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The Nightingale
The Nightingale
Kristin Hannah | 2017 | Fiction & Poetry
10
8.9 (61 Ratings)
Book Rating
I had never heard of Kristin Hannah before, but will be looking for other books by her. Her writing is seamless and vivid and realistic. The Nightingale is a wonderful story of two sisters, far apart in body and mind, but still connected. They lose their mother and then experience the abandonment of their father. Both women are torn, but in their own way. The story takes place in France, in a small village until the women who realize they need something different, separate, with one sister in Paris and the other in the country, during WWII. The story is a bit dramatic, but I think it is fitting. Their feelings and emotions and experiences are so real and authentic. It is definitely an emotionally engaging read. Not only is the characters so vivid but it combines their story with an accuracy of the world history around them during that period and is interesting for people like myself, who are history buffs. Both women learn to live and learn to love. It is romantic and not just in a sexually intimate way. This story is complex, passionate, engaging and captivating and will make you think and feel along with them.
I received this book for free from SheSpeaks as part of the book club program, but the above review is based on my own opinions and thoughts.
  
Changing Habits
Changing Habits
Alice Loweecey | 2014 | Mystery
10
10.0 (1 Ratings)
Book Rating
Transitional Short Story
It's a week before Giulia Falcone's wedding to Frank Driscoll, her former boss and soon to be partner in Driscoll Investigations, and she has a few last-minute things to take care of. You know, typical details for the week before the wedding like getting the wedding favors together, finding a wedding dress, and figure out who is switching the valuable items in various churches in the area for cheap fakes. Nothing major, right? When the latest theft hits close to home, Giulia is determined to find the guilty party. Can she handle everything?

This short story was written to bridge the transition as Giulia switched publishers. It packs quite a bit into the story, but handles it all in an entertaining way. The story doesn't have quite the twists and turns of a novel, but it entertained me for the hour it took me to read it. Likewise, the characters don't show us any hidden depths, but we still get to enjoy time spent with them. Since I love this cast of characters, I was glad for that chance. Plus there are a few laughs along the way. Long time fans will enjoy this story, and those who jump in here will be left wanting to spend even more time with Giulia.
  
Forbidden Storm (Storm #2)
Forbidden Storm (Storm #2)
A.R. Vagnetti | 2020 | Paranormal, Romance
8
8.0 (1 Ratings)
Book Rating
Forbidden Storm is the second book in the Storm series and this time the story is about Kurtis and Lucretia. If you have read book one, you will know Kurtis had hopes for a relationship with Nicole, which Logan was quick to dismiss! Lucretia has her own secrets to hide which impact her past, present, and future.

Theirs is very much a will they/won't they story with plenty of action along the way. I am pleased to see Nikki and Logan still play a part in here although, obviously, not as much. Lucretia's secrets come out and she pays the price in more ways than one. Kurtis is okay but more often than not he will do or say something that annoyed me.

I do love the story development both in this story and the overall story arc. There are plenty of hints about stories to come which definitely leaves me wanting more. The characters continue to grow and adapt as times change.

This was a brilliant addition to the series that I thoroughly enjoyed. I absolutely recommend it and I look forward to whatever comes next.

* 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. *
  
The Curse Between Us
The Curse Between Us
Layla Moran | 2025 | LGBTQ+, Romance, Science Fiction/Fantasy
9
9.0 (1 Ratings)
Book Rating
THE CURSE BETWEEN US is a standalone story of opposites - hot Rafria and icy Eskarven, long at war with each other. When both kings die, the crowns are passed on to Edric of Rafria and Zephyr of Eskarven. With help, they come up with a plan to stop the war, but that just unleashes a prophecy neither was aware of.

This was a great story, with plenty of world-building and lore without being bogged down by all the minutiae. The differences in both the characters and places help build within the story, and nothing is just easy and solved with the wave of a hand. The relationship between Edric and Zephyr is slow-burn but with plenty of emotions. It does lead to some steamy moments but doesn't overtake the story.

This is the second book by this author I have read and it has been proven that intricate and emotional stories are what to expect, which I love! A fantastic story that I thoroughly enjoyed and have no hesitation in HIGHLY RECOMMENDING.

** 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!
Mar 17, 2025