I am so completely enthralled by this book and your writing, that I don’t feel I have adequate words to express my feelings. It is bDear Mrs. Sowards,
I am so completely enthralled by this book and your writing, that I don’t feel I have adequate words to express my feelings. It is beautiful, it is gut wrenching, it is deep, it is written remarkably well. I am in awe of your writing, completely amazed at this story you created.
To say I adored both Konstantin and Suzana would be an understatement. They are both so good, rising above their circumstances to be the best people they can. I loved how Konstantin showed gentle love to Suzana, and helped her find her confidence. I loved how Suzana pushed Konstantin to trust her more, and helped him in his duties as Zupan. Their love story is so tender and sweet and I was hooked from the ver beginning.
The amount of intrigue and mystery you wove into this story kept me on my toes throughout the entire book! I did not expect what came next any time something happened. It was a wild ride that I would absolutely ride again because it was so good!
I loved the lineup of side characters, and the epilogue was so sweet. And the masterful way you weave history into a story always astounds me. Every single time I read one of your books, I come away feeling like I just learned something new, while simultaneously being entertained. I appreciate your talent and your hard work, and that you apply both so diligently to write such stellar books.
I’ve been a fan for awhile now, but if I wasn’t already, this book would land your name on my favorites list immediately. It’s so good! Just so good. Count me in for reading every single thing you write. I want it all!
Yours, Jessica
AUDIOBOOK REVIEW: This narrator is incredible. Her voices for all the different characters were top notch, and her reading was engaging and interesting. I would absolutely listen to her narrations any time.
**Many thanks to the author/publisher for the copy. A positive review was not required. All thoughts are my own.
Merged review:
Dear Mrs. Sowards,
I am so completely enthralled by this book and your writing, that I don’t feel I have adequate words to express my feelings. It is beautiful, it is gut wrenching, it is deep, it is written remarkably well. I am in awe of your writing, completely amazed at this story you created.
To say I adored both Konstantin and Suzana would be an understatement. They are both so good, rising above their circumstances to be the best people they can. I loved how Konstantin showed gentle love to Suzana, and helped her find her confidence. I loved how Suzana pushed Konstantin to trust her more, and helped him in his duties as Zupan. Their love story is so tender and sweet and I was hooked from the ver beginning.
The amount of intrigue and mystery you wove into this story kept me on my toes throughout the entire book! I did not expect what came next any time something happened. It was a wild ride that I would absolutely ride again because it was so good!
I loved the lineup of side characters, and the epilogue was so sweet. And the masterful way you weave history into a story always astounds me. Every single time I read one of your books, I come away feeling like I just learned something new, while simultaneously being entertained. I appreciate your talent and your hard work, and that you apply both so diligently to write such stellar books.
I’ve been a fan for awhile now, but if I wasn’t already, this book would land your name on my favorites list immediately. It’s so good! Just so good. Count me in for reading every single thing you write. I want it all!
Yours, Jessica
AUDIOBOOK REVIEW: This narrator is incredible. Her voices for all the different characters were top notch, and her reading was engaging and interesting. I would absolutely listen to her narrations any time.
**Many thanks to the author/publisher for the copy. A positive review was not required. All thoughts are my own....more
Oh my holy moly guacamole, this book is so good! I’m smitten! Once I started, I could not put this book down. Holland and Phoenix are amazing, and theOh my holy moly guacamole, this book is so good! I’m smitten! Once I started, I could not put this book down. Holland and Phoenix are amazing, and the enemies to lovers vibe in this one is stellar! I loved all the pranks and how’d they’d check on each other, and then vehemently proclaim their hatred for one another in the next breath. Ha!
I could tell from the beginning that their relationship was deep and had a lot of history, and I loved the few flashbacks we got throughout.
Phoenix’s grandma really is a crazy lady. Holland is right. But do I love how his crazy grandma pushed Phoenix to bite the bullet and move on with his life? You bet your buttons I do. I am a complete goner on Phoenix. He’s a little brusque and stern, but he’s exactly perfect for Gemma. And he’s sooo real! Seriously, this dude could exist in the real world. And I would be okay with that. The world needs more Phoenixes.
