On Gin Lane by Brooke Lee Foster is a 2022 Gallery Books publication.
Everleigh’s fiancé, Roland, surprises her with a hotel he built for her in the HOn Gin Lane by Brooke Lee Foster is a 2022 Gallery Books publication.
Everleigh’s fiancé, Roland, surprises her with a hotel he built for her in the Hampton’s. Though she didn’t ask for this, Everleigh, embraces the role, but then a fire breaks out, putting Roland in a financial bind, and both of them under suspicion, as detectives believe arson might be to blame.
Under the strain, Everleigh’s relationship with Roland, begins to fray, and she begins to second guess her decision to marry him. Meanwhile, Everleigh’s love of photography gives her an opportunity to work doing something that she loves. Yet her family, and Roland, are determined to force her to quit…
As she digs her heels in, Everleigh is becoming more and more certain she’s made a mistake with Roland, but can’t seem to find a way out of her engagement…
Although Everleigh is naïve, and comes from a wealthy family, she spends her summer in the Hamptons growing up and becoming wise. She still must fight with herself about social standings and appearances, duty, and how her decisions will affect her family, but she comes into her own, in her own good time.
There is a mystery, an investigation, and loads of questions about that fire, but for a long time the mystery runs in the background as Everleigh struggles with her failing romance, her desire to break free from the strictures of her life, as she falls under the spell of both her new photography mentor, Starling Meade, and Curtis, a doctor she keeps bumping into.
Once the revelations start pouring out, though, the surprises are stunning, and not nearly as predictable as I expected them to be...
This was a book I had intended to read over the summer-but I crammed too many ‘Beach’ reads onto my summer list, and, sadly, ran out time before I had a chance to read all of them. Usually, I packed all seasonal books away until the next year- but the premise for this one sounded so good, I had to have just one last summer fling before I pack away the summer books for good this year.
I loved the setting, the location, and the quiet way the novel unfolded, the character growth and the pioneers who paved the way for women to have more options in life and step out from behind the shadows of their fathers and husbands to gain more independence and control over their own destinies.
Starling might have been the trailblazer in this story, but though it seemed unlikely, Everleigh also became a trailblazer in her own right, as well.
Overall, I have to say I enjoyed my last beach flirtation, and think this was a lovely swan song for the summer of 2022…
Cults by Max Cutler is a 2022 Gallery Books publication.
Cults were a part of the landscape when I was growing up. Manson, Jim Jones, among others andCults by Max Cutler is a 2022 Gallery Books publication.
Cults were a part of the landscape when I was growing up. Manson, Jim Jones, among others and of course the common question is usually ‘What draws people to these groups?’ But this book doesn’t question why people join cults, how they fall under the influence of charismatic criminals or psychotic monsters. Instead, it examines the masterminds behind the cults, what is behind their psychopathy and how things eventually turned out for them.
Shame, Exploitation, Pathological Lying, Sadism, Megalomania, Escape, Denial of Reality-
These are the themes the author applies to the cult leaders profiled in this book- beginning, of course, with Charles Manson- which is fitting I suppose, as his cult was probably the first one that landed in our living rooms, thanks to television, making it the first to reach ‘cult’ status- if you will.
From there, though, the author picks cults that didn’t originate in the United States or are not as well-known. He theorizes the psychological make up- usually focusing on their upbringing or environment, searching for clues as to how or why they became delusional or why they manipulated people or what it was about the leader that drew people to them.
In some cases, as we all know, there is a religious theme, but not always. In many of these cases- there is a lure of sexual freedom- promiscuity, multiple partners, orgies, etc., which attracted men- many of them educated and professional, in some cases.
I didn’t, as the author admitted that at times it was possible for one to do, feel sorry for any of these people. I realize that most of them did endure abusive, neglectful upbringings, and that would have to play a role, because how could it not- but in some cases, the argument here is weak- as many people endure neglect, were sent to boarding schools, or left to their own devices, as children. In other cases, the arguments that abuse played a role in shaping these vile characters makes more sense. In other cases, there’s evidence of mental illness, but that was never addressed here. I’m thinking David Koresh and his childhood ‘visions’- blamed on epilepsy??? Um, no- sounds like a different ailment to me- one that went undiagnosed. The guy was delusional.
