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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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 setup: two strangers unexpectedly inherit an inn — and strongly disagree on its future.

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 and use the proceeds to fund a nonprofit she and Alana once planned, while Cade believes the inn should be restored and kept running. Their opposing visions create a believable, engaging conflict that carries 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 much more grumpy‑sunshine than enemies‑to‑lovers. 

The romance is a true slow burn, focused on emotional connection rather than physical moments. Their relationship develops through shared experiences and honest conversations, making it feel natural and satisfying. The cozy coastal setting and small‑town community add charm.

The pacing is a bit uneven early on, and the story leans on miscommunication more than necessary, but once it settles, it becomes an easy, comforting read. While this is a clean, secular romance, a touch of faith content might have added more depth to the characters’ healing journeys.

Overall, this is a sweet, low‑tension story filled with warmth, growth, and small‑town charm.

If you enjoy Hallmark‑style romances, grumpy‑sunshine dynamics, and slow‑burn love stories set in cozy coastal towns, this book is a great 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.

I’ll be over here eating it the normal way, with cornbread on the side, pretending I don’t see what they’re doing. Because despite the honey situation, this is still top‑tier comfort food.

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

Atmosphere - Taylor Jenkins Reid - A Review

This book was extremely disappointing and, frankly, misleading. I picked it up expecting a story centered on space, science, and intelligent women navigating a high-stakes space program. Instead, it’s primarily a romance between two women—a fact that isn’t made clear until about a third of the way through which like a bait-and-switch.

The summary and marketing misrepresent the story, and it left me feeling frustrated and misled. The space program and scientific elements are minimal and feel like a backdrop rather than the focus, and the emphasis on romance overshadowed the parts I was actually interested in. The pacing also dragged in sections where the focus shifted entirely to relationship drama, making the story feel uneven and padded.

While some readers might enjoy the romance, for me, this book failed on almost every level. I don’t feel it delivered what it promised, and I would caution anyone who is looking for a space exploration story—this is not it.

★★☆☆☆

I usually put a link if you want to purchase it - but, nope. I do not recommend this one, at all.

Anxious People by Fredrik Backman - A Review

Anxious People by Fredrik Backman is a story that’s hard to describe in a sentence—but here’s my attempt: a failed bank robbery, an apartment viewing, a hostage situation, and a cast of wonderfully flawed, anxious, and chaotic people thrown together in the middle. At first, it feels a bit messy and quirky—jumping between characters, timelines, and perspectives—but if you stick with it, it’s surprisingly heartwarming, funny, and insightful.

The story begins when a first-time bank robber storms into a cashless bank, realizes his mistake, and flees into a nearby apartment where a showing is happening. The prospective buyers inside end up as hostages, and each has their own quirky, often heartbreaking story. Backman spends time peeling back each character’s layers, showing their regrets, fears, and the small ways they try (and fail) to connect with the world around them. The dialogue is hilarious, the observations about human nature are spot-on, and the writing—short chapters, mixed perspectives, even witness statements—keeps the pace lively and engaging.

This isn’t a typical thriller, though. The “crime” is just the setup for exploring universal themes: anxiety, loneliness, regret, and the messiness of human connection. Backman balances humor with heartbreak beautifully—there were moments that made me laugh out loud and others that made me pause and reflect. The ending ties everything together in a satisfying way that left me feeling warm and thoughtful.

That said, this isn’t a book I’d automatically pick up on my own. The story jumps around a lot—back and forth between timelines, perspectives, and even police reports—which can feel chaotic, especially early on. Some of the plot elements are far-fetched, and the characters can be combative or over-the-top at times. But that’s kind of the point: Backman wants you to embrace the chaos, lean into the absurdity, and focus on the human connections.

Overall, I really enjoyed reading this one. It’s funny, clever, and surprisingly touching, even if it’s not my usual genre. Backman’s skill with character development and dialogue is impressive, and this book is full of small insights about life, regret, and human nature that linger after you finish. I’d recommend it to anyone who likes quirky, character-driven stories with both laughs and heart.

