The Other Family

4/5

Ever since Wendy Corsi Staub came out I have enjoyed her books. Along the way, I somehow missed some of her works. This one was as good as I remembered her to be.

It was a suspenseful book the made you question a few things but but you guessing. I figured out a good bit of it, but loved how it all tied together. Definitely a goodread from her.

I am so glad to see her again on the list of new books. Looking forward to her next one.

A Brilliant Night of Stars and Ice

2.5 rounded up for the author's research and afterword.


The author did her research. I admit I don't know all there is to know about the Titanic and her fate along with those on board. I know what most people know. She was supposed to be unsinkable, she hit an iceberg after being warned, she didn't have enough life boas and the ones they did have could have more people added, like most I know the Carpathia was the ship that came to the rescue despite the fact there was a ship closer. I know there may have a hymn played as Titanic sank. I know to many lost their lives and it is still a puzzle today of what might happened.


This book, I was looking forward to reading. It was a duel timeline between the captain of the Carpathia and a third class passenger Kate.


With that happened, this book fell flat. I didn't feel like it was reading an adventure. I felt like I was reading something other then an adventure. I liked the characters. The Captain was amazing and a Christian who placed his faith correctly. His crew even shows that, but the author lacked the emotions, and charisma worthy of them. Kate was able to get a seat aboard the lifeboat but again there were no emotions. The fact that a third class passenger even got on a life boat was very rare. The author did not show us that.


I liked the story well enough just think it could have been better. Titanic is one of those mysteries that draws people. This story fell short of the mysteries, adventure and intrigue.

The Diamon Eye

                                         

5/5
Wow, this author has grown in her writing. When I first read her other older books, I thought they were ok but were not the best in the Historical fiction genre. I did not give up on her as I thought the other books were not the worst I have read. Then, I read The Rose Code and enjoyed it very much, and worthy of the hype. Now I have read The Diamond Eye and enjoyed this one just as much.

What I like most about these books, is the fact they are based on real stories, real life, and not always the happy ending. Tho happy endings are great, most often during the war, they were not the norm. I love that I was able to look up Mila and learn even more about her and her life. Sadly, I understand both sides of the war had good people but more often then not Stalin was just as bad as Hitler, he maybe even worse. Knowing this, I still rooted for her. I wanted her to be happy and do well despite being a female in a prominently male army. I have some respect for her and her accomplishments.
I researched her and her background and proud to say the author did her research. The afterword was well done as well. I knew there were certain times or things that had to be different because it added to the story or fictionalized for the reader.

I was interested in this book since the first page, and did my research on several things thinking it was fake only to realize it was true. I did enjoy the moments the author added. I felt all the feels with this book. Happy, sad, mad, all of them. What also made me think, was the effect the war had everyone including this sniper. Grief, depression, and so many more emotions, PTSD was not a thing back then but neither was the mental help needed for so many during that time. Including soldiers, survivors, and prisoners of war. What would it have been like if the help was available ??

Before all this, she was an awesome single mom. Her husband was like many we see today, don't want her but don't want anyone else to have her. He was the ultimate, not likable guy to me in this book. Mila, however, was amazing, incredibly awesome single mom and a very young age. She also had an incredibly sense of county and serving her country. She gave up so much to enlist, voluntary to do what most soldiers do. Only to be shown little to no respect because she was a women. She did not give up. She did not moan and groan about it, she instead, kept at it and was finally given the chance to prove herself and skill. She of course went above and beyond. Most of this of course was true. Incredible.

This was a great read, based on a true story, that captures your attention right away. Well worth the read. I am looking forward to the next one by this author.

An Honest Lie

4/5

Well, I started this one yesterday so I could return it to the library and find it a good read. It was unique and different in a good way.
Rainy has been trough a lot but finally decided to do what needed to be done. I liked her character in the book. We all have something we don't share from our past, just probably not like this.

It kept me interested and wanting to know what next. Yes, again there were time of unrealistic parts but still found this enjoyable.

A Rip Through Time

4/5
Wrote a review but didn't save.
I enjoyed this book. If you are a fan of Stalking Jack the Ripper, you probably will like this one as well.

Took some getting into it but that may have been because of my busy summer. At times you know this is very unrealistic but still fun.

I liked the characters and the advanced way of thinking of things even tho the rest took many years to catch up. The doctor and his sister I really enjoyed.

The ending I'm not to sure I liked. I understood the reason but still. I did not get who it was until towards the end.

My first time reading from this author but won't be my last.

The Murder Rule

4/5
I was pleasantly surprised by this book.
The beginning kinda dragged a bit. Then once it gets going it's a good read. She did switch to a new point of view that wasn't really noted until I read a half page of the end of the chapter, that said it was someone else's.

I loved Hannah. She did want she needed to do. She got to the truth even if she didn't expect it. The other characters were good as well. Hannah just had that spunkiness about her.

I did figure out most of it but there was a twist. It actually was kinda different then what I am used to.

All in all I enjoyed the book.

Until Leaves Fall In Paris

5/5
Another great read I've come to expect from Sarah Sundin. I felt all the feels and loved it.

I really enjoyed reading about the ballet dancer turned book store owner. The cat factory manufacture and his ways of doing his assembly line. These characters are great. I just realized that these characters knew the characters from When Twilight Breaks. The next novel will also. They are all connected through Harvard, or at least the guys, then the wives meet and become friends. I did want to know more about what happens after the war. To bookstore, the factory and all the people that are involved.

I am anxiously awaiting her new novel due to be released in 2023.

Through Waters Deep

4/5

Just what I needed for a rainy day read. Been so busy and a strange sumner.

