"The Queen's Spade" by Sarah Raughley is a gripping and masterfully crafted historical fiction that reimagines the true story of Sarah Forbes Bonetta,"The Queen's Spade" by Sarah Raughley is a gripping and masterfully crafted historical fiction that reimagines the true story of Sarah Forbes Bonetta, Queen Victoria’s African goddaughter. Set in 1862, the novel follows Sally's fierce quest for revenge against the British Crown, transforming her from a pawn of colonial power into a formidable player in a dangerous game of court politics, murder, and mystery. Raughley’s writing is both evocative and immersive, deftly capturing the emotional turmoil of a young woman caught between her desire for vengeance and her longing for freedom, no matter the cost.
Sally’s journey is captivating as she navigates the treacherous waters of royal intrigue, aligning herself with a captivating crime lord and manipulating the affections of Prince Albert. The tension builds beautifully, highlighting Sally’s intelligence and resilience while also exposing the darker underbelly of Victorian society. She quickly becomes the master of the game. Raughley brilliantly captures the intricacies of this high-stakes game, interweaving themes of colonialism, power, and the struggle for autonomy. The tension escalates as Sally navigates her dual roles and forms unexpected alliances. Some of these qualities make her a formidable and enthralling female character with enviable strength.
Raughley’s portrayal of the complex relationships at court feels authentic and nuanced, adding true depth to the narrative. So much so that I've been on a historical deep dive for days, learning everything I can about Sally.
The stakes rise dramatically as Sally faces the ultimate choice between revenge and freedom, creating an unforgettable climax. "The Queen's Spade" is a powerful tale of defiance and identity that resonates with today’s issues of autonomy and empowerment. This novel is a must-read for anyone who appreciates gripping historical narratives woven with emotion and depth. I absolutely loved it, and I want to read more and more about this incredible young woman. I'm grateful to Raughley for bringing Sally to life in such an inspiring way.
-------- One of my favorite quotes from the book (which may change once published): "They deserve nothing from us," I told him, holding my right palm over the flames, feeling its heat. "They deserve no praise for freeing us from the very conditions they set in place to begin with. They deserve no reward for dressing us in their clothes and parading us for their own benefit. I will not be beholden to them anymore. To anyone." I looked at him. "I was born free. I must be free." - Sally to her fiance Captain Davies
This line gave me goosebumps. There's so much more like this in this remarkable story. I wish I could give it more than 5 stars.
Thank you, #NetGalley, #SarahRaughley, and #HarperCollins, for the ARC in exchange for my honest review of #TheQueensSpade....more
"The Serpent Under - Treachery, Twists and Terror in Baker Street" by Bonnie MacBird takes readers into the atmospheric setting of the fog-laden stree"The Serpent Under - Treachery, Twists and Terror in Baker Street" by Bonnie MacBird takes readers into the atmospheric setting of the fog-laden streets of Victorian London, masterfully recreated with rich descriptions and intricate detail. I felt as though I was at the movies!
MacBird's portrayal of Sherlock Holmes and Dr. Watson is both authentic and fresh, breathing new life into these classic characters while staying true to Doyle's original portrayals, while new characters add depth and intrigue. One of my favorites is Heffie, a young, super-intelligent girl off the streets who assists Holmes and Watson by going undercover and fading into society's background, collecting information to assist their case. They continually correct her broken English, and their relationship is a bonus to the storyline.
The plot centers around the torture and murder of a young, high-society woman who is soon to be married. Her body is found in the Queen's castle and made to appear as a horrific suicide. The mystery and investigation that unfolds lead to the discovery of several additional murders. It is a thrilling rollercoaster ride filled with unexpected twists that kept me guessing until the very end - just when you think you know who did it, you find out you're wrong! The intricate web of treachery and deceit surrounding the central murder mystery is expertly woven, with each revelation bringing new layers to the story. MacBird's sharp writing and ability to create tension make it impossible to put the book down.
What truly impressed me was the balance of suspense and historical context, with well-researched references that enhance the narrative without feeling forced. The dialogue sparkles with wit, and the pacing is impeccable. I felt like I just rolled through this story. "The Serpent Under" is a must-read for fans of classic mysteries and new readers alike. I absolutely loved this book and highly recommend it to anyone looking for a captivating page-turner that honors the genius of Sherlock Holmes!
