Very Romancy, But VERY Good!

Ugly Love

By: Colleen Hoover

Genre:  Romance

Pages: 324

Published: 2014

Audiobook: 9 hours 13 minutes

Read:  December

2 out of 5 stars

I don’t read romance novels, but after reading the fabulous Verity, Colleen Hoover’s first and only psychological thriller, I thought I’d give one of her other books I try. Her primary genre is romance, which is in Verity

as well, but not main premise.

My first reaction to Ugly Love was this is NOT my type of book. Where is the plot? It was all explicit love scenes. I wanted substance. The middle third of book I felt as though I was listening to porn.

However, the last third was Amazing and the writing of Hoover that I loved. I was very emotional and on verge of tears. I ended up falling in love with the characters and story. My star rating drastically increased. If you don’t mind a lot of romantic descriptions, give this one a try! I’m glad I read it, well listened to it.

SKIP THIS BOOK!!

Invisible Friend

By: Stephen Chbosky

Genre:  Horror

Pages: 720

Published: 2019

Read:  October

2 out of 5 stars

We have all read – or at least heard about – Perks of Being a Wallflower. If you read it as a teen, I can almost guarantee you loved it. As an adult, it’s a toss-up. Either way, many people were excited about Chbosky’s 2nd novel after 20 years. It didn’t matter if this one was an adult horror versus his YA coming-of-age debut novel. I know because I felt that way.

Well let me tell you, Imaginary Friend, started out Fantastic. The premise was great, the story engaging. I felt I was reading a Stephen King – totally engrossed. I couldn’t put it down; all I wanted to do was read. Until about halfway through – when it should have ended – but he went on and on and on. There were so many tangents and nonsense story lines, that my interest was lost. There were so many points it could have ended, but it was as though he was determined to write a tome. It was just a tiresome train wreck.

Honestly, I would have a difficult time explaining the ending – I’m not sure what happened.

And can someone explain the underlining of words and random capital letters – “Don’t leave the street. tHey can’t get you if you don’t leave the street.” Did the “H” denote the imaginary friend? And what was with the mailbox people? Just a confusing, poorly edited, pointless read.

What a FUN Read!!

Not Quite What I Was Planning

By: Larry Smith (Editor)

Genre:  Nonfiction

Pages: 225

Published: 2008

Read:  June

5 out of 5 stars

It's hard to rate this book as it is just a collection of 6 word memoirs. However, it is a great collection. Some are sad, some are happy, some are inspirational, some are funny, and some are just ridiculous, but all our meaningful - if not to you to the person who wrote them. I encourage everyone to write their own whether it signifies a time in your life or you life up to this point - It's all about you. 

As a bonus and a shock - my favorite actor and screen crush was featured - Josh Lucas
"Glory developing vital loving fighting life."

Mine - She read her life away (almost).

Let's Reach Everyone We Can!

Starworld

By: Audrey Coulthurst and Paula Garner

Genre:  YA Realistic Fiction

Pages: 352

Published: 2019

Read:  May

4.5 out of 5 stars

This book takes place in the real world at present time. However, it reaches another dimension when two very different girls start texting. Zoe and Sam find that they can be “themselves” and share their true feelings in the created world of Starworld. This book is uniquely written in two voices, by two different authors, in two different worlds. It crosses over from reality to fantasy and back again; giving the authors a unique opportunity to reach more readers. Starworld is very gripping, well-written and timely – adults can’t help but enjoy it too.

Great Narrator - Book not so much.

There’s Someone Inside Your House

By: Stephanie Perkins

Genre: YA/Mystery

Pages: 287

Published: 2017

Audiobook: 9 hours and 26 mins

Read:  June

2 out of 5 stars

I heard the audio on this one was great and really scary. Therefore, I expected that there would be a little spooky music perhaps? Not only could I not get into the story, kind of childish, it wasn't scary AT ALL. There are much better out there. I should have known since I also didn't care for Perkins book, Anna and the French Kiss, even though I know a lot of readers did.

On the fantastic side, the narrator is phenomenal - Bahni Turpin. She has narrated over 70 books, including The Hate U Give by Angie Thomas and Everything, Everything by Nicola Yoon. Both are great audio. I love her.

What a Fun and Engaging listen!

