This was an interesting book… it read very much like a fairytale, with lovely movements and moments of horror such as the poison lake that eats its victims like acid and a sentient, bloody thirsty forest. I did like Leelo and Jaren, although the end felt a bit too much like buttoning everything up. All in all, I enjoyed this story.

“By the time Alex managed to get the blood out of her good wool coat, it was too warm to wear it.”

What a first line! 🤣 Excited to dig into this one as my next read of 2023. I have the Barnes & Noble edition of Hell Bent waiting in the wings.

This was a cute, fun read. Rosie has had a crush on her best friend‘s cousin - she‘s never met him but follows his Instagram account. Lucas is dealing with recovering from a terrible accident, and while I don‘t wish a terrible accident on anyone, I do like that this makes him human, because otherwise he reads as the perfect man: romantic, a great cook and dancer, and attuned to the woman before him. Try this is you like rom coms!

I prepared for this release by re-reading The Folk of the Air trilogy and How the King of Elfhame Learned to Hate Stories. Going from seeing Oak and Suren as kids to now young adults made reading this book all the more enjoyable with that background fresh in my mind. I did figure out parts of the plot early, but it didn‘t diminish my love for this tale. Oak and Wren have great chemistry, and it was fun to see new courts like the Court of Moths.

I started 2023 with a re-read of one of my favorite series! The LitJoy exclusive Folk of the Air set is gorgeous, and it was fun to read Holly Black‘s annotations throughout the series. Cardan remains one of my favorite male leads, and Jude is also a favorite female lead. So much to love about these books!

I loved Andrew and Molly‘s story. The way each past flight was woven throughout the book. The adorable and mishap filled adventure to return home for the holidays and be with family. It was such a lovely friends to lovers romance, and I‘d really like to see a second book that continues the tale.

Finished “Long Live the Pumpkin Queen” last night. The Barnes & Noble edition is very pretty. I enjoyed the book, although I‘m still trying to determine why there was a Fourth of July tree… not really a holiday that fits with with rest since it‘s U.S. only.

Also. this is my last Bones coffee bag from their Nightmare Before Christmas collection. The packaging is gorgeous, and the grounds smell amazing. To me, the flavoring is subtle.

2 of my 3 vacation reads… missing is “Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil”

I enjoyed them all, but Something Wilder was my favorite. Kingdom of the Feared was my least favorite. I love a good romance book, but I get bored when plot slows with too much sex or sex obsessed thoughts by the characters. This one had that in droves. I‘m not quite sure how it even is classified as a young adult book.

This was an interesting premise, but the execution fell a little flat for me. The ending was pretty strong, so I‘d consider reading other works by this author. If you like tales of the Headless Horseman, you may enjoy this book.

This was a satisfying end to an entertaining trilogy. I love every Hawthorne brother, and Avery fits right in to their quirky, eccentric family. Forget about the billions of dollars; I think the brothers are the real inheritance! Like the previous two books, this one is a mix of mystery, thriller, and comedy. Max, Libby, Rebecca and Thea balance out the guys. I loved every second of it and almost wish it read slower, but it is fast and fun!

“We need to talk about your eighteenth birthday.”

#firstlinefridays
@ShyBookOwl

If you‘re in SE Wisconsin and love books, bakery, raffles or fundraisers, would love to see you! This event is open to all ages and all book genres. Proceeds go to Best Buddies WI. (This event is not sponsored by Muskego Public Library.)

You can also donate to my Best Buddies WI campaign - http://engdr.co/1-3530150

I received The Beach Trap in my Authentic Books box. It was inspired by The Parent Trap, and I definitely felt that vibe. I read it while on vacation in Florida this week, and it was a perfect time and location. This is a fun summer read with strong character growth and just the right amount of romance.

I really enjoyed this story about Merida… it continues the movie storyline. I‘m guessing we‘re about 5 years into the future. We see the results of Merida‘s earlier wish to remain unwed, and the shift of the family dynamic from that moment. I liked seeing the individual personalities of the triplets, as well as meeting other members of the kingdom. The story was sweet and satisfying. Highly recommend to Brave fans!

I loved These Hollow Vows and was looking forward to These Twisted Bonds. I think I enjoyed book one a little more than book two, but they are both solid reads. The tension remains with the two sexy princes, although I rolled my eyes a bit that every male seems to find Brie irresistible. Still, very cool magic concepts were introduced in this book. Highly recommend to fans of S J Maas and Holly Black.

Ah, this book was the cutest!!! I loved learning about traditional Indian wedding customs, food, clothing, decorations, etc. I also found both families charming, and Zuri and Naveen were adorable. This is a fun, entertaining and sweet romance.

Cute rom com about flight attendants. I love that Ava discovers how to be true to herself and finds love in the process. I like how Jack is quirky for a leading man, and I found Gen, Paul and the other supporting cast to be equally enjoyable. Sure, there are a few stereotypes in this debut novel, but the pacing is good, the romance is sweet, and the setting (Belize) is gorgeous.

