Carrie Soto is Back by Taylor Jenkins Reid REVIEW

Carrie Soto is Back

by Taylor Jenkins Reid

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Blurb

Carrie Soto is fierce, and her determination to win at any cost has not made her popular. But by the time she retires from tennis, she is the best player the world has ever seen. She has shattered every record and claimed twenty Grand Slam titles. And if you ask Carrie, she is entitled to every one. She sacrificed nearly everything to become the best, with her father, Javier, as her coach. A former champion himself, Javier has trained her since the age of two.

But six years after her retirement, Carrie finds herself sitting in the stands of the 1994 US Open, watching her record be taken from her by a brutal, stunning player named Nicki Chan.

At thirty-seven years old, Carrie makes the monumental decision to come out of retirement and be coached by her father for one last year in an attempt to reclaim her record. Even if the sports media says that they never liked “the Battle-Axe” anyway. Even if her body doesn’t move as fast as it did. And even if it means swallowing her pride to train with a man she once almost opened her heart to: Bowe Huntley. Like her, he has something to prove before he gives up the game forever.

In spite of it all, Carrie Soto is back, for one epic final season. In this riveting and unforgettable novel, Taylor Jenkins Reid tells her most vulnerable, emotional story yet.

Review

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

I had the hardest time getting into Carrie Soto is back. I picked it up numerous times and just couldn't get into. Finally I decided to just push through and I am so thankful that I did.

I really disliked Carrie. I did not want her to make any sort of comeback at all and rooted against her like something fierce. I was surprised I had finally found a TJR book I really didn't enjoy as she is one of my favorite authors. Except, now the book is over and I'm so happy with how everything went and I'm once again applauding a truly great author. Carrie's character arc was absolutely splendid! There was also a great character arc for Carrie's father. The story leaves you satisfied and fulfilled, as long as you can get past Carrie and her crappy attitude long enough to reach the finish line.

I adore this book and hate that I kept putting it down instead of just reading it. If you're a fan of TJR I recommend at least trying this one. I know it won't be for everybody but it's certainly worth a shot.

A Haunted History of Invisible Women by Leanna Renee Hieber & Andrea Janes REVIEW

A Haunted History of Invisible Women

by Leanna Renee Hieber & Andrea Janes

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Blurb:

Sorrowful widows, vengeful jezebels, innocent maidens, wronged lovers, former slaves, even the occasional axe-murderess--America's female ghosts differ widely in background, class, and circumstance. Yet one thing unites them: their ability to instill fascination and fear, long after their deaths. Here are the full stories behind some of the best-known among them, as well as the lesser-known--though no less powerful.

Tales whispered in darkness often divulge more about the teller than the subject. America's most famous female ghosts, like New Orleans voodoo priestess Marie Laveau, and Bridget Bishop, the first person executed during the Salem witchcraft trials, mirror each era's fears and prejudices. Yet through urban legends and campfire stories, even ghosts like the nameless hard-working women lost in the infamous Triangle Shirtwaist Factory fire --achieve a measure of power and agency in death, in ways unavailable to them as living women.

Riveting for skeptics and believers alike, with humor, curiosity, and expertise, A Haunted History of Invisible Women offers a unique lens on the significant role these ghostly legends play both within the spook-seeking corners of our minds and in the consciousness of a nation.

Review:

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

Where do I even begin with this one? It's an incredible account of different women throughout history. When I say different I mean no two women in this book are the same. From the scandalous to the misunderstood we get to know them all. With passion and fire A Haunted History of Invisible Women will have you seeing ghosts everywhere!

Hieber and Jane take the stories of these women and tell them in a way that demands they be heard. The way they wrote about these women feels almost as if they breathed life back into long forgotten ghosts.

This audiobook was narrated by Linda Jones. Honestly, I really don't think anyone else could have brought this story to life the way she did. Her voice and tone made her the perfect selection to read this book.

Something Bright and Burning by Whitney Amazeen REVIEW

 Something Bright and Burning

by Whitney Amazeen

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Blurb

For some, knowing the truth is worse than living a lie.

Everly Martin, eighteen years old and fiercely ambitious, takes pity on Nicolai after accidentally swiping right on a dating app. She doesn't have time for love, not with her desperation to finish college and earn enough money to help her single mom pay the bills. But from the moment they meet at a coffee shop, Nicolai terrifies her with the instant connection they form. He couldn't have come at a worse time, because that same morning, Everly learns she's pregnant. And to make matters worse, she isn't sure who the father of her child is.

Though Everly is determined to stay far away from Nicolai, he reappears in her life, this time in a way she can't ignore. While fighting her growing attraction for him, Everly is haunted by the knowledge that her baby's father might actually be a terrible person. She's willing to find out, even if learning the truth ultimately ends in heartbreak.

Nicolai might not have a place in Everly's future, but when he helps her discover a shocking truth about her past—a truth that could either change everything for the better, or destroy it even more—Everly must decide what's more important: giving her child the life she's always wanted, or following her heart and choosing love.

Review

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

What The Actual F.....?!? OK, that was a roller coaster that's going to take some time to process. I started this book and didn't put it down until I was completely finished. I couldn't help it, I was invested from the first chapter and then things escalated and I just couldn't stop.

The plot twist really got me. By the time I figured out what was going to happen I was right on top of the reveal. Not going to lie, I hated the twist and wish the author would have done literally anything else. Don't get me wrong, the writing is amazing, I just hated what happened here.

Something Bright and Burning is not for the faint of heart. There's so much that happens and if you're someone who needs trigger warnings I highly suggest checking them before reading this.