Rating: ★★★★☆

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The Love Haters by Katherine Center - A Review

The Love Haters by Katherine Center is a heartwarming, witty story about love, self-discovery, and friendship. Katie, recently dumped by her now-famous ex, struggles with self-esteem and her sense of worth. As she rebuilds her life, she meets Hutch, a brooding “love hater” with a mysterious past, and begins a journey of healing, self-acceptance, and ultimately, love.

Katie is relatable, and her growth throughout the novel is moving. Her friendships, especially with the wise Rue and loyal Beanie, provide guidance, support, and humor. Hutch is complex and quietly brooding, but the romance takes a backseat to Katie’s personal journey of embracing herself and her imperfections.

The book explores themes of self-empowerment, healing, and the transformative power of relationships. While a few passages feel preachy and Katie’s immaturity occasionally slows the story, Center’s engaging writing and clever dialogue make the story enjoyable. The pacing is steady, and the humor balances the emotional moments well.

Love Haters is a thoughtful, uplifting read that celebrates self-worth, friendship, and personal growth. It’s ideal for readers who enjoy romance with heart and stories about overcoming personal struggles.

★★★★☆

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Jazzy: Sweet, Spunky, Everywhere

She’s sweet, a little spunky, and takes her naps very seriously. She curls herself into the tiniest ball, tucks her nose in, and sleeps like she has absolutely no responsibilities—which, to be fair, she doesn’t.

Jazzy has opinions. She wants attention… until she doesn’t. She loves to explore, play, and insert herself into whatever is happening, especially if it’s something she’s not supposed to be involved in. One minute she’s curled up on a blanket looking innocent, and the next she’s racing across the room for reasons known only to her. Balance matters.

We’re also going to politely ignore the fact that she sheds white hair everywhere. The couch, the clothes, the blankets… possibly the air itself. We see nothing. We know nothing.

Small cat. Big attitude. Lots of love. Just the right amount of chaos. Jazzy has a way of quietly (and sometimes loudly) making every day better.

The Path of Least Regret: Decide with Clarity. Move Forward with Confidence by Parul Somani - A Review

This book is for anyone who has ever felt stuck at a crossroads, afraid of making the “wrong” decision. The Path of Least Regret gently shifts the focus away from perfection and certainty‑chasing and toward something far more attainable: peace of mind. As Somani reminds readers, “One of the most compassionate things we can do is grant ourselves permission to feel,” setting the tone for a thoughtful, human approach to decision‑making.

Parul Somani introduces her Path of Least Regret® framework, built around one powerful question: Which choice will I regret the least, given what I know and value right now? Drawing from a background in strategy and behavioral science—and personal experience navigating a cancer diagnosis shortly after becoming a mother—her guidance feels grounded, empathetic, and practical. She acknowledges that life’s biggest decisions rarely come with certainty but reassures readers that “a life of fewer regrets and greater peace is in sight” when choices are rooted in intention rather than fear.

Throughout the book, Somani blends research with real‑life examples, reflective prompts, and helpful sections at the end of the chapters like Get Your Bearings and Checkpoints, encouraging readers to pause and apply what they’re learning. The message is clear and reassuring: good decisions aren’t about perfect outcomes, but about acting with honesty and alignment. We’re called to “pursue your intentions with purposeful actions.” For anyone seeking clarity, confidence, and a calmer way forward, this book delivers exactly that.

★★★★☆

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

The Shippers by Katherine Center - A Review

Katherine Center remains one of my all-time favorite authors for romance that is warm, witty, and deeply comforting. Her books consistently deliver sharp banter, emotional sincerity, and lighthearted storytelling without relying on spice—and The Shippers highlights many of the qualities that make her such a dependable voice in contemporary romance.

The humor is strong. The cruise ship setting adds fun and momentum, creating a festive backdrop that enhances the rom‑com feel and keeps the story moving at an easy, engaging pace.

Jojo, the (annoying) heroine, is introduced as exceptionally intelligent. She’s written not as a flawless protagonist, but as someone still learning how to trust herself emotionally. Her choices are messy and impulsive. 

Miscommunication plays a large role in the story’s tension, particularly in the latter half of the book, as Jojo tends to run from difficult conversations. These moments sometimes tested my patience, but they also set the stage for meaningful growth once she finally begins to take ownership of her happiness.

