I was in a conundrum. There were several books I would start and then stop because I couldn’t connect to the story. Was I in a reading slump?
I had abI was in a conundrum. There were several books I would start and then stop because I couldn’t connect to the story. Was I in a reading slump?
I had abandoned Jack Reacher books years ago because it felt too formulaic. But my husband continued to read the Reacher stories, including those that are now being written by Lee’s brother Andrew. My husband is even a fan of ‘Reacher,� the Amazon Prime series. So, what was I willing to do? Try one. This one.
“…this is America. The law applies to him the same as everyone else.�
Regarding this above quote…if only.
The year is 1992. The descriptive prologue grabbed me in an instant. I could feel the tension and drama immediately as I quickly turned pages. It also provided a mystery, in that readers were not certain who the character was that was being ‘interrogated� by 2 women, nor why. And then, the women do something that leaves readers stunned. What possessed them to do so?
And now, there is Reacher. Back in his early life as a Military Police Investigator. What was this case in which former scientists were dying and why would the Secretary of Defense be interested in it? Were these deaths natural, unfortunate accidents or murder?
In typical fashion, Reacher is Reacher. And, for those who have not read this series, it may be best to start from the beginning, with “Killing Floor.� I have read quite a few of the Reacher stories, long before I joined ŷ, so there are very few of my reviews posted here. But I do recommend considering reading other ŷ fans reviews, and/or Child’s earlier Reacher books to get a sense of Reacher and his history.
As a long-ago fan of Reacher, I always appreciated how he could use his brawn and brain to diffuse an argument. But as his character aged, it was harder to suspend disbelief for all the times he continued to physically exert himself, and not feel the problems associated from such exertion as an older character. So, it was nice to be back in a story with a younger version of Reacher.
Through methodical breaks in the story, A. Child takes readers between the 2 women perpetrators, the Secretary of Defense, and Reacher’s case before being asked to head up this particular investigation. The story moves adeptly and seamlessly through these different scenarios. Readers can’t help but wonder, what is going on and how will all of this come together?
Once Reacher is in charge of this new investigation, the biggest question for him and his team to answer is what happened in India in 1969, and why are those involved on the scientific team being systematically targeted? Is this ‘the secret� that the title of this book alludes to being? And, why are the perpetrators telling their targets their names? Are they avenging someone? And, if so, why?
Also, will Reacher get to the scientists in time before someone else is harmed? Including his own team? And, will the lead person responsible for the incident in 1969 be held accountable?
“And that puts him above the law?�
Most importantly, who really are the good guys here, besides Reacher, of course?
This fast-moving, page-turning, engaging, suspense-filled, story will no doubt appeal to Reacher fans. But will it be a surprise ending, or will readers figure it out? Still, for those of us who have been away for a while, it was nice to experience Reacher at this stage of his life. It made his large presence and fighting capabilities more credible.
One last thing…Reacher definitely broke my reading slump. ☺️ ...more
One of the positive things for me when I am in a book slump, is that it allows me to re-visit books I have already read. A while back, this book was dOne of the positive things for me when I am in a book slump, is that it allows me to re-visit books I have already read. A while back, this book was donated to my Little Free Library Shed. Interestingly enough, it was a Doubleday Dolphin Master Mass Market Paperback that originally sold for 95 cents.
In considering this book, I remembered it vaguely as a classic, one referred to a lot in reference to how to view the world. And, it wouldn’t be uncommon to find some of Whitman’s quotes offered on Facebook. So, when it was donated, I couldn’t help but open its pages and explore again this man and his words.
As I read, I became more curious about the intention of his message. Whitman self-published this collection of poetry in 1855, and continued to edit and expand it until his death in 1892.
The cover of this book, is also the same as the original first edition, which includes an engraving by Samuel Hollyer that depicts Whitman in work clothes and a hat with his arms by his side amongst grass. Many surmised the figure represented an American working-class man of the time.
His writings feel like a celebration of individuality in relation to society and nature, and of America. It also exposes Whitman’s philosophy of life and humanity, where nature has an important place in the forefront. And, he presses on the importance of our role as individuals within nature.
“I bequeath myself to the dirt to grow from the grass I love, If you want to find me again look for me under your bootsoles.�
Whitman was known to be fairly unpopular during his lifetime. People saw Whitman’s characteristics as self-centered, egotistical, and one, who as a loner would defy conventions. Even so, within a century, his words apparently defined American poetry. Even if what he presented didn’t rhyme or follow conventional rules for meter and line length.
What was particularly interesting was that the first 28 pages of the book was an essay on his beliefs for America. It was clear that he saw himself as a voice for the marginalized while promoting democratic ideals. I wonder what he would think of today’s politics?
As I continued reading, knowing there was some familiarity to the experience (having been exposed to his poetry in high school and college), I was reminded that his poems were not an easy read. (I am attracted usually to traditional poetry � rhyming or in cadence.)