One thing that sticks out to me, though, is the narcissism- and the escalation that occurs once the ‘leaders’ begin to feel validated by his/her followers. This is a pattern in every single case. The more power, the more they crave, and the more unhinged they become, doing whatever necessary to maintain that power and control- and heaven help us if they think their followers are dropping off or if they draw attention of the law enforcement or the media.
Eventually, though, in most cases, the cult comes crashing down- sometimes in spectacular fashion -but not surprising- some of these cults still have followings today, and haven’t gone away entirely.
Now we can even see a ‘cult’ mentality today in some of the most unusual places. and are seeing an overwhelming willingness to readily consent to conditioning, without realizing how far out of control, delusional, or drunk on power- the leader or the followers are becoming…
Once the details emerge into a cult or cult mentality- it always reveals a level of depravity that never fails to shock us.
Overall, this book covers a wide range of cults, all of them with different elements, from murder to sex to religion or even space beings. We look at the background and possible conditions that shaped these cult leaders, and their followers. It’s not comprehensive, or a ‘deep dive’, and it can be ‘dry’ reading occasionally, but on the other hand, I liked the original approach. It is educational, especially as a study of human behavior and history, and gives one enough information to prompt more in-depth research on the cults profiled in this book.
Big word of warning though-
This book is NOT for the faint of heart. Some descriptions- especially those that fall under the ‘sadism’ label- and the Aldofo De Jesus cult killings in Matamoras, were especially gruesome. Cult leaders could also fall into the serial killer category, so don’t read this one alone at night. It’s the stuff nightmares are made of!...more
Leave the Gun, Take the Cannoli: The Epic Story of the Making of the Godfather by Mark Seal is a 2021 Gallery Books publication.
This is a fascinatingLeave the Gun, Take the Cannoli: The Epic Story of the Making of the Godfather by Mark Seal is a 2021 Gallery Books publication.
This is a fascinating look at everything, and I do mean everything, that went on behind the scenes of ‘The Godfather”.
Before there was a movie, there was a novel...
This is where this book begins. As everyone knows the movie is based on Mario Puzo’s novel. Puzo adapted the book into a screenplay for Paramount pictures… and the rest, as they say, is history…
Well, it wasn’t that easy… not by a long shot!
What an incredible tale! This book explores filmmaking and all that goes into casting, and filming, acquiring locations and the various differing opinions of those involved, and the toll it can take under ordinary circumstances.
But these were not ordinary circumstances!
The mob wanted to have a say in how they were depicted in the film and put real and often terrifying pressure on the powers that be to bend to their will. Some characters were based on real people, and they too took offense with the way they were portrayed in the book and the movie. Then there was the casting, which no one could agree on, the locations they had trouble securing, the objection to the violence, and the list goes on and on. But some of the best, most memorable moments on film were ab libs, and became the most quoted movie lines in history.
The Godfather is a family saga at its core-
And this book, in many ways, was also like a reading a saga.
There was literally never a dull moment! It was one thing after another, after another. How it all came together, how everything that made the film so stunning managed to make it onto the big screen intact is nothing short of a miracle.
You really do have to read this book to believe all that went into this film, from the book’s publication to the screenplay, to the actors, the directors, producers, and those outside the movie business, which also made a huge impact- it’s all here and it’s an incredible story!
The Godfather is one of my favorite movies so this book was a must read for me. I’ve seen the movie countless times and, naturally, this book has made me want to watch it again. But it also made me want to re-read the book- which isn’t nearly as fresh in my mind as the movie.
The author did an incredible job with the presentation and organization of this book. It’s deeply researched and is a most entertaining read! If you love the movie, are a film buff, or enjoy history – or just pop culture, you really don’t want to miss this book!
One by One by Ruth Ware is a 2020 Scout Press publication.
Snoop- a startup app that… well… ‘snoops’ on one’s musical listening habits. Want to listenOne by One by Ruth Ware is a 2020 Scout Press publication.