Get me to a Ren Fair stat! No one has made a stronger PSA for the sexiness of renaissance faires and their patrons than Jen DeLuca. I have loved every book in this series, but I think We‘ll Traveled is my favorite. Lulu and Dex are so great together; they‘re both confident, have realistic expectations and most importantly, respect each other. They‘re also just a whole hell of a lot of fun to read.

This was such a fun and sweet read. I loved the concept of the second chance reality dating show. The descriptions of the dresses and settings were so fun, including the girls interactions with both Jordy and the crew. It was awesome to see how the women supported each other and grew their friendships, but I especially loved Skye and Maya. This was a fun, fast story that I highly recommend.

Favorite quote so far: “This was a hero‘s quest and something would have to be lost.”

This book wraps around you like a warm hug and fills you with warmth like the cups of hot cocoa everyone frequently drinks. I absolutely adored Elinor, “Nory” as the soft-hearted, genuine lead character that she was. Her group of friends and family are not perfect, but they are relatable and loving. Isaac is a wonderful lead man, too. This is a perfect cozy winter read, and a must for book loving romantics.

Thank you so much, Jenna, for this fun Slice of Summer package. My apologies that I I didn‘t post on July 1… being my birthday, it completely slipped my mind. Then I was caught up in holiday weekend festivities. At any rate, I love everything!! #sliceofsummerswap

I had the day off, so I spent it reading this book. I loved Elliott and Macy, both as young teens and as adults. The various relationships shown in this book - friends, family and co-workers - were realistic. It was also realistic that in relationships, someone is always the casualty… the one not chosen, the one left behind, etc. Love takes bravery and a healthy dose of trust. Beautiful story!!

It‘s official… Nora and Charlie are my favorite rom com couple. I love the witty, sexy banter between them, how they complement each other and how they accept each other as is. I also really liked seeing the relationship between Nora and Libby. This was such an adorable, heart felt story. My only complaint? I wish it was longer so I could keep reading!

This is for anyone who thinks about “the one who got away” or what would‘ve happened if you chose to spend your life with someone else. It explores deep topics, but doesn‘t take itself too seriously. The wedding antics and supporting cast provide comic relief. My favorite scene was on a plane… so funny!

This book reminds us to treasure those who love us, live in the present and be honest in our relationships - advice worth its weight in gold.

I‘ve had this one on my shelf for a while and finally got around to reading it. It was a cute, fun story with time travel. I liked how the author ensured Ellie had skills with a bow and arrow vs. her somehow magically obtaining them. Will, John, James, Henry, Isabel and Much were all such fun characters. Nothing deep here, but definitely an entertaining read about Robin Hood and his merry men.

Your box was mailed yesterday, @lirahlu - I suggest storing it in a cool place until opening so a few things inside don‘t melt. #sliceofsummerswap

@Catsandbooks Thank you for organizing this fun exchange!

I liked Hannah and Fox‘s story more than I liked Piper and Brandon‘s. It seemed less fluffy and more like something that could really happen. I still have to give big eye rolls to the de descriptions… how is every guy so magnificently well endowed?! Still, overall an enjoyable read.

This is the third Rebecca Ross book I‘ve read, although it was actually her debut novel. Her world building is magnificent, and I love the friendships and sisterly bonds she portrays between female characters. The story was fast paced and kept me completely engaged, which is why I read it in only two sittings. I‘m looking forward to the sequel!

Dreams Lie Beneath read like a fantastical dream, from a duchy under a curse, which will belong to the one who breaks it, to dream wardens who are magicians that document your nightmares, then battle one each new moon. I loved Clementine‘s strength and perseverance, as well as her ability to make up her own mind and not be swayed by others. I don‘t want to give anything away, but definitely read this one if you like fantasy.

Hotel Magnifique was a fun, fast read. I enjoyed the fantastical descriptions of the guest rooms, lobby and entertainment. The glamour that masks the rot beneath is well done, and the story unfolds in an intriguing way. The relationship between Bel and Jani was full of banter and attraction, and the sisterly love between Jani and Zola was sweet. I can see why it‘s been compared to Caraval… it does have a similar vibe.

Just looking at this collage makes me happy! Summer for me is sunny days and fun filled nights - outdoor concerts, fireworks, s‘more making and festivals. Since I‘m a summer baby (July 1), I pretty much treat it like a seasonal celebration! 🥰🎂

Thanks for the fun prompt @Catsandbooks and the #sliceofsummerswap

Just started this one and loving it so far! I have a thing for magical houses and hotels. 🥰 Plus, the OwlCrate edition glows in the dark… how cool is that?!

There are so many places I would like to go on picnic, but the one that goes back to my childhood is Wonderland.

