When Wynter Roth was seven years old, she, along with her mother and older sister, Jaclyn joined a doomsday culLight, Entertaining Apocalypse fiction!
When Wynter Roth was seven years old, she, along with her mother and older sister, Jaclyn joined a doomsday cult known as New Earth. For the next fifteen years Wynter called the compound home, indoctrinated to fear the outside world, until that fateful day when she was banished by the prophet leader, Magnus. Forced to leave her family behind, Wynter finds sanctity in the home of her mother's best friend, her husband, and teenage daughter. Just as she's starting to adjust to life on the outside, a deadly epidemic begins spreading through America, infecting everyone in its past with early-onset dementia. When, Jaclyn shows up on her doorstep with a stolen case of medical samples, it is up to Wynter to drive across country and deliver the vials to a lab at Colorado State University. The fate of the human race depends on it!
I only heard about the existence of this book a week ago, but as soon as I read the book summary I knew I had to read it asap. Cult storylines have always fascinated me, as have apocalypse/post-apocalypse ones, and this book did not disappoint. It's fast-paced, action-packed and encompasses a wide range of genres – thriller, action, adventure, sci-fi, drama, romance, women's fiction, chick-lit, and contemporary. It reminded me a little of Birdbox since the dementia led to madness.
I enjoyed the first half a bit more, particularly the cult flashbacks – how at first everyone was all welcoming and friendly, but you just know sinister motives will soon be revealed. Another of my favourite bits was Wynter adjusting to life outside the cult. The technology and pop culture references made for amusing reading.
Considering the serious subject matter, this was a very tame read, which had its advantages, giving the book a hopeful feel, as opposed to a dark, dreary one. The violence that there is, is mild, with no blood and gore, and zero profanity. The most violent scene occurs in the opening chapter with the farm pigs.
Some parts were somewhat unrealistic. Wynter was a little too worldly considering the sheltered life she had led, but to be honest there just wasn't time to focus on this, and doing so would've stalled the quick moving plot. The only other issue I had was that any obstacle Wynter faced was too easily resolved.
I'd like to thank Netgalley, Howard Books, and Tosca Lee for the digital copy. All in all, an exciting, fantastic novel. Pick up a copy today!...more
On the day of her father's funeral, Lily Bloom has a chance encounter with Ryle Kincaid on the rooftop of a Boston High Rise.
Their mutuAn Inspiration!
On the day of her father's funeral, Lily Bloom has a chance encounter with Ryle Kincaid on the rooftop of a Boston High Rise.
Their mutual attraction is instantaneous.
They go their separate ways.
Six months later they run into each other again.
Ryle is reluctant to fall in love, but cannot ignore his desire for Lily.
They start a relationship.
Then, Lily's first love, Atlas Corrigan, reappears in her life.
That's when things get complicated.
First off, I pegged this book completely wrong.
I went in anticipating a smoldering, sexy romance, with an alpha male, and ensuring love triangle, where Lily is torn between two potential love interests.
And it was all those things, but at its forefront were serious complex issues.
Definitely not what I was expecting.
I was an emotional wreck upon finishing.
Then I read the author’s note, and it broke me apart.
I applaud Colleen Hoover for putting her heart and soul into this novel.
Lily’s story is one that will stay with me for a long time.
This coming-of-age crime drama will stay with me for a long time.
1989 – Stawell: a small mining town in Victoria, Australia. 11 year old, Ben Carver iThis coming-of-age crime drama will stay with me for a long time.
1989 – Stawell: a small mining town in Victoria, Australia. 11 year old, Ben Carver is spending a carefree summer holiday, fishing for yabbies (crayfish), camping, playing cricket, and most exciting of all, experiencing it all with his best friend Fab. Their enjoyment is somewhat marred by the suicide of a girl their age, and Fab’s abusive father, but they try not to let these things get them down.
Then, Ronnie Bellamy moves into the neighbourhood, and both boys lives are irrevocably altered forever.
2006 – Two different boys head to the river to fish for yabbies. They discover a wheelie bin, bolted shut. What’s inside, will lead to the horrific truth of what began all those years ago, that fateful summer of ’89.
I had never heard of this book until a few weeks ago, but the synopsis immediately brought to mind an Australian C.J. Tudor, and having now finished, it definitely reminds me of her work. So if you love Tudor’s dark style of writing, and 80’s nostalgia, then I highly recommend Into the River. Powerful, emotional, and upsetting, this was a pretty heavy read. I felt the author did an excellent job of contrasting the best and worst of human nature. Showed the ugly, deplorable side of human nature, as well as the caring, enduring bond of friendship that existed between two innocence schoolboys. I think, like me, most of you will guess where the plot is heading, but the author still managed to surprise me, and some of the things I predicted turned out to be completely wrong.
Given the subject matter this read won’t be for everyone, but the content is handled sensitively and non-graphically. If you want to be pre-warned, I’ve included the trigger warnings in a spoiler tag below. I should also mention that there are quite a few sex references – dirty magazines, masturbation, as well as objectifying women as sexual objects, and I admit, given these were 11 year-old boys, it did make me uncomfortable. I had to keep reminding myself that it’s perfectly normal for boys these age to think about such things, and talk about them among themselves, and not only that, it was relevant to the plot.
