Beartown by Fredrik Backman - A Review

Beartown by Fredrik Backman is about a small town obsessed with its junior hockey team, but it’s really about so much more—community, loyalty, morality, and what it means to stand up for what’s right, even when it’s hard. The story kicks off with a shocking moment—a teenager pointing a gun at another—and from there, Backman slowly pulls you into the lives of everyone in this tiny town, where dreams, secrets, and tensions are all tied to hockey.

The town itself feels so real. You can practically see the snow, hear the ice in the rink, and feel the pressure everyone carries. I came to care about the characters so much—the people you root for, like Benji and his loving but chaotic family, and the ones you love to hate, like Kevin and his cold, controlling parents. Everyone has layers, and the way Backman shows their struggles and choices really makes you think about human nature.

This isn’t an easy read. The book deals with some heavy stuff—rape culture, toxic masculinity, peer pressure, and the silence that protects the powerful. But Backman doesn’t lecture, he just shows the messy reality of people trying to survive, protect themselves, and hold onto their town. The way the story is told jumps around a bit between characters and viewpoints, which takes some getting used to, but it’s worth it for the depth it adds.

The beginning is a slow build as you get to know the town and its people. But once you’re in, you’re hooked. The story is emotional, frustrating, heartbreaking, and hopeful all at once.

Beartown isn’t just about hockey—it’s about people, courage, and the price of doing the right thing. I’ll be thinking about it for a long time, and I can’t wait to read the rest of the series.

★★★★☆

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Girl Underwater by Claire Kells - A Review

Girl Underwater by Claire Kells follows Avery Delacorte, a nineteen-year-old competitive swimmer, whose life is turned upside down when her flight home for Thanksgiving crash-lands in a mountain lake in the Colorado Rockies. She’s one of only five survivors, including her teammate Colin Shea, who’s the one person at college who ever challenged her to be her own person. Now, in freezing conditions with minimal supplies, Avery and Colin must rely on each other in ways neither expected.

The book alternates between her terrifying days in the wilderness and her recovery back home, supported by two men who love her—though only one knows what really happened. Kells does a fantastic job making the wilderness scenes feel realistic and intense. You really feel the danger, the cold, and the desperation. Even though you know the survivors make it out, the tension never lets up.

Avery is a strong, smart, and relatable heroine. She’s flawed but admirable, and while her PTSD and emotional distance sometimes made her hard to connect with, her struggles felt authentic. The writing has a great pace, keeping you engaged without slowing down in the aftermath of the crash.

The story reminded me a bit of Twilight or The Hunger Games in its mix of romance and life-or-death survival, but it stands apart because it’s grounded and believable—no sci-fi twists, just a realistic disaster and realistic people. Kells also does a great job portraying how trauma affects everyone differently and showing the emotional fallout of surviving a life-threatening event.

Overall it’s a compelling, well-written novel that blends suspense, romance, and emotional depth. Girl Underwater is a quick, gripping read, and I’d definitely recommend it to anyone who enjoys survival stories with heart, complexity, and romance.

★★★★★

Purchased on my own free will, this is my honest opinion. 

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The Rom-Commers by Katherine Center - A Review

The Rom-Commers by Katherine Center

I don’t enjoy spicy romances, which is why Katherine Center is such a perfect fit for me—and The Rom-Commers completely delivered. With zero explicit content and the slowest, sweetest slow burn, this book relies on sharp banter, excellent humor, and genuinely fresh dialogue. I laughed out loud multiple times and enjoyed every page.

At its core, this story is a love letter to rom-coms, but it’s also much deeper than that. The characters feel raw and real, full of heart and flaws. Emma was instantly lovable, and while Charlie started out grumpy and closed-off, watching him grow was incredibly rewarding. I loved how the challenges felt unexpected and meaningful, adding so much humanity to the story.

Katherine Center handles both main characters with such care that you quickly see beyond the stereotypes. Their banter, growth, and relationship—along with Emma’s wonderfully supportive family—made this story shine.

Funny, heartfelt, and beautifully written, The Rom-Commers is a charming opposites-attract rom-com that left me smiling long after I finished.

