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Christine A. (965 KP) rated School Lies in Books
Feb 28, 2019
When I read the description of School Lies by Kimberly G. Giarratano on Goodreads I could not wait to start it. “Guilt, lies, and betrayal–all before first period.” What a great tagline.
Unfortunately I thought the book was just OK, 2 stars using Goodreads’ rating system. There seemed to be a lot left out of the story. It felt as if it was only allowed to be a certain length and much of the story needed to be deleted to fit the length or if this was a second book in a series where I had not read the first book.
I could not relate with the characters and the story felt as if there were gaps in it. I would have stopped reading except the writing was adequate and I did not hate the book. Also, the page was less than 300 pages so I was well into the story and did not have much left before I thought of stopping. The book has a high rating on Goodreads, 4.0, and I would be willing to give Kimberly G. Giarratano a 2nd read but I would not put her at the top of my “authors to try again” list.
Review published on Philomathinphila.com, Smashbomb, Goodreads, Twitter, Facebook, Amazon, and Barnes and Noble on 2/24/19.
Unfortunately I thought the book was just OK, 2 stars using Goodreads’ rating system. There seemed to be a lot left out of the story. It felt as if it was only allowed to be a certain length and much of the story needed to be deleted to fit the length or if this was a second book in a series where I had not read the first book.
I could not relate with the characters and the story felt as if there were gaps in it. I would have stopped reading except the writing was adequate and I did not hate the book. Also, the page was less than 300 pages so I was well into the story and did not have much left before I thought of stopping. The book has a high rating on Goodreads, 4.0, and I would be willing to give Kimberly G. Giarratano a 2nd read but I would not put her at the top of my “authors to try again” list.
Review published on Philomathinphila.com, Smashbomb, Goodreads, Twitter, Facebook, Amazon, and Barnes and Noble on 2/24/19.
MaryAnn (14 KP) rated An Unexpected Role in Books
Mar 5, 2019
It's hard being a teenager, but when your mother is an author and uses your life as inspiration it can make living difficult. That was life for Josie DelRio. When her mother's newest book comes out, it sends Josie's classmates into a frenzy of malicious teasing, so Josie heads to North Carolina to spend the summer with her aunt.
Josie plans on spending her summer on the beach, taking it easy and trusting that she can find a place to fit in and have a summer on anonymity.
This was a delightful story, everyone can relate to being a teenager and what high school can be like. It is full of mystery, suspense, and some romance.
I enjoyed this book, it was a fast easy read. I do like that the author was able to insert Bible verses to help encourage the main character. What I saw in the book is that sometimes you just have to let go of things, don't carry your problems... let God take control and see what He can do!
I received this book free from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review and the opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
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Josie plans on spending her summer on the beach, taking it easy and trusting that she can find a place to fit in and have a summer on anonymity.
This was a delightful story, everyone can relate to being a teenager and what high school can be like. It is full of mystery, suspense, and some romance.
I enjoyed this book, it was a fast easy read. I do like that the author was able to insert Bible verses to help encourage the main character. What I saw in the book is that sometimes you just have to let go of things, don't carry your problems... let God take control and see what He can do!
I received this book free from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review and the opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
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Mark @ Carstairs Considers (2379 KP) rated Stowed Away (A Maine Clambake Mystery, #6) in Books
Mar 9, 2018
It’s a week away from opening day for the Snowden Family Clambake, and Julia and the rest of her family are hard at work making sure everything is ready. But they are also discussing what to do with the ruins of Windsholme, the family mansion on the island where they host the clambake. One expert they are bring in turns out to be Julia’s prep school roommate, Wyatt Jayne. Wyatt is in town to oversee a yacht renovation, but when the owner of the yacht is found murdered, she finds herself the prime suspect. Julia has her own reason for investigating the murder, a very personal one. Can she figure out what truly happened?
While this is book six in the series, it’s only been a year to Julia and the rest of these characters, which allows us time to really see their relationships grow and change. I like watching this growth as the series progresses. There are several sub-plots that facilitate this, but I felt they slowed things down early in the book. Once the mystery kicks into high gear, it completely captured me again, with several wonderful twists and a climax that tied everything together perfectly.
NOTE: I received an ARC of this book.
Read my full review at <a href="http://carstairsconsiders.blogspot.com/2017/12/book-review-stowed-away-by-barbara-ross.html">Carstairs Considers</a>.
