MY BOOK REVIEWS

Book Review – Shadow And Light By Carol Koris

About the Author

Carol Koris’ mind loves to imagine; It spins out of control thinking of “what could/would happen if…”

She was born in Clifton, New Jersey, where family and friends left indelible marks on her imaginative mind. In her first career as a Registered Nurse, she was educated to care for people, both their bodies and minds, at Mountainside Hospital School of Nursing.

Carol honed her craft of writing at Florida International University, where she received an MFA in Creative Writing.

Carol now calls South Florida her home, where she lives with her husband Dave, and, happily, close to her daughters and grandsons.

She recently retired from Johnson & Wales University as a Full Professor, as well as the Chair of the College of Arts & Sciences.

The Synopsis of the Book

Shadow and Light is a novel about a photographer who loses her eight-year-old daughter in a tragic accident then chances across an opportunity to help another parent save her own daughter.
With her marriage strained and her business on the verge of failure, the novel’s protagonist, thirty-four-year-old Maggie Miller, seeks emotional refuge from the death of her daughter in the solitary activity of taking pictures of families at rest stops on the Florida Turnpike. When she finds she has inadvertently taken a picture of a missing child, Maggie’s near-obsessional quest to find the missing girl further imperils her marriage, her business, and, to the concern of those closest to her, her already-fragile psyche.

Her decisions and the actions that follow her search could save or endanger the child’s life, and Maggie realizes she has been attempting to do what she could not do for her own child. In the process of facing the subjectivity of perception and the fallibility of human nature, she brings herself to the first stirrings of self-forgiveness, acceptance, and growth. My Review

My Review

I finished this book over two weeks ago and still, it remains in my head. Koris knows how to write a story that captivated me immediately and she tells it with such raw emotions that I could truly feel the heartache of Maggie who lost her eight-year-old daughter. Something Maggie at times blames herself for.

A gut-wrenching novel that shows the heartache, anguish, and guilt parents go through when experiencing the loss of a child. Their marriage is also put to the test. Maggie wants to talk to her husband about their daughter and lean on him for support. He has no words and is angered by her grief. Will their marriage survive?

But this is not only a book about grief. It is a suspense thriller that involves a kidnapped child. Maggie believed she captured a picture of the girl and is determined to find out the truth at any cost. Even when the police turned her away, believing she was a grieving mother who was seeing things. Anxious to see what Maggie will discover, I could not turn the pages fast enough. What unfolded was a battle of “he said”, “she said”. Maggie needed to find a way to know who was telling the truth. What she discovers is mind-blowing.

This book was beautifully written. Koris is a brilliant writer who pays attention to detail and paints an amazing story with her words.

Book Review The Wife Between Us

COVER DESIGN – 5 STARS – The brilliant bright blue color drew me in straight away.  The cover captures the storyline perfectly. 

CHARACTERIZATION – 5 STARS – I felt every emotion each character felt, from heartache, anger, and sympathy to name a few. The personalities of each person developed perfectly as the story unfolded. I could honestly say I knew them all well by the time I had finished the book.   

STORY & PLOT 5 STARS –  A fantastic storyline that kept getting better and better.  

OVERALL RATING – 5 STARS – I can not say enough about this book. I loved everything about it and highly recommend it. I am anxiously waiting for another book written by Carol Koris.

Available on Amazon

Other News

Monday, September 13th 5:00 PM PST  / 8:00 PM EST
A Cuppa & A Natter (Live Chat) With Author Marci Bolden
Author Marci Bolden will be my guest. We will be chatting about books, writing, and life as an author. Ask Marci a question and find out what she is currently working on. There will be a giveaway. You can watch the live chat on my Author Page –
Or my Facebook Group – Read More Books –
MY BOOK REVIEWS

Book Review – The Shoebox Effect By Marcie J. Keithley

 

About the Author

Marcie J Keithley traded in her securities license to become an author when the universe shifted in her closet with the rediscovery of a 30-year-old shoebox. Armed with a powerful, dramatic story, which has been reported globally on major networks and newspapers across America, she is now known as the ShoeBox Sherpa, helping others find the freedom they desire by unpacking their own shoeboxes and stepping into truth and wholeness.

Marcie is also a Life Story Coach and national speaker. In her downtime, she loves to read historical fiction of the Elizabethan era.

Keithley, a native-born Hoosier and “Lady of Dunans,” resides on the Sunnyside of Louisville, along the Ohio River in Southern Indiana with her Golden Doodle, Murfee. A personal development junkie, she can be found most days with her nose in the latest non-fiction book with a tall glass of iced tea, no matter the season. She believes life is always better with a

The Synopsis of the Book

Many of us have one–a place where we store mementos that remind us of an earlier period in our lives–either happy or sad. Those ties to our past are commonly found in a similar place, hidden in a shoebox buried at the back of a closet shelf. It’s called The Shoebox Effect–where you “forget”, intentionally or unintentionally, about the contents of the box and what they represent.