I loved the characters. They were human, and trusted the lord with prayers and some biblical references. How many times have we done the same ? They were easy to like and the setting was well done as well. Just enough of everything to really like this book. Sarah Sundin is quickly becoming a favorite author.

Never heard of the Christian fiction till I read her book. These are books I can enjoy without being to much of why I don't like romance novels.

It was a quick easy read that was very enjoyable.

Hidden Pictures

 

4/5

This was a good read. Had spooky and interesting mystery. It was different, which I like, and interesting.

I did like the characters as they should have been liked. Some you liked some were a bit less liked. Mallory I was rooting for the whole way.

I figured the twist early on but still enjoyed to book. I think the two back stories made it even better. The truth about Annie shows more about the way people interact with each other and how stories often not what they seem. I like the story of Annie. When everything connects I can understand Anya which another part I had figured out.

The reason for the lack of the fifth star was after the twist is revealed they changed nothing in the way he wrote him continuously instead of her during the climatic part. I don't believe that Teddy was able to make a decision as to who she is till the very end. It annoyed me very much. Looking back maybe it was to keep the child as is till the choice is made. Many clues lead up to the fact she was not happy being a boy. I did not like the religious, social and political issues that were added.

I thought the ending was sad but showed how life continues and changes wether we want it to or not.
I will be reading more from this author.

A History of Fear

 

2/5

Thank you Kennington for the free ARC.

I was so excited to read this, I was definitely let down.

Let me begin by saying this was not a book for me. I struggled to finish it. I would have DNF but I hate to do that and it's something I rarely do.

From the first page it was hard to keep my interest. As was the rest of the book. I found it long and tedious. Long winded. Nothing really happens. When there is a spot of action the author kills it. The concept was great. The location was great. The execution was not.

If that wasn't bad enough we then get thrown into a lot of issues that are political. Several times I was not happy with that. One of the reasons I read is to get away from all that.

I admit I am a hard person to scare, this book however will bore you to death.

The Watchmakers:

5/5

Thank you Kensington for the ARC.
Wow. It's amazing, the story was told and the research that was included. It was good to see what happened during and after the liberation of the camps.

Many times I had tears in my eyes as I read the cruelty Inflicted on others. The unbelievable cruelty. Just because someone was different. It was a good thing that Harry had his brothers and watchmaker skills to help survive.

The post war story also helped. It's good to see what happens after. It was good and didn't feel rushed or hurried. The afterword and research was done well.

An amazing story that needed to be told. May we learn from it.

The Children on the Hill

 

5/5

What a ride !!!
I did not want to put this book down. I did figure out the "twist" and was still an enjoyable read. I liked this book a lot better then her last. The Drowning Kind. It was scary In a different kind of way and I loved it. Loved some of the movies mentioned at well. It was a quick read that kept me interested.

Some of the scary part is that this could happen. Maybe a little far fetched. Eugenics is not something I can agree with, if you have read other reviews you know why. The main reason being I'm deaf. The POV that takes place in the 70's made me curious to the fact of who and why at this point in time.

The ending was perfect. It helped make the book. I did not realize the sprinkler system was found as early as it was. So I learned something new as well.

Definitely recommend this one.

Every Vow You Break

4/5

A little different from the Peter Swanson I'm used to reading. I liked it. Yeah, something may have been fantastical but it worked for me.
I have come to know this author for his writing. I have also come to know him for his great taste in book. This story, he talked more about some of the great movies I agree with, that are great. Midnight Lace one of my all time favorites. Vertigo yep, like that one too. I like also in this book Abigail dresses in a different fashion from times gone by. It works.

I have the the main parts figured out out but still enjoyed reading. Did he or didn't he ?? This was an interesting concept that was done a bit differently from others. The title is well matched to this book. I did like Abigail. She may be flawed but who isn't ?? The others played their part well.

All in all another great read from this author.

More Then You'll Ever Know

                                              


4/5
#giveaways #morethanyoulleverknow #goodreads #hapercollins

I want to say thank you Harper Collins and Goodreads for the ARC.

What did I think of this book ?? When I started the book right away I was drawn in. I liked her writing style and loved it was different.

We met two people who are entirely different but alike. The story of Lore had more of a Mexican flair. Her family was Mexican-American, and took place in several different areas that are both America and Mexico. The result was good. It was fresh, It was different. I will readily admit I had to look up many Hispanic words/phrases as I don't speak Spanish, if I could not get the meaning from the sentence or action. I learned a couple things and that can not be a bad thing. Even tho a lot of Lore's story takes place in the 80's I don't remember the events mentioned. I do remember Reagan and his economics.

We also met Cassie, she is a true crime buff and blogger. She is not Mexican and knows very little of the culture and language but she wants to use her skills to give Lore a voice in her own story. Cassie has little to no family but a great guy. She makes her money as a freelance writer who writes articles to different magazines. While researching Lore's story, she learns more about her self.
Both women have secrets that are life altering.

I was not sure how the author would handle the two marriages of Lore. I will say, it was very well done. Not overly done as a trashy romance, but a way you can understand. This was good for me. There were some times the story seemed to drag but it definitely picked up, a white knuckle ride during the third part. I was constantly wondering and guessing who did it ?? The answer was a twist but a good one that was believable. As it is being revealed, you know who it is. Cassie's secrets also become alive for all to know. She has to face her secrets and come what may do what is right for her. In the end, the author did it justice.

The story that was written by Cassie, does well, and stays true to herself as well as those involved. To me if the ending is bad it ruins the book, on the other hand if the story is bad and the ending is great it changed the story. The author did a great job at both the story and the ending. I enjoyed this book and had to read "just one more chapter".

This is an author I will continue to follow and read.

