This review will be very brief because it reflects bullying and can be triggering for those who suffered in high school from it. I think it3.5/5 stars
This review will be very brief because it reflects bullying and can be triggering for those who suffered in high school from it. I think it left me feeling a bit raw and emotional, as I was bullied as a kid as well. It's a very quick read, and I think it's eye-opening at times. Love, Heather initially comes off as a Mean Girls-esque type of read, but as you dive into the story, it is much, much deeper. Love, Heather is a very fast read, and you can definitely finish it in one sitting. Be prepared for some shocking events to unfold—this "young adult" book is not for the faint of heart....more
Without spoiling the book's slow building story, The Beekeeper of Aleppo is a beautifully tragic adventure of one family's escape from Aleppo in 2Without spoiling the book's slow building story, The Beekeeper of Aleppo is a beautifully tragic adventure of one family's escape from Aleppo in 2015 during the height of the Syrian Civil War. As the Civil War continues, much of Syria's civilian population is fleeing the country due to humanitarian violations. In The Beekeeper of Aleppo, we meet Nuri and Afra—a married couple living in Aleppo with their extended family—beekeepers and developers of honey-based products. They are enjoying a relatively normal life in Aleppo, until the War began. After a few devastating consequences imposed on the family during the initial proceedings of battle (I will not spoil them for you in this review), the family decides it's time to venture to the United Kingdom. They have friends and family there and can work together to survive. The Beekeeper of Aleppo shows a peek at one family's trials and tribulations during their journey throughout Europe and getting asylum in the United Kingdom. This beautifully told story really captivated me and really held me engaged throughout the story. I think that anyone who has been reading/listening to the news and knows about the Syrian Civil War (which should be everybody! hello, stop living under a rock) then this book needs to be on your reading list. I was already very sympathetic towards the refugee crisis in Europe (and now in the United States), but this story is next level remarkable. ...more
First and foremost, I see that there's a lot of mixed reviews for this title, so I must assume that either they aren't: a) queer folks who identify inFirst and foremost, I see that there's a lot of mixed reviews for this title, so I must assume that either they aren't: a) queer folks who identify in the LGBTQ+ community; and/or b) never stepped foot in New York City—the premise of the book is dating in NYC and literally everyone dines out instead of cooks when your apartment is the size of a normal person's closet.
I just had to state that clarifying statement before I began my review of James Gregor's debut novel, Going Dutch because I'm actually quite annoyed to see some lackluster reviews for it with little supporting basis as to why.
Going Dutch is centered around one protagonist, Richard—a twenty-something year old graduate student, struggling to live in Brooklyn while completing his education. As he is struggling financially, he is also having a difficult time in his program trying to get financial aid through his writing grants. Richard identifies as a gay man and is having trouble meeting the right guy. Between flaky first dates, swiping left and right, and hook-up apps ruining dating culture, Richard is tired of going through with this process, each time leaving him disappointed.
One of Richard's colleagues, Anne, is the daughter of rich parents, who help fund her lifestyle. Anne is an overweight, lonely woman, who is desperate for companionship and sets up an arrangement with Richard. She will help write his papers, as long as he can provide his companionship. Anne understands that Richard is gay, but just wants to have someone to talk to. As their relationship develops into something a little more complicated, Richard ends up meeting the guy of his dreams. This successful lawyer, Blake is the complete package and has won Richard over. What starts off as an innocent love triangle eventually gets way more complicated. Richard has a decision to make—is he ready for commitment with the perfect guy or will Anne's privilege and power be too much for him to turn away?
Going Dutch is a no-nonsense romantic dramedy that throws away the connotation that romance novels need to have a picturesque fairy tale storyline. This book is dark, honest, and direct—millennials are struggling in our country and in New York anything goes. The glamour and glitz of the wealthy in New York can be alluring to those who want it most, and sometimes that can definitely get in the way of dating, even as a gay man. Living in New York, I actually know people who have had similar predicaments as Richard and it literally is like putting a mirror in front of their faces for me.