Marcie Keithley’s shoebox contained a secret, one she kept for decades, one released when her shoebox was unexpectedly revealed in a moment of grief. A flood of memories and emotions was unleashed when the lid was knocked off. No longer able to deny what she had sequestered away in her closet and in her spirit, the revelation created challenges for Marcie, but it also did something positively unexpected.

Releasing the truth began a cascade that resulted in a freedom Marcie did not know was possible. The dramatic story of this long-kept secret, which has been reported globally on major networks and in newspapers across America, will intrigue and enthrall you.

But Marcie Keithley doesn’t just make her story all about her. Now known as The Shoebox Sherpa, she helps people unpack their own shoeboxes, and teaches us how to face our truths, heal our pasts, and find the freedom we deeply desire. Be prepared to consider Marcie’s question to all of us, “What’s in your shoebox?”

My Review

I read this book a few months ago and today I still find myself thinking about it.  Keithley leaves no stone unturned when it comes to revealing the items in her shoebox and why she kept them. It reminded me of peeling away the layers of an onion as the author reveals her heart-wrenching story of putting her child up for adoption and finding a way to heal and come to terms with the decisions she had made throughout her life.

This is not only the author’s story but a guide and self-help book with questions at the end of each chapter for readers to help them understand themselves better and the reasons for their actions. (I love this addition to the book.)

It is a raw emotional account that many will relate to and I can see the book helping so many people and not only those that were adopted. I want to thank the author for sharing her story and opening my eyes to mine.

 

 

Book Review The Wife Between Us

COVER DESIGN – 5 STARS – The cover is perfect for the book and intriguing It makes you wonder what the book is about.  

CHARACTERIZATION – 5 STARS – Keithley described everyone in the book with such detail that I felt like I knew them all very well.  

STORY & PLOT 5STARS – This is an easy read that had me turning the pages quickly anxious to see what happens next. 

OVERALL RATING – 5 STARS – An excellent read that I highly recommend.

Other News

I’m thrilled to announce that the publication date for Jill is August 3rd, 2021
You can now preorder the ebook for the discounted price of $1.99. That is 50% off the regular price.
Preorders for paperbacks will be coming soon.
Jill is the fourth book in the Sabela Series but can easily be read as a standalone.
A sizzling suspense romance with a grand finale ending and where the power of friendship shines.

MY BOOK REVIEWS

Book Review – The Green Beach Files By K. A. Perry

 

About the Author

K. A. Perry brings a unique perspective to her environmental thrillers. Her ability to utilize nature as the catalyst to keep her plot moving, and drive the character’s pursuit of the truth, stems from her own appreciation and love of nature. Time spent in nature is restorative for many folks, and this tenet is an underlying theme of K.A. Perry’s writing.

Although K.A. Perry grew up in northeastern Pennsylvania, she now lives in Connecticut with her husband and 4 children. Her years spent practicing environmental law combined with her time spent as a math teacher have melded to create stories that at their core raise real legal issues, but on the surface are an engaging, lighthearted read.

The Synopsis of the Book

A funny, engaging legal mystery for all those who love and enjoy nature—and reading at the beach.

First, an amphibian expert is found murdered in the fancy shoreline town of Mayfield, Connecticut. Then, a second, shocking murder of a well-respected community leader occurs. Why are there murders happening in a town as peaceful as Mayfield?

Jenn isn’t the perfect clever attorney. She doesn’t love her job, has no innate ability to solve mysteries, no superpowers, and no awesome legal skills. But she does have her love and respect for nature—which tends to distract her from her legal work, yet still somehow guides her. Along with her entertaining and dysfunctional family, Jenn weaves her way into the midst of a momentous fight over land preservation.

The murders appear to be tied to the development of the largest parcel of pristine beachfront land between Boston and New York. Most folks in Mayfield want the unique beachfront preserved for the public and object to the construction of expensive homes, but are any of these folks extremist enough to murder for the environment and save coastal land? And how much will Jenn stretch the law to solve the mystery?

My Review

This is Perry’s debut novel and for a first book she did really well

I was pulled into the story immediately when the main character, Jenn discovered a body in an ice machine in the back of a bookstore. My first question was, why did the bookstore have an ice machine? It was clear it was a homicide and Jenn is on a mission to solve the case, even though she is an attorney and not a detective. But it humors the story with her interference and when a second body is discovered, the plot thickens.