Thank you, #NetGalley, #BonnieMacBird, and #Harper360, for the ARC in exchange for my honest review of #TheSerpentUnder....more
In "The Book Club for Troublesome Women," Marie Bostwick delivers a charming and heartfelt tale that beautifully intertwines friendship, resilience, aIn "The Book Club for Troublesome Women," Marie Bostwick delivers a charming and heartfelt tale that beautifully intertwines friendship, resilience, and the power of community, women, and literature. The storyline follows four housewives in the 1960s who, despite their diverse backgrounds and personal struggles, come together to create a book club that quickly evolves into a support system for tackling life’s challenges. They call themselves "The Bettys" based on their first book choice - "The Feminine Mystique" by Betty Friedan.
While following the lives of Margaret, Charlotte, Viv, and Bitsy, I found the story so fascinating and timely for women of today. It's a red flag reminder of where we, as women, have come from, the progress made, and that the progress we see now only really occurred just a short time ago. For example - one of the housewives, Viv, goes to the doctor for her prescription of birth control pills. Her doctor refuses to give it to her without her husband there to sign off on it. I did a little research on this, as I found it to be crazy. This was indeed true up until the 1980s! It made me sick to think of it - that I would have to have my husband sign off on my prescription!
There are many other historical references in the book, such as Margaret being unable to cash a check in her own name or open a bank account without her husband signing the bank card, as well as historical events surrounding JFK and Dr. Martin Luther King. The way each of the women fights for their own independence while also supporting their family and, in some cases, seeing things from their husband's perspective too makes this such an interesting read. It is not at all a book about bashing men or husbands.
Bostwick’s vivid character development helped me connect deeply with each group member, from their insecurities to triumphs, laughter, and tears. The story explores themes of empowerment and self-discovery. It encourages the characters to embrace their imperfections and to take bold steps towards change in the role of women in the home and workplace - all of which made it a truly inspiring read to me.
As the four women navigate their respective life hurdles (like adultery, unfulfillment in marriage, divorce, and problems conceiving), they learn more about themselves and each other. I think I learned more about myself from this book as well.
Overall, "The Book Club for Troublesome Women" is a fantastic, thought-provoking book!
Thank you, #NetGalley, #MarieBostwick, and #HarperCollins, for the ARC in exchange for my honest review of #TheBookClubforTroublesomeWomen. I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own....more
"Shy Creatures" by Clare Chambers delicately explores identity and belonging and is shrouded deep in mystery and long-held secrets. The story is wrapp"Shy Creatures" by Clare Chambers delicately explores identity and belonging and is shrouded deep in mystery and long-held secrets. The story is wrapped in a poignant and engaging narrative and follows the dual storylines of Helen, who teaches art therapy in a psychiatric hospital, and William, a mysterious man who has been shut away from society for several decades.
I think many moments throughout this book may resonate with others through a series of personal and social challenges Chambers shares, even as the story is set in 1964. It was interesting to see the early topics of mental health and treatment options from those days as they were nearing the 1970s.
Helen's character was a bit of a struggle for me. She was someone who was clearly intelligent in her field and wanted to see herself as a respected member of the psychiatric community. However, she was sleeping with her boss, Dr. Gil, who was a married man with children. He had little respect for her. I think I just have an ick for both men and women in that scenario and had an impact on my review. The affair put her family relationships and friendships at risk as well throughout the story and kept her from celebrating milestones with loved ones or enjoying nights out in fear of missing out on Dr. Gil’s call or availability.
I believe that when William came into Helen's life and was under her care and learned more about his background, she realized that as William's aunts kept him hidden away, Dr. Gil was keeping her "hidden away” in her out of the way apartment, hidden areas of the park, far away restaurants where no one will know them, etc. Both technically were done out of "love," but damaging all the same and not truly love. William became her breaking-free moment, I think.
The strength of the novel lies in Chambers' remarkable ability to evoke emotion through simple yet profound observations of William—his loneliness, desire, kindness, love, and fear—making moments of introspection feel relatable and impactful. He was a truly incredible character. And the ending was worth the ick I felt from Dr. Gil.
Overall, "Shy Creatures" is a thoughtful and immersive read that left me wondering what it means to be truly seen.
