My Book Reviews

Category: Contemporary

This category contains any posts published in reference to books of Contemporary genre.

  • Secrets In The Mirror by Leslie Kain

    Secrets In The Mirror by Leslie Kain

    Secrets In The Mirror

    Secrets In The Mirror by Leslie Kain

    Release: September 13, 2022
    Format: Ebook
    Publisher: Atmosphere Press
    Source: Suzyapproved Book Tours
    Find it at Goodreads, Amazon, Kindle, B&N

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    Family. The same people who destroyed Gavin’s self-esteem are the ones he must save.

    When Gavin looks in the mirror, he sees his twin Devon ― literally. Yet like the mirror, inside, they are the reverse of each other. Devon is the chosen one, anointed by their demanding Mob-connected father, who demeans Gavin as a nerd but expects him to save his brother from his worst instincts. Gavin struggles to believe in himself and make his own decisions in the face of Dad’s bullying and Devon’s narcissistic gaslighting. When Devon gets into drugs and crime, people start dying. Gavin’s loyal allies tell him he can’t save his twin; he must save himself. He flees to find freedom and success far away, but he can’t hide from his sociopathic brother or the Mob.

    Secrets In The Mirror is a sweeping saga of one family’s journey to rise above cultural precedent. But Gavin is the one who must finally break the shackles of multigenerational and narcissistic abuse, despite inextricable bonds with a twin who’s headed for self-destruction. It is a tale that grapples with the imperative to save others versus the struggle to protect oneself.

    About the Author:

    Leslie Kain earned her degree in psychology at Wellesley College, then worked at McLean Hospital for two years. But supporting children demanded a more significant income, so she got her MBA at Boston University and began a career doing business development in bleeding edge high tech and Intelligence. Once her kids were somewhat self-sufficient, she returned to her passion, serving as a director in nonprofits (NAMI, CHADD), focusing on mental health. Having written “nonfiction” (technical, scientific, marketing) during her varied careers, she surprised herself when she attempted fiction. She turned to novels with several short stories published in literary journals and an anthology. She brings her passion for psychology to levels of inner conflict and resolution. Originally from “all over” the U.S., she now resides in Mexico with her husband and cat Sheba (her writing muse)

    Website | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Goodreads

    Secrets In The Mirror Review:

    Oh, my goodness! “Secrets In The Mirror” is a remarkable story with strong, contrasting leads that hooked me to the storyline.

    Let me start by saying that I loved stories with twins. The author does a fantastic job in writing Gavin and Devon. As soon as the tale absorbs you, you feel so protective towards Gavin and despise Devon with a passion. I loved Gavin, and he was the star of the show. He goes out of his way to care for everyone around him, even though everyone tells him to focus on himself. Some of my favorite moments are the moments with him and Katie, his graduation, and the love he shares for his mother.

    Similarly, Devon is just nasty to the core, and you wonder what havoc he would wreak as he is not mentally stable. The author writes their personality so well that you worry about what Devon would do to sabotage Gavin and hope that Gavin will not turn sour just like him. The supporting characters, like their parents, also had a dramatic role, and I was not too fond of Tony. However, that is not to say that the characters are one-dimensional. The author surprisingly adds different tones to each character, and I felt even a bit sorry for Devon.

    Moreover, the author gave me a lot to think about regarding Narcissistic personality disorder, and I realized that I know people in reality who display this personality (albeit not as strongly as Devon). The author adds in many passages, especially in the beginning, when we hear from Dr. Epstein about the various causes and side effects, that made me fascinated on the topic.

    Overall, “Secrets In The Mirror” was a story I don’t think I will forget anytime soon, and I loved it!

    Book Tour Schedule

    Secrets In The Mirror

    I am thrilled to be hosting a spot on Secrets In The Mirror by Leslie Kain Blog Tour hosted by Suzyapproved Book Tours. Check out my post, and make sure to enter the giveaway!

     

  • The Mensch by Leopold Borstinski

    The Mensch by Leopold Borstinski

    The Mensch

    The Mensch by Leopold Borstinski

    Release: 12th August 2022
    Format: Ebook
    Publisher: Sobriety Press
    Source: Zooloos Book Tours
    Find it at: Goodreads, Amazon

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    How can a crooked man ever go straight?

    Jewish gangster Alex Cohen settles in Florida surrounded by his wife and family. But his past life in the criminal underworld stalks his every move. And when a bullet whizzes past his ear, he must decide whether to run or fight.

    In his desire to go straight, Alex inserts himself in the East Coast porn film industry. But he finds that the tentacles of the mob are clasped tight around his life.  The Feds start using new laws to hunt down mob bosses. And rats in his organization are too ready to testify against him. Now Alex must clean the house before the authorities throw him in jail or the mob kills him to stop him from ratting them out.

    The seventh book in the Alex Cohen series is a historical thriller novel that reveals the dying embers of Jewish organized crime in America. Leopold Borstinski’s crime fiction shines a light on the death of the old-style mob in an explosive finale.

    About the Author:

    Leopold Borstinski is an independent author whose past careers have included financial journalism, business management of financial software companies, consulting and product sales and marketing, and teaching.

    There is nothing he likes better, so he does as much nothing as he possibly can. He has traveled extensively in Europe and the US and has visited Asia on several occasions. Leopold holds a Philosophy degree and tries not to drop it too often. He lives near London and is married to one wife, one child, and no pets.

