Book Review: Expiration Dates

Rebecca Serle’s novel, “Expiration Dates,” provided an enjoyable read with a unique and intriguing premise.

Daphne’s dating life takes an unusual turn as she receives a slip of paper with the name of her partner and the duration they will spend together. Each relationship conforms exactly to what’s written on the paper, including her three months with Hugo, an ex-boyfriend turned best friend. Daphne anticipates the day when she’ll receive a slip without a predetermined time, until Jake enters her life. However, as she gets closer to Jake, she struggles with honesty, concealing things that could shatter his heart.

Initially, I found it challenging to fully engage with Daphne’s story. While the premise was unique and intriguing, the first chapters lacked a certain hook for me. The chemistry between Daphne and Hugo was palpable from the start, showcasing a shared history and a maintained friendship. However, the connection between Daphne and Jake felt somewhat lacking, making me lean towards rooting for Daphne to end up with Hugo.

As the story progressed, it picked up momentum and managed to recapture my interest. I grew to appreciate Daphne’s emotional internal monologues and empathized with the challenges she faced.

“Expiration Dates” prompts readers to contemplate whether, if the future were known, they would strive to alter fate for a more favorable outcome or succumb to it, living each day with the knowledge of when things will end. The narrative serves as a reminder to cherish the present, emphasizing that life’s beauty lies not in the future but in the small moments shared with loved ones. It encourages authenticity, emphasizing that the only limits on what we can achieve are self-imposed.

While Rebecca Serle’s writing style might not align perfectly with my preferences, her stories’ premises intrigue me. I look forward to exploring more of her works, hoping to discover a growing appreciation for her storytelling techniques.

Book Review: Check & Mate

OMG! Ali Hazelwood is on fire! This was my first dive into Hazelwood’s literary world, and wow, I’m still reeling. The pacing of the storytelling was impeccable, showcasing Hazelwood’s remarkable skills in crafting a novel that not only entertains but also inspires.

“Check & Mate” follows Mallory’s journey as she rediscovers her love for chess, a passion she abandoned due to a painful incident with her father, her former trainer. In a twist of fate, Mallory defeats Nolan Sawyer, the world’s number one chess player, in her first game back. What follows is a series of unexpected encounters with Nolan. Is her love for chess the only thing she needs to rediscover, or is there something deeper that Nolan can reveal to her?

I absolutely relished the light and fun atmosphere of “Check & Mate.” The interactions between Mallory, her two younger sisters, and their mother were filled with humor and heartwarming moments. Nolan emerged as the perfect book boyfriend — consistent, handsome, dependable, and, despite his past, a genuinely good person.

Mallory’s character was incredibly relatable, especially for those who have shouldered the responsibilities of being the family breadwinner from a young age. She portrays the struggles of losing oneself in the process and the profound impact of self-disappointment. The narrative underscores the importance of open communication within one’s inner circle to navigate these challenges.

The incorporation of chess and tournament references added an intriguing layer to the story, enticing readers to explore the sport further. While chess may demand mental power and energy, Hazelwood convincingly portrays it as a discipline that fosters positive qualities in its players.

What stands out most is Hazelwood’s ability to weave a masterpiece that encourages women to pursue their dreams despite gender inequalities in their chosen fields. The book sends a powerful message about challenging stereotypes and breaking into spaces dominated by the opposite gender.

In conclusion, I wholeheartedly recommend “Check & Mate” to those seeking an easy, light, and enjoyable read with a delightful rivals-to-lovers trope, a steadfast and dependable male lead, a responsible yet burdened female protagonist, and, of course, a dose of chess. If you have a free day and no pressing responsibilities, “Check & Mate” is unputdownable — that’s just how captivating this book is.

Book Review: The Shining

What an experience! If I had known how gripping “The Shining” would be, I’d have picked it up decades ago. This novel had me on the edge of my seat, especially during my nighttime reading sessions. It’s no wonder Stephen King is hailed as the master of modern horror.