Thank you, #NetGalley, #ClareChambers, and #MarinerBooks, for the arc in exchange for my honest opinion and review. I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own....more
"The Beauty of the End" by Lauren Stienstra is a speculative fiction novel I found to be absolutely fascinating and thought-provoking! The story cente"The Beauty of the End" by Lauren Stienstra is a speculative fiction novel I found to be absolutely fascinating and thought-provoking! The story centers around adopted twin sisters, Charlie and Maggie, who, as young children, learn of the collapse of the global population and how this changes their childhood. Everyone is tested, and for many, they will never be able to have children. For others, their bloodline may only last one, two, or three generations before ending. The same thing is also happening with animals and plant life. A government science-based program comes into place to try to extend generations while using egg and sperm donation, embryo creation, and selective genetics to create babies with a higher generation number.
All of this begins to throw families into disarray as the government program provides financial incentives for those with higher numbers or certain characteristics to have babies, but that doesn't always mean the spouse has a high number as well or has characteristics that will create multiple generations. Higher numbers can also create dangers as women can be trafficked and babies sold. People begin to question their beliefs about love, family, and reproductive ethics. What are people willing to do or overlook to either have a baby or to help save the world?
The story itself is hauntingly beautiful as it explores love, loss, and the intricate tapestry of human connection and the destruction created by human disconnection. Charlie's journey, especially through grief and self-discovery, is poignant and moving and, at times, had me questioning what I would do in this situation.
Stienstra’s character development is masterful. Each character is nuanced and compelling, making their struggles and triumphs feel genuine and impactful. The book has many twists and turns, which kept me reading for more. The surprises were definitely a surprise!
Overall, "The Beauty of the End" is a fantastic book and one I will not soon forget!
Thank you, #NetGalley, #LaurenStienstra, and #LittleA, for the ARC in exchange for my honest review of #TheBeautyoftheEnd . I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own....more
I devoured this book! "The Lotus Shoes" by Jane Yang is a stunningly crafted historical fiction novel set in early 20th-century China. The story folloI devoured this book! "The Lotus Shoes" by Jane Yang is a stunningly crafted historical fiction novel set in early 20th-century China. The story follows two young girls, Little Flower - whose mother began binding her feet at the age of 4 to have perfect "golden lilies" and then had to sell her into slavery, and Linjing - who has grown up wealthy and is given Little Flower as her slave. The girls' journey begins as children in Linjing's home, where jealousy overtakes Linjing because of Little Flower's perfectly bound feet and her incredible embroidery skills. It continues throughout their teen years when suddenly tragedy strikes, and the women are now dependent upon each other for survival.
Yang's story is based on stories shared and passed down by the women in her family (which I enjoyed reading about at the end of the book!). The cultural turmoil that women faced during this time is nothing short of captivating. Yang’s vivid storytelling shares the brutality of Little Flower's struggles in slavery and her triumphs while in this environment through her passion and embroidery skill (and her enormous inner strength!). The author does a beautiful job of exploring themes of femininity, tradition, and resilience while also introducing the culture of Western ways and resistance to change.
What sets this book apart is Yang’s deft portrayal of foot binding, a practice that symbolizes societal expectations of beauty and personal sacrifice. All of this was mind-blowing to me! Through Little Flower's eyes, we witness the tension between her kind heart and the desire for freedom, making her story not only personal but also universally relatable. At the same time, Linjing continually tries to destroy everything important to her. The characters are richly drawn, each contributing to Little Flower and Linjing's development and their overall motives. The narrative included many moments of joy, heartbreak, anger, and resilience - all of which made it impossible to put this book down.
Overall, I learned a lot about this time period, culture, and tradition. And I absolutely loved this story!
Thank you, #NetGalley, #JaneYang, and #ParkRowBooks, for the ARC in exchange for my honest review of #TheLotusShoes. I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. ...more
With the seasons changing, this was the perfect book for me to settle into each night to read a few stories.
"Nature Tales for Winter Nights" is trulyWith the seasons changing, this was the perfect book for me to settle into each night to read a few stories.
"Nature Tales for Winter Nights" is truly what this book is about. Nancy Campbell has collected an incredible variety of winter and nature stories - fiction, non-fiction, and poetry to share within this book. Some of the collected authors included are Charlotte Bronte, Elizabeth-Jane Burnett, John Clare, Susan Fenimore Cooper, Kevin Crossley-Holland, Charles Darwin, Daniel Defore, Charlotte Du Cann, John Evelyn, Anne Frank, James Frazer, Vincent van Gogh, Kenneth Grahame, Olaus Magnus, William Shakespeare, Sei Shonagon, Henry David Thoreau, Walk Whitman, Virginia Woolf, Dorothy Wordsworth, and many more!
