Rainy Day Ramblings

Audiobook Review: Winter in Paradise (Paradise #1) by Elin Hilderbrand

 

Spend the coldest days of winter on a Caribbean beach with New York Times Bestselling author Elin Hilderbrand. Join New York Times Bestselling author Elin Hilderbrand on the stunning beaches of St. John for the beginning of her thrilling new winter series-The Paradise. Winter in Paradise, the first book in the Paradise series, has everything that readers have come to know and love about an Elin Hilderbrand novel, plus a healthy dose of intrigue. Irene Steele's idyllic life-house, husband, family-is shattered when she is woken up by a late-night phone call. Her beloved husband has been found dead, but before Irene can process this tragic news, she must confront the perplexing details of her husband's death. He was found on St. John island, a tropical paradise far removed from their suburban life. Leaving the cold winter behind, Irene flies down to the beautiful Caribbean beaches of St. John only to make another shocking discovery: her husband had a secret second family. As Irene investigates the mysterious circumstances of her husband's death, she is plunged into a web of intrigue and deceit belied by the pristine white sand beaches of St. John's. This exciting first book in the Paradise series will transport readers to a new beach locale-another world that Elin knows as well as her beloved Nantucket-and have them longing for winter.
Audiobook
Published November 9th 2018 by Hachette Audio 
Source: Library

 

Three and half stars: Another addictive, messy family drama that you can’t put down.

Irene Steele is ringing the New Year with her best friend. This year, Irene is feeling melancholy as she has been recently been demoted from her job as magazine editor. She is being replaced by someone younger and peppier. As a fifty year old woman, Irene feels invisible. It doesn’t help that her two grown sons hardly come home and her husband is always away on business. Still she leads a good life, she is wealthy and doesn’t want for much. Irene’s world is shattered when she receives a phone call informing that her husband has died in a helicopter crash in the Virgin Islands. Reeling, Irene and her sons travel to St. John Island to discover a world of sun drenched beaches, wealth and some intriguing secrets, including the secret life that her husband led. Who was Russel Steele really?

What I Liked:

• What is it about a book by Elin Hilderbrand that is so captivating? Her stories are messy, full of flawed characters and lots of drama, secrets and betrayals, but despite the angst, I couldn’t put the book down. That is the case with Winter in Paradise. Once again, Hilderbrand delivers a captivating family drama with some startling secrets. This is a page turner. 
• I am not going to lie, the majority of the characters are a bit unlikable in this one, yet I liked that they are so flawed. The characters are relatable because they make many mistakes, they are only human and it is easy to put yourself in some of their shoes. I may not have liked most of the characters, but they were fascinating. 
• If you are not a fan of drama and angst, this is not a novel for you. There are lots of messy secrets and lots of family squabbles, some of it downright ugly at times. I am usually not a fan of drama, but I enjoy Hilderbrand’s brand of family drama because it is captivating. I don’t know how to describe it, but she always manages to hook me. This time around, I was drawn in by the secret life led by Russel Steele. Neither his wife of over thirty years or his sons suspected anything. There is something fascinating about someone who can lead a double life. 
• The setting is amazing. I loved that this was set in the Caribbean during the winter months. I was sucked in by the amazing descriptions. I wanted to pack my bags and head to The Virgin Islands. If you can’t get there during the winter, next best thing is to go vicariously. Hilderbrand takes you there!
• There are six different unique points of view in this book. Hilderbrand is known for her character driven, multiple points of view narratives. As I said, I didn’t like all of the characters, but I sure enjoyed being in their heads and understanding their motives, plus I liked that there was such a variance in the characters. 
• I listened to the audiobook narrated by Erin Bennett. Ms. Bennett is the voice of Hilderbrand’s novels. She always does an outstanding job. 

And The Not So Much:

• The book ends on a rather jarring cliffhanger. I hated that!
• I was bothered that there was so little information on Russel Steele’s secret life. I wanted to understand more of the how, why and so forth. I was especially frustrated that there was absolutely nothing revealed on his job. There was definitely something not right about his occupation, and I want to know more. 
• At first, I liked the hint of romance, but then it moved at lightning speed and got all yucky. I was not a fan of it in the end. 
• This book is full of drama and secrets, so if you aren’t a fan of drama. Skip it. 

Winter in Paradise is another captivating read from Elin Hilderbrand. This is a character driven novel with lots of secrets, betrayals and family drama. Usually I am not a fan of these types of books, but Hilderbrand always writes such fascinating and relatable characters, I can’t help myself. Once again, I was quickly immersed in her story. Prepare for plenty of mystery in this one. You won’t be able to put it down. 

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

Read book two:

Review: The Fountains of Silence by Ruta Sepetys

 

Madrid, 1957. Under the fascist dictatorship of General Francisco Franco, Spain is hiding a dark secret. Meanwhile, tourists and foreign businessmen flood into Spain under the welcoming guise of sunshine and wine. Among them is eighteen-year-old Daniel Matheson, the son of a Texas oil tycoon, who arrives in Madrid with his parents hoping to connect with the country of his mother's birth through the lens of his camera. Photography--and fate--introduce him to Ana, whose family's interweaving obstacles reveal the lingering grasp of the Spanish Civil War--as well as chilling definitions of fortune and fear. Daniel's photographs leave him with uncomfortable questions amidst shadows of danger. He is backed into a corner of decisions to protect those he loves. Lives and hearts collide, revealing an incredibly dark side to the sunny Spanish city.

Master storyteller Ruta Sepetys once again shines light into one of history's darkest corners in this epic, heart-wrenching novel about identity, unforgettable love, repercussions of war, and the hidden violence of silence--inspired by the true post-war struggles of Spain.
Audiobook, Unabridged
Published October 1st 2019 by Penguin Random House Audio/Listening Library
Source: Library

 

Four stars: An enlightening read about life in Madrid under a fascist dictator. However, the book left too many story lines open.