★★★★★

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Calm My Anxious Heart: A Woman's Guide to Finding Contentment by Linda Dillow - A Review

Calm My Anxious Heart by Linda Dillow

This book came into my life at exactly the right time. Calm My Anxious Heart is one of those rare reads that makes you want to say, “Get it. Read it. Live it.” I loved it so much that even though I read a digital copy, I’m seriously considering buying the paperback just to keep it close.

What really stood out to me was how consistently the author weaves Scripture throughout the book, pairing it with real-life stories that are so relatable it almost feels like she’s telling your story. I found myself nodding along, highlighting passages, and pausing often to reflect.

One of my favorite sections centers on Philippians 4:11–13, especially Linda Dillow’s reference to Kenneth Wuest’s translation:
“I am strong for all things in the One who constantly infuses strength in me.”
That line alone was worth the read.

Another powerful moment was the story of Ella and her “five Nevers,” describing a soul-deep peace that isn’t dependent on circumstances. Dillow also beautifully breaks down Psalm 139, reminding us that God created us intentionally—our personalities, gifts, abilities, and even our limitations. We are not mistakes. We are His workmanship. How can we not find contentment in that truth?

This part hit home for me in a big way. In my current season of life, I’m a cancer survivor, a working mom of five, and a stepmom to one—just to name a few roles. Some days I feel overwhelmed, stretched thin, and guilty for not doing “enough.” But this book reminded me that God designed me for this exact role. He knew what He was doing when He created me. My job is to embrace it, glorify Him in it, and trust that His portion for me is best.

And here’s the thing—on only page 47 something already clicked. I get it now. I will choose contentment. I will live with all my might.

I also loved the practical takeaways, like creating a gratitude notebook, an anxiety box, and completing the twelve-week Bible study included at the end of the book. These tools make the message actionable, not just inspirational.

This was my first book by this author, but it absolutely will not be my last.

Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book free of charge from the publisher and NetGalley in exchange for my honest opinion.

★★★★★

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Say You’ll Remember Me by Abby Jimenez - A Review

Say You’ll Remember Me by Abby Jimenez is the kind of book that makes you laugh, cry, and swoon all in one go. It balances humor and heart so well—there are plenty of silly, laugh-out-loud moments, but they’re mixed with genuinely emotional and vulnerable ones that hit deep. Even though I’m not usually a fan of insta-love or grumpy x sunshine tropes, Abby handled them in a way that felt believable, and I really enjoyed watching these two fight to keep their relationship alive—even when life seemed determined to throw everything at them. Xavier, in particular, stood out as someone who quietly steps up for everyone around him, and I loved that about him.

Samantha and Xavier’s first meeting is awkward, funny, and unforgettable, thanks in no small part to a very unusual, rescued kitten. They clash; they apologize and somehow spark a connection that feels immediate and real. Their first date is sweet and magical, but life doesn’t make it easy for them—distance, family struggles, and work challenges constantly test their relationship. Watching them navigate it all together—messy, imperfect, and completely human—was honestly the highlight of the story.

Abby’s writing is as addictive as ever. From the moment I started reading, I was completely pulled into Samantha and Xavier’s world. The dialogue is witty, the pacing is just right, and the story flows effortlessly. I was genuinely invested in the characters and their journey, rooting for them to overcome every obstacle. The author also handles important and sometimes heavy topics—like abuse, Alzheimer’s, and family struggles—with care and relatability, which added a layer of depth to the story I really appreciated.

Xavier and Samantha are wonderfully developed. Xavier is kind, protective, hardworking, and caring—especially toward animals—and watching his soft side emerge was heart-melting. Samantha is strong, resilient, witty, and endlessly determined, especially when faced with family challenges. The chemistry between them is electric but grounded in realism, and the way their love grows through shared struggles makes their romance feel earned. The supporting cast, including Maggie, Tina, Hank, and Jeneva, added even more heart to the story and helped bring the world to life.