I don't believe this is a book you just jump into and read from start to finish. You could but I feel each short story and poem deserves it's own bit of attention.
Thank you, #NetGalley, #NancyCampbell, and #Elliott&Thompson, for the ARC in exchange for my honest review. I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own....more
"Ghost of Ex-mas Past" by Liz Alden is such a fun read! It's a super spicy novella that blends that Hallmark-Christmas-in-the-cabin-vibe with fun fami"Ghost of Ex-mas Past" by Liz Alden is such a fun read! It's a super spicy novella that blends that Hallmark-Christmas-in-the-cabin-vibe with fun family characters, an engaging plot, and lots of chemistry between years-ago high school sweethearts.
The two main characters, Bea and Charlie, were not only each other's first loves but also best friends and neighbors, and their parents are still best friends to this day. After a messy breakup during Charlie's first year of college, it's been hard to see each other during every holiday or major family event over the past eight years. Something changes this year, and wow, do the sparks fly!
Alden's writing style is full of humor, which makes it even more enjoyable. I had several laugh-out-loud moments! The novella's length is perfect for a cozy evening read, and the holiday setting (escape from the big city to a small quaint town) adds an extra layer of charm. I loved the dual narrative of Bea and Charlie, allowing a deeper perspective into their characters' points of view, thoughts, and feelings.
Overall, "Ghost of Ex-mas Past" was a quick, fun, and enjoyable read! I look forward to reading more of Alden's books.
Thank you, #NetGalley and #LizAlden, for the ARC in exchange for my honest review. I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. #GhostofExmasPast...more
"Punished" by Ann-Helen Laestadius is a thought-provoking and compelling exploration of the Sami people's struggle for cultural (and soul) preservatio"Punished" by Ann-Helen Laestadius is a thought-provoking and compelling exploration of the Sami people's struggle for cultural (and soul) preservation in Sweden after being forced to attend "nomad school" as children, where their language and culture were taken (beaten) from them.
Laestadius provides a deeply personal account of the challenges faced by five children from the close-knit Sami reindeer herding community. The story sheds light on the impact of forced assimilation policies and the resulting trauma that affected their adult lives, weaving back and forth from their childhood in the 1950s to adulthood in the 1980s.
Through vivid storytelling, Laestadius effectively conveys the resilience and strength of the majority of the Sami people in the face of systematic oppression and blatant racism. However, the return of the housemother who inflicted so much pain, torture, and death has returned to their town as a frail elderly woman who requires assistance. Her presence causes a strong visceral and mental reaction to each grown character, and it's interesting to see how each of them handles suppressed memories that resurface and inner rage.
One of the book's most significant strengths is its ability to educate and raise awareness about an often overlooked part of history. Laestadius skillfully weaves historical context into the narrative, providing valuable insights into the cultural, social, and political dynamics that have shaped the Sami experience.
"Punished" is a sobering read that confronts brutal truths. Laestadius's work is a vital contribution to the ongoing dialogue about Indigenous rights and the enduring impact of colonialism. The editor asks the reader at the very beginning of the book - if given the opportunity to punish the person who hurt you as a child, would you do it? And I appreciate how the author's writing and storytelling at the end allow the readers to make that call for themselves. Like where does my own capacity to forgive land? And if we know the personal history behind an abuser or bully, does that increase our ability to forgive?
It was heartbreaking to learn that this happened not only in the U.S. and Canada but also in Sweden. It's an essential part of history that we should all know.
Also - this cover is so beautiful!
Thank you, #NetGalley, #annhelenlaestadius, and #Scribner, for the ARC of #Punished in exchange for my honest review. I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own....more
"Highlands Homecoming" was a fun, enjoyable, and super quick holiday story by Amy Quick Parrish.
This was book three in her Highlands Christmas and Hig"Highlands Homecoming" was a fun, enjoyable, and super quick holiday story by Amy Quick Parrish.
This was book three in her Highlands Christmas and Highlands New Year book series. If you still need to remember a bit about books one and two or have yet to read them, Parrish provides a link to the ebooks, or you can read a quick summary of each book for free to get you up to speed with the characters.
The author did a fantastic job covering much ground within this novella without sacrificing the details, emotions, and plot. The budding romance between Melissa and Colin is very romantic and sweet (no spice), and I absolutely loved the inclusion of Scottish history, food, and culture. Burns Night was especially interesting as they shared their favorite Robert Burns poems and enjoyed their Burns Supper of haggis at MacAlister Inn.
