“ARE YOU A GOOD WITCH OR A BAD WITCH?” — GLINDA, THE GOOD WITCH, THE WIZARD OF OZ
Opening with a quote from a beloved witching world where things liter“ARE YOU A GOOD WITCH OR A BAD WITCH?” — GLINDA, THE GOOD WITCH, THE WIZARD OF OZ
Opening with a quote from a beloved witching world where things literally weren’t black and white, The Janus Witch quickly establishes its intentions to delve into morality, and what it means to be good or evil — regardless of time period or circumstance.
Beginning in a medieval setting where witches were hunted openly and without question, Clifton quickly introduces us to a murderous coven helmed by the infamous raven-haired Morganna. Leading two eager apprentices, Morganna’s ruthless nature is quickly laid out before us via murders, manipulation, and magic. Thus solidifying the “stereotypical evil witch trope” fairly early on in the story. But before we’re taken down this all-too-familiar path, Clifton throws a time-traveling twist into the story! When a fight with a legendary Hunter goes awry, Morganna and her strongest apprentice, Tressalayne, escape through a portal landing (quite literally) in modern-day East Texas. And, I know you’re thinking that sounds far fetched, but Clifton makes the fantasy feel real and provides a setting for the characters to explore the schisms in their personalities.
Waking up in a new world and separated from her coven, Tressalayne finds herself in the care of Dr. Lucas Beckett who is immediately taken with her. Fighting to regain her memories, Tressalayne’s reliance on her easy-on-the-eyes doctor evolves pretty rapidly into romance. He helps her navigate this new world and introduces her to a life that could be full of love rather than hate.
“WITCHES ARE MURDEROUS LIARS, BUT THEIR BLOOD ALWAYS TELLS TRUE.”
I think the most interesting part of Clifton’s paranormal story is his ability to point out that evil isn’t defined to a time period and that the same motives that could drive an ancient coven leader could also motivate a modern-day businessman.
Enter Mason Crick. The CFO of Good Shepard General Hospital by day and greedy, evildoer by night. Crick’s actions are honestly some of the most despicable in the entire novel — especially during the gut-churning aftermath of a certain binding spell. The introduction of this character helps highlight that the choices we make with the power we’re given is what truly defines our character. A message that is reinforced by the ending confrontation between Morganna, Tressalayne, and the Hunter.
Full of twists, turns, time-travel, and an ending that leaves the door open to another potential portal within this paranormal world, The Janus Witch was a truly wild ride and one I hope Clifton explores again!
Merged review:
“ARE YOU A GOOD WITCH OR A BAD WITCH?” — GLINDA, THE GOOD WITCH, THE WIZARD OF OZ
Opening with a quote from a beloved witching world where things literally weren’t black and white, The Janus Witch quickly establishes its intentions to delve into morality, and what it means to be good or evil — regardless of time period or circumstance.
Beginning in a medieval setting where witches were hunted openly and without question, Clifton quickly introduces us to a murderous coven helmed by the infamous raven-haired Morganna. Leading two eager apprentices, Morganna’s ruthless nature is quickly laid out before us via murders, manipulation, and magic. Thus solidifying the “stereotypical evil witch trope” fairly early on in the story. But before we’re taken down this all-too-familiar path, Clifton throws a time-traveling twist into the story! When a fight with a legendary Hunter goes awry, Morganna and her strongest apprentice, Tressalayne, escape through a portal landing (quite literally) in modern-day East Texas. And, I know you’re thinking that sounds far fetched, but Clifton makes the fantasy feel real and provides a setting for the characters to explore the schisms in their personalities.
Waking up in a new world and separated from her coven, Tressalayne finds herself in the care of Dr. Lucas Beckett who is immediately taken with her. Fighting to regain her memories, Tressalayne’s reliance on her easy-on-the-eyes doctor evolves pretty rapidly into romance. He helps her navigate this new world and introduces her to a life that could be full of love rather than hate.
“WITCHES ARE MURDEROUS LIARS, BUT THEIR BLOOD ALWAYS TELLS TRUE.”
I think the most interesting part of Clifton’s paranormal story is his ability to point out that evil isn’t defined to a time period and that the same motives that could drive an ancient coven leader could also motivate a modern-day businessman.
Enter Mason Crick. The CFO of Good Shepard General Hospital by day and greedy, evildoer by night. Crick’s actions are honestly some of the most despicable in the entire novel — especially during the gut-churning aftermath of a certain binding spell. The introduction of this character helps highlight that the choices we make with the power we’re given is what truly defines our character. A message that is reinforced by the ending confrontation between Morganna, Tressalayne, and the Hunter.
Full of twists, turns, time-travel, and an ending that leaves the door open to another potential portal within this paranormal world, The Janus Witch was a truly wild ride and one I hope Clifton explores again!...more
Thank you so much to LSBBT, the publisher, and the author for providing me with a finished copy in exchange for an honest review.
"What's wrong is selThank you so much to LSBBT, the publisher, and the author for providing me with a finished copy in exchange for an honest review.
"What's wrong is seldom one thing; it's one more thing."
You know that saying: "When it rains, it pours"? It's a phrase typically used to describe an onslaught of similar events that occur over a short period of time. Considering the pile of problems accumulating for the Havliceks, it's pretty spot on. Which is rather ironic given that one of their primary issues is a years-long drought.
Jokes aside, it's hard not to feel immediate sympathy for the characters featured in Slanted Light. Facing theft, break-ins, a hormonal teenager, eating disorders, and fractures in their professional and personal lives, the parents in this contemporary certainly have it tough.
"Don't be surprised if things get worse before they get better."
