Hi all,

Stopping by with a couple of mini reviews...

Our Little World
A mystery coupled with family dynamics made for an interesting read. I enjoyed this one very much. I read that there is an audiobook version of this one and I can imagine that will make it even more entertaining. For those seeking a book to keep them up at night, this may be the one for you.

Neruda on the Park
If you enjoyed Into the Heights, you may also like this one. This one was another read about family and about following your dreams. Add in a twist of romance and you create quite the combo. Thank you for the opportunity to read this one! 

Jagged Little Pill
I loved this one. I am so glad to have heard about the musical cause I was able to listen to the soundtrack while taking it all in. The story is one that made me feel a hundred things. I remember the original CD as a kid and I love hearing a story along with it. Worth the read! 
 

Happy Reading!

Reading Recap

Hi Everyone! 

Stopping by with a couple of mini-reviews....

The Sixth Wedding
The add-on to Elin's 28 Summers. It was interesting to see where they all ended up!

The States and Public Higher Education Policy
My summer textbook and the reason for my sparse posting lately...It is interesting to read.

Letters to America
Willie Nelson's take on his songs and life. I was able to get early access to this one through NetGalley. I found it interesting read and thankful for the opportunity to do so.

What have you been reading?

Happy Reading!

Reading Recap

Happy Sunday! Stopping by with a couple of mini-reviews on books I have finished lately...

Wish You Were Here
Early access to the new Jodi Picoult book! I was delighted to read this one and did not see the twist coming. I enjoyed this one very much.

Four Winds
The newest from Kristin Hannah and I enjoyed the flashback in time. This one talks about the Dust Bowl which makes me think about the times that individuals had back in ND during that time. 


What have you been reading?

Happy Reading!

Reading Recap

Hi Everyone,

Just stopping by with a couple of mini reviews. 

From Twinkle, With Love
From the author of the Dimple/Rishi series. It was cute. 

Karen's Worst Day
Another Graphix Novel! Quick read, but stayed true to the storyline.


What have you been reading?
 

Happy Reading!

Reading Recap

Hey Everyone!

Just stopping by with a couple of mini reviews:

Karen's Rollerskates-Graphic novels
So glad to see that the Little Sister books are being adapted too!

Admission
Finnnnalllly read this one! It was interesting to consider the fictional elements and if they could have been similar to the real ones.

Love Your Life
Sophie books are light and fun, this was one that an adventure meets love story! 

As Kismet Would Have It
I needed more Dimple and Rishi...:) 

Have you read any of these?

 

Happy Reading!

Reading Recap

Hi Everyone! 

It's been a little bit since I have done some mini-reviews...so here we go! 

Boy Crazy Stacey
The graphic novel from BSC. I love this series! (And Stacey is secretly my fave...shhhh).

The Fire Never Goes Out
Noelle Stevenson book about her life. It was a combo of journal meets comics and I really enjoyed it! 

Who Gets In and Why
This one has been on my NG list longer then it should have been. It was an insiders look at the College Admissions process. I really enjoyed the insights into this field and exploring with the author some of the secondary dynamics that lead to the ultimate decision about whether a person attends or not. 


Have you read any of these? What are you currently reading?

Happy Reading!

Reading Recap

Hi Everyone! 

Just stopping by quickly with a couple of mini reviews of books I have been reading lately:

Christmas Shopaholic
This one was a fun read with a cliffhanger at the end! Thanks Sophie for bringing us back together to catch up on the latest here.

Trouble in Paradise
The final in this trilogy from Elin. We needed this! Glad to have had a chance to find out how it would all go.

The Book of Two Ways
Jodi Picoult's new one. I found this one very interesting. If you like Egypt this may be one for you! 

What are you reading? 

 

Happy Reading!

Reading Recap

Hi Everyone! 

Hope you are well. It's been a bit since I have done a reading recap, so let's just get to it.

Grumpy Unicorn and Grumpy Unicorn Hits The Road
I enjoyed both of these! They were light, quick reads and I think that most kiddos would enjoy them too. I sometimes defer to graphic novels when I just need a mental break from studying.

Lose Weight Like Crazy
Autumn from the 21 day fix book. I wanted to read to hear her story more then to get the tips and tricks. It seemed to be on brand and I enjoyed it.

This Telling
A short free story on Amazon Prime from Cheryl Strayed. It took about 10 minutes. Interesting read to say the least!

In Process:
Gumption
Live in Love
How To Be Antiracist
The Umbrella Academy Vol.1 

What are you reading?

Happy Reading!

Reading Recap

Hi Everyone,

I am stopping by with a couple of mini reviews...

28 Summers
The newest Elin book! Can't have summer without a new one from her.

The Truth About Stacey (Graphic Novel)
Followed the actual book great and was perfect since I have been watching the BSC.

Karen's Witch
Another graphic novel, again perfect since BSC has been on my mind.

Earthquake Surprise
Found this chapter book in a LFL and had to pick it up since it has some historical VA information. I really enjoyed it.

What are you reading?

