Review: Second Chance Summer by Morgan Matson

Publisher: Simon and Schuster Young Readers

Released: 2013

Pages: 480

Source: Personal Copy

Rating: 5.5

Synopsis:

When Taylor learns that her father has been diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, and he doesn’t have long to live, she’s devastated. Each passing day on the calendar feels like a countdown to her father’s final days. She doesn’t know how to react around him; she’s not sure what to say to him. She’s always been close with her father, but she never really expresses her feelings to him, and now she feels like it might be awkward. While she can see her father deteriorating, he wants to keep some semblance of normal. Taylor’s parents decide that the family will spend the summer together at their old lake house, which stresses out Taylor even more.  The last time she was at the lake house, she left behind a best friend and boyfriend. She’s not sure if she can face them again. Her reaction is to flee, her reaction is always to flee but this time there is no escaping. Taylor spends the summer making memories with her father, and coming to terms with his failing condition, leaning on her family and strengthening their bond.

Review:

I loved Second Chance Summer, and I would highly recommend it. While this book is considered young adult, I think it’s impossible not to relate to Taylor. Matson does an incredible job allowing readers to understand Taylor’s emotions, and her struggles. Yes, her father only has months to live but in the meantime life goes on. The family doesn’t just pause and remain stagnant. Her father encourages her to get a summer job, her sister is forced to learn tennis, and her brother spends all his time studying. Taylor’s family learns to live with each other and not constantly be thinking about the inevitable.

Taylor’s character is strong, independent, and vulnerable. Her life has forever changed, and it will continue to never be the same. She learns to value the time she does have with her father, and make memories while they still can. At the same time, she’s forced to face her ex- boyfriend and ex-best friend. It’s been years since she ran away, and lost contact with them. Small town life doesn’t give you a lot of opportunities to continue to ignore each other.

I haven’t read Morgan Matson’s debut book Amy & Roger’s Epic Detour, but I certainly will now. Her writing is incredibly descriptive and atmospheric. I’m not a crier, and I cried. Readers who have a close relationship with their father, will easily put themselves in Taylor’s situation. Her family is an average, busy family and could be your own. I think Second Chance Summer is a great summer read, but can be read at any time. Once again, highly recommended! This will be one of my favorites of the year.

Review: Gossip by Beth Gutcheon

Publisher: William Morrow

Released: 2013

Pages: 384

Source: Blog Tour

Rating: 3.5/5

Synopsis:

Loviah French didn’t come from a wealthy family but she was able to receive a scholarship to attend an elite prep school which would help set the course of her life. Loviah was able to build friendships with many peers and build life-long relationships. She was able to use her determination and their example to make herself successful. Loviah is always on the edge of New York’s grand social status, close but not close enough. Loviah has two best friends, Dinah and Avis who both attended school with her. The two relationships are kept separated, because Dinah and Avis don’t really enjoy each other’s company. Gossip is about rumors, and the unlikely consequences.

Review:

Loviah is an enjoyable character, a successful dressmaker and well respected in the fashion industry. When her family couldn’t afford to continue her education, they encouraged her to pursue an internship with a dressmaker. Loviah learned to love fashion and looked for opportunities to further her career. Dinah is a walking advertisement for Loviah’s clothing, a gossip journalist and well known within the elite social circles. Avis is hard working, and puts her career before her daughter. All three women have their ups and down and their friendships are continually tested.

Gossip was an interesting read, at times I wasn’t sure where the book was headed and wondered what would happen. The ending was nothing like I expected. A rumor can spread like wildfire and consequences can be expected. Dinah and Avis have had children, and their life choices reflect on their children. Loviah’s love for a married man, leaves her feeling disjointed.

The story spans from the 1960’s to post 9/11 New York. Gutcheon tells the story in a non-linear style but keeps readers intrigued. I really enjoyed this one and recommend it to readers.

Review: The Comfort of Lies by Randy Susan Meyers

Publisher: Atria

Released: 2013

Pages: 336

Source: Publisher

Rating: 3.5/5

Synopsis:

One affair changed the lives of three women. Tia fell in love with a man that was already married. Their affair was wonderful until she told him she was pregnant. His reaction was not what she wanted, and never what she would have expected. Tia decided not to be a single parent and she gave her daughter up for adoption. Caroline, a dedicated pathologist never really saw herself as a mother and was quiet relieved to find out she couldn’t have children. When her husband brought up adoption, she agreed but worried that she wasn’t the motherly type. Juliette was shocked to find out that her husband had an affair. She chose to try and forget and move on, she pushed away her emotions and focused on her family. She thought she was over the affair, until she opens a letter that mentions her husband’s daughter.

