The Next Best Fling by Gabriella Gamez - A Review

The Next Best Fling by Gabriella Gamez had a lot of potential, and there were definitely moments I enjoyed, but overall it felt a little uneven. Marcela, the librarian heroine, is relatable and charming, especially in her love of books and the library scenes, which are a dream for any book lover. I liked the focus on representation, body positivity, and Mexican-American heritage, and there were cute, swoony moments with Theo that I did genuinely enjoy.

That said, I found Marcela frustrating at times. Her indecision and overthinking dragged on longer than necessary, and some of her choices—like lying or running from someone who genuinely likes her—felt unnecessary. It made her growth feel inconsistent, even though the story was clearly trying to show her working through her self-doubt. Theo is sweet and emotionally open, but even with him, some of their interactions felt like they were overly convenient for the plot.

The story itself can feel a little messy. The relationships—romantic and familial—are soap-opera level dramatic, and a few subplots felt like filler rather than meaningful character development. I also felt that some of the bookish or modern details, like extended chatroom conversations, went on too long and didn’t always add to the story.

Still, there were plenty of things I liked. The chemistry between Marcela and Theo is undeniable, the San Antonio setting added charm, and the bookish details made it a fun read for anyone who loves libraries, reading, or quirky romantic touches. The writing is warm and approachable, and there’s a sweetness to the romance that works.

Overall, this is a cute, light contemporary romance with a lot of heart, but it’s not without flaws. If you’re looking for a fun, bookish romance with messy relationships, swoony moments, and relatable characters, it’s worth a read—but don’t expect a perfect story.

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The Found Echoes of Singing Trees by Kaby - A Review

The Found Echoes of Singing Trees by Kaby, Narrated by Shridhar Solanki is a charming adventure story perfect for children ages 6 and up. It follows Louey, the curious orange cat, as he travels with his companions Chloe and Bassy—and several delightful new friends they meet along the way—to uncover why the echoes of the ancient Forest have begun to fade. Their mission to restore the Forest is not only magical but essential to keeping Marsimble alive.

One of the book’s strengths is how it weaves information about animals, plants, and ecosystems naturally into the narrative. It highlights the importance of caring for nature and respecting the land in a way that feels accessible and engaging for young readers. Although lengthy descriptions can sometimes pull me out of a story, the vivid depictions of flowers, plants, and woodland creatures were beautifully done and added to the enchantment.

Shridhar Solanki’s narration is energetic and expressive, bringing the characters and setting to life. The pacing of the audiobook is smooth and enjoyable, making it easy to follow. My only note is that the overall length may be a bit much for younger children, especially those new to longer stories.

★★★★

Thank you to BooksGoSocial Audio and NetGalley for the opportunity to listen to this audiobook in exchange for an honest review.

The Bookstore Diaries by Susan Mallory - A Review

The Bookstore Diaries immediately caught my attention with its blend of bookstore charm, sister dynamics, and a wonderfully unique diary premise. While not everything landed perfectly for me, I still found this to be a cozy, engaging read with plenty of heart—especially in the audiobook format, which brings the town and characters to life with warmth.

The diary element is one of the most intriguing parts of the story. I loved the idea of townspeople storing their private journals in lockboxes at the Painted Lady Bookstore, and the mix‑up that forces Jax to read through them added a fun, creative twist. It opens the door for secrets, surprises, and small emotional revelations. I kept waiting and waiting for it to become a focus in the story since it is the name of the book. I wish this thread had been explored a bit more deeply because the concept itself is so strong and memorable.

The Painted Lady Bookstore is a setting I could happily linger in, and the coastal California backdrop adds a breezy, inviting atmosphere. And I have to say—the African Grey parrot completely won me over. He was easily my favorite character! Funny, expressive, and full of personality, he brings delightful bursts of humor that brighten the story in all the right moments.

While I didn’t always connect fully with the main characters, I appreciated the themes of sisterhood, community, and letting go of control. Readers who enjoy gentle, low‑stakes fiction with a strong sense of place will likely find this a comforting escape, especially on audio.