For tourists visiting Madrid in 1957, it is a paradise. There is plenty of sunshine, food and wine. Unfortunately for the citizens of Spain, life is anything but paradise. The people are still reeling form the Spanish Civil War, and worse, the government is hiding a dark secret. When eighteen year old Daniel Matheson visits Spain, the birthplace of his mother, he accidentally glimpses part of the dark secret. As he looks for answers, he loses his heart to Ana, a hotel maid. This book delivers a fascinating glimpse at Spain in a forgotten time. Witness the hardships of the people and uncover one of Spain’s most disturbing cover ups.

What I Liked:

• Once again, Ms. Sepetys delivers an unforgettable and fascinating story that brings to light some dark truths. This time, the reader travels to Spain in 1957 post war. On one side, there is the opulent life enjoyed by the tourists in the lavish hotels, on the other, is the hard, everyday life of the Spanish citizens. Not to mention an ugly operation that steals infants from Spanish citizens. It was enlightening to read this book and learn about a side of Spain most people have never seen. A must for anyone who wants an engrossing tale.
• The book has two completely different view points. On one hand, there is Daniel a U.S. citizen of Spanish heritage, who visits Spain with his wealthy parents. Daniel is a naive eighteen year old boy who has no clue about life in Spain. He is privileged, yet kind. On the flip side, there is Ana. Ana is a hotel maid who is struggling to help provide for her family. Ana’s parents were killed because they opposed General Franco. Ana’s older sister, Julia, is doing everything she can to keep the siblings together. Ana’s life is hard. The people of Spain work serving the wealthy, while they live in poverty. I liked how the reader sees both the rich angle as well as the poor.
• The book has several view points, but I was most drawn to Ana and Daniel. I wanted so badly for Ana to be able to rise above the poverty and help her family. I wanted Daniel to help Ana, and to expose the dark secret. Both their view points were riveting.
• There is a touch of romance. Not much, but a hint that drew me in. I was rooting for the couple the whole time.
• The story touches upon a troubling issue that occurred in Spain involving the kidnapping of infants from the peasants. The parents were told their babies died after childbirth, but in reality, the children were taken and adopted to wealthy foreigners who paid big bucks. I am sure most people are completely unaware of this dark past. It was an eye opening experience to read about it.Once again, Ms. Sepetys presents a well researched story. There are lots of documents and snippets included taken from historical archives that help the reader infer what life was like in Spain. I love this author’s attention to detail.

And The Not So Much:

• This book takes awhile to get going. A lot of my issues stemmed from the fact that the book has multiple view points. It took a long time to learn each character. Once I was invested, the story took off.
  The story builds and builds to a pivotal climatic moment for all the characters and then it fades away and fast forwards seventeen years in the future. I was so disappointed in this time skip. I was left wanting so much more. Not everything is filled in after the book picks up down the road. I was extremely frustrated. I had so many questions and there were no answers! Why???
• The book concludes in a good spot, but there were way too many story lines left undone. Even though I enjoyed the book, I was left wanting.
  
  The Fountains of Silence is a hard book for me to review. On one hand, I was fascinated by the story and Spain’s controversial past, and I was drawn in by the characters and the romance. However, I was irritated that the book suddenly skips seventeen years in the future at the most climatic portion of the story. When the book does continue, so many story lines were left undone, and I was left with way too many unanswered questions. Still this is a well researched book that is worth the read if you are willing to invest the time and the patience. Ms. Sepetys continues to amaze me with her outstanding historical novels.
  
  I borrowed a copy of this book from the library. All opinions are my own, and I was not compensated for this review.
  
  

Review: Twice in a Blue Moon by Christina Lauren

 

 

Sam Brandis was Tate Jones’s first: Her first love. Her first everything. Including her first heartbreak. During a whirlwind two-week vacation abroad, Sam and Tate fell for each other in only the way that first loves do: sharing all of their hopes, dreams, and deepest secrets along the way. Sam was the first, and only, person that Tate—the long-lost daughter of one of the world’s biggest film stars—ever revealed her identity to. So when it became clear her trust was misplaced, her world shattered for good. Fourteen years later, Tate, now an up-and-coming actress, only thinks about her first love every once in a blue moon. When she steps onto the set of her first big break, he’s the last person she expects to see. Yet here Sam is, the same charming, confident man she knew, but even more alluring than she remembered. Forced to confront the man who betrayed her, Tate must ask herself if it’s possible to do the wrong thing for the right reason… and whether “once in a lifetime” can come around twice.

With Christina Lauren’s signature “beautifully written and remarkably compelling” (Sarah J. Maas, New York Times bestselling author) prose and perfect for fans of Emily Giffin and Jennifer Weiner, Twice in a Blue Moon is an unforgettable and moving novel of young love and second chances. From the New York Times bestselling author of The Unhoneymooners and the “delectable, moving” (Entertainment Weekly) My Favorite Half-Night Stand comes a modern love story about what happens when your first love reenters your life when you least expect it…
Hardcover, 358 pages
Published October 22nd 2019 by Gallery Books
Source: Publisher

 

Two and a half stars: A rare miss from a go to author duo. This one lacked the cute and fun. 

For Tate a trip to London with her grandma is an opportunity to finally escape her small town sheltered life. For the last eight years, Tate has been living in anonymity in a small town in Vermont. She is hiding from her famous movie star father and the press. Then while in London, Tate meets Sam, a handsome twenty one year old young man. Sparks fly, and soon Tate and Sam are spending a great deal of time together. Tate feels connected to Sam so much so that she  takes a chance and tells him her big secrets, not suspecting he will ultimately betray her. Wounded, Tate returns home with her tail between her legs. Then the book fast forwards fourteen years. Tate is a successful actress who just landed the role of a lifetime. She is starring in an amazing film alongside her famous movie star father. Just when things are going great, Tate is kicked in the teeth by the reappearance of Sam. Will Tate finally learn why Sam broke her heart all those years ago?

