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BookInspector (124 KP) rated Tell Me a Secret in Books
Sep 24, 2020
The protagonist in this story is Holly, a woman in her forties, who got promoted in her job on a TV show. I really like that the author utilizes her knowledge of the film industry throughout her books. I really like reading about “behind the scenes” of film making. This story was a little different than the previous books I read, first of all, there is no man involved in this story, and secondly, it is told from a single (Holly’s) perspective. Even though a single perspective was sufficient to get into the novel, I always liked that Jane Fallon incorporated rivals thoughts as well.
I liked the way the author chose her characters, they were different, interesting and in a way, mysterious. I really liked that the reader can get to know them better throughout the book. Holly was a sweet character, sharing her life story as well as the present events, but she lacked the “revenge” spirit. There were so many juicy discoveries, but Holly didn’t use them, and that was a shame. I loved the twists and turns in this novel, the pages just fly by while reading this book. One thing that truly surprises me is the number of alcoholic drinks the characters consume. How can they even function after downing bottles of wine? The topic discussed in this book is “being a single mother when you get pregnant at a very young age”. Holly’s story is inspirational and I liked that the author outlined the difficulties it can bring.
As I mentioned before, Jane Fallon is a master of what she does, and she definitely knows how to keep a reader “glued” to her book. The language used is easy to understand and the decent chapter length made this novel a very enjoyable read. The ending rounded up the novel very nicely and left me satisfied with an outcome. So, to conclude, Jane Fallon always provides intriguing stories with clever and believable characters, and the plot is filled with office rivalry as well as unexpected discoveries. I really enjoyed this book, and I will definitely recommend it to everybody. Enjoy!
I liked the way the author chose her characters, they were different, interesting and in a way, mysterious. I really liked that the reader can get to know them better throughout the book. Holly was a sweet character, sharing her life story as well as the present events, but she lacked the “revenge” spirit. There were so many juicy discoveries, but Holly didn’t use them, and that was a shame. I loved the twists and turns in this novel, the pages just fly by while reading this book. One thing that truly surprises me is the number of alcoholic drinks the characters consume. How can they even function after downing bottles of wine? The topic discussed in this book is “being a single mother when you get pregnant at a very young age”. Holly’s story is inspirational and I liked that the author outlined the difficulties it can bring.
As I mentioned before, Jane Fallon is a master of what she does, and she definitely knows how to keep a reader “glued” to her book. The language used is easy to understand and the decent chapter length made this novel a very enjoyable read. The ending rounded up the novel very nicely and left me satisfied with an outcome. So, to conclude, Jane Fallon always provides intriguing stories with clever and believable characters, and the plot is filled with office rivalry as well as unexpected discoveries. I really enjoyed this book, and I will definitely recommend it to everybody. Enjoy!
Lottie disney bookworm (1056 KP) rated Slumber in Books
Sep 9, 2019
Thank you to NetGalley and Becky Bird for providing an e-copy of Slumber in exchange for an honest opinion.
Everyone knows that the market for fairy tale retellings is hot right now and, as such, is becoming saturated. However, Becky Bird comes at the story of Sleeping Beauty from a completely different angle: what if “true love’s kiss” which breaks the spell isn’t that between the Prince and Princess?
Slumber was a slow burner for me personally. Initially I agreed with previous reviews that the novel would be considered middle-grade rather than YA but my opinion did change about half way through the book. In my opinion, this was when the author ‘settled in’ to the novel and truly developed the characters into ones the reader could relate to and find themselves rooting for.
This was also the point where it became clear Becky Bird was challenging a number of stereotypes through her characters: the Cardinal is a man of God but this does not necessarily make him good; Lucy is an orphan but this does not make her weak; Jack is a boy but this does not make him brave and, finally, Thomas is a Prince but this does not make him charming! This humanised the characters for me and I found myself growing to really like them.
There are also a number of tongue-in-cheek references to fairy tales which I really appreciated. Phrases such as “bibbidi-bobbidi-boo” and Jack running for the trees every chance he got added an undercurrent of humour throughout the novel.
Unfortunately, there were moments where I got frustrated by the novel skipping between locations and characters- sometimes mid-event. Separating these by chapters or even page breaks would have made this an easier read. The start of the book especially also seemed to be a tad “over written” with references to a literal river of tears and a croissant described as a “creamy delight”.
Overall Slumber was a quick and easy read with a really great concept and endearing characters. It possibly could have benefitted from some suspense as all the Cardinal’s motives were revealed right at the start of the book but nevertheless it was an enjoyable read.