Holland is the spitfire I need in my life. She delighted me and frustrated me and then delighted me all over again. The zingers she throws at Phoenix are amazing, and her nicknames for him are too good. Also, her relationship with her Nana Lu is adorable, and her sister is so sweet. I love that she’s really kind and thoughtful, but Phoenix brings out the fire in her. And then, by extension, his family gets her fire later. And some of those interactions may have been my favorite.
Other things I loved: The nicknames. I know I said it once, but woooo! I love them so much! The phone call The pranks The adoption fair Wyatt. I love him. (I’d also love a story for him someday…if a certain author needs ideas ;) ) All the one liners and zingers So. Much. Banter! Photo shoot! I want to actually see the pictures, because I’m sure they’re fire! The toast and grape preserves Phoenix’s generosity Those hate kisses! Holland stands her ground with Mavis The storm Therapy Grief — and healing Claiming and “that’s my wife” Allll the kisses. Gracie knows how to write a kissing scene! All the connections with other characters on the island and the island itself.
Basically, I’m in love. I want a reread. I love these two! This series has been a smash hit with every single book to come out and I am so excited for the final two!
AUDIOBOOK REVIEW: Narrated by Rylee Kuberra and John Rogers — I really like this narration duo. They do a great job making the characters come to life and getting the tone of the story right. I highly recommend both of them!
**Many thanks to the author for the copy. A positive review was not requested or required. All thoughts are my own....more
You guys! This series is winning. Every single book has been fantastic, and with Martha’s book, we’re officially at 4 for 4. The single POV, feuding fYou guys! This series is winning. Every single book has been fantastic, and with Martha’s book, we’re officially at 4 for 4. The single POV, feuding families, enemies to lovers atmosphere kept me so invested. I couldn’t put it down, because I was so anxious to know what Beau was thinking! And what would happen for Gemma.
I really loved Gemma’s character arc in this one. She really came full circle and I loved watching that journey.
Also Beau! Talk about good book boyfriend material! Someone pass the fan, because it’s hot in here! I am honestly not sure I’ve read many Law Enforcement romances (if you have any recs, let me know!), but if all LEOs are as hot as Beau, sign me up! I loved his supportive, patient nature, and how much he smiled and helped people. His personality is amazing.
Other things I loved: Cameos from people I know and love Sunset Harbor. I have always been squarely in mountains camp, but this book might be converting me! Grams’ golf cart! The tight ponytail and heels vs the more casual outfits Victoria. She’s feisty and fierce and cracked me up! All of Grams’ shenanigans Stories about the dock Attic memories Getting caught by Beau with camera on the video chat Throwing rocks at the window The ice cream parlor All the visits at the retirement home Xena Miss Miami (iYKYK) The nicknames. I just love nicknames in romances. That silly bird feeder The canal swim The wedding dance Allll the kisses! Allllllll the kisses!
The book is seriously, amazingly good. So, so good! If you love kissing books and some good tension, pick this one up. It’s basically guaranteed to make you happy!
PS—don’t mind this silly ditty that keep me running through my head about this book. It’s silly, but I just have to put it here. Enjoy. :)
Beau and Gemma sitting in the tree. Fire, and smiles, and oooh wee! First comes hate; then like will start; then comes Grams in her crazy golf cart.
Haha! Okay, I’m done being silly. Just go read the book. It’s way better than my terrible rhymes.
