Not in Love by Ali Hazlewood - A Review

I found Not in Love entertaining and a nice change of pace from the usual romance fare, though it did have a few quirks. 

The dialogue is clever and fun—there were lines that made me laugh out loud. And while Hazelwood’s signature spicy scenes are a bit much for me personally, I do appreciate how they show the emotional connection growing between the characters.

What really stood out were the characters. Rue and Eli are complex, with real psychological struggles that shape how they interact. I loved how Eli fell for Rue first and how he genuinely accepts her social quirks—those moments made the romance feel authentic. The friendships and character dynamics were also enjoyable, even if a few side characters, like Hark.

The story can feel a little disjointed at times but the emotional depth, humor make up for it.

Rating: ★★★☆☆

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The Amendment by Kiersten Modglin - A Review

The Amendment by Kiersten Modglin made me pause more than once and say, what on earth did I just read? This series really hinges on one question: are Peter and Ainsley the most unhinged couple ever? Possibly. And honestly, that’s half the appeal.

This is book two in The Arrangement series, and it picks up immediately where the first one ends, so reading in order is a must. The beginning felt a little slower than I expected—especially for Modglin, who usually jumps straight into the chaos—but once the second half kicks in, things get much more interesting. The story starts to twist, the tension ramps up, and suddenly I had no idea where it was heading.

Peter and Ainsley decide to try couples counseling… which, given who they are, is almost funny. Let’s just say it goes about as well as you’d expect. The book is told in dual first-person POV, which adds to the psychological back-and-forth and keeps you locked inside both of their heads—for better or worse.

Did this installment hit as hard as the first book? Not quite. Some of the plot beats felt familiar, and it didn’t bring quite the same level of shock or novelty. That said, I still flew through it. The characters may not be deeply complex, and the story definitely lives in “this would never happen in real life” territory, but the entertainment value more than makes up for it.

The pacing picks up significantly toward the end—and just when it felt like things were really getting good, it stopped. The ending was deliciously unsettling and left me immediately wanting to know who’s going to come out on top. Honestly, these two deserve each other in every possible way.

Overall, while The Amendment didn’t quite reach the highs of The Arrangement, it was still a dark, twisty, fast-paced read that kept me hooked. I had a good time with it and am definitely continuing on to book three, The Atonement, to see how this mess finally plays out.

If you enjoy psychological thrillers that are wild, unrealistic, and impossible to put down, this series is absolutely worth the ride.

★★★☆☆

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Sunset Calm Over East Texas Waters

There’s nothing quite like an East Texas sunset settling over the lake — the colors stretching across the sky, the water turning gold, and everything slowing down just a little. Even in the quiet moments, the view feels like a reminder to breathe, relax, and soak it all in. Nights like this are simple, peaceful, and absolutely beautiful. 

 

What Does It Feel Like? by Sophie Kinsella - A Review

I am floored...  I went into What Does It Feel Like? knowing almost nothing about it—only that readers were raving. I borrowed the audiobook from my library, pressed play, and within minutes realized I might be in trouble. As a mom of five who was diagnosed with breast cancer while pregnant with my youngest twenty years ago, I knew this story would stir memories I don’t often revisit. And yet, nothing could have prepared me for just how deeply Sophie Kinsella’s autobiographical novella would cut…and heal.

This book is raw, funny, heartbreaking, and astonishingly hopeful. Kinsella fictionalizes parts of her own experience, rearranging some events and changing names, but the emotional truth is unmistakable. Her signature humor—bright, quirky, and disarming—shines even in the darkest moments. There were scenes that shattered me and scenes that made me smile.

Sophie approaches her own trauma with immense courage, vulnerability, and a stubborn spark of optimism that refuses to go out. I deeply applaud her bravery in sharing something so profoundly personal with her readers.

The novella follows Eve, a mother of five and a beloved novelist, who wakes in a hospital bed with no memory of how she got there. She soon learns she has survived an eight‑hour surgery for a stage‑4 glioblastoma. What follows is an intimate and moving account of recovery: relearning how to talk, walk, write, even remember Christmas carols. The moments where Eve Googles survival statistics—terrified yet determined—broke me. But what remains constant is her devotion to the ordinary magic of everyday life: walking hand‑in‑hand with her husband, loving her children fiercely, fighting her way back to herself one tiny step at a time.

It’s also impossible not to feel inspired. Sophie Kinsella’s humor, light, and resilience never fade, even as she confronts some of the most frightening words a person can hear.

Beautifully written. Brutally honest. Utterly unforgettable. Ugh my heart is still feeling it...

Five stars. Absolutely.

★★★★★

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The Arrangement by Kiersten Modglin - A Review

The Arrangement by Kiersten Modglin is one of those thrillers that hooks you immediately and refuses to let go. From the very first chapter, the tension is there—and just when you think you’ve figured out where things are heading, the story veers off in a direction you absolutely won’t see coming.

I don’t often get genuinely surprised by psychological thrillers anymore, but this one managed it. There was a twist so shocking that I actually had to stop and reread the page to make sure I hadn’t misunderstood. Moments like that are rare, and they’re what made this book stand out for me.

