Book Vs Movie Round 1: The Silver Linings Playbook by Matthew Quick

Book Vs Movie Round 1

 The Silver Linings Playbook

by Matthew Quick

 VS 

Let me start off by saying I really enjoyed both the book and the movie. Their differences worked for both of them respectively. 

The differences between the book and movie are apparent right away. One of the books biggest reveals happens within the first 15 minutes of the movie. When I saw that I thought for sure the movie was ruined right away. However, the movie did end up making everything work. It was different, but it worked.

In regards to the characters, there were a couple personalities that were completely different in the book and movie. The characters with the biggest personality differences were Tiffany and Pat's father. It's hard to pick where these characters were done better because the book and the movie are quite different. For how the book played out, its version of Tiffany and Pat's father were great for that context. They worked well and complimented the atmosphere of the story. However, with how the movie played out their movie personalities was perfect for their roles. Bradley Cooper and Jennifer Lawrence did a great job playing their respective roles.  They had great on screen chemistry and really brought their characters to life. So do what you will with that. 

While I did enjoy the movie, I feel like if I had not of read the book before watching the movie I would of enjoyed the movie more. With that said, in this case I have to say I enjoyed the book more than the movie so for this round the book wins!

Djinn by Sang Kromah REVIEW

Djinn

by Sang Kromah

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Synopsis

Some believe that at birth, we’re each born with a guardian attached to us, watching from afar, but never seen. Truth is, there are certain people, special people, born of this world and of the other, who need that extra protection. They go their entire lives, unaware of the other world, and unaware of the existence of their own personal watcher, watching from afar. But what happens when fate takes a turn for the worse, and The One who needs the aid of a watcher most can’t be found to be protected?

Bijou Fitzroy is strange. With the unwanted gift of being an empath, she has spent her entire life as a sheltered recluse, homeschooled by her secretive and overprotective grandmother, who never allows them to stay in one place long enough for Bijou to settle and make friends. When Bijou and her grandmother move to Sykesville and she starts to attend the local high school, Bijou’s world begins to crumble. Town locals begin to disappear and the creatures from her nightmares begin to take shape in her reality. She finds herself at the center of a war she never knew was being fought all around her.

Review

Thank you to Netgalley and BooksSoSocial for a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own.Djinn is a magical tale that takes us on a journey of self discovery with Bijou Fitzroy. When Bijou finds out her grandmother isn't who she says she is, and Bijou herself isn't who she thought she was, her whole life gets twisted up in ways she never could have imagined. Being an empath has never been easy, but now Bijou is finding out how just how hard things can really be.

Bijou was an interesting main character. On top of her being an empath she was also homeschooled until the beginning of this book. It was interesting to watch her transition into normal school life.

The writing is so magical and captivating. My favorite thing ever is when an author can carry your mind away with an enchanting story and this is one of those times. From the early pages of Djinn I was swept away into their world and I enjoyed every minute of it. We did end up seeing some over used troupes such as new girl vs popular girl and a love triangle involving popular girl to be specific. However, I didn't find these to hinder the stories readability. There were some unexpected reveals that increased the intensity and emotions of the overall story.

Overall, I really enjoyed this book. The story was great and the characters were fun. If you're looking for a fun YA Fantasy this could be what you're looking for.

Daughter of the Sea by Sylvia Broady EXTRACT

Daughter Of The Sea

by Sylvia Broady

Synopsis

‘Well-paced … genuinely gripping’ Historical Novels Review

Jessica is grieving for her beloved father, trawler owner Jacob Kingdom, when a heated confrontation ends with her being cast out from the family home and the revelation of a shameful secret. She falls upon the kindness of strangers and meets a charismatic trawlerman, who is proud to walk out with Kingdom’s daughter.

But with her cold-hearted brother at the helm of the family business, there is discontent rising, and being Kingdom’s daughter begins to lose its charm. With Jessica desperate to prove herself worthy to the tight-knit community, does she have what it takes to weather the storm to come, or will her secret hold her back?

Purchase Link:

UK - https://www.amazon.co.uk/Daughter-Sea-unforgettable-families-secrets-ebook/dp/B081S2XHDG/

US - https://www.amazon.com/Daughter-Sea-unforgettable-families-secrets-ebook/dp/B081S2XHDG/

Can - https://www.amazon.ca/Daughter-Sea-unforgettable-families-secrets-ebook/dp/B081S2XHDG/

Extract

Chapter One

February 1937, Hull, East Yorkshire

She slammed the door behind her and raced across the lawn towards the Humber Estuary wanting to obliterate their angry voices. Along the rough path she trekked, her heart racing with fury and her mind and body incensed with the knowledge of how they planned to treat her so.

After some time, she slowed her steps, uncertain where she was. Fog rolled in off the Humber, and swirled round her, its dampness clinging to her face. She peered into the murkiness for the familiar landmark of the dock office and safety, but it wasn’t there. She must have taken a wrong turn because she didn’t recognise the area, seeing only ghostly shadows of an unknown street. Shivering, she clasped her arms about her body, wishing she wore a coat and hat now that the hot anger, which had filled her body and mind, had evaporated.

Suddenly, she heard the raucous laughter of men. Listening, it came nearer. The dank darkness of the fog protected her as she edged along a brick wall of a building, and with relief she backed into a shop doorway. Attempting to be invisible, she wrapped her arms tightly around her trembling body, feeling the rapid thud of her heartbeat. She screwed her eyes tight shut and held her breath as they lumbered past.

And then a rat scuttled across her feet and she screamed. A loud piercing noise filled the eerie space around her.

