4 stars. I was very happy to hear there was a sequel to Wetherholt and this was the perfect wrap-up! This book is set about 2 or 3 years after but pic4 stars. I was very happy to hear there was a sequel to Wetherholt and this was the perfect wrap-up! This book is set about 2 or 3 years after but picks up right where it left off in plot and feel, minus L & D being married and having a pair of adorable twins.
Once again, I was drawn into the epistolary style of the book—it’s so well done! I enjoyed the sweet, family-centred, slice of life feel of the book (well, for most of it) and all the gentle comedy. Brooks was always a hoot, but Mary makes him a hoot and a half, and Alice adds another half! Darius is just as fun as before (although there were a couple letters where I just wanted to *strangle* him, or at least shake him thoroughly) and Lissie was nicely herself—I had a quiet chuckle at her expense when she started lecturing and let her imagination run away with her like in the first book. As for Orrin—I didn’t love him in book one, but I liked him well enough. In this book, my toleration for him went down very low and never really climbed back up. I could not fathom how he managed to do what he did. But Nett I liked as much as ever—she’s such a lovely girl. And all the side characters—Waverly, Jane, the servants & apprentices, Mr. + Mrs. Dairton, Evelyn, and Uncle Rush—were well done and interesting. Mr. J. threw me for a loop and I tried so hard to like him before I began to despise him heartily.
The plot was such a rollercoaster as I have seldom read. The angst and the terrible question of WHAT WAS HAPPENING that endured for so long—at least, I felt like it was a long time—was really draining and frustrating to me. The situation hit me in a very vulnerable place and made me feel very uneasy/unsafe, so I personally struggled with that aspect of the plot. However, I did enjoy the mystery aspect that kept me reading to figure it all out; and when I think of the book, my overall feeling is one of enjoyment and cozy slice-of-life feels. And I just have to point out how GORGEOUS that cover is and how much I love it! I totally need this series in paperback.
Content: wondering if someone has an illegitimate child; hints that a man wants to spend a night with a girl.
~ quotes to come upon reread ~
*I received a complimentary copy of this book for promotional purposes. I was not required to write a positive review. These are my honest thoughts and opinions.*
Merged review:
4 stars. I was very happy to hear there was a sequel to Wetherholt and this was the perfect wrap-up! This book is set about 2 or 3 years after but picks up right where it left off in plot and feel, minus L & D being married and having a pair of adorable twins.
Once again, I was drawn into the epistolary style of the book—it’s so well done! I enjoyed the sweet, family-centred, slice of life feel of the book (well, for most of it) and all the gentle comedy. Brooks was always a hoot, but Mary makes him a hoot and a half, and Alice adds another half! Darius is just as fun as before (although there were a couple letters where I just wanted to *strangle* him, or at least shake him thoroughly) and Lissie was nicely herself—I had a quiet chuckle at her expense when she started lecturing and let her imagination run away with her like in the first book. As for Orrin—I didn’t love him in book one, but I liked him well enough. In this book, my toleration for him went down very low and never really climbed back up. I could not fathom how he managed to do what he did. But Nett I liked as much as ever—she’s such a lovely girl. And all the side characters—Waverly, Jane, the servants & apprentices, Mr. + Mrs. Dairton, Evelyn, and Uncle Rush—were well done and interesting. Mr. J. threw me for a loop and I tried so hard to like him before I began to despise him heartily.
The plot was such a rollercoaster as I have seldom read. The angst and the terrible question of WHAT WAS HAPPENING that endured for so long—at least, I felt like it was a long time—was really draining and frustrating to me. The situation hit me in a very vulnerable place and made me feel very uneasy/unsafe, so I personally struggled with that aspect of the plot. However, I did enjoy the mystery aspect that kept me reading to figure it all out; and when I think of the book, my overall feeling is one of enjoyment and cozy slice-of-life feels. And I just have to point out how GORGEOUS that cover is and how much I love it! I totally need this series in paperback.
Content: wondering if someone has an illegitimate child; hints that a man wants to spend a night with a girl.
~ quotes to come upon reread ~
*I received a complimentary copy of this book for promotional purposes. I was not required to write a positive review. These are my honest thoughts and opinions.*...more
4 stars. Remember when I said in book 1 that Boris wasn’t my fav? He made me straight-up mad here.
*coughs*
Let’s scale back. So, this goes back a bit 4 stars. Remember when I said in book 1 that Boris wasn’t my fav? He made me straight-up mad here.
*coughs*
Let’s scale back. So, this goes back a bit before book 3, and Anna + Boris are having a rough time. Anna’s scared, Boris is stubborn, and Arjun is stuck in the middle. I liked Arjun as much as always—I liked Anna too—and Boris made me angry, because he manages to be weak and obstinate at the same time. And he doesn’t listen to his wife. And he’s always mad. I know, it’s necessary to the plot, and he gets it out of his system eventually, but I still don’t like him!!
