👶👶👶👶: To Outwit Them All, by Peggy Wirgau

It truly takes a remarkable woman to step up and take action when danger looms, and that’s exactly who Agent 355 was - the only female member of the legendary Culper Spy Ring. In her captivating reimagining, Peggy Wirgau brings us the story through the eyes of Betty Floyd, aka 355.

The novel propels readers into the New York social scene at the height of the American Revolutionary War, and grabs hold of the reader's attention from the beginning.

The character development was excellent, and I really loved Betty's character. I felt her hesitation and uncertainty as if it were my own when she was thrown into the world of resistance. A core part of the story dealt with her indecision as she grappled with whether she was ready or even willing to make the tough decisions that could change the course of history.

Overall, this is a fantastic historical fiction read for anyone fascinated by the American Revolution and the sacrifices it involved. It was the perfect pick to wrap up on #nokings day!

Many thanks to partner, Books Forward for this gifted review copy!

Read 10/19/25

👶👶👶👶: The Lost Garden, by Angela Petch

I'm continually amazed by the stunning stories woven from tragedy. Angela Petch has written a moving coming-of-age novel set against the backdrop in the small town of Sant' Agnese in Mussolini's Italy in the 1930s.

As readers are transported into the world of Castello di Montesecco, we meet Tina, a young girl born into privilege, but missing the influence of her deceased mother, a figure shrouded in secrecy.

The narrative unfolds naturally as Tina becomes entwined in the resistance while under the watchful eye of her militant father.

I was so impressed with Ms. Petch's ability to cultivate characters through time. It felt as though I was growing up right alongside Tina and her friends, experiencing the profound impact of war alongside them. So much of what was written in this novel frighteningly parallels what we are experiencing in the USA today. From the very first page, I was hooked; the writing was simply exceptional!

Many thanks to partners, Bookouture and NetGalley for sharing this stunning historical fiction novel.

👶👶👶👶: 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 Girl in the Green Dress, by Mariah Fredericks

Is anyone else out there just completely captivated by Zelda Fitzgerald? I can't help but appreciate how Mariah Fredericks has woven such an entrancing historical fiction mystery around this forever fascinating woman. Not only was her marriage to the literary genius, F. Scott Fitzgerald, shrouded in intrigue, but I've always felt her allure is in her wild spirit and flair for drama. Ms. Fredericks has packed this novel with so much depth: the reporter's complex PTSD as well as Zelda's fragile mental health, multiple historical mysteries involving unsolved deaths, and the intense dynamics between Zelda and F. Scott. Plus, we get a glimpse into the shadowy side of fame through the eyes of writer turned reporter, Morris Markey. The author masterfully links the reporter's discoveries to post-WW2 politics and the elite who seem to operate above the law. And all this unfolds in the dazzling backdrop of the Jazz Age! It really doesn't get any better than this!

If you appreciate great historical fiction with several nods to actual historical figures, enjoy gaining new perspectives on unsolved mysteries, and are drawn to the depths of human emotion, don't miss this one!

Many thanks to St Martin's press and NetGalley for this gifted review e-copy!

Read 9/4/25

👶👶👶👶👶: How the Hell Did I Not Know That?: My Midlife Year from Couch to Curiosity, by Lucie Frost

I didn't realize how desperately I needed a book that brought a little humor into my life, and this one was just the ticket!

Lucie Frost has penned a delightful memoir detailing her first year of retirement, which all kicked off with a hilariously drunken resignation text to her boss. It's a riotous tale of her self-created journey, which she charmingly named Project Couch to Curiosity.

The book delves into an ever-growing list of intriguing answers to the wonders that piqued her interest. This quirky trivia began during a leisurely couch potato phase immediately after she retired, and the random facts are both amusing and surprisingly captivating! For instance, she looked into what the best instrument is to learn later in life and discovered that the organ is one of the toughest instruments to master. Turns out I played it when I was young, so now I'm feeling kinda genius😂!!

I just love the cheeky attitude and comical personality of this former lawyer turned comedienne! So if you’re in the mood for a good chuckle and wouldn’t mind picking up some amusing trivia as you read, this book is just what you need!

Many thanks to partners, Kaye Publicity and Trinity University Press for this humorous gifted review copy! 

Read 8/26/25

👶👶👶👶👶: Here One Moment, by Liane Moriarty

Okay Liane Moriarty, I see you now! This novel, a finalist in the 2024 Goodreads Choice Awards, really resonated with me. Poignant and powerful, I was absolutely GLUED to the pages from the moment Cherry, an older, seemingly ordinary woman, stood up in the airplane. From that moment on, it was unputdownable!

