Chip the Goat: A Life Well Loved

In Memory of Chip

Chip was more than just a goat on our farm. He 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. It feels quieter without him, and his absence is noticed in the little moments—the routines, the pauses, the places he used to be.

Losing him has been harder than I expected. 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, and I am very sad. But I am also grateful. Grateful for the memories, for the time we had him, and for the joy he brought simply by being himself.

He was truly the best goat ever, and he will always be part of our farm’s story.

 

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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Lawn Chairs Were Booked, So We Improvise

Meet the backyard relaxation committee.

On the left, we have the gray fluff—fully reclined, belly up, zero responsibilities, soaking in the grass like it’s a five‑star resort. On the right, the orange supervisor—sitting upright, alert, and clearly judging the relaxation technique of everyone else in sight.

They didn’t ask for much today. Just sunshine, a soft patch of green, and the freedom to do absolutely nothing. Honestly? That feels like a life lesson we could all use a little more often.

No rushing. No pretending to be productive. Just existing, enjoying the moment, and trusting that the world can handle itself for a few minutes.

If you need me, I’ll be taking notes from the experts.

 

Wounds - Quote

 "Your wound is not your fault, but your 

healing is your responsibility." – Unknown 

Nothing Is Happening Yet

I sit like this so you know I am paying attention.

Nothing is happening, but it might. That is different. I watch your hands, your face, the small movements that mean food, or play, or nothing at all.

I stay still so I don’t miss it.

If you don’t do anything, that’s fine. I can wait longer.

I am very good at waiting.

 

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 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

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.

★★

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 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. Set in New York City, it follows Ella, a longtime bookseller who expects to inherit the shop she loves—only to learn it’s been left to the owner’s grandson, Henry.

One of the book’s strengths is how maturely Ella and Henry handle an awkward situation, choosing honesty and teamwork over unnecessary miscommunication. The story shines in its setting, with nearly every scene steeped in books and a strong focus on found family and community.

The romance is a slow burn, though the emotional chemistry didn’t fully click for me. I did, however, love the chapter‑opening book recommendations, which added a charming, thoughtful touch. The supporting cast brings warmth and humor, and Henry is especially easy to root for.

Overall, this is a sweet, Hallmark‑style comfort read perfect for book lovers or a cozy palate cleanser. While the familiar “bookstore in danger” plot felt predictable, the charm, nostalgia, and love of books make it an enjoyable 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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