Rainy Day Ramblings

Audiobook Review: The Elizas: A Novel by Sara Shepard, Jayme Mattler (Narrator)

 

New York Times bestselling author of Pretty Little Liars Sara Shepard makes her mark on adult fiction with this Hitchcockian double narrative composed of lies, false memories, and a protagonist who must uncover the truth for survival. When debut novelist Eliza Fontaine is found at the bottom of a hotel pool, her family at first assumes that it’s just another failed suicide attempt. But Eliza swears she was pushed, and her rescuer is the only witness. Desperate to find out who attacked her, Eliza takes it upon herself to investigate. But as the publication date for her novel draws closer, Eliza finds more questions than answers. Like why are her editor, agent, and family mixing up events from her novel with events from her life? Her novel is completely fictional, isn’t it? The deeper Eliza goes into her investigation while struggling with memory loss, the closer her life starts to resemble her novel, until the line between reality and fiction starts to blur and she can no longer tell where her protagonist’s life ends and hers begins. Fans of Pretty Little Liars, S.J. Watson’s Before I Go to Sleep, and Ruth Ware’s The Woman in Cabin 10 will be drawn to the drama of feeling like no one is on your side, the high tension of not knowing who you can trust, the hair-raising truths hidden among lies, and a faceless, nameless presence controlling Eliza’s life from the shadows. 
Source: Publisher

 

Three and a half stars: A twisty little mystery with an unreliable narrator whom you just can’t trust. 

Eliza checks into the hotel and immediately raids the wet bar. She knows she shouldn’t drink, but just one or two drinks won’t hurt, right? The next thing she knows, Eliza is waking up in the hospital after nearly drowning in the hotel pool. Her family and doctors believe that Eliza once again tried to commit suicide, but Eliza is over the suicidal tendencies after overcoming  her brain tumor. Eliza is certain that someone pushed her, but who would push her why, especially right before her debut novel releases? Is someone out to get Eliza?

What I Liked:

• The Elizas is a suspenseful mystery with two story lines. It follows Eliza, a debut novelist, who is certain someone tried to kill her. Then there is the secondary story arc that features the tale between the two Dots, which is the story in Eliza’s novel. I enjoyed the double story lines and the suspense in this one. Plus, add in Eliza, the unreliable narrator, and you have the makings for a solid psychological thriller. 
• I enjoy a good unreliable narrator, and Eliza is definitely someone you can’t figure out. I wanted to like her, but she doesn’t even truly like her self. She engages in destructive behaviors, and her mental stability is questionable. She swims in a fog, and often appears delusional. Yet, there is so much more to her than meets the eye. It was fascinating to watch her overcome and learn the truth. 
• At first, I wasn’t sure about the secondary story line of the two Dots, but the more I read, the more invested I became in this portion of the story. It was just as interesting as the main story line. 
• There are some twists and turns, that I enjoyed. For the most part, the big reveal was easy to see coming, for me at least, but then there were a few other surprises that I didn’t anticipate. I liked that suspense and the reveals. 
• The ending was satisfying, it appeared that all the loose threads were done up, and I was relieved at the outcome, but then the author throws in one final twist that leaves the reader wondering......
• I listened to the audiobook version narrated by Jayme Matler. This is my first time listening to Ms. Matler, and I would certainly listen to her again. She did an excellent job with the characters and the voices, I especially liked her depiction of Dot. 

And The Not So Much:

• I think the drawback for me with this one was that I spent the entire time clamoring for a character to latch onto and like. I could never really relate to anyone, and I ended up finishing the novel not liking any of the characters. It makes it harder to become invested in the story when you don’t like any of the characters. 
• I was satisfied with the ending until the author threw in that final wrench. It felt that last twist was unnecessary and I didn’t like that it left me wondering. 
• For me, it was easy to figure out how the two story lines were going to intersect, I wish that it had been more of a surprise. 

The Elizas is an entertaining mystery with a great deal of suspense and plenty of twists and turns. It features an unreliable narrator whom you want to like, but you just can’t. Overall, I enjoyed the story, but my one big hesitation with this book was that I ended up not liking any of the characters, and it is hard to truly invest oneself in a story when everyone remains unlikeable. Still it was an interesting read, one I would recommend for anyone who wants a good psychological thriller. 

I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own, and I was not compensated for this review. 

Audiobook Review: Phoenix Unbound (Fallen Empire #1) by Grace Draven, Katharine McEwan (Narrator)

 

Every year, each village is required to send a young woman to the Empire's capital--her fate to be burned alive for the entertainment of the masses. For the last five years, one small village's tithe has been the same woman. Gilene's sacrifice protects all the other young women of her village, and her secret to staying alive lies with the magic only she possesses. But this year is different.

