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Whatchareadin (174 KP) rated Tryin' To Sleep In the Bed You Made in Books
May 10, 2018
Tryin' to Sleep in the Bed You Made is a story of three friends. It traverses their lives from childhood to adults. And we get to see all the fun, joy, and pain that goes along with it.
Pat, Gail, Marcus, and Freddie are inseparable. They are classmates and best friends. One day when Freddie finds a gun and decides to share it with the rest of the group, the most tragic thing happens. This changes the lives of the other three forever. Pat is taken from her mother and temporarily put into foster care until Gail and her family take her in. Marcus, who was Freddie's brother feels he has to fulfill Freddie's life dreams instead of pursuing his own.
As they graduate high school and spread their wings to find new things, they are torn in different directions and their friendship is never the same.
I love reading books about friendship. Friendship lost and found. It makes me feel good on the inside and that is exactly how this book made me feel. It made me laugh and it made me cry, but overall, it made me want to call all of my friends and rekindle what we once had.
The DeBerry/Grant team are great writers. This is the second book I have read by them and I can't wait to read the next.
Pat, Gail, Marcus, and Freddie are inseparable. They are classmates and best friends. One day when Freddie finds a gun and decides to share it with the rest of the group, the most tragic thing happens. This changes the lives of the other three forever. Pat is taken from her mother and temporarily put into foster care until Gail and her family take her in. Marcus, who was Freddie's brother feels he has to fulfill Freddie's life dreams instead of pursuing his own.
As they graduate high school and spread their wings to find new things, they are torn in different directions and their friendship is never the same.
I love reading books about friendship. Friendship lost and found. It makes me feel good on the inside and that is exactly how this book made me feel. It made me laugh and it made me cry, but overall, it made me want to call all of my friends and rekindle what we once had.
The DeBerry/Grant team are great writers. This is the second book I have read by them and I can't wait to read the next.
Cyn Armistead (14 KP) rated The Trade of Queens (The Merchant Princes, #6) in Books
Mar 1, 2018
Wait - is this the end of Merchant Princes series? But what happens NEXT?! I want MORE! Stross! You can't do this to me!
Anyway, my one and only complaint about this book is that it's been too long since I read the other five, and that isn't Stross' fault. Or maybe it is, in a backwards sense, but only in that it takes longer for him to write than for me to read. If I'd stuck to my guns about not starting any series until it was finished, I'd be fine, but then I'd hardly have anything at all to read, would I? It's just that this particular series is full of intricate plotting and many characters, and I really could have used some sort of serious online reference for this world.
Some plot threads were tied up, and a few new ones were introduced. I'll could understand this book as a resting point for Stross, but not a stopping point! While most series would have lost my interest after six books, this one hasn't. He really is that good.
That said, some of the post-9/11 mania is a little dated, and it is good to be past that. I imagine he's glad to be done writing it, too. I wish our society were completely done with the erosion of civil rights caused by it, too.
Anyway, my one and only complaint about this book is that it's been too long since I read the other five, and that isn't Stross' fault. Or maybe it is, in a backwards sense, but only in that it takes longer for him to write than for me to read. If I'd stuck to my guns about not starting any series until it was finished, I'd be fine, but then I'd hardly have anything at all to read, would I? It's just that this particular series is full of intricate plotting and many characters, and I really could have used some sort of serious online reference for this world.
Some plot threads were tied up, and a few new ones were introduced. I'll could understand this book as a resting point for Stross, but not a stopping point! While most series would have lost my interest after six books, this one hasn't. He really is that good.
That said, some of the post-9/11 mania is a little dated, and it is good to be past that. I imagine he's glad to be done writing it, too. I wish our society were completely done with the erosion of civil rights caused by it, too.
Merissa (12934 KP) rated Riptide (Boys of Summer) in Books
Jun 18, 2019
Riptide (Boys of Summer) by Jordan Ford
Jace - or Bass as he is known throughout most of this book - is a thrill-seeker. He is the ultimate paradox - a bad boy who doesn't actually try to be bad, and has a heart. He makes stupid decisions based on hurt feelings. His story is completely understandable and heartbreaking with how he feels. Ms. Ford has done a magnificent job of bringing him to life, to make his quandary completely relate-able.
