I should be proud that hey I finished three books in two days. Thank you, readathon, for pushing me to finish books that have been on my bookNo Words
I should be proud that hey I finished three books in two days. Thank you, readathon, for pushing me to finish books that have been on my bookshelf for so long on both my shelf and my Kindle. I bought *10 Minutes 38 Seconds in This Strange World* by Elif Shafak because a YouTuber I watch liked it, and I wanted to read something out of my comfort zone. But all this book did was make me sad. I am proud to say, though, that it did get done in one sitting.
Despite its literary acclaim, I found this novel a tough read. The story revolves around Tequila Leila, a sex worker in Istanbul, whose life unfolds in flashbacks during the 10 minutes and 38 seconds after her death. While Shafak's prose is undoubtedly beautiful, the unrelenting bleakness of Leila's experiences made it hard for me to connect with the characters or feel anything other than sorrow.
The narrative's non-linear structure was intriguing but ultimately felt disjointed, making it difficult to maintain engagement. While I understand that the book aims to shed light on the marginalized and forgotten individuals of society, the sheer amount of misery and injustice depicted left me emotionally drained. I had hoped for at least some moments of hope or redemption, but these were few and far between.
In conclusion, while I appreciate the opportunity to step out of my comfort zone, *10 Minutes 38 Seconds in This Strange World* was not the enlightening experience I had hoped for. It’s a well-written book with important themes, but it wasn’t the right fit for me. Two stars. ...more
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
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
Movie for Your Ears "The Sandman: Act II" takes audiences on a visually mesmerizing and emotionally rich journey through the dream-infused landscapes oMovie for Your Ears "The Sandman: Act II" takes audiences on a visually mesmerizing and emotionally rich journey through the dream-infused landscapes of Neil Gaiman's iconic universe. The second act successfully maintains the essence of the source material, blending intricate storytelling with stunning visuals to create a captivating experience.
The cast continues to shine, with each actor delivering performances that breathe life into the beloved characters. The narrative, while occasionally intricate, weaves together the episodic nature of dreams with an overarching plot, providing a thoughtful exploration of complex themes.
The production's attention to detail is commendable, from the elaborate set designs to the evocative musical score. The result is a sensory feast that immerses viewers in the fantastical world of dreams and nightmares.
For fans of the Sandman series, "Act II" offers a satisfying continuation of the story, delving deeper into the emotional complexities of the characters. However, newcomers may find some elements challenging to grasp without prior knowledge of the Sandman mythos.
If you're ready to embark on this enchanting adventure or are a longtime fan eager for the next chapter, click the link below to experience "The Sandman: Act II" and lose yourself in the boundless realms of the Dreaming. ...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
Exploring Uncharted Territory: My Quest for a New Experience
I embarked on this reading journey with the desire to broaden my literary horizons, steppiExploring Uncharted Territory: My Quest for a New Experience
I embarked on this reading journey with the desire to broaden my literary horizons, stepping out of my usual mystery genre comfort zone. Unfortunately, my expectations of loving or even liking this book were not met. Lorrie Moore's "I Am Homeless If This Is Not My Home" proved to be a challenging read for me, and I couldn't fully connect with its narrative.
In my quest to explore diverse literary experiences, I discovered a podcast where Lorrie Moore herself discussed this novel. She openly acknowledged its departure from the conventional structure and plotlines often found in commercial novels, emphasizing the freedom that authors of literary fiction have to explore unconventional narrative approaches.
The story is set in 2016 and centers around Finn, a high school history teacher with a penchant for conspiracy theories. The novel commences with his conversations with his terminally ill brother, Max, occupying the first third of the book. The remainder of the story follows Finn on a surreal road trip with his deceased girlfriend, Lily, who has seemingly returned from the grave and is not yet ready to find her final resting place. Their interactions, often tinged with dark humor, take place as Lily undergoes decomposition before ultimately settling into her eternal rest.