I look forward to additional upcoming books in her Highlands Christmas series!
Thank you, #NetGalley, #AmyQuickParrish, and #FlyingCactusPublishing, for the ARC in exchange for my honest review. I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. #HighlandsHomecoming...more
"The West Wind" by Alexandria Warwick is a dark and enchanting tale that transports readers to the richly imagined world of the Under and the life of "The West Wind" by Alexandria Warwick is a dark and enchanting tale that transports readers to the richly imagined world of the Under and the life of Brielle of Thornbrook - who risks everything to save a god - Zephyrus, the West Wind, Bringer of Spring.
After reading "The North Wind," I was eager to get my hands on this book and learn more about Zephyrus' story and if there was any hope for his redemption. "The West Wind" did not disappoint! I had several jaw-dropping moments and enjoyed the twists and turns to keep the plot moving. I felt the author did a fantastic job of weaving together elements of fantasy, adventure, and several moments of super spicy romance. Warwick's lyrical prose and vivid descriptions of the Under bring the setting to life, making it easy to get lost in the story and within this creative and dangerous world she's created. I truly loved all the magical elements within her world-building.
The characters are well-developed, each with their unique voice and motivations. The descriptions of the creatures living in the Under were fantastic! However, I found myself struggling with Brielle's character a bit at times. She has dedicated her life to the abbey and her faith, yet her heart is being pulled towards Zephyrus, leading her to question all she's known. So many times throughout the story, Brielle reminded me of the type of friend who keeps returning to the guy who can't be trusted. She continues to risk everything for him and do everything for him, knowing his past and present proves he's wrong for her. That doesn't usually work out well for women in the real world. But that is who Brielle is for everyone at the abbey as well. She gives and gives. And yet they have also mistreated her over the years.
With that being said, the protagonist's journey in "The West Wind" is thrilling, emotionally resonant, and transformative, keeping me engaged from start to finish with only very few moments where it feels a little slow. What I absolutely LOVED about Brielle is her strength, determination, and the deep fight within her. Warwick keeps Brielle's heart kind while transforming her into a formidable woman, a heroine capable of standing independently and making her way. She even becomes bold enough to question Mother Mabel at the abbey by asking, "Is it my protections you care for or control?" She also realizes that Mother Mabel's interest in keeping Brielle "safe" is in keeping her small - and in Brielle's eyes, there is no longer any difference. She has grown too much. It was a unique read to weave her strict religious values with that of a god, who was also her love interest.
No worries if you still need to read book one, "The North Wind.” This book has several references to it, but it can be read as a stand-alone, although there are some “The North Wind” spoilers included - so something to keep in mind if you have not read book one. Warwick also introduces the third brother, Notus, the South Wind, in this second book which maybe gives us a peek into book three?? I don’t know but Notus is an interesting character with many open wounds exposed and explained.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book. It's about growth, sacrifice for others, having faith in something greater than yourself while not losing yourself, and understanding that you are not the sum of your past.
Thank you, #NetGalley, #AlexandriaWarwick, and #SagaPress, for the ARC. I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. #TheWestWind...more
Helena Land's "The Destiny Book: Rediscovering the Mother of Spirituality" was a fascinating read. It's only a little over 300 pages, but it packs so Helena Land's "The Destiny Book: Rediscovering the Mother of Spirituality" was a fascinating read. It's only a little over 300 pages, but it packs so much thought-provoking information. I spent a lot of time within the pages and may go back and reread this again. There were a few things that still seemed a bit over my head that I'd like to understand more.
I found the section on selfishness and the idea of self as the sole source of our destiny very interesting. As well as her discussions on ethics, morals, and goodness. Land offers suggested books to read for further understanding, such as Aristotle's "Nicomachean Ethics" to dive deeper into moral choice and personal accountability. She also offers many references to Plato, Descartes, Freud, Jung, and more throughout the book.
"The Destiny Book" made me think more about my place in this world, my choices, connections, karma, and the direction of my path/destiny. I enjoyed it!
Thank you, #NetGalley, #HelenaLind, and #IdentityPublications, for the ARC in exchange for my honest review. I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own....more
"And Then It Was September" by Wendy Day is a captivating dual narrative novel that weaves together the stories of 16-year-old Audrey, set in 1987, an"And Then It Was September" by Wendy Day is a captivating dual narrative novel that weaves together the stories of 16-year-old Audrey, set in 1987, and Jasmine, who is in her 30s, set in 2017.
