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Molly J (Cover To Cover Cafe) (106 KP) rated What Hope Remembers (Misty Willow #3) in Books
Feb 27, 2019
A story of redemption, second chances and characters that weasel their way into your heart to stay, Ms. Alexander's What Hope Remembers is fantastically done. I instantly transported to Misty Willow(which, in my mind, wasn't hard to do since I live in Willow Spring!) and settle right in for the long haul of Amy and Gabe's story. I loved watching the story unfold and felt like I was among family.
Amy, Gabe and Aunt Tess are my favorites! I loved Gabe and Aunt Tess' characters the most! They really fit well in the story. Amy's character was also a great fit. I loved the way Ms. Alexander chiseled her and her flaws. Watching them come to terms with their past, present and their future really took my breath away, in a good way, of course! Gabe's not so perfect past really opened my heart to him. I can't imagine going through what he went through, and the mama bear in me wanted to wrap him up in a big old hug!
From start to finish, you'll be completely wrapped up and taken on a whirl wind ride of hope! It is the third book in the series, yet the first one I read. It's easily a stand alone novel and I highly recommend it, with 4 stars to all! It's a story of long ago loves, soul searching, learning to forgive yourself and trust in God. Great job, Ms. Alexander! Can't wait to read more of your books. <a href="http://cafinatedreads.com/revell-reads-review-what-hope-remembers-by-johnnie-alexander/"; target="_blank">This review was originally posted on Cafinated Reads</a>
Amy, Gabe and Aunt Tess are my favorites! I loved Gabe and Aunt Tess' characters the most! They really fit well in the story. Amy's character was also a great fit. I loved the way Ms. Alexander chiseled her and her flaws. Watching them come to terms with their past, present and their future really took my breath away, in a good way, of course! Gabe's not so perfect past really opened my heart to him. I can't imagine going through what he went through, and the mama bear in me wanted to wrap him up in a big old hug!
From start to finish, you'll be completely wrapped up and taken on a whirl wind ride of hope! It is the third book in the series, yet the first one I read. It's easily a stand alone novel and I highly recommend it, with 4 stars to all! It's a story of long ago loves, soul searching, learning to forgive yourself and trust in God. Great job, Ms. Alexander! Can't wait to read more of your books. <a href="http://cafinatedreads.com/revell-reads-review-what-hope-remembers-by-johnnie-alexander/"; target="_blank">This review was originally posted on Cafinated Reads</a>
Merissa (11958 KP) rated This Is Not a Love Story (Love Story Universe) in Books
Apr 1, 2019
This is Not a Love Story (Love Story Universe) by Suki Fleet
"This is Not a Love Story" is both the title of the book, and a description of what it is about. This isn't a light and fluffy romance. This is hard-hitting, dark, and gritty, that tells you in no uncertain terms just how hard it is to be on the streets... and even then you can imagine it's a whole lot harder than even your imagination can go.
Remee and Julian have been there for each other over the past couple of years. Remee was just thirteen when he came to the streets, for reasons you find out. You don't know how old Julian was, but these two have bonded, for good, or so you hope. However, life on the streets is tough, and things happen to loosen that bond, possibly even break it.
There is so much that goes on in this story, and yet it all flows together perfectly. Remee may seem fragile, but his spine is made of steel. There is an outstanding supporting cast of characters too, with Crash topping the bill. He is brilliant, and I really hope to hear more about him soon.
With no editing or grammatical errors that I noticed, this story was one to pull me in, and keep me turning the pages long after I was supposed to have put it down. I have no hesitation in recommending this story.
* 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!
Remee and Julian have been there for each other over the past couple of years. Remee was just thirteen when he came to the streets, for reasons you find out. You don't know how old Julian was, but these two have bonded, for good, or so you hope. However, life on the streets is tough, and things happen to loosen that bond, possibly even break it.
There is so much that goes on in this story, and yet it all flows together perfectly. Remee may seem fragile, but his spine is made of steel. There is an outstanding supporting cast of characters too, with Crash topping the bill. He is brilliant, and I really hope to hear more about him soon.
With no editing or grammatical errors that I noticed, this story was one to pull me in, and keep me turning the pages long after I was supposed to have put it down. I have no hesitation in recommending this story.
* 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!
ArecRain (8 KP) rated I Heart Geeks in Books
Jan 18, 2018
I received a complimentary copy in exchange for a review.
The good thing about anthologies is that if you dont like the story you are reading, you can move on to the next one. Unfortunately, I found myself doing that a lot with this anthology. I requested it because it showcases a culture I am apart of. I go to cons, I read comics books, and play video games. I even have a twitch account where I stream.
