👶👶👶👶: Liberty Street, by Heather Marshall

A mere week ago, @heathermarshallauthor released her latest book, and I was intrigued from the get-go. As you know by now, I'm a sucker for a historical fiction novel that opens my eyes to lesser-known facts from the past. This particular novel explores the dark history of all-female reformatories in the early 60s Canada, specifically the Andrew Mercer Reformatory, where women and girls aged 16-35 were sent under the Female Refuges Act (aka, the Incorrigible Law). Under this law, anyone - from parents to teachers, or even concerned citizens - could bring these females before a magistrate claiming she was unmanageable or leading an idle life, and initiate her institutionalization. As you can imagine, not only were these laws exploited by citizens to control girls and women, but the employees of the institutions themselves abused their authority over them.

This story delved into the inhumane treatment of these women through the eyes of brave female reporter, Emily Radcliffe, who decides to enter Mercer Women's undercover in 1961. Little did she know the chilling reality she was about to face.

The story also weaves in a second timeline set in 1996, where Detective Rachel Mackenzie unravels a mystery intricately linked to the past.

This novel was certainly a page-turner that had me disgusted at how women were seen as so dispensable back then. A law that would incarcerate women for such subjective behavior is absolutely mind blowing🤯. You can bet I went down the rabbit hole to delve into similar institutions in the US😱.

Many thanks to partners @ballantinebooks , @penguinrandomhouse , and @netgalley for this #gifted review copy.

Read 6/22/26

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👶👶👶👶: We Burned So Bright

At its core, this is a powerful story of love, grief, and compassion. It captures the human condition in a way that is as edifying as it terrifying. The author highlights the best of humanity that stems from hope and kindness as well as the worst that emerges from fear and ignorance. This book wrecked me😭😭😭... given our current vulnerabilities as humans, the emotional weight is even more profound.

I will warn you, this novel is unlike any other TJ Klune novel I've read. It is not the uplifting, good-humored writing that I've grown accustomed to from this author. Much of it is depressing, unsettling, and raw. Having said that, the fact remains that TJ Klune is a master with words. His ability to weave empathy into his stories is nothing short of magical. I appreciate that inclusion always plays an important role in Klune's narratives; in this particular story, the gay protagonists have shared their lives for 4 decades so there is a depth in their shared experience that is relatable to everyone who has ever been in a long-term relationship.

More than anything, Klune challenges readers to reflect deeply on their place in the world. He always manages to encourage us, through his work, to find ways to make it a better place. It is in the most difficult times that finding the light that "burns so bright" in each of us is most important, no matter how hopeless things may get.

Many thanks to partners, @torbooks and TJ Klune for sharing this #gifted early review copy.

Read 4/28/26

👶👶👶: The Manhattan Confessions, by Jocelyn Green

This third installation of On Central Park continues in the rich setting of The New-York Historical Society where Ivy Malone serves as head librarian. As she juggles her role as a preservationist, she inadvertently finds herself caught up in a whirlwind of transformative events tied to the world of high society. This latest novel delivers a mix of intrigue, romance, and a wealth of historical details, all wrapped up in this fast-paced new release!

As a big fan of historical fiction and an admirer of New York, I relished in the plot. Once again, the author dives into an impressive array of topics in this narrative, ensuring that you’ll be thoroughly engaged. So if you prefer wholesome historical fiction with a side of conspiracy (and some scripture thrown in as well), this novel is available now!

Many thanks to @author_jocelyn_green and @bakerpublishinggroup for this #gifted review copy!

Read 4/21/26

👶👶👶👶: It Girl, by Allison Pataki

I'm absolutely captivated by the stories of lesser-known historical figures! @allisonpataki has truly outdone herself with her early-1900s revisionist historical fiction novel, 𝑰𝒕 𝑮𝒊𝒓𝒍, which shines the spotlight on the real iconic "Gibson Girl," Evelyn Nesbit.

In order to lend creative license to her work, the author focuses on a first-person narrative of Evelyn Talbot, a Gilded Age sensation who rose from humble beginnings to fame. It was heartbreaking to follow this poor young girl's path as she was exploited right from her earliest days as a model and muse. Her own mother did little to shield her from the abuse of wealthy, powerful men.

