Dear Aspen, Holy moly guacamole! This book is so, so good! I smiled, I laughed out loud, I smiled some more. I feel absolutely in love with Kayla and ADear Aspen, Holy moly guacamole! This book is so, so good! I smiled, I laughed out loud, I smiled some more. I feel absolutely in love with Kayla and Alexander and could have just started right over when I finished it. It was seriously so delicious and I am in love! First of all, Kayla is hilarious! Her inner dialogue had me busting up with laughter so many times, my husband finally stopped giving me the questioning-side-eye and just took to shaking his head each time. He knew it was a book and if he asked what was so funny, I’d read multiple pages out loud to him, barely containing my laughter each time. And DANG it was a good book! Anyway, Kayla is hilarious. I also loved her unflappable honesty and genuine desire to be loved and appreciated. The thing is, she is strong without being invincible. She didn’t *need* a man to complete her or “rescue” her, but having friends who lift her up was still important to her. As is the case for so many of us! Kayla and I are not the same, but in that way, I related to her. I typically favor a dual POV, but you pulled of single, first-person POV so well with this that I didn’t mind ONE SINGLE TIME that I didn’t know what was happening in Alex’s head. Figuring things out along with Kayla made for a delightful experience, even if I could read his signals much better than she could. Ha! I really love Alexander. I relate to him in a small way (not the super wealthy part) and loved watching Kayla slowly work herself into his heart and trust. I think you wrote his personality so perfectly. Some other things I loved: •Kayla’s mom and the scene between them when Kayla finally tells her about her work. So good! •Every single time Kayla interacts with Alex’s car. •Rex. I want to hug that man and have him adopt me and bring me baked goods. We’ll start with white chocolate macadamia nut cookies. •All the country life scenes were fantastic. I laughed out loud over the horseback riding scene! •Kayla’s honesty. Have I mentioned that? Because I loved it. •The little scenes with Lucy & Daniel. Ah, young love. •The chemistry and fireworks between Kayla and Alex. There could not be two more perfectly suited opposites. •The kissing scenes. Thank you for including more than one. Every romance should have at least two—and yours were *chef’s kiss* fantastique! You do know that you’ve set this up for some more stories to come, correct? All the cowboys and Willow and Daphne. You have a treasure trove and I really want a share. Please write more in this world? Please please?? Loved your book more than I can say. You’ve earned my forever fandom. With love, Jessica
**Many thanks to the author for an advanced copy of the book. I voluntarily wrote this honest review, which opinion belongs only to myself.
This book is so much fun! It’s chock-full of awkward, hilarious, swoony moments that make it a great book. I enjoyed it from the first page and devourThis book is so much fun! It’s chock-full of awkward, hilarious, swoony moments that make it a great book. I enjoyed it from the first page and devoured it as quickly as possible. April and Jackson are protagonists you can’t help but love from the beginning. Their friendship was sweet and there are some really great moments of tension between them both that are fantastic. The fake dating done so well and was believable! Friends-to-lovers is my favorite trope, because the depth of the relationship is more palpable, but it does usually mean slogging through a decent amount of miscommunication. I didn’t feel like that was as much of a problem here, though. April and Jackson do talk, and there is clearly attraction between them. They both recognize it. But for reasons outside of their friendship, they don’t think they should pursue their feelings. I liked how that was done. The setting is so lush and vacation-y, I’m ready to go to Hawaii! If only I had a rich friend who could foot the bill for a stay at an all-inclusive resort.
The side characters add some great layers to this book. I loved Cheryl! I’m super curious about Damien and would be interested in a book from him in the future. Daryl is creeeeeepy! And I really liked how well Karen was able to write this creepy dude into the story, without weighing the book down.
Some other things I loved: •The horseback riding scene. The entire thing is so swoony! I dare you to contradict me. •Pie •The photo shoot. More swoon. •Beach picnic •Helping zip the dress •That *one scene* with Jackson and Daryl. IYKYK •Couple’s massages. So dang funny! •Mediation. Ha! •The inflatable soccer game. •Jeff! Cutest nickname ever! •The Marvel Movies. I’ve never wanted to watch them more than I do now. (And no, I have not seen them.) •Sweetest wedding •The big confession scene.