Books From So Long Ago

 

While visiting my youngest, my oldest and I went to a thrift store to look around. Of course I was drawn to the movies and books,  What I didn't see was the other side of the shelf. So as my oldest was looking at the shelf I did not see, I walked up to her. She asked me about a book for her oldest. The book in question was Summer of My German Solider by Bette Greene. Oh, wow, that brought back some interesting memories. I loved that book !!! I read it in middle school and still remember that book.  I told her I loved that book when I was younger and her oldest should like it as well. 

The one book brought back a lot of fondness for some books I have read. You, see, being diagnosed with dyslexia was probably one of the best things to happen to me. I never could understand, why I was so bad at math and reading, English. I just remember being confused a lot. What was being taught, I didn't get it. When I was diagnosed, they started eye challenges that would help me see things correctly. Big difference. Once you realize what the numbers are you can understand why and how the equations make more since. If 8-5=3 You first need to see the numbers correctly before you can understand this. It was the same with reading. My world opened up.

In third grade, a teacher Mrs. White who I still think of fondly, read to us. One of my favorite was All of a Kind Family by Sydney Taylor. I remember that whole series. I loved it.  I loved how the author made the Mom so very clever. Hiding buttons, using tea to dye a dress, making chores fun and games. I also remember Ramona and her family and stories where funny. I remember them and the Boing Boing curls.  I loved it when she read to us. Then I entered the fourth grade.

In fourth and fifth grade, reading was not the same. It was more for class work but we had reading groups and work about what we read. This is were I excelled. You would think, that such a reader would have  great spelling. This is not so. I loved reading, even tho it was in a reading group with a reading book. Not like that today, I can assure you. I loved reading and then answering the questions because I didn't feel so dumb then. You see, I was the girl with the glasses that didn't fit, clothes that didn't scream the recent fashion. It didn't help that I was shy and day dreaming all the time. When people say kids can be cruel the have not idea. Home was the kool aid house, but school was a different story.

In sixth grade, I had a great teacher, Mr. McConnill. Another of my favorite teachers. He is the one who introduced me to Job's Daughters. Thru him, I met two of friends that great. One who taught me about being Jewish. What she could or could not eat, what she could or could not do. Her friendship did last long because she moved. The other was Kim, who was Mr. McConnill's daughter. That friendship didn't last because we moved. That was the year, we went camping with the Job's Daughters. I really missed them and the Job's Daughters. Loved being a part of something that great. Still have the book and bethel number. 

We moved to the beach the summer before the seventh grade. Life truly changed. I knew no body and where we lived was what seemed like the boondocks. So we start again. seventh grade is the start of middle school here. So I started middle school with no friends or people I knew. It was hard. Again I was the girl with the glasses and clothes that were not in style. It was not fun, and I learned to grow a tough skin and not care about what people said about me or how they thought they were better. My shyness did not help nor did those moment when I would drift off into my own little world. I did eventually make so great friends. I also started my great path to reading more. 

Middle school I read, The Pinballs, Summer of My German Solider, The sequel Morning Is a Long Time Coming, Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory, along with it's sequel The Great Glass Elevator The Chronicles of Narnia, A Wrinkle in Time series and every Judy Blume book. These of course are only the ones I can remember reading. It was also at this point my dad was not thrilled with my reading or selection of reading material. 

Sometime during middles school, there was not a lot of books to read in the summer. I can't tell you how many times I read Grease the book. I read what I could get my hands on. Some of them were of course Harlequin Romance books. They were not my favorite, but better then nothing or what was not on TV. My dad, refused to pay for cable when it came out thinking it was just a passing fade, who would pay to watch TV ?? He always had control of the TV unless it was Saturday morning and we snuck to watch cartoons. My brother was in control then, but it was OK most of the time. My dad's saying was "if you don't like what's on the TV find something else to do" trust me to be one who challenged this by reading. During the day, my mom made us go outside and stay outside, and again I would be reading. This was also about the time I got a walkman, I started working around 13 yrs old. I bought the walkman with my money and used the Columbia House to rack in some tapes, as well and the flea market rip offs. Needless to say, my family was not a family of readers and my parents were actually very strict. 

In high school, my reading continued, both Library and literature or English. Here I read Shakespeare and loved it. I will say Romeo and Juliet is Not my favorite. I actually liked Macbeth and Much Ado About Nothing. Read Where the Red Fern Grows, Nancy Drew, VC Andrews. These are the teachers I remember best. I do not remember all the book they assigned, I do remember them being great teachers. It was also at this time the Library was participating in the Young Adult Book Awards. I read the list every year and voted. I remember Goodnight Mr. Tom, but others I can not recall. I do want to find the list and see if it jogs my memory. This was also when I got a job my sophomore year, because my home life was so strict. I was not allowed out past 11 on weekends and only allowed to go out Friday nights,(which were takin up by the band) or Saturday. I was not allowed out on a school night, unless I was working. Interestingly enough I had a bed time and it was 9 o'clock. Yeah, that still doesn't sit well with me. To hear my dad tell it, I was skipping school and have rendezvous' with my boyfriend or other things just as bad. To this day, there is not convincing him otherwise. I am the black sheep. What I was doing, was during early dismissal and usually going to work. One day Senior Cut day, I was going to pick up my prom dress for the next day, and got into a wreck. No one was hurt thankfully, I don't recall how he found out, but my boyfriend at the time was there with me. Anyways, for a bookworm like me, I chose to work.

I worked all thru high school at Dairy Queen. Loved that job and the people I worked with. The understood so much. They knew how strict my parents were and helped when they could. One of my friends from that time actually took me to get my drivers license. My job allowed me my independence. I did my homework and reading there when it was not busy. I took care of all my high school needs on my own. From yearbooks, band, fieldtrips to senior supplies. It was not long after high school, I moved out. Did not end really great, but I was not perfect. That is a whole other blog. Then life happened. 