Three young trawlermen backtracked their steps and appeared in the doorway. They stared at her. She froze, hoping they would move on and she just stared back, taking in their snazzy onshore suits. The whiff of strong beer caught the back of her throat and the ingrained odour of fish on their skin made her cough. She wanted to run, but her feet felt set in concrete and refused to move. Never before had anyone from the fishing community confronted her and she was uncertain how to address them to make them move. Hastily, she scrambled words together, but before she could say them, one of them spoke.

‘Well, well, what have we got here?’ he slurred.

His breath reeking with alcohol hit her face, making her wince. ‘I know I fancied a quick shag, but I didn’t expect it so soon.’

He lunged forward and made a grab for her, but she dodged him by moving aside, scraping her back on the metal door handle. ‘Yer wanna play it rough, eh, lass?’ He swayed as he made to thrust at her again. at her. She froze, hoping they would move on and she just stared back, taking in their snazzy onshore suits. The whiff of strong beer caught the back of her throat and the ingrained odour of fish on their skin made her cough. She wanted to run, but her feet felt set in concrete and refused to move. Never before had anyone from the fishing community confronted her and she was uncertain how to address them to make them move. Hastily, she scrambled words together, but before she could say them, one of them spoke.

‘Well, well, what have we got here?’ he slurred.

His breath reeking with alcohol hit her face, making her wince. ‘I know I fancied a quick shag, but I didn’t expect it so soon.’

He lunged forward and made a grab for her, but she dodged him by moving aside, scraping her back on the metal door handle. ‘Yer wanna play it rough, eh, lass?’ He swayed as he made to thrust at her again.

His two mates laughed and egged him on, enjoying the banter. ‘Go on, yer drunken bugger, show us what yer made of. Get stuck in there.’

Anger rose in her throat and she shouted as loud as she could over their voices. ‘Don’t you dare touch me! I will set my brother Claude on to you.’

‘Claude,’ he mimicked, ‘Who the hell’s he?’

‘He’s Claude Kingdom who pays your wages!’

The men, struck dumb at the mention of the hated name of the new trawler owner, stared at her, peering closer. ‘Lord Almighty, it’s Kingdom’s daughter,’ one of them said in a shocked voice. ‘What the hell are you doing here?’

Author Bio

Sylvia Broady was born in Hull and has lived in the area all her life, although she loves to travel the world. It wasn’t until she started to frequent her local library after World War II that her relationship with literature truly began, and her memories of the war influence her writing as does her home town. She has had a varied career in childcare, the NHS and the EYC Library Services, but is now a full-time writer.

Social Media Links

Website: https://sylviabroadyauthor.com/
Twitter: @SylviaBroady

Amelia Unabridged by Ashley Schumacher REVIEW

 Amelia Unabridged

by Ashley Schumacher

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Synopsis:

Eighteen-year-old Amelia Griffin is obsessed with the famous Orman Chronicles, written by the young and reclusive prodigy N. E. Endsley. They’re the books that brought her and her best friend Jenna together after Amelia’s father left and her family imploded. So when Amelia and Jenna get the opportunity to attend a book festival with Endsley in attendance, Amelia is ecstatic. It’s the perfect way to start off their last summer before college.

In a heartbeat, everything goes horribly wrong. When Jenna gets a chance to meet the author and Amelia doesn’t, the two have a blowout fight like they’ve never experienced. And before Amelia has a chance to mend things, Jenna is killed in a freak car accident. Grief-stricken, and without her best friend to guide her, Amelia questions everything she had planned for the future.

When a mysterious, rare edition of the Orman Chronicles arrives, Amelia is convinced that it somehow came from Jenna. Tracking the book to an obscure but enchanting bookstore in Michigan, Amelia is shocked to find herself face-to-face with the enigmatic and handsome N. E. Endsley himself, the reason for Amelia’s and Jenna’s fight and perhaps the clue to what Jenna wanted to tell her all along.

Purchase Links:

CAN - https://www.amazon.ca/gp/product/1250253020
US - https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1250253020

Review:

Thank you to Netgalley and Wednesday Books for a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own. 

Amelia Unabridged is a beautiful story about friendship, love, loss and finding yourself. Throughout it's pages it will take you through a journey that will have your emotions running wild. Beautifully written and emotionally engaging Amelia Unabridged is a book that belongs on every contemporary lovers shelf. 

Amelia isn't a bold, outgoing character, she is more quiet and just goes with the flow of things. When she suffers an unexpected tragedy Amelia starts to question everything, including what she actually wants out of life and if she is willing to put what others want for her before what she wants for herself. One day she receives a very special book from an unknown sender. Believing Jenna had something to do with this it sends her on a trip to the bookstore that was used as the sender address. Once she arrives at the bookstore some unexpected things happen that may just help Amelia get the closure she desperately needs. 

To say this book is a tear jerker would be an understatement. Instead of just causing a few tears Amelia Unabridged breaks your heart and puts it back together again. This isn't a book you can walk away from without feeling something. The characters are all extremely well done, from the main characters to the smallest side characters. Each one of them is memorable for their own reasons. 

The writing is beautiful and engaging. The pacing is perfect for the story. There's a lot to love about this book. If you are a fan of YA contemporary that tangles with your emotions I strongly suggest giving this one a shot. 

Preserved by Fiona Sherlock PROMO

Preserved

by Fiona Sherlock

Synopsis:

When a local farmer announces on social media that he has discovered a bog body in Ardee, the world’s historians are keen to explore the secrets of the life and grisly death of the victim.