Divided into three parts, events occur mainly in 1989, largely from Ben’s POV, but also Fab in 2006, flashing back to his childhood. The 1980’s pop culture references, both Australian and American, brought back a lot of memories, and I thoroughly relished the trip down memory lane. At first I couldn’t work out when this was set, and it bothered me, as I like to know when my books take place. I had it narrowed down to the late 80’s, but when the 1988 Queensland World Expo was mentioned I pinpointed the date to January 1989, which was eventually confirmed in Part 3.
This was Mark Brandi’s debut novel, and have to say I was blown away by the high quality of writing. I hope he intends to write more in this vein as he did a masterful job.
(view spoiler)[Trigger Warnings: Paedophilia and Grooming, but the scenes of paedophilia were not shown. Physical and domestic abuse (one scene), as well as mentions of suicide and child abuse incest. Graphic sexual language and profanity, although it is used sparingly, and only when necessary. There’s also a hunting scene involving the killing and dissection of a rabbit which I skimmed over. (hide spoiler)]
I’d like to thank Netgalley, Legend Press, and Mark Brandi for the e-ARC.
Release Date: 1st March, 2019. Previously published in Australia in 2017 under the title: Wimmera....more
When I read the synopsis for Almost Love, I mistook it for YA, partly because Asking for It (which I read last year) was, and also because I wrongly aWhen I read the synopsis for Almost Love, I mistook it for YA, partly because Asking for It (which I read last year) was, and also because I wrongly assumed it was about a teen in an abusive relationship with a much older man. But this was definitely an adult book, about a twenty-something schoolteacher (Sarah) in a psychologically damaging affair with the father of one of her students (Matthew). Not my usual read, so at first I wasn’t sure how I felt about reading this, but Almost Love surprised me in that it was just as brutally honest, timely, and emotional as Asking for It.
A quick, easy read, utilising one, third person POV, with the NOW and THEN format replacing chapters. Content wise, the abuse is psychological, but also physical in the form of rough/rape sex. I wouldn’t call it graphic, nor does it go into great detail, but it isn’t mild either, instead falls somewhere in between.
Sarah was a toxic person – a damaged soul long before she encountered Matthew, the majority of her issues stemming from childhood trauma. And, I would never make light of what she endured as a child (it was awful what she went through), but she was a grown woman in this book, who had a lot of good (and support) in her life – more than most, and she doesn’t appreciate any of it. Sarah is selfish, she’s whiny, and treats her family and friends like crap, expecting them to be at her beck and call, but doesn’t do the same for them in return. I’m guessing this was the point, that when a person feels this low, they cannot see what they have, and continuously make poor choices. And, I found it all really interesting, and I relished analysing Sarah, but if unlikeable protagonists, who never learn from their mistakes, depress you, then I’d steer clear of this one.
The other thing I found really intriguing was that in the present storyline, Sarah was psychologically abusive towards her live-in boyfriend, Oisin (not a spoiler – made clear from the onset), in fact in some ways she treated him worse than Matthew treated her. Also, I liked how this book showed how Sarah’s poisonous association with Matthew, impacted her friendships, and affected those closest to her. Yet more reasons why this was such a compelling novel.
This was my second read by Lousie O’Neill that I rated highly, so if she writes more in this vein, whether it’s adult or YA, I’ll be reading.
I’d like to thank Netgalley, Quercus Books, and Louise O’Neill for the e-ARC.
3.5. Given the hook, I was expecting something sleazier and seedier!
Unable to make ends meet in NYC, on a friend's advice Art student Nat uploads her 3.5. Given the hook, I was expecting something sleazier and seedier!
Unable to make ends meet in NYC, on a friend's advice Art student Nat uploads her profile to a dating site where older men (sugar daddies) spend lavishly for the pleasure of a younger women's (sugar babies) company. Right away she meets Gabe, a rich successful lawyer, who tells her he's divorced but is secretly still married. They come to an ‘arrangement’ to date regularly, no strings attached of course, but Nat finds herself wanting more, and her infatuation leads to obsession.
The Arrangement focused more on the fallout of an affair with an older married man rather than a cautionary tale delving into the dangers and downside of the sugar baby industry. Not that I don't love domestic drama centering on an unhealthy relationship, malicious behaviour, lies, harassment, and stalking but this novel was sadly pretty standard and predictable. The first 40% was slow-ish, and even though it was exciting and suspenseful after that, the ending was unremarkable.
I think in this instance Nat needed to be likeable. Her desperation, and the stress and shame associated with being broke was conveyed well, as was her alcohol addiction and sexual promiscuity, but I think the story would've worked better if she had of been a kind, sympathetic character whose financial struggles led to bad choices. We saw Nat initially joining the website to pay off her debts, but I would've liked for her to then became addicted to the finer things in life, leading to her taking more risks in regards to the men she selected and the dates she went on. What we saw of Ava's story, for example, was more interesting.
Robyn Harding went to great lengths researching sugar babies, and the sections involving Ava instructing Nat on the ‘do’s’ and ‘don't’s’, the skeevy propositions and the one bad date she went on were memorable moments. Fun and light, but my preference is for the author's previous book, Her Pretty Face, which was grittier....more
First things first, Daisy Jones & The Six was not a real 70's rock band. I thought it wasn't, but was mystified ovLet's Rock 'n' Roll Seventies Style!
First things first, Daisy Jones & The Six was not a real 70's rock band. I thought it wasn't, but was mystified over why a local bookstore had a stack of books prominently displayed on the nonfiction autobiography/biography table, which prompted me to Google it just to double check. It is however loosely modelled on Fleetwood Mac and Stevie Nicks.