It was not long after I moved out things did not go as planned, some good some bad. My dad still expected me to do things his way and only his way, never mind it was not his business. I will admit that I don't regret everything, and sometimes think about that timeframe and the marine I wanted to marry. How his life changed because of few things. I always wonder what happened to him. He was the most awesome boyfriend/fiancé there was, in my life. I have had boyfriends and they were great as well but they will never have my heart the way he did. I often wonder if things would have been different, if I would not have go down the path I did.*sigh*    Life went on, good and bad, my reading was at an all time low. I was young, out having fun, doing the wild things young people do. My wild phase. Then I had kids.

Time for reading was at an all time low, as life kept moving forward,  After the birth of my oldest, who was three month early, time flew like it usually does. I got married and settled down, got a house, car, job. As things settled I was able to read more. This started a reading period that I loved. I wrote down all I read as they were often re-released. I found Mary Higgins Clark, Nora Roberts, Amanda Quick, Phyllis Whitney, Leonard Goldberg, Tess Gerttisen, Iris Johanson,  and many others. I was able to read so much on the job. I worked as a photographer at golf course. I worked at many different one since they were all a part of a big company. I didn't mind. In fact I loved that job as well, it also started my love for photography. If you have not been golfing or know what goes on, there is always a two wait as the golfers make the turn, meaning going from the last 9, to the next 9. Then another two hours to finish if everyone is playing at a good speed. So I was able to read a lot. This is when I read the original copy of The Notebook by Nicholas Sparks. It had just came out, new writer. I cried so hard at the end of that book, one of my all time favorites. Before it became what it is today. I even lent my book to my friend and told her to read it, it was so good. She never did until it became popular and asked if I had read it. Yeah. I bought another first edition and when he came here he signed it. I have the movie and several books signed by him. What makes me like him even more, he is a totally nice guy that is down to Earth. 

I left to golf course for two reason, the money was getting worse and I didn't want to be out there in another cold winter. I became a substitute teacher, then teachers aid. Then surprise. I'm pregnant with number two. When school ended, I could not work anymore because of the issues with the oldest. So I decided to watch some kids for extra money. Made sure they had books to read as we had reading time, wanted to teach them to enjoy reading. This was great reading for me as well. Had my baby number two and kept reading, and read to her as well. Life was busy but good. Reading was a happy thing and my hall was lined up with books. I got divorced, met a new man, and woke up with a chronic illness.

At this point I was working at the roller rink with my sister. Not for the faint of heart. The job was good, I worked the kids. Summer camp and after school camp. I was able to bring the then baby to work and all was good, and along with my reading my photography was starting to do pretty well. I was going to shows and winning awards. I was published is many books. Hotel had picked my photography to sell at there hotel. Things were going good. Decided to open my own studio. Girls were happy and healthy. Life was going great. we would go on adventures to photograph. Then came the car accident. It was not a huge accident someone ran into me at a stop light. The light was and she didn't know to stop or at least that's what she said to the cop. Life is never straight, you have twists and turns. Life decided to throw me a couple of curve balls. I got divorced, not a bad thing, I was really angry a lot while married to him, and he was not happy and drinking all the time. My sister sold the business and I was working as a reservationist at a hotel, another job I liked. It was part time but then went full time. Full time meant insurance and benefits. It was after the accident, my health declined, but was talking to my now husband on the myspace chat room. First came the back surgery.  I had a ruptured disk and it was very painful. I was lucky the doctor did not play around and actually did the surgery. Then I met in person the guy I was talking to on myspace. We then decided to extend his trip as he missed to plane. Not long after that, I started having weird episodes of dizziness and horrible horrible vertigo without moving. I was reconfirmed the diagnoses with Meniere's Disease. I wish this on no one, not even my worst enemy. I often had to call the bf to pick me up from work because to the attacks' of vertigo. As you can imagine, I lost my job. I can see their point in one way because it does make you look drunk or drugged out. As the disease got worse so did the treatment. Nothing was working. Then I found a great neurologist. He found not only a severe case of Meniere's, but Vestibular migraines they mimic Meniere's, BPPV, and nystagmus. My balance is not great. This then sent me to an Otolaryngologist. He gave me more hope then others, and by the time I got to him, it was apparent the damage was so bad I was deaf in one ear and HOH in the other. Not good, but after about 10 years of hell on earth I am now fully deaf and doing better. During this time I would be in the bed more often then not but not able to focus. So reading was not a good thing, and when I did try to read, I was get dizzy and have to stop. 

Life again is better,  it's not perfect and still has many flaws. I lost many, friends and some family during this time. I also lost my photography for awhile as well. Restarting your business twice is not easy but I am not stressing it. I like my macro photography, I may have to rearrange my photography being deaf. I can read again and do so a lot. Being deaf actually helps. I am fluent in ASL and very involved with my deaf community. I am now married to the guy I met, my girls are married and happy. I often think of my life in chapters, in a book, with no ending yet. Reading has always been a good thing and I often learn more then I expect. 

I have/am building a library for my many books I have now, and can't wait to read. I also love the giveaways on Goodreads. My page if you want to check it out. https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/100823654-teresa-pierce

Now, my quest is this, finding some of the books I read and liked in my younger days, the happy memories they brought me, and the place I went. So far I have found The Pinballs, Chronicles of Narnia,  Summer of My German Solider(not the daughters copy), Goodnight Mr. Tom, and Send in the Clowns.  Found Grease. 

The Replacement Wife

 

4/5

Really enjoyed this read. No fancy twists and turns but some interesting gas lighting.

This story flowed really well, and keep me interested. By the end of the story, you pretty guess what's going on. It's not a bad thing. What happens you can understand the why.