What I Liked:

• Twice in a Blue Moon was a book I went into expecting to love, but it didn’t quite enamor me like I hoped. Still there were a few things that I did enjoy about this second chance romance. 
• This is a romance that occurs in two parts. The first part happens in London when Tate is eighteen and Sam twenty one. Think instant chemistry, a giddy whirlwind romance set beneath the starry skies of London. I liked how open and honest the two were and how the romance was one of friendship and attraction. 
• Then the second chance romance comes forth fourteen yeas later and it was centered around forgiveness. After Sam’s terrible betrayal of Tate, you wouldn’t think she would be able to forgive. I so appreciated Tate’s maturity when it came to learning the truth behind the sell out. I don’t think most people would have been that understanding and forgiving. Then the romance bursts forth again. I liked seeing the romance in two parts. 
• I was surprised that there were many strong secondary characters in this book that almost stole the show. I personally loved Tate’s personal assistant and her co star. They were both fantastic guys who always took time to listen to Tate and help her. I also loved Tate’s grandma. 
• I liked the portion of the book that took place on the movie set. At this point, you get a story in a story as you are treated to the behind the scenes of movie making. The movie is all about an interracial couple in a turbulent time who encounter hatred and prejudice. I was drawn to this part of the book, and I especially liked seeing Tate and Nick portray the characters. 
• The ending after some stumbles, gets things back on track and it ends in a good spot. 

And The Not So Much:

• I am not sure where this one went wrong. I look forward to the Christina Lauren books because the romances are usually fun. This one lacked the charm that I am used to. I never felt a connection to the romance, and I really struggled with Sam and his choices. I think Tate was way too fast to forgive him. 
• I didn’t think the chemistry between Tate and Sam was there. I honestly thought her relationship with her co star Nick was much more meaningful. I thought they worked way better. I missed the fun and flirty romance that this duo is known for. Nothing about this book made me laugh. 
• Ugh. Tate’s dad is downright awful. He never does anything to redeem himself. I hated that Tate tip toed around him and let him get away with his chicanery. Then what he did at the end to further his aims was disgusting. He was a lousy,  no good scum bum! Good riddance!

Twice in a Blue Moon was a book I expected to fall in love with, unfortunately this one did not live up to my high expectations. I was sorely disappointed in the romance, and I couldn’t stand the male love interest. Furthermore, this one was sorely lacking in the fun and flirty department. The romance lacked chemistry, and I never felt the connection. Unfortunately, this is one that I cannot recommend, which pains me because I usually love the books from this author duo. Hopefully this is just a fluke, and the next book will be back to the high standards I have come to expect from the Christina Lauren name.

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.

Review: The Stationery Shop by Marjan Kamali

 

 

Roya is a dreamy, idealistic teenager living in 1953 Tehran who, amidst the political upheaval of the time, finds a literary oasis in kindly Mr. Fakhri’s neighborhood book and stationery shop. She always feels safe in his dusty store, overflowing with fountain pens, shiny ink bottles, and thick pads of soft writing paper. When Mr. Fakhri, with a keen instinct for a budding romance, introduces Roya to his other favorite customer—handsome Bahman, who has a burning passion for justice and a love for Rumi’s poetry—she loses her heart at once. And, as their romance blossoms, the modest little stationery shop remains their favorite place in all of Tehran. A few short months later, on the eve of their marriage, Roya agrees to meet Bahman at the town square, but suddenly, violence erupts—a result of the coup d’etat that forever changes their country’s future. In the chaos, Bahman never shows. For weeks, Roya tries desperately to contact him, but her efforts are fruitless. With a sorrowful heart, she resigns herself to never seeing him again. Until, more than sixty years later, an accident of fate leads her back to Bahman and offers her a chance to ask him the questions that have haunted her for more than half a century: Why did he leave? Where did he go? How was he able to forget her?

The Stationery Shop is a beautiful and timely exploration of devastating loss, unbreakable family bonds, and the overwhelming power of love. 
Hardcover, 312 pages
Published June 18th 2019 by Gallery Books
Source: Publisher

Five stars: An achingly beautiful tale of a great love found and lost in Iran during the revolts in 1953.

Roya is a teenager living in Tehran in 1953. She dreams of an education and a good life. Her life is forever altered when she meets a young man named Bahman in her favorite stationery shop. There among the brightly colored inks, pens and pads of papers, a love blossoms. Bahman is unlike any boy Roya has ever known. He is bold, passionate, and romantic. Bahman wants a better future for Iran, even if that means secretly supporting the opposition. After a blissful courtship, the two become engaged. Then disaster strikes. Right before they are to be married, Bahman and Roya are forced apart for weeks. They can only communicate via secret letters hidden in books at the stationery shop. Unable to stand being apart, the two arrange an illicit meeting in the town square. Before the lovers can reunite, violence erupts and the government is overthrown. Roya awaits amidst the chaos, but Bahman never shows. She never sees him again. Then after she builds a life for herself in America, some sixty years later, a chance reunion leads her heart back to what she lost. What will Roya discover?

