Brilliant! And the audiobook narration was stellar! This is instantly going on my favorites shelf and will definitely be one of my favorites of the yeBrilliant! And the audiobook narration was stellar! This is instantly going on my favorites shelf and will definitely be one of my favorites of the year! The story is real, raw, disturbing, brutal, compelling, and completely captivated me. The characters were all so well drawn, and I came to care about them so much. I am now eagerly waiting for the next book!...more
ALL THE STARS for this beautifully told emotional story!
Kathleen Basi’s debut hit me right in the feels and uplifted my heart. This is the story of oALL THE STARS for this beautifully told emotional story!
Kathleen Basi’s debut hit me right in the feels and uplifted my heart. This is the story of one woman’s journey through grief, simultaneously heartwrenching and hopeful. Miriam Lost her husband and twin teenagers a year ago. She thinks she is handling the unimaginable grief rather well until she receives a bouquet of flowers that had been pre-arranged to be sent every year on her anniversary from her dead husband. The bouquet cracks Miriam‘s fragile resolve and resolves in her realizing that she needs to start truly living again. Miriam knows that in order to start living she needs to start healing and that begin with accepting. This leads to Mariam finding a road trip app developed by her daughter for Miriam to take with her husband as they become empty-nesters. Seeing her children on video sparks something in Miriam and she decides to set off on the road trip on her own.
Miriam is a complicated character living through the unthinkable. I felt so much for her and I saw so many little pieces of myself in her. Her grief and guilt were palpable, but so was her Hope and strength. As much as this was a story of grief it was also a story about forgiveness and grace. As a woman and as a mother I completely empathize with Miriam throughout the story. The road trip was great and added the perfect backdrop to the story. I also really love the concept of this app where you flip a coin that determines where you go on your trip next. Along Mariam‘s trip she picks up a passenger Dicey who adds the perfect balance to the story. A multi layered gorgeous story that I cannot recommend highly enough.
All the stars for this beautifully emotional story! This is the third book in Helen Hoang’s Kiss Quotient series and in my humble opinion the best! ThAll the stars for this beautifully emotional story! This is the third book in Helen Hoang’s Kiss Quotient series and in my humble opinion the best! This book is much less steamy and much more emotional than the previous books in the series, it can also be read as a standalone. I was definitely intrigued by Quan in the previous books and excited to see he got his own story. Anna is a semi well-known violinist who struggles with anxiety. Her boyfriend of five years has just asked her for an open relationship and Anna is determined to make him regret that decision. On the search for what Anna believes is going to be the first of many one night stands she comes across Quan’s profile on a dating app. But when Anna and Quan me things don’t go to plan. There is a strong emotional tie between these two that cannot be denied. *swoon* Quan is guaranteed to make everyone’s book boyfriend list. This man was so kind, patient, and supportive, not to mention he’s pretty darn HOT as well. Anna was such a complicated and sympathetic character. My heart went out to her over and over again she was going through so much, her anxiety and inner struggles were palpable. This is one of those books you don’t just read you feel deep down in your soul. Cannot recommend this book strong enough, went onto my faves shelf immediately!
*** Big thank you to Berkley for my gifted copy of this book. All opinions are my own. ***...more
Loved IT! Jane Igharo’s debut is one of my favorite reads of 2020. this is the story of Azere, who immigrated to Canada from Nigeria as a child. she iLoved IT! Jane Igharo’s debut is one of my favorite reads of 2020. this is the story of Azere, who immigrated to Canada from Nigeria as a child. she is constantly feeling the pole between her Nigerian culture and emvracing her new Canadian home. she made a promise to her father on his deathbed that she would Mary a Nigerian man. A promise that her mother reminds her of on a regular basis. when Azere meets Rafael she is instantly drawn to him even though he is definitely not Nigerian. A one night fling can’t hurt, right? Well it looks as though the fates have other plans.
This book was the perfect blend of romcom humor and family drama. Azere was such a great character and I really felt for her. She really was so torn between two worlds. Rafael was a great guy who really tried to be supportive and understanding. I had a hard time with Azere‘s mother. I really could not understand her actions, although I did try to remember that she is from a different culture than me. there were also quite a few pop culture references woven throughout the story that I loved. A fun Romance with a lot of heart.
*** Big thank you to Berkley for my gifted copy of this book. All opinions are my own. ***...more
SO. DAMN. GOOD. Alexis Hall sure knows how to write a sweet sexy snarky romcom. Luke has a problem he has a bit of a bad boy reputation, and that is nSO. DAMN. GOOD. Alexis Hall sure knows how to write a sweet sexy snarky romcom. Luke has a problem he has a bit of a bad boy reputation, and that is not flying well at his job. He needs a reputable boyfriend and he needs him stat! Oliver is a successful barrister the perfect respectful fake boyfriend for Luke. But now Luke has another problem... he cannot stand Oliver. I just loved absolutely EVERYTHING about this book! Luke was such an adorable character flaws and all. Oliver was a great character as well something about him touched me deep down in my soul. Luke and Oliver had amazing friends, the kind you’d love to go hang with. Real friends, the kind that support you no matter what, but still tell you when you’re being a complete shit. Luke’s coworkers added lots of humor to the story, I was seriously laughing so hard I was crying during some of the interactions between Luke and his coworkers. Loved all the witty banter in this book especially that between Luke and Oliver. And the chemistry between these two can I just say H.O.T.! The audiobook was narrated by Joe Jameson Who did a stellar job! He really has a swoony voice, definitely listening to more books from him! An exceptional romcom that is promptly being put on my faves shelf!