This wonderful book charmed and delighted me from start to finish. Taylor Jenkins Reid adopted a unique interview/documentary style format to tell the story of Daisy Jones & The Six, an iconic pop/rock group, with its band members – their family, friends and associates – recalling their experiences being part of the musical scene during the 1970’s. This was something I've never seen used before in fiction and it was refreshingly original, ambitious and sophisticated. All the characters felt like actual real people, who were honest and passionate, sharing their intimate details and opinions, and I had to keep reminding myself that they weren't a real group.
Everything about the book felt authentic to the time, and the inclusion of actual period detail made it all the more realistic. The author completely captured the music industry, and band lifestyle – the highs and lows, the price of fame, creative talent, ambition, personality clashes, life on the road constantly away from your loved ones, and how readily available everything was in excess – money, alcohol and drugs, sex, and indulgence. There was plenty of drama, romance, and sacrifice, culminating in a satisfying, bittersweet, sentimental ending.
Bravo Taylor Jenkins Reid, bravo! This was my first book by this talented author and I can't wait to delve into her previous novels. I'm thrilled to hear that Reese Witherspoon is set to adapt Daisy Jones & The Six into a TV show because not only would it make a fantastic series, but I'm dying to hear what the lyrics included in the back of the book actually soyund like performed as songs....more
If this had of been written in 1988 (although the plot would have to be altered technology-wise) this would've worked, but we've long moved on from thIf this had of been written in 1988 (although the plot would have to be altered technology-wise) this would've worked, but we've long moved on from that type of outlandish thriller.
2.5 rounded up to 3.
Erin – CEO of a company, responsible for developing a successful personal budget app called Jax It's been several months since her husband died in a car accident, and she's finding it hard to cope. Following a family and friends intervention, Erin agrees to a stay at an exclusive rehabilitation spa facility in the Caribbean to rest and recuperate. But everything is not as it seems at the Hidden Sands retreat.
Shorie – Erin's 18 year-old daughter. Her father taught her everything he knew about programming and the inner workings of Jax. All she wants is to follow in his footsteps and work for the company, but at her parents wishes, she leaves home for college. Within days of arriving on campus, she stumbles across a random error message in the coding of Jax. The more she investigates, the more convinced she becomes that someone is embezzling money from the company.
The first half set the scene nicely, was intriguing and foreboding and the descriptions of the tropical island resort were vividly detailed. Unfortunately from then on things descended into the realm of cheesiness, with every cliché you can imagine crammed into a suspense plot, and the epilogue was downright ridiculous and utterly unnecessary. Admittedly I was entertained, and am still chuckling over some parts, but I don't think that's the effect the author was going for? If you can suspend your disbelief and you're in the mood for light, mindless entertainment then you possibly will enjoy this.
I had no issues with the writing, and mother/daughter duo, Erin and Shorie were likeable characters I cared about. Shorie was a little too capable and worldly given her young age, but since she was supposed to be highly gifted academically I can forgive it. With 50% of the book narrated by a teenager – settling into freshman life, first college boyfriend, etc – I think a good target audience would be New Adult, and YA.
This was my first read by Emily Carpenter, and with the right plot I may consent to read another one, but Until the Day I Die just didn't work for me.
I'd like to thank Netgalley, Lake Union Publishing, and Emily Carpenter for the e-ARC.
If, like me, you are a fan of Kara Thomas then you will love Karen M. McManus.
[image]
Echo Ridge is a small town marred by tragedy.
1996 – High school If, like me, you are a fan of Kara Thomas then you will love Karen M. McManus.
[image]
Echo Ridge is a small town marred by tragedy.
1996 – High school senior Sarah Corcoran vanished while walking home from the library. She was never seen again.
2014 – Homecoming queen Lacey Kilduff, was found dead beneath the Ferris Wheel of the appropriately named Murderland Halloween Park. Her Killer was never caught.
2019 – Someone is targeting the girls elected to homecoming court – leaving threatening messages in public places around town. Then, another girl disappears.
My first read by supremely talented Karen M. McManus was a phenomenal experience. A few pages in and I was hooked. That last page sent chills down my spine. (view spoiler)[DO NOT READ FURTHER IF YOU HAVEN’T READ THE BOOK. Even though I understand Ellery’s reasons for wanting to protect her vulnerable mother from the truth, I think going through life not knowing what happened to her twin sister is worse. And what about her nana? Doesn’t she deserve closure? Not only that, she is keeping secrets from Ezra, a person she has shared everything with, as well as being less than honest with Malcolm. Isn’t there a possibly Sarah’s fate might come out at trial? Peter Nilsson could make some kind of deal? Ellery’s putting a lot of trust in him staying silent? (hide spoiler)] The first half was very much character driven, which really worked for me, because I loved these teen characters. POV’s alternated between Ellery Corcoran (her Aunt Sarah went missing twenty three years ago), and Malcolm Kelly (his brother was the police’s main suspect when Lacey Kilduff was murdered). Not only were both characters likeable and relatable, but even if there hadn’t of been a mystery element, I would’ve enjoyed reading about Ellery’s twin bond with her brother Ezra, Malcolm’s friendship with Mia, his troubled relationship with his brother, Declan, and the budding romance between Ellery and Malcolm. This is very much a novel centered on trust and loyalty between siblings.