Review:

The Comfort of Lies was an interesting read but it was very unsettling. It left me wondering if I really enjoyed the book or not. I didn’t like either of the women. Tia knew she would regret giving her daughter up, and I never got the feeling that she did it for her daughter, she did it for herself. She didn’t want to deal with the affair anymore. When Juliette finds out about the little girl she becomes obsessed. The little girl looks just like her husband, and her youngest son. She intercepted the letter from her husband and chose not to tell him for months while she looked into the situation by herself.. Her behaviors seemed very over the top for me. Caroline is a workaholic, and she drove me crazy. She seemed very distant from her daughter, and didn’t want to be bothered.

I decided that I did like the book, but not the characters. If you have trouble enjoying books with unlikable characters this one might be a tough read, as it was for me. The story is a complex, multi-narrator, character driven novel. I think this one is worth the read, it will keep you thinking. 

Review: If I Stay by Gayle Forman

Publisher: Speak

Released: 2009

Pages: 213

Source: Personal Copy

Rating: 5/5

Synopsis:

Seventeen year-old Mia was home from school due to a snow day, snow that barely covered the ground, but still warranted a school closer because the town wasn’t ready for snow. Her parents told the kids they were going out, and to jump in the car. One minute they were negotiating the music in the car and the next, they were in a horrific car accident. Mia was the only one who survived, and she’s barely hanging on. Stuck in a coma, but viewing life around her, Mia is trying to decide if it’s worth staying or should she just go with her family.

Review:

If I Stay was heartbreaking and beautiful. Mia’s story will remain with readers, and have readers questioning what should Mia do. This was my first Gayle Forman book, and I’m happy to know what all the fuss was about. She is amazing! If I Stay could easily be read in one sitting, I had such a hard time putting the book down to go to bed. Forman does an excellent job showing Mia’s present and past situation. Readers really get the sense that she had loving parents, a cute little brother and a boyfriend that was comfortable with the family. Mia is on the verge of Julliard and figuring out her life, she can’t imagine not having her family. The hospital is filled with her grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins and friends. Mia knows they want her to pull through, she knows her mother would want her to get better, but her grandfather gives her the permission to make her choice.

If I Stay is a must read. It’s a great contemporary young adult read. I can’t wait to read Gayle Forman’s other books. It's really easy for readers to put themselves in Mia's shoes.

Review: Heart Like Mine by Amy Hatvany

Publisher: Washington Square Press

Released: 2013 (March)

Pages: 384

Source: Publisher

Rating: 5/5

Synopsis:

Grace McAllister is thirty six and lives a fulfilling life working for a non-profit organization that helps homeless mothers. When her boyfriend, Victor proposes she thinks her life is on the right path.  She never felt the desire to have children, but Victor has two children from a previous relationship. The children don’t visit, except for weekends and Grace has been adjusting. Victor’s ex-wife has been difficult and very emotional. Victor’s thirteen year-old daughter Ava has been very reluctant to accept Grace. Her younger brother has transitioned very well, which annoys Ava. Grace and Victor are nervous about telling the children about their engagement. Before they have a chance to break the news, Victor’s ex-wife Kelli mysteriously dies. The children are distraught, and Grace needs to figure out how to support Victor and decide if becoming a full-time mom is something that she wants.

Review:

Heart Like Mine is narrated by Grace and Ava, with flashbacks that give a glimpse into Kelli’s troubled past. Everyone is emotional, and trying to figure out where to go from here. Ava feels guilty, she knows her mother wasn’t feeling well when she left for school but she walked out the door and didn’t do anything. Victor also has guilt, Kelli was a huge part of his life. He knows the divorce was not a mistake, and he loves Grace but maybe he could have done something to help Kelli. He feels bad for his children and doesn’t know how to incorporate Grace as a co-parent.

Grace really struggles with the situation. She never wanted children, having step-children was difficult to comprehend at first, but she never thought it would be a full-time role. She wants to help Victor, but doesn’t know if she’s ready. At the same time, he doesn’t seem to want her to jump into the role. She feels like she’s losing him, and her world is nothing like she imagined. Ava wants nothing to do with Grace, which puts further strain on her situation.

Amy Hatvany is an incredible writer. I’ve loved each and every one of her novels. I don’t know if I could even pick a favorite one. She’s written about an alcoholic mother, a mentally ill father, and a sister with disabilities. Her books are emotionally compelling. You can’t help but feel like you’re in the characters shoes. I highly recommend her books, and keep an eye out for this one since it is released in March.