I enjoyed this book a lot, even at times where it felt it was a little too pretentious for me. I guess it's because the story is so well written that I forget that this is how talented writers assemble their stories. I've been stuck in the thriller game for too long folks! This book definitely was a good palate cleanser for me, and kind of makes me want to take a break from reading mystery/thrillers! I can't believe I'm actually writing this right now! This book comes out 8/20, so it'll be the perfect lounge chair read this Labor Day Weekend. I finished it within a day—I couldn't put it down! Let me know in the comments what you think about Going Dutch. James Gregor, I'm ready for your next book!
I spent my entire day reading this book without putting it down. Christina Lauren continue to excite readers with their twisted romance drama novels, I spent my entire day reading this book without putting it down. Christina Lauren continue to excite readers with their twisted romance drama novels, book after book. Twice in a Blue Moon will be their second book released this year (and fourth in the last two years!), but it is hands down their strongest novel yet. Usually, I'm not a big fan of romance novels, as I tend to feel that they are too campy and unbelievable at times, but Twice in a Blue Moon has a totally different atmosphere than any of Christina Lauren's previous works.
The story is centered around Tate Jones—daughter of famous actor Ian Butler. Ian is an A-List movie heartthrob, but Tate has grown up much of her life without any engagement with her father. While she is vacationing in London with her Nana, Tate meets the intoxicating Sam Brandis. Sam and his grandfather Luther are also vacationing together. While Tate is from the rural outskirts of San Francisco, Sam is from a farm in Vermont. As the two get to know each other more during their trip, Tate realizes that she's falling head over heels in love with Sam. By the end of the trip, Sam takes Tate's virginity—but by the time Tate arrives back to the states, Sam also is her first heartbreak.
The book alternates under two timelines, first with Tate's UK trip and later with Tate as an adult and an established actress in Hollywood. As Tate's celebrity continues to rise, she is put in an unexpected confrontation with the man who broke her heart fourteen years ago. Tate must decide if she can move on from her first love's betrayal, but also continue juggling her new celebrity status without getting manipulated by the media.
I really enjoyed Twice in a Blue Moon because it didn't sugar coat the tribulations of relationships and sex. It's a refreshingly honest outtake on love and heartache, infused with a little Hollywood flair. I was able to understand the aches and pains that Tate was going through, while also being kept at a distance due to her life in entertainment. It kept me engaged while also being thoroughly entertained by the glam, glitz, and backstabbing gleam of Tate's lifestyle. Twice in a Blue Moon is unputdownable and I expect anyone who's read a Christina Lauren book before to fall in love with this upcoming romance drama. ...more
Bumped up to 4 since it's a debut novel by the dynamic duo Teresa Sorkin and Tullan Holmqvist.
The Woman in the Park is a great novella that will Bumped up to 4 since it's a debut novel by the dynamic duo Teresa Sorkin and Tullan Holmqvist.
The Woman in the Park is a great novella that will keep you guessing. The protagonist, Sarah Rock, lives a privileged life in Manhattan with her husband and two children. Sarah's children are in boarding school and her husband works intense hours, leaving her with little drive or purpose. She has therapy appointments, in between yoga and reading in the park. One day, police arrive at her doorstep to ask her about a woman who's been missing, but Sarah is confused because police are insinuating that Sarah is the lead suspect in this case. Why would Sarah have anything to do with this woman's disappearance? Sarah is already battling her own demons with an all time high level of stress—her husband is quite possibly having an affair! Sarah now needs to defend herself at all costs.
I can't say too much more about The Woman in the Park because it's a short, fast read. If I tell you any more, it would spoil how it turns out. The book is divided in two distinct parts—the first part setting the storyline, while the second part throws a wrench into the plot and changes everything. I really enjoyed how the story developed, and I wanted more! The second part moves fast so make sure to:
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The Woman in the Park is a perfect beach read, or just a "night in" kind of story that you can finish in one sitting. If you enjoy books written by AJ Banner, this is definitely a type of story you will enjoy. I ended up really connecting with some of the characters, and felt their anguish while the story developed. Overall, I would definitely say this was a great debut novel and I can't wait to see what these authors come up with next....more
Never Have I Ever was my first read by Joshilyn Jackson, and I heard that this is a change of pace for the author because she usually writes conteNever Have I Ever was my first read by Joshilyn Jackson, and I heard that this is a change of pace for the author because she usually writes contemporary women's fiction novels. Have no fear though, because this book is in the same realm that she would typically write.
