I honestly didn't expect the book to be a survival story. What should have been only a one-night stand became a 10-day peril at sea. Sure, the title aI honestly didn't expect the book to be a survival story. What should have been only a one-night stand became a 10-day peril at sea. Sure, the title and the cover suggest that the characters are swept away but I didn't imagine it would be literally. I was thinking the meaning might be more metaphorical than literal so I was definitely surprised but in a really good way because wow, that was one epic love story and the best by the author I have read to date.
I have loved and enjoyed every book written by Ms. O’Leary but this is just amazing, there’ no other word for it. If I remember it correctly, I have given only four stars to each of the earlier ones I’ve read by her. But Swept Away totally merits five stars. I love Zeke and Lexi so much. I don’t know what else to say, just read the book....more
I'll Meet You There is a book that made me feel so much and I wasn't exactly pleased because I'm already overwhelmed with so much emotions being a momI'll Meet You There is a book that made me feel so much and I wasn't exactly pleased because I'm already overwhelmed with so much emotions being a mom of two little boys. But still, I couldn't deny how good this book is. I have read two other books by the author a few years back and I would have to say this is her best yet. It's incredible how the author was able to write an amazing story about the life of a young man who almost died in war and how his post-war life intersects with Creek View's goody two-shoes who wants nothing more than to escape their desolate small town by pursuing her dream of being an artist.
Although the pervading atmosphere of the story is sad, the dialogues are often funny. I especially love the descriptions about art making, particularly Sky's medium, collaging. I love its symbolism, how pieces of trash can be put together to create something beautiful. I love that Josh and Sky get a new perspective about Creek View, their small town, because of everything they have gone through and because of the love that has grown between them in said small town.
I honestly love everything about the book, even the narrative mode, the lessons and values I was able to pick up from the story, the amazing writing. Everything is just so, so good. I couldn't praise it enough. I wouldn't even be opposed to a sequel just to read more about Josh and Sky's love story, how they would work hard to fight for each other especially with their long-distance situation, Sky’s mom, Josh's PTSD, etc....more
Mhairi McFarlane's books never fail to leave me one satisfied reader. Reading 'Between Us' was reminiscent of going to my favorite college course withMhairi McFarlane's books never fail to leave me one satisfied reader. Reading 'Between Us' was reminiscent of going to my favorite college course with the best professor and me leaving the class feeling wiser, smarter, and highly entertained.
The reason I am a huge fan of Ms. McFarlane is because she writes not only to entertain readers, but more practically to save them. That's what her books are to me, lifesavers. Anyone who has been or is still is in an emotionally abusive relationship or anyone really (especially women), I wholeheartedly recommend her books which concretely exemplify gaslighting in its most complex and subtle forms. I couldn't wait for Ms. McFarlane's 2025 release. She's one of the authors whose books I actively and earnestly look forward to every year. ...more
I really love the guy characters in Abby Jimenez’s books. I love that they're downright good people and not your brooding asshole types. I kind of havI really love the guy characters in Abby Jimenez’s books. I love that they're downright good people and not your brooding asshole types. I kind of have had enough of those kinds in rom-coms. Ms. Jimenez books are my comfort reads much like Katherine Center's are. I am guaranteed of a good love story with great characters who always have fun and easy banter. There's also always something valuable to learn from their books and that's majorly what I'm after.
Admittedly, this was one of the most difficult, most tragic relationships I have gotten to read because they are giving it their everything even though they shouldn't be together because of their distance and their situation. So, it's taking all of their energy, their health, and finances just to make their relationship work. It was quite exhausting to read although very realistic. I guess that's one of the things I admire about the author, the way she is not afraid to talk about realistic situations in romantic relationships that are difficult. Amazing how she takes that impressively challenging path to a believable happily-ever-after. Yay!...more
Haymitch's story appeals to the emotion. It's even funny most of the time despite the odds being twice greater than usual. Just Haymitch's luck that hHaymitch's story appeals to the emotion. It's even funny most of the time despite the odds being twice greater than usual. Just Haymitch's luck that he wasn't really reaped on his birthday but instead was volunteered by the peacemaker and Druscilla. I wanted to hug Maysilee for slapping Druscilla, by the way. She was such a bad-ass. If it weren't for the mutts, she could've won the games.