Jasmine notices a young, beautiful girl's photo up on the Wall of Fame in a diner wearing a one-of-a-kind necklace that had belonged to her great-grandmother and passed on to her Granny, who lost it at a civil rights rally many years ago. Determined to find the necklace and return it to her Granny, her only clue is the girl's name - Audrey. Jasmine soon learns that Audrey had been on a quest to become famous in the 80s and taped her headshot in as many diners and bars as she could. This leads Jasmine on an incredible adventure that shares a beautiful story about Audrey's life and background.
Both characters were well-developed, and I really enjoyed Audrey's uniqueness. I struggled a bit with Jasmine's antiquated character, though. However, I do understand where the character was coming from with setting up the new house and then trying to start a family, and this was why she was putting her career on hold, but it came across as a lot of whining when it was reinforced with her husband, her family, her circle of friends, and within her own thoughts. It was a lot, but I did enjoy her persistence.
Wendy Day's writing style kept me engaged, as did the vivid descriptions and settings and highly emotional relationships, especially between Audrey and her dad - that was some road trip he took her on. I could really feel their pain and the love they had for one another.
The plot was well-paced, with unexpected twists and turns that kept me eagerly turning the pages until I neared the final chapters, and everything just wrapped up very suddenly. While I thoroughly enjoyed the book and would recommend it to others, I felt that the ending could have been more satisfying and needed the same pace as the rest of the book.
Overall, "And Then It Was September" is a beautiful novel that I'm glad to have read.
And that cover is absolutely GORGEOUS!
Thank you, #NetGalley, #WendyDay, and #OpenSkyPublishing, for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
TRIGGER WARNINGS: Car accident, child death, depression, miscarriage, mental health, teen pregnancy....more
If I could, I would love to give Tess Burnett’s “The Hanging of Hettie Gale” more than five stars. This paranormal and ghostly historical fiction taleIf I could, I would love to give Tess Burnett’s “The Hanging of Hettie Gale” more than five stars. This paranormal and ghostly historical fiction tale certainly deserves a lot of attention.
“The Hanging of Hettie Gale” is set in The Moor of England in the late 1700s and introduces us to such an outstanding character, Hettie, but under absolutely horrific circumstances. From the very first chapter, we are with Hettie in what you think is one of the worst moments of her life. Life is certainly not easy for Hettie, and it is heartbreaking and devastating to read. It left me with all sorts of emotions. She is such a kind soul and becomes such a loving and protective young mother. Her voice is reflective of the time period, setting, and her lack of education, which really made her character come alive for me, and I love her even more.
With only a few years of being a mother to her golden child, an abominable and heinous crime is committed against Hettie, yet she is charged with murder - leading to her conviction and hanging.
Jurors, judges, soldiers, and neighboring families have their secrets to keep. History has a tale that survives centuries.
And now, The Moor is known to be haunted, and bodies continue to disappear in the last place Hettie’s son was known to be alive in 1772.
In a dual narrative set centuries apart, Burnett weaves another storyline into Hettie’s. It’s present day, and Alice is returning to their family cottage in The Moor to search for her missing cousin. They spent their childhood summers at Crag Cottage and grew up reading stories about Hettie, who lived not far from their cottage, and the ghost who drowns their victims in the surrounding waters.
Alice has always felt this strange connection to Hettie since she was a young girl. Ever since she first read her story and visited the tiny barn, she lived in so long ago with her young child. She always wondered more about her. Alice always felt a cool breeze and would notice black crow feathers as if Hettie was there, trying to tell her something. And now that she’s back to find her cousin, who was last seen walking towards The Moor, these feelings and connections to Hettie are even stronger.
The storyline weaves between Alice and Hettie as Alice meets with locals, visits museums and libraries, and reads through old diaries and deathbed confessions to piece together what really happened that dreadful day that Hettie was charged with murder. She realizes that if she can solve this mystery, she may be able to find her cousin.
I was fascinated by Burnett’s skillful storytelling, intricate plots, and connecting details to piece together the mystery.
I feel the need to touch on Hettie once more. The author’s writing creates a compelling and emotional character in Hettie. There are so many lines I would love to quote here, but there is a paragraph towards the end where Hettie (as a ghost) talks about watching the others who came to the pond over the years, die. And how maybe (as a ghost) she could have saved them, but she watched them die and then wondered if that made her a bad person. And what she says after that about being watched herself by the soldiers, during her sentencing, while she stood at the Hanging Tree, and while she died while they cheered, was so very profound and moving. I didn’t want the story to end - simply for this character.
