Sacha T. Y. Fortuné

A touching, heartbreaking memoir of motherhood, marriage, and madness

This was my forty-second book I chose via the Reedsy Discovery program, for which I am the single approved reviewer for this new book. This review also appears on Reedsy.

If you’re interested in becoming a Reedsy reviewer (and have the chance to get paid “tips” to review books!) check it out here.

The Premise

From marriage at a young age to her last days, Joan Burns recounts her life as a mother and wife in a working-class community in North-East England — mostly marred by her husband’s obsessive behaviour and poor mental health, which negatively impacted their entire family and threatened to ruin her happiness. Joan’s story is a moving account of heartache, resilience, and love.

The Pros

This was a touching, heartbreaking memoir of motherhood, marriage, and madness.

We learn of Joan’s early life and her parents’ relationship, which was strained; along with all her family’s histories that also shaped her beliefs about love and marriage. After falling out with her first love as a teenager, Joan soon falls in love with another man: Kenny. They marry and eventually have five children, but marital bliss is not to be: Kenny suffers from what we now know to be Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder — at the time, it was experienced by Joan to be bouts of madness where he spent hours washing himself, had peculiar behaviour such as replacing door handles and crockery that was “contaminated”, and in general he was extremely unreasonable and stubborn.

I loved reading about her entire family’s histories, and felt like I knew many of the characters as they were so vividly described. I also enjoyed learning about the trials and tribulations of motherhood and managing a household — bouncing around from home to home between rentals and government housing; spending all day washing, cooking, cleaning, and preparing and seeing about a family, and (something that resonates in every era!): running up debt while struggling to make ends meet.

This is truly a treasure trove of a time capsule of that era. As a reader we experience the joy of a time long gone by, when children were happily running around outside playing, before incessant gadgets and insolent know-it-all attitudes of today’s youth became the norm. Her children adore and respect her, and at times her daughter Julie carries a heavy burden of duty as an additional mother to the younger ones.

I appreciated that Joan was able to understand Kenny’s behaviour as illness rather than just peculiarity, but unfortunately at the time there was little she could do to help him, even though she tried many times. It was horrific to learn of the ways Kenny threatened their family’s happiness, and there are heartbreaking moments that pack a powerful punch.  There are also sweet times, and the lingering innocence and faith of the family’s matriarch Joan as she constantly strives to provide the best circumstances to produce a loving family home despite her husband’s madness and selfishness. I especially loved that she was able to open her heart again, as a mature woman, after all that she had suffered through with Kenny — this truly made my heart sing.

Exquisitely written, this story touches your heart and stays in your soul. Though told in a matter-of-fact tone of voice, there is still a pleasing dollop of dry British humour sprinkled throughout, which made it an enjoyable read from beginning to end. I finished it easily in just a couple of days, staying up late into the night to finish a chapter — only to move onto the next chapter as I couldn’t stop there!

Conclusion

This memoir was a collaboration of Joan’s documents, her daughter’ Julie’s revisions, a ghostwriter, and additional editing; and it was published by Julie’s daughter after the passing of her mother and grandmother. I am honoured to have gotten the chance to read and review this written tale of such valuable and cherished lives gone by, and would highly recommend to other readers.

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I chose this book from an ARC program after having read another of the author’s books, “The Girl Who Talks To Ashes” as I really enjoyed that one.

The Premise

THE AWAKENING: Aspen awakens with no recollection of her prior life and leads a lonely life keeping to herself — until, that is, strange and dangerous things begin to happen around her in response to her emotions. When she meets Aiden, she learns that she is a Pentamancer, a powerful and rare being that can wield and control the elements. As she struggles to deal with her new powers, she faces the Asterian Order, led by Savannah, who is intent on controlling her power and hiding her true past.

THE ENLIGHTENING: Aspen — or Rowan, her real name — is now aware of her past though she doesn’t remember it, and embarks on a journey to find her mother who she learns is being held hostage at a Containment Center by the Asterian Order. As her powers intensify — along with her feelings for Aiden — she questions who to trust, even Aiden himself. As he himself searches for his sister, who is also being held captive, Aspen realises that family ties are entangled with dark secrets that can tear them apart.

THE CHRISTENING:
It’s two months after the Day of Enlightenment, the day a true Pentamancer emerged once more on the world stage after centuries of extinction. Aspen agrees to cooperate with the Inner Circle in hopes that her radical visions for the Elementalist community can be realized. Political divisions are simmering, and the fate of the Community now rests on the shoulders of the so-called “Prophet”; it’s up to Aspen to decide whether to embrace her newfound status, or refuse it.

THE RECKONING:
Four years after the collapse of the Inner circle, the stakes have never been higher for Aspen and her friends… and losing has never been more dangerous.

The Pros

This was an epic fantasy that aptly captures the reader’s interest. Having read another book by the author before, I knew what to expect, and I was glad to see this live up to that expectation. I admit I would certainly have been rather unlikely to pick up an entire 4-book series from an ARC program, had I not had faith in the author! Fantasy is not my go-to genre (many authors just do it poorly, or without a clear vision) but I do love and appreciate when it is well executed, and this thankfully does not disappoint. The world-building was really well done, and I could easily imagine every scene as the descriptions are vivid.

I also loved the relationships it explores, which are not just romantic (thank God!) — there’s also family ties and friendship alliances and loyalty among the characters, mentor/mentee relationships with Aiden and Robert as well as those who train Aspen, and even the zealous quasi-religious following of those who adhere to the legend of the Pentamancer. The dialogue was also well written and kept the story lighthearted all the way though. Jumping from action, to romance, to suspense, to drama — the writing really takes you on a fantastic journey, suspending your disbelief and diving into their world of magic and power.

The Cons

There was a bit of a slow start at the very beginning as the author set up Aspen’s day-to-day life, but this soon fades away once it gains its strength. Though important to explain, there was a lot of detailed background information about the tattoos, including images and detailed explanations that I wished were a wee bit less. These are extremely, extremely, extremely tiny niggles though.

Also — not a con, but worth mentioning: though it is split into 4 books, it’s really one long book as there is no recap between books if you were to pick it up out of order. You need to read this in order!

Conclusion

Overall this was an epic journey from beginning to end and I am thrilled to recommend to readers of all ages who enjoy a good fantasy series. There is a lot to love here, and the characters are brilliantly created and brought to life by the author. Once you get into the swing of things, the action is nonstop from beginning to end with rarely a pause for breath to think. I look forward to reading more by this author.

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An inspiring book with useful tips and quotes to guide others in need of motivation

This was my forty-first book I chose via the Reedsy Discovery program, for which I am the single approved reviewer for this new book. This review also appears on Reedsy.

If you’re interested in becoming a Reedsy reviewer (and have the chance to get paid “tips” to review books!) check it out here.

The Premise

Athlete and marathon runner Jack Perconte shares the mindset and beliefs that have contributed to his success, offering encouragement to others to embody these principles and achieve their own goals.

The Pros & Cons

This was an inspiring book with useful tips and quotes to guide others in need of motivation.

Author, athlete, and experienced marathon runner Jack Perconte shares his expertise and advice he has learnt from decades of his craft. A major aspect of this is goal-setting. He highlights that an “all-in” attitude of commitment, along with a combination of goals of all sizes, is required to achieve a big dream:

The critical takeaway is that energy and purpose result when one has short, medium, and long-term aspirations happening simultaneously. Most people try quick attempts, and some attempt the intermediate ones. But most people spend a lot of time thinking of their deep-seated dreams but never act on them.

He interweaves famous quotes and song lyrics by authors, athletes, musicians, and other renowned persons, and also mentions his experience participating at different marathons. I liked reading the “Marathon Legend capsules” and about the various events he attended, and was thrilled to learn of his background that is often spent in service of admirable causes. Being a coach is such an important role to inspire others.

There is a lot of practical advice, such as how to prepare for a marathon by establishing routines with the same exercise times, balanced foods, etc.; and he highlights the importance of safety e.g. using the right shoes, practicing caution while using a treadmill, ensuring you research good trails that do not have uneven surfaces, focus on your surroundings in unknown areas rather than listening to headphones, and charging your phone before you head out, as this can become your lifeline in case of emergency. Also (and I totally agree!), it is good practice to be courteous to other runners.

He uses candid, direct language to engage the reader, and it is easy to read. Overall I really liked the premise of the book, and my only suggestion is that I wished it could have been more structured. There are a lot of useful points here, but at times they seem to be a bit scattered rather than following a cohesive thesis or overall framework of principles that would have helped to differentiate it more among its market of similar books. Nevertheless there is a lot of valuable information here, and the seemingly “scattered” anecdotes may appeal to those who read short bits on a regular basis, as this can serve as their motivational focus for their daily practices.

Conclusion

This was an enjoyable book, and I am glad to have gotten the chance to learn so much from a veteran sportsperson and coach. I would recommend to others, both athletes as well as anyone who may need an extra boost of motivation to find their purpose and make intentional changes in their lives. I thank the author for taking the time to produce this collection of advice and strategy, and look forward to his further works.

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An inspiring and useful book for those suffering with chronic illness

This was my fortieth book I chose via the Reedsy Discovery program, for which I am the single approved reviewer for this new book. This review also appears on Reedsy.

If you’re interested in becoming a Reedsy reviewer (and have the chance to get paid “tips” to review books!) check it out here.

The Premise

The author integrates his personal and professional insights into a concise, actionable, evidence-based guidebook to help others to live their best lives despite having a chronic illness.

The Pros & Cons

This was an inspiring and useful book for those suffering with chronic illness.

The author notes the high prevalence of chronic medical conditions, and points out the poor quality of life for those who suffer. He highlights the importance of focusing on mental health alongside any other therapies or medications, stating that even when conditions are “invisible” they are still very real to the patient and require a multi-pronged approach.

Blending facts with useful resources, as well as sharing his own experience of struggling with an immune deficiency disorder, he promotes “Acceptance and Commitment Therapy”, which helps patients clarify their values and lead a more fulfilling life while improving psychological flexibility; as well as “positive psychology” which embraces optimism while understanding the merits of “defensive pessimism”.

He shares his religious faith, which has guided him through his challenges, and also advises that staying open to new experiences can be a healthy coping mechanism. Lifelong learning is important to keep your mind active and healthy; volunteering, in particular, is another strategy to help take the focus away from one’s pain and into more altruistic measures that can be of mutual benefit as it reduces your own stress.

There are self-reflective questions to guide the reader, as well as prompts such as: “Write a letter to someone you have never thanked before” and “Write one thing for which you are grateful for each day”. He also encourages practicing mindfulness, such as breathing exercises and various forms of exercise; and mentions supplements that can help chronic illnesses. There are also practical tips to help simplify your life, such as decluttering your home or having groceries delivered.

Dating advice is also included, as well as resources to access support groups, and tips about discussing your illness with your loved ones as well as with your employer. I also appreciated the section where he outlines things that someone should NOT tell someone with a chronic illness, for example it is insensitive and cruel to say: “You don’t look sick” or “It’s all in your head.”

Finally, he encourages others to not succumb to the negative emotions caused by their illnesses, but to instead consider how their conditions can benefit them. He states:

I have found incredible meaning and purpose from living with my invisible chronic illnesses. While my search for better health never ceases, I view this suffering as a part of life from which I can grow and learn.

Conclusion

Overall this was a very useful book with several aspects of guidance, and there is a lot here that can benefit multiple audiences. It is well researched and aptly presented, and it can be used by both those with chronic illness as well as those who are caregivers or loved ones of someone with such an illness. I would highly recommend this book to others, and look forward to future works from this author.

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A sweet children’s book of bravery and triumph that has a lasting positive message

This was my thirty-ninth book I chose via the Reedsy Discovery program, for which I am the single approved reviewer for this new book. This review also appears on Reedsy.

If you’re interested in becoming a Reedsy reviewer (and have the chance to get paid “tips” to review books!) check it out here.

The Premise

An inspiring and entertaining magical adventure about two siblings who go in search of an emerald to tame the Worry Monster — but do they need this external magic, or is the magic already inside them? Using cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), it supports children’s development and helps to manage their anxiety.

The Pros & Cons

This was a sweet children’s book of bravery and triumph that has a lasting positive message.

Levi is afraid of the Worry Monster that has him going to sleep scared and waking up worried. He sees the monster outside his window, but his mother doesn’t see it. However, she tells him about advice she got from his Grand Granny:

“Face your fears head on, and don’t you ever run away. Look for the magic emerald in the deep green forest, to keep your Worry Monster at bay.”

With the help of his sister Luna, Levi embarks on a journey to find the emerald to tame his Worry Monster. Their journey forces them to be brave — along a long trail, to a cave in a forest. During their adventure, he feels worried and anxious, and finally has to confront his fears by attacking the monster with his robotic leg.

Notably, there are parts that rhyme and parts that don’t. Also, there were a couple of minor errors e.g. “rug sacks” instead of “rucksacks”, and some comparisons that rang a bit odd e.g. “Your brain is like a washing machine” (because you always want to worry).

However, overall I really liked the consistency with mostly four-line stanzas/paragraphs, the curly words for emphasis, the adjectives paired with the verbs and adverbs, and the alliteration throughout e.g. “dreadfully dangerous”, “meandered moodily”, and “sharp shiny”. I also appreciated that there is a mix of big and small words — this helps children to explore and build their vocabulary skills. Finally, I liked the inclusion of a diverse character like Levi with his robotic leg that saved the day.

Overall, the story helps children understand that anxiety and worry are experiences that are necessary to overcome, but they do not need external magic to do so — the power lies within them:

“Did I even need to find the treasure chest, or the emerald deep in the cave? Did I need to have such an adventure, or did I just need to look inside myself and be brave?”

Conclusion

This was a good read for young children, with colourful illustrations and mostly easy-to-read words. I would recommend to readers between 3 and 8, but it can be enjoyed by everyone. The story charts the journey of a child to face his fears and overcome them, which is an important part of cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) that can help children to manage their anxiety. I look forward to other books by this author.

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An enjoyable, heart-warming tale of dedication and selflessness to a worthy cause

This was my thirty-eighth book I chose via the Reedsy Discovery program, for which I am the single approved reviewer for this new book. This review also appears on Reedsy.

If you’re interested in becoming a Reedsy reviewer (and have the chance to get paid “tips” to review books!) check it out here.

The Premise

An image of a blind child in a newspaper became the catalyst for Dr. Mehdi Mostamand to change the course of his life, and dedicate it to helping the poor who do not have easy access to healthcare. The author recounts his father’s life and achievements.

The Pros

This was an enjoyable, heart-warming tale of dedication and selflessness to a worthy cause.

Interweaving his father’s journals with his own recollections, the author highlights his father’s legacy. It is beautifully written with a storytelling cadence that is easy to fall into as the dialogue unfolds among the characters. We also learn history and culture of the region through the settings described, and the language used.