    Website | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Goodreads

    The Mensch Review:

    “The Mensch” is one of those books I wish I had read right from the beginning instead of picking up the 7th book to read first. Even though I have not read most of the previous books, I immediately liked Alex as the lead. He is by no means perfect, but it was interesting to see how he tries to become a better man and do things legitimately, only to backfire on him. I enjoyed his scenes with Sarah and their relationship, even when others like Liddy come into the picture. Moreover, it was interesting to see how Alex balances the business between Ezra and Massimo versus David and Moishe. The author wrote the family dynamics nicely, and I wondered how long Ezra and Massimo would be patient with Alex until they snapped.

    Moreover, I enjoyed some sub-plots, particularly the new business Alex finds himself in with Mort and when Richard comes into the picture. The author has a friendly style of writing the character’s conversations. We also get some action-packed moments where Alex fears for his life, and we wonder what will happen to him. There was not a dull moment in the story.

    However, the only concern I had with the story is how it somewhat changed gears now and then. For instance, in the beginning, the plot focuses on Alex and Mort, [then switches gears to Meyer and Israel, and then takes another tangent on Richard. It would have been nice if these plots somehow connected to a bigger picture.

    Nevertheless, I enjoyed reading “The Mensch,” and I hope the author writes more books with Alex Cohen.

    Book Tour Schedule

    The Mensch

    I am thrilled to be hosting a spot on The Mensch by Leopold Borstinski Blog Tour hosted by Zooloos Book Tours. 

     

  • Flipping Forward Twisting Backward by Alma Fullerton

    Flipping Forward Twisting Backward by Alma Fullerton

    Flipping Forward Twisting Backward

    Flipping Forward Twisting Backward by Alma Fullerton

    Release: August 2, 2022
    Format: Ebook
    Publisher: Peachtree
    Source: Rockstar Book Tours
    Find it at: Goodreads, Amazon, Kindle, B&N, iBooks, Kobo, TBD, Bookshop.org

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    A high-energy novel in verse starring a fifth grader who is almost as devoted to competitive gymnastics as she is to hiding her poor reading skills. What happens when Claire’s secret starts unraveling?

    Claire is by far the best gymnast on her team, and she’s well on her way to qualifying for the state championships. The gym is where Claire shines. But at school, she’s known as a troublemaker. She seems to spend more time in the office than in class—which is fine with her since it enables her to hide the fact that she can’t read. She has never been able to make sense of the wobbling jumble of letters on a page. No one except her BFF knows.

    But when a sympathetic principal wonders if Claire is acting out because she’s dyslexic, her mother balks. She’s afraid Claire will be labeled “stupid” and refuses testing. Claire has always assumed she’s dumb; she never imagined her reading problem could have a solution. Is she strong enough to take on both her reading challenges and her mother’s denial? Is it worth jeopardizing her spot in qualifiers?

    Told in clear and poignant verse and featuring black and white illustrations, Claire’s struggle with something that seems to come easily to everyone else will resonate with readers and have them cheering her on.

    About the Author:

    Alma Fullerton couldn’t read until she was in the fourth grade. Today she works with students who have learning disabilities. She is the author of several middle-grade and young adult novels that garnered acclaim and awards in her native Canada. Alma is also the author/illustrator of several picture books. She is on faculty with the Highlights Foundation for teaching novel in verse writing and is an RA for SCBWI’s Canada East region. 

    Website | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | TikTok | Goodreads | Amazon

    Flipping Forward Twisting Backward  Review:

    “Flipping Forward Twisting Backward” is a beautiful middle-grade novel because it focuses on how children suffer from learning disabilities, and I enjoyed how the author portrayed it.

    What I liked about the story is how realistic the author portrayed Claire and her family. Claire is adorable, and you can see how smart and energetic she is at everything, except when it comes to reading. I could understand her frustration and be rooting for her to get her needed help.

    The author also wrote about Claire’s family well, and it was interesting to see how each member reacted to Claire’s situation. As much as I got frustrated with Claire’s mother for not listening to her, I could understand why she acted that way. I liked the family dynamics, where Claire feels she cannot turn to her mother or father but has support from her sister Bethany. Bethany and Claire shared an incredible bond and were one of the highlights. The author also adds excellent references to famous people who also suffered from the same disabilities while growing up but went on to do great things. The story portrays not to get discouraged just because you perform differently from others.

    Similarly, I also liked the gymnastics element of the tale and how the author discourages bullying. The author also writes the story in a poetic manner, which makes the story stand out and fun to read. Sarah Mensinga also drew the illustrations beautifully, and I loved Claire’s expressions with her family and gymnastics performance.

    Overall, “Flipping Forward Twisting Backward” is a well-written middle-grade contemporary novel worth checking out.

    Giveaway:

    1 winner will receive a finished copy of FLIPPING FORWARD TWISTING BACKWARD, US Only.

    a Rafflecopter giveaway

    Flipping Forward Twisting Backward

    I am thrilled to be hosting a spot on the Flipping Forward Twisting Backward by Alma Fullerton Blog Tour hosted by Rockstar Book Tours. Check out my post, and make sure to enter the giveaway!

