I honestly don't know what I was thinking when I picked up this book, but it worked out okayish for me? Although it's not precisely one of my favoriteI honestly don't know what I was thinking when I picked up this book, but it worked out okayish for me? Although it's not precisely one of my favorites, I felt like that I had to read it. I'll grant that it was strange, but it's definitely not upsetting.
I'd say the story has a playful air to it rather than a frightening one. You could say that the book is about Annie discovering her true self after a years breakup with her partner Sam. It also has an essential message of self worth and affection hid in its pages. The way that issues that are typically treated with distrust and doubt in works like this were given a good face to me. It greatly widened the view.
Unfortunately, given that the entire book is about the main character only discovering herself, it seems extremely long. There is no amour, scary, or other supporting story. The story moved quickly, was enjoyable, had likeable characters, and was written in an approachable tone. However, something is still lacking—possibly the world building?
Even though the outcome was so different from what I imagined, I still liked seeing Annie change and advance along her trip! With some fantastic witchy themes, this book is actually a late-stage adulthood story.
This comfortable book is a great choice for those who want to unwind rather than feel afraid. Trust me, it's not at all terrifying!...more
To be quite honest, I was in the middle of a reading slump and while I had previously found a few books to be quite proper, I was disappointed by thisTo be quite honest, I was in the middle of a reading slump and while I had previously found a few books to be quite proper, I was disappointed by this one. I felt as though I wanted to escape reality for a little time, but instead I only seemed to become more irritated. Couple of things about the story really bothered me.
The first few chapters of this book were enjoyable and made me chuckle, but then there were a lot of situations that weren't necessary. The plot held a lot of potential, but I don't know if it truly developed. All along, I was genuinely unsure of where it was going. I just couldn't help but notice how annoyed I was becoming with the author's writing. Too many repetitions and childish writing style.
The characters felt incomplete, so don't even dare ask me about them. There is absolutely no connection between them and they all are selfish, temperamental, disloyal, and an adult that behaves like a screaming kid.
It is fair that it can be challenging to enjoy a book when the main character takes some really unethical behaviors while hoping for better results. Daisy, though, was such a pain! During my read, I truly wanted to smack her. Not to add how terribly other characters, with the exception of Luis, the only insane one, fell in in love with Daisy and desired to be with her while he was treated like trash by her, is so over to me!
I didn't think it was that good overall. I must admit that the book did not appeal to me as I sighed heavily and rolled my eyes. ...more
The book itself was both very enjoyable and a lot of fun for me, but it also had depths and was essential. This book does a great job of capturing theThe book itself was both very enjoyable and a lot of fun for me, but it also had depths and was essential. This book does a great job of capturing the drama that reality TV shows usually have all to themselves. Everyone was obnoxious, nasty, and scruffy.
The concept is endearing. I liked how the primary couple was portrayed visually. However, I do wish there was more romantic growth that wasn't centered around the show. There is a thing about romances using dancing that just makes it possible to have the finest chemistry.
Sadly, I found that the dance itself was frequently left out, which is unfortunate if you were hoping to read full stories of them dancing together. Most dance related information are abstract and complex filled with slang, and I struggled to relate to any of it. I was a little let down by how much of the tale is devoted to it.
In general, it still has fantastic characters, amazing chemistry, and a unique interesting place. For anyone who like a lively drama read by a television personality, I would still suggest it! ...more
This book met my expectations just as I had hoped it would. A swoon-worthy urban fantasy romance featuring both advanced technology and ancient magic.This book met my expectations just as I had hoped it would. A swoon-worthy urban fantasy romance featuring both advanced technology and ancient magic. Even though there were a few that I didn't really bond with, but this debut novel was excellent and simple to follow.
The part of the book that I find most impressive is how the author skillfully combines multicultural magic systems from different cultures with a contemporary setting. Here, we're talking about Chinese magic systems and combat from the Xianxia period as well as fae lore from Europe and other mythologies. This is new to me personally.
I really loved how they built a fascinating, rich world with enchantment systems and all the cultural allusions. However, before starting the book, I suggest reading the author's note because it offers insight that adds a new level of understanding to the cultures and languages in use.