Besides my dislike for a principal character, though, I really enjoyed the book. It’s very suspenseful—more than the other books—with local mafia who are out to destroy the Turs and anyone helping them, plus the government cracking down on Turs and those helping them. There’s betrayal and angst and real uncertainty if people are gonna make it out alive. There’s Erkan’s family and backstory—finally!—and more of the amazing doctor and his wife, and Preen too. I forgot to say before that these books interlock also in how they sway backwards and forwards in time, so that adds another interesting dimension to how you see everyone.
My favourite part of this novel is for sure the deep themes that hit hard—doing the right thing, figuring moral dilemmas, and pushing through fear. I look forwards to the next book in this series and seeing everything wrapped up!!
Content: on-screen birth that was a bit too detailed for me personally, violence.
A Favourite Quote: “Yes, the worst thing. The White Horses kill me, right? So I'm dead. Finish. When I'm alive, I'm in God's hands. And when I'm dead?” He waited. “You're still in God's hands,” I finished softly. “We all are.” “So nothing changes. That's not so bad.” A Favourite Humorous Quote: “Thanks to God somebody has a brain that works,” I whispered. The future didn't look great for mine.
*Full content list to come. I received a complimentary copy of this book for promotional purposes. I was not required to write a positive review. These are my honest thoughts and opinions.*
Merged review:
4 stars. Remember when I said in book 1 that Boris wasn’t my fav? He made me straight-up mad here.
*coughs*
Let’s scale back. So, this goes back a bit before book 3, and Anna + Boris are having a rough time. Anna’s scared, Boris is stubborn, and Arjun is stuck in the middle. I liked Arjun as much as always—I liked Anna too—and Boris made me angry, because he manages to be weak and obstinate at the same time. And he doesn’t listen to his wife. And he’s always mad. I know, it’s necessary to the plot, and he gets it out of his system eventually, but I still don’t like him!!
Besides my dislike for a principal character, though, I really enjoyed the book. It’s very suspenseful—more than the other books—with local mafia who are out to destroy the Turs and anyone helping them, plus the government cracking down on Turs and those helping them. There’s betrayal and angst and real uncertainty if people are gonna make it out alive. There’s Erkan’s family and backstory—finally!—and more of the amazing doctor and his wife, and Preen too. I forgot to say before that these books interlock also in how they sway backwards and forwards in time, so that adds another interesting dimension to how you see everyone.
My favourite part of this novel is for sure the deep themes that hit hard—doing the right thing, figuring moral dilemmas, and pushing through fear. I look forwards to the next book in this series and seeing everything wrapped up!!
Content: on-screen birth that was a bit too detailed for me personally, violence.
A Favourite Quote: “Yes, the worst thing. The White Horses kill me, right? So I'm dead. Finish. When I'm alive, I'm in God's hands. And when I'm dead?” He waited. “You're still in God's hands,” I finished softly. “We all are.” “So nothing changes. That's not so bad.” A Favourite Humorous Quote: “Thanks to God somebody has a brain that works,” I whispered. The future didn't look great for mine.
*Full content list to come. I received a complimentary copy of this book for promotional purposes. I was not required to write a positive review. These are my honest thoughts and opinions.*...more
Indrajit Garai’s books are indeed eye-openers, in my mind at least, and I really appreciated reading these thought-provoking little contemporaries.
Indrajit Garai’s books are indeed eye-openers, in my mind at least, and I really appreciated reading these thought-provoking little contemporaries.
The Alignment 3.5 stars. I love how he kindly, seriously discusses life issues most of us try to ignore. Not being a businessperson, I didn’t quite get everything that was happening in this book, but I appreciated the talk of morals and ethics in business, on a global AND personal level; and also of contentment + aligning desires & needs… also stress. I wasn’t a huge fan of the ending, with Franck decision to cheat never being addressed even if he doesn’t follow through on it; but I appreciated how open-ended and hopeful it was.
The Changing Turf 4 stars. This one was my favourite of the lot. The portrayal of “normal” North American society was striking from the eyes of a foreigner. Debt and homelessness were particularly discussed (and very well handled); but also domestic violence, suicide, and even abortion (love how it was handled from the father’s POV). I didn’t like Nathan’s wife and her actions (she was such a disappointment); but Nathan himself was pretty admirable, especially in his humility and confidence. Again, the ending was bittersweetly open-ended, but hopeful.
The Eye Opener 3.5 stars. By far the longest story in the book, this was the one I struggled most with, because its the most raw and saddening. Definitely a story to be told—just very heavy. I really appreciated seeing life from the side of a convict, especially from the POV of society’s perspective on him and the difficulty of having a good, clean life. I struggled with the anti-government, anti-LE, anti-societal rules attitude, even if I totally understand where it comes from and it’s not entirely wrong in some aspects.
Overall, this book gave me A LOT to think about, both about myself and about the world. And as always, I love the French setting and the reflective writing style.
Content: TA—divorce threatened or carried out (I forget!); nurse tries to seduce main character and he decides to cheat (nothing happens). TCT: Abortion (non condoned) + mention of MC’s body refusing his wife after she aborted their child; swearing (OM*). TEO: swearing; mention of s*xual matters; mention of police torturing + assaulting a minor; mention that God speaks in the MC’s head; parent-child struggles; drugs (hated by MC). Possibly more? I’ve forgotten. One of the stories mentions calling upon God, following it up with remarks about being ashamed to ask for His help.