    Book Tour Schedule

    Week One:
    hodophile_z-IG Review-7-25-2022
    #BRVL Book Review Virginia Lee Blog-Excerpt-7-25-2022
    The Paperback Princess-Review/IG Post-7-26-2022
    Kait Plus Books-Excerpt/IG Post-7-26-2022
    One More Exclamation -Review/IG Post-7-27-2022
    Two Chicks on Books-Excerpt-7-27-2022
    Rajiv’s Reviews-Review/IG Post-7-28-2022
    BookHounds YA -Excerpt/IG Post-7-28-2022
    @just_another_mother_with_books-IG Review-7-29-2022
    @jaimerockstarbooktours-IG Post-7-29-2022

    Week Two:
    Strange Brew Reviews-Excerpt-8-1-2022
    Yabookscentral-Excerpt-8-1-2022
    GryffindorBookishNerd -Review/IG Post-8-2-2022
    celiamcmahonreads on insta-Review/IG Post-8-2-2022
    Little Red Reads-Review/IG Post-8-3-2022
    @enjoyingbooksagain-Review/IG Post-8-3-2022
    Two Points of Interest-Review/IG Post-8-4-2022
    Nerdophiles-Review/-8-4-2022
    A Backwards Story -Review/IG Post-8-5-2022
    The Momma Spot-Review/IG Post-8-5-2022

  • Dragonfly Escaping by Raya Khedker

    Dragonfly Escaping by Raya Khedker

    Dragonfly Escaping

    Dragonfly Escaping by Raya Khedker

    Release: March 11, 2022
    Format: Paperback
    Publisher: Bowker Identifier Services
    Source: Suzyapproved Book Tours
    Find it at Goodreads, Amazon, Kindle

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    DRAGONFLY ESCAPING is a tale of love, loss, heartbreak and healing which sweeps across two continents and three cultures. In it, Noor is a Hindu-Muslim half caste teen in India of 1980 who dreams of escaping the abuse and segregation that has robbed her innocence.

    In 1982, Sergio Santander is a Peruvian diplomat in his mid-thirties who has his own demons to outrun, when he proposes to Noor.

    Safe behind their facades, the couple has two infants before Sergio returns to Peru for a home posting. Here, their precarious balance is shattered by Sergio’s AIDS diagnosis.

    Noor is barely coping with the reality avalanching on her young shoulders, when her in-laws tell her to leave her children behind and return to India “where she belongs.”

    Furious, and more panicked by loss than ever in her life, Noor decides to fight back. But as alone as she is, can she win?

    About the Author:

    Raya Khedker was only three years old when she received her first writing inspiration, watching her father tie a thread to a dragonfly’s tail in the garden of their Calcutta home, then handing her the ensemble to fly like a live kite. Too young to discern the cruelty of this practice, Raya flew those dragonflies, mesmerized by the beauty and iridescence of their gossamer wings shining like precious jewels under the Indian sun, delighted by how those magical dragonflies were always within her control. 

    Decades later, those trapped dragonflies would become the heart of Raya’s debut novel, Dragonfly Escaping. Her biggest dream is to inspire women to recognize their untapped power, give it their all, and fulfill any goal they want. 

    Armed with a B.A. in Spanish Honors and an M.A. in Teaching, Raya has worked as an interpreter, a translator, teacher, private tutor, jail guard, and a seasonal farm laborer on different continents. At present, when she isn’t writing, she interprets and translates for federal and state courts in Massachusetts and Connecticut. 

     Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn

    Dragonfly Escaping Review:

    Click to view on Instagram

    “Dragonfly Escaping” is an emotional and powerful tale about a woman who tries to build a better life for herself and pursue happiness, no matter what challenges she faces, and I could not put it down!

    The story’s strong point is how the author describes the character’s emotions. As you read the book, you get strongly invested in the characters and feel how Noor feels towards them. Noor goes through a lot in this story, from molestation and abuse in India to insults and challenges in Lima. My heart went to Noor as she tried to do the right thing. There are characters like Uncle Robu and Nila, who I despised, and the author wrote the characters so well!

    Another aspect I loved about the story is the relationship between Noor and Sergio. The two are far from perfect, but the author wrote their scenes realistically and fluidly. As Noor describes, there are times when the two hate each other, but later, Noor finds something about Sergio that would make her change her mind about him. I haven’t read such a complex couple in a long time, and the author’s writing was mesmerizing. Additionally, Noor’s flashbacks with Didima made the story extra special, as no matter what faults Didima had, she always protected Noor till the end.

    Perhaps the only minor downside to the story was Jaime and Chirag’s characters. I was curious to know what happened to Chirag in the latter half of the story and Noor’s interaction with Jaime, but we don’t see much of them.

    Nevertheless, I found “Dragonfly Escaping: Noor’s Story” to be an excellent read! The story also ends in a way that makes you look forward to the next book to discover what happens to these characters, and I can’t wait!

    Book Tour Schedule

    Dragonfly Escaping

    I am thrilled to be hosting a spot on the Dragonfly Escaping by Raya Khedker Blog Tour hosted by Suzyapproved Book Tours.