It did take me some time to understand what was happening. There is a lot of talking and not much else occurring as the story is suddenly thrust into our laps. Although the beginning is a little abrupt and disjointed due to the fast pace, everything ultimately comes together and begins to make sense.
The number of worldbuilding and magic in this story was fantastic. It unmistakably had a mythological vibe from the past. With Tsai's writing's ease, I was drawn into the universe and found that it was more comfortable there than in my own. It has a warm, tranquil atmosphere that is perfect for reading during afternoon tea.
It was simple to adore these characters too! Elle, our main character, is a very approachable peacekeeper type who is just plain cute! She was also the least egotistical person I have read recently. Even though they were essentially all attempting to kill each other, she gave her life every day to make sure that her family survived.
Luc was a skilled murderer and was infamous for lacking personality, yet he let that little guy flourish with Elle! He embodied the badass with a beautiful heart so incredibly well! Although I do occasionally find their back and forth to be a little awkward to read, Lucien and Elle are the perfect cure. I love their relationship and the way it develops.
The supporting cast, which included Tony, Lira, and the Wrecking Crew, offered such endearing comic relief that it perfectly counterbalanced the story's more somber moments. My favorite part of the tale was also undoubtedly seeing these characters become closer to one another throughout the book.
Overall, there is something here for everyone, and I would describe it as lighter slice of life dream :)
I'd like to thank Tachyon Publications and NetGalley for providing this ARC! All opinion are my own....more
This book has truly become my obsession! I've been wanting a perfect fantasy vampire like this for a long time and || VISIT MY BLOG FOR MORE REVIEW ||
This book has truly become my obsession! I've been wanting a perfect fantasy vampire like this for a long time and this was impossible to set down after the first page. Everything about this book was absolutely amazing!! I'll state that these fantasy books are among the best I've read this week.
In all honesty, there are way too many aspects of this book that I loved, and if I listed them all here, this review would be as lengthy as a chapter, lol, so I'll just highlight a few.
In this book, the human adopted daughter of the Vampire King, Vincent, Oraya, tries to live in a world filled with creatures that are out to get her. In an effort to alter her destiny, she competes in a tournament modeled after the Hunger Games. She must work with Raihn, a vampire from a rival clan, in order to survive the competition, and as secrets begin to surface, she begins to question her allegiances and how she views the world.
Again, from the first page, the author completely engrossed me in the fantastic and fascinating universe she had created. The details were outstanding and helped to the eerie mood. We could observe the inhumane treatment of people, their low value, and sometimes even their hopelessness. Although the book isn't as bloody or grisly, it certainly has a dark and melancholy atmosphere, which I really liked.
The world building was superb, and we also get to learn about the background of the various vampires, as well as the conflicts between the houses, their gods and goddesses, and everything else. The slow burn, enemies to lovers story, great chemistry, awesome characters, and magic in this book were everything I looked for in a fantasy romance. The storyline was very intriguing, and the pacing was great.
You will experience a wide range of conflicting feelings because the characters are written so splendidly. There wasn't one of them that I didn't enjoy, despite the fact that they were all complicated, unhappy, strong, furious, and prone to making mistakes. At one stage, I despised all of them and believed that this was the final act, in which they would at least occasionally turn into the antagonist for each character. However, they are more complex than that.
This book has incredibly cross and intricate relationship. The bond between Vincent and Oraya is so painful to watch. She was battling her emotions for him, and I felt so bad for her. It's also obvious that Vincent loves her as a daughter, but it was hard to tell real reason. And I found it particularly amusing that she pointed out his frequent shifts between Vincent the Father and Vincent the King. Simply adding little touches like this can greatly increase how much you appreciate a book.
In the meantime, I loved their banter and thought Oraya and Raihn had such great chemistry! The chemistry is top notch, as is the push and pull. It's not overly explicit or drawn out, but there is certainly some spice towards to the end. While there is still a chance for a great outcome, neither of them are near to it yet, and I still admire them both dearly!
This book is simply amazing. It is dark and vengeful, action-packed with rounded characters, and it also includes adds to vampire lore for those who are craving them.
