Sacha T. Y. Fortuné

A heartwarming coming-of-age dramedy about an important chapter in Black history

This was my fourteenth 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.

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The Premise

Twelve-year-old “tomboy” Zayla is confused about her feelings for girls. At school, she is being teased that she is a “bulldagger” — much to her mother’s chagrin. Their tense relationship is a result of a constant struggle to wriggle out from under her mother’s thumb, and her mother’s insistence on changing her. Luckily, her father Frank is a respite from this, as he seems to love her unconditionally.

As Zayla comes of age and grows into a young woman — with some help from her friends Malik and Cynthia, their neighbourhood community of Watts erupts in a racial uprising. Based on true events, the riots are shown through the eyes of a young girl, who is desperate to understand the racial inequalities and injustices she witness and experiences, as well as the secrets her family is keeping from her.

The Pros

This was a heartwarming coming-of-age dramedy about an important chapter of Black history. Told through the eyes of a preteen “tomboy”, we experience every confusing, triumphant, and terrified emotion of our protagonist Zayla. There is a range of topics covered — racism, police brutality, LGBTQ issues, and so much more.

The author takes you right to that time in the 1960s — the children’s games, the school bullying, the language, the communities, and the political overture of living in a volatile time.

Zayla’s voice and point of view are clear and striking, as she really comes to understand what it means to be Black:

“Even with my twelve-year-old understanding, I knew I was living in a city, surrounded by a country, filled with people who had a deep-seated hatred for me just because I was Black[…] Why not white people? Why were they excused from the terror of the Negro experience?”

The story is not only about Black history, though. Far more important is the intersectionality of lives — Zayla’s questionable sexuality and exploration were just as important as her Blackness; class and privilege are demonstrated beautifully; and the family scandal touches on issues of religion, mental illness, and prejudice.

The writing is excellent, and carries its pacing and eloquence all the way through. There was so much depth and breadth of character development not just for the main characters, but also for the families around them. Where we once despised Zayla’s mother right along with her, as the novel wound to its climax, we grew to love her as well. We even forgave those who harmed Zayla, as she grew into herself and blossomed beyond their negative influences.

Far beyond the theme of “race” within the story is the gripping honesty of the realities of life, such as when Zayla’s father explains to her why white people treat them the way they do:

“Because they can. They make the laws. They control the money. They make the rules and change them when we become hip to them. They own the guns. And worse, we believe they have all the power.”

Conclusion

This novel was an emotional rollercoaster ride with the fresh, acerbic wit of a young girl at its helm. It felt like a very real experience of a person who lived through that time. The hallmark of any good historical fiction is its ability to spark interest in the historical aspects, and I was thrilled to learn more about the Watts riots, which I found myself looking into after reading the book.

Knowledge is power, and history is important. I believe this book should be recommended reading for schools, particularly in Black communities. Even as the the guns crack and the bombs explode, still there is a glimmer of the untouchable beauty of a gem in this novel’s words: Black hope, Black joy, Black love. I highly recommend this book to other readers, and look forward to reading more from the author.

Purchase your copy

After reading another book “Everywhere, Always” by the same author, I was thrilled when I saw this one via a newsletter promotion, and I was happy to read and review.

The Premise

Harper is in her senior year, on the cusp of wrapping up her school life, and everything is going according to her very meticulous plan — that is, until Dylan asks her for a favour, and she grudgingly obliges. Though they’ve known each other forever, she’s always kept her distance because they come from two different worlds: she’s the scholarship kid with big dreams, while he’s the wealthy spoilt brat with the world at his fingertips. More importantly, Dylan and her best friend James are enemies and rival track stars.

Harper secretly loves James, whom she’s known since birth, and is planning her entire future around him. But as she gets to know Dylan, she wonders if everything she’s planned, and the life she’s built, have all been a waste. It’s about high time she prioritizes her own needs — and maybe, just maybe, one of those “needs” might be Dylan.

The Pros

This was a great young adult romance with all the feels. Harper is a character that many of us can connect with — down-to-earth, good girl, or as James terms it (much to her chagrin): “Innocent. Cute. Predictable.” She’s self-aware and despite her insecurities, she’s also clearly proud of who she is and what she’s accomplished, even if it means she’ll never be the popular girl.

I loved seeing the relationship with Dylan develop, and their banter is witty and fun. I felt like Harper made an important journey of growth — both as a result of Dylan’s influence, as well as on her own, and I was rooting for her the whole way through. The rivalry between the guys came to a head splendidly, and I liked that build-up to the eventual explosion. And then, the climax of the novel when we learn what was going on from Dylan’s side — OMG! Wow! I absolutely loved it, and felt my heart soaring for him. So well done!

The Cons

Though I enjoyed this novel a lot, I did feel like the end was a little anti-climactic, as the last chapter felt rushed. I also struggled to read some of the parts with James, because I couldn’t see why Harper liked him in the first place! Admittedly he does have a salvageable *okay, okay, you’re not such a douche* moment but gosh, it took long to reach! (Still in all fairness, it is there!) While I didn’t expect (or want) him to make any grand gestures, he was really just half-assing being a friend far less anything more, and I wish he was a wee bit more of a contender for her heart — this may have added some tension.

Conclusion

This was a good young adult romance that I enjoyed thoroughly, and I would highly recommend to other readers, particularly that target market. The characters are memorable, the dialogue was enjoyable, and the supporting characters brought a nice addition. If you enjoy shows like “Dawson’s Creek” with the Dawson/Joey/Pacey love triangle, this is right up your alley. There was a definite whiff of that kind of energy, and as a fan of that myself I appreciated the reference point. I would love to read more from the author, and I look forward to it!

Purchase your copy

After my review of another book, What I Left Behind, the author reached out with this one as well as another that I’ve already reviewed, A Change of Seasons. I’m happy to say that I was pleased with a great read a third time around!

The Premise

After single-handedly raising her son Eliot after a painful heartbreak with his father, Maggie is thrilled that he is now an adult at twenty-one and on the cusp of entering medical school. Her plans change in a heartbeat when she realises that one of the patients at the hospital she works is Eliot’s ex-girlfriend Liza — who has just had Eliot’s baby, whom she wants to give up for adoption.

Breaking the law and risking the career, Maggie tells him about the child. Eliot feels that he cannot abandon his son, and decided to raise him without Liza. Eliot’s decision, based on his own experience growing up fatherless, raises the past secrets Maggie tried to bury when she decided to raise him alone. Is it time to finally tell him the truth, or will it ruin their relationship forever?

The Pros

This was a heartfelt story of the repercussions of big life decisions years later. The characters’ motivations were clear, even when I did not agree with them, and I felt like these characters were all fully fleshed out and real. Maggie’s overprotectiveness is frustrating even while we admire all she’s done to raise this young man; meanwhile Eliot’s oblivious youthfulness flies off the page, and we want to hit him on the head at the same time that we completely understand that he is simply overwhelmed with the sharp deviation his life suddenly took.

I loved how the past was interwoven with the present, and we get to see the creation of our female protagonist to morph into the woman she became today. Maggie’s family history was rich and multi-faceted with so many layers and histories of hurt, pain and triumph. This counterbalanced well with the humorous moments in her interactions with Eliot’s uncle. I absolutely loved the scene when they first met and he instantly won some points, and readers’ hearts everywhere! 🙂 I also enjoyed the inclusion of her friends and Eliot’s wider family, and they rounded out the cast nicely to bring both high and low points to the plot of amusement, sorrow and drama.

The Cons

While I enjoyed reading the parts with Maggie’s family background, sometimes I wish there was a bit less of them, because it felt like a separate story at times. I would have also loved to see more of the development of the romantic relationship, because that chemistry felt so amazing that I could see an entire book focusing on them alone! Nevertheless these are really small quibbles in a truly amazing novel.

Conclusion

As my third novel by this author, I knew what to expect and I am thrilled not to be disappointed! This was actually my favourite of them all so far. I love the way characters are developed, and given the kind of depth and flaws that make them come alive to the reader. In this case, we can all feel the mother’s senseless jealousy and debilitating sorrow that her son is making his own way in life after everything she sacrificed to build a life for him in her vision. It is an amazing story that shows more than it tells, of how it is never too late for love, and how regret has no place in our hearts if we really want to make changes for the better. I would highly recommend to anyone, but believe mature female readers will enjoy it most. I can’t wait for more by this author.

Purchase your copy

The author reached out after I reviewed another book of hers, What Pretty Gets You, and I received this book as an ARC.

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The Premise

Both recently widowed, Dean and Juliet meet in the Cayman Islands, while staying at rental cottages with their children. Eight months prior, Dean lost his wife to cancer, while Juliet lost her husband to an accident six months ago. They fall into easy companionship, bonding over the comfort of partnership to look after their children. But neither is there on vacation — Dean came to the island after his teenage son Luc had a vehicular accident; and as the summer wears on, it becomes clear that Juliet is running from something.

Despite the settling calm of Dean’s love, Juliet is receiving cryptic correspondence from her brother in the United States, along with emailed quotes from a mysterious stranger. There is also a hazy, alcohol-induced night at the beginning of the summer that she can’t properly remember, but wishes she could forget. As a storm fast approaches the island and many people evacuate, Dean and Juliet have to make the difficult decision to stay there together, or go back to their individual lives — as only time will tell what remains standing after the storm.

The Pros

Told from two points of view — Dean in third person, and Juliet in second person, the novel traces the blossoming of a relationship that seems impossibly difficult, given that each has been married and widowed. As Juliet states:

“How do we get to know each other? How do we share our stories, when so much involves the one that came before? How do we honor the past for the sake of our children, without hurting each other?”

For Juliet, Dean is a “guardrail”: a solid, stand-up man whose love for his children is an allure — a stark contrast to her husband, Jack, who was oblivious to his children’s needs while focusing on building his real estate empire. For Dean, Juliet gives him far more than the “crumbs” of love he received from his wife Amélie.

Despite the difficulties in each of their marriages, they are both wracked with grief over the loved ones they lost. Now in each other, there is a possibility of real love: a happy “Brady Bunch” ending of uniting their families. As Juliet puts it:

“I want to bring back intention to my life. I want to do things from love, be present again.”

Even though we only see two viewpoints, every other character is fully fleshed out, their actions speaking louder than words — Luc’s broody comments, Tony’s irreverent guffaws, and the breezy beauty of innocence in the younger children’s easy camaraderie.

The tiny touches and nuances make the story come to life — the island vibe of laid-back life in the Cayman Islands, the quick-fire prejudices of the people around them, and the work ethic of those who live in “paradise” year-round. You can almost feel the brackish water of the sea spray, the sun blazing down, and the unrelenting mosquitoes singing their glory as they feast on open flesh.

The writing is emotional and profound, and I loved the way the reader gets the chance to piece together the puzzle of the past, revealing the darkest depths of Juliet’s personal anguish. It leaves you with a deep appreciation for the value of love for family, and for the impact a significant other has on your psyche.

Conclusion

Similar to my last book I read by this author, this was a stunning novel. I was glad to see a real, raw story of love later in life — post loss, post children, post the novelty of a typical romance. The undercurrent of suspense kept me reading feverishly to the end, and even though I suspected the surprise, it was still shocking when it finally got to that point. The genre is a curious blend of drama, romance, and thriller — but I eventually classed it as a women’s fiction because above all, Juliet’s story (the one we read as “YOU” that speaks directly to the reader) is the one voice that rises to the surface, taking its seat in our souls as we love and dislike her and pity her, feeling both her excruciating pain and uplifting joy as she eventually finds her way. I believe particularly adult female readers will appreciate and enjoy this novel, but I would also recommend to a general adult audience.

Purchase your copy

I chose this book from an ARC program because the character had my name! I was amused when I first learned the Sasha/Alex connection, as my friend at uni (used to calling his Russian friend Alex “Sasha”) often called me “Alex”, which to me does not compute! Not a normal reason to choose a book, but there you go, I’m being honest 🙂

The Premise

Elliott (Lottie) is all set for her new life at boarding school, until she meets her new roommate Sasha (Alex). With the other dorm under construction, there’s little choice but for her to keep rooming with him in the interim. Despite her loner “swamp witch” ways, Alex’s charm soon works on her as he and his friends welcome her and adopt her into their group of friends. She becomes their female confidante, helping them in their love lives — all except Alex, who remains aloof while dating multiple girls. Will he — or Lottie, for that matter — ever accept that they both want more than just friendship?

The Pros

This was a lighthearted read with characters that leapt off the page. The banter is witty and enjoyable, and I loved how Lottie was resistant at first but soon sank into the familiarity of their brotherly friendship — despite them being a raucous group of guys. I also really liked how she became friends with all of his friends, and had separate friendships with them alongside Alex as the core connecting force, and tried to help them also find love. Alex was charming and over-the-top in his jock-like overconfidence, but still a sweetheart at the core of it. I enjoyed seeing their relationship flourish from friendship into more, and they kept me laughing all the way through.

The Cons

While I enjoyed this novel, I kept hoping for some more drama, but there was little in the way of that. Alex’s background seems somewhat mysterious at the beginning, but later down I thought there would be a big “wow” moment when we learn why he is so cryptic about his family… this didn’t seem to be the case, when it finally got around to that. His family seemed loving and normal. I also found that the story seemed to revolve *only* around Lottie and Alex’s living arrangement, and I wished for a bit more of her experience as a student, but she seemed to fit in quite easily with the work and environment at boarding school.

Conclusion

This was a slow burn friends-to-lovers that hits the right spot for its teenage audience. The dialogue is its biggest charm here, and there are funny moments as well as sweet. I would recommend to other readers who enjoy this kind of romance, as the characters are easy to love and root for to get their happily ever after. I look forward to reading more by the author.

Purchase your copy

I chose this book from an ARC program because the synopsis was intriguing and I love a good YA.

The Premise

Jackie is all set for the adventure of a lifetime — a two-month road trip in a food truck, selling cookies at events. Her plans are soon thwarted when she discovers she’s got company — her estranged childhood friend Silas, whose path diverged from hers after a tragedy that occurred when they were ten years old, resulting in them both being orphaned. While Jackie got adoring adoptive parents, Silas went down a dark road with abusive relatives. Coupled with his grief, nightmares and poor decision-making, he’s now a hothead with a criminal record, a drinking habit, and nothing to lose.

Jackie organises an arrangement for Silas to stay with her under remote supervision via daily check-in calls with her adoptive father, and they are soon off to adventure on Trudy the food truck. Will Silas’ bad-boy behaviour get in the way of her perfectly-planned summer, or will they be able to rekindle their childhood friendship… and perhaps, even more?

The Pros

This was a great read with a wonderfully balanced blend of witty banter and amazing characters with a deeper underlying message in its themes about mental health and teenage addiction. Jackie’s maturity and determination to get through to Silas were admirable, and Silas’ broodiness that eventually cooled off was really lovely to experience as a reader. Both main characters had so much depth, and even the side characters like Richard (Jackie’s adoptive dad and Silas’ step-in case worker) were given enough of a personality to round out the story nicely.

The dialogue was just splendid, and worked well to build my images of the two characters. There was just enough age-appropriate sexiness for the novel’s target market, and the build-up of romance was well deserved by the time it got there. It was amazing to see the growth of both Jackie and Silas, and the pacing as this unfolds is done well. Jackie discovers her true passion, and Silas makes peace with his past and is able to focus on fixing his present so that he can have a future.

The Cons

I enjoyed this novel throughout, but I had a small issue with one of the factual elements. As someone who actually uses Fiverr as both a seller and buyer, this entire storyline had some flaws — there is no marketplace to upload pre-made covers and have someone purchase them right off. Fiverr is for putting up your “gigs” as a freelancer, then someone has to book the gig. You also don’t get to miss deadlines and then “decide” to reimburse someone; Fiverr acts as an intermediary so that you just wouldn’t get paid if you don’t deliver… the client has to accept the finished product and mark it as complete — LONG before you get a dime. Fiverr also sends you a bunch of reminders, so I found it strange Jackie missed deadlines (and apparently all the reminders as well). Sorry if I’m off on a tangent and this plot hole is really minor for others, but as an author I check out *so* much stuff when I’m writing to see if it would apply… and if I’m not 100% sure, I make up a fictional company that works exactly how I want it to. Here, there were so many *specific* details that I found myself actually stopping reading, putting down this amazing book, and searching through Fiverr to verify all of this… because at that point I genuinely wasn’t sure!

Conclusion

Despite my mini-rant above, this was an excellent read and I would highly recommend to anyone but particularly female readers in their teens and early adulthood. It’s a coming-of-age story with both boy and girl characters that are easy to love and root for, and the banter and dialogue are simply amazing. While it’s a YA read, I enjoyed it as an adult and appreciated that it’s not the usual fluffy YA read that skirts around serious issues. I loved this book and would also love to read others by the author.

Purchase your copy

After my review of another book, What I Left Behind, the author reached out with this one, and I was happy to read and review as I had really enjoyed the previous book. As it is my second book by this author I had high expectations, and was happy that they were met.

The Premise

Cecelia (CiCi) moves her mother Belle out of the assisted living facility to her home, where she lives with her 17-year-old daughter Erin. Erin is at the cusp of finishing school, and struggles to gain some independence from her mother’s strict rules as she comes out of her shell and begins dating boys. Meanwhile, her grandmother, still mourning the loss of her late husband, is intrigued by a new friendship that soon develops into something more.

While her mother and daughter both seem to be having more of a love life than her, CiCi gets herself into legal trouble after introducing a racy romance novel to the senior citizen’s book club she hosts — much to the horror and dismay of the adult children of its members. And now CiCi’s lawyer, a few years younger than her, is stirring up feelings she had long put behind her after her unhappy marriage and divorce.

