This book was an absolute delight to read. I enjoyed every single moment from the first to the last page, and dearly hope that Connolly will continue This book was an absolute delight to read. I enjoyed every single moment from the first to the last page, and dearly hope that Connolly will continue with more mysteries in the future. While I wouldn’t say I am a connoisseur of the British Bake Off television show, I do really enjoy it. As soon as I learned of this book and its FMC’s participation in the fictional world’s Bake Off television program, I knew I had to read it. And I’m so glad I did! I could honestly go for another read, because it was just so refreshing and delightful. I really loved Claire. Her personality was so open and endearing, and I felt like all of her reactions to what was going around her were perfectly written. I loved her curiosity and humility, and how she decided to go for this dream of baking for this television program. She’s just adorable. I loved her. Oh! And I absolutely loved her food-related “swear words.� My sister actually does something similar and it cracked me up hearing the ones that Claire tried. Where Claire is sunshine, Jonathan is grumpy—except for where Claire is concerned. I’m always a sucker for a “he falls first� trope, and the way Jonathan fell for Claire was so cute. I loved that she brought out his protective, loyal nature, and how much he craved being around her. It was a perfectly written romance, where the two MC’s completed one another in essential ways. The murder mystery kept me on my toes for much of the time. I may have guessed at the perpetrator a few chapters before our sleuths did, but the motive kept me guessing for a good long while. There were others with a motive that I knew of and guessed them first. Add in a couple of red herrings, and it kept me wondering for quite awhile. I loved how the tension of the mystery bled over into the show and thought Connolly did a fantastic job showing the strain on the relationships between the characters. It’s really just a very delightful book and would encourage anyone who loves romance, baking, and murder mysteries to give it a try.
TW/CW: murder and attempted murder; mention of blood and murder weapons; death previous to book
**many thanks to the publisher for the book. This review was not required and is my express opinion.
I absolutely, totally, completely loved this book with my whole heart! It was so charming, so wonderful, so much fun. I will admit thatDearest Anneka,
I absolutely, totally, completely loved this book with my whole heart! It was so charming, so wonderful, so much fun. I will admit that I’m a big fan of friends-to-lovers, so I loved that aspect right away, but the entire book is just so sweet and darling!
Miles is truly the hero made of dreams. Don’t get me wrong, he isn’t overly perfect, so that isn’t going on here, but his thoughtfulness and kindness toward ___ was the sweetest. I loved how much he tried to serve her and help her, the lengths he would go to make life good for her. And that scene at the cricket match! *mega swoon* I just adore this man.
Jemma is cute in a misguided sort of way. But I admire her tenacity and her wholehearted gusto in the ways she approached her mission. I thought it was funny how long it took her to figure out her heart, but I loved the journey to get there. And honestly, it felt believable to me, because when you’ve been doing something one way your entire life, you never question it. Your relationships just exist; you don’t wonder if something has changed. Anyway, I loved Jemma’s slow path to figuring out her heart. Her spirit and fire make her a lot of fun.
Also, the Matchmaking Mamas are hilarious! Definitely a fan of them! Ha!
This book has risen to the top for my favorite of yours, and I am so happy about that. The book made me smile all throughout and was the perfect diversion from the monotonies of life. Like laundry. Mile’s women admirers, the romance lessons, his care for people, Jemma’s impetuous and well-meaning ways, and the matchmaking all made for a most enjoyable time. I loved it.
Yours, Jessica
**many thanks to the author and publisher for the lovely book. All thoughts are my own. ...more
HOLY MACKERAL! EVERY single time I think I have a finger on what you are doing with this series, you blow me out of the water with a nDear Mrs. Meyer,
HOLY MACKERAL! EVERY single time I think I have a finger on what you are doing with this series, you blow me out of the water with a new surprise or twist or mystery that I NEVER saw coming. HOLYMOLYMACKERELSAUCE!
My heart just went out to poor Caroline. Understanding the principles of the Time Crossers (from having read the previous three books) I knew what was going on, and when I tell you that Caroline's lives gave me no small amount of anxiety, believe me . . . the anxiety was REAL! I even had to stop reading for a day because FLIBBITYJIBBET! Haha! But I was hooked, and couldn't put it down for long.
I was absolutely riveted with Caroline's lives and wondering how everything would play out. I loved her parents in 1927, and I loved Marcus (in fact, after reading, I met someone named Marcus and immediately assumed his last name was Zale...so there's that). And sweet Lewis.
The growth Caroline went through, and what she learned about grace and forgiveness and a person's ability to change was really good. I appreciated so much about this book, but I also especially connected to Caroline's singing voice and her nerves about performing in front of an audience. As a vocalist, I related so much to what she learned about herself and her talent, and I was especially struck by the idea that when we perform for God--for an audience of one--we are showing God that we find joy in the gifts He's given us. That was meaningful for me, so thank you for including that.