I find it so interesting and a bit comforting to read about familiar characters like Mags, Wiress, Beetee, Effie, and Plutarch but my heart broke for Beetee. Poor Ampert.
It hurt so much seeing the Newcomers get killed one by one either by Careers or muttations. I feel so much for Haymitch to have to be the one to witness them all, to be feeling like a failure for helplessly seeing their deaths especially those of the younger ones. The things he endured and experienced, no wonder he turned out the way he is in the trilogy. Haymitch is the most pitiful character of them all. All the things he suffered pre-arena, while in the arena, and worst, after the arena. The torture!!! I hurt so much for him.
Finishing the book left my heart so heavy even with the little glimpse of his life already with Katniss and Peeta. So I’m just going to read the trilogy again with these new perspectives about Snow and Haymitch. It's the only way to console my heart. ...more
I never thought I would read Snow's story. When it came out, I was so disinterested to the point of hostility thinking about what would be the point. I never thought I would read Snow's story. When it came out, I was so disinterested to the point of hostility thinking about what would be the point. I thought why would I want a prequel when I already know what happens to Panem? And also, I am not a huge fan of snakes. But thankfully, my niece who has just finished Haymitch's story convinced, I mean, forced me to read it on the condition that I read Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes first. Being the niece-pleaser that I am, I did. And just a few pages in, I am completely reeled in. It felt like being in the world of Hunger Games for the first time.
And as I continued to read, I started to understand Coryo's motivations, background, and the foundation of his principles. It's easy to see and even empathize with why he has become the way he was as a president. With this prequel, my revulsion towards Snow has drastically turned to understanding. That he was able to take on all roles [from mentor, to tribute (when he had to take Sejanus out of the arena), peacekeeper, probably gamemaker as the ending of this book implies, until he became president] gives so much sense to his actions. He truly believed his motivations are noble and that if somebody has to die because of such noble cause even if it was someone dear to him, then that's a sacrifice he is more than willing to make for the sake of order.
By reading this book, I was reminded of the author's incredible talent. It's even inspiring me to read the trilogy again even though I have already read it twice because I want to look back at the story with the knowledge I now have about Snow and the Capitol. But first, I will read Haymitch's book. ...more
What I like about rom-com sequels is how they delve into the story of the couple as they brace the storms of their relationship, because that's when tWhat I like about rom-com sequels is how they delve into the story of the couple as they brace the storms of their relationship, because that's when the story becomes more realistic. Nothing Like The Movies delivered exactly that and I don't regret the time and money I spent for this sequel. Wes and Liz's story will be on my all-time favorite YA couple romance right next to Peter and Lara Jean's....more
One Day in December and The Two Lives of Lydia Bird were good but they both started good, then turned bleak, then went back from being good again. OneOne Day in December and The Two Lives of Lydia Bird were good but they both started good, then turned bleak, then went back from being good again. One Night on the Island, I didn’t like at all to be honest. But A Winter in New York is positively great from start to finish, and now definitely my favorite by Josie Silver. This is probably the best vicarious tour I had of New York. That pastrami sandwich at Katz's Deli had my tummy growling and my mouth drooling.
The plot is a wonderful combination of creating food and music. It also talks about tradition and culture as well as history as factors in the success of the gelato business of the Belotti Family. How the lives of Iris and Gio interesect or perhaps fated (majorly involving the lives of their parents) is the stuff of a great literary fiction. How can I not love this?
That most wonderful scene where Iris sings with the busker had my heart brimming with so much joy, I even shed a few tears. I love the strength of Iris' character, of how self-aware she is, how she learned the lesson of protecting herself the hard way and of learning to do and choose what is best for her. Her relationship with her Mom is worth emulating and that her vibrant, brilliant Mom had a very vital role in the trajectory of Iris’ life.