The two past mysteries had me feeling uneasy right from the beginning. Because of this it didn’t matter that the present suspense was gradual. Gave a chance for my anticipation and expectation to build, and for me to become embroiled in the lives of the characters of Echo Ridge. Then, when something did happen, I was a lot more emotionally invested, afraid, and tense. A punch to the gut, for sure.
Echo Ridge was the perfect setting for this novel, with feelings and resentments running deep, because in a small town everything is that much more personal, since everyone knows everyone. The town layout was described in rich detail, and a large cast of characters added depth and realism, bringing the setting to life. A pet hate of mine in YA is an under representation of adult characters, so I’m happy to report that wasn’t the case with this story. Our two protagonists interacted with adults on a regular basis, and even better, parents, guardians, older siblings, etc, were given actual, crucial-to-the-plot, backstory’s
Outstanding YA tends to be a bit hit and miss for me, so when I discover an author like Karen M. McManus I’m going to stick to her like glue....more
Think Lisa Jewell crossed with Liane Moriarty crossed with J.K. Rowling's – The Casual Vacancy.
Withered Vale, an exclusive, private, gated residentiaThink Lisa Jewell crossed with Liane Moriarty crossed with J.K. Rowling's – The Casual Vacancy.
Withered Vale, an exclusive, private, gated residential community. Seven, large, rich houses for the privileged few. Quiet and peaceful, until one of the neighbours spots a swarm of insects rising out of the chimney at no. 4. Police force entry, and discover the rotting corpse of the cottage’s sole occupant - mid-fifties Olive Collins. She's been dead for three months, yet none of her neighbours appear to have noticed. And behind closed doors their reactions to news of her death are even odder.
George at no. 1 feels nothing. Lily at no. 2 is irritated. Holly at no. 3 acts openly hostile. Chrissy at no. 5 can't stop thinking about that horrible woman. Ed at no. 6 celebrates by popping the champagne. Ron at no. 7 seems anxious.
What are these people hiding? And, why did they hate Olive so much?
Crammed to the brim with juicy secrets and neighbours behaving suspiciously, Dirty Little Secrets was an engrossing, entertaining read. A slow burn that I would categorise as contemporary domestic drama, rather than psychological thriller or suspense. Also part police procedural, but detectives Frank Brazil and Emma Childs’ investigation takes place primarily at Withered Vale instead of the police station, and also includes some focus on their personal lives.
There are nine narrators – the six neighbours mentioned above, Olive, Frank and Emma. Seems like a lot I know, but every POV was easily recognisable, essential to the plot, and added a fresh perspective to the overall picture. I really liked how first person omniscient was used for Olive's voice – as in she's speaking to me from beyond the grave, all-knowing, dangling hints about her neighbours in my face. Chapters ending on mini cliff hangers had me eagerly anticipating the next one. The authors usage of subplots to underscore/mirror the main plot was cleverly executed, heightened the emotional impact, and made you feel for the characters. The ‘circle of life’ opening segment was well done, and immediately sucked me into the story.
I felt the last half could've benefited from losing 50 pages. There was too much focus on the same plot points, and I found myself becoming frustrated, more than ready to find out who killed Olive. Also, a couple of the secrets were a tad underwhelming, and I'm not sure they were serious enough to warrant that level of anguish? But, I was happy with how everything wrapped up, thought there was a good resolution to the mystery, and that things went in a couple of unexpected intriguing directions.
Would I read another book by Jo Spain? Absolutely. Would I recommend this book? Definitely.
I’d like to thank Netgalley, Quercus, and Jo Spain for the e-ARC.
For two years Maggie has had no contact with her only child. Allison has refused to speak to her since Maggie did 4.5 Exciting, and Lots of Fun Stars!
For two years Maggie has had no contact with her only child. Allison has refused to speak to her since Maggie did something unforgiveable in her eyes. Now, Allison is presumed dead, one of two victims of a plane crash, and Maggie is seeking answers to increasingly dangerous questions, all the while hoping her daughter is still alive.
Allison has survived the crash, but the threat is far from over. Hurt and alone, she’s on the run in the treacherous terrain of the Colorado Rockies – equipped with secrets powerful men will do anything to protect.
Wowser – this was an excellent debut – a high-stakes, multi-layered, as thrilling as it was fun, action adventure with courageous protagonists who you’re genuinely rooting for. We are launched straight into the action with Allison sifting through the wreckage, and right off the bat I was blown away by her survivalist skills, and even picked up a few tips. At first I thought it a bit odd how resourceful, and resilient she was – she kept a clear head, didn’t panic, or fall to pieces – but it’s soon mentioned that her father taught her all sorts of useful practical things, and there are later flashbacks to support this.
I was awe struck by the level of emotion, and small details, Jessica Barry managed to inject into every scene. Even a paragraph on neighbourhood women leaving casseroles on Maggie’s doorstep was conveyed in an interesting manner.
I would class this as light entertainment – there’s no overly graphic content or language, and even when the characters are threatened, or in danger, you know they’re going to find a way out of it. The twists vary – some are fairly predictable, others completely threw me for a loop, but even when I suspected what was coming, I was never bored or disappointed. Chapters alternate between Maggie and Allison, with the latter’s chapters alternating between the present, and what led up to the crash.
Superbly written. I didn’t want to leave these characters. A first novel to be proud of, and one I highly recommend.
I’d like to thank Netgalley, Random House UK – Vintage Publishing, and Jessica Barry for the e-ARC.