What I Liked:

• The Stationery Shop is a beautiful book with a great romance at its heart. This is a story of love, political upheaval, betrayal, heartbreak, loss and forgiveness. This book made my heart ache. 
• The book is set in Tehran in 1953. It begins before the Iranian government is overthrown by a coup d’etat. It was interesting to learn more about Iran, and what life was like before the revolution and the rise of the Shaw. I know so little about Iran and its culture, so for me this was not only an entertaining book, but an educational one as well. 
• The romance was one that grabbed my heart. I like how it unfolded in the small little stationery shop. It is one where a boy with a burning desire in his heart to change the world, captures the heart of a young, dreamy woman. Then political violence and a betrayal tears them apart. For over sixty years, their hearts ache for the one great love they lost, even though they both rebuild their lives, they never let go. Then a chance reunion brings them back together. I won’t spoil this part, you have to experience it. It is powerful, heartbreaking and achingly beautiful. My heart hurt for these two. If only....
• I liked following Roya. She starts out as a young teenager who falls in love in Iran. Then her circumstances change, and she is sent to America. In America, she fights to prove herself and build a life, and there she learns to love again. I loved seeing Roya achieve academic success, especially in the 1950s and 60s as an Iranian immigrant in the United States. I loved her fierce determination, and my heart ached for her during the dark times. She is a memorable character. I also appreciated that the author presented what it was like for an Iranian girl in America, it was a tough path. 
• I liked that throughout the book, the reader keeps up with Bahman via letters. I enjoyed getting his perspective even though it was brief. 
• I was surprised and pleased to find that I liked Roya’s husband. I wasn’t sure if I would, but all in all, he turns out to be a real stand up guy. I especially appreciated how he supported her and didn’t question her in the end. 
• Throughout the story, there are brief snippets surrounding other characters. I was especially intrigued by the story of the wealthy young man and the poor man’s daughter. I wasn’t sure what the purpose of this story was, but then I saw how it fit into the story. It was an important piece. 
• The ending is bittersweet. One of tears and love. I don’t know how to describe it without ruining it, but let’s just say destiny steps in and provides long, much needed answers. 

And The Not So Much:

• There were portions of the story that got long, drawn out and repetitive. Not a big issue, but I could have done without certain parts.
• Toward the end, there is this cutaway part of the story that features Christine, one of the ladies who works in a nursing home. Christine’s story isn’t relevant and it isn’t that important to the story, not enough to warrant a whole chapter on her sad life. I was annoyed that I had to wade through this depressing chapter when there really wasn’t a reason. It could have been cut. 

The Stationery Shop is a star crossed lovers tale that will haunt you. I appreciated that the author brought a story set in 1953 during a turbulent time in Iran. It isn’t often you get stories featuring characters from Iran. This book is not only educational but entertaining as well. This is a memorable story that centers on love, family, friendship, heartbreak, betrayal and political upheaval. Prepare for a great romance laced with heartbreak and destiny. 

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

Audiobook Review: Audiobook Review: Aurora Blazing(Consortium Rebellion) by Jessie Mihalik

 

 

Bianca von Hasenberg did her duty for High House von Hasenberg and ended up trapped in a terrible marriage. When her husband dies unexpectedly and leaves her a happy widow, she vows never to marry again. Instead, she uses her connections to save other young women. Information is power and Bianca has a network that would be the envy of the ’verse—if anyone knew about it. After an attack, Bianca’s oldest brother, the House von Hasenberg heir, disappears from Earth without a trace. Determined to find him, Bianca leaves against orders. When she refuses to return, her father sends Ian Bishop, the director of House von Hasenberg security, to haul her home like a recalcitrant child. Bianca leads Ian on a merry chase across the universe, but when their paths finally collide, she persuades him that they would be far more successful at finding her brother if they worked together. She will do anything to save her sibling, even if it means spending time alone on a small ship with the handsome, infuriating man who once broke her heart. As clues lead them deep into rival House Rockhurst territory, Bianca must decide if she can trust Ian with the one piece of information that could destroy her completely. . .
ebook, 400 pages
Published October 1st 2019 by Harper Voyager
Source: Publisher

 

Four and a half stars: Another thrilling space adventure with intrigue, action, danger and romance. 

Bianca von Hasenberg returned home to House von Hasenberg damaged, sick and broken after her disastrous marriage ended with her husband’s death. Bianca vows to never marry again. Instead she wants to use her connections and her new skills to help save other women from her fate. Disaster strikes when Bianca’s older brother, Ferdinand, the heir of House von Hasenberg, is kidnapped. Bianca will stop at nothing to retrieve him. Even if that means going against her powerful father and trying to outwit Ian Bishop, the head of House von Hasenberg security. At first she is successful, but then Bishop outmaneuvers her, forcing Bianca to either make Bishop an ally or be returned home to her furious father. Will Bianca save her brother and herself or die trying?

What I Liked:

• After reading Polaris Rising, I knew I had to get my hands on Aurora Rising, and I wasn’t disappointed. This book was even better than it’s predecessor. I loved the thrilling story line and the fantastic romance. This book didn’t disappoint. 
• I was eager to get more information about Bianca in the first book, so I was thrilled to learn that this book was from Bianca’s view point. In this installment, Bianca’s secrets come forth. The disturbing details of her disastrous marriage are revealed along with her new found abilities and her extraordinary information network. Bianca may not have the fighting skills of her sister, but she makes up for it in brains. Bianca is a skillful computer hacker, and a genius at networking and information gathering. I loved her intelligence, and I her ability to fight back after she was down and out.
• Ian Bishop was no Locke. He was a brilliant security agent who was always right on Bianca’s tail. He was just as smart and savvy as Bianca. He too had his secrets, and I loved learning more about him. He wasn’t a scary as Locke but just as capable. 
• This one wasn’t as action packed as the first book, but I loved it even more. It was fascinating to learn more about the inter workings of the Consortium, especially when it came to the underhanded treachery. Never a dull moment. 
• The book builds and builds up to a heart stopping rescue attempt. So many twists and surprises come forth during the final section. It was a non stop thrill ride. Loved it!
• The romance was excellent. It was one based on a long term attraction, but both parties pretended to hate one another. It was a terrific antagonistic romance. I loved that it took it’s sweet time to develop. It wasn’t at all hurried.
• The ending was perfect. Bianca lays down the law and walks away with a victory. No cliffhanger or open ended story line. 