Daisy Jones and the Six

By: Taylor Jenkins Reid

Genre: Realistic fiction

Pages: 368

Published: 2019

Audiobook: 10 hours

Read:  May

5 out of 5 stars

Do NOT read this book, you MUST listen to it!! I have listened to a lot of great audio books over the years, but this one blew me away. This is the best audio ever. The story is so engaging it almost feels interactive. I have never read a book like it. Told entirely through interviews of band members, their family and the media, you forget it’s a fictional story. One cannot help but love the music even though you never hear it. This book is so much fun!

Misleading title

Essential Oils for Mindfulness and Meditation

By: Heather Dawn Godfrey

Genre: Nonfiction/Self Help

Pages: 160

Published: 2018

Read:  March

3 out of 5 stars

I feel the title of the book is very misleading. I was expecting to learn which essential oils are best for mindfulness and meditation, the purpose, and the use of each scent. While this was slightly covered, the book primarily dealt with the history of essential oils, how they are made, and how to apply them. It was more a science lesson on essential oils. It’s not that it didn’t cover useful information, but it wasn’t what I was looking for or expecting from this book. I enjoyed the last chapter the most – Wellness Techniques – Relaxation, Exercise and Nutrition. 

Important Topic, but have read better

The Girls at 17 Swann Street

By: Yara Zgheib

Genre: Realistic Fiction, Mental Health

Pages: 384

Published: 2019

Read:  March

3 out of 5 stars

This book was OK. I believe eating disorders is an important topic and often overlooked in fiction books. However, I felt this book was somewhat unrealistic. My biggest issue was believing Emm would be in the house for 4 entire years. She would have been moved to a halfway house or similar establishment. Plus, I never felt she still had a serious enough eating disorder to justify the length of stay. She was portrayed as recovered, helpful and encouraging to the other girls. I felt it was a cop-out by the author. The girls were distant and as the reader I was never able to connect with them. I would suggest Wintergirls by Laurie Halse Anderson or for a different take on institutions I highly recommend Good Kings, Bad Kings by Susan Nussbaum (5 stars).

Oh the discussions you can have....

Little Faith

By: Nickolas Butler

Genre: Realistic Fiction

Pages: 336

Published: 2019

Read:  March

4 out of 5 stars

My 3^rd favorite of Butler’s books, it is SO good! He has such a magically way of describing Wisconsin (in all his books) that you are truly in the center of it. This book was a welcoming departure from Butler’s other novels. I definitely felt a Jodi Picoult vibe and glad to see I wasn’t the only one. I finished this novel at 1:30 in the morning and oh was so mad at the ending, but then while I laid there thinking about it the ending made much more sense. Butler left many open ends involving many discussion points. Someone needs to hurry up and read this, so I can discuss this book.

BEST Book in a LONG time!!!

You are a Badass Everyday

By: Jen Sincero

Genre: Nonfiction/ Self-Help

Pages: 224

Published: 2018

Read:  February

5 out of 5 stars

This is a pocket-size inspirational and motivational guide “sequel” to Sincero’s first book, You are a Badass: How to Stop Doubting Your Greatness and Start Living an Awesome Life. If you are a reader, I suggest you start with the first book, however if you don’t read much, but looking for a positive change in your life do yourself a favor and read You are a Badness Everyday! This book will change your life; it has made me more mindful and at peace since I picked it up. It is filled with daily quotes, inspirational stories, and positive tasks to complete. I have a copy by my bedside and randomly read a chapter every morning. The passages range from a single quote to a 3 page story. BEST BOOK I’VE READ IN A LONG TIME AND MUCH NEEDED AT THIS TIME IN MY LIFE.

Pride and Prejudice Remix!

Pride

By: Ibi Zoboi

Genre: YA Multicultural/Remix

Pages: 285

Published: 2018

Read:  February

4 out of 5 stars

A remix of Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen. BTW, I love the wording of “remix” versus “retelling”. I have not read Pride and Prejudice (I know, my bad), so I did not catch any of the similarities between the books except for the twist on names of the characters. After reading, I did look up plot summary to see if the stories progression was similar. The remix (retelling) was done well. This was the only remix I can remember reading that changed the ethnicity of the characters. I felt that was very clever and definitely will appeal to non-Caucasian teens who will be able to connect with the characters easily. I did appreciate the story, it was entertaining and very well written. Kudos to Zoboi!