Azarion, the Empire's most famous gladiator, has somehow seen through her illusion--and is set on blackmailing Gilene into using her abilities to help him escape his life of slavery. Unknown to Gilene, he also wants to reclaim the birthright of his clan. To protect her family and village, she will abandon everything to return to the Empire--and burn once more
Audible Audio, Unabridged audio (14 Hours, 3 Minutes)
Published September 25th 2018 by Penguin Audio
Source: Publisher

 

Five stars: An epic, brutal and powerful book with an unforgettable romance. 

Gilene utters a silent prayer, even though she doesn’t believe in the gods. She wants desperately for the gladius prime, Azarion, not to see her. Azarion stops before her and lifts her head. He not only sees her, but he sees beneath her glamour. He knows her secret. Gilene is a powerful fire witch. It is her burden in life to be sent each year to the Empire capital with hundreds of other women to be burned alive in the annual Rite of Spring. Gilene’s ability to wield fire is a well guarded secret. Once in the pit, she can provide the women a quick death before escaping unseen. Except one has seen her, Azarion the powerful gladiator who needs her to help him win back is birthright. Will Gilene help restore Azarion?

What I Liked:

• WOW! What a ride. To be perfectly honesty, I almost set this one aside after the first chapter because it was so dark, brutal and depressing. I am so glad I stuck with it because this turned out to be an amazing read. I loved the story, the characters and most of all the epic romance. This is a thrilling tale, not to be missed. 
• I think one of my most favorite aspects, aside from the romance, with this one was the tremendous character growth. In the beginning, Gilene is miserable, sad and alone but she is resolute in her role as the fire witch, forced to burn each and every year to protect the other women in her village. She has given up on life. After she meets Azarion, she begins a slow transformation. It was such a joy to watch her find her place, her power and finally take a chance on her own happiness. She becomes a formidable force to be reckoned with, and I loved watching her succeed. I also loved her altruistic nature and her resolute determination to those she loved. Azarion was also fun to watch transform. In the beginning, he is a gladiator forced to serve the cruel demands of the Empress. He has been beaten, battered and sexually assaulted but he never lost his will to survive. After he meets Gilene, he begins to see things differently and he becomes more kind, more caring and considerate. It was a thrill to see him succeed! 
• The romance is the best kind. It is one that takes a long time to grow. It starts under dire circumstances, and in fact, the two are enemies. Over time, a hesitant understanding is agreed upon, and then friendship, and then finally it becomes so much more. I was breathless with this one. It is beautiful and heartbreaking and everything you could want. 
• The story is one that grabs a hold and digs in, it is reminiscent of the Roman Empire during the gladiator era. There is hardly a slow moment in this one to catch your breath. This one is brutal and terrifying, full of action and danger. I want so much to tell you all about it, but I can’t you need to experience it for yourself. There is magic, revenge, hard fought battles, victories, and heart pounding moments that will leave you on the edge of your seat. This was one heck of a ride. Loved it!
• The ending was absolute perfection. It was everything I hoped for and more. It was amazing! 
• I listened to the audiobook version narrated by Katharine McEwan. I thought Ms. McEwan was outstanding. Her voices were excellent. 

And The Not So Much:

• This one is not for the faint of heart. As I mentioned, it can be dark and brutal. The opening chapters are not the easiest to get through as there are mentions of rape, brutal violence, burnings and many other cruel behaviors. Nothing is too over the top or gory and the author spares the darkest details. 
• I was perplexed by the whole thing with the gods and goddesses especially at the end. I want to know more about the goddess of the fire and her hand maidens. I am hopeful for more in the next book. 
• I was most curious about Azarion’s sister, especially when it came to her romantic relationship, I wish this part of the story was expanded upon.

Phoenix Unbound is a book that amazed me. This is a brilliantly written book with outstanding characters and an unforgettable romance. Beware though, this one is violent and dark at times, but well worth the journey. I couldn’t get enough. I am even more thrilled to learn that a sequel is coming. I can’t wait! Don’t miss this one. 

I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own, and I was not compensated for this review. 

Tell Me Something Tuesday #169: Book Blurbs Gone Bad

Tell Me Something Tuesday is a weekly discussion post here on Rainy Day Ramblings where I discuss a wide range of topics from books to blogging. Weigh in and join the conversation by adding your thoughts in the comments. If you want to do your own post, grab the question and answer it on your blog. If participating feel free to leave your link in the comments!

 

This week’s questions comes from Roberta who blogs over at Offbeat YA.  Here is what Roberta wanted to know:

What things turn you off in a book blurb?

A book synopsis or blurb is a tricky thing. It has to be written carefully as one doesn’t want to overwhelm the reader with too much information, but provide enough to draw one in and perhaps entice them to buy a book. Often times, the writer makes mistakes causing potential readers to turn away. 