In a nutshell I thought this book was captivating, well written, infuriating and heartbreaking. Lately I've been finding it difficult to become immersed in stories but this one really captivated me. If you're going to read it make sure you have time on your hands so you don't have to put it down until you're finished.

I'm The Girl by Courtney Summers REVIEW

 I'm The Girl

by Courtney Summers

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Blurb

When sixteen-year-old Georgia Avis discovers the dead body of thirteen-year-old Ashley James, she teams up with Ashley's older sister, Nora, to find and bring the killer to justice before he strikes again. But their investigation throws Georgia into a world of unimaginable privilege and wealth, without conscience or consequence, and as Ashley’s killer closes in, Georgia will discover when money, power and beauty rule, it might not be a matter of who is guilty—but who is guiltiest.

A spiritual successor to the 2018 breakout hit, Sadie, I'm the Girl is a masterfully written, bold, and unflinching account of how one young woman feels in her body as she struggles to navigate a deadly and predatory power structure while asking readers one question: if this is the way the world is, do you accept it?

Review

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

While the situations in this book are not fun to read about, I thought this was really well done. I am in awe of how blunt and raw this story actually is. Behind the words of this story lies the painful reality for too many women and girls. This is one of those stories that demands to be told.

One thing I think was done really well was the portrayl of sexual coercion. The situation we witness shows how sneakily someone can be coerced. In the book there are no outbursts of rage or pleading, he just talks his way around the situation to make it almost look like he is doing her a favor.

Overall, was it perfect? No it wasn't. But I do recommend this book for anyone who is looking for an dark thriller that will engage their mind and hurt their heart.

The Gingerbread Witch by Alexandra Overy REVIEW

The Gingerbread Witch

by Alexandra Overy

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Blurb

Maud has grown up in a house made of gingerbread, wanting nothing more than to be a witch like Mother Agatha. But just like all of Agatha's creations—from the magical house made of sweets to the chocolate mousse squirrel, right down to the little sugar mice—Maud will turn back into gingerbread if anything ever happens to Agatha. After a terrible fight, Maud storms off only to return home to learn that Hansel and Gretel, a pair of witch hunters, have pushed Agatha into the cottage's oven.

To save herself and the other gingerbread creations, Maud will have to go into the dangerous forest of the Shadelands to find the First Witch's spellbook. But with witch hunters on her trail and other people interested in the book for their own means, it'll be far from easy. Can Maud claim the book and bring back the only mother she's ever known…or will witch hunters capture her before she can save her gingerbread family?

Expected Publication Date: September 13, 2022

Review

Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher 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 was such a fantastic book! It has everything you could ever want. Magic, adventure, battles, new friends, animal (well, sort of) sidekicks, family and of course Gingerbread!

Maud wants to be a Witch, and she even has the Witch mark but creator, Mother Agatha, still won't teach her magic. When Mother Agatha ends up being killed in an oven Maud must go on the biggest adventure of her life to try and bring her back and find out once and for all why she was never allowed to perform magic.

I had such an amazing time reading The Gingerbread Witch with my daughter. It's such an exciting and fantastical story. The writing is engaging, the characters are lovable and the retelling aspect is done so incredibly well. If you're a fan of retellings and adventures I strongly recommend giving this one a shot. The magic within these pages is perfect for all ages.

Gingerbread has never been so delicious!

Flip Turns by Catherine Arguelles REVIEW

Flip Turns

by Catherine Arguelles

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Blurb

Thirteen-year-old Maddie just wants her classmate, Lucas, to leave her alone. He keeps asking her out—as if she hasn’t already said no a thousand times! Focusing on her competitive swim team, the Electric Eels, Maddie tries to ignore him, hoping he’ll go away.

But then, when someone starts sabotaging Maddie’s family-owned pool—glass on the deck, ketchup in the pool, followed by a “code brown”—Maddie worries it’s her “admirer” trying to get even. After Maddie’s parents rule the problems at the pool just harmless pranks, Maddie and her best friend Ez decide to investigate on their own. Could it be Lucas? And how can Maddie get him to leave her alone once and for all? The future of the Electric Eels and Maddie’s family legacy are on the line.

Review

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

I adored this book. The characters felt as if they were real. The relationships were incredibly well done and believable. There were some amazing decisions made regarding the storyline that really worked to emphasize the delicate situations and human behavior. I think this a great conversation starter for so many important topics that need to be talked about more such as dealing with anxiety, what is sexual harassment and parental pressure. The situations within this story are dealt with in a way that will connect with the intended Middle grade audience.

This is one of those books that really does a lot right, however, it certainly isn't perfect. What I didn't like about Flip Turns was the fact that there was a love interest. I feel like this book could have been more effective without it.

In the end, I think this is one of those books I think every Middle grade (or even younger and older) should have access to. There's a lot to appreciate about this book and I highly recommend giving it a shot.

That's Debatable by Jen Doll REVIEW

That's Debatable

by Jen Doll

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Blurb

Millicent Chalmers isn't here to make friends.

She's here to win, and she's on track to set a record if--no, when--she wins the state debate tournament for the fourth year in a row. Calm, cool, and always in control, Millie doesn't care what anyone else thinks of her, least of all the sexist bullies bent on destroying her reputation.

Taggart Strong couldn't care less about winning debate, much to the consternation of his teammates, school and parents. In fact, he might even enjoy losing, as long as the side he believes in wins.