A Favourite Quote: There are humans too who hoard far beyond their needs, just in case they end up living a day or two more. Then there are absolute idiots like me who know hoarding increases the pain of death, but we hoard anyway because others are doing the same. Why? We don’t want to fall behind. A Favourite Beautiful Quote: The ocean has done us good. There’s something magical about that space where the water joins the sky. That vast emptiness expands your chest, and the door of the universe opens to you. Your tolerance rises; you become more patient; you see qualities in others you never saw before. The violent waves crush your barriers; the mute roars lull you into sleep; you wake up next morning to the jingling of shells; and you see that the water and the salt and the algae have washed your mind clean. You’re no longer the same. The two weeks by the ocean have changed us profoundly. A Favourite Humorous Quote: “They’ve found your genetic imprint on the spot.” “What!” “A paper tissue with your DNA on it.” “In that home?” “No, in a garbage bin just outside.” “What does that prove?” “You’ve been in the proximity.” “Don’t they already have that on their camera?” “They do. The two add up nicely.” Brilliant math. I wonder what kind of defense he’ll provide for me.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book for promotional purposes. I was not required to write a positive review. These are my honest thoughts and opinions.*
Merged review:
Indrajit Garai’s books are indeed eye-openers, in my mind at least, and I really appreciated reading these thought-provoking little contemporaries.
The Alignment 3.5 stars. I love how he kindly, seriously discusses life issues most of us try to ignore. Not being a businessperson, I didn’t quite get everything that was happening in this book, but I appreciated the talk of morals and ethics in business, on a global AND personal level; and also of contentment + aligning desires & needs… also stress. I wasn’t a huge fan of the ending, with Franck decision to cheat never being addressed even if he doesn’t follow through on it; but I appreciated how open-ended and hopeful it was.
The Changing Turf 4 stars. This one was my favourite of the lot. The portrayal of “normal” North American society was striking from the eyes of a foreigner. Debt and homelessness were particularly discussed (and very well handled); but also domestic violence, suicide, and even abortion (love how it was handled from the father’s POV). I didn’t like Nathan’s wife and her actions (she was such a disappointment); but Nathan himself was pretty admirable, especially in his humility and confidence. Again, the ending was bittersweetly open-ended, but hopeful.
The Eye Opener 3.5 stars. By far the longest story in the book, this was the one I struggled most with, because its the most raw and saddening. Definitely a story to be told—just very heavy. I really appreciated seeing life from the side of a convict, especially from the POV of society’s perspective on him and the difficulty of having a good, clean life. I struggled with the anti-government, anti-LE, anti-societal rules attitude, even if I totally understand where it comes from and it’s not entirely wrong in some aspects.
Overall, this book gave me A LOT to think about, both about myself and about the world. And as always, I love the French setting and the reflective writing style.
Content: TA—divorce threatened or carried out (I forget!); nurse tries to seduce main character and he decides to cheat (nothing happens). TCT: Abortion (non condoned) + mention of MC’s body refusing his wife after she aborted their child; swearing (OM*). TEO: swearing; mention of s*xual matters; mention of police torturing + assaulting a minor; mention that God speaks in the MC’s head; parent-child struggles; drugs (hated by MC). Possibly more? I’ve forgotten. One of the stories mentions calling upon God, following it up with remarks about being ashamed to ask for His help.
A Favourite Quote: There are humans too who hoard far beyond their needs, just in case they end up living a day or two more. Then there are absolute idiots like me who know hoarding increases the pain of death, but we hoard anyway because others are doing the same. Why? We don’t want to fall behind. A Favourite Beautiful Quote: The ocean has done us good. There’s something magical about that space where the water joins the sky. That vast emptiness expands your chest, and the door of the universe opens to you. Your tolerance rises; you become more patient; you see qualities in others you never saw before. The violent waves crush your barriers; the mute roars lull you into sleep; you wake up next morning to the jingling of shells; and you see that the water and the salt and the algae have washed your mind clean. You’re no longer the same. The two weeks by the ocean have changed us profoundly. A Favourite Humorous Quote: “They’ve found your genetic imprint on the spot.” “What!” “A paper tissue with your DNA on it.” “In that home?” “No, in a garbage bin just outside.” “What does that prove?” “You’ve been in the proximity.” “Don’t they already have that on their camera?” “They do. The two add up nicely.” Brilliant math. I wonder what kind of defense he’ll provide for me.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book for promotional purposes. I was not required to write a positive review. These are my honest thoughts and opinions.*...more
3.75 (4/10 hearts). I’ve always loved this book just because that old store is SO cool!! The text isn’t too simplistic, even if everything in the book3.75 (4/10 hearts). I’ve always loved this book just because that old store is SO cool!! The text isn’t too simplistic, even if everything in the book is labelled, which makes it seem like it’s for younger readers; and it’s rather a fun little vintage read. ...more