Happy Reading!

Reading Recap

Hi Everyone!

Hope you are well. Just stopping by with a few mini reviews from books that I have finished recently.

Bromance Club
People were raving about this book, so I had to check it out. While I liked it, I dont know that I shared the same enthusiasm. It was good, just not a favorite for me. I thought the premise and characters were interesting.

Epic Solitude
I found out about this one from MIL. I am glad she told me about it. Anyone who can hike both the PCT and do an Iditarod is impressive.  I really enjoyed this one!

Open Book
This one was Jessica Simpson's memoir. I also really enjoyed this one and learned so many things that I would never had any idea about had I not read this!

Me and Patsy: Kicking up Dust
The story of Loretta Lynn and Patsy Cline is one for the ages. I truly enjoyed the insights and backgrounds in this one as well. If you love country music, check this one out!

Have you read any of these? What were your thoughts?

Happy Reading!

Reading Recap

Hi Everyone!

It's Spring Break and we are in trying to stay in to avoid any viruses...so that means lots of reading. Happy to share with you a few mini-reviews...

Red White and Royal Blue
You all voted for this one and it didn't disappoint! What a cute story, it was a quick read too. I enjoyed this one very much.

The Summer I Turned Pretty-Books 2 and 3
I needed some more Jenny Han in my life following TALBILB. It was interesting to see where this headed. I liked the series and I am curious where they go from here.

Such a Fun Age
Saw that some of you were posting about this one, so gave it a whirl. I enjoyed it as well!

Generally, some good reads here. Hope everyone is safe and healthy!

Happy Reading!
-Valerie

Reading Recap

Hi Everyone!

Just stopping by with some mini reviews...

The Summer I Turned Pretty
I know that I needed more Jenny Han in my life and this one fit the bill! It was a quick read and I appreciated that. Now I just need to get the next two in the series.

Three Women
This one was recommended to me by a friend. It covers the stories of three women and their challenges that have happened based on particular stories in their lives. I found it interesting!

The Obstacle is the Way
This one was also recommended by a friend. It talks about the challenges that you face in life and how you can 'triumph' over them.

Warriors Don't Cry
What a powerful story. This one was about the integration of Little Rock Central High following the change of the laws. I find it fascinating to read these things because it was not all that long ago and that was exactly how the world was. Terrifying.

Summer of 79
Preview from Elin Hilderbrand! Gotta love me these books :)

Natural Disaster 
The behind the scenes book from Ginger Zee at GMA. Very interesting read!

What are you reading? Have you read any of these? 

Happy Reading!

Reading Recap

Hi Everyone!

Welcome to another addition of reading recaps! This is where I share mini-reviews of books that I have been reading.

Self Care Solution
In this book, the Doctor who is regularly on GMA shares a monthly habit that she tried to see how it impacted her self care. I really appreciate the down to earth information coupled with the real world impacts/research that each task has.

The Map From Here to There
The new Emery Lord! I have been waiting for this one for a bit and I am glad that it was finally here. It kept me entertained and wanting to know what would happen next. I love her sense of humor and things like Harry Potter jokes throughout. Worth the read.

Lumberjanes, Vol. 13
A quick read-but always enjoyable! I love going on adventures with these girls. :)

Sorry I am Late, I Didn't Want to Come
The challenge for the introvert outside her comfort zone. I enjoyed the insights of this book and what happens when you make yourself a bit uncomfortable. I recommend for my fellow introverts alike!


What's on your current reading list?

Happy Reading!

Reading Recap

Hi Everyone!

Just stopping by with a couple of mini reviews of books I have finished recently:

Winter in Paradise by Elin Hilderbrand
The new winter series from Elin. I really enjoyed this one and the twist. I am looking forward to the next one! Get here October. :) Happy Reading!
 
A Truly Remarkable Thing by Hank Green
As you guys know, I have enjoyed the books by John Green in the past. This time his brother is writing the book. I didn't really know what to think about this book. It was good, but in a really quirky way. If you enjoy aliens, puzzles, and the unknown...this may be the book for you!

Hero Dogs by Wilma Melville, Paul Lobo
In full disclosure, I was awarded this book from the publisher through Net Galley. I really appreciated and enjoyed this book. I learned alot about the National Disaster Search Dog Foundation (SDF) in this book and it was very informational.  There is no question asked that this is the reminder on why dogs are amazing and should be valued parts of our lives.
The Legend of Grimm's Woods (Hocus Pocus #1) 
In full disclosure, I was awarded this book from Quirkbooks for participating in the Quirksgiving event this November. This was such a fun take on a graphic novel. I loved that you got to chose your own adventure! I look forward to the others in this series.

Have you read any of these? What did you think?

Happy Reading!

Recap

Hi Everyone!

Stopping by with a couple of mini reviews.

When: The Scientific Research of Perfect Timing
I have always enjoyed Daniel Pink and his books. They make me think and wonder how I can be better and do more in my days. This one was no different. I enjoyed this book.