Altogether, I'm stunned! When the new book gets out, I can't wait to read it! I can't say enough how strongly I recommend. Please take up this book for yourself!...more
Wow, the second is when it really starts up! In contrast to the first volume, the second was even better. the conflict between the royals, the sufferiWow, the second is when it really starts up! In contrast to the first volume, the second was even better. the conflict between the royals, the suffering of the common people, and the struggle for control between ancient magical beings. Pretty soon, it turned nasty.
This book takes up five years after City of Brass' dramatic end. Ali is still exiled from his Kingdom, Muntadhir and Nahri are an unhappy couple, and Dara is forming questionable schemes with a new cast of significant figures that we are exposed to.
The tensions in this book are raised to an entirely new level. Everyone is stuck in the past and keeps putting the realm through a lot of hardship. Only Nahri and Ali appear to be ready to put aside centuries of conflict and bloodshed in order to steer Daevabad toward a more peaceful road.
If you're a fan of the characters, get ready because the dangers were greater. Undoubtedly, I was struck by Nahri and Ali's increased strength and competence. However, in this book, they also faced more family members to safeguard and greater threats.
There is almost constant activity. There is genuine character growth, and the characters are genuinely interesting. Although the point of view switches between Nahri, Ali, and Dara, each of their tales captured my interest, and it was simple to see the ties between the three plot lines and point-of-view characters. Each of these characters must surmount a unique challenge in their lives, and while doing so, they grapple with questions about their true selves and goals.
The pacing has significantly improved, and the plot is much more focused and clear. Just fantastic storytelling, here! The amount of intrigue, family drama, and city politics in this book was just right. Nobody stood on the right side. Everyone is acting in accordance with what they feel is correct while navigating a morally ambiguous situation.
And as I expected, S.A. Chakraborty's vivid and detailed descriptions of the settings, cultures, and various ethnicities in this series astounded me. There are numerous things to remember, including tribes, locations, words, and characters. The literary history of Islamic culture is respected, and there is amazing creativity in the specifics of the magic in this fantasy world.
Altogether, I wholeheartedly endorse this series! It is undoubtedly both heartbreaking and enjoyable to read....more
The writing in this book is exquisite. two half-brothers who are now adults strive to survive the effects of their traumatic upbringing in the story tThe writing in this book is exquisite. two half-brothers who are now adults strive to survive the effects of their traumatic upbringing in the story that follows. Yet in the end, they are saved by the love that Ella Rain, their caregiver, and they share for one another.
Unlike the typically excessively sensitive and preachy Christian author, the novel seemed real and vulnerable, but the book still had a very clear Christian message. While the plot is founded in tragedy, hope and perseverance are the overarching themes.
Each character exhibits a remarkable capacity for forgiveness as well as moral fortitude. The stunning scenery descriptions and the backdrop are both quite evocative. I typically read books by female authors, and I could tell this book had a strong male perspective.
The climax didn't wow me, and there were numerous distracting parts. Although the romance in the book was overdone, my opinion of it altered as I read more of the story. Despite this, I found myself wanting to keep reading to find out what happened next.
I have to admit that this book isn't really my bag, but it does have a lovely message overall....more
Marjorie Post by Pataki was a good read. I was completely unaware of who Marjorie Post was going to. I had no idea who she was other the fact that sheMarjorie Post by Pataki was a good read. I was completely unaware of who Marjorie Post was going to. I had no idea who she was other the fact that she had clearly created a name for herself. The author did an excellent job describing every aspect of Marjorie's life, including her early years, travels, residences, marriages, and kids. But I did learn a few things that left me feeling unsatisfied or below par.
She had a fascinating life, and I was astounded by both her talents and her modesty. She lived in a time when women didn't have any rights. She still succeeded in getting things done and raising her voice. A genuinely inspirational business leader, philanthropist, kind hostess, and friend who came from nothing.
Unfortunately, I wasn't a fan of this book. This story reads more like a biography than a work of fiction for the most part. Although it is written in the first person, you don't really get a good judgement of Marjorie as a person, and every significant incident is skimmed over at such a high level that there aren't really enough specifics about anything.