The doctor’s calm humility and grace in his personality shine through, particularly in the interviews with the media when he responded to any negative nay-sayers with confidence and purpose. His passion is also seen when he is confronted with bureaucracy, and his voice can be heard through the words:

These children are the future doctors, teachers, engineers, and scientists of our country. If we let them go blind, how can we put our country on the path of progress and advancement?

I loved the way he used his journals to inspire his children, rather than keeping it personal to just remind him of his past. Through his writings, he engaged them and taught them valuable lessons, and also shared part of himself:

Through his journal and his own stories, we learned about his deepest feelings. We learned what moved him, what made him happy, and why Mahatma Gandhi was his hero. […] We also learned how Dad felt about God and religion and why he loved poetry, Rumi, and Ismael Balkhi. His journal was a window into his soul.

As the narrative charts his journey to engage organisations to fund and support his initiatives, we also see the upheaval of the political climate around them. Alongside this explosive environment, there are sweet family moments of bonding and love. It was heartbreaking to see his father — a beacon of optimism, and a guiding light for the entire family — suffer from illness and depression, and eventually mental deterioration as the years went by. I am grateful to have learnt about his contributions, and also enjoyed the photos included at the end of the memoir.

Conclusion

This was a lovely read by a talented author to create this engaging blend of fact and constructed recollection into an enjoyable memoir. I was thrilled to learn of the dedication of this doctor and his contribution to the medical field in their country. Writing this story honours his life and his work, and I thank the author for sharing what was special about his father. I would recommend to other readers, and I look forward to any further work by the author.

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An inspiring, empowering self-help guide to surviving and thriving after divorce 

This was my thirty-seventh book I chose via the Reedsy Discovery program, for which I am the single approved reviewer for this new book. This review also appears on Reedsy.

If you’re interested in becoming a Reedsy reviewer (and have the chance to get paid “tips” to review books!) check it out here.

The Premise

Picking up the pieces after the dissolution of her marriage, the author pens her account of her lessons learnt. Tracing her own self-development and evolution to independence, she offers guidance to others to embark on their journey in their new status of being single.

The Pros & Cons

This was an inspiring, empowering self-help guide to surviving and thriving after divorce.

Combining eloquent prose with memorable quotes, powerful affirmations, and guided tasks of mindfulness, the author weaves her own experience into a springboard to help others who may find themselves in a similar situation.

The book covers a broad range of topics — grief, depression, therapy, family relationships, mental health, financial ruin, dating post-divorce, and much more. It also has anecdotes of her personal experience, for instance: being caught unawares about managing the affairs of her car, immediately post-divorce, because her ex had always handled it; and losing the in-laws and mutual friends that had been such a big part of her life.

I liked that she still maintains that her ex was her best friend, and absolutely loved the way she defended him when another man put him down — this was awe-inspiring, and so important to see: even though we may not still be in love with someone, the bad times do not make the good times invalid.

It was also notable that she mentions that friends and family only want to see you happy and move on — though your circle may be supportive, they cannot really understand what you are going through unless they have experienced it themselves; the “divorce club” you belong to may consist of strangers rather than your closest loved ones. I also liked her mention of one key lesson learnt — that she must learn to be a better partner; and her expressed irritation at those who guilt you with “think about the kids” and foist “marriage counselling” onto everyone as a solution to everything, thinking “you just didn’t try hard enough” when in reality, at times it may only prolong the inevitable: all marriages are not worth saving.

I found the quotes interspersed throughout to be insightful, and some of these are great take-aways that resonated with me:

Being single is significantly better than being in a marriage that eats away at your spirit.

The real tragedy would be wasting your pain. Use those tears to fuel your drive to create an extraordinary life.

I used to live our life. Now I live mine.

Conclusion

Though I myself have not personally endured the agony of divorce, I found this book useful and a valuable resource for anyone going through a difficult relationship. It can also be read as a cautionary tale for those who are single or about to embark in a serious commitment or marriage; a reminder to ensure that you do not lose yourself in someone else, but learn to love yourself and thrive on your own. I would highly recommend to other readers, and look forward to other books by the author.

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An inspiring self-help guide to rising above your own fears and limitations

This was my thirty-sixth book I chose via the Reedsy Discovery program, for which I am the single approved reviewer for this new book. This review also appears on Reedsy.

If you’re interested in becoming a Reedsy reviewer (and have the chance to get paid “tips” to review books!) check it out here.

The Premise

Providing valuable insight into the human psyche, the author enlightens us as to what boundaries stand in our way to success, and advises ways to circumvent this negativity and triumph to achieve our goals.

The Pros & Cons

This is an inspiring self-help guide to rising above your own fears and limitations.

It is true that “Beliefs can make you or break you” — understanding the difference between empowering and disempowering beliefs is key to one’s mental health. As the author explains, our modern “threats” in society are related to the events that can change our well-known path to survival:

If we are used to a routine that our belief system accepts as safe, it would be challenging to change it.

I appreciated that the book is well presented and laid out, and aptly researched, interweaving quotes from renowned historical sources (emperors, philosophers, religious leaders, author, poets, etc.) as well as more modern scientifically-based sources. As each chapter unfolds, it provides take-aways and checklists to refer to, engaging the reader in guided exercises to break away from their negative thinking and focus on self-development.

The resources provided (some of which are accessible online) were useful, and the goal-setting practices are easy to follow. I also liked the use of dialogue exchanges to connect with readers, as these “voices” resonate with us all; these are all thoughts we have heard or experienced that get in the way of our success. Finally, I found it insightful that he mentions society is centred on “brainwashing” by family and friends among communities:

They have passed their beliefs on us as the truth. As a result, the way we work is not our way. We didn’t choose to listen to them, but our subconsciousness was imbued with their beliefs. What we can do now, however, is say “That’s enough.”

I admit this is quite similar to other self-help books, and there is nothing radically new here, but overall this was a good read, and provides many useful resources.

Conclusion

Though I did wish it was more differentiated from others on the market, I enjoyed this self-help book and appreciate the research and effort put into compiling it in an easy-to-read and digestible format. I believe it will be valuable for its target market, and I would recommend to other readers. I really liked the short chapters and overall layout, and I think it will be particularly useful as part of someone’s daily ritual to practice mindfulness and cope with stress in their day-to-day lives.

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An enjoyable young adult psychological thriller with a supernatural twist

This was my thirty-fifth book I chose via the Reedsy Discovery program, for which I am the single approved reviewer for this new book. This review also appears on Reedsy.

If you’re interested in becoming a Reedsy reviewer (and have the chance to get paid “tips” to review books!) check it out here.

The Premise

Months after their abusive father’s death, siblings Jessie and Bryan grapple with moving forward. But Jessie’s alter-ego Lena gets in the way, and their father’s ghost is hell-bent on destroying both Jessie and her alter-ego(s). Can she find the strength in herself to overcome this dark force?

The Pros & Cons

This was an enjoyable young adult psychological thriller with a supernatural twist.

I chose it because the preview was intense and completely blew me away — it opens promisingly with a violent scene; however this shocking intro does taper off a bit as the story unfolds. Nevertheless it is a good read, and there are many elements to like here.

I loved the relationship between the two main characters, siblings that endured their father’s abuse and their mother’s poor management of the family and of her own emotions. It was heart-wrenching to see the way she behaved in not protecting her children, though we understand she was dealing with her own trauma when she attempts to take her own life.

Brian’s love for his sister and his fear of her inability to control her multiple personalities make him want to stay home to protect her, but he eventually leaves. I liked seeing the ways in which both he and Jessie engage in relationships and find solace in their love lives, and also was happy to see their mother recovering and emerging from her shell. I was glad to see the wider support network with Dr. Chen and Reverend White providing help, as therapy and guidance are much needed to help deal with the ordeal they have been through.

The novel is short and it held my interest well enough, but I do not believe I am the ideal reader. I did not feel fully invested with the characters — though I usually love books that jump between multiple characters, it somehow felt strange to be reading from the points of view of siblings (both male and female), with little difference in the style of writing (making it hard to differentiate between them apart from the chapter titles) — and then it briefly jumps into Lena (Jessie’s alter-ego) without explanation. I also usually love psychological thrillers that deal with dissociative personalities, but here it is not executed as well as I hoped it would be. Finally, the build-up to the “showdown” with the ghost was great, but then there were just a few paragraphs of actual confrontation before the book winds into an abrupt end.

Conclusion

Overall the plot is a doozy, but I wished the story had bloomed a bit better to pack a more powerful punch into its short word count. I’m glad I gave this book a try, and though it wasn’t entirely my cup of tea, I can recommend to younger readers. The short, choppy chapters are easy to breeze through (I read the book in just a few hours), and this will well suit the YA target market. The language is fluid, and the action is continuous and engaging all the way through. I also loved the overall message of strength and power in yourself to overcome the ghosts of your past — this is so crucial, particularly for young people, and I thank the author for using her own personal experience to craft a story that can inspire and help others. I’d love to give the author another try, and I may also look into the first book in this series.

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A raw, thought-provoking reflection of mental health and the internal wounds of its gatekeepers

This was my thirty-fourth book I chose via the Reedsy Discovery program, for which I am the single approved reviewer for this new book. This review also appears on Reedsy.

If you’re interested in becoming a Reedsy reviewer (and have the chance to get paid “tips” to review books!) check it out here.

The Premise

Mental health therapist Jim LaPierre LCSW recounts his own life and career experiences, and provides guidance for other “wounded healers” like himself who straddle the fine line of sanity while helping others with their own mental struggles. Through self-help reflective questions and exercises, readers can use this book to help their own healing and recovery.

The Pros & Cons

This was a raw, thought-provoking reflection of mental health and the internal wounds of its gatekeepers.

Through an engaging collection of short essays, the author recaps his personal experience with his past as well as throughout his career. He also offers self-help guidance in the forms of questions and exercises at the end of each chapter.

His recounts of experiences with patients were interesting and deep, and it was evident that they impacted upon his psyche and were influential in shaping his practice. He explains how many of us operate on a spectrum where we “pass for normal”; however, “we create internal conflict by avoiding external conflict.” There are many profound statements that inspire deep reflection, such as: “My brain does an awful lot of stuff without my permission.” This is so true, and really resonated with me.

In terms of the overall book as a whole, there are a few moments that feel repetitive, but nevertheless these elements give it a natural cadence of storytelling that is calming and reassuring — similar to a therapy session. There are a lot of images that stay with you as inspirational take-aways.

For instance, I liked his comparison to the tale of Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer and the Island of Misfit Toys, where toys that were abandoned or imperfect were able to come together and form a family — so, too, can “wounded healers” who can combine their strengths and capacities to make each other whole again, through their connections and bonds among the community:

We are different but in amazing ways. Nobody loves like we love. Nobody laughs like we laugh. Nobody will ever be as honest with you as we will. Our loyalty to each other is fierce, and we are the very best people to call at 3 a.m. when the wheels have come off the bus because nobody can be there for you like we can. Despite being so good to each other, we struggle to be good to ourselves.

Conclusion

The lasting message of this book is that to be able to be a healer, you must work on yourself first:

It is not selfish to take care of yourself while serving the world. Quite the opposite: it is absolutely and undeniably necessary.

I can see this book being very useful for its target market, particularly as a regular practice of daily or weekly reading, and as a reference guide to help practice mindfulness while working in this challenging profession. I would highly recommend to others, and I thank the author for the time and care to provide this valuable resource to the community.

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A painful but entertaining, triumphant memoir of a woman’s infertility journey

This was my thirty-third book I chose via the Reedsy Discovery program, for which I am the single approved reviewer for this new book. This review also appears on Reedsy.

If you’re interested in becoming a Reedsy reviewer (and have the chance to get paid “tips” to review books!) check it out here.

The Premise

Jade Barrett was in her 30s and living a great life — with a good career, a supportive network of family and friends, and a husband she loved, and with a healthy lifestyle. She never thought that infertility would become her story… until it did. From multiple IVF cycles, incompetent and annoying medical staff, and mood swings galore, Jade recounts her experience, also giving advice to other women who may be going through a similar experience.

The Pros & Cons

This was a touching, amazing memoir that took you through a wide range of emotions from beginning to end. The author holds nothing back — and I thank her for it! The honesty is refreshing, and I myself admit that I would have had the same thought processes as she did.

Like Jade, many women do not consider infertility when they believe they lead healthy, well-rounded, functional lives, and it was a slap in the face to discover that parenthood — a journey she’d put off for so many years to focus on her career and marriage — was not meant to be quite as easy for her as it was for so many others who get pregnant in the blink of an eye.

From the first shock wave of “we may need to see a doctor”, we feel every emotion Jade endures, particularly the underlying resentment towards her husband and blind rage when well-meaning friends say something incredibly condescending, pitying, or insensitive.

The author’s voice is charming, relatable, and intimate (a bit *too* intimate at times — not to give away any spoilers but let’s just say the word “blue” has a whole new meaning to me!). I truly appreciated, more than anything, that she voiced her concern at stages along the way when she was mistreated or ignored — this is extremely critical for others to adopt, and the memoir’s most important message.

Conclusion

At around 100 pages, I flew through this book in one night. It is short but well-written and packs a powerful punch. With authenticity, humour and a storytelling cadence that is easy to fall into, this was a great read. I also loved that the author was reflective as she recounts the story, understanding things in the aftermath and sharing her brazen honesty as she recalls her (at times unreasonable) emotions and behaviours at the time. Thankfully, she made it through and had a positive result. Though I myself have not gone through the harrowing journey of infertility, I know many couples who have, and I would be happy to recommend this memoir to them, as well as to anyone else.

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I chose this book from a book club as I liked the synopsis.

The Premise

Cynthia and Anne are two of the clients invited to a spa to enhance their lives. Despite having little in common, the roommates soon forge a friendship as they embark on a journey of self-discovery and betterment. However this soon takes a dark turn when they awaken in a different room. Gone is the beauty and luxury of the spa environment and the servants catering to their every whim; gone is their freedom. They are now being held prisoners against their will. Working with the other female prisoners to combine their new abilities, they must find a way to escape.

The Pros

This was a women’s fiction with thriller elements. I enjoyed the budding friendships between the main characters and also some of the side characters as well. I appreciated that there were also romantic elements but these were not the main focus of the story. I liked seeing the protagonists grow into their own and find strength in their camaraderie. The dialogue was also kept light despite the serious overtures of the nightmare that they were experiencing, and it helped to keep my interest all the way through.

I also really liked the overall premise of the story, as it had a sort of dystopian feel to it though it was set in modern times. It was easy to believe that these places do exist, and nefarious activities are happening in places we don’t know about.