Told from three points of view — daughter, mother, grandmother, the novel unfolds a women’s fiction narrative of women at different stages of their lives.

The Pros

This was a humorous women’s fiction novel that hits all the warm spots. Though told from multiple points of view, it was expertly balanced and each voice gets its fair share — not once did I question who was narrating, even when they are not explicitly named. The grandmother’s pieces are told via letters to her late husband, which was a nice touch, the mother’s chapters begin with her day planner entries, and the daughter’s with text messages or emails. The voices also shift in language as it jumps from character to character, and I enjoyed this way of storytelling with nuances.

The pacing was steady, and we got to see each story unfold in parallel. I loved how the past is interwoven with the present as we see glimpses of all of their relationships that came before, as well as the present one they are experiencing. The characters are all easy to connect to, and there were some funny laugh-out-loud moments. The annoying neighbour Cici tolerates was a nice touch, and I also loved reading about Cici’s depressed dog Max (who also gets his turn at love as well)!

The Cons

I really liked this book, so there are very few cons. If I want to get really picky… I guess I was perhaps wishing for a bit more of the moments when CiCi finally got a chance at a relationship (because she deserves it! Grandma’s already had her big love, and Daughter’s got most of her life still ahead!) but alas, it came and went so soon. But I did begrudgingly remind myself that this wasn’t a story about the men, or even the relationships; those were just in the background to enable the ladies to shine as it’s really about their experiences.

Conclusion

This was a really great novel that I highly recommend to other readers, particularly adult female readers. There is a lot of love here that transcends age, and the message is heartfelt. At any age or stage of our lives, we all deserve love. Just like the last book I reviewed from this author, it has a “Lifetime” movie feeling of stories made-for-women. While tamer than a blockbuster, there is so much heart and humour here… you can see that this author knows her audience well. I already have another of her books lined up on my Kindle to read, and I am looking forward to it!

Purchase your copy

This book came to me via an ARC program, and I selected it after reading its intriguing preview.

The Premise

After her husband Tyler unexpectedly leaves her for another woman, Emily suddenly has to cope with a new world of insecurity and instability for her and her young son Dante. Now under the weight of her family’s and friends’ scrutiny — particularly her judgemental mother, she struggles to cope financially, physically and emotionally. Her waitressing job is demanding and pulls her away from Dante, and her parents’ lives also take a dark turn when her father falls ill. Even her longstanding friendships are in jeopardy, as Tyler and his new wife move in some of the same social circles. Amidst all of this, she desperately tries to mend her broken heart, seeking a new relationship even while still mourning her old one and regretting her past choices. Is love still on the cards for Emily?

The Pros

This was a heartfelt and humorous journey of recovery from a broken heart. Emily’s family drama and tense relationship with her mother felt all too real — as women, depending on our mothers to help care for our own children can be fraught with guilt and worry. I was amused by Emily’s passive-aggressive actions to mess with Tyler’s head — another aspect that hit close to home! I loved the relationships with her friends, and how we saw throughout it all that she put Dante first and kept on showing up for him even when she could barely show up for herself.

The dating journey after having endured a heartbreak — and dating while having a young child — was also another great aspect to see included in this novel. I really appreciated how the author showed Emily modelling her actions after self-help guidance from books, and she was able to prioritise her son’s needs and keep him emotionally stable despite the changing world around him. It sends a great message to other women who may be in a similar position — for the child’s welfare, it is important to take the high road even after a crushing betrayal.

The Cons

While the story was about Emily and her journey, and I do love a good women’s fiction that *doesn’t* centre on romance, I found myself wishing at times that there was more of the guy whom she would end up with (as it was obvious to everyone but her, apparently!)… I know, I know… it’s not a romance, so I shouldn’t expect too much of a relationship, but it seemed to be barely even a blip of a friendship before it turned into something huge — I felt like: that escalated quickly! I guess that’s how it happens in real life sometimes too, but it did feel a bit sudden, which was jarring in terms of pacing with the remainder of the novel. I also was hoping for a bit more drama coming down to the end before its climax (maybe a decision she had to make that tugged her in two directions — another man coming back into the picture, or something), but I guess there was more than enough drama in the earlier parts of the book, so perhaps no need to throw that into the mix!

Conclusion

Overall, this was a great novel to read and enjoy a women’s honest and heart-baring journey as she overcame what seemed insurmountable — and what may seem insurmountable to many women, especially in the times we live today. The characters are marvellous and I would love to read even more about Emily and her friends. With witty dialogue, gritty realities, and a woman at the helm of turning her life around, I thoroughly enjoyed this and would highly recommend to other readers, especially young women. I can see this being turned into an amazing film, and there’s more than enough to keep on fleshing out into a series or a sequel.

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A unique vigilante women’s fiction thriller with a twist of dark comedy

This was my thirteenth book I chose via the Reedsy Discovery program, for which I am the single approved reviewer for this new book. I was intrigued by the preview and also in the mood for a short thrill of a read. This review also appears on Reedsy.

The Premise

After surviving traumatic abuse by her grandfather as a child, Chelle is now in her twenties and working in the Sheriff’s Department in the Crime Statistics Division — the perfect spot to monitor nearby pedophiles. With the help of her best friend Parker the mortician, she tracks, kills and disposes of predators that have eluded justice. She considers herself to be doing a public service, and it all goes well — until she comes across the wrong pedophile.

The Pros & Cons

This was a unique vigilante women’s fiction thriller with a twist of dark comedy.

As a survivor, Chelle knows that unfortunately, far too many of these sadistic criminals never get to see the full brunt of justice. Using her access at her job, she makes it her mission to follow up on those that slip through the cracks, and wipe them off the face of the earth — literally. Luckily, she has the wits and the means, thanks to her partner in crime Parker, who runs a mortuary and has a handy cremator she can use.

The novel’s writing style swings from a whimsically comedic image of Chelle belting out rock songs post-kill, to a low-swinging gut-punch of a reality check when she sees a pedophile’s shrine:

I grieve for each freckled and rosy-cheeked innocent face. These girls will never be the same. Their futures have been irrevocably changed, and their spirits often damaged beyond repair… I imagine the power of their nightmares and mourn for them.

The plot is filled with memorable characters that compel you to keep reading. I enjoyed Chelle’s interaction with her kidnapper, and her cunning methods to outsmart him. Despite the grave subject matter, there is a good balance of humour and entertainment, interlaced with a constant reminder that she is not a bloodlust killer, but imbued with purpose and mission:

I am not a crazed, homicidal maniac. I’m not some sicko looking to rack up a long list of kills. I don’t save trophies. I get no pleasure from what I do. I simply do what needs to be done. I’m a protector; a defender of the innocent.

My only qualm with the novel is that it has some non-linear moments and some cutaways that distracted me from the plot. For instance, we learn the kidnapper’s motives before Chelle actually does (though she is the narrator), which was a bit disappointing for me personally as I would’ve liked to see that moment unfold in real-time. The novel also felt a bit short, and I would have liked more, but I could see it being developed into a longer series.

Conclusion

Overall, there seemed to be a tenuous precariousness between “must entertain readers” and “must provide assistance” — and I think the author achieved a fair balance of the two. I appreciated that resources for reporting and coping with abuse were provided, and that therapy was included as a plot device. Even as we smile and breathe a sigh of relief at Chelle’s close calls, at no point do we forget that child abuse is a very real and pervasive issue in society.

Chelle was an engaging protagonist, and there was enough suspense interlaced with the humour and the drama to propel the novel forward to its satisfying climax. If you like TV shows like “Dexter” with a women’s fiction twist like the dark comedy of “Dead To Me”, this would be a good pick.

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I chose this from an ARC program because I was looking for a short romance read with all the feels and the synopsis looked promising.

The Premise

After running from an engagement when she was a teenager, chef Carrie has no intention of settling down into married life with children. Twenty-five years later, after raising her nephews, she still feels the same way: as though love and romance are far behind her. That is, until she meets Dr. Ben Murphy, the new head surgeon in town — who is practically royalty, as his family is well known and respected in their community. When he comes by to compliment her food, he soon becomes interested in far more than her cooking. As their relationship blossoms, Carrie wonders if it’s all moving too fast, and if she can give Ben what he needs, or if she will just run from love again.

The Pros

This was a quick read that I blew through in under an hour, and it held my interest for that short period. The characters are likeable, particularly the supporting characters that work with Carrie, and the relationship between the two main characters builds beautifully. I also appreciated that there was a slight age difference with a younger man and older woman, and that Ben did not want all the trappings of parenthood either. It’s a good message that shows love is for all ages, and that not everyone needs to follow the status quo of getting married and having children.

The Cons

While I enjoyed this story, I would not recommend it to others if you like an “all the feels” type of romance, as it’s just far too short for that. By the time I was getting into the characters, the story was already over! It felt like there wasn’t enough character development or depth, but honestly given the short length I don’t see how there could have been. It needed a bit more tension than its overall simplistic premise to really have the romance readers’ hearts pounding.

Conclusion

This was a short romance read, but it was missing the bang-for-your-buck that I prefer from my short stories. It was a nice intro to a story, but not enough meat for a full story itself. I can see it ticking the boxes for a quick story to knock off while perhaps waiting on an appointment or a flight, but not to curl up with on a cold night. Nevertheless, I would be interested in reading more by the author, as the writing was excellent and showed promising talent, and it was a good story that held my interest… but perhaps next time around, I’ll just pick a longer book!

Purchase your copy

I chose this from an ARC program because I was in the mood for a good women’s fiction and the preview was intriguing.

The Premise

After a fatal driving accident, the driver Jess and her mother Liz deal with the fallout. Evidence indicates that Jess was texting while driving, and the victim was the town’s beloved football coach. The one eyewitness who was a passenger in the car — her supposed friend Sheila — is clearly lying about something, but Jess can’t remember exactly what happened.

As the town turns on Jess, Liz reaches out to an acquaintance, Kevin, who is a lawyer, to help with Jess’ case. Liz’ ex-husband and Jess’ father Jake also steps up to help his daughter — finally showing inklings of the man that Liz always wanted him to be prior to their divorce after a teenage pregnancy and subsequent marriage.

As Liz vacillates between old love and new, she tries to do her best by her daughter, whom she believes she raised well: an honour student, track star, and “good girl” in their society… until she wasn’t. As the legal battle unfolds, we ask ourselves — even if Jess did really do it and is at fault, should her one mistake be all that shapes who she is for the rest of her life?

The Pros

This was an emotional, tragic, heartbreaking story with all the feels, and I enjoyed it from beginning to end. The pacing is exquisite — the reader experiences all the highs and lows, panic, fear, desperation, love and regret along with both Liz and Jess.

There were many relationships shown, and I appreciated how there was far more showing than telling with them all: mother-daughter, father-daughter, young-female-friendship, adult-female-friendship, ex-husband-wife, and so much more. I was grateful to see both perspectives from mother and daughter, and the writing switches appropriately between the two — something many authors don’t do well, but it was done so seamlessly here so that I could tell who was narrating at all times.

I also found it intriguing as Jess built an unusual relationship with the victim’s wife, and that she had a moment when she got to choose to go back to her old life through Sheila. Similarly, Liz also had moments where she came to terms with imperfections with her past love Jake, and her difficult relationship with her father. These were exceptional touches that breathed life and realism into the story, and overall it was a coming-of-age tale of forgiveness and growth for both mother and daughter.

The Cons

While I enjoyed this novel thoroughly, I did think at times that it could have been a bit shorter to its benefit, by cutting some of the side stories that did not seem necessary. Jess’ friendship with Dylan seemed irrelevant, and the ill-advised escapade with Fish felt somewhat contrived, and Liz’ friendship with Avery was also given a bit more real estate than necessary. I think there was more than enough of a full picture of who both Jess and Liz were, without these additional characters.

Conclusion

The plot was gripping and felt all too real — this could have so easily happened to anyone: regardless of who you are and all you’ve done up to this point in your life, one mistake can change it and jeopardise everything. I believe it is an important lesson for us all, and would highly recommend this book to anyone, especially female readers. The writing is excellent, and I look forward to more from this author.

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I chose this book from an ARC program because I liked the synopsis and was feeling for a good women’s fiction.

The Premise

Now in her 50s, Allyson has finally found happiness, and is ready to move forward in life with her boyfriend. But just as she becomes Warren’s fiancée, she receives a visitor: a sixteen-year-old grandson she did not know about, the child of the daughter she gave up for adoption when she was seventeen. With few options to care for Nick after his mother’s death, Allyson takes him in.

His presence brings up memories of her past — mainly, Nick’s grandfather, Sonny, who disappeared without a trace after their first time together, at Woodstock almost four decades ago. She decides to embark on a road trip across the country with Nick to meet his grandfather, who never knew Allyson had had a child. Will their past love have any place in the future, or are old memories better left in the past?

The Pros

This was an emotional and beautiful novel with relatable characters and an interesting plot. The developing relationship between Allyson and Nick had its ups and downs, but they found common ground through rebellion. Through Nick, Allyson reclaims some of her own youth. There were vivid descriptions of their adventures together, and these were heartwarming and brought life to the novel.

Warren’s steady love and the potential of the past flame to ignite with Sonny also brought tension to the tale, and I enjoyed that balance of past and present with the uncertainty of the future. It was lovely to see Nick come out of his shell as he found that not only did someone actually want him in their life — but that he was someone worth fighting over.

The Cons

While I enjoyed the novel overall, I did wish for a bit of a twist… some heart-stopping moment that was completely gripping. This didn’t happen, however — there were no surprises, but a gentle build to a satisfying though predictable end. The flashback scenes were also a bit too detailed; I would have preferred these to be much shorter. Finally, at times, I found myself wishing that it were told from two points of view — I would have loved to see Nick’s story unfold alongside Allyson’s, and this may have made for a more dramatic and entertaining story.

Conclusion

Despite those minor niggles, I really enjoyed this novel and I would highly recommend to anyone, but particularly female adult readers. There was a lot of emotional introspection and healing that took place for all the main characters, a nice pacing as the story unfolds, and a few dashes of excitement here and there. I can see this being turned into a Lifetime movie, so if that’s the kind of story that floats your boat, this would be an excellent pick.

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I saw this book show up in an ARC program, and I chose it because I have a toddler and I hope to successfully toilet-train him soon!

The Premise

Written by a paediatric occupational therapist, this book is a comprehensive guide aimed at parents (or carers) to encourage independence in children in the toilet-training process — within just one week! It tackles every aspect of toilet training, including the tools the parent would need to reward good toilet habits and avoid stressful accidents.

The Pros

This was a well laid out, fully comprehensive guide of every aspect to deal with toilet training. Important issues were discussed such as signs to look for to know your child is ready to start toilet training, the types of foods the child should eat, clothes to wear, equipment to support the training process, troubleshooting issues, tips for dealing with public toilets, training children with special needs, different approaches in other countries around the world, and much more.

I appreciated that it was a holistic overview and included considerations for the type of personality the child has, tips for training when you have twins or other children, and much more. I also liked the incorporation of rewards system, and the toolkits provided via links — I subscribed and received free copies of these, which were very useful.

The Cons

While I appreciated the thought and research that went into this, it was a little overwhelming at times. Though I read it through quickly, I found it was a bit long (200+ pages in the PDF version I downloaded) which did feel like a lot on the topic, and there were a few things that got repetitive or could have been omitted.

I can also see aspects that I just don’t agree with or won’t try. I’m sure not every parent will be willing to have a naked baby for days while toilet training, and there didn’t seem to be any alternative to this in the guidance. Not to mention, getting the child to help with cleanup when there are accidents might be unlikely.

I also wish that some (say even 25%) of the “bonus” content was included in the actual book, because I found those even more useful than some of the long sections of text that the target audience may not have the time or patience to read in its entirety. Though it targets adults, even adults like to look at pictures and charts with examples WHILE reading, rather than after the fact if they go through the process to (1) confirm subscription (2) get account info (3) log in with account info (4) navigate to the toolbox (5) click through all the resources to download them individually.

Conclusion

Nothing here was absolutely ground-breaking or fundamentally brand new, so “The Holy Grail” might be a high claim, but there is a LOT of useful info that can be applied (especially all the bonus guides you have to subscribe to download). It expertly puts together a lot of concepts, and approaches toilet training — a seemingly “basic” thing — from both the parent and child viewpoints, to bridge that gap and enable the parent to help their child emotionally and physically to acclimatise to toilet training.

My only drawback was that at times it seemed to be more of a subject-matter-expert approach from an Occupational Therapist (i.e. an ideal), and I’m not sure if the authors have actually toilet-trained his/her own children, or how many children were successfully trained with this method. Theory is one thing, but application is quite another.

It does seem to be for fairly docile children — I am not looking forward to my upcoming time toilet training my hyperactive, easily distracted toddler! Nevertheless, I’m glad I read this, as it gave me a great base as a starting point. I would highly recommend to other readers, and wish them best of luck in their potty journeys!

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This book came to me via an ARC program, and I chose it because I was in the mood for a good YA read, and I usually enjoy books featuring horses.

The Premise

After her mother died, Perry has been trying to keep her old horse North healthy and happy, while also struggling to balance caring for her four-year-old brother Lief and being a good, supportive daughter to her stepfather Justin.

But living in the city is costly and it’s wearing everyone down, even North. When she inherits her mother’s childhood home in Perryside, she knows it is the best decision to make for the whole family — even if it means leaving the only place she has memories of her mother.