A LGBTQ+ graphic novel

The Prince and the Dressmaker

By: Jen Wang

Genre: YA graphic novel/ LGBTQ+

Pages: 284

Published: 2018

Read:  February

3.5 out of 5 stars

This graphic novel had everything going for it. A captivating story line, gorgeous artwork, a timely plot twist. Prince Sebastian is supposed to be looking for a bride, but he has a major secret he is hiding. To aid in his secret, he hires a low life seamstress who is about to get fired to design him exquisite gowns. They become true friends and both benefit greatly from this meaningful relationship. However, as the story comes to a conclusion, it feels rushed and unrealistic; even for this time and age. Due to the nature and development of the characters that Wang created, the unmasking would not have been that easy for young Sebastian.

An Empowering Novel

The Poet X

By: Elizabeth Acevedo

Genre: YA Realistic Fiction

Pages: 368

Published: 2018

Read:  December 2018

4 out of 5 stars

I love how REAL this book is. I think all readers (especially teens), no matter their ethnicity, will be able to relate to some aspect of this book. The reader gets to know and understand the ins and outs of Xiomara’s thoughts and feelings. With the book portraying a poet through the use of poetry the authenticity of story is enhanced. As a reader, one can feel that Acevedo carefully chose every word written and the powerful meaning behind it. All readers will resonate with every beautiful sentence. Acevedo writes about how to be a girl, a sister, a daughter and a teen in today's difficult world.

It’s an important read for everyone.

A Magical Must Read

The Immortalists

By: Chloe Benjamin

Genre: Fantasy

Pages: 346

Published: 2018

Read:  January

4 out of 5 stars

If you could find out the day you were going to die, would you? These four young siblings decide to visit a fortune teller to do just that. Some of them shared their dates with each other, some decided to keep it secret. This magical story follows the four siblings through their lives.  Each receiving a turn to tell their story. Benjamin gives a unique voice to each character that you can’t help but want to be friends with them. I usually am not a huge reader of fantasy novels, but this is a must read. I would recommend to older teens as well. Truly a magically mesmerizing story.      

1st Audio of year!

You

By: Caroline Kepnes

Genre: Mystery

Pages: 424

Published: 2014

Audiobook: 11 hours and 6 mins

Read:  January

3.5 out of 5 stars

What a great audio! The narrator’s creepy voice matched Joe perfectly. This story intrigued me from the get-go. However, I felt it draaaged on, maybe it was because I didn’t have long commutes and so I felt I never made it anywhere. Either way, I was bored in the middle and felt it moved slowly. Joe’s story did pick up at the end and I was surprised at the ending. I heard a few people say that even though Joe was a creep they were rooting for him – I don’t get it. He was definitely an awful person and in my opinion didn’t deserve to live. However, he made a great enthralling story. Looking forward to watching the Netflix show!

Could You Live in a Tiny House?

You Can Buy Happiness (and it’s Cheap)

By: Tammy Strobel

Genre: Non-fiction/ Self-Help

Pages: 224

Published: 2012

Read:  January

3.5 out of 5 stars

I picked up this book to see how people can be crazy enough to live in tiny houses. Although I would like to downsize my house – its way too big for a family of three – I could never live in a tiny house. People need a space to get away from others; not to mention move around. However, that really isn’t what this book is about. She was way more realistic; even though a tiny house sparked her and her husband’s joy she understands it isn’t practical for everyone. In her book, she provides you with the questions to ask yourself in order to guide you to your own happiness. She does push that it isn’t “stuff” or money that brings people happiness. I believe most people, whether they follow it or not, know that to be the truth.

I'm a Tidy Freak now...

Spark Joy: An Illustrated Master Class on the Art of Organizing and Tidying Up

By: Marie Kondo

Genre: Non-fiction/ Self-Help

Pages: 291

Published: 2016

Read:  January

2.5 out of 5 stars

After reading The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up, I felt this is just a condensed, abridged edition. Also was confused why it’s called the illustrated version when I didn’t feel it had very many more illustrations than the original edition. The few extra it offered, which were the ones that didn’t involve the KonMari method of folding, weren’t that exciting, cute or inspirational. If you read The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up, I feel there is no need to read this one and if what you desire is the condensed version pick up, The Life Changing Manga of Tidying Up: A Magical Story. It’s a great quick read and on my ideal bookshelf.

Another 1st for me - A Political-Based Book

Becoming

By: Michelle Obama

Genre: Autobiography

Pages: 426

Published: 2018

Read:  January

3.5 out of 5 stars

I am probably the most unpolitical person I know. I have never watched a debate or a presidential address and don’t even follow the news much. I was under the impression (although not sure why), that this was a book more about “becoming” a woman versus Michelle becoming Michelle. It was definitely more biographical then I expected. I found a lot of it pretty mundane, but so well written I didn’t have the desire to give up.  I feel Michelle didn’t lead a very rough life. Although she did her best to not brag, some parts were definitely just that.  She claims to have grown up pretty poor, but her parents still sent her to Paris in high school with her class and she managed to go to Harvard. Doesn’t sound like a rough life to me.