The Cons

Though I liked the story overall, I admit I wanted a bit more. While I loved the little twist at the end, I expected a bigger twist regarding the whole premise. I had many scenarios in my head as to who was behind it, or what was the reason it all began, and this was never discovered — the “big reveal” felt vague. There were also some plot holes for me — why ask such specific eerie questions and risk revealing their intentions from the jump; how did the high-level security drop to barely-existent from time to time; why was Anne supposedly a separate type of client (this didn’t seem significant enough for a role — she could’ve easily been a regular client just like Cynthia). I also felt in terms of pacing, it was on the long side for the thriller aspect of the genre, and it could have been edited down a bit to add tension. Finally while I loved the two main view points we switch between (Anne and Cynthia), I personally didn’t need the others as they tipped the balance of the story.

Conclusion

Despite my niggling issues as a picky reader (and HUGE fan of the genre mash-up of “women’s fiction” and “thriller”) this was still a great novel and I would recommend it to others. I can see it being made into a film as there were so many interesting characters and so many layers of intrigue. With some tweaks this would be really amazing, and there’s so much potential here as the idea is fresh and unique. I would definitely give the author another go with further books.

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I chose this book from an ARC program as I am a fan of the author. This is my fourth book I’ve read and reviewed by this author; the others are:

• • Everywhere, Always
  • The Stillness Before The Start
  • This Is Your Life

The Premise

Maren is mourning the recent death of her brother Jake, whose soccer legacy still looms in the halls at their school, when soccer star Vince moves in to claim the void he left behind. Though determined to dislike him, she finds herself thrown together with him frequently, and he soon wears her down. As a photographer, she likes to find the flaws in her subjects, but it soon becomes harder and harder to find flaws in Vince as their friendship blossoms into romance.

The Pros

This was a heartwarming, sweet story of young love. I liked all the characters and was glad to see the two main characters develop a friendship before it turned into anything romantic. Vince showed his true colours in the ways he supported Maren, and it was clear that he wasn’t just a dumb jock as the typical stereotype he could so easily be.

I also loved Maren’s relationship with Andy — their dialogue stole the show! It was great to see her have a genuine person who understood her, and even though he has his own battles and demons to fight, he was always there to support his best friend. The novels represents LGBTQ+ characters beautifully and multi-dimensionally (I’m also a big fan of any novel that doesn’t OVERSELL the gayness unnecessarily but works it into the fabric of the story!)

It also did a great job of slowly building the insidious relationship with the teacher, which is an important theme to explore and represent with tact and precision in today’s world. Overall this was a great story and these characters will stay with me for awhile.

The Cons

I loved this and enjoyed it a lot, so there are very few negatives for me. My only con is again (as with some of the author’s other books) that I am a sucker for wanting more conflict! While there is a fair deal of conflict around her parents’ weird behaviour, the conflict between the couple seems practically nonexistent. He’s a sweet guy and apart from one tiny event, there isn’t really anything keeping them apart except her own internal drama.

Conclusion

This was a lovely novel and one I would highly recommend to teenage girls, or anyone who likes a good story. I really appreciated the multitude of themes it interweaves and explores seamlessly, and I liked the novel’s overall message. I’m already a fan of this author, and of course will love to keep on reading more of her books.

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This book came to me via a book club. I chose it because I had read and enjoyed another by the same author, “A Heart Life“.

The Premise

Eager to escape her controlling and abusive husband, Stella flees with her teenage twins to Monarch Bay, where her sister lives. With Katrina’s kindness to open her home to her estranged sister, Stella soon finds her footing in her new environment. She is pleased to see her children adjusting to their new lives, and glad that she wrenched them away from Robert in time before they became tainted by his abuse. A new friendship with her employer David soon sparks into something more, and Stella finally receives the love and affection she has longed for all through her abusive marriage. Just when it seems that her new life is shimmering ahead of her, Robert reenters to ruin everything. Can Stella and her children escape his reign of terror and have the future they all deserve?

The Pros

This was a swift, fast-paced read. It was easy to get into the mind of the main character Stella, and feel her pain and trauma of surviving domestic abuse. Her husband Robert was horrible on so many levels, and we quickly connect with her.

Her children also supported her whole-heartedly, which was refreshing to see as I expected they would have been more reticent to leave their friends behind. Her sister also welcomed her fully even though they had been estranged for over a decade. I was glad to see Stella’s family members support her to such an extent, and I really enjoyed the aspects of her character where we see her personality bursting through — chatting with the truck driver, volunteering at the bakery, offering to be a surrogate for her sister, and connecting with others in the community. Despite Robert’s attempts to break her, she was still her own person — this was something worth celebrating.

With such an admirable main character, this novel was interesting to read and hard to put down as we follow Stella’s journey to not just escape abuse but to survive and thrive.

The Cons

I enjoyed this novel, but for me personally, the pacing didn’t give a chance to warm up to things. The teenagers tell everything to their mom so quickly, the sisters make up swiftly after a falling out, even the romantic pair blurt out exactly what’s on their minds without much time in between to build the tension — overall, it didn’t leave a lot to the imagination, and it felt like it was racing to a finish line to get the story out. I also felt like, for a battered woman, Stella didn’t try hard to cover her tracks — I was actually surprised Robert didn’t find her sooner! I was also hoping for a bit more of a twist to make it substantially different from other domestic abuse plots, but it wound up nicely into a predictable (though satisfying) conclusion.

Conclusion

Despite my own ambivalence on a few plot points, this was a good story overall and it will resonate with many women. There is a positive message interlaced throughout, and happiness beyond the trauma that the main character survives — and also happiness for side characters as well, who also endure their own difficult journeys. I would recommend to other readers, and I would like to read other books by this author as this was the second one that I enjoyed.

Purchase your copy

I picked this from a book club after reading another by the author in this same series, “A Savage Trick” which I really enjoyed, so I went in with high expectations.

The Premise

FBI Agent Jace flirts with a beautiful older woman at a wedding, only to find out shortly thereafter that she is his new boss. ATF supervisor Heidi, fresh out of a past situation that ended badly with her agent’s suicide, is seeking redemption in this new case to solve the terrorist bombings by white supremacists — but as a woman in the field, she is often slighted and it is hard to earn respect. Now, with the hot-headed hottie agent Jace under her command, she is struggling to maintain her professional demeanour while overseeing his undercover operation. As Jace gets deeper into the terror plot, he and Heidi must race against time to solve the case before another bombing occurs — but will their attraction to each other get in the way?

The Pros

This was a fast-paced romantic suspense filled with dramatic twists and turns. The author clearly did her research to make the situations and dialogue sound realistic — something that is a pet peeve of mine for any subject matter that deals with law enforcement! I enjoyed reading the action scenes and I felt that each character was aptly fleshed out, even the antagonists. I also enjoyed the interaction between the two main characters, which builds slowly throughout the story until it finally — finally — explodes!

I was glad to see glimpses of my favourite character from the last book — Zamira! Zamira! Zamira! — as well as others in the Quinn family. There were also some shocking moments the author explores that are far too easy to picture in real-life — a young man being led astray, disillusioned and needing to feel like he belongs; and the additional danger women face in their daily lives while practicing their religious faith.

The Cons

I do have to admit, however, that I went in with high expectations, and overall it didn’t quite measure up to the one I read previously. Jace’s insubordination and tightly-wound alpha-male behaviour was infuriating rather than attractive sometimes, and Heidi’s decisions were questionable at times. Also, while for the premise of a suspense novel, I understand that having this kind of plot unwind over a year or more would be difficult to write, still it struck me that Jace supposedly gained the trust of these terrorists FAR too quickly, which was the only thing that felt unrealistic to me.

Conclusion

Despite my tiny niggles, this was overall a terrific story, well written and fast-paced. The elements the author explores and winds together into a cohesive, fluid plot combine to present an excellent depiction of issues that we face today — prejudice, terrorism, and the fragility of life. I could feel throughout the novel that the author poured so much heart into the story, and I really appreciated the tiny nuances to make this kind of story feel realistic. I would highly recommend to other readers, and look forward to reading more by this author.

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This book came to me via a book club. I chose it because I was in the mood for a relatively short read, and the plot sounded intriguing.

The Premise

A chance encounter leads to an odd relationship between an old man and a middle-aged woman. In each other, they find something beyond romance — a connection that transcends the realities of their lives. They help each other to overcome loss and find a new kind of love that goes deeper than sex and romantic love: family, belonging, peace.

The Pros & Cons

This was truly a unique novel, and beautifully done. Told in alternating parts by Ben, a retiree with a reputation as a sage advisor to troubled souls; and Sam, a middle-aged woman working in finance, the tale slowly unravels to reveal an unusual relationship between two kindred spirits.

I loved the way their pasts are uncovered layer by layer as we learn who they each were before they came to know each other. There were truly shocking moments as the reader grapples to combine the character we’ve grown to admire, with the violence buried in his past; similarly, Sam’s tragic experience felt jarring to her here-and-now exuberant personality.

The prose is excellent and takes you on a journey through unbearable loss and the power of redemption. There is a lyrical sense to the writing, and also a tinge of magic realism amidst the words.

My only slight con was that I felt there were a few contrived or confusing moments, such as Sam’s behaviour to make Ben jealous, and also the discussion between Sam and Ben’s friends was very detailed and felt out of place among the rest of the book for me personally.

Conclusion

I enjoyed this book, though I admit its style may not be for everyone. Overall, it feels like a novel that can be dissected and explored for literary purposes, as there were clearly many deeper, profound meanings despite the simplicity of the story. There was also a plethora of themes covered within this short book, giving an overall enriching experience as you wind down to the last page. I would recommend to readers who want something deep and moving that will stay with you.

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I received this book directly from the author, who found me via Reedsy.

The Premise

In the near-future of 2022, Spanish teacher Christopher Reyes lives in Eternity Grove. His simple life is shattered as strange things start happening — demonic voices in his head, objects that move on their own, strangers breaking into his house to leave ghastly surprises, and gory tragedies. His ten-year-old students Claire, Kristian, and Jonathan seem to be at the centre of everything. Chris and his friends must race to find out what’s going on before it’s too late.

The Pros

It’s been quite awhile since I read a horror, and I was looking forward to this one particularly as I noted that the author loves Stephen King — one of my all-time favourites!

I did see some similarities in his writing style though he has his own unique flair, of course. I really enjoyed the characters he created, which is something I think a lot of horror authors don’t care enough about — they usually give us one-dimensional stereotypes who react similarly to the horrible events unfolding around them. However, here we have a main character who is rooted in the real world — he is loved and admired by his colleagues, his friends, students and the wider community.

His relationship with his best friend was really fun to read, as well as the budding friendship with the nurse Luke — the dialogue felt real and relatable. I also liked that we saw the children’s side as well, and got to guess at what they were plotting behind his back. The world-building is thorough, and I liked the way we see bits and pieces as it gradually unfolds. The descriptions of the scenes with the strange happenings — particularly in his classes — were really great, and here is where his talent shines. There is also a build-up of mystery as Chris learns about strange occurrences in the past and pieces together what’s going on. His intuition to mistrust the children was also admirable, and it was interesting to read on as he flailed desperately to protect his students while also feeling like he was losing his mind. Finally, I also really appreciated the diversity of the characters.

The Cons

I wish I could have rated this a bit higher because I did enjoy it, but there were a few things that detracted from the overall experience for me. Mainly, it felt quite a bit longer than it should’ve been, and it included some details that could’ve been reduced — we knew everything from what the characters ate to what their favourite TV shows were, and what they did from point A to point B day-to-day that slowed down the pace of the plot. I would’ve loved to see it move along more swiftly, as I was getting impatient for the good stuff!

It also seemed odd to me that though we know the characters’ names, we still see their dialogue being reported by “the nurse” and “the teacher” repeatedly throughout. Finally there were a few plot arcs that were sprinkled in but I didn’t think were necessary as there was so much else going on already — namely, Luke’s ex relationship, and Alex’s trauma with his girlfriend. It diverted my attention from the plot, which was a shame because the plot is a doozy!

Conclusion

Overall this was quite a good read, and I’m glad I gave it a try. It was definitely memorable, and I think the author did a good job even though I wished it was shorter. I anticipate that a lot of what I found was “extra” may be laying the foundation for future books, as it appears to be the first in a series. The greatest strength of the novel, I believe, is that it found a way to bring in humour consistently although it is a horror — this takes quite some talent! It made you want to keep on reading all the way through as you grow to care for these characters and want to find out what happens to them. I would recommend to other adult readers who enjoy horror and aren’t overly sensitive to political correctness. I look forward to seeing what else this author has to offer.

Purchase your copy

This book came to me via an ARC program.

The Premise

A young woman of African descent navigates love and family, in a world where violence and abuse are commonplace. Put out of her house when she becomes pregnant as a teenager, she struggles to survive by her wits and grit to provide a home and stability for her sons. As she jumps from one “dog” of a man to the next, we see her continue to make the same mistakes and face similar disappointments. She must learn to rise above and work on herself to build the future she wants to see.

The Pros & Cons

This was an engaging though difficult read at times. It is an epic saga that included so much — apart from the core theme of domestic violence, there was a heavy undercurrent of gay/lesbian issues. Set in the 1970s-1980s when AIDS was still referred to as “GRID” (Gay Related Immune Deficiency), she experiences the tragic loss of a friend to this disease, which also haunts her own relationship with her son who has “sissy” tendencies. She also has a complicated friendship with her lesbian friend Rexanne, who helps her after she is kicked out but wants more than friendship.

The role of fathers in the Black community is another key theme here, as Cheryl hopes for a stable home for her children. After Diallo, the father of her first child, leaves town, she soon becomes embroiled with the man who would eventually become her husband: Plez. Despite the warning signs we can all see a mile away, she falls in love with this man Plez, who abuses her physically and emotionally, over the entire course of their marriage. He commands the household, alienating her from her friends and family, and he is prone to violent outbursts, jealous rages, and emotional manipulation. The way he treats her leaves her questioning her own self-worth, and despite some of her questionable choices to enact revenge, she continues to fight her way through all of the darkness she faces.

The author builds characters very well, and I appreciated that everyone felt fully developed — from her parents’ volatile relationship to her blossoming flirtation with a coworker, each character feels like someone you know. The richness of dialogue infused with ebonics was really interesting — I loved how it made you feel like you were living every moment with the main character.

There were very few cons here, as this novel is exquisitely written. My general feeling, though, was that it felt quite long, and with the content so overwhelming I had to take a break from time to time! Nevertheless I can’t imagine what the author could’ve significantly cut, as every scene paints a perfect picture of Cheryl’s life. If anything, maybe her new love interest coming down to the end of the novel could have been a more minor role, as her own growth was more important to the central story. It was uplifting to see her triumph in the end beyond all the drama, and find peace with herself.

Conclusion

Overall, this was a great read that aptly reflects a reality all too common among young Black women: the desperation to find love, at whatever cost, results in repeating the cycle of abuse. From the poor role models for young black boys, to the sadistic learned behaviours of gender-based violence, these gritty realities showcase the fundamental issues among the “dogs” in society, as well as the women that tolerate far too much before reaching their breaking point. I think this is an important book, and I was glad to see that resources for domestic violence were provided at the end. I would recommend this book to other adult readers, and hope they gain some insight from it.