This novel truly invites readers to reflect on their own lives - even the small choices that often feel inconsequential. It was definitely an amazing pick for our Book Club!

It certainly begs the question: ❓️If you had known the path your life would take, would you have changed anything along the way❓️

ALL the stars from me!!!

Read 7/2/25

👶👶👶👶: Agents of Change: The Women Who Transformed the CIA

I have to say: there are some badass women in this world, and Christina Hillsberg is definitely one of them! Especially in this day and age, any books that document the plight of women in traditionally male-dominated fields are so important! Ms. Hillberg has done a fantastic job recounting the stories of the pioneering women who faced countless challenges and hardships while pursuing their dreams in these high-stakes careers. What's more is that they were unknowingly blazing the trail for others to follow, inspiring them to reach even greater heights!

The book is organized decade by decade, beginning in the 1960s, and highlights various women and their powerful stories along the way. The timeline traces the progress of the agency with respect to the treatment and acceptance of women.

Overall, these real-life accounts are gripping, and I must admit that it blows my mind how courageous these women are!!!

Many thanks to partners, Kaye Publicity and Kensington Books for this gifted review copy!

Read 7/21/25

👶👶👶👶: Notes on Infinity, by Austin Taylor

Oh, how I love when a smart, new author nails it with her debut!!! Way to go, Austin Taylor!!! Honestly, speculative fiction can be a bit of a gamble for me, but this novel had all the elements that kept me glued to the pages. I was truly excited about the possibilities, especially since the bulk of the story felt so plausible and relatable, and the resolution was quite a reality check.

Zoe Kyriakidis and Jack Leahy, two brilliant Harvard science students, find themselves on a roller coaster of a ride when Zoe's innovative anti-aging breakthrough takes off with Jack's support.

First of all, who wouldn’t admire a book penned by an actual Harvard grad with degrees in both science and English?! That's some impressive girl power right there. Plus, I’m a sucker for a good coming-of-age tale where young characters embark on the journey of self-discovery—it's like a perfect Bildungsroman wrapped up in a nice little bow.

The narrative felt so genuine and emotional, messy yet beautiful, and I loved every moment.

A huge thank you for the gifted surprise, Celadon Books! I’m beyond grateful you sent this my way! 

Read 7/25/25

👶👶👶👶: The Cover Girl, by Amy Rossi

Wow, what a page turner! This story grabbed my attention right from the start. Having briefly ventured into the modeling world as a teen myself, the beginning of this story was so familiar. It also made me so grateful I didn't pursue it as a career.

After a current-day(ish) intro, the split timeline continues in the mid-70s as Birdie is discovered; the narrative then weaves through her life. I couldn’t help but cringe at how this young girl was treated, with her parents providing little to no protection, which resulted in a morally reprehensible relationship for which she had no frame of reference to understand. She was thrust into a world that valued nothing but her appearance, a storyline all too common from that era, where being a fashion model came at an incredibly high price.

Amy Rossi writes with such a lyrical flair, often hinting at situations and allowing the reader to fill in the gaps. It was a very unique writing style that made the novel all the more powerful. The emotional depth she brings to the table is something so many authors struggle to achieve. To boot, she was unafraid to tackle some very uncomfortable subjects. Truly, you won't believe this is HER DEBUT NOVEL!!!

So grateful to Kaye Publicity for this gifted, compelling read!!!

Read 8/5/25

👶👶👶👶: The Stolen Life of Colette Marceau, by Kristin Harmel

I am such a fan of @kristinharmel ! Her historical fiction novels are incredibly well thought out, and I love the unique spin she adds to her stories. In this case, the reader follows Colette Marceau, a descendant of Robin Hood, who carries on the family tradition by stealing jewelry from undeserving Nazis in order to fund the French resistance in the 1940s. In this dual-timeline narrative, Colette then continues her life-long pursuit in current-day Boston in order to fund the Boston Center for Holocaust Education. The story unfolds from there, with lifelong secrets unfurling as the story progresses.

It was an unexpected story with twists along the way, and I was invested from the get-go! Ms. Harmel did a marvelous job with the dual timelines, which certainly takes quite a bit of talent. Most importantly, she conveys the plight of the Jewish people, both during and after these human atrocities, in a very empathetic manner.