All in all, Say You’ll Remember Me is a beautifully heartfelt story about love, family, resilience, and the importance of cherishing every moment. Abby Jimenez delivers another book that’s impossible to put down, full of laughs, tears, and swoon-worthy moments. I’d give it four stars—it’s not perfect, but it’s a joyful, moving ride that will stay with you long after you finish.

★★★★☆

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A Court of Thorns and Roses (A Court of Thorns and Roses, #1) by Sarah J. Maas - A Review

A Court of Thorns and Roses by Sarah J. Maas

I wasn’t sure I’d stick with this book at first — I usually bail on fantasy if it doesn’t grab me fast. But from the very beginning, this one just worked for me. I could picture the Spring Court so clearly it felt like I was walking through it with Feyre. And what I loved was that the magic and politics were woven in naturally. You don’t get hit with a bunch of background info dumps — you just discover it as she does.

The story plays with familiar fairy-tale ideas, but it doesn’t feel like a copy of anything I’d read before — it feels darker and more grounded. Feyre is tough and flawed, and watching her grow felt real. She screws up sometimes, but it makes sense for who she is and what she’s been through.

The romance was the slow burn I was hoping for — no insta-love, just two people figuring each other out. And while Tamlin starts off a bit closed-off, their chemistry builds in a way that felt natural to me. Just a heads-up: it definitely leans more adult than YA in places.

The pacing was a bit mellow at the start, but once the action and stakes ramped up toward the end, it really paid off — and it wrapped up in a satisfying way rather than leaving me hanging in a cliffhanger.

If you like fantasy with a strong emotional core, court politics, and a romance that actually grows, this one’s worth giving a shot. I wasn’t expecting to love it, but it surprised me in all the best ways.

★★★★★

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Steve Kamb’s How to Try Again by Steve Kamb - A Review

Steve Kamb’s How to Try Again by Steve Kamb is a refreshingly compassionate take on personal growth, especially for anyone who feels stuck in cycles of quitting, restarting, and beating themselves up along the way. The book is well organized and easy to follow, and what stood out most to me was how practical it is. Kamb doesn’t just talk about failure in abstract, motivational terms—he shows you how to begin again in real, doable ways.

One of the most powerful ideas in the book is learning to embrace failure rather than hide from it. Kamb reminds us that we never truly start back at square one; failure is the first step, not the last. He encourages readers to stop suffering in silence and to share their failures, which immediately removes some of their power. His P.A.C.T. model offers a helpful framework for moving forward, while concepts like redefining what “enough” means right now, expecting less, and doing less feel surprisingly freeing. I also appreciated the reminder that there is no real “normal,” and that setting boundaries and giving yourself compassion are not signs of weakness, but necessities.

Kamb offers thoughtful tips for overcoming hurdles and making new habits actually attainable, especially when life feels random and unpredictable. One of the biggest takeaways for me was the shift from following a rigid plan to staying on a meaningful path. The book made it clear that being overly tough on myself hasn’t been helping me improve—it’s been holding me back. How to Try Again is a supportive, honest guide for anyone ready to fail more compassionately and try again differently.

★★★★★

(I received a copy of this title from NetGalley and the publisher for review purposes. This is my honest opinion.) 

The Mystic Cookbook: The Secret Alchemy of Food by Denise Linn - A Review

The Mystic Cookbook: The Secret Alchemy of Food

by Denise Linn

This is not just a cookbook—it is a celebration of the passion, energy, and spirituality behind food. The Mystic Cookbook goes far beyond recipes; it explores the emotional, spiritual, and transformative power of cooking and eating. It teaches you to connect deeply with your food, infusing every meal with intention, joy, and mindfulness.

As a busy single mom of six, I had completely lost my love for cooking. Meals became mechanical tasks—I would often rush through eating just to get on with the next chore. This book reignited my creativity and joy in the kitchen. It reminded me how to slow down, savor each bite, and appreciate not just what food nourishes physically, but how it can feed the soul.