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A memoir of a personal family tragedy and its long-term repercussions on the family members

This was my thirty-second book I chose via the Reedsy Discovery program, for which I am the single approved reviewer for this new book. This review also appears on Reedsy.

If you’re interested in becoming a Reedsy reviewer (and have the chance to get paid “tips” to review books!) check it out here.

The Premise

The tragic loss of the author’s father when she was a young child resulted in long-term effects on the whole family. Interweaving her memories of music during that time, and her own expertise in handwriting analysis, the author recounts her experience growing up and overcoming the trials of life that her family faced.

The Pros & Cons

This was a memoir of a personal family tragedy and its long-term repercussions on the family members.

Beginning with the father’s actions right before his disappearance, we learn about the author’s family and how they were impacted by his loss. I liked reading this short book, and appreciated that the author shared her story.

This will resonate well with others who had similar experiences. I especially enjoyed handwriting samples and music lyrics interwoven into the story — they make you feel as if you are part of her story, and help you experience the era through her eyes.

It was humorous at times as we see the children growing up and playing pranks, and then heartbreaking at times as some of the family members crumble and head down dark paths themselves. Her mother in particular was hit hard by the early loss of her partner, and I can only imagine that kind of pain and how it never gets the chance to heal when you have to focus on raising your family. As we learn about her siblings’ struggles with mental health, it became difficult to read on as we feel their pain.

Though I enjoyed and appreciated this memoir, my challenge from a reader’s perspective was its overall format and its intended audience. Firstly, this will be invaluable to her own family, as a record of their lives to capture what may fade in their memories over time. Secondly, for a wider audience, I can see the book (or excerpts of it) being powerfully delivered in a speech to inspire others. If perhaps I had attended a conference about mental health, and this book was distributed or sold in collaboration with the author’s presentation, I could see it being extremely useful and well received as a tool to inspire others.

However, when a reader picks up a book with no other knowledge of the author, it only has that to go on (as was my case). As a book, the preview is absolutely beautiful, and intrigued me to read further; but as the story unfolds, it covers an entire lifetime of experiences within a short word count, so the initial taste of mystery and nostalgia emerges into a more factual approach to the events that occurred. It would have worked better (as a book) if it were part of a larger volume of many people’s experiences, or if perhaps several of the individual family members’ experiences from their perspectives were combined to weave the tale of what happened to everyone. I was intrigued by the glimpses we get of their lives, but as a reader I just wanted to know so much more! Nevertheless, on its own merit, I was grateful that the author was able to reflect on the past, and this memoir in itself is a triumph — it truly is a story of resilience.

Conclusion

Overall, this memoir is well-written and interesting. I have reviewed quite a few memoirs recently and what stayed with me was the power of the author’s voice as they chart the emotional journey from past to present. Though I did wish for a bit more in terms of wider context, that emotional journey is definitely here, and makes this memoir memorable. I am sure writing this — putting thought to paper — was a cathartic experience, and sharing with others is part of the healing process. I recommend to other readers, and really hope the author uses this book in as many ways as possible to inspire others with her story of resilience and perseverance.

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A touching coming-of-age story about the Caribbean experience colliding with the American dream

This was my thirty-first book I chose via the Reedsy Discovery program, for which I am the single approved reviewer for this new book. This review also appears on Reedsy.

If you’re interested in becoming a Reedsy reviewer (and have the chance to get paid “tips” to review books!) check it out here.

The Premise

Celestine has the opportunity of a lifetime — a scholarship to study in the U.S.A.: the land of the free, home of the brave, and the destination of the common “Caribbean dream” to migrate and create a life in a first world country. At her university, she becomes involved in romance and politics — both of which affect her deeply as she strives to fit in and create lasting friendships with both Americans and others like herself from other countries.

The Pros & Cons

This was a touching coming-of-age story about the Caribbean experience colliding with the American dream.

The tense relationship with Celestine’s mother and the love/hate tug-of-war with her sister are aptly captured. Though the Caribbean is known for the warmth and friendliness of its people, behind closed doors the typical Caribbean home often functions with these types of relationships that lack communication and expressions of love. In Celestine’s case, though she knows her mother loves her, it comes across as dislike:

My mother radiates despair. She has no control over it, I know, and so I forgive her again and again […] She gives her love like feeding babies from bleeding, cracked breasts. […] When she was loving us, it was yelling matches.

Celestine struggles to fit in with her American peers, but whenever she becomes comfortable and indulges herself in her new environment, she is put in her place by a pop culture reference or unknown dish that reminds her she is alone.

She even feels self-conscious when her new peers overhear her slipping into her “gibberish” local dialogue on the phone when talking to someone from home; for her, “code-switching” is crucial to survival as there is an additional pressure to represent herself as a Black, Caribbean woman:

I wondered who I was, wondered if I had been abducted and placed here as a ruse. […] I was wired all the time, in the process of being Celestine and making sure that Celestine was being properly consumed by others.

The throes of first love — with a white American boy, no less! — and the inevitable confusion and heartache when it fizzles out also influence her experience. As her friend Lucy explains, though Richard is a nice guy and might have true feelings for her, to him Celestine was still a “thing” — a thrilling, exotic object to serve his liberal progressive purpose, rather than a multi-dimensional person.

As she becomes involved in campus politics and strives for diversity, Celestine encounters adversity from both whites and Blacks — but she “forgets” at times to be soft and accommodating to temper her words. She realises that the “kinship of melanin” only goes so far — even to Black Americans, she is still seen as “other”. Nevertheless, she is eventually able to make small steps towards significant change.

Though I loved and appreciated this story, there were a few drawbacks. There was a chapter from her father’s perspective that seemed disconnected from the rest of the story, and there was some jumping around of perspectives where “Celestine” suddenly appears repeatedly in third person. I also felt at times that there were so many characters and sub-plots to keep track of (mainly her friends’ relationship dramas); I could easily have seen a few of these being cut out or reduced, as it didn’t need *quite* so much additional fluff to distract me from the beauty of the main story. Celestine was amazing on her own!

Conclusion

As a fellow Caribbean woman with Guyanese ancestry, and as someone who also studied abroad, this novel resonated with me personally — and I know it will be the same with others like myself. The author’s voice is powerful and unique in the way it unravels Celestine’s tale, and I loved the way she eloquently and expertly touches on some aspects of the Caribbean experience as a “fish out of water” in a first world country, always questioning if you belong there and if it will ever really feel like home, and also feeling that pressure from back home to “make it”. I am grateful that the author shared this story — much needed in the cacophony of homogeneous whiteness; we truly need to hear more Caribbean voices! I would recommend this novel to others, and I look forward to reading more by the author.

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A short, insightful essay about a woman’s quest to examine her family’s history and linkage to Black ancestors

This was my thirtieth book I chose via the Reedsy Discovery program, for which I am the single approved reviewer for this new book. This review also appears on Reedsy.

If you’re interested in becoming a Reedsy reviewer (and have the chance to get paid “tips” to review books!) check it out here.

The Premise

A DNA test showing there is a black ancestor in her family leads the author to pursue a historical quest to examine the past secrets in her family, and confront racism in the modern world, as well as her own white privilege.

The Pros & Cons

Deeply affected by the global wave of protests in the aftermath of the death of George Floyd and other Black persons, the author reflects on the impact of racial bias and her own white privilege.

She examines the common claim that many white Americans tout: the “Cherokee blood” story to explain darker pigmentation in some family members, stating that Americans like to align themselves to the “noble” heritage of the persevering Indian. However, they usually distance themselves from Blackness.

When she learns of her ancestor Celia, a Black woman, she wants to bring light to her legacy, which leads her on a quest into her past — and she eventually learns that Celia was not even the only Black person to whom she could trace her ancestral roots.

She is conscious of her own whiteness when she reaches out to a family member:

Would it seem like I’m this white woman excited about having some “ethnicity”, all eager to meet a Black cousin on social media so I can tell him about his white great-grandpappy who was getting it on with his great-grandmother — and now yippee, we’re second cousins?

There were also some profound and eloquent moments of her reflection on white privilege, as she recalls laughing with Black friends and only later learning the underlying seriousness of the situation: the simple act of turning in someone’s driveway is something that she has never had to think about, but her Black friends do as they could be perceived as a threat.

She also expresses concern at the way in which white people want Blacks to “move on” past racism, rather than admit that history influences the present conditions in later generations:

If the Black experience in America were metaphorically represented as female, it is fair to say that we came along and raped her repeatedly for hundred of years, then told her to get up, get back to work and act like nothing happened. And why should that not affect her children?

I appreciated the research and excellent points brought across by the author, and I liked the way her story was presented from her perspective that also aimed to be respectful and mindful of her whiteness. I would, however, have loved to see some greater context about what white privilege represents in a social, economical and political context about the opportunities and barriers Black persons face in society to achieve simple things such as affordable housing and education. I do, however, understand the premise of the book was to share her personal memoir, rather than examine these issues in a more academic way.

Conclusion

I found this essay insightful, and am glad that the author shared her story. I have to admit though that it was incredibly short, and I would have liked to get a better sense of the full breadth of the story — who the author is, why the audience should want to know her story, and what makes her story unique. Her family sounds interesting and I felt like there was a lot more there to explore. I would have loved to see this bloom into a wider story that is shaped around this premise, but also included more of her life. Nevertheless, the prose is excellent, and the information is well researched and presented. I would recommend to any reader who has interest in the topic, and I hope the author continues writing and sharing her insights and wisdom on these crucial issues.

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A tongue-in-cheek go-to guide with helpful tips to get you set up in Norway and integrate into Norwegian culture

This was my twenty-ninth book I chose via the Reedsy Discovery program, for which I am the single approved reviewer for this new book. This review also appears on Reedsy. I chose this book after also reviewing the author’s prior companion book: Working With Norwegians.

If you’re interested in becoming a Reedsy reviewer (and have the chance to get paid “tips” to review books!) check it out here.

The Premise

American venture capitalist Sean Percival collected his thoughts to compile a reference guide for people who will be moving to Norway and need to get set up quickly. Touching on some insights about the country’s belief system and practices, he offers several tips in categories including setting up telecommunications, hunting for jobs and accommodations, acclimatising to Norwegian culture, and much more.

Head over to the official website: https://livingwithnorwegians.com/

The Pros & Cons

This was a tongue-in-cheek go-to guide with helpful tips to get you set up in Norway and integrate into Norwegian culture.

As a largely homogenous culture, with a deep-seated belief system centred around equality and monopolistic government practices, Norway can be a difficult country to infiltrate as a foreigner — particularly from the author’s viewpoint as an American.

Whereas the American mindset celebrates freedom and free speech, Norwegians are far more polite, which can lead to misunderstandings when their discomfort is not voiced. Norwegians can also appear “stand-offish”, and their tendency to keep to themselves may be very unhelpful to newcomers. This guide aims to counteract that by giving ex-pats a few quick tips to get started.

There are some aspects of practical advice — job sites and real estate sites, setting up telecommunications, stocking up on vitamins and meds, transferring money, duty-free shopping, setting up a bank account, accessing healthcare, using transportation, and much more.

There are also some suggestions of things to do to fit in with the Norwegian culture — firstly, understand the law of Jante! This refers to the cultural values that encourage Norwegians not to excel above and beyond their peers, and to remain modest and humble. With that as the centrepiece of your approach, you can try a taste of Norwegian culture: go skiing, try brunost, attend a nachspiel, do a dugnad, go to the hytte, try snus, eat a Kvik Lunsj on top of a mountain, attend a julebord, or perhaps jump into a freezing fjord.

In terms of the writing style, it was very brief and jaunty so that you can quickly scan through — both figuratively with your eyes, and literally with your phone. Several sections throughout the book have QR codes to go directly to the resources the author provides — joining ex-pat groups, finding job listings, visiting the Utlendingsdirektoratet website (the Norwegian Directorate of Immigration), and even links to get discounts for shopping for clothes and accessories.

Apart from the general tips, there was also some background information to give greater cultural context: atheism is common, Swedes are their rivals, and casual sex is the norm. A few survival tips will also come in handy — know the mountain weather rules, take your vitamin D, and enjoy the rare appearance of the sun! Finally, a glossary ties it all in with a reference guide for some of the language used throughout the book.

Fair warning: as with the other book in the series that I reviewed prior, keep in mind that this guide is based on personal experience rather than formal research, and therefore it would not be representative of the entire gamut of all reader types especially in terms of diversity, race, gender, sexuality, disability, cultural and geographical background, etc. Nevertheless there is a huge wealth of information here, presented in an easily digestible format for a modern tech-savvy audience — illustrations, large fonts, and QR codes; and this book would serve as a great starting point for anyone. It gets you to the point quickly and efficiently, and definitely hits the sweet spot for those who want a light, short “cliff notes” guide rather than a scholarly tome.

Conclusion

As a second-time reader of this author and this series, I again enjoyed this swift, humorous read — which I snapped up quickly once I saw it was available! I loved the easy-to-read format with tips and accessible resources, and I feel that I also gained a deeper appreciation of what it would mean to uproot my life and move to a country that is so special and unique (especially with all that “nature porn”!).

Now, bear in mind you can’t take things too seriously while reading this book. It’s not meant to be the only research you do before migrating! I can see this being the perfect book you’d gift to a friend who just got a job and will be moving to Norway. It might save someone a bit of stress in the earliest stages of such a move, and may bring a smile to their faces when they do inevitably meet that (somewhat rude) Norwegian who says: “Welcome to Norway! Do you plan to stay?”

Purchase your copy

Head over to the official website: https://livingwithnorwegians.com/

Also available on Amazon:

A young adult murder mystery sports thriller – ideal for teenage girl sleuths!

This was my twenty-eighth book I chose via the Reedsy Discovery program, for which I am the single approved reviewer for this new book. This review also appears on Reedsy.

If you’re interested in becoming a Reedsy reviewer (and have the chance to get paid “tips” to review books!) check it out here.

The Premise

Issy is a promising young star athlete on her school’s mediocre basketball team, and a well-rounded young woman despite being raised by only her father, a retired sportswriter. She has an interest in her forensics class at school, and fancies herself a bit of a detective. With a blend of coming-of-age teen drama and her keen eye for uncovering mysteries, Issy tries to figure out why there seem to be sports-related murders cropping up in her town. Meanwhile “The Judge” — the killer, is on the path for revenge, knocking off his past adversaries one by one — and Issy may soon become an unlikely target. Can she solve the case before it’s too late?

The Pros & Cons

This novel was a young adult murder mystery sports thriller — ideal for teenage girl sleuths!

Reading a character like Issy was a breath of fresh air. Far too many young adult novels focus on “popular” or “shy” girl tropes, or have way too much emphasis on the teenagers’ love lives, or teenagers are unnecessarily rude to their parents and angsty for no good reason! Here, we have a young girl who has a lot going for her — she’s a good student (for the most part), she has loyal friends, she’s interested (but not OBSESSED) with boys, and more than anything: she is an athlete with a promising future.