And that's the thing with this book. As a reader, I got it. I could see where Bass was coming from, and why he behaved the way he did. Would I make the same decisions? No, but then I'm not a sixteen-year-old boy with the same experiences as him.
With no editing or grammatical errors that jolted me, I thoroughly enjoyed this novella, and can't wait to see what happens when he goes to Ryder Bay and meets up with SnapDragon.
As a standalone, this is a great read. As a prequel to the next Ryder Bay story, it's fantastic! Definitely recommended by me.
* 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!
And that's the thing with this book. As a reader, I got it. I could see where Bass was coming from, and why he behaved the way he did. Would I make the same decisions? No, but then I'm not a sixteen-year-old boy with the same experiences as him.
With no editing or grammatical errors that jolted me, I thoroughly enjoyed this novella, and can't wait to see what happens when he goes to Ryder Bay and meets up with SnapDragon.
As a standalone, this is a great read. As a prequel to the next Ryder Bay story, it's fantastic! Definitely recommended by me.
* 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!
Phil Leader (619 KP) rated Divided Paths (Afterlife #4) in Books
Nov 12, 2019
Although the fourth book in the Afterlife series released, this serves as the back story to both Zacharius and to events in the related Supernatural Evolvement series. This can also be read as a stand alone or as an introduction to both series.
Zacharius is an angel used to fighting demons and protecting his friend Archangel Michael from danger. When Michael gives him an important mission he doesn't expect it to be protecting a young girl living on a remote farm. However he soon discovers that the girl may indeed be as special as Michael suspects.
This is a great read from cover to cover. After the jaded and somewhat embittered version of Zacharius in the earlier books, it is good to see him not only fully fit but a suitable angelic hero. This story answers a few of the questions left over from the two series it touches upon and further expands the world of angels, demons, witches and shape changers that Cope has managed to conjure.
The story isn't complex but that just allows the characters to stand out, particularly Zacharius and Ava for obvious reasons, but also the other players in the cast.
As usual with any of Cope's stories the only disappointment is getting to the last page and having to wait to see what happens next.
Zacharius is an angel used to fighting demons and protecting his friend Archangel Michael from danger. When Michael gives him an important mission he doesn't expect it to be protecting a young girl living on a remote farm. However he soon discovers that the girl may indeed be as special as Michael suspects.
This is a great read from cover to cover. After the jaded and somewhat embittered version of Zacharius in the earlier books, it is good to see him not only fully fit but a suitable angelic hero. This story answers a few of the questions left over from the two series it touches upon and further expands the world of angels, demons, witches and shape changers that Cope has managed to conjure.
The story isn't complex but that just allows the characters to stand out, particularly Zacharius and Ava for obvious reasons, but also the other players in the cast.
As usual with any of Cope's stories the only disappointment is getting to the last page and having to wait to see what happens next.
Amy Norman (1048 KP) rated The Orphanage of Gods in Books
Apr 17, 2020
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. It is an absolute tour de force, and powerhouse of descriptive language.
The book is gripping from the start, it is fast moving, and keeps you guessing as to what will happen next. I haven't picked up a book this quickly in a while, and finished it faster than most.
However, so much happens throughout the book, and it builds and builds towards the ending that it almost felt like a bit too much happened, and I wasn't entirely sure where it would end. I feel like it could have been stretched out over two books, so we as an audience could have had more time to relish the story and appreciate the characters.
Please don't get me wrong though, I savoured every minute of it, and the ending was suitable and satiated my needs.
As I mentioned, the descriptive language was different to a great many books I've read, but it didn't feel forced or jarring, as some do when it feels like they threw a thesaurus at their writing, just to mix it up a bit.
The writers age did leak through a few times, but I am an older reader, and think this is perfectly suited to the YA audience.
Highly recommend, it is a fantastic read, and the only let down is that there wasn't more of it!
The book is gripping from the start, it is fast moving, and keeps you guessing as to what will happen next. I haven't picked up a book this quickly in a while, and finished it faster than most.
However, so much happens throughout the book, and it builds and builds towards the ending that it almost felt like a bit too much happened, and I wasn't entirely sure where it would end. I feel like it could have been stretched out over two books, so we as an audience could have had more time to relish the story and appreciate the characters.