Woven into the narrative are diary entries dating back to around 1870, authored by an innkeeper named Libby or Eliz. These entries provide a historical backdrop, detailing the aftermath of the Civil War, and reveal that Libby, too, engages in extensive conversations with a deceased individual.
In essence, "I Am Homeless If This Is Not My Home" is an unconventional literary work that delves into themes of love, death, dying, grief, and challenges the reliability of historical accounts. While this book may not resonate with every reader, it undeniably offers a unique and thought-provoking narrative experience.
I was eagerly anticipating reading The Midnight Library, so I decided to start with this book first. However, I'm really hoping it's better because thI was eagerly anticipating reading The Midnight Library, so I decided to start with this book first. However, I'm really hoping it's better because this one left me feeling disappointed. How can a 500-year-old individual, who has had experiences with Shakespeare and Captain Cook, be so uninteresting? The premise of people aging slower, roughly 15 years to every one year for normies, intrigued me, and this story revolves around Tom, one such extraordinary individual. Despite such a promising setup and a relatively realistic journey through time, reading this book felt like an excruciating task.
Let's begin with the positives: the book provided a fascinating glimpse into various eras as the narrative hopped through different times. The writing style had its moments of philosophical depth, although it might have been a bit excessive for my taste. If you enjoy a book that dances around the concept and implications of extended life, this might appeal to you.
Now, let's explore the negatives: the conversations between characters lacked authenticity, feeling stilted and devoid of a natural flow. The biggest issue lies with Tom and the overall story; both turned out to be rather mundane. Perhaps the intention was to portray Tom as an ordinary individual, but this approach drained much of the story's excitement. Most of Tom's narrative seemed to dwell on the downsides of his long life, making it obvious that he hasn't truly been living since the tragedies of his youth. Unfortunately, this drained the vibrancy from much of the tale. Additionally, the big climax left me scratching my head; parts of it were apparent, yet it didn't fit well, and it failed to capture my interest. Furthermore, there was a lack of focus on romantic elements, leaving any chemistry to happen off the page, which made the ending triumph feel rather underwhelming.
Overall, I struggled to get through this book. It was decent, but the disappointment was significant. I believe some of this disappointment was intentional, perhaps to force introspection on what makes living worthwhile and to address themes of grief and living on in memory. Nonetheless, the book came across as somewhat lackluster. ...more
Angeline's presence will seep into your mind and soul as you turn the pages of this captivating novel. It starts with a slow burn but quickly gaUnique
Angeline's presence will seep into your mind and soul as you turn the pages of this captivating novel. It starts with a slow burn but quickly gains momentum, keeping you engrossed until the powerful ending engulfs you and then gently retreats. The characters are meticulously crafted, and their backgrounds are brilliantly constructed, captivating your attention, and refusing to let go.
The author's vivid details and descriptions transport you to a small island in the Pacific Northwest, where the air carries a tangy salt scent and the community relies on one another for everything.
Sister Angeline has spent the past seven years at the cloistered convent of the Daughters of Mercy in Chicago. However, when the Archdiocese of Chicago faces financial difficulties, the nuns are forced to find new places to go. Angeline is sent to the Light of the Sea convent on a tiny island, a stark contrast to the bustling noise of Chicago and the life she knew. The nuns on the island have a more laid-back approach, championing marches for good and conducting their own Sunday services. As Angeline slowly adapts to her new surroundings, she discovers a deep love for these remarkable women and the land that embraces them. This newfound connection grounds her and allows her to confront the haunting memories of losing her family at the age of sixteen, a burden that has weighed heavily on her every single day for the past seven years. Meanwhile, a storm begins to churn the waters around the island, culminating in a breathtaking conclusion that will leave tears welling in your eyes as miracles unfold before your very eyes.
This book is a truly unique reading experience, unlike anything I have encountered before. It possesses a power, evocativeness, and mastery of writing that gradually draws you in, compelling you to empathize with and alleviate the pain of every character you encounter. I extend my gratitude to NetGalley for providing me with a copy of this extraordinary book....more
Dear Reader, This is the first review I have done in a long time that comes with a massive disclaimer. I don’t do graphic novels or Truly so much fun!