Review: The Secrets of the Nightingale Palace by Dana Sachs

Publisher: William Morrow

Released: 2013

Pages: 368

Source: Blog Tour/Publisher

Rating: 4.5/5

Synopsis:

Anna has been struggling to move on with her life, the death of her husband has left her with many questions.  At times, she wonders if they were meant to marry. She loved him, loves him, but for months before his death they fought. They were opposites, and when he died of leukemia she couldn’t help but feel a small sense of relief that she no longer had to take care of him. When Anna’s estranged grandmother calls her up, and requests that she come to New York, Anna is reluctant but decides to go see what she wants. Goldie doesn’t hold back when it comes to Anna, and for years she told Anna that her husband wasn’t good enough. When Anna arrives in New York, Goldie asks Anna to take her on a cross-country road trip from New York to San Francisco. Goldie wants to return a collection of valuable Japanese art to a long lost friend. Anna agrees and hopes her grandmother, a window by twice, can help her move on and find happiness.

Review:

The Secrets of the Nightingale Palace was an interesting read, alternating between Goldie’s experience in the 1940’s and Anna’s perspective. Goldie is rough around the edges; she’s honest and overly opinionated. She hasn’t been entirely honest about the trip to San Francisco. Along the way, Goldie opens up to Anna about her past and her determination to rise about. Anna questions Goldie about her doubts in her marriage and why she never approved. Over the course of the trip, Anna and Goldie open up to each other and begin to sort through their differences. Anna mourns her late husband, and begins to realize that her life if not over.

The ending was really memorable, and not predictable in any way. I loved both Goldie and Anna, and enjoying their journey. Goldie is not a character that you forget; she’s strong and independent and doesn’t hold back. She honestly thinks she’s helping but it doesn’t always come across as such. Anna is vulnerable but still strong. She’s kept herself going but she begins to realize that she needs to focus on her wants and at this point in her life, she can do this.

The writing is beautiful, and learning about Goldie’s past was fascinating. It really gives readers and understanding of why she is the way she is. How she took care of herself, and did what she thought was best for her. I recommend this one for those who are looking for a good dual narrative story.

Title: Dancing to the Flute by Manisha Jolie Amin

Publisher: Atria

Pages: 320

Released: 2013

Source: Blog Tour/Publisher

Rating: 2.5/5

Synopsis:

Kalu was abandoned as a child and left to fend for himself in rural India. Kalu has no material possessions, and a sore foot that is severely infected, causing a foul odor. People began to shun him, and didn’t want him around, thinking he was too lazy to wash. When a traveling healer name Vaid comes to town and offers to help Kalu, his life is changed forever. Kalu was initially skeptical of Vaid but he felt like it was worth a chance. The healer wraps up the foot, and tells Kalu he’ll return at a later date. Kalu worries about paying Vaid, he has nothing that he can give him. When his foot is unwrapped and cured, the healer asks Kalu to play his flute in return. Vaid offers Kalu to become a student of Guruji, a famous flute-player who lives in isolation. Kalu knows this is a great opportunity, and accepts the offer.

Review:

 I didn’t really enjoy this one. I thought the story was okay, but it didn’t really keep me interested. Kalu’s storyline is interesting, he had nothing and Vaid gave him a great opportunity. Those who shunned him, suddenly became more interested in him. Usually, I am drawn to stories that take place and India, and in this case it didn’t live up to my expectations. I had a hard time connecting with the characters. The writing is beautiful, and the descriptions are fantastic. It was the overall storyline that I had a hard time staying interested in. I might have to revisit this one at a later date. 

Review: Reason to Breath by Rebecca Donovan

Publisher: Penguin UK

Pages: 544

Released: 2013

Source: Publisher

Rating: 5/5

Synopsis:

Emma Thomson has a big secret, her best friend Sara knows a little bit about what’s going on, but Emma tries to not burden her with the details. Emma keeps her focus on school, sports, and extracurricular activities. When she goes home she has two adorable cousins, an uncle who barely notices she’s home, and an aunt who will beat her with anything she can get her hands on. Emma’s father has passed away, and her mother is not in her life. Her aunt Carol doesn’t hesitate to spew hateful comments at Emma every chance she gets. George has chosen to ignore the situation, and blame Emma for provoking Carol. The children don’t really know what is going on, and Emma doesn’t want to be the one to take away their mother. When Evan Matthews shows up at school, Emma is no longer invisible. When he starts paying attention to her, so do the others. Their attraction and friendship cause Emma to test her boundaries and put herself in further danger.