What I love most is how the author artfully navigates the complex dynamic of beauty, showcasing both the power it can bring and the objectification and dehumanization that often accompany it. You know you've found a fantastic book when it inspires readers to dive deep into research and learn more about the subject. Kudos to you, Ms. Pataki!

Many thanks to #partner, @ballantinebooks for sharing this #gifted early review copy.

Read 3/14/26

👶👶👶👶: The Blackwoods, by Brandy Colbert

What a treat to receive a box of surprise book mail from @harpercollins , one of which was this unexpected delight, The Blackwoods. The cover is absolute🔥🔥🔥 as you can see, and the story was just as hot!

It was a tale of 3 generations of black women in Hollywood who really made a name for themselves throughout the decades. The matriarch, Blossom Blackwood, had to make some truly difficult decisions along the way to foster her own career. Having had a mother who spent some time in Vaudeville, but ultimately moved on from her career, Blossom made it her mission to become successful. Being a black woman in Old Hollywood proved to be a most difficult task, and yet she was able to pave the way for the next generations in her family, Hollis & Ardith. This book was so clearly a labor of love for the author, and this heartfelt sentiment came across in her vibrant characters.

I especially loved reading the author's note, in which she recounts her inspiration for writing this book. Watching a wide assortment of TV shows growing up, one in particular stood out to her, featuring Diahann Carroll (love her❤️). She noted what a pioneer she and others were in Old Hollywood, and acknowledged what a triumph it was for these trailblazers to build the foundation for future generations of black actors. What a powerful tribute @brandycolbert has written here👏👏👏!

It was a really entertaining story and one that I was so glad to have been #gifted by the publisher. Thank you again, Harper Collins!

Read 6/1/24

👶👶👶: Sike, by Fred Lumer

This novel was definitely one of a kind! I can really tell that the author has a brilliant mind—his writing is quite cerebral and thought-provoking.

I was quite intrigued by the idea of AI glasses with an app that functions as a psychotherapist around the clock. We’re actually not too far from that reality! My son has a pair of Meta sunglasses equipped with a built-in camera and AI that can identify whatever he's looking at. They can even send messages and make calls—how cool is that? So, I was really captivated by the concept explored in this book.

However, I did find the story a little disjointed, which made it tough for me to keep up with the plot. I tend to connect with characters right away, and I struggled to do that here.

I really don’t like to undervalue anyone’s work, especially knowing how much effort and passion this author must have put into his debut. I also believe there’s a “smarter-than-me” audience out there that would absolutely appreciate this kind of intellectual writing. If you enjoy a clever novel that delves deep into the human psyche, this could be just the book for you!

Many thanks to partner, @celadonbooks for this surprise book mail!

Read 8/22/25

👶👶👶👶: The Seven Rings, by Nora Roberts

What a fun series! Never did I think I'd say that about a spooky series, but I think it ended up being just the right amount of "spooky lite" to make it enjoyable! This final installment of 𝑻𝒉𝒆 𝑺𝒆𝒗𝒆𝒏 𝑹𝒊𝒏𝒈𝒔 was packed with more action than the previous one, so I was definitely invested. After making it this far, I simply had to find out how they would break that curse!

The characters are such fun and really won me over. I mentioned in my review of 𝑻𝒉𝒆 𝑴𝒊𝒓𝒓𝒐𝒓 how much I adore the inclusion of dogs as an integral part of the story! And can we talk about the ghosts? They were surprisingly endearing (aside from one) 😂. One of the highlights of the book for me was the fantastic music included in it; @norarobertsauthor has impeccable taste in tunes🎶!

If you, like me, are not a horror fan, but want to dip your toes in an eerie read, this is the series for you! The best part is that you can binge-read the entire series now that it’s complete!

So grateful to St. Martin's Press & NetGalley for this fun adventure!

Read 12/6/25

👶👶👶👶: Life, and Death, and Giants, by Ron Rindo

Wow, what a novel. The powerful messages woven throughout this story truly resonated with me: faith and doubt, the intersection between religion and the secular world, and the weight of secrets. Sure, there were some tough moments that were hard to digest, but the beauty of the writing completely outweighed the difficult parts of the story. I have to say, I was completely blown away by the direction this novel took! I genuinely never saw the shocking twist coming - and I'm usually pretty hard to surprise. I found myself utterly captivated by this enchanting magical realism story.