**Many thanks to the author for the copy. A positive review was not requested or required. All thoughts are my own....more
This book is the third in the Falling for Summer series, and I am so over the moon in love, I can barely stand it! Capri and Tristan are absolutely adThis book is the third in the Falling for Summer series, and I am so over the moon in love, I can barely stand it! Capri and Tristan are absolutely adorable. This book is so dreamy and I loved it so much! I’ve been a big fan of Jess’s books for years and I adored her Christmas contemporary, so I was thrilled when she was announced as one of the authors for this series. And she did not disappoint! The banter was top notch. The chemistry was palpable. The setting was perfect. Tristan was perfect in an imperfect way. Capri was sweet and flawed in her own ways, and I loved how strong her crush was. The author protagonist may be one of my new favorite micro-tropes. Capri’s family is fantastic (I am so in love with Tala and Heath; I adore seeing healthy married relationships in books and this one was fabulous). DeeDee is still hilarious. It’s just genuinely so perfect. I loved how the conflict worked in this book. The ways Tristan supported Capri was the cutest thing ever. Seriously, heart meltingly good. Also, I’m a pretty big fan of dual POV, but the single POV in this story really amped up the tension and I was here for it! Other things I loved about this book: Tristan. No brainer. The notebooks Author protagonist How long that crush lasted The Incident Capri’s debut novel Hidden identity Losing the car keys The Sunset Harbor book club The pen name The outings! Every single minute of it! Tristan’s desired prize The manatees! *cue the crying* That spa day The dance Good. Ness. That fireworks show! The kisses. Soooo many good kisses! The last six chapters and the epilogue My book is heavily marked, because there are so many good one liners and scenes. I’m so in love with this book! Jess knocked it out of the park. I can honestly say that every book in this series is an absolute winner! If you haven’t started yet, then get going! Sunset Harbor is the best “place to vacation” this summer.
**Many thanks to the author for the copy of the book. A positive review was not requested or required. These thoughts and opinions belong only to me....more
This book deserves all the heart eyes, all the love, all the hype! It was SO. DANG. GOOD. The mystery! The swoon! The kisses (you can writDear Jentry,
This book deserves all the heart eyes, all the love, all the hype! It was SO. DANG. GOOD. The mystery! The swoon! The kisses (you can write kissing scenes any time; I’ll read allllll of them)! The relationships and dynamics and these incredibly deep characters! The witty banter, the lighthearted, fun moments, paired with the pain and guilt of mental illness and family problems. Just all of it. You stuck me in a book hangover, and I’m still scrambling to find my way out.
I will start with how much I love Henry. I adore Henry. Every single thing about this man was utter perfection. He was so good and tender hearted, and it was painful to watch people take advantage of him and hurt him, sometimes on purpose. The treatment of mental illness has had a long, sordid history, and the way you added that into this book was masterful.
I must also say that I loved Dr. Stratford and Nurse Maggie. I am so glad there were some people who were willing to look beyond the fear and unknown and see humans underneath the mental illnesses. (Also dear sweet Sarah. Adore here and I want her story!)
Arabella is so sweet. I loved her desire to find a “spark,” her fun game with Shakespeare’s plays, and her desire to help people. I thought her propensity to try outlandish things under the guise of “I wanted to see if I could,” was brilliant. She may have been a bit reckless, but she was so fun. And her heart is genuinely good. What she did at the end was especially brave and incredible! Also, can we just talk about how amazing the build-up to the first kiss was? And then that first kiss? Whew! Swoony and delectable.
Henry’s relationship with Bradbury was absolutely the best thing. I love deep friendships in books, and Bradbury’s nicknames of Beasty and Goosey, and especially what he said about why he had given Henry those nicknames, was fantastic. I am so excited for Bradbury’s book!
This book surprised me in the best possible ways! I went in completely blind (my favorite way), and I think that’s the best way with this book. You kept me guessing, and delivered on something I didn’t know I needed. This book is reread material, and I will gladly do so.
Your fan, Jessica
AUDIOBOOK REVIEW: Read by Mary Jane Wells — This narrator did a phenomenal job! Her voices were perfect and emotion/inflections were spot on. I may have a new favorite narrator, and would listen to her narrate anything.
**many thanks to the author and publisher for the book; a positive review was not required; all thoughts are my own....more
Review: Ah, this story was simply delightful and charming. It made me smile. I finishAbsolutely delightful.