Overall, The Bookstore Diaries is a cozy, uplifting, and nicely imagined read with a heartfelt premise and plenty of charm. It lands between 3.5 and 4 stars for me—an atmospheric, enjoyable story that fans of small-town fiction and bookstore settings will likely savor, especially in audio.

★★★★

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Thank you to the author, publisher, and NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.

Nineteen Minutes by Jodi Picoult - A Review

Nineteen Minutes by Jodi Picoult is definitely a thought‑provoking read about teenagers and a school shooting. I grabbed it without checking the description first, and as a mom of five, I probably wouldn’t have picked it up if I had known. That one’s on me.

The story does a strong job showing how serious the effects of bullying can be. It’s such a big issue in schools today, and this book really drives home how far things can spiral when someone is pushed too far. I kept thinking about how many “thoughts and prayers” we’ve all heard since this book first came out, and how little has really changed. The way Picoult portrays the everyday reality for so many teens felt painfully real.

My only complaint is that the book felt stretched out. But overall, it was a solid read—one that might make people stop and think a little harder about what so many kids face when they walk into school every day.

★★★

Visit your local library today.

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Important Window Business

 There’s something peaceful about a cat at the window. No rush, no noise—just quiet watching. She sits there like the world outside is telling a story only she can hear, eyes following shadows, birds, and passing moments.

Project Hail Mary by Andy Weir - A Review

This book has everything you’d expect from Andy Weir: a high-stakes mission to save the Earth, a clever and engaging protagonist, and a deep dive into science that makes the story both thrilling and intellectually satisfying. Ryland Grace wakes up alone on a spaceship with no memory of how he got there, tasked with solving a planetary-scale disaster caused by an alien microbe draining the sun’s energy. Piece by piece, he unravels the puzzle while using his scientific knowledge to try to save humanity.

What makes this book so enjoyable is how Weir balances complex science with humor and character. Grace is smart, witty, and relatable—sometimes funny, sometimes sarcastic, and always obsessed with problem-solving, which makes the story both exciting and surprisingly human. The alien life form, the experiments, and the interstellar journey are fascinating, and the gradual revelations keep you hooked without letting up.

There are some far-fetched elements, like global cooperation and certain scientific leaps, but if you’re willing to suspend disbelief, the story holds together beautifully. The flashbacks provide depth, introducing a memorable cast while keeping Ryland front and center. The science-heavy focus might not appeal to everyone, but if you enjoy thoughtful, well-constructed sci-fi, this is a page-turner.

I normally don’t read this genre, but I truly enjoyed Project Hail Mary. 

★★★★

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The Lost Flowers of Alice Hart by Holly Ringland - A Review

The Lost Flowers of Alice Hart by Holly Ringland is one of those books that pulls you in right away. The cover is beautiful, but the story inside is just as powerful. It’s emotional, heartbreaking, and ultimately about healing, love, and finding your way after trauma.

The story follows Alice, who grows up in a very isolated and abusive home. Her father is controlling and violent, and her only comfort comes from books and spending time in the garden with her mother. After a devastating tragedy, Alice is sent to live with a grandmother she never knew on a remote flower farm. There, she’s surrounded by women who are all carrying their own pain, and for the first time she experiences safety, connection, and a sense of belonging.

As Alice gets older, things become more complicated. Her grandmother is loving but extremely overprotective and keeps important secrets from her. When Alice discovers the truth, she runs—literally as far as she can—ending up in the Australian desert. The desert sections were some of my favorite parts of the book. They’re quiet, beautiful, and reflective. Unfortunately, Alice also falls into a relationship that mirrors her childhood trauma, which was hard to read but felt very real.

This book doesn’t shy away from difficult topics, and at times that can be frustrating. A lot of the characters are deeply flawed, and many of them make terrible choices. There’s a lot of secrecy, betrayal, and toxic behavior, which might not work for everyone. Some storylines also felt unfinished by the end, and I wished a few things had been wrapped up more clearly.

That said, the writing itself is gorgeous. The way Ringland describes the Australian landscape—the coast, the desert, the flowers—made me feel like I was there. I also loved how each chapter begins with a flower and its meaning. It’s a really nice touch and adds an extra layer to the story.