Can she find happiness in a new place, far from her mother’s memory?

The Pros & Cons

This was a beautiful novel with rich descriptions that take you right there to the peaceful scenes of rural Canada. I loved that it showed a young, admirable protagonist who was very mature for her teenage years — spotting her stepfather’s financial distress, stepping in as a maternal substitute for her brother, and realising when she had outgrown her friends and not reacting poorly to certain situations. It was refreshing to see strong female characters like this.

I especially enjoyed her relationship with her stepfather, because despite the lack of blood ties, it is clear they love each other deeply. Lief also jumps off the page with his innocence, and even the dialogue used reflects his adorableness. There is also an undercurrent of a romantic relationship with Gil, which was sweet and age-appropriate for young readers. The horse theme and her relationship with North were also lovely and heartwarming.

My only con with the novel was that it was a bit simple in terms of conflict, so there isn’t a huge pay-off in drama or relationship angst. However, as the first in the series, I expect there may be more of this to come.

Conclusion

While the book is about “moving North” as he has had issues with his health between stables, it is clear that it goes much deeper — about moving the entire family forward after her mother’s death. This is an excellent book for anyone to enjoy, but I particularly recommend to teenage girls. With realistic characters, diverse families, the flutters of first love, beautiful horses and an idyllic countryside setting, it all combines to make a rich novel about grief and healing after loss, and a journey to maturity. I look forward to more in this series, and more from this author.

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I chose this book from an ARC program because I was looking for a good YA read.

The Premise

Avery’s life changes in an instant when a drunk driver slams through a red light, killing her mother and leaving her with lifelong scars.

Before she has a chance to mourn her mother’s death, she is introduced to her new family who she never knew existed, and vice versa — a father, a stepmother, and a brother the same age as her. Her new life takes her from a working-class existence to an upper-class life in a penthouse apartment in New York, where she intends to bide her time until she becomes an adult in a few months.

But as she gets to know her parents and her brother’s friends, she is swept away by the throes of her first love. Opportunities for a future career emerge, and soon her former life is a vestigial memory. Can the love of a family, friends and a boyfriend be enough to heal her scars — both on the outside, as well as the inside?

The Pros

This was a beautiful, heartwarming story of loss, grief, and the power of love and redemption. Avery’s overwhelming welcome from her new family was lovely, and all of the characters came to life through the author’s vivid descriptions and witty dialogue.

While romance was a major theme, there was so much more here. The pacing moves swiftly along as the bonds between the teenagers strengthen, and I loved all of the relationships that are shown — female friendships, male friendships, sibling relationships, longstanding love between married couples, and much more.

I also appreciated the growth and development of the main character, Avery, and I liked seeing her push beyond her grief and open herself up to find love for others and herself.

The Cons

While I loved this story, it was a bit simplistic, and I kept hoping for a twist. The big dramatic moment was swiftly resolved before the happy ending. I also wish we found out why her mother had hid her father from her; I felt like the background given was insufficient reason. Knowing exactly who her father was, and that he was a good man (with no bad history with her mother), but still keeping him a secret… it was a selfish decision, to limit Avery’s future and deprive her of a positive male relationship for her entire life. Though realistic, it seemed out of place in such a great mother-daughter relationship.

Conclusion

Nevertheless, overall this was a great pick for a Young Adult coming-of-age novel that packs an emotional punch. I highly recommend to anyone, but particularly to young women. The main character’s emergence through all this emotional drama, and journey to healing, is a story of triumph that will resonate with many readers. I loved seeing such a positive story with strong families, and I look forward to more from the author.

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I first came across this author after reading her novel “A Quiet Dissonance“, and when I signed up for her newsletter I was directed to review other books she had written. I chose several short-story collections, this being the third one (I also reviewed “Parvathy’s Well & Other Stories” and “Holi Moly! & Other Stories“), because I was in the mood for something distinctly different from what I had read from her before, but still with the enticing flavour of the cultural Indian backdrop.

The Premise

Damage

The collection opens with a dark tale of an illicit love triangle that deeply affects a child with special needs, showing that actions can have “collateral damage” consequences no one expects.

Samsara

A female detective defies expectations of her sex in the society, when she investigates a brutal murder of the wife of a Minister, a beloved woman in the community who had dark secrets.

Creep

A brief look at the machinations of the mind of a lecherous man as he approaches women with nefarious intentions.

Ma Vie Sans Couleur

An artist experiences life through colour, each colour representing a moment in her life that she cannot escape, as her memories overcome her and bleed from the past into the present.

Secrets and Lies

A child, sidelined for being different, experiences the death of a grandfather who took him in after his parents’ death, despite having had a volatile relationship with his daughter, his mother. Through the boy, he tries to right his sins by providing for him.

The Consequence of Contradiction

A woman in a loveless marriage engages in many affairs, until it comes to pass that one of her lovers is matched to her own daughter. Caught in a difficult situation, she has to decide if to protect her daughter or her own reputation. 

Love Jihad

Two love stories, both taking place in 2017, unfold in parallel. In India, a Hindu/Muslim couple risks everything for their forbidden love. Meanwhile, another Hindu/Muslim couple’s relationship in London is permitted by their families, but also comes to a dark end. 

The Unlikely Casanova

A brief look into the mind of a man who contemplates his emotionless approach to relationships he does not care for. 

Swami Claus

A young woman’s loss of innocence as a child converts her from the abused to the abuser, due to meet her own untimely end.

Ugly

An arranged marriage of a handsome man to an “ugly” woman unfolds throughout decades as she sacrifices herself for her children to have a better life, and they despise their father for how he treats their mother.

Palindrome

An aging star loses her zeal for life as her daughter surpasses her in allure, and she reflects on her own upbringing once she learnt how her own mother sacrificed herself to survive.

Dear Anil

A letter recalls a lifetime of missed opportunities for a friendship to blossom into love. 

Unrequited

After being rejected, a woman enacts her revenge on the object of her affection.

The Strings That Bind Us

Two young girls are curious to find out the origins of a kind old woman staying with one of their families, who is not related to the family. 

Fallen

A fall from grace is told from the point of view of the Ravana, the demon king in Indian mythology.

Like A Boss

Under the influence of alcohol and peer pressure, a group of young men commit a ghastly crime.

The Pros

I had enjoyed the author’s previous collection with some dark tales, “Parvathy’s Well & Other Stories“, but this one goes even deeper down that rabbit hole of darkness.

Told from the viewpoints of many characters in Indian society, these entirely separate stories weave a collection of tales that explore the damage some of us live with, caused by love, loss, lust, abuse, and our own evildoings. The writing style changes from story to story, but with each it is captivating and takes you on a journey to Indian culture and society.

Of the sixteen stories, my favourites were “Samsara” and “Love Jihad”. I loved how “Samsara” vividly brought to light a sinful corner of the perversions hidden in society, and also gave us the double thrill of the detective’s experience as well — it felt like this could have been an entire novel on its own, from the richness of how the tale interweaves. “Love Jihad” also had that intriguing element of duality, and the concept of karma coming full circle was splendidly delivered in “Swami Claus”, “The Consequence of Contradiction”, and “Unrequited”.

There were many others that also delighted me with their darkness, and the collection strings together these wicked fissures of society expertly, with a sprinkle of language and culture to enthrall the senses.

The Cons

While I loved many of the stories, there were a few that I had to re-read and still am not sure I fully understood, which affected my overall experience.

My least favourites of the collection were “Ma Vie Sans Couleur” because it was challenging to understand at first, and “Fallen” — though the story itself was good, it felt too brief and without enough action. I also did not care much for “Casanova” and “Creep” which had similar themes and were also very short, and though I really liked “Unrequited” I did wish we got a chance to understand the rejection that had taken place.

Conclusion

Overall, the collection was expertly assembled with a thread of dark drama to tie it all together, and still had a bit of humour sprinkled throughout as we see beneath the shiny glimmer of appearances to the happenings behind closed doors.

Again, the collection as a whole provided a brilliant tapestry of Indian culture, and while there were a few stories I could have done without, overall this was a great collection with many tales that will remain with me for quite some time. The author is very talented in her writing, and having read four books by her now, I am quite a fan!

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A thrilling supernatural sci-fi joyride of bloody action and steamy romance

This was my twelfth book I chose via the Reedsy Discovery program, for which I am the single approved reviewer for this new book. In this case, the author sought me out and asked me to review her trilogy, and after reading the synopsis I was intrigued. 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

This third part of the Black Wings series features Quinn and Logan, genetically engineered children from the Facility who were kidnapped by the antagonist Drakeson, introduced earlier in Part 2. Having lived on the outside, they struggle to acclimatise to lives once they return to the Facility, but they find solace in each other to survive and thrive. Their paths diverge as teenagers, and Quinn becomes a deathly Facility Operative.

At 20, she meets Logan again when she is tasked to annihilate the rebel leader of an uprising in the Northern Undercity. She soon realises that he is the leader she was sent to kill. Her mind meshed into the body of another Rooftop woman, Lila, she hides from him in plain sight, but her heart’s desires can’t stay hidden for long. As she finds a new home among the Rooftop community, can she execute her mission — betraying her new friends, not to mention her own heart?

The Pros & Cons

This third instalment in the series was a sci-fi joyride of bloody action and steamy romance, this time with the added elements of supernatural killer beasts.

Quinn’s innocence as the child we met earlier in Part 2 is now long gone:

She is beautiful, in a dangerous and savage way like a wolf or a wild cat. She has no soft edges; behind the smiling face and happy, shining eyes is a hardness and a deep emptiness.

As a deadly assassin working for the Facility, she is employed to infiltrate the Rooftop community and decimate its leader. But as she learns the identity of the leader is none other than the boy who broke her heart as a teenager when he left, Quinn’s resolve withers.

As her identity bleeds through the shell of the woman she is hiding within, their passion soon consumes them both:

He does not expect the scent of her skin to flood his senses; he does not expect the heat of her body, the blaze of Quinn’s fire[…] Lila has disappeared in flames and it is Quinn, only Quinn, always Quinn.

Despite the heavy sexual overtures as the narrative unfolds, the romance plays second fiddle to the triumph of bloody battles and survival against killer beasts.

This third instalment has the richest story of them all: a community thriving beneath the surface; a beautiful family borne and built in defiance of the authority of the Facility and the World Committee. The vivid descriptions as the supernatural beasts overwhelm the group of protagonists had me gripping onto the edge of my seat.

Again, I enjoyed the interweaving of characters we had met previously in the earlier books — both the main characters, and many of the supporting friends along the way.

Though by now, this being my third time along for this thrilling joyride, I anticipated the overall sentiment to wane a bit, there is still enough newness to fascinate and delight you, and just enough familiarity with recurring characters and the machine-like style of writing to place you right there at every scene.

Conclusion

I have thoroughly enjoyed this entire series, and this third one leaves you breathless and still wanting more. There is enough meat here for dozens more in this series, and I would never tire of reading. I can easily see this series being translated into a film or an episodic series, and I would love to see it come to life on the screen. I would highly recommend to both male and female adult readers, and I look forward to see what’s next by this author.

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The Premise

After his bravery got her son in trouble, Faith is in hiding, a long way from the home she left behind. There, her sketchy legal status means she can only get menial jobs — one of which is as a cleaner at Max’s — also known as “Pops” — bar. Despite their age difference of 11 years, he’s a hottie silver fox she can’t keep her eyes off of.

Max is instantly attracted to her and insists they will get together, but Faith resists. Being a single mom is a full time job, and their past may catch up to them. Even if the authorities sort out the drama back home, she also intends to go back once it’s safe. There’s no chance in hell she needs a man in her life. But Max isn’t taking no for an answer. He’s waited long enough to find love, and he knows she’s the one.

The Pros

This was a nice, lighthearted read with humour throughout. From the dirty jokes of Max’s “brothers”, Max’s daughter and her friends playing matchmaker, her teenage son driving her bonkers, and some witty dialogue sprinkled throughout, it made an enjoyable read overall. As a fourth in the series that can work as a standalone, I didn’t feel lost, and I became interested in the side characters to read their stories as well.

I loved the relationships we see throughout the book. There were a few hot-and-heavy sexy moments, which was just enough to whet the appetite without being gratuitous. I enjoyed the one-liners about motherhood (and a few with fatherhood) that opened each chapter. I also loved that this story featured older leads who deserve and receive love in their later years — much needed, in today’s romance book landscape!

The Cons

While I enjoyed this story, I admit I expected more. It was funny and sweet, but honestly… not much happened. All of the drama that brought Faith and her son to live there, fizzled away in the background… there was no actual action relating to this at all. It felt like a missed opportunity that could’ve been further developed.

Apart from that, it bothered me that the POV was not balanced. It was 90-95% Faith and 5-10% Max, which left it overall very, very unbalanced and seemed like the Max chapters were included as an afterthought, or to explain the parts of the narrative that Faith could not be present for. I wished these chapters were omitted entirely, or that the book was written with at least a 60/40 weighting.

The characters also often behaved much more immature than one would expect — a lot of repetition of Faith’s “dorkiness” was scatted throughout, but this didn’t explain away her naïveté as a forty-five-year-old woman, and even the teenage son acted like a much younger kid at times. It detracted from the love story a bit, particularly as the main characters are meant to be older and more mature.

Conclusion

Though I had some issues with the plot and writing style, I did enjoy the book overall. The author has a great talent for writing comedy, fleshing out characters and entire side narratives that don’t detract from the plot but fill it with so much heart. I really felt the entire family of characters in this novel, as they were all so well written that I could picture them. I would recommend this book to other readers, and would love to read others in the series.

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I first came across this author after reading her novel “A Quiet Dissonance“, and when I signed up for her newsletter I was directed to review other books she had written. I chose several short-story collections, this being the second one (I also reviewed “Parvathy’s Well & Other Stories“), because I was in the mood for something distinctly different from what I had read from her before, but still with the enticing flavour of the cultural Indian backdrop.

The Premise

Holi Moly!

The collection opens with a lighthearted love story — Preeti’s longtime friend and crush Giles returns in time for the apartment complex’s Holi celebration, but he’s always had eyes for Preeti’s sister Neeti. Partly to make Giles jealous, she invites her colleague and admirer Akhil. Among the colourful laughter and joyousness of the day, a love triangle unfolds.

An Unsuitable Boy

Told from the first person perspective, a husband’s recollection of a longstanding marriage is told: as an outsider, he recalls the difficulties they faced as an odd match: a Jewish American coming into his wife’s Indian territory to win her family over. The different perspectives of marriage between the two cultures are a vast divide, but their love triumphs above all.

Karma-Band

Still mourning her beloved sister-in-law who passed away five years ago, Rashmi accompanies her brother and his new wife Anita and their child on a business trip, where it seems that her purpose is solely to care for the young child. Anita’s conceited, snobbish ways grate against her every nerve as she struggles to reconcile this person with the one she lost, and she observes the change in her brother as well.

The Best Laid Plans

Grouchy old retiree Hiten has a nasty fall, and a kind couple Thomas and Lola take over his care. After they go out of their way to nurse him back to health, he realises the error of his reclusive ways. Then, he learns that their baby was born prematurely and is struggling to survive. As Lola sinks into post-natal depression, Hiten finds a way to help them in return.

The Return

In a remote Indian village, corruption caused education to stop after the money for it was repurposed and the teacher left. Yamuna takes it upon herself to nudge things back in that direction when Master Raju returns to the village with his pregnant wife, and she offers to care for their newborn child. Under the pretext of entertaining the baby, she slowly gets Raju to resume teaching, and the village flourishes with its newfound knowledge.

Top That

Four friends get together decades later, reminiscing about their glory days while they reflect on how each of their paths veered off into their separate lives. They play “Top That” — a game to recount their embarrassing moments. From amorous overtures to cringeworthy shame to incredulous true stories, they challenge each other to have a more and more shocking story as they take turns.

Funk

After a break-up, Gul is now staying with her Auntie JJ in London. Left in charge of the apartment and Auntie JJ’s flatulent poodle Chi-chi, she recalls her developing sexuality that came in between her and her boyfriend Farhan. She soon meets David, and as they get closer she decides to invite him over, determined to lose her virginity. A horrible yet hilarious comedy of errors ensues.

Lost and Found

After Dr. Seth is mugged near his home and robbed of the ring he treasured from his late wife, he later meets one of the thugs who attacked him. His mercy and forgiveness leave a lasting impression on Suhel, who changes his life to follow his passion in the steps of his mentor.

The Pros

This was an amazing collection of short stories, filled with joy and heartbreak and love. Having read “Parvathy’s Well & Other Stories” prior to this, I went in with an expectation of dark drama, and I was pleasantly and resplendently surprised with this collection that deviated sharply from that collection’s darkness. Though the writing was just as superb, here almost every story left me with an uplifting sensation and a smile on my face as it came to an end.

Told from the viewpoints of many characters in Indian society, these entirely separate stories weave a collection of tales that explore themes of love, marriage, forgiveness, redemption, and the humorous side of life. The writing style throughout the collection is captivating, and the stories themselves take you on a journey through the senses and into the lives of every character.

Of the eight stories, my favourite was “The Best Laid Plans”. The richness of life that blossoms in Hiten’s soul at this late stage of his life was such a beautiful story, showing how it is never too late to find love and purpose in life, and that family is more than blood. Similarly, “Lost and Found” has this uplifting theme of redemption that I thoroughly relished.

I also laughed at the dark humour of “Funk” — what a story! — and the lighter shade of humour in “An Unsuitable Boy” which made me feel as if I was right there listening to a grandfather tell his favourite story. Overall, I really appreciated the fact that there was so much depth in each story that it could easily have been an entire novel’s worth of a reader’s connection to the characters in these stories.