Review:

Reason to Breath is Rebecca Donovan’s debut novel, and she is incredibly talented. I refused to put this book down, and read every chance I could get. It’s impossible not to care about Emma, and not to feel her hurt. She’s tormented at home, counting down the days until she graduates and leaves home. She’s amazing at sports, they’re her way to escape, she’s sure she can win a full scholarship. Her aunt and uncle would never pay for school otherwise; they barely allow her to eat. Showering is timed, and whether she’s finished within five minutes or not, she must turn off the water. When the abuse begins to escalate, Emma begins pushing everyone away. They don’t understand her; she just wants to protect her young cousins.

Reason to Breath is full of suspense. I jumped right into reading the second book of the series, because I couldn’t wait. Normally, I don’t read a series back to back but I had to with this one. Donovan writes beautifully, skillfully enfolds the story and engages her readers.  I don’t want to give too much away. If you’re looking for a book that will have you fully engaged, emotionally attached and on the edge of your seat, you will need to read this book. Highly recommended! 

Review: The Promise of Stardust by Priscille Sibley

Publisher: William Morrow

Released: 2013

Pages: 432

Source: Publisher (Blog Tour)

Rating: 5/5

Synopsis:

Matt and Elle grew up together and fell in love as teenagers. It took them awhile to find their way back to each other but they found their way back, married and hoped to start a family. After a series of miscarriages, and a stillbirth, Matt told Elle they would no longer try. When he was called into the emergency room because Elle had an accident, he wasn’t expecting to see her on life support and declared brain dead. Elle was adamant that she not be kept alive by machines. She watched her mother suffer from cancer, and vowed not to have the same circumstance. Matt knew he had to make a decision, and his decision was made until he found out she was pregnant. If he kept her on life support, the baby had a chance to live. His mother loved Elle like a daughter and wouldn’t support Matt on this one. She threatened to take him to court and fight to take Elle off life support.

Review:

This book should come with a warning; it will keep you up at night thinking about the characters and leave tears in your eyes throughout the book. Matt is a neurosurgeon, he knows his wife will never wake up. He has no hope, but he feels like he deserves to give this baby a chance. Knowing that Elle has difficulties carrying a baby, his mother thinks it’s a waste of time to try. Why keep her on life-support when the baby will most likely not survive? Matt is comforted by the fact that he knows Elle is not suffering. When Elle was a teenager, she gave Matt’s mother the power to make this decision and she feels like it is up to her to fight for Elle’s wishes. Matt is coming to terms with losing his wife, but knowing his mother is taking him to court is even more difficult. Elle’s brother supports his mom, but her dad supports Matt. A family is torn apart trying to decide what Elle would want.

The Promise of Stardust is an excellent book club book, providing that everyone is open. This book leaves readers with a lot of questions. I sided with Matt but I did have my doubts. I was convinced that Elle would want to give the baby a chance, but at the same time, it seemed impossible that the baby would live. I felt like it was just drawing out the inevitable. It was really hard to read about the family and how they each thought they were doing what was right. Having them turn against each other, especially Matt and his mom. The media storm didn’t help matters.

I highly recommend this one. I haven’t heard one bad thing about it. The story is honest and plausible. The back story of Matt and Elle’s relationship really made them a real couple in my eyes. Learning about her mother’s dead, gave me an understanding of who Elle was, and why she focused so much on her decision to not be on life support. If you’re looking for a great read, one that will keep you thinking, wanting to talk to others about it- then this one will be for you. Great story!

Review: Me Before You by Jojo Moyes

Publisher: Pamela Dorman Books

Pages: 384

Released: 2012

Source: Egalley

Rating: 5/5

Synopsis:

Louisa has just lost her job and she really isn’t looking forward to the temporary job she has lined up. The position is for six months, and her duties including assisting a paralyzed man. Will was the man who went leaping out of planes and traveling the world; he closed multimillion- dollar deals and essentially had the whole world ahead of him. An accident left him paralyzed, with very limited movement of his fingers. He became very depressed, and signed up for assisted suicide. His parents have asked him for six more months. They are hoping to save their son, they have six months to prove that life is still worth living. Slowly, Louisa and Will form a friendship. He becomes less bossy, and moody. When Louisa finally learns why her position is temporary, she realizes that she must save Will.

Review:

Me Before You was amazing! Amazing! I didn't think I would become so emotionally invested but I did. I actually kept reading until 2:30 in the morning. I just needed to know what would happen. Louisa is a great character, and her development throughout the book really kept me interested. Her steady long-term boyfriend has no interest in her life; he’s too consumed with his own fitness. Will becomes the person to listen and encourage her. The relationship between Will and Louisa really pulls at readers heart strings.