But this just wasnt what I was looking for. Out of all the stories, I only enjoyed a couple. I felt that many of the characters and situations were cliché and stereotypical. While I understand that those type of people and situations exist, I felt that each story was a repeat of the others. When I say those people and those situations, I am talking about the anti-social, socially awkward people who are sensitive and easily hurt.
I understand, I get it. Those people need representation, too. But these werent the people I wanted to read about. I wanted to read about the happy, friendly, quirky people you cant help but love. The people who are unapologetic in their love of all things nerdy regardless of what that includes. Most of the protagonists in their stories were fragile and delicate. It seems that every protagonists I read about has been hurt before and is resolved to not love again.
Its an old tired trope. I wish I would have enjoyed it more. I loathe writing negative reviews, but reading this anthology just frustrated me.
The good thing about anthologies is that if you dont like the story you are reading, you can move on to the next one. Unfortunately, I found myself doing that a lot with this anthology. I requested it because it showcases a culture I am apart of. I go to cons, I read comics books, and play video games. I even have a twitch account where I stream.
But this just wasnt what I was looking for. Out of all the stories, I only enjoyed a couple. I felt that many of the characters and situations were cliché and stereotypical. While I understand that those type of people and situations exist, I felt that each story was a repeat of the others. When I say those people and those situations, I am talking about the anti-social, socially awkward people who are sensitive and easily hurt.
I understand, I get it. Those people need representation, too. But these werent the people I wanted to read about. I wanted to read about the happy, friendly, quirky people you cant help but love. The people who are unapologetic in their love of all things nerdy regardless of what that includes. Most of the protagonists in their stories were fragile and delicate. It seems that every protagonists I read about has been hurt before and is resolved to not love again.
Its an old tired trope. I wish I would have enjoyed it more. I loathe writing negative reviews, but reading this anthology just frustrated me.
Lindsay (1717 KP) rated A Texan's Promise (Heart of a Hero, #1) in Books
Feb 15, 2018
I want to get this book to read but I was reading another book by Shelley Shepard Gray at the time. I was either going to wait for it to become free for my Nook or get it though the library. Well I was surfing my facebook or looking at posts that were coming to my surprise Shelley Shepard post Status update saying that her book "A Texan's Promise" was being able to download it free for that day or that week for the Nook at Barnes & Noble website. So I downloaded it to my Nook and started reading it. Now on to my lovely thought of the book.
I really like how the beginning starts in this book. We get learn about Clayton and Vanessa past though the book. We start to see how Vanessa Grant life become rattled and how things change rapidly. Clayton seems to care for her and her pain. He see her in pain and wants to get her safe. We get to introduced to Miles Grant and Vanessa stepfather a little bit. We hear about Clayton's side of the family while he and Vanessa are traveling on the trail from Texas to Colorado. Along the way, you meet a few of Clayton's friends. Their a new set problem that exist with old one between Clayton and Vanessa. You also hear about Miles and his struggles along with Miles and Vanessa stepfather problem is. To find out what they are and struggles each person as is suggest that you go and read it. [b:A Texan's Promise|11082675|A Texan's Promise|Shelley Gray|http://photo.goodreads.com/books/1327938432s/11082675.jpg|16004333]
I really like how the beginning starts in this book. We get learn about Clayton and Vanessa past though the book. We start to see how Vanessa Grant life become rattled and how things change rapidly. Clayton seems to care for her and her pain. He see her in pain and wants to get her safe. We get to introduced to Miles Grant and Vanessa stepfather a little bit. We hear about Clayton's side of the family while he and Vanessa are traveling on the trail from Texas to Colorado. Along the way, you meet a few of Clayton's friends. Their a new set problem that exist with old one between Clayton and Vanessa. You also hear about Miles and his struggles along with Miles and Vanessa stepfather problem is. To find out what they are and struggles each person as is suggest that you go and read it. [b:A Texan's Promise|11082675|A Texan's Promise|Shelley Gray|http://photo.goodreads.com/books/1327938432s/11082675.jpg|16004333]
Zuky the BookBum (15 KP) rated The Wonder in Books
Mar 15, 2018
Also read my review here: http://bookbum.weebly.com/book-reviews/the-wonder-by-emma-donoghue
<b><i>It came to Lib then that the question to ask was not how a child might commit such a fraud, but why?</b></i>
<i>The Wonder</i> is an absolutely beautiful and thought-provoking novel and by far one of the best books I’ve read this year.