But when a tournament takes a scary turn, Millie and Tag find themselves unexpectedly working together. Maybe Millie can teach Tag a thing or two about using his head, and Tag can teach Millie a little bit about following her heart.

Review

"I owe it to myself to see what might happen. To put who I am and what I feel out into the world, regardless of how much it might scare me. And to fight sexism and douchebags every step of the way."

Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher 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 an okay experience for me. There were some things this book did really well and some others that left something to be desired.

I really liked how sexism and bullying were portrayed in an academic activity as I don't think it is focused on enough. We see females on debate teams being judged on their appearance and even their tone of voice. That's Debatable talks about how women are often accused of being too emotional if they are passionate or have an opinion about something whereas men don't face the same criticisms.

What didn't work for me was the teenage romance between Millicent and a boy named Tag. It was fine however I feel like a friendship could have worked just as well and the romance wasn't needed and added nothing to the story.

Please Remember Me by Florence Keeling SPOTLIGHT

Please Remember Me

by Florence Keeling

Blurb

Inheriting a run down house from a stranger isn’t exactly the present Laura had expected for her 30th birthday. Especially when the house in question holds memories of a frightening encounter from her prom night fourteen years ago…

So when a man starts appearing in the house her first thought is that she must be dreaming. But Ben is very real indeed and somehow linked to an antique mirror and another life in 1942.

As their friendship blossoms, Laura learns more about the house and its history…and even discovers some surprises about her own destiny.

With her future foretold, Laura must find a way to alter destiny. But how can you change the future if it’s already written in the past?

Purchase Links:

UK - https://www.amazon.co.uk/Please-Remember-Me-Florence-Keeling-ebook/dp/B0B325J7BT

US - https://www.amazon.com/Please-Remember-Me-Florence-Keeling-ebook/dp/B0B325J7BT

CAN - https://www.amazon.ca/Please-Remember-Me-Florence-Keeling-ebook/dp/B0B325J7BT

Author Bio

I was born in Coventry but now live in Nuneaton. I married the love of my life over 20 years ago and we have two almost grown up children. We share our lives with two mad dogs as well.

Writing is a great passion of mine, that one day I hope to be able to turn into a career but until that day comes, I will continue working in accounts and payroll.

I also write for children as Lily Mae Walters.

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/florence.keeling.7

Twitter - https://twitter.com/KeelingFlorence

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/florence.keeling/

Tasmanian Gothic by Mikhaeyla Kopievsky REVIEW

Tasmanian Gothic

by Mikhaeyla Kopievsky

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Blurb

Solari wasn’t alive when the ozone layer split like a gutted fish above Tasmania and spilled radiation over the edge of the stratosphere, but she’s living with the consequences—the mutations, the gangland war, and the border wall that divides the affluent North from the contaminated South. Orphaned and alone in the southern reaches, Solari survives the chaos the only way she knows how: cooking the wildly addictive snowrock for local crime lord, Worcsulakz, and avoiding the mutants that skulk in the lush, untamed wilderness of the Fringes.

But, when her junkie ex-boyfriend puts Solari more firmly in Worcsulakz’s debt, she runs—escaping the promise of violent retribution with a stolen van and a pair of giant wings cleaved from a mutant moth. Grafting the wings to her body disguises Solari as one of Tasmania’s most reviled and hunted, but grants her refuge in the one place Worcsulakz won’t look for her—a mutant enclave.

There, Solari will form an unlikely alliance with another mutant and commence the dangerous journey through gangland strongholds and carnival towns to get to the Border Wall in the north. Hunted by Worcsulakz, the hidden terrors of the Fringes, the secrets in her family’s past, and the deception at the core of her fragile alliance, Solari will need to confront them all or stay condemned to a life of loneliness and brutality.

Review

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

A dystopian world with mutants? What else could I possibly ask for?

Solari has a large debt with a local crime lord that she didn't accumulate. She is forced to work for this crime lord and if she doesn't the consequences are severe. In an act of desperation Solari decides to run and hide in the only place she can think of. She soon finds herself in an unlikely alliance and uncovers secrets that could change everything.

I really enjoyed the story although, I wish it would have had more mutant action. I found there wasn't really all that much happening involving the actual mutants other than what was absolutely required for story progression. For me this felt like crime fiction meets dystopia. It isn't my favorite combo but in this case I feel like it really worked.

Solari was a well done main character. She was interesting to watch as she grew as a person. Her character unfolded like new wings and she picks herself back up from even the most darkest of circumstances.

I'd recommend this to anyone who is looking for a dark dystopian with a touch of mutation.

The Insomniac by Miranda Rijks Review

The Insomniac

Miranda Rijks

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Blurb

Daisy can’t sleep. But the cure is her worst nightmare.

Daisy hasn’t had a good night’s sleep in years. Her chronic insomnia has gotten so bad, it’s affecting her job as a journalist. So she’s delighted when she’s asked to review a new, luxurious sleep clinic - this could be the answer to her prayers.

At first, everything about the clinic seems perfect – the stunning seaside location, the beautiful rooms, the exquisite cuisine.

Clinic owner and chief therapist, Amity, is sure she can cure Daisy’s insomnia by uncovering its root cause. But to do that, she’ll use hypnosis to probe deep into Daisy’s past. And that’s not good – because Daisy has a terrible secret.

As Amity digs into her mind, Daisy feels more and more vulnerable. She begins to think there is something off about the clinic. Is her insomnia making her paranoid or does Amity have her own sinister agenda?