Please don't get me wrong though, I savoured every minute of it, and the ending was suitable and satiated my needs.
As I mentioned, the descriptive language was different to a great many books I've read, but it didn't feel forced or jarring, as some do when it feels like they threw a thesaurus at their writing, just to mix it up a bit.
The writers age did leak through a few times, but I am an older reader, and think this is perfectly suited to the YA audience.
Highly recommend, it is a fantastic read, and the only let down is that there wasn't more of it!
Mark @ Carstairs Considers (2357 KP) rated Dim Sum of All Fears in Books
Oct 22, 2020
Fear Not, This is a Fun Book
A new souvenir shop has opened next to Ho-Lee Noodles, the restaurant that Lana Lee’s parents own and where she works. Over the last few weeks, Lana has become friends with Isabelle, one half of the newlyweds who own the new store. That makes it person when Isabelle and Brandon, her husband, are found murdered in the back of their store one morning. Despite warnings to stay out of the investigation, Lana begins to poke around. Can she figure out what happened?
Too many books got in the way of me returning to this series sooner, but I’m glad I was able to revisit the characters. The plot is strong, with plenty of secrets and suspects that kept me guessing until the very end. Lana is a relatable, sympathetic heroine, and I really like her friends as well. There is some room for growth in her relationships with her family, and I hope that happens as the series progresses. There are some spoilers for the first book in the series here, so if you are interested in the series, I definitely recommend you read them in order. I’m glad I got to return to Ho-Lee Noodles, and I hope it isn’t so long before I move on to book three.
Too many books got in the way of me returning to this series sooner, but I’m glad I was able to revisit the characters. The plot is strong, with plenty of secrets and suspects that kept me guessing until the very end. Lana is a relatable, sympathetic heroine, and I really like her friends as well. There is some room for growth in her relationships with her family, and I hope that happens as the series progresses. There are some spoilers for the first book in the series here, so if you are interested in the series, I definitely recommend you read them in order. I’m glad I got to return to Ho-Lee Noodles, and I hope it isn’t so long before I move on to book three.
Mark @ Carstairs Considers (2357 KP) rated W is for Wasted (Kinsey Millhone, #23) in Books
Dec 4, 2022
Distracted Plot Wastes Time in This Book
PI Kinsey Millhone is facing a stretch with no clients over the next couple of weeks, which she isn’t quite sure how she will fill. That is, until she gets a phone call from the coroner’s office. A homeless man has died, and the coroner has no idea who he is. The only thing they have to go on is Kinsey’s name and office number. Who might he be? Why did he have Kinsey’s contact information in his pocket?
The premise of this book captured my attention from the start. Unfortunately, the plot wandered, with a sub-plot taking over the middle of the book before Kinsey really even discovers there is a crime for her to solve. We know that sooner thanks to some flashback chapters written in third person. Both parts of the book are rushed in their resolution, leaving a couple of things dangling. However, I still found myself engaged in the book thanks to the characters, who I still love. It might have helped that I listened to the audio instead of reading it. Judy Kaye, the narrator, does a great job once again here. Fans of the series will want to see what happens here, but if you haven’t met Kinsey yet, I recommend you start earlier and work your way to this book.
The premise of this book captured my attention from the start. Unfortunately, the plot wandered, with a sub-plot taking over the middle of the book before Kinsey really even discovers there is a crime for her to solve. We know that sooner thanks to some flashback chapters written in third person. Both parts of the book are rushed in their resolution, leaving a couple of things dangling. However, I still found myself engaged in the book thanks to the characters, who I still love. It might have helped that I listened to the audio instead of reading it. Judy Kaye, the narrator, does a great job once again here. Fans of the series will want to see what happens here, but if you haven’t met Kinsey yet, I recommend you start earlier and work your way to this book.
Merissa (12934 KP) rated The Heart of Everton Inn (Betwixt the Sea and Shore, #2) in Books
Oct 18, 2022
Return to the Orkney Islands and the Selkies as the story continues...
THE HEART OF EVERTON INN is the second book in the Betwixt the Sea and Shore series and it runs concurrently alongside book one. This means that you will see things through Adaira's eyes as they happen to Briony or any of the other villagers. You will also see things that happened with Adaira that you didn't see before.
