Every Summer After by Carley Fortune - A Review

The story flips between past and present, following Percy and Sam through six childhood summers and then one present-day reunion. I loved how nostalgic the summer scenes felt. It really captured that feeling of growing up, first love, and those moments that shape you without realizing it at the time. Sam was especially easy to love, and their connection felt real and effortless.

What kept me hooked was the mystery of what went wrong between them. You know from the start that something big happened, and the slow reveal made it hard to put down. When everything finally came to light, it was messy and a little heartbreaking, but also believable, which made it hit harder.

The only reason this wasn’t a full five stars for me is that some parts felt a bit predictable, and I wanted just a little more from the ending emotionally. Still, it was satisfying and fit the story well.

Also, I just started the limited series on Netflix and it’s been fun to see the story come to life in a different way. I’m curious to see how closely it sticks to the book.

Overall, it’s a cozy, emotional, second-chance romance with strong summer nostalgia and just enough depth to make it memorable. Perfect if you want something heartfelt but still easy to sink into.

★★★★

Iron Flame (The Empyrean Book 2) Kindle Edition by Rebecca Yarros

This one still had me hooked, but I could definitely feel it losing a little of the momentum from the first book. The stakes are still high, and there’s a lot going on, but it didn’t feel quite as tight or addictive as Fourth Wing for me.

I still really liked Violet’s growth. She continues to feel strong in a realistic way, and I appreciated how she keeps being pushed without suddenly having everything figured out. The relationships are still a big draw too, especially with all the tension, but some of it felt more drawn out this time instead of building in a way that felt fresh.

The world expands more here, which is interesting, but it also makes things feel a bit heavier and slower in parts. There were moments where I felt fully pulled in again, and others where it dragged more than I expected.

Overall, it’s still a really solid continuation, just not quite as gripping as the first. It kept me invested, I just didn’t fly through it the same way.

★★★★

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Theo of Golden by Allen Levi - A Review

This was a quiet, reflective read that slowly, very, very slowly, grew on me. It leans more into relationships, small moments, and a subtle spiritual connection than a traditional plot, with some really meaningful quotes throughout.

At first, the pacing felt too slow and it came across as longer than necessary. I had trouble staying engaged and felt that with stronger editing, this could have been a truly standout book with proper editing. Around halfway through, it finally started to pick up, and I connected more with the characters.

Theo stood out with his gentle, steady presence. The way he shows up for others felt genuine and tied everything together. I also came to appreciate the interconnected structure and the sense of community it built.

Some parts still felt underdeveloped, but overall, it became a thoughtful and heartfelt read. A powerful debut for a new author with a lot of promise.

A 3.5 star read for me, rounded up to four because of its emotional impact.

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Miracle Creek: A Novel by Angie Kim - A Review

On the surface it’s a courtroom drama, but it also digs into people’s choices, secrets, and the pressure they live under.

The story follows a tragic incident and the trial that unfolds, and I liked how my sympathies kept shifting. The characters felt layered and realistic, with no clear heroes or villains, which made everything feel more emotionally grounded.

Young and Pak stood out, especially with their struggles as immigrants balancing financial stress and expectations. The parents’ storylines also explored love, guilt, and pressure in a way that felt honest, if sometimes heavy.

The pacing was solid overall, though it slowed a bit during legal details. Still, the gradual reveals kept me interested.

While thought-provoking and emotionally impactful, it didn’t fully land for me at times, which is why it’s a three-star read.

★★★

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Fourth Wing (The Empyrean, #1) by Rebecca Yarros

This one completely pulled me in. It’s fast paced, intense, and just really hard to put down once you get into it. The mix of dragon riding, training, and constant danger keeps things moving, but it’s the emotional side that really made it stand out for me.

Violet was easy to root for. She’s not the strongest or most prepared, but she’s smart, determined, and learns how to survive in ways that actually feel believable. I loved watching her grow into her own strength instead of suddenly having it all together. And the relationships, especially the tension filled ones, kept things interesting without feeling forced.

The world building is solid without being overwhelming, and the stakes stay high pretty much the whole time. There were a few moments that felt a little predictable, but honestly I was having too much fun to care much.

Overall, this was such an addictive read. It has action, emotion, and just enough drama to keep you hooked the entire time. Definitely one I’d recommend if you want something exciting that still has heart.