Fearing the past has finally caught up with her, Daisy wonders if she should just leave. But that’s not so easy – because this clinic, which was supposed to offer rest and safety, is the most terrifying place she’s ever been…

Review

Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher 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 was quite an entertaining read. While it wasn't hard to figure out the twists before they happened, the journey getting there was well written and interesting. It was fun to be a fly on the wall and watch everything play out.

I really enjoy a well done crazy character and I was not disappointed! The attention to detail in both the characters and the setting was great. Everything was so easy to imagine, it's like a movie in your head.

I would recommend this to someone who is looking for a low-impact but entertaining thriller. Especially those who are into reading about sleep and insomnia.

We Spread by Iain Reid REVIEW

 We Spread

by Iain Reid

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Blurb:

Penny, an artist, has lived in the same apartment for decades, surrounded by the artifacts and keepsakes of her long life. She is resigned to the mundane rituals of old age, until things start to slip. Before her longtime partner passed away years earlier, provisions were made, unbeknownst to her, for a room in a unique long-term care residence, where Penny finds herself after one too many “incidents.”

Initially, surrounded by peers, conversing, eating, sleeping, looking out at the beautiful woods that surround the house, all is well. She even begins to paint again. But as the days start to blur together, Penny—with a growing sense of unrest and distrust—starts to lose her grip on the passage of time and on her place in the world. Is she succumbing to the subtly destructive effects of aging, or is she an unknowing participant in something more unsettling?

Expected Publication Date: Sept. 9, 2022

Review:

Thank you to Simon & Schuster Canada for my review copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own.

Iain Reid has been on my TBR for awhile, but this is my first time reading his work. Now that I have I'm kicking myself for waiting so long to experience such an amazing storyteller.

In 'We Spread' we follow Penny, an elderly woman whose long term partner passed away a few years ago. After a fall Penny moves into a long-term care residence where she doesn't remember agreeing to go but soon makes friends with other residents. When she starts to feel uneasy about the residence it's hard to tell if she is having difficulties due to aging or if the residence may not be the safe place she thought. Told from Penny's point of view We Spread will seep into your soul as it messes with your mind giving you a taste of fear you won't soon forget.

Wow...

To start the writing is so eerie and delicious! The story is incredibly written with tender moments swirled in with confusion and fear. When Penny was happy I was happy, when Penny was afraid I felt her fear. My emotions were bounced around as the chapters progressed and suddenly I was just as unsure as Penny about how I was supposed to feel. What an absolutely stunning portrayl of someone facing the end of their lives. I really can't say enough how incredible literally everything about this book is.

Reid did an amazing job with this one. If you want a story that messes with your emotions and scares you in a completely realistic way then give this one a shot.

Everything is OK by Debbie Tung REVIEW

 Everything is OK

by Debbie Tung

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Blurb

Everything Is OK is the story of Debbie Tung’s struggle with anxiety and her experience with depression. She shares what it’s like navigating life, overthinking every possible worst-case scenario, and constantly feeling like all hope is lost.

The book explores her journey to understanding the importance of mental health in her day-to-day life and how she learns to embrace the highs and lows when things feel out of control. Debbie opens up about deeply personal issues and the winding road to recovery, discovers the value of self-love, and rebuilds a more mindful relationship with her mental health.

In this graphic memoir, Debbie aims to provide positive and comforting messages to anyone who is facing similar difficulties or is just trying to get through a tough time in life. She hopes to encourage readers to be kinder to themselves, to know that they are not alone, and that it’s okay to be vulnerable because they are not defined by their mental health struggles. The dark clouds won’t be there forever. Everything will turn out all right.

Expected Publication Date: September 6, 2022

Review

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

Everything is OK is a story of depression in graphic novel format. Throughout Debbie's journey we watch as she begins her struggle with depression and anxiety, seeks help and ultimately learns how to cope with the difficulties associated with these mental health issues.

This is so beautifully written. I think the author does an amazing job at illustrating and communicating the difficulties those dealing with depression and anxiety face in their everyday lives. Keeping everything simple yet well explained 'Everything is OK' is a great book for someone who is trying to understand depression and anxiety.

My Little Brother by Diane Saxon REVIEW

My Little Brother

by Diane Saxon

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Blurb

Two siblings, both missing for 20 years turn up within one day of each other. One dead. One alive.

It was an ordinary school day, the day I lost my little brother.

One moment he was on the roundabout and then was gone. Gone. Missing.

They all blamed me. I was in charge. Even though I was only ten years old.

They sent me away. The hurt, the shame, the questions. The not knowing.

I tried to move on.

It’s been nineteen years in exile and now somebody wants me back.

Someone with a dark secret. They hold the keys, they know the truth.

So, I need to return to the Welsh village of my childhood to find out who, because I have a secret, too…

I did something bad.

Purchase Link - https://amzn.to/3sdQ4qJ

Review

Thank you to Rachel's Random Resources and Diane Saxon for having me on this blog tour. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own.

This was a pretty good book despite its slower start. It picked up at around 60% of the way through and the ending was totally worth it.

I did find a lot of things predictable but there were a couple of things I wasn't expecting. The biggest shocks in this book aren't necessarily the 'who' but more of the 'why'. The 'why' is where author twists things around to get those surprises in.

Let's talk characters. There are a few dislikeable characters in here that are so well written they just anger me. Which I'm guessing they are supposed to, so mission accomplished! My heart totally went out to the main character. I was angry and upset for her and the things she dealt with.

Overall, it's a pretty good mystery. Trigger warnings for child death and abuse, so if don't want to read about those things maybe don't pick this up. However, if you are fine reading about those topics and you're looking for a dark mystery give this one a shot.