This is an easy read and what I love about this book is how the author also took me on a nature excursion and described in detail the natural surroundings and environment. I learned so much.

The romance that evolved was sweet and a nice addition to the story. I highly recommend this book.

An interview with the Author.

I had the pleasure of interviewing Karen on my Cuppa & A Natter (Live Chat)  show a few weeks ago.

You can watch it here.

 

Book Review The Wife Between Us

COVER DESIGN – 5 STARS – I love the colors of the cover, especially the bright yellow font which really grabs the attention of potential readers.   

CHARACTERIZATION – 4 STARS – I loved Jenn. She was well developed and I thought that I knew her well by the end of the book.  

STORY & PLOT 4 STARS – Great storyline and plot that moved along at a good pace. 

OVERALL RATING – 4 STARS – I really enjoyed it and highly recommend it.

Other Articles You May Enjoy

Book Review – Turn Back Time 

The Reunions is live -Read for FREE in KU

Buy The Book

Award-winner author Tina Hogan Grant brings you an emotional tail of family values and the quest of three sisters to fulfill their mother’s one wish.

Divided by divorce and separated by an ocean the sisters wondered if time would be on their side. This book brings the Tammy Mellows series full circle and can also be read as a standalone. A story that will stay with you: long after you have read it.
Review quotes:
“Loved the story and the whole series and will always read a Tina Hogan Grant book.” – GR Reader
“OMG what an absolutely amazing story. Definitely, a must-read.” – GR Reader “
A wonderful storyteller and her writing touches the heart.” – GR Reader
“This is such a great book and hard to put down and you just don’t want it to end.” – GR Reader –

MY BOOK REVIEWS, Reviews

Book Review – Turn Back Time By Annette G. Anders

Turn Back Time (The Full Circle Series Book 1) By Annette G. Anders

 

About the Author

Annette G. Anders grew up in Germany with a love for books, music, and traveling. In 1998, she and her husband moved to New England, where they raised their son.

In 2018, Annette turned her love for books into a freelance editing career, and in 2019, found the inspiration and courage to write her first novel, TURN BACK TIME, which released in October 2020, and is the first in the Full Circle Series.

When Annette isn’t working, she enjoys meeting with friends, traveling, reading, and photography.

The Synopsis of the Book

Three years ago, a book and a song led Stella to the love of her life. Two years later, he shattered her heart. Determined to shake off the memories of the fateful day, Stella promises herself she’ll move forward. Little does she know, when she accepts her best friend’s invitation to a week-long trip to France, that the ghosts of her past will come roaring back.

David has reached the pinnacle of his career, but loneliness is a painful price to pay for being in the spotlight. When he catches a fleeting glimpse of Stella a year after their breakup, David realizes he has one chance to win her back. If he fails to earn Stella’s trust again, he’ll be cursed to follow in the footsteps of one of literature’s most haunted and desolate characters—the one he brings to life night after night.

What will it take for Stella and David to remember their dreams, and to believe in their future?

TURN BACK TIME is a story about forgiveness, second chances—and believing in yourself.

My Review

This is Ander’s debut novel and I was excited to read it. A contemporary second chance romance that doesn’t disappoint.

I was immediately engaged from the first paragraph and rooting for Stella and David throughout the book.  What I loved about this story is that Ander’s takes you on a wonderful trip to Paris. A city I visited a long time ago. The author does a fantastic job of putting the reader in this beautiful city with her detailed descriptive writing. In fact, I would love to revisit Paris and take this book with me and see all the places mentioned in the book.

This book is not just about a sweet romance but also the strong friendship between Stella and her best friend Naomi. I loved everything about Naomi from her cocky attitude and how she always looked out for Stella. The bond between the two girls is clearly defined throughout the story.

This is a wonderful story that does have some steamy parts. I highly recommend this book.

I can’t wait to read In Due Time Book 2 which I recently received from the author. This is Naomi’s Story. Be sure to look for my review in the upcoming months.

An interview with the Author.

I had the pleasure of interviewing Annette on my Cuppa & A Natter (Live Chat)  show a few weeks ago.

You can watch it here.

 

 

Book Review The Wife Between Us

COVER DESIGN – 5 STARS – I love everything about this cover. From the Eifel Tower in the background which tells you the setting of the book to the way, Stella’s red dress pops off the cover grabbing the reader’s attention.   

CHARACTERIZATION – 4 STARS – The characters were well developed and each one had a well-defined personality. Sometimes I wished Stella had developed more of a backbone.  

STORY & PLOT 4 STARS – Wonderful story, line. I had a great trip to Paris.