★★★★½

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Listen - Quote

This reminds me of the spiritual call to be still and attentive before God and before others. Scripture often nudges us toward listening hearts, not just busy mouths. When I pause, listen more, and speak less, I notice I am more aware of God’s quiet guidance and more patient with the people around me. It feels like a simple way to practice humility and love in everyday moments, not perfectly, but intentionally.

Toe Beans

 

Daily Inspiration for the Purpose Driven Life: Scriptures and Reflections from the 40 Days of Purpose by Rick Warren - A Review

This was a steady, easy devotional that really fits best into short, quiet moments instead of deep study sessions. The entries are brief and simple, which makes it great for mornings or winding down at night. It feels intentional without asking too much from you, which I liked.

The focus stays on purpose, faith, and everyday life, so it feels grounding and practical. There were definitely a few readings that hit at just the right time and stuck with me throughout the day. It pairs nicely if you’ve read The Purpose Driven Life, but it also works fine on its own.

That said, it can start to feel a little repetitive after a while. If you’re familiar with Rick Warren’s style, there won’t be a lot of surprises. Some entries felt a bit surface level, and I found myself wanting a little more depth here and there.

Overall, it’s a comforting, reliable devotional that does exactly what it sets out to do. It’s encouraging, approachable, and easy to stick with, even if it doesn’t break new ground.

★★★★

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An Undersea Adventure Helen Brown - A Review

(ARC • NetGalley • Publish Date: 9/1/2026)

This was such a fun, interactive find and seek book that kept me engaged page by page. Each spread is filled with colorful underwater scenes and hidden items to search for, with answer keys included right there, which made it easy and satisfying to check everything as I went.

Reading this had an extra personal layer for me since my son is in the Navy and used to be on a submarine. That connection made the underwater theme even more special, and I found myself appreciating the ocean details a little more.

The illustrations are vibrant and detailed, and I liked how each page encouraged us to slow down and really look. It’s the kind of book you can pick up anytime, whether you want something relaxing or a quick challenge.

This was a solid four-and-a-half-star experience for me (rounded to five) as a light, engaging activity book with a creative ocean theme.

★★★★★

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with an advanced copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.

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A Summer Affair (Nantucket, #1) by Elin Hilderbrand

This was a nice, easy read for me. I enjoyed the Nantucket setting and the relaxed summer feel made it perfect to pick up and get lost in for a bit. It’s definitely the kind of story you read more for the vibe and atmosphere than anything else.

I liked following Claire and seeing how everything unfolded. Her situation felt real, and even when I didn’t agree with her choices, I still understood them. The relationships felt messy in a believable way, which kept me interested.

I didn’t feel super emotionally pulled in, but I also didn’t mind spending time with it. It’s one of those books that’s enjoyable in the moment, even if it doesn’t leave a huge impact afterward.

Overall, a solid, light summer read.

★★★

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Cozy Afternoon in the Goat Yard

You have to admit they are pretty darn cute!

 

Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them: The Original Screenplay (Fantastic Beasts: The Original Screenplay, #1) Rowling, J.K.

This is comfort reading in screenplay form. It’s not trying to be deep or complex, and honestly that’s part of the charm. It’s all about the vibes magic, creatures, and getting to spend time in the wizarding world again. If you’ve seen the movie, everything plays out easily in your head, which makes it a super quick, visual read.

Newt completely carries it. He’s awkward, gentle, and quietly kind, which makes him stand out in the best way compared to the usual bold, loud heroes. The overall tone is lighter and more whimsical than the main Harry Potter series, with more focus on curiousity and wonder than big dramatic stakes, and I really liked that shift.

The screenplay format is definitely a trade off. You don’t get much inner depth, and some characters feel a bit thin on the page. But it works for what it is. This isn’t something you pick apart, it’s something you just enjoy.

Overall, it’s a cozy, nostalgic read that’s perfect for fans who want a little more time in that world. Not essential, but definitely fun.

★★★★

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Sealed With the Spirit

 

When you believed, God sealed you.

Not temporarily. Not conditionally.

The Holy Spirit is God’s promise written over your life, a guarantee that what He began, He will finish. Your salvation is secure, your inheritance is certain, and your future already belongs to Him. All of it points back to one purpose: the praise of His glory.