And, at times, I found myself not sure what he was trying to say. I just concluded that it must be a journey into his mind, where he evoked random thoughts of what he perceived to be important. Still, I couldn’t help but feel from the words he wrote that he must have been a lover of life, who truly believed his role was to change people’s views � maybe even our lives by his words. And, in those moments of understanding, I felt he probably was leaving us readers time for reflection.
“I exist as I am, that is enough, If no other in the world be aware I sit content, And if each and all be aware I sit content.�
“I celebrate myself, And what I assume you shall assume, For every atom belonging to me as good belongs to you.�
Let us…Pause. Reflect. Discuss.
Whatever our experience with this classic, I believe Whitman wanted humanity/readers to know that we too are natural wonders....more
This is a Dolly Parton Imagination Library book, that was donated to my Little Free Library Shed. For those unfamiliar, Dolly Parton creatCatching up�
This is a Dolly Parton Imagination Library book, that was donated to my Little Free Library Shed. For those unfamiliar, Dolly Parton created this program ‘to inspire the love of reading and learning in children.� The program mails ‘a new, age-appropriate book into the homes of children every month from birth to age five.�
I am so grateful to include this book in my LFL.
This is the story of Tarra, now a retired elephant that worked a circus and some television shows; and, Bella a mixed-breed, sweet dog. At the time of publication, 2009, they lived at the Animal Sanctuary in Tennessee.
When reading this story, please be sure to have Kleenex handy. (Don’t worry, no animals were harmed in this story.)
Tarra was the first elephant to come to the sanctuary in 1995, but it wasn’t until Bella happened along her side, that Tarra had a true friend.
The story shown through photographs and words, tells their story of friendship and companionship.
This will be a wonderful, touching story to read with and/or to children in sharing the unexpected, magical relationships that happen between animals.
After finishing the book, I was curious about the status of Tarra and Bella. Through research, I discovered that Bella passed away in late October, 2011. In November, 2021 Tarra was relocated to the Elephant Refuge North America in Georgia, under the care and supervision of this author.
For more on Tarra’s story with Bella:
For more on Tarra at the Animal Sanctuary in Tennessee and her transfer to Georgia:
Years ago, I was gifted this little book that was also signed by the author. I remember our Library Book Discussion Group was reading and discussing aYears ago, I was gifted this little book that was also signed by the author. I remember our Library Book Discussion Group was reading and discussing a particularly difficult book based in WWII about a Jewish resistance group. I brought this little book to the group, and each of us read a page out-loud until the book was finished.
The discussion was powerful.
The beauty of the story, about how one or two people can make a difference, was not lost on any of us. That it would be grandmothers, made perfect sense. Generations before us, fought for rights for women and others so that we could be prideful of our diverse communities and standing up for those issues that meant something. Their silent, but active protests mattered. Laws were changed, and respect was garnered across color, size, gender, identity, and disability.
“And for the rest of the day the women stood in the park. Not speaking.�
And yet, their silence spoke volumes. The mission of these grandmothers was to save the world.
“In towns and cities across America, hundreds of thousands of women, many of them grandmothers, gathered in public parks, school yards, vacant lots, and on the steps of churches, synagogues, mosques and Buddhist centers. They carried no banners, shouted no slogans and belonged to no organization.�
We know it is possible. We just need to believe in the power of our voices. Even Lily Tomlin said “I always wondered why somebody doesn’t do something about that. Then I realized I was somebody.�
The grandmothers and all the people that gathered with them in support, made an impact. Like any of us who protest peacefully typically do.
“In an unrelated story: Reports are still coming in from our affiliates, but it would appear there has been no fighting anywhere in the world today.�
So, for anyone who doesn’t like the way things are in our current political climate that has created chaos, havoc, discord, loss of jobs, rights and civility, always know there are those who are willing to stand out to make a difference.
Shall we join the grandmothers?
After all, consider Margaret Mead’s quote�
“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has.� ...more
This is Madame Christie’s debut novel which features Hercule Poirot. It was actually written as a dare from her sister Madge who had challCatching up�
This is Madame Christie’s debut novel which features Hercule Poirot. It was actually written as a dare from her sister Madge who had challenged her to write a story. It was published in 1920, 105 years ago. And yet, here we are still reading and reviewing her.
In this story we are also introduced to Captain Hastings, our narrator, who had his own interest in becoming a detective. But as readers come to learn, Captain Hastings does much better in his role as a sidekick to Poirot. He serves to listen and observe what is going on around him, helping in his awkward way to unravel clues and ‘interrogate� suspects to determine who is the real killer. And, he also keeps meticulous written records of the ‘event.� This narration being the ‘record� of the event.
Madame Christie also gave us the experience of courtroom drama, in which one suspect has been determined by the police and prosecution to be the murderer.
But will they have chosen the right suspect?