The part of the book I found most interesting was, ironically, after Obama moved into politics and eventually ran for President. Michelle was and still claims not to be into politics and focused her efforts on improvements for children – better school lunches, better education, healthy food habits, etc.  She grew as a woman, as a mother, and a role model for woman to look up to. I did find this empowering. Although not my type of autobiography, I am glad I read it and I did in fact learn a bit about the political world. 

Craving more...

Stitches

By: David Small

Genre: YA Graphic Novel/Memoir

Pages: 329

Published: 2009

Read:  January

3.5 out of 5 stars

I have mentioned in previous reviews that I struggle with National Book Award Winners. However, I have always enjoyed graphic memoirs – So why not?   Small didn’t have a great childhood, I won’t deny that and it’s a great accomplishment that he came out on top. But, so many other children have it worse. I wonder if it really was worse than he portrayed or if Small choose not to indulge more detail because it was a graphic novel. Or did he feel that he truly suffered as much as other children.

Either way, I craved more – did he Grandma continue to abuse him or just suddenly stop as it seems from the book? What was his mother’s reaction when he walked into the bedroom and saw her with her lesbian lover? I felt what Small endured was minimized by his brief overview. Most of all, I want to know if there was more or did he mean to keep us guessing. Even his author note, while informative, didn’t answer my questions.

2nd Time around was better!

Darius the Great is Not Okay

By: Adib Khorram

Genre: YA Realistic Fiction

Pages: 316

Published: 2018

Read:  January

3 out of 5 stars

This is my second reading of this book. I reread it for a Battle of the Books challenge with librarians. I did enjoy it more the second time around. My favorite aspect of the story is that the protagonist is a male dealing with depression. There have been a lot of YA books dealing with mental health in the past few years, but not with male characters. I think it’s important for male teens to see they aren’t alone. I also appreciate the fact that it was multicultural and educational. It was almost like a nonfiction book inside a fictional story. But this also negatively impacted the story, the Persian facts often interrupted the story line. Most would have been better included in back or even a companion book to this novel. Khorram did include an afterword about the seriousness of depression with links to websites for additional information or help.

I am a happier person...

The Minimalist Home

By: Joshua Tucker

Genre: Non Fiction

Pages: 256

Published: 2018

Read:  January

3.5 out of 5 stars

I was one of the many that jumped on the bandwagon when the Netflix show, Tidying Up with Marie Kondo aired. I started by decluttering my bedroom and haven’t wanted to stop. I was skeptical about it changing my lifestyle and the claim that it improves your entire attitude. I am here to tell you it really does work; I am a happier person. So when I ran across The Minimalist Home while working, I decided to give it a try. The “Becker Method” as he calls it is almost the complete opposite of the Konmari method. He declutters, or minimizes by room, versus item. I have adopted my own method, by doing a combination of both methods. It works for me.

As far as Becker’s book, I did not care for the way it was structured. He went through the method room-by-room, which lead to a lot of repetition. It became annoying to read really quickly. I did appreciate his introduction to the minimalist theory and the benefits of downsizing your house. However, I feel that Kondo’s book, The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up was a much better written and enjoyable book to read.

Christian Novel - A first for me in several years

The Memory Book

By: Penelope J. Stokes

Genre: Christian/Historical Fiction

Pages: 304

Published: 2004

Read:  January

4 out of 5 stars

I definitely judged this book by its cover when I bought it. The cover (and title) were extremely eye catching to me. I had no idea it was a Christian novel.  Not that I minded, I’m Christian, just haven’t read one in years. I can definitely see some readers not believing Phoebe’s story if they don’t believe in God. This book did not take me long to read and it definitely held my interest. It was a very unique premise, well written and I felt believable. The reason being is my brother was in a horrific accident years ago and after he woke up from his coma he explained to our parents that he had a very realistic and visual dream. It was not a religious “I saw God” dream. The dream was actually about him and friends bowling, but he said it had more of a “real feeling” than normal nightly dreams. This is exactly how Phoebe tells her story and why I could believe Phoebe’s explanation. I definitely recommend this book to Christians and others with a belief of a greater power.