Antique journalist January Quail is fighting to keep her newspaper job and uncovers far more than she bargained for. The victim is actually a recent murder, and January uses her nose for the truth to investigate the County Louth town. From shopkeeper to the publican, everyone is a suspect, but when the Gardai can’t find the killer, can January?

Once she sets down the liqueur glass, January gains the confidence of the lead garda investigator. Within days, the case unravels into a much more dangerous situation with a killer on the loose.

Despite the risk, January is electrified that this newest discovery has come at the perfect time to inject some colour into her flailing career. January relinquishes her old ways to fight for survival, abandoning her antiques column and vintage corsets to solve a cryptic crime that has the experts puzzled. This woman who longs to lives in the past must now fight for her life in the present.

Purchase Links:

UK - https://www.amazon.co.uk/Preserved-Fiona-Sherlock-ebook/dp/B08R7QNCSN
US - https://www.amazon.com/Preserved-Fiona-Sherlock-ebook/dp/B08R7QNCSN
CAN - https://www.amazon.ca/Preserved-Fiona-Sherlock-ebook/dp/B08R7QNCSN

Author Bio

Fiona Sherlock is a crime writer from Bective, in Ireland. Her murder mystery games are played across the world. She also writes poetry and prose but cannot stay away from a good murder. After spending a decade in Dublin working in public relations and journalism, she moved to the country for mid-day fires and elder flower champagne.

Social Media Links:

Instagram - http://instagram.com/fionasherlock
Twitter - https://twitter.com/fionasherlock
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/DionysisDiary

The Visitor by Louvie G. Tucker REVIEW

 The Visitor

by Louvie G. Tucker

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Synopsis

Nusans don’t cause trouble. Peter is a good Nusan. Single, annoyed with his best friend’s constant blind dates, and comfortably provided for with his job as a genmod technician, he spends his days telling expectant parents what their unborn children will look like. For a fee, he can modify physical and mental traits.

To ensure Nusa’s perfect society, however, it is law that all babies must be born with white skin, an IQ 120 or above, and without any illnesses or disabilities. These modifications are free of charge. It’s the law. And good Nusans obey the law. The people of Susa, however, are known to be troublemakers.

Thank goodness the dark-skinned Susans all live south of the border, in Susa. The closest Peter ever has to come to a dangerous Susan is either on the silver screen being vanquished by a heroic Nusan hero or on the news as deporters -- the force charged to keep Nusa safe -- prepare to send them south to Susa.

That is, until a dark-skinned visitor is suddenly inside the four walls of Peter’s quiet existence. Snarky. Irreverent and without any regard for the rules, the stranger should be a Susan but is he? Why is he claiming to have fallen from the stars?

Everything Peter knows is suddenly in question and even his status as a good Nusan is under threat as deporters seek him out on suspicion of a capital crime. Has Peter caused trouble?

Life as Peter has known it is fragile. Can he survive long enough to learn the truth? And will he even want to believe it once he finds it?

Purchase Links:

US - https://www.amazon.com/Visitor-Corrupted-Genes-Book-ebook/dp/B08SKTB2CQ/

UK - https://www.amazon.co.uk/Visitor-Corrupted-Genes-Book-ebook/dp/B08SKTB2CQ/

CAN - https://www.amazon.ca/Visitor-Corrupted-Genes-Book-ebook/dp/B08SKTB2CQ/

Review

Thank you to Rachel's Random Resources and Louvie G. Tucker for a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own.

In the world of The Visitor we are brought into a world where everything is "perfect". Expectant parents can have their child's "flaws" medically fixed to anything they can afford. The government will also pay for a child to have light skin and an IQ of no less than 120 before the parents even have to pay a cent. These are called "Nusan". Anyone who dares not to have their children corrected are called "Susan". Susan are dark skinned and live in the South of the border, tucked away where they won't cause trouble. One day a man believed to be a Nusan is discovered. That is when things start to get weird for our main character Peter. Now Peter must decide if he believes this new comer or not and what he is willing to risk to act on his beliefs.

First, let's get right to the negative and get that out of the way. The thing I really disliked about this book was the terms "Nusan" and "Susan" and how often they were used. I just found them to be really tiresome to keep saying over and over, especially with how similar the two words are. 

Thankfully, this book has a lot more positive aspects than negative. The plot of this story was really good. It was interesting and a little different. I was quite happy with the visitor and how everything played out. The writing was engaging and well done. This is such a quick read, even for a short book it just flies by quickly. Louvie G. Tucker did a great job at drawing me into this world. I really enjoyed it. 

If you're looking for a quick sci-fi fix this could be what you're looking for. 

Author Bio

Louvie G. Tucker lives and works in the Pacific Northwest with his wife. Born in Buffalo, New York, he’s called various U.S. states, Japan, and China home at points in his life. When he’s notworking in cyber security, he enjoys rock climbing, staying up to date on current events, keeping up with his Japanese language skills, and riding his bicycle. He is currently working on the second book in the Corrupted Genes series. 

Blood of the True Believer by Brandann R. Hill-Mann REVIEW

 Blood of the True Believer

by Brandann R. Hill-Mann

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Synopsis

Only a couple of years after rescuing the unicorn Yelena and defeating the Adept Evan, Kahrin and Innes navigate their lives as new adults.

That’s no small feat under the best of circumstances. Balancing college and blossoming social lives in separate towns, their friendship remains strong as ever even as it deepens in new and confusing ways.

Innes tries not to judge Kahrin's myriad questionable dating choices, including her budding taboo tryst with André. Kahrin doesn't hold back her opinions about Innes' beautiful but intense new neighbor, Evangeline.

