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November 2022 Reads: Historical Fiction

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Hello friends, how is everyone doing? I hope the year went well for you. I can’t even believe another year has flown by and is almost over.

I love this time of the year. The weather is cold (my favorite), my birthday is around the corner (22nd Dec), and we’re usually enjoying the holidays/winter break. All in all, it puts me in a good mood and that means; more reading!

Right now, I’m sharing my November reads and book recommendations. I will also share my December reads soon. We don’t know what the new year might be bringing, but for now, enjoy!

Like No Other by Anna Jacobs

This book is so tough to rate because on one side, I found it difficult to put down. On the other side, I didn’t find the story particularly interesting. Does that confuse you? Well, I read the book and even I am confused. (LOL) Let’s discuss this and try to figure it out.

So, overall, the story is very well-written and has some interesting characters. Objectively speaking, I can admire the author for creating such vivid characters and beautiful settings. Also, creating enough intrigue that I kept reading just to find out what would happen next.

But, and this is very important to me, it’s a very depressing story. There isn’t a single happy moment until the very end. From the beginning, bad things keep happening to the heroine and you are left wondering how one person’s life can be full of such unfortunate events one after the other. I thoroughly despised that and yet, read it in just two sittings.

As I said, it’s very hard for me to rate. Because I want to give it a two-stars rating, but I also realize that might not be fair. Anyway, I don’t recommend it as recreational reading. There isn’t a single fun thing about this tense tale of woes and miseries set in an English village, where the heroine will face all kinds of desperate situations.

*Possible Spoilers*

To name a few of the above-mentioned unfortunate events; Elizabeth’s father hates her and mistreats her, and her mother is sick and then dies. No one wants to marry her, and when she does get married her happiness doesn’t last for long. Widowed, she now has a new set of challenges to face. People will try to ruin her reputation and take away her only son from her. To make things worse she will learn that she is a bastard and her father isn’t her real father.

You can imagine what kind of miserable life she is living. Add financial problems into the mix, and it’s one depressing story. It does end on a happy note, which I think is sort of a saving grace. That and the quality of the writing are the reasons I gave it 4 stars.

A Pirate in Time by Megan Happel

5 Stars Review

It’s a Historical Fantasy, beautifully written and highly entertaining. I read this story on Wattpad. The story flows smoothly and there isn’t a single boring part. So much happens that you are constantly on the edge of your seat, wondering how the author will amuse you next.

Elizabeth is thrown overboard during a party onboard her friend’s ship and suddenly, she finds herself back in time. Not only that but she is on a pirate ship. There she will encounter gods, goddesses, sirens, and a lot more. There will be enemies lurking in the murky depth of waters and also, in the shadows. She will discover her family history and uncover secrets that will change her view of the world. And through it all, a pirate will be by her side, helping her and protecting her. Can she rely on him or must she find her way back home, to her original time, before it’s too late?

If you want to read something fun, full of mystical creatures, and lighthearted, then this book is for you. The best part, you can read it online for free.

I know that finding good stories on Wattpad is a bit of a challenge, but I have uncovered my hidden gems on the platform. It’s a place where many of my stories have found home too. So, do check it out if you’re in the mood. And if you’re already on the platform, share your favorite reads in the comments. Thank you!

Cinderella and the Duke by Lydia Drake

It’s a well-paced historical romance with two of the most interesting main characters I have come across in fiction. Their sense of humor made it all the more interesting. I found it hard to put down once I started reading and it had me laughing many times. The story is perfect and there is enough drama to keep readers entertained.

Julia is a spinster who doesn’t want to stay one. She wants a life away from her stepmother even if it means she must marry someone she doesn’t like. Love doesn’t even enter the equation. So, when by a lucky chance she is allowed to attend a ball to chaperone her step-sister, she knows this must be it. She might never get another chance at finding herself a husband. Unfortunately, things rarely go as planned.

Gregory never wants to marry. In fact, he hates the very idea and knows that no woman can be happy with him. Never has in his entire life been tempted to consider matrimony until he meets Julia. There is something about her that makes it difficult to get her out of his head. Hounded by the husbands of women who can’t seem to leave him alone, marriage might give him a much-needed reprieve from early morning duels.

What seems like a perfect idea, a marriage of convenience, might soon turn into a battle of wills and a fight against temptation. Neither Julia nor Gregory is ready to back down from this race against fate.

The story has all the ingredients of a great romance and I thoroughly enjoyed reading it. So glad I picked it up. Also, want to thank the publisher for the complimentary copy I received via NetGalley.

This is it, for now, take care and enjoy your holidays.

November 2022 Reads: Fantasy

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Hello, readers! I hope you all are having a wonderful winter or summer, depending on where you are.

I’m back with more book reviews and recommendations. And as always, I hope you find your next favorite read among these gems.

Isn’t it the perfect time for Fantasy? Tell me what are you reading these days or are you too busy to find time for your favorite books?

House in the Cerulean Sea by T.J. Klune

5 Stars Review

A beautiful story with a beautiful message. In a world where magical people are regulated by the government, a man working with the department of magical creatures finds himself questioning his reality and what’s right or wrong. He works with orphanages and reports back to the relevant department. His reports decide which orphanages will stay open, providing homes to orphan magical children, and which will close. He has never questioned what happens after his reports are processed. But on one particular assignment, he meets children and the caretaker who changes his opinion for good. He realizes that children are first and foremost children. They don’t need to be isolated and judged, rather they need love and protection. Now, he will never be the same. He can no longer do his job and stay emotionally detached. Just because someone is different doesn’t mean they are bad or that you should be afraid of them. If we take the time and learn about each other’s differences, we might end up loving our differences. Everyone is beautiful just the way they are. And that’s the central message of this beautifully written story that will take you on an adventure and change your life forever.

I thoroughly enjoyed the way it’s narrated. I loved the main character and his way of looking at things. He is perfect to tell a story like this. No wonder the “extremely upper management” picked him to visit the house in the Cerulean sea. Although told from an adult’s point of view, this book is meant for children. I listened to an audiobook of this and would recommend it to all listeners. It’s a very well-narrated story. It has some fun moments, and some sad ones, but mostly it is a thought-provoking book meant for those who are always ready to open their minds to new ways of thinking and looking at things.

Neverwhere by Neil Gaiman

4 out of 5 Stars

It’s such an interesting story that takes us to another London, a darker side of the city that hasn’t changed much with time. It’s a dangerous place where few survived. Then there is your regular London, a place many love. Personally, I enjoyed reading about both the Londons; the real as well the fantasy. The story has some interesting, well-developed characters. Overall, I feel that it isn’t anything special, but I think that the way it’s told makes it special. As far as fantasy goes, it’s a good one.

Door is running from her enemies. Someone killed her family and now wants to kill her but she has no idea who or why. In despair, she uses her ability and made a door that would leave her to safety. To someone who would save her and that’s how she met Richard, a man from London above. She probably shouldn’t have involved him in her problems but she had no choice. Later, she might regret it. For now, she needs his help and he seems like the type of man who would help a girl in need, regardless of the consequences.