And The Not So Much:

• This installment does catch up with Ada and Locke and the gang form the first book, but it doesn’t finish the story line that was left open at the end of Polaris Rising. I am hoping the third book will continue on with that story line, or at least conclude it. 
• There is a big reveal toward the end regarding Ian Bishop. I wanted to know more about him, how he got into that project and why Locke and Bishop didn't seem to have a relationship? 

Aurora Rising was an excellent sequel to Polaris Rising. I loved that this one featured Bianca, Ada’s sister. Bianca was ever bit as interesting and capable as Ada. The romance was fantastic and the climax and ending were sensational. If you want an excellent sci fi adventure/ romance this is the series to read. I am eagerly awaiting the release of book three. 

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 Reviews: The Turn of the Key by Ruth Ware

 

 

When she stumbles across the ad, she’s looking for something else completely. But it seems like too good an opportunity to miss—a live-in nannying post, with a staggeringly generous salary. And when Rowan Caine arrives at Heatherbrae House, she is smitten—by the luxurious “smart” home fitted out with all modern conveniences, by the beautiful Scottish Highlands, and by this picture-perfect family.

What she doesn’t know is that she’s stepping into a nightmare—one that will end with a child dead and herself in prison awaiting trial for murder.

Writing to her lawyer from prison, she struggles to explain the unravelling events that led to her incarceration. It wasn’t just the constant surveillance from the cameras installed around the house, or the malfunctioning technology that woke the household with booming music, or turned the lights off at the worst possible time. It wasn’t just the girls, who turned out to be a far cry from the immaculately behaved model children she met at her interview. It wasn’t even the way she was left alone for weeks at a time, with no adults around apart from the enigmatic handyman, Jack Grant.

It was everything.

She knows she’s made mistakes. She admits that she lied to obtain the post, and that her behavior toward the children wasn’t always ideal. She’s not innocent, by any means. But, she maintains, she’s not guilty—at least not of murder. Which means someone else is.

Full of spellbinding menace and told in Ruth Ware’s signature suspenseful style, The Turn of the Key is an unputdownable thriller from the Agatha Christie of our time. 
Audiobook, Unabridged , 352 pages
Published August 6th 2019 by Simon & Schuster Audio
Source: Publisher

 

Four and a half stars: A creepy atmospheric tale with many startling twists and turns leading up to a shocking conclusion. 

Rowan Caine puts in her resume for a job that seems too good to be true. The position she is after is for a live in nanny in the Scottish Highlands. Rowan is enchanted by the luxurious Heatherbrae House, a restored house with smart technology and modern conveniences. The salary is generous as well. Then when Rowan lands the job, she can’t believe her good fortune. She arrives at Heartherbrae hoping to present the picture of a perfect nanny. Unfortunately, Rowan quickly finds that maintaining the facade of the perfect nanny is a tall order. Soon Rowan is left alone with three children in a house that has cameras everywhere. Then things start getting weird from malfunctioning technology, strange noises and the whispers of ghosts. The situation deteriorates rapidly, culminating with a murder and Rowan landing in jail. If Rowan didn’t commit the murder, who did?

What I Liked:

• The Turn of the Key delivers a chilling, atmospheric tale that will keep you flipping pages long past bedtime. I was hooked but this riveting read. If you love a good suspenseful thriller, this one is not to be missed. The Turn of the Key is the perfect read for the fall season. 
• The setting is outstanding. I loved the way the Heatherbrae House became integral to the story. The remote setting coupled with the smart technology was unsettling. Imagine being in the middle of nowhere with cameras always spying on you. Then when the technology begins to malfunction, the tension ramps up. The author does a tremendous job with the house. The Heatherbrae House with its sordid history and off limits garden provided the perfect backdrop. It was creepy!
• Rowan is one of those characters whom I wanted to trust, but I just couldn’t quite get fully behind her. Perhaps it is because the story opens with her desperate letter to her lawyer begging for help after she is accused of murder. She presents herself as a young woman wanting to land the perfect nanny job in order to better her life, but there is so much more to the story. I felt sympathy toward Rowan throughout, and I found myself forgiving her time and time again for her errors. Even though I was never certain whether she was a reliable narrator or not, I was always cheering for her. I liked that she was complex, and that there is much more to her than meets the eye. The author did a fantastic job with her character. 
• The story starts out tame enough, but believe me it ramps up quickly. Once Rowan is left alone at the house, things start happening. The suspense builds and builds until the tension is so thick you are hanging on by a thread. I couldn’t put it down. The final third is packed with so many stunning jaw dropping twists. I didn’t see most of them coming, right up to the final gut punch. Wow! If you like books with twists, this is one for you!
• I thought the way the story was presented was brilliant. The story is told in an epistolary format. It opens with Rowan writing her lawyer from jail, recounting all the sordid details that happened at Heatherbrae House. The author managed to execute it flawlessly. 
• The ending is shocking. Perhaps you will see it coming, but I doubt you will guess all that is in store in this thriller. Prepare for many startling secrets. 
• I listened to the audiobook version narrated by Imogen Church. Ms. Church’s narration is top notch. I particularly liked the way she voiced the “creak creak” sounds. Yikes! Definitely grab this on audiobook if you can.