Amy Whey lives in a suburban town, where her neighborhood has all become friends, and everyone rallies and supports each other. Amy hosts regular book club gatherings with the local mothers and it usually includes wine, light banter, and bonding time. That is, until a new neighbor shows up to the book club. Her name is Angelica Roux and she's about the change everything. Angelica (aka Roux) is vibrant and charming, but she knows more than she's letting on. She knows about Amy's past that has been kept secret for years, but would she know? As Amy tries to navigate her newfound frienemy, her past starts unraveling and secrets start surfacing. What can Amy do to make sure that Roux doesn't destroy the life that she set up?
Never Have I Ever is a light neighborhood drama, infused with a few sprinkles of mystery. If you like anything by Jessica Strawser, this book is definitely up your alley. While the pacing was slower than I would've liked, Jackson has clever tricks and turns while delivering the story. You'll be pleasantly surprised by how it all settles. ...more
Ellen LaCorte's upcoming thriler The Perfect Fraud is a fun, light mystery, that is perfect for anyone who likes Alafair Burke. I won't provide toEllen LaCorte's upcoming thriler The Perfect Fraud is a fun, light mystery, that is perfect for anyone who likes Alafair Burke. I won't provide too much of a review, but if you are a seasoned thriller connoisseur like I am, this book is a little too predictable. LaCourte's writing is impeccable and honestly, it was a lot of fun navigating through this story. If you aren't a big thriller reader, and want to read something fun and fast, The Perfect Fraud will be a good choice. ...more
The Last House Guest is my first venture into the world of Megan Miranda's writing, and I'm shocked it's taken me this long. In the same vein of RThe Last House Guest is my first venture into the world of Megan Miranda's writing, and I'm shocked it's taken me this long. In the same vein of Ruth Ware, Miranda delivers a fast-paced light mystery that is sure to be a top choice for summer reading. It's a quick, lightly sprinkled mystery, and just superficial enough to deliver entertainment, while hanging at the beach, or while serving your second (or third) glass of wine.
The story takes place in Littleport, Maine—a scenic beauty of a town that is both vacation town for the rich, and a fishing/boating town for the middle class. Avery Greer comes from one of those middle class families, but she associates herself with the upper tier of the town's society by developing a friendship and sisterhood with Sadie Loman. Sadie's family is part of the notorious Loman family, and they basically own everything. The family is very wealthy, and the town treats them as local royalty. Each summer, Sadie and her family vacation in Littleport, and Avery's relationship with both Sadie and her family develops seamlessly. However, in the summer of 2017, after a night of partying, Sadie turns up dead. It appears as if she committed suicide, but Avery cannot believe her strong-willed, confident, best friend would ever do such a thing. As the community begins to rally against Avery's beliefs that Sadie was murdered, it appears that someone does not want the truth behind Sadie's death to leak. Avery will avenge her best friend's death, even if it means that she has to fight off those who are out to get her as well.
The Last House Guest is a fun read, but at times was a little exhausting with it's melodramatics. It starts a little slow, but once the action gets going, it gets going! As the mystery started to unravel, the dialogue between Avery and the supporting characters was where the melodramatics played in. At moments, I caught myself rolling my eyes and outwardly saying, "wow this book is so corny". However, the mystery behind The Last House Guest is amazing. The way the author wrapped up the story behind Sadie's death was original, and honestly I did not expect it coming in the slightest. As mentioned before, The Last House Guest is a perfect beach read, so go into it knowing that it's on the lighter side when it comes to storytelling, and you'll be just fine. ...more
Alex Dahl is a new writer and came out with a blockbuster hit last summer called The Boy at the Door. You would never expect a new author to come up wAlex Dahl is a new writer and came out with a blockbuster hit last summer called The Boy at the Door. You would never expect a new author to come up with something completely different for their second novel, but The Heart Keeper feels like it was written by a completely different person, and I appreciate that. This book is more of a drama than a suspense/thriller novel, so go into The Heart Keeper knowing that, and you'll enjoy it much more.