Moving forward in the story, readers are introduced to Madame Christie’s infamous style of solving the case. This is done when she gathers all the suspects in the room in the final pages of the story, to listen to Poirot share how he figured it out, and also pointing readers and his characters to the right culprit(s) of the crime.
Of course, readers will have to navigate through a large cast of characters to remember and determine what role they play in the murder, if any. And, typically, there is a role for everyone. Because in those days, in houses where many have been invited as guests, there is also the working staff who live there, too.
Premise: The ‘mysterious affair at Styles� revolves around the murder of Mrs. Inglethorp. (Hence: the title of the book.) Hastings who was a guest at the estate, remembered meeting Poirot from years ago, and appreciating his detection skills. So, asked if he could be brought in to help solve the murder.
And, off we go as readers. The setting. The murder. The characters/suspects. The resolution.
It is a slow-moving story. But at the same time, it is a compelling read that focuses on enlightening readers on genuineness about character and justice. As well as providing readers awareness into Madame Christie’s style of writing an entertaining detective story.
This story can successfully be read as a stand-alone, providing insights into the characters of Hercule Poirot and Captain Hastings in their first outing together. ...more
When this was donated to my Little Free Library Shed, I was surprised I hadn’t read it yet. In looking over other ŷ reviews, and noting they wWhen this was donated to my Little Free Library Shed, I was surprised I hadn’t read it yet. In looking over other ŷ reviews, and noting they were mixed, I was wondering whether I should. But being an avid fan of Grisham’s courtroom dramas, I decided not to list this as ‘currently reading� on my GR shelf, so that I could just meander through it, and see what comes up for me.
The first 7 pages alone were filled with tension, as those involved with the case had just learned that the jury had reached a verdict. It was a case where a “poor widow and her two lonely lawyers were taking on a giant corporation with unlimited resources.�
What would be the jury’s verdict?
“Stepping into a major trial is like plunging with a weighted belt into a dark and weedy pond. You manage to scramble up for air, but the rest of the world doesn’t matter. And you always think you’re drowning.�
I could feel myself holding my breath as I awaited the verdict (even though I knew what it would be). But Grisham’s descriptions were spell-binding.
“Hearts froze. Bodies stiffened. Eyes found objects to fixate on. The only sound was that of the jurors� feet shuffling across well-worn carpet.�
But regardless of this verdict, and the tenseness readers experienced prior to it being read, this wasn’t going to be the essence of the story. The story was going to be the appeal to that verdict. (Hence: the title of the book.)
And, what someone was willing to do to buy their way to a verdict that mattered to them, in that appeal. It almost sounded like the checks that Elon Musk wrote to try and win a Wisconsin Supreme Court Justice seat this month (April, 2025). Thankfully, Musk lost. Did Grisham foresee the future (this book was published in 2008), or did Musk read this book for the idea? He obviously had already spent triple digit millions to win the American Presidency.
Is this what is happening to our justice system? Political system? We certainly discovered this after the American election in 2024. Is it going to be about money that influences the outcomes? So, what about in this story?
Well, for those of us who didn’t like the results of the 2024 American election, what readers will find is a similar feeling. Perhaps, Grisham knew what to expect all along and this was his way of sharing his concerns.
This evocative and insightful story will no doubt affect readers. ...more
When I read her debut book, “The Other Woman� I had no words. I just knew it was better for anyone reading the book to go in blindly, and just read itWhen I read her debut book, “The Other Woman� I had no words. I just knew it was better for anyone reading the book to go in blindly, and just read it! I was so wowed by her.
So, when this book was donated to my Little Free Library Shed, I instantly was excited to read it. Of course, it doesn’t help to have high expectations after reading an author and giving them 5 stars!
So, does Jones deliver again? Oh yes!
What happens when what we thought was real, may not be? And, what happens when we question whether we truly know those people we love and care about? Especially our significant partner? And, possibly our best friend?
Once again, it is easiest to go into this story with as little information about it as possible. Just know that once you do, you will not want to put this book down. It is a twisty, sinister, never-saw-this-one-coming, juicy, layered, page-turning, domestic suspense thriller that will keep readers guessing up to the last page....more
Lately, I have been reading stories that I am not putting on my ‘currently reading� shelf here at ŷ. As a moody reader, I am not always sure ILately, I have been reading stories that I am not putting on my ‘currently reading� shelf here at ŷ. As a moody reader, I am not always sure I will want to continue a book if it does not appeal to me in the moment I begin it. And, in these situations it seems easier to just keep the book to myself until I am ready to post my review. Especially when I have decided to read it. That happened with this book donation to my Little Free Library Shed.
To me, one of the most favorable reading experiences are the connections readers make to the characters. Whether we love or hate them, our reactions tell us that they were believable to us. And, maybe even relatable. Mostly, for me, I want to care about them and their journey. Because in some ways, when I step in to a story, I want to feel as if I am actually there, as well. Or, hiding out in a safe place (especially with mysteries and thrillers). I know, maybe I am projecting myself too much into the experience, but usually it is what tells me that I am truly in for the reading journey.