This series is a top favorite for me. I can't get enough of it, and I recommend it to everyone I can think of. Absolutely fabulous, knock-it-out-of-the-park series, and this book fits right in with its predecessors. Brava, Mrs. Meyer. Brava!
Your fan forever, Jessica
**many thanks to Bethany House and Austen Prose Tours for the copy. All thoughts are my own. ...more
I have been smitten in the very best of ways by the utter delight and beauty that is your little book. From the very first page I wDear Mrs. Thornell,
I have been smitten in the very best of ways by the utter delight and beauty that is your little book. From the very first page I was pulled in and just wouldn’t—couldn’t—put it down. You have so masterfully packed a full and delightful story into very few pages. This tender book had me laughing and swooning and biting my nails (figuratively of course, as I am a most proper lady...most of the time) and rooting for my favorite characters.
Meg is such a sweet little character and I just adored her personality. She was really a gem and it was so fun to see her grow in her confidence and personal strength. And of course I love Nathan (excuse me, I mean Mr. Blake, naturally). I do believe he would make for very good drawing room conversation. Of course the silliest girls would giggle themselves sick, while the rest of us (for, of course, I am never silly) will merely swoon and blush from our necks to our hairlines. He really is quite dashing and so dedicated. One cannot help but notice and admire all his wonderful qualities, even if he doesn’t come with a title. But if we are being truly fair, a title is a mere trifle when compared to other important qualities (all of which Mr. Blake has in abundance).
The house party was a perfectly clever backdrop for this lovely story and the guest list was most convenient. You truly thought of everything. My dear Mrs. Thornell, you may consider yourself as having a devoted and loving admirer of your works. I shall sing your praises in every drawing room I enter for the rest of time and look forward most passionately for further offerings from your hands.
Yours ever, Jessica
P.S. I simply must gush with enthusiasm over the very good kissing scene. I could just read it over and over (I’m not blushing; you’re blushing). And the epilogue is what all epilogue dreams are made of!
***
Quotes I loved (quotes contain spoilers): “Losing continuously can also bring a man pride, you know. It is a mark of consistency.�
Numbers were a safe retreat from the pain she felt. They always made perfect sense. Her eyes grazed the page. Well. They generally made perfect sense.
“Admit it, you would be alarmed if I ever consistently arrived at your front step.� ... Meg retreated to Papa’s desk, standing in front of it, still struggling against her smile. “Alarmed? Unlikely. Relieved more like.� “Ha! You know you love the excitement I bring to your day.�
She spent far too much time gazing out windows these days. “Yes. I know they do it because they love me but...� “But you wish they loved you less?� She shot him a dry look. “No.� Then she sighed. “But maybe, yes.�
The dimple just to the left of her mouth never ceased to set his heart to pounding. He attempted a few surreptitious breaths to calm it. It didn’t work. Belligerent organ.
Nathan swallowed around the lump in his throat. “Of course. I would be delighted.� He would certainly not be delighted.
How could he managed to elevate their friendship when she was being courted by half a dozen men? She was perfect, utterly perfect, and it would not take long for those other men to realize it and wish to make her their own.
How could he ever allow her to marry another when she would be taking his heart with her? How could he watch as she married a man who would not strive to care for and protect her as he would?
Meg needed someone who would recognize her worth, it was true, but more than that, she needed someone who would put her first always, since she would never put her self ahead of anyone. She needed someone who would make her laugh when she was sad and listen when she needed to be heard. And he needed to be that man.
“Me, out of sorts? That of a state of feeling I do not believe in.�
“But you must let her make her own choices. You do not want her to choose you because you are her only choice—you want to be only choice she desires.�
“I think your hair looks perfect.� His voice was pitched low to avoid detection from the party members, and a strange warmth swept through Meg. She laughed it off, tucking her hands behind her back. “That is because I have already fixed it. Go on and join the party. I will follow in a moment.� He looked over his shoulder with a slight grimace. “No, thank you. I much prefer the present company.� She hit him on the arm with the back of her hand. “No, you foolish man. I meant to imply that we cannot enter together. What would everyone think?� “That we were enjoying a romantic repose in the darkened dining room, perhaps?�
“Oh, I assure you I would be just as terrible at loo. It seems I am not destined to be a successful card player in this lifetime. I hope you will forgive my faults.�
The viscount’s coat was far too close-fitting to climb through windows. Which everyone knew was the mark of a true man.
The sun broke through the canopy in occasional pillars of light, and there was that stillness that only nature could provide. It was glorious.