I liked the characters as the should be. Josh well, we all know that one Josh. If my husband treated me as Harris did Alisa I would be doing some rearranging of locks, alarms and other things. Through out the story you wonder about Rachel.

Liked the ending. Went well with the story. Will more from her.

The Happiest Man on Earth

 

5/5
I have a new friend, his name is Eddie Jaku.

This was a very inspirational read. It is a few hours of reading but so much of is about the positive in his life. It's not a graphic book. Eddie recounts events in his life before during and after the Holocaust. The positive view of his life, is truly amazing. He teaches the value of family, friends, and the importance of being happy. Counting your blessings.

I have read reviews about how this book is not realistic or a new view of a historical event. Well, maybe they did not understand the message of the book. This man lives through many horrors that I can not imagine and instead of being bitter and full of hate he decides to live and be the happiest man on earth. I am sure he had his bad moments and pain from his loss. He spends that pain into educating people of the horrors. These are the stories that need to be told. They need to be remembered.

Definitely a favorite read.

Update:
I wanted to learn more, and looked for his video that was listed in the book. The one he mentions is not CC so I was unable to see that one, but did see a different one. It was very similar to the book. As I was searching, I found out sadly he has passed away at the age of 101. He passed on October 12, 2021. RIP my friend.

"People die. Menschen sterben
Flowers wilt. Blumen welken
Iron and steel break. Eisen und stahl bricht
But not our friendship". Aber unsere frundshaft nicht

Daughters of the Resistance

2/5
The more I read this story the more I disliked it. Everyone I liked pretty much dies. Stalin was just as bad as Hitler if not worse, yet it's painted as sunshine and gummy bears. I would have stopped reading this book but only had a few chapters to go.
Let's start with the characters. I disliked them. I didn't find the them smart or strong or even realistic. Irina can't seem to let anyone including herself grow up. Has to be attached to her husband 24/7 during a freaking war with. Two year old that she's still breastfeeding. There is no reason to remark on this as often. Especially when she's pregnant again. The child was to old but even the whole breastfeeding wasn't needed in the story. Then she moves to the camp of patiaisns with the two year old breastfeeding child who she constantly puts in danger. Really ?!? She refuses to actually stay in a safe place because she must be tied to her husband's hip through everything. Then when he needs her, all she does is freaking complain. She unfriends her best friend for turning in her parents in law, during a Nazi interrogation but when her husband turns in the whole camp she sees it as a different situation which she then tries to defend him. Poor friend.

Then we have Lisa, who was saved, along with her friend, from a train headed to Germany. Lisa who is also in love with Irina's husband and wants to be where he is as well. What is about this guy ?? He doesn't lead her on and trains her to shoot. Which she seems to do well but only a couple of times. Lisa when saves joins the partisans and as soon as she's there works very hard in the kitchen cooking, cleaning and potato peeling. Which when Irena joins she has no chores nor skills taught. I was ok with Lisa, and her spoiled not so bright self, till it became Lisa helps Irena and family. Third wheel kinda thing. She is spoiled and very used to having her own way and just wants to also be with Maxim, the husband, but learns he loves his family and wife. Again never mind there is a freaking war going on.

Needless to say, I was not impressed by this book. The twist, felt out of place and choppy. Sorry but this was just if if those that was not for me.

The Pages

2/5

I wanted to throw this book across the room. I didn't as it's a library book. Oh my goodness.

I liked the premise of the book. The story is told from
The books point of view. That grabbed my attention. It started off great. Then downhill it went.

I did not like any of the characters except Armin. I found Lena to be weak and thoughtless. And at times not to smart.

The story becomes long and drawn out. There is actually three different stories going on and at times even more. We see the author's, The professor's, the grandfather's and Lena's. They switch back and forth and often loose the books point of view.

What angered me the most ?? The ending. It takes to the very end for them to see what was buried many years ago. When they do, it seems they don't realize what was found. We the readers knew early on what it was and the why.

I hate to judge a book so harshly, this was just not a good book. Maybe if I liked the characters or the long drawn out story, I would have judged differently.

The French Gift

4/5

Loved this book, but wanted to take my time before writing my review.
Why ?? When all was revealed it felt the revelation was circumstantial. It felt as if it was only one possibility. Even after rereading it. I did feel better afterwards and i never guessed who. Everything added up and made sense.

The story was truly incredible. I loved the characters and their strength. Both past and present. It would have been nice to know what happened to some of the other characters like Mueller, and to know more about others. Even better that the book was based on a real person. This is a story that needed to be told.

From the first page I was drawn in and did not want to stop reading. I had a need through to book to find out who, but as the story progresses I was asking how. I was wondering seeing if the author was gonna leave us hanging. She did not. In both the past and in the present I felt the did the story well. Evie decided to do what was best for the amazing story she and Cement have been researching and wanting to honor Josephine and Margot. They did well. As Hugo said it needs to be shared because so little about the resistance, prison, and factory was know, Especially women.

Overall I highly recommend this book. The answers will surprise you.

The Pilot's Daughter

 

4/5

Trigger warning: domestic violence.

This book had a unique setting. Reporter in the 1940s searches for information and clues about a crime/murder In the 1920s. While also searching for answers on her on mystery in the 1940s. Ellie seeks answers about her father who is declared MIA, which leads to a murder from the past. I wasn't sure what to expect to be honest but I liked it. I liked if for many reasons but one of which it shows how far women have came since the 20s. Even In the 40s it was hard to be a woman, especially an unmarried one.

I liked the characters. They had growth. They even had strength. They felt real and genuine. Learning from past mistakes, changes the outlook of others. I don't know if I could have handled both issues in both time lines. I think the author did a good job with the characters and the settings. Very intriguing. Very unique. Very well done.