3.7 stars (4/10 hearts). Okay, so the Encyclopedia Brown books are palpably about nothing but the mysteries. Certainly the writing and characters are 3.7 stars (4/10 hearts). Okay, so the Encyclopedia Brown books are palpably about nothing but the mysteries. Certainly the writing and characters are lacking, though there’s some humorous bits. But the cases are a blast. For the first time, I solved some! 5 or 6, I think? One was super evident and I will forever live in shame that I didn’t get it; and two others I didn’t have specific information needed to solve them. Overall, a super fun book and I bet it would be real cool to read aloud and solve as a group! ...more
3.7 stars (4/10 hearts). I wasn’t at all sure whether this adventure was going after The Librarian’s Ruse. Given the cover I expected fun ambassad3.7 stars (4/10 hearts). I wasn’t at all sure whether this adventure was going after The Librarian’s Ruse. Given the cover I expected fun ambassador activities and politics. Well, the politics were there, but not as I imagined. I can’t say anything about the plot because literally anything is a spoiler, buy let’s just say it was quite unexpected and dramatic, and ends on a huge cliffhanger! I enjoyed meeting Amelia’s family, friends, and town, and there was some good character development. I was very shocked by someone’s character reveal but on the other hand discovered I’d pegged someone else’s rightly, so that was fun. Personally, I do feel like this series is more of episodes in a season than actual novels. I feel like there’s so much potential in this story to flesh it out and spread it over a full novel. However, I enjoyed the story and look forwards to book 3. Also, I found myself really liking the duke, and I hope S. returns because she is a fun character. And as an older sister, I related a lot to Amelia’s feelings of having to fix Leon’s messes for him and the mini lesson she learned spoke to me.
Content: Mild violence & bloodshed; Amelia visits a tavern and someone mistakes her as a lady of the night at first.
A Favourite Quote: “I’m aware that what my brother and I did was wrong—and I am so sorry—but I can’t change the past or undo what was done. All I can do is try to fix my mistakes.” A Favourite Humorous Quote: “I’m not the one who makes mistakes. Leon makes mistakes—a lot of mistakes. And I’m the one who fixes them. That’s how it’s always been—how I thought it always would be. But the one time I make a mistake, I single-handedly manage to bring two countries to the brink of war—”
*I was on the launch team for this book and purchased my own copy. I was not required to write a positive review. These are my honest thoughts and opinions.*...more
4.5 stars (4/10 hearts). When I first read this story in the value Village aisle, I was moved almost to tears. It’s such a delightful story with a gre4.5 stars (4/10 hearts). When I first read this story in the value Village aisle, I was moved almost to tears. It’s such a delightful story with a great moral. After a little while, though, it occurred to me that it was rather illogical. The people taking from the child are often better off or have someone to help them (say a husband, parents, etc) which made it puzzling to me why she had to depriver herself to help them. Also, the ending bugged me a little, though the illustration of her undressed is blurry and from far away. It’s still a great story, and the artwork is lovely, so I would totally read it and discuss it with my kids… but I don’t like it enough to buy it, even from Value Village....more
Overall average rating: 3.7 stars (4/10 hearts). I first heard of this publication through an author I was interested in publishing with them once upoOverall average rating: 3.7 stars (4/10 hearts). I first heard of this publication through an author I was interested in publishing with them once upon a time. I never paid attention to their stuff but I was always interested in their thought-provoking themes, and when I saw them recently offering ARCs of their ethics collections, I jumped at the chance. Somehow I was expecting this to be a religious or somewhat conservative/moralistic publication, so I was startled by the amount of language sprinkled throughout the stories, though some are cleaner than others. That aside, I enjoyed the collection as a whole.
The Pool by Celia Lisset Alvarez 3.5 stars (3/10 hearts). This one was particularly thought-stimulating, since both the apartment complex owner and the tenants had valid points—though the tenants were more often wrong than right. The ending was super abrupt though.
First Gold by Bob Beach 2.7 stars (3/10 hearts). This one had a boatload of language, and annoyed me with its very anti-inlaws attitude. Despite that, I really appreciated the message about the ethics of plagiarizing (even if it’s common) and about a business prioritizing a client over a worker.
Pandora’s Dreams by Peter Beaumont 3.5 stars (3/10 hearts). Less of a story, and more of a hypothetical situation, but lots to think about here. A very interesting discussion about whether some science should ethically be off limits, government involvement, and criminal intent vs. characteristics.
Cicada by Ishan Dylan 2.5 stars (2/10 hearts). I found this a confusing story, and I never fully did get the point/moral, I think. Something about people not being ready for specific technology, or corporations not supposed to have it, and apparently the ethics of journalism? I found this story very hard to follow.
Claim by Fiona Ennis 3 stars. This held a very interesting point about insurance coverage that perhaps shouldn’t exist, plus refusal to check into shady clients. There was also a side focus on anorexia—related to trauma/guilt, I believe. Also, it’s written from the second-person perspective, which is more unique.
Thorn by Erik Fatemi 4 stars. A very cool portrayal of Jesus Christ from the POV of a money-centred, powerful local builder obsessed by his fear of competition/losing clientele. I was quite intrigued by Timothy’s obvious but oblivious skewed perspective… and his questionable business ethics towards subordinates.