The Cons

My least favourite of the collection was “Top That” — despite every vignette being funny as the old friends reconnect, I didn’t feel quite as enamoured with the overall story as I did with the others. While every other story left a warm feeling and a lasting impression on me, that one didn’t as much.

Conclusion

Overall, the collection had many rich descriptions and a sprinkle of language snippets to whet the appetite for a taste of Indian culture. Though I had my favourites, I really enjoyed reading the entire collection, and feel as though some of these stories will forever stay with me. I love how the author used intergenerational discussions between characters to integrate some of the seemingly “backward” parts of Indian culture with modern life.

Again, the collection as a whole provided a brilliant tapestry of Indian culture. There is a universality to these stories that can touch anyone and everyone, so while it will please other readers who are looking for something to make them experience another culture, I also highly recommend to anyone in need of a beautiful story to uplift and inspire.

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I first saw this book on Reedsy, but it was taken by another reviewer before I got the chance. I noticed it was on promotion shortly thereafter, and decided to get it.

The Premise

After his daughter’s murder and his wife’s suicide, former detective Frank Grimm now spends his days snooping through his neighbours’ houses looking for clues to find his daughter’s killer. He secretly enjoys seeing the hidden parts of their lives — until one day, a new neighbour leaves him a note: “Help. My father is raping me. Please kill him.”

While Frank struggles with the decision of how best to act to protect the girl, meanwhile his former colleague Detective Mallory Black is hell-bent on proving that Frank himself was the one who abused and killed his daughter. Told from both points of view, their individual obsessions with bringing the truth to light drastically affect both their lives.

The Pros

I liked the premise of the story a lot, and found myself wondering right up to the end if Frank was hiding a darkness within himself that he did not recognise. It was intriguing to see the good and the bad of each main character — they were both far from perfect, and I appreciated this gritty reality of flawed protagonists.

I also thought the subject matter of abuse was well handled with many small touches to make it believable, and there were moments that were gripping — particularly when Mallory finally realises that she may have been wrong, and we see the truth unfold in her eyes. Despite Frank’s flaws, we are able to connect with his mindset of vigilante justice, and there were even some streaks of humour that make the reading an enjoyable journey despite the heavy subject matter.

The Cons

I love getting lost in a good thriller, but it’s a genre where I’m not fond of even the slightest awry piece of dialogue or superfluous adjective. Here, I found that it got off to a slow start, and some of the dialogue was unnecessarily long — particularly with his cousin Stan, and some sentences were confusing, which affected my overall reading experience.

In terms of the plot, I kept waiting for a “twist” but nothing shocking played out — Frank acted predictably, and the story ended exactly as I thought it would. Also, Mallory’s complete disregard for her family make her an unlikeable and unlikely protagonist, and while that in itself wasn’t a drawback for me, I was alarmed at her swift change of heart in the end to commit to her family — it felt implausible at best.

Conclusion

I noticed that the author was actually a writer duo, which could account for the feeling of “disjointedness” that I had while reading. Nevertheless it did hold my interest as a thriller, and I would be interested in reading more from either author or another joint effort. Despite my own feelings about the book, I still gave it a good rating because I would recommend it to others. There’s a lot to like here, and the moral dilemma the main character faces is all too real. I found similarities with the TV series “Dexter” in his vigilante justice approach, because it’s clear that he’s enjoying himself despite his belief that he is helping others. If you’re into antiheroes like Dexter, this would be right up your alley.

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This book came to me via an ARC program, and I chose it because I was in the mood for something different than my usual genres.

The Premise

Between 1869-1932, over 100,000 children were sent from the United Kingdom to Canada and other countries through assisted juvenile emigration. Called “home children”, many were distributed from a receiving home to families in rural Canada, where they worked under contract until they came of age. It intended to assist the impoverished British children and alleviate the labour shortage in the destination countries, but research eventually exposed abuse and hardships of some of the relocated children via this scheme.

Hazel’s story is a fictional account of the plight that befell some of these children. 15-year-old Hazel and her 6-year-old brother are placed temporarily in a home by their mother, but before she can return for them, they are shipped off from Liverpool, England, to Ontario, Canada. She is met with heartache when the siblings are immediately separated, and she is put into a home with a strict headmistress. Her life takes a turn for the worse when she is sent to the Gagnons to care for their children and the home. There, the brutal abuse from Mrs. Gagnon threatens to break her spirit.

Meanwhile, former home child Charlotte Appleton and her sister Ellie, now adults and workers at the receiving home, are fighting to make a difference after what they have endured. Charlotte strives to help the children that pass through the home, and takes a particular interest in Hazel after finding out what had happened to a previous girl at the Gagnons’ farm. Can her efforts prevent Hazel from the same fate?

The Pros

This was a heartbreaking story, told beautifully and effectively. The details of the abuse and the day-to-day living were well done, and there were many complicated characters that brought the story to life. At times my heart soared for the poor children suffering at the hands of their mother, a religious fanatic, while they craved the love from Hazel. There were themes of physical, emotional, and sexual abuse interwoven throughout the novel, as well as salvation and redemption through the possibility of a rescue that felt like it took far too long to come.

The Cons

While I enjoyed the story, it got off to a bit of a slow start — a prequel was included, which felt disjointed somehow because it then shifted to a prologue from Hazel’s mother’s viewpoint, and this was the only time we see her side. There were also a few other hitches in the narrative that were confusing, as it switched between viewpoints frequently and at times didn’t mention who was speaking. I also wasn’t sure at its end if there would be a second part, as some things felt unresolved, however given the genre this may be the grim reality of life.

Conclusion

This was a really interesting novel that dealt with a difficult topic with style and nuance. I remember reading books which mentioned child emigration and labour, but it was a sanitised version of this scheme. I was not truly aware of this part of history, and Hazel’s and Charlotte’s stories led me to do my own research to learn more about it — which is a hallmark of any good historical fiction. I would highly recommend to other mature readers, and look forward to reading more from the author.

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This is the third book I’ve read by this author, and the second from this series. After enjoying “Man Candy” and the other one in this series, “Irresistible“, I chose this one when I saw it in a newsletter promotion because I had really enjoyed the other one in the series.

The Premise

Former professional baseball player Tyler is living in the shadow of his former glory after tanking his career. Under the veil of public scrutiny about his failures, he visits his hometown for his sister’s wedding. There, he runs into his former friend April — who he’d had a one-night stand with, eighteen years ago. The result was a baby neither of them had expected, but April dealt with it on her own and let Tyler go on to live his dreams, for which he was grateful. When they meet again as adults, they reconnect and realise the chemistry is still there. But as the past begins to creep into their present, it becomes emotionally heavy for them both. Can they overcome their challenges and heal their way to a happy ending?

The Pros

I liked the dialogue between the characters, which is my expectation from a Harlow romance. The sisterly relationships for both main characters were heartwarming and made me smile, and I really enjoyed seeing the glimpses of side characters that I’ve read about in the other book — Mack and Frannie. The Cloverleigh farm scenes were really well done, and I felt so much pride at seeing the family and legacy that had been built over the past four decades; I was happy to celebrate it with them. I appreciated the highs and lows of redemption and forgiveness, and the use of April’s therapy as a means of healing from the past. I also really liked that this was a positive adoption story, which gives us a lot to hope for as a young woman in this position — sometimes, a mother’s love means making a difficult choice.

The Cons

I was absolutely thrilled after the other book I’ve read in the series, so I really wanted to like this book more. Unfortunately, I found myself struggling to really like either the hero or heroine — she was a doormat, and he was a douche… there’s no nicer way to put it. He apparently had no qualms about abandoning her as a teenager, and even as an adult did it all over again. While this may be realistic, it’s not exciting from a reader’s perspective to be in the head of someone so self-absorbed and unlikeable that they hadn’t even thought of the child or the mother of the child in eighteen years until she reenters the picture. I kept waiting to fall in love with him, and it didn’t happen. The plot was also predictable, and I wished for a bit more of an element of surprise, or a bit more drama — but instead I thought there were missed opportunities… April and Tyler both just tell their families about their past secret; their son is welcoming and accepting without judgement; and at the end their solution comes quickly and felt too simple. Usually with a romance, there’s a moment when your heart soars for the couple and you’re on the edge of your seat in shock frantically turning the pages to get to the next one… but for me, it just didn’t happen here.

Conclusion

Overall this was a nice story about second chances, redemption and forgiveness… but just a let-down. Maybe my expectations were too high as I am familiar with the author’s work, but I felt like it could have been so much better. I’m a picky reader — especially for romance! — and this book has hundreds of 5-star ratings, so I’m sure most people will love this book and not have the same feelings as me, so I will recommend it to others. I also would love to continue reading more of the author’s books, because I have faith that thought this was just okay for me, another book will make my heart soar again.

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The Premise

Tired of the corporate grind at her New York law firm, Amelia chucks it all and heads for a solo trek along the California Coastal Trail — a trip she’d planned for years before finally deciding to take the plunge. But things take a swift turn for the worst when she is kidnapped by a stranger and taken into the wilderness. Attacked and left for dead, can she find her way out of the woods — both the physical woods, as well as the darkest corners of her own mind?

The Pros

This was a swift, vicious psychological thrill. I realised it would be a short book, and still — the kidnapping came far too sudden, and it was disturbingly vivid. As Amelia and her kidnapper Rex get to know each other, I could feel the chills along my spine. As she developed a kinship with a wild animal, I was left wondering if the animal was real or part of her imagination. The descriptions were well done, taking you right to the scene of the crime, and the psychological twist with her interwoven memories of the past was shocking.

The Cons

While I enjoyed this novella, it was so short that it felt unfinished. I know it’s meant to be a series starter, but the ending was really rushed. While maybe this feeling of “unfinished” is the point (as you’re meant to purchase the next book in the series), some of the plot points left holes that made it confusing. I was also concerned that the main character didn’t seem like she had prepared enough to live for months in the wilderness; it could have used some fleshing out in that aspect of character-building.

Conclusion

The simplicity of the story made an interesting premise, as it goes to show just how unsafe it is to be a woman travelling alone. This was a swift thriller with believable characters that leaves you thinking and feeling unsettled, which is how a psychological thriller should be. I enjoyed this and would recommend it to others, and I look forward to picking up the other books in the series so that I can find out what happens next.

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The Premise

In need of a sperm donor because the right man doesn’t seem to be showing up, Rossi selects “Ambitious Athlete” for the deed. A couple of years later, a clinical error reveals his name to her, sent in error to the recipient rather than the donor. As the fertility clinic fumbles to cover its tracks and make a settlement payment to protect their business, Rossi meets said donor — now no longer ambitious, but a world-renowned athlete: tennis player Fabian. Though she has reservations about including him in her baby’s life, she decides to give it a try by allowing him to move in to live with her temporarily. But will his past relationships and jet-setting lifestyle be a good match for this down-to-earth mama?

The Pros

The story was very well-written and kept me engaged all the way through. I thought the premise was quite interesting, because the decision to be a sperm donor in your youth can come back to bite you in the ass later down the line — especially if become famous. I also liked the theme of the glittering social media life vs. what lies beneath. The “mommy blogger” scene was hilarious, as were other snippets when Fabian revealed what a relationship with a famous person was really like. I enjoyed the side character of Rossi’s sister, who breathed life and comedy into their arrangement with her teasing comments and over-the-top behaviour, but the sisterly love was still there. Though I saw it coming a mile away, the plot arc with Frankie was also a great one, and I thought Rossi’s job as a genealogist connecting families was perfectly executed here. The sexy scenes were also beautifully done — racy, but believable and not overkill at all; just right!

The Cons

While I liked the writing style, I was perplexed at some of the characters’ choices. Rossi jumped into sperm donation readily at 33 as a “last resort” though she was fertile and seemed to have had some kind of dating life after her divorce. To me, it felt way too early to “give up” on finding a man and decide to go the sperm donor route, particularly when your life’s work is to connect families linked by DNA. Also, Fabian apparently didn’t want children with an ex, and then suddenly wants to fit into his child mother’s and baby’s life, and Rossi’s swift pivot from not needing a man *at all* to inviting her child’s sperm donor to live with her — it felt very sudden.

The setup of all of this just didn’t seem likely at times — not to mention her parents that seemed to have no reservations at her having a child via sperm donor (I repeat — at 33! — was this really the only option?), and later on uprooting their entire lives at a moment’s notice. Finally, “heroic” macho violence with no repercussions (or confirmed proof) also felt oddly placed in a romance. Beyond those general feelings, I also found there were few surprises (at least to me) and the ending felt a bit rushed — the conflict was resolved quickly, before it slides into a happily-ever-after.

Conclusion

I feel conflicted because I enjoyed it and read through it quickly, but there were parts that didn’t sit well with me. The timeline to “have-a-child-now-because-I-can’t-find-the-right-man” may be the root of my unease. While necessary for the set-up, it doesn’t send a great message to women. There are many kinds of families being created in various ways between all types of partners or those who choose to go it alone, and I am grateful to live in a world with so many options; but donor sperm should not be presented as such a light-hearted alternative to finding a partner — again… at 33!!!

Maybe I expect a bit too much from my fiction, but it didn’t seem like she had gotten sufficient psychological counselling before embarking on creating a child that would be (or was supposed to be) fatherless. This serious issue needed a bit more delicate treatment around the role of ethics at (reputable) fertility clinics. Nevertheless, the book itself was pretty enjoyable, and if you can suspend your belief and judgement a bit, you will laugh, cringe and smile with the characters and their adorable baby. I would recommend to others who want a romance, and I look forward to more by this author.

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A sensational thriller about vigilante justice, self-sacrifice, and the ties that bind.

This was my eleventh 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

Deirdre’s past is shrouded in a scandal she never quite understood as a child — her father, a paediatrician, was implicated in a child-abduction scandal that cost him his job and forced him to change his identity. The past comes knocking on her door when her sister Lauralee says she’s been contacted by someone looking into their father’s past, including a former classmate who had disappeared. The child kidnappings had a possible connection to an elusive pedophile — could this have been their father?

Compelled to learn the truth, Deirdre soon finds herself embroiled in a dangerous situation with multiple players in a game she doesn’t know how to play. Luckily, she’s a fast learner — and braver than she ever knew she could be, when a rescue mission goes wrong and she has to break the law to save a child. Suddenly in over her head with both law enforcement and dangerous criminals, can she figure out who to trust, before it’s too late?

The Pros

This was a sensational thriller about vigilante justice, self-sacrifice, and the ties that bind.

Despite her childhood memories being a blurry haze of pampered indulgence and vague notions of paternal love, the adult Deirdre still bears the weight of gut-wrenching doubt:

He’s my father for God’s sake, he can’t be a pedophile. But what if he is?

Her sister’s unease at an unwelcome visitor dredging up the past summons Deirdre’s sleuthing skills, and she sets off to investigate if there may have been any truth to the rumours about their father.

Far from your typical damsel-in-distress, Deirdre is a former psychiatrist turned legal investigator who has never quite found her niche in life, and shudders at the memory of a time she’d once contemplated marriage as “an alternative to boredom”.

Her life pivots swiftly from this “boredom” into a thrilling action ride when a rescue mission goes wrong, and her mettle is tested when she must break the law to save an endangered child. In the aftermath, she feels energized — a feeling that stays with her, even as the world around her seems to be devolving into madness as law enforcement and dangerous criminals are hot on her heels.

As she stumbles down an illegal path of no return, she is torn between loyalty to her father, and her own reticence to ever step beyond her comfort zone. Even as she faces death, she worries at the mark — or lack thereof — that she’s left on the world:

I have to ask myself: before Dad brought me into his world, what had I done to help anyone else? I’ve never deliberately harmed anyone, but actually, have I done anything at all philanthropic?

Deirdre was a refreshing female protagonist with an engaging voice that echoes traits of women’s fiction interwoven into this thrilling joyride of a novel. As she careens from one suspenseful moment to the next, putting her faith in the sketchiest characters to be her guardian angels, her aplomb is awe-inspiring.

I appreciated the character development of all the players in this game of catch-me-if-you-can. Small touches breathed life into the details: her father’s double life that he hid from his children to protect them, her sister’s banal cookie-cutter marriage and motherhood that Deirdre somewhat despises, the good-guy-bad-guy-combo cop, her boss’ shady manipulations — and of course, the enigmatically enticing Greg, who always keeps you guessing.

The writer’s talent is undeniable as it weaves a plausible, visceral tale that effortlessly injects a dose of self-reflection alongside the soaring and plummeting of the plot points. It leaves you wondering if you, too, would rise to the occasion if you had the opportunity to sacrifice yourself to save the innocent.

Conclusion

This was an excellent, fast-paced thriller that felt all too real, with the poignant, relevant subject matter of child abduction and exploitation. Despite the overarching oppressive elements of criminality, there are also darkly funny streaks in the main character’s acerbic wit that string together to thoroughly engage the reader and put you right there in the moment with her — terrified for your life, but also wondering if your life has ever been that worthwhile in the grand scheme of things. With unforgettable characters and a riveting story with more than enough meat to lock your jaw into, I can see this being turned into an absolutely amazing film or dramatic series, and I can’t wait to read the follow-up to this novel (or anything else!) by this author.