     

     

  • My Sister’s Big Fat Indian Wedding by Sajni Patel

    My Sister’s Big Fat Indian Wedding by Sajni Patel

    My Sister's Big Fat Indian Wedding

    My Sister’s Big Fat Indian Wedding by Sajni Patel

    Release: April 19, 2022
    Format: Paperback
    Publisher: Amulet Books
    Source: TLC Book Tours
    Find it at Goodreads, Amazon, Kindle, Audible, B&N

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    A fresh, witty rom-com romp set against the backdrop of a high-profile music competition and a riotous Indian wedding

    Zurika Damani is a naturally gifted violinist with a particular love for hip-hop beats. But when you’re part of a big Indian family, everyone has expectations. And those certainly don’t include hip-hop violin. After Juilliard rejects her, Zuri’s last hope is a contest for which a panel of top-tier college scouts is judges. The only problem? This coveted competition happens to take place during Zuri’s sister’s extravagant wedding week. And Zuri has already been warned, repeatedly, that she is not to miss a single moment.

    In the midst of the chaos, Zuri’s mom is in matchmaking mode with the groom’s South African cousin Naveen. He just happens to be a cocky vocalist set on stealing Zuri’s spotlight at the scouting competition. Luckily Zuri has a crew of loud and loyal female cousins cheering her on. Now, all she has to do is to wow the judges for a top spot, evade her parents catching her, resist Naveen’s charms, and, oh yeah . . . not mess up her sister’s big fat Indian wedding. What could possibly go wrong?

    About the Author:

    Sajni Patel is the author of adult and YA debuts publishing in 2020.  Her publication including The Trouble with Hating You is the first of two women’s fiction titles with Grand Central/Forever. Fabulous early buzz has been building. Apple Books has selected it for their “10 Debuts to Read” in 2020, and Publishers Weekly has called it a “fast-paced romp of a debut . . . the cultural specificity Patel brings makes this rom-com feel fun and fresh.” Her YA debut, The Knockout, was published in January 2021 from Flux. She currently lives in Texas.

    Website | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Goodreads

    My Sister’s Big Fat Indian Wedding  Review:

    Click to view on Instagram

    “My Sister’s Big Fat Indian Wedding” is a beautiful young adult romance with an upbeat, festive feel, and I loved it.

    The first thing that struck me in the tale is the wholesomeness of Zuri’s family. Even though Neha gets on Zuri’s nerves, with her parents’ high expectations for her and Zuri doesn’t want to follow in her sister’s footsteps, Zuri shares a close bond with her family where they all support each other. I loved how the author portrayed the family angle.

    Secondly, I liked how the author made the story about Zuri and not an unnecessary romance between her and Naveen. While Zuri and Naveen share lovely chemistry, I appreciate how the author did not diverge the tale into an angsty love romance and focused on Zuri and the wedding. Naveen is also an interesting character, as you don’t know if he is trustworthy, particularly as he tries to psyche Zuri with the contest. However, he grew on me, and I found his South African background exotic.

    Thirdly, I adored how grand the author set up the backdrop. As an Indian, I loved how accurately the author depicted the life of the American Indian (or even Indian Wedding) tradition, cultures, and the grand festivities of an Indian wedding. Moreover, I also loved the supporting characters and was a guest at the Pranit-Maitri wedding. Krish was also one of my favorite characters, and I loved her protective nature towards Zuri. Even the tiny moments that Zuri shares with her Masi were heartwarming and something that resonated with me.

    Overall, “My Sister’s Big Fat Indian Wedding” is a fresh, young adult romance that I enjoyed reading, and I hope to read some of the author’s other works.

    Book Tour Schedule

    My Sister's Big Fat Indian Wedding

    I am thrilled to be hosting a spot on the My Sister’s Big Fat Indian Wedding by Sajni Patel Blog Tour hosted by TLC Book Tours. 

    Monday, April 18th: IG: @nerdybookmama
    Monday, April 18th: TT: @bookwormbullet
    Tuesday, April 19th: IG: @celiamcmahonreads
    Tuesday, April 19th: IG: @noorthebookworm
    Wednesday, April 20th: IG: @monikasbookblog
    Wednesday, April 20th: IG: @rajisreviews
    Thursday, April 21st: TT: @paperbackprince
    Thursday, April 21st: TT: @thelifeofbooks
    Friday, April 22nd: TT: @bookish_afrolatina and IG: @bookish_afrolatina
    Friday, April 22nd: TT: @thatblondebookworm
    Saturday, April 23rd: IG: @nsiabblog
    Monday, April 25th: IG: @brianas_best_reads
    Monday, April 25th: TT: @mamabeardteacher

  • Li Na is my name by Lisa Wee

    Li Na is my name by Lisa Wee

    Li Na is my name

    Li Na is my name by Lisa Wee

    Release: March 31, 2022
    Format: Paperback, eBook
    Publisher: Dixi Books Publishing
    Source: Rockstar Book Tours
    Find it at Goodreads, Amazon UK, TBD 

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    Do you get teased by others for being a weirdo, a geek, a nerd, or a bookworm? Friends, families, and neighbors around Li-Na felt it was affectionate to tease her for her not-so-girly hobbies and clothing. Li-Na is about a little girl who refused to be stereotyped. It is a story that encourages kids to be kids until they are ready to be who they want to be. Li Na Is My Name is a book that is as relevant then as it is now. Wishing Li Na’s spirit, grit, and resilience to all children. Love the way she stays true to herself. Let’s spread this so all children love themselves for just who they are.