Guilt-Edged Security by James A. Hartley 2.5 stars (2/10 hearts). I spent most of my time trying to figure out what the story was about (apparently info-dumps in micro fiction are hard for me to wrap my brain around), but once I finally got an idea of the topic—the ethics of small-quantity resources, I believe?—I appreciated it a little more. Mostly I was intrigued by the idea of the immortality brew and choices surrounding this.
The Money Box by Phillip Scott Mandel 2.7 stars (3/10 hearts). Once again, I was dreadfully confused about what was going on, but then so was the MC, so there’s that. I was pretty disgusted about the whole sleep/demon issue… not sure what was going on there, but I struggled with it all… but I appreciated the striking message about how money is never free.
Lev’s Pawn Shop by Megan Neary 5 stars. I loved this story! It was hands down my favourite. Well written, and fascinating, and with such delightful little cameos of life and characters. I loved seeing how different people reacted to life and the overarching theme about good deeds, especially outweighing bad ones… It was just heart-tugging and right up my alley.
Bugs in the Valley by Saba Waheed 3 stars. Lots of these stories focus on the medical/scientific aspect of things, actually. This one was fairly straightforward, all about the ethics of handing medicinal/scientific benefits to the wealthy instead of the needy. It was sad, but thought-inducing.
Overall, this was a very interesting and stimulating collection, though a lot of it apparently went over my head. Perhaps I read it too fast, or it’s better when discussed with others. My general takeaway is it could be better, but I liked it, I’m glad I read it, and I want to read more collections by this publication.
On the off-chance that anyone reads this review and really enjoys ethics-centred writing: check out Indrajit Garai’s novels and short story collections. This collection really reminded me of his works.
Content: a mention of animals drowned; language; mention of “spicy” dreams; veiled mention of s*xual a*sault to a minor; a Church calls asking for insurance against claims of a*sault; anorexia; a demon/false god from antiquity connects into one story + commits mild violence; mention of fornication & out-of-wedlock pregnancy.
Everyone liked to imagine that they would side with Galileo.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book for promotional purposes. I was not required to write a positive review. These are my honest thoughts and opinions.*...more
4 stars. I loved the cover so much that I read this story as soon as it show up in my inbox. I have rarely read steampunk before but I loved it! It’s 4 stars. I loved the cover so much that I read this story as soon as it show up in my inbox. I have rarely read steampunk before but I loved it! It’s very well written, and I found it both fascinating and gripping. The father kept startling me; I enjoyed the fugitive trope, which usually kills me; the mystery had me intrigued; and I LOVED Cassiopeia! The message was so good—AND SO WERE THE CHAPTER TITLES!!—and overall it was just satisfying and had me curious to find more good steampunk stories… and to read The Invisible Man.
4.5 stars (4/10 hearts). THE WAVELING GLADIATOR GOT HIS STORY!!! I am soooo thrilled. Ugh, it was so fun seeing Reef’s backstory and his side of thing4.5 stars (4/10 hearts). THE WAVELING GLADIATOR GOT HIS STORY!!! I am soooo thrilled. Ugh, it was so fun seeing Reef’s backstory and his side of things—and I LOVED the cultural worldbuilding!! Absolutely phenomenal. So many cool details. Once again I enjoyed seeing the giants and colosseum-type games and it reminded me so much of the early christian martyr type stories… ;) I was a tiny bit confused by Reef’s spiritual journey but it pretty much all made sense in the end and I love the prolife message. I enjoyed this story so much (and I was the one that made it happen!!?? wowza) and I look forwards eagerly to the next Emberling saga.
Content: mild, undetailed violence.
A Favourite Quote: Prayer was the only good way to pass the time, a lesson that Reynaldo had taught me. Worry would get me nothing, but if I took my worries to the Spirit, and handed them to Him, then that would give me peace. It might not give me answers, but it would release me from the burden.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book for promotional purposes. I was not required to write a review, positive or otherwise. These are my honest thoughts and opinions.*...more
4,5 étoiles (4/10 cœurs). J'ai toujours été fascinée par les Tsiganes (« gitans ») et leurs manières intrigantes. Ce livre m'a tellement satisfaite. M4,5 étoiles (4/10 cœurs). J'ai toujours été fascinée par les Tsiganes (« gitans ») et leurs manières intrigantes. Ce livre m'a tellement satisfaite. Magali Favre a couvert le bon et le mauvais, le dur et le beau. Elle a suscité tellement de respect et de sympathie pour ce peuple et m'a fait réaliser comment ils ont été traités historiquement. C'était sans conteste ma partie préférée. L'ambiance était agréable.
Ensuite, j'ai adoré le fait que le MC soit québécois ! Et j'ai aimé explorer le sud (occitan) de la France à travers ses expériences. Personnellement, je n'étais pas sa fan numéro 1, surtout après les premiers chapitres - j'ai toujours du mal avec les personnages rebelles, et sa fuite en laissant sa famille terrifiée n'était pas juste. Pourtant, j'ai compris ses raisons, et sa famille était tout aussi injuste dans leur sévérité constante et inexpliquée, ainsi que dans leur tentative de transférer leurs préjugés et de cacher son passé. Aucun des personnages n'était particulièrement attachant, à moins que ce ne soit Fablo, mais ils étaient tous intéressants.