In my opinion the novel’s greatest strength is the hero, Cooper. Thoughtful, emotionally available, steady, and kind. His patience and emotional maturity ground the story and provide a wonderful contrast to Jojo’s uncertainty. He consistently shows up with care and insight, making him a standout and a joy to read.

The chemistry between Jojo and Cooper is immediate and believable, supported by their shared history and easy closeness. A subplot involving Jojo’s parents and their strained marriage adds emotional depth and balance, reinforcing the book’s themes of communication and commitment.

The Shippers is a light, feel‑good romantic comedy. The humor lands and the ending delivers the comforting resolution readers expect. It’s an easy, binge‑able read—perfect for a beach day or a cozy afternoon—and a reminder of why Katherine Center remains such a reliable and comforting presence in contemporary romance.

★★★★★

Many thanks to St. Martin’s Press and NetGalley for providing an advance digital copy in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own.

Sunshine, soft feathers, and a whole lot of personality

There’s something grounding about stepping outside and being greeted by the soft clucks and curious looks of our chickens. These ladies are more than just egg layers—they’re part of the rhythm of life here on our home farm. From early morning feedings to afternoon sunbathing, they remind us to slow down and enjoy the simple things.

Today I’m sharing a few snapshots of our flock, capturing the everyday moments that make farm life so special. 

 

Meet Nilla: CEO of Chaos, Part-Time Goat

Every farm has that goat.
Ours is Nilla.

At first glance, she looks innocent nestled in hay. Do not be fooled. Nilla is not resting. She is plotting.

Nilla does not believe hay is something you eat politely from a feeder. Hay is a lifestyle. A nest. A throne. A blanket fort built exclusively so she can stare directly into your soul while chewing with confidence.

Her signature move is burrowing. You’ll walk into the barn, see hay everywhere, and realize Nilla has once again fully moved in.

She assumes every object exists solely for her enrichment. Buckets? Toys. Feed scoops? Instruments.  Chairs?
Challenges. Fences?  Despite years of experience, Nilla remains convinced her horns will absolutely fit through the fence this time. They never do. She gets stuck, complains loudly, and acts personally offended when rescued.

At home, she especially enjoys picking on her youngest child—stealing snacks, standing just a little too close, and generally reminding everyone who’s in charge. It’s less “mothering” and more “light hazing.”

Yes, she has horns—but they’re mostly decorative (and frequently trapped). Her real weapon is her face. That smug, tilted expression that says, You’re mad?

Nilla is not just a goat.
She is a statement.
She is a liability.

The Last Page by Katie Holt - A Review

The Last Page is a cozy, bookish romance that feels like a love letter to independent bookstores and the people who keep them alive. Set in New York City, it follows Ella, who’s worked at The Last Page since her teenage years and thought she’d one day run it—only to discover the store has been left to the owner’s grandson, Henry, after his death.

What I loved right away was how maturely Ella and Henry handle an awkward situation. Instead of leaning into messy miscommunication, they choose honesty, vulnerability, and teamwork, quickly forming a genuine friendship. 

The setting is where this book truly shines. Nearly every scene is steeped in books, and the story is deeply centered on found family and the shared mission of saving a beloved bookstore on the verge of closing. It’s comforting, heartfelt, and full of nostalgia.

The romance itself is a slow burn, and while the emotional chemistry didn’t fully click for me. I also adored the chapter‑opening book recommendations from the booksellers.  It was such a charming, thoughtful touch that added even more bookish joy.

The supporting cast brings humor and personality that contributed to the strong sense of community that defines the story. Henry, in particular, stood out—he’s kind, grounded, and easy to root for.

The Last Page is a sweet, cozy, Hallmark‑movie‑style comfort read that’s perfect for book lovers, especially as a palate cleanser or seasonal escape. That said, the familiar “beloved bookstore in danger of closing” storyline didn’t quite work for me and felt a bit too predictable, which kept me from fully connecting with the plot. Even so, the charm of the setting, the found‑family elements, and the clear love of books still shine through, making it a cozy story to curl up with.

★★★★☆

Thanks to NetGalley, Crooked Lane Books, and Edelweiss for the ARC. All opinions are my own.