Title: A Match Gone Awry Author: Arlem Hawks
Review: Ah, this story was simply delightful and charming. It made me smile. I finished happy. It was a lovely bite of something sweet and I adored every single minute. I’ve long been a fan of Arlem Hawks’ ability to tell story, and it was fun to see how she chose to spin a sweet book, rather than a full-fledged wartime book. To say I was pleased, though not surprised, would describe my feelings perfectly. The setting came alive for me in this book, and though I rarely find myself interested in visiting big cities, I can’t deny I now have a keen interest in visiting Paris. Too bad I can’t visit Paris as it stood two hundred fifty years ago. I also very much want to try the pastries mentioned in this book from a French Patisserie. Anyone living in France want to hook me up? I think Harvey and Gabrielle were both so cute. I loved Gabrielle’s quirky personality and her outlandish plan to save herself from her overbearing and deplorable step-mother. Harvey’s need to rescue Gabrielle and his bumbling way of sometimes going about doing that was simply charming. They felt so real. They had problems, they quarreled, they struggled, they figured things out. And I loved so much that the ending didn’t magically come together with everyone getting what they originally dreamed of. Sometimes a new dream ends up being better overall, even if that wasn’t the original plan. Now we just need Harvey to open a pastry shop, and all will be right in this little world. Long story short: I loved this book so much and highly recommend it for anyone looking for a delightfully written, unique, quick book.
*many thanks to the author for the e-copy. All thoughts about this delightful book are my own....more
These books always astound me! I will admit that I am a fan of time travel stories, so I was intrigued by the premise of these books right away. The pThese books always astound me! I will admit that I am a fan of time travel stories, so I was intrigued by the premise of these books right away. The protagonists always have a special “time crossing” gift: born with a special mark indicating a person as a “time crosser,” the marked person lives a double life, each in a different time period, but only until a specific birthday, on which day the character must choose only one time period to live in for the rest of their lives. See? The premise alone is fascinating and exciting. And every single book is masterfully done and woven together in such a way as to allow the characters to learn and grow, for maximum adventure and intrigue, and for the tug of each timeline to become incredibly taut.
And this book followed the pattern incredibly! For a Lifetime is a little different in that there are twin girls who each bear the time crossing mark. Having twins with a deep connection really raised the stakes and the intensity on this one. There a good number of twists and turns and a couple of surprises. I thought I had figured out where things would go, but every single one of my guesses ended up being wrong. Every. Single. One. I only sort of figured out one thing. This one will kept me guessing and wondering from page one.
Grace and Hope are as different as two sisters can be, but their bonds is indelible. I loved Hope’s tenacity and fire for life, and Grace’s quiet confidence and fierce loyalty. I loved their sister bond and the integral role that played in the story. I loved their relationships with their 1912 parents, and how much they valued family. Hope was a bit impetuous, and Grace a little over-cautious. But they both learned important things and became better people because of their willingness to learn from their trials.
I really loved the heavier Christian themes in this one. The previous two books contained faith themes as well, but I feel like this one went a little deeper, and I loved that. I loved that both Grace and Hope had to learn to trust God in different ways, and the emphasis on God’s plan being better than our own was beautiful. But I also thought Gabrielle did a wonderful job in illustrating how sometimes God’s plan is a harder in the beginning, and that mourning the loss of our own plans is normal and okay. It’s very well done.
I was completely hooked on this one from the very beginning and couldn’t put it down. The settings vary from opposite coasts of the United States to parts of Europe. The cast of secondary characters is broad, but not confusingly so. They all round out the story so well, particularly a couple of love interests whose names I will not mention.
If you enjoy Christian fiction, time travel, dual timeline, or historical fiction, I’d recommend picking up these books. They just get better and better and this book is proof of that. It’s my favorite of the series by far. Give them a try! They do not disappoint.