Enfin, j'ai profondément apprécié l'histoire. Rares sont ceux qui évoquent l’internement des Tsiganes pendant la Seconde Guerre mondiale. Cette histoire est un hommage émouvant à ces pauvres âmes oubliées. C’est une histoire bien écrite et importante. J’ai hâte de la relire.
**Liste de contenu à venir quand je relis le livre**
—————
4.5 stars (4/10 hearts). I’ve always been fascinated by the Romani (“gypsies”) and their intriguing ways. This book satisfied me so well. Magali Favre covered the good and the bad, the hard and the beautiful. She raised so much respect and sympathy for this people and made me realize how they were treated historically. That was hands-down my favourite part. The atmosphere was lovely.
Next, I loved how the MC was québécois! And I enjoyed exploring the south (Occitan) end of France through his experiences. Personally I was not his no. 1 fan, especially after the first few chapters—I always have difficulty with rebellious characters, and his running away to leave his family terrified wasn’t fair. Still, I understood his reasons, and they were just as unfair in their constant unexplained severity, as well as their attempt to transfer their prejudice and hide his past. None of the characters were particularly loveable, unless it was Fablo, but they were all interesting.
Finally, I deeply appreciated the history. Few ever mention the internment of the Romani in WWII; this story is a moving tribute to those poor forgotten souls. It’s a well-written story, and an important one. I look forward to rereading it.
3,7 étoiles (4/10 cœurs). Je ne comprenais pas pourquoi tout le monde semblait aimer autant Petite Taupe (je n’avais pas encore lu Petite Taupe, ou3,7 étoiles (4/10 cœurs). Je ne comprenais pas pourquoi tout le monde semblait aimer autant Petite Taupe (je n’avais pas encore lu Petite Taupe, ouvre-moi ta porte !, qui semble venir en premier) mais j'ai été très touchée par la douce amitié et la gentillesse ! Les illustrations sont mignonnes, l’esprit de Noël est fort et qui n’aime pas les adorables petites maisons et meubles d’animaux ?
———
3.7 stars (4/10 hearts). I didn’t understand why everyone seemed to love Petite Taupe so much (I hadn’t yet read Petite Taupe, ouvre-moi ta porte !, which seems to come first) but I was very touched by the sweet friendship and kindness! The illustrations are cute, the Christmas spirit is strong, and what’s not to love about adorable little animal homes and furnishings?...more
4 étoiles. J'ai commencé cette série avec tome 3, ne sachant que C'ÉTAIT une série. (Pourquoi les livres français ne notent-ils pas souvent la série s4 étoiles. J'ai commencé cette série avec tome 3, ne sachant que C'ÉTAIT une série. (Pourquoi les livres français ne notent-ils pas souvent la série sur le dos/la couverture ??) C'était amusant de découvrir enfin le début de l’Escouade 06 !
Alex et Caroline sont des enfants sympas et la famille d'Alex est… intéressante. Ce ne sont certes pas des modèles mais ils ne sont pas affreux non plus… ? J'espère cependant que F. changera un peu après tout ceci et que M. B apprendra à se prendre moins au sérieux… et que Mme B écoutera un peu plus ses enfants ! Le sergent Raymond Q. est également un gars sympa, et même si j'ai soupçonné l'un des méchants dès le début, ils n'étaient pas ce à quoi je m'attendais – et le héros final non plus !
L'intrigue était simple mais intéressante. Il n’y a pas eu autant de recherches que dans Sous le Pont Jacques-Cartier mais c’est compréhensible. Le point culminant est étonnamment rapide mais pas trop précipité. Dans l’ensemble, c’est un bon roman québécois pour ados et j’attends avec impatience le tome 2.
Contenu : Quelques mentions de baisers sur les joues ; le méchant attache Caroline au-dessus d'Alex et fait une blague grossière.
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4 stars. I started this series with book 3, not being aware that it WAS a series. (Why don’t French books often note the series on the spine/cover??) It was fun to finally discover the beginning of Escouade 06!
Alex & Caroline are nice kids, and Alex’s family is… interesting. They’re certainly not role-models but they’re not awful either…? I hope F. changes a little after this, though, and Mr. B. should learn to take himself less seriously… and Mrs. B. to listen a little more to her kids! Sgt. Raymond Q. is a nice fellow, too, and while I suspected one of the villains early on, they weren’t what I expected—and neither was the final hero!
The plot was simple but interesting. There wasn’t so much sleuthing as in Sous le Pont Jacques-Cartier but that’s understandable. The climax is surprisingly quick but not too rushed. Overall it’s a solid quebecois novel for teens and I look forwards to book 2.