A man living a pretty ordinary life finds himself getting mixed up with the cut-throats from the wrong London and now, his life will never be the same. His adventure will take us to the darkest tunnels and we will meet creatures that only exist in our worst nightmares. Just when it feels that Richard will never find his way back to his world, the story surprises us. But will he ever be happy with his mundane life now that he has tasted the thrill of a dangerous life? Living on the edge might be more addictive than he thought.

Overall, it’s a book that will ignite your imagination and might make you fall in love with the characters, even the villains.

Bitter Medicine by Mia Tsai

4.5 Stars Review

It’s a very well-written paranormal fantasy that takes you to a world of intrigue and romance. The beginning is a little slower for my taste but I think it’s perfect in this case because it gives you a chance to get into the story. I especially loved how it combines so many cultures and languages. It’s one of the best books I have read with diverse characters.

Elle is more powerful than she admits to anyone, most of all to herself. In the past, she did something that is haunting her and she thinks happiness isn’t for her. That is until Luc comes into her life and proves her wrong.

Lucien is working for a man he can’t respect doing a job he hates. There is no way out, though. That is until he has a reason to try harder. Now, he is determined to change his circumstances and help Elle regain her happiness.

I’m a fan of Asian Fantasy and the premise of this book is what piqued my interest first. Then I read more about it and knew I would love it and I wasn’t wrong. I thoroughly enjoyed the story and loved every character.

P.S. I received a complimentary copy of this book via NetGalley and I’m voluntarily leaving my honest opinion of it.

Spin the Dawn by Elizabeth Lim

The Blood of Stars #1

5 of 5 Stars: I would have given it more if I could…

This book is a fantastical masterpiece and I loved every second of it. I have read books by Elizabeth Lim before and she is quickly becoming my favorite author. This year I discovered Asian Fantasy, a genre I didn’t know much about. I have read many wonderful stories and I think some of my favorite 2022 books are Asian Fantasy books. This one is also on the list.

It’s a Mulan-type of story, where the heroine pretends to be a man to enter a competition at the palace. It’s a fictional world but much like ours. Girls aren’t allowed to do many things and among them is becoming a royal tailor. But Maia might not have a choice in the matter. Aside from the fact that she is an excellent tailor, better than any man, there is also a slight problem, i.e. her father cannot answer to the royal summons. Thus, it’s up to her to protect her family’s honor, and pretends to be her brother.

At the palace, things are very different than Maia thought. It is not a competition just for their skills but it’s also about politics and using whatever advantages one can find. There, she will find some allies and many enemies. She will meet the Lord Enchanter, who will scare her and fascinates her at the same time. And she will meet her Emperor, a man like no other.

But the real test will begin when the princess, betrothed to the Emperor, gives her an impossible task. She must sow the three dresses of Amana to prove her worth. She must travel far to find the sun, the moon, and the stars. What new challenges await her on her journey, read to find out more.

Unravel the Dusk by Elizabeth Lim

The Blood of Stars #2

Another 5 Stars Read

In this second installment of the duology, the story continues and Maia faces more challenges. Last time, she succeeded in her task and even became the royal tailor. But now, she wonders if she had made a big mistake. The war is at their doorsteps once again and the land will bathe in the blood of soldiers and civilians alike. To make things even worse, the demon Bandur wants her and won’t rest until she gives into the curse and becomes a demon.

Her friendship with Ammi is also one of my favorite parts of the story. I absolutely love how well-paced the book is and how perfectly the story flows. Elizabeth Lim’s descriptions and settings will take you on a wonderful journey of rich culture and fantasy. No matter the danger, there is always hope that all will end well. But will it really or is the world changing too fast for anyone to do anything about it?

Trying to stay ahead of Bandur and hiding from the Emperor’s people, Maia must find Edan. He might not be able to help her, but she still wants to see him again just to make sure he is safe and well. He had called her the last of the land, but what happens when she becomes a danger to those who are near her? What kind of choices and sacrifices she will have to make this time around? Will there ever be peace in the land? All these questions and many more will keep you on your toes and you won’t be able to put the book down.

If you enjoy a good Fantasy, then I highly recommend The Blood of Stars Duology.

Enjoy the rest of your year. I hope the coming one brings you much joy and lots of books to read. Happy Holidays!

November 2022 Reads: Random

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Often, I only review books I absolutely love. This time, I’m sharing books that I didn’t enjoy much for one reason or the other.

One of them is a psychological thriller. And the other is difficult to categorize because it has fantasy elements, but mostly it is contemporary YA fiction. If I must pick a genre for it, it would be general fiction. Anyhow, I hope you enjoy my reviews of both of these books.

Don’t forget to share your opinions and books you like/dislike in the comments.

Verity by Colleen Hoover

3 of 5 Stars Read

This is my first Colleen Hoover novel and let’s just say my expectations were too high. The novel couldn’t meet them, which is kind of sad but it happens. Not a bad story, though. I listened to the audiobook and it’s well-narrated.

Many people have told me to read Colleen Hoover. Some of them even gifted me her books hoping I’d read them. And many of her books have been on my TBR for a long, long time now. Yet, for some reason, I was always reluctant to read her works. From all I have heard about her books, I thought they are too emotional and angsty for my taste. But no, that wasn’t the case. I didn’t mind the angst or the emotions. The story itself isn’t anything special and it was very, very predictable. That’s definitely not a good thing in a psychological thriller. The thrill is in making your reader second guessing everything. To make things worse, there was one thing about the ending that I found absolutely unbelievable even in the setting of this book, which has made it very difficult for me to give it more than 3 stars.

That doesn’t however mean that the book is all bad. It is not. It’s an average story with some interesting points and some boring parts. And some completely insane ones. I actually loved the female lead. She is entirely unlikeable and that automatically means I like her. The book is well-written, too. I also enjoyed the romantic side of the story. Certain things creeped me out, so those were done well. But in the bigger picture sort of way, the story is crap.

It is about an unknown author who is given a chance to co-write a book with a famous author. At first, reluctant she takes the job because the money is really good. Verity is well-known and her books sell like hotcakes. She has been sick and hasn’t written anything in a while. Now, her publisher wants to bring in someone new to write her book using her plans. Working on Verity’s book means that Lowen will get much-needed publicity. She will have to spend a few days at Verity’s house to go throw her notes and plan the book, though.

When Lowen arrives at the Crawford house, she has no idea how messy things are going to get. Aside from the fact that she finds Verity’s husband irresistible, she also finds a manuscript that will shake her to the core. What horrible story is hidden within the walls of this house and will Lowen leave her in one piece, with her heart intact?

That intrigues you, doesn’t it? I also picked the book because of this, but be cautious. It is no masterpiece. That is all I’m going to say. I don’t think I will read Colleen Hoover’s books again. If this is her usual type of story, it’s definitely not for me.

If You Could See the Sun by Ann Liang

3.5 Stars Review

This book is a little hard for me to review because I loved it, but there is one detail that has sort of ruined it for me. Up until the very end, I thought it to be an excellent YA fantasy. I was loving the characters, the story was good and the setting was perfect. And then, the author forgot to explain what made the main character invisible in the first place. My question is, why? If there is a sequel, I would love it. But the way the story ended I don’t think that’s the case. I mean, even if the author has explained it as some psychological thing, I would have bought it. But not saying anything at all bothers me a lot. Or did I miss something?