Forever, Papa Bear by Danielle Beerli - Released

Now Released

Forever, Papa Bear feels simple, yet the message about a father’s love staying with you as you grow is heartfelt and beautifully done.

It is warm and comforting the relationship between Papa Bear and Little Bear felt and a beautiful reminder that the smallest everyday moments are often the ones that stay with us the longest. The illustrations make it even more special, soft, cozy, and filled with little details.

It’s a story that brings your own memories to the surface and makes you think about the people who made you feel safe, seen, and loved. For a children’s book, it carries meaningful emotional depth without ever feeling heavy.

This would make a perfect bedtime read, a thoughtful Father’s Day gift, or simply a beautiful story to share with little ones again and again.

I received a complimentary copy of this book through NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

★★★★★ 

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The Honey Don't List by Christina Lauren - A Review

This one ended up being a pretty fun read for me. The premise is a little chaotic, but in a way that works, and I liked getting a behind the scenes look at a high profile couple whose lives are way messier than they seem.

The main duo really grew on me. Their relationship builds slowly and feels more natural than flashy, and I liked the quieter moments where you can actually see their connection develop. The travel aspect also keeps things moving and adds some fun variety to the story.

It’s not perfect. The pacing can feel a little uneven, and the drama with the main couple sometimes takes over more than it needs to. But overall, I found it easy to read and pretty enjoyable, especially as a lighter romance.

It may not be one of my absolute favorites from this author, but it’s still a solid, feel good read that’s worth picking up.

★★★½

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Easy Anti-Inflammatory Diet Air Fryer Cookbook: Clean and Quick Recipes to Fight Inflammation for Whole-Body Health by Julie Andrews - A Review

Publication Date: October 13, 2026

I really enjoyed Easy Anti-Inflammatory Diet Air Fryer Cookbook and thought it was a practical, beginner-friendly cookbook for anyone who wants healthier meals without giving up flavor or convenience. As someone who uses an air fryer often and appreciates simple recipes that still feel nourishing, this book felt very approachable and easy to work into everyday life.

I like that the cookbook starts with helpful information about anti-inflammatory eating, including foods that may help fight inflammation and foods that can make it worse. It gives enough background to be useful without feeling overwhelming, which makes it a good option for readers who are just getting started with this way of eating. I also appreciated the grocery-saving tips, the cooking charts, and the measurement conversions at the end because those are the kinds of extras I actually come back to when using a cookbook.

The recipes are organized into helpful sections like breakfast and brunch, snacks, plant-based mains, chicken and turkey, seafood, meats, vegetables and sides, and desserts. There is a nice variety here, from super simple ideas like sweet potato wedges, edamame with chili flakes, fajitas, and bruschetta to recipes that take a little more effort. I especially liked the sound of the seafood recipes, cinnamon apple chips, crispy chicken tenders, carrot cake cookies, and the dessert options. I also liked that some recipes bring in bold and spicy flavors instead of making healthy food feel plain or boring.

The air fryer focus is what makes this cookbook stand out. It takes familiar comfort foods and gives them a cleaner, lighter twist while still keeping that crispy texture that makes air fryer cooking so easy and satisfying. Most of the ingredients seem easy to find at a regular grocery store, and the instructions are clear enough for beginners while still useful for more experienced home cooks.

My main reason for giving this 4 stars instead of 5 is that I wish there were more photos throughout the cookbook. For cookbooks, I love being able to see what the finished recipe should look like, and the layout felt a little plain in places. I also noticed recipes placed in the wrong section, which could just be an early copy issue.

Overall, this is a solid, realistic, and useful cookbook for air fryer lovers, beginners, and anyone interested in adding more anti-inflammatory meals into their routine. It feels clean, quick, and doable, which is exactly what it promises. I’m looking forward to trying several of these recipes myself.

★★★★

Thank you to NetGalley, the author, and the publisher for providing a digital ARC in exchange for an honest review.

Tomorrow, and Tomorrow, and Tomorrow by Gabrielle Zevin - A Review

This one just didn’t quite click for me. I could see what it was trying to do, and the writing is definitely thoughtful, but I never fully connected to the characters. Because of that, it was hard to stay invested in their long, complicated history.