Following Jack Torrance, his wife Wendy, and their son Danny, the novel takes us on a chilling journey as the family becomes caretakers of the haunted Overlook Hotel in Colorado. What starts as an opportunity for Jack to rebuild his life and prove his dependability turns into a nightmarish ordeal. Danny’s psychic abilities, allowing him to see the paranormal, amplify the family’s innermost feelings, even the malevolent ones, leading to doubt and terror.

Although I’m not typically a fan of horror, leaning more towards romcoms and fantasy, “The Shining” has tempted me to explore more of this genre. King’s gradual build-up of terror had me sitting at the edge of my seat, literally. Several scenes left a lasting impact, with Jack’s topiary encounter and Danny’s Room 217 experience standing out, inducing genuine goosebumps.

King’s storytelling is so vivid that each encounter in the book plays out like a movie. The use of conflict types—man vs. self and man vs. supernatural—adds depth to a tale that continues to haunt readers long after the last page.

What struck me most was Jack’s internal conflict, delivering a powerful message about personal struggles. The book portrays the importance of having a support system, highlighting the dangers of battling inner demons alone. The fear stems not just from the supernatural elements but also from the recognition that personal battles can be as haunting as any paranormal encounter.

While there’s a movie adaptation from 1980, I find myself hesitant to watch it. Perhaps I fear it won’t do justice to the brilliance of the book. Yet, despite the goosebumps and chills, “The Shining” earns a well-deserved 5-star rating from me. I wholeheartedly recommend it to anyone yet to experience its spine-tingling brilliance. Every minute spent reading this book is absolutely worth it.

Book Review: Baby, One More Time

“Baby, One More Time” solidifies Camilla Isley’s reign as the queen of romcom novels in my book. Her brilliant storytelling shines through in this engaging and light-hearted addition to her growing collection of romcoms.

Despite the complexity of the main characters’ situations, Isley’s narrative is remarkably easy to follow. Her storytelling prowess, a trademark of her works, makes it not only entertaining but also a delightful escape for those seeking fun and light reads. It’s the perfect remedy for anyone looking to rediscover the joy of reading or break free from the clutches of a reading slump.

Marissa and John’s story, with its twists and turns, is a captivating journey. Isley effortlessly brings out the charm of Blake and Gabriel, this time through Marissa’s perspective. The novel also offers a sneak peek into what’s to come in Thomas’ story, adding to the anticipation.

Marissa and John, as a couple, are both heartwarming and, at times, painfully relatable. The author skillfully navigates the complexities of their past, creating a satisfying and believable rekindling of their romance. Other supporting characters, like Leslie and Nora, add depth to the narrative, bringing humor and sweetness in equal measure.

The Thanksgiving scene evoking Taylor Swift’s “You Belong with Me” music video is a brilliant touch that had me laughing out loud. As “Baby, One More Time” grew on me, I found the combination of the storyline and the Swifty reference to be a perfect match.

If you’re wondering whether to grab a copy when it’s released on January 20th, wonder no more. This wholesome romantic comedy promises the kind of fluttery excitement reminiscent of a first crush. Its easy readability is an added bonus, making it a perfect choice for those stuck in a reading slump.

In summary, “Baby, One More Time” comes highly recommended. Mark January 20th on your calendar, get a copy, and while you’re at it, grab the first one in the series, “Not in a Billion Years.” You can thank me later.

Book Review: On the Plus Side

“On the Plus Side” had been sitting on my TBR pile for a while, courtesy of an early access copy from Netgalley last year. In the grip of a reading slump, I regretted not diving into this gem sooner.

Everly Winters steps into the spotlight on Season 3 of her beloved reality show, “On the Plus Side.” This program is more than just about self-love for plus-size individuals; it’s a journey toward rediscovery and confidence. Little did Everly know, it would also unveil the possibility of love and acceptance.

