Phil Leader (619 KP) rated IA: The Origin Novels (Books 1-3) in Books
Nov 15, 2019
The origin story involves Naz, a teenage boy who lives with his sister and aunt in the Exclave, a ghetto suburb of a large city. Naz is unusual in two ways - he can't remember anything before two years ago and he sometimes hears voices in his head. He doesn't like to draw attention though so keeps his head down and looks after his sister.
After an incident on the way to school, things start to change. He grows as a person and also begins to discover his past, and his potential for the future. Just perhaps one person can make a difference. As he continues on his journey it becomes clear that he may not be entirely on his own.
The stories are set in a near future, with the Exclave being a rather grim backdrop for a tale that concentrates on character. There are light touches of what could be termed science fiction throughout, both with Naz's backstory and in the world around him. The hero shows very real weaknesses and flaws as well as strengths as he battles through bullying, fitting in to new environments, love and loss.
Winston is an extremely talented author and these stories demonstrate why novels termed 'young adult' are frequently worthy of being read by an older audience. The character development shows a strong arc for all the main players - and even the bit parts are memorable.
If you are looking for a strong series of books that will keep you thinking and entertained long after you have finished the last page, this fits the bill to a tee.
The Escort (Night Series #2)
(unknown)
10.0
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He is everything I’ve ever wanted in a man. And I will do anything to get him. Even if I have to...
male/male 5 stars crime/thriller romance short stories too stinking cute
The Portrait of a Lady
4.0
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Regarded by many as Henry James's finest work, and a lucid tragedy exploring the distance between...
With the Night Mail: Two Yarns About the Aerial Board of Control
Bruce Sterling, Rudyard Kipling and Matthew De Abaitua
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"SHE: Do you like Kipling? HE: I don't know, I've never Kippled!" If you've never read Rudyard...
Washington Square
Henry James, Philip Horne and Martha Banta
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Henry James's classic tale of romance in urban nineteenth-century America, Washington Square is...
Molly J (Cover To Cover Cafe) (106 KP) rated An Amish Christmas Kitchen in Books
Sep 5, 2019
But, one specific story I want to focus on is Kate Lloyd’s An Unexpected Christmas Gift. After reading all of Lloyd’s other novels, I knew I needed to read this story. And, I will tell you, I was not disappointed! It was a quick read, I read it in just an hour, but it was packed full of amazing characters, and one heart warming, soul moving message of truth and forgiveness.
Following Maria Romano and her story was moving. I loved every minute of this holiday novella. I fell in love with Naomi, Nancy, Anna and Silas, the Amish family that invited her in, I fell in love with Maria herself and Naomi’s sister Linda, I loved Troy Bennett and despite my food allergies and not able to eat a lot of delicious amazing food, I fell in love with the recipe that Lloyd included in the story. I will definitely be making the Christmas Caramel Cake for my guys!
If you’re a fan of Christmas, Amish, and working in the kitchen, then I will tell you right now. This is a collection of stories you don’t want to miss. All the stories are worthy of 4 stars and have a touch of romance woven in. Don’t miss it! You’ll be sharing this collection of holiday stories with all your book loving, Amish loving friends.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book from Publisher, Bethany House Publishers and was under no obligation to post a review, positive or negative.*
Mark @ Carstairs Considers (2097 KP) rated Haunted House Murder in Books
Aug 30, 2019
As you might expect in a collection of stories by various authors, some are stronger than others. Personally, I found the opening story to be the weakest – I think it might have worked as a short story, but even as a novella is was too long. The middle story was better, with some fun scenes and a good twist to the mystery. I adore Barbara Ross’s Maine Clambake mysteries, so it was the reason I picked up the book. It also means I found the third story to be the best, with some good twists and a very fun sub-plot. While each story has plenty of fall atmosphere, these stories aren’t that spooky – they are by cozy mystery authors after all. Still, fans of these authors will enjoy picking up the book.
My Unexpected Boyfriend (Lyrics of Love #10)
4.5
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He finds her opinionated and annoying. She thinks he’s nothing more than a heartless rock star....
Contemporary Romance
My Safe Haven (Lyrics of Love #12)
8.0
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She’s hiding from an abusive ex-boyfriend. He’s a world-famous rock star. Can she overcome her...
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Christmas in the Park
4.0
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30-something Sarah has finally decided to start her own business. After years of 5 am starts,...