US Publication Date: Out Now! UK Publication Date: 7th March, 2019....more
As inspirational and courageous as it was tragic and heart-breaking!
4.5 rounded down.
This is the story of the senseless horrors two sisters, Vianne anAs inspirational and courageous as it was tragic and heart-breaking!
4.5 rounded down.
This is the story of the senseless horrors two sisters, Vianne and Isabelle, endured during World War Two, living in a constant state of fear and uncertainty in German-occupied France. More than that it is the story of bravery and resilience, love, family and friendship, and the incredible lengths characters in this novel went to, not only to protect those closest to them but also to help and save total strangers.
A powerfully moving novel written with such depth and insight, with compelling, multi-layered characters to kept you emotionally invested. Kristin Hannah tackled almost impossible to comprehend subject matter with dignity and sensitivity. I’ve read my fair share of World War Two novels combining fiction with fact, but most of them have been set in concentration camps, so it was interesting and informative to read a different take on events. I’ve never fully appreciated just how dangerous and destitute life was for the women and children left at home, especially in European countries controlled by Germany, so this book was a real eye-opener.
I’m sure I don’t need to tell you that there are an abundance of sad and shocking scenes, so stock up on the tissues before starting. There were also plenty of tense, nail-biting moments that saw me holding my breath, desperately turning pages to find out what happened next.
I did find the first half a little slow-moving, which is why this wasn’t a 5-star read for me, but the last half picked up the pace, and the ending moved me to tears, so all-in-all a near perfect read. The only other thing I feel I should mention is that maybe the lead up to Christmas month wasn’t quite the right time to read about such a heavy subject, so perhaps bear that in mind if you’re planning to pick this up.
A haunting story that will stay with me, detailing a shameful time in history that we should never forget....more
This was a tough one to rate given that I put it aside 30% of the way through, and read two other books in between. The plot was very slow, and even tThis was a tough one to rate given that I put it aside 30% of the way through, and read two other books in between. The plot was very slow, and even though things did pick up in the last half, it wasn't by much. I can't deny that the wrap-up was original and clever though, so I've settled on a rating of 3.5.
Stella Harvey had the perfect childhood growing up on Evergreen Island. But in 1993, when she was 11 years-old, it all ended, with her family fleeing the island in the middle of the night, never to return. Stella's family was never the same after and she believes that leaving the island destroyed them, but as an adult has never had the courage to go back. Then a body is discovered buried on the outskirts of the garden of her childhood home. Desperate for the answers, Stella must return to to her beloved Island and discover the truth of what really happened that fateful summer of 1993, twenty-five years ago.
As I mentioned the ending was well done, and completely took me by surprise. There were a couple of times where I was convinced I knew where the plot was heading only to be proved wrong on both occasions. All the gothic elements really worked for me - the secluded Island setting cut off from the mainland, with its tight knit, secretive community, who would go to any lengths to protect their own. The geography of Evergreen, including Stella's house, was intricately described and I could easily picture the layout in my head. The present POV was seen through Stella's eyes in the first person, with the summer of '93 narrated by the rest of the Harvey family (third person) - Stella's mother and father (Maria and David), and her two teenage siblings (Danny and Bonnie).
I'm trying to pinpoint why the book dragged and I think it was due to the fact that little could be revealed about the mystery without giving it away, so there were few instances of clue dropping, and you had characters who obviously knew what had happened but just weren't saying, which quickly became frustrating and did little to advance the plot. Also, I think three to four POV's for every flashback was over the top and repetitive.
This probably bothered me more than it should, but would the police really fire so many questions at Stella and ask for her interpretation of adults behaviour, when she was only 11 years old at the time? I wouldn't have thought an account coming from someone so young would be that reliable?
I'm disappointed because Now You See Her was a 5 star read for me last year and as soon as I read the synopsis for this one I was sure this one would be as well. I think those who don't find it slow will rate it higher. There's no question Heidi Perks can write though, and I'm still looking forward to her next book.
I'd like to thank Netgalley, Random House UK – Cornerstone, and Heidi Perks for the e-ARC.
Down on her luck, city girl, Calla Fletcher, receives a life-altering phone call. Her father, Wren, whom she hasn’t seen since sheCute and Delightful!
Down on her luck, city girl, Calla Fletcher, receives a life-altering phone call. Her father, Wren, whom she hasn’t seen since she was eighteen months old, is gravely ill, and Calla flies to Alaska to reconnect with him. Not only does she have to negotiate an environment and lifestyle that is totally alien to her, but pretty soon she clashes with her father’s employee, pilot Jonah, who seems to view her as nothing more than a spoiled princess, who doesn’t belong.
Contemporary romance is not my favourite genre, but the reviews coming in for this one were so complimentary, the remote Alaska location intrigued me, and as I mentioned in my The Cruel Prince review I’m a sucker for a (in this case) dislike to love romance.
At first I wasn’t sure I was going to like this one as I’m not a fan of the pathetic heroine. At 26 Calla still lived at home with her mum and stepdad, had a boyfriend who was a clear-as-day douchebag, and loses her job in the opening pages. Her stepfather pays her bills, her mum cooks for her, and the housekeeper does her laundry – you get the picture! – and Calla’s one job is to take out the trash, and she can’t even manage that without first complaining profusely, and then knocking over the bins. I understand that this makes it easy for her to drop everything and go to Alaska but come on, does she have to be quite so inept? Over time her narration and character did grow on me, and by the end of the book she had come into her own. Also, this kind of story wouldn’t have worked with a confident, resourceful heroine, as the point whole point was that Calla’s supposed to be out of her element, so I can forgive it.