Leah on the Offbeat
The new Love, Simon! I was happy to be reunited with these guys and to find how things have been going. I kept seeing this one play out as a movie. Hope it ends up that way!

Ivy Aberdeen's Letter to the World
This was so filled with so much emotion. I enjoyed it, but my heart felt a million different things for Ivy. What an interesting time for her. A good, cute read.

Wonder
My niece recommended this one to me. It was a take on a perspective that I have not had much exposure to before. I know this one was recently made a movie, may have to check that out soon.

Educated
What a powerful book! I enjoyed this one and the author's vulnerability about everything that has happened in her life. For those of you who are interested in memoirs or education, you may wish to pick this up.

Surprise Me
This was okay. I didnt love it like I do some of other Sophie's books, but I didn't hate it either. I thought the characters were full of life and ideas on how to surprise your significant other. An interesting book.

Happy Reading!

Reading Recap

Hi Everyone!

Stopping by with a couple of mini reviews...

The Royals
I read other books by Rachel Hawkins and I knew I had to read this one. I enjoyed that the story was about the others who are impacted by a Royal Wedding. I could see this one playing out as a movie or a TV show. Thanks for the opportunity to read.

Craig and Fred
Story of a marine and his canine friend. I was sent this one by a friend and I really enjoyed it. I cannot even imagine the experiences that happen in military zones and to have a friend like a dog there must be nice. I am glad for this book and the story. Thanks for the opportunity.

Boots and Backpacks
Pride and Prejudice on the Appalachian Trail. I enjoyed the story about this one and the modern take on a new story. I kept imagining the Lizzie Bennett Diaries all over again and I just loved the setting for this book.

Have you read any of these? Happy Reading!

 
Happy Reading!

Reading Recap

Hi Everyone!

Stopping by with a couple of mini reviews :)

I Have Lost My Way
The story of three people and the crazy accident that brings them all together. This book was emotional and kept me engaged. I appreciated how in their own situation, they could find something to bring to others. I appreciated the opportunity to read this.

Let Your Mind Run
In this book, we get to understand what it takes to be a runner. I enjoyed the perspectives she shared from early in her life, all the way through her professional career. She stresses the mental game in running and it was an interesting read. Thanks for the opportunity.

 
Happy Reading!

Reading Recap

Hi Everyone!

Just stopping by with a couple of mini reviews on books I have been reading.

Illusion of Justice
This is by the lawyer that was involved in the Steven Avery case (Making a Murderer on Netflix). I really enjoyed this story because not only did it touch on that show, but it talked about his career overall and how got to do what he is doing. I enjoyed the inside stories, the details about other cases, and just her perspective on the legal system. A very interesting read.

One of Us is Lying
If you enjoyed the Breakfast Club, but like a murder twist, this may be the book for you. In this book, we have to work to solve the mystery of Simon's death. It was a quick read and I found it to be entertaining.

Little Big Love
This was one I was awarded through the First to Read program. That said, I enjoyed the book. The author has a great way of capturing each individual person, even thought you are going back and forth through the perspectives.

How to Walk Away
How do you cope when the unexpected happens? This book is about Margaret and her dealing with the situation that changes her life. It was an interesting and a quick read.


Happy Reading!

Reading Recap

Hi Everyone!

Stopping by with a couple of mini- reviews for you!

We Are Okay
In this book, we get to experience love, loss, and what it means when the world as you know it is not quite what you think. This book was written part in a reflection way, in another part real time. I appreciated the back and forth narrative.

Lumberjanes Unicorn Power
I am used to the LJ's in graphic form, but this was just as fun. With many LOL moments, I enjoyed the story and I cannot wait until the next one! If you like chapter books, I would recommend this one as it was fun read.

My New Crush Gave To Me
It was described to me as a Hallmark movie and I would agree! :) It was a cute, fun read. I enjoyed the story in this one and the characters quirky ways.

LumberJanes: Stone Cold
This one was all about family. Sometimes family is a challenge and this book reminded us -that is okay. I love these graphic novels. I hope that they never stop! :)

 Happy Reading!

Reading Recap

Hi Everyone!

It has been a little bit since I did a few mini reviews. Let me quickly recap a couple of books I have read this month.

Winter Solstice
The 4th in the series by Elin Hilderbrand. I really enjoyed this book. This series is something I have come to look forward to each winter and will be sad to see it go. I enjoyed connecting with the characters again and look forward to the times ahead.

Meant to Be
If I am honest, this book was good but different then I thought it would be. I had different expectations of what I thought it would be. Essentially each person is labeled with their "meant to be' person and this was the story of working through if you would chose that destiny or not. I think the phrase you have to kiss a frog to find a prince rings true for me.

I See London, I See France
Since I was just in London, I needed to get this book. I appreciated the opportunity to read this book because it took me back to Europe. The story was short and cute. I enjoyed it.

Marge in Charge
This book reminded me alot of the Ameila Bedila books that I read as a kid. I enjoyed the story and it was just a little bit silly. I could hear Isla's voice as the pages were flipped. A cute read!

 
Happy Reading!