*** Big thank you to Source Books and Libro FM for my gifted copy of this book. All opinions are my own. ***...more
magical! Fantastical! Unforgettable! Addie LaRue I will not forget you! V. E. Schwab swept me up with her exquisite storytelling. Julia Whalen’s excepmagical! Fantastical! Unforgettable! Addie LaRue I will not forget you! V. E. Schwab swept me up with her exquisite storytelling. Julia Whalen’s exceptional narration of the story completely enveloped me in the magic. An enchanting blend of romance, historical fiction, and fantasy.
Addie wants to live a life other than that expected by her parents and her small town so she makes a bargain. Addie can live her life on her own terms, but in exchange she will live forever and never be remembered. Centuries filled with art, books, history and loneliness, that is until... Addie meets Henry and he utters those three magical words, “I remember you“. this was just such a beautiful story filled with so much emotion. My heart sang with joy and broke with sorrow. Addie was such a smart, resourceful, sympathetic character. I just wanted her to find her happiness and could not imagine a better person to share it with then Henry. Henry what a great guy. The romance in the story will stay with me for a long time. The audiobook for this was narrated by one of my absolute favorites, who as always added so much to my overall reading experience....more
LOVED IT! Rachel Winters’ debut was a true laugh out loud romcom. I cannot remember the last time I laughed so hard while reading a book, there is theLOVED IT! Rachel Winters’ debut was a true laugh out loud romcom. I cannot remember the last time I laughed so hard while reading a book, there is the most hilarious hen do/bachelor party ever in this fun story. This book is instantly being put on my FAVs shelf, I just loved everything about it, it was the perfect mood lifter during these crazy times. Evie is assistant to a famous agent and has been tasked with the job to make sure screenwriter Ezra finishes his romcom script on time. Ezra is difficult and arrogant, Evie and her friends have nicknamed him the N.O.B. The number one boyChild. Ezra tells Evie he will finish his script on time if she can prove to him that she can actually meet someone through one of these ridiculous romcom meet cutes. Let the fun ensue. Evie manufactures one hilarious yet humiliating meet cute after another and reports back to Ezra. Will Ezra finish the script on time? Will Evie finally get her long due promotion? Will one of these crazy meet cutes actually work? A definite feel good story guaranteed to make you laugh and want to rewatch all your favorite romcoms.
This was the absolutely perfect, feel good, uplifting story that I needed. Clare Pooley poured her heart and wisdom into this excep LOVED THIS BOOK!
This was the absolutely perfect, feel good, uplifting story that I needed. Clare Pooley poured her heart and wisdom into this exceptionally delightful story. I know I am gushing, but this is just one of those books you want to shout from the rooftops about, it really was that good. Julian is a lonely 79-year-old who realizes he has made some mistakes in his life. So he decides to confess his truth in a green composition notebook with the words “The Authenticity Project“ on the cover. Monica is the owner of a café. When she finds the notebook she decides to share her truth about her desire to be a wife and mother and how she’s afraid she will never find real love. She is also touched by Julian story and decides she’s going to bring a little joy and purpose into his life. Monica also leaves the notebook in a bar for someone else to find and continue what Julian has started. As the notebook is passed from one character to another and authentic thoughts are shared, these characters lives begin to intertwine.
Such a lovely story packed with so many quirky lovable characters. I loved how even if implausible this notebook brought this diverse cast of characters together. Each additional character added a little something more to the story. Although I have to say my favorites were definitely flamboyant Julian and Type A Monica. The audiobook was narrated by Anna Cordell Who did a wonderful job with all the accents and this large cast of characters. She gave each character a unique voice and I was never confused as to who’s perspective the story was being told from. This book is absolutely going on my favorites shelf, a definite possibility for my best of 2020.
A true gem! Beth O’Leary brightened my day and lifted my mood with this charming tale. Uplit at its absolute best! Leena is a type a workaholic who suA true gem! Beth O’Leary brightened my day and lifted my mood with this charming tale. Uplit at its absolute best! Leena is a type a workaholic who suffers a panic attack at work one day while giving a presentation. Forced into a two month sabbatical by her boss Leena heads to her grandmother’s house. Eileen it’s 79 and spunky, recently left by her husband for a dance instructor. Leena needs to relax and regroup. Eileen wants to find love, but the pickings in her small town are few. SO grandmother and granddaughter decide to switch places. Leena Will move back home to her childhood small town and Eileen will head off to London. This is when the magic of the story begins! Love watching Leena navigate small-town life-The neighborhood watch, the May fair. And it was even more fun watching Eileen find her way in fast paced London-trendy roommates, online dating, crazy traffic. The audiobook is narrated by Alison Steadman and Daisy Edgar-Jones Who gave the perfect voices to Leena and Eileen. I seriously felt as though I was spending time with good friends every time I started listening to the book. There was just so much charm and wit in their narration, really one of the best I’ve listen to this year.