Author Bio

Diane Saxon previously wrote romantic fiction for the US market but has now turned to writing psychological crime. Find Her Alive was her first novel in this genre and introduced series character DS Jenna Morgan. She is married to a retired policeman and lives in Shropshire.

Social Media Links

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

Twitter: https://twitter.com/Diane_Saxon

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

Newsletter Sign Up: http://bit.ly/DianeSaxonNewsletter

Bookbub profile: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/diane-saxon

Pastel Pink by Nikki Minty REVIEW

 Pastel Pink

by Nikki Minty

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Blurb

From one ending comes a new beginning…

Ruby was murdered on Earth eighteen years ago and reincarnated on Zadok as a Pastel Zeek named Harlow. To be born at the bottom of her race’s caste colour system to a middle-class family of Magentas has made Harlow a source of conflict amongst the ruling Purples, and a source of derision from all three colours.

When Harlow is attacked by a fuegor on Zadok, the effects of its slow reacting venom triggers an unforeseen phenomenon, and due to the strong connection she had with her former twin sister Jade, her human spirit is unexpectedly drawn back to Earth.

Now living a double life, she has plunged into a world of intrigue on both planets.

On earth, she watches on in horror as Jade reconnects with Lucas, the man who murdered her and got away with it. And to complicate things further, she’s being pursued by Alex, the ghost of Lucas’ twin. On Zadok, she becomes embroiled with Jax, the son of the Commanding family. He’s determined to bring about change to the colony’s colour system, but it’ll come at a cost.

As Harlow mixes with the political intrigue of the Zeeks, will she become a victim of those trying to rigidly maintain the status quo or will she usher in a revolution?

And will ghost Ruby resist the temptation of the handsome Alex or pursue an impossible relationship that could have dire consequences on both planets?

Review

First of all, how is this book not more popular? With such an interesting and well executed concept I really don't think this book is getting anywhere near the attention it deserves.

In Pastel Pink we live on the planet Zadok, a place where people reincarnate to when they die on Earth. Ruby was murdered on Earth eighteen years ago and reincarnated as our main character Harlow. When Harlow's human spirit is suddenly able to visit her twin sister, Jade, while Harlow sleeps, she finds Jade unknowingly getting closer to her murderer. With Harlow being unable to communicate with Jade she must watch helplessly as this tainted friendship continues. Oh and if that isn't enough, there's also a color system on Zadok. Pastel being the lowest, Magenta in the middle and Purple at the top. With Harlow being a Pastel born into a family of Magenta's the last thing she needs is to get in trouble in both worlds, especially after she is befriended by an important purple.

I loved this, it had everything my little heart could have ever hoped for and more. The writing is enchanting, the characters are fleshed out into beings you actually care about, the world building is incredible, the book is an absolute masterpiece. There's Suspense, fear, action, drama and a cliffhanger that throws a gut punch before leaving you there to deal with the havoc it just created in your soul.

I couldn't adore this book more. If you're into Paranormal sci-fi with the tiniest touch of romance I'd highly recommend treating yourself with Pastel Pink.

Please Join Us by Catherine McKenzie REVIEW

 Please Join Us

by Catherine McKenzie

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Blurb

At thirty-nine, Nicole Mueller’s life is on the rocks. Her once brilliant law career is falling apart. She and her husband, Dan, are soon to be forced out of the apartment they love. After a warning from her firm’s senior partners, she receives an invitation from an exclusive women’s networking group, Panthera Leo. Membership is anonymous, but every member is a successful professional. It sounds like the perfect solution to help Nicole revive her career. So, despite Dan’s concerns that the group might be a cult, Nicole signs up for their retreat in Colorado.

Once there, she meets the other women who will make up her Pride. A CEO, an actress, a finance whiz, a congresswoman: Nicole can’t believe her luck. The founders of Panthera Leo are equally as impressive. They explain the group’s core philosophy: they’re a girl’s club in a boy’s club world.

Nicole is all in. And when she gets home, she soon sees dividends. Her new network quickly provides her with clients that help her relaunch her career, and a great new apartment too. The favors she has to provide in return seem benign. But then she’s called to the congresswoman’s apartment late at night where she’s pressed into helping her cover up a crime. And suddenly, Dan’s concerns that something more sinister is at play seem all too relevant. Can Nicole extricate herself from the group before it’s too late? Or will joining Panthera Leo be the biggest mistake of her life?

Expected Publication Day: August 23, 2022

Review

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

I would describe this book as "Mean Girls cult edition." The characters are completely unlikeable, even the nice one who we're supposed to like is annoying. The side characters just fell flat for me. There was absolutely no one in this book I actually cared about.

I liked how relentless the women of the pride were. They always seemed to be two steps ahead with every problem anticipated. I feel like this is also why the ending wrapped up too quickly to be pleasing. Here we have these incredibly smart and hooked up women who created a plan that required so much careful planning and timing they were somehow outsmarted as soon as our main character realizes there's a problem. The entire solution happens in a very small portion of the book without the main character facing any issues that weren't solved immediately. I felt this book was missing the excitement. It was a fine read, just not one that put me on the edge of my seat.

With all that said, I have to admit I was genuinely entertained. The storyline was interesting enough where I wanted to watch things play out despite having a pretty clear idea of what was going to happen. This book is definitely worth the read, what it lacks in suspense it makes up for in entertainment.