Dear Reader, This is the first review I have done in a long time that comes with a massive disclaimer. I don’t do graphic novels or D.C and usually feel out of place but I loved this. I’m a huge fan of audiobooks, I listen to them all the time – more than music and never podcast unless it is true crime. I was a little hesitant to start this Audible original. The music, sound effects and multiple players added to the enjoyment of this production. Many talented voice actors and all delivering Gaiman’s splendidly surreal art. I have to say that having someone you enjoy spending time with read a book with you makes things so much more enjoyable. We have read the second installment, but I can’t wait to tell you about that tomorrow. I have had my eyes opened to fantasy and I have enjoyed every minute immensely.
This is still an exceptional work that most listeners of this genre will appreciate. I know that this is the book that sparked my joy for this genre....more
Feels Like Coming Home I have read many books by Robert Bryndza and I can say that it always feels like a homecoming. I need to start by praising his GFeels Like Coming Home I have read many books by Robert Bryndza and I can say that it always feels like a homecoming. I need to start by praising his Girl in the Ice series because it is one I think everyone should read. However, I must admit, the more I read from the Kate Marshall series, the more I am enjoying it. Book three now and it is fair to say we have seen our protagonist go on one hell of a journey so far. After the loss of her best friend and neighbor, Kate has thrown herself into her private investigation business full time - well with the small distraction of a bunch of holiday caravans to manage on the side. It's not been the big earner she may have liked but her latest case, a request to look into the disappearance of a young journalist many years before, looks set to be a really busy one, something she can finally sink her teeth into. Now as readers, we know far more of what is happening than Kate and her partner in crime solving, Tristan, but. whilst we may know the what, we most certainly have no clue as to the who or the why.
What I love about Robert Bryndza's writing is his ability to create an overwhelming sense of mystery from the start, something he does spectacularly in this book. It keeps you on your toes and keeps you turning pages way past your bedtime. Even though I did not have all the pieces I knew that something big and important to the plot was coming. The who done it aspect was fun, as was the character development and the chapters written from the aggressors point of view.
Did I have an inkling part way through the book as to who the bad guy might be? Honestly ... yes, but that for me was half the fun, powering through to the end to see if I was right. It didn't impact on my enjoyment of the book in the slightest, it drew me in more.
Pace in the book is spot on, with the flow of the narrative ebbing and flowing much as the investigation does.This was another top class, mystery laden read that had me powering through the pages. With brilliant characterisation, tension oozing from the pages and writing which really evokes emotion and the stark contrasts of the setting, it's definitely recommended. Fans of the series and of the author's writing will eat it up....more
I am so sorry I am late to this party. When I requested this book I had no idea this was a series but I loved Ed as a character. Ed is a aA P.I. Read
I am so sorry I am late to this party. When I requested this book I had no idea this was a series but I loved Ed as a character. Ed is a a private investigator specializing in finding missing kids. His expertise is, unfortunately, fine-tuned as a result of his professional experiences as a detective in New York City and as a detective/sniper in Ohio. His failure to rescue a missing girl in New York led him to Ohio and the Sheriff's Department but that career move was short-lived. Another missing kid case and Ed had operated a bit too independently so he decides it is time to operate solo. Teenage Jimmy is missing and his parents, very religious folk, are desperate to find him. They cannot imagine why Jimmy has run away but it doesn't take lone for Ed to discover that Jimmy's truth may not be easily accepted by his parents, especially his dad. Ed utilizes a variety of strategies to locate Jimmy and he soon is in the crosshairs of some dangerous and vengeful drug dealers. This is so good that I read it in three hours. I do not want to give anything away but I will say that it is a great fast paced read. ...more
Participating in a 10-day readathon has truly rekindled my passion for reading, filling every free moment with literary adventures. For tSo Much Fun
Participating in a 10-day readathon has truly rekindled my passion for reading, filling every free moment with literary adventures. For the prompt featuring deities, I chose "Neon Gods" by Katee Robert. The author has crafted such an engaging narrative that I devoured the book in just two days. Interestingly, Goodreads reminded me that I had read this book in 2022, but I had no recollection of it. This time, however, the story is sure to linger with me.