“A man who does not care for his parents is no man at all,� he stated. [Lord Hatfield]
“How did you know I would want to walk in the sun?� Meg said after a minute or two. She lifted her head to the sky, and he slowed his step to allow for her inattention. “Easy—I know you or perhaps it has something to do with you confessing your desire to feel the sun on your face hardly a week ago.�
“Nothing can be out of place, not a hair nor a character trait. She asked me not to inform the party of my illness, you know, or my talent with numbers.� Nathan blinked, then scoffed. “You must be joking. Why would she do that?� “I suppose because they are flaws, Nathan. I only ever saw them as part of me, much as I wish my sickness this last year was not. But I never saw them as flaws.� She shrugged, taking another step away and averting her eyes once more. “That is because they are not!� Nathan stride to her, and when she did not immediately look up, he put his hand under her chin and gently forced her gaze to meet his. She was surprised at the fire she saw there. “Meg, you are the least flawed person I know.
“Yes,� Meg murmured. “I was incredibly lucky he was there. Have you seen him since, Sarah?� Sarah’s lips twitched slyly, and she adjusted a curl that swept down over Meg’a shoulders. “Only about five times, miss. Though I’ve no clue how he got in each time since it wasn’t through the front door.� Meg laughed. That was Nathan all right.
With a small grin, Father leaned around him, unpacking the window. �...I understand this is your preferred way of entering and exciting homes, so perhaps you ought to make use of it and go win Miss Hall’s hands. If not for your sake, then for ours. Your mother and I cannot handle the mopping any longer. The signs are likely to instigate a windstorm at this rate.�
“You are welcome. Now go.� “Now?� Nathan asked, bewildered. Father aimed a snack at his head, but Nathan dodged. “Yes, now. What did I raise, a blockhead?�
“Mr. Blake, what a surprise to see you at the front door. Is everything all right?�
Oh dear. He was going to be so angry when she told him she had decided to marry the viscount. But he did not understand. As a woman, Meg was required to marry not for herself, but for her family. Ladies did not have the freedom to choose their partner based of love and affection as a man might.
Now she has every reason to believe that she could never care for Lord Hatfield in the way she wished to care for a husband. Because after the events of today, the events of the last few months if she were being honest, Meg was fairly certain her heart was already engaged. To Nathaniel Blake.
All at once, Meg’s heart lifted. The anxious energy that had coursed through her the last week and a half settled at je sight of Nathan’s cheeks creased in a smile, gray eyes twinkling, and dark hair falling over his brow as it was wont to do. She loved this man.
“I considered climbing up but did not think it would do to have two of us sporting broken legs.� Nathan laughed, leaning one arm against the windowsill. “While I would have paid good money to see you attempt such a feat, I would have to agree with you on your choice not to.�
“Can you manage the stairs?� Nathan scoffed, feigning annoyance. “Can I manage the stairs, she asks.� He huffed. “It is as if you do not realize what a fine, athletic specimen I am.� Meg laughed. “Oh, I am quite aware.�
Meg stopped in the doorway, not quite closing the door behind her. “You beat me.� “Fine, athletic specimen, remember?� He pointed at himself, smiling. She cocked her head, pretending to consider him, all while her heart beat madly in her chest. “I would guess you had a pair of footmen candy you down.� “If you must know, I employed a long-ago mastered skill of sliding down the main banister.�
“I promised myself I would not act so cowardly again, and so forgive me, as I am sure I am about to overstep a great many lines.� He took a deep breath, and the air between them filled with anticipation. Unconsciously, Meg took a small step closer. His gaze bore into her own; she could not look away. Nathan took a second, almost steadying breath. “I love you, Meg.�
And then, with a full grin gracing his face, he kissed her again until Mrs. Blake peeked her head into the dining room and informed them that they were all anxiously awaiting their news if they did not mind.
“This isn’t fair, you know,� she murmured against his lips. “I know.� He grinned, pulling back slightly. “But how can I help it when my wife is as irresistible as you?�
“Please do not fall whilst climbing up to the nursery window!� Her voice called after him. He laughed, yelling back, “I never fall!�
鲹پԲ:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Merged review:
Dear Mrs. Thornell,
I have been smitten in the very best of ways by the utter delight and beauty that is your little book. From the very first page I was pulled in and just wouldn’t—couldn’t—put it down. You have so masterfully packed a full and delightful story into very few pages. This tender book had me laughing and swooning and biting my nails (figuratively of course, as I am a most proper lady...most of the time) and rooting for my favorite characters.
Meg is such a sweet little character and I just adored her personality. She was really a gem and it was so fun to see her grow in her confidence and personal strength. And of course I love Nathan (excuse me, I mean Mr. Blake, naturally). I do believe he would make for very good drawing room conversation. Of course the silliest girls would giggle themselves sick, while the rest of us (for, of course, I am never silly) will merely swoon and blush from our necks to our hairlines. He really is quite dashing and so dedicated. One cannot help but notice and admire all his wonderful qualities, even if he doesn’t come with a title. But if we are being truly fair, a title is a mere trifle when compared to other important qualities (all of which Mr. Blake has in abundance).