It did make for hilarious reading watching Calla attempt to navigate, and deal with life in the middle of nowhere. Another reason I became attached to her was because she was so loved by those around her, her relationship with her stepfather was particularly heart-warming, that I just couldn’t help liking her as well. Obviously the same thing happened for Jonah!
Speaking of, Calla and Jonah’s relationship was a fun, amusing, light, sexy read. The romance was a slow burn (also my favourite kind), but at the same time they didn’t get together too late in the piece, so ample time was allocated to explore and cement their bond. Jonah was my ultimate favourite – a gruff exterior, with a heart of gold, and on top of that he had some real zinger dialogue moments – in particular his back-and-forth banter with Calla.
Another highlight was the evolving relationship between Calla and Wren – father and daughter as they got to know each other after so many years. Some sweet and touching emotional moments for sure.
The setting was breathtaking – so rich in description detail. The lifestyle, scenery, climate, architecture, animals, lack of technology, isolation, danger, the memorable supporting characters – you name it, I loved it!
Fans of contemporary romance, and those like me who aren’t, will adore The Simple Wild....more
Sixteen Cheyne Walk – a twelve-room, three-storey house, in the affluent suburb of Chelsea, South West London, overlooking the River Thames.
In 1994, tSixteen Cheyne Walk – a twelve-room, three-storey house, in the affluent suburb of Chelsea, South West London, overlooking the River Thames.
In 1994, the scene of senseless tragedy, and to this day a baffling mystery.
Three decomposing bodies in the kitchen – the owners Henry and Martina Lamb, and an unidentified man – victims of an apparent suicide, thought to be living in cult-like circumstances. They have been dead for several days. Upstairs, a baby – healthy, alive, happy. The Lamb's two teenage children – missing.
Fast forward to ‘the baby's' (adopted name Libby Jones) twenty-fifth birthday. Inheriting the house in Chelsea, Libby is determined to uncover the truth of what happened all those years ago. And more importantly, the whereabouts of her older siblings, who have never resurfaced to claim their inheritance. Are they alive?
Crime/mystery with moments of psychological suspense, The Family Upstairs is a heck of a good story, that had me glued to the pages. There are whooping good twists and turns, and like all Lisa Jewell books this one was an emotional rollercoaster. The author has an exceptional ability to write vulnerable characters you truly feel for, even when they make bad choices, you understand how they got there.
The three alternating POV's (two in the third person, and one in the first) were clear, concise, and unique, and all of them were in very different circumstances, so there was never any doubt over who was speaking. The cast of characters was large, but each one was introduced slowly and carefully, and in a way that was memorable, and I had no problem keeping everyone straight. Chapters were short (only a few pages each) so easy to keep track of where the characters were at, and meant the plot moved along swiftly.
Lisa Jewell retains her record of supplying me with absorbing, entertaining, relatable 5 star reads. I need her next book – now!...more
On a warm September day in San Francisco in 1888, twenty year-old Charlotte Smith walks to the edge of the pier and jumShe’s been reduced to a number.
On a warm September day in San Francisco in 1888, twenty year-old Charlotte Smith walks to the edge of the pier and jumps. Why? Because, she wants to end up in Goldengrove – the mental asylum her sister, Phoebe (bi-polar, possible schizophrenia), was sent to by their parents. She naively believes that if she informs the doctors that they are both sane, she’ll be able to convince them that a mistake has been made, and that they will be free to leave. But, Charlotte finds herself trapped in Goldengrove, as helpless and forgotten as her sister and the other woman – all of whom have been committed for anything ranging from depression and epilepsy through to adultery.
As historical fiction, this just didn’t work for me. There’s no question that it was thoroughly researched, but it read like nonfiction, focused too much on fact, and lacked imagination. For the most part, it was a bore to read – long-winded, with overly long flashbacks that took too long to get to the point. I was expecting suspense, but aside from a couple of semi-interesting twists, and a little bit of mystery, there really wasn’t any. The treatment and suffering of women during this time period – drugged, neglected, abandoned, punished, starved – made for horrific reading, but lack of character development, made it difficult to emphasise, even when Charlotte (and others) were enduring monstrous psychological and physical torture.
The only part that did spark some emotion within me was the bond between Charlotte and Phoebe. It was obvious Charlotte cared deeply for her older sister, had been tasked with the role of looking out for (and protecting) her from a young age, and felt Phoebe was misunderstood by her parents. This, coupled with the guilt she felt over Phoebe being committed to Goldengrove Asylum, and because Phoebe had saved her own life on many past occasions, meant Charlotte would go to any lengths to save her. And Charlotte sure was accident prone as a child – she almost drowned, was nearly trampled by a horse, was rescued from eating poisonous berries, and came close to falling off a cliff – but I suppose this was accurate for the late nineteenth century.
From a seeking knowledge, and understanding, point-of-view, this book scored five out of five, and those who enjoy historical fiction bordering on nonfiction will find a lot to relish here, but lovers of fiction (like me) will likely be disappointed.
I’d like to thank Netgalley, Sourcebooks – Landmark, and Greer Macallister for the e-ARC.