"Neon Gods" offers a delightful and unique take on the classic Hades and Persephone myth. Persephone, desperate to escape a marriage arranged by her mother to Zeus, finds her only refuge in the Lower City ruled by the enigmatic Hades. Both characters are driven by their desire to foil Zeus – Persephone dreams of freedom from Olympus, while Hades seeks vengeance for his parents. I have always been fascinated by the dynamic between Hades and Persephone, and this book provided an intriguing twist on their relationship. Robert stays true to their archetypal dark and sunny personas but adds depth by revealing their true, complementary natures beneath the surface.
The modern retelling of the myth was refreshing, though I did miss the more traditional mythological elements and a touch more magic. While I wasn't completely engrossed to the point of being unable to put the book down, I also didn't have to push myself to finish it. The chapters from Hades' perspective were particularly enjoyable.
Overall, "Neon Gods" maintained a good pace and kept the plot moving. It was an enjoyable read, and I look forward to continuing the series to see how the story develops.
**Many thanks to NetGalley, Del Rey, and Delilah Dawson for a gifted copy of this book.
This book intrigued me based on its cover. I have an addiction**Many thanks to NetGalley, Del Rey, and Delilah Dawson for a gifted copy of this book.
This book intrigued me based on its cover. I have an addiction to anything remotely crime/horror so I thought this would be right up my alley. Sadly, I had a very hard time getting through it even though it was well written. In a post-COVID world, there is a new deadly threat: The Violence. What is it? A disease, spread by mosquito, that takes the infected from 0-60 and leaves them in a blackout-type state where they demolish whatever or whoever stands in their way. Chelsea Martin, mother to teenage daughter Ella and 5-year-old Brooklyn. In the first few chapters, I found myself yelling at the abusive husband and Ella’s boyfriend in equal measure. I was thrilled that a plan was constructed to get rid of the husband for a bit to give the girls a break from the abuse. This book took me about three weeks give or take a day to read even though it was well written. For me this had moments of greatness but because we are still going through the motions of covid that it was much to process. Overall, it did have a storyline that was well written which makes me hopeful for another read by this author. Three stars from me which is really good considering how much of a hard time I had with it. Very interesting concept looking forward to seeing what comes next from this author.
Eight books done and I have one more week in January I might actually hit double-digit book goals this year. While I think sixty bDream a Little Dream
Eight books done and I have one more week in January I might actually hit double-digit book goals this year. While I think sixty books is decent I am not used to not hitting doubles. This story was okay. I enjoyed it more so because it was an audiobook but if I had to pick it up in paperback I don’t think I would have enjoyed it as much. It involves a writer that is Down on his luck and desperate for work, Nick Bishop accepts a job writing a profile for the new mindfulness app Clarity. The app consists of white noise and guided meditation. It also includes “Sleep Songs”. A woman sings a creepy ballad that is the opposite of relaxing. However, it does the job for Nick and he is relaxed, deep in sleep in no time. That is when nightmares begin. This is giving me Six Sense vibes considering a dead woman who seems to know Nick and calls him by name. She whispers in his ear. Is she helping him? Eventually, he hears the woman’s whisper when he is awake. As his nightmares become reality Nick makes the realization that no one at Clarity is interested in the profile he was writing. They are interested in him.
