family and I have never missed an episode of the History Channel's series "The Curse of Oak Island". For 5 seasons, we have cheered along with and rooted for Rick, Marty, Craig, Dan, Dave, and the rest of the team of treasure hunters. We have favorite "characters" and discuss the show well after the episode has ended. We are looking forward to November 13, 2018, the season premiere date of season 6.
Each episode contains history, theories, and current attempts on the island. "The Curse of Oak Island: The Story of the WorldÕs Longest Treasure Hunt" by Randall Sullivan drilled deeper than the show has. Yes, pun intended. The show frequently repeats information but I found the book to be more direct and contains detailed information that spans the history of treasure hunting on Oak Island. It is an in-depth, well researched study that is able to answer questions and explain the details of what is mentioned in the show's narrative. It also answers questions you did not know you had. It is a wonderful companion for those who have watched the show or for those who want to start watching the upcoming season without watching the prior ones.
Erika (17789 KP) rated The Lottery and Other Stories in Books
Jun 19, 2019
I've been wanting to read this collection of stories ever since I finished Jackson's @We Have Always Lived in the Castle . The Lottery was a shocking story (apparently) at the time of it's publishing.
The first section was, by far, my favorite, because I could relate to it the most. It consisted of stories of people in plain site that were often ignored, or felt like they didn't belong anywhere. Because I found I could relate to the stories so well, I was completely unnerved that someone could put those feelings into words.
The other sections of stories were mostly domestic/family oriented, which I have no interest in. Nothing bores me more than a stories about children. So, yawn, and that's why I haven't rated this higher.
Finally, The Lottery; now, I can understand why it may have been shocking at the time... Now, not so much. Obviously, with the release of such books that take inspiration from it, i.e., The Hunger Games, it didn't seem new or disturbing. Even South Park had an episode taking inspiration from it; the Britney Spears ep that came out in 2007.
So, loved the first section, and the other sections were just ok. It was kind of cool to see the genesis of future literature that was inspired by "The Lottery".
The first section was, by far, my favorite, because I could relate to it the most. It consisted of stories of people in plain site that were often ignored, or felt like they didn't belong anywhere. Because I found I could relate to the stories so well, I was completely unnerved that someone could put those feelings into words.
The other sections of stories were mostly domestic/family oriented, which I have no interest in. Nothing bores me more than a stories about children. So, yawn, and that's why I haven't rated this higher.
Finally, The Lottery; now, I can understand why it may have been shocking at the time... Now, not so much. Obviously, with the release of such books that take inspiration from it, i.e., The Hunger Games, it didn't seem new or disturbing. Even South Park had an episode taking inspiration from it; the Britney Spears ep that came out in 2007.
So, loved the first section, and the other sections were just ok. It was kind of cool to see the genesis of future literature that was inspired by "The Lottery".
BookwormMama14 (18 KP) rated An Hour Unspent (Shadows Over England, #3) in Books
Jan 2, 2019
Every book in this series has completely blown me away. And through it all, I have been LONGING for more about Barclay. I was so ecstatic when I found out Roseanna White would be featuring him in the final book of the series. Now, don't get me wrong, Evelina is the perfect match for him, and I enjoyed her story too...But BARCLAY...SWOON...
He truly deserves the title of "Swoon Worthy". From the care for his family to his undercover work, to learning about his childhood...Your heart will ache, cheer, and be encouraged. The author has created a whole world of people that carve out their own place in your heart. There is no going back once you dive into this realm.
True to her style, Roseanna seamlessly weaves faith, love, and bit of mystery into this story. Set in the midst of The Great War, this is the perfect story for anyone who loves Downton Abbey or WWI history. Or maybe, you are looking for something new-to-you. You won't go wrong with this series. Start with A Name Unknown and fall in love with Rosie and Peter first!
I received a complimentary copy of An Hour Unspent. I was not required to write a review. All opinions expressed are mine alone.
He truly deserves the title of "Swoon Worthy". From the care for his family to his undercover work, to learning about his childhood...Your heart will ache, cheer, and be encouraged. The author has created a whole world of people that carve out their own place in your heart. There is no going back once you dive into this realm.