Allison is in bereavement, coping after the death of her daughter Amalie. Amalie drowned in a traumatic accident, and her family is left to pick up the pieces. Allison's husband Sindre and her stepson Oliver are also struggling with Amalie's death and the trio knows they just have to move on. Amalie's body was donated so others could live. In the same realm, Iselin's daughter Kaia needed a heart transplant, and was given Amalie's heart. As Allison's desperation for her daughter grows, so does her reactionary behavior. Kaia has Allison's daughter's heart, and she wants her.
First and foremost, I respect Alex Dahl's ability to change paths between her books. Usually authors play it safe with their second novel, but The Heart Keeper is a strong contender for a second book release. It's a sensitive topic, dealing with organ donation, the death of a child, and a mother's willingness to continue. I think this book will resonate with a lot of mothers and those who could relate to the families in the story. It's not a full suspense novel that you may expect given her debut novel was dripping with it, but it is a strong family drama. I think The Heart Keeper will be a summer hit that we will all be talking about. ...more
Liz Fenton and Lisa Steinke have been slaying the game together as a writing duo for years now, but nothing comes close to their upcoming m4.5 stars!!
Liz Fenton and Lisa Steinke have been slaying the game together as a writing duo for years now, but nothing comes close to their upcoming mystery novel, The Two Lila Bennetts. Their upcoming mystery novel solidifies them as a force to be reckoned with! Told under two realities, Lila must come to terms about her behavior with her career and with her personal life. Without giving much away (you can read the synopsis if you want more of the backstory), Lila is a defense attorney and she is notorious for working with some of the most vile and cruel people in the courtroom, only to provide them protection under the law. She doesn't treat her marriage or friends with the respect they deserve. Until she is forced to realize that her behavior needs a change, Lila is enjoying the fruits of her labor. Once Lila is faced with the horrible reality that her behavior has vicious consequences, she must decide what is important to her most.
I know that small synopsis is so vague, but honestly that is the most important takeaway from The Two Lila Bennetts. This story is told in a unique way, that at first can be difficult to follow. It starts off as one storyline and then folds into two different, but equally as gripping realities. As the story unfolds in both worlds, it eventually comes together as one strong, amazingly told story. The writing in this book is the strongest I've ever seen from Lisa and Liz, and that says a lot because the duo know how to write a story! It's honestly the best beach read of 2019—I read it in one day, and would've 100% finished it if I was laying on a beach chair enjoying the sun! It's a light mystery, and it doesn't go too dark for the the more squeamish readers, so you can definitely enjoy this book without worry! The Two Lila Bennetts allows the reader to determine what exactly makes a person "good" or "bad", and it gave me the chance to determine my own actions in life as well. Rarely does a book provide such a profound experience. ...more
I was supposed to read Boy Swallows Universe for my book club this month (you can follow along with it on Instagram @scaredsuspensebookclub), but I was supposed to read Boy Swallows Universe for my book club this month (you can follow along with it on Instagram @scaredsuspensebookclub), but I ended up falling into a binge-read last night and couldn't put it down! Trent Dalton mentions that Boy Swallows Universe loosely resembles his childhood, and especially his relationship with his mother. I am shaken to my core that stories like this are actual representations of how some people coexist in society. Moments like this just show how I take my privilege for granted, and I really should be thankful for what I've been given in the thirty years of my life so far.
Boy Swallows Universe is a heartbreaking coming-of-age story, that follows a teenage boy, Eli Bell, from childhood into early adulthood during the 1980s. Eli grew up in rural Australia, with a mother and stepfather who abuse heroin, and sell drugs to get by. While his parents are working, his babysitter Slim watches over him and his brother August. Slim is a notorious criminal, famous for the most prison escapes in Australia. Growing up in Darra, Eli's family is intertwined with Vietnamese drug cartels, and mob bosses such as Tytus Broz. Tytus is a legendary drug dealer who owns a prosthetics company, and fronts as a philanthropist to the unknown innocent world around him.
As Eli grows up in Darra, his life is thrown curveballs at every direction. From parents who don't know how to "adult", to growing up with no opportunity to succeed, Eli and his brother August learn to take care of each other at an early age. Boy Swallows Universe is a story about a boy's discovery into becoming a man and what makes a man good or bad?