Instead of the majority of the story being about her fortune, her numerous houses, and her miserable marriages, I had thought the book would concentrate more on all facets of her life. People who knew just enough about her to be curious about learning more saw potential in the premise, and the summary portrayed her as an interesting person. It's somewhat disappointing.
Once more, I don't know enough about Marjorie Post to make a personal judgment about her. I'm even more disappointed in this book if she really is a beautiful person, as this book misrepresents her to be.
There's no denying that Marjorie Post is a fascinating person, and if you're primarily interested in learning about her opulent lifestyle and her position in high society during a fascinating period in American history, you'll likely appreciate this book more than I did.
If you want to learn more about her legacy as a businesswoman and philanthropist, you might want to look into some of the other biographies that have been written on her.
Overall, it's not that horrible to me personally. It all depends on what you expect from this genre and what you like....more
What I was expecting from this book was much exceeded. It's a lovely tale that spans several generations. The matriarch, Matelda, is on the verge of oWhat I was expecting from this book was much exceeded. It's a lovely tale that spans several generations. The matriarch, Matelda, is on the verge of old age and demise. She shares her mother's own love stories with her granddaughter as a reflection on her own life.
This story spans the years from the 1920s to the present and explores the depth of a family's love as well as its darkest secrets and trauma. It also has the most lovely love story in it. Among Tuscany, Marseilles, and Scotland, I discovered a slightly better World War II historical event.
The male and female characters are in stark contrast. All of the women are powerful, hardworking, and constantly selfless. Even though they are exhausted, they are also delighted. They are occasionally sarcastic and stubborn, but they are always affectionate. The guys, on the other hand, are not as much. Others are bad and careless. Even the best of the others, who are conscientious, honest, and kind, lack the strength of character that the women possess.
However, a number of the lengthy family secrets didn't exactly make sense to me, and there were a few too many side plots that slowed the plot down a little. I also found the frequent elaboration on the importance of family to be a little monotonous.
I'm not sure if it's just me, but I feel like the present characters are always portrayed in the worst possible ways, like the fuel for the story's aftermath, especially in this book-length case. Far too much for each book, and the individual deeds of contemporary characters lose their substance and become frivolous and bland in comparison.
Even so, it makes for a good to keep and quick read. wonderful harmony of bitter and sweet....more
I went into this book aware that it was historical fiction. As I read it, I got adjusted to the concept that it's so much more fiction than historicalI went into this book aware that it was historical fiction. As I read it, I got adjusted to the concept that it's so much more fiction than historical, which I found to be okay. The mystery known as The Christie Affair is built around the extraordinary and scandalous series of events that resulted in Agatha Christie going missing for 11 days in 1926. A tale of secrets, retaliation, and love that culminates in a shocking murder is revealed as seen through the eyes of Agatha Christies' husband's mistress.
Although there are several different locales and timelines in the book, I had no trouble following them. As the plot develops, there are numerous layers, surprising turns, and intriguing characters. The concept behind this book is great. A gripping plot revolves around Agatha Christie's fate and her reasons for leaving.
The focus of this book, however, is on Nan and her justification for taking Archie away from Agatha, who appears to be more of a supporting figure. When Nan shares her story, it is clear that she has experienced a lot of sorrow and tragedy in the past. She thinks she has an understanding of Christie's silent disappearance. It might not be favorable for people who want to read more about Agatha's.
The book lacks a little luster. It starts to feel overly drawn out and too long, but it still has some interesting chapters and a murder mystery, of course, and the conversation is pretty realistic for the time. The Christie Affair is a bold idea with promise, but I was left wanting more.
Regardless, it was still a fun and interesting read. This book may be for you if you want an alternative perspective on what happened in Harrogate during those eleven days....more
My first read by Fiona Davis! Honestly, the cover of the book caught my attention right away. The beautiful Magnolia Palace, depicted on the book's coMy first read by Fiona Davis! Honestly, the cover of the book caught my attention right away. The beautiful Magnolia Palace, depicted on the book's cover, refers to the Frick Collection in New York City, a strange but gorgeous venue that is home to most of the novel.
This literary gem features two distinct historical fiction plotlines, some light romance, and an unusual murder mystery. The first stream smoothly progresses through 1919, while the second stream gradually progresses through 1966, running like two books in one.
