Book Review: The Love Algorithm

One of the best aspects of Camilla Isley’s books is her strong female main characters. I love their independence, career focus, and no-nonsense attitudes—they always make me laugh. Her female characters give off a vibe that says, “Love would be great, but I’m also perfectly content with my career for now.”

“The Love Algorithm” stays true to this characteristic in Camilla Isley’s work. Reese Campbell, a 28-year-old with a PhD, heads Research and Development at Mercer Robotics. She adores her work, colleagues, and her robot companion named K2P. Everything is going smoothly until she’s called to the CEO’s office and informed that she’ll be training his son, Thomas, during his rotation in her lab as part of his departmental training.

Reese is shocked that a businessman with no engineering experience will one day lead their department. But when Thomas walks into her lab, she’s captivated. Thomas Mercer is charming, despite lacking robotics knowledge. He compensates with a strong desire to learn and a genuine interest in Reese, both professionally and personally.

How can they make their relationship work when Thomas will soon be Reese’s boss? She fears any connection beyond professional could undermine her hard-earned career reputation.

This book felt like a breath of fresh air—it didn’t feel like reading at all. Each chapter played out like scenes before my eyes, with no unnecessary drama straying from the book’s premise. No third-act breakup, which was a big plus!

The characters were also endearing. I empathized with Reese’s internal struggle to balance feelings for Thomas with her career aspirations. Being a woman in a male-dominated field isn’t easy, and she’s determined to earn respect and recognition.

Thomas’ charm is undeniable. I liked him since he appeared in “Not in a Billion Years” as the main character’s brother. He’s genuine and the perfect prince ready to sweep the love of his life away. What I admire most is how he respects Reese’s decision not to date, despite knowing her feelings. That’s a huge green flag!

“The Love Algorithm” is now available in bookstores. If you want a captivating, heartwarming, romantic read with some fun moments, this book is for you—perfect for a summer read.

Book Review: Seven Summers

Have you ever read a book that left you wishing it hadn’t included an epilogue? That’s exactly how I felt after finishing “Seven Summers” by Paige Toon. Don’t get me wrong—I’m a fan of Paige Toon and her writing style. She has a knack for drawing readers in and making us fully invested in her stories and characters. I was captivated by the plot of “Seven Summers” right up until the epilogue, which felt like a concession to those rooting for Liv and Finn.

I appreciate love stories with strong, realistic storylines. I’m not opposed to endings that don’t necessarily result in the main characters ending up together. In fact, if it’s well-written and there’s a valid reason why they shouldn’t be together, I’m all for it.

Liv and Finn share a tragic past that brings Finn back to St. Agnes each summer to be with Liv. They become each other’s support system, but Finn’s life is based in Los Angeles, where he’s pursuing his dreams and trying to escape his own tragic history in St. Agnes. They agree not to contact each other during the rest of the year, with the plan to rekindle their relationship each summer if they’re both single.

This arrangement works until they both fall in love with other people. Now, Finn and Liv are faced with difficult choices and ultimatums. Will Finn leave LA and his girlfriend to be with Liv in St. Agnes? Or will Liv leave everything behind—her life in St. Agnes, her brother, friends, and boyfriend—to be with Finn in LA?

I don’t have any issues with the main characters, Finn and Liv. They’re both broken souls finding solace in each other and facing the consequences of their arrangement maturely. They’re relatable and realistic, and their determination to pursue their passions despite emotional struggles is inspiring.

Tom, Liv’s boyfriend, is also a compelling character with personal struggles and losses. However, his storyline felt like a contrivance to push Liv and Finn together.

Honestly, “Seven Summers” could have been a solid five-star read for me if it had ended in the last chapter without the epilogue. Liv finds someone who chooses her despite difficulties, someone who is present emotionally and physically, someone she can depend on.

While I understand Finn’s trauma and his struggle to commit, it felt like he was testing Liv’s loyalty and willingness to uproot her life for him. When he sees Liv choosing Tom, suddenly he’s ready to commit to St. Agnes for her sake. But Finn needs to resolve his own issues before he can be a stable, reliable partner for Liv.

In summary, I have mixed feelings about “Seven Summers.” I wanted to love it as much as I loved Paige Toon’s “Only Love Can Hurt Like This,” but a major flaw in the story’s resolution left me disappointed. However, this won’t stop me from reading more of Paige Toon’s work, as her writing feels like home to me.

“Seven Summers” will be available on May 21st. Thank you to Paige Toon, Netgalley, and Penguin Group Putnam for providing early access to “Seven Summers” in exchange for an honest review.