What makes this book truly special is the way it blends wisdom, ritual, and practical advice. Denise Linn shares insights from mystical, legendary, and cultural traditions around the world—from Italy and France to Mexico, Vietnam, North Africa, and India—along with colorfully illustrated recipes and exercises that elevate cooking into a spiritual experience. Each chapter feels like an invitation to rediscover the magic in everyday life.

This book is for anyone who wants to deepen their relationship with food, awaken creativity, or simply find joy in the act of preparing and sharing meals. It is inspiring, beautiful, and transformative—one of those rare books that will stay with you long after the last page.

★★★★★

(I received a copy of this title from NetGalley and the publisher for review purposes. This is my honest opinion.)

From my Archives: May 18, 2018

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The Let Them Theory: A Life-Changing Tool That Millions of People Can't Stop Talking About by Mel Robbins - A Review

The Let Them Theory: A Life-Changing Tool That Millions of People Can't Stop Talking About by Mel Robbins

I really like Mel Robbins, and I enjoyed this book—it’s a quick, motivating read or listen. The core idea, the “let them” theory, is simple but powerful: stop trying to control everything and let people be who they are. Pairing it with “let me” adds a personal accountability layer that made me rethink my own reactions.

That said, the book can feel repetitive. Robbins applies the “let them” approach to family, work, and other situations in the same way over and over. Her long lists of examples can feel excessive, and the repeated emphasis on “backed by neuroscience” or research sometimes feels like padding. Honestly, the book could have made its points in half the pages.

Still, the advice is practical, inspiring, and easy to apply. It reminded me of things I already knew but had lost sight of, and gave me a helpful framework for letting go of control and improving relationships. Worth the read, even if a bit repetitive.

★★★★☆

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I checked this title out from my local library. 

Free Me From Me - A Review

Free Me From Me by Ryan Wekenman encourages self-focus. Wekenman explores what he calls the “me-maze trap,” closely related to the spotlight effect—the belief that everything revolves around us. He gently but clearly redirects readers away from self-centered living and toward a life surrendered to God, where true peace and rest are found.

It is not a guilt-driven or condemning book. Instead, it is an invitation into freedom—freedom that comes from allowing God to sit at the center of our lives rather than ourselves. Through relatable personal stories, Wekenman effectively illustrates how easily we fall into patterns of striving, comparison, avoidance, and control, and how empty those patterns ultimately are.

The book reminds us that life is not defined by performance or perfection, but by the freedom that only Christ can provide. One particularly powerful insight comes from Wekenman’s reflection on Adam’s response after the Fall:
“I was afraid because I was naked, so I hid.” He explains how that moment marked a shift in motivation—from love to fear: fear of being seen, known, and exposed. This perspective is both sobering and illuminating.

Free Me From Me serves as a strong reminder to continually realign our focus on the Lord rather than ourselves. It would make an excellent choice for a small group study or a meaningful gift for anyone seeking spiritual clarity and renewal.

★★★★☆

I received a complimentary copy of this book from NetGalley and Penguin Random House Christian Publishing. All opinions are my own.

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Midlife Awakening: Creating a Miraculous Next Chapter by Marianne Williamson - A Review

Midlife Awakening: Creating a Miraculous Next Chapter by Marianne Williamson is a thoughtful and uplifting guide for anyone navigating the complex transitions of midlife—especially when it feels like everything is changing at once. One of my favorite features of the book is the short prayers at the end of each chapter, which offer moments of reflection and quiet reassurance.

Williamson speaks directly to the realities many women face during midlife: grown children, changing bodies through perimenopause and menopause, and the emotional weight of questioning whether we have fulfilled our purpose. When life doesn’t unfold as we once imagined, disillusionment can easily set in. We may wonder if we’ve failed or missed our chance. Williamson gently but powerfully reminds us that fulfillment has no deadline and destiny has no expiration date.

She reframes midlife not as an ending, but as a profound awakening—an opportunity to release old identities, embrace change, and step into a renewed sense of purpose. As she writes, “We can choose to die to who we’ve been until now and stand in the light of a new sense of self,” a sentiment that feels both freeing and grounding.