Are Kahrin's suspicions and prickly interactions with Evangeline simply conflicting personalities?

Is Innes just too judgmental?

Or is there some other, supernatural force at play?

Dating and self-discovery is tricky enough without the world of magic creeping in. Either way, romance sure feels like a matter of life and death.

Review

Thank you to Brandann Hill-Mann for a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own.

When I read the first book, The Hole In The World, I ended up giving it 3 moons so I was kind of expecting the same thing with this book. Oh boy was I wrong in the best way!! I freaking LOVED this book! Blood of the True Believer is the type of book that makes you want to hide away so you can relish it in peace. It's the type of story that has your body on the edge of your seat while your mind is in the book held captive by the magic within.

One thing about Brandann's writing that hooked me is the way she suggests certain sexually charged situations without actually going into a lot of detail. Her writing excites and teases in a way that allows the reader to imagine how far it goes. These scenes are written in a way that your mind can go to as little or as far as you are comfortable with.

At some point in this book I fell totally in love with Innes. There was just something adorable about him that I can't quite put my finger on. Kahrin won my heart in this one too. I am crazy about both of these characters. I love their relationship and the way they are able to openly communicate with each other about everything. I ship them so hard!!!

There is so much to love about this book. The story is wonderful, the characters are everything, and the writing is enchanting. It seriously should be made into a movie.

All the Tides of Fate by Adalyn Grace REVIEW

 All the Tides of Fate

by Adalyn Grace

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Synopsis

Through blood and sacrifice, Amora Montara has conquered a rebellion and taken her rightful place as queen of Visidia. Now, with the islands in turmoil and the people questioning her authority, Amora cannot allow anyone to see her weaknesses.

No one can know about the curse in her bloodline. No one can know that she’s lost her magic. No one can know the truth about the boy who holds the missing half of her soul.

To save herself and Visidia, Amora embarks on a desperate quest for a mythical artifact that could fix everything―but it comes at a terrible cost. As she tries to balance her loyalty to her people, her crew, and the desires of her heart, Amora will soon discover that the power to rule might destroy her.

Review

Thank you to Macmillan Children's Publishing Group for a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review and for having me on the blog tour. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own. 

Wow! That was a wild and exciting ride! 

Adalyn Grace's long awaited book All the Tides of Fate, sequel to All the Stars and Teeth, is finally here! This new adventure brings us back to our old crew with all new exciting adventures and the same exquisite writing we have come to expect from Adalyn Grace. The adventures are bigger, the stakes are higher and the execution couldn't be more delicious. 

Once again, Amora proved to be an amazing main character. I loved watching her grow yet again as she fought to break her curse and make life better for her kingdom. Seeing her vulnerable human side and her powerful magic side clashing and struggling during her trials made her come to life as a dimensional character that you can't help but adore. 

The ending could not have been more perfect. It was not the ending I saw coming but it was absolutely amazing and better than I could have imagined. This entire duology has been wonderful, but that ending really made it one of the best fantasy stories I've ever read.

All the Stars and Teeth by Adalyn Grace REVIEW

All the Stars and Teeth

by Adalyn Grace

🌕🌕🌕🌕🌑

Synopsis

Set in a kingdom where danger lurks beneath the sea, mermaids seek vengeance with song, and magic is a choice.

She will reign.

As princess of the island kingdom Visidia, Amora Montara has spent her entire life training to be High Animancer — the master of souls. The rest of the realm can choose their magic, but for Amora, it’s never been a choice. To secure her place as heir to the throne, she must prove her mastery of the monarchy’s dangerous soul magic.

When her demonstration goes awry, Amora is forced to flee. She strikes a deal with Bastian, a mysterious pirate: he’ll help her prove she’s fit to rule, if she’ll help him reclaim his stolen magic.

But sailing the kingdom holds more wonder — and more peril — than Amora anticipated. A destructive new magic is on the rise, and if Amora is to conquer it, she’ll need to face legendary monsters, cross paths with vengeful mermaids, and deal with a stow-away she never expected… or risk the fate of Visidia and lose the crown forever.

I am the right choice. The only choice. And I will protect my kingdom.

Review

This is my kind of fantasy!! It had everything I love in it. Mermaids, magic, pirates, action, adventure and an alluring cover to hold it all together.

The writing in this book was stunning. I found myself captivated by the beautiful world Adalyn Grace has created. She has managed to build a world you can imagine vividly without being over descriptive. It's just wonderful.

Amora was a great main character. I felt she was well thought out and well written. I loved watching her grow as a character during her journey to prove herself.

Overall, I really enjoyed this book. I'm equally excited to sink my teeth into the sequel All the Tides of Fate. A review for that one will be posted here on February 2 so don't forget to check back then.

When's the Wedding? by Olivia Spring COVER REVEAL

 When's the Wedding?

by Olivia Spring

Hey everyone, today we have something super fun and special! As you can probably guess from title of this post, we are doing a cover reveal. Keep scrolling because you really don't want to miss this beauty. 

Synopsis

She’s found the perfect man. Will she get her perfect proposal?

Dog hotel marketing manager Alex has always dreamed of having a fairy-tale proposal: the glorious sunset, iconic backdrop and rose petals – the whole shebang. She’s found her Mr Right, and life with sexy paediatrician Miles is wonderful, except for one thing. Despite saying that he’s ready for marriage, Miles seems no closer to putting a ring on it.

After a romantic getaway to Paris ends in more disappointment and Alex receives news that sends her world into a spin, she decides that her dream proposal won’t just fall into her lap. So she hatches a plan.