Here are some things that turn me off in a book blurb:

Too Lengthy: 

In this day and age with access to a constant stream of information, our attention spans are that of a gnat. I know I am guilty of only skimming a couple of lines of something before getting bored and moving on to something else. A good book blurb should be short and contain enough enticing information to keep my attention long enough to read it. A synopsis that goes on and on will turn readers away. 

Too Revealing: 

I can’t stand book blurbs that give away major plot points of the story. Such as surprise details that would be best left for the reader to discover while reading the book, instead of in the synopsis. I have read blurbs that pretty much cover the major plot points, leaving nothing exciting left to discover by reading the entire book. Less is more in this case. 

Comparisons: 

I know some people may pick up books based on comparisons, but I can’t stand them. I don’t like seeing book descriptions that say this book is recommended for fans of or if you like this book you will enjoy this one. I think putting comparisons into a synopsis often times gives the reader certain expectations and then when they aren’t met, the reader feels cheated. 

Quotes:

I detest book blurbs that include numerous quotes from other authors about the book. I don’t need to wade through what are more than likely paid remarks on a book. I want to draw my own conclusions. 

Praise: 

Just like with quotes, I am also not a fan of blurbs that contain praise for the book or the author. It is unnecessary information in my mind, and I don’t bother reading it. 

As you can see, I have many gripes when it comes to book blurbs. In fact most of the time, when I sit down to read the book, I don’t reread the synopsis. I like going in without any preconceived notions. The less information I have the better because I am then able to draw my own opinions without being persuaded by others. 

What about you all? I am curious to hear your thoughts on book blurbs. 

A big thanks to Roberta@Offbeat YA for this week's topic! 

Here is next week’s TMST:

What are some big misconceptions you had about blogging when you started?

Audiobook Review: Rule (Rule #1) by Ellen Goodlett

 

Three girls with three deadly secrets. Only one can wear the crown.

The king is dying, his heir has just been murdered, and rebellion brews in the east. But the kingdom of Kolonya and the outer Reaches has one last option before it descends into leaderless chaos. Or rather, three unexpected options.

Zofi has spent her entire life trekking through the outer Reaches with her band of Travelers. She would do anything to protect the band, her family. But no one can ever find out how far she's already gone.

Akeylah was raised in the Eastern Reach, surrounded by whispers of rebellion and abused by her father. Desperate to escape, she makes a decision that threatens the whole kingdom.

Ren grew up in Kolonya, serving as a lady's maid and scheming her way out of the servants' chambers. But one such plot could get her hung for treason if anyone ever discovers what she's done.

When the king summons the girls, they arrive expecting arrest or even execution. Instead they learn the truth: they are his illegitimate daughters, and one must become his new heir. But someone in Kolonya knows their secrets, and that someone will stop at nothing to keep the sisters from their destiny... to rule.

Magic, mystery, and blackmail abound in this sensational and striking fantasy debut. 
Hardcover, 376 pages
Published September 11th 2018 by Little, Brown Books for Young Readers
Source: Publisher

 

Three and a half stars: An intriguing story of three half sisters battling for a crown, but beware of the cliffhanger. 

Zofi, Ren and Akeylah are about to get the shock of their lives. The three have been living unique lives in different parts of the kingdom, until the day they are all summoned by the king. The girls learn that they are the king’s daughters and would be heirs as well as half sisters. A shock. Zofi is not prepared for life at court, she has spent her entire life as a traveler, trekking the kingdom with her people. Akeylah, on the other hand, welcomes the change as she spent her life abused at her supposed father’s hands. Ren is the most likely to fit the mold as she grew up the daughter of a lady’s maid serving the nobility of the court. Now the three sisters are to be adversaries as they vie for the throne. However, things get ugly when each of the girls receives blackmail notices from someone who knows their darkest secrets. With no one else to turn to, the sisters look to each other to sniff out the traitor and save the kingdom, but can three different girls become friends?

What I Liked:

• Rule is a book that I had a love hate relationship with. There were many parts that I found intriguing and I easily slipped into the world and the story. This ended up being a strong book despite the cliffhanger. If you are wanting a fantasy story with magic, betrayals, camaraderie, secrets and more, this is one to try. 
• At first, I wasn’t sure who amongst the girls that I would identify with, each girl was unique in her own way, but thankfully each girl demonstrated likable qualities and I had no trouble liking all of them. Zofi was the hardest one for me to identify with at first. She comes across as wild, unfettered and she has no regard for rules or anyone else. She grew up living a gypsy lifestyle, and she has little loyalty for anyone. That being said, I ended up liking her fierce spirit and her wild ways. She could always be counted on when things got rough. Akeylah starts out meek and mild, the victim of years of abuse. However, once she breaks free of her abusive stepfather, she begins to blossom. I liked watching her grow. Ren, is the wild card. She grew up in the court, and she knows the ins and outs of court life, but she made a terrible mistake by trusting someone, and that trust was broken when information gotten by her hand killed over a thousand men. She is desperately trying to right her wrong. It was interesting to get to know these girls and watch them grow. 
• One thing that I wasn’t expecting was the eventual bond and friendship that formed between the girls. They start off as adversaries and enemies, but things change when someone starts blackmailing them. The girls turn to each other and soon become friends and even sisters. I loved watching them work together. This was my favorite part of the book. 
• I appreciated that there was plenty to keep me invested in the story. There were plot twists, betrayals and lots of dark secrets. I thought I had things figured out, but there was a startling development at the end, leading me to believe that all my conjectures were all wrong. I am eager to know more. 
• I liked that there was magic involved in this one and a nod to the dark arts. 
• The book culminates with a brilliant climax packed full of stunning developments and a couple of twists that I didn’t see coming. I was on the edge of my seat until the cliffhanger. 
• I listened to the audiobook version, and I loved that three narrators were incorporated to voice each girl’s perspective. It added to the enjoyment of the story.

And The Not So Much:

• My biggest annoyance with this book was the cliffhanger. Every time I go back and try a YA book, I am once again slapped with a cliffhanger. I am so over the cliffhanger endings. I hate them!
• This is a niggling point for me, but it drove me crazy. Each girl constantly used a phrase that was inherent to her part of the world to express shock or dismay or frustration. The use of these phrases was constant and it drove me nuts after awhile.
• There are some subtle romances in this one, but nothing that I thought was worthwhile. There is a f/f romance, but it lacked substance. It felt disingenuous and I thought it was based on lust. It was an insta love type relationship. I didn’t care for any of the romantic relationships. 
• I felt like the world building was a bit lacking. I wanted more depth especially when it came to the outlying areas and the magic. 

Rule was an interesting read, but it never felt completely original. There were aspects that I enjoyed, especially the friendship that was forged between the three girls, but the cliffhanger was a huge frustration, making this feel like the same old same old in the YA genre. It was a good read, but I wanted fantastic, thus I am on the fence as to whether or not I will continue this series. If you are one that enjoys YA fantasy and you don’t mind cliffhangers, definitely give this a whirl. 

I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own, and I was not compensated. 

The Sunday Post 274th Edition

The Sunday Post is a weekly post hosted by The Caffeinated Book Reviewer. It is a chance to share all the news and highlights on your blog for the past and upcoming weeks. Head over to Kimberly's for details and to link up!

It’s the weekend and we have sunshine today in Oregon. Seeing the sun does wonders for my mood. January has not been a good month for me. Last week, I had to take a couple of days for mental health days. I am feeling better now. Hopefully, the worst of the winter blues is behind me. At least, January is almost over and we have warmer, drier weather in the forecast. I hope you are all hanging in there! 

For all of you out there who are federal workers and feeling the pains of the government shutdown, my heart goes out to you. Let's hope this ends soon! 

Let’s see what happened on the blog last week:

Monday: Audiobook Review: The Reckoning by John Grisham

Tuesday: Tell Me Something Tuesday: Beating the Winter Blues

 

 

 

Wednesday: Audiobook Review: The Dinner List by Rebecca Serle

Thursday: Review: Angelfall by Susan Ee

Friday: Friday Forecast

 

 

 

 

 

Received for review:

 

Next week:

Monday: Audiobook Review: Rule by Ellen Goodlett

 

Tuesday: Tell Me Something Tuesday: What things turn you off in a book blurb (courtesy of Roberta@ Offbeat YA)

 

 

 

Wednesday: Audiobook Review: Phoenix Unbound by Grace Draven

Thursday: Audiobook Review: The Elizas by Sara Shepherd

 

Friday: Friday Forecast

 

 

 

 

That’s the report from Oregon. Go out and have a great weekend and be kind to one another. 

Friday Forecast January 27th-February 2nd

Happy Friday! This is the last Friday in January, so that means you already made it through the first month of 2019, and the first full month of winter. That means we are getting closer to Spring. The one good thing about winter is that there are usually plenty great books releasing during the winter months. If you are wanting a good book to snuggle up with while the storms rage outside, I can help. I have the highlights from next new releases aimed to hit shelves next week. Tell me what book grabs your attention and tell me how cold it is where you live.

January 27th-February 2nd

 

Thrillers, romance or some paranormal. What are you up for this week?

Forecast for Portland, Oregon: 

Saturday: H 50  L 37 Partly Sunny        Sunday: H 50  L 39 Partly Sunny

Spring like temps and sun are in the forecast for the next few days. I will take it. Have a wonderful weekend!