This was my first time reading Modglin, and I’d compare her style to Freida McFadden: fast-paced, easy to read, and straightforward, but packed with twists that keep you glued to the story. The plot moves quickly, the chapters are short, and it’s very easy to say “just one more chapter” until suddenly you’re done.

The story follows Ainsley and Peter, a married couple struggling in their relationship who decide to open their marriage under a strict set of rules—each gets one designated night a week to date someone else. What could possibly go wrong? Ainsley’s date doesn’t go at all as planned, while Peter seems far more comfortable bending the rules. What he doesn’t realize is that Ainsley may already be several steps ahead of him… and that’s where things really start to unravel.

That said, I knocked off a star because the plot does stretch believability as it goes on. At one point, it crossed into “this would never happen in real life” territory for me and felt a bit silly. Still, the entertainment value was high enough that I didn’t mind too much.

I also listened to part of this on audiobook, and the narrators did a great job bringing both perspectives to life. The dual POV added to the tension and made the mind games even more engaging.

Overall, The Arrangement is a quick, twisty, and highly addictive psychological thriller. It may not be perfectly realistic, but if you enjoy jaw-dropping twists, messy characters, and stories that keep you guessing until the very end, this one is absolutely worth reading. I finished it already desperate to start book two.

★★★★☆

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Problematic Summer Romance by Ali Hazelwood - A Review

Problematic Summer Romance had a slow start for me, with Maya initially testing my patience, but it ultimately won me over. Hazelwood’s dual timeline—blending Maya’s backstory with the present-day wedding in Sicily—helps explain her quirks, making her a relatable, layered protagonist.

Conor, as expected from Not in Love, is prickly and complex. His strained relationship with his father provides insight into his actions, making him more sympathetic despite his flaws. Their romance is messy, realistic, and deeply engaging.

Hazelwood excels at creating intelligent, strong female characters, and Maya shines in her mix of wit, vulnerability, and chaos. The ensemble cast, including callbacks to Eli and Rue, adds humor, depth, and balance to the story’s emotional beats.

The book is funny, romantic, and charmingly chaotic, with the Sicilian setting enhancing the story without overshadowing the characters. The audiobook is particularly enjoyable, capturing both humor and tension, and clarifies pronunciations like Kaede’s name.

While repetitive reminders from Conor about their age difference occasionally slowed the pacing, the story remains a delightful, page-turning romance full of banter, tension, and heartfelt moments.

★★★★☆

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Peak Austin Energy

Found this peacock chilling in a birdbath like it’s his personal spa.

Beating the heat. Zero urgency. Absolutely on brand for Austin.

 

First‑Time Caller by B K Borison - A Review

First‑Time Caller by B K Borison has a genuinely fun setup. The writing flows well, the pacing tries its best, and the overall vibe often feels like a nostalgic 90s rom‑com—which I loved.

That said, the book is simply too long for the story it’s telling. There are stretches that drag, moments that could’ve been tighter, and it easily could have been 300 pages without losing anything important. Because of that, my interest dipped around the halfway mark.

I really enjoyed the family dynamics and Lucie’s character, plus the sweet early chemistry and banter. But Aiden lost me as the story progressed—his emotional unavailability made it hard to root for him, and I never fully bought their shift from flirtation to love. For a single‑parent romance, I also wished for more meaningful interactions between Aiden and Lucie’s daughter.

Still, it’s a cute, well‑narrated, and entertaining read with great side characters and several genuinely heartwarming moments. If you enjoy slow‑burn romances with charming premises, this one may still hit the spot.

★★★

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Beaches, Bungalows & Burglaries by Tonya Kappes - A Review

Mae West goes from champagne brunches to living and owning a campground after the FBI wipes out her life thanks to her husband’s Ponzi scheme. 

Mae rolls into town expecting to sell the place and move on. Instead, she trips over not one but two dead bodies, making her the world’s most reluctant crime magnet. Meanwhile, the locals—half friendly, half giving her the side‑eye because her ex stole their life savings—provide enough gossip to power the entire state.

This book is cozy, cute, and sometimes downright silly. Mae can be as oblivious as a goldfish, and the lead investigator acts like he got rejected by a Hallmark audition and never recovered. Some characters feel half-finished, the editing could be tighter, and I can already sense a love triangle brewing like bad coffee.

But honestly? The small‑town charm works. The supporting cast is fun, the ending twist is solid, and the whole thing is an easy, breezy read. If you want a serious, fast‑paced mystery, this isn’t it. If you want something light, quirky, and happily ridiculous in places, this will hit the spot.

And yes, I’ll be reading the next one.

★ ★ ★ ½

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84 Charring Cross Road by Helene Hanff - A Review

|One of My All-Time Favorite Books

84 Charring Cross Road by Helene Hanff is, without question, one of my all-time favorite books.

Told entirely through real letters, it chronicles the twenty-year correspondence between Hanff in New York and Frank Doel of Marks & Co.. What begins as a simple request for hard-to-find classics slowly unfolds into a deeply touching friendship built on wit, kindness, and a shared love of literature.