Set in towards the end of the 19th century, we meet one of Ms Nightingale’s own nurses, shipped out to Ireland to investigate a so-called miracle. Young Anna O’Donnell hasn’t eaten since her 11th birthday, which passed four months ago. Lib begins a frustrating journey into learning whether Anna is truly a modern day Saint.
She is determined to prove the miracle a hoax, but being faced with old Irish superstitions she doesn’t understand, sexism and strong Catholic faith, she has a hard time getting to the truth.
It’s a bit of a slow ride, but it’s interesting enough to keep you wanting to know more. Donoghue creates a beautifully vivid story for you to really lose yourself in, you’ll find yourself reading this book within a couple of days (or hours, depending on when you’re reading it). Not what I’d classify at a mystery novel - the story is so much more than just working out the story behind Anna’s apparent loss of appetite. It’s a story of faith, believing in yourself and following your heart.
A really enjoyable book, with a wide array of likable and dislikable characters, beautiful scenery and heart warming lessons to take away, this is a must read for any historical fiction lover.
<b><i>It came to Lib then that the question to ask was not how a child might commit such a fraud, but why?</b></i>
<i>The Wonder</i> is an absolutely beautiful and thought-provoking novel and by far one of the best books I’ve read this year.
Set in towards the end of the 19th century, we meet one of Ms Nightingale’s own nurses, shipped out to Ireland to investigate a so-called miracle. Young Anna O’Donnell hasn’t eaten since her 11th birthday, which passed four months ago. Lib begins a frustrating journey into learning whether Anna is truly a modern day Saint.
She is determined to prove the miracle a hoax, but being faced with old Irish superstitions she doesn’t understand, sexism and strong Catholic faith, she has a hard time getting to the truth.
It’s a bit of a slow ride, but it’s interesting enough to keep you wanting to know more. Donoghue creates a beautifully vivid story for you to really lose yourself in, you’ll find yourself reading this book within a couple of days (or hours, depending on when you’re reading it). Not what I’d classify at a mystery novel - the story is so much more than just working out the story behind Anna’s apparent loss of appetite. It’s a story of faith, believing in yourself and following your heart.
A really enjoyable book, with a wide array of likable and dislikable characters, beautiful scenery and heart warming lessons to take away, this is a must read for any historical fiction lover.
Katie Guinn (34 KP) rated My Husband's Wife in Books
Dec 7, 2018
Lily Macdonald is a young, newly married lawyer, determined to make a fresh start and leave her secrets in the past. But her first murder case, representing a convicted killer named Joe, will threaten her happy future.
*sigh* I’m getting really burned out on “domestic thrillers,” guys. The kind that center around husbands and wives with secrets and strained relationships, that focus on the minutiae of everyday life than on any real action. The kind that likes to tout themselves as “the next Gone Girl.” Give me a good suspenseful serial killer novel, with a twisty plot and an actual likable main character!
That’s one of my biggest problems with these sorts of books, every character is just so hard to like that it’s difficult to connect with anyone or really feel invested in the story. Lily and Ed Macdonald are two people who honestly shouldn’t have married in the first place; they barely knew each other and neither of them knows how to communicate unless it’s in the form of an argument. Their nine-year-old neighbor, Carla, gains some sympathy at first as she copes with bullies and the feeling of being “different,” Unfortunately, when the story picks up more than a dozen years later, Carla hasn’t changed very much. She still thinks and acts like a child, turning out to be, in my opinion, the least likable character in the book. A note to all the thriller authors out there: it’s not a crime to write characters that people like.
I gave this one three stars because while the writing and plotting was decent, it’s ultimately a forgettable novel. Also, it’s no Gone Girl.
*sigh* I’m getting really burned out on “domestic thrillers,” guys. The kind that center around husbands and wives with secrets and strained relationships, that focus on the minutiae of everyday life than on any real action. The kind that likes to tout themselves as “the next Gone Girl.” Give me a good suspenseful serial killer novel, with a twisty plot and an actual likable main character!
That’s one of my biggest problems with these sorts of books, every character is just so hard to like that it’s difficult to connect with anyone or really feel invested in the story. Lily and Ed Macdonald are two people who honestly shouldn’t have married in the first place; they barely knew each other and neither of them knows how to communicate unless it’s in the form of an argument. Their nine-year-old neighbor, Carla, gains some sympathy at first as she copes with bullies and the feeling of being “different,” Unfortunately, when the story picks up more than a dozen years later, Carla hasn’t changed very much. She still thinks and acts like a child, turning out to be, in my opinion, the least likable character in the book. A note to all the thriller authors out there: it’s not a crime to write characters that people like.