I am in love with Karen’s writing and can’t wait to read even more from her!
My 11 year old also read this delightful book. Here are her thoughts: ...more
Dear Mrs. Connelly, This book was so incredible! I was absolutely blown away by the story and the information. Your research was clearly well done and Dear Mrs. Connelly, This book was so incredible! I was absolutely blown away by the story and the information. Your research was clearly well done and you set a scene so well. I could have been a passenger on the Carpathia, traveling along with Captain Rostron, feeling the frigid temperatures, the tension onboard as we raced to the scene, and the overwhelming heaviness when the losses of the Titanic were realized. All the details and information were so well done. I was absolutely riveted to the book and read every chance I could. Arthur Rostron was such an inspirational man! I felt nearly overwhelmed many times, as I considered his selfless and decisive actions, his words, and the impact he had on the survivors and their families. I am sad that I didn’t really know about him before reading this book because I do feel like his actions should be focused on more. My heart just ached for Kate Connolly. Everything she went through and experienced was gut wrenching. The Titanic is a tragedy of massive proportions, but even passengers who lived had so much emotional trauma they had to live with. My heart went out to her and all the lives and families affected by the devastation that was the Titanic sinking. The dual POV method you used to tell the story was perfect, I think. Iit’s like the story demanded to be told from both POVs and I’m so glad you went that route. I’m so glad you chose to write this story and that I’ve read it. The book was so well done. I feel everyone should read it to learn more about the Carpathia’s piece of the puzzle in the Titanic story. Thank you for writing such a phenomenal book! I look forward to reading more from you. Jessica
**Many thanks to the publisher for an advanced copy of the book. I voluntarily wrote this honest review, which opinion belongs only to myself.
This book is poignant and heartfelt. It challenges the reader to think about what really matters and what you’re willing to sacrifice for it. It teachThis book is poignant and heartfelt. It challenges the reader to think about what really matters and what you’re willing to sacrifice for it. It teaches us to forgive the mistakes of others—and ourselves; to grieve what we lose but pull those we live in close; and to share the feelings we have. That family can heal you. And that maybe, just maybe, the four-legged members of our family understand more than we know. This book really makes you experience a lot of emotions. It sucks you in and refuses to let go until the last moment. And even then, it’s debatable. You’ll want to know how things will work out. And you’ll think they won’t. There are so many twists and turns you won’t see coming and will leave you shocked and even more hooked than you already were. And you’ll love this little journey on a made-over school bus with a ragtag group, including a dog. Speaking of the dog, Moses is sort of the best. I’ll be honest, I’m not really a dog person. But I absolutely loved Moses. Every single character that gets page time goes through a lot or growth. It’s really incredible to see how the author could take five main characters and give them stories that needed healing. I loved watching each person grow a little and learn a lot. I love the road trip idea and how everything played out. It was fun to read something “historical” but not actually that long ago (I forgot the original cellular phones had antennas!) and now I really want to go to Gulf Breeze. There are five human main characters and one dog, and each one gets page time dedicated to their own POV. At times I was a little confused about whose brain we were in, but it worked out. This is a really delightful story that makes you think and takes you along on a journey. You’ll hold your breath wondering if they’ll get where they need to go and whether there will be a happily ever after. Just hold on. Good packages always deliver.
*Note/CW/TW: death by plane crash; lying; marriage separation; grief; old age; heart attack; car accident; stabbing and hospitalization; mention of animal control putting down pet.
**Many thanks to the publisher for an advanced copy of the book. I voluntarily wrote this honest review, which opinion belongs only to myself.
Quotes I loved: “You don’t endure love, Grace. You breathe it.” -Mark
“We don’t love each other because of what we do—we love each other because of who we are.” -Grace
I really appreciate a regency book that doesn’t fit into the typical mold. Josi Kilpack is good at writing books that can’t be stuffed into the expectI really appreciate a regency book that doesn’t fit into the typical mold. Josi Kilpack is good at writing books that can’t be stuffed into the expected box and I really like that about her books. In this book, both protagonists are in their 40’s, which I love. All ages deserve to have love stories!
I didn’t particularly like Kenneth’s duplicity in the first 1/3 or so of the book and I think it says a lot for Rebecca’s character that she forgave him for it. Mistaken identity can be fun; hidden identity can feel deceitful. But I suppose it didn’t ultimately bother me over much as I ended up liking the book overall.