And The Not So Much:

• With most thrillers, there are usually a couple of twists that leave niggles, and this one had a couple. For me once the revelations were out, I took issue with the parental attachment that two of the daughters had to their father. He was presented as constantly being absentee, so I didn’t buy the girls motivation for not wanting their dad to leave. He was gone all the time. 
• I didn’t like that the fate of one particular character was left hanging. I wanted to know what happened to that person!
• I didn’t completely buy the letter sent at the end. That person throughout the story didn’t seem to like one character, and then she sends the letter? Didn’t quite work.
• I could have done without the twist regarding the handyman, what was the point of that?

Turn of the Key was a riveting read packed full of suspense that kept me glued to the pages. I loved the atmospheric tension, the unsettling technological presence, the creepy history of the house and the stunning secrets. This was a excellent read even if I did have a couple of quibbles. It is well worth the time if you love a good thriller. Grab this one, it is perfect for the fall season!

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. 

Review: The Ten Thousand Doors of January by Alix E. Harrow

 

In the early 1900s, a young woman embarks on a fantastical journey of self-discovery after finding a mysterious book in this captivating and lyrical debut. In a sprawling mansion filled with peculiar treasures, January Scaller is a curiosity herself. As the ward of the wealthy Mr. Locke, she feels little different from the artifacts that decorate the halls: carefully maintained, largely ignored, and utterly out of place. Then she finds a strange book. A book that carries the scent of other worlds, and tells a tale of secret doors, of love, adventure and danger. Each page turn reveals impossible truths about the world and January discovers a story increasingly entwined with her own.Lush and richly imagined, a tale of impossible journeys, unforgettable love, and the enduring power of stories awaits in Alix E. Harrow's spellbinding debut--step inside and discover its magic.
Audiobook
Published September10th 2019 by Blackstone Audiobooks  
Source: Library

 

Five stars: A mesmerizing debut novel that will stir your imagination, tickle your senses and open your mind to the possibilities of other worlds.

January Scaller has spent the majority of her life tucked away in Mr. Locke’s mansion filled with exquisite treasures and vast secrets. January’s father travels the entire world looking for unique artifacts for Mr. Locke in exchange for January’s housing. Unfortunately, this means that January seldom sees her beloved father. Then when January is seven something strange happens, January inadvertently discovers a door that leads to another world, but then the door is slammed closed, until January discovers a book ten years later. In this incredible book, January uncovers a story filled with secret doors that lead to other worlds, a love that crosses worlds, adventure and danger. The more January reads, the more her imagination is stirred. Then she discovers the startling truth, which is even more strange than the book itself. What is the secret buried in the book?

What I Liked:

• What an amazing book. It has been awhile since a book swept me away. The Ten Thousand Doors of January is not to be missed. A spectacular read! 
• I loved the complexity of January Scaller. In the opening chapters, January is introduced as a seven year old who loves books and adventure. January is bright and daring, but then there are moments when she cowers in fear. I loved that the author captured a girl who wanted adventure like the heroines in books, but then there were times when she was a coward. I especially liked the way January compared herself to the heroines she read about. As the years tick by, January begins to grow and question what she has been told. I loved watching her evolve. I especially loved her fierceness and her bravery at the end. 
• I enjoyed the story within in a story. January discovers a mysterious book in her things entitled The Ten Thousand Doors. Once she begins reading it, startling secrets about her own life come forth. This secondary story was a little confusing at first, but once I understood the connections, I loved seeing how it clicked into place. 
• I loved the magic and mystery of the ten thousand doors. The author presents the doors as a scientific study. I thought it was brilliant they way the doors were incorporated. Basically the doors were gateways into other worlds and dimensions, kind of like a fairy door. The doors would only be visible to certain people, and when they went through the door they could be anywhere. I also liked the way the author made me think about the possibilities. 
• There is a romance in this one that centers around a brief encounter, either by chance or fate. Then what follows is a lengthy period of determination and longing until the impossible becomes possible only to have it stolen away again. It was one that  makes you dream and hope. 
• The writing is stunning. The author manages to capture your senses with her rich metaphors and exquisite prose. I was enchanted by the writing. One not to be missed for those who appreciate gorgeous writing. 
• The ending was satisfying. It stops in a good spot, all the major story lines are concluded, but a door is left cracked open for the possibility of more. I truly hope the author will give us more! 

And The Not So Much:

• There was a secondary romance that was just starting to develop, but it didn’t have the chance to take root and unfurl. I wanted more development of this secondary romance. 
• Jane was an interesting character, and I was disappointed that her story line was left unfinished. 
• I was also bothered by the fact that January’s great aunt wasn’t mentioned again. I felt like this was an important part, and January did make a promise. What happened to the aunt?

The Ten Thousand Doors of January was a mesmerizing and enchanting story. I was charmed by the exquisite details and the imaginative writing. The story is packed full of magic and mystery that kept me enthralled. This is an unforgettable book not to be missed by those who love to ponder the possibilities, and for those who appreciate a fantastic story. One of my favorites of the year!

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

Audiobook Review:The Bookish Life of Nina Hill by Abbi Waxman

 

The author of Other People's Houses and The Garden of Small Beginnings delivers a quirky and charming novel chronicling the life of confirmed introvert Nina Hill as she does her best to fly under everyone's radar.

Meet Nina Hill: A young woman supremely confident in her own...shell.

The only child of a single mother, Nina has her life just as she wants it: a job in a bookstore, a kick-butt trivia team, a world-class planner and a cat named Phil. If she sometimes suspects there might be more to life than reading, she just shrugs and picks up a new book. 

When the father Nina never knew existed suddenly dies, leaving behind innumerable sisters, brothers, nieces, and nephews, Nina is horrified. They all live close by! They're all--or mostly all--excited to meet her! She'll have to Speak. To. Strangers. It's a disaster! And as if that wasn't enough, Tom, her trivia nemesis, has turned out to be cute, funny, and deeply interested in getting to know her. Doesn't he realize what a terrible idea that is?

Nina considers her options.

