I really wanted to love The Midnight Train Murders, but it left me feeling a bit underwhelmed. The premise was intriguing, and I was eA Quirky Mystery
I really wanted to love The Midnight Train Murders, but it left me feeling a bit underwhelmed. The premise was intriguing, and I was excited for a good mystery on a train—always a great setting for suspense—but the execution didn’t quite hit the mark for me. At times, the book gave off a Buffy the Vampire Slayer vibe, which felt a bit out of place for what I thought would be a darker, more grounded murder mystery. There were supernatural or fantastical elements woven into the plot that just didn’t blend well with the classic whodunit I was expecting.
The characters were interesting enough, especially the lead detective, but some of the side characters felt a bit too predictable, almost like they were plucked from a TV show rather than developed as unique personalities. The suspense was decent, and there were moments that kept me intrigued, but overall, the plot felt a little formulaic, and I wasn’t as hooked as I hoped to be.
It’s not a bad book by any means—it’s an okay read if you're into light mysteries with some quirky twists—but for me, it didn’t quite live up to its potential. It had some enjoyable moments, but nothing that truly blew me away. ...more
I finished this as part of a ten-day readathon. I know I've been saying that a lot; it's definitely helped me find the passion for reaGlad I read it
I finished this as part of a ten-day readathon. I know I've been saying that a lot; it's definitely helped me find the passion for reading and reviewing again. I just hope I can continue the trend after the motivation for completing tasks disappears. However, as I sat down to write this review, I found out that this book was big on BookTok. I will say that I enjoyed this so much more without the hype. It wasn’t amazing, but it was worth the time I spent yesterday and is worth three stars.
"Assistant to the Villain" by Hannah Nicole Maehrer is a refreshing twist on the classic villain trope, blending humor, heart, and a dash of fantasy. The protagonist, Evie Sage, finds herself working as an assistant to a notorious villain, and the story explores the unlikely dynamics between them. The book's strength lies in its witty dialogue and the chemistry between characters, making it an enjoyable read despite some predictable plot points.
The world-building is decent, though it occasionally feels underdeveloped, leaving some elements to the reader's imagination. The pacing is brisk, which kept me engaged, but it also meant that certain character arcs and subplots felt rushed. Maehrer’s writing style is accessible and engaging, perfect for a YA audience, though it might not offer the depth that older readers seek.
Part of the reason I picked it up is to try and find YA reads for my nephew, who is very picky. I think maybe if I was his age, I might have enjoyed it more. As an adult reader, I found myself craving more complexity and depth in the story and characters, but I can see how the humor, fast pace, and unique premise would appeal to a younger audience. The book has a certain charm and whimsy that might resonate more with teens, making it a potential hit for my nephew if he gives it a chance.
I finally finished reading this book yesterday, and I needed a day to sit with my thoughts. Having read many thrillers this year, I found the structurI finally finished reading this book yesterday, and I needed a day to sit with my thoughts. Having read many thrillers this year, I found the structure of this one to be quite different. The story revolves around Ophelia, who discovers that her husband, Andy, has been cheating on her with a coworker named Amber Halloway. Devastated and filled with anger and grief, Ophelia decides to follow the two lovers, carefully watching their every move. Andy's betrayal reawakens the trauma of Ophelia's mother abandoning her when she was only eight years old, causing her to become increasingly detached from reality.
Despite its relatively short length, the book manages to pack a punch. Although there is some repetition in the narration, it's important to remember that the narrator is unreliable. This aspect, while initially jarring, adds depth to the story and makes it an enjoyable read. The narrative shifts back and forth between the past and present, a technique I'm not usually a fan of. However, the author's writing made it work for me, at least most of the time.
As you progress through the book, Ophelia's mental health becomes increasingly precarious, driven by her deteriorating relationship with her husband. Given the turn of events, I found myself disliking Andy intensely. The book delves into themes of obsession, mental breakdown, and betrayal, which could be upsetting for some readers. Proceed with caution if these topics are sensitive for you.