OVERALL RATING – 5 STARS – I really enjoyed it and highly recommend it.

Other Articles You May Enjoy

Book Review – A Shattered Marriage

The Reunions is live -Read for FREE in KU

Buy The Book

Award-winner author Tina Hogan Grant brings you an emotional tail of family values and the quest of three sisters to fulfill their mother’s one wish.

Divided by divorce and separated by an ocean the sisters wondered if time would be on their side. This book brings the Tammy Mellows series full circle and can also be read as a standalone. A story that will stay with you: long after you have read it.
Review quotes:
“Loved the story and the whole series and will always read a Tina Hogan Grant book.” – GR Reader
“OMG what an absolutely amazing story. Definitely, a must-read.” – GR Reader “
A wonderful storyteller and her writing touches the heart.” – GR Reader
“This is such a great book and hard to put down and you just don’t want it to end.” – GR Reader –

MY BOOK REVIEWS, Reviews

Book Review – A Shattered Marriage by C.M Santoro

Book Review

A Shattered Marriage

(His Deadly Betrayal Series Book 1) By C.M Santoro

 

A Shattered Marriage
Buy The Book

 

About the Author

C. M. Santoro is excited to share her writing journey with you. She writes romance, suspense, and thrillers. Her first book, His Deadly Betrayal: A Shattered Marriage, is the first book in its series. Her background includes being a teacher’s assistant, a PCA, and a mentor for middle school students that need academic support. She’s also an advocate for breast cancer awareness. She lives in a rural town in south-central Pennsylvania with her husband, three daughters, and 3 fur babies. When she’s not writing, she’s supporting her special needs daughter–writing, taking walks, and mentoring all her favorite hobbies.

The Synopsis of the Book

Julie desperately fights for her marriage—a marriage her husband Bill treats as a hobby. The less time he spends with his wife, the more time he spends with his assistant, Steffy, who wants him all for herself. She will stop at nothing to make that happen.

While Bill finds an excuse to leave, Julie begins to find herself. An old friend resurfaces after the death of his mother. Julie and James reconnect as they mourn their losses, and memories of the heart draw them closer. But is James’ reinsertion into her life as simple as it seems?

Will the rising suspicion of her husband’s affair give Julie the strength to move on? Can she accept the love she deserves—more importantly, who will have to die if she does?

My Review

This is Santoro’s debut novel and I was excited to read it. Let me tell you the author does not disappoint. I was fully engaged throughout the entire book.  The author did a great job putting the readers in Julie’s head. I felt every emotion Julie was feeling while she desperately tried to save her marriage to Bill.

This book is a quick easy page-turner and the first in a series. The characters are well developed and true to life.  My heart went out to Julie and I felt like I knew her very well by the end of the book and could easily relate to the heartache she suffered.

I’m looking forward to reading the next book in the series, I’m hooked.

 

Book Review The Wife Between Us

COVER DESIGN – 5 STARS – This is an eye-catching cover that grabbed my attention. I love the bold red font and the shattered picture frame. Excellent choice.  

CHARACTERIZATION – 5 STARS – Well-developed characters. By the end of the book, I felt like I knew Julie and her husband Bill really well.

STORY & PLOT 5 STARS – Great storyline and a real page-turner.

OVERALL RATING – 5 STARS – I really enjoyed it and highly recommend it.

Other Articles You May Enjoy

Book Review – Sting – By Sandra Brown

The Reunions is live

Buy The Book

Award-winner author Tina Hogan Grant brings you an emotional tail of family values and the quest of three sisters to fulfill their mother’s one wish.

Divided by divorce and separated by an ocean the sisters wondered if time would be on their side. This book brings the Tammy Mellows series full-circle and can also be read as a standalone. A story that will stay with you: long after you have read it.
Review quotes:
“Loved the story and the whole series and will always read a Tina Hogan Grant book.” – GR Reader
“OMG what an absolutely amazing story. Definitely, a must-read.” – GR Reader “
A wonderful storyteller and her writing touches the heart.” – GR Reader
“This is such a great book and hard to put down and you just don’t want it to end.” – GR Reader –

MY BOOK REVIEWS

Book Review – Sting by Sandra Brown

Book Review

Sting by Sandra Brown

About the Author

Sandra Brown is the author of more than sixty New York Times bestsellers, including STING (2016), FRICTION (2015), MEAN STREAK (2014), DEADLINE (2013), LOW PRESSURE (2012), LETHAL (2011), and the critically acclaimed RAINWATER (2010).

Brown began her writing career in 1981 and since then has published over seventy novels, bringing the number of copies of her books in print worldwide to upwards of eighty million. Her work has been translated into thirty-three languages.