This book has a little reverse-Cinderella-vibe going on, which was such a fun thing. If you go into the book thinking of that, you’ll see all kinds of parallels to the characters and some of the film adaptations. While the Insta-attraction was strong and maybe a little over the top, it took a lot for that to be able to blossom into something more. The ending was particularly sweet and I loved it. I only wish there were an epilogue.
The conflict is interesting and I was super curious how everything would work itself out. By all accounts, it didn’t appear as if things *would* work out. I loved the side plot with the silhouettes and I think it was entertaining watching Kenneth try to fill the shoes he’d been given.
The Baroness is probably my favorite character, followed by Rebecca. I liked Kenneth’s growth, but would have liked to see sooner even more of who he becomes at the end. Kenneth’s Uncle is a little ridiculous, and his cousin is…a piece of work. IYKYK. I think I really would have liked Marcus had he been given more page time.
If you like Cinderella stories, older protagonists, strong female main characters, and lots of kissing, give this book a try!
**Many thanks to the publisher for an advanced copy of the book. I voluntarily wrote this honest review, which opinion belongs only to myself.
Quotes I loved: It was not easy to find my place in this world, Rebecca, and it will not be easy for you either. There will be objections, there will be frustrations and expectations and a great deal to learn, but when two people choose to love one another and work side-by-side, they can build something remarkable and, in their way, they change the world. -Baroness
As a Christian, I always hope to instill good values, and a trust in God, in my children. I want them to understand that God is there for them, He carAs a Christian, I always hope to instill good values, and a trust in God, in my children. I want them to understand that God is there for them, He cares about them, and He will help them through the difficulties of life. This little devotions book is perfect for aiding in that quest. Filled with 100 short devotionals, each one contains a Biblical scripture, with stories (either Biblical or imaginary) and examples to help children relate to the spiritual teachings. They are written in a format easily accessible and understandable for children, but I wouldn’t say they are so simple that teens or adults also couldn’t glean from them. I love that they teach so many basic ways in which God can be, wants to be, present in our lives. Though they are easily understood, they contain powerful truths of spiritual importance.
With titles such as “Who’s Your Goliath,” “The Lord’s Army,” “When You Can’t See,” and “Special Agent You!,” there are a multitude of varied devotionals that cover a variety of topics, all applicable to the challenges children face in this world. One of my favorite devotionals is 68, “Grace and Truth.” I absolutely love that Lucado emphasizes that when you make a mistake, you “don’t have to be all ‘fixed’ before you come back [to God].” He just wants us with Him. “God wants you back; that’s true. But then he’s going to start working on you and helping you be more like Jesus. And that’s his truth.” That’s powerful.
I think this book can span across religious sects (for my LDS friends: there are a couple things I noticed that line up with our theology, but I think this book provides good opportunity for discussion with our children about them). While Lucado and I profess different religions, I still quite enjoyed, learned from, was uplifted by, and look forward to sharing with my children, his book of devotionals.
** I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book, which I received from the author. All views expressed are my honest opinion....more
This book was a great wrap up to this series. I thought the grumpy/sunshine trope was done really well. I loved how Luke and Finley complemented each This book was a great wrap up to this series. I thought the grumpy/sunshine trope was done really well. I loved how Luke and Finley complemented each other and helped one another to grow and become better. I loved that the Miracle 5 were all more present in this one as a group, not just two or three together here and there. I really liked the epilogue and only wanted more of Ben & Akira. Finley is kind of adorable. I loved her sunshiney, optimistic attitude and unflinching devotion to what she knew was right. Luke was the perfect mix of broody grump and devoted friend. I really loved his redemption arc and what he learned about himself, family, trusting people, and God’s grace. Sometimes the grumpy/sunshine is a little overblown, with the grump being so grumpy no one could possibly want anything to do with them, or the sunshine being so cheerful they’re annoying. But that didn’t happen here. I loved the progression of their relationship and how well they brought out the best in each other. As with the others, this is a Christian fiction romance. There is a lot of talking about God, His grace, love, and forgiveness. I loved those themes and how each character—even the one “preaching” them—has to learn more about how God’s forgiveness and one can transform a person. The little side romance with Ben and Akira was absolutely adorable and I loved it so much! Every single “this is not romantic at all” made me smile. I loved how they tried to be honest with each other right up front and they were just so dang cute. Bridgett, Meadow, Trish, Cat, and Blaire were all such good side characters and brought a fullness to the story that was so good. And I personally think we need more stories for Bridgett and Blaire. Oh, CeCe is also hilarious and I totally could have enjoyed her getting more page time. I know she wasn’t a main character, but gosh she is funny! Her fiery personality is hilarious!