The narrative skillfully captures the struggles faced by plus-size individuals, delving into the emotional chasm Everly experiences with her disapproving and disappointed mother. This mother-daughter dynamic touches upon universal themes of happiness and self-confidence being eroded when those closest to us become our harshest critics.

The book resonates with powerful messages—“Love should not hurt” and “Beauty comes in all sizes.” These reminders to love and embrace oneself are crucial, emphasizing that a thin body is not the universal answer. Genetics and health conditions, often beyond our control, contribute to our diverse sizes. The narrative also urges us not to hastily judge others, as everyone carries burdens hidden beneath the surface. A message of kindness reverberates throughout.

Jenny Howe skillfully dismantles the stereotype that only a particular size is beautiful. “On the Plus Side” stands as a celebration of body positivity, a timeless theme. Regardless of size, the book affirms that true victory in life lies in being healthy, confident, and content with oneself.

This is a must-read for individuals of all sizes, and I eagerly await more books that challenge norms and shatter stereotypes.

Book Review: Home for Christmas

Wendy Nichols and her family end up in a cabin chaos with another family due to a booking mix-up, creating an unexpected Christmas gathering of 16 people. Meanwhile, Riven Clark, a successful novelist navigating divorce, plans a solitary stay to meet his book deadline. But the double booking throws him into the company of Wendy, a talented New York playwright, changing their lives.

“Home for Christmas” is just heartwarming. I was a bit skeptical about Christmas stories that stray from the usual festive elements, but this one exceeded my expectations. Even though it starts during Christmas, it extends beyond, wrapping up around Thanksgiving the following year. Yet, the magic of the holiday season is beautifully woven throughout.

Wendy steals the show as the main character. Responsible, always trying to do what’s right, and she’s a hardworking artist. Riven, amidst his divorce, shines as a good man who understands himself well.

Riven’s latest book in the story is a standout, leaving readers on a gripping cliffhanger, and the dedication is a touching detail. Meanwhile, the snowy setting in Park City, Utah, is wonderfully described, making you feel like you’re right there with the characters, enjoying the winter wonderland.

The only head-scratcher for me was the connection between Riven’s and Wendy’s families at the end of the book, but I won’t dive into details to keep spoilers at bay.

Overall, just like Camilla Isley’s other works, “Home for Christmas” is a charming story that will have you eagerly awaiting the holiday season. 🎄

Book Review: The Christmas Fix

Catalina King, a renowned reality TV star celebrated for transforming homes and changing lives, crosses paths with Noah, Merry, Connecticut’s serious and responsible Mr. No, during a town crisis caused by a powerful storm threatening the beloved Christmas Festival.

My anticipation for Lucy Score’s “The Christmas Fix” was high, influenced by the numerous positive reviews of her works. Regrettably, this novel fell flat for me, taking a week to finish even with me skimming through the chapters with explicit content.

Several aspects fell short for me. First, the promised Christmas magic was conspicuously absent. While renovations were undertaken to save Merry’s Christmas, the festive charm was lacking.

Second, Cat’s character, a focused and career-driven woman, appealed to me, but Noah’s character proved repellant. His initial misogynistic attitude towards Cat, based solely on her TV persona, felt unreasonable and overly contentious.

Third, the small-town romance and enemies-to-lovers trope felt exaggerated. Noah’s rapid transition from disdain to affection after hearing about Cat’s virtues from friends felt rushed and implausible.

Fourth, the excessive explicit scenes seemed gratuitous, diverging from my preference for subtlety in storytelling.

The novel’s sole redeeming feature was the final chapter, which delivered a heartwarming touch reminiscent of a Hallmark movie, offering a fleeting moment of warmth in an otherwise underwhelming experience.

Book Review: Snowed In

Megan and Christian’s reunion in Dublin set the stage for a faux-partnership during the festive season in Catherine Walsh’s “Snowed In”. Megan’s return to Cork marks her first visit since fleeing her wedding, while Christian aims to dodge his family’s well-meaning but intrusive concern about his life’s contentment despite professional success.