J.D. and Claire Havilcek have stopped putting each other first. After three turbulent transitional years they've stopped speaking the same love language -- when they're speaking at all. Trading passion and respect for pride and resentment, their miscommunication and judgements are now affecting their children. And while this dissension felt raw and plausible, I'd be lying if I said I didn't initially side with Claire.
After earning her undergraduate and Master's degrees, Claire has become a nurse practitioner opening two clinics in their rural community to aid accessibility to medical care. In addition to working a full-time job, she's also a full-time mother and homemaker ensuring the kids get to & from school daily, and that a home-cooked meal is on the table every night. To me, Claire is a superhero. And yet, J.D. is constantly criticizing her for not being a "good enough" wife and encouraging her to quit her practice in order to be more attentive to his needs at home. While I could write a whole diatribe against J.D.'s logic, I do believe these scenes -- coupled with a heartbreaking confession from a female patient at Claire's clinic -- highlight how women are often held to an incredibly high standard. Not only by society, but also by other women, and even themselves.
I, like Claire, used to run and operate my own business, and the number of situations and conversations I was put in that a male counterpart would never encounter was as mind-boggling as it was maddening. I say this not only to express how deeply I related to Claire's struggle, but also to point out that it's okay to admit there are days when we don't feel like putting on that superhero cape. Days where we're bogged down by the expectations of others; working for their goals instead of reaching for our own. Getting trapped in this cycle can lead to exhaustion, burn out, and depression, which is why we need to remember to celebrate our accomplishments and ask for help when we need it. A message J.D. (shockingly) helped illustrate.
"I know how it feels to want to succeed. I had to lose a lot to learn what would really mean success to me."
Watching this family evolve from a seemingly broken unit into an enviable and loving household was an unexpected joy. Especially because I never thought I'd relate to the plight of a ranching family. But managing a farm, like any business, requires balance in order to be successful. And this book beautifully depicts a family discovering that balance.
With strong themes of body positivity, open communication, and appreciating life in the moment, Slanted Light delivers a powerful family saga packed with action and empathetic characters. From the seemingly all-knowing matriarch of the family, Willa, to the observant and precocious Jay Frank, Jones' characters are fleshed out and worthy of getting to know. There's so much I'd love to say about their journeys, but I'd rather you dive in and experience them yourself.
Thank you so much to LSBBT, the publisher, and the author for providing me with a finished copy in exchange for an honest review.
“IT WASN’T HOW WE WERThank you so much to LSBBT, the publisher, and the author for providing me with a finished copy in exchange for an honest review.
“IT WASN’T HOW WE WERE BORN OR RAISED THAT MADE US THE MEN WE ARE TODAY. IT WAS WHAT HAPPENED THAT DAY THAT SET THE REST OF OUR LIVES IN MOTION.”
In less than 320 pages, Shanessa Gluhm’s powerful debut delivers a family saga that captures everything I love about storytelling. With fully formed and fleshed-out characters, a narrative pacing that keeps you hungry for answers, and themes that could resonate with readers young and old, Enemies of Doves provides a captivating fictional story that felt entirely tangible.
Maybe it’s because the action is divided over the course of 60 years of the characters’ history with tidbits being gleaned from major and minor players alike, but consuming this story felt like learning my own family history from a beloved grandparent. I could envision being told the tumultuous tale during a family reunion with chatty aunts and uncles chiming in with those supplemental details that truly round out a story. And not because I can personally relate to some of the heinous tidbits revealed in this decade-spanning novel, but rather because of Gluhm’s empathetic exploration of the human condition. Her ability to portray a character as they see themself, as they’re seen by others, and how that affects and shapes their life’s narrative was truly impressive given the amount of years she needed to address with so few pages to do so. It allows you, as the reader, to form true bonds to these characters and see how tiny, seemingly insignificant choices can accumulate into decisions that will leave lifelong scars.
“LIVING THINGS SHOULDN’T BE CAGED…”
Tackling everything from racism, poverty, PTSD, war, child abuse, prison, and our duty to our fellow man, Enemies of Doves packs a punch in nearly every chapter. Thanks to the synopsis, I knew I was diving into a book full of secrets surrounding a duo of brothers, but I did not expect the subtle social commentary hidden within its pages. Some topics were addressed with just a sprinkled line or two, while others evolved throughout the book. What blew me away was how the issues plaguing the characters in the 1940s could very easily be written about modern-day characters. Perhaps it’s these universal themes that gave me such a real connection to the material, but I have a strong feeling that this book will linger long after it’s placed back on the shelf.
“A SECOND LIE, A SECOND PACT AND — HOPEFULLY — A SECOND CHANCE.”
There’s so much to talk about when it comes to this book. The incident that sparked the initial secret between brothers and what’s kept them tied to it for decades. The love triangle that developed between them during WWII. The aftermath of trauma and how it changes people. The lengths we’re willing to go for a loved one wronged. A grandson’s search for truth and a new family to call his own. Or the mega plot twists Gluhm employed to keep readers on their toes.
Whether it’s one or all of these topics, Enemies of Doves is clearly a book you’ll want to discuss long after the epilogue is read. All is not what it seems and I personally think it’s best to go in with as little information as possible and let the story take you where it will. If you’re in the market for a murder mystery full of secrets, sacrifice, and heart, I suggest aligning up with this debut.
TW: racism and usage of racial slurs, PTSD, depression, child abuse, murder, violence, infidelity, and more. Please feel free to send me a message or comment if you'd like a more thorough breakdown of themes addressed in the novel!...more
This is a hard book to review. Not only because the topics addressed are serious and needed in this genre, but also because I'm very torn on the overaThis is a hard book to review. Not only because the topics addressed are serious and needed in this genre, but also because I'm very torn on the overall effect & story.