In 1919, Lillian, a model of the female form for artists at the time, loses her mother to the Spanish flu and turns out to be a key player in the murder of her landlord's wife. She accidentally accepts a position as Helen Frick's personal secretary, whose father is the owner of the mansion that will one day house the Frick Museum. The second timeline takes place in 1966, during a violent blizzard, when aspiring model Veronica Weber is stuck within the Frick Museum after being left behind following a photo shoot there.
What I enjoy most about reading historical fiction is that I constantly learn something new, often hard for me to believe but true nonetheless since it does occur in real life. This book had me search Google for more information about the Frick Museum and Audrey Munson, who is largely based on Lillian's character, and it also made me curious about the Frick Museum in general. really interesting things.
Number of specifics that actually existed in the Frick family history startled me. I was completely engrossed in both timelines and held fascinated by both stories. Regardless of the fact that I don't know a lot about art, the explanations in this book helped me to visualize the statues and paintings.
The story may have started out slowly, but once the pace picked up and it moved into the thriller category, it became more interesting and easier to read. The characters were incredibly believable, and the ending was incredibly fulfilling. by blending historically accurate details with fictional characters that were both inspired by and linked to real events.
Overall, I thought it was a really good book and would recommend it to anyone who like history or is curious about one of New York's most famous families and buildings while enjoying a good mystery!...more
I love this book so much! I can definitely finish reading it in a day if I am not distracted from my work. It featured a good balance of predictable aI love this book so much! I can definitely finish reading it in a day if I am not distracted from my work. It featured a good balance of predictable and unpredictable elements, keeping me interested while also maintaining a sense of plausibility. The whole time I was reading this, I was quite anxious.
The entire narrative is told from our MC Chloe's point of view, shifting between the present and the past and providing glimpses of her happy family before they abruptly fell apart. As she uses alcohol and prescription medications to treat her anxiety, she makes the ideal flawed, uncertain narrator who is unsure of whom to believe. An extremely sinister secret that Chloe Davis, a psychologist, is keeping from both her patients and the majority of the world.
Each character was really appealing to me. All of them had something to hide, and they were all really fascinating. Although I thought several of them were introduced at odd places or seemingly out of nowhere. Regardless of whether it was to confuse us or to convey more about Chloe's past, characteristics, and concerns, I could still make the case that they all had a reason.
Whereas the pacing is a touch off and Chloe's emotions often repeat themselves, overall the writing flows nicely and the Louisiana location of the story is evocative and eloquently described. Still, the suspense and tension are beautifully built, and even though I had my suspicions about the murderer's identity, it didn't stop me from enjoying the plot's many turns.
It's obvious that this is the kind of psychological thriller that places a strong emphasis on the psychological. There are a few drawbacks, but nothing that will prevent you from having fun. What an impressive debut!...more
Even though it's not one of my favorites, the more I read this, the more I fell in love with it. Getting into the novels and figuring out the dual timEven though it's not one of my favorites, the more I read this, the more I fell in love with it. Getting into the novels and figuring out the dual timelines and what precisely is happening does frequently take me a bit.
The narrative centers on Kayla, a young woman getting ready to settle into her new house in Round Hill, North Carolina. Unexpectedly, a strange woman named Ellie approaches her and advises her that she shouldn't move into the house and that it should never have been constructed there in the first place. This worries Kayla, and as odd occurrences begin to take place on the property, she becomes genuinely alarmed.
Two timelines—1965 and 2010—make up the majority of the book, as many other reviewers have highlighted. The year 1965 has without a doubt the most action and character growth. However, the unanswered questions from 1965 are at the heart of the conflict in 2010.
Actually, I liked the 1965 timeline better than the 2010 one, and it rattled me whenever we went to 2010. I resume up where I left off in 1965, meeting the characters from Ellie's story and other 1965 characters. Where I also learned about the Scope Project, what occurs in 1965 is tragic. I adored how eerie the background was. My heartstrings were pulled by this heartbreaking book, which hit me square in the gut.