Alright, alright! I should've waited to read Boy Swallows Universe with my book club, but I really couldn't put it down after just checking out the story, and I mean haven't we've all been there before? *raises hand awkwardly* Every single character in this story is important in some capacity, and you will feel enamored by how they engage with each other. Boy Swallows Universe reads like a true story, because it's too emotionally driven to be completely made up. Trent Dalton uses his own experiences growing up to craft this beautiful story about love, family, heartbreak, crime, and society's unfair advantages in life. I want to note that I've been seeing this story pop up for LGBT fiction, and there's literally zero mention, allusions, or foreshadowing of any LGBT themes in any capacity in this book. Just mentioning it now, so you don't get discouraged when you read this title and see no mentions of it in the story.
I really can't harp on how amazing Boy Swallows Universe anymore than I already have. It's over 430 pages, and I finished the book in a day—that should really speak volumes as to how addictive this book can be! Boy Swallows Universe will be released in the United States on April 2, and I really think this is a book that everyone should pick up—you won't be disappointed....more
Kerri O'Malley was just laid off from her job, and is not optimistic about her future plans with her boyfriend/friend with benefits. When she turns onKerri O'Malley was just laid off from her job, and is not optimistic about her future plans with her boyfriend/friend with benefits. When she turns on the local news, she sees Jordana Pierson speaking about her wedding planning company. Shocked to see the woman who ruined Kerri's life years ago, she has found the urge of what she wants to do. Kerri wants to seek revenge on this woman and show her what her actions ended up doing to her. Jordana is married to a successful hedge fund manager, and is living the life many only dream of. She knows what she did to Kerri years ago is unforgivable, but she did so to provide herself the future she deserves. With her past behind her, Jordana is looking towards the future. However, she doesn't know that Kerri is coming to get what's hers.
Go into Emily Liebert's Pretty Revenge with an open mind, and you'll enjoy it as much as I did. This page turner is fast-paced, fun, and straightforward. No mystery or twist to provide shock value, but just good ole' fashion revenge. I didn't necessarily love any of the characters, but I found the story so amusing! I see a lot of mixed reviews, but I think it you go in knowing the banter is light and the story is focused on Kerri and Jordana's dynamic, you'll totally be on board with it. If you enjoyed Jessica Knoll's The Luckiest Girl Alive, you'll definitely LOVE this story. ...more
I Invited Her In just sounds like a dark psychological thriller, right?! The name alone enticed m3 stars, right down the middle. Mini review time!
I Invited Her In just sounds like a dark psychological thriller, right?! The name alone enticed me into picking it up for February, but I feel as though my palate for these domestic thrillers has officially died by the end of 2018. I'm mentally exhausted reading books that are all focused on similar attributes, with minor deviations in the plot. Mel is a single parent, but also has a loving boyfriend Ben, and her kids are her greatest joy. Randomly, out of the blue, Abigail (Abi), emails her about her impending divorce. Abi is struggling, and reaches out to Mel so she can have a place to stay for a little bit. Mel reluctantly agrees—she's apprehensive, due to the dark history the two shared at university. Mel is holding in secrets about why she decided to transfer colleges, but is too scared to provide Abigail the honesty that she deserves. Maybe allowing her to stay at her house and get back on her feet will be the best way to clear her conscience?
This review will be short, because the blurb that I've provided alone should suffice as an introduction. I've never read anything by Adele Parks, but I Invited Her In definitely feels like something that BA Paris would craft. If you've enjoyed any of Paris's novels, such as Behind Closed Doors, or The Breakdown, than I think you'll really enjoy I Invited Her In. While I figured out the plot less than halfway through the novel, the writing is definitely a strong candidate for those who like thrillers, but can get scared or intimidated by them easily. I think reviews for this title will be all over the map, but isn't that what's important; getting people talking! ...more
In 2009, a group of Bushwick (gentrified hipster neighborhood in Brooklyn) twenty-something year olds's lives were changed forever when their best friIn 2009, a group of Bushwick (gentrified hipster neighborhood in Brooklyn) twenty-something year olds's lives were changed forever when their best friend Edie committed suicide. Almost a decade later, the group has disbanded and all gone their own ways. Some moved out of the state, some got married, but one person in particular, Lindsay, has been stuck living in the past. After she reconciles with one of the other people in their clique and have dinner, Lindsay starts questioning Edie's death. Was it really a suicide or has this been a conspiracy the entire time?