The entire read had me nostalgic of my favorite nineties’ movies (I approve of the many nineties references) but especially of “While You Were Sleeping” because of the Belottis’ big family while Iris, the Sandra Bullock of this story, is devoid of family. I have come to this thought even before page 147 where the actress is actually mentioned. There’s even a list of recommendations of nineties rom-coms at the end of the book.
Gosh! I could go on and on but that would definitely ruin the book. This book amazingly is quite everything!...more
"Beat yourself up about the harm you did by accident, feel bad but let it go, ultimately it's not on you."
"Life is too short to put up w4.5 stars
"Beat yourself up about the harm you did by accident, feel bad but let it go, ultimately it's not on you."
"Life is too short to put up with being unhappy."
"Waiting for people to read your mind never works."
"Because of social media we see things now we shouldn't see. And it's so dehumanising."
"Pretty much the worst thing that could've happened to you has already happened to you and you're still here and you're OK. That makes you very strong. That is powerful."
"Some friendships, they're like favourite mix tapes. You hit pause but when you un-pause and play it again, you pick up right where you left it. You know all the right words and what comes next."
I always find reading Mhairi McFarlane books a magical experience, not that there's any magical realism in them. Her novels are as real as they get to be honest. But each time I start a book, I would struggle during the first few chapters reacquainting myself with her next level wit and humor to the point of questioning myself whether my humble brain is cut out for her smart writing that practically combines fiction and self-help with a good sprinkling of romance.
But like the professional reader that I am, I rally and 80 pages in, I'm entranced. Novels that are more than 400 pages long are my kryptonite but I make exception with Ms. McFarlane's books. I would willingly read 400 more and would still crave more. I know I didn’t really say much about the plot but that’s part of how you’ll enjoy her books, diving into them without knowing what you’re getting into and always getting a nice surprise. ...more
There was a time when I thought Mitch Albom was losing his magic touch because it seemed like after reading Tuesdays with Morrie, every single book heThere was a time when I thought Mitch Albom was losing his magic touch because it seemed like after reading Tuesdays with Morrie, every single book he released next seemed to pale in comparison until Finding Chika and I’m so glad I decided to pick this up.
I doubt it's easy to write about your own philanthropy but then again Mr.Albom wasn't really writing about his good deeds. He was writing about Chika and I could only imagine the courage and strength it took to write it. I've been bawling out since I started the book and I didn't even know Chika.
But it makes perfect sense that Mr. Mitch wrote about another book 20 years after he wrote Tuesdays with Morrie where he detailed the lessons he learned about life from his former professor, Morrie. Finding Chika is written in perfect juxtaposition to the former as Mr. Mitch once again learns valuable life lessons but this time from a precious little girl.
And just like with my experience with Tuesdays with Morrie, I savored every word from this book. Though devastatingly sad, it is undeniably inspiring and life affirming. I am reminded of my deep admiration of the author as well. Kudos to Mr. Mitch and Ms. Janine, his wife. Thank you for reminding us that there are still many good people left in the world....more
I was actually afraid the writing might be too difficult to grasp. At times it really was but I just relied on the power of context clues t 3.5 stars
I was actually afraid the writing might be too difficult to grasp. At times it really was but I just relied on the power of context clues to grasp the meanings. I read some reviews that it's pretentious and I did see their meaning especially during the first few pages but the writing kind of grew on me.
Aldo and Regan are quite relatable mostly because of their unfiltered and irreverent thoughts. Both of them have mental and emotional struggles so that they understand each other most. Their love story actually reminds me a little of that of Normal People.