Review: Angelfall (Penryn & the End of Days #1) by Susan Ee

 

 

It's been six weeks since angels of the apocalypse descended to demolish the modern world. Street gangs rule the day while fear and superstition rule the night. When warrior angels fly away with a helpless little girl, her seventeen-year-old sister Penryn will do anything to get her back. Anything, including making a deal with an enemy angel. Raffe is a warrior who lies broken and wingless on the street. After eons of fighting his own battles, he finds himself being rescued from a desperate situation by a half-starved teenage girl. Traveling through a dark and twisted Northern California, they have only each other to rely on for survival. Together, they journey toward the angels' stronghold in San Francisco where she'll risk everything to rescue her sister and he'll put himself at the mercy of his greatest enemies for the chance to be made whole again. 
Kindle Edition, 288 pages
Published August 28th 2012 by Skyscape 
Source: Publisher

 

Four stars: A nail biting apocalyptic book with murderous angels and humans that fight back. 

Six weeks ago, angels descended upon earth demolishing civilization. No one knows why the angels suddenly appeared or why they are out to destroy humanity. Life on the streets is living hell for the survivors. Street gangs roam during the day, and murderous angels rule the skies. Seventeen year old Penryn is fighting to keep her family safe, but then disaster strikes, when she and her mother and sister try to find safe shelter. They witness angels fighting, and then her sister is stripped from her, stolen by the terrible angels. Penryn is determined to get her sister back no matter what, even if that means befriending the enemy. With a wounded angel at her side, Penryn makes her way through the ruins of California. Will she find her sister in time?

What I Liked:

• This is a book I have long wanted to read, and long put off. I even put off writing this review because I am still not sure how I feel about this one. First of all, this book debuted as a self published gem back in 2011. This book took the book world by storm. Everyone was buzzing about this book. I wanted to read it then, but I kept procrastinating. Finally fast forward eight years later, I read the book. Was it everything I expected? No. I think my expectations were way too high. Perhaps if I had read it way back then, I would have been blown away. It was a good book, definitely worth reading, but it wasn’t the mind blowing experience I wanted. Still there is a lot to like about this one, and if you are one of the procrastinators, like me, who have yet to try this, do it. 
• I liked the world building. The reader is immediately thrown into an apocalyptic world that is ruins thanks to the arrival of feuding angels. These magnificent angels long revered by humans, show up and start fighting and destroying. Everything is in shambles. It is freaky world, and it only gets worse as it goes. There are strange demons in the forest, murderous angels and creepy mad scientists. Shivers. 
• The characters are fascinating. First of all, there is Penryn. A feisty seventeen year old who grew up with a deranged mother. Penryn’s paranoid mother made sure that Penryn was trained in numerous martial arts and fighting disciplines. Thus, Penryn is one bad ass chick. She can hold her own in a fight. I loved her fierceness. Not to mention, her courage and determination and her devotion to her sister. She might be tough as nails, but she does have soft spots. Then there is Raffe, an angel, the enemy. Raffe is an enigma, and it takes a long time to learn his secrets. I was fascinated by his character, especially when he revealed his feelings about god and the angel race. Finally, I think the character who stole the show was Penryn’s mom. She is bat shit crazy. No joke. She manages to survive due to her paranoia. She does some crazy things. I cannot wait to dig deeper into her character. 
• This book is action packed from the get go. There aren’t many moments in this where you can catch your breath. It seems that Penryn and Raffe are running from one fight to another until the terrifying conclusion. There are several unexpected developments and a shocking finale, leaving me anxious for more. 
• I was stunned by so many things in this book from the nephilim, the angels to the mad scientist experiments and more. This book is completely unexpected. Again, if I had read this back in 2011, I would have been far more impressed. Still it holds up.  Read it. 

And The Not So Much:

• Of course, like most books written in the YA genre, this one ends with a cliffhanger. While the cliffhanger isn’t particularly brutal, things end in a fairly good spot, it was still frustrating. I have steered away from the YA genre because I am so weary of cliffhangers. 
• I was frustrated by the lack of information regarding the arrival of the angels and the apocalypse. I kept hoping there would be more explanations, but for the most part, the reader is left in the dark regarding why the angels attacked and their motives. I wish this part of the story was more fleshed out. For me, this was what held the book back. I felt like I was stumbling around in the dark for most of the book. 
• There are hints of a romance, but nothing concrete as of yet. It seems apparent as to the way things are going to go. I wish I was more a fan of the romance, but as of right now, I am lukewarm towards it.

Angelfall is a book that still, for the most part, holds up even after eight years. This book is original, it has fascinating characters and a creepy apocalyptic world. Expect the unexpected with this one. Even though it took me eight years to finally dig this one out of my pile, I am glad I finally read it. An impressive read. Especially considering that this little book started out as an independently published book!

I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own, and I was not compensated for this review. 