At its core, this is a story about women surviving, supporting each other, and doing the best they can with what they’ve been given. None of the women are perfect, but they feel real. That’s what stuck with me most.

Overall, this is a moving, thought-provoking read. It’s not always easy or comfortable, but it stays with you. Just be aware that it includes various forms of abuse.

★★★

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The Perfect Rom-Com: A Sweet Grumpy-Sunshine Rom-Com by Melissa Ferguson - A Review

What a riot! I was literally laughing out loud through much of this book—Melissa Ferguson nailed the tricky art of humor while still delivering heartwarming, emotionally full scenes. The story follows Bryony as she navigates the publishing world, pitches her book at a writers’ convention, and works as a ghostwriter for a popular media star. Over two years, she and her agent Jack develop a friendship, all while she fights to get her own book published.

One of the highlights is the witty banter between Bryony and Jack. Their dialogue is sharp, funny, and full of charm, making the chemistry between them so enjoyable to read. Ferguson balances humor with heart, giving us laugh-out-loud moments alongside genuinely tender, emotionally satisfying scenes.

The book also gives a fun, behind-the-scenes peek into the challenges of writing and publishing, with clever commentary, unforgettable moments like the Darth Vader bride scene, and relatable character flaws that make Jack feel real and endearing.

The only downside is that it’s a little wordy in places, and the initial description of Jack made it hard to connect with him at first—but this actually helped him feel like a real, flawed person in the end. Overall, this is a delightful, feel-good rom-com that balances laughs, banter, and heart perfectly.

★★★★

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Greatest Healing - Quote

 

"The greatest healing therapy is friendship and

love." – Hubert Humphrey 

The Wedding People by Alison Espach - A Review

The Wedding People by Alison Espach was such a delightful surprise. I went in expecting a light, fun rom-com, and while it was definitely charming, it turned out to be surprisingly thoughtful too. The story follows Phoebe, who, after the death of her beloved cat, decides to treat herself to a long-dreamed-of stay at the Grand Cornwall Inn. She’s hoping for a little peace, quiet, and maybe some room service—but instead, she arrives right in the middle of a chaotic wedding weekend.

From there, the story spins into a quirky, offbeat adventure. Phoebe gets pulled into the wedding party in ways she never expected, forming connections with people she never planned to meet. It’s part rom-com, part heartfelt character study, and part reflection on grief, self-acceptance, and feeling stuck in life. Phoebe herself is relatable—she’s juggling heartbreak, infertility struggles, and the kind of low-grade melancholy that sneaks up on you after life throws too much at once. Watching her navigate all of that while accidentally becoming entangled in the lives of these strangers made for an unexpectedly moving read.

That said, not everything worked perfectly for me. The premise of a stranger stepping into a maid-of-honor role for a type-A bride felt a little far-fetched, and the ending leaned toward the predictable side. But even with those quirks, the book’s humor, warmth, and character moments more than made up for it. I found myself laughing, tearing up, and genuinely caring about the people at this wedding—more than I expected from what I thought would be a light beach read.

Ultimately, The Wedding People is a cozy, quirky, and surprisingly layered story. It’s the kind of book that sticks with you a little after the last page, making you think about the unexpected ways people can enter your life and leave a mark. Perfect for a winter afternoon, a book club pick, or anyone who likes rom-com vibes with a touch of real human emotion.

★★★

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The Paradise Problem by Christina Lauren - A Review

The Paradise Problem by Christina Lauren is a fun, slow-burn romance with heart. Anna Green, a quirky, pink-haired artist, and Liam “West” Weston, a reserved academic heir, start off with a college marriage of convenience. Years later, Liam reappears, needing Anna to pose as his wife for his sister’s wedding on a tropical island. Their chemistry grows as they navigate family drama, misunderstandings, and their own feelings.

The story blends humor, romance, and family tension nicely, with well-written characters and believable emotional moments. The Weston family is chaotic but entertaining, and Anna’s warmth makes her easy to root for. The romance builds naturally, and the ending is satisfying.

The Paradise Problem is a light, engaging read with laughs, romance, and just the right amount of drama.