The writing is very graphic and detailed, it feels like watching a movie. And that's why even though most of the book consists of their conversations, dialogues, monologues and introspections, it was still quite compulsive to read. The construction of the sentences makes you feel breathless, like it was written frantically much like the thoughts of the characters. The downside though is it's exhausting to read. I honestly got a headache after. But it was still worth the time and effort. If anything, I was pretty proud of myself knowing that I am still capable of reading these kinds of books. Haha....more
It was a very gripping and compulsive read, the kind I couldn't put down once I started it. In fact, I even downloaded the epub copy so I could keep rIt was a very gripping and compulsive read, the kind I couldn't put down once I started it. In fact, I even downloaded the epub copy so I could keep reading it anywhere I went when I got the chance. I remember it was quite the same experience when I read the author's other book, Pretty Baby.
Local Woman Missing (though I really wish it had a different title) is told in several perspectives, but each is distinct and very important to the plot of the story and to solving the mysteries in the end. Like Ms. Kubica’s earlier novel, this book also tackles important issues especially related to childbirth and motherhood, and also touches on the very hurtful reality of so many missing children.
“For the professor, there was no shame in admitting you didn’t have the answer, it was a necessary step toward the truth.”
“The mathematical order i“For the professor, there was no shame in admitting you didn’t have the answer, it was a necessary step toward the truth.”
“The mathematical order is beautiful precisely because it has no effect on the real world.”
Fascinating, riveting, and very touching. It makes me want to take an entrance exam because I feel like I will ace it after reading the book. I learned so much about numbers. Learning Math has never been this fun, entertaining, and enlightening. This is the first time in my life that I have fully come to appreciate the beauty of Math. How come none of my teachers made learning this good?
Kidding aside, this book has been one of the most satisfyingly inspiring novels I’ve read. Its simple and honest language is a comfort to read. The linear and yet layered and meaningful plot is although a lot of times heartrending, is also heartwarming and very touching. I did shed a few tears. It’s definitely a must read. ...more
I am at a point in my life where the title resonates so much with my experience. Life as of late has been one huge inconvenience. It's mainly why I deI am at a point in my life where the title resonates so much with my experience. Life as of late has been one huge inconvenience. It's mainly why I decided to finally read this and because I knew I could count on Kristan Higgins for a good laugh and for that matter, a good cry too.
Simple lines that are so hilarious, I was honestly laughing out loud which is a rarity for me these days.
"Idiotic phrases floated to me on the breeze- Let's unpack what you said and What do you think it means?"
"Are you finished soothing the souls of the self-obsessed?"
Genevieve cracked me up. I love the character exploration. Each character is significant. I love the different POVs. It was very refreshing. A family saga covering four generations featuring women as mothers and daughters and men as fathers and sons. The scope of presentation on this subject is amazing, relatable, and just so profound. It touches on the cycle of life and how our choices affect our whole lives....more
I have realized the reason I love Emily Henry's books is the rawness and honesty of her stories and her characters. This is her fourth adult rom-com aI have realized the reason I love Emily Henry's books is the rawness and honesty of her stories and her characters. This is her fourth adult rom-com and I am very glad that she hasn't failed my expectations so far. Harriet being trapped with Wyn, her ex fiance, in a vacation with their friends is quite the predicament considering they could not admit that they are no longer engaged.
The Then and Now point of view makes the story even more relatable. I could really understand Wyn's pain. Losing a father can certainly derail your life, your plans, your dreams and being in a committed relationship truly entails a lot of sacrifice. It may also mean one of you giving up their career or doing something else as a compromise just to be together.
I have to admit this is probably the cheesiest of all Emily Henry's books and I must say my least favorite and yet it still merits four stars. That's how good Ms. Henry is. ...more
An excerpt from the book says, "all books are predictable and unique," just like Every After Summer which to me is both familiar and new. I find it veAn excerpt from the book says, "all books are predictable and unique," just like Every After Summer which to me is both familiar and new. I find it very comforting.