The Lost Night deals with some heavy topics, including drugs, alcohol abuse, sex, and violence. None of the thematic elements in this novel should deter you because Andrea Bartz is able to weave these in the story in a respectful and honest way. While the story is a light mystery at best for those who are fluent in the genre, it does provide a good investigative narrative that may interest those testing the waters with mystery novels. I really can't speak about the story more than I already have, because it's best to go in blind. The Lost Night is a slow burning mystery, that will leave you grasping at straws to whodunnit until the very last page. ...more
I didn't get a chance to read Liv Constantine's debut novel The Last Mrs. Parrish, so when I got my hands on their upcoming novel The Last Time I SI didn't get a chance to read Liv Constantine's debut novel The Last Mrs. Parrish, so when I got my hands on their upcoming novel The Last Time I Saw You, I knew that Chelsea and I needed to pick this for our May Scared Suspense Book Club selection (you can follow the bookclub on Instagram @scaredsuspensebookclub). Sadly, this book is not up to par with what I was expecting. Maybe it was high hopes, but I'm seeing a lot of negative reviews for this title as each day passes. It just came off very unbelievable, over-the-top melodramatic, and soap opera-y, if that makes sense.
I'd love to talk more about this book at our book club so if you plan to read it for the month of May, join us!...more
Temper is a very quick read, that you should totally go in blind! You know I enjoy blubbering about the synopsis, but this time you need to just kTemper is a very quick read, that you should totally go in blind! You know I enjoy blubbering about the synopsis, but this time you need to just know that it's a distant relative to ML Rio's If We Were Villains. Kira is a struggling actor, and her personal life is just as crazy as her trying to break into the theater world. Kira auditions for a role and meets director Malcolm Mercer. Malcolm has a reputation for being extremely cruel to his actors, and also has a personal reputation for being a womanizer. Kira believes she can overcome Malcolm's advances and make her new gig the best part she's ever had. The theatre's co-founder, Joanna Cuyler is not impressed by Kira and her acting ability. She believes that Kira is using her sexuality to advance her career and is lacking in the drive and talent department. Will Kira be able to make this part the best job she's ever had? Will her own insecurities get the best of her?
Temper is definitely a story that I wasn't expecting. It's not as suspense-driven as I thought it would be, but it's definitely a good character study. We really dive into themes of sexuality, power, and manipulation; and the story is a juicy quick read for you to enjoy. I really loved how the author handled sexuality and orientation in this story, and I'd like to read more novels that follow this nonchalance about it. I wish it had more of a thriller element to the story, but it really should be looked at as a drama. If you go into Temper knowing that, you'll definitely enjoy it!...more
I fell in love with Kirk's writing last summer with her release of In The Vines. In fact, In The Vines was Shannon Kirk is the queen of W.T.F.
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I fell in love with Kirk's writing last summer with her release of In The Vines. In fact, In The Vines was one of my top 10 novels for 2018! So when I heard the fabulous Shannon Kirk was coming out with a new novel for this summer, I knew I needed to drop everything and read it. Kirk's upcoming horror novel Gretchen continues to follow in In The Vines's footsteps as she ventures further into the gothic suspense genre. Both In The Vines and Gretchen have similar Ruth Ware vibes, so if you are enjoying Ware's latest novels, then you'll definitely enjoy Kirk's writing.
Although the story is titled Gretchen, it really focuses on fifteen year old Lucy and her mother. Lucy and her mother are basically nomads hiding from their past. Lucy's mom refuses to let her get too close to people—she has to wear color contacts, she has to lie about her family life, and she can't use the internet without supervision. Lucy's mom is terrified of her daughter's father finding them due to his immense power and corruption. In fact, they have lived in eleven states since as long as Lucy can remember.