Overall, I enjoyed the writing and look forward to reading more from this author in the future....more
As a self-proclaimed non-Swifty, I approached this book with curiosity. Yet, after devouring it over the weekend, I can confidently award it three staAs a self-proclaimed non-Swifty, I approached this book with curiosity. Yet, after devouring it over the weekend, I can confidently award it three stars—no book hangover, but definitely a satisfying read. Suddenly, I understand the Swift HYPE my friends rave about!
For a newbie like me, the book was both entertaining and enlightening. While die-hard Swifties might know most of the content, I reveled in discovering new songs. Spotify became my companion as I explored tracks I’d missed before.
Caroline Sullivan’s biography, though not groundbreaking, paints a positive portrait of Taylor Swift. It’s a gateway for those curious about her journey. Just beware the European date format sprinkled throughout—I stumbled a few times with my US brain.
The real gem? Unraveling the hidden messages in Swift’s songs. Katelyn Levering’s narration kept me hooked, making this an informative and engaging listen. And as someone who enjoys biographies in general, this peek into Taylor’s musical universe was a delightful addition to my reading list....more
I made a commitment this weekend to finish all the books on my Kindle that I've read over 40% of. Among them were two memoirs: RWeekend Reading Sprint
I made a commitment this weekend to finish all the books on my Kindle that I've read over 40% of. Among them were two memoirs: Rebel Rising by Rebel Wilson and another by David Grohl of Foo Fighters. My reading habits span a variety of genres, starting with True Crime, Thrillers, and Horror, and expanding into memoirs and more. Here’s my take on Rebel Wilson’s memoir—what I liked and what didn’t quite hit the mark.
Rebel Wilson has always charmed audiences on screen with her humor and unique persona. However, as a writer, she comes across as a bit cocky, which clashes with the image I have of her. This dissonance might be why I found myself only able to rate Rebel Rising three stars.
I was eagerly anticipating Rebel Rising, but it left me with mixed feelings. As a super fan of her movies, I deeply respect Wilson for her achievements as a nonconforming Hollywood star. While her humor doesn’t always resonate with me, I feel a surge of pride whenever she releases a new production on a global scale.
The memoir is mostly easy and engaging, filled with personalized Hollywood anecdotes and a fierce drive for success that I find admirable. Wilson’s vulnerability in discussing personal topics—complex family dynamics, weight struggles, fertility issues, sexuality, and late-blooming romantic relationships—is commendable.
However, the overall tone of the book felt off. There was an air of conceit in her recounting of experiences, both good and bad. Even early childhood memories were told in a way that seemed to seek validation or agreement from the reader, which didn’t always sit well with me. Her youthful precociousness morphed into an adult “look how smart/talented I am” vibe, which felt a bit grating.
While ego often accompanies fame, I was unexpectedly put off by this aspect in Wilson’s memoir. Perhaps it’s because I wasn’t expecting it from her. This left me less impressed than I had hoped to be.
I recently closed the final page of 'The Call' on April 30th and took a moment to gather my thoughts before penning this review. Having experiRevenge
I recently closed the final page of 'The Call' on April 30th and took a moment to gather my thoughts before penning this review. Having experienced other works by Kerry Wilkinson, I approached this novel with anticipation, yet it didn't quite ascend to the top of my thriller list for the year. The premise piqued my interest, and I was eager to dive in and be captivated. However, my feelings remain ambivalent.
Kerry Wilkinson's prose in 'The Call' is commendable for its clarity and ease of navigation. Yet, I hesitate to endorse it as the 'edge-of-your-seat' thriller it's purported to be. The narrative, solely from Melody's perspective, lacked the depth and engagement I sought. The storyline revolves around her missing fiancé, but Melody's indifferent demeanor towards his disappearance stripped the plot of the urgency and emotional investment it required. The casualness with which she and the vacationing ensemble treated the situation struck me as odd, almost as if they were collectively shrugging off the concern with a 'he'll turn up eventually' mindset.