Everyone knows that the market for fairy tale retellings is hot right now and, as such, is becoming saturated. However, Becky Bird comes at the story of Sleeping Beauty from a completely different angle: what if “true love’s kiss” which breaks the spell isn’t that between the Prince and Princess?
Slumber was a slow burner for me personally. Initially I agreed with previous reviews that the novel would be considered middle-grade rather than YA but my opinion did change about half way through the book. In my opinion, this was when the author ‘settled in’ to the novel and truly developed the characters into ones the reader could relate to and find themselves rooting for.
This was also the point where it became clear Becky Bird was challenging a number of stereotypes through her characters: the Cardinal is a man of God but this does not necessarily make him good; Lucy is an orphan but this does not make her weak; Jack is a boy but this does not make him brave and, finally, Thomas is a Prince but this does not make him charming! This humanised the characters for me and I found myself growing to really like them.
There are also a number of tongue-in-cheek references to fairy tales which I really appreciated. Phrases such as “bibbidi-bobbidi-boo” and Jack running for the trees every chance he got added an undercurrent of humour throughout the novel.
Unfortunately, there were moments where I got frustrated by the novel skipping between locations and characters- sometimes mid-event. Separating these by chapters or even page breaks would have made this an easier read. The start of the book especially also seemed to be a tad “over written” with references to a literal river of tears and a croissant described as a “creamy delight”.
Overall Slumber was a quick and easy read with a really great concept and endearing characters. It possibly could have benefitted from some suspense as all the Cardinal’s motives were revealed right at the start of the book but nevertheless it was an enjoyable read.
Kristy H (1252 KP) rated My Kind Of People in Books
May 21, 2020
This novel cemented Duffy as one of my absolute favorite writers. This is a lovely and touching read, bringing to life the group of islanders who come together to care for Sky. Duffy builds her worlds so perfectly: I was lost on Ichabod Island with these characters--all of whom are so uniquely them. This book will go straight to your heart.
I fell immediately for sweet Sky. We learn that Brian and Ann are Sky's adoptive parents, so she's basically been orphaned twice. She is troubled as her parents were fighting a lot right before they died--going against the town view of them as the "perfect couple." While this novel is mostly a deep dive into its characters, there is a touch of mystery here. Why were Sky's parents fighting, and did it have anything to do with the car crash that caused their death? Also, a mysterious woman arrives in town--what is her role to play in the story? Duffy weaves together all of these plot points so well; I was captivated by the book and even though I wanted to slow down and savor it, I also wanted to know what had happened, to find out what would happen to Sky and Leo.
"A fearless girl who doesn't just think she's safe alone in the dark on an island in the Atlantic. She knows it."
I love that Duffy included a gay couple in her novel--and treats them like regular people. Leo is a wonderful character: complex and struggling with new parenthood. In the end, you feel like you know the entire neighborhood block, from sweet Joe; to Maggie, who is coming into her own in her '50s; to longtime resident Agnes, who is set in her ways; to Sky's tough best friend Frankie; and Sky's newly found grandmother, Lillian. All of these characters play a real role in this story: not an easy feat when the focus is on Leo and Sky.
Overall, this is a wonderfully written novel that covers family, marriage, tragedy, love, and so much more. Duffy's characters are beautiful, and she has an amazing way of bringing you right into the world she has created. I will always read anything she writes. 4.5 stars.
I fell immediately for sweet Sky. We learn that Brian and Ann are Sky's adoptive parents, so she's basically been orphaned twice. She is troubled as her parents were fighting a lot right before they died--going against the town view of them as the "perfect couple." While this novel is mostly a deep dive into its characters, there is a touch of mystery here. Why were Sky's parents fighting, and did it have anything to do with the car crash that caused their death? Also, a mysterious woman arrives in town--what is her role to play in the story? Duffy weaves together all of these plot points so well; I was captivated by the book and even though I wanted to slow down and savor it, I also wanted to know what had happened, to find out what would happen to Sky and Leo.
"A fearless girl who doesn't just think she's safe alone in the dark on an island in the Atlantic. She knows it."
I love that Duffy included a gay couple in her novel--and treats them like regular people. Leo is a wonderful character: complex and struggling with new parenthood. In the end, you feel like you know the entire neighborhood block, from sweet Joe; to Maggie, who is coming into her own in her '50s; to longtime resident Agnes, who is set in her ways; to Sky's tough best friend Frankie; and Sky's newly found grandmother, Lillian. All of these characters play a real role in this story: not an easy feat when the focus is on Leo and Sky.