Ron Rindo crafted his characters with such care. Gabriel was an endearing young man, and Hannah was just delightful. Thomas really pulled at my heartstrings with his heartbreaking backstory. Even Coach, despite his foibles, managed to evoke a sense of sympathy from me. I will admit, I wasn't as forgiving as Hannah when it came to Josiah's sins - I'm still not sure how I feel about it... when you read it, let's chat!

Get ready for a rollercoaster of emotions as this story unfolds! You’ll find yourself raising an eyebrow, sighing in frustration, cringing in disgust, and smiling with delight. It left me in a very contemplative mood, reflecting on the beauty of life. As I see it, these reactions are all the hallmarks of a truly outstanding novel.

Many thanks to partners, St Martin's press and NetGalley for this gifted review copy.

Read 9/15/25

👶👶👶👶: The Ruins in Which We Bleed, by Steve N. Lee

Books such as these are always so important, especially as we live through these very uncertain times. We can not forget history, lest it repeats itself.

This novel is no exception. Inspired by a true story, Steve N. Lee has shared important events that were all too common during the Holocaust. In this particular story, 13-year-old Helena is attempting to survive a world that is literally crumbling around her. Her courage and determination are so inspiring as she attempts to survive the hatred aimed at her and her people.

I appreciated that this novel could be read by adults and teens alike, as it is crucial that they, too, learn about the myriad of events that occurred in the lead-in to this unimaginable human atrocity.

Many thanks to Mr. Lee for providing me with this gifted review e-copy.

Read 6/14/25

👶👶👶👶: The Good Liars, by Anita Frank

This novel sure is a Whodunit that kept me guessing! Agatha Christie fans listen up - this novel read like one of hers and certainly had some unforseen twists. For fans of dark murder mysteries, this will be right up your alley, with plenty of secrets abound. The novel also dealt with the horror of WWI and the impact it had on the young men who served. And yes, the characters are indeed, good liars!

Many, many thanks to partners, TLC Book Tours and HQ Stories for this gifted review copy!

Read 12/24/24

👶👶👶👶: The Mirror, by Nora Roberts

Truth be told, I'm not a huge fan of reading full series, especially those that aren't complete yet, and I will admit that the wait for this second installment about killed me. However, in a plot twist of my own, I have fallen in love with this particular series, which is very unusual in more ways than one. First off, I REALLY don't do scary, but what I love about these books is that they're more spooky than scary. And yet, because there are ghosts involved, now I feel like I can brag that I, too, can read horror😂! Secondly, I'm not a big romance fan, and yet, the characters are so darn endearing that it just works for me (I especially love the non-human figures (dogs, not ghosts). Finally, I have a hard time suspending disbelief, and yet, the story truly kept me engaged from beginning to end.

I have only one gripe, which is that the storyline wasn't propelled forward as much as I'd have liked in this sequel. I was looking forward to getting a bit closer to the resolution and honestly didn't need as much superfluous detail as was provided. So I'll really be interested to see how Ms. Roberts will wrap it up in the final book.

Never having read Nora Roberts' books prior to this series, I must admit, I'm definitely a fan. Her stories are whimsical, and her characters are loveable!

I'm so grateful to St. Martin's Press and NetGalley for this gifted review e-copy. It was quite an adventure.

👶👶👶: Small Things Like These, by Claire Keegan

This was a very atmospheric novel, and one must be in the mood for melancholy in order to appreciate it. Claire Keegan certainly writes beautifully, and one has to recognize understated truths to grasp the depth in this novel. She does a tremendous job of allowing her readers to feel the reality of life in a town ravaged by poverty in the late 80's, Ireland.

What I appreciated most was the historical aspect of the book, shedding light on the tragic "Laundries" of Ireland that operated well into the late 20th century. These were institutions headed by the Church that took in "fallen women" who had become pregnant out of wedlock. It was a place of degradation that viewed any pregnancy, whether consensually or by rape or incest, as the young lady's fault, and treated these women as abominations. Their babies were taken, and they were mistreated and held in enslavement under the guise of charity. Ultimately, unmarked graves of 155 women were found, which led to a formal apology by the state (unfortunately not by the church) in 2013.