Although she’s convinced her methods will lead to Miles popping the question faster than she can say ‘I do’, Alex’s friends warn her it will end in disaster. But a little bit of hint dropping can’t hurt, right?

Will Alex get her happily-ever-after, or is there a reason why Miles is dragging his feet?


Order this fun romantic comedy now and join Alex on her exciting adventures as she attempts to speed up the proposal process, with hilarious results!


When’s The Wedding? is the sequel to Only When It’s Love. It can also be read as a standalone novel.

Publication Date: 25th March 2021

Pre-Order Links:

UK: https://amzn.to/33T8qjG
US: https://amzn.to/303smiT
CAN: https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B08JVM1K5S/

So without further delay, here it is!!

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There it is! Isn't it beautiful!!!

Author Bio

Olivia Spring is a British, London-based writer of contemporary women’s fiction, sexy chick lit and romantic comedy. Her uplifting debut novel The Middle-Aged Virgin, which was released in July 2018, deals with being newly single in your thirties and beyond, dating, relationships, love, sex and living life to the full.

In addition to The Middle-Aged Virgin, Olivia has published four novels: The Middle-Aged Virgin in Italy, Love Offline, Losing My Inhibitions and Only When It’s Love. When’s The Wedding?, the hotly anticipated sequel to Only When It’s Love and Olivia’s sixth novel, will be published in March 2021.

When she’s not writing, Olivia can be found travelling to Italy to indulge in pasta, pizza and gelato and of course, seeking inspiration for her next book!


Social Media Links:

Twitter: https://twitter.com/ospringauthor
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ospringauthor/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ospringauthor/
Website: http://www.oliviaspring.com/
Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/olivia-spring

Thanks for reading! 

See you on the moon! XO

Love and Ohana Drama by Melissa Baldwin GUEST POST

 Love and Ohana Drama

by Melissa Baldwin

Synopsis

Love and Ohana Drama is a romantic comedy that explores the challenges of family dynamics and reminds readers that there is always hope for a second chance. Sometimes the most challenging situations bring the most happiness . . .

Twenty-something Cora Fletcher is a book-loving public relations executive who lives with her overly Zen best friend and attention-loving cat. Newly single and focusing on her exciting career, she feels like she’s in a good place. She's even been invited on an all-expenses-paid Hawaiian vacation! The only catch—it’s a family reunion . . . and her family can be a lot to handle.

Cora vows to not let that get in the way, but even before the family has boarded the plane, the ohana drama begins. As usual, there's the sister-in-law who is bent on causing friction, the self-centered cousins, and the aunt who loves to party a bit too much. Her mother has filled the itinerary with endless activities, and she's even invited Cora’s ex-boyfriend in an attempt to get them back together.

Although she feels overwhelmed, Cora gets a blast from her past that could impact her life forever. This is one welcome reunion she did not expect . . .

Will Cora make it through a week of family togetherness? And will she be able to say aloha to someone she thought was out of her life forever?

Purchase Link:  https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07YQDMSRC

Guest Post

One of my favorite things about being an author is bringing my characters to life. This is especially true for the villains. Honestly, who doesn’t love a deliciously good antagonist? My novels are filled with these individuals who love to wreak havoc and create challenges for the heroine and/or hero. These characters include a horrible boss, jealous cousin, former best friends and the not so loyal boyfriend. And in my cozy mysteries—the murderers of course. Villains come in all different shapes and sizes and that’s what makes their characters so much fun to write. Of course, in the end I want good to prevail over evil. And I live for those moments when the truth is revealed.

This got me thinking about my favorite villain of all time. Of course, being the Disney fan that I am, I immediately thought of those wonderful Disney villains. They always deliver the worst of the worst or is it the best of the best? Even our beloved Cullen’s faced many dire situations at the hands of some wicked vampires in the Twilight Saga.

While I adore my protagonists, I remind myself that even the villains have a story. This year I’m hoping to redeem one of my characters in anew book I’m writing. I can’t wait to see what happens. Will she change her ways? Can she make amends for all the damage she caused? It’s going to be a wild ride.

Author Bio

Melissa Baldwin is a planner-obsessed Disney fan who still watches Beverly Hills 90210 reruns and General Hospital.

She’s a wife, mother, and journal keeper, who finally decided to write the book she talked about for years. She took her dream to the next level, and is now an award-winning, bestselling author of nineteen Romantic Comedy and Cozy Mystery novels and novellas. Melissa writes about charming, ambitious, and real women, and she considers these leading ladies to be part of her tribe.

When she isn't deep in the writing zone, this multitasking master organizer keeps busy by spending time with her family, chauffeuring her daughter, traveling, attempting yoga poses, and going on rides at Disney World.

Social Media Links:

Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/melissa-baldwin

Website: http://www.authormelissabaldwin.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/authormelissabaldwin/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/mpbaldwinauthor

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mbaldwinauthor/

Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Melissa-Baldwin/e/B012M1S100

Circles of Deceit by Paul CW Beatty SPOTLIGHT

 Circle of Deceit

by Paul CW Beatty

Synopsis

Murder, conspiracy, radicalism, poverty, riot, violence, capitalism, technology: everything is up for grabs in the early part of Victoria’s reign.

Radical politicians, constitutional activists and trade unionists are being professionally assassinated. When Josiah Ainscough of the Stockport Police thwarts an attempt on the life of the Chartist leader, Feargus O’Connor, he receives public praise, but earns the enmity of the assassin, who vows to kill him.