**Many thanks to the author & publisher for an advanced copy of the book, in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions belong to me.
AUDIOBOOK REVIEW: Read by Barbara McCulloh—I liked her reading. Basic, but not annoying. Though her voice does sound older than the characters, so not entirely fitting for the characters.
Quotes I loved:
Her employee was a pirate prince! -Finley
He seemed to have turned dissatisfaction into an art form. -Finley
Of the two of them, he was the sensible one. The one who didn’t meditate, or wear felt hats indoors, or ride bikes attached with big dogs. -Luke
Fear should never be what holds any of the three of us back from something. -Meadow
For the thousandth time, he wondered why she couldn’t have been a woman in her fifties, like what he’d been expecting, based on Ed’s age. Or why couldn’t she have been plain? It have a personality as unlikable as cats? Why? -Luke
Then I think you are good enough for my son. And I don’t mind telling you that my opinion carries more weight than yours. -CeCe
Your faithlessness doesn’t affect God’s faithfulness. None of the love He has for you is conditional. -Finley
Dear Summer, We’re going to be first-name-basis-friends, okay? Because you’re Summer in my mind and I just can’t call you Mrs. Dowell. We good? I just hDear Summer, We’re going to be first-name-basis-friends, okay? Because you’re Summer in my mind and I just can’t call you Mrs. Dowell. We good? I just have to tell you how much I love Avery and Tyler. I love them! I love that Avery is a workaholic with a genuine love for what she does, driven by maybe a little of fear. I love that Tyler loves what he does. I loved all the wedding and photography talk. I loved the banter. I loved the way their romance developed, their enemies to friends to lovers story. So many things I loved about this one. Here are some more: -That Thanksgiving get together! I love big families in books and I cannot lie. And I loved that. -Olivia! I won’t say anything more because I don’t do spoilers but I love her. -ELVIS! Oh my heck. I’m not even an animal person but I want to snuggle Elvis and dress him in little sweaters. -The food. Gosh, it makes me happy when you authors write food into your books! Did I finish the book with a healthy craving for pecan pie bars? Yes. Did I satisfy that craving? Also yes. -Seeing Hope and Haley more. I just think they’re all so cute and I love the friendships between them! -The bride! She’s a doll and I kind of think she would fit in with the group friends. -The photo developing scene. Oh. My. Lanta. That was some goooood chemistry, right there (and I mean that in the swoony, romantic way, not the literal chemical reaction that develops photos sense).
I absolutely adored this book and this series and can’t wait to see what else you deliver in the future.
Your Elvis fan, Jessica
**Many thanks to the author for an advanced copy of the book. I voluntarily wrote this honest review, which opinion belongs only to myself.
2023 Review: I would say I liked this book even better than I did the first time I read it. Being back in Sheetcake, Texas, this month has made me inor2023 Review: I would say I liked this book even better than I did the first time I read it. Being back in Sheetcake, Texas, this month has made me inordinately happy, and to do so with some superb audiobooks makes it even better. There are just so many things to love about this and I do love it. So, so much! I am not sooooo ready for the next book!
AUDIOBOOK REVIEW: Read by Meg Sylvan and Aaron Shedlock — I *loved* this audiobook! These narrators hit the personalities of their characters right on the head and I couldn’t have been happier. First of all, I love that the narrators aren’t the same as the first book. That helps make the characters seem even more real, not sharing their voices with someone else. Secondly, Aaron Shedlock made me fall in love with James in a way I hadn’t completely the first time I read this book and I will always be grateful to Aaron for that. Thanks, Aaron! Honestly, this is another 5⭐️ audio version for me. If you want a good audiobook, pick this one (and it’s predecessor)!