Having said that, this story has a lot of heart, plenty of thought-provoking material, and enough intrigue to keep you guessing until the very end. In some ways the tragic end was inevitable, yet the resolve felt appropriate. As usual, Chamberlain tackles difficult subjects head-on while writing sensitively. Chamberlain deserves praise for emphasizing voting rights in the story in this regard.
However I simply wish there was a more equally balanced viewpoint from each character. Ellie's chapters, for example, had more substance than Kayla's, which served more as a story tool. It took me some time to warm up to Ellie, and Kayla's character wasn't fully developed either.
The central issues are systemic racism and inequality, but Chamberlain barely scratches the surface. I wish there had been more information about the SCOPE Project, Wyn and the downtrodden, and Ellie and her family. Instead, this is a tale about Ellie and Kayla making amends for past wrongs. There are lessons to be learnt, but they are concealed by the myth of the white savior.
Although it is difficult to read, this topic is crucial and still current. This book was still enjoyable to read and has a powerful message about the ongoing struggle for civil rights....more
If you have read "Little fires everywhere" or "Everything I never told you," then you are likely aware that this book is not your usual Celeste Ng booIf you have read "Little fires everywhere" or "Everything I never told you," then you are likely aware that this book is not your usual Celeste Ng book. To read this book and emotionally prepare for what you'll experience, I truly think you need to be in the appropriate frame of mind.
Even while I wasn't completely absorbed in this book the entire time I read it, I was definitely interested. In some ways, this book may have acted as a vehicle for processing some of the trauma associated with the tragedies and injustices that have surfaced during the previous four years in the United States. The book weighs a lot.
The themes of family, love, sacrifice, and racially driven injustice are all present in Our Missing Hearts, which is a brilliantly written, moving, and timely book. It presents a bleak and dystopian image of a country where injustice, bigotry, and discrimination are tolerated in the sake of preserving society's ideals, culture, and economic stability. Innocent youngsters have been forcibly removed from their homes, severing families apart.
The narrative itself is very captivating. The people you encounter along the road really well round out the plot. There were so many personalities, and they were all well described. Each of their tales contributes to the overall narrative and message of the book.
Unfortunately, it was rather sluggish paced and lacked any depth of personality that you could have wanted. Yes, everything flowed together nicely, but when I think about the story's deeper concept, I realize that the characters could use more nuance and complexity.
By the time it was through, I was just a little disappointed. I'm not trying to be hypercritical of this point since I think it works because I honestly don't know how else she could have concluded it. But compared to Ng's other two books, I think this one simply kind of faded out for me rather than having a snappy, exciting ending. It's basically a rush of everything and nothing at once.
I completely comprehend and feel with the disappointment this is inflicting. However, I did enjoy the start of the story and the overall premise, so I'll stay with a neutral rating....more
I found the narrative to be sad but beautiful. but regrettably not my preferred. I chose this book because I was very interested in finding out about I found the narrative to be sad but beautiful. but regrettably not my preferred. I chose this book because I was very interested in finding out about the connection that develops between two ladies from quite different generations, but it didn't live up to my expectations.
The premise of this book is quite intriguing. But I didn't get it. The entire story also seemed a little off balance. Lenni and Margot's friendship in the present was not given nearly as much attention as I had hoped to hear about or see develop throughout the book. There are several from Margot's past, but very few from Lenni's. That did not satisfy me either.
Lenni and Margot took far too long to get together for me. I don't mind gradual builds, but this time I found the first half of the book to be boring. The current timeline is supposed to continue, however there are flashbacks of Lenni and Margot's pasts dotted throughout the narrative. But because the glints were so fleeting, I was unable to empathize with the characters.
It's lovely in certain ways, but not the way I like it. A few of the book's messages resonated with me, and I felt the ending was quite moving, but overall, I found it to be a little underwhelming and won't remember it....more
It was a pleasure to read. It was an intense, heartfelt book with many highs and lows. In the novel, Eudora, a charming and kind old woman, makes frieIt was a pleasure to read. It was an intense, heartfelt book with many highs and lows. In the novel, Eudora, a charming and kind old woman, makes friends with Stanley, an elderly man, and Rose, a cute small child. The three goes on some great excursions together and develops deep affection for one another.