It was a fast read for me. Once I started it flowed really well and I did not want to but it down. It didn't take long to finish this book. Definitely will be watching out for her new one.

Nine Lives

                                                    

                                                 


5/5
Well played Mr. Swanson. Well played. Needless to say I really enjoyed this book. Like his others it was hard to put down and I kept wanting to know Who and Why ??

The story moved pretty quickly and kept me guessing. The two Agatha Christie books I thought were actually one and I should have known.

The characters were great, some I disliked while others were well liked. There was diversity, I would love to see a deaf character in one of his books. The ending was well done and tied everything up. The POV from each person was not confusing as some have mentioned in their reviews. I thought it was great to see who thought what.

And as always the great use of other great writers in his books. We all know Agatha Christie, but he always pulls in more posts and authors. A great thing I like about his books.

I definitely recommend this one. The twist is not huge but well done and I liked it. Liked the story and did not guess who done it.

Another great read from Peter Swanson. I look forward to his next.

Book of Cold Cases

4/5

I enjoyed this one, Loved the ghostly feel and the cliff.
Simone St. James is one of my favorite authors. I will say I liked this a bit better then Sun Down Motel but not as good as Broken Girls. I know there are reviews who did not understand why the who dun it was revealed so early in the book, and not the end. To me this was the right way to go.

I did identify with Beth when it came to her family, family can be hurtful without knowing or caring. I liked the characters and the fact Shea showed some real growth. That took a lot for her, but you can not live in the past.

The house and cliffs proved to be the perfect setting for this one. I liked it. Loved the story and the back story. I did guess some and did not guess others. So many good things to say about this one, waiting patiently for the next one.

The Lost Village

 

4/5

I was skeptical of reading this as it was compared to The Blair Witch Movie. I will freely admit I do not like that movie in any shape or form. When I see movies that have the same, "backwards filming of me" I will not watch it. So I was not expecting to like this as much as I did.

First I liked the idea. Two of the descendants from this village go back to find out what happened to the people that just disappeared into thin air. There were some plot holes of course but still made for a good story.

I liked the characters for the most part. Each has a flaw but they do bring something to the table. I believe Gitta probably was Autistic or have some form of Autism. What happens to her is enough to actually bring on the ghosts. The village is in Sweden, which is different, and very isolated. It had all the spooky vibes for the most part. I also liked how grandma did her research. Just from that you can gain some perspective of the preacher, and quesadillas to why no one every thought to verify this guy. From there you can gather it had a cult like feeling as well. It keeps you asking where did they go ?? Where could they have gone ?? No Blair Witch feel for me. So that was a good thing.

I liked how it was explained and pretty much tied up. Again I know there were several plot holes, and I did have more questions that was not answered. But overall the ending was good. Towards the ends you can figure things out. Just wanted more of the ending. At least from the documentary aspect of it.

All in all an enjoyable read keep me interested.

Night Shift

 

4/5

Interesting story that moves at a great pace. Kept my interested, and tho I figured out most of it I did not figure out all of it. Kept me guessing through out the story.

Liked the characters, and Atticus was my favorite. Did not like what happens to him. The lead was a pregnant agent which I don't know how realistic it is for to working as she was.

Loved the whole Blockbuster setting from the movies to the decor. Brought back some good memories.

The Priest

4/5
rounded up

I was not sure about this book, something about the feel of it.

It was not a bad book, I know the story, and still the feel of it just doesn't feel like it should. I have read some of her other books and not had a problem. I even had to look a thing up or two, which is good that I learned from it. I even learned more about Aaron.

With Easter coming, this is a good read. I always watch the movie The Ten Commandments. It was something we used to do with our mom. The book does go with the bible pretty well, and I know the author added some to make it more fictional. The movie and the book seem to do well with that. They also differ as well. Moses' story is pretty well known, but not so much with Aaron. We see how well they work together and how much they do together thru God. I always found it sad, Moses never entered the promised land, but I will admit, I did not know about Aaron.

I still feel the story is important and needs to be shared. This author does a great job of writing stories. I will read others from her. Maybe this one was just a me thing or a fluke. Maybe I need to reread it. Either way, this is going to stay with me. That is not a bad thing.

When Twilight Breaks

 

5/5
I really thoroughly enjoyed this book.

This is my first Sarah Sundin book but it will not be my last. This is a story of prewar Germany, but more about those whole do the right thing and choose to place others before themselves.

The main characters I liked. Evelyn was a spunky go get'em reporter that you can't help but like and pull for her. Peter is definitely a guy you could Overlook if you didn't really pay attention to him. I enjoyed these two together as the complement each other. I do wonder, did Americans read any articles like hers ?? Could we have to accept Jewish refugees ??

The story moved along at a good pace and had some moments you cheered our hero's on. His quickly things happened was interesting. But what I looked most is the how she enter weaved some prayers and thankfulness to the Lord and their faith. The ending was well done as well. Answered most questions tho I would have liked to have known a bit more of their friends in Germany.

I would definitely recommend this book. Well worth the read.

The Shoebox: A Christmas Story

4/5
Blessings or burdens, all given to God.

This was the theme of this very short story. Loved the story and how Jesus and Timmy share many "things". Very quick read, and easy to read. However, the parts with cursive and recipes seemed a bit out of place and a bit harder to read. Didn't really get into why the there in the book, I understood why the chocolate chip cookies but not so much the others. Made it seem a bit out of place or choppy.

I understand the Give it to God, I keep a blessing jar most years. It is amazing how quickly the jar fills up. I now may add prayers like the author. Then reread them like I do with my blessings.

Defiantly worth the read.

The Paris Apartment

                                               

3/5
Quick easy read.

This book, was quick and easy, read. I did like it better then the Guest List.