There are elements of this book I absolutely adored, but there's also several issues that didn't sit right with me at all. And what's so difficult is that the parts that were good truly shined, but the parts that were flawed were seriously disconcerting. I'm trying to determine whether my expectations or own relationship to the material is factoring in to my critique and until I can separate my feelings from the facts, I'm going to withhold a star rating.
At the end of the day, I believe this book has the potential to be a very powerful tool for readers that have been exposed to sexual abuse and/or dissociate in efforts to cope. But with that being said, I don't feel like this will land amongst readers looking for a more emotionally-open MC.
Because this is a dark read please note the trigger warnings (most of which involving minors) before diving in: rape, sexual assault, child abuse, domestic violence, sex trafficking, drug use and abuse, violence, self harm and mentions of suicide, slut shaming, miscarriage, murder, use of the N word, grooming tactics, etc.
Thank you so much to Lake Union Press, LSBBT, and the author for providing me with an advanced ecopy in exchange for an honest review.
[image]
“OUR Thank you so much to Lake Union Press, LSBBT, and the author for providing me with an advanced ecopy in exchange for an honest review.
[image]
“OUR CHOICES…THEY CAN CHANGE US, CAN’T THEY?”
At its heart, The Caretakers is a novel about choices. Whether it’s the seemingly mundane decisions made throughout our daily lives or the selections that lead to major milestones, our choices matter. And as you’ll see in Maxwell’s twisted tale, each and every choice we make comes with a consequence.
“SOMETHING IS RISING. IF ONLY SHE COULD REMEMBER WHAT IT IS.”
Toggling between dual timelines and narrators, The Caretakers centers on two pairs of sisters and the secrets that haunt their flawed families.
Tessa, a renowned filmmaker, is not only hiding from her past and her estranged sister, Margot, but also from the frenzied media that flock to her after the man her documentary helped free from prison releases a video confession of a new murder.
Kitty, an octogenarian with a sunny disposition, is living out her days in the remains of her childhood home. Her elder sister, Deirdre, shares the burden of maintaining the grounds — and the memories — as caretakers of Fallbrook, a once prominent home lost to the world after the horrific murders that took place within its walls.
But WHY has Oliver, a wrongly accused and recently freed man, implicated himself in the death of Valerie Winters? Is he capable of murder? Was Tessa wrong about him? And if so, does that mean Valerie’s blood is on her hands?
And WHO was responsible for the murders all those years ago at Fallbrook manor? Why would someone take out an entire family save an infant crying alone upstairs? And HOW does that surviving infant link Tessa and Kitty?
Once their paths are merged, bringing their reluctant siblings along for the ride, we get our answers. Secrets are revealed, lives are lost, and each new twist escalates until that final mind-blowing conclusion.
“IT’S NOT A PRETTY TALE…BUT ONE DRENCHED IN HEARTACHE AND BLOOD.”
Like the desolate woods that surrounds the decaying Fallbrook, it’s easy to get lost in this dark mystery. Told in short, highly digestible chapters, The Caretakers hooked me from the prologue. Exposed to Maxwell’s expressive writing style full of crisp descriptions and lingering details, it didn’t take long before I was compulsively turning the pages in my obsession for answers.
With two primary mysteries to solve, a full-cast of supporting characters, and a duo of timelines, The Caretakers was an ambitious project for Maxwell. With so many threads and conflicting character motivations this easily could have become a giant, tangled mess. Instead we’re gifted with a story woven into a transportive tapestry that slowly, but surely reveals its intricate and completed image.
That impressive attention to detail is what truly blew me away. Every last detail is clean, polished, and presented with a purpose. Nothing is trivial and nothing is as it seems. And your appreciation for Maxwell’s tricks and deception only grows the longer you’ve been exposed to the truths within the text. In fact, as I was writing this review and going over my notes, I was blown away by the sheer number of passages filled with double meanings; hints that Maxwell sprinkled throughout the story chapters before I sensed a clue. Even the cover art is in on the game! And all you have to do to play along is pick up this addictive read yourself.
Like every great thriller, The Caretakers was a nonstop, action-packed experience. Even as we get our closure, we’re served some last-minute reveals that leave us stunned with no more pages left to turn. So start writing your next mind-boggling thriller, Maxwell, because I — like others — am hungry for more.
All quotes were taken from an advanced copy of this collection and may not match final release....more
Thank you so much to Rhythm & Bones Press, LSBBT, and the author for providing me with an advanced ecopy in exchange for an honest review.
[image]
“…TThank you so much to Rhythm & Bones Press, LSBBT, and the author for providing me with an advanced ecopy in exchange for an honest review.
[image]
“…THERE IS A THIN LINE BETWEEN LOVE AND HATE. THIS COLLECTION IS ABOUT THAT THIN LINE.”
I didn’t know what to expect when I first picked up my copy of Violence/Joy/Chaos. If I’m being honest, I was lured in by the enchanting cover art created by the author’s brother, Jordan Aman. I was drawn to the dark chaos of the birds, while simultaneously being comforted by the calm woman underneath. She seemed at peace despite the avian turmoil, and I immediately wanted to know her story.
Told in a seemingly linear timeline, Violence/Joy/Chaos takes readers on a consuming journey spanning a decade of Fleming’s life. Shared through “true to life” essays and poems, Fleming’s “trauma turned art” outlines her rocky path to recovery. As stated in the preface of her debut collection, these stories are being offered to the reader as a means to take control of the past and reclaim the pieces of her that were lost along the way. And with that mission in mind, Fleming delicately bares her soul on the page for prying eyes to examine. She doesn’t hold back or shy away from extremely personal details of the events she’s survived over the past 10 years. All that she asks is that we be “gentle as we consume.”