Snoop- a startup app that… well… ‘snoops’ on one’s musical listening habits. Want to listen to the same song your favorite artist is listening to at the exact same time? Then this app is for you.
The app is so popular the startup group that founded it are considering a buyout offer. The group is divided on the decision, but has gathered at French Ski Chalet to discuss Snoop’s future and of course to indulge in a little fun on the slopes.
The hosts, Erin and Danny, can’t help but catch wind of the wary dynamic of their guests, sensing the various personality types, and the tensions within the group. But the egos and jockeying for position becomes the least of their worries when a skiing accident, and an avalanche, sets an entirely different tone. While they wait for help to arrive, though, things go from bad to worse as the members of the team begin to die-
One by One…
Obviously, Ware has patterned this novel after the famed "And Then There Were None” by the grand dame of mystery writers- Agatha Christie. It was effective back with Christie introduced such a premise- but one would think that after all this time, as jaded as we have all become, that such a setup would fail to quicken the veteran reader of mysteries and suspense.
Yet, it has done for decades. Therefore, it is no surprise that despite the familiar premise, Ware’s updated version once more lures readers into the ultimate game of cat and mouse. There is the usual frustration of a locked door mystery, with squirm in your seat suspense, and of course the fun of trying to figure out why are all these people dying.
There are two main characters that are going to tell this story- one is Liz, who stands to make a fortune if the buyout offer is accepted, though she no longer works for the startup, and Erin, a host at the Chalet, who is trying to find a way to accept a horrible tragedy she blames herself for. The chapters alternate between the staff and the guest as they take us through the events that have led up to this incredibly tense showdown.
Ware doesn’t tinker with the formula or format, relying on the simple traditions that made this type of mystery so popular in the first place. And just like Christie, Ware kept me entertained- though not guessing- because I got that part immediately, but by building the most exquisite anticipation, and rewarding me with a fine and satisfying conclusion.
Overall, this is a good, solid thriller, a homage to locked room mysteries and to Agatha Christie. It’s not always perfect, but Ware did an admirable job with the mystery elements, and proved that tradition can still be sexy.
The It Girl by Ruth Ware is a 2022 Gallery Scout Press publication.
Hannah’s testimony sends John Neville to prison for the murder of her best friend,The It Girl by Ruth Ware is a 2022 Gallery Scout Press publication.
Hannah’s testimony sends John Neville to prison for the murder of her best friend, April. Now, ten years later Neville dies in prison, protesting his innocence to the very end.
This event should put Hannah’s mind at rest. Finally, this will mean an eventual end to all the reporters hounding her and she can focus on her life with her husband, Will, and the imminent birth of their first child.
But, instead, Neville’s death triggers doubt about his guilt. When a reporter tracks her down, giving her new information about the case, Hannah can’t rest until she knows for sure if Neville was the guilty party…
Ruth Ware, with an exception, here or there, is at the very least a dependable ‘go to’ author for me. Occasionally, I feel like she succumbs to pressure from an editor or publisher, which is why I approached this one with a bit of caution, hoping it wasn't going to become a habit.
Thankfully, this book was really good!!
I've been suffering through a very dry spell in the mystery/thriller category this year, so I really needed this one. It’s been a LONG while since I’ve come across a new mystery that drew me in like this one did.
I loved the setting, the premise, and felt some good spine-tingles here and there, too. I loved the guessing game, and while I had some pretty good cases built up for one or two of the possible suspects, I guessed wrong…
So, there you have it. A very strong effort by Ware- atmospheric, effective, engrossing and it kept me on my toes. No book is flawless, but this one certainly deserves the 4+ stars....more
Carolina Built by Kianna Alexander is a 2022 Gallery Books publication.
This book is a fictionalized account of the life of real estate magnate JosephiCarolina Built by Kianna Alexander is a 2022 Gallery Books publication.
This book is a fictionalized account of the life of real estate magnate Josephine Leary, who was born into slavery, but freed at the age of nine.