Read the series: The first book Angelfall, and the third book: End of Days, at the time of this review are $.99 on Amazon Kindle and book two: World After is only $1.99. Snatch them up!

Audiobook Review: The Dinner List by Rebecca Serle

 

We've been waiting for an hour. Thats what Audrey says. She states it with a little bit of an edge, her words just bordering on cursive. Thats the thing I think first. Not: Audrey Hepburn is at my birthday dinner, but Audrey Hepburn is annoyed. At one point or another, we've all been asked to name five people, living or dead, with whom wed like to have dinner. Why do we choose the people we do? And what if that dinner was to actually happen? These are the questions Rebecca Serle contends with in her utterly captivating audiobook, The Dinner List.When Sabrina arrives at her thirtieth birthday dinner she finds at the table not just her best friend, but also three significant people from her past, and well, Audrey Hepburn. As the appetizers are served, wine poured, and dinner table conversation begins, it becomes clear that theres a reason these six people have been gathered together.Delicious but never indulgent, sweet with just the right amount of bitter, The Dinner List is a romance for our times. Bon appetit.Praise for The Dinner List: Its Serles unflinching investigation into the triumph and failings of love that makes this book one of a kind. A touch magic, a touch tragic, and absolutely compelling from beginning to end. Stephanie Danler, New York Times bestselling author of Sweetbitter "Rebecca Serle draws you in with this clever and delightful story and then (when you least expect it) offers up some of the sharpest insights on first loves, friendships and family. 
Audiobook, 6 pages
Published September 11th 2018 by MacMillan Audio
Source: Publisher

 

Three and a half stars: An interesting book that explores the complexity of relationships. 

When Sabrina arrives at her thirtieth birthday dinner, she is shocked to be greeted by Audrey Hepburn informing her they have been waiting for her for over an hour. Seated at the table are five important people to Sabrina: Her dead father, her boyfriend, her best friend, her college professor and Audrey Hepburn. As the dinner gets started, so does the conversation, and it soon becomes clear that each guest is there for a reason, as Sabrina begins examines the relationships in her life. Who would you like to dine with if you had the chance?

What I Liked:

• The Dinner List was a book I couldn’t resist because I was intrigued by the concept of someone having that dream dinner with their top five guests. This is a book about life, love and the complexities of relationships. I found it intriguing. 
• Sabrina is a girl who has a lot of baggage in her past, and soon she finds this dinner is an opportunity to come to terms with unreconciled issues. Seated at the table is her father, whom she barely knew. Dining and conversing with her father gives her a chance to say the things she never could say and to get to know the man who abandoned her and her mother so long ago. I found this part of the book to be the most touching. Like with any of the relationships in the book, this one is full of conflict and many unresolved issues. For me, watching Sabrina have the chance to say the things she never could while he was alive was one of the highlights of the book. 
• The main focus of the book is on the troubled romantic relationship between Tobias and Sabrina. The story moves jumps back and forth from the dinner to the past as the details of Sabrina’s and Tobias’ relationship are uncovered. Parts of the relationship were magical and wonderful as it was based on fate and destiny, while other portions were troubling. I think the main message is that love is messy and complicated, and sometimes even with fate and destiny involved things don’t always work out. There were so many ups and downs with the relationship, including a big shocking twist, and I was frustrated and charmed by the relationship. When everything was said and done at the end, I was satisfied with the way it worked out. 
• Also at the table is Jessica, Sabrina’s best friend. Just like with Sabrina’s romantic relationship, this friendship is also full of complications. The friends go through their growing pains, they grow apart and they have their differences, but once they really talked, I felt like the friendship was back on track. 
• Audrey Hepburn was one of the most interesting people at the table. At first, I wasn’t sure about this character, but as the dinner goes on, Audrey became a favorite. I liked that she wasn’t portrayed as a dazzling starlet. Instead, she is a genuine person with her own faults and troubles. I liked learning more about Audrey’s personal life, and I enjoyed her sage advice. 
• The book ends with the conclusion of the dinner. I was satisfied with the way things played out, and I liked that the whole dinner wasn’t chalked up to some elaborate dream. Instead there is the hint that it really did happen by some extraordinary means. 

And The Not So Much:

• Even though I liked that this book was all about exploring the complex romantic relationship between Sabrina and Tobias, it got so frustrating. I can’t put it all into words, but I think my main issues was that I never was a big fan of Tobias. I felt like Sabrina was the one doing all the work all the time in the relationship. I guess I wanted more......
• The one guest at the party that didn’t really serve a purpose was Sabrina’s professor. Conrad is a nice guy who offers some advice, but I expected more from him. There was nothing in Sabrina’s relationship with Conrad that was impactful or important. I didn’t feel like this guest offered much at all at the table. 
• At first, I was swept up in the book, but toward the final third, everything began to slow. I grew tired of the dramatics in Sabrina’s and Tobias’ relationship, I felt like it dragged down the book. 
• Finally, I listened to the audiobook version narrated by the author herself. I was disappointed in the audiobook because I felt like the author was just reading the book to me. There were no character voices or much emotion. It was not up to par with the audiobooks I usually listen to.