“206 IT SAYS ON THE BOX, BUT I NEED IT TO BE ONE. SOLVE ME.”
My affections for this intoxicating collection of essays and poems grew as I consumed its pages. I was curious about the 16-year-old rage shredding poems that were discovered by her snooping mother. I was sad for the young college student assaulted after drinking too much because she “didn’t want to seem like a prude.” I was heartbroken for the woman called a monster by her boyfriend for taking a life-altering step pushed onto her by her parents and time. And I felt actual joy upon reading the final word of the mirrored poem featured at the beginning and end of this collection.
The themes and topics addressed in this book are universal and thus a perfect choice for the medium of poetry. And while I haven’t experienced many of the traumatic events our heroine faces, I can’t imagine how powerful these words could be if placed in the hands of a woman that needed to read them. Through Fleming’s personal and particular accounts, other anonymous women might get the strength they need to put the pieces of their puzzle together.
“SOMEONE ONCE TOLD ME TRAUMA LIVES IN THE GAPS — THE THINGS WE CANNOT LET SLIDE OUT OF OUR PINK, FRAGILE MOUTHS.”
Although Fleming is open and honest throughout this book, I do find myself wondering about the gaps in the collection. I’d happily have forfeited some of the drug-induced romps in the woods for a clearer understanding of the timeline between meeting her husband and her stint in a psychiatric facility. Or clarity on her relationship with Dev and Michael over the mountain climbing scenes in El Paso. At the end of the day, I’m appreciative of the balance struck between humor (read: invading neighborhood cat) and sorrow (read: the poem about spirit births — I’m still emotional over this one) and think the reader will feel resolution by the end of this turbulent tale.
It’s hard to truly summarizes my experience with this book without spoiling the secrets revealed within its pages. There were scenes that made me feel seen, and passages that left me bewildered and concerned. But I think that’s the point: to feel the confusion and rush that coincides with love and trauma.
I know we’ve got a lot of time on our hands over the next few weeks, and if you can safely handle the topics (see trigger warnings below), than I recommend you start National Poetry Month with this haunting glimpse of the healing process.
All quotes were taken from an advanced copy of this collection and may not match final release.
Violence/Joy/Chaos trigger warnings: abuse, drug use and overdosing, sexual assault, rape (implied), violence, suicidal thoughts, self-harm, cutting, suicide, gun use, abortion, and death of a loved one....more
This haunted handbook is the perfect eerie escort to usher in the Halloween spirit(s).
Thank you so much to Castle Azle Press, LSBBT, and the author foThis haunted handbook is the perfect eerie escort to usher in the Halloween spirit(s).
Thank you so much to Castle Azle Press, LSBBT, and the author for providing me with a final copy in exchange for an honest review.
What I love about an author like Snider is that she’s not only open, but also extremely receptive to feedback. Her willingness to listen to her readers is the reason this new-and-improved volume exists. Fans of the O.G. Paranormal Texas requested photos, additional venues, more personal encounters, and extra evidence next time around, and Snider took those suggestions and ran with it. Adding approximately 100 black-and-white images, new haunts, updated sightings, and (my personal favorite) an interactive online evidence database, Snider’s second edition provides the ideal travel tool for DFW’s spookiest spots.
Covering everything from Arlington to Weatherford, this ghostly guide is easy to navigate thanks to the city-divided index featured within the book’s first few pages. I’d be lying if I said I didn’t immediately scroll to my hometown to ensure a lack of haunted hideouts in my neighborhood. Thankfully none have yet to be reported, but I am now aware of a few phantasmal locales I have visited in the past. ...more
Thank you so much to Entangled Publishing, LLC (Crush), Chapter by Chapter Blog Tours, and the author for providing me with an eARC in exchange for anThank you so much to Entangled Publishing, LLC (Crush), Chapter by Chapter Blog Tours, and the author for providing me with an eARC in exchange for an honest review.
"For most of my life, I loved baseball as much as I loved my dad. Now, I hate it as much as I hate my dad."
Joe "Josie" Walters (clearly) hasn't had an easy childhood. Forced to relocate every few years while her father chased his dream of playing professional ball, Josie was used to changing things up and spending lots of time at ballparks. And none of that ever bothered her one bit, until her father threw her a curve ball she never saw coming. Jilted by her hero, a man who chose the chance at the game over her, Josie vowed to never care for baseball -- or its players -- again.
Enter Blondie a.k.a. Garrett Reeves, the gorgeous (albeit clichéd) male lead who -- you guessed it -- plays baseball. Well, technically he's injured at the moment, but we'll overlook that for now. Josie stumbles (read: bursts) into Garrett's commentary booth one afternoon while serving as a wing woman for her BFF, Mai, because she cannot handle the crappy color commentary trickling from the booth. Effectively kicking out Garrett's ill-informed commentating partner, she quickly takes over and this crazy ride begins.
"I will never get involved with a guy chasing that dream..."
"...And I will never get serious with anyone until I'm done chasing."
If it was apparent from that adorable cover art, this YA contemporary centers on a budding romance between our will-they-won't-they leads. And I have to tell you, this is where Dominy clears shines. Not only is this novel full of butterfly-inducing banter, but it also accurately conveys the urgency and intensity that can only come from young love the season before high school ends. Beyond the fact that it made me extremely nostalgic for that frenzied time in my life, this sports-themed romance also read more mature than most novels targeted at this age group while remaining realistic and appropriate.
Part of Announcing Trouble's success stems from the fact that Dominy fleshed out these characters with flawed parents, troubled backstories, doubt for themselves and their futures, all while keeping it light (for the most part) and relatable. Balancing these deeper and more serious topics with the punchline humor from the booth and the scene stealing kiddos from Josie's bookstore gig, and you can see why this book was such a joy to read.