And, sometimes the most unlikely character is a house. Like with this story. An abandoned house that happens to be painted purple, overlooking the sea in Awadapquit, Maine. (The fictional location for Ogunquit.)
Jane, one of our main protagonists, first spotted the house as a teenage tour guide on a lobster boat in the 1990’s. She decides to explore the house with her best friend, Allison, whose family gives Jane warmth and a sense of belonging. Something dearly missing in her own home life.
But life goes on. And, it isn’t until she is 30, that she explores the house again with her boyfriend, David. But on this one visit, fear enveloped her. And readers get the message�
“a fear tugged at Jane’s pocket, whispering that she had only wandered temporarily into somebody else’s lovely life.�
What could that foretelling be?
Readers wouldn’t get that answer until about 10 years later, when Jane is once again called back to home, and is hired by the present owner of the purple house, Genevieve, who asks her to look into its history, and possible ghost.
Ghost?
Jane’s research takes her into adventures of discovery along with Genevieve and Allison. Where readers also experience Jane’s growth.
Overall readers will be thrust into an interesting mystery, with well-defined, yet flawed and complicated characters. None of whom I could relate to, but I could still appreciate their complex journey. Especially inviting is the scenic history that the author writes to give this read credible credence. There is much to appreciate about the land, old houses and people who came before us.
This first Mystery Writers of America Crime Novel Award-winning debut follows Special Constable Teddy Creque. He is our protagonist and narrator on hiThis first Mystery Writers of America Crime Novel Award-winning debut follows Special Constable Teddy Creque. He is our protagonist and narrator on his first murder investigation on ‘his� island of Anegada. Located in the British Virgin Islands, murder or crime that requires Teddy to have a gun or arrest anybody just does not happen. So, when a dead body is discovered on the beach, he needs to figure out what happened and why.
His first sign of business is to notify the dead person’s family. But such a simple act has him discover the person isn’t who he claimed to be. So, who is he and why would someone murder him?
Teddy is an uncomplicated man leading a complicated life. Married with 2 kids, and balancing 4 jobs to help make ends meet, he is also carrying on an affair with the beautiful, independent Cat Wells who flies helicopters. His guilt doesn’t keep him from ending the affair. But it does lead him, as a novice in police procedurals and appropriate investigative work, to find out some things about himself and why he needs to do well with this investigation.
Readers will enjoy the island of Anegada. In many ways, Anegada is its own character and sense of place that features washboard roads, the sweltering sun, luxurious homes, diving holes and breathtaking beaches. Especially with such peculiar names like Cow Wreck Bay, the Settlement, and Horseshoe Reef.
This scenic, cozy, slow-burn, easy-to-read, page-turning mystery is filled with dynamic and fully-fleshed out likable characters, suspense, twists and surprises that will keep readers engaged. Apparently, there are 4 books in this series, for readers to appreciate.
How should a reader feel when the opening sentence states�
“The first thought I had after I died was: How will my dog cope with this?�
Oh my! My husbandHow should a reader feel when the opening sentence states�
“The first thought I had after I died was: How will my dog cope with this?�
Oh my! My husband and I have certainly thought of this very thing. So, we included in our will financial provisions for our dogs, along with naming my sister as main guardian, should our corgis still be around after we both pass. Of course, we understand that anything can change. But as animal lovers, readers will feel that special connection between our narrator and main protagonist, Nora Stuart and her dog, Boomer. And why she may mutter those words.
Nora Stuart is a doctor in the Department of Gastroenterology, who is speaking of her “giant Bernese mountain dog mutt� Boomer. Why is her own personal death on her mind as she is doing rounds at Boston City Hospital?
Readers soon learn that these thoughts occurred after Nora’s accident in which she found herself in the same hospital she worked. An accident that changed everything she knew. At least, she didn’t die. And, she and Boomer could now go home � not the one she shared with her ‘boyfriend� � but the home she grew up in.
And, now a new adventure begins for Nora. What will it encompass?
As it turns out, readers will be taken back in forth in time as Nora recalls her childhood. These memories will include the feelings of abandonment of when her father left without a word. Will she finally be able to find out what happened to him?
Nora is also searching for a connection with her cold and distant mother, and her 15-year-old niece Poe while Nora’s sister is in prison. And, then there are the people she grew up with, what will happen with Nora and them?
There were moments when it was difficult to feel anything but sadness and bleakness wandering through Nora’s life as she attempted to seek and show love for those who have given her nothing in return.
She refers to a situation as the Big Bad Event. It will take a while before readers discover what that was, and why it left her in a state of constant fear. But with Nora’s positive outlook on life, readers can’t help but root for her and hope she finds her strength.
Because readers would like to believe that as Nora heals, so does almost everyone else.
This will not be a romantic comedy kind of book. There are complex, complicated and sometimes unlikable characters between these pages. Leaving readers with the experience of delving into the complexities of familial relationships, societal bonds, after effects of traumatic brain injury, mental illness, and addiction.