The flashbacks to Eudora's earlier life throughout the novel were really fascinating. The majority of chapters conclude with a brief background that explains why Eudora is now alone and has no family to spend her final years with since she has always put others' happiness ahead of her own.
Even though Eudora isn't nice and fuzzy, I appreciated how those snippets from her background helped us understand how she got to be the person she is today. She carried the weight of the world on her shoulders while neglecting her own. She seemed really genuine, and I enjoyed following her as her life developed.
Rose, on the other hand, is a vibrant young girl who is difficult to not adore. Rose not only brings life to Eudora's life but also to the readers' lives. Every time I read about her interactions with each person, I can't help but feel incredibly warm. Not to be forgotten is Stanley, who brings joy wherever he goes while grieving for his deceased wife. He is the kind of friend we need to irritate us and distract us from reality.
The characters were all wonderful in every way! With them, it was simple to fall in love. The writing is clear and the pace is quick. This book reminded me a lot of A Man Called Ove, but I didn't mind it at all. Even with a somewhat different take on the same premise, I still enjoyed it.
Definitely suggest reading this book! Your heart will rejoice and break in different places throughout the book....more
After showing interest in this book before its release, I finally found the time to read it, and as usual, the love triangle left me feeling absolutelAfter showing interest in this book before its release, I finally found the time to read it, and as usual, the love triangle left me feeling absolutely torn. Honestly, The book was enjoyable enough, but there were a few things that I would find difficult to accept in real life.
So when Fred, the man she had a fleeting but unforgettable day with six years ago, turns up as a plus-one, Audrey's doubts begin to grow the day before her wedding to Josh. Does she try to change the future? Whom will she decide on?
If you stick with the plot, the story picks up steam and occasionally hops over time, and it is well worth it. One of the highlights is when Josh and Audrey were on the plane in an obviously ridiculous situation. The conversation between them is just hilarious.
The backstory of how Audrey and Josh met and fell in love was incredibly beautiful and endearing while being sloppy and crazy. It made me love them as a couple. The beginning of Audrey and Fred's story was lovely too, but I found the conclusion to be incredibly ambiguous.
I disliked the way that Audrey seemed to be using trauma as a justification for her actions. I do wish that the book had dealt with Audrey's trauma in a more thorough manner. Her past and her relationship with her mother had a lot to be explained. She needed it so much to grow, and I thought it was resolved too quickly.
I also didn't like how Audrey's past suddenly caused her to second guess her choices on the wedding day and feel just a little bit like she was cheating on Josh. Nobody wants their fiancé to betray them by casting doubt on their relationship simply because they rekindled with an old flame or someone they once had a connection with.
Even still, there were points during the book when I didn't agree with her actions and found myself getting annoyed with her. But near the close, I was able to comprehend her better. I still have appreciation to her development and journey.
Although the plot of this book sounded really intriguing to me, I believe it could have been done better. The approach, in my opinion, works effectively since it keeps the reader guessing as to what will actually occur at the wedding as the tension in the chapters set in the present day builds.
I wouldn't say this was my favorite book by Cousens, but I truly appreciate how she maintains her distinctive writing style across each of her works. I really enjoy how she has a good sense of humor in her book; I can't stop laughing. She also has a great world building and side characters. Everything included in this book.
This story has a lot of entertaining parts! I believe many people will find it to be a good story. It just wasn't the ideal match for me :)...more
This book perfectly fits the cozy romance genre. I was seeking for a quick read and the cover of this book caught my eye. Nothing let me down. A deligThis book perfectly fits the cozy romance genre. I was seeking for a quick read and the cover of this book caught my eye. Nothing let me down. A delightful and heartwarming love story set in the picturesque village of Foxmore.
The story follows Rowena, a single mother of Nia, age four (nearly five! ), who resides in the charming Welsh town of Foxmore. Rowena and Huw, the new guy in town, are the subject of the book's love tale, which is not your typical romance. It also emphasizes the affection of her close group and, above all, the love of a mother for her daughter.
The characters and how they interacted were likable and entertaining to me. There were a few hot moments, but not enough to overshadow the story's appeal. As a reader, you can actually sense the chemistry between Rowena and Hue, and the narrative itself was interesting.