Good Enough Is the New Perfect: Finding Happiness and Success in Modern Motherhood by Becky Beaupre Gillespie

I have to be honest—this is the first book I’ve ever reviewed without finishing it. But not because I didn’t like it. This simply isn’t a book meant to be rushed. Good Enough Is the New Perfect is a collection of real stories from women and mothers who share how they’ve found balance and peace in their own lives. And the key takeaway? No two journeys look the same.

As a college graduate, a working mom of six, and a breast cancer survivor, this book spoke to me on a very personal level. I chose to work as a bookkeeper—making far less than my degree could earn—because that’s what my family needs right now. I was also pregnant with my youngest when I battled breast cancer five years ago. Balance is something I struggle with almost daily.

This book doesn’t promise perfection—because perfection doesn’t exist. Instead, it offers reassurance that “good enough” really is enough. Reading about other women who have come to terms with where they are in life, despite their struggles, is comforting and inspiring. Sharing these stories matters, because you never know who might need to hear that they’re not alone.

I’m taking my time with this one, letting each story settle before moving on to the next. While I haven’t finished it yet, I would still recommend it. It’s a book to read slowly, reflectively, and honestly.

★★★★☆

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Love Finds a Home: 3 Historical Romances Make Falling in Love Simple and Sweet by Wanda E. Brunstetter - A Review

I really enjoyed this book. It’s a light, easy read made up of three short historical fiction romances, each with its own unique storyline. As a mom of six, I especially appreciate short story compilations—they’re perfect for those moments when I want to escape into a book without committing to a long reading session.

This was my first time reading a book by Wanda E. Brunstetter, and I truly enjoyed her writing style. Her Amish-inspired stories are clean, gentle, and heartfelt—perfect for readers who enjoy wholesome romance.

While all three stories were enjoyable, the final one, Twice Loved, was my favorite. It tells the story of Bev Winters, a widow with a young daughter after World War II, who finds what seems to be an answer to prayer when she lands a job at a used toy shop. However, when her employer shows unexpected kindness and generosity, Bev struggles to accept it, mistaking compassion for pity.

It’s a touching story about a widow and a widower who have both loved deeply and lost painfully. The big question is whether God will restore their hearts and allow them to love again. You’ll have to read it to find out—but it’s a beautiful journey.

Overall, this is a sweet, comforting read, and I would definitely recommend it. 

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

★★★★☆

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The Midnight Library by Matt Haig - A Review

The Midnight Library by Matt Haig is one of those books everyone seems to love—and I can see why the concept is intriguing—but for me, it didn’t quite land. The story follows Nora, a woman who’s feeling hopeless and decides she doesn’t want to live anymore. Instead of dying, she ends up in the Midnight Library, a strange in-between place filled with books. Each book represents a life she could have lived if she had made different choices. She gets the chance to “try on” these alternate lives, from Olympic athlete to rock star to ordinary adult, to see if she might have been happier somewhere else.

The premise is clever and full of potential, but unfortunately, the execution left me underwhelmed. Nora hops from life to life, and while the concept of exploring “what might have been” is interesting, it quickly becomes repetitive. Every alternate life has a catch, and every revelation about herself is spelled out in painfully obvious ways. I found Nora herself hard to connect with—she’s consumed by regret, constantly negative, and otherwise flat. It felt less like reading a story and more like reading self-help advice disguised as fiction.

I also had a problem with the way the book treats mental health. The implication that depression can be “solved” by perspective or attitude oversimplifies a serious issue and didn’t sit right with me. Real-life depression is complex, and while positivity and reflection are useful, they’re not a cure. This approach made it hard for me to fully enjoy the story.

On the positive side, the book is short and easy to get through, and the premise itself is imaginative. Some of the alternate lives were fun to think about, and the idea of a library of regrets is memorable. But beyond that, I didn’t find much to engage me—the plot is predictable, the lessons obvious, and the main character just didn’t hold my attention.

Overall, I’d give this one three stars. It’s not a bad book, and I can absolutely understand why so many readers love it. For me, though, the concept was far more compelling than the actual story, and I found it slow, repetitive, and ultimately unmemorable. If you enjoy reflective, self-help–style fiction or stories about alternate lives, it might be worth a try—but personally, it wasn’t my cup of tea.