Many thanks to partners, @gallerybooks

 and @netgalley for this #gifted review e-copy.

Read 7/8/25

👶👶👶👶: One Final Turn, by Ashley Weaver

There's nothing quite like a book that takes me back to my Portuguese roots! Ashley Weaver truly brings the sights and sounds of Lisbon to life in this thrilling mystery set during World War II.

Readers follow former thief, turned intelligence recruit, Ellie McDonnell, as she embarks on a mission to find her cousin who has escaped a German POW camp. The pages come to life as this brave gal takes in the beauty of the land during her mission.

With a healthy dose of romance and plenty of action, this novel is sure to ignite your travel desires! Even though this is the fifth book in a series I haven't read, I never once felt lost—everything flowed perfectly. I truly savored every page!

Many thanks to partners, Minotaur Books and NetGalley for this gifted review e-copy!

Read 7/11/25

👶👶👶👶: The Tapestry of Time, by Kate Heartfield

This engaging historical fiction novel set during WWII revolves around four sisters: Kit, Ivy, Rose, and Helen. Their father, a passionate historian, had always been convinced that the Bayeux Tapestry holds prophetic secrets. Unfortunately, the Nazis are equally as captivated by the tapestry...

With elements of magical realism, the story draws readers into the sisters' journeys as they navigate their unique roles in the fight against the Germans. Along the way, we witness their hesitation to embrace their clairvoyant abilities.

While I do enjoy multiple points of view, I’ll admit that keeping track of all four sisters sometimes made my head spin! But honestly, that probably comes from juggling so much else in my life right now that has nothing to do with the book😩.

I was fascinated to learn more about The Bayeux Tapestry - something I'd never even heard of before, and I was certainly impressed with @kateheartfield 's thorough research!

Many thanks to #partners @tlcbooktours and @harpercollins for this #gifted review copy!

Read 7/22/25

👶👶👶👶: The Unhappiest Place On Earth, by Jade Gonzalez

As you all know, I'm a massive Disney enthusiast! So when this author reached out, offering me a review copy of her indy book that takes place in Disneyland, how could I say no?!

Ms. Gonzalez has crafted a charming YA novel that's bound to enchant the young teens in your life. It's perfect for anyone who loves the magic of Disney; my favorite part was all the references to classic rides. It sure took me back to my days visiting the park as a teen (and all the awkwardness of those bygone days). In fact, similar to this plot, my senior trip was scheduled to be in Disneyland, but it ended up being completely derailed. So, for me, this story felt like a little piece of what could've been!

I'm confident that young girls, and maybe even some guys, will fall head over heels for this book—it's squeaky clean and really sweet! The only part they'll struggle with is that it ends with a massive cliffhanger - so unfair😩!

Thank you so much, Jade Gonzalez, for sharing this review copy with me! It really took me back!

Read 7/13/25

👶👶👶👶: Blonde Dust, by Tatiana de Rosnay

One of the first books that sparked my passion for historical fiction was 𝘚𝘢𝘳𝘢𝘩'𝘴 𝘒𝘦𝘺, an international bestseller by Tatiana de Rosnay. So, when I stumbled upon news of her latest project, I couldn't wait to get my hands on it! This captivating story is set in Reno, NV, in 1960, at the iconic Mapes Hotel and Casino, the epitome of vintage glamour in the west.

What unfolds in this narrative is quite unexpected. We follow Pauline, a young maid at the hotel, as she forms an unlikely friendship with Mrs. Miller. To her surprise, Mrs. Miller happens to be none other than the legendary Marilyn Monroe! What unfolds is a multi-layered story with wild mustangs, intriguing movie history, and a life-altering experience for sweet Pauline.

I was genuinely moved by how the author portrayed Marilyn Monroe's humanity. It offered me a new perspective on her life and the misconceptions that surrounded her. Plus, the behind-the-scenes glimpses into the filming of her last movie, 𝘛𝘩𝘦 𝘔𝘪𝘴𝘧𝘪𝘵𝘴, were absolutely fascinating. Hats off to you, Ms. de Rosnay!

Many thanks to partners, Grand Central Pub & NetGalley , for this gifted review copy!

Read 6/19/25

👶👶👶👶: The Jackal's Mistress, by Chris Bohjalian

I genuinely make an effort to explore all sorts of books, but I always find myself irresistibly pulled back into my favorite genre: historical fiction. It’s amazing how much I’ve learned over the years from such talented authors, especially considering I didn’t exactly shine in history class!