Who Do You Think You Are Maggie Pink? by Janet Hoggarth REVIEW

 Who Do You Think You Are Maggie Pink?

by Janet Hoggarth

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Blurb

Maggie is a mother to a stroppy teenager, a wife to a befuddled husband, and a daughter to two very different women. She has always known she’s adopted, but has she ever understood what that means? Not really. Following the death of her mother, Maggie finally feels able to go in search of her birth mother Morag, and heads to the Highlands of Scotland with her disgruntled daughter Roxie in tow, leaving her crumbling marriage to worry about another day. The family reunion is bittersweet, but everything is blown wide open when Roxie unearths Morag’s explosive teenage diaries. Why did Morag give Maggie away? What really happened all those years ago, and how have the echoes of the past resounded through the generations, like ripples in a puddle? And when all the secrets and promises are out in the open, will Maggie finally have an answer to the question – who do you think you are Maggie Pink?

Purchase Links

https://amzn.to/3uF3D2U

Review

Thank you to Rachel's Random Resources and the author for having me on this blog tour and my gifted copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own.

Maggie Pink was placed up for adoption at birth. When she finds herself with both parents gone and a not so great relationship with her own daughter, Maggie decides to explore her roots and find her birth mom. Secrets are revealed and betrayals are uncovered. Can Maggie finally fix what is broken in her life or will everything completely fall apart for good?

This was such an enjoyable read for me. I felt like I got to know and connect with all the important characters on a personal level. Getting to hear their backstories and finding out what made them who they are really added depth and understanding to each one of them. The story itself was enjoyable and realistic. The pacing was perfect keeping the story moving steadily without information dumping or dragging. I was completely captured into the story and wrapped up in the characters. Reading this book was simply a wonderful experience.

There is a lot of heavy content and generational trauma in this book. I think the author did a great job at fleshing out these characters and their individual struggles. The story is heartwarming and bittersweet. If you're looking for a book to touch your heart and leave you feeling satisfied this is certainly a good option.

Author Bio

Janet Hoggarth is the number one bestselling author of The Single Mums’ Mansion and the highly successful Single Mums’ subsequent series. She has worked on a chicken farm, as a bookseller, a children’s book editor, a children’s author, and as a DJ (under the name of Whitney and Britney!). She
lives with her family in East Dulwich, London. Her first book for Boldwood will be published in 2022.

 
Social Media Links

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

 
Twitter: https://twitter.com/Janethauthor

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

 
Newsletter Sign Up: https://bit.ly/JanetHoggarthnews

 
Bookbub profile: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/janet-hoggarth

Every Heart a Doorway by Seanan McGuire REVIEW

 Every Heart a Doorway

by Seanan McGuire

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Blurb

Eleanor West’s Home for Wayward Children
No Solicitations
No Visitors
No Quests

Children have always disappeared under the right conditions; slipping through the shadows under a bed or at the back of a wardrobe, tumbling down rabbit holes and into old wells, and emerging somewhere... else.

But magical lands have little need for used-up miracle children.

Nancy tumbled once, but now she’s back. The things she’s experienced... they change a person. The children under Miss West’s care understand all too well. And each of them is seeking a way back to their own fantasy world.

But Nancy’s arrival marks a change at the Home. There’s a darkness just around each corner, and when tragedy strikes, it’s up to Nancy and her new-found schoolmates to get to the heart of the matter.

No matter the cost.

Review

I absolutely adore this series! The first time I read it I binged the entire thing in under a week. Naturally all the books blended together so I'm rereading them to properly review them. (I know, it's literally the perfect excuse to reread them again so soon!)

This book is everything I never knew I needed. I love the idea of a world where a door can just appear and inside the door is a world where you fit perfectly. When the children have to leave their worlds for whatever reason the way their feelings are described sounds to me like the ache you get from missing a dream you wish was reality.

Describing my thoughts and feelings about this book is so difficult because I simply love it. There's something about it and the entire series that just has me completely captivated.

A Monster Calls by Patrick Ness REVIEW

 A Monster Calls

by Patrick Ness

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Blurb

At seven minutes past midnight, thirteen-year-old Conor wakes to find a monster outside his bedroom window. But it isn't the monster Conor's been expecting-- he's been expecting the one from his nightmare, the nightmare he's had nearly every night since his mother started her treatments. The monster in his backyard is different. It's ancient. And wild. And it wants something from Conor. Something terrible and dangerous. It wants the truth. From the final idea of award-winning author Siobhan Dowd-- whose premature death from cancer prevented her from writing it herself-- Patrick Ness has spun a haunting and darkly funny novel of mischief, loss, and monsters both real and imagined.

Review

My heart was just destroyed. This book is absolutely incredible. It is so beautifully written with amazing insight of grief and the complexity of human nature. Patrick Ness is able to capture the pain of grief in a truly remarkable way. Anyone who has ever lost someone close in their lives will relate to the despair and desperation of these characters. I ugly cried three separate times before I was able to finish it.

Everything in this book just fits so well together. The dark pictures throughout the book enhance the gloominess and despair of the story despite the actions of the main character.

A Monster Calls is an insanely well told novel that will shatter your heart in a million pieces. If you're looking for something to completely destroy you I recommend picking up this one.

The Ex Hex by Erin Sterling REVIEW

The Ex Hex

by Erin Sterling

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Blurb

Nine years ago, Vivienne Jones nursed her broken heart like any young witch would: vodka, weepy music, bubble baths…and a curse on the horrible boyfriend. Sure, Vivi knows she shouldn’t use her magic this way, but with only an “orchard hayride” scented candle on hand, she isn’t worried it will cause him anything more than a bad hair day or two.