Then – Abby and Liam are a young couple in love looking forward to a bright future. Then, Abby’s brother Tom dies in a4.5. Ooh, yeah, what an ending!
Then – Abby and Liam are a young couple in love looking forward to a bright future. Then, Abby’s brother Tom dies in a horrific road accident. Responsible for the accident, since she was the one driving, and unable to forgive herself, Abby pushes Liam away.
Now – Years later Abby is married to Nate, and they have a teenage daughter, Sarah. Then, a family moves in next door – father, mother, and their teenage son, and Abby is horrified to discover that the new neighbour is Liam. Because she’s never gotten over him, and pretty soon all their secrets are about to be blown sky high.
Domestic psychological suspense featuring neighbours from hell are a hot topic right now, and initially this one wasn’t even on my radar. Then I heard from other reviewers that it had a super twisty ending, and being a big fan of those, I added it. And I’m thrilled to report that the ending did live up to my expectations – there were one and a half twists I guessed correctly (still good ones though), but the other three and a half really threw me for a loop. One in particular, the author really led me down the garden path, and another was so shocking that I still can’t believe it really happened.
This is another book that I would classify as more contemporary drama, rather than crime, suspense or mystery. It had all those elements but the main focus was on family secrets, love and loss. Thankfully, I really enjoyed those parts as well, and all the drama was enough to hold my interest.
What really stood out for me though were the characters, in particular the way every viewpoint was distinctive, and that the language used reflected the personalities, views, beliefs, experience, age and gender of the individual. It was always abundantly clear whose POV you were in, or who was speaking within a POV – chapters in Nate’s voice came across as ‘blokey’, while Sarah’s diary entries were crammed full of teenage angst. Even minor characters like Abby’s mother, only needed a line of dialogue to figure out that she was an uptight and cold woman. I must also plug the audio version – the narrators went above and beyond and nailed each character’s voice to perfection.
Even though the novel is related in a light, amusing style, it still has its fair share of heavy, emotional moments. For me any flashbacks and memories featuring Abby and Tom, and their close brother/sister teasing, affectionate bond, really got to me. The short chapters, and as I mentioned, easy-to-recognise switch between POV’s, made this a quick, easy read.
A serial killer hunts for female victims via dating apps. His chance encounter with Paige (a member ofYou're Looking for Love in All the Wrong Places!
A serial killer hunts for female victims via dating apps. His chance encounter with Paige (a member of Match Sticks – love the name btw) places her life, her mother's, her best friend's, and her cousin's, in danger.
Contemporary drama romance with a side of serial strangler. An entertaining, humorous read, that highlights the pitfalls of the dating scene and meeting men online – fake or embellished profiles, skeevy creeps, and uncomfortable first dates. The chapters in the killers head were more serious, but even some of his views and mistakes amused me. As per always, Joy Fielding excels at domestic drama, troubled marriages, and relationships between family and friends. She also does a great job when it comes to creating bitchy and nasty characters. And, she writes well-rounded, accurate children. Joy Fielding's pretty amazing!
My advice is not to take this one too seriously, as my guess is it's intended to be satirical and ironic, and if you start thinking too much about some of content, particularly the ending, it's actually quite dark and disturbing. A fun read, but I prefer her books that are more psychologically suspenseful, such as Charley's Web and Don't Cry Now....more
(Let's see how many times I mention summer during this review).
This was the embodiment of the feel-good summer reaFun in the sun in the summer of '69.
(Let's see how many times I mention summer during this review).
This was the embodiment of the feel-good summer read, without being sappy or melodramatic. I've been waiting all year for its release and it was everything I imagined, and more.
The story centres on one family – the blended Foley/Levin clan. Every June they leave the stifling city heat of Boston for three months, to vacation at their grandmother's summer house on Nantucket – and this summer of ’69 is no exception.
Kate – Mother to four – three from her first marriage, and a daughter with her current husband, David. Her only son, Tiger, was recently drafted to Vietnam, and Kate spends her summer on Nantucket struggling to cope, anxiously waiting to hear from him, desperately hoping he'll come home safe.
Blair (24) – Kate's eldest daughter. Married to a workaholic, and heavily pregnant with her first child, she's stuck in Boston for the summer, bored to tears.
Kirby (20) – Kate's middle daughter. Informs her family she will be spending her summer break from college working on Martha's Vineyard.
Jessie (13) – Kate's youngest daughter. She's dreading spending her entire summer with just her mother and grandmother, Exalta, for company. Shares a close bond with Tiger, and writes diary-like letters to him.
Soak in the sun with this vivid, captivating, engrossing novel, incorporating both a seasonal and historical feel. Or, same as I did last year with The Perfect Couple, burrow under the duvet with your electric blanket on high. Prominent themes are belonging and acceptance, finding your place in the world, family secrets, first love and coming-of-age. Deals with some serious issues and topics, some pertinent to the 1960’s, others just as relevant today. There's a huge focus on familial relationships, particularly mothers and daughters, but also grandmother and grandchildren, sisters, marriages, new motherhood, and mother and son.
Elin Hilderbrand’s beautiful and intricate descriptions of Nantucket and Martha's Vineyard made me feel like I was actually there experiencing it all along with the characters – the houses, beaches, restaurants, food, country club, etc, all sounded wonderful. The lifestyle, pop culture, references, clothing, dialogue, and opinions came across as authentic to the time period, and I like that the author thought to include real events. Song titles as chapter headings really set the mood, and the handy spotify list that Elin Hilderbrand created allowed me listen while reading, making it feel even more like 1969.