**TW/CW (contains some spoilers): This book covers the Salem witch trials, so there are some difficult subjects, including accusing others (sometimes falsely) of witchcraft and mention of hangings; death; aero plane stunts and accident; postpartum mother death; unmarried pregnancy; spouse abandonment; parental apathy and dismissal
**Thanks to Bethany House and Austen Prose for the copy. All thoughts are my own....more
This book has all the intensity and depth you’d expect from a full-length novel, though it’s significantly shorter. I love how A.L. Sowards’ books canThis book has all the intensity and depth you’d expect from a full-length novel, though it’s significantly shorter. I love how A.L. Sowards’ books can give me the feel of a full battle scene, without making it dark or gory. I don’t finish her books feeling depressed, and I always finish feeling enlightened about a part of history I didn’t know as well before. A.L. Sowards doesn’t miss a single important thing in this one. If you enjoy wartime fiction at all, this is a must-read. This book is full of battle scenes, heartache, character depth and development, intrigue, spies, deception, hand-to-hand combat, and romance.
Miladin is everything you’d want in a hero. He’s thoughtful and kind, and loyal and determined. Magdalena, while a woman, has the heart of a warrior. What she went through with her husband made me seethe! But she did it all with grace and calm, and I was inspired by her ability to move forward despite tragedy and heart break. And I adored Svetlana. When I tell you think book made me feel allll the feels, I mean it. I was on the edge of my seat, I chuckled, I feared, I cried. I felt it all.
This prequel novella is the absolute perfect step into the waters of this series. You more than whet your appetite—you’ll be hooked, and desperate for more from this world. Thankfully, A.L. Sowards will be giving it to us with book one of this series coming June. Right now is the perfect time to start on the series!
**Many thanks to the publisher and author for the copy. All thoughts are my own....more
Do you want to know what is one of the most delightful experiences in the reading world? When one is pleasantly surprised by how much they love a new Do you want to know what is one of the most delightful experiences in the reading world? When one is pleasantly surprised by how much they love a new book. That is me with this one. I knew the barest of information about this book before picking it up, so I didn’t entirely know what to expect. And I was so pleased around every turn and bend and page. I finished on a sigh of happiness, with a desire for it to keep going.
Belle is a wonderful character. She clearly has her struggles, but she refuses to be hemmed in by them, to be shackled by the weight of her fears and insecurities. And I loved that about her. Her mountain background had given her a firm resolve and level head, and she was able to face life’s challenges with determination and grit, as well as the learned poise and grace she gained later.
The way she dealt with the people she interacted with was beautiful. I loved the underlying themes that everyone has something of value to offer the world, and that when we look for them, we can find things about others to learn from and admire. I thought she was especially kind to Marie Austin, even though I didn’t think she deserved it (she is so bothersome!). I also loved Belle’s natural writing ability, and how one person seeing her own goodness opened doors for her.
I was so confused about Worth for awhile, even though I liked him a great deal. He is incredibly swoony. One thing I loved about their relationship was how they tackled their problems head on, not letting them fester for days on end. It was refreshing and I loved how their communications with each other helped to reinforce their relationship.
My very favorite scenes happen near the end. Papa Newbold is just so good and I love him. And I loved how much Belle (and, by extension, Worth) grow in the short time they are on this Vagabond camping trip. Also, the kissing scenes (and almost kissing scenes—swoon!) were so, so good. So good!
I also found the history absolutely fascinating. Every single piece, from the hotel, to the consumption, to the fancy “camping” (the historical version of glamping!), was a lot of fun to read.
I am hooked on Joy Calloway’s writing now, and I’m off to locate another of her books to listen to. This one was just so well done, with incredible themes, a sweet, slow burn romance, and immersive writing (I could have sworn I smelled wood smoke at one point and felt the chill of the mountain air—and being a mountain lover, I cannot express enough just how much I loved all the mountain settings). I highly recommend for all fans of historical fiction and romance.