While this is book six in the series, it’s only been a year to Julia and the rest of these characters, which allows us time to really see their relationships grow and change. I like watching this growth as the series progresses. There are several sub-plots that facilitate this, but I felt they slowed things down early in the book. Once the mystery kicks into high gear, it completely captured me again, with several wonderful twists and a climax that tied everything together perfectly.
NOTE: I received an ARC of this book.
Read my full review at <a href="http://carstairsconsiders.blogspot.com/2017/12/book-review-stowed-away-by-barbara-ross.html">Carstairs Considers</a>.
Mark @ Carstairs Considers (2379 KP) rated Christmas Caramel Murder (Hannah Swensen, #20) in Books
Mar 9, 2018
It’s Christmas time again in Lake Eden, but trouble is brewing for Lisa, Hannah’s partner at The Cookie Jar. Her husband, Herb, is working late every night, and his new assistant is Phyllis, his high school girlfriend. Then Phyllis is cast as Mrs. Claus opposite Herb in the community play. Naturally, when Phyllis shows up murdered, Lisa and Herb are both suspects, and Hannah must work hard to clear their names.
Those familiar with the series will enjoy a chance to check in with the gang in this Christmas novella. The book is short, just 200 pages, including a dozen recipes, and the result is that some characters are reduced to cameos or even just mentions. The story touches all the usual bases, but it is fun and works its way to a logical climax. A few scenes take their cue from A Christmas Carol, but being a fan of that book I enjoyed them although they are certainly different for the series. Most interesting to me, this was a flashback, ignoring the events of the last couple of books, and a major character from those books only appears in the wrap around prologue and epilogue.
Read my full review at <a href="http://carstairsconsiders.blogspot.com/2016/12/book-review-christmas-caramel-murder-by.html">Carstairs Considers</a>.
Those familiar with the series will enjoy a chance to check in with the gang in this Christmas novella. The book is short, just 200 pages, including a dozen recipes, and the result is that some characters are reduced to cameos or even just mentions. The story touches all the usual bases, but it is fun and works its way to a logical climax. A few scenes take their cue from A Christmas Carol, but being a fan of that book I enjoyed them although they are certainly different for the series. Most interesting to me, this was a flashback, ignoring the events of the last couple of books, and a major character from those books only appears in the wrap around prologue and epilogue.
Read my full review at <a href="http://carstairsconsiders.blogspot.com/2016/12/book-review-christmas-caramel-murder-by.html">Carstairs Considers</a>.
Kristy H (1252 KP) rated Language Arts in Books
Feb 13, 2018
Charles Marlow is an English teacher at a private high school. His life, therefore, is filled with language and words. However, all the language in the world cannot help him communicate with his son, Cody, who is autistic. Cody's diagnosis took a toll on his marriage and now Charles finds himself alone in the house -- all his kids are out of the house, his marriage has ended -- and he's wrestling with his demons.
I absolutely loved Kallos' "Broken For You," so I was extremely excited to pick up her latest novel. It definitely took some time for this one to grow on me. The book got off to a slow start and Charles is not the most likable of characters. Still, once I got into the plot, it's a lovely tale and extremely moving. Kallos does an amazing job of tying together her ancillary characters into a beautiful way--not one that's trite, per se, but a manner that seems fitting for each.
Overall, the book is a touching tribute to language, in many forms, and to art, as well. It's also a very insightful look at autism and the toll it can take on a family, but also some of the gifts that those termed as "disabled" by the general public can give to us. Definitely worth reading - just be patient.
I absolutely loved Kallos' "Broken For You," so I was extremely excited to pick up her latest novel. It definitely took some time for this one to grow on me. The book got off to a slow start and Charles is not the most likable of characters. Still, once I got into the plot, it's a lovely tale and extremely moving. Kallos does an amazing job of tying together her ancillary characters into a beautiful way--not one that's trite, per se, but a manner that seems fitting for each.
Overall, the book is a touching tribute to language, in many forms, and to art, as well. It's also a very insightful look at autism and the toll it can take on a family, but also some of the gifts that those termed as "disabled" by the general public can give to us. Definitely worth reading - just be patient.