Book Review: Rebecca Yarros

While I was totally enamored with the premise of this book, the actual reading experience left me with mixed feelings. Beckett Gentry, a military man, receives his best friend’s final letter during a classified mission. In it, his friend asks Beckett to offer support to his younger sister, Ella, who is raising twins, one of whom is battling cancer. Ella and Beckett had been exchanging letters while he was deployed, and out of love and respect for his friend, Beckett goes to Telluride without revealing his true identity. Together, they navigate through love, loss, and the ups and downs of life, learning valuable lessons along the way.

This book was an emotional rollercoaster for me. Like many readers, I found myself shedding tears in the wee hours of the night while reading the poignant conclusion.

However, while the emotional depth of the story was commendable, I found the abundance of tragedy and loss to be overwhelming. The story seemed to rely too heavily on heartache, detracting from its otherwise compelling narrative.

Additionally, I struggled to see the necessity of the tragic events that unfolded towards the end of the book. While grief and loss are central themes, the magnitude of these events felt excessive and somewhat forced.

Despite these reservations, the characters in the story were well-developed and engaging. Ella’s strength as a single mother and Beckett’s unwavering support were particularly admirable. However, it was the twins, Maisie and Colt, who truly stole the show. Their presence added depth to the story and tugged at my heartstrings in ways that the main characters did not.

In conclusion, while “The Last Letter” offers a compelling narrative and well-drawn characters, the excessive tragedy may not be to everyone’s taste. However, if you’re a fan of emotional reads and don’t mind a few tears, this book might just be your next five-star read.

Book Review: Book Lovers

Nora Stephens epitomizes selflessness, prioritizing the needs of her family, particularly her younger sister. Despite her own aspirations of becoming an editor, she remained a literary agent to ensure her sister’s well-being and shield her from the hardships they faced after their mother’s passing. Her commitment to providing stability for her family contrasts sharply with the romanticized small-town life her former partners chose, leaving Nora feeling like she’s been left behind in favor of more traditional relationships.

Enter Charlie Lastra, a successful book editor known for his stern demeanor and uncompromising work ethic. Beneath his brooding exterior lies a compassionate man who fulfills his duties as a devoted son and a supportive colleague-turns-partner to Nora. Together, they navigate the complexities of their respective pasts while grappling with personal and familial challenges.

What sets “Book Lovers” apart is its exploration of love beyond romance. Nora and Charlie’s story delves into the intricate dynamics of sibling and parental love, offering readers a multifaceted portrayal of familial bonds rarely seen in contemporary romance novels. Through Nora’s lens, readers are given a glimpse into the sacrifices and responsibilities shouldered by first-born children, resonating with those who share similar experiences.

Emily Henry’s narrative expertly captures the essence of small-town life, where gossip spreads like wildfire and everyone knows everyone else’s business. Nora’s habit of comparing her life to the tropes found in the books she represents adds an endearing layer to her character, highlighting the influence literature can have on shaping our perceptions of reality.

Charlie Lastra emerges as a standout character, blending humor, intelligence, and unwavering support for Nora’s dreams. His selfless love and ability to articulate his feelings with honesty and sincerity make him a charming and relatable figure. Despite the physical distance between them, Charlie’s unwavering support for Nora’s ambitions serves as a beacon of encouragement throughout their journey.

While I may find certain chapters to be slower-paced, detracting from the overall momentum of the narrative, it’s a minor flaw in an otherwise engaging read. “Book Lovers” offers a poignant reminder that the challenges of being a first-born child are not borne alone, resonating with readers who seek validation and solidarity in their familial roles.

Book Review: The Bodyguard

The excitement of diving into a good book! Katherine Center’s “The Bodyguard” brought back my love for stories about protection and romance. Remembering movies like “The Bodyguard” with Kevin Costner and Whitney Houston, and “First Daughter” with Katie Holmes, I was eager to see how Center would put her own spin on this classic theme.

In “The Bodyguard,” we meet Hannah, a skilled protection agent assigned to guard the famous actor, Jack Stapleton. As Hannah tackles her duty, she finds herself caught up in a mix of suspense and emotions, unsure where her professional responsibilities end and her personal feelings begin.

Center’s storytelling talent shines in “The Bodyguard.” She creates a world filled with interesting characters and gripping tension. We get to know Hannah’s struggles and Jack’s complicated past, making the story feel real and engaging.

At its heart, “The Bodyguard” is about forgiveness, acceptance, and the power of love. Through Hannah and Jack’s journey, we learn about the healing power of opening up and connecting with others.

One of the best parts of the book is the relationship between Hannah and Jack. Despite their roles, Jack treats Hannah with kindness and respect, and Hannah’s dedication to her job is inspiring.

Katherine Center has a knack for crafting stories that stick with you long after you’ve finished reading. “The Bodyguard” is no exception. With each page, she invites us on a journey of discovery and emotion, leaving us eager for more.