"If you think about choices for too long, you can end up never making another one again."
Looking past a few minor issues (I'm looking at you Josie's mom), this novel was truly refreshing and exactly what I'm looking for in a summer romance. The characters felt real and left me smiling and swooning. I know you might make assumptions about this novel based off its cover art, synopsis, or publisher, but I'm here to tell you that "you've got to play it out," to see if this is your catch of the summer.
All quotes were taken from an advanced copy of this novel and may not match the final release. ...more
Thank you so much to Wednesday Books for providing an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Dedicated to "every4.5 out of 5 Stars! [image]
Thank you so much to Wednesday Books for providing an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Dedicated to "every girl who wants revenge,"Foul Is Fair quickly establishes its dark and unapologetic tone before readers ever reach the first page. But once they do, (and the opening chapter has been consumed) the spell will be cast. Readers will be hooked and desperate for answers on how this retelling will unfold. Full of fierce prose, theatrics worthy of a Shakespearean play, and one of the most ruthless covens ever encountered on the page, Capin's sophomore novel sets out to prove to fuckboys that women aren't their toys. A message that screams its necessary anthem out of the book and into the world. A modern day "Jagged Little Pill" for the #metoo era.
"There on the screen Summer's holding, I see the boys we're going to ruin."
Elle crashed an elite prep school party the night of her sweet sixteen with her three ride-or-die besties. That was the night king Duncan chose her to be his crew's latest victim. That was the night the dazzling smile of a now faceless boy handed her what turned out to be a drugged drink. That was the night Connor dragged her into a room where Banks slammed the door and Duffy stay inside despite being chewed out by his girlfriend for cheating with "some roofied slut." That was the night that now returns to Elle via hazy memories that bubble under the surface. That was the night the St. Andrew's golden boys picked the wrong girl.
"Guilt won't ruin boys like them."
Elle wakes up the morning after her sweet sixteen with a plan to take down the boys that wronged her. Adopting a new look and a new name, Jade summons her coven of witches besties to plot out the vengeance she is rightfully owed. Refusing to leave it up to the authorities, her parents, or the justice system, she decides to destroy the boys one by one. And she'll do it by recruiting an earnest and innocent bystander to dole out her biddings killings.
Now it goes without saying that there is no right or wrong way to react as a victim/survivor/avenger of sexual assault. And of course, I'm not condoning the murderous rampage our fearsome female lead takes on in this twisted contemporary. Readers have to suspend their disbelief in order for the influences from Macbeth to land in this modern day retelling. However, I do applaud Capin for giving us a defiant narrative when we're so often exposed to a quieter or meeker take. Again, not saying one approach is more "right" than the other, but it's refreshing to see a character in a contemporary taking the repentance she's rightfully earned.
"I'm not just a girl anymore. Tonight I'm only cruelty. No pity. No mercy. No fear of what comes next."
As you've probably gathered this is a hard-hitting novel that came to slay. And despite it's heavy content and intense elements, it was such a responsive read. From the diversity in the characters sexual orientations, gender identifications, and race to the intense loyalty of Jade's coven and parents, there's just so much to love about this book. My words can't touch the power of those found within Capin's pages, but I hope they've done enough to encourage you to give this story a chance.
All quotes were taken from an advanced copy of this novel and may not match the final release.
**Due to the heavy topics featured in this dark contemporary, Capin provides detailed content and trigger warnings both in the book and on her website. The link provided will contain spoilers, so I've only included the warnings listed in the ARC. If based of the description below you need more details to ensure a healthy reading experience, please click the link above.**
CW/TW: "The primary thematic material of FOUL IS FAIR centers on sexual assault (not depicted), rape culture, and violence. Additionally, the book includes an abusive relationship, a suicide attempt, and a brief scene with transphobic bullying."...more
Thank you so much to Grand Central Publishing, LSBBT, and the author for providing me with a final copy in exchange for an honest review.
From the moThank you so much to Grand Central Publishing, LSBBT, and the author for providing me with a final copy in exchange for an honest review.
From the moment I saw that stunning cover art, I knew I was a goner. I felt the lure of the Parisian setting, the ominous skyline, and that woman I somehow knew had an enthralling yet clandestine story to share. And before I was even aware, I had fallen directly into DRAGONFLY's trap; unable to escape its grasp until I turned the final page.
"They're almost impossible to snare and have no blind spots...natural escape artists."
Opening in 1962, DRAGONFLY quickly introduces readers to "the man in brown," a retired military officer who's recently finished reading an anthology devoted to the greatest ruses of WWII that concluded with a rather familiar mission. But the mention of this covert affair is not watch captures the Major's attention, but rather its reveal that the executed agent was actually (and secretly) alive and well. Doubting the validity of this statement, but unable to completely douse the hope it ignites, the officer begins to ferret out information and starts the story from the beginning.
Told in multiple -- and alternating -- POVs, this historical fiction novel adopts a formulaic, yet engaging, method of delivery for its important information. From introductions to our cast of Americans (five, 22-year-old individuals who for differing reasons all find themselves in need of employment) to their personal motives for deployment to occupied Paris, Meacham weaves their varied plots into one cohesive story. This quintet-style of layering continues throughout the novel allowing for readers to experience the emotional journey fivefold.
"The flesh would fill out, the scars fade, the heart be restored, but the mind would remember...always."