The dynamics between the sister, husband, and a friend of Melody's introduced elements that promised intrigue but ultimately led nowhere. It's only towards the end that the narrative picks up pace, delivering a twist that elicited a genuine 'oh damn' reaction from me. Yet, once again, Melody's nonchalant response to the events left me disenchanted.
In essence, 'The Call' had the potential for a gripping tale but was marred by its protagonist's implausible reactions. I give it a hesitant 2.5 stars, rounded up for the moments that did manage to surprise."...more
*I was provided this book free of charge by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review*
In my quest to devour all the books on my list this weekend, I *I was provided this book free of charge by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review*
In my quest to devour all the books on my list this weekend, I eagerly delved into "Tell Me What Really Happened" by Chelsea Sedoti, anticipating a thrilling ride. Yet, despite its promising premise, my excitement was somewhat dampened as I can only bestow three stars upon it.
The narrative centers on Maylee Hayes and her friends embarking on an overnight camping trip to Salvation Creek. What begins as a seemingly innocent excursion quickly spirals into chaos when Maylee mysteriously vanishes from her tent, leaving her companions bewildered and stranded in the wilderness.
The novel's strength lies in its innovative storytelling format, structured entirely through police interviews with the remaining friends. This method effectively builds tension, keeping readers on edge as the plot unfolds. However, the conclusion falls short, feeling underwhelming in comparison to the escalating suspense.
Character differentiation proved to be another stumbling block, with the protagonists blending into a homogeneous mass, making it challenging to discern their individual voices. Additionally, the incessant focus on Bigfoot felt overwrought, detracting from the overall narrative.
Despite these drawbacks, "Tell Me What Really Happened" offers a gripping read, particularly suited for YA enthusiasts seeking a quick and engaging mystery. While it may not reach the heights of other thrillers, it serves as a satisfying palate cleanser between heavier fare....more
Approaching this book with an open mind, I had high hopes, eager to immerse myself in its narrative. However, after three days of avid pagIt was Okay
Approaching this book with an open mind, I had high hopes, eager to immerse myself in its narrative. However, after three days of avid page-turning, my sentiments gravitate towards mere contentment. Despite my initial enthusiasm, I found myself drawn to Iris, the protagonist, perhaps due to my own experiences with disability, fostering a deep sense of empathy for her journey. Grateful for the author's illumination of Jewish faith, I embarked on Iris's path of growth and resilience.
Throughout the narrative, Iris faces a myriad of challenges, yet she navigates them with unwavering determination. Love, loss, joy, and sorrow punctuate her story, yet she persists, refusing to yield to self-pity. Despite my admiration for Iris, I couldn't help but yearn for her love interest to exhibit more genuine affection, held to a higher standard that seemed elusive. It appeared unjust that he could have everything while Iris was left with naught.
My heart ached for Iris's lack of support and advocacy, a plight not uncommon among individuals with disabilities. While the book sheds light on often overlooked issues, I felt a pang of dissatisfaction, craving a more resounding voice for Iris, a place she could truly call home. It is this lingering sense of unfinished business that leaves me pondering long after the final page is turned....more
Unraveling Secrets Two Sides to Every Murder by Danielle Valentine was one of my most anticipated reads of 2024. Life, however, got in the way, preventUnraveling Secrets Two Sides to Every Murder by Danielle Valentine was one of my most anticipated reads of 2024. Life, however, got in the way, preventing me from finishing it in one sitting. Unlike Delicate Conditions, which I devoured all at once, this book took a bit longer. Despite that, it was a campy and fun read, worth every minute. I only wish it had been longer so I could spend more time with the characters. The story begins with Olivia, who was born in the parking lot of Camp Lost Lake. After a school project reveals that her dad isn’t her biological father, she decides to work at the camp to uncover more about her true identity. Alongside her, her older sister Andie joins the search, leading to unexpected revelations about their family and themselves. Meanwhile, Reagan, who has been on the