However, if readers are patient with this slow-moving story, they will be privy to answers as to why Nora’s mother was the way she was, what happened to her father, and, why her sister is in jail.
But mostly readers will have the opportunity to relish Nora’s personal growth as she navigates coming home after 15 years and discovering herself, the possibility of true and lasting love; and, a hopeful unbreakable bond relationship with her niece, Poe.
And, of course there is Boomer who makes life a little bit more fulfilling all around. Thank goodness for dogs!
“…even the most ordinary life was like a good novel, a tale to be told.�
As readers we find ourselves inside Consider the first sentence in this book�
“…even the most ordinary life was like a good novel, a tale to be told.�
As readers we find ourselves inside Riley Sheffield’s Driftwood Cottage Bookstore owned by her mother. Her mother had transformed the cottage into a bookstore, downstairs, and Riley’s home with her 12-year-old son, Brayden, upstairs. And, even if Riley runs it, this is still her mother’s pet. She knows exactly what is needed and why to keep it important to the community.
The sense of place and feelings of comfort continued beyond that first sentence. I found myself entranced by the author’s description of that experience.
“The sea-infused air mingled with the scents of ink and paper. The ocean breeze coming through the open windows created a symphony with the creaking walls and groaning bookshelves. The same sand that found its way between her toes was also embedded in the cracks between the uneven floorboards.�
Could you smell the sea and books, too?
Even when Riley “ran her fingertips lazily across the spines of the books lining the crooked shelves� I found myself blissfully feeling those books, too.
I could easily get lost within this bookstore and its book clubs.
“Book clubs acted as a balm on the ache for intimacy.�
I wondered if I would ever get through this book with the way I kept finding so many quotes within the story to love.
I remember when this happened to me during the reading of Erica Bauermeister’s book, “No Two Persons.� ‘No Two Persons� was my favorite book for 2023. I kept stopping every few lines to reflect on what was being said in the book. Review here: /review/show...
In this story, Callahan Henry also included one of my favorite Thomas Jefferson quotes at the beginning of the book.
“I cannot live without books.�
That would definitely be me. I love when books do this to me. I want to be a part of the character’s lives. Live within the pages, and be aware of every aspect of what is happening around them. Especially when the centerpiece setting involves a bookstore.
But as I read on, in this book, I noticed something happening to me. With less quotable moments the story started to lose its� appeal. Oh no! What happened? For me, it seemed to devolve into a chic-lit, been-here-before, soap opera of sorts.
Would it, or could it redeem itself for this reader?
Readers find that the story revolves around this family of 3 estranged sisters, asked to come back home to help save the bookstore. And, to be available for Kitsy, their mother, who has suffered a fall.
Maisy the now southern California designer, and Adalee, a college student, reluctantly come to support Riley and celebrate their mother’s upcoming birthday. Not knowing that there is more to their mother’s story. What secret is she hiding from her daughters?
At times it was hard to like the sisters. Adalee seemed like a selfish teenager, and Maisy seemed filled with mean energy. While Riley seemed to bathe herself in guilt and shame.
With past tensions, and jealousies, will these sisters be able to come together?
What about when Mack Logan decides to come back home, too? Could what happened between the sisters have something to do with Mack Logan? What did Mack do? Would sisters really allow a man to get between their sacred sisterly bond?
Can the sisters forgive each other and come together to help save the bookstore?
And, will they find their happily-ever-after? Afterall, it is chic-lit.
Redeeming qualities for story�
In some ways this chic-lit story of sisters, and old loves felt like a bridge towards finding the importance of family and community healing. With a backdrop of the beach and a bookstore and the importance of books. Especially with book clubs that foster compassion for others and a sense of community.
The story may have felt overly dramatic at times for this reader, but I appreciated the moments of celebration of those things I dearly love � books, the beach, a local town bookstore, and an imperfect love story.
Last note…This story also includes references to books to read within book discussion groups. The full list is provided by the author at the end of the story.
After reading “Memorial Days� I found myself staring at one of her older books, this one, which was published in 2015. It had been donated to my LittlAfter reading “Memorial Days� I found myself staring at one of her older books, this one, which was published in 2015. It had been donated to my Little Free Library Shed a few months ago, and I decided to hold on to it, until I could decide whether I wanted to read it or not.
I told myself that after I was finished with “Memorial Days� I would consider reading this one. I peeked inside. And then, I saw the list of names (characters) at the front of the story. “Oh no,� I thought to myself, “this is not a good sign. Would I be able to keep track of all those people?� And then I said, “give it a chance. This author typically moves you.�
So, I put it in my personal pile, not recorded on ŷ, to consider reading at some future point after I completed “Memorial Days.� And, now I am here ready to tell you what I experienced.