The Dinner List was a book I wanted to love. I was fascinated by the concept of the dinner and the guests, and I liked the touch of magical realism. This is a book that explores the complexities of all the different relationships in one’s life. Overall, I liked the book, but in the end, I was disappointed that so much of the story was focused on the unhealthy romantic relationship between Sabrina and Tobias. Still it was interesting enough to recommend to those of you who want a little something different. 

I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own, and I was not compensated for this review. 

Tell Me Something Tuesday: #168: Beating the Winter Blues

Tell Me Something Tuesday is a weekly discussion post here on Rainy Day Ramblings where I discuss a wide range of topics from books to blogging. Weigh in and join the conversation by adding your thoughts in the comments. If you want to do your own post, grab the question and answer it on your blog. 

Here is the question of the week:

How do you beat the winter blues?

I am going to be honest, I struggle with seasonal affective disorder, and winter is a particularly trying time for me. Every year, I find myself anxious, uptight, depressed and feeling low during January. I think there are many factors that play into my low moods in January. January is a tough month, the holidays are over, all the joy and excitement are gone, and we are left looking at a calendar with not much too look forward to for awhile. It doesn’t help that the weather isn’t all that nice either. I didn’t suffer with winter blues when I lived in Phoenix, and I know that is because I woke up to blue skies most of the time. Living in Oregon, January tends to be a month of gray skies and rain. I am always amazed at how much better I feel when the sun comes out. I think the bad weather makes a lot of us feel like we should be hibernating like bears. I am all for hibernation. 

January is also month where in the past, I received bad news several different years, and I struggle with the fear that something unpleasant may be around the corner again. 

I think all these factors play into depressed moods and anxiety. 

So how do I beat the winter blues? There is no easy answer, but here are some things that I find that help.

• Stay Active: I know we all endeavor to exercise more and be more physically fit. I have made commitments and I exercise regularly for awhile and then fall off the wagon when life gets busy. Even though it is hard to stay motivated to exercise, especially during winter, I can honestly say, I do feel a whole lot better when I exercise and move. When I exercise, I don’t suffer as many aches and pains in the winter. I hate when my body hurts. Exercising regularly this winter has helped so much with the aches and pains, not to mention, exercising makes me feel more tired at night, and that helps me get to sleep.
  
• Get Enough Rest: There is nothing worse than feeling tired. I hate nights when I lay there and stare at the clock. I notice that I always seem to suffer with insomnia during the winter as well. I don’t like to take sleeping aids and such, but I have learned that when I am laying there tossing and turning, to get up and take something to help me sleep. I have found that Melatonin, a natural sleep aid, works the best. Do what you can to get to bed in good time, and to unwind so you can relax and sleep. 
  
  
  
• Eat Well/ Take Your Vitamins: I know we all know that we need to eat healthy, but again easier said than done. I think it is instinctual to want to gorge and pack on the pounds during the winter months, as if we were preparing for hibernation. However, eating a healthy diet and taking your vitamins helps with moods. I have learned living here in the Pacific Northwest to take plenty of Vitamin D during the winter, it helps.
  
  
  
  
• Well Lit Rooms: If you are sitting in a dark room, your mood is going to be down. I have bright, white daylight bulbs in all my lamps and light fixtures. The light emanated mimics sunlight. Sitting in a bright well lit room totally helps elevate your mood. 
  
  
  
  
• Happy Activities: When you are feeling down, look to do things that make you happy. If you are a reader, reach for cozy, comforting books that make you feel good. Winter is a time when I reach for light and fluffy. A nice happy book does wonders for my moods. Also consider other things that make you happy. I do a lot of cross stitching on winter nights. Stitching soothes and relaxes my mind. Get out your hobbies and get busy. A busy mind, makes you happy. 
  
  
  
• Visit with Friends/ Family: Sometimes you just need a strong shoulder to lean on. Gather your support system and spend some time either in person or on the phone with those you love. A good chat with a friend can brighten your day. 
  
  
  
• Volunteer/ Acts of Kindness: One thing that has contributed to low moods for everyone is the current state of our country. As I write this post, the country is still in the midst of the government shutdown. So many people out there are feeling scared, anxious and depressed. It feels oppressive like you can’t do anything, but you can. Small acts of kindness are like rays of sunshine in dark times. Consider volunteering. Helping others goes a long way. If you can’t find time to volunteer, small acts of kindness help. Smile at others, pay compliments, donate money or items to charity. Even the smallest things can make a difference to someone who is stumbling in the dark. 