run with her mother Lori for years, returns to Camp Lost Lake to clear her mother's name. Lori was believed to have committed the camp murders before disappearing. As Olivia investigates openly, Reagan is forced to dig for answers in the shadows. The camp's eerie atmosphere is heightened by a new string of murders, putting the girls and their friends in a fight for survival. They uncover secrets about their pasts, facing the challenge of moving on from the dark history that threatens to upend their lives. I thoroughly enjoyed watching the girls and their friends piece together the mystery. However, I had a significant issue with the introduction of potential romantic relationships while the characters were literally running for their lives. It didn’t feel realistic. Despite this, the writing was clear and concise, making for an engaging read. The vivid descriptions made me feel as if I were sneaking around the woods myself, hearing footsteps and the whoosh of arrows hitting nearby targets. Danielle Valentine remains an instant-buy author for me. While I liked Two Sides to Every Murder, I can only give it three stars. I loved Delicate Conditions and already own How to Survive Your Murder, which I plan to read by the end of 2024. I'm eagerly waiting to see what she comes up with next....more
Let's start with the obvious: the cover. It's stunning. It drew me in like a magnet. Even if this book were titled "The Pretty Cover and Pretty Words
Let's start with the obvious: the cover. It's stunning. It drew me in like a magnet. Even if this book were titled "The Life of a Bug," I would have picked it up just to have that cover on my shelf. But beyond the mesmerizing artwork, the content of "Bring Me Your Midnight" is equally captivating.
Set in the enchanting world of the Witchery, a witch coven nestled on an island, the book immerses readers in a landscape that's both magical and reminiscent of a bygone era. While labeled as urban fantasy on Goodreads, the setting feels more akin to the 1940s, with its electricity and vintage automobiles, yet devoid of modern technology like cell phones. The world-building is rich and evocative, offering glimpses of both the mainland and different parts of the island, each adding layers of depth to the narrative.
The magic system is intricate and engrossing, with a history that adds depth to the story. From the captivating setting emerges our protagonist, Tana, whose journey unfolds amidst evolving relationships with a well-crafted ensemble of characters. Whether it's her dynamic with love interest Wolfe or her evolving friendship with Ivy, Tana's interactions reveal layers of complexity and growth.
Griffin's writing is as enchanting as the world she creates, with pacing that keeps the story moving steadily forward. While the plot takes a bit to gain momentum, once it does, it carries readers along a captivating journey. However, there were moments where I found myself losing focus, as some conflicts felt too easily resolved, lacking the tension and depth I craved.
Romance plays a significant role in the narrative, perhaps a touch more than necessary. Yet, the relationship between Tana and Wolfe is beautifully developed, offering moments of self-discovery and personal growth for both characters. While I wished for a bit more angst and nail-biting tension, the journey of healing and growth between the two was deeply satisfying.
In conclusion, "Bring Me Your Midnight" is a mesmerizing standalone fantasy that balances rich world-building with compelling character dynamics. While it may occasionally meander, its captivating prose and poignant romance make it a worthwhile read. Rachel Griffin's talent shines brightly, leaving readers eager for more from her imaginative pen. ...more
I stumbled upon this book as part of our tradition of reading 12 books a year with my partner, who chose this month's selection. LitFun Cast of Voices
I stumbled upon this book as part of our tradition of reading 12 books a year with my partner, who chose this month's selection. Little did I know that Felicia Day, known for her roles in "Supernatural" and her work on "Dollhouse," was also a writer! While the audiobook and the diverse cast of characters added flair to the journey, I found myself unable to rate it higher than three stars.
The plot follows the familiar trajectory of a "Chosen One" narrative, with protagonist Laurel raised in San Francisco with the knowledge of her destiny to confront and vanquish the formidable evil, Tybus. However, despite her efforts, Laurel fails, resulting in the loss of magic for everyone except those who join the oppressive regime. Now an outcast, Laurel leads a solitary existence, with only two companions: vampire Frank and fairy Sybil.