The house party was a perfectly clever backdrop for this lovely story and the guest list was most convenient. You truly thought of everything. My dear Mrs. Thornell, you may consider yourself as having a devoted and loving admirer of your works. I shall sing your praises in every drawing room I enter for the rest of time and look forward most passionately for further offerings from your hands.
Yours ever, Jessica
P.S. I simply must gush with enthusiasm over the very good kissing scene. I could just read it over and over (I’m not blushing; you’re blushing). And the epilogue is what all epilogue dreams are made of!
***
Quotes I loved (quotes contain spoilers): “Losing continuously can also bring a man pride, you know. It is a mark of consistency.�
Numbers were a safe retreat from the pain she felt. They always made perfect sense. Her eyes grazed the page. Well. They generally made perfect sense.
“Admit it, you would be alarmed if I ever consistently arrived at your front step.� ... Meg retreated to Papa’s desk, standing in front of it, still struggling against her smile. “Alarmed? Unlikely. Relieved more like.� “Ha! You know you love the excitement I bring to your day.�
She spent far too much time gazing out windows these days. “Yes. I know they do it because they love me but...� “But you wish they loved you less?� She shot him a dry look. “No.� Then she sighed. “But maybe, yes.�
The dimple just to the left of her mouth never ceased to set his heart to pounding. He attempted a few surreptitious breaths to calm it. It didn’t work. Belligerent organ.
Nathan swallowed around the lump in his throat. “Of course. I would be delighted.� He would certainly not be delighted.
How could he managed to elevate their friendship when she was being courted by half a dozen men? She was perfect, utterly perfect, and it would not take long for those other men to realize it and wish to make her their own.
How could he ever allow her to marry another when she would be taking his heart with her? How could he watch as she married a man who would not strive to care for and protect her as he would?
Meg needed someone who would recognize her worth, it was true, but more than that, she needed someone who would put her first always, since she would never put her self ahead of anyone. She needed someone who would make her laugh when she was sad and listen when she needed to be heard. And he needed to be that man.
“Me, out of sorts? That of a state of feeling I do not believe in.�
“But you must let her make her own choices. You do not want her to choose you because you are her only choice—you want to be only choice she desires.�
“I think your hair looks perfect.� His voice was pitched low to avoid detection from the party members, and a strange warmth swept through Meg. She laughed it off, tucking her hands behind her back. “That is because I have already fixed it. Go on and join the party. I will follow in a moment.� He looked over his shoulder with a slight grimace. “No, thank you. I much prefer the present company.� She hit him on the arm with the back of her hand. “No, you foolish man. I meant to imply that we cannot enter together. What would everyone think?� “That we were enjoying a romantic repose in the darkened dining room, perhaps?�
“Oh, I assure you I would be just as terrible at loo. It seems I am not destined to be a successful card player in this lifetime. I hope you will forgive my faults.�
The viscount’s coat was far too close-fitting to climb through windows. Which everyone knew was the mark of a true man.
The sun broke through the canopy in occasional pillars of light, and there was that stillness that only nature could provide. It was glorious.
“A man who does not care for his parents is no man at all,� he stated. [Lord Hatfield]
“How did you know I would want to walk in the sun?� Meg said after a minute or two. She lifted her head to the sky, and he slowed his step to allow for her inattention. “Easy—I know you or perhaps it has something to do with you confessing your desire to feel the sun on your face hardly a week ago.�
“Nothing can be out of place, not a hair nor a character trait. She asked me not to inform the party of my illness, you know, or my talent with numbers.� Nathan blinked, then scoffed. “You must be joking. Why would she do that?� “I suppose because they are flaws, Nathan. I only ever saw them as part of me, much as I wish my sickness this last year was not. But I never saw them as flaws.� She shrugged, taking another step away and averting her eyes once more. “That is because they are not!� Nathan stride to her, and when she did not immediately look up, he put his hand under her chin and gently forced her gaze to meet his. She was surprised at the fire she saw there. “Meg, you are the least flawed person I know.
“Yes,� Meg murmured. “I was incredibly lucky he was there. Have you seen him since, Sarah?� Sarah’s lips twitched slyly, and she adjusted a curl that swept down over Meg’a shoulders. “Only about five times, miss. Though I’ve no clue how he got in each time since it wasn’t through the front door.� Meg laughed. That was Nathan all right.
With a small grin, Father leaned around him, unpacking the window. �...I understand this is your preferred way of entering and exciting homes, so perhaps you ought to make use of it and go win Miss Hall’s hands. If not for your sake, then for ours. Your mother and I cannot handle the mopping any longer. The signs are likely to instigate a windstorm at this rate.�
“You are welcome. Now go.� “Now?� Nathan asked, bewildered. Father aimed a snack at his head, but Nathan dodged. “Yes, now. What did I raise, a blockhead?�
“Mr. Blake, what a surprise to see you at the front door. Is everything all right?�
Oh dear. He was going to be so angry when she told him she had decided to marry the viscount. But he did not understand. As a woman, Meg was required to marry not for herself, but for her family. Ladies did not have the freedom to choose their partner based of love and affection as a man might.
