👶👶👶👶: The Hired Man, by Sandra Dallas

I can always rely on Sandra Dallas to deliver a captivating story that often takes place in the Old West. Set against the backdrop of the Dust Bowl in a small town in Colorado, the story unfolds when a mysterious stranger comes to the rescue of a young boy in a near-death situation. In the midst of the struggle to live out these difficult days, the town must also come to terms with this newcomer. In addition, the oldest daughter of the family that takes him in, must also sort through her conflicted feelings about this hired man as well.

In true Sandra Dallas style, the focus is on a compelling female lead —young Martha Helen—whose coming-of-age journey reveals the profound struggles families faced during this challenging period in history. I was completely taken by surprise by the twist at the end! While I’m still processing my feelings about the resolution, it’s clear that the author did her homework with regard to the conditions. I felt completely absorbed by the despair and resilience of that time!

Many thanks to @stmartinspress for sharing this #gifted review e-copy.

Read 4/10/26

👶👶👶👶: The Bigger Picture: My Blockbuster Life & Lessons Learned Along the Way, by Jon Landau

Sometimes it's those who don't seek recognition that make the biggest impact. Jon Landau was a extraordinary talent, teaming up with the legendary James Cameron on blockbuster hits like Titanic and Avatar, yet he never craved the spotlight. While @jamescameronofficial has become a household name for his top-grossing films, Jon's vital contributions to American cinema often slipped under the radar. Thankfully, this posthumous memoir shines a well-deserved light on his life and work.

This memoir by @jonplandau was penned during his corageous battle with cancer, making it a deeply personal and raw tribute to his journey. His behind-the-scenes glimpses are captivating, and his generous spirit truly shines through. It's astonishing to recognize that he played a key role in bringing 3 of the 4 highest-grossing films to life, overcoming numerous challenges along the way!

I wholeheartedly recommend this memoir for anyone looking to appreciate the incredible talent and heart of Jon Landau. You won't want to miss it!

Many thanks to #partners @tlcbooktours and @hyperionavebooks for this #gifted review copy.

Read 2/21/26

👶👶👶👶: More Than Enough, by Anna Quindlen

Anna Quindlen has an incredible talent for crafting words that draw me in every time. Her novels are always an immersive experience, even when the topics are not personally relatable. Her writing is not only captivating, but it offers a fresh perspective that deepens my empathy for others.

In her latest story, we meet Polly, a middle-aged woman struggling with infertility and navigating a host of personal challenges. With an ancestry kit revelation, a fraught relationship with her mother, and a tragic turn of events involving a friend, it's truly a wonder she manages to keep her head above water. @annaqwrites writes about life’s unexpected trajectories in such an effortless and tranquil manner. Her novels are truly special, and I find myself wishing they would never end because the beauty she creates is simply irresistible!

If you've never read a novel by Anna Quindlen, you just don't know what you're missing! This gem is out next week.

All my gratitude to partners @randomhousebooks and @netgalley for this #gifted early review copy.

Read 2/16/26

👶👶👶👶: The Man in the Stone Cottage by Stephanie Cowell

I have to be honest, I’m ashamed to admit that not only have I never read anything by the Brontë sisters, I wasn't even aware of their fascinating history until now. I owe a big thank you to @cowell.stephanie for writing such a beautiful historical fiction novel that shines a light on the lives of these remarkable women and the hardships they endured.

This story was so thoughtfully crafted, filled with rich nuances and brilliant insights that helped fill in the historical gaps surrounding these incredible minds. I was genuinely surprised by how much I learned about the Brontë family through these pages. Ms. Cowell brought these characters to life in a way that truly humanized them by revealing their struggles and insecurities beyond their renowned intellect.

I truly enjoyed the story and, although somewhat depressing in its reality, the plot was engrossing. What a unique angle from which to tell their stories!

Many thanks to partners, @regal_house_publishing 

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

Read 1/16/2026

👶👶👶👶: Saoirse, by Charleen Hurtubise

Every once in a while, a novel with such depth and beauty surfaces and it truly makes readers' breath hitch. This novel started out slowly, taking it's time leading up to the reveal, building tension in a very deliberate manner. @charleen_hurtubise was skillful in her method and intentional in her messaging. As readers follow Saoirse (ser - shuh) along her path of fearful discernment of her life circumstances, her desitution becomes palpable. The setting is all at once atmospheric and harsh, revealing beauty just below the surface of the brutal reality. At first, the story may seem scattered, leaving readers feeling slight confusion. However, once the convergence of characters and details occurs, the significance of this novel becomes fervent and markedly relevant. It left me feeling contemplative, and gave me greater empathy for flawed individuals - we truly never know what others have been through in their lives.

I was given the privilege of both listening to the early review audiobook from #partners @macmillan.audio and @netgalley , as well as a hard copy from @celadonbooks . Both were immersive in their own right. @roisin_rankin lended her truly magnificent Irish voice to Saoirse. Thank you to all involved in allowing me the privilege to read this stunning novel.

👶👶👶👶: Family of Spies, by Christine Kuehn

Talk about uncovering some deep dark family secrets! This author takes the cake for revealing some genuinely shocking skeletons in the closet.

Big shoutout to Christine Kuehn for having the courage to share her journey. I'm so glad she ultimately made the decision to bring this story to light.

Without giving too much away, I can confidently say that this is the stuff movies are made of. While oftentimes, nonfiction books are dull and boring, this one was anything but ordinary.

If you are a fan of WWII history like me, this memoir is bound to be a winner for you too!

I'm so grateful to partner, Celadon Books, for this early review copy!

Read 12/22/25

👶👶👶👶: Best Offer Wins, by Marisa Kashino

WOWIE KAPOWIE! WHAT IN THE WORLD DID I JUST READ😲🫣???!!!

This book took such an unexpected turn that I would’ve never seen it coming; I was seriously blown away! Huge shoutout to @marisakashino for absolutely killing it with your debut novel (no pun intended)!🎉🎉🎉

The characters were so surprisingly nuanced that I was completely enthralled from the beginning. And the story itself was so simple, yet so well-developed. Bravo Ms. Kashino!

I don’t usually gravitate towards psychological thrillers, but this one is a game-changer. I can absolutely see it being adapted into a film someday. And I wish I could share more without spoiling the plot, but if you enjoy twists that turn everything you thought you knew upside down, this is the one for you!

I'm so grateful to #partner @celadonbooks for this #gifted early review copy! This was not one I would've ever considered reading if it wasn't for your generosity!

Read 12/9/25

👶👶👶👶: 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.

👶👶👶👶: 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

👶👶👶👶: 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 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

👶👶👶👶: 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