★★★★

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Milk and Honey for a Woman’s Soul by Carey Scott - A Review

Not yet published - Expected 1 Mar 26

Milk and Honey for a Woman’s Soul is a beautifully refreshing devotional overflowing with encouragement and reminders of God’s unwavering promises. Carey Scott offers a gentle, Scripture-centered collection of reflections that speak directly to a woman’s heart, especially during seasons of hardship, change, or emotional overwhelm. From the first page, this devotional feels warm, grounding, and deeply nourishing—like stepping into a quiet place of rest.

Each of the 180 entries opens with a verse from Scripture, followed by a short and heartfelt devotion, and closes with a simple prayer. The structure makes it incredibly easy to incorporate into daily quiet time. The devotions themselves are down-to-earth, relatable, and written in a “short and sweet” style that makes them accessible no matter how busy your day is. Each reading is rooted in biblical truth and offers a meaningful spiritual takeaway to ponder.

Scott beautifully reminds us that the comforts we cling to in this world are only temporary, gently guiding our hearts back to the God who remains constant through every season. Her reflections feel especially timely, offering steady reassurance and grounding hope in His unchanging promises—comfort we all need when life feels unpredictable. The range of topics she covers is thoughtful and relatable, written through a woman’s perspective in a way that makes each day’s reading feel personal, relevant, and deeply connective.

The physical beauty of the book deserves its own mention—the honeycomb-themed cover is truly lovely, warm, and inviting. It fits the tone of the devotional perfectly and would make this book a delightful gift for birthdays, bridal showers, Mother’s Day, or as a meaningful companion to someone’s private worship time. I also appreciated the Scripture Reference section included at the end of the book—it’s a thoughtful and helpful addition that makes returning to specific themes or verses incredibly easy.

“While He may not answer in our timing or in the ways we’d hoped, we can trust that our Father’s generosity will bless us according to His perfect will.”

Overall, Milk and Honey for a Woman’s Soul is a meaningful, heartfelt devotional—a gentle companion for daily spiritual reflection. The comforting tone, scriptural grounding, and beautiful design make it a joy to read and a wonderful resource for women seeking encouragement, guidance, and renewed focus on the Lord. I highly recommend it for personal use or as a thoughtful gift.

★★★★★

I received a complimentary ARC of this book from NetGalley and Barbour Publishing. All opinions expressed here are entirely my own.

After the First Kiss: Making Your First Year Together Ridiculously Awesome by Chantal Heide- A Review

This was an insightful, practical, and genuinely enjoyable read. Chantal Keide offers clear, thoughtful advice on communication, managing expectations, and building a healthy foundation during that crucial first year of a relationship. Her guidance feels grounded and realistic—no petty drama, no fluff—just mature, logical insight that actually makes sense in real life.

What stood out most was her tone. The writing is friendly, personable, and engaging, almost like having a wise “big sister” talk you through relationships with honesty and care. At times, it felt like she was speaking directly to me, which made the advice even more impactful. Her understanding of human behavior and emotional dynamics is impressive, and her approach to romance feels both bold and refreshing.

The book is easy to read, informative, and surprisingly fun while still being illuminating and challenging in the best way. If you’re looking to “get it right,” rethink unhealthy patterns, or simply strengthen your relationship, this book is absolutely worth the buy. It may just change how you think—and help make your relationship happier.

Visit your local library.

★★★★

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A Court of Mist and Fury by Sarah Maas - A Review

I gave it everything I had. Truly. I even surrendered to the audiobook, hoping a change of medium would rescue me — but alas, no such magic stirred. I devoured A Court of Thorns and Roses and loved every moment, but A Court of Mist and Fury? The mist has conquered me. I’m lost in it, wandering endlessly, seeing the same scenes again and again like some cursed loop of déjà vu. Anthologies are simply not my destiny.

And so, with what dignity remains, I lay down my bookmark, sheath my highlighter, and bid this series farewell. May it journey on without me, through realms I shall never read. My watch has ended.

DNF

★★

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Great Compliments (From the Archives 2008)

 Thirteen of the Great Compliments I have received:

1. You children are so well behaved!
2. You're too young to have so many children.
3. How do you keep your house clean with so many people in it?
   