“I understood that I was being shown the future: shards of what would come to be. Often, I cried out for the pain of it. But other times, I was comforted, because I saw, for an instant, the pattern of the whole.�
This is the historical fiction story of King David. It is gritty, emotionally stirring, with lots of characters. (Plan on referring back to that list of characters at the beginning of the book.) Brooks tells her story from scriptural sources, but in such a way that she brings everything to life. The setting. The people. The history.
“He was not afraid of silence, which most of us will rush to fill.�
There is something poetic in the telling of this story. How readers can see David as someone who is brave, just, charismatic and talented. But he also does bad things which causes him to fall from grace. And, even with some of those life decisions he made, we as readers aren’t inside a tragedy necessarily, but a story that takes our “King� to old age and a peaceful passing.
In the telling, Brooks does not take away from the biblical version, but whittles down the biblical hero figure to human. Which makes this book a compelling read.
I truly enjoy this author. This is my third book of hers that I have read and I am now reviewing. I loved “A Novel Love Story� and “The Seven Year SliI truly enjoy this author. This is my third book of hers that I have read and I am now reviewing. I loved “A Novel Love Story� and “The Seven Year Slip.� She has a way of connecting us to her characters and story.
And now, this one.
“Every person has a secret. Every secret has a story. Every story has a happy ending.�
Can these secrets possibly lead to a happily-ever-after?
And, as a rom-com lover, that is certainly my reason for wanting to continue to read them. No matter how overdone the trope is, I live for the HEA.
As readers, let us consider the following when it comes to this slow burn rom-com.
Is it possible to fall in love with a ghost? Or, maybe the real question should be, is it possible to see ghosts, talk and interact with them? Would this make them dead romantics? And, are they really dead? Or, just romantics? Or, is this really a play on words to describe a bad relationship with a past boyfriend, thus making the belief in love, dead?
Let’s get back to the ghosts. This has been a gift and possible curse since childhood for Florence Day, our narrator, and main protagonist. After all, her parents do own a funeral home. So, why not be able to interact with ghosts?
Not necessarily something Florence wants in her life. But what happens when her new editor, Ben, who happens to be gorgeous, expects her to finish a book, that she has been ghostwriting for a famous author? Can she do it this time, especially after a horrible break-up a year ago that left her in no mood for swoon-worthy love? Or, can she possibly break away from ghostwriting, and write her own story?
But the need to get home, changes everything for Florence.
What will happen now?
Does seeing and be-ing with a ghost, who happens to be this stunning hunk of a man, Ben count? What? Wasn’t he fully alive when she met with him, as her new editor, about getting this ghostwritten book done?
“Because ghost stories were just love stories... They were stories that taught us that love was never a matter of time, but a matter of timing.�
Do we need popcorn for this “ghost story?� ...more
“Who looks outside, dreams; who looks inside, awakes.� � Carl Jung
I had just finished watching the movie, “The Life List� on Netflix. When I discovere“Who looks outside, dreams; who looks inside, awakes.� � Carl Jung
I had just finished watching the movie, “The Life List� on Netflix. When I discovered it was based on this book, I immediately ordered it from my local library. The question I posed to myself�
Would I be as mesmerized by this debut novel as I was the movie? Because, if any of you have Netflix, I would encourage you to watch this movie. It is really special. I have no doubt you will fall in love with Alex. I was absolutely charmed by her. Kudos to actress Sofia Carson and the supporting cast for such stellar performances.
And of course, the movie opens up all sorts of feelings in which we viewers can’t help but ask ourselves�
What does it take for any of us to fulfill a ‘life list� that we may have created when we were young, and naïve about life in general? And, still so excited about the possibilities that our life could become? And, if we waver and forget that magical planned list for ourselves, can we be open to finding a way to check off everything that was placed on that list? Will it take a push to have us pursue it?
And, can the book do better than the movie, since that is where this story actually began � between the pages?
As readers who have watched the movie first, we quickly learn that Alex is now called Brett. Or in all fairness to the book, since it came first, Brett is our female protagonist.
As I read on, I am totally aware of the similarities between the book to the movie. Whether names have been changed, or details, the same premise of fulfilling a ‘life list� is the focus. And, even if what was on the ‘life list� was different between the book and movie, the story being read still had its own charm about it. The relationship she had with her mother. Rudy, an adorable dog that Brett adopts. And, a unique twist, somewhat different than the movie, regarding Brett’s father. (No spoilers from me.)
Readers will also wonder if Brett will achieve her happily-ever-after ending. And, although I don’t offer spoilers, I will say, whatever happens to Brett is different than what Alex experienced. And, that is completely okay with this reader. The beauty of this story, still holds for me, between these pages. I just got double the joy of ‘the life list,� by seeing the movie and reading the book, too.
For those who read the book first, I hope you have a chance to see the movie, too. For both the book and the movie, have your Kleenex nearby.
Lastly, the book is engaging, heartwarming, poignant and thought-provoking with well-developed characters. Some may find it predictable. But since I had seen the movie first, I kind of knew what to expect, so it wouldn’t be fair for me to judge one way or another.