We get to see her close, sweet relationship with her dad, whom she clearly admires, and who was able to raise a decent young woman, in the absence of her mom who couldn’t be bothered with the burden of motherhood. I loved that their relationship is laid-back and contains a degree of respect and camaraderie that is often lacking between father-daughter stories.

I appreciated that Issy’s character was well developed, and we get to see her going about her daily life interacting with her friends, coach, teachers and father — not to mention a certain boy that sparks her interest (and he himself has his own “growing up” to do!) As she becomes drawn to the murders she hears about on the news, her senses click into overdrive as she makes connections that even the expert cops miss.

Issy’s story develops alongside that of “The Judge”, the killer who is on the rampage to avenge those who harmed him in the past. We learn his motives, and even feel pity for him although he is technically the “bad guy” in the story here. He has been wronged, and he has been a victim, and I appreciated that there were sympathetic aspects to his character as well — not everyone is necessarily all good or all evil, and we do get to see “The Judge” struggling with this duality: his deceased wife’s calm reasoning, countered by the vengeful “General” commanding him to commit murder.

My only letdown in this story was that the action takes a good while to get there. Mind you, the teenage sports drama was interesting, and held my interest; and the killer’s story was intriguing, and also held my interest — but it just took awhile to mesh the two entirely different stories and points of view into one cohesive story. There also seemed to be quite a bit of “extra” information that didn’t seem connected to anything, that I could’ve done without — e.g. entire excerpts from her father’s novel seemed to be an odd inclusion (given the genre, I expected it to be some kind of clue — it wasn’t). These minor things aside, nevertheless when the two stories do finally connect, the rest of the story is brilliant and winds to a satisfying end — with Issy triumphantly saving the day, in more ways than one!

Conclusion

Overall, this was a good genre-mashup — it’s not often you get a young adult coming-of-age story that’s also a murder mystery! I loved the main character’s spunk — with a flair of temper and a whole heap of bravery, she’s not afraid to jump right into the fray and tackle a murderer. I can see this book being a hit with an audience of teenage girls, and it gives them a great character to admire. I really loved the characters and the way the author builds and reveals the story, unraveling a tale that is thrilling and beautifully written. This was a pleasurable read, and I would love to read more by this author.

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A fast-paced time-travel medical romance thriller mystery with a twist

This was my twenty-seventh book I chose via the Reedsy Discovery program, for which I am the single approved reviewer for this new book. This review also appears on Reedsy.

If you’re interested in becoming a Reedsy reviewer (and have the chance to get paid “tips” to review books!) check it out here.

The Premise

Awakening in a hospital after a fatal accident that killed her sister, Taylor discovers that though she survived, she now faces debilitating medical episodes that may threaten her life. Surrounded by medical professionals who can’t diagnose or treat her illness, and unable to make sufficient progress to be discharged, she becomes depressed and plagued by the emotional trauma of reliving her own past mistakes. With the help of her doctors — especially the handsome and intriguing Dr. Riaz, and her ailing friend Carrie, she must fight against time to visit her past and discover the clues that led to her condition — and that may lead her out.

The Pros & Cons

This was a fast-paced time-travel medical romance thriller mystery with a twist — quite the mouthful, but the novel manages to blend these genres skilfully and satisfyingly!

I appreciated that each character was really well developed, and we get to see relationships bloom even within the sterile, cold environment of a hospital. Despite the boredom and fear of living with an ongoing traumatic brain injury, there is a lot of humour interlaced throughout, and Taylor’s personality is both believable and endearing as she tries to connect with others. Her relationship with Carrie was lovely, and I loved their people-watching “Cubies” game they played to pass time!

When Dr. Riaz begins to investigate her case, they soon grow close as they interact, but he tries to maintain a professional distance, particularly when her condition seems to be getting worse and her organs begin to fail. As she shares her story with him, the mystery builds, revealing piece by piece the history and sequence of events that led to Taylor’s existence in the hospital.

As she jumps back and forth, patterns emerge: she seems to be going back in time in a particular sequence, and apart from just being able to observe, she has the power to change things. But could this threaten her own present timeline?

As with any time-travel story, there are points that get a wee bit confusing if you try too hard to follow the science, so you need to suspend disbelief and just enjoy the ride! There was also a bit of dialogue here and there that detracted from the novel’s pacing (in order to flesh out the blooming love story — quite a delicate balance!); but above all, this was a thrilling joyride of a novel that keeps you intrigued all the way through and satisfies you as it winds to an end.

Conclusion

Overall, this was an excellent genre-mashup read that packs a powerful punch. Though the main characters are in their twenties, I believe that this would also suit a younger audience of teenage girls. There are beautiful messages interwoven into the story about self-development, family, love, and dealing with (or avoiding!) domestic abuse — so though on its surface it may appear to be a lighthearted time-travel story, there is a much deeper substance here that is empowering for young women. I can’t imagine what’s next in this series as it ties things up nicely, but I would love to read more with these same characters or perhaps meet new ones. I really look forward to more by this author.

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A heartbreaking memoir about the physical, social, and emotional abuse experienced by an autistic savant

This was my twenty-sixth book I chose via the Reedsy Discovery program, for which I am the single approved reviewer for this new book. This review also appears on Reedsy.

If you’re interested in becoming a Reedsy reviewer (and have the chance to get paid “tips” to review books!) check it out here.

The Premise

Charting her life from a young child to an adult, this memoir recounts Jennifer’s experience of multiple forms of abuse by organisations, agencies and laws created to “protect” her. From her struggles connecting with others as a child and teenager, to her prolonged experience in confinement in the mental health system, she emerges triumphant despite her harrowing experience. In sharing her story, she also provided tips and strategies to equip other autistic people and their families, so as to avoid them making the wrong decisions that could lead to her same fate.

The Pros & Cons

This was a heartbreaking memoir about the physical, social, and emotional abuse experienced by an autistic savant. From her earliest memories, Jennifer has always known she was different. A high-functioning autistic, she was not diagnosed until much later in life.

This memoir follows her journey as she struggles to make friends and connect with others as a child and teenager. Her thoughts and behaviours overpower her, and she genuinely believes that her repetitive, obsessive actions will be a matter of life or death for her mother.

As she gets older, her difficulties result in her being institutionalised — first for temporary periods at her parents’ volition, and then eventually for an indefinite period she found herself trapped, as she had surrendered some of her rights and her parents had done the same as they believed it was in her best interest for treatment.

The institutions did not match her profile — her behaviour was not the same as others who self-harmed, or ran away from home. This led to a feeing of dissonance, as she didn’t understand how her treatments didn’t match her illness; as she terms it:

I felt like I was trapped in some weird cult but hadn’t been brainwashed yet[…] I hid my joy deep inside so it wouldn’t be stolen by that place and those people.

Group homes overmedicated her, and she gained weight and experienced deep depression on medications that focused on external control rather than internal control. She was also forced to do menial labour, and was severely punished for the slightest infractions by methods including shock therapy. She felt stymied in terms of growth and development:

I WANTED to do well, to get well. But nobody helped me[…] I wanted so passionately to experience real adult life. I was in my thirties. I wanted and needed to experience meaningful work and friendships.

Eventually, she was gradually able to achieve incremental success at regaining her rights and her independence, and as she emerged from the horror she experienced, she was struck by the real world:

Freedom was the candy[…] I had so much unlearning to do. I had been programmed, and I was just now realizing this.

Overall this was an excellent and moving read. My only minor note would’ve been to keep the recount of her experience i.e. the “story” separate from the “lessons” i.e. the tips — for me, this would have better kept the narrative intact to engross the reader, and would have allowed for a full reference section at the end. This would also have circumnavigated the repetition; as it was divided by chapter, some points came up several times, especially the warnings to families to investigate the institutions properly — though certainly that point is one that deserves repetition, as it is so critical!

Conclusion

This memoir was incredibly difficult to keep on reading at times. I felt a wave of pain just trying to grasp how the author must have felt — trapped in her body and mind as her liberties are ripped from her and she is forced into a life that punishes her for being different. The experience was soul-crushing and dehumanizing, made even worse by the fact that institutions were able to enact these forms of torture under the banner of “legal” practices — in essence, it was legalized abuse. I am grateful to the author for sharing her experience, and appreciate that she took the time and care to also provide tips and guides for other individuals with autism and their families that may have to cope with some of these issues.

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A harrowing memoir about the systematically abusive laws of child protection agencies

This was my twenty-fifth book I chose via the Reedsy Discovery program, for which I am the single approved reviewer for this new book. This review also appears on Reedsy.

If you’re interested in becoming a Reedsy reviewer (and have the chance to get paid “tips” to review books!) check it out here.

The Premise

Within weeks of her honeymoon, Susan’s 9-year-old daughter is taken away from her and her new husband is falsely accused of child sexual abuse. What ensues is a years-long struggle to regain custody of her daughter and to clear her husband’s name. Along her journey, she encounters other families adversely impacted by the “child savers” — protection systems put into place to protect children’s rights, which were burdened by corruption and overzealous practitioners. Coupled with her harrowing recount of the events that forever changed her family, Susan accompanies her tale with prayer and shares her faith in God to lead her through.

The Pros & Cons

This was a harrowing memoir about the systematically abusive laws of child protection agencies in the 1980s. I chose this memoir because I have a personal interest in children’s rights, and I am always curious to get a better understanding of the fine line between truth and lie when it comes to sexual abuse in general, and in particular the blend of truth and “fantasy” when it comes to the reliability of a child’s words.

The work of child protection agencies is gritty, grim, and horrific at times — and most of the time, they do save families and rescue children from the grip of disgusting predators. In this instance, however, they got it very, very wrong.

The innocent “tickling” between a stepfather and his stepdaughter took a sinister turn when the child was asked direct questions by a teacher and wound up inadvertently lying. This one small lie blossomed into every mother’s worst nightmare: first, that her child could possibly have been abused; and secondly, that her husband could possibly be a predator. Susan immediately knew that this was wrong on both accounts, but due to the strict laws of the “child savers”, she was unable to prove it for a prolonged period of time.

Faced with the impossible decision to chose between her husband and her child — smear a man’s good name, or “rescue” her daughter by separating from him to please the authorities — she risked waiting for the truth to play out. At first, it seemed as though it would surely be revealed soon, but as time bears on, you can feel the mounting tension and emotional ravaging she must have felt as a mother and wife as her world crumbled around her.

Through all of this, she also struggled financially to make ends meet so that she could afford the legal fees, and to manage all her other relationships including parenting her older daughter — whom, she points out, strangely was not seen as any kind of risk to the “predator” living in their home!

Though I know that some families may be the victims of the system sometimes “getting it wrong”, never before had I imagined just how wrong it could be. With the interweaving of real documents and words from the past, her fervent prayers, and a powerful storytelling voice, we connect and follow the emotional rollercoaster of Susan’s journey.

It was appalling to see how badly words and deeds could be twisted into something so dark. At the same time, it was uplifting to see the way Susan was able to persevere, and even to connect with other families to provide support for others who may have experienced similar situations.

Conclusion

This was a touching, heartfelt memoir of epic proportions that was moving and memorable. It is by no means a glossy recap of a true event — we see and feel every moment that unfolds, both bad and good, and as a result of this honesty, we feel very deeply touched by the injustice she and her family faced. I also really appreciated that she did not flinch away from the truth, and allowed us to see shameful parts of her past with overmedication, depression and poor judgement — and more than anything, I was thrilled that beyond all of this, she emerged triumphant and able to pick up the pieces of her life to rebuild something beautiful.

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A raw, emotional, gritty drama about the ties that bind, and the mental illness that betrays the concept of family

This was my twenty-fourth book I chose via the Reedsy Discovery program, for which I am the single approved reviewer for this new book. This review also appears on Reedsy.

If you’re interested in becoming a Reedsy reviewer (and have the chance to get paid “tips” to review books!) check it out here.

The Premise

Charting a family’s history beginning in the late 1950s, an epic drama unfolds: forced into early marriage in her late teens, Diane does not acclimatise well to wifehood and motherhood. Richard, barely a man himself, struggles to keep the family together. Years later, their young daughter Frankie is the one who pays the price — living with an absent father, and under the dominating madness of her mother’s fragile mental health. Told from the individual perspectives of all three main characters, this tale reveals the dark and fragmented nature of love and loss.

The Pros & Cons

Whew! This novel is not for the faint of heart. It is a gritty family drama about the ties that bind, and the mental illness that betrays the concept of what a family should represent.

Beginning with a flash-forward to Diane’s spiteful act to the cherry tree in their yard, it traces the origin of her distaste for it as a symbol of family and love.

When she first got pregnant, Diane barely knew Richard, and yet their parents forced the young couple together. It’s “what was done” back in that era — and while Richard jumped at the chance, eager to marry the woman he loved… Diane felt absolutely horrified. She barely remembers their encounter; her virginity was squandered to a boy she barely even liked. She was not in love, and had no plans to fall in love with him.

Richard’s almost immediate pull away from the family to follow his military career also had a negative impact on Diane, who felt alone in her dismay and unqualified to become the concept of “mother” and “wife”. She soon sought love elsewhere, and this led her down a dark path emotionally. As Richard fought, at first, to keep his family together, she railed against him at every step of the way.

When he finally gives up on them, Diane’s mental illness only worsens. By the time Frankie is old enough to understand, she is already aware of her mother’s rage and cowers from her mood swings. When tragedy hits, it sends Diane further down that dark path, and she has a breakdown. The novel’s ebbs and flows chart Diane’s volatile nature over the years as Frankie matures and realises that not all mothers are like this — nor should they be. As the novel winds to a close, ending the first part of a trilogy, things come to a head between Diane and Frankie, and irrevocable decisions are made.

I loved and hated this novel because it made me feel things deeply. I was able to connect so much with each character, and the writer does an excellent job of making each voice sound distinct. I really appreciated the way it unfolds gradually to explore how mental illness expands over time like a dark stain on the family — until it becomes entrenched. There are a few uplifting parts that seem promising and redemptive, but they are soon crushed by Diane’s overwhelming struggles, which in turn affect everyone else. It made for a bumpy, scary, fragile ride of a novel that had me frantically turning the pages to see what would happen next!

There were a few very minor bits and pieces that detracted from the overall reading experience — in terms of pacing, the timeline jumps around a bit and took some getting used to, as multiple characters are recalling incidents at different times from different viewpoints. But overall, this is an exquisite tale of the dark side of love, marriage, and mental illness.

Conclusion

This novel was raw and emotional. It is well written in its characterization, as you love each character and hate them at the same time — they are all fundamentally and fabulously flawed. While you despise Diane’s treatment of her family, you also feel sorry for the pressures she feels as a woman of that time. Similarly, Richard’s approach was infuriating at times, though he was just trying to do his best. This novel really makes you think deeply and consider these characters’ motives, making it feel like a true story or memoir. I can’t wait to see what happens next in this trilogy, and I look forward to reading more from this new author.