So, if you’re looking for a heartfelt and exciting read, “The Bodyguard” is definitely worth picking up. Thank you, Katherine Center, for another great story!

Book Review: The Rom-Commers

Bookworms, gather around for a delightful story that’s sure to capture your heart and leave you longing for more. Katherine Center’s latest masterpiece, “The Rom-Commers,” is an absolute gem that deserves a spot on every book lover’s shelf.

As someone who devours books like there’s no tomorrow, I can confidently say that Center’s work has earned a permanent place on my TBR list. Much like her previous novel, “Hello Stranger,” this book whisked me away into a world brimming with captivating characters and enchanting journeys.

Meet Emma Wheeler, a woman who has dedicated the past decade of her life to caring for her father and ensuring her younger sister lives her best life. With a knack for writing screenplays, particularly romcoms, Emma’s world is turned upside down when her ex-boyfriend-turned-friend and screenwriter manager, Logan, lands her a gig ghostwriting for the renowned Charlie Yates.

Charlie, a celebrated screenwriter with a string of Oscars to his name, finds himself in a bit of a rut with his latest romcom script. Despite his reservations about working with an anonymous co-writer and critic, Charlie reluctantly agrees to collaborate with Emma. Little does he know, this partnership will not only reshape his screenplay but also his outlook on love and life.

Now, let me tell you, I could rave about “The Rom-Commers” all day long. This book had me staying up until the wee hours of the morning, eagerly flipping pages and shedding tears of joy over the heartwarming dialogue and character dynamics.

Sure, Charlie may come off as a bit of an ass at first, but hey, don’t we all have our rough edges? And Emma? She’s a shining beacon of goodness in a world that often feels too dark. Her selflessness and unwavering kindness tug at your heartstrings, and as her story unfolds, you can’t help but feel a sense of empathy and admiration for her.

The banter between Emma and Charlie is simply sublime, a testament to Center’s masterful way with words. Each exchange crackles with wit and charm, making it impossible not to fall in love with these characters.

Speaking of character development, let’s talk about Charlie’s transformation. From “Charlie before Emma” to “Charlie with Emma” to “Charlie after Emma,” his journey is nothing short of remarkable. And Emma? Well, let’s just say she gets the ending she truly deserves—a testament to Center’s storytelling prowess.

So, if you’re in the mood for a rollercoaster ride of emotions, sprinkled with witty banter and sweet moments, look no further than “The Rom-Commers” by Katherine Center. Trust me, you won’t want to miss out on this enchanting story.

Book Review: The Inmate

As I approached the final chapters of “The Inmate,” I couldn’t shake the feeling that it might end up as a run-of-the-mill read, perhaps deserving of just a 3-star rating. Sure, there were plenty of twists and turns along the way, but as someone who’s devoured their fair share of thrillers, I found myself piecing together the mystery a bit too easily. It felt like I’d seen this plot before, and I was worried that the book wouldn’t leave a lasting impression.

However, all that changed with the epilogue. It was like a bolt from the blue, completely unexpected and utterly mind-blowing. Instead of a neat and tidy conclusion, the epilogue left me pondering long after I turned the final page. Suddenly, my rating soared to a solid 4 stars, and I found myself reassessing the entire journey I’d just taken with the characters.

This was my first foray into Freida McFadden’s writing, and I must say, it won’t be my last. Her style is refreshingly straightforward and easy to follow, even amidst the tangled web of mystery she weaves. The characters felt like real people, with dialogue that rang true and internal monologues that offered intriguing glimpses into their minds. While I didn’t always agree with Brooke’s decisions, seeing the world through her eyes added depth to the story and helped me understand her motivations.

“The Inmate” has opened up a whole new world of suspense and thriller novels for me. I’m eager to dive into more books in this genre, eager to unravel the mysteries alongside the characters and get lost in the suspense once again.

Book Review: The Idea of You

While some books effortlessly draw you into the magnetic chemistry between characters from the get-go, others leave you scratching your head 200 pages in, wondering if the author even considered believability in their character relationships. Unfortunately, Solene and Hayes of “The Idea of You” fall into the latter category.

I initially picked up this book after catching wind of its upcoming movie adaptation featuring Anne Hathaway and Nicholas Galitzine. Excitement bubbled within me, convinced that if a movie was in the works, the book must be something special. I was mistaken.

Despite my near-constant temptation to mark it as Did Not Finish (DNF), I persevered, driven by a commitment to give every book a fair chance. However, with each passing chapter, the urge to delete the digital copy from my e-reader grew stronger.

My curiosity about the forthcoming movie adaptation was another motivator to trudge through the pages. Yet, as I delved deeper into the story, my enthusiasm waned. The plot felt shallow, saturated with gratuitous sex talk and lacking any semblance of genuine chemistry between characters. The narrative unfolded predictably, populated by immature characters—particularly Solene, who, despite being a 40-year-old mother, displayed a distressing lack of responsibility and self-awareness.