1. Completely change her name and appearance. (Too drastic, plus she likes her hair.) 

2. Flee to a deserted island. (Hard pass, see: coffee). 

3. Hide in a corner of her apartment and rock back and forth. (Already doing it.)

It's time for Nina to come out of her comfortable shell, but she isn't convinced real life could ever live up to fiction. It's going to take a brand new family, a persistent suitor, and the combined effects of ice cream and trivia to make her turn her own fresh page. Audiobook, Unabridged, 10 pages
Published July 9th 2019 by Penguin Audio
Source: Publisher

 

Four Stars: A cute book with a quirky heroine who must deal with the fall out when her quiet, bookish life is upended.

Nina has a great life. She works in a bookstore where she gets to hang out with friends and be amongst her favorite things in life: books. Then her quiet bookish world is turned upside down when Nina learns that she is not exactly an only child anymore after her absentee father dies and leaves her as a beneficiary. Nina discovers that she has half siblings, aunts, nephews and nieces. Even worse, they live close by so she will have to come face to face with them. Then Nina is confused even further when her kick butt trivia team goes against another team and they lose. Nina can’t believe that she finds herself drawn to Tom, her trivia nemesis. How can she be attracted to a man who smells like wood and doesn’t like books? How can Nina right her bookish world?

What I Liked:

• Abbi Waxman is an author who knows how to make you laugh with her likable, quirky characters. This time Ms. Waxman brings us Nina Hill an introverted bookworm who loves to make lists in her planner, avoid people and read. If you want a laugh out loud contemporary book this is one to read. 
• I adored Nina. She is easy to understand and like, especially if you are an avid reader. Curling up with warm socks and a good book is Nina’s idea of the perfect evening, as well as mine. I could totally relate to Nina. I adored her quirks and her tendency to talk to her cat, Phil, but what I enjoyed the most was watching her grow and adapt. It was truly delightful to see Nina creep ever so slowly out of her shell and transform. She is an absolute joy!
• I was surprised at how much I enjoyed the complicated dynamics of Nina’s new family. It was hilarious to watch Nina try and learn to deal with her instant family after years of being an only child. There were instant connections, some head butting, and then in the end understanding as strangers with the same DNA learned to call one another family. 
• The romance was adorable. I loved that it started out as an attraction. Then there was lots of awkward stumbling, hilarious moments and growing and changing and then connection. It was cute!
• I adored the humor. There are so many funny moments in this one. I especially enjoyed Nina’s lists and her quirky behavior. She made me laugh. 
• If you have read Abbi Waxman’s debut novel: The Garden of Small Beginnings, I highly recommend it, you will enjoy reconnecting with the characters from that book. It was delightful encounter these fun characters again, especially Claire.
• The ending was cute and satisfying. It made me smile.

And The Not So Much:

• I was disappointed that there wasn’t a bit more exploration into Nina’s family. I enjoyed the complex relationships, and I especially liked watching Nina find her place. I just wish there were more.
• Parts of the story were completely predictable, but that didn’t cause my enthusiasm to wane. 

The Bookish Life of Nina Hill is a delightful, feel good read perfect for bookworms and for those who want something light and fun. This book made me laugh. I loved the quirky characters, the list and all things bookish. If you haven’t picked up a book by Abbi Waxman, I urge you to try one. This book was a lot of fun!

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. 

Don't miss:

Sapphire Flames (Hidden Legacy #4) by Ilona Andrews

 

From #1 New York Times bestselling author Ilona Andrew comes an enthralling new trilogy set in the Hidden Legacy world, where magic means power, and family bloodlines are the new currency of society…

In a world where magic is the key to power and wealth, Catalina Baylor is a Prime, the highest rank of magic user, and the Head of her House. Catalina has always been afraid to use her unique powers, but when her friend’s mother and sister are murdered, Catalina risks her reputation and safety to unravel the mystery.

But behind the scenes powerful forces are at work, and one of them is Alessandro Sagredo, the Italian Prime who was once Catalina’s teenage crush. Dangerous and unpredictable, Alessandro’s true motives are unclear, but he’s drawn to Catalina like a moth to a flame.

To help her friend, Catalina must test the limits of her extraordinary powers, but doing so may cost her both her House–and her heart. 
Audiobook, Unabridged
Published August 27th 2019 by HarperAudio
Source: Publisher

 

Four and a half stars: More action, some romance and lots of intrigue in a favorite series. 

It has been three years since Catalina Baylor thwarted an assassin who attempted to use poison at her sister’s wedding. Now that Nevada is married, Catalina is the head of House Baylor. The grace period for House Baylor is about to run out and things could get even more difficult. The last thing House Baylor should be doing is taking on a dangerous case, but when Ruana, a poison mage, loses her mother and sister under mysterious circumstances, Catalina decides to help because Ruana was the one who helped her stop the assassin three years ago. What follows is a dangerous mystery that puts Catalina in terrible trouble. Will Catalina and House Baylor survive?

What I Liked:

• Ilona Andrews. Enough said. Read the book. I wish I could write that and be done. I will say that the Ilona Andrews duo can hardly do any wrong. There stories are fantastic, their romances sizzling, plus add in plenty of suspense, lots of actions and a few twists and turns and you have the makings for another fantastic novel.
• This book once again follows Catalina Baylor, the younger sister of Nevada. The book picks up three years after the end of its predecessor, Diamond Fire. Catalina has grown and matured. She has a better understanding of her powers and how to wield them. Catalina is now the head of House Baylor, so she is forced to make the difficult decisions. She is becoming more formidable day by day. I loved seeing her growth, and I enjoy watching her wield her siren powers. I thought I would miss Nevada’s voice, but I am finding I love Catalina just as much. 
• This book has a terrific mystery. I liked with each new lead, more treacherous revelations were around every corner. There is never a dull moment in this one. Prepare for lots of suspense and a solid mystery. 
• The romance is the slow burn type. The foundation was laid in the last book, and in this novel it takes off. I loved watching Catalina try and hide her crush/ infatuation. Even better were the jabs her family threw out at her regarding her crush. I loved seeing the two of them together, and I especially loved Alessandro’s devotion to Catalina. 
• As always, I adore the rest of the Baylor family from Grandma Frieda with all of her weapons, to Burn in the Hut of Evil as well as Arabella. I can’t get enough of the Baylor family.
• The end draws to a satisfying end, for the most part, but there is a tiny bit of a cliffhanger as well. I am more than eager for the next book after finishing this one!