Bottom line…I loved both the book and the movie. Maybe the movie, a tad more. Popcorn, anyone? ...more
This one was not on my currently reading shelf. But it has been here waiting for me to read so that I could catch up on the series. And, not knowing eThis one was not on my currently reading shelf. But it has been here waiting for me to read so that I could catch up on the series. And, not knowing exactly when I would begin, it was easier just to make it a reading experience between me and this book. Actually, a couple of his books. I also just finished, “The More the Terrier.�
What exactly is a dog day afternoon? Well, if we look at the book cover, we certainly can find ourselves absolutely in love with that powder puff puppy. And, it doesn’t hurt that this same puppy is biting down on some money. But what does this all mean?
I’d like to believe that a ‘dog day afternoon� refers to those hot, sleepy afternoons when people with their dogs just want to lay around and languish. Maybe take long, meandering walks and enjoy nature. Will this be possible in another Andy Carpenter series?
For anyone new to this series, please start at the beginning with “Open and Shut.� And, for more information on why I love this series, go to my reviews of “New Tricks� and “Leader of the Pack.� In both, I give background on Andy Carpenter, our main protagonist, his team and all that would make anyone want to adopt this as your new favorite series.
We begin this book with a mass shooting in an office that leaves 6 people dead (thankfully not graphically described), and a person being charged with it. But the supposed “perpetrator� Nick Williams has his own story about what he was doing at the time of the murder. And, because he is one of Marcus� proteges, Andy is willing to defend him.
“…I would like to know what would make a guy like that walk in and coldly gun down six people, five of whom he worked with.�
So, is his story true? And, if he wasn’t the killer, who was? And, why?
With many twists and turns, this cozy mystery with an interesting premise that is not clear to readers early on, will no doubt please readers/fans.
I decided not to put this one on my currently reading list. I had been reading so many heavily emotional books lately, I just wanted to escape to a seI decided not to put this one on my currently reading list. I had been reading so many heavily emotional books lately, I just wanted to escape to a series that felt familiar and cozy.
Premise: Upon returning home from vacation, Andy Carpenter finds himself greeted by 4 dogs. Having only 3 dogs, the family is a bit confused, until they recognize that the cute terrier is Murphy. Murphy is a sweet rescue they took care of before he was adopted by a mom and her teenage son, BJ.
So, what was Murphy doing at their home? As it turns out, BJ is currently in custody for the murder of a visiting University professor. Knowing that anyone who loved dogs as much as BJ did, Andy decides to defend him. Because a dog-lover like BJ has to be innocent. Right? And, that is the best reason for a deserved defense by Andy Carpenter.
So, if BJ didn’t do it, who set him up and why? And, why would anyone kill a University professor? And, who paid for BJ’s original attorney who just wanted him to plead out and doesn’t seem to listen to his own client’s cries of innocence?
What is really going on here?
Readers are immediately re-introduced to Andy’s team. Sam Willis an accountant and computer whiz; Corey Douglas, an ex-cop and a partner in Andy’s wife, Laurie’s investigative firm; Simon Garfunkel the retired-police dog; Laurie, Andy’s wife and a retired cop; Eddie Dowd, a fellow attorney; Edna, Andy’s do-nothing secretary; and, Marcus a man of few words, who you never want to be caught in a fight with at any time, but appreciate if he is the one defending you.
And, there is always opportunity to appreciate the author’s sense of humor when Andy shares within his narrative�
“I’m in bed watching a football game with the sound off, and Laurie is reading a new book by her favorite author, David Rosenfelt. I don’t get it; I tried reading one and it was like sucking sawdust through a straw.�
And then he has Andy say�
“Can I turn out the lights?�
To which Laurie replies�
“I just want to read a few more pages. I love this guy.�
For anyone new to this series, please start at the beginning with “Open and Shut.� And, for more information on why I love this series, go to my reviews of “New Tricks� and “Leader of the Pack.� In both, I give background on Andy Carpenter, our main protagonist, and all the reasons why anyone would want to adopt this as their new favorite series.
As readers get more into the story, they learn about the victim and his “habits.� Could this be a contributor to his death? Or, was his research important enough for someone to kill him? Mostly, what could be gained by his death? And, could any of this put Andy Carpenter and his client’s life in danger?
With this series typical sense of humor, twisty plot, surprise ending; and, compelling characters, Rosenfelt delivers another fun and engrossing story for readers/fans.
I was sad when Baldacci ended his ‘Camel Club� series. But I was particularly frustrated because I could never find a copy of this book inCatching up�
I was sad when Baldacci ended his ‘Camel Club� series. But I was particularly frustrated because I could never find a copy of this book in the series. So, in many ways I felt like I was incomplete in having all the parts of the ‘Camel Club.� So, when this one was recently donated to my Little Free Library Shed, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of glee that I would finally be able to read it.