Enter Kate, a seemingly ordinary girl who defies expectations by possessing knowledge and abilities beyond the norm. As events unfold, questions arise: is this a chance for redemption? Was Laurel truly destined for heroism? What secrets lie beneath the surface?
While the fantasy storyline may adhere to familiar tropes, it's Felicia Day's playful subversion of these conventions that injects the narrative with charm and wit. Her unabashed embrace of nerd culture adds an extra layer of enjoyment to the reading experience. Though personally, I didn't find myself as deeply connected to the story as I had hoped, I still believe it's a worthwhile read, particularly for those who appreciate Day's brand of humor and storytelling.
Despite my reservations, I'm intrigued to explore more of Day's writing, particularly her memoir, which I plan to pick up before the year's end. Keep an eye out for further reviews to come! ...more
In my quest to tackle all the books gifted to me this year, I recently delved into a compelling narrative courtesy of my secret Santa. ApoChilds Play
In my quest to tackle all the books gifted to me this year, I recently delved into a compelling narrative courtesy of my secret Santa. Apologies for the delay in sharing my thoughts; it took some time to gather my emotions post-read. Let me dive into the story now.
"Christopher and Hannah" centers on a couple yearning for parenthood. Their lives take a dramatic turn when they encounter Janie, a neglected child in need of care. Despite warnings about Janie's troubled past, Christopher's unwavering affection blinds him to the potential dangers, while Hannah grapples with stark realism. The narrative unfolds through alternating viewpoints, offering insight into the perspectives of Christopher, Hannah, and Piper, Janie's social worker.
The novel meticulously explores the ramifications of Janie's traumatic experiences, with Christopher and Hannah seemingly poised to provide the care she needs. However, Christopher's obliviousness to Hannah's valid concerns and Janie's manipulation adds layers of tension and complexity to the narrative.
While the suspense builds gradually, the revelation of the central conflict arrives late, heightening the novel's chilling atmosphere. Yet, it is precisely this grim subject matter and the discomfort it evokes that hindered my enjoyment, prompting a three-star rating.
Nevertheless, the book's continuation in a short story format promises a quick yet intriguing follow-up, which I look forward to exploring during my upcoming readathon....more
Embarking on a journey into the fantastical world of "Grieving Gold" was a deliberate choice spurred by my resolution to explore more fantasy novels tEmbarking on a journey into the fantastical world of "Grieving Gold" was a deliberate choice spurred by my resolution to explore more fantasy novels this year. Laden with promise, this literary venture presented a captivating blend of intrigue and intensity, yet I found myself grappling with its complexities, feeling both exhilarated and overwhelmed.
Reviewing this tome proved to be a daunting task, as its merits were abundant yet intertwined with challenges. Foremost among its strengths were the characters, whose depth and individuality resonated deeply. Despite the narrative's multiple viewpoints, each character's journey unfolded seamlessly, inviting immersion rather than disappointment. Witnessing their diverse backgrounds and storylines converge and diverge throughout the tale was a delight, enriching the narrative tapestry.
Moreover, the world-building of "Grieving Gold" showcased a refreshing fusion of Mesoamerican influence and a unique magic system centered on light. This ambitious concoction imbued the story with a sense of novelty, enticing readers to explore its intricacies further. Undoubtedly, the promise of future installments beckons, enticing me to continue unraveling the mysteries alongside these captivating characters.
However, amidst the allure lies a labyrinth of challenges. The narrative's expansive scope leaves many questions unanswered, culminating in a cliffhanger ending devoid of resolution. While I acknowledge its status as the inaugural entry in a series, a semblance of closure would have provided solace amidst the uncertainty. Furthermore, the pacing, oscillating between moments of intensity and stagnation, proved to be a stumbling block, occasionally frustrating the reader's immersion. The introduction of new characters late into the narrative further exacerbated this issue, disrupting the flow and cohesion of the story.