Anyway, keeping that one annoying detail aside, the rest of the story is pretty good. Alice Sun is the only scholarship student at a prestigious international school in China. She always felt invisible, but it’s okay because her focus is on her education. The only thing she finds hard is sharing the first position with another student every semester. Then, her parents throw a bomb at her by telling her they can no longer afford to send her to this school and after her next semester, she will have to switch schools.

This is something that shakes her world. She has no idea what she will do next. Until, by some strange fate, she turns invisible. It’s not a permanent thing. She becomes invisible every now and then. That’s how she comes up with a brilliant plan of spying on others and making some money for her next fee installment. What happens next is a classic teenage drama that will make you laugh at times and cringe at others. Soon, Alice Sun will find herself crossing the lines of morality. What will happen when the truth comes out?

Overall, it’s a fun, angsty teenage story. I enjoyed reading it and would recommend it to anyone who isn’t afraid of reading genre-benders.

October 2022 in Review: YA Fiction and Fantasy

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Some more book recommendations for you!

Let’s start with a coming-of-age novel that’s unlike any other novel of the same genre.

Clap When You Land by Elizabeth Acevedo

A Young Adult novel-in-verse that will tear your heart apart and then stitch it back together.

Camino Rios lives in the Dominican Republic with her aunt. Every summer her father visits from the States and she spends a few blissful months with him. Then, he goes back leaving her with the belief that he is working hard for a better future for her. She is happy with the knowledge that she has a father who cares and has made sure that she gets the best education available to them. One day, all this changes when she loses him to a plane crash.

Yahaira Rios lives in New York. Her father is her hero and she thinks her family to be perfect. They support her in everything and she knows that her parents love her very much. Then, things change when she stumbles upon a secret she should never have known. Unfortunately, she doesn’t get a chance to confront her father and before he could give any explanations, he is gone forever.

The story is about these two girls from different backgrounds. They are growing up fast and soon, they will have to learn how to survive in a world that is not always kind to girls, especially the ones without fathers. Clap When You Land is not just a story of loss, it is also a story of survival. And finding yourself amidst the chaos that life brings. It is told in a beautiful, poetic way that is sweet and harsh at the same time. It will make you feel so many things that you will lose yourself in this tale.

For me, it’s one of those rare books that are impossible to put down. I got lost in the words, so beautifully woven that they left me in awe. I indeed love YA fantasy but YA contemporary stories are not my favorite, especially coming of age type of stories. Yet, this book consumed me whole, and I am glad I took a chance on it. I give it five stars, knowing it deserves all the praise it can get.

Six Crimson Cranes by Elizabeth Lim

The story is set in a fantasy world where magic exists, and enchanters, demons, as well as dragons are all real. Yet, in the fictional country of Kiata, magic is prohibited. Long ago, all the demons were sealed away in the mountains and no one with magic in their blood is allowed to live there. Time passed and people have all but forgotten why magic is considered bad here. Then, Princess Shiori starts exhibiting magical abilities, and things become complicated.

Her stepmother banishes Shiori from the castle and turns her six brothers into cranes. They are all cursed. Shiori can’t speak or tell anyone about who she is, and her brothers are forced to spend their days as birds and nights as humans. They also cannot convince anyone of their origin. The siblings must find a way to break their stepmother’s curse and return to the castle. Meanwhile, the only person actively looking for the six princes and the only princess is Shiori’s ex-betrothed–the boy she tried really hard not to marry. After everything is said and done, will there be hope for them to renew their relationship, or has the ship already sailed?

It’s a little slow for my taste but still, I enjoyed the story. The fairytale tone of the narration is fun and I loved all the characters. Sometimes predictable and sometimes shocking, overall it is a well-balanced novel. It’s part of a duology but I think book one in itself is quite satisfying. A well-written fantasy story with a hint of romance, it’s a 4.5 stars book.

The Dragon’s Promise by Elizabeth Lim

The Dragon’s promise is a perfect conclusion to a magical duology. The book takes us beneath the sea where the Dragon King rules and it also takes us to islands unknown where Demons were born.

In book one, Shiori makes a promise to return the dragon’s pearl to its rightful owner and in this continuation of the story, she is trying her best to keep that promise. Her journey will not be an easy one. She must travel to the dragon kingdom and deal with a very angry dragon god. Then, she will face the humans who want to burn her because of the magic in her veins. There are thieves at every turn who will go to any length to steal the pearl from her. While finding the real owner is also not an easy feat. Princess Shiori must not scum to the dark power of the pearl and keep her promise at all costs.

I loved the descriptions in the book. It is almost as if you are there, under the sea, experiencing everything yourself. It’s also packed with emotions. There were times when it made me cry and then, there were times when it made me annoyed and angry. Overall, I loved the experience.

I give this book a five-star rating and recommend it to all fantasy lovers, especially if you enjoy Asian fantasy.

Stay tuned for more book recommendations coming next week.

As always, happy reading!

October 2022 in Review: Romance

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Hello friends, how is it going? Can you believe that the year is almost over? Anyway, I am happy the weather is getting better. Summer was way too long if you ask me. I have been reading and writing a lot. I hope you checked out my latest releases. And I hope you enjoy my views and reviews. If you have any suggestions or comments, don’t be shy to reach out.

Starting with the romance novels I read in October…

Kissing the Right Guy by Christina Herrera

A sweet and romantic YA story that will give you the Mean Girls vibe, but even better. I thoroughly enjoyed the story. Emma is torn between two boys: one who used to be her friend, but she hasn’t talked to him in a long time. The other she sees almost every day, yet they aren’t exactly close. Jake and Hunter are friends and whatever happens next, things will definitely become awkward between the three.

The story flows beautifully with enough cheesy and frustrating moments to keep the readers entertained. I had almost forgotten what it felt like to be a teenager and this book reminded me of that. At times, it made me smile, and at others, I wanted to throw something across the room in irritation. By the way, these latter moments are all Ashley’s fault. Thankfully, Emma got friends like Hannah and Haley to keep the balance. I also loved how her family appears to be a big part of her life. I don’t like when authors write YA and leave the families out of it. So, it’s refreshing to see that Emma’s family is there to love her and support her. I especially loved how her siblings interacted with her.

For the most part, I couldn’t decide who is the main lead character, Hunter or Jake. And I think that made it all the more fun to read because you really couldn’t tell which one will be the hero of the story and which one will do something stupid to make you hate him. After all, how else would Emma decide unless one of them is a jerk? That part was kind of fun. Overall, it’s a lighthearted story that you can enjoy anytime and anywhere. I loved it and would recommend it to my fellow readers. I give this book a 4.5 stars rating.