Overall, this is a wonderfully written novel that covers family, marriage, tragedy, love, and so much more. Duffy's characters are beautiful, and she has an amazing way of bringing you right into the world she has created. I will always read anything she writes. 4.5 stars.
Harlem Shuffle
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From the two-time Pulitzer Prize-winning author of The Underground Railroad and The Nickel Boys, a...
Alison Pink (7 KP) rated Outlander in Books
Jan 15, 2018
Okay so like pretty much everyone else I'd heard of this series & heard great reviews. I was very unsure about diving into the series because I am not & never have been a "romance novel" fan. It took me winning a copy of this book on Goodreads to actually pick it up & start reading. I have to say that I am glad I won it.
Outlander is NOT your typical trashy romance. The story is very well written & it hooks the reader in from the very first chapter. Are there typical romance novel things in it? Of course, but they were NOT out of this world sex scenes that make you uncomfortable reading it. In fact, I was more into the story line & the character development throughout the book than I was getting into that part of it. It was more a necessary component to move the plot along than a gratuitous sex scene that was just stuck in there for fun.
I can't wait to continue reading the series & find out what happens to Claire, Jamie, & yes, even Frank.
Outlander is NOT your typical trashy romance. The story is very well written & it hooks the reader in from the very first chapter. Are there typical romance novel things in it? Of course, but they were NOT out of this world sex scenes that make you uncomfortable reading it. In fact, I was more into the story line & the character development throughout the book than I was getting into that part of it. It was more a necessary component to move the plot along than a gratuitous sex scene that was just stuck in there for fun.
I can't wait to continue reading the series & find out what happens to Claire, Jamie, & yes, even Frank.
Suswatibasu (1701 KP) rated Erotic Stories for Punjabi Widows in Books
Sep 13, 2017
Interesting, a little repetitive
I wasn't sure what to expect with this bizarrely named novel, and I was slightly worried it would be some Karma Sutra style book but it was nothing of the kind.
A group of old Punjabi women attend an English language class run by a British Asian young woman who mistakenly brings in an erotic book one day. It opens up a world of sensuous pleasure for the women, who are normally quite conservative about such topics.
While it's quite a novelty and funny at the beginning, the stories become repetitive and it becomes a little boring. The honour crime story was far more interesting and I wish there was more focus on that side instead of turning it in to a Gurinder Chadha type of novel. The stories are meant to open up other aspects of the community such as arranged marriages and the impact of honour - but it just doesn't seem to connect that well.
The protagonist Nicky is great though who reflects many British Asians growing up with dual cultures. Good but not great.
A group of old Punjabi women attend an English language class run by a British Asian young woman who mistakenly brings in an erotic book one day. It opens up a world of sensuous pleasure for the women, who are normally quite conservative about such topics.
While it's quite a novelty and funny at the beginning, the stories become repetitive and it becomes a little boring. The honour crime story was far more interesting and I wish there was more focus on that side instead of turning it in to a Gurinder Chadha type of novel. The stories are meant to open up other aspects of the community such as arranged marriages and the impact of honour - but it just doesn't seem to connect that well.
The protagonist Nicky is great though who reflects many British Asians growing up with dual cultures. Good but not great.
Molly J (Cover To Cover Cafe) (106 KP) rated Many Sparrows in Books
Feb 25, 2019
I am new to Lori Benton's works. This will not be the last Benton book that I read. I am a fan for life now. I had no idea what to expect with this book, and wow! Was I ever surprised!
The messages woven with in this story are wonderful. Watching the characters, seeing the spiritual and emotional struggles they endured, was incredible. I became them for a time, while I turned the pages of this amazingly written novel. The details that Ms. Benton adds to this story, are beautifully done and I loved the feeling I got as I was transported to another place in time.
I highly recommend this novel! Four stars, and two thumbs, this book should be on everyone's book shelf! This book will twist you up, spin you around and leave you wanting more from this amazingly talented author. Well done, Ms. Benton!
*I received a complimentary copy of this book from LitFuse Blog Tours/Waterbrook Press and was under no obligation to post a review, positive or negative.*
The messages woven with in this story are wonderful. Watching the characters, seeing the spiritual and emotional struggles they endured, was incredible. I became them for a time, while I turned the pages of this amazingly written novel. The details that Ms. Benton adds to this story, are beautifully done and I loved the feeling I got as I was transported to another place in time.
I highly recommend this novel! Four stars, and two thumbs, this book should be on everyone's book shelf! This book will twist you up, spin you around and leave you wanting more from this amazingly talented author. Well done, Ms. Benton!