The primary focus, though, is on Josephine’s personal life, beginning with her marriage to 'Sweety' Leary. The couple owned a barbershop together, but Josephine faced tough challenges because her ambition was not the expected behavior men were accustomed to in those days.
She endured a continuous back and forth with her husband, who couldn’t understand why Jo could not be content to just be his wife and a mother to their children.
Her work, money, and wisdom not only kept their business in shape, but also brought them much success they wouldn’t have enjoyed otherwise.
Still, she was expected to bear the brunt of the child rearing, and the household duties, while working to achieve her goals, and hold down a full-time job. Sound familiar?
While I liked the message Kianna Alexander sent by taking this approach, I would have enjoyed seeing more of Josephine’s business acumen at play.
The pacing was slow, and didn’t always keep my rapt attention- And...
Although I've long since given up on my continuous harping about authentic dialogue in historical fiction- it will be hard to ignore the modern vernacular in this novel.
I think this might have been quite an ambitious undertaking, and the approach,though well intentioned, missed the mark a little bit.
That said, the book should at least get an A for effort, as Josephine Leary certainly deserves to be remembered, and her legacy should be honored.
This book did prompt me to do a few Google searches and I was pleased to find that some wonderful material, photographs, and actual documents were available for public viewing on several websites. I’d be interested in checking out a complete non-fictional biography of Josephine’s life someday.
Overall, this is an interesting take on Leary’s life- a woman well ahead of her time, and an inspiration for the modern woman, who can certainly relate to the challenge’s Josephine faced, and take note of her strong will and determination to never allow her ambitions to be stifled.
Before I Saw You by Emily Houghton is a 2021 Gallery Books publication.
Alice and Alfie are in the hospital recovering from traumatic injuries, separatBefore I Saw You by Emily Houghton is a 2021 Gallery Books publication.
Alice and Alfie are in the hospital recovering from traumatic injuries, separated by a curtain. Although Alice is not ready for anyone to see her, she and Alfie strikes up a cautious acquaintance, which quickly develops into a deep bond. Though their physical injuries were emotional on different levels, in different ways, a time will come when they must face a future outside the hospital- in more ways than one…
I hesitated to grab this book, then hesitated to read it for a while, based on the comparisons in the blurb. My books can end any number of ways, but I don’t do ‘bad endings’, if you know what I mean. But I got the impression, based on the reviews, that though the book was quite emotional, it was not a tearjerker. So, here we are…
I ended up liking the book more than I thought I would. Alice’s story is harrowing, not that I’m making light of Alfie’s journey, by any means. While the slow burn romance can feel frustrating at times, I thought the relationship development was realistic, especially considering the circumstances. One surely wouldn’t expect it to jump from 0 to 100 while suffering through the agonizing emotional life altering challenges this couple faced. That said, at times, the pacing does become a little monotonous, and I didn’t always understand the character’s logic at times. The time spent on the characters journey through their painful ordeals, and slowly falling in love is well-done, the courage to grab hope and love is our reward.
I only had one little quibble with the epilogue- I would have liked to hear a firmer update on Alice’s recovery progress and I was confused by Alfie’s avoidance of a question posed to him. If nothing else, it could have been a teaching moment, and his non-answer was puzzling considering the theme of the book.
Otherwise, this story is heartwarming and uplifting- not really a ‘romance’ in the traditional sense, but is definitely a love story in every sense.
Wish You Were Gone by Kieran Scott is a 2022 Gallery Books publication.
When Emma’s abusive husband dies suddenly, and in a most bizarre manner, she dWish You Were Gone by Kieran Scott is a 2022 Gallery Books publication.
When Emma’s abusive husband dies suddenly, and in a most bizarre manner, she doesn’t even bother with pretending to be a heartbroken widow. The man was a monster, and frankly, the only thing she’s feeling is relief.
But there is a mystery to tackle. What was Jack doing in the hours leading up to his death? How exactly did he die? Accident? Suicide? Why is his best friend behaving so uncharacteristically?
Dealing with the aftermath of her husband's death is a challenge- Emma must think of her two children, the will, and the strange tension between her two very different best friends- Gray and Lizzie.