🫖 Wonderland
🎩 Alice, Mad Hatter, March Hare, Doormouse, and my husband and kids
🎂 The best tea fixings: tiny sandwiches, cakes, cookies, fruit tarts and tea in various flavors

@MoonWitch94 @lirahlu @Catsandbooks #thoughtfulthursday

This was a cute rom com with flawed, realistic characters. I liked the body positivity message and showing that love comes in all sizes! Alex and Lauren truly brought out the best in each other. I don‘t need the sex scenes, but they didn‘t overshadow the story, so I didn‘t mind them. Recommend if you like romance books.

I am so in love with this Illumicrate version with the stained edges. I love special editions of books, although sometimes I buy them and then find I don‘t care for the story. Hoping it‘s not true in this case, although I just started it and I‘m only a chapter in so far.

I‘m torn on this book. There were parts I really liked— the first chapter had me laughing out loud.

What annoyed me:
1) Political stereotype of conservatives as prejudiced, environment hating, awful humans.
2) Lee‘s friends and family taking her drug and alcohol abuse in stride.
3) Casual acceptance of infidelity.

I enjoyed Lee‘s growth in the story and liked her in the end, but 70% of the book I found her selfish, immature and judgmental.

When the first chapter has the main character doing the best walk of shame I‘ve ever read… running through a Disney park dressed as Belle to get back to her hotel room while families chase her 😂😂😂

I can tell already that this is going to be an entertaining read!

Meh. I love Matt Haig‘s children‘s books, especially about Santa Claus, but this one was too slow for me. The premise was interesting, and I didn‘t mind the flipping from present to past, since I imagine someone who has lived hundreds of years would reminisce a lot, but the overall story was rather anticlimactic, in my opinion.

This was a very satisfying read for me. I liked that Greta was unapologetic about choosing her passion, guitar and music, over a conventional lifestyle. I felt bad for her and her dad because they were both hurting so much, but the was the story unfolded was lovely. I enjoyed Jennifer‘s ya novels, and her debut in adult fiction did not disappoint.

Gallant is a haunting, atmospheric tale. It was the perfect balance of spook and intrigue. I really enjoyed it, and it‘s a clean read for all ages too. Olivia is brave and smart. I enjoyed seeing nonverbal represented too, and the frustration of others misjudging or silencing you. Overall, an excellent book! This black and white version with black stained edges is an OwlCrate exclusive.

I really liked Shay and Dominic. Their relationship felt realistic, and I laughed out loud at some of the witty dialogue between them. The supporting characters were also well developed, and the author did a great job representing the ongoing grief of losing a loved one. Not your typical rom-com, this was an entertaining and engaging story.

This was such a great book! I loved the WI Dells setting and WI references, the cute romance between Sabrina and Ray, the supporting and loving family, the paranormal aspect and the mental health rep of anxiety. I‘ve read other books by Amy Reichert and enjoyed them, but this was my favorite by far. Makes me want to run out to a supper club!

“Come out sometime and I‘ll make you the best brandy old-fashioned you‘ve ever had.”
.
.
.
“I‘m not interested in an old-fashioned. My last old-fashioned left me for a craft mocktail.”

Who else loves books set in their home state? Wisconsin definitely has treasures only found here, or at least, that are better here than other parts of the county. 🍺 🧀 🍦

In the alternative world Jessica created, people worship a god known as The Artist, and some individuals, called prodigies, can alter reality through painting. I appreciated the close relationship Myra has with her younger sister Lucy. It‘s a direct contrast to the dysfunction of the Harris household. This was a complete page turner for me, and I also enjoyed the sweet romance elements.

This is a book everyone should read. Mandy shared her story of acquiring a disability and finding a way to pursue and achieve her dreams in a warm and relatable way. Her life lessons are provided as a summary at the end of each chapter, and everyone can benefit from them.

Margaret Rogerson is a master storyteller, and Vespertine is no exception. This fantasy world where the dead come back as mostly malicious spirits, and the nuns bless the dead to keep them from rising is new and fresh while also having similar roots to Catholicism with saints and relics. Artemisia is a realistic, strong character, as is the revenant. I enjoyed the banter between them, as well as the supporting cast!

This was an interesting read with sentient houses in an alternative England. The concept was really interesting, especially since I‘d just read Cinders & Sparrows, a mid-grade about a magical house. Vi is a strong lead who cares deeply for those she loves, and I like WYN as her childhood best friend, too. A few parts felt slow, but overall, enjoyed this story.

This book was well written and fast, but there were parts I didn‘t like: 1) the characters swear and say Jesus or Christ about every other sentence, to the point of distraction for me, 2) the sex wasn‘t loving, but raw and often not consensual (although it‘s not graphic or detailed), and 3) the main character is very judging of others eating habits and lives, although she herself makes strange choices. That said, I was entertained throughout.

This was a magic-filled story with just the right balance of spookiness and intrigue. The magical house is fun to explore, with moving staircases, indoor sentient trees, talking busts and mischievous house pests. Zita was a brave heroine readers will love, and Bram and Minnifer were great, too. While technically a middle grade book, I believe it can be enjoyed by all ages.