Purchase your copy

I received this book from the author, for whom I had already reviewed another book Rue. I also saw it on Reedsy and reviewed it for that platform as well, which makes it my twenty-third book via Reedsy. My Reedsy review can be found here.

If you’re interested in becoming a Reedsy reviewer (and have the chance to get paid “tips” to review books!) check it out here.

The Premise

After a tragic car accident as a child, Riley’s maturity into adulthood is coupled with her experience feeling an intuitive connection — a “gift” — that she is unable to ignore. She doesn’t know where it comes from, or what it means, but it follows her through her life.

Adam’s role in the accident also follows him like a plague from the past, along with his own strange connection to Riley that he cannot ignore. When they meet as adults, can they find a way to forgive the past and build a future together?

The Pros & Cons

This was a beautiful story of pain and loss that finds redemption in the beauty of love. I absolutely loved the opening, which immediately dives into the fraught relationship that the two main characters have — a force compels them to be together, despite the tragedy of their past.

I was thrilled to see Riley finding her way in life after experiencing such a loss. My heart went out to Adam — a well-intentioned action can cause so much irrevocable damage to others, and his survivor’s guilt is something he has to live with his entire life, which can never really go away. I also liked that we get to see glimpses of Kathy, especially her serious consideration of her multiple lives — such a profound concept for a child to discuss!

It was amazing when the two characters do finally find each other, and despite others’ opinions that they are an odd match because of their tragic history, they each know they are fated to be together. I really appreciated the themes of faith, love and redemption that are explored here — mixed with a smidge of fantasy that seems almost paranormal with Riley’s extraordinary talents.

I enjoyed this story but did take some time to get used to the storytelling style that mixes Riley in first person and then Adam in third person (it may have worked better for me with both first person, or both third person). Also Adam’s family drama situation was such a profound moment of revelation that I wished it had been explored more — at the book’s end, I still had so many more questions about that situation!

Conclusion

Overall, this was a beautiful story. It was also unique, as I didn’t know what to expect from the ending — there’s romance, but also a fantasy element, and then profound literary-fiction moments drop in here and there as Riley ponders the meaning of life and the origin of her gift. The novel’s themes are powerful and take you on an emotional journey. It made for a bumpy ride that was unsettling but also uplifting, and left me still thinking about the book long after I had finished. This is my second book by this author, and I really like that she doesn’t follow the usual cookie-cutter trajectory of a novel, and I would love to keep reading more of her work to see what else is in store!

Purchase your copy

I chose this book from an ARC program because the intro and blurb were interesting.

The Premise

In the 1960s, three young women meet in a maternity hospital, each of them pregnant with children whose names and stories they would only find out much later on. They are expected to give up their babies and pretend they do not exist, but their pasts follow them.

However, no secret can remain a secret forever. Decades later, someone unearths their records and threatens to blackmail them all. Now a politician’s wife, a famous Christian singer, and a prominent business owner, all three women have a lot to lose. Told from multiple viewpoints, this novel reveals the heartbreaking but uplifting stories of healing and redemption.

The Pros

This was an epic saga with memorable stories that were touching. I loved all the themes represented — family, responsibility, love, relationships, women’s rights, race relations, and so much more. It presents an accurate picture, showing the pressures that women faced in contemporary society at the time, where there was limited access to birth control, and immense reputational risk for women who engaged in premarital sex.

I enjoyed the relationships and bond the women maintained for each other despite the passage of time, and really appreciated the writer’s talent in capturing these stories which, though stated to be fictional, bear similarities to many real-life experiences during that time. The depictions of the family life situations were particularly well done — especially Faith’s parents and the way they were able to turn a blind eye to her plight.

Overall all the stories made an intriguing page-turner that was exciting though painful at times to read.

The Cons

I appreciated the historical tapestry woven throughout the book, but had to admit that it covers such a long period of time (34 years!), and through the eyes of so many characters, that it was difficult to keep track of at times. I liked the idea of the individual stories, but the execution was a bit convoluted — I lost count of how many viewpoints there were, as some of them came in much later on. I could easily see this story being made into 3 separate books, each of which would have been excellent on its own (or even a “Book 1: Becca”/ “Book 2: Faith”/ “Book 3: Sandy” in one cohesive volume) — but altogether and with so much switching between chapters and viewpoints, it was a lot to take in, which was a shame as the story is fabulous.

It also felt like there were things unresolved by the end, and while this may be acceptable for the genre, it left me feeling unsettled as I wanted to know what happened! After waiting through the entire book, Becca’s story seemed unfinished, and I also didn’t fully understand Michael’s parents’ motivations.

Conclusion

Despite my own feelings that I wish the story were told a bit differently, this was a really good novel that I would highly recommend to other readers. There is a lot here that will resonate with many women who lived during that time, and many profound messages underlying the actual story that will remain with me for awhile. I can easily see this being made into an amazing film. I am grateful to the writer for providing much-needed insight into this aspect of history, and for sharing her own truth as someone who was also adopted from a maternity hospital. I would love to read further work by this author.

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A “haunted house” horror/mystery about the elusive mother-daughter bond

This was my twenty-second book I chose via the Reedsy Discovery program, for which I am the single approved reviewer for this new book. This review also appears on Reedsy.

If you’re interested in becoming a Reedsy reviewer (and have the chance to get paid “tips” to review books!) check it out here.

The Premise

Single mother Lexie moves into a new home with her four-year-old daughter Ava, eager to distance herself from her emotionally abusive mother. Strange phenomena soon begin to take place: headaches, fainting spells, and evil thoughts that possess both mother and daughter and cause them to be violent to each other. With the help of her love interest, their next door neighbour Ryan, Lexie soon learns that the house has a sordid history: many people — particularly women — died or were injured on the premises. As Lexie and Ryan dig deeper, they uncover a dark secret buried decades ago, and must figure it out in time to provide comfort to a dying man before it’s too late.

The Pros & Cons

This novel subverts the typical “haunted house” horror mystery with genre-bending sub-plots about the elusive mother-daughter bond.

Romance builds between Lexie and Ryan as he helps her to solve the mystery of her house’s past, and we also see glimpses of women’s fiction, promoting a strong female character and her struggle to be a single parent without the financial help — or even the acknowledgement — of the child’s father.

The relationship with Lexie and her mother was amazingly well written. I think many women can relate to that tense feeling of begrudging gratitude for the woman who gave you life and helped you get back on your feet, while at the same time hating that indebtedness when it is laced with venomous emotional abuse. I also loved every minute of Ava — even the psychotic breaks. Her bubbly personality breathed life into the dark corners of the novel, and I appreciated her insight into the evil happenings, as well as her defence of her mother.

My only con was the overall pacing — I loved the vignettes we see in the second half, which catch us up to the past homeowners and show how the house affected their lives, but as it dealt with so many viewpoints, it felt like I was being tugged in many directions at times. Also, I thought Ryan’s back story emerged fairly late — by that time I was already in love with him as a character as he was so good to Lexie and Ava, and I didn’t even need to know why!

Despite that, the writer’s style was a pleasure to read — hills and valleys of description, nuances, action, drama and just pure talent. In general, I loved the way the tension mounts and builds as they uncover, piece by piece, what took place over the past decades as the house was held in the grip of an evil spirit. The underlying story was heartbreaking, and even when we finally learn what took place, we never do quite understand the “why” behind the murderer’s actions. It remains an eternal mystery — as, I suppose, does the natural inclination of any tense mother-daughter relationship!

Conclusion

I really enjoyed this novel and would highly recommend it to mature readers who can appreciate darkness — both of horror, and of emotional depth. Note: there is a sprinkling of mature language and situations, so younger readers should beware. The overall story itself is powerful, and leaves a lasting message. It also felt unique, which I really appreciated as I am an avid reader, so difference is a definite plus. This genre usually focuses on more guts and gore, and I was really thrilled to see a “horror” that didn’t depend on that for shock value, but instead on the everyday darkness of emotional relationships. I look forward to seeing more from this author.

Purchase your copy

Coming soon

This book came to me directly from the author, for whom I’ve reviewed several books before:

• Inside Outside Part 1 – Black Wings: The Death Angel & The Griffin
• Inside Outside Part 2 – Black Wings: The Death Angel & A Seraph
• Inside Outside Part 3 – Black Wings: The Valkyrie & Her Wyvern

The Premise

With her single-parent family struggling to get by, McKinley’s “purchase” by the wealthy Mr. Dimitri Komarov is a welcome income source. But Komarov, the mayor of the town of Ivanov, doesn’t want a wife; he wants a witch. In their superstitious society, he knows a witch will grant him more respect and fear than his finances could ever buy. But with the smart-mouth, mischievous Koldun’ya (Russian for “witch” or “sorceress”), Komarov gets far more than he bargained for. So does Sascha, Komarov’s right-hand man. Danger follows McKinley’s power — but fortunately, Sascha is ready to risk it all to save the impertinent imp that has stolen his heart.

The Pros & Cons

This was a great, fast-paced read with a main character that flew off the pages to make me laugh and smile. McKinley’s power is multifold — her effect on others is more farcical than fantastical, and it was thrilling to read her mischievous ways as her influence in the town grew. Despite her silliness at times, she genuinely loved and cared for her townsfolk, especially the father figure of her “employer” Komarov and her love interest Sascha. Her actual powers, when those were revealed, were simply an extension of her traits, as she was able to do so much without actual magic! I loved the dialogue and the relationship with Sascha, who was a thrilling character in his own right. My only con is that the villain was merely a blip on the radar in terms of the pacing, as the book was quite short and most of its real estate was dedicated to McKinley’s naughtiness!

Conclusion

This was a fabulous short read if you like your romance with a bit of a fantastical twist. As usual, this author does not disappoint: her heroines are powerful and memorable, and her heroes are dynamic and supportive of their ladies. This was a pleasure to read, and I was happy to get something a bit more light-hearted from this author, who also did a great job with darker fiction in her “Inside Outside” series I’ve already reviewed. This one is also a bit less on the hot-and-heavy side than that series, so it would also be good for teenagers. I will gladly recommend this to readers if you love your characters and your stories swift, sexy and snarky!

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This book found its way to me via an author’s newsletter that featured other books. I chose it because I was in the mood for a good women’s fiction.

The Premise

40-something-year-old Josie is at a crossroads in her life. After a break-up, she struggles to get over her ex Thomas who is still in her life. Then, when she quits her job, her friend offers her an opportunity to open her own restaurant. As Josie launches into the creation of this dream she’s always had, along the way she also tries to figure out her dating life post-Thomas and post-divorce. Childless womanhood has left her with an emptiness she’s not able to understand fully, and she tries to fill it with her new career and her female friendships. Fortunately she’s got a great batch of friends — but are they enough to help her through this midlife crisis, and does she really need love in her life, or is her cat enough?

The Pros

This was a good, heart-warming read about female friendships and womanhood at a later stage of life. I liked how the friendships had blossomed through the years, and how the friends truly supported each other — helping build new careers for each other, setting up a support system to help with a new baby, and showing up when they were really needed even though they all had their busy lives. It was great to see such a great show of female camaraderie and true friendship, even though they each had their quirks. I also loved how we were able to see glimpses of the lives of the other characters through the main character Josie, as it felt like a fully fleshed cast that I could easily imagine being made into a film or movie.

The Cons

I liked this book, but admittedly it took me awhile to get into it. I wasn’t sure what to expect as the women’s fiction genre can be open-ended with no foregone conclusion. Eventually I did grow to enjoy Josie’s journey of maturity — even at her stage of life, post-divorce and at 40-something, but the pacing at the beginning was a bit of a slow start for me. The writing style had quite a lot of very long introspective passages that just kind of said where the character’s mind was at, rather than showing the reader through actions or events — a shame, really. It’s not my preferred style of writing, so it took awhile to get used to these ebbs and flows to appreciate the story.

Conclusion

This was a good read and will certainly tick all the boxes for less picky readers, but I wished for a bit more to take me all the way there. Nevertheless it is a story that will resonate with many women, and I think there is a lot they may relate to here in any of the female characters’ lives. I would recommend to other readers, and I look forward to other books by this author. I’d love to give her a chance to see if another book could give me *all* the feels rather than just a bit of the tingles I felt with this one!

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I first saw this book on Reedsy, but it was taken by another reviewer before I got the chance. I looked it up on Amazon and realised it was on promotion, so I got it from there.

The Premise

When Kate’s 13-year-old sister disappears at the lake and a body is later found, Kate doesn’t believe it was Emily. Seven years later, Kate returns to her hometown for a work event. When she sees a familiar face at a nearby house, she believes it is her sister. The sighting leads her down a rabbit hole to investigate what happened to Emily. With the help of longtime boyfriend Lucas, she starts asking questions. She discovers shocking secrets from her past, and confronts her own guilt at the events she barely remembers as a very young child. Can she figure out what really happened to Emily?

The Pros

This was a great read that combined mystery with a psychological thriller. I liked the relationships it explored with her family, and the way the past is interwoven to keep the reader guessing — really, how much do we remember from when we were so young? I also enjoyed the revamp of romance between Kate and Lucas, and how easily she fell back in with his family. The descriptions are done well, mounting the tension and drama as we try to imagine all the different scenarios that could have happened to Emily. When the truth finally is revealed, it leaves us with the lingering message of how easy a parent can lose a child through death or disappearance, and how careful we must always be as parents.

The Cons

I really enjoyed this book, but I admit that I felt like I had seen it or read something similar before — perhaps I just watch too much TV! I quickly forgave that though, as I got into the story. My only real major issue that detracted me was that the pacing was a bit unsettling for me the way the tense shifts to recap something that just recently happened. From the coworker she hangs out with, to the recap of a night with Lucas’ family directly before, to the father’s conversation at the end when she confronts him about the past — there were so many bits and pieces that felt like they were jumping back and forth and really didn’t need to be “flashback” since they had literally just happened.

Conclusion

This was overall a compelling read, despite my own niggles of personal preferences (bear in mind, I am a picky reader). I liked the way the story is told and pieces everything together by the end, with parts hinted at for the reader to help assemble it along with the character. I like the writer’s style for the most part, and would love to read more from her. I would recommend this book to any reader who appreciates a good mystery/thriller.

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I chose this book from an ARC program because the preview was excellent.

The Premise

Teenage mother Willow abandons her baby when she realises that strange things happen during baby Lilah’s seizures. After dumping the baby at a fire station, Willow and her mother are never seen again. Lilah is taken in by her adoptive parents, fire chief Stanley Quinn and his wife. He takes care of her after his wife dies, hiding the truth and ensuring she takes her medicine.