Content: A few mentions of cheek kisses; the villain ties Caroline on top of Alex and makes a rude joke....more
4 stars. For the first 4 chapters of this book I was wondering why Austen hated Eleanor so much—and when I found out, I laughed out loud. What a grudg4 stars. For the first 4 chapters of this book I was wondering why Austen hated Eleanor so much—and when I found out, I laughed out loud. What a grudge to hold for 12 years!
From the above, you can extrapolate that humour isn’t lacking in this little story. Neither is the heartwarming. I’m not an avid romance reader but I enjoyed seeing A& E’s courtship blossom. They did a fantastic job building a solid, respectful, Christ-centred relationship! I love how Lucy’s and Charlie’s stories were interwoven, bringing in a solid pro-life message, but also emphasizing the practical, daily life help that is a part of the pro-life belief. All the characters were enjoyable, and dare I hint I’d love to see a romance featuring Devin next??
As always with Hannah Foster’s stories, the cozy small town feels are a joy, and the Christian message is strong. Fans of Contemporary Christian Fiction and/or Romance, don’t miss this sweet, simple story! Recommendation: 16+
Content: (view spoiler)[ Lucy’s story, briefly and well handled, consists of running away from home, getting pregnant, and miscarrying. Charlie is conceived when Devin & Jessica met randomly at a bar and Devin says he regrets taking her virginity, even if it was freely given. (hide spoiler)]
*I received a complimentary copy of this book for promotional purposes. I was not required to write a positive review. These are my honest thoughts and opinions.*...more
3,7 étoiles (4/10 cœurs). Ayant grandi dans une église pleine d’Africains – Camerounais, Togolais, Congolais, Béninois, etc. – cette histoire m’a semb3,7 étoiles (4/10 cœurs). Ayant grandi dans une église pleine d’Africains – Camerounais, Togolais, Congolais, Béninois, etc. – cette histoire m’a semblé réconfortante et familière. Je connais les histoires de guerre civile et de camps de réfugiés, mais je n’ai pas encore lu beaucoup de romans, voire aucun, sur ces sujets, j’ai donc apprécié ce roman court et simple.
Mamadi était un garçon très aimable, et sa « petite sœur » était adorable ! Ses parents étaient fantastiques aussi. J’adore le parcours de Papillon et la représentation canadienne… car, admettons-le, les histoires de l’ONU concernent généralement nos voisins du sud, pas nous. ;) Toute l'intrigue a tiré sur le cœur mais a également donné de l'inspiration et du courage. L'hommage de l'auteur à son collègue qui a enduré tant de souffrances mais « qu’ils n'ont jamais réussi à l'empêcher de sourire », sa simple célébration de l'espoir et de la ténacité humaine, et son retour constant à la beauté au milieu de l'horreur… c'était tellement humiliant et édifiant. Et ayant été montréalaise, la fin m'a fait plaisir. :)
Contenu : quelques mentions des horreurs que perpétue la guerre.
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3.7 stars (4/10 hearts). Having been raised in a church full of Africans—Cameroonians, Togolese, Congolese, Beninese, etc—this story felt comforting and familiar. I am familiar with stories of civil war and refugee camps, but I haven’t read many, if any, novels about them yet, so I appreciated this short, simple novel.
Mamadi was a sweet boy, and his “little sister” was adorable! His parents were fantastic too. I love Papillon’s journey, and the Canadian representation… because let’s admit it, usually U.N. stories are about our neighbours to the south, not us. ;) The whole plotline tugged at the heart but also gave inspiration and courage. The author’s tribute to his coworker who went through so much suffering but “they never managed to keep him from smiling,” his simple celebration of human hope and tenacity, and his constant return to beauty in midst of the horror… it was so humbling and uplifting. And having been a Montrealer, the ending made me happy. :)
Content: a few mentions of the horrors that war perpetuates....more
4 stars. This was such a great resource! I love the author’s opening remarks about paradoxical, 3-dimensional, realistic characters. The traits are li4 stars. This was such a great resource! I love the author’s opening remarks about paradoxical, 3-dimensional, realistic characters. The traits are listed alphabetically, with their likely or obvious characteristics and similar traits; and at the end there’s a list of the traits that are opposite to each other. I’d point out that there are some stereotypes given for a lot of the traits and writers should keep in mind that sometimes people can have a trait but exhibit it in very unstereotypical or even usual ways. But overall, a fantastic work by the author and a very useful book for writers.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book for promotional purposes. I was not required to write a positive review. These are my honest thoughts and opinions.*...more
4 étoiles. Petite histoire super mignonne d'une souris couturière qui apprend à tailler des animaux de plus en plus gros. J'ai adoré l'amitié et l'aid4 étoiles. Petite histoire super mignonne d'une souris couturière qui apprend à tailler des animaux de plus en plus gros. J'ai adoré l'amitié et l'aide, et les hébergements des petites souris sont toujours mignons. ;) En plus, j'aime beaucoup les illustrations !