This series is so well-researched, it shines through every scene. I love the village characters, the scenery, the relationships. It's all so clearly defined and makes for a gripping read.
Adaira and John have their ups and downs as they try to have a relationship but it seems as though the world is against them. Even though there is an age gap, it is clear that these two will fit together if only they are allowed.
This was a brilliant addition to the series but it does end on a cliffhanger, so just consider yourself forewarned. I can't wait to see what happens next. Definitely recommended by me.
** same worded review will appear elsewhere **
* 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!
This series is so well-researched, it shines through every scene. I love the village characters, the scenery, the relationships. It's all so clearly defined and makes for a gripping read.
Adaira and John have their ups and downs as they try to have a relationship but it seems as though the world is against them. Even though there is an age gap, it is clear that these two will fit together if only they are allowed.
This was a brilliant addition to the series but it does end on a cliffhanger, so just consider yourself forewarned. I can't wait to see what happens next. Definitely recommended by me.
** same worded review will appear elsewhere **
* 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 (12934 KP) rated The Water King's Bride (The Descendants #2) in Books
Oct 12, 2022
THE WATER KING'S BRIDE is the second book in The Descendants series and follows directly on from book one, so I definitely recommend you read that first!
Heidi and Isaiah have stopped their constant bickering from book one as they both realise they have feelings for the other. That has to take a backseat though, as Heidi is desperate to find her father and missing people. We meet a multitude of new characters and reunite with some old ones, although whether that's a good thing remains to be seen.
As with book one, this is just as fast-paced and it is full of action. Whilst it fits with the story, I would like to see more about the characters, their backgrounds, the world they live in. Sometimes, it feels as though it's a spin-off from another series, one that explains about TimeKeepers, etc.
Saying that, this was a brilliant addition to the series that kept my attention and had me turning the pages. A fantastic story and I can't wait to see what happens next.
** same worded review will appear elsewhere **
* 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!
Heidi and Isaiah have stopped their constant bickering from book one as they both realise they have feelings for the other. That has to take a backseat though, as Heidi is desperate to find her father and missing people. We meet a multitude of new characters and reunite with some old ones, although whether that's a good thing remains to be seen.
As with book one, this is just as fast-paced and it is full of action. Whilst it fits with the story, I would like to see more about the characters, their backgrounds, the world they live in. Sometimes, it feels as though it's a spin-off from another series, one that explains about TimeKeepers, etc.
Saying that, this was a brilliant addition to the series that kept my attention and had me turning the pages. A fantastic story and I can't wait to see what happens next.
** same worded review will appear elsewhere **
* 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 (12934 KP) rated When You Burn Me (Enchanted Hearts #1) in Books
Jan 29, 2025
WHEN YOU BURN ME is the first book in the Enchanted Hearts series with Sienna and Damon leading the way.
Sienna is a light witch in a small but powerful coven, who is one of the last guardians of a key which keeps a powerful dark witch locked up. Damon is the half-breed son of the prisoner, who is only alive because the dark coven is saving him for his 'mother'. When she is free, she will take his power which will also kill him. Obviously, Damon's none too keen on her being freed.
This was a great story with plenty of side characters to help give it some flavour. One of my favourites was Morrigan, a sassy and sometimes grumpy light witch who can cause death by the simple touch of her hand. One of the characters I didn't like so much was Terra, Sienna's aunt. I kept waiting for her to grow on me but it never happened.
A good start to a new series that I definitely recommend, and I can't wait to see what happens next.
** same worded review will appear elsewhere **
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book; the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Jan 29, 2025
Sienna is a light witch in a small but powerful coven, who is one of the last guardians of a key which keeps a powerful dark witch locked up. Damon is the half-breed son of the prisoner, who is only alive because the dark coven is saving him for his 'mother'. When she is free, she will take his power which will also kill him. Obviously, Damon's none too keen on her being freed.
This was a great story with plenty of side characters to help give it some flavour. One of my favourites was Morrigan, a sassy and sometimes grumpy light witch who can cause death by the simple touch of her hand. One of the characters I didn't like so much was Terra, Sienna's aunt. I kept waiting for her to grow on me but it never happened.
A good start to a new series that I definitely recommend, and I can't wait to see what happens next.
** same worded review will appear elsewhere **
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book; the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Jan 29, 2025