Thank you, #NetGalley, #TessBurnett, and #BloodhoundBooks for eARC in exchange for my honest review. I absolutely loved this book!
TRIGGER WARNINGS: Incest, gang rape, sexual abuse, thoughts of pedophilia by a character, child death. ...more
I was beyond excited to get my hands on an advanced reader’s copy of GD Harper’s, “Arden: The Astonishing Untold Story of Shakespeare’s First Play”, aI was beyond excited to get my hands on an advanced reader’s copy of GD Harper’s, “Arden: The Astonishing Untold Story of Shakespeare’s First Play”, and it did not disappoint. This captivating historical fiction mystery follows two storylines decades apart.
One is of Alice Arden, a beautiful, love-struck girl manipulated by powerful men unbeknownst to her. We are deeply involved in their day-to-day life as Alice and her husband’s world and social status begin to crumble. Her husband is murdered, and Alice is ultimately burned at the stake before a raging and joyous crowd in Faversham.
The other storyline is about Will Shakespeare. It was fascinating to be a part of his humble beginnings, his inner world with his wife and children, his dread of working as a glover for his father, and his desire for more. Attracted to Alice's story due to Arden being the family name of his mother (Mary Arden), he researched firsthand accounts of Alice’s story and wrote his first play, Arden of Faversham. There is debate whether this was, in fact, Shakespeare’s first play, as he does not give himself credit for it. Harper’s storyline and reasoning to help debate this are brilliantly based on historical evidence and are very thought-provoking.
Harper’s skillful weaving of the two storylines, the intricate plotting, and the introduction of devastating new evidence about Alice and the murder of Thomas Arden make this book a must-read for fans of the genre and Shakespeare alike.
Thank you, #NetGalley, #GDHarper, #BooksGoSocial, and #GingerCat, for the ARC in exchange for my honest review of #Arden....more
In “Small Ghost” by Trista Mateer, she reveals her raw, open, bleeding heart through her poetic and profound words. Through her poetry, you can feel hIn “Small Ghost” by Trista Mateer, she reveals her raw, open, bleeding heart through her poetic and profound words. Through her poetry, you can feel her intense sadness and pain that’s experienced through depression and the isolation found in anxiety.
I was not prepared for the emotions I felt with a few of the poems that I found myself connecting with. Many of the others left me sad and empathic for the author’s suffering. However, I think I understand the meaning behind Mateer's “Small Ghost.” Depression and anxiety are not seen by others, but they are there following us around, like a small ghost, frightening us at times or showing up when we least expect it. And the ghost images throughout the book are wonderful!
Thank you, #NetGalley, #TristaMateer, and #CentralAvenuePublishing, for the ARC in exchange for my honest review of #SmallGhost. ...more
"The Garden" by Nick Newman is an absolute masterpiece! I wish I could give this book more than five stars!
The two main protagonists are Evelyn and L"The Garden" by Nick Newman is an absolute masterpiece! I wish I could give this book more than five stars!
The two main protagonists are Evelyn and Lily, two elderly sisters living alone and secluded in a walled garden their parents left to them many years ago. They’ve survived an apocalyptic sandstorm before that they believe has ended the world, and they must adhere to their mother’s detailed almanac for survival.
There are so many secrets in the garden, so many dangers in the outside world, and even more within their boarded-up childhood home, which they haven’t entered since they were very young. Life changes dramatically for the sisters, and secrets and jealous tendencies are exposed when a young boy is suddenly found on their property and mentions another world out there beyond the wall.
The characters are so well-developed that I felt like I knew them personally and could understand their behaviors and choices. The plot is gripping and full of unexpected twists that keep the pages turning. I also enjoyed the tiny hints dropped here and there that provided insight to the time period of the story.
Newman's writing style and world-building are poetic and evocative, yet also eerie and suspenseful. It made the pages come alive in my mind while keeping me on my toes and, at times, feeling a little tense. The descriptions of the gardens, flowers, and bees were an enchanting contrast. **(A map of the grounds and the house would be an excellent addition to the book!) The emotional depth of the story is profound, and I found myself deeply moved by the characters' journeys throughout the story.