Overall, I appreciate authors that illuminate these dark times in the past, so that such cruelty will not repeat itself. Kudos to Claire Keegan for informing her readers.

Of special note is that a movie based on this novel will be released on November 8th!

Read 12/8/23

👶👶👶👶: Love at a Girls' School and other stories, by Diana Altman

What a delightful collection of stories by Diana Altman! I'm a sucker for short stories, and so many of these resonated with me. What a joy to catch a glimpse into someone's life for a short moment in time, and come away with plenty to ponder. Ms. Altman has done a wonderful job in connecting readers with each of her protagonists, and as is so often the case with short stories, I didn't feel unsatisfied after these tales. Most of them ended at just the right time were just the right length!

Most fun was the imagination that Ms. Altman brought to the table. Several of these stories brought really vivid images to life. Who couldn't use a tiny purse secretary here in the real world👩?! And what about an eye on the end of your finger to see around corners👁?! Don't let the silly nature of those 2 imaginative scenarios cause you to discount this little gem of a book. On the contrary, many of the stories were incredibly thought-provoking.

Many thanks to Mckinney Media Group for this gifted review copy! It was truly enjoyable!

Read 9/19

👶👶👶👶: Wired and Connected: Brain-Based Solutions To Ensure Your Child’s Social and Emotional Success, by Craig A. Knippenberg

I'm always up for a good scientifically-based parenting book. 𝑊𝑖𝑟𝑒𝑑 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝐶𝑜𝑛𝑛𝑒𝑐𝑡𝑒𝑑 is a great how-to manual that explains the best way to maximize children's brain potential socially, emotionally, and academically. This book addresses all of those important factors while using metaphors and stories to make it palatable for both adults and children.

With the understanding that "one philosophy of parenting or teaching does not fit all," Mr. Knippenberg simplifies three brain areas: the frontal lobe (the President), the limbic system (the Factory), and the mirror neuron system (Mirror) in an effort to help your understand the best way to help your child thrive.

Put your thinking cap on and pick up this book if you want to enjoy some Aha moments with regard to your children's behavior! Let's raise some resilient kiddos together!

I'm so grateful to Roger Charlie for sharing this very educational book with me!

Read 10/14/24

👶👶👶: A Place to Hide, by Ronald H. Balson

Comin' atcha on this World Smile Day with gratitude for all of my blessings. Each time I read a novel about WWII, it hits me how privileged we are here in the USA to be so far across the pond and to have avoided so much horror in both World Wars.

This particular story enlightened me on the plight of the Netherlands in WWII. Despite their neutrality that kept them from the atrocities of the First World War, unfortunately, that didn't stop Hitler from incurring his wrath this time around.

This particular story follows Teddy Hartigan as he is assigned as US Consulate in Amsterdam in a quickly declining situation. Teddy, along with help from those closest to him, manages to save the lives of many children.

I found this book informative, and I always appreciate the effort that goes into writing historical fiction. The multiple timelines added an interesting element, albeit using a common method, a journalist as an audience surrogate. I would say this book is written in a very straightforward manner, perhaps lacking the depth I crave in these stories. It would be a good novel for young adults, in my opinion, offering crucial history lessons along the way.

Many thanks to partner, St. Martin's Press for this gifted review copy.

Read 10/3/24

👶👶👶: Beneath a Crescent Shadow, by A.L. Sowards

Set in medieval Serbia, this historical fiction novel takes readers way back in time to the 14th century. As one would expect, the novel includes all the sultans, knights, battles, jousting, and even arranged marriages common in this time period. At the center of this novel is a love story, as Vassal Konstantin is betrothed to the daughter of a wealthy merchant, Suzana, in order to avoid losing his lands. Things get tricky as he bears the weight of struggles within the feudalistic system under the control of the Ottoman Empire.

I don't generally gravitate toward Christian novels, so I hesitated when asked to review this novel. However, because the medieval ages were known for their extreme religiosity, Ms. Sowards' inclusion of religious themes didn't feel egregious or forced. In addition, romance is not a genre I'm attracted to (no pun intended), so I must give kudos to the author for not making me want to run the other way. She is a talented writer, and as far as the historical aspect, she really did her homework! To boot, the cover is a stunna😍!

Many thanks to partner, TLC Book Tours for this gifted review copy.