The story leans a lot into big ideas and creative themes, which is interesting, but it felt like the emotional side got a little lost for me. The friendships are messy and intense, but I didn’t feel much warmth or attachment to them. Instead of getting pulled in, I felt like I was pushing myself to keep going.

At times it dragged and felt a little self focused, and overall it just felt heavier than it needed to be. I kept waiting for it to really hit emotionally, and it never quite got there.

In the end, it just left me a bit disappointed. I can see why it works for some readers, but it wasn’t the right fit for me.

★★

How to Try Again by Steve Kamb - Now Released

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.) 

What Now? From Autopilot to a Life You Choose by Yaprak Sapanli Gorur - Now Released

Now Released

This is one of those self-help books that is relatable right from the beginning. It taps into that feeling of going through the motions where everything looks fine on the outside, but you’re wondering what you actually want next.

I will say I am definitely guilty of the Rushing Drift for sure, and this book really made me recognize how easy it is to fall into that pattern without even realizing it.

The idea of living on autopilot really stood out to me and how easy it is to drift into routines, expectations, and habits without questioning them. The author explains this so well and shows how it doesn’t usually happen all at once, but through small choices over time that slowly pull you away from what you actually want.

The exercises are not just there for filler, they actually make you pause and reflect. Some help you figure out what really matters to you, others help you spot patterns in your life, and some gently encourage you to start making small changes. I really liked that they felt realistic and not overwhelming. It’s not about flipping your whole life upside down, but making small, intentional shifts that add up.

The tone is very supportive and encouraging, almost like someone sitting down with you and helping you think things through without judgment. It definitely feels like a book you go through slowly, maybe even with a notebook nearby so you can really engage with the prompts.

This title is especially good if you’re feeling a little stuck or like you’re just going through the motions and want to start making more intentional choices.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this ARC. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

★★★★

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The Melody of Love by Wanda E. Brunstetter and Lorine Brunstetter Van Corbach - A Review

Publication Date July 1, 2026

At its heart, The Melody of Love explores the fragile balance between calling and commitment, and that part really stuck with me. The heroine’s journey feels so authentic and emotionally honest. Her struggle between duty and desire is not overdone, it just unfolds in a way that feels very real and easy to connect with.

One thing you should know going in is that it is very, very detailed and definitely slow paced. The authors really take their time with every emotion, conversation, and internal struggle. There were moments where it felt like it lingered a bit too long, especially if you are used to faster stories. But at the same time, that detail is what pulls you in and makes everything feel more meaningful and sincere.

The character development is so well done. The main character feels vulnerable and real, especially in her faith journey. It is not perfect or easy, it is something she wrestles with and grows into, which made it feel even more inspiring. The family relationships also add so much warmth. I loved how the story shows love in simple, everyday ways instead of big dramatic moments.

Faith is woven in so naturally. It never feels forced, just a steady presence throughout the story. The message about trusting God, even when things are unclear, comes through in such a gentle but powerful way.

I also really liked how music is used throughout the book. It is more than just a theme, it becomes a symbol of purpose, harmony, and finding where you belong. That part added such a meaningful layer to the story.

It feels sincere and does not rely on huge plot twists or drama. Instead, it is all about those quiet, meaningful moments. It may be very slow and very detailed, but if you are in the mood for something reflective and comforting, it really does stay with you.

★★★★★

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the advanced reader copy. All thoughts are my own.

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Visions of Sugar Plums by Janet Evanovich

This one was a quick, fun little side story, but it didn’t fully stand out for me. It has the usual Stephanie Plum chaos with Lula, holiday craziness, and plenty of over-the-top moments, so it’s easy to read and kind of entertaining in that familiar way.

At the same time, it felt pretty light. Since it’s a shorter holiday novella, there’s not a lot of depth or real plot development, and everything wraps up quickly. It’s more of a bonus story than something that really adds to the series.

There were some funny moments, and if you already like these characters, it’s nice to spend a little extra time with them. It just didn’t leave much of an impression once I was done.

Overall, it’s an easy, low effort read that’s fine for fans, but not one of the more memorable entries.