Circles of Deceit, the second of Paul CW Beatty’s Constable Josiah Ainscough’s historical murder mysteries, gives a superb and electric picture of what it was to live in 1840s England. The novel is set in one of the most turbulent political periods in British history, 1842-1843, when liberties and constitutional change were at the top of the political agenda, pursued using methods fair or foul.

Paul CW Beatty combines his background in science and politics with his fascination with history. A working-class boy, at grammar school in Birmingham, he had to choose between history and science at university. A medical research career in the NHS and university called, but he never forgot his dream of writing. The Constable Josiah Ainscough series of novels is the result.

Author Bio

Paul CW Beatty is an unusual combination of a novelist and a research scientist. Having worked for many years in medical research in the UK NHS and Universities, a few years ago he took an MA in Creative Writing at Manchester Metropolitan University emerging with a distinction.

His latest novel, Children of Fire, is a Victorian murder mystery set in 1841 at the height of the industrial revolution. It won the Writing Magazine’s Best Novel Award in November 2017 and is published by The Book Guild Ltd.

Paul lives near Manchester in the northwest of England. Children of Fire is set against the hills of the Peak District as well as the canals and other industrial infrastructure of the Cottonopolis know as the City of Manchester.

​Social Media Links:

Twitter: https://twitter.com/paulbeattybooks

The Diamond Rose by Daniela Valenti REVIEW

The Diamond Rose

by Daniela Valenti

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Synopsis:

Amanda’s med school graduation is unlike any other. A solar flare awakens her super psychic powers, enabling her to fight evil, supernatural and human alike. She is the Sentinel 10, the most powerful warrior in a secret society of similarly endowed people. Her life becomes a whirlwind of international travel and exciting paranormal challenges. But all is not as it seems. Soon Amanda discovers that the man she loves has an evil alter ego, and that her own powers have a dark side. This first year as a Sentinel will push the limits of her resilience, and put her own humanity to the test. The Diamond Rose is a thrilling and romantic adventure, the first in an exciting new series. Fans of paranormal romance will enjoy this tale of a female heroine who struggles to understand love and master her own powers.

Book Trailer: https://youtu.be/AuZ9Gs3np2w

Purchase Link: https://www.amazon.ca/Diamond-Rose-Sentinel-10-novel/dp/B08M486R4Z

Review:

Thank you to iReads Book Tours and Daniela Valenti for a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own. 

Amanda is an ordinary girl until a solar flare opens psychic powers she didn't realize she had. Her life takes a complete turn and suddenly she is fighting evil and finding out how strong her powers actually are. Spoiler Alert! She is super strong!

I have to say, I really enjoyed this book. I thought the story was really fun and engaging. It didn't take long before it captured my attention. The magical aspect was done very well. I thought it was creative and unique as I've never read anything quite like this before. My favorite part of this book is the relationship between Amanda and an unlikely match. The ending was just about perfect. It left me in anticipation for the next book in the series. 

Overall, I enjoyed this one from start to finish and I can't wait for the second book. If you're looking for a book with romance, magic and just a few secrets I'd recommend giving this one a try. 

Author Bio

Daniela Valenti is the pen name for a Canadian psychiatrist who writes Paranormal Fiction. That may seem incongruous, but it’s not really. The work in her chosen field and her writing dovetail nicely. She is able to draw upon her work as a psychiatrist to create multidimensional characters who are simultaneously powerful and vulnerable. Daniela lives in Montreal and holds a medical degree from McGill. She speaks French and regards herself a chatty introvert. Growing up, she was a voracious reader of sci-fi and fantasy. Her interests today include supernatural lore, skincare and fashion, gorgeous travel destinations, true crime, and learning about narcissism and psychopathy. She’s thought a lot about love and evil and maintains that narcissism is the true nature of all evil. Daniela has traveled extensively. Her love of the exotic dominates many of the settings where the characters in her stories romp and play their parts. Her prior attempts at writing began at age nine with a story about a doctor’s cat, and then a short sci-fi story at age twenty-three. Thirteen years later, her foray into serious-minded writing simply happened. She began writing in 2017, after she returned from a trip to Prague for an international forensic psychiatry conference. What she learned there, combined with her impressions of Prague, her prior ruminations on the nature of love and evil, and her clinical knowledge all combined to create the first book in her series. It was a moment when all sorts of aspects of herself, her life experiences and her interests came together, like a self-assembling puzzle. The story came to her like a movie, unfolding in her head as she sat on an airplane, staring at the screen-less back of the chair in front of her, for the eight-hour trip back to Canada. Once set in motion, the wheels of creation kept on turning, and resulted in the Sentinel 10 series.

Social Media Links:

Website: https://sentinel10.ca/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/the.sentinel.10

Twitter: https://twitter.com/The_Sentinel_10

Giveaway:

Exclusive Lisa Eldridge red velvet makeup bag with 2 lipsticks (USA only) (1 winner) (ends Feb 5)

http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/518e7284107/

An American Marriage by Tayari Jones REVIEW

 An American Marriage

by Tayari Jones

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Synopsis:

Newlyweds, Celestial and Roy, are the embodiment of both the American Dream and the New South. He is a young executive and she is artist on the brink of an exciting career. They are settling into the routine of their life together, when they are ripped apart by circumstances neither could have imagined. Roy is arrested and sentenced to twelve years for a crime Celestial knows he didn’t commit. Though fiercely independent, Celestial finds herself bereft and unmoored, taking comfort in Andre, her childhood friend, and best man at their wedding. As Roy’s time in prison passes, she is unable to hold on to the love that has been her center. After five years, Roy’s conviction is suddenly overturned, and he returns to Atlanta ready to resume their life together.