2022 Review: You know those books that make you happy for simply existing in the world? That is The Bluff for me. First of all, I am obsessed with the cover color. Why aren’t more covers this gorgeous color? Secondly, I am obsessed with Sheet Cake and it’s quirky residents and every single one of the Graham family. I love them all so much! So another book in the Sheet Cake, Texas, world (with the bonus amazing color) make for a sure winner. Plus, it’s Emma St. Clair, so you know it’s bound to be good. And it was! James and Winnie were so perfect for each other. I think I’m more of a cinnamon roll fan myself, but Winnie was perfect for The Grump. And James is a pretty dang good grump! If you love a grumpy hero, do yourself a favor and pick up this book, because James checks all the boxes. He became my very favorite at the hotel (and afterward). IYKYK. And Winnie is pretty much the best. I love her and her feisty personality. This book primarily focused on James and Winnie, so we got less of the Sheeters and the Graham family than we got in the first book. Not that the story is lacking anything—it’s not—just want to mention it in case you were looking for more of The Bobs like I was. Ha! I was also waiting for James—or Winnie—to have an “aha” about social anxiety, which didn’t happen in an obvious way. But those are minor things that in no way detract from story overall. There is a lot to love about this one and I kind of want everyone to read this (and it’s predecessor, The Buy-In) so they can all enjoy the Graham family and the town of Sheet Cake like I do. In case you need more reasons to read this one, let me list a bunch of other things I love: -The Office jokes (despite never seeing the show once [don’t throw tomatoes!], I love when a single pop culture reference gets used over and over. It’s so fun to me! -Chess with Jo -Big Mo. I need him to have a book, Emma! Pretty pretty please! I also need his recipe for pie; can you hook a girl up? -The Neighborly app convos make me giggle every time! -I love Mari. Just so much. -I also love Val and am SO STINKING EXCITED for her book! -The little teaser about Tank’s potential story is warming my heart. Do we get lots more books in the town of Sheet Cake? That would make me very happy. -The motorcycle!...more
I love a unique regency romance story and this book checked all the boxes for me!
First, the book’s setting in Brussels is incredibly uniqDear Jennie,
I love a unique regency romance story and this book checked all the boxes for me!
First, the book’s setting in Brussels is incredibly unique right out of the gate. Second, your protagonists, friends for many years, don’t wait until the end of the book to figure out their feelings. (But to any others reading this correspondence, never you fear! There is still plenty of tension, wondering, and lots of nail biting moments to come! No, I won’t tell you what to expect because I despise spoilers, but know that it is going to be good!) Finally, third, this book includes the story of the Battle of Waterloo. From a soldier’s perspective! If that isn’t unique, I don’t know what is. And I was riveted!
I loved both Phoebe and Frederick right away. They are each genuinely good and so kind. I loved Phoebe’s attitude and desire to make the best of her life, even if it’s not what she wanted at first. I admired how she would lift her head and move forward with what was right, even if it was hard. What she did for the little boy! *sigh* My mama heart was aching just then and I could have hugged her. I liked how you wrote a heroine who could be strong, who learned how to trust in herself and her instincts, but also had to work to be that way.
Did I want to shake Fredrick a bit? I’d be lying if I said no. Ha! But I also loved him. I loved that once he made up his mind, he was all in. And he was so good to his sister and Phoebe. He was selfless and caring, and loved fiercely. Such good qualities for a fabulous hero!
One thing I love about your books is how they make me feel like I’m reading a modern-day Jane Austen or Louisa May Alcott. The way you write almost feels a bit like old English and I truly love that. You have a way with her language that really appeals to me. In addition, your research is also clearly well-done and thorough. I felt as if I were present for the experience, in the time and place I was reading of. I just really love the way you write!
I’m so glad I got to read this wonderful book. It is one I will think back for many weeks and months, I am sure.
Yours, Jessica
*Note/TW/CW: battle scenes, mentions of blood and battle wounds; lost child (ends well)
**Many thanks to the author for an advanced copy of the book, in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions belong to me.