The Synopsis of the Book

A savvy businesswoman and an assassin struggle to outwit the FBI — and each other — in this #1 NYT bestselling story of sizzling romance and shocking deception from “a masterful storyteller” (USA Today).

When Jordie Bennet and Shaw Kinnard lock eyes across a disreputable backwater bar, something sparks. Shaw is a man who gives off a dangerous vibe that makes other men stand back and women take notice. No one feels this more strongly than Jordie, a woman who doesn’t belong in a seedy dive on the banks of a bayou. But here she is . . . and Shaw Kinnard is here to kill her.

As Shaw takes aim, Jordie is certain her time has come. Instead, Shaw has other plans. He abducts Jordie, hoping to get his hands on the $30 million her brother has stolen. But he isn’t the only one: Jordie’s brother made a deal with the FBI, but his ruthless boss will stop at nothing to find the money first. Now on the run from the feds and a notorious criminal, Jordie and Shaw must rely on their wits to stay alive.

Miles away from civilization and surrounded by swampland, Jordie and Shaw play each other against their common enemies. Jordie’s only chance of survival is to outwit Shaw, but he suspects her from the start. Was she in on her brother’s scam, or is she an innocent pawn in this deadly vendetta? And just how valuable is her life to Shaw, her remorseless and manipulative captor? Burning for answers — and for each other — this unlikely pair ultimately make a desperate move that could be their last.

With nonstop plot twists and the sizzling sexual tension that has made Sandra Brown one of the world’s most beloved authors, Sting will keep you on the edge of your seat until its final pages.

My Review

Book Review The Wife Between Us

I have been a huge fan of Sandra Brown’s books for many years and one of the reasons is because she never disappoints. Sting was a fast-paced suspense story with plenty of mystery and surprises. Jordie is my kind of woman. Tough with a lot of grit.

The twist took me totally by surprise and I loved it. This book has all the ingredients for a great book, believable characters, mystery, suspense, a heavy plot, and romance.

Book Review The Wife Between Us

COVER DESIGN – 4 STARS – Nice cover with soft colors. I would have liked it to pop some more with vibrant bright colors.  

CHARACTERIZATION – 5 STARS – Lived up to my expectations. I loved it.. 

STORY & PLOT 5 STARS – I was pulled in after reading the first page. A fast-paced page-turner.

OVERALL RATING – 5 STARS – I really enjoyed it and highly recommend it.

Other Articles You May Enjoy

Book Review – The Bluebell Girls By Barbara Josselsohn Book Review

The Reunions is Available for Preorder (Goes live January 5TH)

Award-winner author Tina Hogan Grant brings you an emotional tail of family values and the quest of three sisters to fulfill their mother’s one wish.
Divided by divorce and separated by an ocean they wondered if time would be on their side. This book brings the Tammy Mellows series full-circle and can also be read as a standalone. A story that will stay with you: long after you have read it.
Available for preorder at the discounted price of $2.99 where all books are sold in ebook, kindle, and paperback- Price will go up on launch day.
Click the link below, which will take you to your preferred store;
Review quotes:
“Loved the story and the whole series and will always read a Tina Hogan Grant book.” – GR Reader
“OMG what an absolutely amazing story. Definitely, a must-read.” – GR Reader “
A wonderful storyteller and her writing touches the heart.” – GR Reader
“This is such a great book and hard to put down and you just don’t want it to end.” – GR Reader –

Suggested Reading

Discover a new author by picking up this book by Farrah Lee

Mail Order Sunset (Hawthorne Billionaire Series Book 4

Buy the book
She’s stressed. He likes his laid-back life. They think they’re opposites, but are they?Sawyer Hawthorne was tired of being another society playboy who was always in the limelight. Then one carefree weekend in the Caribbean, he made the decision to live the island way, so he bought his own island and left it all behind to enjoy a new laid-back life. But even with all that beauty around him, he felt something was still missing…until Jade Campbell burst into his life full of attitude.

Dr. Jade Campbell was happy in her career as a marine biologist, but when the marina her family had owned for over a hundred years was in danger of falling apart, she left behind all she had worked for to help her father. But her struggles went farther than money and she was out of ideas…until the money she so desperately needed to save the business and her father was dangled in front of her like a carrot.

Does she take the money to save her father and the marina, knowing that she could be getting herself into something worse? Does he see her for what she could be?

 

 

MY BOOK REVIEWS

Book Review – The Bluebell Girls By Barbara Josselsohn

Book Review

The Bluebell Girls By Barbara Josselsohn (Lake Summers Book 2)

About the Author

Barbara Josselsohn grew up on Long Island and lived for several years in her beloved New York City before moving to the northern suburbs. She began her career as a business journalist and then turned her attention to her first love, fiction.