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Another exhilarating, swift bloodlust thrill of a futuristic sci-fi romance

This was my tenth book I chose via the Reedsy Discovery program, for which I am the single approved reviewer for this new book. In this case, the author sought me out and asked me to review her trilogy, and after reading the synopsis I was intrigued. 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

This second part of the Black Wings series features the daughter of Part 1‘s Olivia and Jace, named Piper. She and Riley, the son of Part 1’s antagonist Shanty, have been enemies practically since they were born. As young assassins in training, they are fiercely combative to a fault. But behind their ceaseless competitive battles is a profound love for each other, which only intensifies as they get older.

Like Piper’s parents, she and Riley are not officially “matched” by the World Committee, so their relationship is forbidden. When the evil villain Drakeson claims Piper as his approved partner, she responds to his vicious attacks with the unleashed power of a death angel, and he is no match for her. Forced to flee before her actions are discovered, Piper is on the run. Riley must find her before it is too late, even if it means also putting himself in danger.

The Pros & Cons

As its first instalment in this series, this was another exhilarating, swift, bloodlust thrill of a futuristic sci-fi romance.

The love between the two main characters has been building for over a decade before it pivots swiftly into something more:

He knows Piper as if she is an extension of his own body. They have been in constant conflict since they could barely walk and fought each other for so many years that there can no longer be a winner.

For those who enjoyed the steamy scenes in Book 1, the older couple’s entanglements don’t hold a candle to their daughter’s enflamed heart, body and soul:

They are no longer playing, no longer fooling around. Control is fast disappearing, and the flames are burning white-hot.

The flames that were licking in the pit of her stomach have again burst into a giant furnace; the heat is all-consuming, demanding release. Piper’s body has taken on a life of its own and is writhing and urgent, clamoring for his.

Beyond the sexual theme, the precise rapid-fire bursts of narrative keep us focused on the action, leaving us cringing from the bloody blows inflicted on our protagonists, and lifting our hearts when they turn the tables to deliver their own swift justice:

It is against everything they are to be the ones skulking in the shadows and cowering in the dark. They are Death Angels; they are the ones to be feared. ”

We are going to leave a trail of death and blood, one that will encourage our friends and plant fear and panic into our enemies.” A good pep talk, mom.

As Piper and Riley fight their way back to each other, they are supported by friends, family members and allies along the way. I enjoyed experiencing the adult versions of our Book 1 couple, now the parents of this indomitable assassin. Even among the endless killings, there were moments of levity as Olivia and Jace shook their heads at the teenagers, and (knowing their own history) we smile along with them: Ah, to be young and in love… with a fellow killer.

The intensity of Piper and Riley’s emotion underscores the swift pace of the novel, and is complemented by the villain’s nefarious activities of corruption. While I did wish for a bit more of a twist, it wasn’t really necessary here. There was more than enough to engage, entertain and enthral all your senses. The novel takes you on the entire rollercoaster of emotions, with a hard slam into its satisfying end.

Conclusion

There is a lot to love about this series, but mostly I am thrilled by the powerful women at its helm. Despite the attacks on their bodies, they are survivors who demand their revenge on those who wronged them. Though love is an underlying theme, and the sexual relationships are described with sumptuous splendour, there is so much more in which to indulge. I highly recommend to both male and female adult readers, and I look forward to the final chapter, as there was an amazing introduction to the character who will take it home.

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The Premise

This reference guide offers a recipe for success by using examples from commercial successes by other authors, among other tactics. Written by the founder & CEO of book publishing company Scribando | Novelify, it outlines his insights into book marketing and contains “secrets” and strategies from past experience, compiled into a blueprint to give aspiring or newbie authors an advantage to publishing their books and increasing their sales.

The Pros

This was a short, easy read, and well written in terms of the way the content is put forward. This format is engaging, and key points are pulled out to catch the eye. I liked that it used many modern examples, which held my interest throughout. Concepts were explained for a layman — for example, “reverse engineering” is used in book marketing to analyse an existing success to copy its elements with the aim of a similar result.

There were also useful links to other content, some of which I bookmarked to check out at a later date. I appreciated that it quantified certain things — for example, a minimum amount to spend on a book launch. The most useful part I found were the questions posed at the end of each section — these are open-ended and serve as a starting point for an author’s self-reflection or for a discussion with someone they may be hiring to assist their book marketing efforts.

The Cons

While I enjoyed the book and think it would be useful, nothing here was fundamentally brand new to me, or a “secret” for that matter. It was mostly common sense, and the guidance echoed what I have learnt in my first few months of being a published author and plugging into multitudinous writing communities such as Facebook groups, social media, blogs, and more. Also, though the advice is general and can be applied across the board, I could see some parts that would work better for non-fiction books rather than fiction books (my genre).

Conclusion

I have been a (marginally successful) author for awhile, and I am already aware that there are things I could be doing much better (even if I am not doing them, for cost-prohibitive factors or just personal choice!) so perhaps I may not have been the target market for this book. I would however highly recommend it to anyone who is starting from absolute scratch and needs handholding from the ground up, to get their heads in the right space to begin thinking about their books as a business.

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The Premise

Now pregnant with FBI agent Kieran’s baby and engaged to be married to him, Seryna’s life has taken an unexpected turn. With her brother in jail, things have settled down a bit, and Seryna is looking forward to married life and becoming a mother. When Kieran whisks her off to an engagement trip in the British Virgin Islands that turns into a wedding, life could not be more perfect. That is, until he suddenly disappears at the hands of kidnappers. Forced to overcome her worry and grief over his absence, Seryna focuses on her studies and starts college. There, she meets Ryder and they become fast friends — and perhaps, much more. Can she leave the memory of Kieran behind?

The Pros

Again, the descriptions are where this author’s talent shines through. Nature scenes make you feel as if you are there in the mountains and on the beach, and I loved these parts. The characters are well developed — from her bubbly friends to Kieran’s bossy sister and aloof parents, and even the nefarious characters are nicely crafted. The female friendships make it fun and enjoyable to read, as we can easily picture these young girls being thrilled to experience the lap of luxury, cute boys, and all the possibilities of the future opening up to them. The sex scenes are also titillating (though at times oddly placed), if that’s what you’re looking for — as I expected it, this time around, I’ll put it in the “Pro” column!

The Cons

My qualms with this second book were similar to the first one. The steady pace that was building took too long to get to the height of the action — easily, 10 or more chapters could have been cut from the front end of the book, because the real tension doesn’t begin until Kieran is kidnapped (I think this was in Chapter 27 or 28, thereabouts). Then, when it finally does get there, it falls flat — it’s over and done with quickly… then there’s a flash of action later down which also happens really quickly and is followed by a lot of dialogue explaining what happened.

I also felt like a lot of the novel’s real estate seemed to be dedicated to Seryna’s jealousy over other women admiring Kieran and not believing in their love because she was so young. Finally, I really, really, really, REALLY wish we had seen things from Kieran’s viewpoint while he was captured, rather than told way afterwards. This would have made for a much more enjoyable, tense read.

Conclusion

I took a couple of months to get to the second book, but I am glad I got there in the end and finished their love story. Again, I’m conflicted about not really “liking” the main character in these two novels (because she claimed to be strong and independent and loyal, but her actions showed otherwise), but then that’s not always necessary for a novel, and we are all human with these traits and self-delusions. I’m also conflicted because I absolutely love some aspects of the writing, despite not being totally sold on the books. The writing talent for description is what kept me coming back.

I would love to read more by the author, but the erotic suspense genre didn’t meet all my expectations — there isn’t a lot of “suspense” and too much flowery descriptions; and for erotica, it’s well written but just feels like the talent could also be applied elsewhere. I did notice the writer also writes in other genres (fantasy) so I may check those books out. As for these, as the sex surpasses the story in both “Perfect” and “Imperfect”, I would recommend if you are in the mood for something steamy with a bit of dark flair. If you like more story, this may not be for you. I am in between both camps, so I gave this a fair rating based on that.

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The Premise

Parvathy’s Well

The collection opens with its namesake “Parvathy’s Well” which is told from the point of view of a young child who lives in her own fantasies and is largely disregarded by her family. A “late, surprise entrant into the world”, she hovers on the edges of the family life, and she is often told to “go and play” — which she does, by her well. Observing the relationships between the adults, especially her Amma (mother), her Appa (father), and another relative, she unwittingly reveals a dark secret and does not fully understand its implications — except that it affects her precious well.

Lajjo

This story chronicles a life of drudgery for a poor maidservant, who largely despises the family she looks after. As she serves her employers, she reminisces about her own family — her younger sister, her deceased mother, and her father who remarried. As her employers’ lavish wedding event unfolds, she marks time while feeling “like a marionette, strings jerking [her] everywhere”. She snidely thinks of the marriage as “two major industrialists coming together” in a merger, rather than a marriage.

Scorched

Told from multiple points of view, this story examines a family’s life from all angles. Bored of married life, Muthuswamy lusts after his wife’s teenage sister. Pushpalata despises the creepy old man, but loves the child he created with her sister, and also adores her older sister. The older sister Saraswathi, however, thinks of her as a “thorn in her side” and is just grateful for the help with childcare. When Muthuswamy’s desire takes over, the ensuing events erupt into an unlikely end.

Morality

Narang intends to put an end to corruption, meaning that the workers would no longer receive kickbacks when awarding the contract to the highest bidder. When the “worker bee” of the group Chopra stumbles upon a tender that doesn’t add up, Bhambri advises that it is his meal ticket — either Narang “joins the club, or gets thrown out of it. Win win.” Both Chopra and Narang struggle with the “morality” of this political matter when presented with the option — to cover up or not to cover up?

Heaven and Hell

Playing a game “Heaven and Hell” is the anchor point of the innocence of a group of young children. Sparrow often antagonises Avinash, saying he looks like a girl, and his mother abandoned him. A haunted house in the neighbourhood becomes a point of interest, with the challenge that whoever does not show up is coward. They do all show up — but what they find is not a ghost at all, but a dark family secret.

Hijra

Hijra means “eunuch” or “half-man, half-woman” — persons with these characteristics are outcasts in Indian society. The motley crew of eunuchs band together, perform, singing and dancing, dressed in sarees — an accepted “caricature” of a woman. To some, they are the amalgamation of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, divine beings able to confer blessings on a newborn baby — and to others, they are an unwelcome and embarrassing abomination.

The Pros

Told from the point of view of many characters in Indian society, these entirely separate stories weave a collection of tales that range among different ages, classes and genders. Each is told in such a way that the reader puts together part of the narrative that isn’t explicitly stated.

Of the six, my favourites were “Parvathy’s Well” and “Scorched” which bear some similarities in their subject matter and dark end. I also liked “Hijra” which was so beautifully written — a heartfelt look at both ends of the spectrum of the way eunuchs are viewed in society.

The writing style throughout the collection is captivating in what it shows and hides amidst its words, and the stories themselves are a journey through the senses as we can easily picture the lives of all these characters. I loved the way that a dark flash of humour was sprinkled even in a tragic tale, and the magical way of recounting “adult” events through the eyes of children.

The Cons

My least favourite was “Morality” which seemed like it didn’t belong somehow, as it moved away from the family atmosphere of all the others and veered into politics.

I also found that “Heaven and Hell” was told in a confusing way with a lot of extra information, and I had to re-read it to follow it properly. The storyline also echoed “Parvathy’s Well” so I felt like I had read it already, but much better the first time around (as I thoroughly enjoyed that one).

Conclusion

Overall, the rich descriptions, interwoven language snippets, and the insights into Indian culture combine to create a pleasure to read, even when the stories meander down a dark corner that I wasn’t expecting. I enjoyed reading each of them, particularly the way they unfold with a surprise element.

Though I had my personal favourites and didn’t like others quite as much, the collection as a whole was a complex, brilliant tapestry of Indian culture, giving a view of the dark side that is often not shown in Bollywood films or discussed openly in society. I would highly recommend to other readers who are looking for something to make them think, reflect and experience another culture.

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The Premise

Taryn is hitting the ripe old age of mid-thirties and decides she needs a baby ASAP since no man is forthcoming, so she decides to adopt and raise a baby as a single mother. She meets Liam, fireman and artist extraordinaire, when she hires him to paint a mural for the baby’s room. Though there is immediate attraction on both parts, he sniffs her impending baggage a mile away, knowing he should steer clear because he values his freedom.

When the adoption inevitably falls through, the two have the idea to use Liam in sperm-donor fashion — they’ll be friends with benefits, plus a baby that Taryn will raise on her own. But she soon realises that she wants the whole nine yards — if only she can convince Liam that he wants it too.

The Pros

This was an amusing, quick romance read. The characters came alive with the dialogue, even the naughty dogs! One of the best scenes is when Liam’s brothers push all his buttons by pretending that his brother Colin will serve as a shoo-in for the role Liam is too dumb to accept. I also loved Taryn’s friend Angelica, who was hilarious and supportive to the point of wanting to physically harm anyone who dared to hurt her friend. The sexy scenes are also tasteful without being too overdone, and I actually appreciated that some were even skimmed/skipped to reduce unnecessary details. The focus was on the humour, even when her neighbours and others in the community enjoyed their views (literally) and insight into the couple.

The Cons

While I enjoyed the book overall and read it through quickly, there were a few areas where I was wondering why they were included at all — e.g. despite a life-or-death emergency, there was a mother trying to play matchmaker, and an amiable discussion about the hazards of parking. Beyond those questionable choices, I also had some major concerns with parts of the plot.

The sperm-donor-friends-with-benefits agreement was far too much of a quick sell for two intelligent adults — which Liam clearly was not, but I was hoping at least that Taryn was! Far too much mention was made of Liam being a clunkhead, to the point where I genuinely believed (as his brothers often teased) that he had brain damage. I also thought it was a bit questionable that she was even “pursuing” Liam and seemingly “tricking” him into realising he loved her. Luckily he actually did, but her actions could have been interpreted a lot differently: she convinced a man to impregnate her (no strings attached), and then a moment later he’s on the hook for child support and visitation?

Overall, they both behaved like much younger people — early 20s, rather than mid-30s — and even if the original adoption had gone as planned, I couldn’t imagine the kind of life Taryn had planned for a newborn baby. She was eager to get cracking on baby-making with little preamble, and beyond that she was wrapped up in her job, so apart from the actual baby room there didn’t seem to be enough forethought for the gravity of what she was embarking upon. At one point I thought, she deserves so much better than Liam, and then I eventually decided: y’know, these two clunkheads deserve each other.

Conclusion

Despite my personal qualms about the plot, and wishful thinking about having more intelligent, mature characters, this was still an enjoyable and funny read. The writer’s talent at comedy really shines through, and I really appreciated the fully-fleshed, relatable, and hilarious side characters (even though the main ones left me wanting). I would recommend it to other readers, but perhaps younger women. Still, I really enjoyed the writer’s style and wit, and I am looking forward to reading other books in the series or anything else she has written. I just hope the main characters aren’t quite so infuriating the next time around!

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The Premise

Picture it: New York, 2020. Sophie, an art conservator and serious germaphobe, has been locked away in her apartment for months, and is now forced to engage with a new client before she runs out of money to pay her rent. Jacob, talent manager to Hollywood celebs, needs his grandmother’s chair restored. He’s also getting over a “pandemic” breakup that has to be kept under wraps to protect his ex-fiancée/client Savannah’s career. Sparks fly between Sophie and Jacob, but where can they go, if all they can do is Zoom? What does romance and love look like in the era when Covid runs supreme?

The Pros

I’ll admit — I read this book in one day, and I enjoyed it; it did however leave me with a feeling that this would be one of those “guilty pleasures” because I was entertained by a “Covid” romance… maybe it’s a bit too soon to find certain things funny? Regardless, there was a buoyant satire in the humour that kept me reading and smiling all the way through, even when the behaviour of the characters seemed to veer off the rails of ridiculous.

I liked the supporting characters such as Sophie’s friend Casey, and of course the ever-amusing Hurry Curry staff. These characters really flew off the page and I could imagine them easily. The connective similarity to the Spanish Flu was beautifully done, and the novel really shines in that particular spot. I also appreciated the references to the pandemic that helped set the scene — the balcony socialising, the emptiness of the streets, the cancellation of… well, everything; it’s easy to “world-build” since we’re still living through it, but these touches made it come alive.

The Cons

While I enjoyed the book, I wasn’t totally sold on the relationship of the two main characters. While their interactions are cute and humorous as they try to navigate Covid dating norms, they do seem to fall in love very quickly over very little. There were also a few questionable choices — namely, Sophie’s ability to stay locked away for months without a computer felt unlikely (especially as in her line of work, I’m sure online research is key to uncover obscure information about art pieces, and she seemed to be somewhat distant to that concept); and Jacob’s apparent utter laziness to expunge his life and his apartment of his ex-fiancée after how badly she’d treated him. While these two instances were linked to key plot points, you do have to suspend disbelief considerably.

Conclusion

Overall, this was a light, funny, quick read and I would recommend to other readers, particularly female readers. Mind you, the gravity of the illness seems to be largely ignored here. I don’t know how much we can expect a romantic comedy to be an accurate depiction of reality (needless to say, it isn’t), but if you have been personally affected by the pandemic in any way, this (and any other depiction with a comedic spin) may be a trigger! Despite my own niggles, this was a really good book and it is funny, so if you need a good laugh, this would be a great pick. This romantic comedy had enough heart in it to keep my interest, and I look forward to reading more from the author.

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The Premise

Alex’s picture-perfect life, meticulously planned out with the love of her life who she’s known since they were in kindergarten, suddenly comes to a crashing halt when a scandal breaks: her beloved husband had an affair… with a man. While everyone around her admits they always knew he was gay, she didn’t have a clue until this point, and struggles to reconcile her love for her husband and best friend with the lie that has tainted everything she ever thought was true. Still, she loves him deeply and they agree on an amicable divorce — so amicable that they even throw a mutual divorce/coming out party with a smorgasbord of their closest friends.

