What an incredibly interesting book. After finishing the book, I had to sit and let the whole story process in my brain. "Kitchens of the Great Midwe What an incredibly interesting book. After finishing the book, I had to sit and let the whole story process in my brain. "Kitchens of the Great Midwest" is definitely one of the most though provoking books I've read this year. The book tells the story of Eva Thorvland, who has a "once-in-a-generation palate." Eva's story is told through the perspective of those around her, including her father, her cousin, and her teenage boyfriend. "Kitchens of the Great Midwest" is an interesting portrait of cooking, food, and foodie culture. It is captivatingly readable, and I read it in (almost) one sitting. Stradal has an incredibly evocative way of writing about food. Reading this book was worse than watching the food network on an empty stomach, and I was practically salivating at every culinary creation he described....more
I’m a total sucker for second chance at love story-lines, and Sonali Dev executes this setup flawlessly in her newest book The Bollywood Bride. When I’m a total sucker for second chance at love story-lines, and Sonali Dev executes this setup flawlessly in her newest book The Bollywood Bride. When Bollywood actress and “Ice Princess” Ria Parkar returns home to Chicago for her cousin’s wedding she is reunited with her childhood friend and former flame, Vikram. Sparks fly between the two as the wedding preparations progress, and Ria is forced to confront the issues of her past as she contemplates walking away from Vikram yet again. Sonali Dev is a ridiculously talented writer, and she infuses her characters with such vibrant complexities that I truly felt like I knew them. While the romance is wonderful, (Vikram is a total stud) Dev really excels in portraying Ria’s family, whom she depicts with warmth and tenderness. With its passionate, steamy, and sentimental love story, and a look inside Indian-American culture, "The Bollywood Bride" is a must read for romance readers. I absolutely loved it, and I cannot wait to read Dev’s next book!
Thank you to Netgalley for providing an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review....more
Is there anyone who describes Wales better than Paula Brackston? Brackston excels in describing the wild Welsh setting, and infuses her home with a s Is there anyone who describes Wales better than Paula Brackston? Brackston excels in describing the wild Welsh setting, and infuses her home with a sense of rugged beauty and hidden magic.
“Lamb Black, Wolf Grey” tells dual stories in different times, both featuring the Legendary Merlin. Laura, a painter, and her husband Dan move to the Welsh countryside to make a fresh start after years of infertility. Interspersed throughout Laura’s story is the story of Megan, a servant in the house of a wicked lord, and her romance with the magician Merlin. Laura is a complex and likable heroine, with very relatable weaknesses. While the mythical Merlin remains enigmatic and mysterious. I adore historical fiction, so it surprised me that I found myself rushing through the historical parts to return to the compelling contemporary plot line. Overall, I found the book to be an enjoyable, magical read. Though you should be warned, it might make you want to take a trip to the Welsh countryside.
Thank you to Netgalley for providing an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review....more
Nina George’s “The Little Paris Bookshop” is a love letter to bibliophiles and an ode to the healing power of books. Jean Perdu has a way of finding tNina George’s “The Little Paris Bookshop” is a love letter to bibliophiles and an ode to the healing power of books. Jean Perdu has a way of finding the perfect book for every person. (Pippi Longstockings for pessimism and fear of miracles, 1984 to reduce apathy and gullibility.)
“Books are more than doctors, of course. Some novels are loving, lifelong companions; some give you a clip around the ear; others are friends who wrap you in warm towels when you've got those autumn blues. And some...well, some are pink candy floss that tingles in your brain for three seconds and leaves a blissful voice. Like a short, torrid love affair.”
However, Monsieur Perdu has never found the book to cure himself. Perdu is closed off after a failed love affair twenty years prior. When an old letter reignites long forgotten emotions, Perdu takes his Literary Apothecary, a book barge, on a trip down the rivers of France in an effort to find forgiveness and move on from grief. Along the way he meets a ragtag group of friends, and begins to learn to live again. This book was absolutely charming, and I fell in love with it instantly. I definitely recommend it to any book lover.
Thank you to Netgalley for providing an copy of this book in exchange for an honest review....more
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