Nicole Hadley (380 KP) rated P.S. I Miss You in Books
Jun 14, 2018
P.S. I Miss You by Jen Petro-Roy is a captivating and authentic story of a young girl as she writes letters to her sister about the issues of their lives. Evie's voice drives the action in a way that feels real and true, with the urgency and intensity of a young woman opening her heart to her older sister and confidante.
This beautiful, moving story celebrates the deep connection between sisters. Evie's letters to her older sister Cilla, sent away by conservative Catholic parents after becoming pregnant in high school, give such a detailed glimpse into the life and mind of the seventh grade protagonist. Evie's admiration for Cilla shines throughout, as well as the way she sees herself as akin to her sister -- is she a sinner in her parents' eyes, too, because she has a crush on her female friend, June? I loved following along as Evie turns over so many deep questions in her mind. I yearned for Cilla and Evie's parents to reconsider their strongly held beliefs and become more compassionate, yet their portrayal is unfortunately true to life in this very polarized historical moment we find ourselves in.
I received an ARC from Macmillan Children's Publishing Group and Feiwel & Friends via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I give this book 5/5 stars.
This beautiful, moving story celebrates the deep connection between sisters. Evie's letters to her older sister Cilla, sent away by conservative Catholic parents after becoming pregnant in high school, give such a detailed glimpse into the life and mind of the seventh grade protagonist. Evie's admiration for Cilla shines throughout, as well as the way she sees herself as akin to her sister -- is she a sinner in her parents' eyes, too, because she has a crush on her female friend, June? I loved following along as Evie turns over so many deep questions in her mind. I yearned for Cilla and Evie's parents to reconsider their strongly held beliefs and become more compassionate, yet their portrayal is unfortunately true to life in this very polarized historical moment we find ourselves in.
I received an ARC from Macmillan Children's Publishing Group and Feiwel & Friends via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I give this book 5/5 stars.
SunnyD (6 KP) rated Lady Bird (2017) in Movies
Jun 19, 2018
Not extraordinary
If you love the starting actress, Saoirse Ronan, and indie films, then this is a fairly good watch. Lady Bird's relationship with her mother is the main theme here. The two continuously butt heads. At first, Lady Bird says that her mother is hard on her because she loves her so much, but it later gets harder for Lady Bird to accept their rough relationship as she questions whether her mother loves her because she has to or if she actually likes Lady Bird as a person. Her mother struggles to maintain their relationship while keeping their household afloat financially, especially after her father is laid off from his job.
I liked that, in addition to the mother-daughter theme, Lady Bird goes through a journey of selfdiscovery that starts when she dates her first crush at her Catholic high school. Lady Bird learns more about herself and those closest to her with every decision that she makes.
The quality of the ending might be up for some debate. If you're looking for real closure here, you won't be getting one. Ultimately, what happens after Lady Bird gets to college is up to your interpretation. The only thing that leaves your mind at some peace is that Lady Bird seems to learn to be grateful for what she has been given in life.
I liked that, in addition to the mother-daughter theme, Lady Bird goes through a journey of selfdiscovery that starts when she dates her first crush at her Catholic high school. Lady Bird learns more about herself and those closest to her with every decision that she makes.
The quality of the ending might be up for some debate. If you're looking for real closure here, you won't be getting one. Ultimately, what happens after Lady Bird gets to college is up to your interpretation. The only thing that leaves your mind at some peace is that Lady Bird seems to learn to be grateful for what she has been given in life.
Christine A. (965 KP) rated Through the Storm (The Solar Storms #1) in Books
Dec 9, 2018
I was provided with a complimentary copy of this book so I could give an honest review.
There have been countless books written about what would happen if a catastrophic event shut down all electronics on Earth. Usually they are set well after the event occurred. "Through the Storm (The Solar Storms #1)", however, starts just before the event and shows how fast civilization as we know it would collapse. The story follows a family of a father and his two sons and their ensuing struggle. Neal Evans, the father still grieving over the death of his wife, is at a conference and Connor, the oldest son, is away from home hunting when the event occurs. Drake, a high school freshman, is home alone on the farm and does not realize anything is wrong until hours after the event. I had not really considered how fast people would panic and therefore how fast the situation would turn dangerous. Kyle Pratt's style moves the story quickly but includes enough detail to keep readers caring about the Evans family's survival. This book is the first in the "Solar Storms" series. Its publication date was September 2017 and no date has been announced for other books in the series. Pratt's other series is called "Strengthen What Remains" and has concluded.