**CW/TW: parent deaths (occurred before book) by accident and fire; other deaths by disease; mention of affairs; starvation and extreme poverty; hunting and fishing, and preparing freshly caught fish; deception and lying; tongue mentioned during kissing
**many thanks to Austen Prose and Harper Muse for the copy of this book. All thoughts are my own....more
Dear Lady Eden, It is perhaps a cliché, but please allow me to tell you how ardently I love and admire your work. My soul didn’t know how much I neededDear Lady Eden, It is perhaps a cliché, but please allow me to tell you how ardently I love and admire your work. My soul didn’t know how much I needed this book. This book is truly marvelous, a beacon for all swoony friendship romances. I found myself captivated from the very first page, and wished to read faster, while simultaneously aching for the book to lengthen. It is stunning writing, a beautiful story, and delicious romance, and I loved every moment of it. The friendship between Daria and Toss was delightful. I greatly enjoyed their ability to converse honestly with one another, and their genuine desire to make each other’s experience for the season a better one. The premise was so much fun! I was grateful that there wasn’t anything scandalous in nature, but merely small actions to assert independence. Their point system was quite clever—and then to involve so many beloved characters from other books! My heart could hardly stand the joy at seeing the Gents and Mater so frequently. And including the Huntresses and Rose, as well as Charlie’s group of friends, was the icing on the cake. But then the Great Duke of Kielder made an appearance, and I could barely contain my excitement! I adored seeing so many well-loved friends from previous books. It was a joyful, delightful experience! I would be remiss if I didn’t mention how deeply I enjoyed the romantic tension between Toss and Daria. And the kissing! Oh my swoon, you could knock me over with a feather! I’m so grateful for Mater’s foresight, and Toss’s bravery. And to you, lovely author, for writing such fabulous romance! Oh! Oh! And I absolutely love having a musician protagonist! I don’t think I’ve really seen that before in a Regency, especially a male protagonist. Being a musician myself, I adored seeing one in your book! I could truly go on and on about my love for this book. It was a joy to read, and will be included in my rereads list of your books I adore most. It is wonderful. Ever Yours, Jessica
***
Thanks to the publisher for the e-copy. All thoughts are my own....more
My favorite Becky Wade yet! Told in dual POV from Jude and Gemma (with a few side perspectives from Max, Jude’s half brother, and Fiona, Jude’s motherMy favorite Becky Wade yet! Told in dual POV from Jude and Gemma (with a few side perspectives from Max, Jude’s half brother, and Fiona, Jude’s mother), this book is full of romantic tension, mystery and suspense, family relationships, and beautiful settings. I seriously want to go to Maine and explore now. I’ve never been, and Becky brought the place to life with her words. The romantic tension in this one kept me so engaged from the very beginning. I was fully invested in Jude and Gemma. I liked each of them and was very intrigued by how they would get brought together. I loved the several side plots going on, with Gemma’s cousin and the illegal activity that brought FBI agent Jude to Gemma’s life in the first place; Jude’s mom, Fiona, and the scandal she incited many years previous and her efforts to reconcile with her sister; and the mystery surrounding Gemma’s grandma (who is such a sweetheart!). While there were several things going on, I didn’t feel like they detracted from the main story between Jude and Gemma and just added to the overall book. There are a number of Christian elements throughout this book, but I felt like they were balanced very well. I loved this one so much! And cannot wait for the next installment. ** AUDIOBOOK REVIEW: Narrated by Reba Buhr and Ryan Hudson—I enjoyed this narration and liked that there were two different voices to narrate the respective male and female POV chapters. It’s a narration I would listen to again and would recommend for anyone who enjoys audiobooks. ** *many thanks to the author for the copy. All thoughts are my own. I loved it so much!...more
Holy. Coo. This book has left me utterly paralyzed for any other. I haven’t any desire to read anything, or even think of another love stDear Nichole,
Holy. Coo. This book has left me utterly paralyzed for any other. I haven’t any desire to read anything, or even think of another love story, because I am wholly obsessed with this one. My feelings about this book are akin to Tristan with his unholy obsessions—I want only to talk about and think about and read again this book and only this book.
You know what isn’t cool? Having this book on my ARC list in the middle of half a dozen other ARCs I must also read. It’s almost a cruel injustice to all other books, because Tristan and Isolde shine so brightly as to outshine all others.
I’ll get over it.
Perhaps.
Though perhaps I don’t want to get over it.