Now she has every reason to believe that she could never care for Lord Hatfield in the way she wished to care for a husband. Because after the events of today, the events of the last few months if she were being honest, Meg was fairly certain her heart was already engaged. To Nathaniel Blake.
All at once, Meg’s heart lifted. The anxious energy that had coursed through her the last week and a half settled at je sight of Nathan’s cheeks creased in a smile, gray eyes twinkling, and dark hair falling over his brow as it was wont to do. She loved this man.
“I considered climbing up but did not think it would do to have two of us sporting broken legs.� Nathan laughed, leaning one arm against the windowsill. “While I would have paid good money to see you attempt such a feat, I would have to agree with you on your choice not to.�
“Can you manage the stairs?� Nathan scoffed, feigning annoyance. “Can I manage the stairs, she asks.� He huffed. “It is as if you do not realize what a fine, athletic specimen I am.� Meg laughed. “Oh, I am quite aware.�
Meg stopped in the doorway, not quite closing the door behind her. “You beat me.� “Fine, athletic specimen, remember?� He pointed at himself, smiling. She cocked her head, pretending to consider him, all while her heart beat madly in her chest. “I would guess you had a pair of footmen candy you down.� “If you must know, I employed a long-ago mastered skill of sliding down the main banister.�
“I promised myself I would not act so cowardly again, and so forgive me, as I am sure I am about to overstep a great many lines.� He took a deep breath, and the air between them filled with anticipation. Unconsciously, Meg took a small step closer. His gaze bore into her own; she could not look away. Nathan took a second, almost steadying breath. “I love you, Meg.�
And then, with a full grin gracing his face, he kissed her again until Mrs. Blake peeked her head into the dining room and informed them that they were all anxiously awaiting their news if they did not mind.
“This isn’t fair, you know,� she murmured against his lips. “I know.� He grinned, pulling back slightly. “But how can I help it when my wife is as irresistible as you?�
“Please do not fall whilst climbing up to the nursery window!� Her voice called after him. He laughed, yelling back, “I never fall!�
I am so completely enthralled by this book and your writing, that I don’t feel I have adequate words to express my feelings. It is bDear Mrs. Sowards,
I am so completely enthralled by this book and your writing, that I don’t feel I have adequate words to express my feelings. It is beautiful, it is gut wrenching, it is deep, it is written remarkably well. I am in awe of your writing, completely amazed at this story you created.
To say I adored both Konstantin and Suzana would be an understatement. They are both so good, rising above their circumstances to be the best people they can. I loved how Konstantin showed gentle love to Suzana, and helped her find her confidence. I loved how Suzana pushed Konstantin to trust her more, and helped him in his duties as Zupan. Their love story is so tender and sweet and I was hooked from the ver beginning.
The amount of intrigue and mystery you wove into this story kept me on my toes throughout the entire book! I did not expect what came next any time something happened. It was a wild ride that I would absolutely ride again because it was so good!
I loved the lineup of side characters, and the epilogue was so sweet. And the masterful way you weave history into a story always astounds me. Every single time I read one of your books, I come away feeling like I just learned something new, while simultaneously being entertained. I appreciate your talent and your hard work, and that you apply both so diligently to write such stellar books.
I’ve been a fan for awhile now, but if I wasn’t already, this book would land your name on my favorites list immediately. It’s so good! Just so good. Count me in for reading every single thing you write. I want it all!
Yours, Jessica
AUDIOBOOK REVIEW: This narrator is incredible. Her voices for all the different characters were top notch, and her reading was engaging and interesting. I would absolutely listen to her narrations any time.
**Many thanks to the author/publisher for the copy. A positive review was not required. All thoughts are my own.
Merged review:
Dear Mrs. Sowards,
I am so completely enthralled by this book and your writing, that I don’t feel I have adequate words to express my feelings. It is beautiful, it is gut wrenching, it is deep, it is written remarkably well. I am in awe of your writing, completely amazed at this story you created.
To say I adored both Konstantin and Suzana would be an understatement. They are both so good, rising above their circumstances to be the best people they can. I loved how Konstantin showed gentle love to Suzana, and helped her find her confidence. I loved how Suzana pushed Konstantin to trust her more, and helped him in his duties as Zupan. Their love story is so tender and sweet and I was hooked from the ver beginning.
The amount of intrigue and mystery you wove into this story kept me on my toes throughout the entire book! I did not expect what came next any time something happened. It was a wild ride that I would absolutely ride again because it was so good!
I loved the lineup of side characters, and the epilogue was so sweet. And the masterful way you weave history into a story always astounds me. Every single time I read one of your books, I come away feeling like I just learned something new, while simultaneously being entertained. I appreciate your talent and your hard work, and that you apply both so diligently to write such stellar books.