Hanff’s sharp humor and big-hearted generosity shine through every page, while the quiet warmth from London makes the story feel intimate and real. The book is short, but its emotional impact is lasting. It’s about books, yes—but even more about connection, loyalty, and the beautiful ways strangers can become dear friends.

Charming, poignant, and utterly timeless. Five stars, always.

★★★★★

CEO of Chaos, Part-Time Goat

.Every farm has that goat.

She looks sweet in the hay, but don’t be fooled. Hay isn’t just food—it’s her bed, her throne, her whole world.

She burrows. She redecorates. She turns buckets into toys and fences into challenges. She’s still sure her horns will fit through. They won’t.

She bosses everyone around, especially the youngest. It’s less mothering, more mischief.

She’s not just a goat.

She’s trouble with horns.

Forgiveness - Quote

"To forgive is to set a prisoner free and discover that the prisoner was you.” 

Lewis B. Smedes

Lawn Chairs Were Booked, So We Improvise

Meet the backyard relaxation committee.

They didn’t need much—just sunshine, soft grass, and permission to do nothing.

No rushing. No fake productivity. Just being.

If you need me, I’ll be learning from the pros.

 

Snuggling Memories of My Little One

These photos mean even more now. This baby goat loved nothing more than curling up inside with his human mom, tucked in as close as he could get. He always relaxed the moment he was held, like the whole world felt safe in that spot. Those soft snuggles, the warm little body, the way he trusted completely — those moments stay with me.

He may be gone now, but these memories bring back all the sweetness of who he was. The gentle cuddles, the tiny breaths against my chest, the comfort he found just being held. I’m grateful for every second of it. These quiet moments are the ones that last.

 

Healing - Quote

 

"Healing doesn’t mean the damage never existed. It means the damage no longer controls our lives." – Unknown 

A Little Life by Hanya Yanagihara -A Review

A Little Life by Hanya Yanagihara is definitely not one of my usual selections. But it is, without question, one of the most beautifully written books I’ve ever read. The way Hanya Yanagihara captures despair, grief, tragedy, and pure, raw emotion is absolutely fascinating. Her writing is immersive and deeply affecting in a way that lingers long after you’ve put the book down.

That said, I strongly recommend reading trigger warnings before picking up this title. It is incredibly heavy and emotionally intense.

It’s also a very lengthy book—I can’t tell you how many times I dropped my phone on my face or knocked my glasses off while falling asleep reading it. I definitely missed having a paperback in my hands for this one.

I look forward to reading more of Yanagihara’s work because her talent is undeniable, though I would personally prefer different storylines in the future.

★★★★

Visit your local library, I did.t

Morning in the Goat Barn

The herd was busy exploring the barn this morning, moving in and out of the doorway like they had a full schedule to keep. A couple of them settled right in to share breakfast, while the youngest bounced around the ramp, testing out every board like it was part of a new playground. Even the cat stepped in to supervise, clearly deciding the goats needed a little extra oversight. It’s always fun watching everyone fall into their own routines, each with a different idea of what farm life should look like.

 

Hack that Dish by Todd Wilbur - A Review

Todd Wilbur’s Hack That Dish is an engaging, well‑organized cookbook that delivers exactly what fans of restaurant copycat recipes crave. The table of contents is grouped by restaurant and dish, making it easy to jump straight to favorites such as:

• Applebee’s Spinach & Artichoke Dip
• Jason’s Deli Irish Potato Soup
• Lazy Dog Crispy Deviled Eggs
• P.F. Chang’s Kung Pao Brussels Sprouts
• Panda Express Blazing Bourbon Chicken
• Walkers Shortbread

The book even includes a helpful tutorial on how to “hack” recipes yourself—a fun and empowering addition for home cooks who want to go beyond the provided dishes.

Each recipe includes background information on the restaurant that inspired it, clearly highlighted ingredient lists, and numbered step-by-step instructions. I especially appreciated the “Top Secret Hack Sheet” and “Field Notes,” which add depth, guidance, and behind-the-scenes insight into the recreation process. Many recipes also feature beautifully plated photos of the finished dish.

The layout is exceptionally user-friendly. Prep time, difficulty level, and serving size are all clearly labeled, making planning effortless. Overall, this is a very well-designed cookbook that is easy to read, easy to use, and packed with clever culinary inspiration.

My only suggestion would be to include more photos—because the ones that are included are gorgeous, and additional images would only enhance the experience.

A fantastic cookbook. Buy the hard copy and display it proudly in your kitchen.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

I received an ARC from the publisher and NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.

The Next Best Fling by Gabriella Gamez - A Review

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

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

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

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

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

★ ★

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The Found Echoes of Singing Trees by Kaby - A Review

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

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

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

★★★★

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

The Bookstore Diaries by Susan Mallory - A Review

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

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

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

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

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

★★★★

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

Nineteen Minutes by Jodi Picoult - A Review

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

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

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

★★★

Visit your local library today.

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Important Window Business

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

Project Hail Mary by Andy Weir - A Review

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

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

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

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

★★★★

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

★★★

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