The book acknowledges that we all carry past struggles and unresolved pain, and that true growth requires facing those experiences rather than ignoring them. Williamson encourages readers to see midlife as a spiritual reset rather than a crisis—an invitation to recover joy, wisdom, and self-compassion.

Many of its ideas resonated deeply as I reflected on my own life, which currently feels like a blend of pride, regret, hope, and uncertainty. After raising five children, I am learning to slow down and let go of the constant need to do, do, do. I appreciated Williamson’s emphasis on presence and realignment with what truly matters.

Anyone feeling weighed down by change or searching for meaning in midlife will find comfort and inspiration in Midlife Awakening.

★★★★☆

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(I received a copy of this title from NetGalley and the publisher for review purposes for my honest opinion.) 

Between Sisters by Kristin Hannah - A Review

Between Sisters by Kristin Hannah

I’m a longtime fan of Kristin Hannah, and Between Sisters offered a compelling look at her contemporary fiction. While the novel starts slowly, it builds into an emotionally charged story about family dysfunction, buried trauma, and the long, difficult road to healing.

Sisters Meghann Dontess and Claire Cavenaugh have been estranged for decades, shaped by a childhood marked by abandonment—one parent gone physically, the other emotionally. Meghann, the older sister, was forced into the role of caretaker far too young, carrying that weight well into adulthood. Now a successful but emotionally guarded divorce attorney, she struggles with loneliness and control. Claire, in contrast, is a single mother living a quieter life, content but still carrying the ache of what was lost between them.

The dynamic between the sisters is fraught with miscommunication and resentment, making reconciliation feel nearly impossible at first. But Claire’s young daughter, Alison, becomes an unexpected catalyst for healing, bringing warmth, innocence, and much-needed emotional relief to the story.

About halfway through, the novel delivers a powerful and unexpected twist that deepens the emotional stakes and fully pulled me in—I was hooked from that point on. Hannah excels at portraying flawed characters who are trapped by the past yet yearning for connection, and the result is a moving, often tear-inducing read.

If you enjoy stories about complicated family relationships, emotional hardship, and forgiveness, Between Sisters is well worth your time. It’s a heartfelt, character-driven novel that lingers, and another strong addition to Kristin Hannah’s body of work.

★★★★☆

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I purchased this title of my own free will.

Pizza Practice – Doughs, Techniques + Toppings by Tara Jensen

Pizza Practice – Doughs, Techniques + Toppings by Tara Jensen

This is not a simple pizza cookbook—it’s a deep dive into the art of pizza making. The book covers absolutely everything: techniques, ingredients, equipment, and the why behind each step, all explained in a clear, approachable way. It includes an impressive range of dough recipes, along with toppings, sides, and plenty of guidance for perfecting classic pizza styles.

Where this book really shines is in its creativity. Alongside advice on achieving that ideal traditional pizza, Jensen offers inspired non-traditional combinations. Some ideas are a hard pass for me (pickle pizza, clam pizza), but others sound incredible—fig, date, and mascarpone; zucchini and summer squash; Brussels sprout and walnut.

If you’re serious about going beyond the basics and truly understanding pizza from the ground up, this book is an excellent resource.

★★★★☆

(I received a copy of this title from NetGalley and the publisher for review purposes. This is my honest opinion.) 

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Under Southern Stars by Cari Blake — A Review

Under Southern Stars by Cari Blake — A Review

Cari Blake’s debut contemporary romance, Under Southern Stars, blends heartfelt romance with the high-stakes chaos of a metropolitan ER in New Zealand. Sophia Mitchell is an ER charge nurse and recently divorced single mother, still healing from a toxic marriage and a manipulative ex-husband. Enter Jack McKenzie: a kind, capable New Zealand paramedic armed with steady coffee, quiet charm, and an impressive amount of patience, who slowly begins to break through her defenses.

The hospital scenes are where the book truly excels, offering a sense of realism that makes the setting feel lived-in. Sophia is most compelling in her professional role, especially when protecting her staff. Jack is every romance-reader’s dream—patient, capable, great with kids, and made even more charming by his New Zealand accent and constant coffee offerings.