In his latest novel, Chris Bohjalian has crafted a truly compelling story that immerses readers in the gripping realities of survival during the Civil War. I have such a deep appreciation for narratives that come from a place of empathy and compassion. The protagonist, Libby Steadman, beautifully captures this essence, guiding us through a time filled with fear and mistrust. Libby is surrounded by a cast of memorable characters that are as endearing as they are strong, and it was so easy to get attached to them all. Bohjalian reminds us that at the core, we’re all human beings, deserving of understanding and respect, even when our beliefs differ.

Kudos to Mr. Bohjalian for reminding us of this crucial lesson!

Many thanks to partners Doubleday and NetGalley for this gifted review e-copy.

Read 6/15/25

👶👶👶👶: 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 Girls of Good Fortune, by Kristina McMorris

Kudos to Kristina McMorris for once again shedding light on little known US history. There's nothing like a good historical fiction novel to teach me something I was completely oblivious to. I hesitate to admit I had no idea what getting "shanghaied" meant, nor had I any inkling about the Shanghai tunnels until I read this novel. If you've never heard of either one, this novel will teach you quite a bit about a time in our history that was absolutely laden with anti-Chinese sentiment.

This was quite an adventurous novel filled with several seemingly implausible turns. However, it held my attention from the beginning. Celia is a formidable character filled with grit and determination who finds herself in a situation that could have grave repercussions not only for herself, but for others in her orbit as well. This engaging story also came fully loaded with a satisfying ending - gotta love those full circle moments!

Kristina McMorris has always been an author who does her homework for the topics she tackles, and this was no exception! This is the fourth novel that I've been privileged to read by Ms. McMorris, and each time, I am better for it.

Many thanks to Sourcebooks & NetGalley and for this gifted review e-copy!

Read 6/9/25

👶👶👶👶👶: John & Paul: A Love Story in Songs, by Ian Leslie

ＷＯＷＯＷＯＷ!!!!!! Gather round Beatles fans! This is the winning ticket! What an impeccably researched, authentically conveyed, and exquisitely executed book! This book delves into the complicated and intense relationship between John Lennon and Paul McCartney, two of the most creative singer/songwriter duos of our time. The author had the brilliant idea of sharing their history through the songs they wrote and recorded; what a magnificent journey it is. I had no idea of much of this history, and each song not only brings back a flood of memories but a deeper understanding of these ingenious artists. All at once, uplifting and heartbreaking, this book is one that will absolutely stand the test of time.

Many, many thanks to partner Celadon Books for this beautifully rendered, gifted biography. I will treasure it for years to come!

Read 4/9/25

👶👶👶👶: Tough Luck, by Sandra Dallas

In traditional Sandra Dallas style, this western fiction novel is as inspiring as it is thought-provoking . Having loved her novel, 𝑾𝒉𝒆𝒓𝒆 𝑪𝒐𝒚𝒐𝒕𝒆𝒔 𝑯𝒐𝒘𝒍, I was so happy when St. Martin's Press shared this #gifted review e-copy with me - thank you . I'm such a sucker for the Old West, having grown up in Arizona, so this one was a treat! This coming-of-age story follows 14-year-old Mary "Haidie" Richards and her younger brother "Boots" as they follow their heart to find their father, whom she is convinced has struck gold in Denver. Setting off an adventure from Smoak, Illinois, Haidie disguises herself as a young boy and meets a wild (literally) cast of characters along the way!

Read this one if you enjoy coming-of-age, spunky female characters with 𝑻𝒓𝒖𝒆 𝑮𝒓𝒊𝒕 (for which this novel pays tribute).

Read 5/3/24

👶👶👶👶: Fun for the Whole Family, by Jennifer E. Smith

Gotta love a book that quotes Jerry Seinfeld, "There's no such thing as fun for the whole family!"

This was a sweet family saga with surprising depth by the talented Jennifer E. Smith. I appreciated the family dynamics as each character had something to bring to the narrative. And while there were somewhat dubious details and the ending was a bit predictable, it didn't take away from the storyline. I really loved the way it was written from each sibling's perspective, both in the past and present - it made the story so compelling.

I do so enjoy reading stories about siblings from large families, as I often ponder my own children's relationship with each other in hopes that they will always remain close.

I'd recommend this book for fans of family dramas, sibling rivalry enthusiasts, and devotees of the Rashomon approach.

Many thanks to partners Penguin Random House and NetGalley for this gifted review e-copy!

Read 4/19/25