I’ve been a fan for awhile now, but if I wasn’t already, this book would land your name on my favorites list immediately. It’s so good! Just so good. Count me in for reading every single thing you write. I want it all!
Yours, Jessica
AUDIOBOOK REVIEW: This narrator is incredible. Her voices for all the different characters were top notch, and her reading was engaging and interesting. I would absolutely listen to her narrations any time.
**Many thanks to the author/publisher for the copy. A positive review was not required. All thoughts are my own....more
HOW DO YOU KEEP DOING THIS? How do you keep writing my newest favorite book every. single. time? How?! Because this is my favorite now. It’sDear Emma,
HOW DO YOU KEEP DOING THIS? How do you keep writing my newest favorite book every. single. time? How?! Because this is my favorite now. It’s SO DANG GOOD! And I loved every single moment.
I’ll be honest, I always get a little nervous about the “player� hero, because it’s hard to strike the balance between who they want people to see and who they are. Sometimes it feels contrived, or fake, or like their reputation couldn’t have possibly gotten that out of hand. But I should never doubt you. Never. Because—LIKE ALWAYS—you delivered.
First of all, the way this started was the absolute BEST! I may not have been sure about Van in previous books, but he was solidly on my “I like that guy� list by page two. I absolutely loved how we could see pretty early on that Van was a complicated, layered guy. He wasn’t easy to figure out, and I liked that about him. I also loved how close he was to the other guys on the Appies team (and I love that team more and more, just so you know), and their group text threads are the absolute best. I just…I just love Van. I do. I love him.
And Amelia is so cute! I liked her ability to be vulnerable with Van (at least sometimes…iykyk), and how she pushed herself. Jury’s still out on her dad (okay, okay, I mostly like him…pretty sure), but I loved her. I liked her character, who she was as a person. She is a strong woman, and I loved that.
THE TENSION! Holy shoulder pads, the tension in this one was SO high, I almost couldn’t stand it. But I also could and I loved it and that doesn’t make sense, but it is what it is. I could not put this one down, and had it finished within 12 hours (and if you knew what a big deal that was for me, you’d be impressed).
I’ve been sold on your books for ages, and I know you’re my favorite, and I can’t get enough of your books. But every single time I read a new one, I’m amazed at how you pull things together, and I fall in love with your writing all over again. Every time. So thanks for the gift of your words in my world, because it feels life changing for me.
Love, Jessica
**many thanks to the author for this book and the joy that came with it. All thoughts are my own but the joy comes directly from your book....more
Dear Karen, OH MY GOSH! In all the best ways, I am completely stunned by your newest book. I loved it! I couldn’t put it down, binged it in an entire dDear Karen, OH MY GOSH! In all the best ways, I am completely stunned by your newest book. I loved it! I couldn’t put it down, binged it in an entire day, and was sad when it was over. I’m completely in love. Lucas is just the sweetest hero. Have I ever mentioned that I love a flawed hero? I love it so much when male protagonists aren’t perfect, and the way Lucas tries so hard, but still messes up, just made me love him more. Also, the way he falls for Lydia might be my favorite thing ever. Lydia’s propensity to speak her mind, and jump in with both feet whenever she sees someone in need makes her so endearing. I loved how she spoke her mind and didn’t worry about societal conventions. I loved her honesty with Lucas, her scheming to get what she wanted, and her good heart. The entire thing surrounding pugilism and Lucas’s backstory was so well done. I was deeply invested in his story, and teaching how to box may have been my very favorite. I loved the small bit of intensity and mystery coupled with the romance. And goodness, did you ever deliver on the swoon with this one! Woo! Those kissing scenes, the tension between Lucas and Lydia, were superb. And the way everything ended was so good! I didn’t expect it, and that made it even better. This one may just be taking the top ranking spot for my favorite of yours. Absolutely beautiful book, Karen. All my love, Jessica...more
Having an sleuth made of dear Jane Austen’s character, Emma, was too good a premise to pass off. And I feel thatWell, that was positively delightful.
Having an sleuth made of dear Jane Austen’s character, Emma, was too good a premise to pass off. And I feel that Vanessa Kelly really did the character of Emma justice. She mellowed her a bit, while still keeping her incorrigibly curious and nosey, but she was also caring. Also, the relationship between Emma and George was adorable and sweet and I loved their interactions so much.
The mystery really did keep me on my toes throughout the book! There were a good number of red herrings thrown my way, but how is one to know? So many suspicions and questions, and it wasn’t until just before Emma herself began to ask questions that I also suspected the true villain. And even still, I did not suspect all of the true motive or what they would do then. Goodness, but it did keep me invested!