As Emma begins sorting through the last days of Jack’s life startling secrets come to light- secrets that will reshape all their lives… forever.
I’m not sure how to categorize this one. It’s an odd mix of contemporary drama and mystery, with a dash of psychological thriller thrown in for good measure. But no matter which way one chooses to label it, it was an absorbing novel, and kept me engaged and curious from beginning to end.
The big reveal at the end did take me by surprise, as did the whodunit parts. The characters all have intense reactions to the situation, and it was interesting to see how people responded to the death of a man both admired and despised. The dynamics between the characters is also intriguing because they all seem to be keeping big secrets and all seem to be either in competition with- or suspicious of- each other.
The story does move at a slower pace than I would have liked, but not to the point where I ever felt impatient. I just think we could have gotten to the Finish Line a tad bit sooner than we did.
Other than that small quibble, I enjoyed this book. I will definitely read this author again!
To Sir, With Love by Lauren Layne is a 2021 Gallery Books publication.
Gracie Cooper gave up her dream of being a professional artist to run the familTo Sir, With Love by Lauren Layne is a 2021 Gallery Books publication.
Gracie Cooper gave up her dream of being a professional artist to run the family owned champagne shop, per her father’s wishes. Gracie’s siblings have left her holding the bag, so Gracie is determined to make the best of the situation by adopting a ‘Pollyanna’ approach, working hard to convince herself she is happy. Sadly, though, the champagne shop is going through a rough patch.
Enter Sebastian Andrews…
Sebastian wants to by the champagne shop and is pressuring Gracie non-stop, merely because he needs the space the shop in sitting on. His approach could use some work, as he is oh so arrogant. Gracie is determined to fight for her store, despite her doubts and the odds against her.
The one bright spot in all this an accidental messaging relationship Gracie has developed with ‘Sir’ via a ‘faceless’ dating app. She’s loving the light and easy banter she has stuck up with ‘Sir’, and soon finds he is an excellent confidant, and despite her protest, she might be falling in love with him…
What a cute, sweet story with a nice updated – ‘enemies-lovers’ vibes, Ala “You’ve Got Mail”. The dialogue is snappy, flirty and fun, with just the right amount of tension and emotion, to compliment the plot and the characters.
Layne has become a ‘go-to’ author for me when I want a light contemporary or romantic comedy. Her stories are light, but have depth and feeling, and always, always leave a big smile on my face!
The Summer of Lost and Found by Mary Alice Monroe is a 2021 Gallery Books publication.
Good old-fashioned southern comfort!
The Coronavirus has the whThe Summer of Lost and Found by Mary Alice Monroe is a 2021 Gallery Books publication.
Good old-fashioned southern comfort!
The Coronavirus has the whole country is its grip, that includes the Rutgledge family.
Because of the virus, the aquarium is closed, so Linnea has been laid off. Because of the financial hit, she's temporarily moved into the beach house- rent free.
Sadly, her boyfriend, Gordon, is stuck in England and can’t travel to the US because of the virus lockdowns, and what’s worse, her former lover, John, is back in town, quarantining at his mother’s house.
Linnea really wishes she could avoid John, but that turns out to be next to impossible, forcing her lingering feelings for him to resurface.
Despite the challenges she faces, Linnea has family and friends to lean on as she navigates her tumultuous feelings for both, Gordon and John. Faced with a difficult choice, Linnea ponders her future, while carving her own path towards personal independence.
It’s not summer without an installment in the ‘Beach House’ series by Mary Alice Monroe!!
This is the first novel I’ve read, miraculously, that incorporated Covid into the plot, making it a part of the landscape the characters had to navigate.
The sobering challenges of job loss, financial strain, family distance, quarantines, and sickness proved that the Rutledge clan still has the temerity to rise to any and all occasions. The characters make mistakes, but as always, they grow stronger through adversity.
Linnea’s personal journey is now the main focus of the series, as Cara moves into more of a secondary character role. I really loved the way Linnea came to understand how she needed to proceed with her personal life. I'm not sure what others will make of her decision, but I thought she did the right thing.