Link: https://www.bookbub.com/books/kissing-the-right-guy-hidden-shores-academy-by-christina-herrera

Ashali and the Blue Horseman by Jordan Elizabeth

Superheroes, vigilantes, evil assassins, and romance. I mean, what can go wrong? It’s a fast-paced and action-packed story that will keep you on your toes and second-guessing everything. The lines between right and wrong are blurred and you won’t know whether to stand with the heroes or the villains.

Yet for me, of course, it’s the romance side of the story that meant more. I thoroughly enjoyed Jase and Ashali’s story. They are two imperfect people who are trying to figure out their place in the world while at the same time running for their lives. What secrets are they both holding close to themselves? And the real question is, how much can they share with each other?

It’s a well-balanced book and I think fans of romance and/or action would find it worth reading. And if you’re among those who love superheroes then you can’t go wrong with this one. I highly recommend it to my fellow readers. I’m so glad that I picked it up. Sometimes one can get tired of reading the same kinds of stories, especially if like me you read a lot, and in those times books like this can easily fill the gap. It’s not something I would normally pick up, but it’s definitely something I would read in between my preferred genres. I give this book a five-star rating.

Smart and Casual by Niamh Shaw

It’s not exactly the romantic comedy I expected. It’s more of a workplace drama than anything else. Still, I enjoyed all the laugh-out-loud moments and the characters are quite fun so not a bad read.

It’s a three-star book for me. I wish that there was more romance and a little less drama but otherwise it’s a good book and if you are in the mood to read something light-hearted then this book might be perfect for you.

Second Bride Down by Ginny Baird

Overall, it’s an interesting story and I absolutely loved the characters but to be honest, it’s not as good as book one was. I guess the novelty of the plot no longer exists. It should have been expected though.

Three sisters desperate to find a love match within a month make a bet and the last one of them would have to accept an arranged marriage. One of them has already found love and is happily engaged. Now it’s Misty’s turn but she seems to have exhausted all the possible candidates. Strange how she never even considered Lucas, who has been working with them for years and always has been a good friend to Misty. Thanks to Charlotte’s intervention, she must pretend to be in a relationship with Lucas. And well, we know all the possibilities of that situation.

For a lighthearted and fun read, this is a good option. I recommend this to rom-com fans and I hope you enjoy it more than I did. For me, it is a three-star book.

The Matchmaker and The Cowboy by Robin Beilman

Last Night at the Cafe by Joie Y.

It’s a beautiful Wattpad story and I thoroughly enjoyed reading it. Perfect autumn read with a steaming cup of coffee, or whichever brew you favor. A cozy romance you can snuggle in bed with, or anywhere really.

I loved many things about this story. It flows beautifully from one chapter to the next, and you can’t help but fall in love with the main characters: a kindergarten teacher & aspiring author Seollal, and a barista Kazu. From the start, you know these two will be perfect for each other and their story will win your heart, and you wouldn’t be wrong.

Home is a café that invites you. The staff is friendly and the coffee is exactly what you need. Seollal frequents the place because she loves its hazelnut latte and because the homely environment is perfect for writing. She is a teacher by profession, but she hopes to become an author soon.

Kazu is the café owner, only a couple of years older than Seollal. They don’t often talk to each other even though she is a regular at his café. It changes on one rainy day and soon they find out that they actually have a lot in common. The best part is that they genuinely enjoy each other’s company.

I also loved Seollal’s relationship with her best friend and her family. In my opinion, it’s one of the best features of romance—especially contemporary romance—that it gives side characters their due limelight. It’s always fun to see how the main characters interact with all the other characters in a story. I feel that nothing gives a character more depth than highlighting their relationships with friends, family, and colleagues. In this regard, Kazu and Seollal do not disappoint, as they are both the nicest people around.

Look forward to more reviews and book recommendations next week. I hope you find something interesting to read among these lists. Sharing book love is my favorite hobby.

Take care and happy reading!

Month in Review: September 2022 (Part III)

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September has been a good month for me when it comes to reading and writing. I read more than usual and I also finally wrote the Rapunzel Retelling I have been planning for a while now. Anyway, my next read is another favorite of mine, and I’m excited to share my views and reviews with everyone. Don’t forget to share your favorite books with me. I love to hear all about books; whether you are a reader or a writer.

XOXO by Axie Oh

It’s been an unexpected read for me. Although I was hoping for a completely different story, the one I read is no less interesting. I gave this book four stars. It’s a contemporary YA romance with Korean and Korean-American main characters. Most of the story takes place in Korea, but it starts and ends in the USA.

An interesting thing is that I’m a huge K-Drama fan, which means that I got every Korean reference and even understood a few non-English lines without looking at the explanation. Unfortunately, I feel that this is also the reason why XOXO isn’t a perfect five-star book for me. I have come across such stories in K-Drama, so it’s not as original for me as it might be for some people. There was no cultural shock (which is why I read foreign books with foreign characters) and it’s just another YA romance novel. Not that it is a bad thing. I enjoy romance novels as much as anyone else. So, I definitely adored this one.

Anyway, the story is good and the characters are lovable. It starts well with a nice meet-cute moment and it ends well with a superb romantic scene. Thus, an interesting romantic teen story, which I would recommend to all YA and contemporary romance fans. The fact that the main characters are in the music industry; a band-boy hero and a heroine who is studying to be in an orchestra has no bearing on my opinion of the book. I’m not a music fan and have no interest in such things, so that part I simply glossed over. If you are someone who enjoys music and loves to read about the difficulties of the people who are training from a very young age, then you will definitely like this book more than I did.

XOXO is my second book by Axie Oh and I will definitely be picking up more books by this author. That I think is sufficient to show my liking of her work. I’m glad I picked up her books. That’s all.

An Arrow to the Moon by Emily X.R. Pan

I enjoyed this beautiful story. It’s told in a mysterious way where you keep guessing what is the story all about, i.e. who Hunter and Luna really are and why paranormal things keep happening to them.

Hunter Yee never understood his parents. They are always afraid of someone and ready to bolt, leaving behind their lives. Yet, he and his brother could never fully comprehend the fear and the secrecy behind their actions. They are not the nicest of parents, especially for Hunter. Sometimes, it even feels as if they hate him or maybe it’s the resentment he sees in their actions. Either way, he is tired of them and plans to run away as soon as he graduates from high school.

Luna Chang thinks her life is perfect. She loves her parents, she is a good student and is very likely to get into a good college. Everything changes when she meets Hunter, though. Her parents hate his family, but she can’t understand why. The more she questions their actions, the more she realizes that her parents might not be the perfect people she thought them to be. Then, strange things start happening around her. Things she cannot explain. The only person she can share this with is Hunter. He understands, and so is it any wonder that she falls in love with him. Yet, is love even in their stars. What will happen when their parents find out about it?

Overall, I love how the author has combined Asian Fantasy and Romeo & Juliet tropes. The ending wasn’t bad either. My only complaint is how all the different POVs can get confusing at times, especially since I listened to an audiobook rather than reading. I think this is one of those books where paperback might have been a better option. Anyway, the story is good and the main characters are interesting, so it’s worth it. I gave it four stars based on the audio narration.