There have been countless books written about what would happen if a catastrophic event shut down all electronics on Earth. Usually they are set well after the event occurred. "Through the Storm (The Solar Storms #1)", however, starts just before the event and shows how fast civilization as we know it would collapse. The story follows a family of a father and his two sons and their ensuing struggle. Neal Evans, the father still grieving over the death of his wife, is at a conference and Connor, the oldest son, is away from home hunting when the event occurs. Drake, a high school freshman, is home alone on the farm and does not realize anything is wrong until hours after the event. I had not really considered how fast people would panic and therefore how fast the situation would turn dangerous. Kyle Pratt's style moves the story quickly but includes enough detail to keep readers caring about the Evans family's survival. This book is the first in the "Solar Storms" series. Its publication date was September 2017 and no date has been announced for other books in the series. Pratt's other series is called "Strengthen What Remains" and has concluded.
Caffeinated Fae (464 KP) rated The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian in Books
Jul 10, 2018
This book (audiobook) was recommended to me by one of my friends. I finally bought it and went into the book not knowing what to expect. The audiobook is narrated by the author Sherman Alexie and he did a good job narrating his biography.
I found the book interesting for the most part. I did find that it dragged a little and at times I was annoyed by the narrator. I honestly would have rated it 3 stars and I didn't think I was very invested in the book until 75% into the book and I started crying due to a scene. When a book can make me invested in the characters I always add a 1/2 star and then I round up.
Honestly, I'm not quite sure how to review this book. For the most part, I found it a little dull but I did love the multicultural part of the book. It was fascinating to hear about how alcohol has destroyed so many people's lives and how it seemed like a part of the Native American's culture.
Overall, I enjoyed the book but I would have a hard time rereading it or recommending it. It would be a good book for freshman in High School to read if the teacher is wanting to show multicultural issues.
I found the book interesting for the most part. I did find that it dragged a little and at times I was annoyed by the narrator. I honestly would have rated it 3 stars and I didn't think I was very invested in the book until 75% into the book and I started crying due to a scene. When a book can make me invested in the characters I always add a 1/2 star and then I round up.
Honestly, I'm not quite sure how to review this book. For the most part, I found it a little dull but I did love the multicultural part of the book. It was fascinating to hear about how alcohol has destroyed so many people's lives and how it seemed like a part of the Native American's culture.
Overall, I enjoyed the book but I would have a hard time rereading it or recommending it. It would be a good book for freshman in High School to read if the teacher is wanting to show multicultural issues.
Sue (5 KP) rated The Coroner in Books
Aug 13, 2018
Emily Hartford seems to be doing well for herself with a promising surgical career in Chicago and having been recently engaged to a third-year surgical resident. Her world is turned upside down when she receives a call telling her that her estranged medical examiner father has suffered a major heart attack and she must come home.
Upon arrival at her hometown of Freeport, which she fled over 12 years ago after the mysterious death of her mother, Emily is pulled into an investigation. With her ME father unable to assist, Sheriff Nick Larson (Em’s old high school flame) asks her help in finding out if the sudden unexplained death of a Senator’s teen daughter was an accident or murder.
This book is engaging with several different stories going on at once. The first story is the mystery of the Senator’s daughter who was an equestrian, good student, and all around loved individual. How and why was she killed? The second story is about the relationship between Emily and her father. They once were so close, but with the mysterious accident her mother suffered leaving her dead, daughter and father have a rocky relationship. The third story is of Emily and trying to find out what she really wants in life.
The is a true mystery-suspense drama with a very surprising ending.
Upon arrival at her hometown of Freeport, which she fled over 12 years ago after the mysterious death of her mother, Emily is pulled into an investigation. With her ME father unable to assist, Sheriff Nick Larson (Em’s old high school flame) asks her help in finding out if the sudden unexplained death of a Senator’s teen daughter was an accident or murder.
This book is engaging with several different stories going on at once. The first story is the mystery of the Senator’s daughter who was an equestrian, good student, and all around loved individual. How and why was she killed? The second story is about the relationship between Emily and her father. They once were so close, but with the mysterious accident her mother suffered leaving her dead, daughter and father have a rocky relationship. The third story is of Emily and trying to find out what she really wants in life.
The is a true mystery-suspense drama with a very surprising ending.