The story is realistic and relatable. The chapters are short and very easy to get into and I don't just mean the writing. I also mean the connection of the characters with each other, the setting, the nostalgia, the time span shifting between the present and the summer the characters met as teens, the development of each character. It's a book that you would want to savor but at the same time, you could not read fast enough....more
What I really liked about the book is the setting, how it gave a glimpse about life of the people working in a yacht during charter season. 3.5 stars
What I really liked about the book is the setting, how it gave a glimpse about life of the people working in a yacht during charter season. I thought the banter is entertaining too. I just wish I connected more with Nina who narrated the story. I found her very selfish and felt Ollie was way too good for her. Perhaps if it were an alternating POV between her and Ollie, I would have liked it better. But as it is, it's still a good read, expect some angst as is usually present in most romance novels. This is the second book in a series but it's also a standalone. I actually read this without reading the first book....more
Usually, backstories in thrillers make them tedious or unnecessary but here, it is quite very gripping. The main "Bad things happened in the dark."
Usually, backstories in thrillers make them tedious or unnecessary but here, it is quite very gripping. The main character is half-Filipino which led me to read about the author who turns out is half-Filipino as well. I mean, wow! It totally made me look at Ms. Hillier at a different light as this would be the first time I have come across an international bestselling author of thrillers this good who is Half-Filipino. I enjoyed the part where the author cited the accents (funny or "pannee" in Filipino accent) and included some translations.
The nineties backstory and references are so relatable. The sensitive topics were handled smartly and respectfully. There are a lot of very funny parts too.
"Just before sleep found her, she imagined a little frog conductor standing up on his hind legs, his skinny arms directing the choir. How else would they all know to start and stop at the same time..
As a whole, it is a gripping literary thriller that is heart-rending, thrilling, entertaining and inspiring all at the same time....more
It started out really nice. British Girl (Hannah) and American Boy (Davey) get to know each other slowly but surely via phone calls because 4.5 stars
It started out really nice. British Girl (Hannah) and American Boy (Davey) get to know each other slowly but surely via phone calls because boy misdials her number. It's a great non meet-cute, right? They become really good friends and eventually more than that. Supposedly, they meet up and bring their relationship to the next level because this was meant to be a comforting, warm read but nooooo, it gets really sad.
Oddly, I appreciate the direction it took. I guess I'm starting to get a little tired or maybe overly familiar with the usual rom-coms I've been reading. I have even come to appreciate the book better when I reached the Author's Note where Ms. Cook reveals the character, Davey, is inspired by her own husband who went through the same ordeal.
It's kind of a mix of a little of Jojo Moyes' Me Before You, Josie Silver's One Day In December, and some books by Mhairi McFarlane. I do realize I'm referring to British authors but it's more than that. It's the plot, the characters, the humor, the emotional punch, the realism, and the love story that isn't what you'd expect, and yeah, okay, I must admit I'm a bit partial to British romantic novels.
I'm just a bit weirded out by the alternating POVs when it was Hannah telling the story from chapters 1 thru 11 and then Davey suddenly narrates chapter 13 and it starts alternating from then on. It's basically my only complaint and thus the minus .5. But overall, it's a recommendable thoughtful book about love, friendship, surviving, and living. I am also very grateful it's smut-free, of course there's romance but nothing offensive. Thank goodness....more
There's something really special about characters writing to each other in books. Yours Truly isn't difficult for me to like not only because I have lThere's something really special about characters writing to each other in books. Yours Truly isn't difficult for me to like not only because I have loved every single book Ms. Jimenez wrote, but also because I could closely relate with both characters. With Jacob because I, too, am an introvert. With Briana, because I, too, am not my best self these past few years. It helped that they narrated the story alternately making me feel like I really know both of them.
I love that both characters sound really genuine, the way they write to and talk with each other is so sweet, their conversations so tender, their love and thoughtfulness for each other solid throughout the novel even though there was a lot of dramatic irony going on.
This is probably one of the sweetest, most thoughtful romantic novels written by an American author I have read to date because as I have mentioned several times, I'm partial to British authors. ^^...more
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