Through Time by Fizza Younis

I always include my book in my reading lists because I am used to reading my books once they’re published. I try to be as objective as possible and enjoy them as a reader. Of course, I cannot be completely objective. Anyhow, this is my third fairytale retelling. This time I wrote about Rapunzel. To be honest, this is my least favorite fairy tale, so I doubted retelling it. But the story just came to me and I couldn’t resist writing it. It is a crossover between Snow White and Rapunzel. It’s a quick and fun read. I have read it a couple of times and I’m pretty satisfied with how it turned out.

I love fairytales and I am a fan of retellings. I just hope that everyone else enjoys this book as much as I have. Although, I might be biased. But then, aren’t we all? Reading is a very subjective activity, our personal tastes play a big role in what we will enjoy or not, and it’s difficult to think about a book without emotional attachment. In any case, if you ever decide to pick it up, don’t forget to let me know how much you loved or hated it. I welcome both.

Now, moving on to the next review:

A Quiver Full of Arrows by Jeffery Archer

It’s a collection of short stories, not something I usually read, but I found it in an old book shop and couldn’t resist the urge to pick it up. To be completely honest, one of the reasons why I got this book was that it has the author’s photo on the back. I’m part of 52 book club 2022 and one of the prompts is to read something that has the author’s picture on the back cover. So, it just felt like a good thing as I would check this one off the list.

I enjoyed most of the stories with one or two exceptions. Some have interesting twists and others are as expected. Yet, they keep you entertained.

These stories take you to various different parts of the world. Sometimes even to different times. You will meet all types of people within these pages; writers, ambassadors, businessmen, and ordinary people, too. Some stories have sad undertones, while others leave you feeling happy.

If you enjoy short stories, then you will like this collection. I recommend it to people looking for meaningful reads. I gave it four stars.

The Earl’s Inconvenient Wife by Ruth Ann Nordin

I found a free audiobook copy of this on Kobo and downloaded it on a whim. I must say, I rather enjoyed the story. It’s nothing exceptional, but it’s good as far as historical romances go. If you enjoy a marriage of convenience trope then you will love it. For me, it has been a 3.4 stars book.

Circumstances bring them together and time softens their hearts. Earl of Roderick and Miss Claire Lowell might be two very different people, but they must learn to co-exist and maybe, love will find them. Or maybe they are doomed to make each other unhappy with misunderstandings and miscommunication. It’s not that they despise each other, rather they just don’t know each other well. That might not be such a big problem because most couples are not well-acquainted before their wedding, but unfortunately, they don’t seem to want to know one and another. So, what kind of future are they going to have as husband and wife?

All in all, it’s a sweet story and I liked the main characters.

And lastly, I read some poetry by the author Jazalyn. I quite enjoyed it and you can check out my review here if you like. That’s a wrap for September. It has been a good month and I hope to read many, many books in the future.

If you are an author, brag about your work, and if you are a reader, tell me your favorite reads.

And always …

Happy reading, folks.

Month in Review: September 2022 (Part II)

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Ayesha at Last by Uzma Jalaluddin

The story is set in Canada and revolves around South Asian Muslim characters who are trying to follow their respective interpretations of Islam. While being judged by the non-Muslims and at the same time also judging each other. That’s the first thing I noticed about this story which claims to have been inspired by Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice. There are some similarities but sadly, the characters are very different. I don’t feel that Ayesha is in any way like Elizabeth and Khalid is definitely no Darcy. The only thing I find similarities between the two books is the two main characters’ initial dislike of each other. When Khalid judged Ayesha to be a bad Muslim, she regarded him as an ignorant man who can’t see beneath the surface.

Ignoring that, the story at its heart is a romantic comedy. So, as expected from a romance written about eastern characters, it raises the question of arranged marriages versus love marriages. I loved when Ayesha’s grandfather said, “Do you young people think you invented love and romance?” (This might not be an exact quote). That made me chuckle. To think that falling in love is a cultural thing? How absurd. Anyone can fall in love with anyone. Khalid is shown as someone who is okay with arranged marriages and he feels that if something has worked for his parents, grandparents, and their parents then it will work for him too. On the other hand, Ayesha doesn’t see arranged marriages in the same light. She likens it to buying horses where each candidate undergoes careful vetting and scrutinizing before they even meet for the first time.

And the best part of this book is how beautifully it brings South Asian families to life on paper. It shows you both the good and the bad sides of big, involved families. How toxic some relatives can be, how nosy and judgemental, but also how much they care and in hard times provide strength to you.

I gave it a four stars rating because even though I enjoyed reading it, I also found some parts to be boring. There is some stereotyping of characters as well, which I didn’t much care for. Overall, it’s a fun, lighthearted romance that every romance-lover would like. But if you are not a romance reader, then pick it up at your risk. It has many cheesy moments and cliches, even though the strong and independent female character pretty much makes up for it. It has been interesting watching Ayesha and Khalid grow as characters and find their place in this world, while at the same time finding love, at last.

The Duke’s Rules of Engagement by Jennifer Haymore

It’s an interesting historical fiction with characters who have great chemistry and some hot & steamy scenes, too. I enjoyed reading it and gave it a four-star rating. Although I loved the story and characters, there are a few boring parts in the middle, which I skipped. Then, I’m not an easy reader to please when it comes to romance. For one, I read a lot of it so chances are I have read something similar before. Second, I like to read books in as few sittings as possible. That basically means that it’s easy for me to feel as if the story is dragging because I don’t take many breaks. If not for that, I’m sure this one would have been a perfect read.

Jo Porter is an unconventional character, who is working for a living. The Duke is your typical historical hero, i.e. doesn’t believe in love, looks for a perfect bride, wants a marriage of convenience, etc. But we all know what happens to the characters who are not looking for love. *wink wink*

I also loved that in the end, the author breaks the rules and goes for a happy ending. That’s very well done. I’m not sure how historically accurate it is, but that is NEVER my concern. I want fiction, and I’m happy with it. That’s what romance is all about, whether contemporary or historical. As long as the main characters are interesting and the story is good, I will enjoy the book. I’d definitely recommend it to romance lovers.

Kindly note, I received a complimentary copy of this book via NetGalley. And I’m voluntarily leaving my honest opinion of it.

The Reeds by Chele Pedersen Smith

It’s such a sweet and heartfelt story about grief, healing, and growing as a family. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this short and quick book. I loved how the twins interacted with each other and their Mom. The story is both spiritual and rooted in reality. Overall, it is an interesting read.

For me, it was a five-star read. The story flowed smoothly and it was so easy to connect with the characters. Teenage twins and their mother were taking a trip down memory lane, so to speak. Mim wanted to show her kids the place where she grew up. But things took an interesting turn when their boat was caught up in a current and they found themselves way off course. Would it be a disaster or was the universe trying to show them something they needed to see? Read to find out.

A Thousand Steps into Night by Traci Chee

Another five-star book which I devoured with pleasure. It is told like a fairy tale and keeps you on your toes with twists and turns at every corner. The story is set in a world where humans, demons, gods, and spirits co-exist. Humans use talismans and enchantments to protect themselves from demons. Human villages are protected by spirit gates, which don’t let the spirits enter. And they avoid traveling after dark. Apart from that, it is also a world where women are discriminated against. It’s hard to say which people despise more, a woman or a demon. But what if it is a woman demon? And that is the central question of this story.