That is until Rhys Penhallow, descendent of the town’s ancestors, breaker of hearts, and annoyingly just as gorgeous as he always was, returns to Graves Glen, Georgia. What should be a quick trip to recharge the town’s ley lines and make an appearance at the annual fall festival turns disastrously wrong. With one calamity after another striking Rhys, Vivi realizes her silly little Ex Hex may not have been so harmless after all.

Suddenly, Graves Glen is under attack from murderous wind-up toys, a pissed off ghost, and a talking cat with some interesting things to say. Vivi and Rhys have to ignore their off the charts chemistry to work together to save the town and find a way to break the break-up curse before it’s too late.

Review

When heartbroken Vivienne Jones casts a small spell on her ex she never expects anything major to happen. And nothing major does until years later when Rhys Penhallow returns to town for a simple recharge and festival appearance. Now all of a sudden the town is under attack and Vivi finds out her hex may not be as harmless as she first thought.

This was so good! I thought the story was light and fun with the perfect amount of adult entertainment. The characters were incredibly charming and delightful. The relationship between Vivi and Rhys was so cute. Their back and forth banter was absolutely perfect!

The only thing I thought could have been done differently was the conflict resolution. It seemed slightly rushed and a little too simple at the end.

I absolutely adored the fun 90's witchy vibes. My first impression was this is the literary equivalent to Halloweentown for adults and I am living for it. Think Hocus Pocus, Sabrina the Teenage Witch and Halloweentown all rolled up into one glorious bundle of laughs, spells and kisses.

Overall, this was a great time. It's perfect for October or any time you want a fun Halloween fix. I now need to find more books like this one.

It Ends With Us by Colleen Hoover REVIEW

 It Ends With Us

by Colleen Hoover

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Blurb

Sometimes it is the one who loves you who hurts you the most.

Lily hasn’t always had it easy, but that’s never stopped her from working hard for the life she wants. She’s come a long way from the small town in Maine where she grew up
— she graduated from college, moved to Boston, and started her own business. So when she feels a spark with a gorgeous neurosurgeon named Ryle Kincaid, everything in Lily’s life suddenly seems almost too good to be true.

Ryle is assertive, stubborn, maybe even a little arrogant. He’s also sensitive, brilliant, and has a total soft spot for Lily. And the way he looks in scrubs certainly doesn’t hurt. Lily can’t get him out of her head. But Ryle’s complete aversion to relationships is disturbing. Even as Lily finds herself becoming the exception to his “no dating” rule, she can’t help but wonder what made him that way in the first place.

As questions about her new relationship overwhelm her, so do thoughts of Atlas Corrigan — her first love and a link to the past she left behind. He was her kindred spirit, her protector. When Atlas suddenly reappears, everything Lily has built with Ryle is threatened.

Review

The main thing I found when reading this book is how majorly cringy it is. From characters names to the relationships themselves there were so many "wtf seriously?" moments. Beginning with Lilly Blosson Bloom wannabe florist and our main character it really just stays at a steady cringe through a good portion of the book. And, I'm just going to say it. Lilly and Ryle's relationship is so cringy it gives me secondhand embarrassment. I just... yuck.. no thanks. At one point he monitors her heartbeat while he pleasures her so he can get her heart up to a 140 bpm, like what?

So why keep reading if I spent most of the book shaking my head? Well, because mixed in with all that is the story of a woman who watched her mother suffer from abuse at the hands of her father and how that impacted her life as she got older. This book really is more than a woman chosing between two men. This is a book where actions have consequences and where sometimes rainbows are hard to find. Yes, this book has so many cringy parts, but there are also funny parts, sad parts and even scary parts. So would I give this book 5 stars? No, I actually gave it 3 stars. But would I say this book is worth reading? Yes, what it does wrong doesn't cancel out what it does right and this book shines a rare light on abuse and the impact it takes on those involved.

You Made a Fool of Death With Your Beauty by Akwaeke Emezi REVIEW

You Made a Fool of Death With Your Beauty

by Akwaeke Emezi

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Blurb

Feyi Adekola wants to learn how to be alive again.

It’s been five years since the accident that killed the love of her life and she’s almost a new person now—an artist with her own studio, and sharing a brownstone apartment with her ride-or-die best friend, Joy, who insists it’s time for Feyi to ease back into the dating scene. Feyi isn’t ready for anything serious, but a steamy encounter at a rooftop party cascades into a whirlwind summer she could have never imagined: a luxury trip to a tropical island, decadent meals in the glamorous home of a celebrity chef, and a major curator who wants to launch her art career.

She’s even started dating the perfect guy, but their new relationship might be sabotaged before it has a chance by the dangerous thrill Feyi feels every time she locks eyes with the one person in the house who is most definitely off-limits. This new life she asked for just got a lot more complicated, and Feyi must begin her search for real answers. Who is she ready to become? Can she release her past and honor her grief while still embracing her future? And, of course, there’s the biggest question of all—how far is she willing to go for a second chance at love?

Akwaeke Emezi’s vivid and passionate writing takes us deep into a world of possibility and healing, and the constant bravery of choosing love against all odds.

Review

Thank you to Simon & Schuster for an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own.

You Made a Fool of Death With Your Beauty begins with a slap. It starts off so vulgar and hard and in your face and then blooms and softens into a heartbreaking love story.

In all honesty this book took me so long to get through and I'm not quite sure why. The writing was good, the story was good, the characters were good, I just really struggled to focus. Maybe if I had of read this at a different time I may have been able to get through it easier.