    About the Author:

    Lisa Wee debuts as author/illustrator, “Li Na is my name, Dixi Books Publishing, UK. Dixi Books Publishing, UK.

    Lisa has illustrated several picture books for prominent organizations and self-published authors. Her quaint, quirky, and vibrant illustrations are inclusive, embracing diversity in celebrating the lives of children from all walks of life.

    Her clients 

    Celebrity Top Chef Kristen Kish in collaboration with Upwork, Babybug Magazine, Ladybug magazine  World Vision International for the International Day of the Girls campaign 2021.

    Website |  Twitter  | Instagram | Facebook | Goodreads

    Li Na is my name Review:

    Click to view on Instagram

    “Li Na is my Name” is an adorable children’s book that promotes young readers to be themselves.

    I loved the book’s theme and thought the creators executed it beautifully. The story is simple yet tells the reader that it’s okay to be yourself. If you are a tomboy, and even if people comment on you, be yourself! Reading this book, I realized that even as an adult, I recall the snarky comments that some of my friends and family used to make about me when I was growing up. While most of them were harmless, the memories still stuck to me and made me change my behavior growing up. Recalling that, I wonder if I would have had a happier childhood had I had been confident to be myself. The author delivers a solid message not to let anyone else get you down for being different and just be yourself.

    Moreover, the author is super talented as she also designed the illustrations. The illustrations are gorgeous, and I adored the color palettes. Each page is vibrant and appealing, which will catch the child’s attention as they read the story. Li Na’s and her friend’s expressions are adorable as they deal with the comments they hear from their friends and family.

    I hope the author continues to write more books with these characters, as I can easily see this turning into a series that would motivate young readers. Overall, Li Na is my name” is an adorable children’s book that I feel parents should gift their young ones.

    Giveaway Details:

    1 winner will win a finished copy of LI NA IS MY NAME, International.

    a Rafflecopter giveaway

    Li Na is my name

    I am thrilled to be hosting a spot on the Li Na is my name by Lisa Wee Blog Tour hosted by Rockstar Book Tours. Check out my post and make sure to enter the giveaway!

    Book Tour Schedule

    Week One:
    Writer of Wrongs-Guest Post -4-1-2022

    Week Two:
    Lady Hawkeye-Excerpt/IG Post-4-4-2022
    Ravenz Reviewz-Guest Post/IG Post-4-5-2022
    BETTER_0FF_READ-IG Spotlight-4-6-2022
    BookHounds-Guest Post/IG Post-4-7-2022
    #BRVL Book Review Virginia Lee Blog-Excerpt-4-8-2022

    Week Three:
    Sadie’s Spotlight-Guest Post/IG Post-4-11-2022
    Jazzy Book Reviews-Excerpt-4-12-2022
    SJ_Bookshelf-Review-4-13-2022
    Rajiv’s Reviews-Review/IG Post-4-14-2022
    boozybook blog-Review/IG Post-4-15-2022

    Week Four:
    TakeALookAtMyBookshelf-Review-4-18-2022
    Two Points of Interest-Review-4-19-2022
    @the.page.sage -TikTok Review/IG Post-4-20-2022
    @coffeesipsandreads-Review-4-21-2022
    The Momma Spot-Review-4-22-2022

    Week Five:
    Excuse Me, I’m Reading-Review-4-25-2022
    Wottaread-Excerpt-4-26-2022
    Emmiepooh2 -Review-4-27-2022
    onemoreexclamation-Review/IG Post-4-28-2022
    Lifestyle of Me-Review-4-29-2022
    @jypsylynn -Review-4-30-2022

  • Sister Stardust by Jane Green

    Sister Stardust by Jane Green

    Sister Stardust

    Sister Stardust by Jane Green

    Release: April 5, 2022
    Format: Ebook
    Publisher: Hanover Square Press
    Source: Suzyapproved Book Tours
    Find it at Goodreads, Amazon, Kindle, Audible, B&N,

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    Claire grew up in a small town, far from the glitz and glamour of London. Ridiculed by her stepmother, Linda, and harboring a painful crush on her brother’s best friend, she has begun to outgrow the life before her. On the cusp of adulthood in the late 1960s, Claire yearns for the adventure and independence of a counterculture taking root across the world.

    One day a chance encounter leads to an unexpected opportunity. Whispers of a palace in Morocco. A getaway where famous artists, models, fashion designers, and musicians—even the Rolling Stones—have been known to visit.

    When Claire arrives in Marrakesh, she sweeps into a heady world of music, drugs 2and communal living. But one magnetic young woman seems to hold sway over the entire scene. Talitha Getty, the socialite wife of a famous oil heir, has pulled everyone from Yves Saint Laurent to Marianne Faithfull into her orbit. Yet when she meets Claire, the pair instantly connect. As they grow closer, and the inner circle tightens, the realities of Talitha’s precarious life set off a chain of dangerous events that could alter Claire’s life forever.

    About the Author:

    Jane Green is the New York Times bestselling author of one cookbook (Good Taste), and nineteen novels, including the huge hits Jemima J., and The Beach House. With over ten million books in print in over twenty-five languages, she takes credit of being one of the founders of the genre, “chick lit”. 