This stirring love story is a deeply insightful look into the hearts and minds of three people who are at once bound and separated by forces beyond their control. An American Marriage is a masterpiece of storytelling, an intimate look into the souls of people who must reckon with the past while moving forward- with hope and pain- into the future.

Review:

First, I'm going to say I had no interest in reading this book. However, I needed to fill the prompt "A book that has won the Women's Prize for Fiction" for the 2021 POPSUGAR Reading Challenge and this one just so happened to be available on Libby. Now I say thank you POPSUGAR and thank you Libby! An American Marriage is absolutely beautifully written and engaging. Once I started it I had to continue until I was finished. 

Jones did an amazing job at capturing the various emotions of the main characters. Their relationships were so complex and intertwined. I loved the way the characters were brought to life with dramatic human nature with their decisions and consequences that followed. I can't say I liked or disliked any of the characters, but I felt for all of them. It was difficult to distinguish who was right and who was wrong because of the tangled web of their lives.

The story itself was really interesting. We follow Roy and Celestial through their lives together. We see them fall in love, get married, deal with his imprisonment and finally with the destruction of their marriage. The flow of the story was absolutely perfect, it was like a movie for my mind. It all played out so well. I just loved this one so much. I highly recommend it. 

The Hole In The World by Brandann R. Hill-Mann REVIEW

 The Hole In The World

by Brandann R. Hill-Mann

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Synopsis:

Magic is, and always has been, all around us. At least, Innes has always believed so. Kahrin? She’s more skeptical. After all, she’s never seen proof. That doesn’t stop her from supporting her best friend in his belief, as in all things in their lives.

One accident and a near-miss later, the pair are forced to grapple with the realities of the world of magic, whether they believe in it or not. Innes is sure that the mysterious Yelena is more than just a beautiful girl with amnesia and a prickly brother. Kahrin is sure she’s going to regret going along with it. Still, she does, because she trusts him, and that has always been the foundation upon which their love and friendship is built.

The Hole in the World is a story of love, friendship, and knowing that sometimes that is all you need to have trust.

Purchase Link: https://www.amazon.ca/Hole-World-Brandann-R-Hill-Mann/dp/1646068394

Review:

Thank you to Brandann R. Hill-Mann for a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own. 

The Hole In The World is an interesting read, to say the least. I don't read a lot of this type of fantasy but I have to say I enjoyed it.

I found it to be a slow but comfortable burn. While the book seemed slightly longer than it actually was, it was still entertaining enough to hold my interest.

The characters were interesting enough. Innes and Kahrin are best friends, lovers and the main characters of this book. I found their relationship to be average. There wasn't anything extra special about them for me. My favorite characters were Yelena and her brother Evan. I love the creepy dynamic between them. The author did a great job at creating tension surrounding these two characters.

Overall, I thought this was a good book. I'm looking forward to read the second book Bloof of the True Believer within the next few days.

Every Single Lie by Rachel Vincent REVIEW

 Every Single Lie

by Rachel Vincent

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Synopsis:

In this gripping YA novel about social media bullying and half-truths, one girl's discovery of a dead baby in her high school locker room rocks an entire community.

Nobody in Beckett's life seems to be telling the whole story. Her boyfriend Jake keeps hiding texts and might be cheating on her. Her father lied about losing his job before his shocking death. And everyone in school seems to be whispering about her and her family behind her back.

But none of that compares to the day Beckett finds the body of a newborn baby in a gym bag-Jake's gym bag -on the floor of her high school locker room. As word leaks out, rumors that Beckett's the mother take off like wildfire in a town all too ready to believe the worst of her. And as the police investigation unfolds, she discovers that everyone has a secret to hide and the truth could alter everything she thought she knew.

Purchase Link: https://www.amazon.ca/gp/product/1547605235/

Review:

Thank you to Netgalley and the publishers for a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own.

Wow... this was an emotional read from start to finish. We start off with our main character Beckett dealing with some pretty average teenage drama. She's had a breakup with her boyfriend and isn't taking it too well. It doesn't take long for all that to change when Beckett finds a dead baby in the school locker room. Soon her life starts to unravel as she learns of secrets that could hurt her in more ways than one.

I am absolutely stunned by how wonderful this book was. It was fantastically written and well paced.  I hated to put it down. The ending was shocking and heartbreaking. Every Single Lie is an emotional read that covers substance abuse, addiction, teen pregnancy, death, and bullying. While the themes within this book are hard to read, it is an amazing piece of work that I recommend reading for anyone who likes hard hitting YA. 

Angel of Greenwood by Randi Pink REVIEW

 Angel of Greenwood

by Randi Pink

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Synopsis:

Randi Pink's The Angel of Greenwood is a historical YA novel that takes place during the Greenwood Massacre of 1921, in an area of Tulsa, OK, known as the "Black Wall Street."…

Seventeen-year-old Isaiah Wilson is, on the surface, a town troublemaker, but is hiding that he is an avid reader and secret poet, never leaving home without his journal. A passionate follower of W.E.B. Du Bois, he believes that black people should rise up to claim their place as equals.

Sixteen-year-old Angel Hill is a loner, mostly disregarded by her peers as a goody-goody. Her father is dying, and her family’s financial situation is in turmoil. Also, as a loyal follower of Booker T. Washington, she believes, through education and tolerance, that black people should rise slowly and without forced conflict.

Though they’ve attended the same schools, Isaiah never noticed Angel as anything but a dorky, Bible toting church girl. Then their English teacher offers them a job on her mobile library, a three-wheel, two-seater bike. Angel can’t turn down the money and Isaiah is soon eager to be in such close quarters with Angel every afternoon.