The Synopsis of the Book

Returning home to her family’s little lake house is the perfect way for Jenna to escape her heartbreaking divorce. Her mother Sweet has been losing her memory and Jenna is sure that taking her daughter Sophie for a break with Sweet in Lake Summers, tucked under the Adirondack Mountains, is what they all need.

Jenna finds comfort in lazy afternoons along the water, and during long nights overlooking their bluebell garden, she’s relieved to hear Sweet telling stories about her long-lost loves. Surrounded by family, it seems that some of Sweet’s memories have returned and Jenna knows she has made the right decision to come home. But when she meets handsome next-door neighbor Troy, she is reminded of a tragedy in her past she has tried hard to forget.

Troy is the boy with whom Jenna shared her very first kiss—she’s relived that moment under the stars every night since she was seventeen. But though he once swept Jenna off her feet, he also broke her heart, and living next door to him for the summer feels impossible.

But sometimes the only way to heal is with those who know you best, and despite her best efforts, Jenna is drawn to Troy again. With her family reunited at last and happier than ever before, is she finally brave enough to face up to her past, and settle down in Lake Summers forever?

My Review

Book Review The Wife Between Us

This is the second book in the Lake Summer Series but it can easily be read as a standalone. I have not read book one but I had no problem diving into the book and not feeling lost. The author did a great job providing enough of the back story from the first book.

This is a beautiful, well-written story that had me fully engaged throughout the entire book. If I wasn’t busy writing my own book I would have easily finished this in a couple of days.  The story is set in the small resort town, Lake Summer and from the author’s wonderfully descriptive writing, she painted a vivid picture and I felt like I was there. It was a great escape.

A fast easy read with likable characters and a sweet love story that will stay with you for a long time. I would like to know what happens next and I’m hoping there will be a book three.

Book Review The Wife Between Us

COVER DESIGN – 5 STARS – I have one word for the cover—Brilliant. Its vibrant, eye-catching, and a perfect fit for the book.  

CHARACTERIZATION – 5 STARS – I loved the characters and easily related to Jenna – They were well developed and their independent personalties were well defined. 

STORY & PLOT 5 STARS – I was captivated the entire time, wondering what the outcome would be.  I loved the storyline and learning the history of the family.

OVERALL RATING – 5 STARS – This was a great read and I highly recommend it. 

Other Articles You May Enjoy

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Book Review – Wedding At The Lakeside Resort by Susan Schild 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

My Book Better Endings Received Readers’ Favorite gold medal award for best Fiction Adventure 2020

Read The Review

Better Endings is a beautiful story that explores a woman’s heart and I enjoyed the way Tina Hogan Grant builds resilience in the protagonist. The journey that Tammy makes is inspirational and will give hope, especially to female readers who have suffered abuse and have experienced unhealthy relationships.
Tammy’s character is well handled and the growth process that happens in her life is well-captured in the story. Tammy grows from someone who is prone to fear to a woman who takes control of her life, creating the kind of life she wants. Themes of family, love, and adventure are deftly handled and it is easy to develop a fondness for the sea after reading Better Endings. Great prose, exciting characters, and themes that evoke the realism of everyday life. -Readers’ Favorite

 

 

MY BOOK REVIEWS

Book Review – Wedding At The Lakeside Resort by Susan Schild

My Book reviews are coming back

It’s been a while since I have posted any book reviews. I have been so busy working on completing my two series  The Sabela series and The Tammy Mellows Series that my reading time has been limited.  But I wanted to start posting them again and share with you books I have enjoyed and recommend.  I will also be posting my top ten reads for 2020 in December so be sure to look out for that.

Book Review

Wedding At The Lakeside Resort By Susan Schild

The Lakeside Resort Series Book 4

Available on Amazon

About the Author

Bestselling Author Susan Schild writes heartwarming stories about heroines over age 40, 50, and 60 having adventures, falling in love, and finding their happily ever afters. Readers have fallen in love with Jenny and the Lakeside Resort. Wedding at the Lakeside Resort is Susan’s latest release and readers are loving it!

Susan’s Lakeside Resort series features feisty forty-four-year-old rookie innkeeper Jenny, her eight rustic lakeside cabins, a hunky contractor, a beat-up Airstream, a miniature horse, and a second chance for a happily ever after!

The romance in Susan’s stories is clean and wholesome, and all seven of her books are set in small towns in North Carolina.

Susan and her family live in North Carolina.