There were, as always, laughter and tears, and heartwarming moments as these characters lives continue to evolve over time. I always look forward, with eager anticipation, to catching up with these beloved characters, both the younger and older generations of the family, the turtles, and the charming beach house that serves as an anchor in challenging times…
Overall, I’m sure writing a book set during the early days of the pandemic, and dealing with some transitional character development, must have been daunting. MAM did a fabulous job with integrating the changes and giving voice to the fears we faced during 2020, spoken through the strong southern Rutledge women, and their commitment to each other, their family, and to their own true selves as well.
The Night Olivia Fell by Christina McDonald is a 2019 Gallery Books publication.
Engrossing and emotional mystery-
When Abigail Knight learns that her The Night Olivia Fell by Christina McDonald is a 2019 Gallery Books publication.
Engrossing and emotional mystery-
When Abigail Knight learns that her seventeen- year- old daughter, Olivia, is lying in a coma after a fall, her life turns on a dime. Noticing some marks on Olivia's body which suggests the possibility of foul play, Abi works tirelessly to discover what really happened to her daughter. Yet, she is met with one brick wall after another and resistance from law enforcement when she pushes them to pursue the case fully.
Meanwhile, we hear directly from Olivia, who fills in the blanks about her home life, introducing us to her friends, and romantic interests, while explaining the events leading up to her fall.
Her haunting voice reflects on her relationship with Abigail and the usual teenage dramas, which eventually leads to some hard and serious questions about her absentee father.
This is a very impressive debut novel by Christina McDonald. I was immediately invested in the story and remained riveted all the way through to the heart-rending conclusion. The mother/daughter dynamic is explored as long buried secrets float to the surface, highlighting the similarities and differences between Adi and Olivia. The taut atmosphere kept me on edge, despite sensing the direction the story was going to take me.
The questions Adi has about what led to Olivia’s fall, the lies and secrets that plague Adi and the teenage angst, makes the mystery compelling, with several surprising revelations, that kept me guessing until the big reveal, which did, but didn’t surprise me, if that makes any sense.
Teetering on the literary line, the story delves deeply into the various insecurities and vulnerabilities of the characters touching the need for belonging, the ways we detach to protect ourselves, and how we deal with life’s curveballs and the lessons one takes away from adversity and tragedy.
It’s not often that a mystery novel is as thought provoking and stirring as it is suspenseful, but McDonald manages it masterfully!
Love on Lexington Avenue by Lauren Layne is a 2019 Gallery Books publication.
A little flat- but still a light, entertaining read
I loved the first booLove on Lexington Avenue by Lauren Layne is a 2019 Gallery Books publication.
A little flat- but still a light, entertaining read
I loved the first book in this trilogy and have been looking forward to reading this second installment. I was slightly surprised that Claire’s story was sandwiched in the middle. I thought Claire, the one who was legally married to the scoundrel that brought these women together, deserved the strongest feature, and as such, she’d have the starring role in the finale. Shows how much I know.
After discovering her deceased husband was a serial philanderer, Claire is trying to move on with her life. Despite knowing her husband was a cheat, she’s having a hard time letting go of her feelings for him. Also complicating her ability to move forward is her secret vow to never fall in love again. However, determined to step outside her comfort zone, Claire decides to shake things up in her life. For starters, she decides to renovate her Brownstone- and not necessarily in a low-key, traditional manner.
Enter Scott Turner, the contractor Claire wants to hire to help with the remodel. For Scott, redoing Claire’s home is small potatoes compared to his usual jobs. Because of that, he initially planned to pass on the job, thinking it beneath him, and not worth the bother of dealing with the rich, spoiled, ‘princess’ type, he presumes Claire to be.
But the Brownstone instantly calls to him so, despite getting off to a rocky start with Claire, it’s a job he can’t refuse.
Despite their differences, Claire finds Scott easy to confide in and before he knows what has hit him, he gets sucked into Claire’s plan to enjoy the pleasurable benefits of romance without the emotional connections that could lead to heartache.
Although Scott cheers Claire on, seeing her going out with other men, casual though it may be, is driving him crazy!!