The “Camel Club� is a group led by Oliver Stone, a former CIA-trained assassin. They investigate political conspiracies. There are 4 members besides Oliver which include Milton Farb, Caleb Shaw, Reuben Rhodes and honorary member, Alex Ford. Each person brings a unique set of skills to the table and to their own investigations. This is the second book in the series.
Readers who enjoy reoccurring characters who fight for a cause will appreciate the ‘Camel Club’s� camaraderie. The story balances it with intrigue and espionage. Which feels true to form for their mission. After all, this group’s purpose is to keep the government accountable to the people. They are talented men who now are taking on dangerous cases because something is not right in government.
This one was published in 2006, but re-visiting it only makes me nostalgic for what I came to appreciate about this group when I first was introduced to them in book 1, “The Camel Club.�
Still, I can’t help but wonder�
Could there possibly be a real-life version of the Camel Club out there, please? ...more
This is the 3rd installment of the “Camel Club� series. The “Camel Club� is a group led by Oliver Stone, a former CIA-trained assassin. ThCatching up�
This is the 3rd installment of the “Camel Club� series. The “Camel Club� is a group led by Oliver Stone, a former CIA-trained assassin. They investigate political conspiracies. There are 4 members besides Oliver which include Milton Farb, Caleb Shaw, Reuben Rhodes and honorary member, Alex Ford. Each person brings a unique set of skills to the table and to their own investigations.
In this story, we get more of Oliver’s back story. A past that may be too present for comfort, as members of an elite force called Triple-Six, have been dying under suspicious circumstances. So, even though Oliver’s true identity is dead and buried, having been a part of this elite force back in the day, could someone out there know his truth? Is Oliver in danger now?
This is a fast-paced, riveting roller-coaster action thriller that will have many twists and turns to make readers almost dizzy. While this could be read as a stand-alone, it may be more fulfilling if readers start with the first book, “The Camel Club.�...more
I read this one years ago, but it was nice to catch up and re-visit it when the book was recently donated to my Little Free Library Shed. Catching up�
I read this one years ago, but it was nice to catch up and re-visit it when the book was recently donated to my Little Free Library Shed.
This story is based on a true one, about a man who was accepted as a member of a wild pack of wolves � his new, alternate family. And then, this same man is seen in a coma from a traumatic brain injury. This accident and status of the man becomes a difficult dilemma for his human family who aren’t sure whether to let him die naturally or keep him on life support. And, in typical form, Jodi has taken up another cause for readers to debate. Which makes this the ultimate story for book discussion groups.
As an author, she has a gift for taking controversy and mixing it up with strong-minded, likable, flawed characters wrapped in a plot that creates an emotionally stirring reading experience.
Readers will have the opportunity to hear multiple P.O.V.’s and tackle mysteries to be resolved. And, the story of the wolf which is beautifully woven throughout, allows nature to take a center-stage with its humans.
It may seem like too much to some readers, but it does give readers an opportunity to pause and consider that we are not the only life on this planet to be considered. We can learn a lot from our animal communities.
And of course, there is the message of the right to die, especially to those that are beloved by us.
Sometimes what we do for animals on the precipice of death, and how animals are towards each other when death is pending, feels more humane. Any way you look at the subject, it will most likely be a difficult and emotional debate/discussion to have with one another. ...more
“There is no wrong way to perform an act of kindness.�
I read this one years ago as I prepared to interview the author (CRH) as part of ouCatching up�
“There is no wrong way to perform an act of kindness.�
I read this one years ago as I prepared to interview the author (CRH) as part of our Library Book Discussion Group, Local Authors Series. It was one of my most memorable experiences as Coordinator of the program. I thought I had already posted my review of the book, but apparently not. So, here it is now.
This book probably became more memorable because it had been made into a successful movie in 2000, staring Haley Joel Osment, Helen Hunt and Kevin Spacey.
The story revolves around 12-year-old Trevor who wants to improve the planet through public-spiritedness. When a teacher provides an extra credit opportunity to her students, on how best to change the world, Trevor decides to take advantage of the assignment.
Trevor’s plan…random acts of kindness on 3 strangers, and telling each to pay the favor “forward� by doing something good for another three people. The good news…it catches on, causing goodness throughout the world.
But it isn’t just the goodness this book brought forward, it was also CRH’s carefully crafted characters who added charm, a sense of realness, and sometimes discomfort and depth to the story. As an example, Trevor’s mother is alcoholic, his teacher is disfigured, and Trevor is racially mixed.
The story is thoughtful and compelling, and sometimes difficult to read, with so many complex characters who aren’t always likable. But CRH still provides a rich story with an important message that we could all be reminded of in today’s world.
Be kind to others.
And, as Dieter F. Uchtdorf, a German aviator once said�
“Let our hearts and hands be stretched out in compassion toward others, for Everyone is walking his or her own difficult path.�...more
Loading...