These are a few things that I have learned to do to help me get through the winter months. I am always grateful when spring begins to blossom. Until the first hints of spring, be brave, be kind and have hope. Winter will be over before we know it!

Tell me, how do you stave off winter blues?

Next week’s TMST:

This question is from Roberta@ Offbeat YA:

What things turn you off in a book blurb?

Audiobook Review: The Reckoning by John Grisham, Michael Beck (Narrator )

 

New York Times bestselling author John Grisham returns to Clanton, Mississippi, to tell the story of an unthinkable murder and the bizarre trial that follows it, in this powerful new legal thriller.

Pete Banning was Clanton's favorite son, a returning war hero, the patriarch of a prominent family, a farmer, father, neighbor, and a faithful member of the Methodist church. Then one cool October morning in 1946. he rose early, drove into town, walked into the Church, and calmly shot and killed the Reverend Dexter Bell. As if the murder wasn't shocking enough, it was even more baffling that Pete's only statement about it--to the sheriff, to his defense attorney, to the judge, to his family and friends, and to the people of Clanton--was "I have nothing to say." And so the murder of the esteemed Reverend Bell became the most mysterious and unforgettable crime Ford County had ever known. 
Audiobook, Unabridged
Published October 23rd 2018 by Random House
Source: Library

 

Four and a half stars: A powerful, heartbreaking read that will leave you heartbroken and stunned. 

One morning in October 1946, Pete Banning, a war hero and favorite son of Clanton Mississippi, goes through his day with murder on his mind. After his affairs are in order, Pete drives to town where he confronts the Methodist Minster and shoots him point blank. Pete is arrested and tried for gruesome crime, but he refuses to tell why he did it. He doesn’t even put up a fight. He claims he did what needed to be done and he has nothing more to say. As Pete is put on trial for murder, his sister, son and daughter are reeling from the tragedy as they search for answers. What drove their dad to murder? Will they ever find out the truth, or will Pete take his secrets to his grave?

What I Liked:

• WOW! This was an emotional and riveting read. I couldn’t put it down. It is fascinating, terrifying, appalling and full of heartbreak. Once I read to the shocking conclusion, I was stunned. This is a book that will stick with me for a long time. 
• I liked that this book takes place in 1946. The majority of the book is set in rural Mississippi where Jim Crow laws and prejudice run rampant. It was fascinating to get a snippet of what life was like during this time period, especially when it came to trial procedure and court matters. 
• Part of the book goes over what Pete endured as a Japanese prisoner of war. This part of the novel was tough to read. Parts of it are horrifying, gruesome and tragic, but I had to read on because I had to understand what many Americans suffered through during the war. Even though this section of the book was tough going, I am glad that I read it as I learned so much about World War II that I didn’t know. 
• The suspense in the story is thick. Everyone keeps asking why Pete committed the murder, and then there is the situation with Pete’s wife who was placed in a mental institution a couple of months before the murder. Did something happen between Pete’s wife and the preacher? I was completely invested in the story line surrounding the murder and the motive.
• I started the book not liking Pete as I wasn’t sympathetic to a man who premeditates and follows through with murder. I couldn’t fathom why he would destroy the lives of his children, but then when Pete’s brutal past comes out, my heart ached for him. He was one tough man. I admired his strength and courage, and wished things were different for him.
• The book culminates with an unforgettable conclusion. As the suspense mounted and the pieces started to fit into place, I thought I had it figured out, but then there is a stunning twist that I never saw coming. The ending is heartbreaking and unforgettable, I will be thinking on it for days and weeks to come. 
• I listened to the audiobook version narrated by Michael Beck. This is my first time listening to Mr. Beck, and I thought his narration was superb. His voices were amazing, I thought he did a fantastic job. 

And The Not So Much:

• I was invested in the story right up until the final third of the book where the pacing started to drag. This part of the story involves the fight over Pete’s land and the countless appeals. I didn’t care that much about this part of the book, it got too lengthy. 
• I am not going to lie, parts of this book are brutal. The entire section on Pete’s time in the war is not for the faint of heart. It is disturbing and tough to read. 
• The story ends abruptly and I was left wondering about the fate of Pete’s longtime housekeeper and her husband as well as his children. I wish there had been an Epilogue, something to ease the sting of the dramatic ending. 

The Reckoning is a book I am finding hard to review. This was a book that swept me up with its captivating and sorrowful story. The story is shockingly sad, and parts of it are gruesome and tough to take. Mr. Grisham proves why he is a masterful story teller with this one. I was glued to the pages, right up to the shocking finale. I will be thinking on this book for a long time to come.

I borrowed a copy of this book from the library. All opinions are my own, and I was not compensated for this review.