What captured my interest and left me reeling was Meacham's ability to trigger countless emotions through her lyrical descriptions of an occupied society at war. Her vivid descriptions transported me to the tense-filled streets of Paris and made me feel every ounce of the paranoia and self-preservation citizens possessed during such a turbulent time in our world history. She made me feel shame for the prejudice German characters faced Stateside, fear for the person that might be turned over to the Gestapo by a starved neighbor hoping to trade secrets for scraps of food, and absolute terror at the atrocities conducted against Jews and any individual that dared to disagree with the Third Reich.
"To go forward...sometimes you have to go back."
I think this fictitious tale of espionage was particularly powerful because of its parallels to our current social and political climate. It was jarring to read about events that took place more than 75 years ago that still felt relevant in today's modern times. And while that could feel bleak, I personally found it to be eye-opening and capable of sparking necessary discourse and understanding.
While speaking with a trusted mentor about this very subject, I realized it wasn't the relatable issues that got under my skin as much as Meacham's ability to display the humanity in the inhumane. It takes an incredible skill to make you feel for "evil" characters, and this book does that better than most. Meacham eloquently crafts characters that were real, raw, and flawed and it's why they'll live on in my memory long after this novel has been placed back on the shelves. It's hard to describe, and something I think needs to be experienced personally, so I hope you consider giving DRAGONFLY a chance.
Obviously this novel is steeped in dark and hard-hitting issues, but please don't interpret that to mean this wasn't an inspiring and touching story. I was smiling (albeit with some tears) by the end, and I'm thankful I was able to experience such a memorable journey with this heroic squad....more
Thank you so much to Clear Creek Publishing, LSBBT, and the author for providing me with an eARC in exchange for an honest review.
Diving into a serieThank you so much to Clear Creek Publishing, LSBBT, and the author for providing me with an eARC in exchange for an honest review.
Diving into a series eight books in the making is arguably a daunting task. In addition to being introduced to the fictional towns and their full cast of characters for the first time, I also had to navigate through the events of seven previous novels. Luckily, Willis does a great job of connecting the dots and aiding new readers with the who, what, when, and wheres of the preceding installments. And while some storylines will obviously be spoiled jumping in at this stage of the game, it doesn’t detract from the overall enjoyment of the newest mysteries sweeping through the Sister cities. In fact, thanks to hundreds of pages of prior character development, WILDFLOWER WEDDING felt like reuniting with characters I’ve known for years.
That genuine sense of camaraderie was definitely aided by the fact that this book centers on the series main character, Madison Reynolds, finally marrying her former high school crush turned fiancé. I mean what’s more relatable than stressful wedding planning sessions, emotional and joke-filled rehearsal night speeches, and the excitement and jitters of finally saying, “I do?” Even if you haven’t taken the plunge yourself, I’m certain you’ve been a part of or attended enough weddings to connect to the characters in this momentous part of their fictional lives.
And speaking of momentous, it apparently wouldn’t be a wedding befitting Mrs. Reynolds without at least one murder mystery afoot. Mere weeks before her long-awaited nuptials, Madison agrees to help her elderly and (at times) cantankerous neighbor find his next of kin.A task that becomes drastically more important when he turns up dead at her reception. Throw in another suspicious death, rising scrutiny for her new hubby’s job performance, and a trio of shady characters and it’s easy to see why the pages practically turn themselves in this exciting new installment. I’m not lying when I say it took serious willpower to not skim ahead in those tense, final action-packed pages to reach the resolution (and safety) I was craving!
Despite the fact that this story was definitely a wild ride, it wasn’t without its faults. My biggest complaints stem from two editing issues: multiple SPAG errors and several repetitive passages. While these issues are minor and not frequent enough in occurence to deter my recommendation of this novel, it did create several instances that broke my focus from the story at hand. I truly do believe if edited under a more fine-toothed comb, these minor issues could have a major impact.
At the end of the day this series is full of loveable characters that I’d love to revisit and meet again. From river therapy sessions with Brash (love that idea, by the way), to shopping sprees with Derron, and nonstop laughs with snarky Granny Bert (the true MVP of this book, in my opinion), this series has something for everyone. Whether you choose to start the journey from the beginning or join the party late like I did, I’m certain you’ll enjoy your time in The Sisters, Texas....more
Thank you so much to Book Liftoff, LSBBT, and the author for providing me with an eARC in exchange for an honest review.
As you can surmise from the bThank you so much to Book Liftoff, LSBBT, and the author for providing me with an eARC in exchange for an honest review.
As you can surmise from the book's synopsis, there's a lot going on in Clifton's newest fantasy series. Toggling (initially) between the magic-filled world of Meredith and present-day East Texas, we're quickly introduced to two worlds that seemingly shouldn't intersect. But thanks to a trio of POVs, we quickly see how Mona's world of bullying, harassment, and fear easily parallels the battle-plagued planet of Meredith. And when given the opportunity to leave her grim world behind in order to save thousands of lives in another, it's easy to see why she leaps at the chance.
After deciding to leave the familiar behind, Mona awakes as Alexandria DeChane Duvailer, the stunning daughter of the Duke of Wheel. Immediately she is given everything she feels she lacked in her former world: beauty, attention, and parental love. But all is not what it seems in the land of Meredith, and our heroine soon faces the problems with stepping into another person's shoes -- no matter how glamorous they might be. In addition to sorting out the people in Alex's life, Mona also has to challenge her natural instincts in favor of Alex's established mannerisms. Facing this loss of identity, Mona learns that this "gift" from her guardian angel will come at a cost.
"Remember what lies within you is far greater than what lies on the outside. Trust your heart, Mona, and it will guide you through the doubts and dangers to come..."
Watching the timid and soft-spoken Mona transform into a powerful and game-changing Alex was my favorite part of this fantasy novel. Getting to know Mona first, experiencing her pain, and learning her heart, provided a perfect portal into the vast world of Meredith. We're able to take in the experience through her eyes, and delve into the deeper mystery of the Veil. Coupled with the other two POVs (Prince Tal and Razor's), which depict a gruesome (and detailed) battle and backstory into the two dueling armies, Clifton makes it clear that we've just begun to unearth the secrets of Meredith.