That said, the story is fairly predictable does drag in a few places. Sophia frustrated me more than once, and the central relationship conflict could have been resolved with a single honest conversation. Jack’s “secret rich guy” subplot also felt unnecessary and overly manufactured.

The audiobook, however, was a definite highlight. Dual narration made for an easy, enjoyable listen—perfect for long drives or multitasking. While a few accent choices were a tad questionable, they weren’t distracting enough to diminish the experience.

If you enjoy medical romances, single-parent protagonists, low-stakes drama, and guaranteed happily-ever-afters, Under Southern Stars is worth a listen.

★★★★☆

(Audio ARC provided by Victory Editing NetGalley for review purposes. This is my honest opinion.)

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Funny Story by Emily Henry - A Review

 

Funny Story by Emily Henry

I love Emily Henry—I’d read her grocery lists—and Funny Story is still better than most romances by default. That said, this one didn’t fully work for me. It tries to do too much at once: Daphne’s sudden breakup, forced cohabitation with Miles, career reinvention, new friendships, parental trauma, and a whirlwind romance all compete for space, which dulls some of Henry’s usual magic. The book feels less funny, less polished, and more rushed than her best work, with jokes that sometimes announce themselves and characters who blur together rather than shine.

Daphne and Miles are sweet, but they didn’t feel as vivid or introspective as Henry’s past protagonists, and the romance and third-act conflict felt a bit forced. Still, the setting is charming, the banter is there, and it’s undeniably readable. If you read Emily Henry for cozy, commercial romance, you’ll likely enjoy it; if you love her for deeply felt characters and sharp emotional insight, this may be a slight miss. Good—but not her best.

★★★☆☆

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I checked this title out from my local library. 

Just For Summer by Abby Jimenez - A Review

Just For Summer by Abby Jimenez

Just For Summer is a delightful, funny, and heartwarming read. The premise is intriguing, even if not fully explored, but the book’s true strength lies in its characters and humor. I found myself laughing out loud on multiple occasions, and the cast is what makes this story so engaging. The only minor hiccup was a few emotionally charged scenes that lacked dialogue, which felt a little unusual, but it didn’t take away from the overall experience.

The character work is fantastic. The protagonist is refreshingly flawed and relatable, the best friend is a total gem, and the love interest is genuinely likable, with a backstory that adds depth and intrigue. The ending felt satisfying and heartfelt, leaving me with a warm, happy feeling.

While I personally enjoyed the first two books in the trilogy slightly more, Just For Summer was still a joy to read, and it reminded me why Abby Jimenez is one of my favorite authors. Engaging, funny, and full of heart—this is a story that will stay with you.

★★★★☆

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I checked this title out from my local library. 

Home Baked Comfort (Williams-Sonoma, Revised Edition) by Kim Laidlaw - A Review

Home Baked Comfort (Williams-Sonoma, Revised Edition)

by Kim Laidlaw

Home Baked Comfort is an absolute must-have for any baking enthusiast. The recipes are easy to follow, beautifully presented, and guaranteed to make your mouth water—seriously, I had to keep reminding myself it wasn’t swimsuit season! From breakfast treats to breads, cookies and bars, cakes and cupcakes, pies and tarts, and even custards and soufflés, this book covers it all with elegance and flair.

The photography is stunning, bringing every decadent creation to life, and the mix of nostalgic classics with modern twists is delightful. Favorites include caramel whoopie pies, deep dark chocolate cupcakes stuffed with marshmallow cream, brown butter pound cake with fig compote, and gooey s’mores brownies. Laidlaw also spotlights some of America’s best bakeries and beloved food blogs, making it a rich source of inspiration.

Whether you’re an experienced baker or just curious to try your hand at something new, Home Baked Comfort will not disappoint. It’s now my favorite baking cookbook, and the hardcopy is officially on my wish list. Five stars—delicious, inspiring, and a joy to bake from.

(I received a copy of this title for review purposes from NetGalley and the publisher. This is my honest opinion.)