    She has had her own show on BBC Radio London, is a current storyteller for The Moth, was a correspondent for ABC News for the royal wedding between Prince William and Kate Middleton and is a regular guest on radio and television.

    People, Newsweek, USA Today, Glamour, The Sunday Times, The Daily Telegraph, and Cosmopolitan amongst others featured her. She lives in Connecticut with her husband, six children, 2 dogs, 5 cats, and 6 chickens. 

    Website | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Goodreads

    Sister Stardust Review:

    Click to view on Instagram

    “Sister Stardust” is a gorgeous historical fiction novel that takes us to the swinging 60s, and I could not put it down.

    As soon as the book started, I was immersed in Claire’s life as she escaped the life with her stepmother and moved to London. Claire is a dynamic character who goes through a lot! I went through so many emotions as I followed her. At times, I rooted for her, like when she stuck it up to Linda upon returning to her hometown. I was worried for her at other times, as she got intoxicated with drugs. But, most of the time, I admired her for how she matures in the tale, lives life to the fullest, and doesn’t let anything story stop her.

    Moreover, I loved Talitha’s character. I thought she was mysterious and alluring and loved the immediate bond that she formed with CeCe. Let me preface by saying that I was unaware that the author based this story on actual events. After reading the story, I researched further on Talitha Getty, and I loved how the author depicted her in the tale. Similarly, I also adored Benji. Also, I found the backdrop of Marrakesh exotic and loved the various cultures the author highlights. Even the supporting characters like Bill, Gerard, Lissy, Eddie, and adorable Dottie, to name a few. Even the

    Perhaps the only minor downside to the story was the random recipe inserts that I found odd and diverged the book’s mood. Also, some parts deal with substance and physical abuse and quite a few explicit scenes, so this book may not be everyone’s cup of tea.

    Apart from that, I loved the author’s writing story in “Sister Stardust” and would encourage those who love historical biographies merged with fiction to the tale.

    Book Tour Schedule

    I am thrilled to be hosting a spot on the Sister Stardust by Jane Green Blog Tour hosted by Suzyapproved Book Tours. 

    Sho Biz Reads-April 18th
    Smashley Reads- -April 18th
    ML Book Love-April 19th
    CMT Loves Wine and Books-April 20th
    Nature Books and Coffee-April 20th
    The Boozy Baking Bibliophile-April 21st
    Rajivs Reviews-April 22nd
    Rebecca Well Read-April 23rd
    Reading Is My Remedy-April 23rd
    Carol Doscher-April 23rd
    Its All About The Thrill-April 23rd
    Allys Book Corner-April 25th
    Geaux Get Lit-April 25th
    Lindas Book Obsession-April 27th
    Books and Coffee MX-April 28th
    Sweet Honey And Brei-April 29th
    Well Read Traveler-April 30th
    The Caffeinated Reader-April 30th

  • Ellen Outside the Lines by A.J. Sass

    Ellen Outside the Lines by A.J. Sass

    Ellen Outside the Lines

    Ellen Outside the Lines by A.J. Sass

    Release: March 22nd, 2022
    Format: Ebook
    Publisher:  Little, Brown Books for Young Readers
    Source: TBR and Beyond Tours
    Find it at: Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Book Depository | Indigo | IndieBound

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    Rain Reign meets Ivy Aberdeen’s Letter to the World in this heartfelt novel about a neurodivergent thirteen-year-old navigating changing friendships, a school trip, and expanding horizons.

    Thirteen-year-old Ellen Katz feels most comfortable when her life is well planned out and people fit neatly into her predefined categories. She attends temple with Abba and Mom every Friday and Saturday. Ellen only gets crushes on girls, never boys, and she knows she can always rely on her best-and-only friend, Laurel, to help navigate social situations at their private Georgia middle school.

    Laurel has always made Ellen feel like being autistic is no big deal. But lately, Laurel has started making more friends and canceling more weekend plans with Ellen than she keeps. A school trip to Barcelona seems like the perfect place for Ellen to get their friendship back on track.  Except it doesn’t. Toss in a new nonbinary classmate whose identity has Ellen questioning her very binary way of seeing the world, homesickness, a scavenger hunt-style team project that takes the students through Barcelona to learn about Spanish culture and this trip is anything but what Ellen planned.

    Making new friends and letting go of old ones is never easy, but Ellen might just find a comfortable new place for herself if she can learn to embrace the fact that life doesn’t always stick to a planned itinerary.

    About the Author:

    A. J. Sass (he/they) is an author, editor, and competitive figure skater who is interested in how intersections of identity, neurodiversity, and allyship can impact story narratives. He is the author of Ana on the Edge, a Booklist Editors’ Choice 2020 and ALA 2021 Rainbow Book List Top 10 for Young Readers selection, and Ellen Outside the Lines (Little, Brown, 2022), the co-author of Camp QUILTBAG* with Nicole Melleby (Algonquin, 2023), as well as a contributor to the This Is Our Rainbow: 16 Stories of Her, Him, Them, and Us (Knopf) and Allies: Real Talk about Showing Up, Screwing Up, and Trying Again (DK US & UK) anthologies. He lives in the San Francisco Bay Area with his boyfriend and two cats who act like dogs.