Despite these shortcomings, the allure of the story's protagonists and the intricacies of its world-building are undeniable. While it may test the patience of some readers, those willing to invest the time will find themselves captivated by its charm. For enthusiasts of compelling characters and unique world-building, "Grieving Gold" offers a tantalizing glimpse into a realm worth exploring. So, to those seeking a literary adventure with depth and originality, I extend this recommendation, tempered with the reminder that patience is indeed a virtue. "Grieving Gold" may require time and dedication, but the journey is well worth the effort....more
Reading Quest Embarking on a year-long quest to explore books beyond my usual preferences, I delved into Victor Methos' "Blood Dahlia" from Kindle Unl Reading Quest Embarking on a year-long quest to explore books beyond my usual preferences, I delved into Victor Methos' "Blood Dahlia" from Kindle Unlimited as part of my 2024 reading journey. The promise of an intriguing plot and the lure of a Pennsylvania setting initially drew me in, but the novel, unfortunately, fell short of my expectations, warranting a three-star rating. The narrative unfolds a decade in the past, introducing a copycat killer in the Lancaster area, pursued by an astute sheriff and an unlikely duo consisting of a psychic Amish girl. While the storyline had potential, the author's portrayal of Pennsylvania, the Amish, and local institutions lacked accuracy. The Amish speak differently, but not in a manner resembling Hillbillies, and their children are certainly not named after celestial bodies like "Star." Additionally, the misrepresentation of Penn State's locations and the logistical implausibility of the antagonist commuting from State College to Philadelphia, a distance of 193 miles, left me perplexed. Fast-forwarding ten years, the once-psychic Amish child is now a bartender in Philadelphia, sought after by the FBI to assist in a new case. The narrative loses its footing with erratic timelines, confusing geographical movements, and overlooked clues. Despite knowing the identity of the killer early on, the plot drags as the characters catch up, with undue blame directed at the psychic protagonist. The suggestion of her joining the FBI, despite lacking a formal education, stretches credulity. Despite its flaws, "Blood Dahlia" sets the stage for a sequel, prompting my decision to continue with the second book. However, readers should be cautious, as the book contains explicit and disturbing content related to serial torture and murder. Those sensitive to violence against women may find certain aspects of the narrative challenging to navigate.
As of January 7th, I'm thrilled to have completed four books, I delved into Britney's memoir in the latter part of last year. Intrigued Memoir Moment
As of January 7th, I'm thrilled to have completed four books, I delved into Britney's memoir in the latter part of last year. Intrigued by the opportunity to explore a different perspective, I delved into Jamie's account, and while I found it enjoyable, it doesn't earn more than three stars in my review. I appreciate the consistency in reviewing memoirs, aligning with my reading goals.
In my view, Jamie's memoir is an honest exploration of her life, growing up in the shadow of her sister, Britney. She handles the delicate balance of being both Britney's little sister and a young teen mom with diplomacy and fairness. The narrative is mature, emanating from a place of love and perspective, which I found commendable. Despite the myriad challenges she faced, from her daughter's health scare to the media frenzy surrounding Britney and their tumultuous relationship, Jamie maintains a positive and optimistic outlook, prioritizing her family and daughters.
While I sensed some areas that could have delved deeper, and at times, it seemed less about sharing her story and more about portraying herself as a victim, the overall experience was enjoyable. If you're curious about Jamie's life, the memoir offers a good glimpse. I particularly recommend the audiobook, as Jamie's narration adds a personal touch to the narrative....more
I came to this book because I needed a thriller in the mix of my reading activities. I came to this choice because I loved A Good Girl's GIt was Good
I came to this book because I needed a thriller in the mix of my reading activities. I came to this choice because I loved A Good Girl's Guide to Murder. I came from the heels of watching the show, which I enjoyed. While Five Survive kept me turning the pages, there’s not much I can say that was a "wow" moment. The suspense was palpable, and Holly Jackson knows how to set the stage for a nerve-wracking plot, but I found the twists somewhat predictable. The characters, while intriguing, didn’t have the same depth or spark that made me connect with them as I did in her previous work. The tension built up nicely, but when the big reveals came, they felt a bit underwhelming. In short, Five Survive is a solid thriller, perfect for a weekend read, but it didn’t quite live up to the high expectations set by its predecessor. Three stars for keeping me entertained but not entirely hooked....more
Awarding 2.5 stars but rounding up to 3 for the outstanding narration, my expectations were high, fueled by my admiraNarration Elevates Mediocre Story
Awarding 2.5 stars but rounding up to 3 for the outstanding narration, my expectations were high, fueled by my admiration for Joshua Jackson in Fringe and Dawson's Creek. Unfortunately, this novel fell short of my expectations.