★★★☆☆

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Surprise Me: A Novel by Sophie Kinsella - A Review

Sylvie and Dan Winter face the daunting reality of decades more marriage, and Sylvie starts Project Surprise Me to keep things exciting. Most of the surprises backfire—sometimes revealing long-held secrets that threaten their relationship.

It wasn’t a disaster, but it wasn’t Kinsella at her best. The story felt disjointed, with some parts dragging and others forgotten until suddenly reappearing. The premise was thin, and the characters felt immature at times. I even put it down to read another book—something I’ve almost never done with Kinsella.

That said, I stuck with it, and the ending was satisfying. I’d recommend this only for die-hard Sophie Kinsella fans.

★★★☆☆

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Matchmaking for Beginners by Maddie Dawson - A Review

Matchmaking for Beginners is a fun, quirky, and heartfelt read that balances humor, romance, and self-discovery. The story is carried by its wonderfully relatable characters—especially Marnie MacGraw, a sweet Southern girl with a touch of snark, and her eccentric, lovable great-aunt Blix Holiday, who injects life and magic into every scene she’s in.

Marnie dreams of an ordinary life with a husband and children—but when her engagement falls apart after just two weeks, she unexpectedly inherits Blix’s Brooklyn brownstone. To claim it, she must live there for three months, surrounded by Blix’s colorful neighbors and “projects,” discovering along the way that she may share Blix’s gift for matchmaking.

The story moves at a lively pace, with laugh-out-loud moments, heartfelt realizations, and a few decisions by Marnie that will make you want to shout, “What are you doing?” While some parts felt like filler, the plot and character development are strong, and the ending leaves you feeling happy and satisfied.

If you’re looking for a novel with quirky, relatable characters, a touch of magic, and a story about finding happiness in unexpected places, this one is a delightful choice.

(I purchased this book and this is my honest review.)

★★★★☆

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The Choice: Embrace the Possible by Edith Eger - A Review

This is an extraordinary and deeply moving memoir. Dr. Edith Eva Eger, a Holocaust survivor and eminent psychologist, shares her experiences with astonishing honesty and courage. At just sixteen, she was taken to Auschwitz, witnessed her parents’ murder, and was forced to dance for Joseph Mengele—but even in the darkest moments, she found ways to survive and help others.

The book is divided into four sections: Prison, Escape, Freedom, and Healing, and it’s incredible to see how someone who endured so much trauma went on to dedicate her life to helping others confront their own suffering. Her insights into forgiveness, resilience, and the power of choice are profound.

This isn’t an easy read, but it’s one you won’t forget. I took my time reading, researching people and places along the way, because the story is that compelling. Dr. Eger is truly remarkable, and this memoir is inspiring, heartbreaking, and ultimately uplifting. Definitely my most highlighted book on Goodreads.

★★★★★

Visit your Local Library, I did!

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The Light Between Oceans by M.L. Stedman - A review

This is a deeply moving and haunting novel about love, loss, morality, and the consequences of the choices we make. I finished it just hours ago, and I’m still tearful—Stedman’s story really makes you reflect on what is truly “right” or “wrong.”

The story follows Tom Sherbourne, a WWI veteran who becomes the lighthouse keeper on remote Janus Rock, and his wife Isabel. After suffering multiple miscarriages, Isabel persuades Tom to raise a baby they find washed ashore as their own, believing it a gift from God. The happiness the child brings is soon shadowed by unforeseen consequences.

What makes this book remarkable is the fully realized characters. Tom is quietly heroic yet humanly flawed, Isabel is intense and desperate in her longing for a child, and Hannah, the other woman affected by their decision, evokes deep sympathy. Each choice is made out of love, yet every path causes pain—blurring the line between right and wrong in a way that left me emotionally torn.

Stedman also beautifully captures the stark, isolated beauty of South-Western Australia, making the landscape itself feel alive. Her portrayal of lighthouse life—its solitude, hardships, and quiet routines—felt authentic and vivid, especially for those familiar with the region.

My only small quibble is that Isabel could have been developed a bit more; understanding her inner motivations and reactions would have made the novel perfect. Even so, this debut is gripping, heart-wrenching, and utterly unforgettable. A thoroughly rewarding read.

From my archives: 5/11/18

★★★★☆

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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

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

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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