4. You have beautiful children.
5. Mom you're the bestest cook EVER!
6. Mommy, you're pretty.
7. You have a very positive attitude.
8. You're a very good mother Tammy.
9. You look way younger than that!
10. You are very organized.
11. You're smart.
12. I appreciate you're doing this.
13. I LOVE YOU!

Never Lie by Freida McFadden - A Review

Never Lie by Freida McFadden is a gripping, fast-paced thriller that had me hooked from the very first page. Told in dual POV from Adrienne and Tricia, the story begins when newlyweds Tricia and Ethan are trapped in a remote house during a blizzard. The house belongs to the missing psychiatrist Dr. Adrienne Hale, who vanished years earlier under mysterious circumstances. When Tricia discovers a secret collection of Adrienne’s therapy session recordings, she uncovers clues to a dangerous patient—and soon realizes a killer may be among them.

The plot is twisted, suspenseful, and full of jaw-dropping surprises, especially in the final chapters. I was completely caught off guard by the revelations, and the story kept me on the edge of my seat throughout. While I didn’t connect with every character, the tension, mystery, and clever plotting more than make up for it.

Never Lie is a masterfully crafted thriller that delivers mystery, suspense, and unexpected twists until the very end. If you love thrillers that keep you guessing and reward patience with shocking reveals, this is a must-read.

Visit your local library, I did

★★★★

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The Selection by Kiera Cass - A Review

I devoured the first three books of The Selection by Kiera Cass over a single weekend, and honestly, they had me laughing, crying, and cheering all at once. Sure, there were moments that frustrated me—but a little drama just makes a series more fun, right?

The story follows America Singer, a young woman from one of the lower castes, who reluctantly enters a competition to win the heart of Prince Maxon. Maxon is basically perfection in human form—kind, good, and entirely too wholesome for the chaos surrounding him. What makes their romance so compelling is that it doesn’t start as a whirlwind love-at-first-sight story. It’s slow, sweet, and feels genuine—friends-to-lovers done right.

America is practical, smart, and relatable. She doesn’t want to leave her first love behind or abandon her family, yet the Selection gives her a chance at a completely new life. From learning how to navigate palace life and lavish wardrobes to navigating the subtle politics and social games of the Selection, she grows in ways that make you root for her every step of the way. Alongside the romance, there’s tension from political unrest, rebels, and palace intrigue, which keeps the story engaging beyond just the love triangle.

What really sold me on this series was Kiera Cass’s ability to balance romance, suspense, and character development. You get a glimpse of palace life through America’s eyes—the glamour, the pressure, the excitement—and it all feels immersive. While the dystopian aspects are lighter than, say, The Hunger Games, the series focuses more on personal growth, love, and the struggles of navigating an unfair society.

I still think about this trilogy years later. The writing is smooth, the plot is addictive, and America’s journey is the kind of story that sticks with you. If you love romance with a little political intrigue, page-turning drama, and characters you genuinely care about, these first three books are a must-read.

Just a heads-up: the follow-up duology doesn’t live up to the magic of the original trilogy. The main character doesn’t have the same spark, and the story didn’t keep me turning pages the way America’s story did. But as far as the first three books go—five stars, no hesitation, and I’ll happily reread them anytime.

★★★★★

Purchased with my own free will

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Shield of Sparrows by Devney Perry - A review

I wasn’t sure what to expect going into Shield of Sparrows. I’m not usually a romantasy reader, but Devney Perry won me over almost immediately. This book is the perfect blend of immersive world‑building, emotional character development, and heart‑pounding monster encounters, all wrapped in a slow-burn romance that refuses to rush.

Odessa begins as the overlooked “spare” princess—ignored, underestimated, and completely unprepared for the role suddenly thrust upon her. When she’s unexpectedly chosen to marry the future king of Turah, she’s also ordered by her father to spy on her new kingdom, stepping into a mission her sister trained for, not her. Odessa is insecure and often out of her depth, but her grit, fire, and determination to rise to the occasion make her an incredibly compelling heroine. Watching her grow—sometimes stumbling, sometimes surprising even herself—was one of the story’s greatest joys.