Her friends encourage her to get over her “gay husband virginity” by dating several men prior to getting serious about anyone — the “Naughty Nine” list — and while she resists at first, she eventually dives into a slew of dates from hell. When she starts to have feelings for her new client, she doesn’t trust her own judgement anymore — is he or isn’t he gay… and even if he isn’t, is he still too good to be true?

The Pros

This novel was hilarious from beginning to end, and I thoroughly enjoyed every moment. I flew through it in one day, unable to put it down by the time I got to the second half. The characters leap off the pages, and I felt as though I was right there in all of Alex’s cringe-worthy dates, as well as the heartwarming moments when she bemoans her suddenly single status:

I will not cry. I love Michael, he broke my heart, and it’s over. And also I sometimes want to wring his f-ing neck. Deep breath. Just let it all go.

Even in the depths of her despair, the novel was laugh-out-loud funny, and her eclectic band of friends brought just the right mix of humour and overwhelming support — despite their inherent flaws, which made them all the more lovable, as they felt so real.

Though the new relationship with Daniel is a huge underpinning theme throughout the novel, the romance was only one small element of the entire novel’s charm. Her relationships with friends, her colleagues at her job, Michael’s family, and everyone else around her really crafted exactly who she was, which was a character worth admiring. (Bonus points for her cat Morley, who needs his own fan club!)

I was completely blown away when she rallied to Michael’s side and overcame all her own drama to be who she needed to be in that moment. It was such a sweet and purposeful message; her straight-talking friend Darcy puts it best:

Sometimes life sucks. Can you avoid disaster with careful planning? Sometimes. And sometimes the tornado just comes down and rips your house away. And you get the f— up, and rebuild.

Conclusion

This book was amazingly funny, heartwarming and just simply an excellent read. I would highly recommend to anyone, particularly female readers. The blurb compares it to Sophie Kinsella’s Shopaholic series, and I did see elements of that kind of slapstick comedy here, but it was much deeper and beautifully done. I made the error of glancing through other reviews before writing this, and I can’t believe anyone who says it didn’t hold their interest. I personally just became a super-fan, and I can’t wait to read more by this author!

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A uproariously funny reflection of the delirious joy and looming fear of imminent fatherhood

This was my 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

After being told the chances of a natural pregnancy are close to zero, the author is shocked when the pregnancy test comes back positive. He begins writing a journal as if to his unborn child (never mind the profanity!) detailing his emotional rollercoaster journey with his partner, and his day-to-day musings as he contemplates his new identity as a father (among other things). The journal eventually turns into the irreverent, hilarious look at pregnancy from a father’s perspective.

The Pros

Despite my tastes as a reader, as a reviewer, I usually steer clear of anything factual or personal as it’s hard to give a fair shake at what is or was actually someone’s life. Yet the preview of this novel, classed under “Biographies & Memoirs” (a category I also avoid like the plague it often can be), drew me in with its droll, uniquely British humour — and fortunately, I was not disappointed; it kept me thoroughly entertained.

Uproariously funny from beginning to end, “Dear Dory” follows a man’s coming-of-age journey into fatherhood. From the moment the stick turns blue, our Daddy-to-be veers from exuberant joy to panic:

You will be loved unconditionally and parenting you will be our greatest privilege. A challenge, yes, but a privilege — and a joy. But then comes fear. You might have instantly become our most valued possession, but you’re also our most vulnerable one.

Finding solace in journaling his thoughts, the author makes us smile all the way through as he cringes from the hormonal swings of his partner:

Who is this monster, Dory, and what has it done with your Mummy?

…And right on the heels of that, comes a dark shock wave:

I had a dream that Mummy had a miscarriage… I daren’t tell Mummy. I spare a thought for all the other parents out there who don’t get to wake up from the dream, because it’s not a dream, it’s a reality.

The relationship truly gives the novel its identity and a depth that warms the soul. It is evident that they love each other deeply, and though the book is about “Daddy”, we fall in love with “Mummy” as well (particularly when “Daddy” is having one of the moments when she’s reconsidering her choice of partner!)

This was not just about fatherhood, but also a coming-of-age tale into manhood as he considers financial rejigging responsibilities; the challenges of perhaps parenting a special needs child; the changing generational politics of parenting; and identity as a concept that is forever in flux — one may identify as a parent first, but there are so many more roles that still need nurturing to retain one’s sense of self.

Beneath all these ups and downs, he highlights that while mothers go through so much to bring a child into the world, and he has the utmost respect for them (and their carers), still — and this is the message that stays with us:

You have to understand how crazy this whole child-growing business is from a soon-to-be father’s perspective as well.

Conclusion

As a new-ish mother myself, I had a great appreciation for this story that touched on many nuances of pregnancy that felt so familiar. There is a particular craft of a writer to interweave such profundity nestled in the novel’s overarching humour, and I enjoyed the entire journey. I would highly recommend to any adult reader, especially to those who have already experienced the joy and terror of parenting, or who are now beginning their journey. The journey is a long, arduous one, so hats off to anyone who is going through it now!

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A jaunty rollick of a coming-of-age comedy of errors aboard the high seas

This was my 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

At 23, Bianca has done little of interest in her life in a small English village, but she’s finally about to put her past to shame by climbing aboard the Lady Anne for a six-month cruise around the world. Here, she will be the assistant and second-in-command to the cruise director Cynthia. It is the chance of a lifetime to get a whirlwind tour of the world, hopping off in many ports, hobnobbing with celebrity guests, and fabricating a career in entertainment out of thin air and her dazzling personality.

The problem is, she had no idea her job would include just about everything under the sun, and every turn she makes seems to be thwarted by her general talent at making a mess of things. Through her friendships, romance, and career calamities, we get a genuine behind-the-scenes look at the cruise ship crew’s lifestyle, and a throwback to a simpler, sweeter time of nautical life.

The Pros & Cons

This was a jaunty rollick of a coming-of-age comedy of errors aboard the high seas.

From the opening scene that introduces us to our unlikely heroine, it is evident that she’s bitten off far more than she can chew. The vacation-esque dream career is quickly crushed by her new boss’ clarification:

Your role is to play the vital cog between many different wheels, the missing piece of the jigsaw, so to speak. You need to know not only the ship, but the workings of each and every department inside and out.

It’s a tall order, but Bianca steps up to the challenge. At her side are her new friends Max and Maddie, veteran crew members who soon show her the ropes.

From the crew bar and mess hall, the tiny shared cabins, disgusting crew member initiations, and the nonstop schedule of events, we get a glimpse behind the scenes at the throbbing underbody of a cruise that requires a well-oiled staff to keep it running smoothly.

Their on-shore excursions delve into the native attractions at each port, bringing a wealth of enjoyable experiences ranging from wildlife encounters, extreme sports adventures, and the commodification of sex in different lands.

And of course, there are parties galore both on and off the ship — once you know how to keep it under wraps. As Max warns, every day is a “reset” button:

You can party like it’s Friday any night of the week, just be up, bright and breezy the next morning, every morning.

Still, the fact that it’s a job and not a vacation never leaves us, particularly as it pertains to the strict rules. No late-night frolicking (else the “Hit Squad” will get you fired!), no fraternizing with guests (even if they vehemently insist on fraternizing with you!) — and not to mention, of course: no embarrassing your boss or your department (the latter of which she can never quite seem to get the hang of!)…

At the heart of it, cresting the wave to break the novel’s surface, there is a yearning for Bianca to experience a great love, as she stumbles her way through celebrity come-ons, awkward dates and a swoon-worthy developing romance with a ship’s officer.

At times, the novel does feel like “vignettes” of the author’s past personal experiences rather than a fully-fleshed fiction. This can be distracting for some used to the typical plot arc, or alternatively it may infuse the additional appeal of real, lived experience — I’ll leave that up to the reader to decide.

Conclusion

I personally enjoyed this novel because I am an avid cruiser currently missing my yearly vacation fix due to the pandemic, so I was intrigued to read something that brought back some of that feeling for me. In that regard, it certainly does not disappoint.

As we follow Bianca through friendship frictions, romantic mishaps, and career trials and tribulations, the allure of the seafaring cruise ship is a nostalgic pull to the innocence of a pre-Covid nautical life in the late 1990s.

Bianca’s coming-of-age journey as she finds her sea legs in an entertainment career aboard the high seas is amusing, enjoyable, and worth the read. I would recommend to anyone, especially female readers in need of a nice, light read, and I look forward to more from this author.

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A fast-paced, action-packed bloodlust thrill of a futuristic sci-fi romance

This was my seventh book I chose via the Reedsy Discovery program, for which I am the single approved reviewer for this new book. In this case, the author sought me out and asked me to review her trilogy, and after reading the synopsis I was intrigued. 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

30 years into the future, the 2020 COVID-19 virus has resulted in a breakdown of government trust, protests and rioting. The World Committee stepped in as the saviour, forcing nations back to normality after developing an effective vaccine, and peace returned. However, the Committee — now the supreme power — has limited public access to technological progress. The Web is restricted, but there is now sustainable development and free access to healthcare, education, and essential services. Massive “High Cities” exist with no crime, but there are “Undercities” where darkness and evil prevails. When the Undercity activities bleed into the High Cities, the “Facility” is sent in to destroy the evil-doers.

Against this futuristic backdrop, young Olivia is brought to the Facility (“Inside”) as an experiment, where she was trained to be a lethal assassin — alongside Jace, who was born in the Facility. She is raised by his family, and their time spent together brings the two of them closer. As they mature into adulthood, she keeps him at arm’s length, wary of letting her emotions overcome her and subsume them both. They are not officially “matched” with the Committee’s approval, so they cannot be together.

However, at the age of sixteen, a shared mission swiftly turns into something more, altering their relationship drastically. Before they have a chance to indulge in their new status, Olivia disappears without a trace. She is stolen and enslaved, forced to fight in the underworld’s Fight Pits. A valuable commodity, she soon gets a reputation as “Little Death” — slaying everyone in her way. Jace must get to her before it is too late, and she is destroyed by abuse at the hands of those who lust for her blood and her body.

The Pros & Cons

This was a fast-paced, action-packed bloodlust thrill of a futuristic sci-fi romance.

With a choppy, matter-of-fact writing style that mirrors the characters’ “assassin” mindsets, we are instantly transported to a world of extremes: extreme love and lust between Olivia and Jace, extreme evil via Olivia’s kidnappers, and extreme power via the unchallengeable “World Committee” that saved the world from its own demise:

Fear became a monster on its own, feeding on itself, feeding on the hopeless and the helpless. Humankind was fast heading toward starvation and destruction. That is when the World Committee stepped in.

There is no pause for breath as the novel pummels everything in its way to get to its end. Within its brief word count of around 40,000 words, we get a vivid picture of the inner workings of this dystopian future, and an intense love that bleeds through everything:

The love that started when they were just children has now exploded beyond all limits. There seems to be no satisfying this beast that has awoken in both of them — the more they feed it, the hungrier it becomes.

The detached way of relating the story intensifies its emotions, leaving you on the edge of your seat in the centre of the visceral explosion of feeling. The choice of present tense enhances this, as every occurrence is relayed as fact.

Carrying the story on her shoulders is Olivia — the blood demon with golden eyes who slays all in her path — and her thoughts are the machinations of a brutal, trained killer. When she pounces, it is absolute:

She will not allow this despicable monster to live for one more second than is necessary.

Similarly, Jace is a tightly wound bullet of rage and action:

His command of the team assembled to find Subject Olivia is not to be messed with, and he does not tolerate incompetence for a second.

As Jace races against the clock to get to his Olivia, he also battles the rules of their world and the unjust pairing with another girl, Shanty, but his mind never leaves Olivia.

The intensity of their love powers through this swift-paced novel, scorching everything along the way. While there are few surprises, and there are moments of world-building I wish were expounded upon more, this all falls away as the plot bucks and arcs at the right points to propel you through the story along with its characters.

I found myself wishing it were longer, but the saving grace is that there is more, so much more, still to come.

Conclusion

At its core, this is a love story with a fierce beast of a woman at its centre, whose mind cannot be broken even though her body very nearly is, time and time again. Behind her is a man who will fight to the death for her, and values not just her body or her personality, but her indestructible will to survive.

Despite it being couched in a sci-fi, futuristic action-adventure tale with a dash of the paranormal, the underlying theme is one that makes your heart swell with pride and admiration for a love that knows no bounds. I highly recommend for both male and female adult readers, and can’t wait to dive into the next instalment.

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The Premise

Six years after Caleb broke off their relationship and broke her heart, Lori returns to Penny Creek. This time around, her focus is on her PhD and the protection of wolves in the area. They are endangered, and being intentionally poisoned at the hands of a prominent local businessman — if only she could find a way to prove it.

Meanwhile, Caleb has grown into his role as a single parent after his son Taylor’s mother, Delaney, left when he was only a few months old. Dedicated to his career as a firefighter, he gives any spare time to his son, and has little time for romance. But Lori’s return has him reconsidering if she can fit into his life — or if she will leave yet again.

Thwarting their second chance at romance are blasts from Caleb’s past, along with a spiral of political drama that may endanger Lori’s life as she fights to save the wolves. Can Caleb and Lori make it through the challenges life throws at them, once and for all?

The Pros

Again, I must commend the richness of description and imagery, which seems to be increasingly rare in contemporary romances. The author is highly skilled in taking you right to the scene — the heat, the wind, the fire, the drama. Penny Creek and its inhabitants are an excellent foundation for a family saga surrounded by beautiful landscape that stirs inspiration, and I could almost smell the air through Lori’s senses and feel what brought her back to the town.

Both characters were fully fleshed out and aptly ensconced in intricate relationships with their communities, families, and friendships. The steamy scenes were also well written, and not overdone. Overall, it was a great experience for the reader, and brought a wealth of emotion. The narrative intensifies as the story builds, and it was an enjoyable journey with considerable depth.

The Cons

Though I enjoyed the story, I must admit that the easy, breezy feel of the couple’s first interactions took on a much heavier tone in this first official book of the series, and the plot point of the wolves seemed to override everything. I expected more to laugh about, but it was very serious compared to the prequel. I hoped for more lightness and cuteness, but as they are now adults with more serious real-world problems (single fatherhood, biologist career) this just wasn’t possible.

Instead, there was a rich, beautiful story about animals and nature… which was great on its own, just not what I was banking on after having read the prequel. Also, not really a “con” but I think the novel should have been renamed because their relationship is now far from a “fling” and the capricious title alludes to something that now seems disparate from the storyline.

Conclusion

The overall story was much deeper than the prequel, and the beautiful descriptions take you right to the heart of the scene. There is a rich depth and wealth of information here — and if your taste in romance runs deep, this will be an excellent pick. The animal rights advocacy theme is wonderfully expounded here, and grounds the romance in a real-world issue with tangible problems. While it wasn’t what I was expecting, this is still a great novel that I would highly recommend to others if they want a fully-fleshed story with mature characters. I like the author’s writing style, and look forward to reading more in the series and also other novels.

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A raw, emotional foray into the harrowing, hilarious capriciousness of mental illness 

This was my sixth book I chose via the Reedsy Discovery program, for which I am the single approved reviewer for this new book. I chose it because I love the genre of women’s fiction, and the preview 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

On the heels of a painful divorce from an emotionally abusive husband, Claire falls into a debilitating depression that forces her to take a leave of absence from her high-powered job as a senior director of financial analysis at a Fortune 500 tech company.

Bolstered by the encouragement of her new friends whom she met at group therapy, she decides to reenter the dating scene in her late 30s. Unfortunately, the pickings are slim, and even the promising ones eventually disappoint. But even worse, Claire is terrified that she is the disappointment — a terrible mother, an insufficient wife, an incompetent employee, and now a crazy woman unable to keep her Depression (with a capital D) at bay.

Along with her friends Gretchen and Tasha, both single moms also fighting their own battles with mental illness, Claire forges an inseparable bond — a sisterhood that can survive the spiteful ex-husbands, the epically bad dates, and the darkest doubts and insecurities, with the triumph of laughter and unconditional love.

The Pros

This novel was a raw, emotional foray into the harrowing and yet hilarious capriciousness of mental illness.

With her key competencies as a wife and a worker stripped from her, Claire is left struggling to maintain the relationship with her precocious preteen daughter; and clinging to the vestigial memory of a marriage she now realises she never understood:

I cry for that wife who I used to be, the one who trusted her husband never to hurt her, and to always be there. The one that knew who she was, and what she could do, and it was no small thing.

This mental breakdown immediately distances her from everyone in her life — family members and friends simply cannot compute the disparity between the image of the well-adjusted, successful career woman, and who she has become. Her depression — or Depression with a capital D — has subsumed everything she once was:

My depression is a knob dialed down to its lowest decibel, a rumbling of Overwhelmed and I Can’t Do This and a frantic but sluggish pursuit of Hope. It has no conversation, it only wants to: Shut. Everything. Down.

The only ones who can understand this are her friends Tasha and Gretchen, who both suffer with bipolar disorder. The three women find solace in each other, with a unique shared understanding that they may never “get well” or “get over it” like others seem to hope will happen; this is their life now:

The three of us, we own our mental illnesses and hold them close. Like a rebellious sibling, we take care of them and tolerate them, even though they exhaust us.