Sixteen years later, teenage Lilah decides to risk not taking her medicine — and sneaks out to go to a rock concert with her crush Jace. Her resulting seizure lands them both in the hospital, and her father is forced to finally tell her the truth. With Jace’s help, Lilah seeks answers to her biological mother’s disappearance. As she shifts and bends time, Lilah must learn to control her power before she destroys everything around her. Can she unlock the mystery of Willow’s disappearance?

The Pros

This was an excellent, engaging read that drew me in from the start and kept me reading all the way to the end. Fantasy is not my usual preferred genre, but in this case the storyline wasn’t too far “out there” and the descriptions are really well done. I really enjoyed the different relationships it explored — the bond between biological mother and child, between adoptive parents and child, and also the romantic relationship and coming-of-age element for the main character. I also loved the dialogue between all the characters, and the symbolism of the ashes and their role in Lilah’s life as a source of death and rebirth.

The Cons

I really enjoyed this story but it left me with many questions: primarily: what causes Lilah’s seizures? And, who was her biological father? There didn’t seem to be any effort to explore these holes, which left me unsettled at the story’s end. There were also some time jumps that weren’t evident at first, and it took me awhile to get used to the chapter beginnings with the apple status representing Past/Present/Future.

Conclusion

This was a great fantasy/supernatural read — especially for those that don’t really go for this type of story, as it has more than enough of all the other young adult/coming-of-age elements to hold its own in those genres as well. I could easily see this being translated to a TV show or film, or becoming part of a series as the ending opens it up for future stories with these same characters. I would recommend to readers of all ages, and I would love to read more from this author.

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An irreverent, humorous reflection of the emotional rollercoaster of early fatherhood

This was my twenty-first book I chose via the Reedsy Discovery program, for which I am the single approved reviewer for this new book. I loved the first in the series, Dear Dory, and was contacted by the author to also review this one. This review also appears on Reedsy.

If you’re interested in becoming a Reedsy reviewer (and have the chance to get paid “tips” to review books!) check it out here.

The Premise

After finding cathartic solace in penning a “journal” of sorts to his unborn miracle baby via Dear Dory, the author continues writing a journal after Dory — now renamed to Arlo — is born. From diaper disasters to dealing with illness and possible disability — not to mention parenting during a pandemic, the journal entries unwind to showcase the author’s gradual evolution into the role of fatherhood, with the unfailing (and at times overruling!) support of his partner.

The Pros

After enjoying “Dear Dory”, I was thrilled to dive into the sequel. I was not disappointed; it kept me thoroughly entertained and feverishly speed-reading late into the night.

After lengthy ruminating on the idea of fatherhood, “Daddy” is shocked to be thrown right in:

I’m surprised that I’m being allowed to operate a few-minutes-old baby, given my serious lack of qualifications and current mental state. […] Fatherhood begins today. Right now. There’s no transition period, no trial run, no supervised training, no e-learning module you can consult, and no simulation that you can fuck up as many times as you need to until you get it right. This is now my life.

His amazement soon turns into the sleep-deprived daze of early fatherhood — blundering his way through triumphs, pitfalls, and “dadding” moments that would make any parent smile in heartfelt solidarity:

I stand, pause, creep towards your Moses basket, delicately lower you in, and then slowly back away from the biological wad of C4. Please don’t let the bomb go off, please don’t let the bomb go off, please don’t let the bomb go off. It hasn’t gone off. Yes! Now, back to b— ‘Whhaaaa.’ KABOOM.

I laughed at the grossness of a shared parenting moment (“with that description, how could I not?”), as well as the rare solo “F**K IT” moment when you’re too exhausted to follow the parental protocol (a thorough clean of the baby) and just give a quick wipe instead — because no one will know (trust me, we’ve all been there!)…

The narrative swings from cringe-worthy hilarity — the abject terror of in-public “All In One” nappy changes — to any parent’s horror: the fear of making a wrong decision that can affect his son forever; a “Santa-isn’t-real” moment.

In the midst of this, the pandemic hits, and he has to adapt to isolating — a difficult task for such a loving, close extended family; and to working from home — an impossible task when his partner dumps their son on him right before a meeting.

As the pandemic worsens, suddenly the stockpiling/panic-buying he would have otherwise thought ridiculous becomes very real, now that he has the responsibility of provider: how much formula would a baby need? And, even worse, would his son’s upcoming surgery be considered “non-urgent”?

Throughout it all, he frequently highlights how amazing “Mummy” is. I strongly suspect there was some guilt at her portrayal in the first book, because he went far too light on her here 🙂 :

She puts her soul into your well-being, and she would do anything to ensure your safety and contentment. […] I know of this woman, Arlo, and she has this job that she works 24/7 – never taking a single second off. This woman is your mummy.

Despite his immature silliness (which he’s quite proud of), a profound maturity emerges as he realises his recklessness is a thing of the past, now that he is accountable if he burdens his family.

Also, now, his clock-watching no longer anticipates the work day’s end, but the beginning of family time, and he intentionally disconnects from everything else, appreciating the small incremental moments of Arlo’s growth and development.

To be all in, to be grateful, to be present — these are the messages that stay with us, as well as our own awe at the blank canvas we find in the eyes of a baby:

Is it beauty, possibility, potential, promise? Or perhaps there’s envy. […] Or maybe there’s peace and love, and faith in the next generation who will inherit the earth and, hopefully, leave it in a better place than when they found it.

Conclusion

This comedic memoir hit home for me personally, as I also struggled (and still am struggling!) my way through early parenthood in a pandemic. Overall, it was a joyride of a read that will resonate with parents everywhere. The author shares vulnerable and scary moments alongside the gross and silly ones, opening a door into a viewpoint often not appreciated: “dadding”. I would highly recommend to other adult readers, particularly parents or aspiring parents, as it is a no-holds-barred memoir that gives true insight into what parenting can be like.

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Dear Arlo

I chose this from an ARC program because I like medical TV dramas, and the preview was intriguing.

The Premise

Anesthesiologist Dr. Jude Rosen has been on the job long enough to know that Death is an unfair colleague — sometimes He takes those who don’t deserve it far too early. With his best friend Farrah in the throes of agony in the late stages of cancer, Jude makes a decision to help her that jeopardises his career. After an unrelated malpractice suit upends his life, he finds himself in dire straits financially and unable to provide for his wife and two young daughters. Trouble soon finds him in the form of “diverting” — procuring drugs for illegal use. As he bumbles his way into becoming a criminal, he has to outsmart a wily villain that threatens everything he once took for granted.

The Pros

This was a fast-paced medical thriller with an anti-hero that you can’t help but root for, despite his flaws. The writing style was engaging and thorough in its descriptions, with breathtaking moments of profound reflection:

We’re the doctors in the shadows, behind the curtains, behind the surgeons.

Anesthesiologists carry the most powerful narcotics known to humankind in the front pocket of our scrubs.

When death becomes so routine, the boundaries between who is doing good and who is doing evil don’t just blur — the distinction is ablated.

The descending spiral of the main character is fascinating, and I loved how the relationship between him and his friend Farrah is described — it felt so genuine even in the darkness of its devotion. I also liked the daughter Regina’s reticence and precociousness (possible future psychopath in the making!), and the build-up of the villain was expertly done. The ending was also unexpected and fantastic, and far more real than I would have anticipated.

The Cons

I really enjoyed this book, but I did find there were a couple of moments that didn’t quite add up — the culminating event involves the use of a gun, but I thought the shooter would have had his own; the foreshadowing here spoilt it a bit for me as I knew what was coming the moment the weapon was handed over. I also wished for some more insight into Jude’s early days prior to the moment we meet him; it is repeatedly suggested that he was a bad person, and while I understood his former mistakes, I didn’t get that feeling of him being “rotten to the core” — how, why?

Conclusion

Despite a couple of niggles that I would attribute to my own pickiness as a reader, this was a fantastic read and ticks all the boxes for me in terms of an action-packed, savvy thriller. The medical jargon is explained so any reader can grasp it, and the writer’s style is easy to follow as it unwinds an intriguing plot. If you like “Breaking Bad” and medical dramas like “Grey’s Anatomy” or “E.R.” this would definitely be right up your alley. Note: I was getting the “Walter White”-esque parallel quite alright on my own (as would literally anyone who’s seen the show) so didn’t see the need to spell it out in the actual text of the novel! Nevertheless this was a fabulous joyride of a medical thriller, and I would highly recommend it to anyone who enjoys great writing and a suspenseful plot. I look forward to reading more from this author.

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I chose this from an ARC program because I liked the synopsis.

The Premise

After losing his wife and son in an accident, Pritchard spirals downwards into alcoholism. Frequenting a nearby bar, one day he trips over a teenage girl’s scooter and damages it. When he gives her his number so she can follow up for the repairs, he has no idea that she would soon contact him for something else: to save her life. Putting himself out on a limb for a stranger is Pritchard’s opening to slipping back into the life he once knew: a life of crime. With danger afoot, can Pritchard save the day — and himself?

The Pros

This was a fast-paced, tightly wound read with violence, mobsters, and an unusual friendship between the anti-hero protagonist and the teenage girl he risked his life to save. I liked their friendship and seeing her develop through her fear and triumph. Pritchard also showed a soft side to him as he was protective over her as he would be to his own child. I also liked the supporting characters from his past life that came back in to help him, and the redemption arc of Pritchard as he found purpose in his own life through saving someone else. Also, the fight scenes were nicely done, and the descriptions take you right there to the scene of the action.

The Cons

Though I like novellas, and enjoy thrillers, this one was so short (80+ pages, < 1 hour reading time) for the plot it tried to pack in that I felt like I did not get sufficient time to really know or feel for the characters. I was able to zip through it because it felt like something I had seen on TV many times before, and though it was entertaining, I was hoping for a more original spin somehow.

Conclusion

I don’t think I am the ideal reader for this book, as I prefer something with more dialogue and heart-to-hearts with characters, and this was light on those elements. However I would recommend this to other readers who like a swift action-packed read. I doubt I would go on reading in this series, but I would love to give the author another try. The writing talent is definitely there, and I think it would be great to see what he can do will a full-length novel and a more intricate plot.

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A dramatic, comedic telenovela of a women’s fiction about infidelity and fickle hearts

This was my twentieth book I chose via the Reedsy Discovery program, for which I am the single approved reviewer for this new book. It marks me coming full circle as a Reedsy reviewer, as the author’s first book in this series was my first Reedsy review: What’s Not Said. When I saw that there was a sequel, I immediately grabbed it up as I had enjoyed the first one. This review also appears on Reedsy.

If you’re interested in becoming a Reedsy reviewer (and have the chance to get paid “tips” to review books!) check it out here.

The Premise

Picking up shortly after the end of the previous book in the series, Kassie is now about to be divorced from Mike. Estranged from her lover Chris (also coincidentally Mike’s son, which she learned after the fact), she has an unexpected meeting with him in Paris that seems to be the springboard to reconcile. But when a job opportunity arises, will that get in the way of them rekindling their relationship?

Meanwhile, Mike’s deceitful fiancée Karen (who donated her kidney to save his life) is now eagerly awaiting the moment when she can “lock him down” into marriage, but Mike’s deteriorating health puts her money-grubbing plans on hold. When Kassie flies home to Boston when Mike falls ill, she engages in a battle of wills with Karen. But there are secrets which affect them all — what will happen when they all come to light?

The Pros

This was a dramatic, comedic telenovela of a women’s fiction about infidelity and fickle hearts, similar to the first in the series: “What’s Not Said“.

Again, I loved that the characters are middle-aged with enjoyable sex lives, and appreciate that there is a bright humour in addressing the raunchy parts — the casual mention of erectile dysfunction pills, the ability (or lack thereof) to go multiple rounds of sex, and the references to aging bodies that are still sexually attractive, functional and beautiful.

The characters were all fabulously flawed but they all each have their redeeming qualities. I especially loved how Mike and Kassie were able to connect genuinely despite so much that has transpired between them — their relationship and mutual respect for each other was touching and sweet. After everything, Mike knew that there had been real love there, even though they were on the verge of divorce, and that Kassie had a lot to offer in terms of her skill and wit to manage a business.

Their relationship — surrounded by so much farcical fakeness and infidelity — was the saving grace among so many deplorable characters, and I was thrilled to read these parts. I also liked the aspects of romantic comedy, and the cattiness of the women as they interacted with each other. There are also a few surprises and a few shocking dramatic moments to hold the reader’s interest.

The Cons

Having adored many elements of the first book in the series, it is hard not to compare them, but I must admit this one lost a bit of the initial charm. Its pacing is challenged with being the second in the series, because it has to “catch us up” many times to what had already transpired. Having already read that book, I wished it would move right along to the action, but I had to be patient.

That said, I do not recommend reading this until you have read the first book, as you will inevitably be very lost among all of the interlocking relationships of the characters. Plus if you miss the first book, you’ll have missed out on Topher, who was largely absent here (much to my dismay!) — whereas he stole the show at times in Book 1, in Book 2 he was left in the care of a friend while Kassie was travelling. He needs his own book (or at least a short story)… just saying! 🙂

Conclusion

Overall, this was an enjoyable read, with spicy characters and drama galore. If you’re a “Golden Girls” fan who loves daytime soap operas, this would be sure to tickle your fancy. I think this novel will resonate well with this audience, as these types of characters are not celebrated enough, particularly in this genre that includes romance and sex. It ends on a bit of a cliffhanger. I believe there will be a third book following on from this one, and I look forward to seeing what happens next with “Bad Kassie”, now that she is at the helm of things!

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A jovial recount of an unapologetically American outsider’s view of Norwegian business culture

This was my nineteeth book I chose via the Reedsy Discovery program, for which I am the single approved reviewer for this new book. I have always been intrigued by other cultures, and chose this book to learn more about Norwegians. Its brevity (it can be read under two hours) and easy-to-read style of writing drew me in. This review also appears on Reedsy.

If you’re interested in becoming a Reedsy reviewer (and have the chance to get paid “tips” to review books!) check it out here.

The Premise

After experiencing failure when trying to translate his American work ethic to a Norwegian work culture, venture capitalist Sean Percival collected his thoughts to compile a reference guide for others to avoid making the same mistakes. Touching on some insights about the country’s history and belief system, he explains what makes Norwegians special — which can also make it difficult to work with them, if your own culture has a very different value system. With tips and tricks and a short glossary of terms, Sean outlines what can be done to improve business relations with Norwegians.

Head over to the official website: https://workingwithnorwegians.com

The Pros & Cons

This was a jovial recount of an unapologetically American outsider’s view of Norwegian business culture.

Norway is extremely egalitarian, economically prosperous, largely monopolistic, and known for its high quality of life. Norwegians generally have deep trust in their government, and their systems are greatly unmatched in other countries: they believe in self-care, selflessness, and fairness.

All of that, of course, is a stark difference to the loud, brash, show-off, “me-first” American culture that believes in “Move fast and break things”, a common saying that demonstrates the widespread belief that mistakes are a consequence of innovation in a competitive world.