This is a nice, easy to read contemporary romance, with a light tone all throughout. Yet, I had hoped for a story with a bit more emotional depth for Claire. This book, unfortunately, is a little bland and all too predictable.
Not to over analyze a book intended to be fun and humorous, but in my opinion, casual hookups replacing traditional dating, romance and relationships have become a very repetitive storyline that crops up entirely too often in contemporary romance. For me, it has become a boring, unimaginative plot element that I have a hard time relating to.
That said, the chemistry between Claire and Scott has some sizzle, and I enjoyed their banter. Character growth saves the story from being pure fluff, and despite its predictability, it might be the right book for you if concentrating on heavy topics sounds too depressing right now.
I loved the super cute ending, and I did close the book with a smile on my face, which is something to be grateful for.
I’m still looking forward to Audrey’s story and am hoping the trilogy closes on a high note. So, despite feeling a little let down by this one, it is still a mood lifter and was an enjoyable enough read, overall.
Marriage on Madison Avenue by Lauren Layne is a 2020 Gallery Books publication.
A wonderful conclusion to the Central Park Pact trilogy!
Audrey Tate iMarriage on Madison Avenue by Lauren Layne is a 2020 Gallery Books publication.
A wonderful conclusion to the Central Park Pact trilogy!
Audrey Tate is happy for her friends who have found true love, but she’s still traumatized by her involvement with the married man that had brought them together in the first place. For Audrey, the fairy tale, happily ever after dream is over-
However, an online troll has somehow managed to obtain personal information about her past and is threatening to expose all her secrets.
Meanwhile, her very best friend, Clarke, is having his own crisis. Hi ex-girlfriend is back in town and has joined forces with his mother in hopes of rekindling their relationship.
The two pals put their heads together and decide to pretend they are engaged long enough for their pests to either get the message or move on to other things.
For Audrey, pretending to be in love with Clarke doesn’t come easy, but Clarke is feeling a little confused suddenly. As time passes, the entire charade begins to snowball out of control, as a new awkwardness build between the longtime friends.
Did Clarke’s old flame make Audrey feel… Jealous?? Really?? Is Clarke having sensual fantasies about... Audrey?? Really??
This is such a cute story. I am a sucker for friends to lovers’ tropes, so this one really hit the spot. The tone is light and flirty, but a few heartwarming and emotional moments add depth and complement the smiles and laughter.
I wasn’t sure about Layne’s decision to tell Audrey’s story last- but I am glad I trusted her intuition. I couldn’t think of a better way for this adorable trilogy to conclude!!
Overall, I loved Audrey and Clarke and enjoyed watching slowly realize they were meant to be friends and a whole lot more!
My Friend Anna by Rachel DeLoache Williams is a 2019 Gallery Books publication.
Several weeks ago, this book popped up on my radar by way of Book RiotMy Friend Anna by Rachel DeLoache Williams is a 2019 Gallery Books publication.
Several weeks ago, this book popped up on my radar by way of Book Riot. I seem to be on a true crime kick lately, so I checked the book out from the cloud library. Although it hardly lives up to the gushing hype, the story still left me shaking my head, not so much in disbelief that someone would fall for such a scam, but at the unconscionable behavior of people who deliberately set out to con someone.
In this case, I think Anna cased out the group of people in Rachel’s orbit and picked her out of the lineup to be her target. She read Rachel like a book, I’m sorry to say. While some may have the urge to roll their eyes at Rachel’s gullibility, the sad truth is, anyone, at any given time, in a multitude of ways can fall prey to a con or a scam. The best and the brightest amongst us have been victims of clever con artist, so it is important to avoid victim blaming.
That said, I will admit I found Rachel’s personality to be superficial and couldn’t help but notice she had absolutely no problem riding on Anna’s coattails while she was paying all the bills. Just saying. I think her friendship with the ‘German heiress’ was heady and up until the moment things went awry, she was enjoying all the perks handed to her.
I also think Rachel was desperate to hold on to that friendship, even though I think deep down she knew she’d been taken for a ride. She just didn’t want to admit she’d been played- which, of course, is understandable. Still, she allowed things to drag on entirely too long, and most of us would have thrown in the towel and threatened legal action long before Rachel finally caved.