★★★

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The Campervan Detectives by Maeve Haran - A Review

Publication Date: July 28, 2026

This was such a fun, comforting cozy mystery that pulled me in right away and honestly felt like a little escape while I was reading. Sadie Sutton’s life completely unravels when she catches her husband with her best friend, and I really felt for her in those opening chapters. I loved how she didn’t overthink it though, she just grabbed her dog and left London behind for a fresh start in a bright orange campervan. It felt messy, brave, and exactly what she needed.

The coastal town of Winching added so much to the story for me. It has that classic seaside charm with a slightly faded feel, full of quirky locals, community spaces like the gardens, and that sense that everyone knows more than they say. I could really picture the salty air, the quieter pace, and the contrast between Sadie’s new, slightly chaotic van life and this close-knit town with deep roots and buried secrets. It made the mystery feel both cozy and a little tense underneath.

Of course, Sadie’s fresh start does not stay quiet for long. Before she even settles in, she finds a dead body and spots someone running from the scene. When the police quickly settle on an obvious suspect, I found myself just as frustrated as Sadie and completely on board with her decision to start digging deeper.

The Vanettes were easily one of my favorite parts. Their friendship felt genuine and uplifting, and I loved how each of them brought something different to the group. Watching Sadie slowly open up, gain confidence, and start figuring out who she is on her own was just as satisfying as the mystery. It gave the whole story a really warm, hopeful feel.

The mystery itself follows a familiar cozy pattern, and while I did find parts a bit predictable, I was still second-guessing things enough to stay engaged. The added twists and rising stakes kept it interesting without losing that light, easy tone that makes this genre so enjoyable.

Overall, this felt like the kind of book you curl up with when you want something cozy but still engaging. It is a great mix of mystery, friendship, and fresh starts, and I would happily continue on with this series.

Thank you NetGalley and Bookouture for the ARC.

★★★★

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Choosing Peace Through Response - Quote

This quote reminds me that life doesn’t stop to ask if we’re ready. Things change, plans fall apart, and hard moments show up whether we feel prepared or not. What stays in our hands is how we respond. That space between what happens and how we react is where trust is tested and where faith becomes practical, not theoretical.

When I focus on my response instead of the situation itself, I feel less overwhelmed. I may not understand why something happened, but I can choose to meet it with trust in God rather than fear or resentment. I can let it soften me instead of hardening me, teach me instead of drain me. Choosing my response becomes an act of faith, a decision to believe that even here, God is present and at work.

Over time, this mindset shifts how I see responsibility and peace. I stop waiting for life to feel stable before trusting God and start leaning on Him in the middle of uncertainty. The quote becomes less about enduring difficulty and more about surrender with intention. Life keeps unfolding around me, but my posture, anchored in faith, is still mine to choose.

Check & Mate by Ali Hazelwood - A Review

This one was a fun surprise. I didn’t expect to get so pulled into a story about chess, but it ended up being one of my favorite parts. It made everything feel different and actually really interesting without being hard to follow.

I liked Mallory. She felt real, a little stubborn, a little guarded, and easy to understand. Watching her slowly open back up to chess and everything that came with it was honestly satisfying. Nolan was exactly the kind of love interest I enjoy quiet, a little intense, but really soft underneath.

The chemistry was there without feeling over the top, and I liked that the story focused just as much on Mallory figuring herself out as it did on the romance. It had that mix of emotional moments and lighter scenes that kept it balanced.

I had a really good time reading it and stayed invested all the way through.

★★★★

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Surprise Me by Sophie Kinsella - A Review

This one was a fun, slightly chaotic read for me. It definitely has that classic Sophie Kinsella energy light, a little over the top, and full of awkward, relatable moments that made me laugh more than once.

The whole idea of a couple being told they might have decades of marriage left and then spiraling into “wait… what now?” was actually really interesting. I liked seeing Dan and Sylvie try to shake things up and “surprise” each other, even if some of their ideas went completely off the rails. Some of those surprises had me cringing and laughing at the same time because they were so well intentioned but such a mess.

I also liked that underneath all the humor, there were real relationship insecurities being explored. It wasn’t just random antics there were moments where it slowed down and showed the cracks, which made it feel a little more grounded.

That said, it did feel a bit drawn out at times, and some of the humor leaned a little too repetitive for me. I found myself more entertained by the situations than truly emotionally invested in the outcome.

Overall, it’s a cute, easy read with plenty of funny moments and classic Kinsella chaos, even if it didn’t completely stick with me.

★★★

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