Eileen and Leena were such delightful characters, they felt like old friends. Loved all the secondary characters as well the quirky residence of the small town and the posh London roommate/friends. Admittedly I think I favored Eileen’s story just a little more. I just adored how sweet and pure she was. How tremendously optimistic, always wanting to bring everyone together and thinking the best of all. Just can’t say enough good things about this book! Definitely going to make my top reads of 2020 list.
Creepy, chilling, atmospheric, brilliant. Bravo Simone St. James! This book will make you believe in ghosts. Lights turni HOT DAMN! This was SO GOOD!
Creepy, chilling, atmospheric, brilliant. Bravo Simone St. James! This book will make you believe in ghosts. Lights turning on and off, doors opening and closing, the smell of cigarette smoke in the air, a hint of perfume, a woman in a floral dress telling you to “run“. After the death of her mother Carly heads to upstate New York with the intention of solving a family mystery. In 1982 Carly‘s aunt Vivian disappeared from the town of Fell, New York never to be seen again. 37 years later and Carly finds herself not only living in the same apartment as her aunt, but also working at the same motel and encountering the same ghosts.
Told in dual timelines from the perspectives of both Carly and Viv. I loved how the two stories mimicked one another but they both had a unique voice to them. I thought that St. James did a marvelous job of showcasing how almost The same investigation was executed 37 years apart. All the technical advancements, computers, cell phones, Internet, however the Sun Down motel seems unchanged. Loved puzzling the Mystery together with both Carly and Viv. I have to say these ladies were either much braver or much stupider than me, because I would’ve been so out of there the minute I saw those doors opening and closing! They both really did put themselves in ridiculously dangerous positions, it’s like when you’re watching a scary movie and hoping the person just runs out of the house. I wouldn’t say this book was scary necessarily, but it was a whole lot of creepy! Exceptional storytelling that completely sucked me in and would not let me go until the last word.
Woo hoo loved it! Bravo Emily Henry! Captivating storyline, delightful setting, fantastic characters, fun banter, beautiful emotion, tender romance. TWoo hoo loved it! Bravo Emily Henry! Captivating storyline, delightful setting, fantastic characters, fun banter, beautiful emotion, tender romance. This is the summer romance I’ve been waiting for! January is at a low point in her life. She is grieving the death of her father, but now she’s not so sure that she really knew him. She is also suffering from writers block and trying to pick up the pieces after her longtime boyfriend broke up with her. Her father left her a beach house on Lake Michigan and she’s hoping the change of scenery will help her clear her head and figure some things out. In a crazy turn of fate her next-door neighbor at the beach house is her old college crush/rival Gus. When the two start to talk they realize that they both are struggling from writers Blok so decide to wager a little bet and each will try to write in the others genre. So what happens when the grumpy literary author tries to write a romcom? What happens when the romcom author attempts to write a bleak book? What happens when too lonely hearts find each other? Will there be a happily ever after or will everything fall apart?
I seriously loved absolutely everything about this book! January and Gus were such great characters and they were so multi dimensional. Loved all their banter, their back-and-forth, their give-and-take. The story was so much more than a romance, touched on so many different issues and gave me all the feels. If you enjoy good storytelling, fabulous characters, and witty dialogue then this is a can’t miss!
An epic girlneeds an equally epic guy, and I guess I’ve never felt epic enough for you.*Swoon*
The hype is real! This book was so Flippin’ fantastic!An epic girlneeds an equally epic guy, and I guess I’ve never felt epic enough for you.*Swoon*
The hype is real! This book was so Flippin’ fantastic! All the feels, not one but two epic love stories, a real and raw look at the mother daughter relationship, tragedy, grief, forgiveness, romance, love, acceptance. Colleen Hoover is an absolute rockstar and this is one of her very best!
Hoover’s exceptional storytelling completely Drew me into these characters lives. The story is told from the alternating perspectives of mother Morgan and daughter Clara. I was equally invested in both characters, I cried with them, I laughed with them, I loved with them, I got angry with them, and I forgave with them. Not only does CoHo tell and engaging tale, she also writes some of the most swoon worthy men/boys. Jonah and Miller *swoon* I think technically I could probably be the mother of both of these men, but wow they really knew how to treat a girl and be there for her. Definitely not a book to be missed! If you are a CoHo fan this will more than likely be one of your favorites, and if you have not read her yet.... What are you waiting for?