2023 Review: I loved this book just as much this time around as I did the first. It’s soooo wonderful! I love Pat and Lindy and Jo and the entire town 2023 Review: I loved this book just as much this time around as I did the first. It’s soooo wonderful! I love Pat and Lindy and Jo and the entire town of characters! I need to go to Sheetcake, and eat at Mari’s cafe, and see the Orange Cyclops and have Jo trounce me soundly at chess, and be crunched by one of Tank’s hugs. I need it all. This town and these people are essentially real to me and I love them so much!
AUDIOBOOK REVIEW: Read by Stephanie Rose and Rock Engle — This audio narration is so well done. I think the narrators really got the feel for the characters, and brought them alive in such good ways. I would highly recommend this audio to anyone looking for a good audiobook!
2022 Review: Dear Emma, We’re on a first name basis now. Forever and always. Because you write books I love to read, and characters I wish were real, and places I want to visit, and it makes me love you and everything you make. So yeah. First names from now on, mkay?
So Falling for Your Best Friend was my favorite book in your Love Clichés series, and I was among the fans begging for Harper’s family’s stories. And boy, did you DELIVER! I am absolutely in love. I want Sheet Cake, Texas, to be a real place. I want to eat at Mari’s restaurant, drive down Lindy’s terrible driveway, attend a small-town football game, sleep in one of the lofts over an old storefront, and eat kolaches for breakfast. (But for real, what is a kolache and where can I can get one in Idaho?!)
I love Pat so much. I love his attitude. I love his protectiveness, determination, and loyalty. I loved how he wouldn’t give up on Lindy, even when she kept trying to give him every reason that he should. His antics really had me going. Trying to fix the toilet, all the shirtless tasks, the football practices, the asphalt, the flaming squirrels! Ha! I really love him. I really felt for Lindy. She had been through a lot in so short a time. I could relate to her desire to just shut out all deep connection to keep from getting hurt again. Her stubborn determination was relatable, too. Honestly, I related a lot to her. A lot. She may bear the name of my friend (which is so dang cool!), but I understand her.
I loved how Pat slowly won Lindy back over. The romance in this book is, as I know I can expect from you, so good! It’s filled with tension, some swoon, some sizzle, but no spice. Just how I like it. And I do like it. A lot! You nailed it. I know you bemoaned the time it took to get this book on paper, but somehow I think it turned out alright. I see this being a reread for me and I’m definitely recommending to all my romance-loving friends.
What else do I love about this book? Allow me to highlight:
• Jo. While I don’t see her being five, I still adore her. She’s precocious, observant, fiery, witty, curious, and I loved how quickly Pat and Tank were wrapped around her little finger. Those guys turned into squishy cinnamon rolls under her influence and I loved it so much. • The Bobs! Literally chuckling every time they get page time. • The verbing of nouns. Haha! • Mari! I love a protective friend that can cook. I want to eat her Mexican food! • Tank. I love him. Love love love him! • Harper and Chase and Thayden! It made me so happy to see some old favorites in this book! I love these people and, for how I excited I became when I realized they were present, I clearly wasn’t ready to say goodbye. • Flaming squirrels! • Football game! Whoo! • Thunderstorm kiss! Whooooo! • Winnie and Val. Thank you for writing supportive, adult women friendships. I heartily believe these exist in the world the way you write them but so often in media we just see catty, selfish people. So props to writing Winnie and Val and, I’ll just let it be known right now, I’m very excited for their stories! • Chevy! Bahaha! He’s hilarious! • SO. MANY. Princess Bride references! (And please keep them coming! I am pop culture-dumb, so the PB references were about the only ones I got. Ha!) • I get hungry every time I read one of your books and I...more
Dearest Lady Sowards, How do I express my total love for this book? It has captured my heart and I won’t even ask for it back. I’m perfectly content wiDearest Lady Sowards, How do I express my total love for this book? It has captured my heart and I won’t even ask for it back. I’m perfectly content with the arrangement, for this book is supremely, superbly written! Tackling multiple POVs in one book is a tricky feat and not always accomplished well. But you pulled it off with nary a hitch. It was absolutely perfect and now I couldn’t imagine reading this book from any less than all five characters’ POV. Watching each of these characters grow in the circumstances they found themselves in was outstanding. I felt inspired multiple times through reading. Each of them learn more of themselves, their neighbors and friends, and the people they love most. They make mistakes and do better. I love how they were all real in their humanness, but not so flawed they were difficult to love. I truly did care about each of the main characters and found myself often sitting on the edge of my seat as I frantically read, trying to go faster, waiting to see what would happen. Katja was brave and selfless, moving forward in the face of her fears and loving fiercely. Toby might have been my favorite. He was wise and kind and the best of characters. Xavier was such a firebird! I loved his passion, love for his country and family, and dedication to his people. I might not have liked Wilhelm as much at first, but I fully loved him by the end. Getting inside his head was one of my favorites. I felt like you balanced the historical details with the stories inside so well. I loved how I felt like I was learning about an important historical event from the inside. I know that part is fiction, but you wrote it so well, it could have been true accounts. And the way you painted the scene was masterful! I almost felt as if I were present, seeing and smelling and feeling everything. I loved all the action, romance, intrigue, suspense, and raw human emotion. I smiled, I laughed, I chewed my nails (metaphorically speaking), I swooned, I cried. I felt all the feelings. This book wasn’t just a nice read, it was a full experience. It was riveting and phenomenal and I think everyone should read it! Forever your admirer and fan, Jessica
**Many thanks to the author for an advanced copy of the book. I voluntarily wrote this honest review, which opinion belongs only to myself.