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4 stars. Super cute little story of a dressmaker mouse as she learns to tailor increasingly larger animals. I loved the friendship and help, and little mice accommodations are always cute. ;) Also, I really like the illustrations! ...more
4 stars. When Elizabeth married a ne’er-do-well against all advice, her siblings refused to have anything to do with her for years. But over time, Geo4 stars. When Elizabeth married a ne’er-do-well against all advice, her siblings refused to have anything to do with her for years. But over time, George, Ellen, and Charlotte relented and wrote to Elizabeth to lend one of her children for the summer. Yet Paul still will not have anything to do with Elizabeth’s child…
I think Montgomery has a thing for writing about estranged family, and specially having nieces win over stubborn old uncles. Worth is amazing and her relationship with Paul is just so sweet and funny. It’s a delightful, heartwarming tale!...more
4 étoiles. J’espérais une fin triomphale de la série, et je ne pense pas avoir été exactement déçu. J’étais un peu attristé par tous les conflits et l4 étoiles. J’espérais une fin triomphale de la série, et je ne pense pas avoir été exactement déçu. J’étais un peu attristé par tous les conflits et la duplicité dans le foyer et la situation de Josette. Mais j'ai adoré la façon dont les Loiseaux étaient tous eux-mêmes délicieux, la façon dont Jeanne ne s'enfuyait pas seule, la petite romance entre elle et Antoine, les olympiques et Johnny Weissmuller ! J'ai également apprécié de connaître Alice Milliat et d'en apprendre davantage sur les Jeux olympiques en général. Plutôt une finition solide finalement.
Contenu : quelques moqueries envers ceux qui trouvent que les tenues de bain ne sont pas pudiques ; de la violence domestique qui n’est pas entièrement traitée.
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4 stars. I was hoping for a triumphant finish to the series, and I don’t think I was disappointed exactly. I was a little saddened by all the strife and duplicity in Josette’s home and situation. But I loved how the Loiseaux were all their own delightful selves, how Jeanne didn’t run off alone, the tiny romance between her & Antoine, the olympic spotlight, and Johnny Weissmuller! I also appreciated learning about Alice Milliat and learning more about the Olympics in general. Rather a solid finish finally.
Content: some mockery towards people who think the swimming outfits aren’t modest; domestic violence that isn’t fully dealt with....more
4 étoiles. Je n'ai pas beaucoup aimé les livres #1-2 (en particulier tome 1) mais j'ai apprécié les personnages et je voulais donner une autre chance 4 étoiles. Je n'ai pas beaucoup aimé les livres #1-2 (en particulier tome 1) mais j'ai apprécié les personnages et je voulais donner une autre chance à la série, notamment parce que j'aimais livre #3 assez bien.
Je pense que celui-ci était le meilleur de la série jusqu'à présent. Jeanne ne s'est pas mise en danger, a écouté et obéi aux adultes, et n'a pas fait de détective seule, en plus d'être consciente des dangers d'accuser les gens et de divulguer des informations sans suffisamment de connaissances… donc je pouvais réellement l’apprécier ! Les autres personnages étaient très bien eux-mêmes… et j’ai aimé les professeures plus que je m’y attendais, notamment Mme M. C’était intéressant de rencontrer Sonia Delaunay, que je ne connaissais pas non plus.
En ce qui concerne l'intrigue, j'adore la partie empoisonnement du mystère ((view spoiler)[surtout la partie arsenic (hide spoiler)]) et l'aspect contrefaçon. J’ai également beaucoup apprécié le travail des femmes auprès des mères célibataires (même si je m’oppose à l’idée que la grossesse est toujours uniquement la faute du père) et leur résistance à la négligence et aux abus de la société envers ces filles et leurs bébés. C'était aussi amusant de voir certains personnages des œuvres précédentes de la série ! Mais j’étais vraiment ennuyé de revoir ces incompétents tyrans des policiers.
Dans l'ensemble, j'attends avec impatience une conclusion satisfaisante dans le tome 5 (et peut-être même un soupçon de romance ????)
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4 stars. I did not like books 1-2 very much (specifically book 1) but I did enjoy the characters and wanted to give the series another chance, specifically because I liked book 3 well enough.
I think this one was the best of the series so far. Jeanne didn’t cram herself into danger, listened & obeyed the adults, and didn’t do hardly any sleuthing on her own, besides being aware of the dangers of accusing people and giving away information without enough knowledge… so I could actually appreciate her! The other characters were very nicely themselves… and I liked the teachers more than I expected, specially Mme M. It was interesting to meet Sonia Delaunay, whom I didn’t know about, too.
As far as the plot was concerned, I love the poisoning part of the mystery ((view spoiler)[especially the arsenic part (hide spoiler)]) and the counterfeiting aspect. I also really appreciated the ladies’ work among unmarried mothers (though I object to the idea that the pregnancy is always only the father’s fault) and their standing up to society’s neglect and abuse to those girls and their babies. It was also fun to see some characters from the earlier works in the series! I was really annoyed at seeing those incompetent bullies of policemen again though.
Overall, I look forwards to a satisfying conclusion in book 5 (and maybe even a hint of romance????)...more
![Joyeux Noël, Petite Taupe ! [ Merry Christmas Little Mole ! ] (French Edition)](https://cdn.statically.io/img/i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1514384915l/37749790._SX50_.jpg)
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