Miuko is an ordinary girl who is discontented with the life of a girl. There are so many things she is forbidden to do. Basically, her father owns her. Although he is a loving and kind man, Miuko hungers for freedom. And it comes in the most unexpected way imaginable. She is cursed to become a demon. Now, she must struggle to keep her humanity and find a way to break her curse.

On the road to her salvation, Miuko will find allies and make enemies. There will be times when she will doubt herself and her destiny, but her friends will help her to rediscover her purpose. Her journey is going to be full of dangers and trials. But she is determined to go back to her human self, no matter what. And if she saves the world in the meanwhile, well, that’s even better.

I think that is book is phenomenal. I love Asian fantasy and YA fantasy and it’s a perfect mixture of the two. I’m not familiar with Japanese folklore & myths, but that didn’t affect my reading experience in the least. Because I might not have known the backstories of these spirits, gods, and demons, I think the author has done an excellent job of bringing them to life. The deeper messages of gender discrimination and judging someone based on how they appear also resonated with me. That just made this book exceptional in my eyes. I would definitely recommend this book to fantasy fans.

A Very English Murder by Verity Bright

It’s a gripping murder mystery, which I enjoyed reading. But then, I just love cozy mysteries so it’s no surprise. However, I must say that it’s slower-paced than what I prefer.

It’s the first book in A Lady Eleanor Swift Mystery series, so I expected it to be a little slower because it must introduce us to the main characters and the setting. Still, I didn’t expect it to drag so much. I skipped a few chapters in the middle, and it didn’t make any difference in my understanding of the ending.

Anyhow, the good thing is that I loved Lady Swift’s character and that made the mystery worth reading. I might pick up other books in the series. For me, this is a 3.5 stars book.

If you are already a fan of murder mysteries, I recommend it. You might enjoy it more than I did. But if you are not a fan of cozy mysteries, then I don’t recommend it because it might not be such a good introduction to the genre.

P.S. Read the final part of Month in Review: September 2022 next week and don’t forget to share your thought, reviews, and views. Thank you for being a part of my reading journey.

Month in Review: September 2022 (Part I)

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It has been a tough month, but at least there are books to keep us company and make life easier. Even if just a little bit. When I’m reading, the worlds fade away and there are only the characters and their lives that are real. That’s the feeling I love. That’s why I read. With a book in my hands, I know I’m not alone. I will never be alone. It’s the most beautiful feeling and I try to savor it as often and as much as possible. It’s also the reason why I prefer fiction over non-fiction. I must say, between writing and reading life is perfect. There is nothing more I can ask for.

The Bastard of Istanbul by Elif Shafak

I might have enjoyed it more if I didn’t read 10 Minutes and 38 Seconds in This Strange World just before it. And felt as if I’m reading the same book rewritten. I know what you’re going to say, “Oh, but the stories are so different.” Yes, they are but also, they are not. We have a sexually abused character, who hates her religion, hates her family, and hates her life. Rebelling against the world and never fitting anywhere. Then, there is the past interweaved with the present in a way you can’t tell where one ends and the other begins. The way Shafak writes about Istanbul is pretty much the same, invoking the same kind of feelings, and giving you the same kind of reading experience. The way she writes about women is also the same. Anyhow, as I read this book I got the same feeling as I did when I was reading 10 Minutes 38 Seconds in This Strange World, and I didn’t like it much.

The only character I truly enjoyed is Bano. And the only thing about the story I truly loved is the magical realism that gave it a much-needed flavor, thus making it worth reading. If Shafak is a new author to you, then I recommend this book and hope you enjoy it. Her writing is quite poetic and she definitely has a talent for bringing characters to life, but too often the sufferings of her characters are parallel and thus, feel like repetition. At least, I wouldn’t read her books back to back. Otherwise, it’s a good story about sad people trying to make sense of life and trying to understand their place in this world.

One thing that I have noticed is that this book is not about one specific main character, rather it’s about the stories of families, communities, and countries. I liked that. So yep, I believe I would have loved this book if I hadn’t read it so soon after reading the above-mentioned novel. And that fact annoys me enough to give it three stars only.

A Song of Sky and Sacrifice by Lana Pecherczyk

I have been following the Fae Guardians series by Lana since book one was released in 2020. And I have enjoyed each and every book. The underlying plot is interesting & thrilling, while each book is standalone with its twists and turns that will keep the readers entertained. And what I love the most is that you don’t see any repetitions. All the characters are unique and their stories have different feels. This one is no different.

It’s a paranormal fantasy set in a distant future when the world is divided between fae and humans. It’s not easy to tell which side is the hero and which is the villain. They all have their stories. Melody might think she is on the right side of the war. But without knowing or understanding the other side, she can never be sure. Sometimes doubts seep in and make her wonder…

Forest is a good elf and he is the one people go to when they want help. So, it is no wonder he volunteers to infiltrate the human city and rescue a kidnapped fae child and bring her home. And that’s how he meets Melody. Now, things have become far more complicated than either of them would have liked. But aren’t some sacrifices worth making?

It’s a fast-paced story with romance at the center of it all. If you are a fan of paranormal fantasy, then I recommend this book. However, I recommend reading the series in order because that will definitely improve your reading experience. For me, it has been a four-stars read.

A Magic Steeped in Poison by Judy I. Lin

Absolutely loved this book and can’t wait to read the next one. The story is beautifully told and I just loved how this YA fantasy incorporates mythology too. All the characters are loveable and the overall story is well-paced. I recommend this book to all fans of fantasy.

The story is set in a fictitious world where tea has magical powers. And trained people with powers (called Shennong-shi) can use tea for various different purposes depending on the tea leaves they use. Our main character, Ning is one such person. Although she never received training.

When her mother dies because of poisoned tea and her sister is sick because the same poison is slowly killing her, Ning decides to do something about it. She takes her sister’s invitation to join the competition at the palace and go there herself. If she won, she would be able to ask the princess for a favor and she would ask for the cure-all.

But the life at the palace is nothing like she envisioned. There are dangers lurking in every corner and you never know who has ulterior motives and who might kill you while you slept. Ning is just a naive girl from a small province far from the capital and this life might just end up killing her.

All in all, it’s a magical story. It might be fiction but I find the story anchored in the truth. People with power might be admired by many, but there are just as many people who fear them and would go out of their way to do them harm. Among friends, snakes hid. Deceit, lies, and games are a norm when your lives are at stake. Blink, and you might end up seven feet below ground. Don’t get me wrong, though. This might be a dark story but it’s told in a fun way. I definitely enjoyed reading it and if you like YA novels then I think you would too.

A Venom Dark and Sweet by Judy I. Lin

Book 2 in the Book of Tea series is just as good as book 1, if not more. It’s about Ning and her struggles to save the country. And it’s about Kang and his struggle to help her. Darkness has enveloped their world and greater danger is on the horizon. Ning knows that she must help the princess to reclaim her throne but she is not sure how she would accomplish that task. All she has is her magic and an unknown source guiding her towards the truth. Yet, she isn’t certain how much is the truth and how much is just an illusion.