In terms of business, however, this disparity results in limitations. With so much prosperity, there hasn’t been much pressure to “aggressively go global in business” — particularly when Norwegians seem quite content with the monopolies that exist.

There is also a low risk appetite, as the Norwegian way is to follow the rules:

Breaking the rules, especially in business, is not common in Norway. Those that do, regardless if the outcome is positive for their business, quickly lose respect in the public eye. […] Unlike in America, you’re not likely to get a second chance when your bad behaviour becomes known. The Norwegian’s memory of such bad actors lasts for as long as the fjords are deep.

We gain insight into the reservedness of Norwegian culture, where mindless chatting is frowned upon and the “water cooler culture” simply doesn’t exist. Even greeting someone exuberantly would garner suspicion and discomfort, and long stretches of silence are not rude, as they would be across the ocean.

There were other useful pieces of information about clothing, business vernacular, appropriate gifts, and attitudes to sexual relationships, as well as the only arena where Norwegians are known to “let loose” — drinking alcohol. Most importantly, Norwegians believe in “The Law of Jante”, which are cultural values that encourage Norwegians not to excel above and beyond their peers — quite a conundrum to deal with, from the business perspective of a capitalist, competitive, power-hungry country like the United States.

Fair warning: this is by no means a faithful representation of Norway, so parts may offend some readers. Nevertheless, as someone’s personal experience, a lot of it may ring true, and it would be useful for others to learn from the author’s mistakes. Also, while I enjoyed this book and found the style of writing engaging, it should be noted that it reads as more of a personal business memoir than a veritable guide, so it may not resonate among more diverse readers along the spectrum of race, gender, sexuality, disability, etc. or to non-American audiences, as other cultures/countries/readers from different backgrounds would also have their own nuances that may clash entirely differently with Norwegian culture.

Conclusion

Overall, I liked this swift, humorous read, and I’m glad I took a chance on it. I felt as though I gained valuable insight into Norwegian culture, and a deeper appreciation of Norway’s beautiful, unique, egalitarian society. I would recommend this book to others as a starting point, but note that it is a light-hearted recap to inform and entertain (and it does a great job at that!); by no means should it be the *only* “research” book one reads on the topic. That said, if you’re passing through Norway for a short stint, or perhaps embarking on a business venture with a Norwegian on your own soil, this book will save you in a pinch!

Purchase your copy

Head over to the official website: https://workingwithnorwegians.com

Also available on Amazon:

A cozy mystery/thriller with an unlikely and admirable hero and a meaningful message

This was my eighteenth book I chose via the Reedsy Discovery program, for which I am the single approved reviewer for this new book. I chose it because the preview was interesting, and I love diversity in characters I read about. This review also appears on Reedsy.

If you’re interested in becoming a Reedsy reviewer (and have the chance to get paid “tips” to review books!) check it out here.

The Premise

Will’s humdrum life takes a swift turn when he stumbles across the dead body of a young Latino man, whom he soon learns was gay. A middle-aged gay Latino himself, Will feels personally connected to the murder case — especially as he had an experience in his past with the death of a friend to a hate crime. Thinking this situation may be similar, Will is determined to get to the bottom of the matter — even if it means putting himself in danger. With the help of his new boyfriend José, he uses his connections and natural charm in the community to go digging for clues. But will he undercover more than he can handle?

The Pros & Cons

This was a cozy mystery/thriller with an unlikely and admirable hero (a gay older Latino), and a meaningful message.

Despite the subject matter being so heavy — hate crimes and the seedy underbelly of the online dating world (particularly for gay men) — our hero Will is a witty, snarky pleasure of a character to experience.

The novel’s preview drew me in immediately, because a typical crime fiction usually features a “hard-hitting-take-no-prisoners macho male” (if it’s a crime/thriller) or a “cute-but-kicks-ass female” (if it’s a cozy mystery). Will is neither of those and far off the spectrum of what you’d expect for the genre, which I absolutely loved.

He is clearly admired and respected in his community, and jumps into action to save those who need his help — both the young men whose deaths he wants to avenge, as well as the married antagonist-turned-acquaintance who is struggling with his sexual identity. I also liked the role José played in this — their swift love connection seems too good to be true, and Will’s past history of heartbreak clouds his vision as he doubts their budding relationship. Will’s sister rounds out the cast nicely, bringing joviality and overbearing sibling behaviour home to the reader’s heart.

Overall it was a charming read, with just enough of a who-dunnit thrill to hold the reader’s interest without going too dark down into the rabbit hole of guts and gore. I love these kind of stories, as they leave room for humour even when danger and death are afoot.

At the same time, among the levity, there are heartfelt, moving moments when we get insight into Will’s past or glimpses into the lives of those who were murdered, and these highlight that hate crimes are all too real in our society today. We are also reminded that one’s sexual identity can have a crushing impact on a family, particularly among the Latino community due to religious and cultural beliefs.

Admittedly, there were some parts of the narrative where too much exposition hindered the storytelling. We get insight into the killer from the outset with the future-jumps into his mind, and I kept thinking this viewpoint would connect to the first-person narrative from Will, but this conversation never actually seems to come to pass between the two disparate persons and timelines. It felt like an added overture of a crime-show-TV staple (“Criminal Minds” is even casually mentioned), and honestly without any of that, the story still would’ve worked well, as it was fabulous on its own with Will at its helm!

Conclusion

Despite my personal preferences of flow and cadence for storytelling, this novel was an enjoyable ride overall. The author manages to effectively balance a difficult blend of humour while addressing serious issues. I was also thrilled to see this kind of hero, as it’s not often we get such a trifecta to admire in terms of diversity.

Will used all of these identities/roles to enhance his sleuthing ability — being able to connect with other Latino families, moving easily between straight and gay communities, and carrying himself with the respect that an older and accomplished academic deserves and expects. This was great to experience, and I can imagine this character having many more adventures. It seems like there is a sequel or series coming up, and I would be thrilled to keep on reading. I would recommend this book to others, and look forward to more from this author.

Purchase your copy

I chose this book from an ARC program because I enjoyed two other books by this author duo — My Favourite Mistake and My Cover Model.

The Premise

Bree has had her heart broken after multiple men cheated on her, so she’s now sworn off men, along with her longtime friends from high school. When an upcoming family wedding puts pressure on her to be coupled up, she decides to invite the brother of her friend Tessa, Zack. Zack’s reputation precedes him — he has a different woman almost daily, and no interest in long-term labels. But will Bree change his mind — and does she even want that herself?

The Pros

This was a fast-paced read with a good dollop of raunch and great dialogue. It goes straight to the action, and each character gets a fair balance of “reading” time (a problem I had with my first book by this author duo) so I was pleased at that. The storyline is simple and predictable but executed well enough to hold my interest throughout, and the sexy parts are sudden and scintillating. I also liked the tense mother/daughter relationship, and the snippets of other characters we are bound to see in other books of the series.

The Cons

Though I liked this book, there didn’t seem to be any conflict. It was predictable and there didn’t seem to be a whole lot of depth to either character — one minute they are friends, the next sex is on the table, and the next there is a flash of doubt, and it is resolved so quickly that I was surprised the book was over. I was just getting into the story by that time, and was hoping for some kind of twist or angst or… well, something.

Conclusion

This is my third book by this author duo, and while I’m enjoying their work, I keep wanting more *oomph*. The first book I read blew me away and felt so much deeper and more interesting than the two that followed, and I keep seeking that high I got from the first one! I would be willing to try a few more times though, because the writing skill is definitely there in terms of dialogue and creating characters — I just wish that more *oomph* was added somehow. I would still recommend this one to other readers though, because it fills that genre of swift smut quite well. I just need a bit more to blow my socks off, but that may just be me!

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A heartwarming and heartbreaking memoir of a mother/daughter love that knows no limits

This was my seventeenth book I chose via the Reedsy Discovery program, for which I am the single approved reviewer for this new book. Although memoirs are not my usual genre, the synopsis and the author’s note at the beginning drew me in. This review also appears on Reedsy.

If you’re interested in becoming a Reedsy reviewer (and have the chance to get paid “tips” to review books!) check it out here.

The Premise

Born to a sixteen-year-old free-spirited mother in the late 1960s, Stacey’s upbringing was unique. This memoir chronicles her life from birth to present, touching on all the relationships that influenced her — her grandparents, her friends, her partner, her father, and most importantly its central focus: her mother. Part witty comedy, part painful drama, this true recount of their relationship is similar to the dynamic of the television show “Gilmore Girls”. As her mother Bree often said: “I didn’t raise Stacey. Stacey raised me.”

Bouncing between the various homes among her family members, all of whom welcomed her despite her shifting religious, sexual and other identities, Stacey’s guiding light is her mother. When Bree falls ill, she steps into the role of caregiver until her final days. With a hefty dose of heart and a sprinkle of magical realism, this memoir celebrates her mother’s life and honours her memory.

The Pros

This was a heartwarming and heartbreaking memoir of a mother/daughter love that knows no limits.

Though my reading tastes are broad and inclusive, when I take on the honour and responsibility of reviewing, I usually keep a wide berth away from memoirs — it’s hard to cast a critical eye upon something so factual and personal. However, this one had me at “Gilmore Girls” — my and my mom’s absolute favourite show ever, and I couldn’t resist.

Beautiful and moving from beginning to end, this chronicle of Stacey’s and Bree’s life is a glorious depiction of an unusual mother-daughter role-reversal dynamic.

Charming, intimate, and relatable, we fall in love with “Mommie Bree” from the first moment when she refused to get married with her braces on. As she stumbles through her own struggles with self-image, relationships, depression, and illness, she still shields her daughter Stacey from the depths of it, sacrificing her own happiness to ensure that her daughter gets the most out of life. Not wanting to be a burden, Bree reaches out for support only when she absolutely must, much to Stacey’s chagrin as she wants to be able to do so much more for the woman who brought her to life in more ways than one.

The journey from childhood to adulthood is masterful, heartfelt, and so gripping that there were points when it was impossible to take a breather from this book. The authenticity, the humour, the kindness, the compassion and the sheer love of coming-to-age under the guiding light of her mother’s influence are brilliantly woven through the tapestry of these pages, culminating in a photo album and afterword from Bree — through the afterlife — that would touch even the coldest of hearts.

“Maybe on the surface, my mom didn’t seem so remarkable. She didn’t invent anything, or make great strides in a particular field, or even find her way to healing the deep emotional wounds that plagued her so that she could become the resplendent recovery story and pillar of hope she had so wanted to be for others. But even without achieving that, she made a lasting, luminous impression on everyone who knew her.”

There was also an element of magical realism in the aspects of the story that explored religious faith and otherworldly beliefs. I personally loved it, but some readers may have to suspend disbelief and accept that these are integral to Stacey’s and Bree’s story. While some may not abide by these serendipitous unexplainable coincidences, this is the author’s truth and must be respected — no; revered.

Conclusion

This memoir is one that will stay with me for awhile. Though crushingly painful at times, still, even in its darkest hour, it reaches deep to find the uplifting levity of laughter or the pacifying sigh of peace. There is so much love here, so much grief, so much heart. If you are a “Gilmore Girls” fan, you will indeed relish every moment of this book, but I would also recommend to anyone who can enjoy the excellence of writing talent, and stomach reading something real that will bring them to tears. I thoroughly enjoyed the emotional rollercoaster of this book, and I am grateful to the author for penning her thoughts to words in order to honour her mother in the best way she can: by sharing her with others.

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A powerful and heart-wrenching tale of motherhood, grief, illness, self-discovery and redemption

This was my sixteenth book I chose via the Reedsy Discovery program, for which I am the single approved reviewer for this new book. I chose it because the synopsis and preview drew me in. This review also appears on Reedsy.

The Premise

After losing her son in a freak accident when a wave pulls him out to sea, Clair tries to murder her husband and then to commit suicide. Both her attempts are futile, and Clair winds up in her psychiatric unit, while her husband Adam soon recovers and is willing to forgive her and attempt reconciliation. But a rift has grown between the two of them that seems insurmountable, as she blames him for his apparent infidelity and emotional distancing from their autistic son, as well as his untimely death while they were both distracted. Upon receiving a bad health diagnosis, she flees, with Adam soon in pursuit. Can she find her way, and will their journey lead them back to each other?

The Pros & Cons

This was a powerful and heart-wrenching tale of motherhood, grief, illness, self-discovery and redemption.

We meet Clair at the lowest point of her life, after she has taken drastic measures as a result of her unbearable grief.

It was gripping to see Adam move so quickly past his confusion and anger at what she had tried to do to him, and into forgiveness and acceptance. I was in awe at his devotion to her, despite her fragile state and his characterisation as a womanizer who did not even seem to like her much when he first found himself “trapped” into marriage by social expectations.

I loved the symbolism of the wave, and of the overriding ebbs and flows of their relationship:

[…] Looking back, if he had been paying attention, perhaps there had been clues, not to the ocean’s madness, but to their own, his and Clair’s, and their slipping away from what mattered, towards mutually ensured destruction.

Motherhood transformed Clair from a mathematically-focused, formula-driven, rule-follower woman to open her heart enormously and accept the vagaries of emotion to love and accept her son, particularly as she had to adapt to his special needs. Then, his loss plunged her into a realm of unbearable despair. This was followed by her diagnosis, which made her lose her sense of self. Clair finds solace and healing through group therapy:

She knew about their hopes, and fears, their anger, heartbreaks and self-doubts. Their pain, physical and emotional, was her pain. […] Their stories changed each week as their self-identities reconfigured. Bits and pieces of biographies morphed into brighter, more capable, happier selves.

Though the focus is primarily on Clair and her journey to self-discovery, we also see Adam’s point of view as he pursues her, trying to catch the ephemera of her essence before she slips out of his grasp forever.

The story was powerful, and sweeps you away with its evocative descriptions, though at times I did wish for a wee bit more restraint of this in order to propel the plot forward a little faster. I was eager to see what would happen, as the suspense mounts in the “chase” of self and partner.

The writing is emotional and poetic, and there are breathtaking, profound moments that stay with you long after you close the novel, such as:

What is known is that for each of us, we find our breaking point. Turbulence precedes transformation. The moment we crash onto shore or up against a rock. But the wave doesn’t cease to exist, it returns to water. And so we continue on as well.

Conclusion

Overall, this was a thought-provoking novel that is unsettling and at the same time brings peace. The author captures feelings and scenery beautifully, and the plot takes you on an emotional rollercoaster from trauma to triumph. The symbolism is interwoven throughout, and winds itself around tragedy, leading to an eventual healing and reconciliation.

The relationship at its centre is brilliantly portrayed, showing flawed characters on both sides that must find a way to meet in the middle despite their grief. There is also a mystical element that is reminiscent of Greek mythology, and the writer’s style leads you through the darkness into the light, bringing life to the story. If you enjoy Jodi Picoult’s writing style, this will also resonate with you. I highly recommend to anyone, but adult female readers may appreciate it the most.

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