Moyes gives readers interesting, and convincing secondary characters. Louisa’s parents just want her to get it together. They also depend on her financially. They need her to get it together, since her father is at risk of losing his job. Her sister has a young son, the bigger room and she’s trying to become more independent. In reality, she wants everything her way. Her boyfriend is clearly wrong for her. Will’s parents are having marital problems, but that has to take a backseat because their son needs all of their attention. They need to figure out how to convince their son to change his plans. They decide everything for him, and Will is tired of people making all of his decisions.

I highly recommend this one! I loved every bit of it.

Review: Notorious Nineteen by Janet Evanovich

Publisher: Bantam
Pages: 320
Source: Publisher
Rating: 3.5/5



Synopsis:

Stephanie Plum is struggling to pay her bills, as usual. When Geoffrey Cubin goes missing after an emergency appendectomy, Stephanie must track him down and get paid. Geoffrey is facing trail for embezzling millions from an elderly assisted-living home. It seems like everyone is looking for him but no one understands how he could have walked out of the hospital. Apparently, he’s not the only one to have escaped after having major surgery. Stephanie does her best to track him down, but Granda Mazur goes undercover at the assisted-living residence and tries to find out some information for Stephanie. If Stephanie wants a paycheck, she has no choice but to find him. Unfortunately, Geoffrey’s wife is livid that he would steal millions, and not give her anything. Stephanie is not able to get any information from her, and she doesn’t have many clues to go on.



Review:

When I open a Stephanie Plum book, I know exactly what to expect. It’s entertaining, and that’s it. Stephanie doesn’t grow as a character, the secondary characters remain the same and I’ve come to accept it. I would love for Stephanie to grow as a character, settle down, or at least choose between Ranger and Morelli but it’s not going to happen. At this point, I know I can skip a few books and pick them up out of order and know I’m not really missing anything.

If you enjoyed the previous books, you’ll continue to enjoy the series. If you’re expecting more from Stephanie, you’ll feel disappointed. I liked the book, but waiting a year between books is getting easier and easier. The books aren’t as entertaining anymore.

Review: The Death of Bees by Lisa O’Donnell

Publisher: Harper
Published: 2013
Source: Blog Tour (Publisher)
Rating: 5/5



Synopsis:

Marnie and her little sister have a big secret that they must keep hidden, their parents are buried in the back yard. Fifteen year-old Marnie vows to not go back into foster care. Marnie will be considered an adult in one year, all they have to do is keep it together until then. The girls tell everyone that they irresponsible parents are on a trip, and they aren’t sure when they will be back. In the meantime, their next door neighbor Lennie helps them out. The girls begin to worry when Lennie’s dog begins digging around the backyard and finds a few bones. It doesn’t take long before authorities begin asking questions. A man claiming to be their grandfather is also making their lives difficult.



Review:

The Death of Bees was much darker than I expected, but I loved the book and couldn’t put it down. It’s impossible not to care about Marnie and Nelly when you close the book. These girls have gone through a lot; their parents were not the best and never put them first. This makes it very easy for acquaintances to believe their initial story. They don’t really miss them, just the idea of who they were and what they represented. Marnie is rebellious and doesn’t always make the best decisions but it’s undeniable that she does love her sister.

O’Donnell’s character development was phenomenal. At times I thought the language was a little harsh, but it didn’t really bother me too much. The relationship between Marnie and Nelly was very much a regular sister relationship, but their secret is always on their mind. It’s incredible that they were so trusting of one another. When Lennie begins to be more involved, and it becomes clear that he is not their happily-ever-after, I was really worried about girls and had no idea how they would stay together.

I highly recommend this one. I thought the writing was incredible and the story line was unique and original. Marnie and Nelly struggle with food, shelter, and school. Various people are looking for their parents, and they must stall them. I’m really glad I read this one. It was a great start to 2013 advanced reading.

2012 Recap: Amy Hatvany- Have you tried one of her books?

During the month of December, in addition to  reviews, I will be sharing some of my favorite books and offer some suggestions to read for 2013. No matter how many books we read, there are some that slip through the cracks and I want to encourage you to read some of my favorite reads. 2012 has been a great reading year for me and I hope 2013 is just as good.


In this case, I want to share an author I discovered this year and I loved all 4 of the books that I read. Amy Hatvany is incredibly talented and her stories remain with me long after I close the pages. I remember seeing Best Kept Secret on Skrishna's Blog and I was really curious about the book. The book was about an alcoholic mother who never saw her alcoholism begin until it was too late. Since Swapna and I have similar taste in books, and I decided to give it a try. I found a book that I would be recommending over and over again. Hatvany offers characters who have unique circumstances and difficult family situations. Her characters are real, and they can be easily be someone you know.