Because riding the high of Isolde and Tristan is a euphoric, delightsome experience.
I love Isolde. I love Tristan. I love how Allie pushes Tristan. I love how Isolde pushes Tristan. I love how his conscience pushes him. I love how life circumstances force him to rethink everything he was sure of. I love how bright and loving Isolde is. I love how fiercely and deeply Tristan feels. I love the family relationships Isolde has (and seeing a couple of the Brothers from the Black Tartan books is so good for my soul). I love how Tristan learns to see the family relationships he has. I love the ice house scene. I love the ballroom scene. I love the scene in the library, Isolde on Tristan’s favorite chair. I love the carriage ride (good for you, Isolde!). I love the island. Oh my heavens, do I love the island! I love love love Isolde’s choice in the inn.
Essentially: I. Love. Everything. About. This. Book.
And I feel somewhat bereft that the book is over and my life must somehow go on. Even weeks later, I still find myself yearning for the tug and pull that is the relationship between Tristan and Isolde. I suppose it is a good thing books do not have to be singular experiences, for I know I will need these characters for a lifetime.
I was already a devoted, forever fan. But somehow that devotion has deepened, strengthened, with Tristan and Isolde. This book is sunshine and wind, the full moon and smallest star, the largest ocean and every single drop of rain. The oxygen I need and the sweet air I want.
I love it with all my soul.
All my love, Jessica
**many thanks to the author for the copy. A positive review was neither requested nor required. All thoughts are my own. ...more
THIS BOOK! I am absolutely smitten, totally in love, wholly wrapped up in this story. Happiness for Beginners has long been my favoriteDear Katherine,
THIS BOOK! I am absolutely smitten, totally in love, wholly wrapped up in this story. Happiness for Beginners has long been my favorite of your books, but this one gives it a run for its money. I adored Emma and Charlie. It wasn’t difficult to love Emma. I saw a lot of goodness in her, even if I also saw flaws. I think that’s something I love about your books—your characters are so raw and real, I feel like they could be my neighbors or my friends (at least the friends thing would always be my hope). I’ll be honest, I wasn’t so sure about Charlie at first. He grew on me quickly, however, and then I was smitten and rooting for them both to figure things out and just get together already! I love how the challenges you set up for your characters always throw not only them, but also me. I never see almost anything coming. They really add to the realness and humanity of your novels, and that is the case with this one as well. I adored Emma’s family, and how supportive they were of her. I loved how Emma was pushed and stretched and pulled, and Charlie was pushed and stretched and pulled, and how they grew, both as individuals and together. The banter and humor were spot on, and that was balanced so well with depth and rawness. I just loved it. I absolutely adored it. Forever yours, Jessica
AUDIOK REVIEW: I loved this audio! I felt like the narrator really brought Emma and her emotions and thoughts to life. The audio makes this read even better.
TW/CW: mentions death of parent (occurs previous to book); mention of cancer; health concerns with parent; mentions of divorce; multiple uses of the f-word; romance: kisses only
**Many thanks to NetGalley, the author, and Macmillan for the copy. All thoughts are my own....more
Well. Color me in love because, once again, an Emma St. Clair book stole my heart! I laughed out loud multiple times, had my heartstrings tugged and mWell. Color me in love because, once again, an Emma St. Clair book stole my heart! I laughed out loud multiple times, had my heartstrings tugged and my feels turned up a notch, and grinned like a fool through most of this sweet little book. First of all, I do love a sweet Christmas story, but it was kind of fun to read a book specifically set in the week between Christmas and New Years. (Though could someone tell me about eating black eyed peas on New Years Day? Because I’m not familiar with that tradition.) I love Chelsea. Love her! I loved her in Falling for Your Best Friend (where she makes an important appearance, and which storyline crosses this book in the best possible way), and I love her even more now. She’s sweet and funny, and her clumsiness and awkwardness is just adorable. So yes, I love her. And holy hunka, Mason is sooo good! To say I was annoyed at John for his meddling would be putting it lightly, because as soon as Mason decided to go for it, his thoughtfulness pushed me over the edge (in the best possible way). He is deliciously swoony because