Kang’s loyalties are torn. On one side is his father. A man who has always been honest and trustworthy. Even with his faults, he couldn’t knowingly put innocent people at risk. But on the other side in Ning. A girl he fell in love with and shares a deeper connection than he can even explain. Which of them is telling the truth. Maybe in his heart, he knows but he simply can’t accept it because acceptance would mean heartbreak. In the end, the choice will be his.

Apart from these main characters, I also enjoyed reading about other minor characters who play their role in this adventure. There were some sad moments. But mostly I find it to be a thrilling read. The story flows so beautifully and I had such a hard time putting it down. This duology might be one of the best I have read so far. It takes you into a world of magic, mystery, and mayhem. A place where you are sad and happy at the same time. A place you dread and still want to stay in. It shows the best and worst in humanity. And yes, ultimately all is blamed on a manipulative god. Still, one can’t help but wonder at the fickleness and selfishness of the human race. Greed, vengeance, fear, and power are the tools that control the destiny of so many. And in all this darkness we also have the love, friendship, and sacrifice of a few people who make this world worth living in.

Anyhow, I thoroughly enjoyed both the books in Book of Tea duology and highly recommend it to fans of fantasy. I’m so glad that I picked up these books. Both books are a five-stars read. They definitely made an impression on me. One I won’t forget in a hurry.

Atomic Habits: And Easy and Proven Way to Build Good Habits and Break Bad Ones by James Clear

This book just reminded me why I hate self-help books and don’t pick them up. I regret even reading this book. I just wasted a few precious hours of my time and learned absolutely nothing new. The narrative dragged, the examples used were boring, and I don’t even think it’s very practical. I would love to know how many people were not only able to change their habits but maintain this change over the course of their lives. All I am going to say about this boring, useless book is that; don’t read it unless you love self-help books. We all have our preferences, after all.

P.S. In case you are wondering why I even bothered reading this book, the answer is that I read it for a book club.

P.P.S. I’m not going to rate it.

Month in Review: June 2022 (Part I)

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I have decided to do this month’s post in two parts. The books are in chronological order of my finishing them. I hope you find something enjoyable among these gems. Happy reading!

The month of June started with another Agatha Christie book; Five Little Pigs. The story starts sixteen years after the murder. It’s a cold case but Poirot awes us with his ingenuity and powers of deduction by solving the case. The story is gripping, the characters are likable and the mystery will keep you guessing who the murderer is. I think this is one of very few Christie’s books where I wasn’t able to guess the murderer correctly. I have read so many of her books, and know her style well enough to usually correctly guess the killer’s identity before the end. Mind you, that doesn’t affect my reading because even though I guess who murdered the victim, it’s still fun to see how Hercule solves the mystery.

After that, I read a sweet romance novella (a Christmas Puppy to Cherish by Josie Riviera) before diving into yet another one of Agatha’s mysteries: The Hollow. In my opinion, this isn’t quite the usual Queen of Mystery’s best work. For one, it was painfully predictable. I mean, guessing the killer’s identity is one thing but to unravel the whole plot before the mystery even starts? Well, let’s just say that wasn’t the experience I wanted from a mystery novel. But of course, it’s still Hercule Poirot and I just love the little Belgium detective. So, I didn’t exactly dislike the story even if I didn’t love it. With a heavy heart, I gave this book a 3.5 stars rating.

My fourth June read was a sci-fi romance novel Despair by Lana Pecherczyk. It’s the last book in her Deadly Seven series. I have followed this series since the very beginning and have loved each and every book. These are beautifully written, exciting books about genetically modified siblings who begin to show superpowers as soon as they meet the person they are destined to be with. The premise is a mixture of sci-fiction and paranormal, but the romance factor remains the main focus of each novel in the series. Despair is the last book and I’m having mixed feelings about this. I’m happy to read the conclusion but also, sad that it’s over. Anyhow, I highly recommend these books to readers who enjoy fast-paced, hot, and steamy romance novels with a sci-fi twist. Each novel can be read as a standalone. There is an underlying plot that continues from one book to the other. It has been the most enjoyable journey. Definitely a five stars book.

My next book was a ghost story, Haunting at Fettig by Jordan Elizabeth. This is one of those authors whose books I pick up without even reading the blurb because I know I will love them. She has a very unique writing style and her stories are usually out-of-this-world creative. I don’t know where she gets her ideas from, but Jordan Elizabeth writes some of the most original fiction works I have ever come across. Haunting at Fettig is an interesting ghost story set in a small town farmhouse amidst the pandemic. It’s about a girl who is stranded at her grandmother’s house and soon discovers that it might be haunted. No one believes her other than a boy from the neighborhood, who is also stuck there. Together the two teens discover the truth behind these ghostly sightings. Overall, an enjoyable and quick read. I gave it five stars.

Another Agatha’s masterpiece: Taken at the Flood. I absolutely loved this story. Especially because I hated most of the characters. At least, Madam Christie keeps things real. I also didn’t like one thing about the ending but we can’t talk about that without spoiling the story. If you decide to read this book, you will know what I mean. Hercule Poirot sometimes bends the rules if he sees fit. He doesn’t really have a black-or-white view of the world. Anyhow, the mystery is intriguing and kept me second-guessing everything, which I thought was brilliant. Overall, I enjoyed reading it and would recommend it to mystery fans.

So, I needed a break from murder mysteries and decided to read a few more romances. The Lord Pretender by Sawyer North is one of them. It’s a wonderful story that has me smiling often. I loved both the main characters and their respective best friends. It was such an interesting story, but then I have always been a fan of the body-switch trope. And combine it with historical romance; you have perfection! I think that the author has done a great job of capturing all the different emotions resulting from the switch. It was fun to see how Emma and Simon tried to adjust to each other’s bodies, and learn more about each other’s lives, habits, loves, and hates. However, it’s not the only thing I loved about this book. I also enjoyed the romance between them as well as the premise of the book. This story has been a real treat for me. It’s one of those books which are hard to put down and you end up finishing them in one or two sittings. That’s how good I found it to be. So glad I picked it up and would definitely recommend it to all readers. If you like historicals and/or romance then you should read this book. It’s beautifully written and I hope we get to read more books about some of the side characters. They should all have their stories told. 😉

P.S. I received a complimentary copy of this book and the review is my honest opinion, having nothing to do with the author or the publisher.

My eighth book of the month was a cozy mystery, On the Trail of a Killer by Cate Lawley. I listened to a free audiobook on Youtube and thoroughly enjoyed it. The story is simple and the characters are lovable, especially our lead detective Fairmont, who is brilliant at sniffing out dead bodies. I really liked how there are chapters told from the dog’s POV. And he is the cutest thing. But I also loved Sheriff Luke. He wasn’t a bad detective either. Overall, it’s a nice book for a hot summer day, especially if you enjoy books that make you smile.