The perfect book to unwind and relax on the beach with....more
When it comes to writing a compelling, engaging, insightful story, Claire Mackintosh can do no wrong in my book,Jodi Picoult fans, eat your heart out!
When it comes to writing a compelling, engaging, insightful story, Claire Mackintosh can do no wrong in my book, and even though I knew going in that this was going to be completely different from her usual domestic suspense thrillers (which I love) I was still desperate for the chance to read it.
After the End is the story of a terminally-ill toddler with multiple deliberating disabilities. Dylan is not yet three years-old but as the result of a brain injury is paralysed from the neck down, unable to communicate or swallow, unlikely to have any awareness of his surroundings, and without medication would be in constant pain. His parents are forced to make a decision no parents should ever have to make – stop all treatment, except pain relief, and allow him to die, or opt for an experimental treatment that may extend his life. With mother and father on opposing sides it's up to the courts to decide.
Before incorporated the days leading up to, and directly following, Dylan's parents receiving the devastating news that his tumor had grown to such an extent that they needed to make a decision regarding his future treatment. We were offered three differing, equally valuable perspectives – mother (Pip), father (Max) and one of the consultants looking after Dylan (Dr. Leila Khalili).
Clare Mackintosh did an incredible job of showing what life is like in the PICU (Pediatric Intensive Care Unit) section of the hospital – the day-to-day, and overall struggles of dealing and coping with a severely ill child, the support system including medical staff, and other parents in the ward, and the environment, treatment, and equipment. Glimpses into what Dylan was like when he was healthy, and when he first started developing symptoms gave us an overall picture of life before, and Dylan's personality. Max and Pip's resilience and love for each other, and the effects on their relationship and marriage was evident throughout. But at its core of course was their all encompassing love for their son.
The After section of the novel used dual POV's (Pip and Max) and parallel-timelines to show the different directions their lives might've gone in, depending on the Judge's ruling. This format didn't work as well for me as the first half, as things became somewhat repetitive, but I understand what the author was trying to achieve, and appreciated being given both outcomes of such an agonising decision. Even though I knew logically that neither option was going to end favourably for little Dylan, in my heart of hearts I would've been left wondering “what if?" so to be offered up both timelines gave me a sense of closure I wouldn't have gotten otherwise. The only other small issue I had with the last half was that I dearly missed Leila's viewpoint – she was a wonderful character that I would've liked to have heard more from.
Even though I personally prefer her thrillers, Clare Mackintosh has penned something truly special in this moving story of love, loss, guilt, grieving and hope.
I'd like to thank Netgalley UK. Little Brown Book Group UK – Sphere, and Clare Mackintosh for the e-ARC.
Historical fiction at its upmost finest! So many genres, balanced to perfection!
More than deserves all five Halloween pumpkins 🎃🎃🎃🎃🎃 as well as stars Historical fiction at its upmost finest! So many genres, balanced to perfection!
More than deserves all five Halloween pumpkins 🎃🎃🎃🎃🎃 as well as stars 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 – I loved every moment of reading this. The writing was mesmerising and poetic, Hester Fox has a real way with words that had me spellbound! There are a few suspenseful mysteries to keep you guessing, and hold your attention – there’s the identity of the ghosts and why they are haunting Willow Hall, witchcraft in the family bloodline, and whether or not Lydia has magical abilities, and the mystery surrounding why the Montrose’s had to flee Boston under a cloud of scandal. I figured out the scandal right away, and I think savvy readers will too, but it was still tantalisingly shocking, and there was one ginormous twist that I had no idea about. The ghost story and the witchy-plot also had many a surprise in store.
Family dynamics and drama, and the close-knit bond, or lack thereof, that exists between sisters, as well as other family members was a running theme during the novel. The relationship between Lydia and Catherine reminded me so much of Cassandra and Rose from another favourite book of mine – Dodie Smith’s, I Capture the Castle. A polar opposite to Lydia/Catherine was the sisterly, almost mother/daughter, love between Lydia and Emeline. A joy to behold. Jealously, particularly misunderstanding, were also highlighted throughout in Lydia’s relationship with other characters. But the sub-plot that really had me invested was the romantic one. It had everything I loved in a historical romance, so much sweetness and tenderness, and Lydia’s emotional responses, her fears and doubts were spot-on, and are things we have all felt at some point in our lives. Can’t say anything more than that, as I don’t want to spoil anything.
How scary is this book you ask? Well, I wouldn’t call it scary exactly, there were moments that sent ominous, sense of foreboding, shivers up my spine, but they were few and far in between. I will say though that Hester Fox’s detailed and gruesome descriptions of ghosts would have normally have had my teeth chattering, but those scenes were also highly emotional, and I think most readers will find that feeling overrides their fear.
How sad is this book you ask? At times, very, so stock up on tissues before you start.
Instead of the usual old, crumbling, dark, dank mansion that I’ve come to expect from historical paranormal fiction set in the nineteen century, the author defied convention, and instead made Willow Hall a newly-built house, yet it was still haunted by past ghosts. It still retained its gothic setting though, since it was a remote location, and for several other reasons, but I will leave it up to you to discover them for yourself.
I think it goes without saying that I will be waiting with bated breath for Fox’s next book. I pray she writes more in this vein, as it doesn’t get any better than this. The perfect any season read. ...more
Loading...