Then there’s the Guardian. Gruff, stoic, impossibly skilled, and harboring secrets that shift the entire narrative. His dynamic with Odessa is tense, sharp, and wonderfully slow-building. Their romance is the kind that makes you ache a little—in the best way—with banter, longing, and a tension that simmers right beneath the surface. This is a slow burn that earns every spark.

The world of Calandra is another standout. The lore is rich, the politics twisty, and the monsters. Absolutely unforgettable. From sky-dominating beasts to monstrous sea creatures, Perry creates threats that are vivid, horrifying, and exhilarating. The action scenes are intense and cinematic, and because the characters are always on the move, the pacing never dips. Even for a large book, it flies by.

And the twists. My goodness, the twists. Some cleverly hinted at, others landing like a punch to the chest.  It isn’t a harsh cliffhanger, but it absolutely sets the board for what promises to be a wild continuation of the series.

I’m notoriously stingy with five-star ratings, but this one earned it easily. It’s emotional, surprising, atmospheric, and beautifully crafted. And while I tend to lose interest between installments in a series, this ending was so strong and the world so compelling that I’m genuinely excited to see where the story goes next. If anything can keep me hooked from book to book, it’s this series.

If you want a romantasy that centers on real character growth, immersive world-building, unforgettable monsters, and a romance that smolders rather than rushes, Shield of Sparrows is an absolute must-read.

★★★★★

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I checked this title out from my local library, visit your today!

Don't Give the Enemy a Seat at Your Table Bible Study Guide plus Streaming Video: It's Time to Win the Battle of Your Mind by Louie Giglio - A Review

This is a great Bible study guide, perfect for personal reading or group study. Louie Giglio’s analogies make complex spiritual concepts easy to understand, and his teaching style is engaging, entertaining, and thought-provoking. I loved how he stays true to biblical truth while making the material relatable—he’s the kind of pastor that is very relatable.

The book comes with a QR code for streaming each lesson, so you can do the workbook even without a group. The study guide includes excellent follow-up questions, videos, worship ideas, action points, and prayer exercises—so there’s something for every type of learner. Our book club had wonderful discussions using this guide.

The only reason I docked one star is that for a busy mom, the workload can be a lot: two chapters per week plus all the additional activities can feel overwhelming. My suggestion is to break each session into two weeks to fully absorb and apply the lessons. Even so, it’s packed with valuable takeaways and well worth the purchase.

★★★★★

Visit your local library, I did. 

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Chip the Goat: A Life Well Loved

In Memory of Chip

Chip was a constant presence, a personality, and a part of our everyday life. Wherever I was, Chip was usually nearby watching, following, or simply existing in his own very particular way.

He had a big presence for such a small animal. He was curious, stubborn, affectionate on his terms, and full of character.

Animals like Chip weave themselves into daily life so deeply that when they’re gone, there’s an empty space that can’t quite be filled. He brought laughter, comfort, and a sense of companionship that only comes from time spent together.

Chip passed away, but I am grateful for the memories, for the time we had him, and for the joy he brought simply by being himself.

 

The Correspondent by Virginia Evans - A Review

The Correspondent is a thoughtful epistolary novel that reminded me of 84, Charing Cross Road, one of my decades old favorites, which made it even more impressive to learn this is a debut. Told entirely through letters, with a few emails mixed in, the story feels carefully built and deeply intentional.

Sybil Van Antwerp spends her mornings writing letters on beautiful stationery, seeing correspondence as a civil, lasting way to connect with people who have mattered in her life. Writing gives her time to think and choose her words wisely, something she clearly values.

Most of her letters end by asking what the recipient is reading, and when replies do come, each voice is distinct—especially noticeable in the audiobook. There’s also an unsent letter she keeps revising over the years, which functions more like a private journal. I correctly guessed the intended recipient when it’s finally revealed at the end. One letter near the conclusion stood out in particular, showing Sybil struggling to put something important into words—an especially powerful moment given how articulate she usually is.

Books are woven throughout the story, from literary references to correspondence with true well‑known authors. Not every letter gets a reply, and that adds to the realism and quiet tension of the book.  I also really enjoyed the full‑cast audiobook, which brought the letters to life.

The Correspondent is best suited for readers who enjoy character‑driven stories and the intimacy of letters. It’s not fast or plot‑heavy, but it’s rewarding, reflective, and meant to be taken slowly.