Nate Russo collaborates with the FBI on missing persons cases, considering himself more a seer than a psychic. His unique gift enables him to locate the missing but forces him to share in their terror. Unwillingly bestowed upon him by The Bone Man, a terrifying ghost from his childhood home, Nate's gift becomes a curse.
As The Bone Man escalates his actions, Nate is compelled to return to his hometown to find a missing girl before it's too late. Despite the excellent narration, the storyline disappoints. The revelation of The Bone Man's origin story lacks impact, and the ending offers no surprises. Exclusive to audio, the dialogue feels somewhat mismatched for the medium.
However, for Audible enthusiasts, there might be merit in giving this a chance. While it didn't resonate with me, your experience might differ, particularly if you're a fan of the auditory format. ...more
I must express my gratitude to Netgalley and all involved for providing me with the opportunity to experience LasA Riveting Tale Hindered by Narration
I must express my gratitude to Netgalley and all involved for providing me with the opportunity to experience Last Girl Breathing in audiobook format. As an avid reader, I was drawn to the intriguing concept promised by Court Stevens' narrative. Regrettably, my journey through this story was significantly impeded by a major drawback—the narration—which ultimately influenced my rating of this otherwise suspenseful tale.
Initially, I approached Last Girl Breathing with the expectation of a quick and engrossing read, but the audiobook format proved to be a double-edged sword. The central issue that marred my overall enjoyment was the narrator's performance. The audible inhalations and deep breaths became a constant distraction, hindering my ability to fully immerse myself in the narrative. Unfortunately, this detracted from the overall experience and contributed to my decision to rate the book at three stars.
Moving past this hurdle, let me delve into the heart of the story. Last Girl Breathing follows Lucy Michaels, a young woman haunted by the tragic loss of her little brother in a devastating flooding accident. Lucy, who had the capacity to save lives during the incident, finds herself unable to rescue her own sibling. Fast forward to the present, where Lucy is on the cusp of graduating from high school when her stepbrother mysteriously disappears.
Stevens weaves a compelling tale of suspense and secrets, entwined with a significant focus on character development. Lucy, grappling with the burden of her past, becomes a complex protagonist whose journey resonates with the reader. The narrative successfully navigates the intricate web of mystery, keeping the audience on the edge of their seats as Lucy confronts her past and unravels the enigma surrounding her stepbrother's disappearance.
Despite the narratorial setbacks, the strengths of Last Girl Breathing lie in Stevens' ability to craft a small-town atmosphere with charm and precision. The picturesque description of the setting enhances the overall narrative, creating a vivid backdrop for the unfolding drama. The author's talent for portraying the nuances of a close-knit community adds depth to the story, making it an engaging exploration of both mystery and the intricacies of human relationships.
Despite my reservations about the audiobook narration, I extend a measure of grace to Court Stevens, offering a two-book allowance before passing a final judgment. I acknowledge that individual preferences play a crucial role in audiobook experiences, and my dissatisfaction with the narrator may not be universally shared.