Instead of crumbling beneath the weight of their illnesses, they live with it daily; a constant hum in the background of lives that are rich and filled with uproarious laughter, tender moments, new romances, parenting difficulties, and so much more. Despite the flashes of darkness, the light shines through: a gut-bursting element of humour that thrusts up the rollercoaster to string us along for the ride before it plummets and then rises again — reminding us that even in our darkest moments, there may be something worthy of a smile.

The prose is heartfelt from beginning to end, and reveals the character development of all three women with elegance, grace and beauty. I appreciated that it also shed a positive light on the husbands, fathers and partners that may often get sidelined as uncaring or unsupportive in their attempts to shield their families from the fallout of mental illness.

Conclusion

Despite the gravity of the subject matter, the writing style underscores a humour that breaks through the surface to make it a story of triumph and uplifting inspiration. It teaches us that illnesses of all kinds can strike anyone, and rails against the stigma that far too often accompanies a diagnosis of a mental health disorder.

I highly recommend it to anyone, but it will be most impactful to women who have shared some of these experiences as a wife, a mother, or a survivor of mental illness. This is a novel that can meet you at your darkest moment and give you the power to decide to save your own life.

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The Premise

Piper’s life as she knows it comes to a screeching halt when her mother is arrested for an unimaginable crime — she stole Piper when she was a newborn, seventeen years ago. Suddenly, everything Piper took for granted is now in question — her relationship with whom she believed was her mother, her memories of her beloved and deceased father, and her bond to her brother Zach.

When she learns that she is expected to be “returned” to her birth family, Piper takes the first chance she can to bolt. Her escape is soon thwarted by Zach’s friend Finn, who joins her journey with no real destination but “away” — away from the police, a swarm of media vultures, her gossiping friends, and the family she never knew that is now on her heels.

But her birth family is more about appearances, and dark secrets lie beneath the shiny surface of an affluent couple and three siblings. Can Piper — née Greta — find her way through the web of deceit and pretences to a happy future?

The Pros & Cons

This is a fast-paced novel with intrigue that builds at every plot twist. There is not even a moment’s rest before it plunges into a new emotion — anger, rage, sadness, loss, grief, love and so much more. I loved Piper’s character development as she was forced to mature quickly and deal with the reality of the drastic shift her life has made.

The family drama thickens as secrets are revealed, and Piper’s quest for acceptance is thwarted at every turn from her new family to her new school. We feel her increasing weariness at the way her life has crumbled through no fault of her own, and we keep hoping for the small elements of levity to billow her sails of belonging once more.

Every character’s actions were believable, and their motives were clearly felt throughout the novel. From her new father’s devotion, to her new mother’s paranoia and emotional stuntedness, to the antagonism of her new sister — at times we ricochet from anger and disbelief to sympathy. The plot aptly demonstrates how one singular act of selfish mania — stealing a baby — created a butterfly effect that affected everyone in different ways.

The pacing felt alarmingly swift when I hoped it would have lingered a bit more on some emotional scenes, particularly a few moments coming down to the end that I wish were more expanded rather than wrapped up quite so quickly. But the story packs so many events and plot twists into its word count that it simply wasn’t possible to slow down. Just as Piper’s life felt like it was moving too fast, so too does the story — and perhaps that was the point.

Conclusion

This is an excellent pick for a Young Adult coming-of-age novel that packs an emotional punch. I highly recommend to anyone, but particularly to young women who could use a strong female protagonist to admire. The main character’s emergence through all this emotional drama, and journey to healing, is a story of triumph that will resonate with many readers. It was a pure thrill to read such an expertly crafted, emotional drama, and I look forward to more from the author.

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The Premise

Young mother Anu has always felt like an outsider. Moving away from the “vacuum” of her own family in India where her mother and half-siblings ignored her, and into a new life in England, this feeling persists: a distinct disconnect from the other mothers — and women in general — that she sees all around her. While her husband Ravi seems to be getting on quite well with his work colleagues and other friends from all backgrounds, Anu feels adrift.

Among the British mothers, her awkward shyness limits friendships from developing — as an outsider, she is “a curiosity at best, a nuisance at worst”. Yet she is too westernised to fit into some of the cliques among Indian women, and her tenuous link to her extended family members is fraught with resentment built up from the past.

As her daughter Neha grows and matures all through primary school and finally enters secondary school at the novel’s climax, the plot traces Anu’s own development as she tries on many different types of friendships for size, “dipping in and out” of her Indian-ness as she struggles to “find her tribe” as a woman and as a mother.

The Pros & Cons

This was a beautiful novel that expertly captures the nuances of migrant dissonance in balancing a myriad of worlds, as well as the mythical creature that is “female friendship”.

Having always lacked the maternal bond from a mother who flitted in and out of her life like an “exotic bird”, Anu still has not resolved these issues as an adult, and it shows in the deep-seated fear and insecurity that she is not enough.

Often accused of being “too sensitive” by her close friends, her husband, and family; Anu still desperately seeks acceptance from the outside. She does not understand the micro-aggressions and fickle-heartedness that are typical among many of the women she meets — both British and Indian, and at the same time she focuses so much on these friendships that she neglects those who do truly care about her.

It is a story that as a woman, we all understand too well — whether or not we share the migrant experience. There were so many simple touches here that gave this novel so much life. A few that captured it perfectly:

On her Indian family relationships:

Was it possible to have grown up with someone, known them your entire lives, and find out you had nothing except blood in common?

On the ethics of ostracisation:

As an Indian woman living abroad, there were bound to be differences between her understanding of things and theirs. She was a stranger in their world, and it was she who had to work harder to be accepted. They were just being true to themselves.

On female friendship (from a male perspective):

You need each other in a way that can’t be defined. I’ve seen women being each other’s biggest supporters and champions, but I’ve also seen women pull each other down, backbite, and be insanely jealous. The dynamics are very different among you lot.

Indeed, there was absolutely so much to love here that I really can’t pick out any flaws. The writing style is distinct, and the pacing is well done, though as it covers such a wide span of time, there were moments I wish it could have hovered on one phase a *wee* bit longer. My emotions were all over the place, and as Anu finally found her footing and her own sense of self through her art, I felt absolutely inspired. Such a journey!

My only caveat (not really a con) is that there are a lot — a lot — of characters to keep track of, so I did have to keep reminding myself of who everyone was and what had happened prior! Still, even minor characters were adequately sketched and well represented, and it all combined to interweave a stunning tapestry of a tale that will resonate with many.

Conclusion

This novel was the essence of women’s fiction, and I loved it from beginning to end. There was a lovely journey that it took, and many generations and types of women that it dealt with. From the mother, to Anu herself, to her daughter — they each had their own experiences, both negative and positive, of what being a woman and a “fish out of water” feels like. I can see this novel being turned into an absolutely amazing film, and I look forward to reading more by this author. Her skill and her crafting of characters is undeniable. I would recommend this novel to any woman, anywhere, particularly if you’ve ever felt out of place in a new environment, or felt miffed by a misunderstanding with a friend… so yes, that’s EVERY woman!

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The Premise

NFL player Mark has finally hit it big as a pro football player, when a blast from his past shows up at one of his games — Tessa, his high school sweetheart. To his shock, she has a young boy in tow — and as it turns out, five-year-old Angus is his son. He swiftly has to adapt to a paternal role to his son. Having hid the child from him to give him a chance at the career he’d always dreamed of, Tessa now struggles to readjust her life to include Mark. However, his late entry into their little family leads others to believe that she’s a gold-digger, and unwelcome press attention soon follows. As her integrity gets called into question at her job as a teacher at a religious school, Mark also begins to question if his financial outlook as a pro ball player is secure enough to commit to family responsibilities.

The Pros

This was a quick read with a simple, predictable storyline and few surprises. The couple was cute, the banter was endearing, and the raunchy scenes were a good fit around the overall storyline. I also liked the inclusion of the family drama on Tessa’s side, and Mark’s scenes with his teammates. Angus also made for an adorable scene or two, and his youthful exuberance permeated and gave a nice feel-good emotion to the story.

The Cons

There wasn’t anything specifically to dislike in the story, and there was just enough substance to keep me reading all the way through, but just about. The conflict was minimal, and not in any way shocking. He slipped easily into “daddy” mode with no problems, it appears, and the son accepted him without question. As with my last read by the same author, the plot was fair enough but the writing is not my preferred style. I believe it could have been written differently to get me more enthused. Significant occurrences were glossed over — Mark’s family’s reactions, and then the culminating point was lacklustre. Facts were shared without getting the reader to really experience it, and overall I was underwhelmed.

Conclusion

As with my last book by this author, I had a similar sensation of waiting for something “more” that just never came. I would be willing to give it one more try (third time’s the charm!) before giving up and deciding this author’s style is just not for me. In terms of recommending for others — if you’re look for a quick, cute read to keep you entertained for a bit, this is a good pick. If you want a novel to touch your heart and rock your world (i.e. if you’re a picky reader like me), this may not be the best choice.

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The Premise

Patrick “Trick” is a firefighter with a lucky streak from everything to his zero-fatality streak to his lottery winnings — the latter of which has been a contentious issue between him and his wife Eve. When Eve files for divorce, Trick is shocked to learn of the reasons she is claiming — that he abused her and their two girls. Particularly amid the wave of “Me Too” revelations that have shown the disgraceful acts of supposedly well-respected men, his innocence seems to be impossible to prove. Even worse, the allegations mean that he has very limited access to his daughters.

Zamira is assigned Trick’s case as a court-ordered client to oversee his interaction with his daughters. Despite her initial hesitation as she is appalled at his heinous supposed crimes, she soon realises that they are not only false, but that in reality Trick is quite the opposite — a loving, caring father; a first responder and hero; and most importantly: a man worth loving. However, Zamira’s Muslim faith keeps her desire in check, and she fights the attraction that threatens everything she holds dear: her career, her family’s honour in their community, and her modesty as a Muslim woman.

Pros

This was such an intricately woven story with so much depth of character to explore. The unraveling of the plot was a joy to read, particularly the moments where we learn of Muslim culture by the way the author shows — rather than just tells — Zamira’s thoughts and actions as she interacts with the two conflicting facets of her life: a promised hand to a man she loathes that will lift her family out of disgrace, and an undeniable attraction to a man not of her culture who has a lot of baggage.

I liked the way Eve’s deplorable actions are shown in retrospect as well as in the present day, building up the character of a narcissistic femme fatale. I also liked the range of Trick’s interactions with his family and coworkers, and the sense of brotherhood and camaraderie among fellow firefighters. The author’s descriptions were precise and took me right there to feel the heat of every scene, and the judgemental eyes under which Trick constantly squirmed as he kept digging himself into a deeper hole.

In general there were a lot of small elements that made the novel seem very visceral, very real — and I lived for these. There were moments when I literally could not put the book down because I was hanging on by a thread at the indignation or shock I felt while reading. So, so, well done!

Cons

I really loved this novel, but my overall takeaway — and the only thing holding me back from the full 5 stars — was that I really wanted even more of Zamira. I could see this being told entirely or almost entirely from her perspective, as she uncovers the truth about Trick and then has to grapple with her feelings. Trick also seemed far too gullible and easy to manipulate, and played right into Eve’s games. The flashbacks to past moments in their marriage annoyed me rather than made me feel sorry for him. All of that to say — more of Zamira! Zamira! Zamira! I loved every moment of her, she was just perfectly written and gave this entire novel so much heart.

Conclusion

This is a great novel with many teaching moments that are beautifully unrolled for the reader without slapping you in the face. The “femme fatale” aspect was a respectful nod to Gillian Flynn’s “Gone Girl” and it gave the novel a delicious undercurrent of a thrill. But its shining grace was the character of Zamira, who I really could not get enough of. This is a novel that will stay with me for quite some time, and I look forward to re-reading it and going through the entire gamut of emotions all over again.

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A coming-of-age thriller that emerges as a thought-provoking and emotional exploration of our changing world

This was my fifth book I chose via the Reedsy Discovery program, for which I am the single approved reviewer for this new book. Though it seemed to be a sci-fi at first (not my go-to genre), the preview and synopsis drew me in to take a chance, and I’m glad It did. 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

In the mid-80s, a group of explorers set off on a secret mission, which ultimately failed after a virus ravaged the crew, leaving only six survivors to return after two years. However on Earth, it’s been over 30 years. Teenager Celestine, who accompanied her (now deceased) parents on the mission, is now a high school student in 2022 — a brand new world bereft of things she once understood.

Alongside the typical teenage angst of complicated female friendships, rebellion against authority figures, and thrilling new romantic experiences; Celestine struggles with survivor’s guilt, worry over a government conspiracy, and an intense paranoia that she will fall ill — and worse, make others ill.

The Pros & Cons

This was a rare genre mishmash that somehow manages to pack many elements together, and still execute it successfully.

The sci-fi intro quickly pivots to the throes of first love, an introspective history lesson, and a women’s fiction drama — all wrapped up in a young adult coming-of-age thriller.

In a post-COVID world (*notably: the author rewrote to suit this*), a protesting public is suspicious of the returning space travellers, whom they fear to be contagious. Celestine is fortunate to find new friends at all, and clings desperately to her new clique like a lifeline.

But, having crash-landed into a new decade, she is awash with unfamiliarity.

I was some sort of caveman-spaceman. Honestly, who could’ve predicted someone would invent a world-wide system of linked computers so children could watch porn, adults could flirt with strangers, people could shop at two o’clock in the morning for stuff they didn’t need, and so that an entire subculture could be created that shared cute photos of their cats?

The author’s cheeky references shed light on the strangeness of the modern world as Celestine grapples with new technology and a distinctly different sociopolitical outlook on life:

We’re lucky to live here. We have all the food we need, shelter, it’s a relatively safe place. If you work hard, you can go far in life.

Her belief system is met with ridicule, as her peers explain that she is “sickeningly positive”; they all know that life is “rigged” to serve the rich, the world is a “cesspool”, and “the man” won’t let you win.

Along with these provocative political diatribes, there was also a wide range of emotions bubbling to the surface as we feel every nuance of Celestine’s uncertainty, fear, anger, and grief:

When your mom dies, it’s as if this pleasant hum that you’ve heard all your life goes silent, and the sudden quiet is staggering.

Therapy plays a critical role in Celestine’s journey to recovery and self-acceptance, and leaves a lasting message as the novel achieves its climax.

Conclusion

I enjoyed the unpredictable ride of this thought-provoking and emotional exploration of our changing world, though at times it left me feeling unsettled — but that was the point. With such a complex character like Celestine, and an interweaving story that you couldn’t really figure out where it was heading, it sometimes felt like the reality TV that bothered Celestine so much because she couldn’t understand why we keep watching when there is no cohesive plot.

While there is, most definitely, a core story humming beneath all of these elements to tie a profound plot together, it’s one of those novels where you’ll sit for some time afterwards, trying to come to terms with what you just read. I can see this sparking intense book club debates, and being adapted into a film. I highly recommend to any reader, but it will be particularly impactful among a young adult audience.

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The Premise

Leena is the long-suffering wife of prominent heart surgeon Steven, who shrank into the background as her husband’s career sky-rocketed. His self-absorption indulges and justifies affairs with many women to meet his sexual needs.

As Leena feels more and more distant from her husband, she engages in a penpal relationship with an inmate at a prison, Michael. When she learns of the nature of his crime — assisted suicide — and that he is also a heart surgeon like her husband, she notes the stark difference to the type of man she married. Their chaste relationship soon blossoms into an emotional affair, which intensifies as Michael’s release date approaches.

Meanwhile, Steven’s and Leena’s 19-year-old daughter Joy is emotionally fragile and teeter-tottering on the edge of the abyss, plunging into dangerous self-harm practices as her parents’ relationship disintegrates. Can Steven’s actions change in time to right their family’s relationship before it is too late, or is their marriage too far gone to be saved, along with Joy’s life?

The Pros

Pivoting to multiple points of view — Leena, Steven, Joy, Michael — this family life fiction interweaves a gripping tale as it explores a wide range of emotions. It introduces women’s issues surrounding marital consensual sex through the entitled words from the philandering Steven: “Is it too much to ask that she just open her legs and let me slide in?” — which are juxtaposed by the innocent love of an incarcerated man who falls for a penpal through only her words.

I liked the character and plot development throughout the novel, and the building romance was nicely executed without pushing the envelope unnecessarily. The breakdown of the marital relationship between Steven and Leena is one that will resonate with many women, and Joy’s insecurities will translate well to parents of similarly affected teens as well as the teens themselves.

The Cons

While I enjoyed the story and it was a great read, I did find myself wishing it was written a bit differently. For instance, I would have liked to see the origin of Michael’s and Leena’s relationship, rather than entering into it already being established (we are repeatedly “told” how it came to be, rather than “shown”). I also felt as though the flow was broken up by Joy’s introspection and I wished that her scenes were reduced or even omitted until perhaps the very end to close it all off — I felt as though this would have added some mystery/tension and made the plot even more impactful.

Conclusion

Despite my personal niggles, this was an enjoyable novel by a talented writer, and one I would definitely recommend to others. There was a nod to Jodi Picoult (one of my favourite authors), and I could see how the author tried to emulate her writing style with multiple POVs and monologues. It is a heart-touching novel that explores complicated issues delicately and shows a way forward for those who feel in despair. The book packs an emotional punch and leaves you with an important message. If that’s right up your alley, this would be a great pick for you.

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A beautiful story of race, romance and its implications and representations in the world around us

This was my fourth book that found me via the Reedsy Discovery program, for which I am the single approved reviewer for this new book. I chose it because the cover was beautiful and the synopsis 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 out of wedlock as her mother’s shameful secret, Natalia has always wondered about her father — a married man who led an entirely separate life. As a young adult, when she learns he is dying from a terminal illness, she is compelled to take the opportunity to meet him. Unfortunately, she is too late — but their appearance and physical similarities alert his family of their relation.