I gave this one three stars because while the writing and plotting was decent, it’s ultimately a forgettable novel. Also, it’s no Gone Girl.
Lindsay (1717 KP) rated A Texan's Promise (Heart of a Hero, #1) in Books
Aug 30, 2018
I want to get this book to read but I was reading another book by Shelley Shepard Gray at the time. I was either going to wait for it to become free for my Nook or get it though the library. Well I was surfing my facebook or looking at posts that were coming to my surprise Shelley Shepard post Status update saying that her book "A Texan's Promise" was being able to download it free for that day or that week for the Nook at Barnes & Noble website. So I downloaded it to my Nook and started reading it. Now on to my lovely thought of the book.
I really like how the beginning starts in this book. We get learn about Clayton and Vanessa past though the book. We start to see how Vanessa Grant life become rattled and how things change rapidly. Clayton seems to care for her and her pain. He see her in pain and wants to get her safe. We get to introduced to Miles Grant and Vanessa stepfather a little bit. We hear about Clayton's side of the family while he and Vanessa are traveling on the trail from Texas to Colorado. Along the way, you meet a few of Clayton's friends. Their a new set problem that exist with old one between Clayton and Vanessa. You also hear about Miles and his struggles along with Miles and Vanessa stepfather problem is. To find out what they are and struggles each person as is suggest that you go and read it. [b:A Texan's Promise|11082675|A Texan's Promise|Shelley Gray|http://photo.goodreads.com/books/1327938432s/11082675.jpg|16004333]
I really like how the beginning starts in this book. We get learn about Clayton and Vanessa past though the book. We start to see how Vanessa Grant life become rattled and how things change rapidly. Clayton seems to care for her and her pain. He see her in pain and wants to get her safe. We get to introduced to Miles Grant and Vanessa stepfather a little bit. We hear about Clayton's side of the family while he and Vanessa are traveling on the trail from Texas to Colorado. Along the way, you meet a few of Clayton's friends. Their a new set problem that exist with old one between Clayton and Vanessa. You also hear about Miles and his struggles along with Miles and Vanessa stepfather problem is. To find out what they are and struggles each person as is suggest that you go and read it. [b:A Texan's Promise|11082675|A Texan's Promise|Shelley Gray|http://photo.goodreads.com/books/1327938432s/11082675.jpg|16004333]
Carma (21 KP) rated Royally Arranged (Bad Boy Royals #3) in Books
Jun 17, 2019
Royally Arranged is the 3rd book in the Bad Boy Royals series. Although Ive enjoyed other Nora Flite books, this one left me a little disappointed. For that reason I can only give 3 ¼ stars.
Nova Valentine was basically a pawn in her own family. They used her when they needed her and she was expected to do whatever they wished of her. Meeting Hawthorne Badd gave her an unexpected dose of freedom.
Thorne Badd was a self made man, helping his father in the business was just expected of him. He couldnt have been more surprised to find his father was a Prince in his old life. After the King dies, the country needs a new leader and turn to Thorne as heir apparent.
Nova and Thorne embark on an arranged marriage to benefit both families and save the country of Torino, or so it seems.
This book flip flopped a lot for me and I actually thought it was a flashback scenario for a while until I got further in and realized it was just a case of mistaken identity. I didnt really enjoy any of the Valentine characters including Nova. She was just too spineless for me to even consider. Thorne and his father were my favorite characters from the book but even they couldnt help me enjoy it more.
I doubt I will pass by another Nora Flite book in the future but this definitely wasnt my cup of tea. I received a copy without expectation for review, any and all opinions expressed are my own.
Nova Valentine was basically a pawn in her own family. They used her when they needed her and she was expected to do whatever they wished of her. Meeting Hawthorne Badd gave her an unexpected dose of freedom.
Thorne Badd was a self made man, helping his father in the business was just expected of him. He couldnt have been more surprised to find his father was a Prince in his old life. After the King dies, the country needs a new leader and turn to Thorne as heir apparent.
Nova and Thorne embark on an arranged marriage to benefit both families and save the country of Torino, or so it seems.
This book flip flopped a lot for me and I actually thought it was a flashback scenario for a while until I got further in and realized it was just a case of mistaken identity. I didnt really enjoy any of the Valentine characters including Nova. She was just too spineless for me to even consider. Thorne and his father were my favorite characters from the book but even they couldnt help me enjoy it more.