★★★★★

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Without a Clue by Melissa Ferguson - A Review

Without a Clue by Melissa Ferguson - A Review

Without a Clue was an enjoyable, fast-paced murder mystery with a strong romantic element, and overall a very fun reading experience. I listened to the audiobook ARC, and the narration by Karissa Vacker was fantastic. She brought so much personality to the story, with clear and distinct character voices that made the large cast easy to follow and added an extra layer of enjoyment.

The story follows Penelope “Pip” Dupont, the personal assistant to bestselling mystery author Hugh Griffin. Pip has organized a literary cruise for Hugh and his group of writers known as The Fabulous Seven. What’s meant to be a relaxing and creative getaway quickly turns into a locked-room mystery when one of the authors is found murdered, followed by a second death on board. With the suspects limited to people Pip knows well, she’s forced to put her years of behind-the-scenes mystery research to use and figure out who the killer is before it’s too late.

The cruise-ship setting is used effectively to create a classic locked-room mystery, and the ensemble cast is a clear strength of the novel. Each character is distinct, contributing to a steady narrative momentum. The romantic subplot between Pip and Nash provides emotional balance to the story, and Nash stands out as a particularly compelling and swoon-worthy hero. Despite being marketed as a rom-com, the book reads more accurately as a murder mystery romance. The tone is light and approachable, but the humor is understated rather than laugh-out-loud.

Overall, Without a Clue is a charming, Knives Out–style cozy mystery with a sweet romantic subplot and a memorable cast of characters. I’d highly recommend the audiobook, and I think fans of cozy mysteries and light romance will find this to be a very enjoyable read.

(Thank you Thomas Nelson, Zondervan Fiction Audio and NetGalley for the audio arc copy which I received in exchange for an honest review.)

★★★★☆

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Reminders of Him by Colleen Hoover - A Review

Reminders of Him by Colleen Hoover - I’m not usually a CoHo fan, but Reminders of Him genuinely surprised me. I finished it in one day and was completely wrecked—yes, I cried. The story is raw, emotional, and deeply gripping from start to finish. THE PIGEONS!!

The dual points of view made the heartbreak even more powerful, allowing me to feel both sides of the pain and loss. Kenna’s journey as a mother trying to reunite with her daughter after serving time in prison is heartbreaking yet hopeful. Her guilt and determination felt painfully real, and Ledger’s protectiveness added so much tension and emotional depth.

The characters felt flawed and human, and the emotional weight of their struggles kept me turning pages. The plot had just the right balance of sadness and hope, and the ending wrapped everything up beautifully.

Overall, this was a powerful, heartfelt, and unforgettable read—one I’d absolutely recommend to anyone who loves emotional, character-driven stories. 

★★★★★

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I checked this title out from my local library. 

The Heart of Everything by Marc Levy - A Review

The Heart of Everything by Marc Levy has a quirky, offbeat premise that didn’t work for me, though it was entertaining overall. The novel follows Thomas, a concert pianist whose life is turned upside down when his father, Raymond—dead for five years—reappears and asks him to help reunite with his true love, Camille, in the afterlife. To do so, Thomas must travel from Paris to San Francisco and steal Camille’s ashes so they can be mixed with Raymond’s. Yes, it’s as bizarre as it sounds.

At its core, this is a story about grief, love, and unfinished business. The tone is light despite the heavy subject matter, and there are moments that made me laugh. 

That said, the book didn’t leave a lasting emotional impact for me. The story felt a bit too short for such an unusual premise, and the ending came across as abrupt.

Overall, this is a cozy, gentle, and sometimes funny read—pleasant and easy to enjoy, even if it didn’t fully connect with me.

(Thank you to NetGalley for providing me with a copy of this book.)

★★★☆☆

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Night Road by Kristin Hannah - A Review

Night Road by Kristin Hannah centers on Jude Farraday and her teenage twins, Mia and Zach, whose lives change when Lexi Baill, a former foster child, comes to live in town and becomes part of their world. As senior year unfolds—with parties, first love, and bad decisions—a devastating tragedy occurs and everything unravels. The story looks at motherhood, sibling bonds, loss, justice, and forgiveness.