Thank you, #NetGalley, #NickNewman, and #PenguinGroupPutnam, for the opportunity to review this ARC in exchange for my honest review. #TheGarden #AdultDystopian ...more
Ava Morgyn’s “The Bane Witch” is a captivating dark fantasy that beautifully blends elements of magic, mystery, deadly plants, and luring/destroying eAva Morgyn’s “The Bane Witch” is a captivating dark fantasy that beautifully blends elements of magic, mystery, deadly plants, and luring/destroying evil men. The novel follows Piers, a young woman on a path to escaping her extremely abusive husband while grappling with her past and understanding her unique powers. These “powers” have drawn the attention of both dangerous enemies, potential allies, and found family.
The author's skillful storytelling and intricate plotting make this book a must-read for fans of the genre. The characters are well-developed, and the setting is vividly portrayed, drawing the reader into the dark and mysterious world of the story. I appreciated the eerie woodland cabin setting, the poisons, and the curated collection of deadly fungi and other botanicals. The pacing is perfect, with just the right amount of twists and turns to keep the suspense building throughout and creates a remarkable foreboding atmosphere for the reader.
The strength of “The Bane Witch” lies in its characters, particularly Piers, who is a flawed but compelling protagonist. Her journey of self-discovery and healing feels authentic and raw, as she struggles to reconcile her inner darkness and feeling of helplessness with her new found strength and desire to protect girls and women from predatory men. The supporting characters, particularly her Aunt Myrtle, Sherif Regis, the enigmatic bane witch clans, and their intricate dynamics add layers of intrigue, fascination, and emotional interest.
Morgyn's prose is lyrical and atmospheric, creating a haunting mood throughout the novel. Overall, “The Bane Witch” is a spellbinding read for fans of dark, character-driven fantasy.
TRIGGER WARNINGS: Attempted rape, emotional abuse, domestic violence, pedophilia references, sexual abuse, sexual harassment.
Thank you, #NetGalley, #AvaMorgyn, and #StMartinsGriffinNY, for the ARC in exchange for my honest review of #TheBaneWitch. I loved it! ...more
Susanna Kearsley’s “The King's Messenger” transports readers to the heart of Jacobean England in 1613, a time marked by political unrest, courtly intrSusanna Kearsley’s “The King's Messenger” transports readers to the heart of Jacobean England in 1613, a time marked by political unrest, courtly intrigue, and the precarious reign of King James I. Centering on the complex relationship between King James and his son, Prince Henry, Kearsley skillfully weaves a narrative that is rich in historical detail while maintaining a gripping plot filled with suspense, loyalty, love, and heartbreaking betrayal.
The novel’s protagonist and the King’s Messenger is a Scotsman, Andrew Logan. He’s tasked with serving a warrant and delivering to the King, the man accused of murdering 18-year-old Prince Henry - Sir David Moray, Henry’s Gentleman of the Robes since he was an infant. Andrew and his team, who travel with him (Laurence, his scrivener, and Phoebe, Andrew’s love interest) to capture Sir David, become entangled in the dangerous world of political espionage. As Andrew embarks on his long journey to return Sir David to court, he encounters unexpected allies and adversaries, leading to a series of enthralling escapades that kept me on the edge of my seat.
Kearsley's masterful storytelling brings the past to life with vivid descriptions and well-researched historical contexts. Kearsley captures the tension of the time, balancing the high stakes of royal politics with personal struggles and relationships. The portrayal of Prince Henry, with his youthful idealism and strained relationship with his father, is deeply human and adds emotional depth to the story. Also incredibly moving are several other relationships, such as the Queen’s love for her son, Henry, and her intense desire to keep him close, the profound sadness carried deep within Sir David over his loss, and the love story we see building for Andrew.
Kearsley excels at immersing the reader in the period, from the grandeur of the court to the shadows of political machinations. The novel’s atmospheric setting makes it a pleasure to read for history enthusiasts and casual readers alike, and the “About the Characters” addendum at the end of the book is an intoxicating treat. The dialogue and character interactions are authentic, breathing life into real historical figures for the time period and setting while introducing compelling fictional characters.
“The King's Messenger” is a beautifully written historical fiction that combines intrigue, emotion, history, and a love story you won’t forget. Fans of Kearsley’s previous work will certainly be captivated by this tale.
Thank you to #NetGalley, #SusannaKearsley, and #SourcebooksLandmark for the free eARC in exchange for my honest review of #TheKingsMessenger....more