"Best Kept Secret is one of the most thought-provoking, emotional books I have read in a long time. It’s real, honest and heartbreaking. Amy Hatvany had me glued to the pages."

Best Kept Secret (Review)

"Amy Hatvany gives a voice to all parties involved. The characters come alive, and their stories are so real and unbiased."

Outside the Lines (Review)

"Hatvany creates stories that cause readers to rethink a difficult situation, and be able to put themselves in those shoes. Her stories give readers a sense of the everyday lives and relationships of the characters, strong secondary characters are well developed and cement the story."

The Language of Sisters (Review)

Heart Like Mine releases in March 2013. I received an egalley and I couldn't wait to read it. I thought it was another 5 star rated book, and my review will be upcoming.

If you haven't tried one of Amy Hatvany's books, do yourself a favor and pick one up soon. You will not be sorry. Her books are great, and you will be glued to the pages.

Review: The Secret Keeper by Kate Morton

Publisher: Atria
Pages: 496
Released: 2012
Source: Publisher
Rating: 5/5



Synopsis:

Sixteen year old Laurel was hiding in a tree house during her younger brother’s birthday party, hoping to escape and dream about a boy she would later meet. When a stranger walks up the path to their secluded home, Laurel watches as her mother, Dorothy greet the man, and moments later plunges a knife into him. Laurel does what she thinks is best and covers for her mother, the police believe a scuffle took place, and it was self-defense. It doesn’t take the police much convincing to believe the whole story. Laurel is the only child who remembers and everyone moves on, never mentioning the incident again. Years later, and now an adult, Laurel realizes her mother’s past is filled with many secrets that she needs to figure out. She wants to know who the man was, and what could he have possibly done to deserve his death. Laurel has been haunted for many years and with her mother on death’s doorstep, now is the time to figure everything out.



Review:

Kate Morton is an amazing storyteller. Her writing is spellbinding; the stories are filled with twists and turns, impeccable attention to details, and unique plot lines. Her characters are multidimensional and enthralling. Morton uses a past and present narrative to convey Dorothy’s story, her technique is very effective and keeps readers hanging on to her every word. Near the end, readers will be left shocked, thinking “What just happened!”

Readers are brought back to 1941 when Dorothy was a vivacious seventeen year old, living during air strikes and in love with a man she intended to marry. As Dorothy is hanging on to her last few days, Lauren pieces together her mother’s past. Laurel’s conflict about what happened has stayed with her for years. Her mother seemed to be the perfect, devoted mother who would never harm anyone. She took care of her children and family first, and seemed to be perfect in every way. When Laurel begins to uncover her mother’s secrets, and hears her unconscious rumblings about people she doesn’t know, Laurel knows she is running out of time and she needs to find out what really happened that day.

I highly recommend The Secret Keeper. It’s sure to please readers. I have also read and loved The Forgotten Garden. I really need to get to The House of Riverton and The Distant Hours. Kate Morton’s writing is amazing! While her books seem long, you really don’t want to put them down.

Review: Gilded Age by Claire McMillan

Publisher: Simon and Schuster
Pages: 258
Released: 2012
Source: Publisher
Rating: 2/5



Synopsis:

Eleanor Hart returns to Cleveland when her high-profile marriage ends in divorce. All of Cleveland is talking about her recent “rumored” stay in rehab and Ellie doesn’t know what she should do. It’s obvious when she walks into a room, the men can’t help but glance her way. She’s self-indulgent, wants nothing but the best but the man she spends more of her time with is not the type of man she can marry. Ellie feels like she’s on the outside of her social circle. Everyone wants to talk about her, but they don’t necessarily know what to say to her. Her best friend suggests that she marry for money once again.



Review:

Gilded Age is branded as a contemporary House of Mirth. I haven’t read House of Mirth so I can’t compare. The premise of the novel sounded really good, I thought it would be a great read but it didn’t live up to my expectations. I kept thinking the author was depicting a 1950's setting, then I would think about it and think “oh, no, it’s a modern book.” This kept happening again and again. I couldn’t really absorb myself into the story because I had to keep reminding myself about the setting. When something modern would be spoken of, it felt really out of place. The book is about old money, gender issues and class distinctions. In my opinion McMillan wanted to create a timeless book, but it didn’t work for me.