Tainted by her own hang-ups of love and her mother’s past, Natalia finds it difficult to trust men. As she struggles with her decision to connect with her father’s family, she also faces a dilemma of two possible love interests: a past love looking to rekindle a flame; and a new love who may have his own past to overcome. As her romantic interests develop in parallel with her interaction with her estranged blood relations, Natalia must discover her own strength as a woman to love without fear.

The Pros

This was a beautiful story of race, romance and its implications and representations in the world around us. I loved how we were able to see both sides of the story — the illegitimate child, now a young adult desperately seeking a connection to her roots; and the late wife, roiling with anger at the past betrayal that only emerges after her husband’s death, and frustrated that she is unable to punish him. Instead, she focuses on who she can punish: Natalia, who had no control over the circumstances that led to her existence.

The author took time to craft each character, even the side characters, and all of the relationships were fraught with emotional angst. The tension was well developed, and there were a few scenes in particular that had me on the edge of my seat. Natalia’s and Pamela’s friendship also breathed some freshness and joviality amidst the heavy subject matter, and made me smile.

The Cons

While I enjoyed and appreciated the overall flow of this story, the genre straddled a divide that interweaves women’s fiction and romance… just like Natalia’s biracial background, it was half and half — which ultimately left a bit to be desired on either side.

The burning passion of a typical romance was more muted here as she vacillated between two possible love options; and the emotional overload of a typical women’s fiction was bubbling under the surface, but came up *just* short of fully exploding for me. With the high drama of the set-up, I somehow expected more suspense, more complicated/flawed female characters, or a gut-wrenching twist at the culmination point… but that’s just not the story here.

Conclusion

I really loved the underlying message of growth, change and acceptance — but it just needed a bit of an extra nudge for me to feel that ultimate triumph for both protagonists at the end. Still, there is a lot to love here. This was a well-rounded story with realistic characters, and it is definitely worth the read.

I also think it is an important story for our time, as racism presently pervades every aspect of our lives. While it’s a good read for anyone, I particularly would recommend it for Christian, female readers (especially women of colour) — despite a wee bit of explicit language, this is an excellent pick for that market. Representation matters, and this novel has it in spades; it would certainly hit that mark of leaving you inspired.

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The Premise

Reeling with grief after his sister’s funeral, Navy SEAL Brock finds himself shacking up with his ex-girlfriend and recent one-night stand Monica. The circumstances are unusual: a caseworker brings over recently-orphaned baby Aaron, meant for his sister to look after; and Monica shows up at just the right moment to step in to help — right before a storm sets in.

With no other viable option, Brock and Monica settle in for a few days to care for the baby, waiting out the storm so that he can be safely transferred to his surviving relatives coming from abroad. But unknown to Brock, Monica had originally showed up to share her news: she’s pregnant, with his baby. As the storm rages on, she tries to find the right moment to tell him. Meanwhile, it seems like someone is out to harm baby Aaron — and Brock springs into action to defend them. Monica knows that Brock is ideal to hunker down with when danger’s around — but will he disappear from her life once the storm is over?

The Pros

This was a quick read with a simple though predictable storyline. I liked the dialogue and banter between the couple. I appreciated the flow of the story and the high points of suspense and action. I was also glad that the sex scenes were limited to include what was necessary rather than just being gratuitous overkill — it was a nice balance, and the romance between longtime-friends-and-lovers felt genuine and sweet. I also appreciated the small elements included to explain the characters’ motivations — her life in foster care and dedication to helping preemie babies, and his own stoic outlook based on his background.

The Cons

Though I enjoyed this story, I wished there was more character development. With such a great plot, I felt like it could have been written differently to get me more invested in their romance. The writing needed more fleshing out to bring the emotions to the forefront. There was a general sense of “information overload” in some moments rather than allowing the reader to be there in the moment. We are simply told a lot of facts and have to accept these — they had a one-night stand, they were each other’s soulmates in high school, he had a close relationship with his sister, etc. I wish there were flashbacks, or maybe better references to the past interspersed throughout… as it was, I felt like there was something lacking to really give this plot the expansive freedom to truly shine.

Conclusion

Despite some disappointment in the writing style and feeling like I wanted something “more”, I still enjoyed the story throughout and would not mind reading another book by the author. If you’re looking for a serious thriller, this is not it. I didn’t even want to call it “romantic suspense” because it’s not gripping in that way. I would class it as a nice, light read with enough mystery to keep you reading to the end to find out what happened, and believable characters that make you smile when they get their happily-ever-after.

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A darkly funny diatribe and celebration of self-discovery in a foreign land

This was my third book I chose from the Reedsy Discovery program, for which I am the single 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

Tina is a workaholic and mother of four-year-old Piper and seven-month-old Lila, who barely has time to spend with her children and husband. When her workload is on the cusp of increasing even more, she reaches her breaking point. Opportunity knocks — as promised by a psychic she encountered — when her husband Daniel gets an opportunity to work in China, and Tina gleefully readies herself for a change of pace: slowing down to be a wife and mother. But Shanghai is nothing like she expected, and a series of culture shocks and hilarious encounters with the locals result in a level of homesickness she feels deep in her non-maternal soul. But through her friendship with elderly tai chi instructor Mr. Han, and her interactions among the community of expats, Tina begins to learn that her current location is less relevant than the person she needs to become.

The Pros & Cons

This is a darkly funny tale of a fish out of water, trapped in a woman on the edge of a nervous breakdown.

Hysterical, high-strung and hilarious, Tina’s story rings true with many women who climbed up the ladder and couldn’t figure out how to get back down. She feels the pressure of the “grandiose, expensive” lifestyle that trapped her in her career, and can’t understand how others don’t feel it too:

Why don’t you feel the weight of the world? You don’t seem miserable. Why aren’t you miserable, Jennifer?

She yearns for the peaceful, creative path the psychic mentions, despite not believing in that “hogwash”:

If skepticism were a building, mine was a skyscraper. If cynicism were a horizon, mine was a skyline packed with doubt-riddled skyscrapers popping out of the ground like blades of grass after a spring rain, too many to count.

Tina is unwilling to bend, change or adjust; but the new culture into which she’s crash-landed also isn’t budging. In a stand-off against anything that China represents, Tina is on the losing end.

But as the months roll by, she finally finds her way once she accepts certain aspects of the expat lifestyle — getting an ayi (domestic helper), enrolling her children in school, and gathering with other expats to play mah-jongg. Most important, though, are her tai-chi lessons with her new friend, Mr. Han.

Mr. Han helps Tina to harness her energy — energy she didn’t know she had, far less how to use it. As she overcomes the challenges life throws her way, Mr. Han guides her how to do exactly what she told Daniel she wanted to do before they moved: to “be happy with exactly where we were at that very moment”.

Fair warning: this is by no means a faithful representation of China, so some scenes may unsettle or offend. Tina’s voice is unapologetically American — “ignorant of abundance” as Mr. Han says; still, her zany moments are delightful — though perhaps not to her poor exasperated husband. I would’ve loved to see even more of Daniel’s challenges with the culture interlaced throughout. Also, as a reader I shared that struggle to be “happy in the moment” because the ending left me with so many questions, but the thing is: that was the point.

Conclusion

This novel takes you on a journey and an adventure through the eyes of a female protagonist who will resonate with many. It is unique and humorously heartfelt, with vivid imagery of a family finding itself amidst the unexpected. I would recommend to anyone, but particularly to women who enjoy a light read with a much deeper meaning. At its core, it is a diatribe and a celebration of self-discovery, or as Tina’s friend Jennifer puts it:

Even this—questioning your life and your choices—this is incredibly brave.

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The Premise

Smart, plucky Lori is working at a summer camp for children with learning disabilities, while surviving a disaster ex-boyfriend experience and focusing on new adventures before she goes off to college. One of the biggest new adventures she’s hoping for is to shed her virginity — and she soon spots a likely candidate in the form of hunky, outdoorsy Caleb, the brother of her friend Annika. Caleb has a lot on his plate with family drama, but he’s usually up for a summer fling, so he’s happy when Lori agrees to this. But things soon get more serious than either had planned for — and the end of summer is fast approaching. Can they find their way into each other’s future, or will the clock run out on their love?

The Pros

I was pleasantly surprised to find so much depth of imagery in a trope-filled romance. The descriptions were all very vivid, and I could easily imagine the entire life of Caleb’s family, growing up and working on the river. I could feel the spray of the water, the sun, the stars — it was all lovely to experience as a reader. I soon forgave the insta-love (sometimes this can be a con for me) when the relationship developed wonderfully, and I liked the dialogue and interaction with the couple. Both characters were fully fleshed out, and I appreciated that there was also a good development of their surrounding family members, friends and the wider community. All of this was easy to picture, and gave some body to the story as it developed. The heavy elements of grief and family obligation were well balanced with the steamy and funny moments, rounding out a nice and easy-to-read narrative.

The Cons

While I liked the story, I must admit it was predictable. I knew it was a prequel with a lead-up to something else, but the “something else” I spotted far too early in; there were no surprises. I was enjoying the story, but expected a “twist” of high drama before the reconciliation, and it didn’t deliver for me all the way. Also, not really a “con”, but I loved the setting of the camp, and I was disappointed that this was just a by-the-way; I kept waiting for something related to the kids or the camp itself to be some part of the narrative, but no such luck — it was just a “background” for the story.

Conclusion

The overall storyline was a bit too simple for me, but while it wasn’t pore-raising for me as a picky reader, it was excellently written. The beautiful descriptions take you right there to the camp, and the dual POVs were enjoyable with sufficient depth to warm your heart as you root for the couple to finally declare their love. I enjoyed this book and would recommend to anyone who wants a quick romance read with lots of steam and characters that are easy to fall in love with.

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A raw, riveting, and masterful women’s fiction thriller about the beauty and ugliness lurking inside us all

This was my second book that found me via the Reedsy Discovery program, for which I am the single approved reviewer for this new book. I chose it because I was looking for a women’s fiction, and the preview 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

Maia’s life has been a litany of bad choices, and she’s about to make one more: following a complete stranger into a life he offhandedly sold her on, in a passing conversation. She’s doing what she does best: running. But Boulder, Colorado is far from the idyllic life Joel portrayed, and he’d conveniently omitted some facts: he’s married, with a daughter and another child on the way.

Carolyn’s senses kick into hyperdrive when her husband Joel shows up with a young, beautiful female friend in tow. With limited childcare options as she requires bedrest, she asks Maia to become a mother’s helper — thinking it’s best to keep her enemy nearby. But she hadn’t banked on the role Maia would soon play in her life — and similarly, Maia’s financial needs and past misdeeds lead her to accept the job, not knowing how much it would ultimately change her life.

The Pros

The husband-nanny affair is a tired trope, and usually the affair is the nucleus of everything. Here, that fact was necessary — but ultimately, not the point at all. There are so many layers and such profound substance here; an overabundance of themes all tightly packed into this riveting, nail-biting thriller of a women’s fiction masterpiece.

The prose is eloquent and visceral; a joy to uncover; a treasure revealed.

Maia’s youthful innocence and palpable beauty is tainted by her lack of self-worth, and the trail of casual abuse she encounters: the price for beauty, and her desperation to be more…

Please let me be a part of this. Please tell me I’m good at something that has nothing to do with my outsides.

Carolyn’s suspicion, regret, and guilt permeate her daily life, giving us a firsthand view of lived trauma. The apathetic disregard by others in her life (her well-meaning but manipulative family, her fair-weather friends, and most importantly: her husband) is an emotional gut-punch…

Here is the truth about infidelity: you imagine you want to know, but you don’t, because once you know, everything has to change, and by virtue of knowing, it becomes your job to change it.

Every character is expertly crafted, even the side characters, both good and bad. The effervescent innocence of four-year-old Sasha bursts through, melting your core with its irresistible sweetness; not to mention the sad eyes of the ancient dog, Vader.

There are no saints here — neither party is entirely innocent, nor absolutely guilty. Even the philandering Joel is not portrayed as evil. Like everyone else, he is simply flawed, and at a loss for what to do in this unusual situation, lest he reveal his own transgressions.

As the two women form an intricate bond, the irony is inescapable: each believes the other knows; still, their connection is unique and intangible. Though the reader knows the women’s friendship is doomed from the beginning, there is always that flutter of hope that somehow, someway, via some kernel of universal magic, it can survive that impending collision, the explosion of their lives as the truth inevitably pours out.

The story unfolds with a deep, thought-provoking insight into the bonds of marriage, female friendship, and so much more. It is also an atmospheric tale that transports you to the seedy underbelly of the idyllic life of Boulder, Colorado — past the expensive homes and manicured lives and judgy mommy groups, to an undercurrent of desperation to belong, and become something other than yourself.

Conclusion

This novel was raw, real, gripping, and masterful. Despite its serious themes — death, grief, abuse, infidelity — there remains a billowing sail of levity: a burst-your-sides-laughing moment of hilarity around the corner; a wonderful surprise. This book latches onto your soul and stays with you. I will gladly re-read, and savour every moment again even though I know it’s coming.

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The Premise

Long-time besties Griffin and Madeline have grown up together and are comfortable enough around each other for them to talk about their sex lives openly, to be intimate around others without it seeming sexual, and to be in each other’s family and friends circles — not to mention: to change their clothes in front of each other. When she finally dumps her loser ex right before her birthday, she decides she wants an earth-shattering orgasm and asks Griffin to lend a helping hand. Their friends-with-benefits situation soon develops into something more — until it is swiftly cut short by an unexpected event. Being a friend is more needed than ever before — but is it too late for these friends-turned-lovers to get back what they lost… and maybe much more?

The Pros

This was a swift, easy read. The dual POVs were easy to follow without getting confused with the frequent shifting, and I enjoyed getting both perspectives. Thankfully — a noted improvement from my last book by the same author duo — this time the male perspective had just as much weight as the female viewpoint; here, it was more or less equal (that had been a con, my last time!). Griffin was dashingly handsome and sexy, and Madeline seemed to be a pretty girl up for a good time — but they still had their endearing side. As they’ve been friends forever, it was easy to see what each saw in the other. I enjoyed the dialogue, and there were some spicy bits that I loved which were well written, and overall this was a good read.

The Cons

However, the story itself seemed far too simple: friends to lovers with a dash of drama that was easily resolved. It hit the trope boxes with very little deviation, and I wanted more. While I enjoyed reading, and there were funny moments, it wasn’t nearly as hilarious as the last book I’d read in the series (so perhaps my expectations were set high). While I was happy for the couple to get together, there was very little “newness” — these two already know each other inside out, so it was a bit lacklustre for me. I expected more drama, more contention, more temptation… just… well, more.

Conclusion

Though this book didn’t rock my world totally, it was still a good, short read with lively characters that kept me turning the pages to see what would happen. There was also an overall message here that I appreciated, and the role of grief and community friendship was heartwarming. While it wasn’t swoon-worthy enough for my picky tastes, I still liked it a lot and I would recommend to others who like their romance sexy and swift!

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The Premise

Andrea — “Andie” — sees her life slipping out from under her, after she loses a promotion she was counting on — one for which she’d sacrificed her relationship to a good man, Nick. In need of a fundamental change, she travels to Hawaii to help run a coffee shop owned by her friend Apikelia — “Api”. She soon meets Warren Yates, an attractive stranger who enters the shop looking for Api, and finds Andie instead. As she and Warren get closer, he dedicates himself to making sure she enjoys her time in Hawaii through creating “moments” as they tour the islands. Meanwhile, Andie soon realises her work is cut out for her with the coffee shop — there is barely any traffic and no marketing plan. It is the perfect opportunity to throw herself into, and she soon makes moves to turn the business around. As she pours her heart and soul into the project, she is unaware that Warren is not who he appears to be — and when she finds out just how he is tied to her efforts, she may never forgive him. Is there a chance for these two lovers to connect, and have their own “moment”?

The Pros

This was a very sweet, clean romance, and I loved the imagery that poured through every page. The blurb described it as an “atmospheric romance”, and it was indeed — it felt like you were in Hawaii, and it was clear that the authors had taken their time to build all of this descriptive beauty into the tale. There was a lot of history and culture as the story developed and the couple had their outings to different locations, and I enjoyed this aspect of the narrative. I also liked the budding female friendships as Andie got to know her coworkers, her longstanding friendship with Api, and the beaming pride you could feel in the workers at the coffee plantation — all of this was so beautifully done.

The Cons

While I enjoyed the overall feel of the novel, the romance was tepid for me, rather than scorching hot. Also, the POV jumped suddenly from Andie to Warren — after we’d been having Andie’s first person narrative for 80% of the book. I would have preferred the POVs be interlaced rather than that sudden shift, because by then Warren seemed to be an entirely different person than who he was through Andie’s eyes. It also felt like some of the action happened “offstage” — Warren’s chasing her to make amends, and the time shift after she left Hawaii. I wanted to feel more of that tension and emotion first-hand, rather than via a recap.

Conclusion

Though the novel didn’t have me hanging on the edge of my seat, I did enjoy it throughout. It was nicely developed, and would be a great book to read on a vacation or on the beach — or if you feel you need to go to one of those! The description whisks you away to another world entirely, and you fall in love with the islands along with Andie. Though lacking that extra “oomph” for me personally, it was beautifully written, and I would highly recommend to anyone who would enjoy a sweet, clean romance in an exotic location.

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