True to her style, Roseanna seamlessly weaves faith, love, and bit of mystery into this story. Set in the midst of The Great War, this is the perfect story for anyone who loves Downton Abbey or WWI history. Or maybe, you are looking for something new-to-you. You won't go wrong with this series. Start with A Name Unknown and fall in love with Rosie and Peter first!
I received a complimentary copy of An Hour Unspent. I was not required to write a review. All opinions expressed are mine alone.
Mark @ Carstairs Considers (2484 KP) rated Murder, She Meowed in Books
Jan 31, 2019
Corpse of a Stripper
With three weeks before her wedding, Stan Connor is finding it hard to keep her mother and sister from taking over and planning things their way. She does finally give in to her sister’s desire to throw her a traditional bachelorette party, but things end on a somber note when the stripper is found dead in the cake he was supposed to jump out of. Worse yet, Stan knew the young man. Feeling the need to investigate, Stan tries to figure out who would have wanted to kill him. Can she do it?
I did feel this book got sidetracked at times by the wedding planning sub-plot, but that might be because I’m a guy. There is definitely a strong mystery here with several viable suspects and a great climax. Along the way, we get plenty of twists and turns. While Stan’s relationship with her family has grown some, the wedding planning brings out some of their old relationships, and it was interesting to see this side of the characters again. Some of the regulars play smaller parts here, but it is great to see the regulars no matter how much page time they got. Those who have pets will be interested in the two new recipes for organic treats at the end of the book.
I did feel this book got sidetracked at times by the wedding planning sub-plot, but that might be because I’m a guy. There is definitely a strong mystery here with several viable suspects and a great climax. Along the way, we get plenty of twists and turns. While Stan’s relationship with her family has grown some, the wedding planning brings out some of their old relationships, and it was interesting to see this side of the characters again. Some of the regulars play smaller parts here, but it is great to see the regulars no matter how much page time they got. Those who have pets will be interested in the two new recipes for organic treats at the end of the book.
Eleanor Luhar (47 KP) rated The First Time I Died in Books
Jun 22, 2019
Contains spoilers, click to show
Thank you to Hidden Gems for providing me with a copy of this book in return for my review!
I expected this to be quite an angsty, sad and maybe romantic novel. While it did have some of these aspects, it turned out to be far more of a detective novel than I ever anticipated.
I hate including spoilers in my review, and this isn't strictly a spoiler at all, but I found the anticipation leading up to the revelation of Colby's murder to be fantastic. As the reader, we are slowly given tiny bits of information, glimpses into the past, as Garnet recalls his disappearance. And after finding out that he was, in fact, dead, I was absolutely hooked on finding out what happened.
Toward the end of the book, Garnet seems to link everything together pretty fast. I'm not sure if it was too fast, honestly, but it's not a huge issue.
There was also a lot more behind his death than I'd ever anticipated, in terms of legalities and the family business. This was quite interesting, though in retrospect perhaps a little obvious.
The ending of this book was also nice - neat, satisfying, but not overly sweet. There was no big reunion between lovers. It just simply... ended.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this!
I expected this to be quite an angsty, sad and maybe romantic novel. While it did have some of these aspects, it turned out to be far more of a detective novel than I ever anticipated.
I hate including spoilers in my review, and this isn't strictly a spoiler at all, but I found the anticipation leading up to the revelation of Colby's murder to be fantastic. As the reader, we are slowly given tiny bits of information, glimpses into the past, as Garnet recalls his disappearance. And after finding out that he was, in fact, dead, I was absolutely hooked on finding out what happened.
Toward the end of the book, Garnet seems to link everything together pretty fast. I'm not sure if it was too fast, honestly, but it's not a huge issue.
There was also a lot more behind his death than I'd ever anticipated, in terms of legalities and the family business. This was quite interesting, though in retrospect perhaps a little obvious.
The ending of this book was also nice - neat, satisfying, but not overly sweet. There was no big reunion between lovers. It just simply... ended.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this!