Review: Forgotten by Catherine McKenzie

Publisher: Harper Collins
Pages: 376
Released: 2012
Source: Publisher
Rating: 5/5



Synopsis:

Emma Tupper, a young and dedicated lawyer is distraught by the death of her mother. She has no family left, and she feels very disconnected from everyone, including her boyfriend of many years. Her mother didn’t leave her much, but she did leave her a plane ticket for a trip to Africa, a trip her mother would have loved to take herself. She always had a fascination with Africa. Emma is reluctant to go, she’s been working towards partnership for many years and her firm warns her that a month away is not a good idea. Emma decides she needs this time to be away, and experience this trip for her mother. A month long trip turns into six months when an earthquake causes great devastation and traps Emma with no available communication. When she finally returns home, the lock on her door has been changed, and she discovers that everyone thought she was dead. Life went on without her, and Emma is forced to re-evaluate her life.



Review:

I’ve read all of Catherine McKenzie’s books and they seem to be getting better and better. I loved each one more than the last. McKenzie puts her characters into strange situations, and readers begin to feel invested in their lives right away. Her characters are likable and despite their odd circumstances, they are relatable. The prose flows easily, the pace is perfect, and the overall experience of the novel is very enjoyable. Each of her novels is uniquely memorable.

When Emma returns her life is upside down, and she has no one to turn to. It was really difficult as a reader to put myself in her shoes. Her emotions and mindset really resonated with me. I wasn’t sure where the story would go, and it wasn’t completely happily-ever-after which I really thought did the novel justice. Emma faced many ups and downs, and discovered that life doesn’t always work out the way you expected. She could sit and wallow or she could pick herself up and figure out how to make the best of it.

I highly recommend this one. I recommend all of Catherine McKenzie’s novels. They’re quick reads, especially because you’ll refuse to put them down. I can’t wait for the next one, which I’m hoping I won’t have to wait too long to read.

Review: Sweet Tooth by Ian McEwan

Publisher: Knopf
Pages: 336
Released: 2012
Source: Egalley/Publisher
Rating: 4.5/5



Synopsis:

Serena Frome is the daughter of an Anglican bishop, she’s always loved books and literature, but her mother didn’t want her to become another educated housewife. When Serena showed signs of having a mathematical mind, her parents sent her to Cambridge to become a mathematician. When Serena has a brief affair with an older man, he constantly questioned Serena, and forced her to think outside the box. Unknowingly, Serena was being groomed for the Intelligence Society. When the affair ends, Serena takes an entry level secretary job with the Society with the intention of advancing her career. Soon Serena finds herself being briefed about a secret mission. She is to infiltrate the literary circle, and recruit Tom Haley, an up and coming writer. Serena quickly finds herself falling in love with him, and doesn’t know who she can trust within the society to help her out.



Review:

I’ve read a few Ian McEwan novels and I think this was my favorite. My second favorite would have to be Atonement. Perhaps, I prefer his novels with female protagonists. I thought the writing was solid, and the background historical knowledge really added to the story. McEwan’s writing is captivating; readers will easily be absorbed by his plot twists and entrancing characterization.

I wasn’t sure what to expect from this one, and I found myself intrigued right from the beginning. Serena was a secret bookish girl, who was forced to study math. She used her time away from home to explore and figure out who she really is. Her father’s background as a bishop doesn’t really play into the novel too much. Serena isn’t a sheltered, good little girl, she’s explorative and determined which I really appreciated.

I highly recommend this one. I really enjoyed the story and would love to read more of McEwan’s books. I’ve read Atonement, On Chesil Beach and Sweet Tooth. My least favorite was On Chesil Beach. If you have any recommendations for his books, please let me know. If you were wondering if you should give this book a chance, go ahead! I really enjoyed it.

Review: Miss Me When I’m Gone by Emily Arsenault

Publisher: William Morrow
Pages: 384
Released: 2012
Source: Personal Copy
Rating: 4/5



Synposis:
When Jamie hears that her best friend from college has died, she doesn’t know what to think. Her and Gretchen haven’t been as close lately, and seemed to be at different stages in their life. Gretchen recently divorced , wrote a bestselling memoir chronicling her divorce and her admiration for country music icons like Tammy Wynette. Jamie is still married, struggling to keep her job at the newspaper, and pregnant with her first child. She knew Gretchen wasn’t very fond of children, and they seemed to have less in common. Jamie is shocked to learn that Gretchen’s family wants her to be the literary executer. Gretchen was working on a second book before she fell from the library stairs, her family and publisher are hoping to salvage what she wrote. When Jamie begins looking through her notebooks and files, she uncovers Gretchen’s family secrets, and begins to question what happened really happened at the library the night she fell.