Another significant plot point in the book emphasized how crucial it is to avoid single-use plastics anytime available. I'm all for sustainable, environmentally friendly activities, but this book is rather "preachy" about it; I think some people may find it to be too much, while others may find it to be acceptable. But in my opinion, it goes into way too much detail.
The book was enjoyable to read all around. Even though I knew how it would end, I still smiled. I am really excited for the series' second book.
The book is scheduled to be released on January 19, 2023! If you enjoy cozy romances, please add this book to your list right now :).
I received a free early copy of the book from Canelo and NetGalley; this review is my voluntary and uninfluenced opinion....more
In all honesty, this book didn't come out the way I had thought. While I adore Christmas tales, this wasn't quite festive enough.
I'll try to review tIn all honesty, this book didn't come out the way I had thought. While I adore Christmas tales, this wasn't quite festive enough.
I'll try to review them separately when this eBook actually contains two short stories, One involves an event planner and a hot rock star-turned-producer who become stranded in a lodge; the other involves a theatre director and an aspiring actress who also become stranded in some way due to snow.
Snowed in with the Billionaire:
In Snowed in with a Billionaire, things didn't get off to the best of starts. The first time Ace sees Paige, he acts jerkily and without cause. For my tastes, his demeanor fluctuates a little bit, sometimes treating her with love and other times being a little bit harsh. He seemed to be only interested in having sex with Paige. Paige's inner monologue was absurd; if you want the man, go grab him or stand up for yourself!
The other "characters," if we could even consider them that, are so little in comparison that I really couldn't remark on them because I didn't know anything about them or see anything that made them stand out.
Christmas with the Billionaire:
This quick winter read generates a lot of heat. Even if some of their behaviors are hasty, Jill and Oliver are fairly likeable. They get along well with one another. Their arguments of contention were convincing enough, and the conclusion wasn't hurried.
But there isn't really any explanation for the MCs' immediate attraction to one another. We only see the guy suddenly drooling over the girl when she manages to catch his eye. How should I feel about this?
Overall, neither the plot nor the characters grew much in any of the stories. I found it difficult to care about what happened to any of them because of the undeveloped lot and MCs. Apart from the fact that it was set at Christmas, I didn't find this novel to be very merry, and the romance left much to be desired.
Yet, each of the stories were essentially identical, making them predictable. I don't truly think they are very attracted to each other because of the romances' rapid onset.
Although there were plenty of sexual scenes in Snowed In With The Billionaire, they came out too over to me and like filler. They weren't necessary to the plot, and they weren't the best written scenes I've ever read, to be honest.
Maybe I shouldn't be so upset since it was a free ebook that I downloaded from Google Books' "recommended for you" section.
Though I don't think I would recommend this book to anyone, if you guys want to give it a shot, by all means, do so! This book is clearly not made for me. Hope you find this book to be a perfect fit....more
It is such a distinctive and beautiful fusion of women's fiction and Christian romance. A heartwarming Christmas tale that also allows us to chuckle aIt is such a distinctive and beautiful fusion of women's fiction and Christian romance. A heartwarming Christmas tale that also allows us to chuckle and humbles us a little. The author has a talent for digging deep into your soul and reaching the core of the story.
I adore how this book was written since it was narrated by a grandmother to her grandchild. As this strange tale is told, I couldn't help but smile as I saw Peter, a minister, and Hank, a bar owner and friend, trade places the week before Christmas. In the spirit of Christ's love over the holiday season, both have eye-opening experiences and meet some new acquaintances.
I felt at ease around all of these characters and they were all people I would want to spend out with. They were convincing and lifelike. This wasn't a fluffy holiday tale; rather, it was a little more introspective and emotional, in the tradition of Debbie Macomber's endearing storytelling.
The story itself is fantastic and entertaining. This novel, in my opinion, depicts the true spirit of the holiday. Despite being somewhat predictable, this novel contains all you could ask for in a heartwarming Christmas story and much more than you would have imagined.
This is a light-hearted read that is likely to put a smile on your face due to its amusing, heartwarming, and romantic situations. I highly recommend!...more