*I received a complimentary copy of this book from LitFuse Blog Tours/Waterbrook Press and was under no obligation to post a review, positive or negative.*
Molly J (Cover To Cover Cafe) (106 KP) rated Freedom's Price (Keys of Promise #3) in Books
Feb 27, 2019
I'm new to Ms. Johnson's work, but I won't be for long! I truly enjoyed this beautifully written novel. It's the 3rd book in her Keys Of Promise series, but it was still highly enjoyable, despite not reading the first two books.
In this novel, Ms. Johnson weaves the perfect combination of faith, hope, and love, along with beautifully depicted historical elements. I was instantly captivated from page one and this book took me on a whirl wind ride until the end. Catherine and Tom both stole my heart for the long run, and I loved following their story!
Ms. Johnson created a story well worth 4 stars, for sure! This is a quick, beautiful read and I am already anxious for more! I can't wait to go back and read the first two books in this wonderful series, and I look forward to adding Ms. Johnson among my favorite authors list! Well done, and bring on the next! <a href="http://cafinatedreads.com/?p=13719"; target="_blank">This review was originally posted on Cafinated Reads</a>
In this novel, Ms. Johnson weaves the perfect combination of faith, hope, and love, along with beautifully depicted historical elements. I was instantly captivated from page one and this book took me on a whirl wind ride until the end. Catherine and Tom both stole my heart for the long run, and I loved following their story!
Ms. Johnson created a story well worth 4 stars, for sure! This is a quick, beautiful read and I am already anxious for more! I can't wait to go back and read the first two books in this wonderful series, and I look forward to adding Ms. Johnson among my favorite authors list! Well done, and bring on the next! <a href="http://cafinatedreads.com/?p=13719"; target="_blank">This review was originally posted on Cafinated Reads</a>
Molly J (Cover To Cover Cafe) (106 KP) rated Grounded Hearts in Books
Feb 27, 2019
Ms. Dickson is a new to me author. I really enjoyed getting to know her work through this wonderful historical fiction novel! From start to finish, I was pulled into the center of the story and kept there until the very last page was reached.
This book was a double bonus for me! I have always loved Ireland(even if I haven’t ever visited there!) and I have always loved the World War II era. This book is the best of both those worlds. Filled with wonderful details of historic happenings, and characters like Nan and Dutch that quickly steal your heart, I felt like I was transported back into the world of Hitler, and emotions so strong that they become the reader’s emotions.
Ms. Dickson is definitely an author I recommend. She created this 4 star novel with passionate detail to another place in time, and left me feeling all the feels with this book. I loved the story line of redemption and hope. I can’t wait to read another book by this talented author!
This book was a double bonus for me! I have always loved Ireland(even if I haven’t ever visited there!) and I have always loved the World War II era. This book is the best of both those worlds. Filled with wonderful details of historic happenings, and characters like Nan and Dutch that quickly steal your heart, I felt like I was transported back into the world of Hitler, and emotions so strong that they become the reader’s emotions.
Ms. Dickson is definitely an author I recommend. She created this 4 star novel with passionate detail to another place in time, and left me feeling all the feels with this book. I loved the story line of redemption and hope. I can’t wait to read another book by this talented author!
ArecRain (8 KP) rated Bedtime Stories: A Collection of Erotic Fairy Tales in Books
Jan 18, 2018
I love erotica. The only thing I love reading more than erotica is fairytale erotica. I had high hopes for this book, and while the book didnt meet the expectations that I had, it pleasantly surprised me. I was expecting something along the lines of what Nancy Madore writes about. Instead, I received a handful of very creative stories that were expertly written.
Not all the stories actually had sex in them, yet did have something that made them erotica. Each story also had its own world, story line, and character to it that made it special. I particularly loved the Beauty and the Beast story which, while being exceedingly different from the original (and Disney) story, it still held true to the beauty is not only skin deep theme of the tale.
That is how all the short stories of this novel are. Some of them, I wish had become full on novels of their own because of their great plotline. As an erotica novel, it fizzled. But what it lacked in eroticism, it definitely made up for with creativity.
Not all the stories actually had sex in them, yet did have something that made them erotica. Each story also had its own world, story line, and character to it that made it special. I particularly loved the Beauty and the Beast story which, while being exceedingly different from the original (and Disney) story, it still held true to the beauty is not only skin deep theme of the tale.
That is how all the short stories of this novel are. Some of them, I wish had become full on novels of their own because of their great plotline. As an erotica novel, it fizzled. But what it lacked in eroticism, it definitely made up for with creativity.