I liked the story well enough, and the characters were ok. I did figure out a lot it, but not all of the who done it. I felt the story came together very well, and the topic an important one. Love that it took place in France, different then most who are either England or America, not that I am complaining about either country.

So why the three stars ?? The sex scenes, sorry, but it was not needed and thought it to be a turn off for the book. I really did not need to know some of the scenes as they were understood without them.

Other then that, the book was a good one, kept me interested. The very end was nice but no so much believable but nice.

Last Call at the Nightingale

4/5

Thank you Macmillan books for the ARK.

I really enjoyed this one. Nice mystery storyline and a great cast of characters.

The characters helped make this book good. They were very diverse and very likable. A Chinese man, a African American woman and best friend, and a boss woman who knows how to things done. Vivian is very likable and uses her talents to investigate a murder. Along the way we meet others who reflect some of that times challenges.

They storyline is a enjoyable and moves along pretty well. Keeps you guessing till the end. I admit I did not figure this one out. I did expect a little bit more. But this could be an opening for a series.

All in all a good read.

The Hidden Child

3/5

Rounded up to 3.5
Not a three star nor a four but in the middle. While I liked the story well enough I felt it dragged a bit. I also feel she left out a major player in the eugenics game.

The story takes place in England, and about a little girl with epilepsy. A severe case, in fact. The story was good and had very on point research. Which baffles me why she did not mention A. G. Bell. It's sad that people can not accept others with they're disabilities, which most have no rhyme or reason. They did not cause the disability.

I liked Mabel and pulled for her through out the entire story. Edward and Eleanor where infuriating at times. Edward with his my way is the only way, belittling people and Eleanor seems to clueless. They did show some growth, finally realizing need to be different. In the end they finally mature and do what need to be done.

The ending or twist in the story, I actually liked. The one you thought was and really gonna hurt Mabel turns out to be a good guy.

How can you leave out the inventor of the telephone ?? I know it was more about Epilepsy, but this was important too. A short course on deaf history and the inventor of of the phone Mr. A. G. Bell.

A. G. Bell was very huge with the eugenics, especially towards the deaf. He is the reason we almost lost our sign language and our culture. He published a booklet and issued a warning, He believed a "deaf race" was underway. He stated deaf people were forming clubs, socializing with one another and worst of all marry deaf. He believed that deaf should not marry for fear of reproducing more deaf. Deaf should not marry deaf, that was a huge. If they did marry he thought they should be sterilized.

Bell used his influence to change deaf schools. He thought deaf should be oral and not use sign language. He knew how to sign, if needed, but wanted deaf to read lips and voice. This almost worked. Sign language was not being taught and those using it was punished. What happened, during breaks and lunches, the kids still signed to one another. Oralism was not for everyone. Irony of it all ?? His mom and wife were deaf. I will also say I am impressed with his wife who was fluent orally in several languages.

All the Beautiful Lies

5/5
"The world is chaos, and then a detective comes along and restores order.

 Or he doesn't, and that's really my favorite kind
of mystery story."

Another awesome read from Peter Swanson. This is my second book from him and I was not disappointed. It was a good story with very intriguing twists.

One of the things I am finding I like about his books is the research or how well read he is with older mysteries. Agatha Christie being one of my favorites. He goes further then that, he brought Lace from the 80's which was 'a everyone was reading'. Who can forget that ?? He does go further back and some you'll know others you won't. I love that there is a love of books, mostly mysteries.

Harry my not be the book expert, his father was. Harry was likable and we all probably knew someone like him. Alice now there is a character you might want to think twice about.

The story kept me interested the whole way through. I did not want to put it down. It moved a a good pace and was an enjoyable read. I will admit I loved the ending. That's what gave it the fifth star.

All the Best Liars

5/5

Thank you, Flat Iron Books for the ARC copy.
Ah, such a guilty pleasure

The story is similar to a lifetime movie. This is not a bad thing. It's one of my guilty pleasures. Kept me Interested, and moved at a good pace.

I did not realize this was a young adult book. I have read some and had luck with them but normally I don't pick out young adult books. I wasn't sure what to expect, tho I was pleasantly surprised with this one. It's a bit of a slow burner. Not so slow to ruin the story. I'm glad I'm not in high school anymore. I'm sure a bit was added for entertainment value.

The characters, definitely unique and loved they were different. Both academically and personalities. I liked Sydney and Spider best of all. They stood together and were close. Siblings can be aggravating but it's always a good thing when you n count in them when the chips are down.

I did like the ending and a twist or two. Not a typical ending but a right one for this book and actually could lead to a second one.

Definitely enjoyed this one.

The Maker of Swans

3/5

Thank you Tin House for the ARC copy of the book.
This book was a roller coaster. I felt much of the story got lost, questions were not answered, and at times confusing.

When I started this book, I was angry. The author spends like two pages on the fact this person is used to running, but then goes off on another story line without warning. I had to set the book aside because of this. Then pick it back up later. Thinking I should give the book another chance.

I liked the characters for the most part. I felt the development of this characters were not the greatest. We see them change, then it opens up more questions that are not answered.

The story, what there is of it, tends to be overshadowed by the writing. The timeline switches so quickly sometimes you are completely lost as to what is happening. This causes some confusion is couple places. Some parts he is very long winded.

I felt when the story finally gets moving and you're wondering and at the edge of your seat, it changes. Leaving you let down. At the end you see how these all come together. I was left with more questions then answers. Once you get past all that, the story is actually pretty good.

The Perfect Ruin

3/5

This was definitely and an odd book. Lot of cat and mouse.
I not sure how I felt about the characters, I did not feel any great connection with any of them. I thought the main character Ivy, could have been developed a little bit more instead of just being somewhat of a childish girl.