Solene’s portrayal as an irresponsible, self-centered, and sex-driven mother was deeply unsettling. While her prowess as an art gallery owner was commendable, her inability to make sound decisions and set a positive example for her 13-year-old daughter was disappointing. Witnessing her spiral into self-destructive behavior was both cringe-worthy and disheartening.

Furthermore, the author’s choice to subdivide chapters into smaller segments to denote the passage of time felt disjointed and disrupted the flow of the narrative. Rather than enhancing the storytelling, it detracted from the overall reading experience.

As for Hayes, the supposed hero of the tale, his character fell flat for me. He came across as a thinly veiled fan fiction creation lacking depth and substance.

Despite these criticisms, I will concede that the ending offered a slight glimmer of redemption. However, it wasn’t enough to salvage “The Idea of You” from earning a one-star rating in my book.

Book Review: The Seven Year Slip

Buckle up, bookworms, because “The Seven Year Slip” is an absolute gem that deserves all the stars in the galaxy—and then some! Seriously, if I could sprinkle extra stars on this masterpiece, I totally would. It’s that good!

So, picture this: Clementine inherits this magical apartment from her late aunt, and let me tell you, her heart is in pieces when she moves in. She’s drowning in sorrow, missing her aunt like crazy, and feeling utterly lost. But then, out of the blue, she meets Iwan—cue the swoons! But here’s the twist: Iwan is living seven years in the past, and Clementine is seven years ahead. Talk about a head-spinning situation!

But wait, it gets even better. These two start sharing dinners and swapping stories, and suddenly Clementine’s questioning everything about her life. Is she truly happy? What’s she really chasing after? And could Iwan possibly be the one to mend her broken heart?

Let me just say, I was completely hooked from page one. Ashley Poston weaves this seamless, captivating storyline that had me on the edge of my seat until the very end. And oh boy, the chemistry between Clementine and Iwan? Off the charts! I mean, it’s like fireworks every time they’re together.

But it’s not all butterflies and rainbows. Poston dives deep into themes of grief and loneliness, painting a vivid picture of what it’s like to lose someone you love unexpectedly. And through Clementine’s journey, we learn that finding happiness sometimes means stepping out of your comfort zone and embracing the unknown.

Speaking of characters, Clementine stole my heart with her resilience and compassion, while Iwan’s dreamy, adventurous spirit had me rooting for him from the get-go. Together, they remind us that chasing our dreams sometimes means embracing change and letting ourselves grow along the way.

Trust me, I could rave about this book all day, but I’ll leave you with this: “The Seven Year Slip” is a magical journey that’ll whisk you away to the fourth floor of Monroe in New York City—and trust me, you won’t want to leave. So grab a copy, settle in, and prepare to be enchanted!

Book Review: I Hope This Doesn’t Find You

Let’s dive into the wonderful world of Asian representation with Ann Liang’s delightful novel, “I Hope This Doesn’t Find You,” where academic rivals Sadie Wen and Julius Gong take center stage in a tale of love, competition, and self-discovery.

From the get-go, I was thrilled to see characters with Asian backgrounds taking the lead. It’s refreshing to see diverse representation not only in movies but also in the pages of novels. Sadie and Julius felt like old friends with their relatable thinking patterns and reactions to life’s twists and turns.

Ann Liang’s writing is a breath of fresh air—smooth, engaging, and oh-so-easy on the eyes. The way she crafts Sadie and Julius’ characters took me back to the days of devouring shoujo manga and anime like “Kare Kano” (aka “His and Her Circumstances”). Seriously, this book screams for an anime adaptation—I can already imagine the vibrant colors and dynamic storytelling!

But wait, wouldn’t it be a treat to get inside Julius’ head and see things from his perspective? While Sadie’s narrative is captivating, experiencing her through Julius’s eyes would add a whole new layer of depth and swoon-worthy moments.

Let’s talk character arcs—Sadie’s transformation from a people pleaser to someone embracing her true self is downright inspiring. It’s a reminder that authenticity attracts genuine connections, something we could all use a little more of in our lives.

“I Hope This Doesn’t Find You” may evoke memories of Jenny Han’s “To All The Boys I’ve Loved Before” series, but instead of love letters, we get a juicy glimpse into Sadie’s innermost thoughts and emotions through her emails. It’s a rollercoaster ride of ups and downs, with plenty of heartwarming moments along the way.

For readers seeking a wholesome read that blends the excitement of young love with the pressures of academic rivalry, look no further than “I Hope This Doesn’t Find You.” It’s a charming tale that reminds us to embrace our true selves and find our tribe along the way.