Read 9/1/24

👶👶👶: The Disappeared, by Rebecca J. Sanford

It is amazing how many stories are based on tragic and inhumane events in history. Each time I read a new one, I am certain I have read them all, and each time, I am shocked anew😢. How can leaders in government exact such vicious cruelty on humans? This question haunts me each time I learn of persecutions in the name of absolute power under the guise of justice.

In this particular novel, based on actual events, @rebeccajsanford takes us into the heart of Argentina's Dirty War of the late 1970s. At a time when political upheaval was at its worst in the form of a military dictatorship, Lorena Ledesma and her husband are kidnapped, without a trace, from their home.

The rest of the story is a split timeline between the past and current day, where we learn more and more of what actually happened from that day forward. I had never heard of the Mothers and Grandmothers of the Plaza de Mayo, a group of women who fought tirelessly to hold the dictatorship accountable for the loss of their children and grandchildren. Thank you, Ms. Sanford, for enlightening me.

I am always a fan of a solid historical fiction novel that that can be read by young people as well. Because this novel reads a bit like YA, it is one that can span many ages and educate the masses.

Many thanks to partner @tlcbooktours for this #gifted review copy.

Read 8/13/24

👶👶👶: Klara's Truth, by Susan Weissbach Friedman

Susan Weissbach Friedman debuts with this fictional account of Dr. Klara Lieberman, a professor of archaeology in Maine, who discovers hidden family secrets a world away. The story takes readers through Klara's journey of self-discovery and her revelations of how one's past can shape the present. Although it's a current-day story and can't technically be labeled as historical fiction, I was pleasantly surprised to read so many historical references regarding post-WWII Poland.

The story was written in a very straightforward manner, and read to me like a YA novel, and can therefore be enjoyed by readers of a wide age range!

Many thanks to partners, BookSparks and She Writes Press for this gifted review copy.

Read 6/14/24

👶👶👶: The Limits, by Nell Freudenberger

Get ready for some drama surrounding my favorite topic, and yours, the Covid years! I applaud how Nell Freudenberger captured the emotions and uncertainty of the years surrounding the Covid pandemic. It still seems to be a surreal experience in light of all that happened. This particular story took place in two very different parts of the world: NYC & Mo'Orea island in French Polynesia. It follows the lives of 4 people all bound together by familial obligation. The overarching protagonist, 15-year-old Pia, is the glue that binds - as she is shuttled between her mother, a scientist in Mo'Orea and her father, a doctor, and his young wife in NYC.

The novel takes readers back to that most trying time in our very recent history. Ms. Freudenberger excelled in bringing me right back to the feelings, emotions, and struggles of Covid. There were so many things I had forgotten, things that were so unknown and absolutely terrifying at the time. It was a good reminder of what we've overcome.

I especially appreciated the historical information of nuclear testing in and around the islands, which I knew little about. But you all know I'm a sucker for a good history lesson!

I will admit that some of the technical descriptions of the research went over my head, and I could've done without so much French dialogue that wasn't always fully translated. I didn't like how casually teen sex was approached, if I'm honest, and Pia's infatuation with a much older man was uncomfy for me. I also didn't love the May/December marriage - it was evident Pia's father wasn't fully over his first wife.

However, this story tackles a lot aside from Covid, including broken families, poverty, politics, and environmental degradation as it pertains to mining of coral reefs. I feel as though the author handled each topic with care and respect.

Many thanks to partners, Alfred A. Knopf and NetGalley for this gifted review copy.

Read 6/16/24

👶👶👶: The Keeper of Lost Things, by Ruth Hogan

A throwback to November book club last year! Sheesh, if I could just keep up with my reviews🙈!

This was a charming little novel. Anthony, a guilt-ridden elderly man mourning the loss of his wife, was a collector of lost items. Laura, a divorcée, was looking for a fresh start while working in Anthony's home as his assistant. Her unlikely inheritance after his death leads readers on a unique journey filled with several serendipitous events along the way.

If I'm honest, the plot felt a wee bit contrived, the outcome was quite predictable, and the addition of the ghost gave it an element of silliness. However, it was a super sweet mini mystery and an easy read. I'd recommend it as a good palate cleanser after a more intense novel, and it kept me entertained from the beginning!

Read 11/8/23