[image]
But, enough of my psychobabble analysis. The book is a very quick read and Rachel stays on topic, only detailing the time in her life when she was involved with Anna. Watching Anna operate is infuriating. She was quite convincing, especially if one took her at face value, never questioning her story. It seems Rachel wasn’t the only one to believe Anna’s story.
What Rachel went through was nerve wracking and horrendous. She was the victim of a crime and eventually, she brought the fake heiress down. Good on her.
Rachel seems to have gotten herself sorted out and her life is back on track. She claims she got woke, and changed her way of thinking. Sadly, we all learn that lesson in life at some point, and Rachel is hardly unique it that.
This experience may have helped Rachel mature a bit without leaving her completely cynical. She still strikes me as a person who has some growing up to do and is perhaps a bit defensive. I’m not sure is she grew much stronger, as she did downplay her own egotism while writing this book, but she did find the courage to address her naivete and chagrin. Writing this book was probably cathartic for that bruised ego.
Still, I’m happy Rachel realizes she has a lot to be thankful for, and I’m glad she exposed a grifter and stopped her from taking advantage of other people. While I didn’t find Rachel to be a sympathetic ‘character’, if you will, she did help to bring down a criminal- and she works for my favorite magazine- Vanity Fair- so there is that.
To be clear, despite having said more about Rachel in this review than Anna, Anna is the real bad person in all this, and we should not forget that. I’m glad she is behind bars and we do have Rachel to thank for that.
The Book Charmer by Karen Hawkins is a 2019 Gallery Books publication.
Offbeat and Amusing! This fanciful romance is a lovely gift for book lovers!
DoThe Book Charmer by Karen Hawkins is a 2019 Gallery Books publication.
Offbeat and Amusing! This fanciful romance is a lovely gift for book lovers!
Dove Pond librarian, Sarah Dove, has a special knack for picking out just the right book for her patrons. When Grace Wheeler moves to Dove Pond, it is only on a temporary basis. Sarah, though, is convinced Grace is the person who will save Dove Pond from financial ruin. Sarah is determined to make a Grace a permanent resident.
Grace proves to be a little more stubborn than Sarah bargained for, though...
I’ve read a few of Karen Hawkins’ delightful historical romance novels over the years, but I must say, I think Hawkins has one-upped herself with this one!
This is an adorable small -town romance, occasionally poignant and bittersweet, with just a splash of magic realism. The special books in Sarah's library are characters themselves and this element will especially enchant book lovers!
Overall, wonderful feel-good kind of story anyone can enjoy!!...more
The Summer Guests by Mary Alice Monroe is a 2019 Gallery Books publication.
The ‘Beach House’ series has been a favorite summer treat of mine for yearThe Summer Guests by Mary Alice Monroe is a 2019 Gallery Books publication.
The ‘Beach House’ series has been a favorite summer treat of mine for years. Unfortunately, last summer, I couldn’t manage to squeeze this book into my schedule, despite my very best intentions.
With the weather being especially cold and gloomy this past week, the thought of a nice, warm, ‘beach read’ sounded good- which reminded me I had a Mary Alice Monroe novel I had never gotten around to reading.
I was really looking forward to touching base with the characters I have grown to care for and checking in on those wonderful turtles. However, this book was not at all like the previous installments. For starters, there is a hurricane threatening the coast and everyone is headed inland, which could have been an interesting story line, but…
Cara Rutledge, the main protagonist of the entire series, is barely present in this story at all. Instead, we meet an entirely new group of people whose lives are centered around the equestrian world.
Unfortunately, the characters and all their dramas just did not resonate with me in the slightest. I can’t name one thread that struck a chord with me or touched me emotionally.
I finished the book just to see who ended up with whom, just out of curiosity, but overall the book was dull and uninspiring to me. This is the first book of the series that fell flat, but I will stick with the series if Monroe decides to continue with it- provided the story is once again centered around Cara and the beach house. I sincerely hope this series hasn’t run its course.
Loading...