Quotes I loved: He loved how alive she was, as if she were so full of passion and energy that she couldn’t help but let a little of it overflow.
Studying Toby’s faced with her eyes had been pleasant, but exploring it with her fingers was even better.
If the dark tunnels of the counter minds hadn’t scared him, why should he let fear of rejection make him pause?
“There is nothing silly about fear. Nor is it something to be ashamed of.” -Toby
“Isn’t fear a weakness?” Toby shrugged. “Only if you let it keep you from your fury or let it keep you from taking a risk that might bring happiness.”
“Loving music and beauty, that’s part of who you are.” -Toby
The notes pulled at his imagination, taking him somewhere with peace and hope and promise.
The violin might be hard on her hands, but making music was good for her soul.
“I believe in God . . . so why is my faith so shaken? Why am I so scared all the time?” -Katja
“Love can make things more painful because fear of losing it is so sharp. But love is also what makes life so beautiful and sweet – sometimes it’s the only thing that makes it worth the struggle.” -Toby
“ do you suppose things will ever go back to how they were before this happened? Tobys chest rose and sink in a steady rhythm with each of his breaths. No. Because you will have lived through these times, and these times will change you. They’ll make you stronger, they’ll make you more grateful for the things you want took for granted, and they’ll help you remember what is most important.”
“ you keep working, and you keep praying. Grip your hope tightly and don’t let it go. Clouds may darken it, may blot it out completely, but it’s worth holding onto, even when you can’t feel it or see it.”
She wasn’t weak because she was worried and afraid she would be weak only if she gave up.
“I can’t promise that the city won’t fall out that I won’t die tomorrow. I can’t promise to be there for you whenever you need me. But I can promise to love you until my last breath.” -Toby
Massive courage wasn’t so much about how she felt but about how she acted. . . . She might feel fear, but she wouldn’t let it stop her.
Every book of yours I read just makes me love your writing all the more. And this delightful forced marriage story? *le sigh* I am in love.Dear Karen,
Every book of yours I read just makes me love your writing all the more. And this delightful forced marriage story? *le sigh* I am in love. IN LOVE!
Amelia is spunky but vulnerable, and just so lovely, I couldn't help but adore her. And Edward? What a rake! Or is he? *wink* Talk about swoony, if a little thick. His plan to woo his wife was so dang funny, and I was a big fan of how he learned through that process. Watching how they overcame their differences and misunderstandings, and fall in love one small step at a time, was so delicious, and I loved every moment. You crafted that so well.
Edward's darling two "aunts" are the cream of the crop. I could not get enough of their feisty personalities and meddlesome ways. They were fabulous!
Once again, you have captured my heart and made me fall in love with your genius. I'm a fan. Forever and always.
I can't help it--I loved this book. The characters were so engaging and so well crafted that I fell in love with them. This being a WWII story, there I can't help it--I loved this book. The characters were so engaging and so well crafted that I fell in love with them. This being a WWII story, there are still moments of heartbreaking sadness, but it is also a story of hope and healing.