But life changes on May 31, 1921 when a vicious white mob storms the community of Greenwood, leaving the town destroyed and thousands of residents displaced. Only then, Isaiah, Angel, and their peers realize who their real enemies are.

Purchase Link: https://www.amazon.ca/Angel-Greenwood-Randi-Pink/dp/1250768470

Review:

Thank you to Netgalley and Macmillan Children's Publishing Group for a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own.

This book was hard to finish. Not because it wasn't well written, but because it was absolutely heartbreaking. Even though this novel was fiction, May 31 1921 actually happened. Innocent people were burned alive, they were murdered in cold blood. Men, women and children alike were killed for no other reason than existing. 

Told in dual perspective, Angel of Greenwood is the heartbreaking story of two kids who are just living their lives as ordinary teenagers. At the beginning of the novel we get to know Angel and Isiah as normal teenagers. They have school, friends, families and even bullies. Suddenly they find themselves trying to survive that night in 1921 when their community burned down around them. Pink does an amazing job of breathing life into these characters and that terrifying night. Well written and heart breaking, Angel of Greenwood is an amazing book that should be near the top of everyone's "to read" list.

2020 & 2021 Reading Goals

2020 & 2021 Reading Goals

Hi all, 

So in 2020 I set some goals for myself and had a list of books I wanted to read that year. I thought it would be fun to have a look back at those goals and create some new ones for 2021. So let's do it!

Books

Finders Keepers & End Of Watch by Stephen King - Yes! I have finished both of these!

P.S. I Still Love You & Always and Forever Lara Jean by Jenny Han - I also finished (and loved!) both of these!

Cress; Fairest; Winter & Stars Above by Marissa Meyer - I finished Cress and Winter but I did not get to Fairest & Stars Above.

Paper Towns by John Green - I started this one and ended up DNF'ing it about 1/3 of the way through.

When God Was A Rabbit by Sarah Winman - I haven't read this one yet but I still really want to. Hopefully I'll get to it soon.

Great Expectations by Charles Dickens - Read it!

The Wasp Factory by Ian Banks - Not yet but hopefully soon!

Carrie; Under The Dome & The Long Walk by Stephen King - I finished Carrie but Under The Dome and The Long Walk are now goals for 2021.

The Language of Thorns by Leigh Bardugo - Not yet, but definitely soon.

Marie Antoinette Serial Killer by Kate Alender - Read it and really enjoyed it!

The Cannibals of Candyland by Carlton Mellick III - Read it, Loved it, and now I'm hooked on the bizaro genre.

Bunny by Mona Awad - Unfortunately, I didn't get to this one yet.

The Turn of The Key by Ruth Ware - Not yet but hopefully in 2021.

Goals

1. Goodreads: My main challenge of this year is to complete 100 books. ✔ I ended this year with a total of 185 books read!

2. Popsugar: If I complete my first challenge this one shouldn't be an issue. I wanna complete the Popsugar 2020 Reading Challenge for the second year in a row. ✔ Finished!

3. Buy Less Books: This year my goal is to restrain myself from buying a mass amount of books. This includes thrift stores and garage/yard sales. It does NOT include free kindle books. To earn a new physical book I must read 5 physical books that I already own. Reading my kindle books do not count towards earning a physical book. ✔ While I did break my no buy fairly early into the year, I did not buy nearly as many books this year.

4. Read More King: This year I would like to try and read 12 Stephen King books in a year. This will be my first full year reading Stephen King so I'm pretty excited to catch up on all that I've missed. ✖ Unfortunately, I failed this one and ended the year with 6 King books. I'm still happy with that number.

5. Read Some Classics: This year I wanna read 6 classics. I'm not a huge fan of classics and therefore haven't really read that many. I'd at least like to put a small dent in books I probably should have already read. ✔ Nailed it! I ended 2020 with 9 classics read and one of those is a new favorite book!

6. Love My Books: This is the most important goal to me. Read more books that I love and that make me happy. This year I will be doing less tours and focusing more on finding that joy of reading that inspired me to start this blog to begin with.❓ I'm not sure if I did this one or not but I'm pretty sure I did.

So overall I think I did pretty well. I read 11/20 books that I wanted to read and I completed 4/6 of my reading goals.

Now for 2021..

Books

Under The Dome & The Long Walk & Misery by Stephen King

Neverday & I Knocked Up Satan's Daughter by Carlton Mellick III

We Were Beautiful by Heather Hepler 

All The Stars and Teeth & All The Tides of Fate by Adalyn Grace

Amelia Unabridged by Ashley Schumacher

Sea Witch Rising by Sarah Henning

Project Nemesis Trilogy by Brendan Reichs 

Elites of Eden & Rebels of Eden by Joey Graceffa

Goals

1. Read 100 books: I'd like to try and read at least 100 books again this year.

2. Prioritize my Physical TBR: I started 2021 with 301 physical books on my TBR, I want to cut that down as much as possible.
3. Classics: I would like to continue to read more classics. I think 6 books is a great goal to reach for.

4. Popsugar Reading Challenge: I love a challenge and hopefully I'll finish the Popsugar Reading Challenge for the third year in a row.

5. Translated Works: This year I'd like to read at least 4 translated books.

6. Series: I want to finish off as many of the series I have started as possible.

If you're still reading, thank you so much! Do you have any goals for 2021? Have you read any of the books mentioned on this post? If so, what are your thoughts? 

That's all for now but I'll be back soon with more bookish content!

See you on the moon! XO