And while only an introductory novel, The Open Portal, feels like it already has decades-worth of history behind it. There's so many ways the sequel could go, and I personally can't wait to see what's to become of Alex, Tell, Tal, and the Veil.
All quotes were taken from an advanced ecopy and may not match the final release....more
Thank you so much to Skipjack Publishing, Pamela Fagan Hutchins, and Lone Star Book Blog Tours for providing me with a free advanced ecopy of this novThank you so much to Skipjack Publishing, Pamela Fagan Hutchins, and Lone Star Book Blog Tours for providing me with a free advanced ecopy of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
A live wire by definition is “an energetic and unpredictable person.” And guys, I’m thrilled to report that Pamela Fagan Hutchins’ newest novel — and heroine — certainly fits the bill. This western mystery delivered authentic characters and story lines that blended seamlessly into one nonstop thrillfest that kept the pages turning long after bedtime.
Set in the idyllic small towns of Wyoming, Live Wire quickly introduces readers to Maggie, a former country music star who’s fallen on some pretty hard times. But her curse-filled snark, whiskey-fueled confidence, and hell-or-high-water determination prove she’s more diva in denim than damsel in distress. Maggie’s wit and humor flow from the pages, but our seemingly care-free lead has her limits. And when she inadvertently finds herself at the center of a murder investigation she knows she’s got to saddle up and get serious before her life — and love interest — are over.
Now obviously I can’t tell you whether Maggie’s endeavors are successful or not, but I can tell you LIVE WIRE is an electrifying ride that delivers through the final page. And I mean the final page! Seriously guys that ending?? I’m going to need book 2 delivered to my Kindle ASAP! Jokes aside, it’s clear Hutchins knows how to craft genuine scenes, dialogue, and intrigue that get readers dialed into characters and their plights. Even in low-intensity passages like the fun and flirty encounters in bars or the atmospheric romps around the Double S, there’s a clear motive to the madness that’s sure to make itself known by the concluding chapter.
With a cast of characters that felt real and tangible and more twists and turns than I initially anticipated, Live Wire is an adrenaline-filled thriller that is truly worthy of your time....more
Thank you so much to Dead Tree Publishing, Matt Minor, and Lone Star Book Blog Tours for providing me with a free advanced ecopy of this novel in exchThank you so much to Dead Tree Publishing, Matt Minor, and Lone Star Book Blog Tours for providing me with a free advanced ecopy of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
Review:
The third installment in Minor’s “House District 100” series quickly introduces the reader to familiar characters who are facing a whole new set of life-altering problems. Told in dual POV this companion novel centers on John David “JD” Dothan, a charismatic Texas legislator, trying to balance post-stroke recovery, a months-old marriage to his former Chief of Staff, Tryphena, (our other narrator), and a brand new case that blurs the line between political and personal.
“THE TOWN OF BETSY HAS GONE DRY…STONE COLD DRY.”
A county going dry is one thing, but when the general manager of that same water-deprived county district turns up dead via an unlikely suicide the story starts to smell fishy. JD and his new Chief of Staff, Mason Dixon, are determined to get to the bottom of this crisis for their constituents — especially as the body count continues to climb.
Written by a current Chief of Staff in the Texas House of Representatives, The Water Lord delivers a political thriller that seems genuinely lifted off the house floor — sans the deaths of course. It’s not hard to envision these behind-the-scenes dealings or battles for bills that place corporations against citizens. The authenticity added a level of realism to this twisted tale that made the content feel relatable and current while still reaching enough into fiction to keep the pages turning.
And while enough backstory is provided to allow for this to be read as a standalone, I personally believe diving into the previous novels would provide for a better overall reading experience. There were several scenes (especially those featuring an old flame) that would have landed better had I understood the entire character arc. That plus a few repetitive ominous chapter endings and a handful of scenes where the dialogue got cloudy between character delivery and tone were my only minor complaints about this suspenseful novel.
Ultimately, Minor manages to fill these pages with plenty of twists and turns that would keep even the best sleuths guessing up until the very last reveal. It’s able to hook you quickly and reel you in for the remainder of the story. If you’re in the market for a fast-paced political thriller, I’d give this Texas-based saga a favorable vote....more
Full disclosure: This was my first foray into the Montana Rescue series, and to be blunt, I was not adequately prepared for the thrill ride that awaitFull disclosure: This was my first foray into the Montana Rescue series, and to be blunt, I was not adequately prepared for the thrill ride that awaited me. Now I know what you’re thinking: “Taylor, the synopsis mentions: broken hearts, terrible fights, characters taken captive AND murderous intent how could you NOT be prepared?” And, honestly, all I can say to that is that I severely underestimated this book’s ability to make me care about these characters and their drama-filled plot lines. I pick up so many books across myriad genres that have action-packed summaries, but fail to deliver engaging stories within their pages. It’s almost like the more I see on the back of a book the more likely I’m to be let down by the lack of new details inside. Which is why I couldn’t be more thrilled to report that Warren’s story totally disproved this theory. Not only did this suspenseful contemporary have me hooked from the very first page, but, more importantly, it also introduced me to characters that I felt connected to on a very real level.
Now don’t get me wrong, coming into the final book of a six-deep series, isn’t necessarily ideal. While Warren gives consistent backstory details about these established characters, I did find myself struggling – initially -- to remember who was dating whom and how there stories interconnected. However, once I got the hang of things, I found myself simultaneously wanting to stop this current read in order to go back and devour the previous companion novels while also wanting to speed read through Wait For Me to see if these duos reached their “happily ever after eternity.”