I have some problem with the believable. She looks up the woman on the internet and bam finds her. Well, yeah, I suppose that would happen, but how did she know which Lola Maxwell ?? I am sure more then one showed up. Lola, was to much as well. realistically she would have done research on anyone doing her charity work. Furthermore, Ivy's shrink really needed to step up.

Then you have to wait so long to find out what was so bad to have Ivy like this. I pretty much guessed it. The whole truth seemed to get lost. For what ?? Money. Just seemed a little beyond belief that so many knew the secret yet, it stayed a secret.

The saving grace of this book was the final who played who. That's the best thing about this book. I also like, how almost at the end she the way she reveals she is actually African American. Not that it changed my mind on what I felt for the characters but I did think that it did make some interesting revelations.

All in all, It was an ok read, not the greatest. Left me let down

The Hidden

4/5

This was an easy read, not complicated or a lot of twists.
I enjoyed reading this, It had the elements of a good book. Some Scottish legends of the Selke folk that I really liked how it was done. I thought it was a crazy girl talking weird things, but not all is as it seems. The story very interesting. I have not read her books before but I think I will read more from her.

I will say I was not fond of the main character Jo Harper. I thought her to be annoying and not a friendly or happy person. I did want to learn more about her, and what happened. Maybe this would have changed my opinion of her. I did like Ruby. Through all her struggles she still has a big heart. She does the right thing. even if it seems like its the crazy thing.

A solid read, with an interesting storyline and an easy twist or two, not so many to confuse you.

House of Salt and Sorrows

5/5

I really enjoyed this book. Kinda a retelling of the 12 dancing princesses, mixed with other ghostly and mythical parts.
I liked our main character. Just wished she would have been a little braver in some parts but all in all she's a good sister and loves her family.

The setting is interesting and I would love to visit Old Maud. Loved to go to The Churning as it sounded fascinating.

The author kept me interested and I didn't want to put this book down. Not usually a YA reader but I did like this one.

Very unique and well done

Twenty Years Later

4/5

Definitely a slow burn but a good one. Couple twists I did not see coming.
I liked the unique premise of the book. The author did a good job with this story. I admit I was starting to get a little angry at a part of the book. Then the twist. Delightful. A happy twist.

I Peg Perugo is the equivalent of Eve Plum. I did like the characters. I liked the story.

All in all a good book.

The Stolen Lady

3/5

I wanted to really like this book. I wanted to dive in and stay there. Didn't happen. Nothing really happens.
The story could have been better. The ending was such a disappointment. I may have been ok with the ending of the story or stories had they been better or vise versa. It felt like a chore to read it at times.

The reason for the three stars ?? Believe it if not was because of the characters. They were likable for the most part and the author did her research.

This was the second book from this author, I wanted to see it maybe the first one was just a hit or miss type thing. Sadly both books fell short of my expectations. 

Betty and Friends

5/5

I loved it !!! What can I say ??

It was a quick easy read that kept me smiling. I read it in Betty White's voice. As if you we needed another reason to love her this was it. Her love and compassion for animals is truly heartwarming. You can see her humor and wit shine through.

The photography is wonderful. She mentions one even won an award. All the photos were taken at different zoos, as she went to one whenever she was shooting or living near by.

I loved getting to see this side of Betty White. I knew she was an animal lover but this shows it.

Happy Birthday Betty White. Rest Easy.

We Were Never There

4/5

Nice easy read, enjoyed it very much.
Kept me interested and and wanting to know who did what, and who was really the good guy vs the bad guy. I had my theories but I like what she did with the story. It was a different type of mystery and I liked that.

The characters, they kept me guessing and wondering, who ?? Are they lying ?? What really happened ?? So many questions. Most were answered and several I thought were important were not, this is the reason for the lack of the fifth star.

In the end, it makes you wonder, did anybody learn anything ???

This my first book from this author and I will read more from her.

The Girl From Rawblood

3/5

Rounded up to 3.5

This was a hard one to rate. The story was good. Loved the creepy, gothic, ghost story. What I did not like was some of the long, long narration from some points of view.

The Points of view I think were important and interesting. Some parts were just too long and too English, from older times. Tho I'm not sure if they talked like this. It took much longer to read. I felt it did not add to the story. Many reviews say the first half was the better half, I think the second half was better. Narration was shorter and on point.

I felt for Iris. From beginning to end of the book. The author did a wonderful job of combining the story and making it all tie together. Tho I did have a few questions. Some biased on assumptions rather then fact. As for the story it had a little bit of everything really. Love, hate and everything in between. I will add a trigger warning for several things.

This was a good story, great characters, creepy ghost story.

Signs of Survival

4/5

When I ordered this book I thought it may be a wee bit different then what it was.
The story about two sisters one deaf. Told from two viewpoints or two different voices. One of each sister.

Definitely written for a younger audience. Not violent but informative. Thought they would also use more sign language. They did not include the T4 l program either. This may be they didn't know. The last chapter should have explained T4.

The book is a quick read. Read it under an hour. Stayed interested. Good for younger readers.

Once Upon a Wardrobe

5/5

Once upon a wardrobe, not very long ago, And not very far away.

I'm not crying.

Let me start by saying The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe is/has been on of my all time favorites. Even if you didn't read or maybe not a fan, I still recommend you read this book.

Checked several of the facts written in this story and they were definitely all true. I also read the afterword from C. S. Lewis' stepson. All very interesting, and informative. Now I also would like to add to my reading list. I also want to reread the series.

This story just pulls you in and keeps you wanting to stay. I didn't want to put the book down. You knew what was going to happen but when it does you can understand a bit more.

Loved all the characters. Loved the story.
Truly a wonderful book and my first favorite for 2022.