Lucy and her mom finally settle in rural New Hampshire, hoping that the isolation of this small town will be the destination that they can finally call their mainstay home. They find a perfect cottage owned by a single father and his daughter Gretchen. They live on the ranch as well with another property nearby, and have a full listing ready for Lucy and her mother to move into. As Lucy and her mother settle into their new digs, they start getting to know their new landlord and his daughter. Gretchen is around the same age as Lucy, and is desperate for friends. Not having anyone besides her mother in her life, Lucy accepts Gretchen's intensity as genuine interest and forges a friendship with her. As the two get to know each other, Lucy begins to question her new friend's behavior. Gretchen is a very domineering friend, and she has a peculiar obsession with puzzles. (I won't go into that obsession further in this review, but let me tell ya, OH BOY.) The longer Gretchen and Lucy maintain a friendship, the more information she finds out about her own life. As Lucy begins to uncover the past about her dark family secrets, Gretchen begins to be force to be reckoned with.
Gretchen is literally the most insane book I've ever read. Shannon Kirk dives deep into the darkness with this story, and I can't get the book out of my head! The pacing is very similar to In The Vines, so if you enjoyed how that story was told, you'll definitely be ready for Gretchen. The book goes deeper in its characterizations than Kirk's last novel, and it sets the right formula for the reader to fully be immersed into these characters' lives. As you read the story, you will believe that you know how this story will play out, but listen, you really, really don't!
There were multiple moments throughout the book where I was genuinely shocked at how the story was progressing, and I legit yelled, "What the &$%#!?" multiple times (in a good way). Gretchen has multiple story arcs that develop throughout the novel, and it allowed for each character to really play a role in the plot, which made for a really enjoyable horror novel. I wonder how fans will enjoy this story, and how they would categorize this book. I would say this is more of a horror novel than a thriller, but it really is in a league of it's own. Gretchen will be out July 23, and I want to thank Shannon Kirk for providing me an advanced copy in exchange for a review. I can't wait to see what you all think of it, and I can't wait for you to meet Gretchen!...more
I won't be writing a full, detailed review for Christopher Rice's A Density of Souls, but I will say that it was an important, spectacular read. II won't be writing a full, detailed review for Christopher Rice's A Density of Souls, but I will say that it was an important, spectacular read. It's a must have for anyone who's ever been victimized or bullied, and definitely anyone who considers themselves part of the LGBTQ+ community. ...more
The Mother-In-Law is 2019's Big Little Lies, so whether or not you enjoyed Liane Moriarty's novel, buckle up for the year of the mother!
In a battThe Mother-In-Law is 2019's Big Little Lies, so whether or not you enjoyed Liane Moriarty's novel, buckle up for the year of the mother!
In a battle between mother-in-law and future daughter-in-law, only one can reign supreme. However, after five years into Lucy's marriage to Ollie, Lucy has been declared winner—at the expense of her mother-in-law, Diana's life. Diana was found dead with a suicide note nearby claiming culpability. According to Diana's note, she was battling cancer and took her own life to end the pain and suffering, however nobody knew she had cancer and an autopsy realized that she didn't have any cancer. Why would Diana take her own life for a disease that she never had and nobody even knew she was suffering from? No doctor's appointments made—nothing.Someone else must be accountable for this woman's death. As Lucy and Ollie prepare for the funeral arrangements, their family continues to battle and go through hurdles as Diana's mysterious death slowly unravels.
I am staying strong with my 3 star, middle of the ground rating for Sally Hepworth's The Mother-In-Law because it just didn't grip me the way I thought it was going to. Everyone who's read this title has raved about it non-stop to me, but I was sadly a little bored with the plot. This really isn't a thriller/mystery, but more of a family drama/women's fiction title. If you enjoyed Big Little Lies, or any of Liane Moriarty's novels, you'll love The Mother-In-Law. Just don't go into this story thinking that it'll be super twisty and compelling from a storyline sense. You know what's going to happen early on in the story; you just don't know what the consequences of those actions will be.
Although I didn't find the plot to be very compelling, the writing in Sally Hepworth's The Mother-In-Law is very gripping. As I continued to turn the pages in this story, I noticed that I was never bored by how Hepworth was crafting the story to unravel. It may be a slow burn type of story, but the storyline is never lacking in gravity. It will actually pull you in so you must finish the story in record speed. Even during the holidays, I was able to read this story in only two sittings! To say that the writing in The Mother-In-Law is intoxicating, that would be an understatement....more