    Website | Twitter | Instagram | Goodreads | Facebook

    Ellen Outside the Lines Review:

    Click to view on Instagram

    Firstly, I loved the various representations the author includes in the story. Ellen shines in the lead as the autistic girl trying to set things right on her trip to Barcelona. I loved how the author represented autism and the queer and non-binary characters in the book. It’s refreshing to see how contemporary middle-grade fiction is becoming with such dynamic characters. Ellen shares a beautiful bond with Isa, and I adored the scenes where they talk about destiny and patterns. Similarly, I also enjoyed the supporting characters like Andy and Gibbs and found they also brought a fresh perspective.

    Moreover, I enjoyed the drama between the characters. My heart went out to Ellen as she found her friendship with Laurel shaky. What was supposed to bring them together turns out to put them apart, as Laurel joins another team and hangs out with Sophie-Anne. At times, I felt like I saw a piece of myself in the tale. It is never easy to realize your best friend is maturing and moving away from you. The author depicts their emotions perfectly.

    Also, the author made the story enjoyable with the characters’ adventure when they go on the scavenger hunt. The scavenger hunt is exciting as you see if the team is going in the right direction or not. You see Ellen grow as a person as she makes mistakes and learns from them. The author narrates the entire tale so beautifully that you will feel your heart swell towards the end.

    Overall, “Ellen Outside the Lines” is a beautiful contemporary middle-grade fiction that had a lot going on, and the author delivered it perfectly!

     

    Ellen Outside the Lines

    I am thrilled to be hosting a spot on the Ellen Outside the Lines by A.J. Sass Blog Tour hosted by TBR and Beyond Tours. 

    Book Tour Schedule

    March 21st
    unconventional Quirky Bibliophile – Review & Mood Board
    Kait Plus Books – Review & Mood Board

    March 22nd
    Sadie’s Spotlight – Promotional Post
    Melancholic Blithe-Review, Mood Board
    Rajiv’s Reviews-Review

    March 23rd
    Nine Bookish Lives – Promotional Post
    The Bookwyrm’s Den – Review

    March 24th
    Djreadsbooks-Promotional Post
    Not In Jersey-Review
    Paiges of Novels-15 Reactions While Reading Ellen Outside the Lines

    March 25th
    Twirling Book Princess-Promotional Post
    Jen Jen Reviews-Review

    March 26th
    Rampant Reading Reviews-Promotional Post
    Boys’ Mom Reads!-Review
    LellieReads-Review

    March 27th
    Stuck in Fiction-Promotional Post
    the nutty bookworm reads alot-Review

  • Secrets of Our House by Rea Frey

    Secrets of Our House by Rea Frey

    Secrets of Our House

    Secrets of Our House by Rea Frey

    Release: February 8th 2022 
    Format: Paperback
    Publisher: St. Martin’s Griffin
    Source: Suzyapproved Book Tours
    Find it at: Goodreads, Amazon, Kindle, Audible, B&N

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    A thrilling domestic drama set against the power of the wilderness, Secrets of Our House is a deeply-felt novel of long-held secrets and the strength of family.

    Desi is the mastermind behind her dream getaway house. Nestled high into the mountains of North Carolina, it is a sleek place, a luxurious place, a dark place.

    A place full of secrets.

    Secrets about the man she longs for, a man who is not her husband. Secrets about the roots of her family that must never, ever, see the light of day. When Desi and her family arrive from Chicago to spend the summer in the mountains, the seeds for the tumultuous months to follow are planted–her marriage on the rocks, not knowing which way they’ll go. Her seventeen year-old daughter Jules, falling in love for the first time with a local boy–and forging a new path that will take her to uncharted places. And Carter–a man Desi knew long ago, before she expunged him from her life for good.

    All hurtling toward events none of them can undo.

    Engaging, propulsive, and with a dramatic, heart-pounding final act, Secrets of Our House is a dazzling novel, richly-drawn, that shows no matter how hard outside forces may shake you, the bonds of family are stronger than the harshest winds

    About the Author:

    Rea Frey is an award-winning author of several nonfiction books and the novels Not Her Daughter, Because You’re Mine, and Until I Find You.

    She is also the founder and CEO of Writeway, which teaches writers about the business of publishing—not just the craft.

    She lives in Nashville with her husband and daughter.

    Website | Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Goodreads

    Secrets of Our House Review:

    Click to view on Instagram

    The author sets the suspense and foreboding of the tale slowly yet effectively. As soon as you start reading about Desi, Jules, and Peter, you wonder what secrets are lurking in the corner that could jeopardize the family. On the one hand, an old flame, Carter returns, and on the other hand, Tommy enters the picture. Add to that, Desi has to meet Will’s family, and you see the various emotions she goes through. The author writes the drama so well that you don’t know what will happen to these characters.

    Secondly, the author writes the characters beautifully. Honestly, I was not too fond of Desi in the lead. She is overprotective towards Jules and does not let her live her life. Desi has her secrets and comes across as selfish, putting her feelings first with Peter and Jules. It’s not when things take a turn for the worse that she realizes how self-absorbed she has been. However, the author does add a few twists and shocking revelations that I did not expect. Some memorable moments in the story are when Ava gets attacked, when Desi meets Lenore, or reunites with Carter and brings him home.