The cast of side characters was really fun, and I loved being in the world of Highbury. Between Miss Bates, Mr. Woodhouse, Mrs. Weston, Jane, Frank, Harriet, and a multitude of others, I had a good number of chuckles throughout the book. They were just so fun.
While this is a murder mystery, I would definitely place it in the cozy mystery category. It’s not suspenseful nor gruesome, and the writing harkens after the style of Jane Austen (without any fluff or unnecessary details), which was a breath of fresh air. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and am very much looking forward to more from Vanessa Kelly in the future!
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TW/CW: murder, mention of blood and cause of death; attempted murder; mention of poisoning and guns make a brief appearance; very mild language appropriate to the time period; some very subtle hints at relations between husband and wife, but all are very tastefully done and appropriate; romance: kisses only...more
Wow. I am genuinely so impressed with this story. It sucked me in and held on, keeping my attention even when I wasn’t in the middle of the pages. I aWow. I am genuinely so impressed with this story. It sucked me in and held on, keeping my attention even when I wasn’t in the middle of the pages. I am completely sold on Charlie’s books and can’t wait to read even more of them!
Pell is determined and hard working and cares about her people—of which there are few in their small town, which is slowly dying in the baking sun. The new world took me a minute to get used to, but once I did, I was all in. I liked how Pell would work through a problem, mentally and physically, giving herself time to figure things out, but also pushing herself to make sure she did. She was maybe a little hotheaded, but I still liked her tenacity and her vulnerability.
All the people in the town—Salki and Cas in particular—were really so good. I loved them and was invested in their lives. And I’d be lying if I said Heartwood wasn’t one of my favorites. He is kind of intense, but once you learn his story, it makes perfect sense why he would be.
The mystery surrounding Heartwood and Moseus really kept me interested. I guessed at a couple of things, but there were a lot that still surprised me, particularly how the whole world came to be. But there are a lot of puzzle pieces that have to be moved into place. It’s kind of interesting figuring it all out alongside Pell. Her visions and her experiences sometimes answer questions, but nearly always also create more questions. And I really was invested in figuring out why she had the visions in the first place, what the tower was all about, and her work with the machines.
As I said before, I really liked this book and I’m looking forward to spending more time in Charlie Holmberg’s works. And I hope we can look forward to a sequel for this one! It may have ended happy for now, but there has to be more to come. And I look forward to it when it does!
**Many thanks to the author for the copy. A positive review was not required, and these thoughts are my own....more
This book is absolutely adorable! I love Grey. I love Audrey. I love Hilary (the author; don’t get confused thinking this is another character). And IThis book is absolutely adorable! I love Grey. I love Audrey. I love Hilary (the author; don’t get confused thinking this is another character). And I love the road-trip, forced proximity we get with this one.
There are so many things to love about this book! I loved how Grey pushed Audrey’s buttons in the best ways. He wasn’t pushy, but he got to know her really well, and he tried to encourage her to stop being afraid and to push herself. I also loved that he was fun loving, while also being able to be serious. He’s kind and thoughtful and his whole “wander� personal motto was perfect for Audrey.
Audrey’s character arc was fantastic! I loved the themes of fear and family and acceptance, and how she grew by confronting her fears and her past hurts. I really loved how her friends who actually knew her sometimes weren’t afraid to say the hard things. I also loved where the story ended up. The ending had me grinning like a total fool and I don’t care. It deserves alllll the smiles.
Other things I love: Coke vs Mountain Dew No shoes in the car Anxiety rep The places! I’ve been to all these places and I love them! Dot and Hank. I adore them and I adopt them as my own. One bed All the frilly pillows! Ha! The hobbies talk The entire road trip! The mountains The entire swimming scene! Movie night Pinky holding Lord of the Rings quotes Learning to trust Letting go of the past Yoga poses The beard! The flannel! Audrey’s friends The kisses! The last chapter The epilogue!
It’s an adorable book and I loved reading it! Hillary is a talented author and I cannot wait to see where she goes from here.
**Many thanks to the author for the copy. A positive review was not requested or required. All thoughts are my own....more
Courtney! Every book you write gets better and better and better. And The Summer of Yes hit me in a place I didn’t know I needed a book to hit. I feltCourtney! Every book you write gets better and better and better. And The Summer of Yes hit me in a place I didn’t know I needed a book to hit. I felt seen and understood, while also challenged and encouraged.