In conclusion, Last Girl Breathing is a captivating tale marred by a disruptive narration that may deter some listeners. If you can overlook this flaw and appreciate the intricate small-town charm and the author's skillful character development, then I encourage you to explore the story. Court Stevens has demonstrated storytelling prowess, and I remain open to giving another of her works a chance in the hope of a more seamless and enjoyable listening experience. Click the link below, keeping in mind the potential drawbacks, and embark on this suspenseful journey if the premise intrigues you....more
As I navigate through the pages of 2023, I find myself in what I dub my memoir era. My decision to dive into this book was influenced by my admirationAs I navigate through the pages of 2023, I find myself in what I dub my memoir era. My decision to dive into this book was influenced by my admiration for Cody on Dancing with the Stars. His unique blend of charm and humor intrigued me. While I did appreciate Cody's narrative, I must admit that my affection for it falls short of adoration. It's a good read, deserving of three stars, but it didn't quite capture my heart. Nevertheless, the journey through these pages has gifted me a valuable lesson – the affirmation that embracing my true self is not only acceptable but something to be grateful for. Whether you're a devoted Peloton rider or tuned in for Season 30 of Dancing with the Stars in 2021, the name Cody Rigsby likely resonates with you. Recognizable for the perpetual smile on his rides and a knack for offering opinions on contemporary issues, Cody's multifaceted persona invites curiosity. If you've ever pondered the genesis of his involvement with Peloton or are intrigued by facets of his life beyond the limelight, this book beckons your attention. It's important to note that this review doesn't delve into the details of Cody's life but focuses on the writing and flow of his autobiography.
The narrative unfolds as an engaging account of Cody's tumultuous and uncertain childhood, detailing his journey toward a more promising future. Despite his mother being a central figure in the challenges of his formative years, Cody shares his ongoing efforts to maintain a relationship with her, emphasizing her welfare as a top priority. While the narrative is candid, the writing occasionally seems to scratch the surface, lacking the depth needed to convey the intensity of his traumatic past.
Interspersed with his life story are sections featuring advice presented in a question-and-answer format—an element characteristic of Cody's social media presence and a recurring theme in one of his Peloton series. However, this format doesn't seamlessly transition into the novel, presenting a disconnect for some readers. Cody's evident opinions, boldly declared on the cover, permeate the pages. Despite assurances of non-judgment, there's a lingering sense of scrutiny. While the writing authentically captures Cody's voice, at times, it takes on a list-like quality.
Acknowledging room for improvement in the craftsmanship of the writing, the book serves as a backstage pass, offering insights into the person behind the Cody Rigsby persona. If you're curious about the man beyond the Peloton instructor or seek an easygoing read, clicking the link below will take you on a journey behind the scenes of Cody's world. ...more
Eerie Reading Experience I wanted to love this as I love anything all spook and fast paced. I read the author's debut novel, The Whisper Man, a few yeaEerie Reading Experience I wanted to love this as I love anything all spook and fast paced. I read the author's debut novel, The Whisper Man, a few years ago and thought it was a pretty good read. The Angel Maker once again shows off his unique storytelling ability but unfortunately, I didn't hit a nice reading groove until about 2/3 of the way into the book. The main issue is not all of the characters are clearly defined so I had a hard time keeping track of everyone. My interest level was high but it was a disjointed reading experience.
When Katie Shaw was a teenager something horrible happened to her brother, Chris. Feel free to check out the publisher synopsis if you want more details about the plot, but part of the appeal of the story for me going in blind was just watching everything unfold naturally. I will mention the action picks up with Katie as an adult and lots of different characters are followed throughout the story.
Normally, I'm a big fan of stories that bounce around between different characters but it didn't work well in this case. When certain characters aren't standing out in your mind it's like a snowball effect because then it becomes difficult to follow the backstory. I was intrigued by the content but it was also a jumbled mess. Thankfully, I had a bit of a lightbulb moment with about 1/3 of the story left to go and everything started to make more sense and it was a much more enjoyable ride to the finish.
As far as endings go, I'm just going to shrug my shoulders. Nothing horrible about it, but nothing knocked my socks off either. All and all I will be happily reading the next novel because I know the greatness that can be Alex North. For now all I can do is suggest that you click the link below to try your luck with this one.
Even though the execution was a bit off at times, it was a decent thriller. Knowing this author is capable of going in so many directions with a story is fun when you are a fan of this genre. ...more
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