And The Not So Much:

• I was disappointed in the note the romance ended on. I was left with so many questions. I need answers. 
• I said this the last time, but I will say this again, I miss Nevada and Mad Rogan. I hope they are more present in the next book, especially with Nevada’s news. 

Sapphire Flames is another thrilling and satisfying installment in the Andrews’ wildly popular Hidden Legacy Series. If you want a exciting UF series, look no further. This one has magic, mayhem, treachery, betrayals, romance and more. My only complaint was that there wasn’t more, and that the book ended with a small cliffhanger. Start at the beginning and devour this series. 

 

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:

 

Audiobook Review: Say You Still Love Me by K.A. Tucker

 

Life is a mixed bag for Piper Calloway.
On the one hand, she’s a twenty-nine-year-old VP at her dad’s multibillion-dollar real estate development firm, and living the high single life with her two best friends in a swanky downtown penthouse. On the other hand, she’s considered a pair of sexy legs in a male-dominated world and constantly has to prove her worth. Plus, she’s stuck seeing her narcissistic ex-fiancé—a fellow VP—on the other side of her glass office wall every day. Things get exponentially more complicated for Piper when she runs into Kyle Miller—the handsome new security guard at Calloway Group Industries, and coincidentally the first love of her life. The guy she hasn’t seen or heard from since they were summer camp counsellors together. The guy from the wrong side of the tracks. The guy who apparently doesn’t even remember her name. Piper may be a high-powered businesswoman now, but she soon realizes that her schoolgirl crush is not only alive but stronger than ever, and crippling her concentration. What’s more, despite Kyle’s distant attitude, she’s convinced their reunion isn’t at all coincidental, and that his feelings for her still run deep. And she’s determined to make him admit to them, no matter the consequences. 
Audiobook, Unabridged , 320 pages
Published August 6th 2019 by Simon & Schuster Audio
Source: Publisher

Three stars: A romance that was lacking. I never felt the thrills with this reverse Cinderella type story. 

At sixteen, Piper Calloway is rich and privileged, but she is spending her summer as a camp counselor in a small summer camp. This isn’t Piper’s idea of an ideal summer, but her mother wanted Piper to go because she thought it would look good on college applications, and Piper’s mom is a little nostalgic for the camp she once attended. Piper is hoping she will making it through the summer without dying of boredom. Then something unexpected happens. Piper catches the eye of the hottest guy at camp, and sparks fly. What follows is a whirlwind summer of romance between two teenage kids. One from the wrong side of the tracks and one from a world of wealth and privilege. Then disaster strikes and the two are parted, until they meet up again thirteen years later. At twenty nine, Piper is in place to take over her father’s company. Her path is set until the firm hires a new security guard....

What I Liked:

• Ms. Tucker is known for her dramatic romances, and this one is no exception. Think rich girl meets boy from the wrong side of the track. Sweet romance, tragedy and heartbreak follow, and then thirteen years later, their paths once again cross. If you like romances with a touch of drama, this is one to read. 
• The story moves back and forth in time from present day back to 2006 when Piper and Kyle worked as camp counselors. I was pleased to find that I was soon invested in each time line, and I found myself eager to see what was going to happen in both the past and the present. Often times, I find myself attached to one time period more than another, but that, thankfully, wasn’t the case with this book. 
• I appreciated the friendships formed between Piper and two of the girls at summer camp. At first, I didn’t think Piper was going to fit in and make friends, but surprisingly she forms bonds with two girls, and the friendships last right up until present day. I especially liked that uptight Christa turned out be a solid friend. 
• I was pleased to see the way things settled out with Piper and her ex fiancé. It was rather refreshing and nice to get a positive twist. 
• I must admit, I wasn’t a huge fan of Kyle. I struggled with his character. However, I was happy to see that I was wrong about him. I loved that he stepped up and did the right thing several times. 
• One of the highlights of the book for me was when Piper stuck it to the big wig who was trying to cut a shady deal. It’s alway nice to see a women take down a good old boy in the corporate world. 
• The end was sweet and satisfying. Things settle out and conclude on a nice, pleasant note. 

And The Not So Much:

• The romance in this one never grabbed me. I don’t know what it was, but I just never quite fell into the whole bad boy/ good girl romance. First off, it is a complete insta love situation. Second, I just didn’t think that bad boy Kyle would fall head over heels like he did, I never bought it. Third, this is petty, but I was totally grossed out by Piper making out with Kyle after he smoked, it didn’t fit her good girl personality. The romance felt like insta love, with a heaping dose of teenage hormones on top. I thought it lacked depth and emotion. It worked better as adults, but I just never was invested. 

Say You Still Love Me was a book I wanted to love, but the romance fell flat on its butt for me. I didn’t like the insta love/teenage lust aspect. It moved too fast to be believable. It worked better in present day, but not enough to salvage it. Luckily, there were other parts to enjoy such as Piper sticking it to the good old boy, the friendships and the turn around by the ex fiancé. This one doesn’t live up to the high standard Ms. Tucker has set with her previous novels, but true fans will likely enjoy it. 

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.