And while the action from the search and rescue teams is definitely an excellent page-turning technique, what truly elevated this addictive installment were the glimpses into the characters struggles to find themselves. From Ned’s fear of being honest about his professional goals, and Shae’s struggle to take control of her past and stop being a victim to Jess choosing between a life she wants and a life dictated for her, these internal moments made the story feel raw, honest, and relatable. While I can’t imagine fleeing a bear, escaping captors, or smokejumping, I can imagine fighting doubt, fear, expectations, and a perpetual state of “what if.” I think this is where Warren and the underlying Christian message in her novel really shines. She points out time and again that even under extreme situations if we can live our truth, lead with our hearts, trust in God, and remember we’re not alone we can tackle any obstacle.
I enjoyed my time in Mercy Falls, Montana and can’t wait to visit again soon via the previous novels in this series. If you’re looking for an uplifting read, with restrained romances to cheer for, I’d recommend giving Wait For Me a shot.
Thank you so much to Algonquin Books for providing me with this eARC in exchange for an honest review.
[image] REVIEW:
"In the 3.5 out of 5 Stars!
Thank you so much to Algonquin Books for providing me with this eARC in exchange for an honest review.
[image] REVIEW:
"In the neighborhood of true...that's what we say when something's close enough."
Set in the late 1950s, this historical ownvoice novel centers on Ruth Robb, a 16-year-old girl who's desperately trying to make sense of the world around her. Recently uprooted from the life she knew, Ruth quickly finds herself immersed into the pastel world of debutante balls, etiquette classes, and dimple-clad Southern boys. With her old-money lineage and "exotic" good looks, it's no surprise that she's adapting quite nicely to her new surroundings.
The only problem? Ruth is living her new Southern life in the neighborhood of true -- trying to pass herself of as something (or someone) close enough to her friends "ideal" standard. You see Ruth was raised in the Jewish faith, which doesn't fit in with her new Christian crews' way of thinking.
"Jews are accepted just fine at the banks or the law offices or the hospital or whatnot. But after dinner? After five o'clock, people like to socialize with their kind."
Yikes, am I right? But those "words of wisdom" come straight from Ruth's very own grandmother who frequently encourages Ruth to keep her "religious preferences" on the downlow. Eager to fit in and maintain her new glamorous lifestyle, Ruth doesn't mind keeping her mother-mandated trips to the synagogue a secret. But like many teenagers that have come before her, Ruth starts to struggle with the lies as she becomes more aware of who she wants to be in this world.
"I thought about feeling a part of something, instead of apart from everything."
Sparked by repeated hate crimes, Ruth soon in thrown into a chain of events that will force her to acknowledge her beliefs and "make a little ruckus."
Inspired by real events, this coming-of-age novel elegantly delivers a story of identity and what it means to find your own path to your true self. Carlton's narrative captures everything from the joy and levity of first loves to the fear and hatred surrounding our nation's racism and anti-Semitism. And although it's set 60+ years ago, the content in this novel still felt incredibly relevant and important for today's readers. The novel beckons us to discover who we are and own it and to be brave (more than in theory) by speaking out and speaking up for those that need our voices.
All quotes were taken from an advanced ecopy and may not match the final release....more
I’m sure you’ve heard the saying: “The world is a book, and those who do not travel read only one page.” The beauty of a guide like4.5 out of 5 Stars!
I’m sure you’ve heard the saying: “The world is a book, and those who do not travel read only one page.” The beauty of a guide like Snider’s — chock full of more recreational activities than you can shake a stick at — is its ability to inspire that wanderlust locally.
As a native Texan, I was thrilled when the opportunity to review a must-see travel guide crossed my path. I eagerly awaited my copy to scope out the eateries, bars, museums, parks, and attractions deemed the biggest and brightest of the DFW Metroplex by Snider and her newsletter followers. Narrowed down from a list of 300 options, the top 100 THINGS TO DO were selected based off venues — and Texas traditions — that have “withstood the test of time.” Before diving in, I was sure some of these options would be “throw away” entries, because how could you come up with 100 truly exciting and essential destinations. But thanks to a quick geography lesson via Snider’s preface, I learned (once again) that everything truly is in bigger in Texas — including our DFW Metroplex, which covers “a larger area than the entire states of Rhode Island and Connecticut — combined!” With all that land and the diversity of the 12 counties contained within it, it’s no surprise that the final DFW 100 were all well researched, info-packed, and absolutely worthy of mention.
My favorite part of reading through this indispensable guide was planning a “to-explore bucket list” for all the members of my family. From checking out Gogo Gumbo with my Bama-bred mother-in-law, or exploring award-winning ghost tours with my sister-in-law, to getting extraterrestrial in Aurora with my brothers, and flying in “War Birds” at Cavanaugh Flight Museum with my Dad this book truly had something for every kind of traveler. Organized by category, season, and type of activity this easy-to-navigate guide was extremely user friendly and motivational. I frequently found myself on Waze trying to source out exactly how far I was from some of the well-rounded selections and world-renowned hotspots.
As a tech-happy millennial, I have to admit I do wish this guide was more link and photo heavy. I spent a lot of time jumping between the book and my browser to get a more in-depth description of the witty blurbs featured in Snider’s guide. However, I know plenty of people who would prefer a good old paperback, and, at the end of the day, it was engaging enough to keep me invested cover to cover.
This book did exactly what it was intended to do: inspired me to get out and explore my own backyard. And whether you’re a Lone Star local like me, a brand new visitor, or a returning guest, I’m certain this guide would be a wonderful travel buddy....more
Loading...