The narrative style is a little tricky to figure out with this one, as it contains two primary timelines, one historical and the other contemporary, with the historical varying between two different times during/after the war. There are also multiple points of view throughout, so be prepared to get to know multiple people at multiple times.
That said, I would 100% read this book again. Once I got used to the narrative style, I was completely riveted and could not put it down. It is a story that made me feel deeply, and left me believing in the goodness of others. The characters made the story come alive. The prose is beautifully written, and the story poignant, and I felt like I was almost a part of it.
I would recommend this to fans of historical and contemporary alike (while being aware that the multiple timelines and POVs does mean this takes a minute to get acclimated to). Particularly if you enjoy WWII fiction, you should give this one a try.
**I received a copy of this book from the publisher via Netgalley. I also listened to the book on Audio, via an app I subscribe to with my own funds. ...more
Dearest Madame ‘athaway, Ye are a right clever one, ye are. Fillin’ this story with all the things ‘et make a story good. A sea maid, a ‘andsome fisherDearest Madame ‘athaway, Ye are a right clever one, ye are. Fillin’ this story with all the things ‘et make a story good. A sea maid, a ‘andsome fisherman, rumors and lies and mystery, a quaint little village, some forced proximity, characters with conscience (or no’, as the case may be), and the sea bein’ a character sure as the ones that walk an’ breathe. Oh yes, ye fairly ‘ooked I with yer story tellin’ and I plan to stay caught in yer nets for the rest of time. (Now do excuse me as I switch accents; it’s a bit tedious to type that way, particularly as my device likes to think it’s so smart and keeps changing what I’ve typed.) I loved the mystery surrounding Morvoren and her sudden appearance. I love that she is headstrong and doesn’t bow to the whims of others or allow herself to be bullied. I also loved that she was willing to get her hands dirty and work. Trevik is such a swoony hero! Who knew lowly fishermen could be so swoony? I mean, smelling like lemons is a terrific start, but then add in his general kindness, work ethic, loyalty, love for his family, and a good singing voice, and I am (as I said above) hooked. And the banter between these two! And the swimming! And the kisses! Mmm, mmm, mmm. Darlin, you can write some serious swoon and I am HERE for it! I got some Princess Bride vibes with the scene with Mr. Truscott (and I don’t feel like I can say any more than that for fear of spoilers), which is a good thing. I loved how the problems between Morvoren and Trevik felt insurmountable, but you found a way to make them work. That was really very clever and I loved the resolution. For the record, I adore Mrs. Honeysett and Poppy (I am so excited for her story!), and I really like Gryffyn. Again, I thank ye for this charmin’, delightful book. T’was a gift to read it and I am plannin’ to continue with these beautiful stories set in Cornwall. I also credit ye with my sudden urge to visit Cornwall. I can’t say that I have ever been eager to go to the sea before, but ye make it sound right magical. Per’aps ye are the sea maid. ;) Kindest regards from a forever fan, Jessica
**Many thanks to the author for an advanced copy of the book, in exchange for an honest review. These are my own thoughts.
This book is a tender story about a young giant trying to find his way in a world that doesn’t appreciate—or even like—him. But all he wants is a frieThis book is a tender story about a young giant trying to find his way in a world that doesn’t appreciate—or even like—him. But all he wants is a friend. The writing is very lyrical, almost poetic, and it’s a very experiential storytelling style. I liked the journey Berg undertook and all the things he learned about himself and others, and the caution one should have about the stories people tell. I did wish it had ended a little differently. This book really does tug at your heart strings. There are plenty of sad things that happen. It doesn’t end badly but I was still wishing for something different. There are some important lessons found in this book, like the meaning of true friendship, doing what’s right even—or especially—when it’s hard, and watching out for others. And I think some good discussion could be had about bullying, culture and fear, and grief. I think older middle grade readers could appreciate this story on their own, but younger readers, particularly those of a more sensitive nature, may need to read this with an adult to help them make sense of everything that happens to Berg.
*Note/CW/TW: death of parent; talk/songs about giant slaying, bullying, mob chasing and violence; hunger; thievery and deceit; enslavement, being chained up and threatened; death by fire
**Many thanks to the publisher for an advanced copy of the book. I voluntarily wrote this honest review, which opinion belongs only to myself.
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