I doubt I will pass by another Nora Flite book in the future but this definitely wasnt my cup of tea. I received a copy without expectation for review, any and all opinions expressed are my own.
Chili has grown and changed over the years. But one simple fact remains. Chili is a dish that continues to bring us warmth and comfort.
Robb Walsh not only gives us 60 delectable recipes for the ever favorite dish. But he also dives into the history and the evolution of chili. The book is divided into four parts: Chili's Family Tree, Tex-Mex Traditions, Chili Road Trip and Modern and Vegetarian Chilies (Because vegetarians have to eat, too - pg. 1). There are many vibrant pictures, so that your mouth begins to water just by flipping through the pages. Walsh not only instructs us on the main course, but how to roast green chiles, make fresh corn tortillas and stone ground cornbread. There is also a detailed guide to peppers and chili powders that I found very helpful. With dishes like Lobster Chili, Three-Bean Chipotle Chili and Old-Fashioned Tex-Mex Enchiladas, there is no doubt that this will be my go-to cookbook as the winter months quickly approach.
Chili...Need I say more? I love making chili, but also enjoy a variety of styles. The Chili Cookbook has such a wide selection of chili to choose from that I don't think I will ever tire of it. I enjoyed reading about the history of chili. From the Aztecs to the Chili Queens. Ready your taste buds for the ride of their lives as you dive into this delicious cookbook from beginning to end.
I received a free copy of The Chili Cookbook from the publisher, through Blogging for Books, in exchange for my honest review.
Robb Walsh not only gives us 60 delectable recipes for the ever favorite dish. But he also dives into the history and the evolution of chili. The book is divided into four parts: Chili's Family Tree, Tex-Mex Traditions, Chili Road Trip and Modern and Vegetarian Chilies (Because vegetarians have to eat, too - pg. 1). There are many vibrant pictures, so that your mouth begins to water just by flipping through the pages. Walsh not only instructs us on the main course, but how to roast green chiles, make fresh corn tortillas and stone ground cornbread. There is also a detailed guide to peppers and chili powders that I found very helpful. With dishes like Lobster Chili, Three-Bean Chipotle Chili and Old-Fashioned Tex-Mex Enchiladas, there is no doubt that this will be my go-to cookbook as the winter months quickly approach.
Chili...Need I say more? I love making chili, but also enjoy a variety of styles. The Chili Cookbook has such a wide selection of chili to choose from that I don't think I will ever tire of it. I enjoyed reading about the history of chili. From the Aztecs to the Chili Queens. Ready your taste buds for the ride of their lives as you dive into this delicious cookbook from beginning to end.
I received a free copy of The Chili Cookbook from the publisher, through Blogging for Books, in exchange for my honest review.
Merissa (11958 KP) rated All Boy in Books
Jul 15, 2019
All Boy by Mia Kerick
All Boy is about two teenagers who both have issues and pasts to deal with. Callie wanted to start anew after an experience at her school. She is not very keen on giving her trust, and also allows herself to fall back into old habits, just to make life easier. Jayden is living on a knife's edge, always afraid that someone will find out his secret.
These two were excellent characters, so rich and full of emotion. They were absolutely perfect for each other, and I loved how they balanced each other out. For Callie and Jayden, they had the best back-up team ever invented in Lauren and Willy. What a cast of characters! Of course, not every character is likeable, and there is one in particular who I took a dislike to (just as I was meant to). For me though, it was Lauren's words of wisdom that made me appreciate her more than I had done up to that point.
For all this is fiction, I am sure it only scratches the surface of what trans-men actually go through. It is a raw, heart-rending story, that will break you down, and build you up again. An eye-opener in so many ways, this is a gritty story filled with hope. I was gripped from the very beginning, and I hope for a HEA for Callie and Jayden. After all, #LoveIsLove.
* 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!
These two were excellent characters, so rich and full of emotion. They were absolutely perfect for each other, and I loved how they balanced each other out. For Callie and Jayden, they had the best back-up team ever invented in Lauren and Willy. What a cast of characters! Of course, not every character is likeable, and there is one in particular who I took a dislike to (just as I was meant to). For me though, it was Lauren's words of wisdom that made me appreciate her more than I had done up to that point.
For all this is fiction, I am sure it only scratches the surface of what trans-men actually go through. It is a raw, heart-rending story, that will break you down, and build you up again. An eye-opener in so many ways, this is a gritty story filled with hope. I was gripped from the very beginning, and I hope for a HEA for Callie and Jayden. After all, #LoveIsLove.
* 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!