I didn’t expect a women’s fiction at first—I usually go into my books as blind as possible—but I loved it so much! I love a good women’s fiction, and I felt like I got a two-for-one-package-deal with this book. Kelsey and Georgina make the perfect unlikely duo, but when they click, they are dynamic. I really admired Kelsey’s tenacity once she grasped onto an idea she really cared about. I loved how her experience led her to genuinely question her life and where she was versus where she actually wanted to be. It’s very possible (*ahem* factual) that I am finding myself inspired by Kelsey’s reflections and desires to change her life. Georgina really is a spitfire! I liked how Kelsey didn’t let herself get intimidated by her, and how she was gradually worn down by Kelsey’s down to earth nature and her constant pushing. While I loved Kelsey’s character arc, I nearly cheered for Georgina. Knowing how long she had been pushing away from what she really needed made her arc so satisfying. And that ending! Can we just say how amazing that ending was? I love Georgina. I love Kelsey. I love Hayden. I guess I haven’t said anything about Hayden yet. But I love him! I also love that this is a women’s fiction with a good side of healthy romance. Kelsey and Hayden were mature and adult about their feelings and needs, and I love them so much! Georgina and her guy were smashing as well. I really liked him. Seriously loved this book so much. Thank you for writing the book you needed, because I definitely needed it, too. Here’s to saying YES more! Jessica
AUDIOBOOK REVIEW: I like that this is dual narrated, so we get a really distinct voice for both Georgina and Kelsey. Georgina’s narration is spot on perfection. I don’t like Kelsey’s as much, but genuinely didn’t deter from my enjoyment of the book.
**Many thanks to the author, NetGalley, and Macmillan for the ALC. All thoughts are my own....more
This series does not disappoint, y’all! It just keeps getting better! Kasey’s contribution, Beachy Keen, is fabulous and wonderful and I’m still swoonThis series does not disappoint, y’all! It just keeps getting better! Kasey’s contribution, Beachy Keen, is fabulous and wonderful and I’m still swooning over it. Cat is basically the sweetest and I love her. I love her family oriented priorities, I love her work ethic, I love her ability to accept apologies and to change her perspective. I just really love her!
And let’s be real, Noah is one heckuva swoony Moneybags. I absolutely love that he is humble enough to accept ideas, help, and suggestions from others, and that he learns to put himself out there for Cat. I loooove how much he cares about Cat (the whole “he falls first� trope might be one of my faves!) and the ways he tries to take care of her while still letting her be independent and know he isn’t trying to throw money at all her problems is just SO GOOD!
Y’all, I have been hesitant about billionaire romances in the past, because they don’t seem relatable and I don’t really want to read about spoiled rich kids. (Am I judging the genre unfairly? Possibly. But that’s where we’re at.) But Kasey has me converted. Seriously, if anyone could do if, it would be Kasey. I am all on board. Especially if the MCs can all be as amazing as Noah is.
Okay, here’s a list of things I love about this book:
He falls first (you knew that would be here!) Nicknames Anxiety rep Vulnerable MCs Honesty in communications Mature MCs Cat’s relationship with Otto Mateo The little beach cove scene Opinions about running Noah’s assistant wages—ha! Jam sessions (it’s not what you think) Blackberry picking The scene with the rug The ad campaign Cat’s advice to Bree Noah going soft with the dog The island friendships The family party Nursing back to health! Noah’s tender heart The beach kiss! The epilogue!
Seriously, I loved this book so much! Don’t sit on the fence with this one; just jump in with both feet. The water is fine, and the party is great! Okay, that’s a lame line. The book is much better than my lameness. Like a billion percent better. Just read it. ;)...more
This book was absolutely hilarious! But there was also a good dose of romance, angst, suspense, and depth. If you want a RomCom that has more going foThis book was absolutely hilarious! But there was also a good dose of romance, angst, suspense, and depth. If you want a RomCom that has more going for it than slapstick humor and cheesy plots (which I always completely enjoy, in the interest of full disclosure), this book will give it to you. I don’t know what we call this subset genre—Murder Mystery RomCom?—but I am here for it! Amelia is seriously hilarious! I do think I’m real life, she might make me slightly crazy. But some of her ramblings, and her inner dialogue especially, made me laugh out loud. She is reckless and kind and silly and loyal and, as Agent Harris has coined it, a menace. But she is very funny, and I really liked her. I mean, forget what I said about her making me crazy irl. I think I want to be her friend. I want to hear her ramblings and watch her live life to the fullest, including her Psych obsession. Her dogs were so dang funny and their names take the cake. (Also, I really want to watch Psych now.) Caleb is almost too tender to be an FBI agent. I liked how much Amelia got under his skin and his desire to keep her safe. His relationship with his mom was so sweet, and his friends were really good. I liked his protective nature and how much her felt, even if he thought he didn’t. The mystery of this one really had me going! There were so many little pieces, and sometimes I couldn’t figure out how to fit them all together. I did figure out a couple things, but mostly I just had some accuracies in the general vicinity of correct. Ha! Honestly, the last 20 percent really had me glued and the suspense was really notched up. It was some seriously good mystery and, I’ll say it again, I am here for it! I also feel like this has been left open just a tad for a story for Cruz. I can hope, right? I’d go for another Mystery RomCom any day (just a hint hint for you, Jenessa).
**many thanks to the author for the ebook; a positive review was not required; all thoughts are my own....more
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