I liked the premise, but the characters didn’t always work for me. Many of them felt exaggerated, especially Mia, whose extreme fragility was hard to believe given her privileged life. Others felt stuck in fixed roles, which made the first half repetitive. Once the tragedy hits, the story moves faster, but by then I had trouble fully connecting on an emotional level.

That said, the book still hit me in places. It starts off fairly light and then turns into an emotional roller coaster, and Kristin Hannah knows how to pull at the heartstrings. Lexi was by far the strongest character, and some moments were genuinely moving—especially themes that mothers will likely relate to.

I went in with high expectations after The Nightingale, one of my all-time favorites. Night Road didn’t quite live up to that for me, but I still love Kristin Hannah and appreciate what she was trying to do here.

★★★☆☆

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I purchased this title of my own free will.

The Last Letter, Rebecca Yarros - A Review

The Last Letter, by Rebecca Yarros, really upset me. The author puts the characters through constant tragedy, and just when it feels like they’ve earned a happy ending, another unnecessary blow is added for shock value. I felt cheated—especially since this book is marketed as a romance, and the ending is anything but emotionally satisfying.

While the writing is beautiful and the love story is powerful, the relentless heartbreak drained me. Far more bittersweet and sad than rewarding. I read romance to escape, and this book didn’t deliver that for me.

If you’re okay with heavy tragedy and emotional exhaustion, you might feel differently.

★★★☆☆

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I checked this title out from my local library. 

My cancer journey - Twenty years later!

My Cancer Journey

In January 2006, while pregnant with my fifth child, I discovered a lump in my breast. Initially dismissed by my doctor, it grew rapidly. A biopsy revealed invasive ductal carcinoma—an aggressive breast cancer.

I had surgery while pregnant, and fortunately, my baby was born healthy. Six days later, I began chemotherapy, followed by 43 radiation treatments. My hair fell out, I was exhausted, and life with five kids didn’t pause—but I survived.

Cancer changed my life: it taught me to cherish every moment, see the bigger picture, and fight for my health. Today, I am grateful to be cancer-free and to have a loving family by my side.

Breast Cancer Awareness:

• Perform monthly self-exams

• Schedule annual clinical exams and mammograms

• Early detection saves lives—don’t wait

One in eight women will face breast cancer. Early action can make all the difference.

Commit (The Sweet Rom "Com") by Kortney Keisel - A Review

This was a sweet, second-chance rom-com novella with excellent banter (my absolute favorite) and lovable characters. Told in alternating past and present timelines, it’s filled with tender moments between Matt and Remi that were easy to fall for.

Set in beautiful Key West, the story brings the exes together for a mutual friends’ wedding—awkwardly sharing a hotel suite after having RSVP’d while still together. Forced proximity plus unresolved feelings makes for plenty of sparks.

Remi can be frustratingly self-absorbed, but her insecurity and fear of commitment add emotional depth that feels messy and real rather than just cute. Matt, on the other hand, is patient, sincere, and wonderfully steady. Despite its short length, the story balances lighthearted humor with genuine vulnerability, showing that love—and healing—aren’t always easy.

I give Commit 4 out of 5 stars. If you love second-chance romances with witty banter, chemistry, and a vacation-like setting, this novella is a sweet, satisfying read with a meaningful message about love, patience, and working through hard things.

★★★★☆

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I checked this title out from my local library. 

The Fall Risk By Abby Jimenez - A Review

The Fall Risk by Abby Jimenez

I’m completely charmed by Abby Jimenez—her writing, characters, and humor are quickly becoming my happy place. It’s impressive how such a short story manages to feel deep, sweet, genuinely funny, and even a little suspenseful. The unusual setup throws Seth and Charlotte together in the best possible way, and their trapped-together banter was an absolute delight from start to finish.

It’s easy to see why Jimenez’s heroes are so beloved—Seth (and Gabe) are both undeniably swoon-worthy. The Fall Risk is the perfect example of how a well-written short story can deliver big emotional payoff in a small package. A perfect literary palate cleanser and a total joy to read.

★★★★☆

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I purchased this title of my own free will.