I liked this book. I listened to the audiobook. The narrator did a great job. The language was creepy, atmospheric, and descriptive. The story was very strange and I had to rewind it a few times to fully get what was happening. Which I think that is why I have to give this a three-star reading because I hate feeling like I missed something. Truthfully, I think I would want to pick up another book by this author just to see if it’s the writing style or just me. The year is early so we will see how I do moving forward. ...more
I am a sucker for a good thriller and this was really good. I think depending on how the year goes this will be in my top ten booPerfection Tarnished
I am a sucker for a good thriller and this was really good. I think depending on how the year goes this will be in my top ten books for 2022! What do you get when you mix the perfect life with a husband who doesn’t know how to spend his money? You get a story like this with some dark twist or two. Jade’s day started out like any other, driving the kids from school to music lessons, fighting traffic, breaking up backseat arguments and tossing back snacks, then something unexpected happened that would change her idyllic world forever. The devoted mother of two Beatrix, a violin prodigy and her innocent younger brother Baxter. And a husband who is the celebrity chef of the town. Everything looks perfect from the outside, but Jade can’t shake a feeling someone is watching her. Something is wrong this is more then just a bad day.
Jade is a devoted mom to her two young kids, savvy Husband Cam, otherwise known as Atlanta’s Steak King for his successful group of restaurants catering to the wealthy set, they are a happily married “it” couple in town. Everything might be peachy in Buckhead, but Jade has a creepy suspicion that someone is stalking her and Cam is too busy to take his wife’s concerns seriously.
Belle masterfully weaves many secrets for the reader to untangle in this dark, frightening thriller as a mother and her children are confronted with anyone’s worst nightmare – a masked home invader demanding ransom. While Came is trying to put out his own fires his family is slowly burning from the inside out. Pick this up now you won’t regret it.
I am loving the thrillers I am picking up this year. Three days in and I have picked up two books that are solid four-star reads. After sufSister Dear
I am loving the thrillers I am picking up this year. Three days in and I have picked up two books that are solid four-star reads. After suffering a tragic loss, Alexa finally decides to leave the home of her overprotective father and make her own start. With a new apartment and a job, she loves, Alexa finally feels like she is moving on with her life. When she starts dating a new client, Curt, Alexa slowly starts to find her footing, until her estranged twin sister, Beth, shows up on Alexa’s doorstep. Alexa has promised her father, and her therapist, that she would keep Beth out of her life, but soon Beth is living with Alexa, and Alexa is keeping her sister’s presence secret from everyone. True to form, Beth starts interfering in Alexa’s life in every way, and the twins’ relationship takes a dark turn when Curt ends up dead and Alexa is charged for his murder.
Soon, the dark past of both Alexa and Beth starts to surface, and Alexa realizes she must separate herself from Beth permanently, once and for all. This is a twin sega with a 2022 media twist. What I loved is the duel perspective chapters from both Beth and Alexa’s point of view. I liked how it showed the dynamic of their relationship. The twists and turns are sprinkled in at all the right places making this a fast-paced joy to read. If you read enough thrillers as I do you will expect a few of the twists but some of the others you are not going to see coming at all. This speaks volumes to this author's ability to craft a good story. Both characters are reliable and relatable. The only thing I was sad about is that it was over.
As a debut novel, I have to say this was impressive. The author writes beautifully and kept me engaged the whole way through making me want to find out how the story ends. J.C. Bidonde is officially on my radar as a thriller writer. Four solid stars.
Special thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for a free, electronic ARC of this novel received in exchange for an honest review....more
I am so proud of myself this year. I set a goal of one book and I am at such peace. I haven’t picked up a book just for fun in many years.Podcast Fun!
I am so proud of myself this year. I set a goal of one book and I am at such peace. I haven’t picked up a book just for fun in many years. I usually pick a friend to pick the total number of books that they want to challenge me with. I haven’t picked up an Allison Brennan novel since I read the Original Sin in High School and it was so nice to come back to this author and get lost in her story telling. This was such a departure from Original Sin and such a fun mystery. Firstly I will start by saying I love books that have a podcast. My favorite are true crime so this was perfect. This novel surrounds Lucas Vega who has created a podcast for his senior capstone project at Northern Arizona University. The podcast focuses on the mysterious disappearance and then death of NAU student and sorority sister Candace Swain.