Review

Arsenault has a very unique writing style that I immediately felt drawn to. Miss Me When I’m Gone is not a traditional mystery; it’s not packed with action but more drawn out, filled with twists and turns, which leaves the readers intrigued and left thinking about the circumstances. Readers are given excerpts from Gretchen’s writing which solidifies who Gretchen was as a person. Her second book became much darker and took on a life of its own. Gretchen begins to uncover what happened the night her mother was murdered and who might be her father. Jamie begins to worry that Gretchen might have uncovered too much information, and put herself in danger.

I don’t normally read typical mystery novels, but this one was perfect for me since it wasn’t a typical mystery. I loved the incorporation of the country singers, and how Gretchen wove their stories into her. You certainly don’t have to like country music to enjoy this novel, but the added touch was really interesting, especially for a country music fan. I thought the cast of characters was really great. Gretchen’s death was the focus of the story, but Jamie was really interesting to read about as well. She’s dealing with the death of her friend, uncovering her deepest-darkest secrets, and also pregnant with her first child. She doesn’t want to give up her job and become a stay at home mom, but her job would barely cover the cost of daycare. Her husband is patient, but wants what’s best for Jamie and their child. I highly recommend this one, even for those who don’t normally read mystery.

Review: The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry by Rachel Joyce

Publisher: Random House
Pages: 336
Released: 2012
Source: Publisher/Edelweiss
Rating: 5/5



Synopsis:

Harold Fry has been retired for six months and now it seems that he’s at a crossroads. His wife is constantly nagging him, their son doesn’t talk to him, and his days all run into each other. When Harold receives a letter from and old co-worker, he’s shocked to learn that she is terminally ill. Harold sets out to send a letter but when he gets to the mailbox, his letter doesn’t seem like enough, he keeps thinking and walks to the next mailbox and then the next. Soon, Harold is at the edge of town, and he continues to walk. He vows to walk to Queenie, even though it’s a six hundred mile journey. He asks Queenie to wait, and gives her a reason to fight for her life.



Review:

I wasn’t sure what to expect when I started The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry but I soon couldn’t put it down. When a man is walking six-hundred miles, he has nothing to do but reflect on his own life. It’s really interesting to learn about his troubles, and insecurities. Harold and his wife both miss each other, but they're so use to not showing affection that they're not sure how to react to one another. Both of them are not ready to take the first step. Harold left his house wearing the wrong shoes, he forgot his cell phone but he is delighted with the kind people he meets. It doesn’t take long for Harold to attract a following, but the quiet is really what he wants.

As Harold begins to reflect on his life, readers learn that his mother abandoned him, his father kicked him out, and he never really experiences a normal family life. Maureen really wanted to give him that, their life started out really happy and joyous but obstacles began to pile up. Harold’s intelligent son intimidates him and their relationship fell apart. Maureen and Harold began to forget the happy times, and Maureen moved into a different room. They no longer connected, and barely spoke.

The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry was a great read. I kept rooting for Harold and Maureen and I wanted to scream at them for their stubbornness. Readers will immediately be captured by Harold and Maureen; they feel like real people, with real problems. Even though they are much older than me, I felt connected to them. Rachel Joyce really shines in her debut novel. This novel is about redemption and self-reflecting.

Review: The Rules of Civility by Amor Towles

Publisher: Penguin Books

Pages: 352

Released: 2011

Source: Personal Copy

Rating: 2/5

Synopsis:

Best friends and roommates Katey and Eve are living it up in New York city during the late 1930's, single girls who earn their own money, and know how to work the men to stretch their dollars. Katey is a native of New York without family, while Eve is from the midwest, and has cut ties with her family. A chance encounter with Tinker Grey, a rich banker gives them a glimpse into his glamourous world. The three become fast friends, and Tinker has two girls he can easily pick from. While Tinker seems more attracted to Katey, an accident leads Tinker to feel guilty, and he decides to care for, a fragile, broken Eve. Katey begins to step away and leave the two together.      

Review:

I really expectead to love this book but I couldn't. It also took me awhile to realize why, and really kept me thinking about it. There were a few reasons why I didn't like it. I didn't like the characters and I had a hard time believing that this book took place during the Great Depression. Sure, the book takes places at the end of the depression but the girls seem so careless with money and jobs. I would expect someone who lived through the depression to be more attentive. At least mention the depression a little more. At times it felt like the book took place during the 1920's but I would have to remind myself that that wasn't the case. 

Also, I felt like Katey and Eve were unconvincing characters. Katey's voice did not feel like a native New Yorker, from a blue collar family. Eve gave me the impression that she was a native New Yorker, not a midwesterner.  Both characters were not likable, and neither was Tinker. I felt like none of them had any chemistry and the love triangle confused me. I actually had a hard time to finish this one.  This one really fell flat for me.