Sold on Love by Kathleen Fuller is a sweet, romantic novel. After reading the blurb, I requested it via NetGalley and received a complimentary copy, for which I’m immensely thankful. I enjoyed it a lot. It’s one of those books that will instantly put you in a good mood even if you are having a bad day. I started reading it on one such day, and for that alone it has become one of my favorite reads of the year!

The Bad Muslim Discount by Syed M. Masood is an OwnVoice novel and my tenth book of the month. I have reviewed it in detail if you like to know my thoughts on the book. I gave it 2 stars rating, which is my lowest rating of the year (so far).

Don’t forget to share your thoughts, views, and reviews. I love to hear about what everyone is reading. Thanks for being here!

Month in Review: May 2022

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Another month has passed and I feel like life has come to a standstill. I don’t really know why I have been feeling down lately, but I think it might be the weather combined with the fact that I’m still recovering from a rather nasty infection I had a few weeks ago. In any case, one thing remains the same; I’m reading a lot. More than usual because I don’t feel like doing anything else. I haven’t written anything new in weeks. I’m spending less and less time on social media. Books are the only thing that makes me happy right now. Sounds rather depressing when you say it out loud, but there it is. Anyway, I just wanted to post a quick update about what I have been reading in case someone is looking for a recommendation. And of course, you are welcome to share your reads with me. I love to hear from my followers and friends. Take care and be safe.

Books I Read in May 2022

I started my month with one of my favorite books, Murder in Three Acts by Agatha Christie. If you have read my previous monthly updates, you know how much I know Hercule Poirot mysteries. They are my absolute favorite and this book is no exception.

Three seemingly unrelated deaths happen and now Hercule is on a quest to, not only find a link between them but also to unmask the killer. As he puzzle over this mystery, we get to know each character a little better, and when the truth is uncovered, it comes as a complete surprise. And very satisfying, I must add.

As a reader, I don’t actively try to solve the murder mystery as I read. Instead, I just lay back and let the lead detective do his work. Hercule Poirot has yet to disappoint me. I loved the way this book is written, enjoyed the mystery, and overall found it thoroughly entertaining. It’s a five stars read for me and I definitely recommend it to all mystery lovers, hoping you enjoy it as much as I have.

After that, I read three books in Hercule Poirot’s short stories. They are quick and fun mysteries. I often pick up one of these in between my main reads. Usually, I listen to the audiobooks of these. And my next main read was another one of Agatha Christie’s mysteries; One, Two, Buckle My Shoe. Yet another five stars read. I have noticed that I’m reading a lot of her books this year. Thankfully, she wrote so many that I still am not done with all of her works. A few of her other mysteries I read this month include; Sad Cypress, Short stories in The Labors of Hercules series (I think there are 12 or 13 short stories in this series), Evil Under the Sun, and Four and Twenty Blackbirds. Most of these books are four or five stars reads for me.

Other Murder Mysteries I Read in May

Agatha Christie is not the only mystery writer I love. I’m actually quite fond of murder mysteries, especially the cozy ones. In May, I discovered a few new-to-me authors. And read a few I already love and admire. North Western by Jordan Elizabeth is quite a unique murder mystery in the sense that it is also a ghost story. It’s set in the old West. I quite enjoyed the rural setting of the tale and loved how it unfolded; keeping me on my toes and second-guessing who the murderer might be. The end came as a surprise and overall, I think it’s a great story. Especially if you are looking for a quick and satisfying read, this is for you. A five stars book indeed.

A new mystery writer I discovered this month is Melissa Erin Jackson. A Facebook friend recommended her books to me. Some of them are available on Youtube as free audiobooks. I listened to three of her mystery books. I love how the main character is a modern-day witch. I also enjoyed the main character’s romantic entangles and family dynamics, but mostly, I loved the mystery side of the stories. The three books are; Pawsitively Poisonous, Pawsitively Cursed, and Pawsitively Secretive. There are two more books in the series and I’m looking forward to reading them. Each book is a complete mystery story but there is also an underlying story that continues. Still, you can read these as standalone.

Caught Witch Handed by Cathrine Waltan is another witchy mystery I read in May, but sadly, I didn’t enjoy it enough to recommend it. Then, there is Hex and the Single Girl by Valrie Frankel. Both books are fun reads, with romance and mystery. Not to mention interesting characters that will have you smiling.

My last mystery of the month was Murder on Girl’s Night Out by Anne George. This is another audiobook that I listened to on Youtube. I enjoyed the story but not enough to continue with the series.

Some Romance Novels, Too

I read five romance novels in May 2022. Two are religious romances and three are historicals. They are all interesting stories with likable characters. I gave them either four or five stars.

  1. Improper Relations by Janet Mullany
  2. Mr. Bishop and the Actress by Janet Mullany
  3. A Matter of Temptation by Stacy Reid
  4. A Love Song to Cherish by Josie Riviera
  5. Candleglow and Mistletoe by Josie Riviera

In May, I also read my very first graphic novel. I requested it on NetGalley mostly on a whim and I’m so glad that I did. Black Mass Rising by Theo Prasidis is a wonderful story with beautiful art by Judie Muir. It is supposed to be horror but I didn’t find it scary at all. I loved it for the supernatural/fantasy element. It’s a unique vampire story. The cover was the first thing that attracted me to this story. And I’m glad that I got to read it because it’s a great story with beautiful art. I am not a fan of Dracula. And still, I enjoyed this story. Loved the twist at the end. My only complaint is that it ended abruptly. I felt as if there should be more to this tale, and there might be. I’d definitely keep a lookout for a volume II. I gave it four out of five stars.

Finally, Wishtress by Nadine Brandes. This book is not out yet and I received a complimentary copy via NetGalley. This is my only Young Adult Fantasy read of the month. And it is amazing, and by that, I mean amazingly annoying. (Ops!) No, but seriously, I couldn’t find a single likable character in this whole thing. That doesn’t however, mean I didn’t like the story because I absolutely loved it. It’s a sad story set in a tragic world where people either have Talents or they want them. Why though, is anyone’s guess for it seems that having a Talent just makes your life all the more difficult and your choices all the more important. They will not only affect you but also the ones around you.
And in this twisted world, which is much like ours, there are two people with Talents trying to survive in the best possible way. Although they are not doing a very good job of it, that’s what the story is all about. It’s one of those beautiful tales that will make you cry and throw things at walls. So, get ready for an emotional ride. Every backstory is filled with tears. Every character is fighting in vain. Every figure of authority is cruel and power-hungry. And almost everyone is a hypocrite. Yet, among all of them are two souls who are constantly learning from their mistakes and attempting to do better. And they are the main characters. A Wishtress and a Talented. It’s their story and it’s wonderful in its own twisted way. I loved every minute of it and kept turning the pages until the end. And what an awesome ending it is, too. All in all, I enjoyed reading it and would recommend it to all readers, especially those who are not afraid of a little darkness. Because only after you have endured it, you can reach the light that will last. It’s a five stars read for me.

I also re-read one of my own short stories. I do that often. I don’t know if I should love my books as much as I do, but sometimes I feel as if I’m writing for myself only. (Ops!) Check out The Mirror, a Snow White retelling.