The Synopsis of the Book

Ready for more love and adventure after forty? Come see why readers have fallen in love with the Lakeside Resort Series.
When it comes to love, forty-four-year-old Jenny Beckett’s track record isn’t great, but she’s finally found Luke Hammond, a kind, down to earth man who adores her. And she’s marrying him!

But Jenny has no time to moon about the big day. With the Lakeside Resort’s busiest season fast approaching, she’s busily preparing for guests coming to stay in her tiny cabins and vintage campers.

When Luke is called away on business, Jenny must singlehandedly manage the resort, oversee the construction of their new cabin, and plan the wedding. But she’s also dealing with more troubling events. A late-night trespasser is destructive, and a developer is intent on building condominiums right next door. Jenny and Luke must scramble to protect the serenity and beauty of their beloved resort.

With love over 40 blooming all around, a plus-sized heroine, and relatable characters, come join your friends for a June wedding and stay awhile at the Lakeside Resort. Our Review

My Review

Book Review The Wife Between Us

This is the 4th book in The Lakeside Resort Series but it can easily be read as a standalone. I have not read the first three books but I had no problem diving in and losing myself at the Lakeside Resort.  I would love to visit this place. It sounds like it’s right up my alley. A beautiful lake, small rustic cabins to spend a peaceful weekend getaway, and a charming little town.

This is a sweet love story with characters you can’t help but fall in love with. By the end of the story, I wanted to take a drive to Lakeside and spend a week there writing my own stories. It sounds like the perfect setting.  I was pulled into the story straight away and felt like I could spend hours hanging out with Jenny. She’s my age, has my sense of humor, and she is not afraid to hold down the fort at the resort while Luke is away on a business trip.  I think we could become best friends.

The story is well written with a beautiful setting and a perfect escape from these crazy times we are currently living in. I plan of reading the other books in the series and looking forward to the next book in the series. Thank you Susan for the enjoyable read.

Our Overall Rating

Book Review The Wife Between Us

COVER DESIGN – 5 STARS – I love the colors on this cover. they are bright and really pop and grab the reader’s attention.  The picture is inviting and makes you want to be there and perfect for the storyline.  

CHARACTERIZATION – 5 STARS – The characters were well written and people I could easily relate to. they were real and I felt that in the author’s writing. 

STORY & PLOT 4 STARS – This was an easy read, a heart-warming tale, and concerns arise when a real estate developer is threatening to buy the property next to The Lakeside Resort.

OVERALL RATING – 5 STARS – I loved this book and was sorry to see it end. I enjoyed it immensely and highly recommend it. 

I had The Pleasure of Interviewing Susan Schild on my Cuppa & A Natter Show (Live Chat) which airs twice a month, on a Monday on my Facebook Author page. The show will soon be expanding to YouTube and this website.

Here is the link to our chat

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MY BOOK REVIEWS

Barbara Josselsohn Releases 2nd Book of the Lake Summers Series, The Bluebell Girls

Hello everyone,

It’s been a while since I’ve sent out a blog but I wanted to share this news with you and also have it on my website.

Barbara Josselsohn Releases Second Book of the Lake Summers Series, The Bluebell Girls

SCARSDALE, NY (September 25, 2020) –  Acclaimed author Barbara Josselsohn today released the second book of the Lake Summers series, The Bluebell Girls. Her third novel to-date, Barbara’s newest tale is a story of self-discovery, familial bonding, and the rekindling of a former spark. The novel follows three generations of women retelling personal stories of long-lost loves while uncovering the beautiful history of the town of Lake Summers, nestled in the Adirondack Mountains.

After a recent divorce, protagonist Jenna returns full time to her native town of Lake Summers from her life outside of Manhattan to help heal her mother, Sweet, whose health is failing, and better support her daughter, Sophie, who is acclimating to major changes in her own life. When she reconnects with Sweet’s next-door neighbor Troy, recognizing him instantly as the boy with whom she shared her first kiss, secrets, and romance resurface. Now, Jenna must determine whether she’s ready to settle down in Lake Summers for good.

Reviews

Readers are already giving The Bluebell Girls high praise. Five-star reviewers on Goodreads rave that the novel is “a charming page-turner” and “a well written, enjoyable story with a blend of heartbreaking and heartwarming moments, of second chances, romance, and finding harmony in complicated family relationships.”

The Bluebell Girls gives readers the chance to return to the small town and characters they fell in love with during The Lilac House, Barbara’s second novel, and first in the Lake Summers Series. Published in March, The Lilac House is an uplifting summer romance that tells the story of Anna Harris’ newly found independence following a personal loss, a devastating disclosure, and a daring new romance that reinvigorates her love for her summer escape, Lilac House.