    At the same time, I adored Jules, and for me, the story sparked because of her presence. I loved her feelings for Will, bravery, skills to survive in the wild, and complex feelings towards Desi. I would have also felt the betrayal she feels from Desi if Desi was my mother. Also, I enjoyed how the author wrote the dynamics between Desi, Jules, and Peter. Moreover, I felt the author didn’t fully utilize characters like Tommy, Haley, and Carter to add more oomph into the tale.

    Overall, “Secrets of Our House” is a dramatic tale that will hook you because of the characters.

    Book Tour Schedule

    Secrets of Our House

    I am thrilled to be hosting a spot on the Secrets of Our House by Rea Frey Blog Tour hosted by Suzyapproved Book Tours.

     

    Reading Girl Reviews-Feb. 6th
    David L Morgan-Feb. 6th
    Shooks Books-Feb. 7th
    Bookish Heidi-Feb 7th
    Love My Books 2020-Feb. 7th
    Reading Is My Cardio-Feb 8th
    Bookphile Belle-Feb. 8th
    Jayme Reads-Feb. 8th
      2 Babes And A Bookshelf-Feb. 8th
    Green Eyed Girl 0704-Feb. 9th
    Nurse Bookie-Feb. 9th
    Bookstagram N Yogapants-Feb. 10th
    Rajivs Reviews-Feb. 10th
    Hooked by Books-Feb. 10th
    Bryant Park Books-Feb 10th
    Reading With Mere-Feb. 11th
    Randi Reads-Feb. 11th
    Miss W Book Reviews-Feb. 13
    The Mary Reader-Feb. 14th
    Minsta Books-Feb. 15th
      Megs Book Club-Feb. 16th
    Jackie Loves Books-Feb. 17th
    Candid With Courtney –-Feb. 17th
    Books Love And Understanding-Feb. 18th
    Diaries Of A Bibliophile-Feb. 21st

  • Let’s Get Back to the Party by Zak Salih

    Let’s Get Back to the Party by Zak Salih

    Let's Get Back to the Party

    Let’s Get Back to the Party by Zak Salih

    Release: February 16, 2021
    Format: Paperback
    Publisher: Algonquin Books 
    Source: Algonquin Books
    Find it at: Goodreads, Amazon, Kindle, Audible, B&N, Indiebound, Bookshop.org

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    What Does It Mean to Be a Gay Man Today?

    It’s just weeks after the historic Supreme Court marriage equality ruling, and all Sebastian Mote wants is to settle down. He is an high school art history teacher, newly single and desperately lonely. And he envies his queer students their freedom to live openly the youth he lost to fear and shame.  

    So when he runs into his childhood friend Oscar Burnham at a wedding in Washington, D.C., he can’t help but see it as a second chance. Now thirty-five, the men haven’t seen each other in a decade. But Oscar has no interest in their shared history. Instead, he’s angry by what he sees as the death of gay culture. Bars overrun with bachelorette parties; friends getting married, having babies.

     Oscar and Sebastian struggle to find their place in a rapidly changing world. However, each is drawn into a cross-generational friendship that treads the line between envy and obsession. Sebastian with one of his students and Oscar with an older icon of the AIDS era. And as they collide again and again, both men must come reckon not just with one another, but with themselves.

    Rich with sharply drawn characters and contemporary detail, provocative, and emotionally profound, Let’s Get Back to the Party is sure to appeal to readers of Garth Greenwell, Alan Hollinghurst, Claire Messud, and Rebecca Makkai.

    About the Author:

    Zak Salih earned his BA in English and Journalism from James Madison University, and his MA in English from the University of Virginia. His fiction and nonfiction have appeared in numerous magazines. He lives in Washington, D.C.

    His writing has appeared in Crazyhorse, the Chattahoochee Review, the Millions, the Rumpus, and other publications. This is his first novel.

    Website | Twitter | Instagram | Goodreads

    Let’s Get Back to the Party Review:

    Click to view on Instagram

    “Let’s Get Back to the Party” is a raw, contemporary tale with solid characters that make you think about life and fitting in, and I found it profound.

    What struck me about the story is how the author realistically captured the tone and theme of the LGBTQ community in the present world and how you can still feel alone even with all the progress that’s happened. This book is raw and emotional and will make you connect with the characters and how they struggle with progressing in life and relationships.

    Both the leads also shine in the tale. I thought the author portrayed Oscar and Sebastian accurately, and the author immersed me in their lives. I could empathize with Oscar’s nervousness and found his scenes with Patrick and the explosion memorable. Similarly, Sebastian’s scenes revolving around school life and reconnecting with Oscar were notable. One of the best moments in the story revolved around their reaction to Sean and made the story stand out.

    However, I did face quite a few challenges with the book. I am not a fan of books with very few chapters, and each chapter spans 40+ pages. Secondly, while I enjoy a story with an open-ended climax that leaves you the rest of your imagination, I felt this was an instance where it did not work. In my opinion, the story finished abruptly and had me yearning for more.

    Nevertheless, “Let’s Get Back to the Party” is an impressive debut by the author that stands out because of its realistic depiction of the community and what it is like for a middle-aged person to fit into the world.

     

    Book Tour Schedule

    Let's Get Back to the Party

    I am thrilled to be hosting a spot on the Let’s Get Back to the Party by Zak Salih Blog Tour hosted by Algonquin Books.