What I love about Akwaeke Emezi’s writing is how unapologetically sexual and sensual they can be. The sex scenes are spicy and the sexual tension is strong. Emezi writes about sex as a normal human occurrence rather than something to be hidden or embarrassed by. They open up sexual experiences in a way that shows sex as a natural form of human connections. I will say that after the first chapter or two I was expecting more explicit content than what was actually in the book.

The Woman in the Library by Sulari Gentill AUDIOBOOK REVIEW

The Woman in the Library

by Sulari Gentill

narrated by Katherine Littrell

Blurb

In every person's story, there is something to hide...

The ornate reading room at the Boston Public Library is quiet, until the tranquility is shattered by a woman's terrified scream. Security guards take charge immediately, instructing everyone inside to stay put until the threat is identified and contained. While they wait for the all-clear, four strangers, who'd happened to sit at the same table, pass the time in conversation and friendships are struck. Each has his or her own reasons for being in the reading room that morning—it just happens that one is a murderer.

Award-winning author Sulari Gentill delivers a sharply thrilling read with The Woman in the Library, an unexpectedly twisty literary adventure that examines the complicated nature of friendship and shows us that words can be the most treacherous weapons of all.

Expected Publication Date: June 7, 2022

Review

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

So I kept seeing posts about this book all over social media. I've heard a lot of good things and just had to check it out for myself.

Unfortunately, for me this book just didn't hold up and I don't understand the hype. I mean it's fine, but it's not anything that stuck out to me or that will stay with me. I finished it, was like okay that's done and now I'm already forgetting it. I managed to finish the audio book but if I had of had to physically read it I probably wouldn't have finished.

The narrator seemed to fit the story quite well. Her voice and tones fit the story perfectly. Katherine Littrell did a good job making the characters distinguishable from each other making the storyline easier to follow, which given that it's a story about a story was super helpful.

Summer's End by Kristy Brown SPOTLIGHT

Summer's End

by Kristy Brown

Summer's End is the first of the YA Paranormal Romance trilogy which is free on KU. She wakes up in hospital, badly burned with no memory.
He’s been trained to kill her before she burns the world to ashes.

When they finally meet, will he be able to take her life now that he’s started to feel for her?

His fate is already written. The prophecy is already set… Love between them is forbidden.

Purchase Links:

 

US: https://www.amazon.com/Summers-End-Summer-Solstice-1-ebook/dp/B098T9NW59

CA: https://www.amazon.ca/Summers-End-Summer-Solstice-1-ebook/dp/B098T9NW59

Author Bio

Hi I'm Kristy and I live in the U.K. I have always written short stories and poetry. I went to university to study acting which I loved, but my real passion has always been writing. So, now I write the kind of stories I would have wanted to read as a teen. "Kiera's Quest- part one & two," a Middle-grade/ teen fantasy series, is now available on e-book and paperback. If you like shape shifters, magical realms and a chosen one, then this may be for you!

My YA contemporary romance book, "Just Sam," about a young tennis star who loses someone important and has to trust in life and love again, is available on Amazon in print & on Kindle, as is my YA/NA fairy-tale retelling, "Cinderfella."​ Cinderfella has all roles reversed and is aimed slightly older, as there is a little passion and darkness to this tale, but still keeps the magic of the original.
I also have a YA Paranormal Romance trilogy, 'The Summer Solstice series.' "Summer's End," book one, "Summer's Lost" (2) and "Summer's Time," are all available on Amazon and Kindle Unlimited, as are all my titles. I love reading of course. I have lots of new projects in mind, and I'm currently working on a retelling of Romeo and Juliet.

Socials:

Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@kristybrownauthor

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

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

GoodReads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/5290332.Kristy_Brown

Game of Strength and Storm by Rachel Menard REVIEW

Game of Strength and Storm

by Rachel Menard

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Blurb

Once a year, the Olympian Empresses grant the wishes of ten people selected by a lottery—for a price. Seventeen-year-old Gen, a former circus performer, wants the freedom of her father, who was sentenced to life in prison for murders she knows he didn’t commit. Castor plans to carry the island Arcadia into the future in place of her brother, Pollux, but only after the Empresses force a change in her island’s archaic laws that requires a male heir.

To get what they want, Gen and Castor must race to complete the better half of ten nearly impossible labors. They have to catch the fastest ship in the sea, slay the immortal Hydra, defeat a gangster called the Boar, and capture the flesh-eating Mares, among other deadly tasks.

Gen has her magic, her ability to speak to animals, her inhuman strength—and the help of Pollux, who’s been secretly pining for her for years. But Castor has her own gifts: the power of the storms, along with endless coin. Only one can win. The other walks away with nothing—if she walks away at all.

Expected Publication Date: June 7, 2022

Review

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

Well shit.. that was an interesting ride. I had so much fun reading this. Once I started reading it I was hooked instantly. I ended up reading the entire thing in two sittings. It's incredibly fast paced and such a quick read, especially for how long the book is.

GAME OF STRENGTH AND STORM is told in multiple perspectives. We hear from Gen, Castor and Pullox, however Gen's perspective is what we read about the most. I would say Gen is portrayed in a more favorable light than Castor and along with being the main POV it makes her easier to cheer for even though Castor is hard not to like as well.

Judging by how things ended I'm guessing and hoping there is a sequel in the works and I'm going to need it asap. As the story was wrapping up I was thinking about how I would have liked if things had of ended differently, then things happen and well, is there a place I can sign up for the next book yet??