★★★★

I checked this title out from my local library, visit your today!

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Wounds - Quote

 "Your wound is not your fault, but your 

healing is your responsibility." – Unknown 

The Two Lives of Lydia Bird by Josie Silver - A Review

Lydia Bird seems to have it all: a loving fiancé, Freddie, a close-knit family, and strong friendships. But her life changes forever on her twenty-eighth birthday, when Freddie is killed in a tragic car accident. Lydia falls into deep grief, becoming homebound and unable to sleep. After her sister insists she seek help, Lydia is prescribed medication that allows her to sleep deeply—and enter an alternate reality where Freddie is still alive.

The story explores Lydia living between these two worlds. She slowly returns to work and social life in her real world, while secretly visiting the “alternate” life with Freddie. Over time, the emotional strain of balancing both lives forces Lydia to confront her grief, her identity, and the life she wants to lead.

The first half of the book felt slow and repetitive, lingering heavily on Lydia’s mourning. The grief is portrayed authentically, but at times the story dragged, making it feel laborious. The ending felt rushed—after months of processing grief, Lydia’s resolution was condensed into just a paragraph, leaving me wishing for a more fully developed next stage of her life.

This is not a typical romance. Readers seeking light-hearted love stories may be disappointed. However, those interested in grief, emotional healing, and family dynamics will find meaningful depth here. Personally, I found it slow at times, but appreciated the heartfelt exploration of loss and the eventual hope.

★★★

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Visit your local library, I did.

Second Chance at Sunshine Inn by Amy Clipston - A Review

Second Chance at Sunshine Inn is a warm, slow‑burn romance built on a familiar but effective premise: two strangers unexpectedly inherit an inn—and strongly disagree on what to do with it.

Everleigh returns to Sunshine Bay for the reading of her godmother Alana’s will and learns she now co‑owns the inn with Cade, a man she’s never met. Everleigh wants to sell the property to fund a nonprofit she and Alana once dreamed of starting, while Cade believes the inn should be restored and kept running. Their opposing visions create a believable, engaging conflict that drives the story.

Everleigh is kind, optimistic, and quietly grieving, making her easy to root for. Cade begins the story gruff and guarded, but this is more grumpy‑sunshine than true enemies‑to‑lovers. As the story unfolds, his rough edges soften in believable ways.

That said, the pacing is uneven. The story leans on miscommunication more than necessary, and the final third feels messy and overly drawn out—I nearly DNFed near the end. While this is a clean, secular romance, a touch of faith‑based reflection could have added depth to the characters’ healing journeys. Greater emotional maturity from both main characters would also have strengthened the resolution.

If you enjoy Hallmark‑style romances, grumpy‑sunshine dynamics, and slow‑burn love stories set in cozy coastal towns—and don’t mind emotionally inept characters—this book is likely a good fit.

★★★

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

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My Grandma's Casserole - Tastes Like Home

 My Grandma's Casserole

1 Package of egg noodles, cooked
1 1/2 lbs. ground beef, cooked & drained
2 cans condensed tomato soup
1 soup can milk
1 1/2 t. salt
1/2 t. pepper
1/2 t. sugar (yes!)
1 c. shredded cheese (whatever you like)
Optional mix ins: corn, olives, onions, green peppers
1 c. shredded cheese for top

Mix together, place in casserole, Bake at 350F until cheese is bubbly. My kids—and my brother—put honey on this casserole. I have tried to understand it. I cannot.

This casserole came straight from my grandma, who grew up during the Great Depression. She knew how to stretch a dollar, make do with what she had, and feed a whole family without wasting a thing. If there was food on the table, you were grateful—and you definitely didn’t complain.

She made this casserole all the time. It was affordable, filling, and could feed a crowd, which was important when there were always extra people at the table. And somehow, no matter how simple it was, it always tasted amazing. Grandma had that magic where food just felt like love.

Every time I make this dish, I think about her strength, her practicality, and her ability to turn humble ingredients into something everyone remembered. Funny how a Depression‑era casserole is still bringing people together… even if some of them are doing it wrong.

Archives from Monday, August 18, 2008