he is decidedly observant and caring and shows that the small things really do mean the most. But John’s meddling really is over the top and I would very much like for him to get a story in which he learns a few lessons about stepping into people’s lives and choosing things for them. [insert evil laugh here] And that epilogue!! And the final Dr. Love letter?! Well sheesh. I’m always excited about what may be coming out of the pipe line from Emma, but now I’m positively jumping up and down with excitement! Did I gasp out loud? Yes, yes I did. Did I then squeal with my level of thrill? Also yes. You got me, Emma. I’m hooked. And now anxiously waiting. Other things I loved: Watson. I died. Crochet unitards Koi fish Skunk luck Dead pine needles Seven foot Christmas tree New Christmas ornaments The vacuuming! Washing the dishes! The hot chocolate!! Mean Girls (I think I’ve only seen that movie once but this book really made me want to rewatch) Crepes Leaning Corgi socks (did I order myself a pair of Corgi socks right after that scene? You bet your socks I did) Clove allergy! Sweet mom Otter man John being gone First confession of love Bubble bath Special cookies Second confession of love All the kissing! Absolutely fantastic book! It’s a short novel, and can easily be consumed in a couple of hours, so treat yourself to a New Year’s book, and read this one!
Quotes I loved:
“You don’t need to hide around me,” he says. “I know you, Chels. And I like you exactly as are.”...more
A refreshingly unique view of a lesser known facet of WWII, this book kept me engaged from the beginning. Watching the unlikely cast of characters, wiA refreshingly unique view of a lesser known facet of WWII, this book kept me engaged from the beginning. Watching the unlikely cast of characters, with their divergent quirks and personalities, come together into a ragtag group of unpredictable friends was such an enjoyable ride. And the historical details, paired with the dynamic settings that made me feel as though I were sweltering in the African heat, made this a read not to be missed. My first book genre love is historical fiction, and spending time in some historical fiction brought me a great deal of joy. Maggie and Catherine couldn’t be more different in personality, physical bearing, and familial history. And yet, through a whirlwind sequence of events, the two are thrown together into the world of showbiz and performing, by joining a USO variety show. Though she might make me a little crazy in real life, I loved Maggie on page. She is just the kind of feisty, spunky heroine I love to read about in my books. As stated in the book, the girl has moxie, and lots of it. Her forthright manner, ability to adapt, and instinctual desire to help people, make me love her. And she provides the perfect counterpoint to Catherine, the wealthy and pampered, refined, timid and soft spoken woman, trying to venture out on her own, despite her overbearing and controlling family. The book absolutely needed both characters. I loved watching them each grow and change over the course of their African USO tour, and how they became such good friends. I thought it was neat that the book was written from the POV of these two females, with only some occasional letters thrown in from the male director of the USO unit. There are other characters (Howie, Gabriel, and Julia) that feature in the book in some big ways, but we don’t get their POV. While I expected it at first, I think the way it was written was very well done. I would say this book most particularly fits into the historical fiction genre, with a whisper of budding romance. There are brief glimpses of faith throughout that are the perfect touch for a bit of a Christian element. While it is a WWII novel, it isn’t heavy or depressing. There are a couple of particularly meaningful scenes, where the troupe members utilize their music in specific ways to bring comfort to the soldiers and people to whom they perform, and they are beautifully done. I got choked up during one scene in particular, and the hymn Nearer, My God, To Thee, will never be the same. This is a must read for fans of WWII fiction. It was my first read by Amy Lynn Green, but I’m looking forward to more. Her writing brought the story alive for me.
*CW/TW: talk of dead/dying soldiers; one scene of being shot at by a fighter plane; overbearing and controlling parents; demeaning language toward women not uncommon to the era
**Thanks to the publisher and Austen Prose for the copy. I have provided this honest review of my own volition.
Quotes I loved: “Pretty girls aren’t meant for ugly wars.”
“The way I see it, if some of those men are going to die in battle, the best thing we can do is sing them home.”...more
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