The podcast is slowly gaining traction and gaining attention from everyone. The popularity starts to irritate Candace’s sorority sisters. In hopes to try and solve this cold case the advisor who is helping Lucas brings Regan Merrit a former US marshal to help bring in clues. What adds more dynamics to this story is that Regan has problems of her own and this mystery is just the thing to keep her mind off her own issues. As the story continues Lucas and Regan start to get threats to end their search for answers.
I am glad that this is the book that I started my year off with. Sometimes reading a genre that you love sets your mood for a great year. I enjoyed this story. I know that some readers say that this is a bit long winded. I personally enjoyed it. The writing style is easy to follow and the story kept my interest. I am hoping that the author will continue this series with the Marshal as the lead because it would be something I would be very interested in.
I finished this book a few weeks ago however I am beyond behind on everything this year and it is new years eve and I am trying to review all the bookI finished this book a few weeks ago however I am beyond behind on everything this year and it is new years eve and I am trying to review all the books I have managed to finish this year that I just haven’t been able to do. This was yet another solid three-star thriller. Based on the description I was expecting a solid easy quick read in the who done it format. However, what I received was a book that was completely obsessed with opioids. most of the book is focused on the main character Viv and her struggles with alcoholism. I thought it was done pretty well and that should have been the focus of the story. However, the book kept trying to convince me that the real story was the "mystery" of how a teenage girl with addiction issues and a disastrous personal life managed to overdose on opioids. Vivienne's story, told through flashbacks, is interwoven with the (mostly pretty dull) stories of two of her friends, as well as interviews by the police as they try to find out where she could have obtained the single painkiller, she took that caused her overdose. I just can't imagine the police putting in that kind of an investigation when Viv was filmed taking the drugs willingly. Overall there are bits of the story that I love and it did have a resolution at the end of the story which I was happy to see. Overall, I am happy I gave this author a chance not sure if I will be reading the next one but only time will tell. ...more
I have to tell you if anyone ever told me that I would love biking while reading a romance novel, I would tell them theyDear Ms. Keeland and Ms. Ward,
I have to tell you if anyone ever told me that I would love biking while reading a romance novel, I would tell them they were crazy. Thank you so much for writing a book that is such a pick me up. Now let’s talk about what I loved about these pages. DIRTY LETTERS is the new co-authored friends-to-lovers rockstar romance that I found utterly refreshing You ladies outdid yourselves. The heroine is agoraphobic, that first reared its ugly head after her best friend died in a fire at a concert. And there, of course, is also survivor's guilt. When Luca was seven years old, she became pen pals with a boy in England. They became best friends and confidantes over the years, their honesty one of the most remarkable features of their friendship. Until the fire. After that, it is a ghost town Luca disappeared leaving the boy not knowing anything.
Griffin, now a famous rockstar known as Cole Archer, lets her know how he feels about this in a petty letter eighteen years later. I have to say, I was happy to see how fast Griffin forgave Luca. For a few months, these two communicate only by letter and they find back into their easy friendship with the addition of a growing attraction. But Griffin, who has learned the hard way that fame comes at a price, cherishes the fact that Luca doesn't know who he is. Luca with the help of the letters becomes braver and I am here for it.
I have so much love for all the characters in this book. Griffin was a great guy, an amazing friend, and a patient, an understanding boyfriend who was totally smitten with his girl, how he held on when things got rough, never letting her down. The way Luca's debilitating condition was portrayed made her relatable and my heart ached for her because, really, when you can't go out of the house without fearing a panic attack, how do you deal with the idea of dating a popstar? The despair because you're trapped in your head...what do you have to offer except your heart?
Lastly, there is Doc, Luca's therapist, who was simply the sweetest. I just picture a cross of Mr. Rogers and the Doc from back to the future. This book packed such a punch of steamy moments and a mixture of sweet moments and drama. The story is new and refreshing and fun and the only thing that made me sad was when it was over. I hope there is more co-writing in the future.
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