In addition to publishing two novels during a pandemic, Barbara recently re-signed with her publisher Bookouture and will publish two more heartwarming and feel-good romance novels set in the same charming, fictional town of Lake Summers in 2021.

“I am so thankful to have the opportunity to bring readers The Bluebell Girls and tell stories about powerful women discovering their identity and navigating the next chapter of their lives which I believe is such an important message, especially now,” said Barbara Josselsohn. “I am beyond thrilled to continue the Lake Summers series with two more books in 2021 and can’t wait to share the next adventures that take place in the wonderful town of Lake Summers, which has become a second home to me.”

The Bluebell Girls was published by Bookouture, an imprint of Hachette U.K. Readers can now purchase the novel in three formats in paperback or eBook from Amazon or from select retailers.

About the Author

Barbara Josselsohn is the author of The Bluebell Girls, The Lilac House, and The Last Dreamer. She is also a journalist and magazine writer whose work appears in the New York Times, Consumers Digest, Parents, New York Magazine, and Westchester Magazine, and on numerous websites. She lives in Westchester County, New York, and teaches writing at Sarah Lawrence College and privately.

To learn more about Barbara Josselsohn and her newest novel, visit barbarasolomonjosselsohn.com, or follow @barbara_josselsohn_author on Instagram.

A Live Chat with Barbara Josselsohn

I can’t wait to dive into this book and talk to Barabra about it when we go live on Monday, October 26th, at 5:00 pm PST / 8:00 pm EST, and you are all invited.

I will be broadcasting from my Facebook Author page and YouTube so be sure to tune in.

My Review to follow

After our live chat, I will be posting my review of The Bluebell Girls here on this page and in my Facebook group.

Final word

My Award-winning book which won Readers’ Favorite Best Fiction Adventure 2020 is available for FREE in Kindle Unlimited or you can buy for $3.99. The Paperback edition is available where ever paperbacks are sold.

Grab your copy today

MY BOOK REVIEWS

Book Review – Educated by Tara Westover

Book Review- Educated

Book Review - Educated by Tara Westover

Educated was my book club’s choice for Dec/Jan read and boy did it create quite the discussion.

About the Author

Tara Westover is an American author living in the UK. Born in Idaho to a father opposed to public education, she never attended school. She spent her days working in her father’s junkyard or stewing herbs for her mother, a self-taught herbalist, and midwife. She was seventeen the first time she set foot in a classroom, and after that first taste, she pursued learning for a decade. She graduated magna cum laude from Brigham Young University in 2008 and was subsequently awarded a Gates Cambridge Scholarship. She earned an MPhil from Trinity College, Cambridge in 2009, and in 2010 was a visiting fellow at Harvard University. She returned to Cambridge, where she was awarded a Ph.D. in history in 2014.

Click here to visit her website

The Synopsis of the Book

Born to survivalists in the mountains of Idaho, Tara Westover was seventeen the first time she set foot in a classroom. Her family was so isolated from mainstream society that there was no one to ensure the children received an education and no one to intervene when one of Tara’s older brothers became violent. When another brother got himself into college, Tara decided to try a new kind of life. Her quest for knowledge transformed her, taking her over oceans and across continents, to Harvard and to Cambridge University. Only then would she wonder if she’d traveled too far if there was still a way home.

Our Review

Book Review - Educated by Tara Westover

 

Well, this book created quite a diverse conversation at our meeting. Half of us absolutely loved it and the rest either finished it but didn’t enjoy it or couldn’t finish it at all. I was one of those that couldn’t finish the book. We had one member who found this book to be an extremely emotional read because she was able to relate to it so much.  Listening to her was heart-wrenching as she revealed to us some personal insights into her childhood.

This story is a raw account of the author’s family and her abusive childhood that at times were hard to read. How she and her siblings survived some of the brutality was amazing. About a third of the way in I had read enough and closed the book feeling hatred toward her father and just too upset for the author to be able to read anymore.

But after listening to our member’s account on how it helped her understand her own childhood on so many levels I can see how this book can be uplifting for many in some way. Note; I did not feel this way prior to our meeting. Only after we had shared our thoughts.  This is why I love book clubs. They show all the sides of a book.

I applaud the author for the courage it took to tell her story and give hope to others. This story will stay with you for a long time.

Our Overall Rating

Book Review - Educated by Tara Westover

COVER DESIGN – 3 STARS – For some of us, we thought it was misleading. Our first impression was that it was about schools.

CHARACTERIZATION – 3 STARS – Many of the characters were unlikeable

STORY & PLOT 4 STARS – At times very depressing and hard to read.

OVERALL RATING – 3 STARS – A tough one to swallow that will leave you wondering how many other children are experiencing the same abuse today.

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