Their arrangement was purely strategic—a business pact where Megan needed a partner for her mother’s posh fundraising event, and Christian sought to avoid parental pity during the Christmas dinner. However, a snowstorm unexpectedly strands them in a cabin, prompting both to reassess their relationship dynamics before returning home under the guise of being pretend partners.

Walsh, in this sequel to “Holiday Romance”, delves into the story of Andrew’s younger brother, Christian, navigating familial misunderstandings and personal struggles, alongside Megan’s journey to muster the courage to confront her town’s gossip after being known as “the runaway bride”.

The narrative’s dual points of view offer an engaging peek into the minds of both protagonists as they grapple with the challenges at hand. Though I have a love-hate relationship with dual POVs, it served the story well here, granting insights without detracting from the element of surprise.

“Snowed In” skillfully addresses unhealthy relationships, emphasizing the perils of control within a partnership and the challenges of overcoming addiction amidst adversity.

While I enjoyed the presence of Molly and Andrew from the preceding book, I felt their prominence overshadowed the primary narrative. Nevertheless, their inclusion contributed a lively touch to the Fitzpatrick Christmas scenes.

Personally, “Snowed In” intrigued me more than “Holiday Romance” possibly due to my affinity for Christian’s character from the first installment. This anticipation spurred my interest in witnessing the developments between him and Megan.

In essence, “Snowed In” serves as a captivating Christmas-themed read, combining elements of snow-clad landscapes, yuletide cheer, cabin seclusion, childhood acquaintances, and faux romance without delving into the overused third-act breakup trope. It’s an ideal pick for a holiday indulgence or a cozy addition to your January TBR pile.

Book Review: Holiday Romance

“Holiday Romance” by Catherine Walsh weaves a tale of annual Christmas travels, highlighting the unique relationship between Molly and Andrew. For a decade, their shared flight from Chicago to Dublin marked the start of their respective holiday celebrations. Yet, while Andrew embraces Christmas with open arms, Molly views the journey as more of an obligation than a joyful tradition.

However, when an unexpected Atlantic storm disrupts their familiar travel plans on the tenth anniversary of their annual trip, their journey takes a dramatic turn. Determined to salvage Andrew’s Christmas spirit, Molly sets out on an adventure that challenges both their established friendship and her own boundaries. As their escapades unfold, will this unforeseen journey pave the way for a deeper connection between them?

Walsh’s “Holiday Romance” authentically captures the chaos and stresses of holiday travel— the canceled flights, lost luggage, cramped seating, and other challenges that often accompany the bustling season. The vivid descriptions evoke a sense of the holiday rush and the demanding situations faced during travel, effectively engaging readers in the narrative.

The portrayal of Molly and Andrew, friends for a decade, forms a strong foundation for the story’s progression, camouflaging any underlying romantic feelings within their seemingly platonic bond. Walsh masterfully portrays Molly’s struggles with an early midlife crisis, a relatable aspect that resonates with readers navigating similar phases. Additionally, Andrew’s journey to maintain sobriety is sensitively depicted, emphasizing the message of hope and the capacity for change through courage and acceptance.

The dual timeline, interweaving past and present flights taken by Molly and Andrew over the years, adds depth to their evolving friendship, offering glimpses into the growth of their relationship.

While the banter and interactions between characters were engaging, the story’s pacing lagged in the initial half, slightly impeding its momentum. Fortunately, the narrative gains momentum in the latter portions, drawing readers into a more compelling storyline.

Despite this, “Holiday Romance” stands as a commendable Christmas-themed read, resonating with many in the book community. Although not a five-star read for me, I believe it’s a suitable recommendation for those seeking a Christmas, winter, or seasonal read.

I’m eagerly anticipating diving into “Snowed In,” focusing on Christian, Andrew’s younger brother, and his quest for a happily ever after. Stay tuned for my upcoming review!